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Ramezani M, Zobeiry M, Abdolahi S, Hatami B, Zali MR, Baghaei K. A crosstalk between epigenetic modulations and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease progression. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 251:154809. [PMID: 37797383 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has recently emerged as a major public health concern worldwide due to its rapidly rising prevalence and its potential to progress into end-stage liver disease. While the precise pathophysiology underlying NAFLD remains incompletely understood, it is strongly associated with various environmental triggers and other metabolic disorders. Epigenetics examines changes in gene expression that are not caused by alterations in the DNA sequence itself. There is accumulating evidence that epigenetics plays a key role in linking environmental cues to the onset and progression of NAFLD. Our understanding of how epigenetic mechanisms contribute to NAFLD pathophysiology has expanded considerably in recent years as research on the epigenetics of NAFLD has developed. This review summarizes recent insights into major epigenetic processes that have been implicated in NAFLD pathogenesis including DNA methylation, histone acetylation, and microRNAs that have emerged as promising targets for further investigation. Elucidating epigenetic mechanisms in NAFLD may uncover novel diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for this disease. However, many questions have remained unanswered regarding how epigenetics promotes NAFLD onset and progression. Additional studies are needed to further characterize the epigenetic landscape of NAFLD and validate the potential of epigenetic markers as clinical tools. Nevertheless, an enhanced understanding of the epigenetic underpinnings of NAFLD promises to provide key insights into disease mechanisms and pave the way for novel prognostic and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meysam Ramezani
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Shahrokh Abdolahi
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Behzad Hatami
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Zali
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kaveh Baghaei
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Histone deacetylase inhibitor givinostat attenuates nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and liver fibrosis. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2022; 43:941-953. [PMID: 34341511 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-021-00725-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a common chronic liver disease that is increasingly prevalent worldwide. Liver inflammation is an important contributor to disease progression from nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) to NASH, but there is a lack of efficient therapies. In the current study we evaluated the therapeutic potential of givinostat, a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, in the treatment of NASH in vivo and in vitro. Liver inflammation was induced in mice by feeding a methionine- and choline-deficient diet (MCD) or a fructose, palmitate, cholesterol diet (FPC). The mice were treated with givoinostat (10 mg·kg-1·d-1, ip) for 8 or 10 weeks. At the end of the experiment, the livers were harvested for analysis. We showed that givoinostat administration significantly alleviated inflammation and attenuated hepatic fibrosis in MCD-induced NASH mice. RNA-seq analysis of liver tissues form MCD-fed mice revealed that givinostat potently blocked expression of inflammation-related genes and regulated a broad set of lipid metabolism-related genes. In human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG2 and human derived fetal hepatocyte cell line L02, givinostat significantly decreased palmitic acid-induced intracellular lipid accumulation. The benefit of givinostat was further confirmed in FPC-induced NASH mice. Givinostat administration significantly attenuated hepatic steatosis, inflammation as well as liver injury in this mouse model. In conclusion, givinostat is efficacious in reversing diet-induced NASH, and may serve as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of human NASH.
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The Role of Histone Acetylation-/Methylation-Mediated Apoptotic Gene Regulation in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21238894. [PMID: 33255318 PMCID: PMC7727670 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21238894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics, an inheritable phenomenon, which influences the expression of gene without altering the DNA sequence, offers a new perspective on the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is projected to account for a significant share of HCC incidence due to the growing prevalence of various metabolic disorders. One of the major molecular mechanisms involved in epigenetic regulation, post-translational histone modification seems to coordinate various aspects of NASH which will further progress to HCC. Mounting evidence suggests that the orchestrated events of cellular and nuclear changes during apoptosis can be regulated by histone modifications. This review focuses on the current advances in the study of acetylation-/methylation-mediated histone modification in apoptosis and the implication of these epigenetic regulations in HCC. The reversibility of epigenetic alterations and the agents that can target these alterations offers novel therapeutic approaches and strategies for drug development. Further molecular mechanistic studies are required to enhance information governing these epigenetic modulators, which will facilitate the design of more effective diagnosis and treatment options.
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Khalifa O, Errafii K, Al-Akl NS, Arredouani A. Noncoding RNAs in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Potential Diagnosis and Prognosis Biomarkers. DISEASE MARKERS 2020; 2020:8822859. [PMID: 33133304 PMCID: PMC7593715 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8822859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is currently the most common chronic liver disease worldwide in part due to the concomitant obesity pandemic and insulin resistance (IR). It is increasingly becoming evident that NAFLD is a disease affecting numerous extrahepatic vital organs and regulatory pathways. The molecular mechanisms underlying the nonalcoholic steatosis formation are poorly understood, and little information is available on the pathways that are responsible for the progressive hepatocellular damage that follows lipid accumulation. Recently, much research has focused on the identification of the epigenetic modifications that contribute to NAFLD pathogenesis. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are one of such epigenetic factors that could be implicated in the NAFLD development and progression. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the genetic and epigenetic factors potentially underlying the disease. Particular emphasis will be put on the contribution of microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs) to the pathophysiology of NAFLD as well as their potential use as therapeutic targets or as markers for the prediction and the progression of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olfa Khalifa
- Diabetes Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Khaoula Errafii
- Diabetes Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nayla S. Al-Akl
- Diabetes Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Abdelilah Arredouani
- Diabetes Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Education City, Doha, Qatar
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Afaloniati H, Angelopoulou K, Giakoustidis A, Hardas A, Pseftogas A, Makedou K, Gargavanis A, Goulopoulos T, Iliadis S, Papadopoulos V, Papalois A, Mosialos G, Poutahidis T, Giakoustidis D. HDAC1/2 Inhibitor Romidepsin Suppresses DEN-Induced Hepatocellular Carcinogenesis in Mice. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:5575-5588. [PMID: 32606772 PMCID: PMC7304783 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s250233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a frequently diagnosed cancer and a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Its rapid progression, combined with the limited treatment options at late stages, imposes the need for early detection and aggressive intervention. Based on the knowledge that hepatocarcinogenesis is significantly influenced by histone acetylation, we directed our search for novel HCC therapeutics among histone deacetylation inhibitors (HDACi). The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of HDAC1/2 inhibitor Romidepsin in the well-established mouse model of diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced HCC. Materials and Methods C56BL/6 mice were treated with Romidepsin at the critical point of 10 months after DEN challenge and their livers were examined 2 months later using histopathology and morphometry. Protein levels were assessed in serum using ELISA and in liver tissues using Western blot and immunohistochemistry (in-situ detection). Gene expression was quantified using real-time PCR. Results Romidepsin suppressed cancer progression. This effect was associated with decreased proliferation and increased apoptosis of cancer cells. The cell cycle regulator CK2a, the anti-inflammatory molecule PPAR-γ, and the tumor suppressors PTEN and CYLD were upregulated in treated HCC. By contrast, the expression of PI3K, NF-κB p65 and c-Jun was reduced. In line with this result, the levels of two major apoptosis regulators, ie, BAD and the multifunctional protein c-Met, were lower in the blood serum of treated mice compared to the untreated mice with HCC. Conclusion These findings suggest that Romidepsin, a drug currently used in the treatment of lymphoma, could also be considered in the management of early-stage HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hara Afaloniati
