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Minayoshi Y, Maeda H, Hamasaki K, Nagasaki T, Takano M, Fukuda R, Mizuta Y, Tanaka M, Sasaki Y, Otagiri M, Watanabe H, Maruyama T. Mouse Type-I Interferon-Mannosylated Albumin Fusion Protein for the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:260. [PMID: 38399475 PMCID: PMC10893114 DOI: 10.3390/ph17020260] [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: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Although a lot of effort has been put into creating drugs and combination therapies against chronic hepatitis, no effective treatment has been established. Type-I interferon is a promising therapeutic for chronic hepatitis due to its excellent anti-inflammatory effects through interferon receptors on hepatic macrophages. To develop a type-I IFN equipped with the ability to target hepatic macrophages through the macrophage mannose receptor, the present study designed a mouse type-I interferon-mannosylated albumin fusion protein using site-specific mutagenesis and albumin fusion technology. This fusion protein exhibited the induction of anti-inflammatory molecules, such as IL-10, IL-1Ra, and PD-1, in RAW264.7 cells, or hepatoprotective effects on carbon tetrachloride-induced chronic hepatitis mice. As expected, such biological and hepatoprotective actions were significantly superior to those of human fusion proteins. Furthermore, the repeated administration of mouse fusion protein to carbon tetrachloride-induced chronic hepatitis mice clearly suppressed the area of liver fibrosis and hepatic hydroxyproline contents, not only with a reduction in the levels of inflammatory cytokine (TNF-α) and fibrosis-related genes (TGF-β, Fibronectin, Snail, and Collagen 1α2), but also with a shift in the hepatic macrophage phenotype from inflammatory to anti-inflammatory. Therefore, type-I interferon-mannosylated albumin fusion protein has the potential as a new therapeutic agent for chronic hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Minayoshi
- Department of Biopharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 5-1 Oe-Honmachi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 862-0973, Japan; (Y.M.); (K.H.); (T.N.); (M.T.); (R.F.); (Y.M.); (H.W.)
| | - Hitoshi Maeda
- Department of Biopharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 5-1 Oe-Honmachi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 862-0973, Japan; (Y.M.); (K.H.); (T.N.); (M.T.); (R.F.); (Y.M.); (H.W.)
| | - Keisuke Hamasaki
- Department of Biopharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 5-1 Oe-Honmachi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 862-0973, Japan; (Y.M.); (K.H.); (T.N.); (M.T.); (R.F.); (Y.M.); (H.W.)
| | - Taisei Nagasaki
- Department of Biopharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 5-1 Oe-Honmachi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 862-0973, Japan; (Y.M.); (K.H.); (T.N.); (M.T.); (R.F.); (Y.M.); (H.W.)
| | - Mei Takano
- Department of Biopharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 5-1 Oe-Honmachi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 862-0973, Japan; (Y.M.); (K.H.); (T.N.); (M.T.); (R.F.); (Y.M.); (H.W.)
| | - Ryo Fukuda
- Department of Biopharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 5-1 Oe-Honmachi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 862-0973, Japan; (Y.M.); (K.H.); (T.N.); (M.T.); (R.F.); (Y.M.); (H.W.)
| | - Yuki Mizuta
- Department of Biopharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 5-1 Oe-Honmachi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 862-0973, Japan; (Y.M.); (K.H.); (T.N.); (M.T.); (R.F.); (Y.M.); (H.W.)
| | - Motohiko Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan; (M.T.); (Y.S.)
- Public Health and Welfare Bureau, 5-1-1 Oe, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 862-0971, Japan
| | - Yutaka Sasaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan; (M.T.); (Y.S.)
- Osaka Central Hospital, 3-3-30 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0001, Japan
| | - Masaki Otagiri
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sojo University, 4-22-1 Ikeda, Nishi-ku, Kumamoto 860-0082, Japan;
- DDS Research Institute, Sojo University, 4-22-1 Ikeda, Nishi-ku, Kumamoto 860-0082, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Watanabe
- Department of Biopharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 5-1 Oe-Honmachi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 862-0973, Japan; (Y.M.); (K.H.); (T.N.); (M.T.); (R.F.); (Y.M.); (H.W.)
| | - Toru Maruyama
- Department of Biopharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 5-1 Oe-Honmachi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 862-0973, Japan; (Y.M.); (K.H.); (T.N.); (M.T.); (R.F.); (Y.M.); (H.W.)
