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Hubel E, Neumann A, Fishman S, Schaffer O, Erez N, Shrkihe BA, Shteingard Y, Gross T, Shibolet O, Varol C, Zvibel I. Sortilin in Biliary Epithelial Cells Promotes Ductular Reaction and Fibrosis during Cholestatic Injury. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2024; 194:941-957. [PMID: 38493927 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2024.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Cholestatic injuries are accompanied by ductular reaction, initiated by proliferation and activation of biliary epithelial cells (BECs), leading to fibrosis. Sortilin (encoded by Sort1) facilitates IL-6 secretion and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) signaling. This study investigated the interplay between sortilin and IL-6 and LIF in cholestatic injury-induced ductular reaction, morphogenesis of new ducts, and fibrosis. Cholestatic injury was induced by bile duct ligation (BDL) in wild-type and Sort1-/- mice, with or without augmentation of IL-6 or LIF. Mice with BEC sortilin deficiency (hGFAPcre.Sort1fl/fl) and control mice were subjected to BDL and 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine diet (DDC) induced cholestatic injury. Sort1-/- mice displayed reduced BEC proliferation and expression of BEC-reactive markers. Administration of LIF or IL-6 restored BEC proliferation in Sort1-/- mice, without affecting BEC-reactive or inflammatory markers. Sort1-/- mice also displayed impaired morphogenesis, which was corrected by LIF treatment. Similarly, hGFAPcre.Sort1fl/fl mice exhibited reduced BEC proliferation, but similar reactive and inflammatory marker expression. Serum IL-6 and LIF were comparable, yet liver pSTAT3 was reduced, indicating that sortilin is essential for co-activation of LIF receptor/gp130 signaling in BECs, but not for IL-6 secretion. hGFAPcre.Sortfl/fl mice displayed impaired morphogenesis and diminished fibrosis after BDL and DDC. In conclusion, sortilin-mediated engagement of LIF signaling in BECs promoted ductular reaction and morphogenesis during cholestatic injury. This study indicates that BEC sortilin is pivotal for the development of fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Einav Hubel
- The Research Center for Digestive Tract and Liver Diseases, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Anat Neumann
- The Research Center for Digestive Tract and Liver Diseases, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Sigal Fishman
- The Research Center for Digestive Tract and Liver Diseases, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ortal Schaffer
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Assaf Harofe Hospital, Tzrifin, Israel
| | - Noam Erez
- The Research Center for Digestive Tract and Liver Diseases, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Bander Abu Shrkihe
- The Research Center for Digestive Tract and Liver Diseases, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yuval Shteingard
- Department of Pathology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Tamar Gross
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Oren Shibolet
- The Research Center for Digestive Tract and Liver Diseases, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Chen Varol
- The Research Center for Digestive Tract and Liver Diseases, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Isabel Zvibel
- The Research Center for Digestive Tract and Liver Diseases, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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Lee S, Ren L, Paranjpe A, Zhou P, Potter A, Huppert SS, Shin S. Rbpj deletion in hepatic progenitor cells attenuates endothelial responses in a mouse model of cholestatic liver disease. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.13.589277. [PMID: 38659780 PMCID: PMC11042221 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.13.589277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Background and Aims Since the role of hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) constituting ductular reactions in pathogenesis remains ambiguous, we aimed to establish the in vivo cause-and-effect relationship between HPCs and angiogenesis, a process associated with chronic liver disease progression. We previously demonstrated that peritumoral ductules are associated with angiogenesis in liver tumors and forkhead box L1 (Foxl1)- expressing murine HPCs secrete angiogenic factors in vitro. Therefore, we hypothesized that HPCs are capable of remodeling the vascular microenvironment and this function of HPCs is dependent on recombination signal binding protein for immunoglobulin kappa J region (RBPJ), a key effector of the Notch signaling pathway. Approach and Results We generated HPC-specific Rbpj conditional knockout mice using Foxl1-Cre and treated them with the 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine-supplemented diet to induce cholestatic liver disease. Knockout mice displayed significant reduction of HPC proliferation and ductular reactions as well as attenuated vascular and fibrotic areas compared to control mice. Assessment of vascular endothelial growth factor A-positive areas in vivo and the effects of Rbpj shRNAs in vitro indicated that Rbpj knockout in HPCs reduces the total number of angiogenic factor-expressing cells rather than affecting angiogenic factor expression within HPCs. Single-nucleus RNA sequencing analysis indicated that conditional Rbpj knockout in HPCs induces transcriptional changes in endothelial cells and alters expression of genes involved in various functions of the endothelium. Conclusion Our findings indicate that HPCs regulate endothelial responses to cholestatic liver disease and Rbpj deletion in HPCs attenuates these responses, identifying novel targets for modulating angiogenesis during disease progression.
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Li L, He Y, Liu K, Liu L, Shan S, Liu H, Ren J, Sun S, Wang M, Jia J, Wang P. GITRL impairs hepatocyte repopulation by liver progenitor cells to aggravate inflammation and fibrosis by GITR +CD8 + T lymphocytes in CDE Mice. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:114. [PMID: 38321001 PMCID: PMC10847460 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06506-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
As an alternative pathway for liver regeneration, liver progenitor cells and their derived ductular reaction cells increase during the progression of many chronic liver diseases. However, the mechanism underlying their hepatocyte repopulation after liver injury remains unknown. Here, we conducted progenitor cell lineage tracing in mice and found that fewer than 2% of hepatocytes were derived from liver progenitor cells after 9 weeks of injury with a choline-deficient diet supplemented with ethionine (CDE), and this percentage increased approximately three-fold after 3 weeks of recovery. We also found that the proportion of liver progenitor cells double positive for the ligand of glucocorticoid-induced tumour necrosis factor receptor (GITRL, also called Tnfsf18) and SRY-related HMG box transcription 9 (Sox9) among nonparenchymal cells increased time-dependently upon CDE injury and reduced after recovery. When GITRL was conditionally knocked out from hepatic progenitor cells, its expression in nonparenchymal cells was downregulated by approximately fifty percent, and hepatocyte repopulation increased by approximately three folds. Simultaneously, conditional knockout of GITRL reduced the proportion of liver-infiltrating CD8+ T lymphocytes and glucocorticoid-induced tumour necrosis factor receptor (GITR)-positive CD8+ T lymphocytes. Mechanistically, GITRL stimulated cell proliferation but suppressed the differentiation of liver progenitor organoids into hepatocytes, and CD8+ T cells further reduced their hepatocyte differentiation by downregulating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Therefore, GITRL expressed by liver progenitor cells impairs hepatocyte differentiation, thus hindering progenitor cell-mediated liver regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Yu He
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Kai Liu
- Beijing Clinical Research Institute, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Shan Shan
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Helin Liu
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Jiangbo Ren
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Shujie Sun
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Min Wang
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Jidong Jia
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China.
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China.
| | - Ping Wang
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China.
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China.