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Toxicology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Katerina Angelopoulou
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Toxicology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Alexander Giakoustidis
- First Department of Surgery, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, General Hospital Papageorgiou, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Alexandros Hardas
- Laboratory of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Athanasios Pseftogas
- School of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Kali Makedou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Athanasios Gargavanis
- First Department of Surgery, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, General Hospital Papageorgiou, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Thomas Goulopoulos
- First Department of Surgery, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, General Hospital Papageorgiou, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stavros Iliadis
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Vasileios Papadopoulos
- First Department of Surgery, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, General Hospital Papageorgiou, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Apostolos Papalois
- Experimental, Educational and Research Center, ELPEN, Pikermi, Attica, Greece
| | - George Mosialos
- School of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Theofilos Poutahidis
- Laboratory of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Giakoustidis
- First Department of Surgery, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, General Hospital Papageorgiou, Thessaloniki, Greece
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The role of genetic and epigenetic factors in non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) pathogenesis. Meta Gene 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mgene.2020.100647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
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Lee S, Woo DC, Kang J, Ra M, Kim KH, Lee SR, Choi DK, Lee H, Hong KB, Min SH, Lee Y, Yu JH. The Role of the Histone Methyltransferase EZH2 in Liver Inflammation and Fibrosis in STAM NASH Mice. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9050093. [PMID: 32370249 PMCID: PMC7285133 DOI: 10.3390/biology9050093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a leading form of chronic liver disease, with few biomarkers and treatment options currently available. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a progressive disease of NAFLD, may lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Epigenetic modification can contribute to the progression of NAFLD causing non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), in which the exact role of epigenetics remains poorly understood. To identify potential therapeutics for NASH, we tested small-molecule inhibitors of the epigenetic target histone methyltransferase EZH2, Tazemetostat (EPZ-6438), and UNC1999 in STAM NASH mice. The results demonstrate that treatment with EZH2 inhibitors decreased serum TNF-alpha in NASH. In this study, we investigated that inhibition of EZH2 reduced mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines and fibrosis markers in NASH mice. In conclusion, these results suggest that EZH2 may present a promising therapeutic target in the treatment of NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seul Lee
- New Drug Development Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation, Daegu 41061, Korea; (S.L.); (D.K.C.); (H.L.); (K.B.H.); (S.-H.M.)
| | - Dong-Cheol Woo
- Convergence medicine research center, Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, and Department of Convergence Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Korea;
| | - Jeeheon Kang
- Center for Bio-Imaging of New Drug Development, Asan Life Science Institution, Asan Medical Centre, Seoul 05505, Korea;
| | - Moonjin Ra
- Hongcheon Institute of Medicinal Herb, 101 Yeonbongri, Hongcheon 25142, Korea;
| | - Ki Hyun Kim
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 440-746, Korea; (K.H.K.); (S.R.L.)
| | - Seoung Rak Lee
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 440-746, Korea; (K.H.K.); (S.R.L.)
| | - Dong Kyu Choi
- New Drug Development Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation, Daegu 41061, Korea; (S.L.); (D.K.C.); (H.L.); (K.B.H.); (S.-H.M.)
| | - Heejin Lee
- New Drug Development Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation, Daegu 41061, Korea; (S.L.); (D.K.C.); (H.L.); (K.B.H.); (S.-H.M.)
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, BK21 Plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
| | - Ki Bum Hong
- New Drug Development Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation, Daegu 41061, Korea; (S.L.); (D.K.C.); (H.L.); (K.B.H.); (S.-H.M.)
| | - Sang-Hyun Min
- New Drug Development Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation, Daegu 41061, Korea; (S.L.); (D.K.C.); (H.L.); (K.B.H.); (S.-H.M.)
| | - Yongjun Lee
- Hongcheon Institute of Medicinal Herb, 101 Yeonbongri, Hongcheon 25142, Korea;
- Correspondence: (Y.L.); (J.H.Y.); Tel.: +82-33-439-3248 (Y.L.); +82-53-790-5232 (J.H.Y.); Fax: 82-33-439-3239 (Y.L.); 82-53-790-5219 (J.H.Y.)
| | - Ji Hoon Yu
- New Drug Development Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation, Daegu 41061, Korea; (S.L.); (D.K.C.); (H.L.); (K.B.H.); (S.-H.M.)
- Correspondence: (Y.L.); (J.H.Y.); Tel.: +82-33-439-3248 (Y.L.); +82-53-790-5232 (J.H.Y.); Fax: 82-33-439-3239 (Y.L.); 82-53-790-5219 (J.H.Y.)
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Dongiovanni P, Meroni M, Longo M, Fargion S, Fracanzani AL. miRNA Signature in NAFLD: A Turning Point for a Non-Invasive Diagnosis. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E3966. [PMID: 30544653 PMCID: PMC6320931 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19123966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) defines a wide pathological spectrum ranging from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) which may predispose to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. It represents the leading cause of hepatic damage worldwide. Diagnosis of NASH still requires liver biopsy but due to the high prevalence of NAFLD, this procedure, which is invasive, is not practicable for mass screening. Thus, it is crucial to non-invasively identify NAFLD patients at higher risk of progression to NASH and fibrosis. It has been demonstrated that hepatic fat content and progressive liver damage have a strong heritable component. Therefore, genetic variants associated with NAFLD have been proposed as non-invasive markers to be used in clinical practice. However, genetic variability is not completely explained by these common variants and it is possible that many of the phenotypic differences result from gene-environment interactions. Indeed, NAFLD development and progression is also modulated by epigenetic factors, in particular microRNAs (miRNAs), which control at post-transcriptional level many complementary target mRNAs and whose dysregulation has been shown to have high prognostic and predictive value in NAFLD. The premise of the current review is to discuss the role of miRNAs as pathogenic factors, risk predictors and therapeutic targets in NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Dongiovanni
- General Medicine and Metabolic Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano 20122, Italy.
| | - Marica Meroni
- General Medicine and Metabolic Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano 20122, Italy.
| | - Miriam Longo
- General Medicine and Metabolic Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano 20122, Italy.
| | - Silvia Fargion
- General Medicine and Metabolic Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano 20122, Italy.
