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Abdulaal WH, Omar UM, Zeyadi M, El-Agamy DS, Alhakamy NA, Ibrahim SRM, Almalki NAR, Asfour HZ, Al-Rabia MW, Mohamed GA, Elshal M. Pirfenidone ameliorates ANIT-induced cholestatic liver injury via modulation of FXR, NF-кB/TNF-α, and Wnt/GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling pathways. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2024; 490:117038. [PMID: 39019095 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2024.117038] [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: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Cholestasis is a hepatobiliary disorder characterized by the excessive accumulation of toxic bile acids in hepatocytes, leading to cholestatic liver injury (CLI) through multiple pathogenic inflammatory pathways. Currently, there are limited therapeutic options for the management of cholestasis and associated CLI; therefore, new options are urgently needed. Pirfenidone (PF), an oral bioavailable pyridone analog, is used for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. PF has recently demonstrated diverse potential therapeutic activities against different pathologies. Accordingly, the present study adopted the α-naphthyl isothiocyanate (ANIT)-induced CLI model in mice to explore the potential protective impact of PF and investigate the underlying mechanisms of action. PF intervention markedly reduced the serum levels of ALT, AST, LDH, total bilirubin, and total bile acids, which was accompanied by a remarkable amelioration of histopathological lesions induced by ANIT. PF also protected the mice against ANIT-induced redox imbalance in the liver, represented by reduced MDA levels and elevated GSH and SOD activities. Mechanistically, PF inhibited ANIT-induced downregulated expressions of the farnesoid X receptor (FXR), as well as the bile salt export pump (BSEP) and the multidrug resistance-associated protein 2 (MRP2) bile acid efflux channels. PF further repressed ANIT-induced NF-κB activation and TNF-α and IL-6 production. These beneficial effects were associated with its ability to dose-dependently inhibit Wnt/GSK-3β/β-catenin/cyclin D1 signaling. Collectively, PF protects against ANIT-induced CLI in mice, demonstrating powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities as well as an ability to oppose BA homeostasis disorder. These protective effects are primarily mediated by modulating the interplay between FXR, NF-κB/TNF-α/IL-6, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesam H Abdulaal
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Cancer and Mutagenesis Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Center of Excellence for Drug Research and Pharmaceutical Industries, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Ulfat M Omar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Princess Dr. Najla Bint Saud Al-Saud Center for Excellence Research in Biotechnology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mustafa Zeyadi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Dina S El-Agamy
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.
| | - Nabil A Alhakamy
- Center of Excellence for Drug Research and Pharmaceutical Industries, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Mohamed Saeed Tamer Chair for Pharmaceutical Industries, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Sabrin R M Ibrahim
- Preparatory Year Program, Department of Chemistry, Batterjee Medical College, Jeddah 21442, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Naif A R Almalki
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Experimental Biochemistry Unit, King Fahad Medical Research Centre, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Hani Z Asfour
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mohammed W Al-Rabia
- Center of Excellence for Drug Research and Pharmaceutical Industries, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Gamal A Mohamed
- Department of Natural Products and Alternative Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mahmoud Elshal
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.
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2
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Silva TA, Thomas D, Siqueira-Neto JL, Calvet CM. Pirfenidone Prevents Heart Fibrosis during Chronic Chagas Disease Cardiomyopathy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7302. [PMID: 39000409 PMCID: PMC11242150 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is a severe outcome of Chagas disease (CD), caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi. Clinical evidence revealed a correlation between fibrosis levels with impaired cardiac performance in CD patients. Therefore, we sought to analyze the effect of inhibitors of TGF-β (pirfenidone), p38-MAPK (losmapimod) and c-Jun (SP600125) on the modulation of collagen deposition in cardiac fibroblasts (CF) and in vivo models of T. cruzi chronic infection. Sirius Red/Fast Green dye was used to quantify both collagen expression and total protein amount, assessing cytotoxicity. The compounds were also used to treat C57/Bl6 mice chronically infected with T. cruzi, Brazil strain. We identified an anti-fibrotic effect in vitro for pirfenidone (TGF-β inhibitor, IC50 114.3 μM), losmapimod (p38 inhibitor, IC50 17.6 μM) and SP600125 (c-Jun inhibitor, IC50 3.9 μM). This effect was independent of CF proliferation since these compounds do not affect T. cruzi-induced host cell multiplication as measured by BrdU incorporation. Assays of chronic infection of mice with T. cruzi have shown a reduction in heart collagen by pirfenidone. These results propose a novel approach to fibrosis therapy in CD, with the prospect of repurposing pirfenidone to prevent the onset of ECM accumulation in the hearts of the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Araújo Silva
- Cellular Ultrastructure Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil;
| | - Diane Thomas
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (D.T.); (J.L.S.-N.)
