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Ullah A, Rehman IU, Ommer K, Ahmed N, Odenthal M, Yu X, Ahmad J, Nadeem T, Ali Q, Ahmad B. Circulating miRNA-192 and miR-29a as Disease Progression Biomarkers in Hepatitis C Patients with a Prevalence of HCV Genotype 3. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14051056. [PMID: 37239415 DOI: 10.3390/genes14051056] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs miR-29a and miR-192 are involved in inflammatory and fibrotic processes of chronic liver disease, and circulating miR-29a is suggested to diagnose fibrosis progression due to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. This study aimed to evaluate the expression profile of circulating miR-192 and 29a in a patient cohort with a high frequency of HCV genotype-3. A total of 222 HCV blood samples were collected and serum were separated. Patients were classified into mild, moderate, and severe liver injury based on their Child-Turcotte-Pugh CTP score. RNA was isolated from the serum and used for quantitative real-time PCR. The HCV genotype-3 (62%) was the predominant HCV genotype. In HCV patients, the serum miR-192 and miR-29a levels were significantly upregulated in comparison to healthy controls (p = 0.0017 and p = 0.0001, respectively). The progression rate of miR-192 and 29a in the patient group with mild was highly upregulated compared to patients with moderate and severe hepatitis infection. The ROC curve of miR-192 and miR-29a of moderate liver disease had a significant diagnostic performance compared to the other HCV-infected groups. The increase in miR-29a and miR-192 serum levels was even slightly higher in patients with HCV genotype-3 than in non-genotype-3 patients. In conclusion, serum miR-192 and miR-29a levels significantly increased during the progression of chronic HCV infection. The marked upregulation in patients with HCV genotype-3 suggests them as potential biomarkers for hepatic disease, independently of the HCV genotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Ullah
- Department of Health and Biological Sciences, Abasyn University, Peshawar 25000, Pakistan
- Institute for Pathology, University of Cologne, 50923 Cologne, Germany
| | - Irshad Ur Rehman
- Center of Biotechnology and Microbiology, University of Peshawar, Peshawar 25000, Pakistan
| | - Katharina Ommer
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine, University of Cologne, 50923 Cologne, Germany
| | - Nadeem Ahmed
- Center of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | | | - Xiaojie Yu
- Institute for Pathology, University of Cologne, 50923 Cologne, Germany
| | - Jamshaid Ahmad
- Center of Biotechnology and Microbiology, University of Peshawar, Peshawar 25000, Pakistan
| | - Tariq Nadeem
- Center of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Qurban Ali
- Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Bashir Ahmad
- Center of Biotechnology and Microbiology, University of Peshawar, Peshawar 25000, Pakistan
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2
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Quiroz Reyes AG, Lozano Sepulveda SA, Martinez-Acuña N, Islas JF, Gonzalez PD, Heredia Torres TG, Perez JR, Garza Treviño EN. Cancer Stem Cell and Hepatic Stellate Cells in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2023; 22:15330338231163677. [PMID: 36938618 PMCID: PMC10028642 DOI: 10.1177/15330338231163677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver cancer. It is highly lethal and has high recurrence. Death among HCC patients occur mainly due to tumor progression, recurrence, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are cell subpopulations within the tumor that promote invasion, recurrence, metastasis, and drug resistance. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are important components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) responsible for primary secretory ECM proteins during liver injury and inflammation. These cells promote fibrogenesis, infiltrate the tumor stroma, and contribute to HCC development. Interactions between HSC and CSC and their microenvironment help promote carcinogenesis through different mechanisms. This review summarizes the roles of CSCs and HSCs in establishing the TME in primary liver tumors and describes their involvement in HCC chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana G Quiroz Reyes
- Facultad de Medicina, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, 27771Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Sonia A Lozano Sepulveda
- Facultad de Medicina, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, 27771Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Natalia Martinez-Acuña
- Facultad de Medicina, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, 27771Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Jose F Islas
- Facultad de Medicina, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, 27771Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Paulina Delgado Gonzalez
- Facultad de Medicina, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, 27771Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Tania Guadalupe Heredia Torres
- Facultad de Medicina, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, 27771Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Jorge Roacho Perez
- Facultad de Medicina, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, 27771Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Elsa N Garza Treviño
- Facultad de Medicina, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, 27771Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
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3