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20122, Italy.
| | - Anna Ludovica Fracanzani
- General Medicine and Metabolic Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano 20122, Italy.
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20122, Italy.
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Okrah K, Tarighat S, Liu B, Koeppen H, Wagle MC, Cheng G, Sun C, Dey A, Chang MT, Sumiyoshi T, Mounir Z, Cummings C, Hampton G, Amler L, Fridlyand J, Hegde PS, Turley SJ, Lackner MR, Huang SM. Transcriptomic analysis of hepatocellular carcinoma reveals molecular features of disease progression and tumor immune biology. NPJ Precis Oncol 2018; 2:25. [PMID: 30456308 PMCID: PMC6237857 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-018-0068-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 09/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) develops in the context of chronic inflammatory liver disease and has an extremely poor prognosis. An immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment may contribute to therapeutic failure in metastatic HCC. Here, we identified unique molecular signatures pertaining to HCC disease progression and tumor immunity by analyzing genome-wide RNA-Seq data derived from HCC patient tumors and non-tumor cirrhotic tissues. Unsupervised clustering of gene expression data revealed a gradual suppression of local tumor immunity that coincided with disease progression, indicating an increasingly immunosuppressive tumor environment during HCC disease advancement. IHC examination of the spatial distribution of CD8+ T cells in tumors revealed distinct intra- and peri-tumoral subsets. Differential gene expression analysis revealed an 85-gene signature that was significantly upregulated in the peri-tumoral CD8+ T cell-excluded tumors. Notably, this signature was highly enriched with components of underlying extracellular matrix, fibrosis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Further analysis condensed this signature to a core set of 23 genes that are associated with CD8+ T cell localization, and were prospectively validated in an independent cohort of HCC specimens. These findings suggest a potential association between elevated fibrosis, possibly modulated by TGF-β, PDGFR, SHH or Notch pathway, and the T cell-excluded immune phenotype. Indeed, targeting fibrosis using a TGF-β neutralizing antibody in the STAM™ model of murine HCC, we found that ameliorating the fibrotic environment could facilitate redistribution of CD8+ lymphocytes into tumors. Our results provide a strong rationale for utilizing immunotherapies in HCC earlier during treatment, potentially in combination with anti-fibrotic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. Okrah
- Department of Biostatistics, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - S. Tarighat
- Department of Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - B. Liu
- Department of Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - H. Koeppen
- Department of Research Pathology, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - M. C. Wagle
- Department of Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - G. Cheng
- Department of Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - C. Sun
- Department of Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - A. Dey
- Department of Research, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - M. T. Chang
- Department of Research, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - T. Sumiyoshi
- Department of Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - Z. Mounir
- Department of Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - C. Cummings
- Department of Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - G. Hampton
- Department of Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - L. Amler
- Department of Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - J. Fridlyand
- Department of Biostatistics, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - P. S. Hegde
- Department of Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - S. J. Turley
- Department of Research, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - M. R. Lackner
- Department of Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
| | - S. M. Huang
- Department of Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 USA
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Wu J, Zhang R, Shen F, Yang R, Zhou D, Cao H, Chen G, Pan Q, Fan J. Altered DNA Methylation Sites in Peripheral Blood Leukocytes from Patients with Simple Steatosis and Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). Med Sci Monit 2018; 24:6946-6967. [PMID: 30270343 PMCID: PMC6180948 DOI: 10.12659/msm.909747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to identify DNA methylation sites in peripheral blood leukocytes from patients with histologically confirmed nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) that included simple hepatic steatosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Material/Methods DNA was isolated from peripheral blood leukocytes from patients with histologically diagnosed NAFLD (n=35), including simple hepatic steatosis (n=18) and NASH (n=17). Healthy controls included individuals without liver disease (n=30). DNA was hybridized, and DNA methylation was interrogated in an epigenome-wide association study (EWAS). DNA methylation levels (β-values) were correlated with serum lipid profiles, liver enzymes, and liver histology. Results Circulating blood leukocytes from 35 patients with NAFLD (simple steatosis and NASH) contained 65 CpG sites, which represented 60 genes that were differentially methylated when compared with healthy controls. In the simple hepatic steatosis group (n=18), 42 methylated CpG sites were found to be associated with increased levels of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and 32 methylated CpG sites were associated with increased serum lipid profiles. In the NASH group (n=17), when compared with the simple hepatic steatosis group, methylated CpG sites showed significant correlations with the presence of lobular inflammation compared with hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. Six differentially methylated CpG sites were identified in the ACSL4, CRLS1, CTP1A, SIGIRR, SSBP1 and ZNF622 genes, which were associated with histologically confirmed simple hepatic steatosis and NASH. Conclusions The study identified some key methylated CpG sites from peripheral blood leukocytes, which might be used as serum biomarkers to stratify NAFLD patients into simple hepatic steatosis and NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (mainland)
| | - Ruinan Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (mainland)
| | - Feng Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (mainland)
| | - Ruixu Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (mainland)
| | - Da Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (mainland)
| | - Haixia Cao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (mainland)
| | - Guangyu Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (mainland)
| | - Qin Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (mainland)
| | - Jiangao Fan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (mainland).,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Digestion and Nutrition, Shanghai, China (mainland).,Shanghai Institute of Pediatrics, Shanghai, China (mainland)
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Vasco M, Paolillo R, Schiano C, Sommese L, Cuomo O, Napoli C. Compromised nutritional status in patients with end-stage liver disease: Role of gut microbiota. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2018; 17:290-300. [PMID: 30173786 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) have a compromised nutritional status because of the liver crucial role in regulating metabolic homeostasis and energy balance. DATA SOURCES A systematic review of literature based on extensive relevant articles published from 2001 to 2017 in English in PubMed database was performed by searching keywords such as liver disease, non-alcoholic liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, malnutrition, epigenetics, gut microbiota, and probiotics. RESULTS Liver transplantation would be one eligible therapy for ESLD patients, even if, the clinical outcome is negatively influenced by malnutrition and/or infections. The malnutrition is a condition of nutrient imbalance with a high incidence in ESLD patients. An accurate evaluation of nutritional status could be fundamental for reducing complications and prolonging the survival of ESLD patients including those undergoing liver transplantation. In addition, the interaction among nutrients, diet and genes via epigenetics has emerged as a potential target to reduce the morbidity and mortality in ESLD patients. The malnutrition induces changes in gut microbiota causing dysbiosis with a probable translocation of bacteria and/or pathogen-derived factors from the intestine to the liver. Gut microbiota contribute to the progression of chronic liver diseases as well as hepatocellular carcinoma. The administration of probiotics modulating gut microbiota could improve all chronic liver diseases. CONCLUSIONS This review provides an update on malnutrition status linked to epigenetics and the potential benefit of some probiotics on the management of ESLD patients. In support of this view and to reveal the constant and growing interest in this field, some clinical trials are reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Vasco
- U.O.C. Division of Clinical Immunology, Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Immunology, Regional Reference Laboratory of Transplant Immunology, Department of Internal and Specialty Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Rossella Paolillo
- U.O.C. Division of Clinical Immunology, Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Immunology, Regional Reference Laboratory of Transplant Immunology, Department of Internal and Specialty Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy
| | | | - Linda Sommese
- U.O.C. Division of Clinical Immunology, Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Immunology, Regional Reference Laboratory of Transplant Immunology, Department of Internal and Specialty Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy; Department of Experimental Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy.