| | - Jair L. Siqueira-Neto
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (D.T.); (J.L.S.-N.)
| | - Claudia Magalhaes Calvet
- Cellular Ultrastructure Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil;
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Zhang T, Lv J, Liu ZY, Lei QL, Jiang ZF, Sun XX, Yue X, Li X, Zhu KL, Yang YK, Luo L, Cao X. P2X7 receptor is essential for ST36-attenuated cardiac fibrosis upon beta-adrenergic insult. Purinergic Signal 2024:10.1007/s11302-024-10009-y. [PMID: 38676825 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-024-10009-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) plays an important role in modulating inflammation and fibrosis, but information is limited whether Zusanli (ST36) can inhibit inflammation and fibrosis by regulating P2X7R. Isoprenaline at 5 mg/kg was subcutaneously injected to wild-type and P2X7R knockout mice for 7 days, while treatment groups received electroacupuncture (EA) stimulation at ST36 for 7 sessions. Following 7-session treatment, Masson's trichrome staining was performed to assess the fibrosis. Morphology, electrocardiogram, and echocardiography were carried out to evaluate the cardiac function and structure. Western blotting, hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunohistochemistry, and biochemical analysis of inflammatory cytokine and transmission electron microscopy were carried out to characterize the effect of ST36 on inflammation. P2X7R was overexpressed in ISO-treated mice. EA at ST36, but not at non-points, reduced ISO-induced cardiac fibrosis, increases in HW/BW, R+S wave relative to mice in ISO groups. In addition, EA at ST36 downregulated ISO-upregulated P2X7R and NLRP3 in ventricle. Moreover, EA reduced cytokines of IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-18 in serum, and inhibited foam cell gathering, inflammatory cell infiltration, and autophagy. However, EA at ST36 failed to attenuate the cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophy in P2X7R knockout mice. In conclusion, EA at ST36 attenuated ISO-induced fibrosis possibly via P2X7R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Zhang
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1166 Liutai Avenue, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jing Lv
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1166 Liutai Avenue, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Zhong-Yue Liu
- School of Nursing, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Qiu-Lian Lei
- Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, Sichuan, China
| | - Ze-Fei Jiang
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1166 Liutai Avenue, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xiao-Xiang Sun
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1166 Liutai Avenue, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xing Yue
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1166 Liutai Avenue, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xuan Li
- School of Health and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China
| | - Ke-Li Zhu
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1166 Liutai Avenue, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yun-Kuan Yang
- Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, Sichuan, China
| | - Ling Luo
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1166 Liutai Avenue, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan Province, China.
| | - Xin Cao
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1166 Liutai Avenue, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan Province, China.
- Acupuncture and Chronobiology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China.
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Ciampi CM, Sultana A, Ossola P, Farina A, Fragasso G, Spoladore R. Current experimental and early investigational agents for cardiac fibrosis: where are we at? Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2024; 33:389-404. [PMID: 38426439 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2024.2326024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Myocardial fibrosis (MF) is induced by factors activating pro-fibrotic pathways such as acute and prolonged inflammation, myocardial ischemic events, hypertension, aging process, and genetically-linked cardiomyopathies. Dynamics and characteristics of myocardial fibrosis development are very different. The broad range of myocardial fibrosis presentations suggests the presence of multiple potential targets. AREA COVERED Heart failure treatment involves medications primarily aimed at counteracting neurohormonal activation. While these drugs have demonstrated efficacy against MF, not all specifically target inflammation or fibrosis progression with some exceptions such as RAAS inhibitors. Consequently, new therapies are being developed to address this issue. This article is aimed to describe anti-fibrotic drugs currently employed in clinical practice and emerging agents that target specific pathways, supported by evidence from both preclinical and clinical studies. EXPERT OPINION Despite various preclinical findings suggesting the potential utility of new drugs and molecules for treating cardiac fibrosis in animal models, there is a notable scarcity of clinical trials investigating these effects. However, the pathology of damage and repair in the heart muscle involves a complex network of interconnected inflammatory pathways and various types of immune cells. Our comprehension of the positive and negative roles played by specific immune cells and cytokines is an emerging area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio M Ciampi
- Health Science Department, University of Milan Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - Andrea Sultana
