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Unagolla JM, Das S, Flanagan R, Oehler M, Menon JU. Targeting chronic liver diseases: Molecular markers, drug delivery strategies and future perspectives. Int J Pharm 2024; 660:124381. [PMID: 38917958 PMCID: PMC11246230 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Chronic liver inflammation, a pervasive global health issue, results in millions of annual deaths due to its progression from fibrosis to the more severe forms of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This insidious condition stems from diverse factors such as obesity, genetic conditions, alcohol abuse, viral infections, autoimmune diseases, and toxic accumulation, manifesting as chronic liver diseases (CLDs) such as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), alcoholic liver disease (ALD), viral hepatitis, drug-induced liver injury, and autoimmune hepatitis. Late detection of CLDs necessitates effective treatments to inhibit and potentially reverse disease progression. However, current therapies exhibit limitations in consistency and safety. A potential breakthrough lies in nanoparticle-based drug delivery strategies, offering targeted delivery to specific liver cell types, such as hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, and hepatic stellate cells. This review explores molecular targets for CLD treatment, ongoing clinical trials, recent advances in nanoparticle-based drug delivery, and the future outlook of this research field. Early intervention is crucial for chronic liver disease. Having a comprehensive understanding of current treatments, molecular biomarkers and novel nanoparticle-based drug delivery strategies can have enormous impact in guiding future strategies for the prevention and treatment of CLDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janitha M Unagolla
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Subarna Das
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Riley Flanagan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Marin Oehler
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Jyothi U Menon
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA; Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA.
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Vesković M, Pejović M, Šutulović N, Hrnčić D, Rašić-Marković A, Stanojlović O, Mladenović D. Exploring Fibrosis Pathophysiology in Lean and Obese Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease: An In-Depth Comparison. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7405. [PMID: 39000518 PMCID: PMC11242866 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
While obesity-related nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is linked with metabolic dysfunctions such as insulin resistance and adipose tissue inflammation, lean NAFLD more often progresses to liver fibrosis even in the absence of metabolic syndrome. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge regarding the mechanisms of liver fibrosis in lean NAFLD. The most commonly used lean NAFLD models include a methionine/choline-deficient (MCD) diet, a high-fat diet with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), and a high-fructose and high-cholesterol diet. The major pro-fibrogenic mechanisms in lean NAFLD models include increased activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway, elevated expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen type I, and TGF-β, and modulation of fibrogenic markers such as tenascin-X and metalloproteinase inhibitors. Additionally, activation of macrophage signaling pathways promoting hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation further contributes to fibrosis development. Animal models cannot cover all clinical features that are evident in patients with lean or obese NAFLD, implicating the need for novel models, as well as for deeper comparisons of clinical and experimental studies. Having in mind the prevalence of fibrosis in lean NAFLD patients, by addressing specific pathways, clinical studies can reveal new targeted therapies along with novel biomarkers for early detection and enhancement of clinical management for lean NAFLD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Vesković
- Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 9, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milka Pejović
- Primary Health Center “Vračar”, Velimira Bate Živojinovića 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nikola Šutulović
- Institute of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Višegradska 26, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dragan Hrnčić
- Institute of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Višegradska 26, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandra Rašić-Marković
- Institute of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Višegradska 26, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Olivera Stanojlović
- Institute of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Višegradska 26, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dušan Mladenović
- Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 9, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
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Yumusak O, Doulberis M. Update on cirrhotic cardiomyopathy: from etiopathogenesis to treatment. Ann Gastroenterol 2024; 37:381-391. [PMID: 38974075 PMCID: PMC11226742 DOI: 10.20524/aog.2024.0885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy represents a syndrome of cardiac dysfunction associated with advanced liver disease. It is the result of complex pathophysiological processes that complicate the course of the disease, and is generally associated with a poor prognosis. Pathophysiologically, portal hypertension is the key factor leading to hyperdynamic circulation, via over-activation of the neurohumoral axis. Intestinal obstruction, subclinical inflammation and hepatocellular insufficiency, with defective synthesis or metabolism of several vasoactive mediators, are essential components of this process. Since it is usually unapparent at rest and only unmasked by an inadequate cardiac response to hemodynamic stress, the diagnosis of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy is challenging and demands a multimodal approach. There is currently no specific therapy, but there are prognostically effective drugs available to treat heart failure. Therefore, it is crucial to identify patients with chronic liver disease and heart failure in order to ameliorate their outcome. This article attempts to highlight the most important aspects of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy and draws attention to this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ogulcan Yumusak
- Clinic of Cardiology, Medical University Department, Cantonal Hospital Aarau, Switzerland (Ogulcan Yumusak)
| | - Michael Doulberis
- Gastroklinik, Private Gastroenterological Practice, Horgen, Switzerland (Michael Doulberis)
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University Department, Cantonal Hospital Aarau, Switzerland (Michael Doulberis)
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He L, Xu J, Huang P, Bai Y, Chen H, Xu X, Hu Y, Liu J, Zhang H. miR-9-5p and miR-221-3p Promote Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Alleviate Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Injury by Enhancing Human Mesenchymal Stem Cell Engraftment and Inhibiting Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7235. [PMID: 39000343 PMCID: PMC11241704 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have shown great potential for the treatment of liver injuries, and the therapeutic efficacy greatly depends on their homing to the site of injury. In the present study, we detected significant upregulation of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in the serum and liver in mice with acute or chronic liver injury. In vitro study revealed that upregulation of miR-9-5p or miR-221-3p promoted the migration of human MSCs (hMSCs) toward HGF. Moreover, overexpression of miR-9-5p or miR-221-3p promoted hMSC homing to the injured liver and resulted in significantly higher engraftment upon peripheral infusion. hMSCs reduced hepatic necrosis and inflammatory infiltration but showed little effect on extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. By contrast, hMSCs overexpressing miR-9-5p or miR-221-3p resulted in not only less centrilobular necrosis and venous congestion but also a significant reduction of ECM deposition, leading to obvious improvement of hepatocyte morphology and alleviation of fibrosis around central vein and portal triads. Further studies showed that hMSCs inhibited the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) but could not decrease the expression of TIMP-1 upon acute injury and the expression of MCP-1 and TIMP-1 upon chronic injury, while hMSCs overexpressing miR-9-5p or miR-221-3p led to further inactivation of HSCs and downregulation of all three fibrogenic and proinflammatory factors TGF-β, MCP-1, and TIMP-1 upon both acute and chronic injuries. Overexpression of miR-9-5p or miR-221-3p significantly downregulated the expression of α-SMA and Col-1α1 in activated human hepatic stellate cell line LX-2, suggesting that miR-9-5p and miR-221-3p may partially contribute to the alleviation of liver injury by preventing HSC activation and collagen expression, shedding light on improving the therapeutic efficacy of hMSCs via microRNA modification.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Huanxiang Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China; (L.H.); (J.X.)
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Baky NAA, Fouad LM, Ahmed KA, Alzokaky AA. Mechanistic insight into the hepatoprotective effect of Moringa oleifera Lam leaf extract and telmisartan against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis: plausible roles of TGF-β1/SMAD3/SMAD7 and HDAC2/NF-κB/PPARγ pathways. Drug Chem Toxicol 2024:1-14. [PMID: 38835191 DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2024.2358066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
The increasing prevalence and limited therapeutic options for liver fibrosis necessitates more medical attention. Our study aims to investigate the potential molecular targets by which Moringa oleifera Lam leaf extract (Mor) and/or telmisartan (Telm) alleviate carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in rats. Liver fibrosis was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats by intraperitoneal injection of 50% CCl4 (1 ml/kg) every 72 hours, for 8 weeks. Intoxicated rats with CCl4 were simultaneously orally administrated Mor (400 mg/kg/day for 8 weeks) and/or Telm (10 mg/kg/day for 8 weeks). Treatment of CCl4-intoxicated rats with Mor/Telm significantly reduced serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities compared to CCl4 intoxicated group (P < 0.001). Additionally, Mor/Telm treatment significantly reduced the level of hepatic inflammatory, profibrotic, and apoptotic markers including; nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), transforming growth factor-βeta1 (TGF-β1), and caspase-3. Interestingly, co-treatment of CCl4-intoxicated rats with Mor/Telm downregulated m-RNA expression of histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) (71.8%), and reduced protein expression of mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 3 (p-SMAD3) (70.6%) compared to untreated animals. Mor/Telm regimen also elevated p-SMAD7 protein expression as well as m-RNA expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) (3.6 and 3.1 fold, respectively p < 0.05) compared to CCl4 intoxicated group. Histopathological picture of the liver tissue intoxicated with CCl4 revealed marked improvement by Mor/Telm co-treatment. Conclusively, this study substantiated the hepatoprotective effect of Mor/Telm regimen against CCl4-induced liver fibrosis through suppression of TGF-β1/SMAD3, and HDAC2/NF-κB signaling pathways and up-regulation of SMAD7 and PPARγ expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayira A Abdel Baky
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Lamiaa M Fouad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Kawkab A Ahmed
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amany A Alzokaky
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Horus University, New Damietta, Egypt
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Yang XY, Chen Z, Tan J, Xue YK, Zheng H. KLF4 Inhibits the Activation of Human Hepatic Stellate Cell In Vitro. Curr Med Sci 2024; 44:512-518. [PMID: 38789819 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-024-2860-8] [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: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a crucial role in liver fibrosis. Early-stage liver fibrosis is reversible and intimately associated with the state of HSCs. Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) plays a pivotal role in a wide array of physiological and pathological processes. This study aimed to investigate the effect of KLF4 on the proliferation, apoptosis and phenotype of quiescent HSCs METHODS: We designed a KLF4 lentiviral vector and a KLF4 siRNA lentiviral vector, to upregulate and silence KLF4 expression in human HSC LX-2 cells via transfection. Cell proliferation was assessed using the CCK-8 assay. Flow cytometry was used to detect the cell cycle distribution and apoptosis rate. Western blotting was used to determine the levels of some quiescence and activation markers of HSCs RESULTS: Overexpression of KLF4 significantly increased the levels of E-cadherin and ZO-1, which are quiescent HSC markers, while significantly decreased the levels of N-cadherin and a-SMA, known activated HSC markers. In contrast, cell proliferation and apoptosis rates were elevated in LX-2 cells in which KLF4 expression was silenced CONCLUSION: KLF4 inhibits the proliferation and activation of human LX-2 HSCs. It might be a key regulatory protein in the maintenance of HSC quiescence and may serve as a target for the inhibition of hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Yu Yang
- Department of Emergency Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Zhe Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Jun Tan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yin-Kai Xue
- Department of Emergency Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
| | - Hai Zheng
- Department of Emergency Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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Han J, Lee C, Jung Y. Current Evidence and Perspectives of Cluster of Differentiation 44 in the Liver's Physiology and Pathology. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4749. [PMID: 38731968 PMCID: PMC11084344 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094749] [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: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44), a multi-functional cell surface receptor, has several variants and is ubiquitously expressed in various cells and tissues. CD44 is well known for its function in cell adhesion and is also involved in diverse cellular responses, such as proliferation, migration, differentiation, and activation. To date, CD44 has been extensively studied in the field of cancer biology and has been proposed as a marker for cancer stem cells. Recently, growing evidence suggests that CD44 is also relevant in non-cancer diseases. In liver disease, it has been shown that CD44 expression is significantly elevated and associated with pathogenesis by impacting cellular responses, such as metabolism, proliferation, differentiation, and activation, in different cells. However, the mechanisms underlying CD44's function in liver diseases other than liver cancer are still poorly understood. Hence, to help to expand our knowledge of the role of CD44 in liver disease and highlight the need for further research, this review provides evidence of CD44's effects on liver physiology and its involvement in the pathogenesis of liver disease, excluding cancer. In addition, we discuss the potential role of CD44 as a key regulator of cell physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinsol Han
- Department of Integrated Biological Science, College of Natural Science, Pusan National University, Pusan 46241, Republic of Korea;
| | - Chanbin Lee
- Institute of Systems Biology, College of Natural Science, Pusan National University, Pusan 46241, Republic of Korea;
| | - Youngmi Jung
- Department of Integrated Biological Science, College of Natural Science, Pusan National University, Pusan 46241, Republic of Korea;
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Science, Pusan National University, Pusan 46241, Republic of Korea