| | - Oreste Cuomo
- Department of Liver Transplant, AORN A. Cardarelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Napoli
- U.O.C. Division of Clinical Immunology, Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Immunology, Regional Reference Laboratory of Transplant Immunology, Department of Internal and Specialty Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy; IRCCS SDN, Naples, Italy; Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Geriatric Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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12
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Abstract
Overexpression of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) protein has been found in several malignant tumor tissues and is closely related to the degree of tumor differentiation, clinical stage, tumor size, and prognosis. The latest research shows that overexpression of EZH2 is related not only with immunoregulation but also with the replication of hepatitis B virus, the occurrence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and the progress of liver fibrosis, which may become an important subject in the field of liver disease research. This paper reviews the role of EZH2 in some liver diseases and its potential application in treatment of these diseases in recent ten years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhu
- Department of Hepatology, the Fifth People's Hospital of Suzhou, Suzhou 215007, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Hepatology, the Fifth People's Hospital of Suzhou, Suzhou 215007, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Chuan-Wu Zhu
- Department of Hepatology, the Fifth People's Hospital of Suzhou, Suzhou 215007, Jiangsu Province, China
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13
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The histone demethylase Phf2 acts as a molecular checkpoint to prevent NAFLD progression during obesity. Nat Commun 2018; 9:2092. [PMID: 29844386 PMCID: PMC5974278 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-04361-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant histone methylation profile is reported to correlate with the development and progression of NAFLD during obesity. However, the identification of specific epigenetic modifiers involved in this process remains poorly understood. Here, we identify the histone demethylase Plant Homeodomain Finger 2 (Phf2) as a new transcriptional co-activator of the transcription factor Carbohydrate Responsive Element Binding Protein (ChREBP). By specifically erasing H3K9me2 methyl-marks on the promoter of ChREBP-regulated genes, Phf2 facilitates incorporation of metabolic precursors into mono-unsaturated fatty acids, leading to hepatosteatosis development in the absence of inflammation and insulin resistance. Moreover, the Phf2-mediated activation of the transcription factor NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) further reroutes glucose fluxes toward the pentose phosphate pathway and glutathione biosynthesis, protecting the liver from oxidative stress and fibrogenesis in response to diet-induced obesity. Overall, our findings establish a downstream epigenetic checkpoint, whereby Phf2, through facilitating H3K9me2 demethylation at specific gene promoters, protects liver from the pathogenesis progression of NAFLD.
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Silva Figueiredo P, Inada AC, Ribeiro Fernandes M, Granja Arakaki D, Freitas KDC, Avellaneda Guimarães RDC, Aragão do Nascimento V, Aiko Hiane P. An Overview of Novel Dietary Supplements and Food Ingredients in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23040877. [PMID: 29641459 PMCID: PMC6017470 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23040877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is characterized by interconnected factors related to metabolic disturbances, and is directly related to the occurrence of some diseases such as cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes. MetS is described as one or both of insulin resistance and visceral adiposity, considered the initial causes of abnormalities that include hyperglycemia, elevated blood pressure, dyslipidemia, elevated inflammatory markers, and prothrombotic state, as well as polycystic ovarian syndrome in women. Other than in MetS, visceral adiposity and the pro-inflammatory state are also key in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is the most prevalent chronic liver disease in modern society. Both MetS and NAFLD are related to diet and lifestyle, and their treatment may be influenced by dietary pattern changes and the use of certain dietary supplements. This study aimed to review the role of food ingredients and supplements in the management of MetS and NAFLD specifically in human clinical trials. Moreover, bioactive compounds and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) may be used as strategies for preventing the onset of and treatment of metabolic disorders, such as MetS and NAFLD, improving the inflammatory state and other comorbidities, such as obesity, dyslipidemias, and cardiovascular diseases (CVD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila Silva Figueiredo
- Post Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070900, Brazil.
| | - Aline Carla Inada
- Post Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070900, Brazil.
| | - Melina Ribeiro Fernandes
- Post Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070900, Brazil.
| | - Daniela Granja Arakaki
- Post Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070900, Brazil.
| | - Karine de Cássia Freitas
- Post Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070900, Brazil.
| | - Rita de Cássia Avellaneda Guimarães
- Post Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070900, Brazil.
- Optics and Photonics Group, Institute of Physics, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, 549, Campo Grande 79070900, Brazil.
| | - Valter Aragão do Nascimento
- Post Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070900, Brazil.
- Optics and Photonics Group, Institute of Physics, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, 549, Campo Grande 79070900, Brazil.
| | - Priscila Aiko Hiane
- Post Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070900, Brazil.