- Health Science Department, University of Milan Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - Paolo Ossola
- Health Science Department, University of Milan Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - Andrea Farina
- Division of Cardiology, Alessandro Manzoni Hospital, ASST- Lecco, Italy
| | - Gabriele Fragasso
- Heart Failure Unit Head, Division of Cardiology, IRCCS Vita-Salute San Raffaele University Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Spoladore
- Division of Cardiology, Alessandro Manzoni Hospital, ASST- Lecco, Italy
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5
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Elsayed M, Moustafa YM, Mehanna ET, Elrayess RA, El-Sayed NM, Hazem RM. Empagliflozin protects against isoprenaline-induced fibrosis in rat heart through modulation of TGF-β/SMAD pathway. Life Sci 2024; 337:122354. [PMID: 38110076 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122354] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
AIM Cardiac fibrosis is characterized by excessive accumulation of fibrous tissue, particularly collagens, in the myocardium. Accumulated fibrous tissue renders myocardium stiffer and reduces its contractility. Empagliflozin is an oral hypoglycemic agent with extra-diabetic functional profile toward maintaining cardiac functions. The present study aimed to examine protective effect of empagliflozin against an in-vivo model of cardiac fibrosis induced by isoprenaline and targeting TGF-β/SMAD signaling as a possible pathway responsible for such effect. MAIN METHODS Sixty animals were divided into six groups; the first was normal, and the second was treated with isoprenaline only (5 mg/kg/day I.P.) as a control. The third received pirfenidone (500 mg/kg/day P.O.), and the remaining groups received graded doses (5, 10, 20 mg/kg respectively) of empagliflozin for 14 days before fibrosis induction by isoprenaline (5 mg/kg/day) for 30 days. KEY FINDINGS Isoprenaline increased cardiac enzymes, and cardiac tissues revealed elevated concentrations of transforming growth factor β (TGF-β1), monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) proteins. Expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagens, suppressor of mothers against decapentaplegic (SMADs), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), and fibronectin was upregulated. Empagliflozin improved the histological picture of heart tissue in comparison to fibrosis developed in controls, and protected against fibrosis through significant modulation of all mentioned parameters' concentrations and expressions. SIGNIFICANCE Empagliflozin demonstrated a promising protective approach against biological model of cardiac fibrosis through an anti-fibrotic effect through targeting TGF-β signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Elsayed
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
| | - Yasser M Moustafa
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt; Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Eman T Mehanna
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Galala University, New Galala 43713, Egypt.
| | - Ranwa A Elrayess
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
| | - Norhan M El-Sayed
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
| | - Reem M Hazem
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
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6
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Schlittler M, Pramstaller PP, Rossini A, De Bortoli M. Myocardial Fibrosis in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: A Perspective from Fibroblasts. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14845. [PMID: 37834293 PMCID: PMC10573356 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common inherited heart disease and the leading cause of sudden cardiac death in young people. Mutations in genes that encode structural proteins of the cardiac sarcomere are the more frequent genetic cause of HCM. The disease is characterized by cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis, which is defined as the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, mainly collagen I and III, in the myocardium. The development of fibrotic tissue in the heart adversely affects cardiac function. In this review, we discuss the latest evidence on how cardiac fibrosis is promoted, the role of cardiac fibroblasts, their interaction with cardiomyocytes, and their activation via the TGF-β pathway, the primary intracellular signalling pathway regulating extracellular matrix turnover. Finally, we summarize new findings on profibrotic genes as well as genetic and non-genetic factors involved in the pathophysiology of HCM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Marzia De Bortoli
- Eurac Research, Institute for Biomedicine (Affiliated to the University of Lübeck), 39100 Bolzano, Italy
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Ravassa S, López B, Treibel TA, San José G, Losada-Fuentenebro B, Tapia L, Bayés-Genís A, Díez J, González A. Cardiac Fibrosis in heart failure: Focus on non-invasive diagnosis and emerging therapeutic strategies. Mol Aspects Med 2023; 93:101194. [PMID: 37384998 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2023.101194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Heart failure is a leading cause of mortality and hospitalization worldwide. Cardiac fibrosis, resulting from the excessive deposition of collagen fibers, is a common feature across the spectrum of conditions converging in heart failure. Eventually, either reparative or reactive in nature, in the long-term cardiac fibrosis contributes to heart failure development and progression and is associated with poor clinical outcomes. Despite this, specific cardiac antifibrotic therapies are lacking, making