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Park SJ, Hahn YS. Hepatocytes infected with hepatitis C virus change immunological features in the liver microenvironment. Clin Mol Hepatol 2023; 29:65-76. [PMID: 35957546 PMCID: PMC9845665 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2022.0032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is remarkably efficient in establishing viral persistence, leading to the development of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) are promising HCV therapies to clear the virus. However, recent reports indicate potential increased risk of HCC development among HCV patients with cirrhosis following DAA therapy. CD8+ T-cells participate in controlling HCV infection. However, in chronic hepatitis C patients, severe CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell dysfunctions have been observed. This suggests that HCV may employ mechanisms to counteract or suppress the host T-cell responses. The primary site of viral replication is within hepatocytes where infection can trigger the expression of costimulatory molecules and the secretion of immunoregulatory cytokines. Numerous studies indicate that HCV infection in hepatocytes impairs antiviral host immunity by modulating the expression of immunoregulatory molecules. Hepatocytes expressing whole HCV proteins upregulate the ligands of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) synthesis compared to those in hepatocytes in the absence of the HCV genome. Importantly, HCV-infected hepatocytes are capable of inducing regulatory CD4+ T-cells, releasing exosomes displaying TGF-β on exosome surfaces, and generating follicular regulatory T-cells. Recent studies report that the expression profile of exosome microRNAs provides biomarkers of HCV infection and HCV-related chronic liver diseases. A better understanding of the immunoregulatory mechanisms and identification of biomarkers associated with HCV infection will provide insight into designing vaccine against HCV to bypass HCV-induced immune dysregulation and prevent development of HCV-associated chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo-Jeung Park
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA,USA
| | - Young S. Hahn
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA,USA,Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA,Corresponding author : Young S. Hahn Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, 345 Crispell Dr, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA Tel: +1-434-924-1275, Fax: +1-434-924-1221, E-mail:
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4
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Roles of microRNAs in Hepatitis C Virus Replication and Pathogenesis. Viruses 2022; 14:v14081776. [PMID: 36016398 PMCID: PMC9413378 DOI: 10.3390/v14081776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with the development of chronic liver diseases, e.g., fibrosis, cirrhosis, even hepatocellular carcinoma, and/or extra-hepatic diseases such as diabetes. As an obligatory intracellular pathogen, HCV absolutely relies on host cells to propagate and is able to modulate host cellular factors in favor of its replication. Indeed, lots of cellular factors, including microRNAs (miRNAs), have been identified to be dysregulated during HCV infection. MiRNAs are small noncoding RNAs that regulate protein synthesis of their targeting mRNAs at the post-transcriptional level, usually by suppressing their target gene expression. The miRNAs dysregulated during HCV infection could directly or indirectly modulate HCV replication and/or induce liver diseases. Regulatory mechanisms of various miRNAs in HCV replication and pathogenesis have been characterized. Some dysregulated miRNAs have been considered as the biomarkers for the detection of HCV infection and/or HCV-related diseases. In this review, we intend to briefly summarize the identified miRNAs functioning at HCV replication and pathogenesis, focusing on the recent developments.
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Rotavirus-Mediated Suppression of miRNA-192 Family and miRNA-181a Activates Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway: An In Vitro Study. Viruses 2022; 14:v14030558. [PMID: 35336965 PMCID: PMC8955121 DOI: 10.3390/v14030558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The significance of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling cascade in Rotavirus (RV) infection has not been elucidated. In this study, we attempt to elucidate the importance of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in the RV pathogenesis and investigate a miRNA-mediated approach to regulate the pathway to repress the RV infection in the host. The regulation of the Wnt signaling pathway in terms of β-catenin accumulation and activation was analyzed by Western blotting and Confocal imaging analysis. The expression levels of miR-192 family members and miR-181a were enquired into using qPCR assays, whereas their targets in the Wnt pathway were confirmed using the Luciferase Reporter Assays. Members of the miR-192 family and miR-181a, which target the components of the pathway, were also found to be considerably decreased in expression during RV infection. Ectopic expression of these miRNAs could restrict the RV pathogenesis by targeting the intermediates of the Wnt signaling pathway. The miR-192 family and miR-181a were capable of suppressing the RV infection via targeting of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. The study not only highlights the role of the Wnt signaling cascade in RV infection but also suggests that miRNAs can synergistically decrease RV replication by a significant amount. Thus, the miR-192 family and miR-181a present themselves as prospective antivirals against RV infection.
