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Xu L, Yang J, Cao X, Chen J, Liu Z, Cai L, Yu Y, Huang H. Sequential system based on ferritin delivery system and cell therapy for modulating the pathological microenvironment and promoting recovery. Int J Pharm 2024; 664:124607. [PMID: 39159856 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124607] [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: 05/19/2024] [Revised: 08/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
The vicious crosstalk among capillarization of hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), activation of hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs), and hepatocyte damage poses a significant impediment to the successful treatment of liver fibrosis. In this study, we propose a sequential combination therapy aimed at disrupting the malignant crosstalk and reshaping the benign microenvironment while repairing damaged hepatocytes to achieve effective treatment of liver fibrosis. Firstly, H-subunit apoferrin (Ferritin) was adopted to load platycodonin D (PLD) and MnO2, forming ferritin@MnO2/PLD (FMP) nanoparticles, which exploited the high affinity of ferritin for the highly expressed transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1) to achieve the precise targeted delivery of FMP in the liver. Upon PLD intervention, restoration of the fenestration pores in capillarized LSECs was facilitated by modulating the phosphatidyl inositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) and Kruppel Like Factor 2 (KLF2) signaling pathways both in vitro and in vivo, enabling efficient entry of FMP into the Disse space. Subsequently, FMP NPs effectively inhibited HSC activation by modulating the TLR2/TLR4/NF-κB-p65 signaling pathway. Moreover, FMP NPs efficiently scavenged reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitigated the expression of inflammatory mediators, thereby reshaping the microenvironment to support hepatocyte repair. Finally, administration of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) was employed to promote the regeneration and functional recovery of damaged hepatocytes. In conclusion, the combined sequential therapy involving FMP and BMMSCs effectively attenuated liver fibrosis induced by CCl4 administration, resulting in significant amelioration of the fibrotic condition. The therapeutic strategy outlined in this study underscores the significance of disrupting the deleterious cellular interactions and remodeling the microenvironment, thereby presenting a promising avenue for clinical intervention in liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixing Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; Department of Pharmacy, Haimen People's Hospital, Nantong 226100, China
| | - Xinyu Cao
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Jiayi Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Zhikuan Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Liangliang Cai
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Pharmacy School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China.
| | - Yanyan Yu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China.
| | - Haiqin Huang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China.
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2
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Sui Y, Geng X, Wang Z, Zhang J, Yang Y, Meng Z. Targeting the regulation of iron homeostasis as a potential therapeutic strategy for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Metabolism 2024; 157:155953. [PMID: 38885833 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2024.155953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
With aging and the increasing incidence of obesity, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. NAFLD mainly includes simple hepatic steatosis, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). An imbalance in hepatic iron homeostasis is usually associated with the progression of NAFLD and induces iron overload, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and lipid peroxide accumulation, which leads to ferroptosis. Ferroptosis is a unique type of programmed cell death (PCD) that is characterized by iron dependence, ROS production and lipid peroxidation. The ferroptosis inhibition systems involved in NAFLD include the solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11)/glutathione (GSH)/glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and ferroptosis suppressor protein 1 (FSP1)/coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)/nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) regulatory axes. The main promotion system involved is the acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family (ACSL4)/arachidonic lipoxygenase 15 (ALOX15) axis. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have focused on the multiple roles of iron homeostasis imbalance and ferroptosis in the progression of NAFLD. This review highlights the latest studies about iron homeostasis imbalance- and ferroptosis-associated NAFLD, mainly including the physiology and pathophysiology of hepatic iron metabolism, hepatic iron homeostasis imbalance during the development of NAFLD, and key regulatory molecules and roles of hepatic ferroptosis in NAFLD. This review aims to provide innovative therapeutic strategies for NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Sui
- Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen 518100, Guangdong, China
| | - Xue Geng
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Ziwei Wang
- Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen 518100, Guangdong, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen 518100, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanqun Yang
- Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen 518100, Guangdong, China.
| | - Ziyu Meng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Tianjin Medical University Chu Hsien-I Memorial Hospital and Tianjin Institute of Endocrinology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300134, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300134, China.
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3
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Lee EH, Lee JH, Kim DY, Lee YS, Jo Y, Dao T, Kim KE, Song DK, Seo JH, Seo YK, Seong JK, Moon C, Han E, Kim MK, Ryu S, Shin M, Roh GS, Jung HR, Osborne TF, Ryu D, Jeon TI, Im SS. Loss of SREBP-1c ameliorates iron-induced liver fibrosis by decreasing lipocalin-2. Exp Mol Med 2024; 56:1001-1012. [PMID: 38622198 PMCID: PMC11058876 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-024-01213-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP)-1c is involved in cellular lipid homeostasis and cholesterol biosynthesis and is highly increased in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). However, the molecular mechanism by which SREBP-1c regulates hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation in NASH animal models and patients have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we examined the role of SREBP-1c in NASH and the regulation of LCN2 gene expression. Wild-type and SREBP-1c knockout (1cKO) mice were fed a high-fat/high-sucrose diet, treated with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), and subjected to lipocalin-2 (LCN2) overexpression. The role of LCN2 in NASH progression was assessed using mouse primary hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, and HSCs. LCN2 expression was examined in samples from normal patients and those with NASH. LCN2 gene expression and secretion increased in CCl4-induced liver fibrosis mice model, and SREBP-1c regulated LCN2 gene transcription. Moreover, treatment with holo-LCN2 stimulated intracellular iron accumulation and fibrosis-related gene expression in mouse primary HSCs, but these effects were not observed in 1cKO HSCs, indicating that SREBP-1c-induced LCN2 expression and secretion could stimulate HSCs activation through iron accumulation. Furthermore, LCN2 expression was strongly correlated with inflammation and fibrosis in patients with NASH. Our findings indicate that SREBP-1c regulates Lcn2 gene expression, contributing to diet-induced NASH. Reduced Lcn2 expression in 1cKO mice protects against NASH development. Therefore, the activation of Lcn2 by SREBP-1c establishes a new connection between iron and lipid metabolism, affecting inflammation and HSCs activation. These findings may lead to new therapeutic strategies for NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun-Ho Lee
- Department of Physiology, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Ho Lee
- Department of Physiology, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Do-Young Kim
- Department of Physiology, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Seung Lee
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Science, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Yunju Jo
- Department of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Gwangju, 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Tam Dao
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) School of Medicine, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Eun Kim
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, 52727, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Kyu Song
- Department of Physiology, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Hae Seo
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu, 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Kyo Seo
- Aging Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Je Kyung Seong
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology and Genomics, Research Institute for Veterinary Science, BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Changjong Moon
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Animal Behavior, College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Eugene Han
- Department of Internal Medicine, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi Kyung Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungwan Ryu
- Department of Surgery, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Minsang Shin
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Gu Seob Roh
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, 52727, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Ra Jung
- Department of Pathology, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Timothy F Osborne
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Department of Medicine and Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, St. Petersburg, FL, 33701, USA
| | - Dongryeol Ryu
- Department of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Gwangju, 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Il Jeon
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Science, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Soon Im
- Department of Physiology, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, 42601, Republic of Korea.