cardiac fibrosis an urgent unmet medical need. In this context, a better patient phenotyping is needed to characterize the heterogenous features of cardiac fibrosis to advance toward its personalized management. In this review, we will describe the different phenotypes associated with cardiac fibrosis in heart failure and we will focus on the potential usefulness of imaging techniques and circulating biomarkers for the non-invasive characterization and phenotyping of this condition and for tracking its clinical impact. We will also recapitulate the cardiac antifibrotic effects of existing heart failure and non-heart failure drugs and we will discuss potential strategies under preclinical development targeting the activation of cardiac fibroblasts at different levels, as well as targeting additional extracardiac processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Ravassa
- Program of Cardiovascular Diseases, CIMA Universidad de Navarra and IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain; CIBERCV, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Begoña López
- Program of Cardiovascular Diseases, CIMA Universidad de Navarra and IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain; CIBERCV, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Thomas A Treibel
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, UK; Barts Heart Centre, St Bartholomew's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Gorka San José
- Program of Cardiovascular Diseases, CIMA Universidad de Navarra and IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain; CIBERCV, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Blanca Losada-Fuentenebro
- Program of Cardiovascular Diseases, CIMA Universidad de Navarra and IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain; CIBERCV, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Leire Tapia
- Program of Cardiovascular Diseases, CIMA Universidad de Navarra and IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain; CIBERCV, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antoni Bayés-Genís
- CIBERCV, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain; Servei de Cardiologia i Unitat d'Insuficiència Cardíaca, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain; Department of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; ICREC Research Program, Germans Trias i Pujol Health Science Research Institute, Badalona, Spain
| | - Javier Díez
- Program of Cardiovascular Diseases, CIMA Universidad de Navarra and IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain; CIBERCV, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Arantxa González
- Program of Cardiovascular Diseases, CIMA Universidad de Navarra and IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain; CIBERCV, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain.
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8
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Meyer FEU, Santos GL, Doan TP, DeGrave AN, Bues B, Lutz S. Pirfenidone affects human cardiac fibroblast proliferation and cell cycle activity in 2D cultures and engineered connective tissues. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 396:1687-1699. [PMID: 36800014 PMCID: PMC10338590 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02421-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
The anti-fibrotic drug pirfenidone (PFD) is currently in clinical testing for the treatment of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction; however, its effects on human cardiac cells have not been fully investigated. Therefore, we aimed to characterize the impact of PFD on human cardiac fibroblasts (CF) in 2D culture as well as in 3D-engineered connective tissues (ECT). We analyzed proliferation by automated cell counting and changes in signaling by immunoblotting. We generated ECT with different geometries to modify the cellular phenotype and investigated the effects of PFD on cell number and viability as well as on cell cycle activity. We further studied its effect on ECT compaction, contraction, stiffening, and strain resistance by ECT imaging, pole deflection analysis, and ultimate tensile testing. Our data demonstrate that PFD inhibits human CF proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner with an IC50 of 0.43 mg/ml and its anti-mitogenic effect was further corroborated by an inhibition of MEK1/2, ERK1/2, and riboprotein S6 (rpS6) phosphorylation. In ECT, a lower cell cycle activity was found in PFD-treated ECT and fewer cells resided in these ECT after 5 days of culture compared to the control. Moreover, ECT compaction as well as ECT contraction was impaired. Consequently, biomechanical analyses demonstrated that PFD reduced the stiffness of ECT. Taken together, our data demonstrate that the anti-fibrotic action of PFD on human CF is based on its anti-mitogenic effect in 2D cultures and ECT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gabriela Leao Santos
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center, Goettingen, Germany
- Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Kings College London, London, UK
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research) Partner Site, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Thao Phuong Doan
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Alisa Nicole DeGrave
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center, Goettingen, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research) Partner Site, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Bastian Bues
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Susanne Lutz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center, Goettingen, Germany.
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research) Partner Site, Goettingen, Germany.