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Kubo T, Nishimura N, Kaji K, Tomooka F, Shibamoto A, Iwai S, Suzuki J, Kawaratani H, Namisaki T, Akahane T, Yoshiji H. Role of Epiregulin on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Hepatocarcinogenesis as a Mediator via EGFR Signaling in the Cancer Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4405. [PMID: 38673992 PMCID: PMC11050651 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084405] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) have been reported to be important factors in promoting the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the corresponding molecular mechanisms remain to be elucidated. We hypothesize that epiregulin (EREG), an epidermal growth factor (EGF) family member derived from hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and activated by LPS stimulation, is a crucial mediator of HCC progression with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression in the tumor microenvironment. We used a mouse xenograft model of Huh7 cells mixed with half the number of LX-2 cells, with/without intraperitoneal LPS injection, to elucidate the role of EREG in LPS-induced HCC. In the mouse model, LPS administration significantly enlarged the size of xenografted tumors and elevated the expression of EREG in tumor tissues compared with those in negative controls. Moreover, CD34 immunostaining and the gene expressions of angiogenic markers by a reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction revealed higher vascularization, with increased interleukin-8 (IL-8) expression in the tumors of the mice group treated with LPS compared to those without LPS. Our data collectively suggested that EREG plays an important role in the cancer microenvironment under the influence of LPS to increase not only the tumor cell growth and migration/invasion of EGFR-positive HCC cells but also tumor neovascularization via IL-8 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Norihisa Nishimura
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840, Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Japan
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Chen R, Luo L, Zhang YZ, Liu Z, Liu AL, Zhang YW. Bayesian network-based survival prediction model for patients having undergone post-transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt for portal hypertension. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:1859-1870. [PMID: 38659484 PMCID: PMC11036496 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i13.1859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Portal hypertension (PHT), primarily induced by cirrhosis, manifests severe symptoms impacting patient survival. Although transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is a critical intervention for managing PHT, it carries risks like hepatic encephalopathy, thus affecting patient survival prognosis. To our knowledge, existing prognostic models for post-TIPS survival in patients with PHT fail to account for the interplay among and collective impact of various prognostic factors on outcomes. Consequently, the development of an innovative modeling approach is essential to address this limitation. AIM To develop and validate a Bayesian network (BN)-based survival prediction model for patients with cirrhosis-induced PHT having undergone TIPS. METHODS The clinical data of 393 patients with cirrhosis-induced PHT who underwent TIPS surgery at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University between January 2015 and May 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Variables were selected using Cox and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression methods, and a BN-based model was established and evaluated to predict survival in patients having undergone TIPS surgery for PHT. RESULTS Variable selection revealed the following as key factors impacting survival: age, ascites, hypertension, indications for TIPS, postoperative portal vein pressure (post-PVP), aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, prealbumin, the Child-Pugh grade, and the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score. Based on the above-mentioned variables, a BN-based 2-year survival prognostic prediction model was constructed, which identified the following factors to be directly linked to the survival time: age, ascites, indications for TIPS, concurrent hypertension, post-PVP, the Child-Pugh grade, and the MELD score. The Bayesian information criterion was 3589.04, and 10-fold cross-validation indicated an average log-likelihood loss of 5.55 with a standard deviation of 0.16. The model's accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score were 0.90, 0.92, 0.97, and 0.95 respectively, with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve being 0.72. CONCLUSION This study successfully developed a BN-based survival prediction model with good predictive capabilities. It offers valuable insights for treatment strategies and prognostic evaluations in patients having undergone TIPS surgery for PHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Ling Luo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yun-Zhi Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Zhen Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - An-Lin Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yi-Wen Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
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Ryoo H, Giovanni R, Kimmel H, Jain I, Underhill GH. Combinatorial Microgels for 3D ECM Screening and Heterogeneous Microenvironmental Culture of Primary Human Hepatic Stellate Cells. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2303128. [PMID: 38348560 PMCID: PMC11022709 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202303128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease affects 30% of the United States population and its progression can lead to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and increased risks for cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. NASH is characterized by a highly heterogeneous liver microenvironment created by the fibrotic activity of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). While HSCs have been widely studied in 2D, further advancements in physiologically relevant 3D culture platforms for the in vitro modeling of these heterogeneous environments are needed. In this study, the use of stiffness-variable, extracellular matrix (ECM) protein-conjugated polyethylene glycol microgels as 3D cell culture scaffolds to modulate HSC activation is demonstrated. These microgels as a high throughput ECM screening system to identify HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities in distinct heterogeneous microenvironmental conditions are further employed. The 6 kPa fibronectin microgels are shown to significantly increase HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities in single or multiple-component microenvironments. Overall, heterogeneous microenvironments consisting of multiple distinct ECM microgels promoted a decrease in HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities compared to homogeneous microenvironments. The study envisions this ECM screening platform being adapted to a broad number of cell types to aid the identification of ECM microenvironments that best recapitulate the desired phenotype, differentiation, or drug efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Ryoo
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
| | - Regina Giovanni
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
| | - Hannah Kimmel
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
| | - Ishita Jain
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
| | - Gregory H. Underhill
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
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Bhat AA, Moglad E, Bansal P, Kaur H, Deorari M, Thapa R, Almalki WH, Kazmi I, Alzarea SI, Kukreti N, Ali H. Pollutants to pathogens: The role of heavy metals in modulating TGF-β signaling and lung cancer risk. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 256:155260. [PMID: 38493726 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155260] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Lung cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the lungs due to the uncontrolled growth of aberrant cells. Heavy metals, such as arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead, are metallic elements characterized by their high atomic weights and densities. Anthropogenic activities, such as industrial operations and pollution, have the potential to discharge heavy metals into the environment, hence presenting hazards to ecosystems and human well-being. The TGF-β signalling pathways have a crucial function in controlling several cellular processes, with the ability to both prevent and promote tumor growth. TGF-β regulates cellular responses by interacting in both canonical and non-canonical signalling pathways. Research employing both in vitro and in vivo models has shown that heavy metals may trigger TGF-β signalling via complex molecular pathways. Experiments conducted in a controlled laboratory environment show that heavy metals like cadmium and arsenic may directly bind to TGF-β receptors, leading to alterations in their structure that enable the receptor to be phosphorylated. Activation of this route sets in motion subsequent signalling cascades, most notably the canonical Smad pathway. The development of lung cancer has been linked to heavy metals, which are ubiquitous environmental pollutants. To grasp the underlying processes, it is necessary to comprehend their molecular effect on TGF-β pathways. With a particular emphasis on its consequences for lung cancer, this abstract delves into the complex connection between exposure to heavy metals and the stimulation of TGF-β signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asif Ahmad Bhat
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jagatpura, Mahal Road, Jaipur 302017, India
| | - Ehssan Moglad
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Pooja Bansal
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetics, Jain (Deemed-to-be) University, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560069, India; Department of Allied Healthcare and Sciences, Vivekananda Global University, Jaipur, Rajasthan 303012, India
| | - Harpreet Kaur
- School of Basic & Applied Sciences, Shobhit University, Gangoh, Uttar Pradesh 247341, India; Department of Health & Allied Sciences, Arka Jain University, Jamshedpur, Jharkhand 831001, India
| | - Mahamedha Deorari
- Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, India
| | - Riya Thapa
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jagatpura, Mahal Road, Jaipur 302017, India
| | - Waleed Hassan Almalki
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Imran Kazmi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sami I Alzarea
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Aljouf 72341, Saudi Arabia
| | - Neelima Kukreti
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun 248007, India
| | - Haider Ali
- Centre for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, India; Department of Pharmacology, Kyrgyz State Medical College, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
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12
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Wang W, Li K, Bai D, Wu J, Xiao W. Pterostilbene: a potential therapeutic agent for fibrotic diseases. Inflammopharmacology 2024; 32:975-989. [PMID: 38429613 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-024-01440-z] [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: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a prevailing pathology in chronic diseases and accounts for 45% of deaths in developed countries. This condition is primarily identified by the transformation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts and the overproduction of extracellular matrix (ECM) by myofibroblasts. Pterostilbene (PTS) is a natural analogue of resveratrol and is most commonly found in blueberries. Research has shown that PTS exerts a wide range of pharmacological effects, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. As a result, PTS has the potential to prevent and cure numerous diseases. Emerging evidence has indicated that PTS can alleviate myocardial fibrosis, renal fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, hepatic fibrosis, and colon fibrosis via the inhibition of inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrogenesis effects in vivo and in vitro, and the potential mechanisms are linked to various pathways, including transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/small mother against decapentaplegic proteins (Smads) signalling, the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-driven Pitx2c/mir-15b pathway, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signalling, Kelch-like epichlorohydrin-associated protein-1 (Keap-1)/NF-E2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) cascade, the NLR family pyridine structure domain 3 (NLRP3) pathway, the Janus kinase-2 (JAK2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway, and the Src/STAT3 pathway. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the antifibrotic effects of PTS both in vivo and in vitro and the pharmacological mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, and toxicology of PTS and provide insights into and strategies for exploring promising agents for the treatment of fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhong Wang
- The Key Lab of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, 200438, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Human Performance, Shanghai University of Sport, Yangpu District, 650 Qingyuan Ring Road, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Ke Li
- The Key Lab of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, 200438, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Human Performance, Shanghai University of Sport, Yangpu District, 650 Qingyuan Ring Road, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Dandan Bai
- The Key Lab of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, 200438, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Human Performance, Shanghai University of Sport, Yangpu District, 650 Qingyuan Ring Road, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Jiabin Wu
- The Key Lab of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, 200438, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Human Performance, Shanghai University of Sport, Yangpu District, 650 Qingyuan Ring Road, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Weihua Xiao
- The Key Lab of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, 200438, China.
- Shanghai Key Lab of Human Performance, Shanghai University of Sport, Yangpu District, 650 Qingyuan Ring Road, Shanghai, 200438, China.
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13
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Liu B, Xie X, Yang X, Dou C, Tang H, Liu J. The miR-3074/BMP7 axis regulates TGF-β-caused activation of hepatic stellate cells in vitro and CCl 4-caused murine liver fibrosis in vivo. Hum Cell 2024; 37:435-450. [PMID: 38218754 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-023-01017-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Continuously progressive hepatic fibrosis might cause chronic liver diseases, resulting in hepatic failure. The activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) residing in the liver might induce and influence hepatic fibrosis. In the present study, microRNA 3074 (miR-3074) was found increased within transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-activated HSCs and enriched within the TGF-β signaling. In activated HSCs by TGF-β, miR-3074 overexpression aggravated TGF-β-induced fibrotic changes, whereas miR-3074 inhibition exerted opposite effects. miR-3074 directly targeted bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP7) and inhibited BMP7 expression. Under TGF-β induction, overexpressed BMP7 notably attenuated the promotive roles of miR-3074 overexpression in TGF-β-activated HSCs. Within carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-caused liver fibrosis murine model, miR-3074 agomir administration promoted, while LV-BMP7 administration alleviated CCl4-induced fibrotic changes; LV-BMP7 significantly attenuated the effects of miR-3074 agomir. Lastly, mmu-miR-3074 also targeted mouse BMP7 and inhibited mouse BMP7 expression. In conclusion, the miR-3074/BMP7 axis regulates TGF-β-caused activation of HSCs in vitro and CCl4-caused murine liver fibrosis in vivo. BMP7-mediated Smad1/5/8 activation might be involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingjie Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Xia Xie
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Chengyun Dou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Haibo Tang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China.