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Ahmadi Badi S, Bereimipour A, Rohani P, Khatami S, Siadat SD. Interplay between gut microbiota and the master iron regulator, hepcidin, in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. Pathog Dis 2024; 82:ftae005. [PMID: 38555503 PMCID: PMC10990161 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftae005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is a proven role for hepcidin and the composition of gut microbiota and its derivatives in the pathophysiology of liver fibrosis. AREA COVERED This review focuses on the literature search regarding the effect of hepcidin and gut microbiota on regulating liver physiology. We presented the regulating mechanisms of hepcidin expression and discussed the possible interaction between gut microbiota and hepcidin regulation. Furthermore, we investigated the importance of the hepcidin gene in biological processes and bacterial interactions using bioinformatics analysis. EXPERT OPINION One of the main features of liver fibrosis is iron accumulation in hepatic cells, including hepatocytes. This accumulation can induce an oxidative stress response, inflammation, and activation of hepatic stellate cells. Hepcidin is a crucial regulator of iron by targeting ferroportin expressed on hepatocytes, macrophages, and enterocytes. Various stimuli, such as iron load and inflammatory signals, control hepcidin regulation. Furthermore, a bidirectional relationship exists between iron and the composition and metabolic activity of gut microbiota. We explored the potential of gut microbiota to influence hepcidin expression and potentially manage liver fibrosis, as the regulation of iron metabolism plays a crucial role in this context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Ahmadi Badi
- Biochemistry Department, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, 1963737611, Iran
- Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology Research Center, Pediatrics Center of Excellence, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, 1416753955, Iran
| | - Ahmad Bereimipour
- Department of Biological Sciences and BioDiscovery Institute, University of North Texas, Denton, TX 76203, USA
| | - Pejman Rohani
- Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology Research Center, Pediatrics Center of Excellence, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, 1416753955, Iran
| | - Shohreh Khatami
- Biochemistry Department, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, 1963737611, Iran
| | - Seyed Davar Siadat
- Microbiology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, 1963737611, Iran
- Department of Mycobacteriology and Pulmonary Research, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran,1963737611, Iran
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Liang W, Huang X, Shi J. Macrophages Serve as Bidirectional Regulators and Potential Therapeutic Targets for Liver Fibrosis. Cell Biochem Biophys 2023; 81:659-671. [PMID: 37695501 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-023-01173-w] [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: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a dynamic pathological process in which the structure and function of the liver abnormally change due to long-term complex inflammatory reactions and chronic liver injury caused by multiple internal and external factors. Previous studies believed that the activation of hepatic stellate cells is a critical part of the occurrence and development of liver fibrosis. However, an increasing number of studies have indicated that the macrophage plays an important role as a central regulator in liver fibrosis, and it directly affects the development and recovery of liver fibrosis. Studies of macrophages and liver fibrosis in the recent 10 years will be reviewed in this paper. This review will not only clarify the molecular mechanism of liver fibrosis regulated by macrophages but also provide new strategies and methods for ameliorating and treating liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liang
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530007, Guangxi, China.
| | - Xianing Huang
- Guangxi International Travel Healthcare Centre (Port Clinic of Nanning Customs District), Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Jingjing Shi
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi Clinical Research Center for Colorectal Cancer, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
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Ali N, Ferrao K, Mehta KJ. Liver Iron Loading in Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 193:1427-1439. [PMID: 36306827 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2022.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is a common chronic liver disease with increasing incidence worldwide. Alcoholic liver steatosis/steatohepatitis can progress to liver fibrosis/cirrhosis, which can cause predisposition to hepatocellular carcinoma. ALD diagnosis and management are confounded by several challenges. Iron loading is a feature of ALD which can exacerbate alcohol-induced liver injury and promote ALD pathologic progression. Knowledge of the mechanisms that mediate liver iron loading can help identify cellular/molecular targets and thereby aid in designing adjunct diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic approaches for ALD. Herein, the cellular mechanisms underlying alcohol-induced liver iron loading are reviewed and how excess iron in patients with ALD can promote liver fibrosis and aggravate disease pathology is discussed. Alcohol-induced increase in hepatic transferrin receptor-1 expression and up-regulation of high iron protein in Kupffer cells (proposed) facilitate iron deposition and retention in the liver. Iron is loaded in both parenchymal and nonparenchymal liver cells. Iron-loaded liver can promote ferroptosis and thereby contribute to ALD pathology. Iron and alcohol can independently elevate oxidative stress. Therefore, a combination of excess iron and alcohol amplifies oxidative stress and accelerates liver injury. Excess iron-stimulated hepatocytes directly or indirectly (through Kupffer cell activation) activate the hepatic stellate cells via secretion of proinflammatory and profibrotic factors. Persistently activated hepatic stellate cells promote liver fibrosis, and thereby facilitate ALD progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najma Ali
- GKT School of Medical Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Ferrao
- GKT School of Medical Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kosha J Mehta
- Centre for Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.
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Mehta KJ. Iron-Related Genes and Proteins in Mesenchymal Stem Cell Detection and Therapy. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:1773-1784. [PMID: 37269528 PMCID: PMC10238768 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10569-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are located in various tissues of the body. These cells exhibit regenerative and reparative properties, which makes them highly valuable for cell-based therapy. Despite this, majority of MSC-related studies remain to be translated for regular clinical use. This is partly because there are methodical challenges in pre-administration MSC labelling, post-administration detection and tracking of cells, and in retention of maximal therapeutic potential in-vivo. This calls for exploration of alternative or adjunctive approaches that would enable better detection of transplanted MSCs via non-invasive methods and enhance MSC therapeutic potential in-vivo. Interestingly, these attributes have been demonstrated by some iron-related genes and proteins.Accordingly, this unique forward-looking article integrates the apparently distinct fields of iron metabolism and MSC biology, and reviews the utility of iron-related genes and iron-related proteins in facilitating MSC detection and therapy, respectively. Effects of genetic overexpression of the iron-related proteins ferritin, transferrin receptor-1 and MagA in MSCs and their utilisation as reporter genes for improving MSC detection in-vivo are critically evaluated. In addition, the beneficial effects of the iron chelator deferoxamine and the iron-related proteins haem oxygenase-1, lipocalin-2, lactoferrin, bone morphogenetic protein-2 and hepcidin in enhancing MSC therapeutics are highlighted with the consequent intracellular alterations in MSCs. This review aims to inform both regenerative and translational medicine. It can aid in formulating better methodical approaches that will improve, complement, or provide alternatives to the current pre-transplantation MSC labelling procedures, and enhance MSC detection or augment the post-transplantation MSC therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosha J Mehta
- Centre for Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.