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9
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Yin X, Yin X, Pan X, Zhang J, Fan X, Li J, Zhai X, Jiang L, Hao P, Wang J, Chen Y. Post-myocardial infarction fibrosis: Pathophysiology, examination, and intervention. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1070973. [PMID: 37056987 PMCID: PMC10086160 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1070973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis plays an indispensable role in cardiac tissue homeostasis and repair after myocardial infarction (MI). The cardiac fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation and extracellular matrix collagen deposition are the hallmarks of cardiac fibrosis, which are modulated by multiple signaling pathways and various types of cells in time-dependent manners. Our understanding of the development of cardiac fibrosis after MI has evolved in basic and clinical researches, and the regulation of fibrotic remodeling may facilitate novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, and finally improve outcomes. Here, we aim to elaborate pathophysiology, examination and intervention of cardiac fibrosis after MI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Yin
- Department of Emergency and Chest Pain Center, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong University, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese Ministry of Health and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xinxin Yin
- Department of Emergency and Chest Pain Center, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong University, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese Ministry of Health and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xin Pan
- Department of Emergency and Chest Pain Center, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong University, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese Ministry of Health and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jingyu Zhang
- Department of Emergency and Chest Pain Center, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong University, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese Ministry of Health and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xinhui Fan
- Department of Emergency and Chest Pain Center, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong University, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese Ministry of Health and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jiaxin Li
- Department of Emergency and Chest Pain Center, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong University, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese Ministry of Health and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaoxuan Zhai
- Department of Emergency and Chest Pain Center, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong University, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese Ministry of Health and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Lijun Jiang
- Department of Emergency and Chest Pain Center, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong University, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese Ministry of Health and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Panpan Hao
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese Ministry of Health and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jiali Wang
- Department of Emergency and Chest Pain Center, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong University, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese Ministry of Health and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Jiali Wang, ; Yuguo Chen,
| | - Yuguo Chen
- Department of Emergency and Chest Pain Center, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong University, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese Ministry of Health and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Jiali Wang, ; Yuguo Chen,
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10
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Nicolini G, Balzan S, Forini F. Activated fibroblasts in cardiac and cancer fibrosis: An overview of analogies and new potential therapeutic options. Life Sci 2023; 321:121575. [PMID: 36933828 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Heart disease and cancer are two major causes of morbidity and mortality in the industrialized countries, and their increasingly recognized connections are shifting the focus from single disease studies to an interdisciplinary approach. Fibroblast-mediated intercellular crosstalk is critically involved in the evolution of both pathologies. In healthy myocardium and in non-cancerous conditions, resident fibroblasts are the main cell source for synthesis of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and important sentinels of tissue integrity. In the setting of myocardial disease or cancer, quiescent fibroblasts activate, respectively, into myofibroblasts (myoFbs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), characterized by increased production of contractile proteins, and by a highly proliferative and secretory phenotype. Although the initial activation of myoFbs/CAFs is an adaptive process to repair the damaged tissue, massive deposition of ECM proteins leads to maladaptive cardiac or cancer fibrosis, a recognized marker of adverse outcome. A better understanding of the key mechanisms orchestrating fibroblast hyperactivity may help developing innovative therapeutic options to restrain myocardial or tumor stiffness and improve patient prognosis. Albeit still unappreciated, the dynamic transition of myocardial and tumor fibroblasts into myoFbs and CAFs shares several common triggers and signaling pathways relevant to TGF-β dependent cascade, metabolic reprogramming, mechanotransduction, secretory properties, and epigenetic regulation, which might lay the foundation for future antifibrotic intervention. Therefore, the aim of this review is to highlight emerging analogies in the molecular signature underlying myoFbs and CAFs activation with the purpose of identifying novel prognostic/diagnostic biomarkers, and to elucidate the potential of drug repositioning strategies to mitigate cardiac/cancer fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvana Balzan
- CNR Institute of Clinical Physiology, Via G.Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Forini
- CNR Institute of Clinical Physiology, Via G.Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy.
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11
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Dobrev D, Heijman J, Hiram R, Li N, Nattel S. Inflammatory signalling in atrial cardiomyocytes: a novel unifying principle in atrial fibrillation pathophysiology. Nat Rev Cardiol 2023; 20:145-167. [PMID: 36109633 PMCID: PMC9477170 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-022-00759-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 74.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation has been implicated in atrial fibrillation (AF), a very common and clinically significant cardiac rhythm disturbance, but its precise role remains poorly understood. Work performed over the past 5 years suggests that atrial cardiomyocytes have inflammatory signalling machinery - in particular, components of the NLRP3 (NACHT-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing 3) inflammasome - that is activated in animal models and patients with AF. Furthermore, work in animal models suggests that NLRP3 inflammasome activation in atrial cardiomyocytes might be a sufficient and necessary condition for AF occurrence. In this Review, we evaluate the evidence for the role and pathophysiological significance of cardiomyocyte NLRP3 signalling in AF. We first summarize the evidence for a role of inflammation in AF and review the biochemical properties of the NLRP3 inflammasome, as defined primarily in studies of classic inflammation. We then briefly consider the broader evidence for a role of inflammatory signalling in heart disease, particularly conditions that predispose individuals to develop AF. We provide a detailed discussion of the available information about atrial cardiomyocyte NLRP3 inflammasome signalling in AF and related conditions and evaluate the possibility that similar signalling might be important in non-myocyte cardiac cells. We then review the evidence on the role of active resolution of inflammation and its potential importance in suppressing AF-related inflammatory signalling. Finally, we consider the therapeutic potential and broader implications of this new knowledge and highlight crucial questions to be addressed in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dobromir Dobrev
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
- Department of Medicine and Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute and Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jordi Heijman
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Roddy Hiram
- Department of Medicine and Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute and Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Na Li
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Medicine, Section of Cardiovascular Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Stanley Nattel
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany.