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Rizvi F, Lee YR, Diaz-Aragon R, Bawa PS, So J, Florentino RM, Wu S, Sarjoo A, Truong E, Smith AR, Wang F, Everton E, Ostrowska A, Jung K, Tam Y, Muramatsu H, Pardi N, Weissman D, Soto-Gutierrez A, Shin D, Gouon-Evans V. VEGFA mRNA-LNP promotes biliary epithelial cell-to-hepatocyte conversion in acute and chronic liver diseases and reverses steatosis and fibrosis. Cell Stem Cell 2023; 30:1640-1657.e8. [PMID: 38029740 PMCID: PMC10843608 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2023.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
The liver is known for its remarkable regenerative ability through proliferation of hepatocytes. Yet, during chronic injury or severe hepatocyte death, proliferation of hepatocytes is exhausted. To overcome this hurdle, we propose vascular-endothelial-growth-factor A (VEGFA) as a therapeutic means to accelerate biliary epithelial-cell (BEC)-to-hepatocyte conversion. Investigation in zebrafish establishes that blocking VEGF receptors abrogates BEC-driven liver repair, while VEGFA overexpression promotes it. Delivery of VEGFA via nonintegrative and safe nucleoside-modified mRNA encapsulated into lipid nanoparticles (mRNA-LNPs) in acutely or chronically injured mouse livers induces robust BEC-to-hepatocyte conversion and elimination of steatosis and fibrosis. In human and murine diseased livers, we further identified VEGFA-receptor KDR-expressing BECs associated with KDR-expressing cell-derived hepatocytes. This work defines KDR-expressing cells, most likely being BECs, as facultative progenitors. This study reveals unexpected therapeutic benefits of VEGFA delivered via nucleoside-modified mRNA-LNP, whose safety is widely validated with COVID-19 vaccines, for harnessing BEC-driven repair to potentially treat liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Rizvi
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Yu-Ri Lee
- Department of Developmental Biology, Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Ricardo Diaz-Aragon
- Department of Pathology, Center for Transcriptional Medicine, Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Pushpinder S Bawa
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Juhoon So
- Department of Developmental Biology, Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Rodrigo M Florentino
- Department of Pathology, Center for Transcriptional Medicine, Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Susan Wu
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Arianna Sarjoo
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Emily Truong
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Anna R Smith
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Feiya Wang
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Elissa Everton
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Alina Ostrowska
- Department of Pathology, Center for Transcriptional Medicine, Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Kyounghwa Jung
- Department of Developmental Biology, Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Ying Tam
- Acuitas Therapeutics, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Hiromi Muramatsu
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Norbert Pardi
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Drew Weissman
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases Division, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 10104, USA
| | - Alejandro Soto-Gutierrez
- Department of Pathology, Center for Transcriptional Medicine, Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Donghun Shin
- Department of Developmental Biology, Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Valerie Gouon-Evans
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
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Kumari K, Tandon S, Ghosh S, Baligar P. Gelatin scaffold ameliorates proliferation & stem cell differentiation into the hepatic like cell and support liver regeneration in partial-hepatectomized mice model. Biomed Mater 2023; 18:065022. [PMID: 37860885 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/ad04fd] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Stem cell-based tissue engineering is an emerging tool for developing functional tissues of choice. To understand pluripotency and hepatic differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) on a three-dimensional (3D) scaffold, we established an efficient approach for generating hepatocyte-like cells (HLCs) from hepatoblast cells. We developed porous and biodegradable scaffold, which was stimulated with exogenous growth factors and investigated stemness and differentiation capacity of mESCs into HLCs on the scaffoldin-vitro. In animal studies, we had cultured mESCs-derived hepatoblast-like cells on the scaffold and then, transplanted them into the partially hepatectomized C57BL/6 male mice model to evaluate the effect of gelatin scaffold on hepatic regeneration. The 3D culture system allowed maintenance of stemness properties in mESCs. The step-wise induction of mESCs with differentiation factors leads to the formation of HLCs and expressed liver-specific genes, including albumin, hepatocyte nucleic factor 4 alpha, and cytokeratin 18. In addition, cells also expressed Ki67, indicating cells are proliferating. The secretome showed expression of albumin, urea, creatinine, alanine transaminase, and aspartate aminotransferase. However, the volume of the excised liver which aids regeneration has not been studied. Our results indicate that hepatoblast cells on the scaffold implanted in PH mouse indicates that these cells efficiently differentiate into HLCs and cholangiocytes, forming hepatic lobules with central and portal veins, and bile duct-like structures with neovascularization. The gelatin scaffold provides an efficient microenvironment for liver differentiation and regeneration bothin-vitroandin-vivo. These hepatoblasts cells would be a valuable source for 3D liver tissue engineering/transplantation in liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kshama Kumari
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | | | - Sourabh Ghosh
- Regenerative Engineering Laboratory, Department of Textile and Fibre Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Prakash Baligar
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Rizvi F, Lee YR, Diaz-Aragon R, So J, Florentino RM, Smith AR, Everton E, Ostrowska A, Jung K, Tam Y, Muramatsu H, Pardi N, Weissman D, Soto-Gutierrez A, Shin D, Gouon-Evans V. VEGFA mRNA-LNP promotes biliary epithelial cell-to-hepatocyte conversion in acute and chronic liver diseases and reverses steatosis and fibrosis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.17.537186. [PMID: 37131823 PMCID: PMC10153196 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.17.537186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The liver is known for its remarkable regenerative ability through proliferation of hepatocytes. Yet, during chronic injury or severe hepatocyte death, proliferation of hepatocytes is exhausted. To overcome this hurdle, we propose vascular-endothelial-growth-factor A (VEGFA) as a therapeutic means to accelerate biliary epithelial cell (BEC)-to-hepatocyte conversion. Investigation in zebrafish establishes that blocking VEGF receptors abrogates BEC-driven liver repair, while VEGFA overexpression promotes it. Delivery of VEGFA via non-integrative and safe nucleoside-modified mRNA encapsulated into lipid-nanoparticles (mRNA-LNP) in acutely or chronically injured mouse livers induces robust BEC-to-hepatocyte conversion and reversion of steatosis and fibrosis. In human and murine diseased livers, we further identified VEGFA-receptor KDR-expressing BECs associated with KDR-expressing cell-derived hepatocytes. This defines KDR-expressing cells, most likely being BECs, as facultative progenitors. This study reveals novel therapeutic benefits of VEGFA delivered via nucleoside-modified mRNA-LNP, whose safety is widely validated with COVID-19 vaccines, for harnessing BEC-driven repair to potentially treat liver diseases. Highlights Complementary mouse and zebrafish models of liver injury demonstrate the therapeutic impact of VEGFA-KDR axis activation to harness BEC-driven liver regeneration.VEGFA mRNA LNPs restore two key features of the chronic liver disease in humans such as steatosis and fibrosis.Identification in human cirrhotic ESLD livers of KDR-expressing BECs adjacent to clusters of KDR+ hepatocytes suggesting their BEC origin.KDR-expressing BECs may represent facultative adult progenitor cells, a unique BEC population that has yet been uncovered.