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14
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Shai SE, Lai YL, Chang CI, Hsieh CW. False Liver Metastasis by Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography Scan after Chemoradiotherapy for Esophageal Cancer-Potential Overstaged Pitfalls of Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:948. [PMID: 38473310 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
In patients with esophageal cancer undergoing neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT), subsequent restaging with F-18-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) can reveal the presence of interval metastases, such as liver metastases, in approximately 10% of cases. Nevertheless, it is not uncommon in clinical practice to observe focal FDG uptake in the liver that is not associated with liver metastases but rather with radiation-induced liver injury (RILI), which can result in the overstaging of the disease. Liver radiation damage is also a concern during distal esophageal cancer radiotherapy due to its proximity to the left liver lobe, typically included in the radiation field. Post-CRT, if FDG activity appears in the left or caudate liver lobes, a thorough investigation is needed to confirm or rule out distant metastases. The increased FDG uptake in liver lobes post-CRT often presents a diagnostic dilemma. Distinguishing between radiation-induced liver disease and metastasis is vital for appropriate patient management, necessitating a combination of imaging techniques and an understanding of the factors influencing the radiation response. Diagnosis involves identifying new foci of hepatic FDG avidity on PET/CT scans. Geographic regions of hypoattenuation on CT and well-demarcated regions with specific enhancement patterns on contrast-enhanced CT scans and MRI are characteristic of radiation-induced liver disease (RILD). Lack of mass effect on all three modalities (CT, MRI, PET) indicates RILD. Resolution of abnormalities on subsequent examinations also helps in diagnosing RILD. Moreover, it can also help to rule out occult metastases, thereby excluding those patients from further surgery who will not benefit from esophagectomy with curative intent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen-Ei Shai
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chi Nan University, Nantou 545301, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao-Tung University, Taipei 112304, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ling Lai
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan
| | - Chen-I Chang
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao-Tung University, Taipei 112304, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Wei Hsieh
- School of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701401, Taiwan
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15
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Park HC, Joo Y, Lee OJ, Lee K, Song TK, Choi C, Choi MH, Yoon C. Automated classification of liver fibrosis stages using ultrasound imaging. BMC Med Imaging 2024; 24:36. [PMID: 38321373 PMCID: PMC10848434 DOI: 10.1186/s12880-024-01209-4] [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: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ultrasound imaging is the most frequently performed for the patients with chronic hepatitis or liver cirrhosis. However, ultrasound imaging is highly operator dependent and interpretation of ultrasound images is subjective, thus well-trained radiologist is required for evaluation. Automated classification of liver fibrosis could alleviate the shortage of skilled radiologist especially in low-to-middle income countries. The purposed of this study is to evaluate deep convolutional neural networks (DCNNs) for classifying the degree of liver fibrosis according to the METAVIR score using US images. METHODS We used ultrasound (US) images from two tertiary university hospitals. A total of 7920 US images from 933 patients were used for training/validation of DCNNs. All patient were underwent liver biopsy or hepatectomy, and liver fibrosis was categorized based on pathology results using the METAVIR score. Five well-established DCNNs (VGGNet, ResNet, DenseNet, EfficientNet and ViT) was implemented to predict the METAVIR score. The performance of DCNNs for five-level (F0/F1/F2/F3/F4) classification was evaluated through area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) with 95% confidential interval, accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratio. RESULTS Similar mean AUC values were achieved for five models; VGGNet (0.96), ResNet (0.96), DenseNet (0.95), EfficientNet (0.96), and ViT (0.95). The same mean accuracy (0.94) and specificity values (0.96) were yielded for all models. In terms of sensitivity, EffcientNet achieved highest mean value (0.85) while the other models produced slightly lower values range from 0.82 to 0.84. CONCLUSION In this study, we demonstrated that DCNNs can classify the staging of liver fibrosis according to METAVIR score with high performance using conventional B-mode images. Among them, EfficientNET that have fewer parameters and computation cost produced highest performance. From the results, we believe that DCNNs based classification of liver fibrosis may allow fast and accurate diagnosis of liver fibrosis without needs of additional equipment for add-on test and may be powerful tool for supporting radiologists in clinical practice.
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Grants
- NTIS Number: 9991007146 the Ministry of Science and ICT, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the Ministry of Health & Welfare, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety
- HI21C0940110021 the Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI), funded by the Ministry of Health & Welfare, Republic of Korea
- No. 2022-0-00101 the Institute of Information & communications Technology Planning & Evaluation (IITP) grant funded by the Korea government (MSIT)
- the Ministry of Science and ICT, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the Ministry of Health & Welfare, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety
- the Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI), funded by the Ministry of Health & Welfare, Republic of Korea
- the Institute of Information & communications Technology Planning & Evaluation (IITP) grant funded by the Korea government (MSIT)
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Cheol Park
- Division of Industrial Mathematics, National Institute for Mathematical Sciences, 70, Yuseong-daero, Yuseong-gu, 34047, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - YunSang Joo
- Department of Computer Engineering, Gachon University, 1342, Seongnam-daero, Sujeong-gu, 13120, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - O-Joun Lee
- Department of Artificial Intelligence, The Catholic University of Korea, 43, Jibong-ro, 14662, Bucheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Kunkyu Lee
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Sogang University, 35 Baekbeom-ro, 04107, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Tai-Kyong Song
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Sogang University, 35 Baekbeom-ro, 04107, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Choi
- Department of Computer Engineering, Gachon University, 1342, Seongnam-daero, Sujeong-gu, 13120, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Moon Hyung Choi
- Department of Radiology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpo-daero, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Changhan Yoon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Nanoscience and Engineering, Inje University, Inje-ro 197, 50834, Gimhae, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea.
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16
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Mekala S, Sukumar G, Chawla S, Geesala R, Prashanth J, Reddy BJM, Mainkar P, Das A. Therapeutic Potential of Benzimidazoisoquinoline Derivatives in Alleviating Murine Hepatic Fibrosis. Chem Biodivers 2024; 21:e202301429. [PMID: 38221801 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202301429] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Short Title: Benzimidazoisoquinoline derivatives as potent antifibrotics Hepatic fibrosis is a pathological condition of liver disease with an increasing number of cases worldwide. Therapeutic strategies are warranted to target the activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the collagen-producing cells, an effective strategy for controlling the disease progression. Benzimidazoisoquinoline derivatives were synthesized as hybrid molecules by the combination of benzimidazoles and isoquinolines to evaluate their anti-fibrotic potential using an in-vitro and in-vivo model of hepatic fibrosis. A small library of benzimidazoisoquinoline derivatives (1-17 and 18-21) was synthesized from 2-aryl benzimidazole and acetylene functionalities through C-H and N-H activation. Compounds (10 and its recently synthesized derivatives 18-21) depicted a significant decrease in PDGF-BB and/or TGFβ-induced proliferation (1.7-1.9 -fold), migration (3.5-5.0 -fold), and fibrosis-related gene expressions in HSCs. These compounds could revert the hepatic damage caused by chronic exposure to hepatotoxicants, ethanol, and/or carbon tetrachloride as evident from the histological, biochemical, and molecular analysis. Anti-fibrotic effect of the compounds was supported by the decrease in the malondialdehyde level, collagen deposition, and gene expression levels of fibrosis-related markers such as α-SMA, COL1α1, PDGFRβ, and TGFRIIβ in the preclinical models of hepatic fibrosis. In conclusion, the synthesized benzimidazoisoquinoline derivatives (compounds 18, 19, 20, and 21) possess anti-fibrotic therapeutic potential against liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sowmya Mekala
- Department of Applied Biology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, TS-500 007, INDIA
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, INDIA
| | - Genji Sukumar
- Department of Organic Synthesis and Process Chemistry, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, TS-500007, INDIA
- Department of Chemistry, Adikavi Nannaya University, Rajamahendravaram, AP-533 296, INDIA
| | - Shilpa Chawla
- Department of Applied Biology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, TS-500 007, INDIA
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, INDIA
| | - Ramasatyaveni Geesala
- Department of Applied Biology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, TS-500 007, INDIA
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, INDIA
| | - Jupally Prashanth
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, INDIA
- Centre for X-ray Crystallography, Department of Analytical & Structural Chemistry, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, TS-500 007, INDIA
| | - B Jagan Mohan Reddy
- Department of Chemistry, Adikavi Nannaya University, Rajamahendravaram, AP-533 296, INDIA
| | - Prathama Mainkar
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, INDIA
- Department of Organic Synthesis and Process Chemistry, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, TS-500007, INDIA
| | - Amitava Das
- Department of Applied Biology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, TS-500 007, INDIA
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, INDIA
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17
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Sinha S, Hassan N, Schwartz RE. Organelle stress and alterations in interorganelle crosstalk during liver fibrosis. Hepatology 2024; 79:482-501. [PMID: 36626634 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The synchronous functioning and quality control of organelles ensure cell survival and function and are essential for maintaining homeostasis. Prolonged exposure to stressors (viruses, bacteria, parasitic infections, alcohol, drugs) or genetic mutations often disrupt the functional integrity of organelles which plays a critical role in the initiation and progression of several diseases including chronic liver diseases. One of the most important pathologic consequences of chronic liver diseases is liver fibrosis, characterized by tissue scarring due to the progressive accumulation of extracellular matrix components. Left untreated, fibrosis may advance to life-threatening complications such as cirrhosis, hepatic decompensation, and HCC, which collectively accounts for ∼1 million deaths per year worldwide. Owing to the lack of treatment options that can regress or reverse cirrhosis, liver transplantation is currently the only available treatment for end-stage liver disease. However, the limited supply of usable donor organs, adverse effects of lifelong immunosuppressive regimes, and financial considerations pose major challenges and limit its application. Hence, effective therapeutic strategies are urgently needed. An improved understanding of the organelle-level regulation of fibrosis can help devise effective antifibrotic therapies focused on reducing organelle stress, limiting organelle damage, improving interorganelle crosstalk, and restoring organelle homeostasis; and could be a potential clinical option to avoid transplantation. This review provides a timely update on the recent findings and mechanisms covering organelle-specific dysfunctions in liver fibrosis, highlights how correction of organelle functions opens new treatment avenues and discusses the potential challenges to clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saloni Sinha
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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18
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Chen H, Jin C, Xie L, Wu J. Succinate as a signaling molecule in the mediation of liver diseases. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:166935. [PMID: 37976628 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Succinate, one of the intermediates of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, plays an essential role in the metabolism of mitochondria and the production of energy, and is considered as a signaling molecule in metabolism as well as in initiation and progression of hepatic diseases. Of note, succinate activates a downstream signaling pathway through GPR91, and elicits a variety of intracellular responses, such as succinylation, production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), stabilization of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), and significant impact in cellular metabolism because of the pivotal role in the TCA cycle. Therefore, it is intriguing to deeply elucidate signaling mechanisms of succinate in hepatic fibrosis, metabolic reprogramming in inflammatory or immune responses, as well as carcinogenesis. This manuscript intends to review current understanding of succinate in mediating metabolism, inflammatory and immunologic reactions in liver diseases in order to establish molecular basis for the development of therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Chen
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Cheng Jin
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200032, China; College of Clinical College, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Li Xie
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jian Wu
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200032, China.
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19
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Yao Y, Yang K, Wang Q, Zhu Z, Li S, Li B, Feng B, Tang C. Prediction of CAF-related genes in immunotherapy and drug sensitivity in hepatocellular carcinoma: a multi-database analysis. Genes Immun 2024; 25:55-65. [PMID: 38233508 PMCID: PMC10873201 DOI: 10.1038/s41435-024-00252-z] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
This study aims to identify the cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF)-related genes that can affect immunotherapy and drug sensitivity in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Expression data and survival data associated with HCC were obtained in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) analysis was performed to obtain CAF-related genes. Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression was used for regression analysis and risk models. Subsequently, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) analysis, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA) analysis, Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) analysis and drug sensitivity analysis were performed on the risk models. Survival analysis of CAF scores showed that the survival rate was lower in samples with high CAF scores than those with low scores. However, this difference was not significant, suggesting CAF may not directly influence the prognosis of HCC patients. Further screening of CAF-related genes yielded 33 CAF-related genes. Seven risk models constructed based on CDR2L, SPRED1, PFKP, ENG, KLF2, FSCN1 and VCAN, showed significant differences in immunotherapy and partial drug sensitivity in HCC. Seven CAF-related genes may have important roles in immunotherapy, drug sensitivity and prognostic survival in HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yao
- Division 1, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhuzhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, Hunan, China
| | - KaiQing Yang
- Division 1, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhuzhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, Hunan, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- Division 1, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhuzhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, Hunan, China
| | - Zeming Zhu
- Division 2, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhuzhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, Hunan, China
| | - Sheng Li
- Division 1, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhuzhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, Hunan, China
| | - Bin Li
- Division 1, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhuzhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, Hunan, China
| | - Bin Feng
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhuzhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, Hunan, China.
| | - Caixi Tang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhuzhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, Hunan, China.