- Department of Medicine and Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute and Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada.
- IHU LIRYC and Fondation Bordeaux Université, Bordeaux, France.
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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12
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Trials and Treatments: An Update on Pharmacotherapy for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13020486. [PMID: 36836843 PMCID: PMC9963632 DOI: 10.3390/life13020486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic and progressive fibrosing interstitial lung disease that occurs predominantly in the older population. There is increasing incidence and prevalence in IPF globally. The emergence of anti-fibrotic therapies in the last decade have improved patient survival though a cure is yet to be developed. In this review article, we aim to summarize the existing and novel pharmacotherapies for the treatment of IPF (excluding treatments for acute exacerbations), focusing on the current knowledge on the pathophysiology of the disease, mechanism of action of the drugs, and clinical trials.
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13
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Shetty S, Idell S. Caveolin-1-Related Intervention for Fibrotic Lung Diseases. Cells 2023; 12:554. [PMID: 36831221 PMCID: PMC9953971 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive and fatal interstitial lung disease (ILD) for which there are no effective treatments. Lung transplantation is the only viable option for patients with end-stage PF but is only available to a minority of patients. Lung lesions in ILDs, including IPF, are characterized by alveolar epithelial cell (AEC) senescence and apoptosis and accumulation of activated myofibroblasts and/or fibrotic lung (fL) fibroblasts (fLfs). These composite populations of fLfs show a high rate of basal proliferation, resist apoptosis and senescence, and have increased migration and invasiveness. They also more readily deposit ECM proteins. These features eventuate in progressive destruction of alveolar architecture and loss of lung function in patients with PF. The identification of new, safer, and more effective therapy is therefore mandatory for patients with IPF or related ILDs. We found that increased caveolin-1 and tumor suppressor protein, p53 expression, and apoptosis in AECs occur prior to and then with the proliferation of fLfs in fibrotic lungs. AECs with elevated p53 typically undergo apoptosis. fLfs alternatively demonstrate strikingly low basal levels of caveolin-1 and p53, while mouse double minute 2 homolog (mdm2) levels and mdm2-mediated degradation of p53 protein are markedly increased. The disparities in the expression of p53 in injured AECs and fLfs appear to be due to increased basal expression of caveolin-1 in apoptotic AECs with a relative paucity of caveolin-1 and increased mdm2 in fLfs. Therefore, targeting caveolin-1 using a caveolin 1 scaffolding domain peptide, CSP7, represents a new and promising approach for patients with IPF, perhaps other forms of progressive ILD or even other forms of organ injury characterized by fibrotic repair. The mechanisms of action differ in the injured AECs and in fLfs, in which differential signaling enables the preservation of AEC viability with concurrent limitation of fLf expansion and collagen secretion. The findings in three models of PF indicate that lung scarring can be nearly abrogated by airway delivery of the peptide. Phase 1 clinical trial testing of this approach in healthy volunteers has been successfully completed; Phase 1b in IPF patients is soon to be initiated and, if successful, will be followed by phase 2 testing in short order. Apart from the treatment of IPF, this intervention may be applicable to other forms of tissue injury characterized by fibrotic repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sreerama Shetty
- Texas Lung Injury Institute, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, 11937 US Highway 271, Tyler, TX 75708, USA
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14
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Xie R, Chen S, Li F, Yang L, Yu B. Pirfenidone attenuates nonalcoholic fatty liver disease through activation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2023; 37:e23251. [PMID: 36321572 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23251] [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: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) originates from the hepatopathy of fatty liver. Pirfenidone is a novel broad-spectrum anti-fibrosis agent used for treating various kinds of tissue fibrosis. The present study will evaluate the effects of Pirfenidone on liver injury in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice to evaluate the value of Pirfenidone in treating NAFLD. The pathology of NAFLD was simulated by feeding mice with an HFD in the present study, followed by treating the HFD mice with 150 and 300 mg/kg/day Pirfenidone once a day. The pathological state of HFD mice was identified by the elevated liver weight, promoted serum triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, declined serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels, increased alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activity, and histopathological changes to the liver tissues, all of which were dramatically ameliorated by 150 and 300 mg/kg Pirfenidone administration. Furthermore, the excessive production of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and IL-6, as well as upregulated phosphorylated nuclear factor kappa-B (p- NF-κB p65), were observed in HFD-fed mice, but significantly reversed by Pirfenidone. Finally, activated oxidative stress, identified by promoted malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and declined catalase (CAT) activity, was observed in HFD-fed mice, accompanied by the downregulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and sterol-regulatory element-binding proteins-1c (SREBP-1c). After the treatment with Pirfenidone, oxidative stress was greatly mitigated. Our results imply that Pirfenidone ameliorated the progression of NAFLD by mediating inflammation and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Xie
