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Qin D, Han C, Gao Y, Li H, Zhu L. Lactucin reverses liver fibrosis by inhibiting TGF-β1/STAT3 signaling pathway and regulating short-chain fatty acids metabolism. Sci Rep 2024; 14:19323. [PMID: 39164375 PMCID: PMC11336071 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-70253-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
TGF-β1 activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), transcriptional activator 3 (Stat3) activation and short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), metabolite of intestinal bacteria, is closely associated with hepatic fibrosis. Previous studies have shown that Lactucin has significant anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects; however, the mechanism of Lactucin's role in liver fibrosis associated with SCFAs remains unknown. This study was intended to investigate whether effect of Lactucin on liver fibrosis was mediated by TGF-β1/Stat3 and SCFAs. We found that Lactucin induced apoptosis in HSC-T6 cells, and inhibition of nuclear translocation of Stat3 and p-Stat3. And Smad3 and TGF-β1 protein expression was significantly inhibited, while TLR4 and Smad7 protein expression was significantly enhanced. For in vivo experiments, we demonstrated that Lactucin alleviated liver fibrosis in mice, as evidenced by a reduction in inflammatory factors, collagen deposition, liver injury and fibrosis-related factors expression, especially the expression of Smad3 and TGF-β1 proteins was significantly suppressed and Smad7 protein expression was significantly increased in the liver. In addition, the levels of acetic acid, butyric acid and valeric acid in the intestine of Lactucin-treated mice were significantly higher than those in the intestine of liver fibrosis mice. In conclusion, based on the results of in vivo and in vitro experiments, preventive mechanism of Lactucin against liver fibrosis in mice may be to improve the enterohepatic circulation by regulating the metabolites of intestinal microorganisms, acetic acid and butyric acid, and to further regulate the Stat3 and TGF-β1 signaling pathway through the "gut-liver axis" to combat liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongmei Qin
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Phytomedicine Resource and Utilization, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shihezi University, No. 59, North Second Road, Shihezi, 832002, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, People's Republic of China.
| | - Chang Han
- Department of Pharmacy, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuefeng Gao
- College of Applied Engineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Sanmenxia, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Li
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Phytomedicine Resource and Utilization, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shihezi University, No. 59, North Second Road, Shihezi, 832002, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, People's Republic of China
| | - Liping Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Phytomedicine Resource and Utilization, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shihezi University, No. 59, North Second Road, Shihezi, 832002, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, People's Republic of China
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Zhang J, Xing S, Cui J, Wei X, Cao Z, Shao B, Jiang N, Zhai X. Structure-guided design of potent JAK1-selective inhibitors based on 4-amino-7H-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine with anti-inflammatory efficacy. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2024; 357:e2300591. [PMID: 38185750 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202300591] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
In a continuous effort to develop Janus kinase 1 (JAK1)-selective inhibitors, a novel series of 4-amino-7H-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives bearing the piperidinyl fragment were designed and synthesized according to a combination strategy. Through enzymatic assessments, the superior compound 12a with an IC50 value of 12.6 nM against JAK1 was identified and a 10.7-fold selectivity index over JAK2 was achieved. It was indicated that 12a displayed considerable effect in inhibiting the pro-inflammatory NO generated from lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 macrophages, while on normal RAW264.7 cells, 12a exerted a weak cytotoxicity effect (IC50 = 143.3 μM). Furthermore, H&E stain assay demonstrated the conspicuous capacity of 12a to suppress CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis levels in a dose-dependent manner in vivo. The binding model of 12a ideally reflects the excellent activity of JAK1 over the homologous kinase JAK2. Overall, 12a, a JAK1-selective inhibitor, exhibited potential for liver fibrosis and inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shuming Xing
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jianming Cui
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiujian Wei
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhi Cao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Bin Shao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Nan Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xin Zhai
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
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Shamsan E, Almezgagi M, Gamah M, Khan N, Qasem A, Chuanchuan L, Haining F. The role of PI3k/AKT signaling pathway in attenuating liver fibrosis: a comprehensive review. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1389329. [PMID: 38590313 PMCID: PMC10999701 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1389329] [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: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components within the liver leads to a pathological condition known as liver fibrosis. Alcohol abuse, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), autoimmune issues, and viral hepatitis cause chronic liver injury. Exploring potential therapeutic targets and understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in liver fibrosis are essential for the development of effective interventions. The goal of this comprehensive review is to explain how the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway contributes to the reduction of liver fibrosis. The potential of this pathway as a therapeutic target is investigated through a summary of results from in vivo and in vitro studies. Studies focusing on PI3K/AKT activation have shown a significant decrease in fibrosis markers and a significant improvement in liver function. The review emphasizes how this pathway may prevent ECM synthesis and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation, ultimately reducing the fibrotic response. The specific mechanisms and downstream effectors of the PI3K/AKT pathway in liver fibrosis constitute a rapidly developing field of study. In conclusion, the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway plays a significant role in attenuating liver fibrosis. Its complex role in regulating HSC activation and ECM production, demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo, underscores its potential as a effective therapeutic approach for managing liver fibrosis and slowing disease progression. A comprehensive review of this field provides valuable insights into its future developments and implications for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emad Shamsan
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- College of Medical Science, Taiz University, Taiz, Yemen
| | - Maged Almezgagi
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Mohammed Gamah