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15
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The genetic backgrounds in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Clin J Gastroenterol 2018; 11:97-102. [PMID: 29492830 DOI: 10.1007/s12328-018-0841-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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16
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Gao X, Liu W, Yang L, Zhang X, Ma N, Wang L, Yan L, Tang L, Yang H, Liu D. Association between PNPLA3 gene polymorphisms and risk of hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma in Han population in China:a case-control study. Scand J Gastroenterol 2017; 52:1120-1127. [PMID: 28617615 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2017.1334088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Several recent studies showed that the genetic polymorphisms in the PNPLA3 region (rs738408, rs738409, rs2294918, rs2294919 and rs2281135) were with related to various kinds of liver diseases. We analyzed the five single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for major HBV outcomes in Han Chinese. METHODS A total of 2410 samples were involved and peripheral blood samples were collected in this study. The SNPs in the PNPLA3 region were genotyped by using Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry. RESULTS Our study indicated the clear relationship between the PNPLA3 rs2294918, rs2294919 and HBV-related HCC after control for the effects of sex, drinking and smoking. Health subjects with the PNPLA3 rs2294919 TC genotype would have a 0.605 (95% CI: 0.413, 0.886; p = .010) times lower odds of having HCC, and those with the rs2294918 AG genotype would have a 1.872 (95% CI: 1.256, 2.792; p = .002) times higher odds of having HCC, whereas the values of sex, age, drinking and smoking were fixed. In addition, CA haplotype of the haplotype block of rs738409 and rs2281135 was also associated with HBV-related HCC. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggested that PNPLA3 loci (rs2294918, rs2294919) were associated with HBV-related HCC in Han Chinese.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Gao
- a Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health , Hebei Medical University , Shi Jiazhuang , China
| | - Wenxuan Liu
- a Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health , Hebei Medical University , Shi Jiazhuang , China
| | - Lei Yang
- a Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health , Hebei Medical University , Shi Jiazhuang , China
| | - Xiaolin Zhang
- a Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health , Hebei Medical University , Shi Jiazhuang , China
| | - Ning Ma
- b Department of Social Medicine and Health Care Management, School of Public Health , Hebei Medical University , Shi Jiazhuang , China
| | - Liqin Wang
- a Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health , Hebei Medical University , Shi Jiazhuang , China
| | - Lina Yan
- a Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health , Hebei Medical University , Shi Jiazhuang , China
| | - Longmei Tang
- a Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health , Hebei Medical University , Shi Jiazhuang , China
| | - Haitao Yang
- a Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health , Hebei Medical University , Shi Jiazhuang , China
| | - Dianwu Liu
- a Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health , Hebei Medical University , Shi Jiazhuang , China
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17
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Zayed RA, Omran D, Zayed AA, Elmessery LO. Determinants of Infection Outcome in HCV-Genotype 4. Viral Immunol 2017; 30:560-567. [PMID: 28731371 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2017.0071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection represents a worldwide health problem and has been for long an attractive point of research due to diversity among different genotypes regarding unique geographical distribution and diverse treatment outcome. HCV is considered a major cause of chronic liver disease and cirrhosis, which leads to liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma requiring liver transplantation. Of the HCV genotypes identified, HCV genotype 4 (HCV-4) is the least studied. HCV-4 is responsible for ∼10% of HCV infections and is common in the Middle East and Africa; recently it is increasingly prevalent in European Countries. HCV-4 is a continuing epidemic in Egypt, having the highest prevalence of HCV worldwide. "Know your epidemic, know your response" concept necessitates better understanding of HCV-4 characteristics to control disease dissemination and progression, which compromises the life quality of chronic HCV-infected patients. In this review, we discuss the epidemiology, natural history, and treatment options for patients with HCV-4 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rania A Zayed
- 1 Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University , Giza, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Dalia Omran
- 2 Department of Endemic Medicine and Hepato-gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University , Giza, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abeer A Zayed
- 3 Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University , Giza, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Lobna O Elmessery
- 1 Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University , Giza, Cairo, Egypt
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18
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A Nutrigenomic Approach to Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18071534. [PMID: 28714900 PMCID: PMC5536022 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18071534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Revised: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Following the epidemics of obesity due to the consumption of high-calorie diet and sedentary lifestyle, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is now the leading cause of liver disease in Western countries. NAFLD is epidemiologically associated with metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance, and in susceptible individuals it may progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Genetic factors play a key role in NAFLD predisposition by interacting with nutritional and other environmental factors. To date, there is no drug therapy for the treatment of NAFLD, and the main clinical recommendation is lifestyle modification. In the last years, nutrigenomics is promoting an increased understanding of how nutrition affects the switch from health to disease by altering the expression of an individual’s genetic makeup. The present review tries to summarize the most recent data evidencing how the interactions between nutrients and genetic factors can influence NAFLD development. The final goal should be to develop tools to quantify these complex interactions. The definition of a “nutrigenomic risk score” for each individual may represent a novel therapeutic approach for the management of NAFLD patients.
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19
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Lee J, Kim Y, Friso S, Choi SW. Epigenetics in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Mol Aspects Med 2016; 54:78-88. [PMID: 27889327 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2016.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Revised: 11/18/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a common hepatic disorder ranging from simple steatosis through steatohepatitis to fibrosis and cirrhosis, is an emerging health concern. NAFLD is a pathologic condition characterized by the buildup of extra fat in liver cells that is not caused by alcohol consumption. Excess hepatic fat accumulation results from increased delivery of triglycerides (TG) to the liver or conversion of surplus carbohydrates to TG. Importantly, a subgroup of NAFLD results in hepatocellular injury and inflammation, which is referred to as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and may progress to irreversible cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). NAFLD shares, in part, the common pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome including obesity, hyperlipidemia, insulin resistance, mitochondrial damage, oxidative stress response, and the release of inflammatory cytokines. Epigenetics, an inheritable phenomenon that affects gene expression without altering the DNA sequence, provides a new perspective on the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Reversible epigenetic changes take place at the transcriptional level and provide a phenotypic connection between the host and environment. An accumulating body of evidence suggests the importance of epigenetic roles in NAFLD, which in turn can be identified as potential therapeutic targets and non-invasive biomarkers of NAFLD. It is anticipated that the epigenetic modifiers in NAFLD may provide novel molecular indicators that can determine not only the initial risk but also the disease progression and prognosis. In the present review, we update the roles of epigenetics as pathologic mechanisms, therapeutic targets and biomarkers in NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jooho Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University of Medicine and Science, Seongnam, 13496, South Korea
| | - Yuri Kim
- Department of Nutritional Science and Food Management, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, South Korea
| | - Simonetta Friso
- University of Verona School of Medicine, Verona, 37134, Italy
| | - Sang-Woon Choi
- Chaum Life Center, CHA University of Medicine and Science, Seoul, 06062, South Korea.