- Department of the Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College, Hainan Province, Haikou City, China
| | - Shaodong Chen
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Fujian Province, Xiamen City, China
| | - Fang Li
- Department of the Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College, Hainan Province, Haikou City, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Hainan Province, Haikou City, China
| | - Bangliang Yu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Hainan Province, Haikou City, China
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15
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Bertaud A, Joshkon A, Heim X, Bachelier R, Bardin N, Leroyer AS, Blot-Chabaud M. Signaling Pathways and Potential Therapeutic Strategies in Cardiac Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021756. [PMID: 36675283 PMCID: PMC9866199 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021756] [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: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis constitutes irreversible necrosis of the heart muscle as a consequence of different acute (myocardial infarction) or chronic (diabetes, hypertension, …) diseases but also due to genetic alterations or aging. Currently, there is no curative treatment that is able to prevent or attenuate this phenomenon that leads to progressive cardiac dysfunction and life-threatening outcomes. This review summarizes the different targets identified and the new strategies proposed to fight cardiac fibrosis. Future directions, including the use of exosomes or nanoparticles, will also be discussed.
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16
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Morfino P, Aimo A, Castiglione V, Gálvez-Montón C, Emdin M, Bayes-Genis A. Treatment of cardiac fibrosis: from neuro-hormonal inhibitors to CAR-T cell therapy. Heart Fail Rev 2023; 28:555-569. [PMID: 36221014 PMCID: PMC9553301 DOI: 10.1007/s10741-022-10279-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is characterized by the deposition of extracellular matrix proteins in the spaces between cardiomyocytes following both acute and chronic tissue damage events, resulting in the remodeling and stiffening of heart tissue. Fibrosis plays an important role in the pathogenesis of many cardiovascular disorders, including heart failure and myocardial infarction. Several studies have identified fibroblasts, which are induced to differentiate into myofibroblasts in response to various types of damage, as the most important cell types involved in the fibrotic process. Some drugs, such as inhibitors of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, have been shown to be effective in reducing cardiac fibrosis. There are currently no drugs with primarily anti-fibrotic action approved for clinical use, as well as the evidence of a clinical efficacy of these drugs is extremely limited, despite the numerous encouraging results from experimental studies. A new approach is represented by the use of CAR-T cells engineered in vivo using lipid nanoparticles containing mRNA coding for a receptor directed against the FAP protein, expressed by cardiac myofibroblasts. This strategy has proved to be safe and effective in reducing myocardial fibrosis and improving cardiac function in mouse models of cardiac fibrosis. Clinical studies are required to test this novel approach in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Morfino
- Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alberto Aimo
- Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy.
- Cardiology Division, Fondazione Toscana Gabriele Monasterio, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Vincenzo Castiglione
- Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Carolina Gálvez-Montón
- Institut del Cor, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol, Badalona, Spain
- CIBERCV, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Michele Emdin
- Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
- Cardiology Division, Fondazione Toscana Gabriele Monasterio, Pisa, Italy
| | - Antoni Bayes-Genis
- Institut del Cor, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol, Badalona, Spain
- CIBERCV, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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17
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Drug Repositioning Applied to Cardiovascular Disease in Mucopolysaccharidosis. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12122085. [PMID: 36556450 PMCID: PMC9784427 DOI: 10.3390/life12122085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are genetic metabolic diseases characterized by defects in the activity of lysosomal hydrolases. In MPS, secondary cell disturbance affects pathways related to cardiovascular disorders. Hence, the study aimed to identify MPS-related drugs targeting cardiovascular disease and select a list of drugs for repositioning. We obtained a list of differentially expressed genes and pathways. To identify drug perturbation-driven gene expression and drug pathways interactions, we used the CMAP and LINCS databases. For molecular docking, we used the DockThor web server. Our results suggest that pirfenidone and colchicine are promising drugs to treat cardiovascular disease in MPS patients. We also provide a brief description of good practices for the repositioning analysis. Furthermore, the list of drugs and related MPS-enriched genes could be helpful to new treatments and considered for pathophysiological studies.