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Medina Pizaño MY, Loera Arias MDJ, Montes de Oca Luna R, Saucedo Cárdenas O, Ventura Juárez J, Muñoz Ortega MH. Neuroimmunomodulation of adrenoblockers during liver cirrhosis: modulation of hepatic stellate cell activity. Ann Med 2023; 55:543-557. [PMID: 36826975 PMCID: PMC9970206 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2022.2164047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The sympathetic nervous system and the immune system are responsible for producing neurotransmitters and cytokines that interact by binding to receptors; due to this, there is communication between these systems. Liver immune cells and nerve fibres are systematically distributed in the liver, and the partial overlap of both patterns may favour interactions between certain elements. Dendritic cells are attached to fibroblasts, and nerve fibres are connected via the dendritic cell-fibroblast complex. Receptors for most neuroactive substances, such as catecholamines, have been discovered on dendritic cells. The sympathetic nervous system regulates hepatic fibrosis through sympathetic fibres and adrenaline from the adrenal glands through the blood. When there is liver damage, the sympathetic nervous system is activated locally and systemically through proinflammatory cytokines that induce the production of epinephrine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters bind to cells through α-adrenergic receptors, triggering a cellular response that secretes inflammatory factors that stimulate and activate hepatic stellate cells. Hepatic stellate cells are key in the fibrotic process. They initiate the overproduction of extracellular matrix components in an active state that progresses from fibrosis to liver cirrhosis. It has also been shown that they can be directly activated by norepinephrine. Alpha and beta adrenoblockers, such as carvedilol, prazosin, and doxazosin, have recently been used to reverse CCl4-induced liver cirrhosis in rodent and murine models.KEY MESSAGESNeurotransmitters from the sympathetic nervous system activate and increase the proliferation of hepatic stellate cells.Hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis treatment might depend on neurotransmitter and hepatic nervous system regulation.Strategies to reduce hepatic stellate cell activation and fibrosis are based on experimentation with α-adrenoblockers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Odila Saucedo Cárdenas
- Histology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Autonomous University of Nuevo León, Monterrey, México
| | - Javier Ventura Juárez
- Department of Morphology, Autonomous University of Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes, México
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Mödl B, Moritsch S, Zwolanek D, Eferl R. Type I and II interferon signaling in colorectal cancer liver metastasis. Cytokine 2023; 161:156075. [PMID: 36323190 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2022.156075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Metastatic colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Traditional chemotherapy extended the lifespan of cancer patients by only a few months, but targeted therapies and immunotherapy prolonged survival and led to long-term remissions in some cases. Type I and II interferons have direct pro-apoptotic and anti-proliferative effects on cancer cells and stimulate anti-cancer immunity. As a result, interferon production by cells in the tumor microenvironment is in the spotlight of immunotherapies as it affects the responses of anti-cancer immune cells. However, promoting effects of interferons on colorectal cancer metastasis have also been reported. Here we summarize our knowledge about pro- and anti-metastatic effects of type I and II interferons in colorectal cancer liver metastasis and discuss possible therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadette Mödl
- Center for Cancer Research, Medical University of Vienna & Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefan Moritsch
- Center for Cancer Research, Medical University of Vienna & Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniela Zwolanek
- Center for Cancer Research, Medical University of Vienna & Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Robert Eferl
- Center for Cancer Research, Medical University of Vienna & Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
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Chen W, Yan X, Yang A, Xu A, Huang T, You H. miRNA-150-5p promotes hepatic stellate cell proliferation and sensitizes hepatocyte apoptosis during liver fibrosis. Epigenomics 2019; 12:53-67. [PMID: 31833387 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2019-0104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To explore the role of miRNA-150-5p (miR-150-5p) in liver fibrosis. Materials & methods: miRNA expression profiles, CCl4-induced liver fibrosis progression and regression rodent models, quantitative real-time PCR, miR-150-5p mimics and inhibitors, cell proliferation and apoptosis detection, RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis were employed. Results: Liver tissue miR-150-5p expression was positively associated with liver fibrosis progression and regression; however, miR-150-5p exhibited a cell-specific expression pattern, namely, it was enhanced in hepatocytes but reduced in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) during liver fibrosis; miR-150-5p overexpression promoted HSC apoptosis and sensitized hepatocyte apoptosis; miR-150-5p mimic had a larger influence on the transcriptomic stability of HSCs than that of hepatocytes; miR-150-5p mediated activation of interferon signaling pathways might be responsible for HSC apoptosis. Conclusion: miR-150-5p exhibited an opposite regulation and function pattern between HSCs and hepatocytes during liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- Experimental & Translational Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Tolerance Induction & Organ Protection in Transplantation, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xuzhen Yan