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Li LY, Yang JF, Rong F, Luo ZP, Hu S, Fang H, Wu Y, Yao R, Kong WH, Feng XW, Chen BJ, Li J, Xu T. ZEB1 serves an oncogenic role in the tumourigenesis of HCC by promoting cell proliferation, migration, and inhibiting apoptosis via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2021; 42:1676-1689. [PMID: 33514855 PMCID: PMC8463676 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-020-00575-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1), a functional protein of zinc finger family, was aberrant expressed in many kinds of liver disease including hepatic fibrosis and Hepatitis C virus. Bioinformatics results showed that ZEB1 was abnormally expressed in HCC tissues. However, to date, the potential regulatory role and molecular mechanisms of ZEB1 are still unclear in the occurrence and development of HCC. This study demonstrated that the expression level of ZEB1 was significantly elevated both in liver tissues of HCC patients and cell lines (HepG2 and SMMC-7721 cells). Moreover, ZEB1 could promote the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells. On the downstream regulation mechanism, ZEB1 could activate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by upregulating the protein expression levels of β-catenin, c-Myc, and cyclin D1. Novel studies showed that miR-708 particularly targeted ZEB1 3'-UTR regions and inhibited the HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Furthermore, results of nude mice experiments of HCC model indicated that miR-708 could inhibit tumor growth and xenograft metastasis model was established to validate that miR-708 could inhibit HCC cell metastasis through tail-vein injection in vivo. Together, the study suggested that ZEB1 modulated by miR-708 might be a potential therapeutic target for HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang-Yun Li
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
- Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Jun-Fa Yang
- Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Fan Rong
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
- Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
- Lujiang County People's Hospital of Anhui Province, Hefei, 231500, China
| | - Zhi-Pan Luo
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
- Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Shuang Hu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
- Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Hui Fang
- Department of Pharmocology, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310015, China
| | - Ying Wu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Rui Yao
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
- Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
- Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Wei-Hao Kong
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Xiao-Wen Feng
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
- Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Bang-Jie Chen
- First Clinical Medical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Jun Li
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
- Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Tao Xu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
- Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
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7
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HCV Proteins Modulate the Host Cell miRNA Expression Contributing to Hepatitis C Pathogenesis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Development. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102485. [PMID: 34069740 PMCID: PMC8161081 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary According to the last estimate by the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 71 million individuals have chronic hepatitis C worldwide. The persistence of HCV infection leads to chronic hepatitis, which can evolve into liver cirrhosis and ultimately into hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Although the pathogenic mechanisms are not fully understood, it is well established that an interplay between host cell factors, including microRNAs (miRNA), and viral components exist in all the phases of the viral infection and replication. Those interactions establish a complex equilibrium between host cells and HCV and participate in multiple mechanisms characterizing hepatitis C pathogenesis. The present review aims to describe the role of HCV structural and non-structural proteins in the modulation of cellular miRNA during HCV infection and pathogenesis. Abstract Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genome encodes for one long polyprotein that is processed by cellular and viral proteases to generate 10 polypeptides. The viral structural proteins include the core protein, and the envelope glycoproteins E1 and E2, present at the surface of HCV particles. Non-structural (NS) proteins consist of NS1, NS2, NS3, NS4A, NS4B, NS5a, and NS5b and have a variable function in HCV RNA replication and particle assembly. Recent findings evidenced the capacity of HCV virus to modulate host cell factors to create a favorable environment for replication. Indeed, increasing evidence has indicated that the presence of HCV is significantly associated with aberrant miRNA expression in host cells, and HCV structural and non-structural proteins may be responsible for these alterations. In this review, we summarize the recent findings on the role of HCV structural and non-structural proteins in the modulation of host cell miRNAs, with a focus on the molecular mechanisms responsible for the cell re-programming involved in viral replication, immune system escape, as well as the oncogenic process. In this regard, structural and non-structural proteins have been shown to modulate the expression of several onco-miRNAs or tumor suppressor miRNAs.