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Kim M, Rizvi F, Shin D, Gouon-Evans V. Update on Hepatobiliary Plasticity. Semin Liver Dis 2023; 43:13-23. [PMID: 36764306 PMCID: PMC10005859 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1760306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
The liver field has been debating for decades the contribution of the plasticity of the two epithelial compartments in the liver, hepatocytes and biliary epithelial cells (BECs), to derive each other as a repair mechanism. The hepatobiliary plasticity has been first observed in diseased human livers by the presence of biphenotypic cells expressing hepatocyte and BEC markers within bile ducts and regenerative nodules or budding from strings of proliferative BECs in septa. These observations are not surprising as hepatocytes and BECs derive from a common fetal progenitor, the hepatoblast, and, as such, they are expected to compensate for each other's loss in adults. To investigate the cell origin of regenerated cell compartments and associated molecular mechanisms, numerous murine and zebrafish models with ability to trace cell fates have been extensively developed. This short review summarizes the clinical and preclinical studies illustrating the hepatobiliary plasticity and its potential therapeutic application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minwook Kim
- Department of Developmental Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Fatima Rizvi
- Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology Section, Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Donghun Shin
- Department of Developmental Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Valerie Gouon-Evans
- Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology Section, Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
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Lee S, Karns R, Shin S. Mechanism of paracrine communications between hepatic progenitor cells and endothelial cells. Cell Signal 2022; 100:110458. [PMID: 36055565 PMCID: PMC9971365 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2022.110458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) are facultative tissue-specific stem cells lining reactive ductules, which are ubiquitously observed in chronic liver diseases and cancer. Although previous research mainly focused on their contribution to liver regeneration, it turned out that in vivo differentiation of HPCs into hepatocytes only occurs after extreme injury. While recent correlative evidence implies the association of HPCs with disease progression, their exact role in pathogenesis remains largely unknown. Our previous research demonstrated that HPCs expressing angiogenic paracrine factors accumulate in the peritumoral area and are positively correlated with the extent of intratumoral cell proliferation and angiogenesis in the livers of patients with liver cancer. Given the crucial roles of angiogenesis in liver disease progression and carcinogenesis, we aimed to test the hypothesis that HPCs secrete paracrine factors to communicate with endothelial cells, to determine molecular mechanisms mediating HPCs-endothelial interactions, and to understand how the paracrine function of HPCs is regulated. HPCs promoted viability and tubulogenesis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and upregulated genes known to be involved in angiogenesis, endothelial cell function, and disease progression in a paracrine manner. The paracrine function of HPCs as well as expression of colony stimulating factor 1 (CSF1) were inhibited upon differentiation of HPCs toward hepatocytes. Inhibition of CSF1 receptor partly suppressed the paracrine effects of HPCs on HUVECs. Taken together, our study indicates that inhibition of the paracrine function of HPCs through modulation of their differentiation status and inhibition of CSF1 signaling is a promising strategy for inhibition of angiogenesis during pathological progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanghoon Lee
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Rebekah Karns
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Soona Shin
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
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Bai F, Duan J, Yang D, Lai X, Zhu X, He X, Hu A. Integrative network analysis of circular RNAs reveals regulatory mechanisms for hepatic specification of human iPSC-derived endoderm. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:468. [PMID: 36076262 PMCID: PMC9461288 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-03160-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived functional hepatic endoderm (HE) is supposed to be an alternative option for replacement therapy for end-stage liver disease. However, the high heterogeneity of HE cell populations is still challenging. Hepatic specification of definitive endoderm (DE) is an essential stage for HE induction in vitro. Recent studies have suggested that circular RNAs (circRNAs) determine the fate of stem cells by acting as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs). To date, the relationships between endogenous circRNAs and hepatic specification remain elusive. METHODS The identities of DE and HE derived from hiPSCs were determined by qPCR, cell immunofluorescence, and ELISA. Differentially expressed circRNAs (DEcircRNAs) were analysed using the Arraystar Human circRNA Array. qPCR was performed to validate the candidate DEcircRNAs. Intersecting differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of the GSE128060 and GSE66282 data sets and the DEcircRNA-predicted mRNAs were imported into Cytoscape for ceRNA networks. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) were involved in the enrichment analysis. Hepatic markers and Wnt/β-catenin were detected in hsa_circ_004658-overexpressing cells by western blotting. Dual-luciferase reporter assays were used to evaluate the direct binding among hsa_circ_004658, miRNA-1200 and CDX2. DE cells were transfected with miR-1200 mimics, adenovirus containing CDX2, and Wnt/β-catenin was detected by western blotting. RESULTS hiPSC-derived DE and HE were obtained at 4 and 9 days after differentiation, as determined by hepatic markers. During hepatic specification, 626 upregulated and 208 downregulated DEcircRNAs were identified. Nine candidate DEcircRNAs were validated by qPCR. In the ceRNA networks, 111 circRNA-miRNA-mRNA pairs were involved, including 90 pairs associated with hsa_circ_004658. In addition, 53 DEGs were identified among the intersecting mRNAs of the GSE128060 and GSE66282 data sets and the hsa_circ_004658-targeted mRNAs. KEGG and GO analyses showed that the DEGs associated with hsa_circ_004658 were mainly enriched in the WNT signalling pathway. Furthermore, hsa_circ_004658 was preliminarily verified to promote hepatic specification, as determined by hepatic markers (AFP, ALB, HNF4A, and CK19) (p < 0.05). This promotive effect may be related to the inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway (detected by β-catenin, p-β-catenin, and TCF4) when hsa_circ_004658 was overexpressed (p < 0.05). Dual-luciferase reporter assays showed that there were binding sites for miR-1200 in the hsa_circ_004658 sequence, and confirmed the candidate DEG (CDX2) as a miR-1200 target. The level of miR-1200 decreased and the level of CDX2 protein expression increased when hsa_circ_004658 was overexpressed (p < 0.05). In addition, the results showed that CDX2 may suppress the Wnt/β-catenin signalling during hepatic specification (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS This study analysed the profiles of circRNAs during hepatic specification. We identified the hsa_circ_004658/miR-1200/CDX2 axis and preliminarily verified its effect on the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway during hepatic specification. These results provide novel insight into the molecular mechanisms involved in hepatic specification and could improve liver development in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Bai
- Organ Transplant Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Organ Donation and Transplant Immunology, Guangdong Provincial International Cooperation Base of Science and Technology (Organ Transplantation), Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jinliang Duan
- Organ Transplant Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Organ Donation and Transplant Immunology, Guangdong Provincial International Cooperation Base of Science and Technology (Organ Transplantation), Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Daopeng Yang
- Organ Transplant Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Organ Donation and Transplant Immunology, Guangdong Provincial International Cooperation Base of Science and Technology (Organ Transplantation), Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xingqiang Lai