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Liver Cirrhosis, National Clinical Research Center of Digestive Diseases, Beijing, PR China
| | - Aiting Yang
- Experimental & Translational Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Tolerance Induction & Organ Protection in Transplantation, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Anjian Xu
- Experimental & Translational Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Tolerance Induction & Organ Protection in Transplantation, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Tao Huang
- Experimental & Translational Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Tolerance Induction & Organ Protection in Transplantation, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Hong You
- Experimental & Translational Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Tolerance Induction & Organ Protection in Transplantation, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China.,Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Liver Cirrhosis, National Clinical Research Center of Digestive Diseases, Beijing, PR China
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Senoo T, Sasaki R, Akazawa Y, Ichikawa T, Miuma S, Miyaaki H, Taura N, Nakao K. Geranylgeranylacetone attenuates fibrogenic activity and induces apoptosis in cultured human hepatic stellate cells and reduces liver fibrosis in carbon tetrachloride-treated mice. BMC Gastroenterol 2018; 18:34. [PMID: 29486718 PMCID: PMC5830074 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-018-0761-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Geranylgeranylacetone (GGA), an anti-ulcer drug widely used in Japan, has attracted interest because of its various therapeutic effects. Therefore, we investigated the effects of GGA on human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) in vitro and in a mouse model of liver fibrosis. Methods LX2, an immortalized human HSC line, was cultured and treated with GGA at concentrations up to 0.5 mM. After GGA treatment, changes in cellular morphology, apoptosis, and fibrosis-related gene expression were assessed. Male C57BL/6 J mouse model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis was treated with GGA. Liver fibrosis was evaluated using Sirius red staining and immunohistochemistry for α-smooth muscle actin (SMA). Results GGA decreased the density of LX2 and primary human hepatic stellate cells but not that of HepG2 cells (a human hepatoma cell line), which was employed as control. In addition, GGA decreased the expression of fibrogenic genes and increased that of C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP). It also induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and increased apoptosis. CHOP knockdown, however, failed to suppress the GGA-induced decrease in LX2 cell density, suggesting the involvement of additional molecules in ER stress–associated apoptosis. Expression of death receptor 5, mitogen-activated protein kinase, heat shock protein 70, and Akt, all of which affect the activity of stellate cells, was unchanged in relation to LX2 cell fibrogenic activity. In the mouse model of liver fibrosis, GGA decreased the extent of Sirius red staining and SMA expression. Conclusions GGA attenuated fibrogenic activity and induced apoptosis in cultured human HSCs, and suppressed liver fibrosis in mice, suggesting its potential as an agent for treating liver fibrosis. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12876-018-0761-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takemasa Senoo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan. .,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Hospital, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan.
| | - Ryu Sasaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan.,Department of Clinical Oncology Unit of Translational Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan
| | - Yuko Akazawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan
| | - Tatsuki Ichikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterology, Nagasaki Harbor Medical Center, 6-39 Shinchi, Nagasaki, 850-8555, Japan
| | - Satoshi Miuma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan
| | - Hisamitsu Miyaaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan
| | - Naota Taura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Nakao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan
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Hepatic Stellate Cells and microRNAs in Pathogenesis of Liver Fibrosis. J Clin Med 2016; 5:jcm5030038. [PMID: 26999230 PMCID: PMC4810109 DOI: 10.3390/jcm5030038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Revised: 02/23/2016] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
microRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression by either blocking translation or inducing degradation of target mRNA. miRNAs play essential roles in diverse biological and pathological processes, including development of hepatic fibrosis. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a central role in development of hepatic fibrosis and there are intricate regulatory effects of miRNAs on their activation, proliferation, collagen production, migration, and apoptosis. There are multiple differentially expressed miRNAs in activated HSCs, and in this review we aim to summarize current data on miRNAs that participate in the development of hepatic fibrosis. Based on this review, miRNAs may serve as biomarkers for diagnosis of liver disease, as well as markers of disease progression. Most importantly, dysregulated miRNAs may potentially be targeted by novel therapies to treat and reverse progression of hepatic fibrosis.