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Honma K, Kirihara S, Nakayama H, Fukuoka T, Ohara T, Kitamori K, Sato I, Hirohata S, Fujii M, Yamamoto S, Ran S, Watanabe S. Selective autophagy associated with iron overload aggravates non-alcoholic steatohepatitis via ferroptosis. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2023; 248:1112-1123. [PMID: 37646078 PMCID: PMC10583757 DOI: 10.1177/15353702231191197] [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: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a progressive form of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) that causes cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Iron is an essential trace element in the body; however, excess iron can cause tissue damage and dysfunction. Iron overload is often observed in patients with NASH, and the amount of iron accumulated in the liver positively correlates with the histological severity of NASH. Ferroptosis, a novel form of iron-dependent cell death, is caused by the accumulation of lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress and is related to NASH. In addition, ferroptosis is closely related to autophagy, an intracellular self-degradation process. Although autophagy has many beneficial effects, it may also be harmful to the organism, for example, inducing ferroptosis. It is unclear whether iron overload aggravates NASH via autophagy. The aim of this research is to determine the mechanism by which iron overload induces ferroptosis via autophagy and aggravates NASH. Stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSP5/Dmcr) were divided into two groups and fed a high-fat and high-cholesterol (HFC) diet for eight weeks. Iron dextran was administered to the Fe group in addition to the HFC diet. Blood analysis, histological staining, calcineurin activity assay, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), immunofluorescence staining, and electron microscopy were performed. The results showed that iron overload promoted autophagy via nuclear translocation of transcription factor EB (TFEB) and induced ferritinophagy, which is the autophagic degradation of ferritin. In addition, the HFC diet induced lipophagy, the autophagic degradation of lipid droplets. The Fe group also exhibited promoted ferroptosis and aggravated hepatic inflammation and fibrosis. In conclusion, iron overload accelerates ferritinophagy and lipophagy, aggravating NASH pathology via ferroptosis. These findings indicate the therapeutic potential of inhibiting autophagy and ferroptosis for treating NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koki Honma
- Department of Medical Technology, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Sora Kirihara
- Department of Medical Technology, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Hinako Nakayama
- Department of Medical Technology, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Taketo Fukuoka
- Department of Medical Technology, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Ohara
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Kazuya Kitamori
- College of Human Life and Environment, Kinjo Gakuin University, Nagoya 463-8521, Japan
| | - Ikumi Sato
- Academic Field of Health Science, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Satoshi Hirohata
- Academic Field of Health Science, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Moe Fujii
- Department of Medical Technology, Ehime Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Ehime 791-2101, Japan
| | - Shusei Yamamoto
- Department of Medical Technology, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
- Academic Field of Health Science, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Shang Ran
- HeiLongjiang Provincial Center for disease control and prevention, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Shogo Watanabe
- Academic Field of Health Science, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
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Guo J, Lyu S, Qi Y, Chen X, Yang L, Zhao C, Wang H. Molecular evolution and gene expression of ferritin family involved in immune defense of lampreys. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 146:104729. [PMID: 37187445 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2023.104729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Ferritin, one of the key regulators of iron homeostasis, is widely present throughout almost all species. The vertebrate ferritin family, which originates from a single gene in the ancestral invertebrates, contains the widest variety of ferritin subtypes among all animal species. However, the evolutionary history of the vertebrate ferritin family remains to be further clarified. In this study, genome-wide identification of the ferritin homologs is performed in lampreys, which are the extant representatives of jawless vertebrates that diverged from the future jawed vertebrates more than 500 million years ago. Molecular evolutionary analyses show that four members of the lamprey ferritin family, L-FT1-4, are derived from a common ancestor with jawed vertebrate ferritins prior to the divergence of the jawed vertebrate ferritin subtypes. The lamprey ferritin family shares evolutionarily conserved characteristics of the ferritin H subunit with higher vertebrates, but certain members such as L-FT1 additionally accumulate some features of the M or L subunits. Expression profiling reveals that lamprey ferritins are highly expressed in the liver. The transcription of L-FT1 is significantly induced in the liver and heart during lipopolysaccharide stimulation, indicating that L-FTs may play a role in the innate immune response to bacterial infection in lampreys. Furthermore, the transcriptional expression of L-FT1 in quiescent and LPS-activated leukocytes is up- and down-regulated by the lamprey TGF-β2, an essential regulator of the inflammatory response, respectively. Our results provide new insights into the origin and evolution of the vertebrate ferritin family and reveal that lamprey ferritins may be involved in immune regulation as target genes of the TGF-β signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junfu Guo
- College of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, 116081, China
| | - Shuangyu Lyu
- College of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, 116081, China
| | - Yanchen Qi
- College of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China
| | - Xuanyi Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, 116081, China
| | - Lu Yang
- College of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, 116081, China
| | - Chunhui Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China.
| | - Hao Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, 116081, China.
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10
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Crawford DHG, Ramm GA, Bridle KR, Nicoll AJ, Delatycki MB, Olynyk JK. Clinical practice guidelines on hemochromatosis: Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver. Hepatol Int 2023; 17:522-541. [PMID: 37067673 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-023-10510-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Darrell H G Crawford
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Grant A Ramm
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Hepatic Fibrosis Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Kim R Bridle
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
- Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Amanda J Nicoll
- Department of Gastroenterology, Eastern Health, Box Hill, VIC, Australia
- Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Martin B Delatycki
- Bruce Lefroy Centre, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - John K Olynyk
- Department of Gastroenterology, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Murdoch, WA, Australia
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
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11
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Kouroumalis E, Tsomidis I, Voumvouraki A. Iron as a therapeutic target in chronic liver disease. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:616-655. [PMID: 36742167 PMCID: PMC9896614 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i4.616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
It was clearly realized more than 50 years ago that iron deposition in the liver may be a critical factor in the development and progression of liver disease. The recent clarification of ferroptosis as a specific form of regulated hepatocyte death different from apoptosis and the description of ferritinophagy as a specific variation of autophagy prompted detailed investigations on the association of iron and the liver. In this review, we will present a brief discussion of iron absorption and handling by the liver with emphasis on the role of liver macrophages and the significance of the iron regulators hepcidin, transferrin, and ferritin in iron homeostasis. The regulation of ferroptosis by endogenous and exogenous mod-ulators will be examined. Furthermore, the involvement of iron and ferroptosis in various liver diseases including alcoholic and non-alcoholic liver disease, chronic hepatitis B and C, liver fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) will be analyzed. Finally, experimental and clinical results following interventions to reduce iron deposition and the promising manipulation of ferroptosis will be presented. Most liver diseases will be benefited by ferroptosis inhibition using exogenous inhibitors with the notable exception of HCC, where induction of ferroptosis is the desired effect. Current evidence mostly stems from in vitro and in vivo experimental studies and the need for well-designed future clinical trials is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Kouroumalis
- Liver Research Laboratory, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion 71003, Greece
| | - Ioannis Tsomidis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Thessaloniki 54621, Greece
| | - Argyro Voumvouraki
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Thessaloniki 54621, Greece
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12
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Pei Z, Qin Y, Fu X, Yang F, Huo F, Liang X, Wang S, Cui H, Lin P, Zhou G, Yan J, Wu J, Chen ZN, Zhu P. Inhibition of ferroptosis and iron accumulation alleviates pulmonary fibrosis in a bleomycin model. Redox Biol 2022; 57:102509. [PMID: 36302319 PMCID: PMC9614651 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2022.102509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic progressive disease characterized by excessive proliferation of fibroblasts and excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM). Ferroptosis is a novel form of cell death characterized by the lethal accumulation of iron and lipid peroxidation, which is associated with many diseases. Our study addressed the potential role played by ferroptosis and iron accumulation in the progression of pulmonary fibrosis. We found that the inducers of pulmonary fibrosis and injury, namely, bleomycin (BLM) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), induced ferroptosis of lung epithelial cells. Both the ferroptosis inhibitor liproxstatin-1 (Lip-1) and the iron chelator deferoxamine (DFO) alleviated the symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis induced by bleomycin or LPS. TGF-β stimulation upregulated the expression of transferrin receptor protein 1 (TFRC) in the human lung fibroblast cell line (MRC-5) and mouse primary lung fibroblasts, resulting in increased intracellular Fe2+, which promoted the transformation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. Mechanistically, TGF-β enhanced the expression and nuclear localization of the transcriptional coactivator tafazzin (TAZ), which combined with the transcription factor TEA domain protein (TEAD)-4 to promote the transcription of TFRC. In addition, elevated Fe2+ failed to induce the ferroptosis of fibroblasts, which might be related to the regulation of iron export and lipid metabolism. Finally, we specifically knocked out TFRC expression in fibroblasts in mice, and compared with those in the control mice, the symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis were reduced in the knockout mice after bleomycin induction. Collectively, these findings suggest the therapeutic potential of ferroptosis inhibitors and iron chelators in treating pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Pei
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Yifei Qin
- Guangzhou (Jinan) Biomedical Research and Development Center, Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Xianghui Fu
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Fengfan Yang
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Fei Huo
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Xue Liang
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Shijie Wang
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Hongyong Cui
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Peng Lin
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Gang Zhou
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Jiangna Yan
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Jiao Wu
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
| | - Zhi-Nan Chen
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
| | - Ping Zhu
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
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13
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Iron metabolism in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: a promising therapeutic target. LIVER RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livres.2022.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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14
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High Meat Consumption Is Prospectively Associated with the Risk of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Presumed Significant Fibrosis. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14173533. [PMID: 36079791 PMCID: PMC9459934 DOI: 10.3390/nu14173533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been associated with meat consumption in cross-sectional studies. However, only a few prospective studies have been conducted, and they did not test for liver fibrosis. We aimed to assess the association between meat consumption changes and the incidence and remission of NAFLD and significant liver fibrosis. We used a prospective cohort study design, including 316 subjects aged 40–70 years, participating in baseline and follow-up evaluations at Tel-Aviv Medical Center. NAFLD was determined by liver ultrasound or controlled attenuation parameter (CAP), and liver fibrosis was determined by FibroScan. Meat consumption (g/day) was assessed by a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). In multivariable-adjusted analyses, high consumption of red and/or processed meat (≥gender-specific median) was associated with a higher risk of NAFLD with elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (OR = 3.75, 1.21–11.62, p = 0.022). Consistently high (in both baseline and follow-up evaluations) total meat consumption was associated with 2.55-fold (95% CI 1.27–5.12, p = 0.009) greater odds for new onset and/or persistence of NAFLD compared to consistently low meat consumption. A similar association was shown for consistently high consumption of red and/or processed meat (OR = 2.12, 95% CI 1.11–4.05, p = 0.022). Consistently high red and/or processed meat consumption was associated with 4.77-fold (95% CI 1.36–16.69, p = 0.014) greater odds for significant fibrosis compared to consistently low consumption. Minimizing the consumption of red and/or processed meat may help prevent NAFLD and significant fibrosis.