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18
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Antar SA, Saleh MA, Al-Karmalawy AA. Investigating the possible mechanisms of pirfenidone to be targeted as a promising anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic, anti-tumor, and/or anti-SARS-CoV-2. Life Sci 2022; 309:121048. [PMID: 36209833 PMCID: PMC9536875 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Pirfenidone (PFD) is a non-peptide synthetic chemical that inhibits the production of transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), Interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), and collagen 1 (COL1A1), all of which have been linked to the prevention or removal of excessive scar tissue deposition in many organs. PFD has been demonstrated to decrease apoptosis, downregulate angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) receptor expression, reduce inflammation through many routes, and alleviate oxidative stress in pneumocytes and other cells while protecting them from COVID-19 invasion and cytokine storm. Based on the mechanism of action of PFD and the known pathophysiology of COVID-19, it was recommended to treat COVID-19 patients. The use of PFD as a treatment for a range of disorders is currently being studied, with an emphasis on outcomes related to reduced inflammation and fibrogenesis. As a result, rather than exploring the molecule's chemical characteristics, this review focuses on innovative PFD efficacy data. Briefly, herein we tried to investigate, discuss, and illustrate the possible mechanisms of actions for PFD to be targeted as a promising anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic, anti-tumor, and/or anti-SARS-CoV-2 candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samar A Antar
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Horus University, New Damietta 34518, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed A Saleh
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, the United Arab Emirates; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Ahmed A Al-Karmalawy
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahram Canadian University, 6th of October City, Giza 12566, Egypt.
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19
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Kalyuzhin VV, Teplyakov AT, Bespalova ID, Kalyuzhina EV, Terentyeva NN, Grakova EV, Kopeva KV, Usov VY, Garganeeva NP, Pavlenko OA, Gorelova YV, Teteneva AV. Promising directions in the treatment of chronic heart failure: improving old or developing new ones? BULLETIN OF SIBERIAN MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.20538/1682-0363-2022-3-181-197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Unprecedented advances of recent decades in clinical pharmacology, cardiac surgery, arrhythmology, and cardiac pacing have significantly improved the prognosis in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). However, unfortunately, heart failure continues to be associated with high mortality. The solution to this problem consists in simultaneous comprehensive use in clinical practice of all relevant capabilities of continuously improving methods of heart failure treatment proven to be effective in randomized controlled trials (especially when confirmed by the results of studies in real clinical practice), on the one hand, and in development and implementation of innovative approaches to CHF treatment, on the other hand. This is especially relevant for CHF patients with mildly reduced and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction, as poor evidence base for the possibility of improving the prognosis in such patients cannot justify inaction and leaving them without hope of a clinical improvement in their condition. The lecture consistently covers the general principles of CHF treatment and a set of measures aimed at inotropic stimulation and unloading (neurohormonal, volumetric, hemodynamic, and immune) of the heart and outlines some promising areas of disease-modifying therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - A. T. Teplyakov
- Cardiology Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center (NRMC), Russian Academy of Sciences
| | | | | | | | - E. V. Grakova
- Cardiology Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center (NRMC), Russian Academy of Sciences
| | - K. V. Kopeva
- Cardiology Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center (NRMC), Russian Academy of Sciences
| | - V. Yu. Usov
- Cardiology Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center (NRMC), Russian Academy of Sciences
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Sartiani L, Bartolucci G, Pallecchi M, Spinelli V, Cerbai E. Pharmacological basis of the antifibrotic effects of pirfenidone: Mechanistic insights from cardiac in-vitro and in-vivo models. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:751499. [PMID: 36204580 PMCID: PMC9530045 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.751499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pirfenidone is a small drug with marked antifibrotic activity approved for the treatment of Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Recently, its peculiar pharmacological profile has attracted attention for its potential therapeutic benefit for extra-pulmonary disorders characterized by pathological fibrosis, such as kidney, liver, and cardiac failure. A major pitfall of pirfenidone is the lack of consistent understanding of its mechanism of action, regardless of the target. In addition to the increasing attention to the role of inflammation and its mediators in several processes, a better knowledge of the variety of fibroblasts' population, of signals controlling their activation and trans-differentiation, and of crosstalk with other cell resident and non-resident cell types is needed for prevention, treatment and possibly reverse of fibrosis. This review will focus on pirfenidone's pharmacological profile and its effects on cardiac fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Sartiani
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gianluca Bartolucci
- Section of Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Marco Pallecchi
- Section of Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Valentina Spinelli
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Cerbai
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- *Correspondence: Elisabetta Cerbai
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