- Department of Cardiology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zhu
- Organ Transplant Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Organ Donation and Transplant Immunology, Guangdong Provincial International Cooperation Base of Science and Technology (Organ Transplantation), Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoshun He
- Organ Transplant Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Organ Donation and Transplant Immunology, Guangdong Provincial International Cooperation Base of Science and Technology (Organ Transplantation), Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Anbin Hu
- Organ Transplant Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Organ Donation and Transplant Immunology, Guangdong Provincial International Cooperation Base of Science and Technology (Organ Transplantation), Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. .,Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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10
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Qian Y, Shang Z, Gao Y, Wu H, Kong X. Liver Regeneration in Chronic Liver Injuries: Basic and Clinical Applications Focusing on Macrophages and Natural Killer Cells. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 14:971-981. [PMID: 35738473 PMCID: PMC9489753 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2022.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Liver regeneration is a necessary but complex process involving multiple cell types besides hepatocytes. Mechanisms underlying liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy and acute liver injury have been well-described. However, in patients with chronic and severe liver injury, the remnant liver cannot completely restore the liver mass and function, thereby involving liver progenitor-like cells (LPLCs) and various immune cells. RESULTS Macrophages are beneficial to LPLCs proliferation and the differentiation of LPLCs to hepatocytes. Also, cells expressing natural killer (NK) cell markers have been studied in promoting both liver injury and liver regeneration. NK cells can promote LPLC-induced liver regeneration, but the excessive activation of hepatic NK cells may lead to high serum levels of interferon-γ, thus inhibiting liver regeneration. CONCLUSIONS This review summarizes the recent research on 2 important innate immune cells, macrophages and NK cells, in LPLC-induced liver regeneration and the mechanisms of liver regeneration during chronic liver injury, as well as the latest macrophage- and NK cell-based therapies for chronic liver injury. These novel findings can further help identify new treatments for chronic liver injury, saving patients from the pain of liver transplantations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihan Qian
- Central Laboratory, Department of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi Shang
- Central Laboratory, Department of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yueqiu Gao
- Central Laboratory, Department of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hailong Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiaoni Kong
- Central Laboratory, Department of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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11
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Holczbauer Á, Wangensteen KJ, Shin S. Cellular origins of regenerating liver and hepatocellular carcinoma. JHEP Rep 2022; 4:100416. [PMID: 35243280 PMCID: PMC8873941 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the predominant primary cancer arising from the liver and is one of the major causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The cellular origin of HCC has been a topic of great interest due to conflicting findings regarding whether it originates in hepatocytes, biliary cells, or facultative stem cells. These cell types all undergo changes during liver injury, and there is controversy about their contribution to regenerative responses in the liver. Most HCCs emerge in the setting of chronic liver injury from viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, alcohol, and environmental exposures. The injuries are marked by liver parenchymal changes such as hepatocyte regenerative nodules, biliary duct cellular changes, expansion of myofibroblasts that cause fibrosis and cirrhosis, and inflammatory cell infiltration, all of which may contribute to carcinogenesis. Addressing the cellular origin of HCC is the key to identifying the earliest events that trigger it. Herein, we review data on the cells of origin in regenerating liver and HCC and the implications of these findings for prevention and treatment. We also review the origins of childhood liver cancer and other rare cancers of the liver.
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12
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Michalik M, Gładyś A, Czekaj P. Differentiation of Cells Isolated from Afterbirth Tissues into Hepatocyte-Like Cells and Their Potential Clinical Application in Liver Regeneration. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2020; 17:581-603. [PMID: 32974851 PMCID: PMC8036182 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-020-10045-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Toxic, viral and surgical injuries can pose medical indications for liver transplantation. The number of patients waiting for a liver transplant still increases, but the number of organ donors is insufficient. Hepatocyte transplantation was suggested as a promising alternative to liver transplantation, however, this method has some significant limitations. Currently, afterbirth tissues seem to be an interesting source of cells for the regenerative medicine, because of their unique biological and immunological properties. It has been proven in experimental animal models, that the native stem cells, and to a greater extent, hepatocyte-like cells derived from them and transplanted, can accelerate regenerative processes and restore organ functioning. The effective protocol for obtaining functional mature hepatocytes in vitro is still not defined, but some studies resulted in obtaining functionally active hepatocyte-like cells. In this review, we focused on human stem cells isolated from placenta and umbilical cord, as potent precursors of hepatocyte-like cells for regenerative medicine. We summarized the results of preclinical and clinical studies dealing with the introduction of epithelial and mesenchymal stem cells of the afterbirth origin to the liver failure therapy. It was concluded that the use of native afterbirth epithelial and mesenchymal cells in the treatment of liver failure could support liver function and regeneration. This effect would be enhanced by the use of hepatocyte-like cells obtained from placental and/or umbilical stem cells. Graphical abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Michalik
- Department of Cytophysiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Gładyś
- Department of Cytophysiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
| | - Piotr Czekaj
- Department of Cytophysiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland.
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13
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Loss of SRSF2 triggers hepatic progenitor cell activation and tumor development in mice. Commun Biol 2020; 3:210. [PMID: 32372053 PMCID: PMC7200752 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-020-0893-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Splicing factor SRSF2 is frequently mutated or up-regulated in human cancers. Here, we observe that hepatocyte-specific deletion of Srsf2 trigger development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in mice, which also involves inflammation and fibrosis. Importantly, we find that, when compensatory hepatocyte proliferation is impaired, activation of hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) play an important role in liver regeneration and tumor formation. Moreover, the cells of HCC- bearing livers display both HPC and hepatocyte markers, with gene expression profiling suggesting HPC origin and embryonic origin. Mechanically, we demonstrate that levels of oncofetal genes insulin-like growth factor 2 (Igf2) and H19 are significantly increased in the tumors, likely due to decreased DNA methylation of the Igf2/H19 locus. Consequently, signaling via the Igf2 pathway is highly activated in the tumors. Thus, our data demonstrate that loss of Srsf2 triggers HPC-mediated regeneration and activation of oncofetal genes, which altogether promote HCC development and progression in mice. Chang Zhang, Lei Shen et al show that conditional deletion of the splicing factor Srsf2 in hepatocytes leads to activation and expansion of hepatic progenitor cells and eventually to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in aged mice. These findings may be relevant to HCC development in humans.