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20
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Sorour A, Aly RG, Ragab HM, Wahid A. Structure Modification Converts the Hepatotoxic Tacrine into Novel Hepatoprotective Analogs. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:2491-2503. [PMID: 38250371 PMCID: PMC10795119 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c07126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
The liver is responsible for critical functions such as metabolism, secretion, storage, detoxification, and the excretion of various compounds. However, there is currently no approved drug treatment for liver fibrosis. Hence, this study aimed to explore the potential hepatoprotective effects of chlorinated and nonchlorinated 4-phenyl-tetrahydroquinoline derivatives. Originally developed as tacrine analogs with reduced hepatotoxicity, these compounds not only lacked hepatotoxicity but also displayed a remarkable hepatoprotective effect. Treatment with these derivatives notably prevented the chemically induced elevation of hepatic indicators associated with liver injury. Additionally, the compounds restored the activities of defense antioxidant enzymes as well as levels of inflammatory markers (TNF-α and IL-6), apoptotic proteins (Bax and Bcl2), and fibrogenic mediators (α-SMA and TGF-β) to normal levels. Histopathologic analysis confirmed the hepatoprotective activity of tetrahydroquinolines. Furthermore, computer-assisted simulation docking results were highly consistent with those of the observed in vivo activities. In conclusion, the designed tacrine analogs exhibited a hepatoprotective role in acute liver damage, possibly through their antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amani
A. Sorour
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21521, Egypt
| | - Rania G. Aly
- Department
of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria
University, Alexandria 21521, Egypt
| | - Hanan M. Ragab
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21521, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Wahid
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21521, Egypt
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21
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Salama YA, Hassan HM, El-Gayar AM, Abdel-Rahman N. Combined quercetin and simvastatin attenuate hepatic fibrosis in rats by modulating SphK1/NLRP3 pathways. Life Sci 2024; 337:122349. [PMID: 38128755 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122349] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis involves several signalling pathways working in concert regulating the deposition of extracellular matrix. In this study, we evaluated the effect of quercetin and simvastatin alone and their combination on the treatment of experimentally induced hepatic fibrosis in rats. To decipher the potential mechanisms involved, liver fibrosis was induced in rats by administration of 40 % carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) (1 μl/g rat, i.p., twice weekly) for 6 weeks. Quercetin (50 mg/kg, orally), simvastatin (40 mg/kg, orally) either individually or combined were administered for another 4 weeks. The three treatment groups ameliorated hepatic dysfunction and altered parameters of sphingolipid and pyroptosis pathways. Yet, the combined group showed a more pronounced effect. Treatments lowered serum levels of GOT, GPT, ALP and elevated albumin and total protein levels. Histopathological and electron microscope examination of liver tissue revealed diminished fibrosis and inflammation. Protein expression levels of α-SMA, IL-1β, PPAR-γ, TGF-β1, caspase-1 and caspase-3 expression in liver tissues were reduced. Additionally, hepatic mRNA levels of SphK1 and NLRP3 decreased after treatment. Furthermore, the three groups lowered MDA levels and elevated total antioxidant capacity, GSH and Nrf2 expression levels. Treatments downregulated sphingolipid pathway and NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis and stimulated an anti-apoptotic, anti-proliferative and antioxidant activity. This suggests that targeting the SphK1/NLRP3 pathway could be a prospective therapeutic strategy against liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmin A Salama
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, 35516, Egypt; Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa 11152, Egypt
| | - Hanan M Hassan
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa 11152, Egypt
| | - Amal M El-Gayar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, 35516, Egypt
| | - Noha Abdel-Rahman
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, 35516, Egypt.
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22
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Carvalho AM, Bansal R, Barrias CC, Sarmento B. The Material World of 3D-Bioprinted and Microfluidic-Chip Models of Human Liver Fibrosis. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2307673. [PMID: 37961933 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202307673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Biomaterials are extensively used to mimic cell-matrix interactions, which are essential for cell growth, function, and differentiation. This is particularly relevant when developing in vitro disease models of organs rich in extracellular matrix, like the liver. Liver disease involves a chronic wound-healing response with formation of scar tissue known as fibrosis. At early stages, liver disease can be reverted, but as disease progresses, reversion is no longer possible, and there is no cure. Research for new therapies is hampered by the lack of adequate models that replicate the mechanical properties and biochemical stimuli present in the fibrotic liver. Fibrosis is associated with changes in the composition of the extracellular matrix that directly influence cell behavior. Biomaterials could play an essential role in better emulating the disease microenvironment. In this paper, the recent and cutting-edge biomaterials used for creating in vitro models of human liver fibrosis are revised, in combination with cells, bioprinting, and/or microfluidics. These technologies have been instrumental to replicate the intricate structure of the unhealthy tissue and promote medium perfusion that improves cell growth and function, respectively. A comprehensive analysis of the impact of material hints and cell-material interactions in a tridimensional context is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Margarida Carvalho
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, Porto, 4050-313, Portugal
| | - Ruchi Bansal
- Translational Liver Research, Department of Medical Cell Biophysics, Technical Medical Center, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, 7522 NB, The Netherlands
| | - Cristina C Barrias
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, Porto, 4050-313, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sarmento
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- IUCS - Instituto Universitário de Ciências da Saúde, CESPU, Rua Central de Gandra 1317, Gandra, 4585-116, Portugal
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23
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Ruan G, Wu F, Shi D, Sun H, Wang F, Xu C. Metformin: update on mechanisms of action on liver diseases. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1327814. [PMID: 38192642 PMCID: PMC10773879 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1327814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Substantial attention has been paid to the various effects of metformin on liver diseases; the liver is the targeted organ where metformin exerts its antihyperglycemic properties. In non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), studies have shown that metformin affects the ATP/AMP ratio to activate AMPK, subsequently governing lipid metabolism. The latest research showed that low-dose metformin targets the lysosomal AMPK pathway to decrease hepatic triglyceride levels through the PEN2-ATP6AP1 axis in an AMP-independent manner. Metformin regulates caspase-3, eukaryotic initiation factor-2a (eIF2a), and insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) in palmitate-exposed HepG2 cells, alleviating endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Recent observations highlighted the critical association with intestinal flora, as confirmed by the finding that metformin decreased the relative abundance of Bacteroides fragilis while increasing Akkermansia muciniphila and Bifidobacterium bifidum. The suppression of intestinal farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and the elevation of short-chain fatty acids resulted in the upregulation of tight junction protein and the alleviation of hepatic inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Additionally, metformin delayed the progression of cirrhosis by regulating the activation and proliferation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) via the TGF-β1/Smad3 and succinate-GPR91 pathways. In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), metformin impeded the cell cycle and enhanced the curative effect of antitumor medications. Moreover, metformin protects against chemical-induced and drug-induced liver injury (DILI) against hepatotoxic drugs. These findings suggest that metformin may have pharmacological efficacy against liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaoyi Ruan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Fangquan Wu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Dibang Shi
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Hongxia Sun
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Fangyan Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Changlong Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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24
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Qin Y, Ou L, Zha L, Zeng Y, Li L. Delivery of nucleic acids using nanomaterials. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2023; 4:48. [PMID: 38092998 PMCID: PMC10719232 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-023-00160-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing number of approved nucleic acid therapeutics demonstrates the potential for the prevention and treatment of a broad spectrum of diseases. This trend underscores the significant impact and promise of nucleic acid-based treatments in the field of medicine. Nevertheless, employing nucleic acids as therapeutics is challenging due to their susceptibility to degradation by nucleases and their unfavorable physicochemical characteristics that hinder delivery into cells. Appropriate vectors play a pivotal role in improving nucleic acid stability and delivering nucleic acids into specific cells. The maturation of delivery systems has led to breakthroughs in the development of therapeutics based on nucleic acids such as DNA, siRNA, and mRNA. Non-viral vectors have gained prominence among the myriad of nanomaterials due to low immunogenicity, ease of manufacturing, and simplicity of cost-effective, large-scale production. Here, we provide an overview of the recent advancements in nanomaterials for nucleic acid delivery. Specifically, we give a detailed introduction to the characteristics of polymers, lipids, and polymer-lipid hybrids, and provide comprehensive descriptions of their applications in nucleic acid delivery. Also, biological barriers, administration routes, and strategies for organ-selective delivery of nucleic acids are discussed. In summary, this review offers insights into the rational design of next-generation delivery vectors for nucleic acid delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyang Qin
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Liyuan Ou
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Lili Zha
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yue Zeng
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ling Li
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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25
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Almutawakel S, Halleck F, Dürr M, Grittner U, Schrezenmeier E, Budde K, Althoff CE, Hamm B, Sack I, Fischer T, Marticorena Garcia SR. Shear Wave Elastography for Assessing Liver Stiffness in HCV-Infected Kidney Transplant Recipients after Direct-Acting Antiviral Treatment: A Comparative Study with Magnetic Resonance Elastography. J Clin Med 2023; 12:7547. [PMID: 38137615 PMCID: PMC10743898 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12247547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection can lead to hepatic fibrosis. The advent of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) has substantially improved sustained virological response (SVR) rates. In this context, kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) are of particular interest due to their higher HCV infection rates and uncertain renal excretion and bioavailability of DAAs. We investigated liver stiffness after DAA treatment in 15 HCV-infected KTRs using ultrasound shear wave elastography (SWE) in comparison with magnetic resonance elastography (MRE). KTRs were treated with DAAs (daclatasvir and sofosbuvir) for three months and underwent SWE at baseline, end of therapy (EOT), and 3 (EOT+3) and 12 months (EOT+12) after EOT. Fourteen patients achieved SVR12. Shear wave speed (SWS)-as a surrogate parameter for tissue stiffness-was substantially lower at all three post-therapeutic timepoints compared with baseline (EOT: -0.42 m/s, p < 0.01; CI = -0.75--0.09, EOT+3: -0.43 m/s, p < 0.01; CI = -0.75--0.11, and EOT+12: -0.52 m/s, p < 0.001; CI = -0.84--0.19), suggesting liver regeneration after viral eradication and end of inflammation. Baseline SWS correlated positively with histopathological fibrosis scores (r = 0.48; CI = -0.11-0.85). Longitudinal results correlated moderately with APRI (r = 0.41; CI = 0.12-0.64) but not with FIB-4 scores (r = 0.12; CI = -0.19-0.41). Although higher on average, SWE-derived measurements correlated strongly with MRE (r = 0.64). In conclusion, SWE is suitable for non-invasive therapy monitoring in KTRs with HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salma Almutawakel
- Department of Radiology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (S.A.)
| | - Fabian Halleck
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Dürr
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulrike Grittner
- Institute of Biometry and Clinical Epidemiology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Eva Schrezenmeier
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Klemens Budde
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian E. Althoff
- Department of Radiology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (S.A.)
| | - Bernd Hamm
- Department of Radiology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (S.A.)
| | - Ingolf Sack
- Department of Radiology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (S.A.)
| | - Thomas Fischer
- Department of Radiology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (S.A.)
| | - Stephan R. Marticorena Garcia
- Department of Radiology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (S.A.)
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26
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Xu F, Lu S, Pan N, Zhao F, Jia X, Wang S, Zhang Y, Zhou Y. Bromodomain protein 4 is a key molecular driver of TGFβ1-induced hepatic stellate cell activation. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2023; 1870:119569. [PMID: 37597774 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2023.119569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is characterized by the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix in liver. Chronic liver injury induces the activation of hepatic stellate cell (HSCs), a key step in liver fibrogenesis. The activated HSC is the primary source of ECM and contributes significantly to liver fibrosis. TGFβ1 is the most potent pro-fibrotic cytokine. Bromodomain protein 4 (BrD4), an epigenetic reader of histone acetylation marks, was crucial for profibrotic gene expression in HSCs. The present study aimed to investigate the roles of BRD4 in TGFβ1-dependent HSC activation and liver fibrosis, focusing on TGFβ1-induced alterations of the levels of the fibrotic-related important proteins in HSCs by employing the heterozygous TGFβ1 knockout mice and BrD4 knockdown in vivo and in vitro. Results revealed that BrD4 protein level was significantly upregulated by TGFβ1 and BrD4 knockdown reduced TGFβ1-induced HSC activation and liver fibrosis. BrD4 was required for the influences of TGFβ1 on PDGFβ receptor and on the pathways of Smad3, Stat3, and Akt. BrD4 also mediated TGFβ1-induced increases in histone acetyltransferase p300, the pivotal pro-inflammatory NFkB p65, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 whereas BrD4 reduced Caspase-3 protein levels in HSCs during liver injury, independent of TGFβ1. Further experiments indicated the interaction between TGFβ1-induced BrD4 and NFkB p65 in HSCs and in liver of TAA-induced liver injury. Human cirrhotic livers were demonstrated a parallel increase in the protein levels of BrD4 and NFkB p65 in HSCs. This study revealed that BrD4 was a key molecular driver of TGFβ1-induced HSC activation and liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feifan Xu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical School, Nantong University, Qi xiou Road 19, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Sidan Lu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical School, Nantong University, Qi xiou Road 19, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Nachuan Pan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Feifei Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical School, Nantong University, Qi xiou Road 19, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xin Jia
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical School, Nantong University, Qi xiou Road 19, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shouwei Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University (The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong), 500 Yonghe Road, Nantong 226011, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yali Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical School, Nantong University, Qi xiou Road 19, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Yajun Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical School, Nantong University, Qi xiou Road 19, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China.