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15
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Hui RWH, Chiu KWH, Mak LY, Chang HC, Cheung KS, Fung J, Yuen MF, Seto WK. Magnetic resonance imaging metrics and the predictability of adverse outcomes in on-treatment Asian chronic hepatitis B. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 37:1139-1147. [PMID: 35368120 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.15846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Liver fibrosis and steatosis are important factors affecting chronic hepatitis B (CHB) disease outcome. Multiparametric magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the liver measures fibroinflammation, fat, and iron through iron-corrected T1 relaxation time (cT1), proton density fat fraction (PDFF), and T2*-weighted imaging, respectively. We assessed the utility of MR metrics for prognostication in CHB. METHODS Chronic hepatitis B patients receiving nucleos(t)ide analogs with advanced fibrosis documented by vibration-controlled transient elastography were recruited. Paired multiparametric MR liver and transient elastography were performed at baseline and after at least 2 years. Adverse outcomes including death, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and liver decompensation were monitored. RESULTS One hundred and ninety-two patients (mean age 60.3 ± 8.5 years; 76.0% male) were recruited. Eight patients (4.2%) developed HCC after 11.6 (8.8-22.8) months, and increased baseline liver iron independently predicted HCC (hazard ratio 2.329 [1.030-5.266]; P = 0.042). Liver MR metrics were not predictive of death or hepatic decompensation. Among 150 patients with follow-up liver MR at 30.3 (25.2-35.6) months, longitudinal liver PDFF increase was associated with liver cT1 increase (odds ratio 1.571 [1.217-2.029]; P = 0.001). Ninety patients received simultaneous multiparametric MR pancreas during the follow-up MR. Pancreatic PDFF correlated with liver PDFF (r = 0.501, P < 0.001), while pancreatic T1 had no correlation with liver cT1 (r = -0.092, P = 0.479). Pancreatic T1 and PDFF were not associated with adverse outcomes. CONCLUSION Among CHB patients with advanced disease, liver iron level on MR predicts HCC. Multiparametric MR can also simultaneously assess the pancreas and the liver. Multiparametric MR should be further studied as a one-stop option for monitoring and prognosticating CHB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rex Wan-Hin Hui
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | | | - Lung Yi Mak
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Hing-Chiu Chang
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ka-Shing Cheung
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - James Fung
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Man-Fung Yuen
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Wai-Kay Seto
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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16
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Sfikakis PP, Vlachogiannis NI, Ntouros PA, Mavrogeni S, Maris TG, Karantanas AH, Souliotis VL. Microvasculopathy-Related Hemorrhagic Tissue Deposition of Iron May Contribute to Fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis: Hypothesis-Generating Insights from the Literature and Preliminary Findings. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12030430. [PMID: 35330181 PMCID: PMC8955192 DOI: 10.3390/life12030430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Microvascular wall abnormalities demonstrated by nailfold capillaroscopy in systemic sclerosis (SSc) may result in microhemorrhagic deposition of erythrocyte-derived iron. Such abnormalities precede fibrosis, which is orchestrated by myofibroblasts. Iron induces endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in vitro, which is reversed by reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavengers. The conversion of quiescent fibroblasts into profibrotic myofibroblasts has also been associated with ROS-mediated activation of TGF-β1. Given that iron overload predisposes to ROS formation, we hypothesized that the uptake of erythrocyte-derived iron by resident cells promotes fibrosis. Firstly, we show that iron induces oxidative stress in skin-derived and synovial fibroblasts in vitro, as well as in blood mononuclear cells ex vivo. The biological relevance of increased oxidative stress was confirmed by showing the concomitant induction of DNA damage in these cell types. Similar results were obtained in vivo, following intravenous iron administration. Secondly, using magnetic resonance imaging we show an increased iron deposition in the fingers of a patient with early SSc and nailfold microhemorrhages. While a systematic magnetic resonance study to examine tissue iron levels in SSc, including internal organs, is underway, herein we propose that iron may be a pathogenetic link between microvasculopathy and fibrosis and an additional mechanism responsible for increased oxidative stress in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros P. Sfikakis
- First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine and Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece; (N.I.V.); (P.A.N.); (V.L.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Nikolaos I. Vlachogiannis
- First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine and Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece; (N.I.V.); (P.A.N.); (V.L.S.)
| | - Panagiotis A. Ntouros
- First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine and Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece; (N.I.V.); (P.A.N.); (V.L.S.)
| | | | - Thomas G. Maris
- Department of Radiology, University of Crete Medical School, 71003 Heraklion, Greece; (T.G.M.); (A.H.K.)
- Computational BioMedicine Laboratory, Institute of Computer Science, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Apostolos H. Karantanas
- Department of Radiology, University of Crete Medical School, 71003 Heraklion, Greece; (T.G.M.); (A.H.K.)
- Computational BioMedicine Laboratory, Institute of Computer Science, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Vassilis L. Souliotis
- First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine and Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece; (N.I.V.); (P.A.N.); (V.L.S.)
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 11635 Athens, Greece
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17
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Hepcidin in hepatocellular carcinoma. Br J Cancer 2022; 127:185-192. [PMID: 35264787 PMCID: PMC9296449 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-022-01753-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common reasons for cancer-related deaths. Excess iron increases HCC risk. Inevitably, hepcidin, the iron hormone that maintains systemic iron homoeostasis is involved in HCC pathology. Distinct from other cancers that show high hepcidin expression, HCC patients can show low hepcidin levels. Thus, it is of immense clinical benefit to address the regulation and action of hepcidin in HCC as this may help in identifying molecular targets for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutics. Accordingly, this review explores hepcidin in HCC. It presents the levels of tissue and serum hepcidin and explains the mechanisms that contribute to hepcidin reduction in HCC. These include downregulation of HAMP, TfR2, HJV, ALK2 and circular RNA circ_0004913, upregulation of matriptase-2 and GDF15, inactivation of RUNX3 and mutation in TP53. The enigmas around mir-122 and the functionalities of two major hepcidin inducers BMP6 and IL6 in relation to hepcidin in HCC are discussed. Effects of hepcidin downregulation are explained, specifically, increased cancer proliferation via activation of CDK1/STAT3 pathway and increased HCC risk due to reduction in a hepcidin-mediated protective effect against hepatic stellate cell activation. Hepcidin–ferroportin axis in HCC is addressed. Finally, the role of hepcidin in the diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutics of HCC is highlighted.