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20
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Moreira ST, Silva GF, de Moraes CFV, Grotto RMT, de Moura Campos Pardini MI, Bicalho MDG, Moliterno RA. Influence of cytokine and cytokine receptor gene polymorphisms on the degree of liver damage in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Meta Gene 2016; 9:90-6. [PMID: 27200267 PMCID: PMC4864212 DOI: 10.1016/j.mgene.2016.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2016] [Revised: 04/05/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis may be the result of repetitive injury to hepatocytes caused by HCV infection and the immune response to it. Cytokines regulate the inflammatory response to injury and modulate hepatic fibrogenesis. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) located in cytokine genes may influence the cytokine expression and secretion that may contribute to hepatic fibrogenesis in HCV infection. The aim of this study was to determine the genotype of 22 SNPs found in the genes of 13 cytokines/cytokine receptors to assess the influence of polymorphic variants on the stage of liver damage in Brazilian patients chronically infected with HCV genotype 1 only. 141 unrelated patients were grouped according to their stage of fibrosis: absence of fibrosis or patients in the initial stages of fibrosis (F0-F2, n = 84), patients with advanced stages of fibrosis or cirrhosis (F3-F4, n = 57), without cirrhosis (F0-F3, n = 103), and with cirrhosis (F4, n = 38). The comparison of frequencies in each sub-sample was performed by 2 × 2 contingency tables using the chi-square or Fisher's exact test. Stepwise logistic regression was also used to assess independent associations between cirrhosis or fibrosis with polymorphic variants. The TNFA-308G:A genotype conferred increased risk of fibrosis and cirrhosis. The TNFA-238G:G genotype was associated with protection from cirrhosis. The IL10-819C:T genotype conferred protection from fibrosis and the IL1B-511C:T genotype conferred increased risk of cirrhosis. Some of these genotypes showed results on the borderline of statistical significance in the bivariate analysis. We conclude that gene variants of cytokines/receptors may influence liver damage in patients chronically infected by HCV genotype 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Tatiana Moreira
- Human Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Parana Federal University of Technology, UTFPR, Santa Helena, Parana, Brazil
- Corresponding author at: Human Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Parana Federal University of Technology, UTFPR, Extension of Cherry Street, Santa Helena, Parana 85892-000, Brazil.Human Molecular Genetics LaboratoryParana Federal University of Technology, UTFPRExtension of Cherry StreetSanta HelenaParana85892-000Brazil
| | - Giovanni Faria Silva
- Gastroenterology Division, Internal Medicine Department, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University, UNESP, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Camila Fernanda Verdichio de Moraes
- Molecular Biology Laboratory of Blood Transfusion Center, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University, UNESP, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rejane Maria Tomasini Grotto
- Molecular Biology Laboratory of Blood Transfusion Center, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University, UNESP, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Inês de Moura Campos Pardini
- Molecular Biology Laboratory of Blood Transfusion Center, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University, UNESP, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria da Graça Bicalho
- Immunogenetics and Histocompatibility Laboratory, Genetics Department, Paraná Federal University, UFPR, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Alberto Moliterno
- Immunogenetics Laboratory, Department of Basic Health Sciences, Maringa State University, UEM, Maringa, PR, Brazil
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Zhou YJ, Zhang ZS, Nie YQ, Cao J, Cao CY, Li YY. Association of adiponectin gene variation with progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A 4-year follow-up survey. J Dig Dis 2015; 16:601-9. [PMID: 26334200 DOI: 10.1111/1751-2980.12288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2015] [Revised: 08/17/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the role of tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms (tagSNPs) in the adiponectin gene in the natural course of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). METHODS The participants were chosen from our previous survey containing 3543 individuals. Finally, a total of 696 participants who had been followed up for a median of 4 years were included. Each participant was administered with an interview, physical examination, blood tests and ultrasonic examination at both baseline and end-point. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism was applied to determine seven tagSNPs in the adiponectin gene, namely, rs182052, rs16861205, rs822396, rs7627128, rs1501299, rs2241767 and rs3774261. Ordinal logistic regression was used to screen risk factors of NAFLD progression as well as the susceptibility to the disease. Haplotypes analyses were performed to confirm the results. RESULTS After adjusting for age and gender, rs1501299 (G276T), rs2241767 (A45G) and rs3774261 (A712G) were found to be risk factors of both susceptibility (OR 5.040, 7.471 and 3.546, respectively) and progression (OR 3.83, 3.51 and 3.30, respectively) to NAFLD. Nevertheless, rs182052, rs16861205, rs822396 and rs7627128 had no impact on them. These findings were confirmed by haplotype analysis. CONCLUSION The tagSNPs rs2241767, rs1501299 and rs3774261 in the adiponectin gene are risk factors for the individuals' susceptibility to and progression of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Jian Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Digestive Diseases Center, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China
| | - Zong Sheng Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Digestive Diseases Center, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Qiang Nie
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Digestive Diseases Center, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China
| | - Jie Cao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Digestive Diseases Center, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China
| | - Chuang Yu Cao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Digestive Diseases Center, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Yuan Li
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Digestive Diseases Center, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong, China
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Sun C, Fan JG, Qiao L. Potential epigenetic mechanism in non-alcoholic Fatty liver disease. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:5161-79. [PMID: 25751727 PMCID: PMC4394469 DOI: 10.3390/ijms16035161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2014] [Revised: 02/14/2015] [Accepted: 02/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the liver. It ranges from simple steatosis to its more aggressive form, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which may develop into hepatic fibrosis, cirrhosis, or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) if it persists for a long time. However, the exact pathogenesis of NAFLD and the related metabolic disorders remain unclear. Epigenetic changes are stable alterations that take place at the transcriptional level without altering the underlying DNA sequence. DNA methylation, histone modifications and microRNA are among the most common forms of epigenetic modification. Epigenetic alterations are involved in the regulation of hepatic lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, mitochondrial damage, oxidative stress response, and the release of inflammatory cytokines, all of which have been implicated in the development and progression of NAFLD. This review summarizes the current advances in the potential epigenetic mechanism of NAFLD. Elucidation of epigenetic factors may facilitate the identification of early diagnositic biomarkers and development of therapeutic strategies for NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China.
| | - Jian-Gao Fan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China.
| | - Liang Qiao
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, the Westmead Clinical School, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia.
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23
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Gao S, Wang K. DNA methylation in liver diseases. World J Clin Infect Dis 2014; 4:41-49. [DOI: 10.5495/wjcid.v4.i4.41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2014] [Revised: 07/24/2014] [Accepted: 10/10/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, growing evidences show that the combination of epigenetic and genetic abnormalities contribute together to the development of liver diseases. DNA methylation is a very important epigenetic mechanism in human beings. It refers to addition of the methyl groups to DNA and mainly occurs at cytosine adjacent to guanine. DNA methylation is prevalent across human genome and is essential for the normal human development, while its dysfunction is associated with many human diseases. A deep understanding of DNA methylation may provide us deep insight into the origination of liver diseases. Also, it may provide us new tools for diseases diagnosis and prognosis prediction. This review summarized recent progress of DNA methylation study and provided an overview of DNA methylation and liver diseases. Meanwhile, the association between DNA methylation and liver diseases including hepatocellular carcinoma, liver fibrosis, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and liver failure were extensively discussed. Finally, we discussed the potential of DNA methylation therapeutics for liver diseases and the value of DNA methylation as biomarkers for liver diseases diagnosis and prognosis prediction. This review aimed to provide the emerging DNA methylation information about liver diseases. It might provide essential information for managing and care of these patients.