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14
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Xiong X, Kuang H, Liu T, Lin JD. A Single-Cell Perspective of the Mammalian Liver in Health and Disease. Hepatology 2020; 71:1467-1473. [PMID: 31997380 PMCID: PMC7150620 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The liver contains heterogeneous cell types that exhibit distinct spatial, molecular, and functional properties. The cells in the liver communicate with each other via a network of ligands and receptors and undergo cell type-specific transcriptomic reprogramming in disease. The advance of single-cell genomics has provided a powerful tool for unraveling the complexity of liver cells in health and disease with unprecedented resolution. In this review, we discuss insights gained from the recent single-cell RNA sequencing studies that shed new light on the molecular nature of liver cell heterogeneity, intercellular crosstalk, and disease-associated reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuelian Xiong
- Life Sciences Institute and Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Henry Kuang
- Life Sciences Institute and Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Tongyu Liu
- Life Sciences Institute and Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Jiandie D. Lin
- Life Sciences Institute and Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109,Corresponding Author: Jiandie Lin, Ph.D., 5437 Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, 210 Washtenaw Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, , Office: (734) 615-3512, Fax: (734) 615-0495
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15
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Kitade M, Kaji K, Nishimura N, Seki K, Nakanishi K, Tsuji Y, Sato S, Saikawa S, Takaya H, Kawaratani H, Namisaki T, Moriya K, Mitoro A, Yoshiji H. Blocking development of liver fibrosis augments hepatic progenitor cell-derived liver regeneration in a mouse chronic liver injury model. Hepatol Res 2019; 49:1034-1045. [PMID: 30989766 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM The roles of hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) in regeneration of a diseased liver are unclear. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) contribute to liver fibrosis but are also a component of the HPC niche. Hepatic progenitor cells expand along with HSC activation and liver fibrosis. However, little is known about the interplay of liver fibrosis and HPC-mediated liver regeneration. This study aimed to investigate HSCs and HPCs in liver regeneration. METHODS Liver injury in mice was induced with 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine, and HPC expansion and fibrosis were assessed. An angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker (ARB) was administered to assess its effect on fibrosis and regeneration. RESULTS Treatment with ARB attenuated fibrosis and expansion of α-smooth muscle actin-positive activated HSCs as indicated by increased liver weight and Ki-67-positive hepatocytes. Immunohistochemical staining suggested that HPC differentiation was shifted toward hepatocytes (HCs) when ARB treatment decreased HPC encapsulation by HSCs and extracellular matrix. Conditioned medium produced by culturing the human HSC LX-2 line strongly augmented differentiation to biliary epithelial cells (BECs) but inhibited that to HCs. Activated HSCs expressed Jagged1, a NOTCH ligand, which plays a central role in differentiation of HPCs toward BECs. CONCLUSIONS Hepatic stellate cells, the HPC niche cells, control differentiation of HPCs, directing them toward BECs rather than HCs in a diseased liver model. Antifibrosis treatment with an ARB preferentially redirects HPC differentiation toward HCs by blocking the NOTCH pathway in the HPC niche, resulting in more efficient HPC-mediated liver regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuteru Kitade
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Kosuke Kaji
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Norihisa Nishimura
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Kenichiro Seki
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Keisuke Nakanishi
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Yuki Tsuji
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Shinya Sato
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Soichiro Saikawa
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Takaya
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Hideto Kawaratani
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Tadashi Namisaki
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Kei Moriya
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Akira Mitoro
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Yoshiji
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
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16
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Harries MJ, Jimenez F, Izeta A, Hardman J, Panicker SP, Poblet E, Paus R. Lichen Planopilaris and Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia as Model Epithelial Stem Cell Diseases. Trends Mol Med 2018; 24:435-448. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2018.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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17
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Immune response involved in liver damage and the activation of hepatic progenitor cells during liver tumorigenesis. Cell Immunol 2018; 326:52-59. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2017.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 08/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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18
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Xu G, Ye J, Liu XJ, Zhang NP, Zhao YM, Fan J, Liu XP, Wu J. Activation of pluripotent genes in hepatic progenitor cells in the transition of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis to pre-malignant lesions. J Transl Med 2017; 97:1201-1217. [PMID: 28869588 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.2017.84] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Revised: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis is considered as a precancerous condition. However, hepatic carcinogenesis from NASH is poorly understood. This study aims to investigate the activation of pluripotent genes (c-Myc, Oct-4, KLF-4, and Nanog) and morphogenic gene (Gli-1) in hepatic progenitor cells from patient specimens and in an animal model to determine the possibility of normal stem/progenitor cells becoming the origin of NASH-HCC. In this study, expression of pluripotent and morphogenic genes in human NASH-HCC tissues was significantly upregulated compared to adjacent non-tumor liver tissues. After feeding high-fat/calorie diet plus high fructose/glucose in drinking water (HFC diet plus HF/G) for up to 12 months, mice developed obesity, insulin resistance, and steatohepatitis with significant necroptotic inflammation and fibrotic progression, as well as occurrence of hyperplastic nodules with dysplasia; and this model represents pathohistologically as a transition from NASH to NASH-HCC in a pre-carcinomatous stage. High expression of pluripotent and morphogenic genes was immunohistochemically visualized in the dysplasia areas of mouse liver, where there were many OV-6-positive cells, indicating proliferation of HOCs in NASH with fibrotic progression. Moreover, oncogenic transcription factors (c-Myc, KLF-4, and Nanog) were co-localized in these hepatic progenitor cells. In conclusion, pluripotent and morphogenic genes may contribute to the reprogramming of hepatic progenitor cells in driving these cells to be the origin of NASH-HCC in a steatotic and inflamed microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Xu
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Juan Ye
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue-Jing Liu
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ning-Ping Zhang
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi-Ming Zhao
- Institute of Liver Cancer, Fudan University-Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia Fan
- Institute of Liver Cancer, Fudan University-Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiu-Ping Liu
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Wu
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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19
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Bria A, Marda J, Zhou J, Sun X, Cao Q, Petersen BE, Pi L. Hepatic progenitor cell activation in liver repair. LIVER RESEARCH 2017; 1:81-87. [PMID: 29276644 PMCID: PMC5739327 DOI: 10.1016/j.livres.2017.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The liver possesses an extraordinary ability to regenerate after injury. Hepatocyte-driven liver regeneration is the default pathway in response to mild-to-moderate acute liver damage. When replication of mature hepatocytes is blocked, facultative hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs), also referred to as oval cells (OCs) in rodents, are activated. HPC/OCs have the ability to proliferate clonogenically and differentiate into several lineages including hepatocytes and bile ductal epithelia. This is a conserved liver injury response that has been studied in many species ranging from mammals (rat, mouse, and human) to fish. In addition, improper HPC/OC activation is closely associated with fibrotic responses, characterized by myofibroblast activation and extracellular matrix production, in many chronic liver diseases. Matrix remodeling and metalloprotease activities play an important role in the regulation of HPC/OC proliferation and fibrosis progression. Thus, understanding molecular mechanisms underlying HPC/OC activation has therapeutic implications for rational design of anti-fibrotic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Liya Pi
- Corresponding author. Pediatric Stem Cell Research and Hepatic Disorders, Child Health Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA, (L. Pi)
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20
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Pan XR, Jing YY, Liu WT, Han ZP, Li R, Yang Y, Zhu JN, Li XY, Li PP, Wei LX. Lipopolysaccharide induces the differentiation of hepatic progenitor cells into myofibroblasts via activation of the Hedgehog signaling pathway. Cell Cycle 2017; 16:1357-1365. [PMID: 28562206 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2017.1325976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Normally, hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) are activated and differentiate into hepatocytes or bile ductular cells to repair liver damage during liver injury. However, it remains controversial whether the abnormal differentiation of HPCs occurs under abnormal conditions. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a component of the microenvironment, promotes liver fibrosis. In the present study, HPCs promoted liver fibrosis in rats following carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) treatment. Meanwhile, the LPS level in the portal vein was elevated and played a primary role in the fate of HPCs. In vitro, LPS inhibited the hepatobiliary differentiation of HPCs. Concurrently, HPCs co-cultured with LPS for 2 weeks showed a tendency to differentiate into myofibroblasts (MFs). Thus, we conclude that LPS promotes the aberrant differentiation of HPCs into MFs as a third type of descendant. This study provides insight into a novel differentiation fate of HPCs in their microenvironment, and could thus lead to the development of HPCs for treatment methods in liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Rong Pan