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Yu X, Wu Y, Liu H, Gao L, Sun X, Zhang C, Shi J, Zhao H, Jia B, Liu Z, Wang F. Small-Animal SPECT/CT of the Progression and Recovery of Rat Liver Fibrosis by Using an Integrin αvβ3-targeting Radiotracer. Radiology 2015; 279:502-12. [PMID: 26669696 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.2015150090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the potential utility of an integrin αvβ3-targeting radiotracer, technetium 99m-PEG4-E[PEG4-cyclo(arginine-glycine-aspartic acid-D-phenylalanine-lysine)]2 ((99m)Tc-3PRGD2), for single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)/computed tomography (CT) for monitoring of the progression and prognosis of liver fibrosis in a rat model. MATERIALS AND METHODS All animal experiments were performed by following the protocol approved by the institutional animal care and use committee. (99m)Tc-3PRGD2 was prepared and longitudinal SPECT/CT was performed to monitor the progression (n = 8) and recovery (n = 5) of liver fibrosis induced in a rat model by means of thioacetamide (TAA) administration. The mean liver-to-background radioactivity per unit volume ratio was analyzed for comparisons between the TAA and control (saline) groups at different stages of liver fibrosis. Data were compared by using Student t and Mann-Whitney tests. Results:of SPECT/CT were compared with those of ex vivo biodistribution analysis (n = 5). RESULTS Accumulation of (99m)Tc-3PRGD2 in the liver increased in proportion to the progression of fibrosis and TAA exposure time; accumulation levels were significantly different between the TAA and control groups as early as week 4 of TAA administration (liver-to-background ratio: 32.30 ± 3.39 vs 19.01 ± 3.31; P = .0002). Results of ex vivo immunofluorescence staining demonstrated the positive expression of integrin αvβ3 on the activated hepatic stellate cells, and the integrin αvβ3 levels in the liver corresponded to the results of SPECT/CT (R(2) = 0.75, P < .0001). (99m)Tc-3PRGD2 uptake in the fibrotic liver decreased after antifibrotic therapy with interferon α2b compared with that in the control group (relative liver-to-background ratio: 0.45 ± 0.05 vs 1.01 ± 0.05; P < .0001) or spontaneous recovery (relative liver-to-background ratio: 0.56 ± 0.06 vs 1.01 ± 0.05; P < .0001). CONCLUSION (99m)Tc-3PRGD2 SPECT/CT was successfully used to monitor the progression and recovery of liver fibrosis and shows potential applications for noninvasive diagnosis of early stage liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinhe Yu
- From the Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing 100191, China (X.Y., Y.W., H.L., L.G., S.X., C.Z., J.S., H.Z., B.J., Z.L., F.W.); Interdisciplinary Laboratory, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China (J.S., F.W.); and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China (F.W.)
| | - Yue Wu
- From the Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing 100191, China (X.Y., Y.W., H.L., L.G., S.X., C.Z., J.S., H.Z., B.J., Z.L., F.W.); Interdisciplinary Laboratory, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China (J.S., F.W.); and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China (F.W.)
| | - Hao Liu
- From the Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing 100191, China (X.Y., Y.W., H.L., L.G., S.X., C.Z., J.S., H.Z., B.J., Z.L., F.W.); Interdisciplinary Laboratory, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China (J.S., F.W.); and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China (F.W.)
| | - Liquan Gao
- From the Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing 100191, China (X.Y., Y.W., H.L., L.G., S.X., C.Z., J.S., H.Z., B.J., Z.L., F.W.); Interdisciplinary Laboratory, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China (J.S., F.W.); and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China (F.W.)
| | - Xianlei Sun
- From the Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing 100191, China (X.Y., Y.W., H.L., L.G., S.X., C.Z., J.S., H.Z., B.J., Z.L., F.W.); Interdisciplinary Laboratory, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China (J.S., F.W.); and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China (F.W.)
| | - Chenran Zhang
- From the Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing 100191, China (X.Y., Y.W., H.L., L.G., S.X., C.Z., J.S., H.Z., B.J., Z.L., F.W.); Interdisciplinary Laboratory, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China (J.S., F.W.); and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China (F.W.)