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Bulfoni M, Pravisani R, Dalla E, Cesselli D, Hidaka M, Di Loreto C, Eguchi S, Baccarani U. miRNA expression profiles in liver grafts of HCV and HIV/HCV-infected recipients, 6 months after liver transplantation. J Med Virol 2021; 93:4992-5000. [PMID: 33818800 PMCID: PMC8360178 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.26999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In hepatitis C virus (HCV)/human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co‐infected patients, HIV enhances HCV replication and liver damage. Several microRNAs (miRNAs), active in pro‐fibrotic and inflammatory pathways, have been implicated in the pathogenesis of this phenomenon. However, these miRNAs have been tested only in explanted cirrhotic livers, when the liver damage has become chronic and irreversible. No data are available on the early phase of viral infection, such as early after liver transplantation (LT). In the present study, the expression of miR‐101, miR‐122, miR‐155, miR‐192, miR‐200c, miR‐338, and miR‐532 was determined by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction in liver biopsies of HCV (n = 19) and HCV/HIV‐infected (n = 20) LT recipients, as well as in a control group (n = 18) of noninfected patients, transplanted for alcoholic cirrhosis. The timing of liver biopsy was 6 months post‐LT. None of the patients was treated with direct‐acting anti‐HCV drugs. All co‐infected recipients had suppressed HIV viral load. Grading and staging were assessed according to the Ishak Classification. HCV and HIV viral load were measured in the sera. miR‐101 (p = .03), miR‐122 (p = .012), and miR‐192 (p = .038) were significantly downregulated in HCV/HIV co‐infected and HCV mono‐infected recipients when compared with noninfected recipients, and such downregulation was more pronounced in co‐infected ones. Moreover, in co‐infected recipients but not in mono‐infected ones, miR‐101 inversely correlated with the peripheral HCV‐RNA levels (r = .41, p = .04) and miR‐122 inversely correlated with peripheral HCV‐RNA levels (r = .49, p = .03) and with the histological grading (r = .51, p = .02). In conclusion, as early as 6 months after LT, the presence of HIV‐HCV co‐infection enhanced a significant downregulation of certain miRNAs that showed a direct correlation with HCV viral load and liver inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Riccardo Pravisani
- Department of Medicine, Liver-Kidney Transplant Unit, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Emiliano Dalla
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Daniela Cesselli
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy.,Institute of Pathology, ASU FC, Udine, Italy
| | - Masaaki Hidaka
- Department of Surgery, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Carla Di Loreto
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy.,Institute of Pathology, ASU FC, Udine, Italy
| | - Susumu Eguchi
- Department of Surgery, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Umberto Baccarani
- Department of Medicine, Liver-Kidney Transplant Unit, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
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Complexation with Random Methyl-β-Cyclodextrin and (2-Hidroxypropyl)-β-Cyclodextrin Enhances In Vivo Anti-Fibrotic and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Chrysin via the Inhibition of NF-κB and TGF-β1/Smad Signaling Pathways and Modulation of Hepatic Pro/Anti-Fibrotic miRNA. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041869. [PMID: 33668543 PMCID: PMC7917810 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chrysin (CHR) is a natural flavonoid with a wide range of pharmacological activities, including hepatoprotection, but poor water solubility. By including water-soluble hydroxypropyl (HPBCD) and randomly methylated (RAMEB) β-cyclodextrin, we aimed to increase its biodisponibility and the effectiveness of the antifibrotic effects of chrysin at oral administration. Liver fibrosis in mice was induced in 7 weeks by CCl4 i.p. administration, and afterwards treated with 50 mg/kg of CHR-HPBCD, CHR-RAMEB, and free chrysin. CCl4 administration increased hepatic inflammation (which was augmented by the upregulation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-kB), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interleukin 6 (IL-6) and induced fibrosis, as determined using histopathology and electron microscopy. These results were also confirmed by the upregulation of Collagen I (Col I) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression, which led to extracellular fibrotic matrix proliferation. Moreover, the immunopositivity of alpha-smooth muscle actin (a-SMA) in the CCl4 group was evidence of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. The main profibrotic pathway was activated, as confirmed by an increase in the transforming growth factor- β1 (TGF-β1) and Smad 2/3 expression, while Smad 7 expression was decreased. Treatment with CHR–HPBCD and CHR–RAMEB considerably reduced liver injury, attenuated inflammation, and decreased extracellular liver collagen deposits. CHR–RAMEB was determined to be the most active antifibrotic complex. We conclude that both nanocomplexes exert anti-inflammatory effects and antifibrotic effects in a considerably stronger manner than for free chrysin administration.