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27
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Seleem AA, Hussein BH. Effects of silver nanoparticles prepared by aqueous extract of Ferula communis on the developing mouse embryo after maternal exposure. Toxicol Ind Health 2023; 39:712-734. [PMID: 37871157 DOI: 10.1177/07482337231209094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from aqueous silver nitrate has been achieved using an extract of Ferula communis leaf as a capping, reducing, and stabilizing agent. The formation and stability of the green synthesized silver nanoparticles in the colloidal solution were monitored by absorption measurements. Silver nanoparticles were characterized by different analyses such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and FT-IR spectroscopy. The average particle size of silver nanoparticles was determined by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses. In this experiment, pregnant female mice were divided into four groups (G); G1 was the control and received phosphate-buffered saline, G2 received orally aqueous extract of F. communis leaf, G3 received orally AgNPs chemically prepared by NaBH4, and G4 received orally AgNPs prepared by aqueous extract of F. communis leaf. The diameter of AgNPs was 20 nm. AgNPs exhibited good catalytic reduction ability toward methyl orange in the presence of sodium borohydride with a rate constant of 2.95 x 10-4 s-1. The results revealed the occurrence of resorbed embryos in G2, G3, and G4 with different percentages. The livers of mothers and embryos at E14.5 in G2, G3, and G4 showed different levels of histopathological alteration and increase in GFAP and CTGF expressions compared with the control group. The study concluded that the oral administration of small-sized AgNPs (20 nm) prepared by Ferula extract had less toxicity than those prepared by the chemical method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin A Seleem
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science and Arts, Al Ula, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Belal Hm Hussein
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science and Arts, Al Ula, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
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28
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Ganguin AA, Skorup I, Streb S, Othman A, Luciani P. Formation and Investigation of Cell-Derived Nanovesicles as Potential Therapeutics against Chronic Liver Disease. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300811. [PMID: 37669775 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300811] [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: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
A new therapeutic approach using cell-derived nanovesicles (cdNVs) is offered here to overcome the lack of effective treatments for liver fibrosis, a reversible chronic liver disease. To achieve this goal the formation and purification of cdNVs from untreated, quiescent-like, or activated LX-2 cells, an immortalized human hepatic stellate cell (HSC) line with key features of transdifferentiated HSCs are established. Analysis of the genotype and phenotype of naïve and transdifferentiated LX-2 cells activated through transforming growth factor beta 1, following treatment with cdNVs, reveals a concentration-dependent fibrosis regression. The beneficial fibrosis-resolving effects of cdNVs are linked to their biomolecular corona. Liposomes generated using lipids extracted from cdNVs exhibit a reduced antifibrotic response in perpetuated LX-2 cells and show a reduced cellular uptake. However, incubation with soluble factors collected during purification results in a new corona, thereby restoring fibrosis regression activity. Overall, cdNVs display encouraging therapeutic properties, making them a promising candidate for the development of liver fibrosis resolving therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aymar Abel Ganguin
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, 3012, Switzerland
| | - Ivo Skorup
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, 3012, Switzerland
| | - Sebastian Streb
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich (FGCZ), University of Zurich/ETH Zurich, Zurich, 8057, Switzerland
| | - Alaa Othman
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich (FGCZ), University of Zurich/ETH Zurich, Zurich, 8057, Switzerland
| | - Paola Luciani
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, 3012, Switzerland
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29
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Verzeroli C, Hernandez CA, Zoulim F, Parent R. A fluorescent Ponceau S-based total protein normalization method for conventional and challenging immunoblot samples. Anal Biochem 2023; 681:115330. [PMID: 37722522 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2023.115330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Immunoblotting normalization issues have been recently overcome by whole lane staining. Herein, we are taking advantage of these recent advances and of the fluorophore status of the Ponceau S stain in order to combine the advantages of whole lane staining and fluorescence. By Ponceau S excitation at 488 nm, we identify the so-called 'fluorescent Ponceau' method as more linear, more sensitive and more repeatable than the others in protein lysates of distant biochemical profiles (cells, human and mouse tissues). This essentially cost-free method at the single experiment level provides accessible and robust means for post-blot normalization of many types of analytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Verzeroli
- Hepatitis Viruses and Pathobiology of Chronic Liver Diseases - LabEx DEVweCAN, Inserm U1052, Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, F-69003, Lyon, France; University of Lyon, F-69003, Lyon, France; University of Lyon 1, ISPB, Lyon, F-69622, France; CNRS UMR5286, F-69083, Lyon, France; Centre Léon Bérard, F-69008, Lyon, France
| | - Charlotte A Hernandez
- Hepatitis Viruses and Pathobiology of Chronic Liver Diseases - LabEx DEVweCAN, Inserm U1052, Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, F-69003, Lyon, France; University of Lyon, F-69003, Lyon, France; University of Lyon 1, ISPB, Lyon, F-69622, France; CNRS UMR5286, F-69083, Lyon, France; Centre Léon Bérard, F-69008, Lyon, France
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- Hepatitis Viruses and Pathobiology of Chronic Liver Diseases - LabEx DEVweCAN, Inserm U1052, Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, F-69003, Lyon, France; University of Lyon, F-69003, Lyon, France; University of Lyon 1, ISPB, Lyon, F-69622, France; CNRS UMR5286, F-69083, Lyon, France; Centre Léon Bérard, F-69008, Lyon, France
| | - Romain Parent
- Hepatitis Viruses and Pathobiology of Chronic Liver Diseases - LabEx DEVweCAN, Inserm U1052, Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, F-69003, Lyon, France; University of Lyon, F-69003, Lyon, France; University of Lyon 1, ISPB, Lyon, F-69622, France; CNRS UMR5286, F-69083, Lyon, France; Centre Léon Bérard, F-69008, Lyon, France.
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30
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Yao C, Dai S, Wang C, Fu K, Wu R, Zhao X, Yao Y, Li Y. Luteolin as a potential hepatoprotective drug: Molecular mechanisms and treatment strategies. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 167:115464. [PMID: 37713990 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Luteolin is a flavonoid widely present in various traditional Chinese medicines. In recent years, luteolin has received more attention due to its impressive liver protective effect, such as metabolic associated fatty liver disease, hepatic fibrosis and hepatoma. This article summarizes the pharmacological effects, pharmacokinetic characteristics, and toxicity of luteolin against liver diseases, and provides prospect. The results indicate that luteolin improves liver lesions through various mechanisms, including inhibiting inflammatory factors, reducing oxidative stress, regulating lipid balance, slowing down excessive aggregation of extracellular matrix, inducing apoptosis and autophagy of liver cancer cells. Pharmacokinetics research manifested that due to metabolic effects, the bioavailability of luteolin is relatively low. It is worth noting that appropriate modification, new delivery systems, and derivatives can enhance its bioavailability. Although many studies have shown that the toxicity of luteolin is minimal, strict toxicity experiments are still needed to evaluate its safety and promote its reasonable development. In addition, this study also discussed the clinical applications related to luteolin, indicating that it is a key component of commonly used liver protective drugs in clinical practice. In view of its excellent pharmacological effects, luteolin is expected to become a potential drug for the treatment of various liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenhao Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Shu Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Ke Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Rui Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Xingtao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Yuxin Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Yunxia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
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Borrello MT, Mann D. Chronic liver diseases: From development to novel pharmacological therapies: IUPHAR Review 37. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:2880-2897. [PMID: 35393658 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15853] [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: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases comprise a broad spectrum of burdensome diseases that still lack effective pharmacological therapies. Our research group focuses on fibrosis, which is a major precursor of liver cirrhosis. Fibrosis consists in a progressive disturbance of liver sinusoidal architecture characterised by connective tissue deposition as a reparative response to tissue injury. Multifactorial events and several types of cells participate in fibrosis initiation and progression, and the process still needs to be completely understood. The development of experimental models of liver fibrosis alongside the identification of critical factors progressing fibrosis to cirrhosis will facilitate the development of more effective therapeutic approaches for such condition. This review provides an overlook of the main process leading to hepatic fibrosis and therapeutic approaches that have emerged from a deep knowledge of the molecular regulation of fibrogenesis in the liver. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Translational Advances in Fibrosis as a Therapeutic Target. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v180.22/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Borrello
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Derek Mann
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Zhang J, Jiang S, Zhang R, Zhang L. Increased 18F-FAPI Uptake in Radiation-Induced Liver Injury. Clin Nucl Med 2023; 48:e474-e476. [PMID: 37682614 DOI: 10.1097/rlu.0000000000004801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT A 51-year-old woman with breast cancer underwent a complete surgical resection and chemoradiotherapy approximately 3 months ago. Follow-up abdominal ultrasound detected a new lesion with decreased echogenicity in the hepatic segment IV/VIII. 18F-FDG PET/CT showed the hepatic lesion without abnormal uptake. The patient was subsequently enrolled in a clinical trial of 18F-FAPI PET/CT to assess the hepatic lesion. An intense 18F-FAPI activity was identified in the hepatic lesion. Finally, pathological analysis combined with imaging follow-up confirmed the diagnosis of radiation-induced liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- From the Department of Nuclear Medicine, Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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Guillard J, Untereiner V, Garnotel R, Boulagnon-Rombi C, Gobinet C, Proult I, Sockalingum GD, Thiéfin G. Longitudinal Study of Cirrhosis Development in STAM and carbon tetrachloride Mouse Models Using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectral Imaging. J Transl Med 2023; 103:100231. [PMID: 37544611 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2023.100231] [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: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal models of cirrhosis are of great interest to investigate the pathological process leading to the final stage of cirrhosis. The aim of this study was to analyze the different steps involved in the progressive development of cirrhosis using Fourier transform infrared spectral histology in 2 mouse models of cirrhosis, the STAM model of metabolic cirrhosis, and the carbon tetrachloride-induced cirrhosis model. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded liver samples were obtained from 3 mice at 5 time points in each model to analyze the course of hepatic lesions up to the formation of cirrhosis. For each time point, adjacent 3-μm-thick liver sections were obtained for histologic stains and spectral histology. Fourier transform infrared acquisitions of liver sections were performed at projected pixel sizes of 25 μm × 25 μm and 6.25 μm × 6.25 μm. Spectral images were then preprocessed with an extended multiplicative signal correction and analyzed with common k-means clustering, including all stages in each model. In both models, the 2- and 4-class common k-means clustering in the 1000 to 1350 cm-1 range showed that spectral classes characterized by higher absorbance peaks of glycogen were predominant at baseline, then decreased markedly in early stages of hepatic damage, and almost disappeared in cirrhotic tissues. Concomitantly, spectral classes characterized by higher absorbance peaks of nucleic acids became progressively predominant during the course of hepatic lesions. These results were confirmed using k-means clustering on the peaks of interest identified for glycogen and nucleic acid content. Our study showed that the glycogen depletion previously described at the stage of cirrhosis is an early event in the pathological process, independently of the cause of cirrhosis. In addition, there was a progressive increase in the nucleic acid content, which may be linked to increased proliferation and polyploidy in response to cellular lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Guillard
- Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, BioSpecT, Reims, France
| | - Valérie Untereiner
- Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, Plateforme en Imagerie Cellulaire et Tissulaire, Reims, France
| | - Roselyne Garnotel
- Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, BioSpecT, Reims, France; Laboratoire de Biochimie-Pharmacologie-Toxicologie, Pôle de Biologie Territoriale, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire de Reims, Reims, France
| | - Camille Boulagnon-Rombi
- Laboratoire de Biopathologie, Pôle de Biologie Territoriale, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire de Reims, Reims, France
| | - Cyril Gobinet
- Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, BioSpecT, Reims, France
| | - Isabelle Proult
- Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, MEDyC, Reims, France
| | | | - Gérard Thiéfin
- Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, BioSpecT, Reims, France; Service d'Hépato-Gastroentérologie et de Cancérologie Digestive, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire de Reims, Reims, France.