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18
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Fan X, Zhang X, Liu LC, Kim AY, Curley SP, Chen X, Dworkin LD, Cooper CJ, Gupta R. Interleukin-10 attenuates renal injury after myocardial infarction in diabetes. J Investig Med 2022; 70:1233-1242. [PMID: 35140126 DOI: 10.1136/jim-2021-002008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication after myocardial infarction (MI) and associated with significant morbidity and mortality. AKI after MI occurs more frequently in patients with diabetes, however, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood, and specific treatments are lacking. Using the murine MI model, we show that diabetic mice had higher expression of the kidney injury marker, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), 3 days after MI compared with control mice. This higher expression of NGAL was still significant after controlling for differences in myocardial infarct size between diabetic and control mice. Prior data demonstrate increased cell-free hemoglobin after MI in diabetic mice. Therefore, we investigated heme clearance components, including heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) and CD163, in the kidneys and found that both HO-1 and CD163 were dysregulated in diabetic mice pre-MI and post-MI. Significantly higher levels of urine iron were also observed in diabetic mice compared with control mice after MI. Next, the renal protective effect of interleukin 10 (IL-10) after MI was tested in diabetic MI. IL-10 treatment demonstrated multiple protective effects after diabetic MI including reduction in acute renal inflammation, upregulation of renal heme clearance pathways, attenuation of chronic renal fibrosis, and reduction in albuminuria after diabetic MI. In vitro, IL-10 potentiated hemoglobin-induced HO-1 expression in mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages and renal proximal tubule (HK-2) cells. Furthermore, IL-10 reduced hemoglobin-induced reactive oxygen species in HK-2 cells and collagen synthesis in mouse embryonic fibroblast cells. We conclude that impaired renal heme clearance pathways in diabetes contribute to AKI after MI, and IL-10 attenuates renal injury after diabetic MI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoming Fan
- Department of Medicine, University of Toledo - Health Science Campus, Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Xiaolu Zhang
- Department of Medicine, University of Toledo - Health Science Campus, Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Lijun C Liu
- Department of Medicine, University of Toledo - Health Science Campus, Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Annes Y Kim
- Department of Medicine, University of Toledo - Health Science Campus, Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Sean P Curley
- Department of Medicine, University of Toledo - Health Science Campus, Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Xiaohuan Chen
- Department of Medicine, University of Toledo - Health Science Campus, Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Lance D Dworkin
- Department of Medicine, University of Toledo - Health Science Campus, Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Christopher J Cooper
- Department of Medicine, University of Toledo - Health Science Campus, Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Rajesh Gupta
- Department of Medicine, University of Toledo - Health Science Campus, Toledo, Ohio, USA
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19
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Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) exhibit regenerative and reparative properties. However, most MSC-related studies remain to be translated for regular clinical usage, partly due to challenges in pre-transplantation cell labelling and post-transplantation cell tracking. Amidst this, there are growing concerns over the toxicity of commonly used gadolinium-based contrast agents that mediate in-vivo cell detection via MRI. This urges to search for equally effective but less toxic alternatives that would facilitate and enhance MSC detection post-administration and provide therapeutic benefits in-vivo. MSCs labelled with iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) have shown promising results in-vitro and in-vivo. Thus, it would be useful to revisit these studies before inventing new labelling approaches. Aiming to inform regenerative medicine and augment clinical applications of IONP-labelled MSCs, this review collates and critically evaluates the utility of IONPs in enhancing MSC detection and therapeutics. It explains the rationale, principle, and advantages of labelling MSCs with IONPs, and describes IONP-induced intracellular alterations and consequent cellular manifestations. By exemplifying clinical pathologies, it examines contextual in-vitro, animal, and clinical studies that used IONP-labelled bone marrow-, umbilical cord-, adipose tissue- and dental pulp-derived MSCs. It compiles and discusses studies involving MSC-labelling of IONPs in combinations with carbohydrates (Venofer, ferumoxytol, dextran, glucosamine), non-carbohydrate polymers [poly(L-lysine), poly(lactide-co-glycolide), poly(L-lactide), polydopamine], elements (ruthenium, selenium, gold, zinc), compounds/stains (silica, polyethylene glycol, fluorophore, rhodamine B, DAPI, Prussian blue), DNA, Fibroblast growth Factor-2 and the drug doxorubicin. Furthermore, IONP-labelling of MSC exosomes is reviewed. Also, limitations of IONP-labelling are addressed and methods of tackling those challenges are suggested.
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20
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Fnu G, Weber GF. Alterations of Ion Homeostasis in Cancer Metastasis: Implications for Treatment. Front Oncol 2022; 11:765329. [PMID: 34988012 PMCID: PMC8721045 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.765329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We have previously reported that metastases from all malignancies are characterized by a core program of gene expression that suppresses extracellular matrix interactions, induces vascularization/tissue remodeling, activates the oxidative metabolism, and alters ion homeostasis. Among these features, the least elucidated component is ion homeostasis. Here we review the literature with the goal to infer a better mechanistic understanding of the progression-associated ionic alterations and identify the most promising drugs for treatment. Cancer metastasis is accompanied by skewing in calcium, zinc, copper, potassium, sodium and chloride homeostasis. Membrane potential changes and water uptake through Aquaporins may also play roles. Drug candidates to reverse these alterations are at various stages of testing, with some having entered clinical trials. Challenges to their utilization comprise differences among tumor types and the involvement of multiple ions in each case. Further, adverse effects may become a concern, as channel blockers, chelators, or supplemented ions will affect healthy and transformed cells alike.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulimirerouzi Fnu
- College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati Academic Health Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Georg F Weber
- College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati Academic Health Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
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21
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Ferrao K, Ali N, Mehta KJ. Iron and iron-related proteins in alcohol consumers: cellular and clinical aspects. J Mol Med (Berl) 2022; 100:1673-1689. [PMID: 36214835 PMCID: PMC9691479 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-022-02254-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is one of the most common chronic liver diseases. Its pathological spectrum includes the overlapping stages of hepatic steatosis/steatohepatitis that can progress to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis; both are risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma. Moreover, ALD diagnosis and management pose several challenges. The early pathological stages are reversible by alcohol abstinence, but these early stages are often asymptomatic, and currently, there is no specific laboratory biomarker or diagnostic test that can confirm ALD etiology. Alcohol consumers frequently show dysregulation of iron and iron-related proteins. Examination of iron-related parameters in this group may aid in early disease diagnosis and better prognosis and management. For this, a coherent overview of the status of iron and iron-related proteins in alcohol consumers is essential. Therefore, here, we collated and reviewed the alcohol-induced alterations in iron and iron-related proteins. Reported observations include unaltered, increased, or decreased levels of hemoglobin and serum iron, increments in intestinal iron absorption (facilitated via upregulations of duodenal divalent metal transporter-1 and ferroportin), serum ferritin and carbohydrate-deficient transferrin, decrements in serum hepcidin, decreased or unaltered levels of transferrin, increased or unaltered levels of transferrin saturation, and unaltered levels of soluble transferrin receptor. Laboratory values of iron and iron-related proteins in alcohol consumers are provided for reference. The causes and mechanisms underlying these alcohol-induced alterations in iron parameters and anemia in ALD are explained. Notably, alcohol consumption by hemochromatosis (iron overload) patients worsens disease severity due to the synergistic effects of excess iron and alcohol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Ferrao
- GKT School of Medical Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Najma Ali
- GKT School of Medical Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Kosha J Mehta
- Centre for Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.