| | - Jiyun Shi
- From the Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing 100191, China (X.Y., Y.W., H.L., L.G., S.X., C.Z., J.S., H.Z., B.J., Z.L., F.W.); Interdisciplinary Laboratory, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China (J.S., F.W.); and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China (F.W.)
| | - Huiyun Zhao
- From the Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing 100191, China (X.Y., Y.W., H.L., L.G., S.X., C.Z., J.S., H.Z., B.J., Z.L., F.W.); Interdisciplinary Laboratory, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China (J.S., F.W.); and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China (F.W.)
| | - Bing Jia
- From the Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing 100191, China (X.Y., Y.W., H.L., L.G., S.X., C.Z., J.S., H.Z., B.J., Z.L., F.W.); Interdisciplinary Laboratory, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China (J.S., F.W.); and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China (F.W.)
| | - Zhaofei Liu
- From the Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing 100191, China (X.Y., Y.W., H.L., L.G., S.X., C.Z., J.S., H.Z., B.J., Z.L., F.W.); Interdisciplinary Laboratory, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China (J.S., F.W.); and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China (F.W.)
| | - Fan Wang
- From the Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing 100191, China (X.Y., Y.W., H.L., L.G., S.X., C.Z., J.S., H.Z., B.J., Z.L., F.W.); Interdisciplinary Laboratory, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China (J.S., F.W.); and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China (F.W.)
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Kumar V, Mahato RI. Delivery and targeting of miRNAs for treating liver fibrosis. Pharm Res 2014; 32:341-61. [PMID: 25186440 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-014-1497-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2014] [Accepted: 08/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a pathological condition originating from liver damage that leads to excess accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in the liver. Viral infection, chronic injury, local inflammatory responses and oxidative stress are the major factors contributing to the onset and progression of liver fibrosis. Multiple cell types and various growth factors and inflammatory cytokines are involved in the induction and progression of this disease. Various strategies currently being tried to attenuate liver fibrosis include the inhibition of HSC activation or induction of their apoptosis, reduction of collagen production and deposition, decrease in inflammation, and liver transplantation. Liver fibrosis treatment approaches are mainly based on small drug molecules, antibodies, oligonucleotides (ODNs), siRNA and miRNAs. MicroRNAs (miRNA or miR) are endogenous noncoding RNA of ~22 nucleotides that regulate gene expression at post transcription level. There are several miRNAs having aberrant expressions and play a key role in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. Single miRNA can target multiple mRNAs, and we can predict its targets based on seed region pairing, thermodynamic stability of pairing and species conservation. For in vivo delivery, we need some additional chemical modification in their structure, and suitable delivery systems like micelles, liposomes and conjugation with targeting or stabilizing the moiety. Here, we discuss the role of miRNAs in fibrogenesis and current approaches of utilizing these miRNAs for treating liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virender Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), 986025 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, 68198-6025, USA
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Zhou WC, Zhang QB, Qiao L. Pathogenesis of liver cirrhosis. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:7312-7324. [PMID: 24966602 PMCID: PMC4064077 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i23.7312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 367] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2013] [Revised: 03/16/2014] [Accepted: 04/29/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis is the final pathological result of various chronic liver diseases, and fibrosis is the precursor of cirrhosis. Many types of cells, cytokines and miRNAs are involved in the initiation and progression of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is a pivotal event in fibrosis. Defenestration and capillarization of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells are major contributing factors to hepatic dysfunction in liver cirrhosis. Activated Kupffer cells destroy hepatocytes and stimulate the activation of HSCs. Repeated cycles of apoptosis and regeneration of hepatocytes contribute to pathogenesis of cirrhosis. At the molecular level, many cytokines are involved in mediation of signaling pathways that regulate activation of HSCs and fibrogenesis. Recently, miRNAs as a post-transcriptional regulator have been found to play a key role in fibrosis and cirrhosis. Robust animal models of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, as well as the recently identified critical cellular and molecular factors involved in the development of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis will facilitate the development of more effective therapeutic approaches for these conditions.