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10
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Peña-Asensio J, Sanz-de-Villalobos E, Miquel J, Larrubia JR. Tumor necrosis family receptor superfamily member 9/tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 1 pathway on hepatitis C viral persistence and natural history. World J Hepatol 2020; 12:754-765. [PMID: 33200014 PMCID: PMC7643212 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v12.i10.754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Revised: 08/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is an excellent immunological model for understanding the mechanisms developed by non-cytopathic viruses and tumors to evade the adaptative immune response. The antigen-specific cytotoxic T cell response is essential for keeping HCV under control, but during persistent infection, these cells become exhausted or even deleted. The exhaustion process is progressive and depends on the infection duration and level of antigenemia. During high antigenic load and long duration of infection, T cells become extremely exhausted and ultimately disappear due to apoptosis. The development of exhaustion involves the impairment of positive co-stimulation induced by regulatory cytokines, such as transforming growth factor beta 1. This cytokine downregulates tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR)-associated factor 1 (TRAF1), the signal transducer of the T cell co-stimulatory molecule TNFR superfamily member 9 (known as 4-1BB). This impairment correlates with the low reactivity of T cells and an exhaustion phenotype. Treatment with interleukin-7 in vitro restores TRAF1 expression and rescues T cell effector function. The process of TRAF1 loss and its in vitro recovery is hierarchical, and more affected by severe disease progression. In conclusion, TRAF1 dynamics on T cells define a new pathogenic model that describes some aspects of the natural history of HCV, and sheds light on novel immunotherapy strategies for chronic viral infections and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Peña-Asensio
- Department of Systems Biology, Guadalajara University Hospital. University of Alcalá, Guadalajara E-19002, Guadalajara, Spain
| | - Eduardo Sanz-de-Villalobos
- Translational Hepatology Unit, Guadalajara University Hospital, University of Alcalá, Guadalajara E-19002, Guadalajara, Spain
| | - Joaquín Miquel
- Translational Hepatology Unit, Guadalajara University Hospital, University of Alcalá, Guadalajara E-19002, Guadalajara, Spain
| | - Juan Ramón Larrubia
- Translational Hepatology Unit, Guadalajara University Hospital, University of Alcalá, Guadalajara E-19002, Guadalajara, Spain
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11
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Gowripalan A, Abbott CR, McKenzie C, Chan WS, Karupiah G, Levy L, Newsome TP. Cell-to-cell spread of vaccinia virus is promoted by TGF-β-independent Smad4 signalling. Cell Microbiol 2020; 22:e13206. [PMID: 32237038 DOI: 10.1111/cmi.13206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2019] [Revised: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The induction of Smad signalling by the extracellular ligand TGF-β promotes tissue plasticity and cell migration in developmental and pathological contexts. Here, we show that vaccinia virus (VACV) stimulates the activity of Smad transcription factors and expression of TGF-β/Smad-responsive genes at the transcript and protein levels. Accordingly, infected cells share characteristics to those undergoing TGF-β/Smad-mediated epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Depletion of the Smad4 protein, a common mediator of TGF-β signalling, results in an attenuation of viral cell-to-cell spread and reduced motility of infected cells. VACV induction of TGF-β/Smad-responsive gene expression does not require the TGF-β ligand or type I and type II TGF-β receptors, suggesting a novel, non-canonical Smad signalling pathway. Additionally, the spread of ectromelia virus, a related orthopoxvirus that does not activate a TGF-β/Smad response, is enhanced by the addition of exogenous TGF-β. Together, our results indicate that VACV orchestrates a TGF-β-like response via a unique activation mechanism to enhance cell migration and promote virus spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjali Gowripalan
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Caitlin R Abbott
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Christopher McKenzie
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Weng S Chan
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gunasegaran Karupiah
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, The University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Laurence Levy
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, CRSA, Paris, France
| | - Timothy P Newsome
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Nahand JS, Mahjoubin-Tehran M, Moghoofei M, Pourhanifeh MH, Mirzaei HR, Asemi Z, Khatami A, Bokharaei-Salim F, Mirzaei H, Hamblin MR. Exosomal miRNAs: novel players in viral infection. Epigenomics 2020; 12:353-370. [PMID: 32093516 PMCID: PMC7713899 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2019-0192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are secreted nanovesicles that are able to transfer their cargo (such as miRNAs) between cells. To determine to what extent exosomes and exosomal miRNAs are involved in the pathogenesis, progression and diagnosis of viral infections. The scientific literature (PubMed and Google Scholar) was searched from 1970 to 2019. The complex biogenesis of exosomes and miRNAs was reviewed. Exosomes contain both viral and host miRNAs that can be used as diagnostic biomarkers for viral diseases. Viral proteins can alter miRNAs, and conversely miRNAs can alter the host response to viral infections in a positive or negative manner. It is expected that exosomal miRNAs will be increasingly used for diagnosis, monitoring and even treatment of viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javid Sadri Nahand
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Mahjoubin-Tehran
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohsen Moghoofei
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | | | - Hamid Reza Mirzaei
- Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zatollah Asemi
- Research Center for Biochemistry & Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Alireza Khatami
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farah Bokharaei-Salim
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry & Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Michael R Hamblin