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Naveed Khan
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | | | - Liu Chuanchuan
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital, Xining, China
| | - Fan Haining
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital, Xining, China
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Zhang CY, Liu S, Yang M. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents in chronic liver diseases: Molecular mechanisms and therapy. World J Hepatol 2023; 15:180-200. [PMID: 36926234 PMCID: PMC10011909 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v15.i2.180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver disease (CLD) is a continuous process that causes a reduction of liver function lasting more than six months. CLD includes alcoholic liver disease (ALD), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), chronic viral infection, and autoimmune hepatitis, which can lead to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and cancer. Liver inflammation and oxidative stress are commonly associated with the development and progression of CLD. Molecular signaling pathways such as AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), C-Jun N-terminal kinase, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are implicated in the pathogenesis of CLD. Therefore, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents from natural products are new potent therapies for ALD, NAFLD, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this review, we summarize some powerful products that can be potential applied in all the stages of CLD, from ALD/NAFLD to HCC. The selected agents such as β-sitosterol, curcumin, genistein, and silymarin can regulate the activation of several important molecules, including AMPK, Farnesoid X receptor, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2, PPARs, phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase, and lysyl oxidase-like proteins. In addition, clinical trials are undergoing to evaluate their efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Ye Zhang
- Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, United States
| | - Shuai Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ming Yang
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, United States
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Creeden JF, Kipp ZA, Xu M, Flight RM, Moseley HNB, Martinez GJ, Lee W, Alganem K, Imami AS, McMullen MR, Roychowdhury S, Nawabi AM, Hipp JA, Softic S, Weinman SA, McCullumsmith R, Nagy LE, Hinds TD. Hepatic kinome atlas: An in-depth identification of kinase pathways in liver fibrosis of humans and rodents. Hepatology 2022; 76:1376-1388. [PMID: 35313030 PMCID: PMC9489820 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Resolution of pathways that converge to induce deleterious effects in hepatic diseases, such as in the later stages, have potential antifibrotic effects that may improve outcomes. We aimed to explore whether humans and rodents display similar fibrotic signaling networks. APPROACH AND RESULTS We assiduously mapped kinase pathways using 340 substrate targets, upstream bioinformatic analysis of kinase pathways, and over 2000 random sampling iterations using the PamGene PamStation kinome microarray chip technology. Using this technology, we characterized a large number of kinases with altered activity in liver fibrosis of both species. Gene expression and immunostaining analyses validated many of these kinases as bona fide signaling events. Surprisingly, the insulin receptor emerged as a considerable protein tyrosine kinase that is hyperactive in fibrotic liver disease in humans and rodents. Discoidin domain receptor tyrosine kinase, activated by collagen that increases during fibrosis, was another hyperactive protein tyrosine kinase in humans and rodents with fibrosis. The serine/threonine kinases found to be the most active in fibrosis were dystrophy type 1 protein kinase and members of the protein kinase family of kinases. We compared the fibrotic events over four models: humans with cirrhosis and three murine models with differing levels of fibrosis, including two models of fatty liver disease with emerging fibrosis. The data demonstrate a high concordance between human and rodent hepatic kinome signaling that focalizes, as shown by our network analysis of detrimental pathways. CONCLUSIONS Our findings establish a comprehensive kinase atlas for liver fibrosis, which identifies analogous signaling events conserved among humans and rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin F. Creeden
- Department of NeurosciencesUniversity of Toledo College of Medicine and Life SciencesToledoOhioUSA
| | - Zachary A. Kipp
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional SciencesUniversity of Kentucky College of MedicineLexingtonKentuckyUSA
| | - Mei Xu
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional SciencesUniversity of Kentucky College of MedicineLexingtonKentuckyUSA
| | - Robert M. Flight
- Department of Molecular & Cellular BiochemistryUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Markey Cancer CenterUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Resource Center for Stable Isotope Resolved MetabolomicsUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
| | - Hunter N. B. Moseley
- Department of Molecular & Cellular BiochemistryUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Markey Cancer CenterUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Resource Center for Stable Isotope Resolved MetabolomicsUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Institute for Biomedical InformaticsUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Center for Clinical and Translational ScienceUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
| | - Genesee J. Martinez
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional SciencesUniversity of Kentucky College of MedicineLexingtonKentuckyUSA
| | - Wang‐Hsin Lee
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional SciencesUniversity of Kentucky College of MedicineLexingtonKentuckyUSA
| | - Khaled Alganem
- Department of NeurosciencesUniversity of Toledo College of Medicine and Life SciencesToledoOhioUSA
| | - Ali S. Imami
- Department of NeurosciencesUniversity of Toledo College of Medicine and Life SciencesToledoOhioUSA
| | - Megan R. McMullen
- Department of Inflammation and ImmunityCleveland ClinicClevelandOhioUSA
| | | | - Atta M. Nawabi
- Division of Transplant and HepatobiliaryDepartment of SurgeryThe University of Kansas Medical CenterKansas CityKansasUSA
| | | | - Samir Softic
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional SciencesUniversity of Kentucky College of MedicineLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
| | - Steven A. Weinman
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver CenterUniversity of Kansas Medical CenterKansas CityKansasUSA
| | - Robert McCullumsmith
- Department of NeurosciencesUniversity of Toledo College of Medicine and Life SciencesToledoOhioUSA
- Neurosciences InstituteProMedicaToledoOhioUSA
| | - Laura E. Nagy
- Department of Inflammation and ImmunityCleveland ClinicClevelandOhioUSA
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyCenter for Liver Disease ResearchCleveland ClinicClevelandOhioUSA
- Department of Molecular MedicineCase Western Reserve UniversityClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Terry D. Hinds
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional SciencesUniversity of Kentucky College of MedicineLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Markey Cancer CenterUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Barnstable Brown Diabetes CenterUniversity of Kentucky College of MedicineLexingtonKentuckyUSA
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