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DeSantis DA, Lee P, Doerner SK, Ko CW, Kawasoe JH, Hill-Baskin AE, Ernest SR, Bhargava P, Hur KY, Cresci GA, Pritchard MT, Lee CH, Nagy LE, Nadeau JH, Croniger CM. Genetic resistance to liver fibrosis on A/J mouse chromosome 17. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2013; 37:1668-79. [PMID: 23763294 DOI: 10.1111/acer.12157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2012] [Accepted: 03/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Because the histological and biochemical progression of liver disease is similar in alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), we hypothesized that the genetic susceptibility to these liver diseases would be similar. To identify potential candidate genes that regulate the development of liver fibrosis, we studied a chromosome substitution strain (CSS-17) that contains chromosome 17 from the A/J inbred strain substituted for the corresponding chromosome on the C57BL/6J (B6) genetic background. Previously, we identified quantitative trait loci (QTLs) in CSS-17, namely obesity-resistant QTL 13 and QTL 15 (Obrq13 and Obrq15, respectively), that were associated with protection from diet-induced obesity and hepatic steatosis on a high-fat diet. METHODS To test whether these or other CSS-17 QTLs conferred resistance to alcohol-induced liver injury and fibrosis, B6, A/J, CSS-17, and congenics 17C-1 and 17C-6 were either fed Lieber-DeCarli ethanol (EtOH)-containing diet or had carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 ) administered chronically. RESULTS The congenic strain carrying Obrq15 showed resistance from alcohol-induced liver injury and liver fibrosis, whereas Obrq13 conferred susceptibility to liver fibrosis. From published deep sequencing data for chromosome 17 in the B6 and A/J strains, we identified candidate genes in Obrq13 and Obrq15 that contained single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the promoter region or within the gene itself. NADPH oxidase organizer 1 (Noxo1) and NLR family, CARD domain containing 4 (Nlrc4) showed altered hepatic gene expression in strains with the A/J allele at the end of the EtOH diet study and after CCl4 treatment. CONCLUSIONS Aspects of the genetics for the progression of ASH are unique compared to NASH, suggesting that the molecular mechanisms for the progression of disease are at least partially distinct. Using these CSSs, we identified 2 candidate genes, Noxo1 and Nlrc4, which modulate genetic susceptibility in ASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A DeSantis
- Department of Nutrition, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
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He Y, Huang C, Zhang SP, Sun X, Long XR, Li J. The potential of microRNAs in liver fibrosis. Cell Signal 2012; 24:2268-72. [PMID: 22884954 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2012.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2012] [Accepted: 07/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of ~22-nucleotides noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression by specifically binding with 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of target gene mRNAs to posttranscriptionally effect mRNA stability and translation,and play essential roles in a variety of biological processes, including cell development, proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Liver fibrosis is the occurrence of liver cell necrosis and inflammatory stimulation, and is characterized by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrices(ECMs). In the fibrotic liver, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which are regulated by multiple signal transduction pathways, undergo myofibroblastic transdifferentiation and are generally regarded as the major ECM producer responsible for liver fibrosis. A growing body of evidence suggests that divergent miRNAs participate in liver fibrotic process and activation of HSC. Moreover, members of many signal transduction pathways are important targets for miRNAs. In this review, we make a summary on current understanding of the roles of miRNAs in the development of liver fibrosis, HSC functions and their potential as novel drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong He
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Bioactivity of Natrual Products, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
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Sekiya Y, Ogawa T, Iizuka M, Yoshizato K, Ikeda K, Kawada N. Down-regulation of cyclin E1 expression by microRNA-195 accounts for interferon-β-induced inhibition of hepatic stellate cell proliferation. J Cell Physiol 2011; 226:2535-42. [PMID: 21792910 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.22598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have suggested that interferons (IFNs) have an antifibrotic effect in the liver independent of their antiviral effect although its detailed mechanism remains largely unknown. Some microRNAs have been reported to regulate pathophysiological activities of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). We performed analyses of the antiproliferative effects of IFNs in HSCs with special regard to microRNA-195 (miR-195). We found that miR-195 was prominently down-regulated in the proliferative phase of primary-cultured mouse HSCs. Supporting this fact, IFN-β induced miR-195 expression and inhibited the cell proliferation by delaying their G1 to S phase cell