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Pratim Das P, Medhi S. Role of inflammasomes and cytokines in immune dysfunction of liver cirrhosis. Cytokine 2023; 170:156347. [PMID: 37639845 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2023.156347] [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] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis develops as a result of persistent inflammation and liver injury. The prolonged inflammation triggers the buildup of fibrous tissue and regenerative nodules within the liver, leading to the distortion of the hepatic vascular structure and impaired liver function. Cirrhosis disrupts the ability of liver function to maintain homeostasis and hepatic immunosurveillance which causes immunological dysfunction in the body. In pathological conditions, the production of cytokines in the liver is carefully regulated by various cells in response to tissue stimulation. Cytokines and inflammasomes are the key regulators and systematically contribute to the development of cirrhosis which involves an inflammatory response. However, the crosstalk role of different cytokines in the cirrhosis progression is poorly understood. Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), among others, are proinflammatory cytokines that contribute to liver cell necrosis, which in turn causes the development of fibrosis. While IL-10 exhibits a potent anti-inflammatory effect on the liver by inhibiting immune cell activation and neutralizing pro-inflammatory cytokine activity. Inflammasomes have also been implicated in the profibrotic processes of liver cirrhosis, as well as the production of chemokines such as CCL2/MCP-1. It is evident that inflammasomes have a role in the proinflammatory response seen in chronic liver illnesses. In conclusion, cirrhosis significantly impacts the immune system, leading to immunological dysfunction and alterations in both innate and acquired immunity. Proinflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IFNγ are upregulated in cirrhosis, contributing to liver cell necrosis and fibrosis development. Managing cytokine-mediated inflammation and fibrosis is a key therapeutic approach to alleviate portal hypertension and its associated liver complications. This review attempted to focus largely on the role of immune dysfunction mediated by different cytokines and inflammasomes involved in the progression, regulation and development of liver cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Partha Pratim Das
- Dept. of Bioengineering & Technology, Gauhati University, Assam 781014, India
| | - Subhash Medhi
- Dept. of Bioengineering & Technology, Gauhati University, Assam 781014, India.
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Hou C, Wang D, Zhao M, Ballar P, Zhang X, Mei Q, Wang W, Li X, Sheng Q, Liu J, Wei C, Shen Y, Yang Y, Wang P, Shao J, Xu S, Wang F, Sun Y, Shen Y. MANF brakes TLR4 signaling by competitively binding S100A8 with S100A9 to regulate macrophage phenotypes in hepatic fibrosis. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:4234-4252. [PMID: 37799387 PMCID: PMC10547964 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor (MANF) has been recently identified as a neurotrophic factor, but its role in hepatic fibrosis is unknown. Here, we found that MANF was upregulated in the fibrotic liver tissues of the patients with chronic liver diseases and of mice treated with CCl4. MANF deficiency in either hepatocytes or hepatic mono-macrophages, particularly in hepatic mono-macrophages, clearly exacerbated hepatic fibrosis. Myeloid-specific MANF knockout increased the population of hepatic Ly6Chigh macrophages and promoted HSCs activation. Furthermore, MANF-sufficient macrophages (from WT mice) transfusion ameliorated CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in myeloid cells-specific MANF knockout (MKO) mice. Mechanistically, MANF interacted with S100A8 to competitively block S100A8/A9 heterodimer formation and inhibited S100A8/A9-mediated TLR4-NF-κB signal activation. Pharmacologically, systemic administration of recombinant human MANF significantly alleviated CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in both WT and hepatocytes-specific MANF knockout (HKO) mice. This study reveals a mechanism by which MANF targets S100A8/A9-TLR4 as a "brake" on the upstream of NF-κB pathway, which exerts an impact on macrophage differentiation and shed light on hepatic fibrosis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Hou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Biopharmaceutical Research Institute, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Dong Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Biopharmaceutical Research Institute, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Mingxia Zhao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Biopharmaceutical Research Institute, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Petek Ballar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Izmir 35100, Turkey
| | - Xinru Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Biopharmaceutical Research Institute, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Qiong Mei
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Biopharmaceutical Research Institute, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Wei Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Biopharmaceutical Research Institute, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xiang Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Biopharmaceutical Research Institute, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Qiang Sheng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Biopharmaceutical Research Institute, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jun Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Biopharmaceutical Research Institute, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Chuansheng Wei
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Biopharmaceutical Research Institute, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yujun Shen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Biopharmaceutical Research Institute, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yi Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Biopharmaceutical Research Institute, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Peng Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Biopharmaceutical Research Institute, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Juntang Shao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Biopharmaceutical Research Institute, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Sa Xu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Biopharmaceutical Research Institute, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Fuyan Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Biopharmaceutical Research Institute, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yang Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yuxian Shen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Biopharmaceutical Research Institute, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
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Güzelöz Z, Ayrancıoğlu O, Aktürk N, Güneş M, Alıcıkuş ZA. Dose Volume and Liver Function Test Relationship following Radiotheraphy for Right Breast Cancer: A Multicenter Study. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:8763-8773. [PMID: 37887532 PMCID: PMC10605792 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30100632] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The liver is a critical organ at risk during right breast radiotherapy (RT). Liver function tests (LFTs) such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) serve as biochemical markers for hepatobiliary damage. In this multicenter cross-sectional study, the effects of liver dose-volume on changes in LFTs pre- and post-RT in patients treated for right breast cancer were evaluated. MATERIALS AND METHODS Between January 2019 and November 2022, data from 100 patients who underwent adjuvant right breast RT across three centers were retrospectively assessed. Target volumes and normal structures were contoured per the RTOG atlas. Patients were treated with a total dose of 50 Gy in 25 fractions to the CTV, followed by a boost to the tumor bed where indicated. The percentage change in LFT values in the first two weeks post-RT was calculated. Statistics were analyzed with SPSS version 22 software, with significance set at p < 0.05. Statistical correlation between liver doses (in cGy) and the volume receiving specific doses (Vx in cc) on the change in LFTs were analyzed using Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Mann-Whitney U test. RESULTS The median age among the 100 patients was 56 (range: 29-79). Breast-conserving surgery was performed on 75% of the patients. The most common T and N stages were T1 (53%) and N0 (53%), respectively. None of the patients had distant metastasis or simultaneous systemic treatment with RT. A total of 67% of the treatments utilized the IMRT technique and 33% VMAT. The median CTV volume was 802 cc (range: 214-2724 cc). A median boost dose of 10 Gy (range: 10-16 Gy) was applied to 28% of the patients with electrons and 51% with IMRT/VMAT. The median liver volume was 1423 cc (range: 825-2312 cc). Statistical analyses were conducted on a subset of 57 patients for whom all three LFT values were available both pre- and post-RT. In this group, the median values for AST, ALT, and GGT increased up to 15% post-RT compared to pre-RT, and a median liver Dmean below 208 cGy was found significant. While many factors can influence LFT values, during RT planning, attention to liver doses and subsequent regular LFT checks are crucial. CONCLUSION Due to factors such as anatomical positioning, planning technique, and breast posture, the liver can receive varying doses during right breast irradiation. Protecting patients from liver toxicity secondary to RT is valuable, especially in breast cancer patients with a long-life expectancy. Our study found that, even in the absence of any systemic treatment or risk factors, there was an average increase of nearly 15% in enzymes, indicating acute liver damage post-RT compared with pre-RT. Attention to liver doses during RT planning and regular follow-up with LFTs is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeliha Güzelöz
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Health Science University Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, İzmir 35100, Türkiye
| | - Oğuzhan Ayrancıoğlu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, İzmir Tınaztepe University Galen Hospital, İzmir 35001, Türkiye; (O.A.); (M.G.); (Z.A.A.)
| | - Nesrin Aktürk
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Katip Çelebi University Atatürk Training and Research Hospital, İzmir 35150, Türkiye;
| | - Merve Güneş
- Department of Radiation Oncology, İzmir Tınaztepe University Galen Hospital, İzmir 35001, Türkiye; (O.A.); (M.G.); (Z.A.A.)
| | - Zümre Arıcan Alıcıkuş
- Department of Radiation Oncology, İzmir Tınaztepe University Galen Hospital, İzmir 35001, Türkiye; (O.A.); (M.G.); (Z.A.A.)
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Liao YJ, Lee CY, Twu YC, Suk FM, Lai TC, Chang YC, Lai YC, Yuan JW, Jhuang HM, Jian HR, Huang LC, Chen KP, Hsu MH. Isolation and Biological Evaluation of Alfa-Mangostin as Potential Therapeutic Agents against Liver Fibrosis. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:1075. [PMID: 37760177 PMCID: PMC10526009 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10091075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The increased proliferation and activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are associated with liver fibrosis development. To date, there are no FDA-approved drugs for the treatment of liver cirrhosis. Augmentation of HSCs apoptosis is one of the resolutions for liver fibrosis. In this study, we extracted α-mangostin (1,3,6-trihydroxy-7-methoxy-2,8-bis(3-methyl-2-butenyl)-9H-xanthen-9-one) from the fruit waste components of mangosteen pericarp. The isolated α-mangostin structure was determined and characterized with nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) and compared with those known compounds. The intracellular signaling pathway activities of α-mangostin on Transforming growth factors-beta 1 (TGF-β1) or Platelet-derived growth factor subunit B (PDGF-BB) induced HSCs activation and were analyzed via Western blot and Real-time Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (Q-PCR). α-Mangostin-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis in HSCs were measured by seahorse assay and caspase-dependent cleavage. The in vivo anti-fibrotic effect of α-mangostin was assessed by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) treatment mouse model. The data showed that α-mangostin treatment inhibited TGF-β1-induced Smad2/3 phosphorylation and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression in HSCs in a dose-dependent manner. Regarding the PDGF-BB-induced HSCs proliferation signaling pathways, α-mangostin pretreatment suppressed the phosphorylation of extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38. The activation of caspase-dependent apoptosis and dysfunction of mitochondrial respiration (such as oxygen consumption rate, ATP production, and maximal respiratory capacity) were observed in α-mangostin-treated HSCs. The CCl4-induced liver fibrosis mouse model showed that the administration of α-mangostin significantly decreased the expression of the fibrosis markers (α-SMA, collagen-a2 (col1a2), desmin and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2)) as well as attenuated hepatic collagen deposition and liver damage. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that α-mangostin attenuates the progression of liver fibrosis through inhibiting the proliferation of HSCs and triggering apoptosis signals. Thus, α-mangostin may be used as a potential novel therapeutic agent against liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Jen Liao
- School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan; (Y.-J.L.)
| | - Chun-Ya Lee
- School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan; (Y.-J.L.)