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Epigenetic mechanisms underlying the link between non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases and nutrition. Nutrients 2014; 6:3303-25. [PMID: 25195642 PMCID: PMC4145310 DOI: 10.3390/nu6083303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2014] [Revised: 08/06/2014] [Accepted: 08/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is defined as a pathologic accumulation of fat in the form of triglycerides (TG) in the liver (steatosis) that is not caused by alcohol. A subgroup of NAFLD patients shows liver cell injury and inflammation coupled with the excessive fat accumulation (steatohepatitis), which is referred to as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Patients with NASH may develop cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). NAFLD shares the key features of metabolic syndrome including obesity, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, and insulin resistance. The pathogenesis of NAFLD is multi-factorial, however the oxidative stress seems to plays a major role in the development and progression of the disease. The emerging field of epigenetics provides a new perspective on the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Epigenetics is an inheritable but reversible phenomenon that affects gene expression without altering the DNA sequence and refers to DNA methylation, histone modifications and microRNAs. Epigenetic manipulation through metabolic pathways such as one-carbon metabolism has been proposed as a promising approach to retard the progression of NAFLD. Investigating the epigenetic modifiers in NAFLD may also lead to the development of preventive or therapeutic strategies for NASH-associated complications.
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Zimmer V, Lammert F. Role of genetics in diagnosis and therapy of acquired liver disease. Mol Aspects Med 2014; 37:15-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2013.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2013] [Revised: 10/07/2013] [Accepted: 10/15/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas G. Mashek
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN
- Corresponding author: Douglas G. Mashek,
| | - Andrew S. Greenberg
- Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Tufts University, Boston, MA
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Vella S, Gnani D, Crudele A, Ceccarelli S, De Stefanis C, Gaspari S, Nobili V, Locatelli F, Marquez VE, Rota R, Alisi A. EZH2 down-regulation exacerbates lipid accumulation and inflammation in in vitro and in vivo NAFLD. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:24154-68. [PMID: 24351808 PMCID: PMC3876102 DOI: 10.3390/ijms141224154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2013] [Revised: 12/02/2013] [Accepted: 12/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most prevalent, chronic liver diseases, worldwide. It is a multifactorial disease caused by complex interactions between genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors. Recently, several microRNAs, some of which epigenetically regulated, have been found to be up- and/or down-regulated during NAFLD development. However, in NAFLD, the essential role of the Polycomb Group protein Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 (EZH2), which controls the epigenetic silencing of specific genes and/or microRNAs by trimethylating Lys27 on histone H3, still remains unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that the nuclear expression/activity of the EZH2 protein is down-regulated both in livers from NAFLD rats and in the free fatty acid-treated HepG2. The drop in EZH2 is inversely correlated with: (i) lipid accumulation; (ii) the expression of pro-inflammatory markers including TNF-α and TGF-β; and (iii) the expression of miR-200b and miR-155. Consistently, the pharmacological inhibition of EZH2 by 3-Deazaneplanocin A (DZNep) significantly reduces EZH2 expression/activity, while it increases lipid accumulation, inflammatory molecules and microRNAs. In conclusion, the results of this study suggest that the defective activity of EZH2 can enhance the NAFLD development by favouring steatosis and the de-repression of the inflammatory genes and that of specific microRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Vella
- Department of Oncohematology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome 00165, Italy; E-Mails: (S.V.); (S.G.); (F.L.)
| | - Daniela Gnani
- Liver Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome 00165, Italy; E-Mails: (D.G.); (A.C.); (S.C.); (C.D.S.)
| | - Annalisa Crudele
- Liver Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome 00165, Italy; E-Mails: (D.G.); (A.C.); (S.C.); (C.D.S.)
| | - Sara Ceccarelli
- Liver Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome 00165, Italy; E-Mails: (D.G.); (A.C.); (S.C.); (C.D.S.)
| | - Cristiano De Stefanis
- Liver Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome 00165, Italy; E-Mails: (D.G.); (A.C.); (S.C.); (C.D.S.)
| | - Stefania Gaspari
- Department of Oncohematology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome 00165, Italy; E-Mails: (S.V.); (S.G.); (F.L.)
| | - Valerio Nobili
- Hepato-Metabolic Disease Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome 00165, Italy; E-Mail:
| | - Franco Locatelli
- Department of Oncohematology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome 00165, Italy; E-Mails: (S.V.); (S.G.); (F.L.)
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of Pavia, Pavia 27100, Italy
| | - Victor E Marquez
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, CCR, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Frederick, MD 21702, USA; E-Mail:
| | - Rossella Rota
- Department of Oncohematology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome 00165, Italy; E-Mails: (S.V.); (S.G.); (F.L.)
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mails: (R.R.); (A.A.); Tel.: +39-06-6859-2648 (R.R.); +39-06-6859-2186 (A.A.); Fax: +39-06-6859-2904 (R.R. & A.A.)
| | - Anna Alisi
- Liver Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome 00165, Italy; E-Mails: (D.G.); (A.C.); (S.C.); (C.D.S.)
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mails: (R.R.); (A.A.); Tel.: +39-06-6859-2648 (R.R.); +39-06-6859-2186 (A.A.); Fax: +39-06-6859-2904 (R.R. & A.A.)
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28
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Identification of combined genetic determinants of liver stiffness within the SREBP1c-PNPLA3 pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:21153-66. [PMID: 24152445 PMCID: PMC3821663 DOI: 10.3390/ijms141021153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2013] [Revised: 10/15/2013] [Accepted: 10/16/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The common PNPLA3 (adiponutrin) variant, p.I148M, was identified as a genetic determinant of liver fibrosis. Since the expression of PNPLA3 is induced by sterol regulatory element binding protein 1c (SREBP1c), we investigate two common SREBP1c variants (rs2297508 and rs11868035) for their association with liver stiffness. In 899 individuals (aged 17–83 years, 547 males) with chronic liver diseases, hepatic fibrosis was non-invasively phenotyped by transient elastography (TE). The SREBP1c single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped using PCR-based assays with 5′-nuclease and fluorescence detection. The SREBP1c rs11868035 variant affected liver fibrosis significantly (p = 0.029): median TE levels were 7.2, 6.6 and 6.0 kPa in carriers of (TT) (n = 421), (CT) (n = 384) and (CC) (n = 87) genotypes, respectively. Overall, the SREBP1c SNP was associated with low TE levels (5.0–8.0 kPa). Carriers of both PNPLA3 and SREBP1c risk genotypes displayed significantly (p = 0.005) higher median liver stiffness, as compared to patients carrying none of these variants. The common SREBP1c variant may affect early stages of liver fibrosis. Our study supports a role of the SREBP1c-PNPLA3 pathway as a “disease module” that promotes hepatic fibrogenesis.