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 40 Blossom Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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Li LY, Yang CC, Yang JF, Li HD, Zhang BY, Zhou H, Hu S, Wang K, Huang C, Meng XM, Zhou H, Zhang L, Li J, Xu T. ZEB1 regulates the activation of hepatic stellate cells through Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Eur J Pharmacol 2019; 865:172787. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2019.172787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Khatun M, Ray RB. Mechanisms Underlying Hepatitis C Virus-Associated Hepatic Fibrosis. Cells 2019; 8:E1249. [PMID: 31615075 PMCID: PMC6829586 DOI: 10.3390/cells8101249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection often causes liver diseases, including fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Liver fibrosis is the outcome of the wound healing response to tissue damage caused by chronic HCV infection. This process is characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, such as collagen fibers secreted by activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Activation of HSCs from the quiescent stage is mediated by different mechanisms, including pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines released from HCV-infected hepatocytes and liver macrophages. HCV infection modulates the expression of different microRNAs that can be transported and delivered to the HSCs via exosomes released from infected cells, also leading to the development of advanced disease pathogenesis. Although recent advancements in direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment can efficiently control viremia, there are very few treatment strategies available that can be effective at preventing pathogenesis in advanced liver fibrosis or cirrhosis in patients. Assessment of fibrosis is considered to be the major part of proper patient care and decision making in clinical practice. In this review, we highlighted the current knowledge of molecular mechanisms responsible for the progression of liver fibrosis in chronically HCV-infected patients, and currently available methods for evaluation of fibrosis in patients. A detailed understanding of these aspects at the molecular level may contribute to the development of new therapies targeting HCV-related liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mousumi Khatun
- Department of Pathology, Saint Louis University, 1100 South Grand Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA.
| | - Ratna B Ray
- Department of Pathology, Saint Louis University, 1100 South Grand Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA.
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16
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Kim JH, Lee CH, Lee SW. Exosomal Transmission of MicroRNA from HCV Replicating Cells Stimulates Transdifferentiation in Hepatic Stellate Cells. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2019; 14:483-497. [PMID: 30753992 PMCID: PMC6369229 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The mechanism by which hepatitis C virus (HCV) causes fibrosis and other chronic liver diseases remains poorly understood. Previously, we observed that HCV infection induces microRNA-192 (miR-192) expression, which in turn upregulates transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) in hepatocytes. In this study, we aimed to determine the roles and mechanisms of HCV-induced miR-192 expression during chronic liver injury and fibrosis and to identify potential target of the liver disease. Noticeably, miR-192 is secreted and transmitted through exosomes from HCV-replicating hepatocytes into hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Exosomal transferred miR-192 upregulated fibrogenic markers in HSCs through TGF-β1 upregulation, resulting in the activation and transdifferentiation of HSCs into myofibroblasts. Anti-miR-192 treatment of HCV-replicating hepatocytes efficiently reduced miR-192 levels in exosomes, downregulated miR-192 and fibrogenic marker levels in HSCs, and impeded transdifferentiation of the cells. In contrast, miR-192 mimic RNA treatment significantly increased miR-192 levels in exosomes from naive hepatocytes, increased miR-192 and fibrogenic marker expression in HSCs, and induced transdifferentiation of the cells. Notably, transdifferentiation of exosome-exposed HSCs was reversed following treatment with anti-miR-192 into the HSCs. This study revealed a novel mechanism of HCV-induced liver fibrosis and identified exosomal miR-192 as a major regulator and potential treatment target for HCV-mediated hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Hyun Kim
- Department of Integrated Life Sciences, Research Institute of Advanced Omics, Dankook University, 152, Jukjeon-ro, Suji-gu, Yongin 16890, Republic of Korea; Department of Molecular Biology, Dankook University, 119, Dandae-ro, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Ho Lee
- Department of Integrated Life Sciences, Research Institute of Advanced Omics, Dankook University, 152, Jukjeon-ro, Suji-gu, Yongin 16890, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Wook Lee
- Department of Integrated Life Sciences, Research Institute of Advanced Omics, Dankook University, 152, Jukjeon-ro, Suji-gu, Yongin 16890, Republic of Korea.
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Heo MJ, Yun J, Kim SG. Role of non-coding RNAs in liver disease progression to hepatocellular carcinoma. Arch Pharm Res 2019; 42:48-62. [PMID: 30610616 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-018-01104-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 12/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a tumor with poor prognosis and frequently aggressive. The development of HCC is associated with fibrosis and cirrhosis, which mainly results from nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, excessive alcohol consumption, and viral infections. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are RNAs transcribed from the genome, but are not translated into proteins. Recently, ncRNAs emerged as key contributors to tumor development and progression because of their abilities to regulate various targets and modulate cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and development. In this review, we summarize the frequently activated pathways in HCC and discuss the pathological implications of ncRNAs in the context of human liver disease progression, in particular HCC development and progression. This review aims to summarize the role of ncRNA dysregulation in the diseases and discuss the diagnostic and therapeutic potentials of ncRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Jeong Heo
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanakro, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Jessica Yun
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanakro, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Sang Geon Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanakro, Seoul, 08826, South Korea.