| | - Yuh-Ching Twu
- Department of Biotechnology and Laboratory Science in Medicine, School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Fat-Moon Suk
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Chieh Lai
- Department of Chemistry, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua 500, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Ching Chang
- Department of Chemistry, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua 500, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Cheng Lai
- Department of Chemistry, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua 500, Taiwan
| | - Jing-Wei Yuan
- Department of Chemistry, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua 500, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Ming Jhuang
- Department of Chemistry, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua 500, Taiwan
| | - Huei-Ruei Jian
- Department of Chemistry, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua 500, Taiwan
| | - Li-Chia Huang
- Department of Chemistry, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua 500, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Po Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Chinese Culture University, Taipei 111, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hua Hsu
- Department of Chemistry, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua 500, Taiwan
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Singla T, Muneshwar KN, Pathade AG, Yelne S. Hepatocytic Ballooning in Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis: Bridging the Knowledge Gap and Charting Future Avenues. Cureus 2023; 15:e45884. [PMID: 37885505 PMCID: PMC10598508 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.45884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is emerging as a significant global health concern, characterized by hepatic lipid accumulation, inflammation, and hepatocellular injury. Hepatocytic ballooning, a histological feature of NASH, has gained prominence for its role in disease progression and potential as a therapeutic target. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge regarding hepatocytic ballooning in NASH, highlighting the key molecular and cellular mechanisms implicated in its development. We delve into the intricate interplay of metabolic dysregulation, oxidative stress, and lipid toxicity as drivers of hepatocytic ballooning, shedding light on the pathways responsible for its initiation and perpetuation. Furthermore, we explore the diagnostic challenges associated with hepatocytic ballooning and its significance as a prognostic indicator in NASH patients. While hepatocytic ballooning holds promise as a therapeutic target, this abstract discusses the various experimental and clinical approaches to ameliorate this histological hallmark. Potential interventions, including lifestyle modifications, pharmacological agents, and emerging therapies, are evaluated in terms of their efficacy and safety profiles. In conclusion, this review underscores the need to bridge the knowledge gap surrounding hepatocytic ballooning in NASH and emphasizes its importance in understanding disease pathogenesis and progression. By charting future research avenues and clinical strategies, we aspire to advance our comprehension of NASH and ultimately improve patient outcomes in this rapidly evolving field of hepatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanvi Singla
- Community Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Komal N Muneshwar
- Community Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Aniket G Pathade
- Research and Development, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Seema Yelne
- Nursing, Shalinitai Meghe College of Nursing, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
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Li W, Jiang Y, Yu TT, Hao W, Wang G. Lycopene improves autophagy and attenuates carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats. Croat Med J 2023; 64:243-255. [PMID: 37654036 PMCID: PMC10509677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the effect of lycopene on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis and elucidate the underlying mechanism. METHODS Male rats were randomly assigned to the control group, CCl4 group, and lycopene group. The CCl4 group was intraperitoneally injected with CCl4 twice per week for 12 weeks to induce hepatic fibrosis. The control group was intraperitoneally injected with olive oil. Lycopene was orally administered during CCl4 treatment. Body weight and liver weight were recorded. Liver function was assessed. Biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammatory factors were measured. Histological changes and collagen expression were evaluated. The expression of TGF-β1, α-SMA, HO-1, SIRT 1, REDD1, SHP2, P62, and LC3 in the liver was determined, as well as the levels of phosphorylated NF-κB and IκB α. RESULTS Lycopene significantly reduced the liver/body weight ratio, and AST (P=0.001) and ALT levels (P=0.009). It also significantly increased CAT and SOD activities (P<0.001) and decreased MDA content (P<0.001), IL-6 (P<0.001), and TNF-α (P=0.001). Histological analysis demonstrated that lycopene improved lobular architecture and decreased collagen expression. It also decreased the expression of TGF-β1, α-SMA, P62, and SHP2, and increased the ratio of LC3 II/I, as well as Beclin 1 and REDD1 expression. In addition, it reduced NF-κB and IκB-α phosphorylation, and elevated the levels of HO-1, SIRT 1, and PGC 1α. CONCLUSION Lycopene attenuates CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis because of its effect on autophagy by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Guoguang Wang
- Guoguang Wang, 22# Wenchang West Road, Wuhu, Anhui, China,
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40
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Zhu M, Dagah OMA, Silaa BB, Lu J. Thioredoxin/Glutaredoxin Systems and Gut Microbiota in NAFLD: Interplay, Mechanism, and Therapeutical Potential. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1680. [PMID: 37759983 PMCID: PMC10525532 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12091680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common clinical disease, and its pathogenesis is closely linked to oxidative stress and gut microbiota dysbiosis. Recently accumulating evidence indicates that the thioredoxin and glutaredoxin systems, the two thiol-redox dependent antioxidant systems, are the key players in the NAFLD's development and progression. However, the effects of gut microbiota dysbiosis on the liver thiol-redox systems are not well clarified. This review explores the role and mechanisms of oxidative stress induced by bacteria in NAFLD while emphasizing the crucial interplay between gut microbiota dysbiosis and Trx mediated-redox regulation. The paper explores how dysbiosis affects the production of specific gut microbiota metabolites, such as trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), lipopolysaccharides (LPS), short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), amino acids, bile acid, and alcohol. These metabolites, in turn, significantly impact liver inflammation, lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, and cellular damage through thiol-dependent redox signaling. It suggests that comprehensive approaches targeting both gut microbiota dysbiosis and the thiol-redox antioxidant system are essential for effectively preventing and treating NAFLD. Overall, comprehending the intricate relationship between gut microbiota dysbiosis and thiol-redox systems in NAFLD holds significant promise in enhancing patient outcomes and fostering the development of innovative therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jun Lu
- Engineering Research Center of Coptis Development and Utilization/Key Laboratory of Luminescence Analysis and Molecular Sensing, Ministry of Education (Southwest University), College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (M.Z.); (O.M.A.D.); (B.B.S.)
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41
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Lin CY, Omoscharka E, Liu Y, Cheng K. Establishment of a Rat Model of Alcoholic Liver Fibrosis with Simulated Human Drinking Patterns and Low-Dose Chemical Stimulation. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1293. [PMID: 37759693 PMCID: PMC10526499 DOI: 10.3390/biom13091293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Although alcohol is a well-known causal factor associated with liver diseases, challenges remain in inducing liver fibrosis in experimental rodent models. These challenges include rodents' natural aversion to high concentrations of alcohol, rapid alcohol metabolism, the need for a prolonged duration of alcohol administration, and technical difficulties. Therefore, it is crucial to establish an experimental model that can replicate the features of alcoholic liver fibrosis. The objective of this study was to develop a feasible rat model of alcoholic liver fibrosis that emulates human drinking patterns and combines low-dose chemicals within a relatively short time frame. We successfully developed an 8-week rat model of alcoholic liver fibrosis that mimics chronic and heavy drinking patterns. Rats were fed with a control liquid diet, an alcohol liquid diet, or alcohol liquid diet combined with multiple binges via oral gavage. To accelerate the progression of alcoholic liver fibrosis, we introduced low-dose carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) through intraperitoneal injection. This model allows researchers to efficiently evaluate potential therapeutics in preclinical studies of alcoholic liver fibrosis within a reasonable time frame.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Yu Lin
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, 2464 Charlotte Street, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Evanthia Omoscharka
- Department of Pathology, University Health/Truman Medical Center, School of Medicine, University of Missouri-Kansas City, 2301 Holmes Street, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Yanli Liu
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, 2464 Charlotte Street, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Kun Cheng
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, 2464 Charlotte Street, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
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Khan S, Mahgoub S, Fallatah N, Lalor PF, Newsome PN. Liver Disease and Cell Therapy: Advances Made and Remaining Challenges. Stem Cells 2023; 41:739-761. [PMID: 37052348 PMCID: PMC10809282 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxad029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
The limited availability of organs for liver transplantation, the ultimate curative treatment for end stage liver disease, has resulted in a growing and unmet need for alternative therapies. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) with their broad ranging anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties have therefore emerged as a promising therapeutic agent in treating inflammatory liver disease. Significant strides have been made in exploring their biological activity. Clinical application of MSC has shifted the paradigm from using their regenerative potential to one which harnesses their immunomodulatory properties. Reassuringly, MSCs have been extensively investigated for over 30 years with encouraging efficacy and safety data from translational and early phase clinical studies, but questions remain about their utility. Therefore, in this review, we examine the translational and clinical studies using MSCs in various liver diseases and their impact on dampening immune-mediated liver damage. Our key observations include progress made thus far with use of MSCs for clinical use, inconsistency in the literature to allow meaningful comparison between different studies and need for standardized protocols for MSC manufacture and administration. In addition, the emerging role of MSC-derived extracellular vesicles as an alternative to MSC has been reviewed. We have also highlighted some of the remaining clinical challenges that should be addressed before MSC can progress to be considered as therapy for patients with liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheeba Khan
- National Institute for Health Research, Biomedical Research Centre at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK
- Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK
- Liver Unit, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK
| | - Sara Mahgoub
- National Institute for Health Research, Biomedical Research Centre at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK
- Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK
- Liver Unit, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK
| | - Nada Fallatah
- National Institute for Health Research, Biomedical Research Centre at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK
- Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Patricia F Lalor
- National Institute for Health Research, Biomedical Research Centre at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK
- Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK
| | - Philip N Newsome
- National Institute for Health Research, Biomedical Research Centre at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK
- Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK
- Liver Unit, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK
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43
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Xu F, Lu S, Jia X, Zhou Y. Bromodomain protein 4 mediates the roles of TGFβ1-induced Stat3 signaling in mouse liver fibrogenesis. Toxicol Lett 2023; 385:42-50. [PMID: 37634812 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2023.08.009] [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: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic reader Bromodomain protein 4 (BrD4) functions as a global genomic regulator to direct hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation (a key step in liver fibrogenesis) and liver fibrosis. The pivotal pro-fibrotic cytokine transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1) signals through both Smad and Stat3 to elicit a wide array of biological effects. Stat3 is widely acknowledged as a regulator of gene transcription and is involved in fibrosis of multiple tissues. The present study focused on BrD4 function implication in the roles of TGFβ1-induced Stat3 signaling in HSC activation and liver fibrosis by using heterozygous TGFβ1 knockout mice and HSC culture. Results showed that Stat3 was required for TGFβ1-induced BrD4 expression in HSCs. BrD4 expression paralleled Stat3 activation in activated HSCs in human cirrhotic livers. BrD4 was involved in the roles of TGFβ1-induced Stat3 in HSC activation and liver fibrogenesis. Smad3 bound to phosphorylated-Stat3 and contributed to TGFβ1-induced Stat3 signaling. BrD4 expression induced by Stat3 signaling required the early-immediate gene Egr1. Egr1 had a positive feedback on Stat3 activation. In conclusion, a network consisting of Stat3 signaling, Smad3 signaling, Egr1, and BrD4 was involved in the effects of TGFβ1 on liver fibrosis, providing new toxicological mechanisms for TGFβ1 in liver fibrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feifan Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University (The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong), 500 Yonghe Road, Nantong 226011, Jiangsu, China
| | - Sidan Lu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical School, Nantong University, Qi xiou Road 19, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xin Jia
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical School, Nantong University, Qi xiou Road 19, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yajun Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical School, Nantong University, Qi xiou Road 19, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China.
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Vujovic A, Isakovic AM, Misirlic-Dencic S, Juloski J, Mirkovic M, Cirkovic A, Djelic M, Milošević I. IL-23/IL-17 Axis in Chronic Hepatitis C and Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis-New Insight into Immunohepatotoxicity of Different Chronic Liver Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12483. [PMID: 37569857 PMCID: PMC10419971 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Considering the relevance of the research of pathogenesis of different liver diseases, we investigated the possible activity of the IL-23/IL-17 axis on the immunohepatotoxicity of two etiologically different chronic liver diseases. A total of 36 chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients, 16 with (CHC-SF) and 20 without significant fibrosis (CHC-NSF), 19 patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and 20 healthy controls (CG) were recruited. Anthropometric, biochemical, and immunological cytokines (IL-6, IL-10, IL-17 and IL-23) tests were performed in accordance with standard procedure. Our analysis revealed that a higher concentration of plasma IL-23 was associated with NASH (p = 0.005), and a higher concentration of plasma IL-17A but a lower concentration of plasma IL-10 was associated with CHC in comparison with CG. A lower concentration of plasma IL-10 was specific for CHC-NSF, while a higher concentration of plasma IL-17A was specific for CHC-SF in comparison with CG. CHC-NSF and CHC-SF groups were distinguished from NASH according to a lower concentration of plasma IL-17A. Liver tissue levels of IL-17A and IL-23 in CHC-NSF were significantly lower in comparison with NASH, regardless of the same stage of the liver fibrosis, whereas only IL-17A tissue levels showed a difference between the CHC-NSF and CHC-SF groups, namely, a lower concentration in CHC-NSF in comparison with CHC-SF. In CHC-SF and NASH liver tissue, IL17-A and IL-23 were significantly higher in comparison with plasma. Diagnostic accuracy analysis showed significance only in the concentration of plasma cytokines. Plasma IL-6, IL-17A and IL-23 could be possible markers that could differentiate CHC patients from controls. Plasma IL-23 could be considered a possible biomarker of CHC-NSF patients in comparison with controls, while plasma IL-6 and IL-17-A could be biomarkers of CHC-SF patients in comparison with controls. The most sophisticated difference was between the CHC-SF and CHC-NSF groups in the plasma levels of IL-10, which could make this cytokine a useful biomarker of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankica Vujovic
- Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia;
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Andjelka M. Isakovic
- Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia; (A.M.I.); (S.M.-D.)
- Center of Excellence for Redox Medicine, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sonja Misirlic-Dencic
- Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia; (A.M.I.); (S.M.-D.)