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22
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Petrillo S, Manco M, Altruda F, Fagoonee S, Tolosano E. Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells at the Crossroad of Iron Overload and Liver Fibrosis. Antioxid Redox Signal 2021; 35:474-486. [PMID: 32689808 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2020.8168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Significance: Liver fibrosis results from different etiologies and represents one of the most serious health issues worldwide. Fibrosis is the outcome of chronic insults on the liver and is associated with several factors, including abnormal iron metabolism. Recent Advances: Multiple mechanisms underlying the profibrogenic role of iron have been proposed. The pivotal role of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) in iron-level regulation, as well as their morphological and molecular dedifferentiation occurring in liver fibrosis, has encouraged research on LSECs as prime regulators of very early fibrotic events. Importantly, normal differentiated LSECs may act as gatekeepers of fibrogenesis by maintaining the quiescence of hepatic stellate cells, while LSECs capillarization precedes the onset of liver fibrosis. Critical Issues: In the present review, the morphological and molecular alterations occurring in LSECs after liver injury are addressed in an attempt to highlight how vascular dysfunction promotes fibrogenesis. In particular, we discuss in depth how a vicious loop can be established in which iron dysregulation and LSEC dedifferentiation synergize to exacerbate and promote the progression of liver fibrosis. Future Directions: LSECs, due to their pivotal role in early liver fibrosis and iron homeostasis, show great promises as a therapeutic target. In particular, new strategies can be devised for restoring LSECs differentiation and thus their role as regulators of iron homeostasis, hence preventing the progression of liver fibrosis or, even better, promoting its regression. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 35, 474-486.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Petrillo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Marta Manco
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Fiorella Altruda
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Sharmila Fagoonee
- Institute of Biostructure and Bioimaging, CNR c/o Molecular Biotechnology Center, Torino, Italy
| | - Emanuela Tolosano
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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Mehta KJ. Role of iron and iron-related proteins in mesenchymal stem cells: Cellular and clinical aspects. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:7266-7289. [PMID: 33821487 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are located in various tissues where these cells show niche-dependent multilineage differentiation and secrete immunomodulatory molecules to support numerous physiological processes. Due to their regenerative and reparative properties, MSCs are extremely valuable for cell-based therapy in tackling several pathological conditions including COVID-19. Iron is essential for MSC processes but iron-loading, which is common in several chronic conditions, hinders normal MSC functionality. This not only aggravates disease pathology but can also affect allogeneic and autologous MSC therapy. Thus, understanding MSCs from an iron perspective is of clinical significance. Accordingly, this review highlights the roles of iron and iron-related proteins in MSC physiology. It describes the contribution of iron and endogenous iron-related effectors like hepcidin, ferroportin, transferrin receptor, lactoferrin, lipocalin-2, bone morphogenetic proteins and hypoxia inducible factors in MSC biology. It summarises the excess-iron-induced alterations in MSC components, processes and discusses signalling pathways involving ROS, PI3K/AKT, MAPK, p53, AMPK/MFF/DRP1 and Wnt. Additionally, it evaluates the endogenous and exogenous saviours of MSCs against iron-toxicity. Lastly, it elaborates on the involvement of MSCs in the pathology of clinical conditions of iron-excess, namely, hereditary hemochromatosis, diabetes, β-thalassaemia and myelodysplastic syndromes. This unique review integrates the distinct fields of iron regulation and MSC physiology. Through an iron-perspective, it describes both mechanistic and clinical aspects of MSCs and proposes an iron-linked MSC-contribution to physiology, pathology and therapeutics. It advances the understanding of MSC biology and may aid in identifying signalling pathways, molecular targets and compounds for formulating adjunctive iron-based therapies for excess-iron conditions, and thereby inform regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosha J Mehta
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Centre for Education, King's College London, London, UK
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24
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Iron elevates mesenchymal and metastatic biomarkers in HepG2 cells. Sci Rep 2020; 10:21926. [PMID: 33318518 PMCID: PMC7736862 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-78348-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver iron excess is observed in several chronic liver diseases and is associated with the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, apart from oxidative stress, other cellular mechanisms by which excess iron may mediate/increase HCC predisposition/progression are not known. HCC pathology involves epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), the basis of cancer phenotype acquisition. Here, the effect of excess iron (holo-transferrin 0–2 g/L for 24 and 48 h) on EMT biomarkers in the liver-derived HepG2 cells was investigated. Holo-transferrin substantially increased intracellular iron. Unexpectedly, mRNA and protein expression of the epithelial marker E-cadherin either remained unaltered or increased. The mRNA and protein levels of metastasis marker N-cadherin and mesenchymal marker vimentin increased significantly. While the mRNA expression of EMT transcription factors SNAI1 and SNAI2 increased and decreased, respectively after 24 h, both factors increased after 48 h. The mRNA expression of TGF-β (EMT-inducer) showed no significant alterations. In conclusion, data showed direct link between iron and EMT. Iron elevated mesenchymal and metastatic biomarkers in HepG2 cells without concomitant decrement in the epithelial marker E-cadherin and altered the expression of the key EMT-mediating transcription factors. Such studies can help identify molecular targets to devise iron-related adjunctive therapies to ameliorate HCC pathophysiology.
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25
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Ashok A, Chaudhary S, Kritikos AE, Kang MH, McDonald D, Rhee DJ, Singh N. TGFβ2-Hepcidin Feed-Forward Loop in the Trabecular Meshwork Implicates Iron in Glaucomatous Pathology. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 61:24. [PMID: 32182331 PMCID: PMC7401420 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.3.24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Elevated levels of transforming-growth-factor (TGF)-β2 in the trabecular meshwork (TM) and aqueous humor are associated with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). The underlying mechanism includes alteration of extracellular matrix homeostasis through Smad-dependent and independent signaling. Smad4, an essential co-Smad, upregulates hepcidin, the master regulator of iron homeostasis. Here, we explored whether TGF-β2 upregulates hepcidin, implicating iron in the pathogenesis of POAG. Methods Primary human TM cells and human and bovine ex vivo anterior segment organ cultures were exposed to bioactive TGF-β2, hepcidin, heparin (a hepcidin antagonist), or N-acetyl carnosine (an antioxidant), and the change in the expression of hepcidin, ferroportin, ferritin, and TGF-β2 was evaluated by semiquantitative RT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. Increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) was quantified with dihydroethidium, an ROS-sensitive dye. Results Primary human TM cells and bovine TM tissue synthesize hepcidin locally, which is upregulated by bioactive TGF-β2. Hepcidin downregulates ferroportin, its downstream target, increasing ferritin and iron-catalyzed ROS. This causes reciprocal upregulation of TGF-β2 at the transcriptional and translational levels. Heparin downregulates hepcidin, and reduces TGF-β2-mediated increase in ferritin and ROS. Notably, both heparin and N-acetyl carnosine reduce TGF-β2-mediated reciprocal upregulation of TGF-β2. Conclusions The above observations suggest that TGF-β2 and hepcidin form a self-sustained feed-forward loop through iron-catalyzed ROS. This loop is partially disrupted by a hepcidin antagonist and an anti-oxidant, implicating iron and ROS in TGF-β2-mediated POAG. We propose that modification of currently available hepcidin antagonists for ocular use may prove beneficial for the therapeutic management of TGF-β2-associated POAG.