cycle progression in human HSC line LX-2. IFN-β down-regulated cyclin E1 and up-regulated p21 mRNA levels in LX-2 cells. Luciferase reporter assay revealed the direct interaction of miR-195 with the cyclin E1 3'UTR. Overexpression of miR-195 lowered cyclin E1 mRNA and protein expression levels, increased p21 mRNA and protein expression levels, and inhibited cell proliferation in LX-2 cells. Moreover miR-195 inhibition restored cyclin E1 levels that were down-regulated by IFN-β. In conclusion, IFN-β inhibited the proliferation of LX-2 cells by delaying cell cycle progression in G1 to S phase, partially through the down-regulation of cyclin E1 and up-regulation of p21. IFN-induced miR-195 was involved in these processes. These observations reveal a new mechanistic aspect of the antifibrotic effect of IFNs in the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumiko Sekiya
- Department of Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka City University, Osaka, Japan
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Ise M, Ise H, Shiba Y, Kobayashi S, Goto M, Takahashi M, Akaike T, Ikeda U. Targeting N-acetylglucosamine-bearing polymer-coated liposomes to vascular smooth muscle cells. J Artif Organs 2011; 14:301-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s10047-011-0595-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2011] [Accepted: 07/13/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Bruix J, Poynard T, Colombo M, Schiff E, Burak K, Heathcote EJL, Berg T, Poo JL, Mello CB, Guenther R, Niederau C, Terg R, Bedossa P, Boparai N, Griffel LH, Burroughs M, Brass CA, Albrecht JK. Maintenance therapy with peginterferon alfa-2b does not prevent hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients with chronic hepatitis C. Gastroenterology 2011; 140:1990-9. [PMID: 21419770 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2011.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2010] [Revised: 02/23/2011] [Accepted: 03/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Several studies have reported that low doses of interferon can delay the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and progression of chronic hepatitis C. We investigated the incidence of clinical events among participants of the Evaluation of PegIntron in Control of Hepatitis C Cirrhosis (EPIC)3 program. METHODS Data were analyzed from an open-label randomized study of patients with chronic hepatitis C who had failed to respond to interferon alfa plus ribavirin. All patients had compensated cirrhosis with no evidence of HCC. Patients received peginterferon alfa-2b (0.5 μg/kg/week; n=311) or no treatment (controls, n=315) for a maximum period of 5 years or until 98 patients had a clinical event (hepatic decompensation, HCC, death, or liver transplantation). The primary measure of efficacy was time until the first clinical event. RESULTS There was no significant difference in time to first clinical event among patients who received peginterferon alfa-2b compared with controls (hazard ratio [HR], 1.452; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.880-2.396). There was no decrease in the development of HCC with therapy. The time to disease progression (clinical events or new or enlarged varices) was significantly longer for patients who received peginterferon alfa-2b compared with controls (HR, 1.564; 95% CI: 1.130-2.166). In a prospectively defined subanalysis of patients with baseline portal hypertension, peginterferon alfa-2b significantly increased the time to first clinical event compared with controls (P=.016). There were no new safety observations. CONCLUSIONS Maintenance therapy with peginterferon alfa-2b is not warranted in all patients and does not prevent HCC. However, there is a potential clinical benefit of long-term suppressive therapy in patients with preexisting portal hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Bruix
- BCLC Group, Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Hepatología y Enfermedades Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain.
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Brunati AM, Pagano MA, Bindoli A, Rigobello MP. Thiol redox systems and protein kinases in hepatic stellate cell regulatory processes. Free Radic Res 2010; 44:363-78. [PMID: 20166884 DOI: 10.3109/10715760903555836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) are the major producers of collagen in the liver and their conversion from resting cells to a proliferating, contractile and fibrogenic phenotype ('activation') is a critical step, leading to liver fibrosis characterized by deposition of excessive extracellular matrix. Cytokines, growth factors, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS), lipid peroxides and their products deriving from hepatocytes, Kupffer cells and other cells converge on HSC and influence their activation. This review focuses on glutathione and thioredoxin pathways, with particular emphasis on their role in HSC. These two systems have been shown to act in the metabolism of hydrogen peroxide, control of thiol redox balance and regulation of signalling pathways. Particular attention is paid to mitochondria and NADPH oxidase. Detailed knowledge of specific signalling, redox conditions and apoptotic processes will be of help in devising proper pharmacological treatments for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Brunati
- Dipartimento di Chimica Biologica, Viale G. Colombo 3, 35121 Padova, Italy.
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