- Center of Excellence for Redox Medicine, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jovan Juloski
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia;
- Zvezdara Medical University Center, Surgery Clinic “Nikola Spasic”, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milan Mirkovic
- Institute for Orthopedic Surgery “Banjica”, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Andja Cirkovic
- Department of Medical Statistics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Marina Djelic
- Institute of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ivana Milošević
- Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia;
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia;
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Shree Harini K, Ezhilarasan D. Wnt/beta-catenin signaling and its modulators in nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2023; 22:333-345. [PMID: 36448560 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2022.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a global health concern associated with significant morbidity and mortality. NAFLD is a spectrum of diseases originating from simple steatosis, progressing through nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis, and cirrhosis that may lead to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The pathogenesis of NAFLD is mediated by the triglyceride accumulation followed by proinflammatory cytokines expression leading to inflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction denoted as "two-hit hypothesis", advancing with a "third hit" of insufficient hepatocyte proliferation, leading to the increase in hepatic progenitor cells contributing to fibrosis and HCC. Wnt/β-catenin signaling is responsible for normal liver development, regeneration, hepatic metabolic zonation, ammonia and drug detoxification, hepatobiliary development, etc., maintaining the overall liver homeostasis. The key regulators of canonical Wnt signaling such as LRP6, Wnt1, Wnt3a, β-catenin, GSK-3β, and APC are abnormally regulated in NAFLD. Many experimental studies have shown the aberrated Wnt/β-catenin signaling during the NAFLD progression and NASH to hepatic fibrosis and HCC. Therefore, in this review, we have emphasized the role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling and its modulators that can potentially aid in the inhibition of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karthik Shree Harini
- Department of Pharmacology, Molecular Medicine and Toxicology Lab, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600 077, India
| | - Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, Molecular Medicine and Toxicology Lab, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600 077, India.
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Jia X, Xu F, Lu S, Jie H, Guan W, Zhou Y. An unusual signal transducer GIV/Girdin engages in the roles of adipocyte-derived hormone leptin in liver fibrosis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166797. [PMID: 37478565 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Obese patients usually have hyperleptinemia and are prone to develop liver fibrosis. Leptin is intimately linked to liver fibrogenesis, a multi-receptor-driven disease. Gα-Interacting Vesicle-associated protein (GIV) functions as a multimodular signal transducer and a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Gi controling key signalings downstream of diverse receptors. This study aimed to examine the roles of GIV in leptin-caused liver fibrosis and employed the culture-activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and leptin-deficient mice, respectively. Results indicated that leptin upregulated GIV expression in HSCs. GIV was involved in leptin-induced HSC activation and liver fibrosis. GIV mediated leptin regulation of TIMP1, MMP9, PDGFβ receptor and TGFβ receptor and was required for leptin stimulating the pathways of Erk1/2, Akt1, and Smad3. GIV was also a mediator for leptin-regulation of Cyclin D1 and Caspase-3 activity but GIV reduced Caspase-3 level independently of leptin in vivo. Erk1/2 signaling, Egr1 and c-Jun were associated with the effect of leptin on GIV expression in HSCs. Leptin-induced Erk1/2 signaling increased Egr1 and p-c-Jun levels and promoted their binding to GIV promoter at the sites between -190 bp and -180 bp and between -382 bp and - 376 bp, respectively. Egr1 knockdown lessened leptin-upregulation of GIV in vitro and in vivo. In human cirrhotic livers, the increase in GIV protein level parallelled with the elevated p-Erk1/2 and Egr1 levels in HSCs. In summary, the unusual signal transducer GIV was identified as an important mediator in leptin-induced liver fibrosis. GIV may have significant implications in liver fibrosis progression of obese patients with hyperleptinaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Jia
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical School, Nantong University, Qi xiou Road 19, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Feifan Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University (The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong), 500 Yonghe Road, Nantong 226011, Jiangsu, China
| | - Sidan Lu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical School, Nantong University, Qi xiou Road 19, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huang Jie
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Qi xiou Road 19, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei Guan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Qi xiou Road 19, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Yajun Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical School, Nantong University, Qi xiou Road 19, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China.
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Han DW, Xu K, Jin ZL, Xu YN, Li YH, Wang L, Cao Q, Kim KP, Ryu D, Hong K, Kim NH. Customized liver organoids as an advanced in vitro modeling and drug discovery platform for non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:3595-3613. [PMID: 37497008 PMCID: PMC10367556 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.85145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its progressive form non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) have presented a major and common health concern worldwide due to their increasing prevalence and progressive development of severe pathological conditions such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. Although a large number of drug candidates for the treatment of NASH have entered clinical trial testing, all have not been released to market due to their limited efficacy, and there remains no approved treatment for NASH available to this day. Recently, organoid technology that produces 3D multicellular aggregates with a liver tissue-like cytoarchitecture and improved functionality has been suggested as a novel platform for modeling the human-specific complex pathophysiology of NAFLD and NASH. In this review, we describe the cellular crosstalk between each cellular compartment in the liver during the pathogenesis of NAFLD and NASH. We also summarize the current state of liver organoid technology, describing the cellular diversity that could be recapitulated in liver organoids and proposing a future direction for liver organoid technology as an in vitro platform for disease modeling and drug discovery for NAFLD and NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Wook Han
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, China
- International Healthcare Innovation Institute (Jiangmen), Jianghai, Jiangmen, Guangdong Province, China
- Research and Development, Qingdao Haier Biotech Co. Ltd, Qingdao, China
- Guangdong ORGANOID Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Jiangmen, China
| | - KangHe Xu
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Zhe-Long Jin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, China
- International Healthcare Innovation Institute (Jiangmen), Jianghai, Jiangmen, Guangdong Province, China
- Guangdong ORGANOID Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Jiangmen, China
| | - Yong-Nan Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, China
- International Healthcare Innovation Institute (Jiangmen), Jianghai, Jiangmen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ying-Hua Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, China
- International Healthcare Innovation Institute (Jiangmen), Jianghai, Jiangmen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Research and Development, Qingdao Haier Biotech Co. Ltd, Qingdao, China
| | - Qilong Cao
- Research and Development, Qingdao Haier Biotech Co. Ltd, Qingdao, China
| | - Kee-Pyo Kim
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - DongHee Ryu
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwonho Hong
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, The institute of advanced regenerative science, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam-Hyung Kim
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, China
- International Healthcare Innovation Institute (Jiangmen), Jianghai, Jiangmen, Guangdong Province, China
- Research and Development, Qingdao Haier Biotech Co. Ltd, Qingdao, China
- Guangdong ORGANOID Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Jiangmen, China
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48
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Cheng C, Wu Y, Wang X, Xue Q, Huang Y, Liao F, Wang X, Duan Q, Miao C. RNA methylations in hepatic fibrosis, a gradually emerging new treatment strategy. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:126. [PMID: 37420298 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01066-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is a pathological process caused by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix caused by a series of causes, leading to the formation of fiber scar. RNA methylation is a newly discovered epigenetic modification that exists widely in eukaryotes and prokaryotes and plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of many diseases. RESULTS The occurrence and development of HF are regulated by many factors, including excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, activation of hepatic stellate cells, inflammation, and oxidative stress. RNA methylations of different species have become a crucial regulatory mode of transcript expression, And participate in the pathogenesis of tumors, nervous system diseases, autoimmune diseases, and other diseases. In addition, there are five common types of RNA methylation, but only m6A plays a crucial regulatory role in HF. The pathophysiological regulation of m6A on HF is achieved by the combination of the methylated transferase, demethylated enzyme, and methylated reading protein. CONCLUSIONS RNA methylated methyltransferase, demethylase, and reading protein extensively affect the pathological mechanism of HF, which may be a new therapeutic and diagnostic target, representing a new class of therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenglong Cheng
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Yajie Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Qiuyun Xue
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Yurong Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Faxue Liao
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
- Anhui Public Health Clinical Center, Hefei, China.
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Clinical Nursing, School of Nursing, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.
| | - Qiangjun Duan
- Department of Experimental (Practical Training) Teaching Center, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.
| | - Chenggui Miao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.
- Institute of Rheumatism, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.
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49
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Kong M, Dong W, Kang A, Kuai Y, Xu T, Fan Z, Shi L, Sun D, Lu Y, Li Z, Xu Y. Regulatory role and translational potential of CCL11 in liver fibrosis. Hepatology 2023; 78:120-135. [PMID: 36651177 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Myofibroblasts are considered the major effector cell type of liver fibrosis and primarily derived from hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). In the present study, we investigated the contribution of C-C motif chemokine (CCL11) to HSC-myofibroblast trans -differentiation and its implication in liver fibrosis. APPROACH AND RESULTS We report that CCL11 levels were elevated in HSCs, but not in hepatocytes or Kupffer cells, isolated from mice with liver fibrosis compared with the control mice. CCL11 levels were also up-regulated by 2 pro-fibrogenic growth factors TGF-β and platelet derived growth factor in cultured HSCs. Mechanistically, zinc finger factor 281 bound to the CCL11 promoter and mediated CCL11 trans -activation in HSCs. Depletion of CCL11 attenuated whereas treatment with recombinant CCL11 promoted HSC activation. Further, global CCL11 deletion ( CCL11-/- ) or HSC/myofibroblast-specific CCL11 knockdown mitigated fibrogenesis in mice. RNA-sequencing revealed that CCL11 might regulate HSC activation by stimulating the transcription of Jagged 1. Reconstitution of Jagged 1 restored the fibrogenic response in CCL11-/- mice. Finally, several targeting strategies that aimed at blockading CCL11 signaling, either by administration of an antagonist to its receptor C-C motif chemokine receptor 3 or neutralizing antibodies against CCL11/C-C motif chemokine receptor 3, ameliorated liver fibrosis in mice. CONCLUSIONS Our data unveil a previously unrecognized role for CCL11 in liver fibrosis and provide proof-of-concept evidence that targeting CCL11 can be considered as an effective therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Kong
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Translational Medicine, and Center for Experimental Medicine, Department of Pathophysiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenhui Dong
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Translational Medicine, and Center for Experimental Medicine, Department of Pathophysiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Aoqi Kang
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Translational Medicine, and Center for Experimental Medicine, Department of Pathophysiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yameng Kuai
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Translational Medicine, and Center for Experimental Medicine, Department of Pathophysiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tongchang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Translational Medicine, and Center for Experimental Medicine, Department of Pathophysiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhiwen Fan
- Department of Pathology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated With Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Longqing Shi
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First People's Hospital of Changzhou, The Third Hospital Affiliated With Soochow University, Changzhou, China
| | - Donglin Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First People's Hospital of Changzhou, The Third Hospital Affiliated With Soochow University, Changzhou, China
| | - Yunjie Lu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First People's Hospital of Changzhou, The Third Hospital Affiliated With Soochow University, Changzhou, China
| | - Zilong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yong Xu
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Translational Medicine, and Center for Experimental Medicine, Department of Pathophysiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Institute of Biomedical Research and College of Life Sciences, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China
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50
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Patel BY, Bhome R, Liu DSK, Giovannetti E, Merali N, Primrose JN, Mirnezami AH, Rockall TA, Annels N, Frampton AE. Cancer cell-derived extracellular vesicles activate hepatic stellate cells in colorectal cancer. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2023; 23:843-849. [PMID: 37599564 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2023.2246893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the 2nd leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, primarily due to the development of metastatic disease. The liver is the most frequently affected site. The metastatic cascade relies on a complex interaction between the immune system, tumor, and distant organs. Communication between the tumor and the metastatic site can be mediated by tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) and their cargo. The mechanisms underlying this process are starting to be understood through research that has rapidly expanded over the past 15 years. One crucial aspect is the remodeling of the microenvironment at the site of metastasis, which is essential for the formation of a premetastatic niche and the subsequent establishment of metastatic deposits. In the evaluated study, the authors use cellular experiments and a mouse model to investigate how tumour derived extracellular vesicles and their microRNA contents interact with hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). They demonstrate how this may lead to remodelling of the microenvironment and the formation of colorectal liver metastasis using their experimental model. In this mini review, we examine the current evidence surrounding tumour derived EVs and their effect on the tumour microenvironment to highlight potential areas for future research in CRC and other malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavik Y Patel
- Section of Oncology, Dept. of Clinical & Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK
- Minimal Access Therapy Training Unit (MATTU), Leggett Building, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Surgery, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, UK
| | - Rahul Bhome
- Cancer Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Daniel S K Liu
- Division of Cancer, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, UK
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Fondazione Pisana per La Scienza, San Giuliano, Italy
| | - Nabeel Merali
- Section of Oncology, Dept. of Clinical & Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK
- Minimal Access Therapy Training Unit (MATTU), Leggett Building, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Surgery, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, UK
| | - John N Primrose
- Department of Surgery, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Alex H Mirnezami
- Department of Surgery, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Timothy A Rockall
- Minimal Access Therapy Training Unit (MATTU), Leggett Building, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Nicola Annels
- Section of Oncology, Dept. of Clinical & Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK
| | - Adam E Frampton
- Section of Oncology, Dept. of Clinical & Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK
- Minimal Access Therapy Training Unit (MATTU), Leggett Building, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Surgery, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, UK
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