- a Department of Tumor Immunology and Gene Therapy center , Shanghai Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital , Shanghai , China.,b The First Clinical Medical College , Fujian Medical University , Fujian , China
| | - Ying-Ying Jing
- a Department of Tumor Immunology and Gene Therapy center , Shanghai Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital , Shanghai , China
| | - Wen-Ting Liu
- a Department of Tumor Immunology and Gene Therapy center , Shanghai Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital , Shanghai , China
| | - Zhi-Peng Han
- a Department of Tumor Immunology and Gene Therapy center , Shanghai Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital , Shanghai , China
| | - Rong Li
- a Department of Tumor Immunology and Gene Therapy center , Shanghai Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital , Shanghai , China
| | - Yang Yang
- a Department of Tumor Immunology and Gene Therapy center , Shanghai Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital , Shanghai , China
| | - Jing-Ni Zhu
- a Department of Tumor Immunology and Gene Therapy center , Shanghai Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital , Shanghai , China
| | - Xiao-Yong Li
- a Department of Tumor Immunology and Gene Therapy center , Shanghai Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital , Shanghai , China
| | - Pei-Pei Li
- a Department of Tumor Immunology and Gene Therapy center , Shanghai Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital , Shanghai , China
| | - Li-Xin Wei
- a Department of Tumor Immunology and Gene Therapy center , Shanghai Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital , Shanghai , China
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21
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Wu HH, Lee OK. Exosomes from mesenchymal stem cells induce the conversion of hepatocytes into progenitor oval cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2017; 8:117. [PMID: 28535778 PMCID: PMC5442870 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-017-0560-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Revised: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background We previously reported that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess therapeutic effects in a murine model of carbon tetrachloride-induced acute liver failure. In the study, we observed that the majority of repopulated hepatocytes were of recipient origin and were adjacent to transplanted MSCs; only a low percentage of repopulated hepatocytes were from transplanted MSCs. The findings indicate that MSCs guided the formation of new hepatocytes. Exosomes are important messengers for paracrine signaling delivery. The aim of this study is to investigate the paracrine effects, in particular, the effects of exosomes from MSCs, on hepatocytes. Methods Mature hepatocytes were isolated from murine liver by a two-step perfusion method with collagenase digestion. MSCs were obtained from murine bone marrow, and conditioned medium (CM) from MSC culture was then collected. Time-lapse imaging was used for observation of cell morphological change induced by CM on hepatocytes. In addition, expression of markers for hepatic progenitors including oval cells, intrahepatic stem cells, and hepatoblasts were analyzed. Results Treatment with the CM promoted the formation of small oval cells from hepatocytes; time-lapse imaging demonstrated the change from epithelial to oval cell morphology at the single hepatocyte level. Additionally, expression of EpCAM and OC2, markers of hepatic oval cells, was upregulated. Also, the number of EpCAMhigh cells was increased after CM treatment. The EpCAMhigh small oval cells possessed colony-formation ability; they also expressed cytokeratin 18 and were able to store glycogen upon induction of hepatic differentiation. Furthermore, exosomes from MSC-CM could induce the conversion of mature hepatocytes to EpCAMhigh small oval cells. Conclusions In summary, paracrine signaling through exosomes from MSCs induce the conversion of hepatocytes into hepatic oval cells, a mechanism of action which has not been reported regarding the therapeutic potentials of MSCs in liver regeneration. Exosomes from MSCs may therefore be used to treat liver diseases. Further studies are required for proof of concept of this approach. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13287-017-0560-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao-Hsiang Wu
- Institute of Biophotonics, National Yang-Ming University, No.155, Sec.2, Linong Street, Taipei, 112, Taiwan
| | - Oscar K Lee
- Institute of Biophotonics, National Yang-Ming University, No.155, Sec.2, Linong Street, Taipei, 112, Taiwan. .,Taipei City Hospital, No.145, Zhengzhou Road, Datong District, Taipei, 10341, Taiwan. .,Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, No.155, Sec.2, Linong Street, Taipei, 112, Taiwan. .,Stem Cell Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, No.155, Sec.2, Linong Street, Taipei, 112, Taiwan. .,Departments of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No. 201, Sec. 2, Shipai Road, Taipei, 112, Taiwan.
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22
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A label-retaining but unipotent cell population resides in biliary compartment of mammalian liver. Sci Rep 2017; 7:40322. [PMID: 28084309 PMCID: PMC5234023 DOI: 10.1038/srep40322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cells with slow proliferation kinetics that retain the nuclear label over long time periods-the label-retaining cells (LRCs)-represent multipotent stem cells in a number of adult tissues. Since the identity of liver LRCs (LLRCs) had remained elusive we utilized a genetic approach to reveal LLRCs in normal non-injured livers and characterized their regenerative properties in vivo and in culture. We found that LLRCs were located in biliary vessels and participated in the regeneration of biliary but not hepatocyte injury. In culture experiments the sorted LLRCs displayed an enhanced self-renewal capacity but a unipotent biliary differentiation potential. Transcriptome analysis revealed a unique set of tumorigenesis- and nervous system-related genes upregulated in LLRCs when compared to non-LRC cholangiocytes. We conclude that the LLRCs established during the normal morphogenesis of the liver do not represent a multipotent primitive somatic stem cell population but act as unipotent biliary progenitor cells.
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23
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Khan Z, Orr A, Michalopoulos GK, Ranganathan S. Immunohistochemical Analysis of the Stem Cell Marker LGR5 in Pediatric Liver Disease. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2017; 20:16-27. [PMID: 28276299 PMCID: PMC5040613 DOI: 10.1177/1093526616686244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Aims In regenerating liver, hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) are recruited in response to injury; however, few highly specific human HPC markers exist for the hepatocyte lineage. Leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein coupled receptor 5 (LGR5), a Wnt-associated stem cell marker, has been extensively studied in intestinal stem cells, but little is known about its expression in human liver. We hypothesized that LGR5+ HPCs are induced in the regenerative response to pediatric liver injury. Methods and results Immunohistochemistry was used to characterize LGR5 expression in pediatric liver explants (n = 36). We found cytoplasmic LGR5 expression in all cases; although, much less was observed in acute hepatic necrosis compared to chronic liver diseases. In the latter cases, >50% of hepatocytes were LGR5+, signifying a robust regenerative response mainly in the periphery of regenerative nodules. Only weak LGR5 staining was noted in bile ducts, suggesting hepatocyte-specific expression at the interface. Conclusions Although we observed some degree of regenerative response in all cases, LGR5 was highly expressed in chronic liver disease, possibly due to alternate regeneration and reprogramming pathways. LGR5 is predominant in peri-septal hepatocytes rather than epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) positive ductular reactions in chronic pediatric liver diseases and may represent a transitional HPC phenotype for the hepatocyte lineage. These studies are the first to support a unique role for LGR5 in human hepatocyte regeneration and as a potential predictive biomarker for recovery of liver function in children. Future work will also investigate the molecular mechanisms behind LGR5 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahida Khan
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition,McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine,Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
| | - Anne Orr
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
| | - George K Michalopoulos
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine,Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
| | - Sarangarajan Ranganathan
- Department of Pathology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC,Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
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24
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Kitade M, Kaji K, Yoshiji H. Relationship between hepatic progenitor cell-mediated liver regeneration and non-parenchymal cells. Hepatol Res 2016; 46:1187-1193. [PMID: 26895456 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2016] [Accepted: 02/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) are thought to reside in the canals of Hering and can be activated and contribute to liver regeneration in response to liver injury by proliferating and differentiating towards both hepatocytes and biliary epithelial cells. In this setting, several cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors related to liver inflammation and other liver cells comprising the HPC niche, namely hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), play crucial roles in HPC activation and differentiation. In response to several types of liver injury, tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) is secreted by several inflammatory cells, including monocytes, T lymphocytes, and macrophages, and acts as an initiator of the HPC niche and HSC activation. Following TWEAK-induced activation of the HPC niche, fibroblast growth factor 7 and hepatocyte growth factor released from activated HSC play central roles in maintaining HPC proliferation. In contrast, HGF-MET and Wnt3a-β-catenin signals are the predominant mediators of the hepatocyte differentiation of HPC, whereas epidermal growth factor receptor-NOTCH signaling controls HPC differentiation towards biliary epithelial cells. These signals are maintained exclusively by activated HSC and inflammatory cells surrounding HPC. Together, HSC and inflammatory cells surrounding HPC are responsible for the precise control of HPC proliferation and differentiation fate. In this review, we discuss recent progress in understanding of interactions between HPC and other liver cells in HPC-mediated liver regeneration in the setting of liver inflammation.