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26
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Wei GW, Li KY, Tang KL, Shi CX. Tanshinone IIA alters the transforming growth factor- β1/Smads pathway in angiotensin II-treated rat hepatic stellate cells. J Int Med Res 2020. [PMCID: PMC7294483 DOI: 10.1177/0300060520926358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the effects of tanshinone IIA on the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/Smads signaling pathway in angiotensin II-treated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Methods HSCs were cultured and treated with angiotensin II (10 μM) or angiotensin II (10 μM) plus tanshinone IIA (3, 10, or 30 μM). Cells were incubated for 48 hours and proliferation was determined with the Cell Counting Kit-8. The relative mRNA expression of TGF-β1, Smad4, and Smad7 was measured by quantitative real-time PCR, and the relative protein expression levels were investigated by western blotting. Results After angiotensin II treatment, cell proliferation was significantly accelerated. Furthermore, both the mRNA and protein expression of TGF-β1 and Smad4 was significantly up-regulated, while the mRNA and protein expression of Smad7 was significantly down-regulated compared with the control cells. Tanshinone IIA inhibited the observed effects of angiotensin II in a concentration-dependent manner, with significant inhibition exerted by tanshinone IIA at 10 and 30 μM. Conclusions Angiotensin II promotes the proliferation of HSCs, possibly by regulating the expression of components along the TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway. Tanshinone IIA inhibits the angiotensin II-induced activation of this pathway, and may, therefore, have preventive and therapeutic effects in liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-wei Wei
- Department of Comprehensive Ward, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Ke-yue Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Ke-li Tang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Cheng-Xian Shi
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
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27
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Brown RAM, Richardson KL, Kabir TD, Trinder D, Ganss R, Leedman PJ. Altered Iron Metabolism and Impact in Cancer Biology, Metastasis, and Immunology. Front Oncol 2020; 10:476. [PMID: 32328462 PMCID: PMC7160331 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron is an essential nutrient that plays a complex role in cancer biology. Iron metabolism must be tightly controlled within cells. Whilst fundamental to many cellular processes and required for cell survival, excess labile iron is toxic to cells. Increased iron metabolism is associated with malignant transformation, cancer progression, drug resistance and immune evasion. Depleting intracellular iron stores, either with the use of iron chelating agents or mimicking endogenous regulation mechanisms, such as microRNAs, present attractive therapeutic opportunities, some of which are currently under clinical investigation. Alternatively, iron overload can result in a form of regulated cell death, ferroptosis, which can be activated in cancer cells presenting an alternative anti-cancer strategy. This review focuses on alterations in iron metabolism that enable cancer cells to meet metabolic demands required during different stages of tumorigenesis in relation to metastasis and immune response. The strength of current evidence is considered, gaps in knowledge are highlighted and controversies relating to the role of iron and therapeutic targeting potential are discussed. The key question we address within this review is whether iron modulation represents a useful approach for treating metastatic disease and whether it could be employed in combination with existing targeted drugs and immune-based therapies to enhance their efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikki A. M. Brown
- Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, WA, Australia
- UWA Centre for Medical Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- UWA Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Kirsty L. Richardson
- Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, WA, Australia
- UWA Centre for Medical Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Tasnuva D. Kabir
- Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, WA, Australia
- UWA Centre for Medical Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Debbie Trinder
- Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, WA, Australia
- UWA Centre for Medical Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- UWA Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Ruth Ganss
- Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, WA, Australia
- UWA Centre for Medical Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Peter J. Leedman
- Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, WA, Australia
- UWA Centre for Medical Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- UWA Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
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28
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Huang C, Liang Y, Zeng X, Yang X, Xu D, Gou X, Sathiaseelan R, Senavirathna LK, Wang P, Liu L. Long Noncoding RNA FENDRR Exhibits Antifibrotic Activity in Pulmonary Fibrosis. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2020; 62:440-453. [PMID: 31697569 PMCID: PMC7110975 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2018-0293oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Abnormal activation of lung fibroblasts contributes to the initiation and progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The objective of the present study was to investigate the role of fetal-lethal noncoding developmental regulatory RNA (FENDRR) in the activation of lung fibroblasts. Dysregulated long noncoding RNAs in IPF lungs were identified by next-generation sequencing analysis from the two online datasets. FENDRR expression in lung tissues from patients with IPF and mice with bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis was determined by quantitative real-time PCR. IRP1 (iron-responsive element-binding protein 1), a protein partner of FENDRR, was identified by RNA pulldown-coupled mass spectrometric analysis and confirmed by RNA immunoprecipitation. The interaction region between FENDRR and IRP1 was determined by cross-linking immunoprecipitation. The in vivo role of FENDRR in pulmonary fibrosis was studied using adenovirus-mediated gene transfer in mice. The expression of FENDRR was downregulated in fibrotic human and mouse lungs as well as in primary lung fibroblasts isolated from bleomycin-treated mice. TGF-β1 (transforming growth factor-β1)-SMAD3 signaling inhibited FENDRR expression in lung fibroblasts. FENDRR was preferentially localized in the cytoplasm of adult lung fibroblasts and bound IRP1, suggesting its role in iron metabolism. FENDRR reduced pulmonary fibrosis by inhibiting fibroblast activation by reducing iron concentration and acting as a competing endogenous RNA of the profibrotic microRNA-214. Adenovirus-mediated FENDRR gene transfer in the mouse lung attenuated bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis and improved lung function. Our data suggest that FENDRR is an antifibrotic long noncoding RNA and a potential therapeutic target for pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoqun Huang
- Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases, and
- Lundberg-Kienlen Lung Biology and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Physiological Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma; and
| | - Yurong Liang
- Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases, and
- Lundberg-Kienlen Lung Biology and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Physiological Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma; and
| | - Xiangming Zeng
- Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases, and
- Lundberg-Kienlen Lung Biology and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Physiological Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma; and
| | - Xiaoyun Yang
- Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases, and
- Lundberg-Kienlen Lung Biology and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Physiological Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma; and
| | - Dao Xu
- Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases, and
- Lundberg-Kienlen Lung Biology and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Physiological Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma; and
| | - Xuxu Gou
- Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases, and
- Lundberg-Kienlen Lung Biology and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Physiological Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma; and
| | - Roshini Sathiaseelan
- Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases, and
- Lundberg-Kienlen Lung Biology and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Physiological Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma; and
| | - Lakmini Kumari Senavirathna
- Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases, and
- Lundberg-Kienlen Lung Biology and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Physiological Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma; and
| | - Pengcheng Wang
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Medical School of Jinan University, Guangdong, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases, and
- Lundberg-Kienlen Lung Biology and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Physiological Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma; and
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29
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Ghazali R, Mehta KJ, Bligh SWA, Tewfik I, Clemens D, Patel VB. High omega arachidonic acid/docosahexaenoic acid ratio induces mitochondrial dysfunction and altered lipid metabolism in human hepatoma cells. World J Hepatol 2020; 12:84-98. [PMID: 32231762 PMCID: PMC7097500 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v12.i3.84] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common cause of liver disease worldwide and is a growing epidemic. A high ratio of omega-6 fatty acids to omega-3 fatty acids in the diet has been implicated in the development of NAFLD. However, the inflicted cellular pathology remains unknown. A high ratio may promote lipogenic pathways and contribute to reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated damage, perhaps leading to mitochondrial dysfunction. Therefore, these parameters were investigated to understand their contribution to NAFLD development.
AIM To examine the effect of increasing ratios of omega-6:3 fatty acids on mitochondrial function and lipid metabolism mediators.
METHODS HepG2-derived VL-17A cells were treated with normal (1:1, 4:1) and high (15:1, 25:1) ratios of omega-6: omega-3 fatty acids [arachidonic acid (AA): docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)] at various time points. Mitochondrial activity and function were examined via MTT assay and Seahorse XF24 analyzer, respectively. Triglyceride accumulation was determined by using EnzyChrom™ and levels of ROS were measured by fluorescence intensity. Protein expression of the mediators of lipogenic, lipolytic and endocannabinoid pathways was assessed by Western blotting.