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Edwards L, Wanless IR. Mechanisms of liver involvement in systemic disease. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2013; 27:471-83. [PMID: 24090936 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2013.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2013] [Accepted: 08/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The liver may be injured during the course of many systemic diseases. The mechanisms of injury can be broadly divided into four pathways: vascular, toxic, immune, and hormonal. Vascular obstruction may be an early event but is also the late common pathway from all mechanisms. Despite the large number of possible initiating factors, the end results are few, including death of hepatocytes or cholangiocytes, leading to the stereotyped syndromes of acute liver failure, non-cirrhotic portal hypertension, or cirrhosis. This small number of outcomes is a reflection of the few anatomic patterns that can be generated by microvascular obstruction. Vascular obstruction may occur by thrombosis, inflammation, or congestive injury. The innate immunity pathway is activated by endotoxin and other agents, leading to inflammatory infiltration, release of cytokines and reactive oxygen species, and necrosis. The adaptive immune pathway involves the generation of antibodies and antigen-specific cell-mediated attack on hepatic cells. Hormonal effects are principally involved when overnutrition leads to hyperinsulinemia followed by hepatocellular necrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori Edwards
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Canada.
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Zhao Q, Qin CY, Zhao ZH, Fan YC, Wang K. Epigenetic modifications in hepatic stellate cells contribute to liver fibrosis. TOHOKU J EXP MED 2013; 229:35-43. [PMID: 23238615 DOI: 10.1620/tjem.229.35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis represents the final common pathway of virtually all types of chronic liver diseases, and it has been a major public health concern. Many genes have been demonstrated to be involved in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis, while the mechanisms underlying gene regulation still needs further research. On the other hand, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are quiescent cells in the perisinusoidal space in liver. HSCs facilitate hepatocytes interactions via releasing soluble inflammatory factors and producing extracellular matrix. HSCs can be activated in response to liver injury, and they differentiate to myofibroblasts, which greatly contribute to the fibrogenesis process. Various epigenetic procedures, including DNA methylation, histone modification and formation of particular chromatin structure, play crucial roles in the gene transcriptional expression in HSCs, regulating various vital processes. For instance, epigenetic modulation on the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) gene promoter accounts for HSC differentiation through interacting pathways. Aberrant expression of a series of histones and chemokines in activated HSCs can aggravate inflammation and oxidative stress, which in turn promotes differentiation of HSCs to myofibroblasts and enhances the whole fibrogenesis process. Degradation of extracellular matrix is also regulated through epigenetic modulation on matrix associated enzymes. Moreover, fibrosis-related epigenetic modifications in the parental generation may be inherited to their offspring. In this review, we firstly summarize the vital epigenetic modifications of fibrosis-related genes in HSCs, and highlight specific nucleic acid sequences and structures in gene promoters as important action sites, which may provide indicators for liver fibrosis diagnosis in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhao
- Department of Hepatology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shangdong, PR China.
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O’Hara SP, Tabibian JH, Splinter PL, LaRusso NF. The dynamic biliary epithelia: molecules, pathways, and disease. J Hepatol 2013; 58:575-82. [PMID: 23085249 PMCID: PMC3831345 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2012.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2012] [Revised: 10/01/2012] [Accepted: 10/10/2012] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Cholangiocytes, the cells lining bile ducts, are a heterogenous, highly dynamic population of epithelial cells. While these cells comprise a small fraction of the total cellular component of the liver, they perform the essential role of bile modification and transport of biliary and blood constituents. From a pathophysiological standpoint, cholangiocytes are the target of a diverse group of biliary disorders, collectively referred to as the cholangiopathies. To date, the cause of most cholangiopathies remains obscure. It is known, however, that cholangiocytes exist in an environment rich in potential mediators of cellular injury, express receptors that recognize potential injurious insults, and participate in portal tract repair processes following hepatic injury. As such, cholangiocytes may not be only a passive target, but are likely directly and actively involved in the pathogenesis of cholangiopathies. Here, we briefly summarize the characteristics of the reactive cholangiocyte and cholangiocyte responses to potentially injurious endogenous and exogenous molecules, and in addition, present emerging concepts in our understanding of the etiopathogenesis of several cholangiopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven P. O’Hara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and the Mayo Clinic Center for Cell Signaling in Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - James H. Tabibian
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and the Mayo Clinic Center for Cell Signaling in Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Patrick L. Splinter
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and the Mayo Clinic Center for Cell Signaling in Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Nicholas F. LaRusso
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and the Mayo Clinic Center for Cell Signaling in Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
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32
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Li YY. Genetic and epigenetic variants influencing the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. World J Gastroenterol 2012; 18:6546-51. [PMID: 23236228 PMCID: PMC3516206 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v18.i45.6546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2012] [Revised: 07/24/2012] [Accepted: 08/14/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is common worldwide. The importance of genetic and epigenetic changes in etiology and pathogenesis of NAFLD has been increasingly recognized. However, the exact mechanism is largely unknown. A large number of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) related to NAFLD has been documented by candidate gene studies (CGSs). Among these genes, peroxisome proliferatoractivated receptor-γ, adiponectin, leptin and tumor necrosis factor-α were frequently reported. Since the introduction of genome-wide association studies (GWASs), there have been significant advances in our understanding of genomic variations of NAFLD. Patatin-like phospholipase domain containing family member A3 (PNPLA3, SNP rs738409, encoding I148M), also termed adiponutrin, has caught most attention. The evidence that PNPLA3 is associated with increased hepatic fat levels and hepatic inflammation has been validated by a series of studies. Epigenetic modification refers to phenotypic changes caused by an adaptive mechanism unrelated to alteration of primary DNA sequences. Epigenetic regulation mainly includes microRNAs (miRs), DNA methylation, histone modifications and ubiquitination, among which miRs are studied most extensively. miRs are small natural single stranded RNA molecules regulating mRNA degradation or translation inhibition, subsequently altering protein expression of target genes. The miR-122, a highly abundant miR accounting for nearly 70% of all miRs in the liver, is significantly under-expressed in NAFLD subjects. Inhibition of miR-122 with an antisense oligonucleotide results in decreased mRNA expression of lipogenic genes and improvement of liver steatosis. The investigation into epigenetic involvement in NAFLD pathogenesis is just at the beginning and needs to be refined. This review summarizes the roles of genetics and epigenetics in the development of NAFLD. The progress made in this field may provide novel diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for NAFLD management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barkur S. Shastry
- Department of Biological Sciences; Oakland University; Rochester; MI ; 48309; USA
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