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25
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Shin S, Wangensteen KJ, Teta-Bissett M, Wang YJ, Mosleh-Shirazi E, Buza EL, Greenbaum LE, Kaestner KH. Genetic lineage tracing analysis of the cell of origin of hepatotoxin-induced liver tumors in mice. Hepatology 2016; 64:1163-1177. [PMID: 27099001 PMCID: PMC5033674 DOI: 10.1002/hep.28602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2015] [Revised: 03/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The expression of biliary/progenitor markers by hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is often associated with poor prognosis and stem cell-like behaviors of tumor cells. Hepatocellular adenomas (HCAs) also often express biliary/progenitor markers and frequently act as precursor lesions for HCC. However, the cell of origin of HCA and HCC that expresses these markers remains unclear. Therefore, to evaluate if mature hepatocytes give rise to HCA and HCC tumors and to understand the molecular pathways involved in tumorigenesis, we lineage-labeled hepatocytes by injecting adeno-associated virus containing thyroxine-binding globulin promoter-driven causes recombination (AAV-TBG-Cre) into Rosa(YFP) mice. Yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) was present in >96% of hepatocytes before exposure to carcinogens. We treated AAV-TBG-Cre; Rosa(YFP) mice with diethylnitrosamine (DEN), followed by multiple injections of carbon tetrachloride to induce carcinogenesis and fibrosis and found that HCA and HCC nodules were YFP(+) lineage-labeled; positive for osteopontin, SRY (sex determining region Y)-box 9, and epithelial cell adhesion molecule; and enriched for transcripts of biliary/progenitor markers such as prominin 1, Cd44, and delta-like 1 homolog. Next, we performed the converse experiment and lineage-labeled forkhead box protein L1(Foxl1)-positive hepatic progenitor cells simultaneously with exposure to carcinogens. None of the tumor nodules expressed YFP, indicating that Foxl1-expressing cells are not the origin for hepatotoxin-induced liver tumors. We confirmed that HCA and HCC cells are derived from mature hepatocytes and not from Foxl1-Cre-marked cells in a second model of toxin-induced hepatic neoplasia, using DEN and 3,3',5,5'-tetrachloro-1,4-bis(pyridyloxy)benzene (TCPOBOP). CONCLUSION Hepatocytes are the cell of origin of HCA and HCC in DEN/carbon tetrachloride and DEN/TCPOBOP induced liver tumors. (Hepatology 2016;64:1163-1177).
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Affiliation(s)
- Soona Shin
- Department of Genetics and Center for Molecular Studies in Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kirk J. Wangensteen
- Department of Genetics and Center for Molecular Studies in Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA,Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Monica Teta-Bissett
- Department of Genetics and Center for Molecular Studies in Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yue J. Wang
- Department of Genetics and Center for Molecular Studies in Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Elham Mosleh-Shirazi
- Department of Genetics and Center for Molecular Studies in Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth L. Buza
- University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathobiology, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Linda E. Greenbaum
- Departments of Cancer Biology and Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Klaus H. Kaestner
- Department of Genetics and Center for Molecular Studies in Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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26
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Liu WH, Ren LN, Wang T, Navarro-Alvarez N, Tang LJ. The Involving Roles of Intrahepatic and Extrahepatic Stem/Progenitor Cells (SPCs) to Liver Regeneration. Int J Biol Sci 2016; 12:954-63. [PMID: 27489499 PMCID: PMC4971734 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.15715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver regeneration is usually attributed to mature hepatocytes, which possess a remarkable potential to proliferate under mild to moderate injury. However, when the liver is severely damaged or hepatocyte proliferation is greatly inhibited, liver stem/progenitor cells (LSPCs) will contribute to the liver regeneration process. LSPCs in the developing liver have been extensively characterized, however, their contributing role to liver regeneration has not been completely understood. In addition to the restoration of the liver parenchymal tissue by hepatocytes or/and LSPCs, or in some cases bone marrow (BM) derived cells, such as hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), the wound healing after injury in terms of angiopoiesis by liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) or/and sinusoidal endothelial progenitor cells (SEPCs) is another important aspect taking place during regeneration. To conclude, liver regeneration can be mainly divided into three distinct restoring levels according to the cause and severity of injury: hepatocyte dominant regeneration, LSPCs mediated regeneration, extrahepatic stem cells participative regeneration. In this review, we focus on the recent findings of liver regeneration, especially on those related to stem/progenitor cells (SPCs)-mediated regeneration and their potential clinical applications and challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Hui Liu
- 1. General Surgery Center, Chengdu Military General Hospital; Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610083
| | - Li-Na Ren
- 1. General Surgery Center, Chengdu Military General Hospital; Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610083
| | - Tao Wang
- 1. General Surgery Center, Chengdu Military General Hospital; Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610083
| | - Nalu Navarro-Alvarez
- 2. Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Li-Jun Tang
- 1. General Surgery Center, Chengdu Military General Hospital; Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610083
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27
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Upregulation of hydroxysteroid sulfotransferase 2B1b promotes hepatic oval cell proliferation by modulating oxysterol-induced LXR activation in a mouse model of liver injury. Arch Toxicol 2016; 91:271-287. [PMID: 27052460 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-016-1693-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hydroxysteroid sulfotransferase 2B1b (SULT2B1b) sulfates cholesterol and oxysterols. Hepatic oval cells (HOCs), thought to be progenitor cells, can be triggered in chemically injured livers. The present study focused on the role of SULT2B1b in HOC proliferation after liver injury. Our experiments revealed that the expression of SULT2B1b was increased dramatically in a chemical-induced liver injury model, mainly in HOCs. Upon challenge with a hepatotoxic diet containing 0.1 % 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC), SULT2B1-/- mice presented alleviated liver injury and less HOC proliferation compared with wild-type (WT) mice, and these findings were verified by serum analysis, histopathology, immunofluorescence staining, RNA-seq, and Western blotting. HOCs derived from SULT2B1-/- mice showed lower proliferative capability than those from WT mice. SULT2B1b overexpression promoted growth of the WB-F344 hepatic oval cell line, whereas SULT2B1b knockdown inhibited growth of these cells. The IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway also was promoted by SULT2B1b. Liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry indicated that the levels of 22-hydroxycholesterol, 25-hydroxycholesterol, and 24,25-epoxycholesterol were higher in the DDC-injured livers of SULT2B1-/- mice than in livers of WT mice. The above oxysterols are physiological ligands of liver X receptors (LXRs), and SULT2B1b suppressed oxysterol-induced LXR activation. Additional in vivo and in vitro experiments demonstrated that LXR activation could inhibit HOC proliferation and the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway, and these effects could be reversed by SULT2B1b. Our data indicate that upregulation of SULT2B1b might promote HOC proliferation and aggravate liver injury via the suppression of oxysterol-induced LXR activation in chemically induced mouse liver injury.