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Exendin-4 ameliorates high glucose-induced fibrosis by inhibiting the secretion of miR-192 from injured renal tubular epithelial cells. Exp Mol Med 2018; 50:1-13. [PMID: 29717107 PMCID: PMC5938044 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-018-0084-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Revised: 12/24/2017] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs), which contain microRNA (miRNA), constitute a novel means of cell communication that may contribute to the inevitable expansion of renal fibrosis during diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Exendin-4 is effective for treating DKD through its action on GLP1R. However, the effect of exendin-4 on EV miRNA expression and renal cell communication during the development of DKD remains unknown. In this study, we found that EVs derived from HK-2 cells pre-treated with exendin-4 and high glucose (Ex-HG), which were taken up by normal HK-2 cells, resulted in decreased levels of FN and Col-I compared with EVs from HK-2 cells pre-treated with HG alone. Furthermore, we found that pretreatment with HG and exendin-4 may have contributed to a decrease in miR-192 in both HK-2 cells and EVs in a p53-dependent manner. Finally, we demonstrated that the amelioration of renal fibrosis by exendin-4 occurred through a miR-192-GLP1R pathway, indicating a new pathway by which exendin-4 regulates GLP1R. The results of this study suggest that exendin-4 inhibits the transfer of EV miR-192 from HG-induced renal tubular epithelial cells to normal cells, thus inhibiting GLP1R downregulation and protecting renal cells. This study reports a new mechanism by which exendin-4 exerts a protective effect against DKD.
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miRNAs regulate immune response and signaling during hepatitis C virus infection. Eur J Med Res 2018; 23:19. [PMID: 29669594 PMCID: PMC5907448 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-018-0317-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2017] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C is one of the most common types of viral hepatitis that impair human health. At present, there is still no effective specific therapy for hepatitis C virus infection. As host immunity is an important mechanism to defend against or clear infections, the interactions between the virus and the host immune response are crucial to the progress of the disease. Of note, hepatitis C virus infection has been reported to regulate cellular miRNAs, which play significant roles in many processes, including infection and immunity. In this review, we describe how miRNAs regulate the host immune response to hepatitis C virus via complex signaling pathways.
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Dysregulation of cellular microRNAs by human oncogenic viruses - Implications for tumorigenesis. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2018; 1861:95-105. [PMID: 29378330 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2018.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Infection with certain animal and human viruses, often referred to as tumor viruses, induces oncogenic processes in their host. These viruses can induce tumorigenesis through direct and/or indirect mechanisms, and the regulation of microRNAs expression has been shown to play a key role in this process. Some human oncogenic viruses can express their own microRNAs; however, they all can dysregulate the expression of cellular microRNAs, facilitating their respective life cycles. The modulation of cellular microRNAs expression brings consequences to the host cells that may lead to malignant transformation, since microRNAs regulate the expression of genes involved in oncogenic pathways. This review focus on the mechanisms used by each human oncogenic virus to dysregulate the expression of cellular microRNAs, and their impact on tumorigenesis.