RESULTS High AA:DHA ratio decreased mitochondrial activity (P < 0.01; up to 80%) and promoted intracellular triglyceride accumulation (P < 0.05; 40%-70%). Mechanistically, it altered the mediators of lipid metabolism; increased the expression of stearoyl-CoA desaturase (P < 0.05; 22%-35%), decreased the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (P < 0.05; 30%-40%) and increased the expression of cannabinoid receptor 1 (P < 0.05; 31%). Furthermore, the high ratio increased ROS production (P < 0.01; 74%-115%) and reduced mitochondrial respiratory functions such as basal and maximal respiration, ATP production, spare respiratory capacity and proton leak (P < 0.01; 35%-68%).
CONCLUSION High AA:DHA ratio induced triglyceride accumulation, increased oxidative stress and disrupted mitochondrial functions. Stimulation of lipogenic and steroidal transcription factors may partly mediate these effects and contribute to NAFLD development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Ghazali
- School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, London W1W 6UW, United Kingdom
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kosha J Mehta
- Centre for Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom
| | - SW Annie Bligh
- School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, London W1W 6UW, United Kingdom
- Caritas Institute of Higher Education, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Ihab Tewfik
- School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, London W1W 6UW, United Kingdom
| | - Dahn Clemens
- Nebraska and Western Iowa Veterans Administration Medical Center and Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, United States
| | - Vinood B Patel
- School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, London W1W 6UW, United Kingdom
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30
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Reduced Iron in Diabetic Wounds: An Oxidative Stress-Dependent Role for STEAP3 in Extracellular Matrix Deposition and Remodeling. J Invest Dermatol 2019; 139:2368-2377.e7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2019.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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31
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Valizadeh A, Majidinia M, Samadi-Kafil H, Yousefi M, Yousefi B. The roles of signaling pathways in liver repair and regeneration. J Cell Physiol 2019; 234:14966-14974. [PMID: 30770551 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.28336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2018] [Revised: 12/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The liver has remarkable regeneration potency that restores liver mass and sustains body hemostasis. Liver regeneration through signaling pathways following resection or moderate damages are well studied. Various cell signaling, growth factors, cytokines, receptors, and cell types implicated in liver regeneration undergo controlled hypertrophy and proliferation. Some aspects of liver regeneration have been discovered and many investigations have been carried out to identify its mechanisms. However, for optimizing liver regeneration more should be understood about mechanisms that control the growth of hepatocytes and other liver cell types in adults. The current paper deals with the possible applicability of liver regeneration signaling pathways as a target for therapeutic approaches and preventing various liver damages. Furthermore, the latest findings of spectrum-specific signaling pathway mechanisms that underlie liver regeneration are briefly described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Valizadeh
- Stem Cells Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Maryam Majidinia
- Solid Tumor Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Hossein Samadi-Kafil
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Yousefi
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Bahman Yousefi
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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32
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Prasnicka A, Lastuvkova H, Alaei Faradonbeh F, Cermanova J, Hroch M, Mokry J, Dolezelova E, Pavek P, Zizalova K, Vitek L, Nachtigal P, Micuda S. Iron overload reduces synthesis and elimination of bile acids in rat liver. Sci Rep 2019; 9:9780. [PMID: 31278332 PMCID: PMC6611795 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-46150-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Excessive iron accumulation in the liver, which accompanies certain genetic or metabolic diseases, impairs bile acids (BA) synthesis, but the influence of iron on the complex process of BA homeostasis is unknown. Thus, we evaluated the effect of iron overload (IO) on BA turnover in rats. Compared with control rats, IO (8 intraperitoneal doses of 100 mg/kg every other day) significantly decreased bile flow as a consequence of decreased biliary BA secretion. This decrease was associated with reduced expression of Cyp7a1, the rate limiting enzyme in the conversion of cholesterol to BA, and decreased expression of Bsep, the transporter responsible for BA efflux into bile. However, IO did not change net BA content in faeces in response to increased intestinal conversion of BA into hyodeoxycholic acid. In addition, IO increased plasma cholesterol concentrations, which corresponded with reduced Cyp7a1 expression and increased expression of Hmgcr, the rate-limiting enzyme in de novo cholesterol synthesis. In summary, this study describes the mechanisms impairing synthesis, biliary secretion and intestinal processing of BA during IO. Altered elimination pathways for BA and cholesterol may interfere with the pathophysiology of liver damage accompanying liver diseases with excessive iron deposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alena Prasnicka
- Department of Pharmacology, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.,Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Charles University, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Lastuvkova
- Department of Pharmacology, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Fatemeh Alaei Faradonbeh
- Department of Pharmacology, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Jolana Cermanova
- Department of Pharmacology, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Milos Hroch
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Mokry
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Dolezelova
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Charles University, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Pavek
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Charles University, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Katerina Zizalova
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Libor Vitek
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Nachtigal
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Charles University, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Stanislav Micuda
- Department of Pharmacology, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
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33
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Iron-Induced Liver Injury: A Critical Reappraisal. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20092132. [PMID: 31052166 PMCID: PMC6539962 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron is implicated in the pathogenesis of a number of human liver diseases. Hereditary hemochromatosis is the classical example of a liver disease caused by iron, but iron is commonly believed to contribute to the progression of other forms of chronic liver disease such as hepatitis C infection and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. In this review, we present data from cell culture experiments, animal models, and clinical studies that address the hepatotoxicity of iron. These data demonstrate that iron overload is only weakly fibrogenic in animal models and rarely causes serious liver damage in humans, calling into question the concept that iron overload is an important cause of hepatotoxicity. In situations where iron is pathogenic, iron-induced liver damage may be potentiated by coexisting inflammation, with the resulting hepatocyte necrosis an important factor driving the fibrogenic response. Based on the foregoing evidence that iron is less hepatotoxic than is generally assumed, claims that assign a causal role to iron in liver injury in either animal models or human liver disease should be carefully evaluated.
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Mehta KJ, Farnaud SJ, Sharp PA. Iron and liver fibrosis: Mechanistic and clinical aspects. World J Gastroenterol 2019; 25:521-538. [PMID: 30774269 PMCID: PMC6371002 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v25.i5.521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is characterised by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix that interrupts normal liver functionality. It is a pathological stage in several untreated chronic liver diseases such as the iron overload syndrome hereditary haemochromatosis, viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and diabetes. Interestingly, regardless of the aetiology, iron-loading is frequently observed in chronic liver diseases. Excess iron can feed the Fenton reaction to generate unquenchable amounts of free radicals that cause grave cellular and tissue damage and thereby contribute to fibrosis. Moreover, excess iron can induce fibrosis-promoting signals in the parenchymal and non-parenchymal cells, which accelerate disease progression and exacerbate liver pathology. Fibrosis regression is achievable following treatment, but if untreated or unsuccessful, it can progress to the irreversible cirrhotic stage leading to organ failure and hepatocellular carcinoma, where resection or transplantation remain the only curative options. Therefore, understanding the role of iron in liver fibrosis is extremely essential as it can help in formulating iron-related diagnostic, prognostic and treatment strategies. These can be implemented in isolation or in combination with the current approaches to prepone detection, and halt or decelerate fibrosis progression before it reaches the irreparable stage. Thus, this review narrates the role of iron in liver fibrosis. It examines the underlying mechanisms by which excess iron can facilitate fibrotic responses. It describes the role of iron in various clinical pathologies and lastly, highlights the significance and potential of iron-related proteins in the diagnosis and therapeutics of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosha J Mehta
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom
- Division of Human Sciences, School of Applied Sciences, London South Bank University, London SE1 0AA, United Kingdom
| | - Sebastien Je Farnaud
- Faculty Research Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry CV1 2DS, United Kingdom
| | - Paul A Sharp
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, School of Life Course Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
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