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28
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Zhang M, Sun P, Wang Y, Chen J, Lv L, Wei W, Jin C, Li W. Generation of Self-Renewing Hepatoblasts From Human Embryonic Stem Cells by Chemical Approaches. Stem Cells Transl Med 2015; 4:1275-82. [PMID: 26371343 DOI: 10.5966/sctm.2015-0051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 07/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Somatic stem cells play crucial roles in organogenesis and tissue homeostasis and regeneration and may ultimately prove useful for cell therapy for a variety of degenerative diseases and injuries; however, isolation and expansion of most types of somatic stem cells from tissues are technically challenging. Human pluripotent stem cells are a renewable source for any adult cell types, including somatic stem cells. Generation of somatic stem cells from human pluripotent stem cells is a promising strategy to get these therapeutically valuable cells. Previously, we developed a chemically defined condition for mouse hepatoblast self-renewal through a reiterative screening strategy. In the present study, we efficiently generated hepatoblasts from human embryonic stem cells by a stepwise induction strategy. Importantly, these human embryonic stem cell-derived hepatoblasts can be captured and stably maintained using conditions previously established for mouse hepatoblast self-renewal, which includes basal media supplemented with insulin, transferrin, sodium selenite, epidermal growth factor, glycogen synthase kinase 3 inhibitor, transforming growth factor β receptor inhibitor, lysophosphatidic acid, and sphingosine 1-phosphate. The cells can stably retain hepatoblast phenotypes during prolonged culture and can differentiate into mature hepatocytes through in vitro provision of hepatocyte lineage developmental cues. After being embedded into three-dimensional Matrigel, these cells efficiently formed bile duct-like structures resembling native bile duct tissues. These human embryonic stem cell-derived hepatoblasts would be useful as a renewable source for cell therapy of liver diseases. SIGNIFICANCE Somatic stem cells have been proposed as promising candidates for cell-based therapy; however, isolation of somatic stem cells from adult tissues is usually invasive and technically challenging. In the present study, hepatoblasts from human embryonic stem cells were efficiently generated. These human hepatoblasts were then stably captured and maintained by a growth factor and small molecule cocktail, which included epidermal growth factor, glycogen synthase kinase 3 inhibitor, transforming growth factor β receptor inhibitor, lysophosphatidic acid, and sphingosine 1-phosphate. These human embryonic stem cell-derived hepatoblasts would be useful as a renewable source for cell therapy of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muzi Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Pingxin Sun
- Department of Cell Biology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yusheng Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Junnan Chen
- Department of Cell Biology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Linjie Lv
- Department of Cell Biology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanguo Wei
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Center, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Science, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Caixia Jin
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, College of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenlin Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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29
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Boppart MD, De Lisio M, Witkowski S. Exercise and Stem Cells. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2015; 135:423-56. [PMID: 26477925 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2015.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Stem cells are traditionally studied in the context of embryonic development, yet studies confirm that a fraction remains in the adult organism for the purpose of daily remodeling and rejuvenation of multiple tissues following injury. Adult stem cells (ASCs) are found in close proximity to vessels and respond to tissue-specific cues in the microenvironment that dictate their fate and function. Exercise can dramatically alter strain sensing, extracellular matrix composition, and inflammation, and such changes in the niche likely alter ASC quantity and function postexercise. The field of stem cell biology is still in its infancy and identification and terminology of ASCs continues to evolve; thus, current information regarding exercise and stem cells is lacking. This chapter summarizes the literature that reports on the ASC response to acute exercise and exercise training, with particular emphasis on hematopoietic stem cells, endothelial progenitor cells, and mesenchymal stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marni D Boppart
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois, USA; Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois, USA.
| | - Michael De Lisio
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Sarah Witkowski
- Department of Kinesiology, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
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30
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Diehl AM. Prometheus and progenitors. Hepatology 2015; 61:1427-9. [PMID: 25545250 PMCID: PMC4376571 DOI: 10.1002/hep.27676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mae Diehl
- Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27710
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31
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Shin S, Upadhyay N, Greenbaum LE, Kaestner KH. Ablation of Foxl1-Cre-labeled hepatic progenitor cells and their descendants impairs recovery of mice from liver injury. Gastroenterology 2015; 148:192-202.e3. [PMID: 25286440 PMCID: PMC4387775 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2014.09.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2014] [Revised: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 09/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Foxl1(+) hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) differentiate into cholangiocytes and hepatocytes after liver injury. We investigated the requirement for Foxl1(+) HPCs in recovery from liver injury in mice. METHODS We developed mice in which we could trace and delete Foxl1-expressing HPCs and their descendants (Foxl1-Cre;Rosa(YFP/iDTR)-inducible diphtheria toxin receptor [iDTR] mice). Foxl1-Cre-negative mice were used as controls. Liver damage was induced in male mice by placing them on choline-deficient, ethionine-supplemented (CDE) diets for 15 days; mice then were placed on normal diets and allowed to recover. Liver damage was induced in female mice by placing them on 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC)-containing diets, followed by a recovery period. Some mice were given injections of diphtheria toxin during the recovery phase to delete Foxl1-Cre-marked HPCs and their descendants. Livers were collected from all mice and analyzed by immunofluorescence, quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, flow cytometry, and histologic analyses. RESULTS Foxl1-Cre-marked HPCs were required for the development of cholangiocytes and hepatocytes in livers after CDE diet-induced injury. A smaller percentage of yellow fluorescent protein-positive (YFP(+)) hepatocytes contained markers of oxidative stress, DNA damage, or cell death than YFP-negative hepatocytes, indicating that YFP(+) hepatocytes are newly formed cells. Injection of diphtheria toxin deleted YFP(+) cells from Foxl1-Cre;Rosa(YFP/iDTR) mice and prevented the resolution of hepatic steatosis. In mice recovering from DDC diet-induced injury, most cholangiocytes arose from Foxl1-Cre-marked HPCs. Deletion of YFP(+) cells did not alter levels of markers of liver injury or liver function. CONCLUSIONS Based on studies of Foxl1-Cre;Rosa(YFP/iDTR) mice, Foxl1(+) HPCs and/or their descendants are required for the development of cholangiocytes and hepatocytes in liver after CDE diet-induced injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soona Shin
- Department of Genetics and Center for Molecular Studies in Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Naman Upadhyay
- Department of Genetics and Center for Molecular Studies in Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Linda E Greenbaum
- Departments of Cancer Biology and Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Klaus H Kaestner
- Department of Genetics and Center for Molecular Studies in Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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