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According to Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Infection Stage, Interleukin-7 Plus 4-1BB Triggering Alone or Combined with PD-1 Blockade Increases TRAF1 low HCV-Specific CD8 + Cell Reactivity. J Virol 2018; 92:JVI.01443-17. [PMID: 29093082 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01443-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV)-specific CD8+ T cells suffer a progressive exhaustion during persistent infection (PI) with HCV. This process could involve the positive immune checkpoint 4-1BB/4-1BBL through the loss of its signal transducer, TRAF1. To address this issue, peripheral HCV-specific CD8+ T cells (pentamer-positive [pentamer+]/CD8+ T cells) from patients with PI and resolved infection (RI) after treatment were studied. The duration of HCV infection and the liver fibrosis progression rate inversely correlated with the likelihood of detection of peripheral pentamer+/CD8+ cells. In PI, pentamer+/CD8+ cells had impaired antigen-specific reactivity that worsened when these cells were not detectable ex vivo Short/midduration PI was characterized by detectable peripheral PD-1+ CD127low TRAF1low cells. After triggering of T cell receptors (TCR), the TRAF1 level positively correlated with the levels of CD127, Mcl-1, and CD107a expression and proliferation intensity but negatively with PD-1 expression, linking TRAF1low to exhaustion. In vitro treatment with interleukin-7 (IL-7) upregulated TRAF1 expression, while treatment with transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) did the opposite, suggesting that the IL-7/TGF-β1 balance, besides TCR stimulation, could be involved in TRAF1 regulation. In fact, the serum TGF-β1 concentration was higher in patients with PI than in patients with RI, and it negatively correlated with TRAF1 expression. In line with IL-7 increasing the level of TRAF1 expression, IL-7 plus 4-1BBL treatment in vitro enhanced T cell reactivity in patients with short/midduration infection. However, in patients with long-lasting PI, anti-PD-L1, in addition to the combination of IL-7 and 4-1BBL, was necessary to reestablish T cell proliferation in individuals with slowly progressing liver fibrosis (slow fibrosers) but had no effect in rapid fibrosers. In conclusion, a peripheral hyporeactive TRAF1low HCV-specific CD8+ T cell response, restorable by IL-7 plus 4-1BBL treatment, characterizes short/midduration PI. In long-lasting disease, HCV-specific CD8+ T cells are rarely detectable ex vivo, but treatment with IL-7, 4-1BBL, and anti-PD-L1 recovers their reactivity in vitro in slow fibrosers.IMPORTANCE Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infects 71 million people worldwide. Two-thirds develop a chronic disease that can lead to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Direct-acting antivirals clear the infection, but there are still patients who relapse. In these cases, additional immunotherapy could play a vital role. A successful anti-HCV immune response depends on virus-specific CD8+ T cells. During chronic infection, these cells are functionally impaired, which could be due to the failure of costimulation. This study describes exhausted specific T cells, characterized by low levels of expression of the signal transducer TRAF1 of the positive costimulatory pathway 4-1BB/4-1BBL. IL-7 upregulated TRAF1 expression and improved T cell reactivity in patients with short/midduration disease, while in patients with long-lasting infection, it was also necessary to block the negative PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint. When the results are taken together, this work supports novel ways of restoring the specific CD8+ T cell response, shedding light on the importance of TRAF1 signaling. This could be a promising target for future immunotherapy.
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Sasaki R, Devhare P, Ray RB, Ray R. Hepatitis C virus-induced tumor-initiating cancer stem-like cells activate stromal fibroblasts in a xenograft tumor model. Hepatology 2017; 66:1766-1778. [PMID: 28664988 PMCID: PMC5696059 DOI: 10.1002/hep.29346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Hepatitis C virus (HCV) often causes persistent infection and is an increasingly important factor in the etiology of fibrosis/cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, although the mechanisms for the disease processes remain unclear. We have shown previously that HCV infection generates an epithelial-mesenchymal transition state and tumor-initiating cancer stem-like cells in human hepatocytes. In this study, we investigated whether HCV-induced tumor-initiating cancer stem-like cells when implanted into mice activate stromal fibroblasts. A number of fibroblast activation markers, including matrix metalloproteinase 2, were significantly increased at the mRNA or protein level in the xenograft tumors, suggesting the presence of tumor-associated fibroblasts. Fibroblast activation markers of murine origin were specifically increased in tumor, suggesting that fibroblasts migrate to form stroma. Next, we demonstrated that conditioned medium from HCV-infected human hepatocytes activates fibrosis-related markers in hepatic stellate cells. We further observed that these HCV-infected hepatocytes express transforming growth factor beta, which activates stromal fibroblast markers. Subsequent analysis suggested that anti-transforming growth factor beta neutralizing antibody, when incubated with conditioned medium from HCV-infected hepatocytes, inhibits fibrosis marker activation in primary human hepatic stellate cells. CONCLUSION HCV-infected hepatocytes induce local fibroblast activation by secretion of transforming growth factor beta, and a preneoplastic or tumor state of the hepatocytes influences the network for the tumor-associated fibroblast environment. (Hepatology 2017;66:1766-1778).
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Affiliation(s)
- Reina Sasaki
- Department of Pathology, Saint Louis University, Missouri, USA,Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, Missouri, USA
| | - Pradip Devhare
- Department of Pathology, Saint Louis University, Missouri, USA
| | - Ratna B. Ray
- Department of Pathology, Saint Louis University, Missouri, USA
| | - Ranjit Ray
- Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, Missouri, USA,Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Saint Louis University, Missouri, USA
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