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Wang P, Li J, Ji M, Pan J, Cao Y, Kong Y, Zhu L, Li J, Li B, Chang L, Zhang Z. Vitamin D receptor attenuates carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis via downregulation of YAP. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 478:135480. [PMID: 39146589 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135480] [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: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins, which can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatosis liver diseases are common causes of liver fibrosis, sharing a similar pathogenesis with carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) exposure. This process involves the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) into myofibroblasts. However, the detailed mechanism and effective treatment strategies require further investigation. In this study, we uncovered a negative correlation between VDR expression and YAP within HSCs. Subsequently, we demonstrated that VDR exerted a downregulatory influence on YAP transcriptional activity in HSCs. Intriguingly, activation VDR effectively inhibited the culture induced activation of primary HSCs by suppressing the transcriptional activity of early YAP. Furthermore, in vivo results manifested that hepatic-specific deletion of YAP/TAZ ameliorates CCl4-induced liver fibrosis, and nullified the antifibrotic efficacy of VDR. Importantly, a YAP inhibitor rescued the exacerbation of liver fibrosis induced by hepatic-specific VDR knockout. Moreover, the combined pharmacological of VDR agonist and YAP inhibitor demonstrated a synergistic effect in diminishing CCl4-induced liver fibrosis, primary HSCs activation and hepatic injury in vivo. These effects were underpinned by their collective ability to inhibit HSC activation through AMPK activation, consequently curbing ATP synthesis and HSCs proliferation. In conclusion, our results not only revealed the inhibition of VDR on YAP-activated liver stellate cells but also identified a synergistic effect of VDR agonist and YAP inhibitor in an AMPKα-dependent manner, providing a practical foundation for integration of multi-targeted drugs in the therapy of CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Mintao Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity. The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, School of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jinjing Pan
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yanmei Cao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Infectious Diseases Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215007, China
| | - Yulin Kong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Infectious Diseases Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215007, China
| | - Li Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Infectious Diseases Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215007, China
| | - Jiafu Li
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Bingyan Li
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
| | - Lei Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity. The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, School of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China; Institute of Radiation Medicine, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Zengli Zhang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
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Zheng M, Li H, Sun L, Cui S, Zhang W, Gao Y, Gao R. Calcipotriol abrogates TGF-β1/pSmad3-mediated collagen 1 synthesis in pancreatic stellate cells by downregulating RUNX1. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2024; 491:117078. [PMID: 39214171 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2024.117078] [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: 07/30/2024] [Revised: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
RUNX1 with CBFβ functions as an activator or repressor of critical mediators regulating cellular function. The aims of this study were to clarify the role of RUNX1 on regulating TGF-β1-induced COL1 synthesis and the mechanism of calcipotriol (Cal) on antagonizing COL1 synthesis in PSCs. RT-qPCR and Western Blot for determining the mRNAs and proteins of RUNX1 and COL1A1/1A2 in rat PSC line (RP-2 cell). Luciferase activities driven by RUNX1 or COL1A1 or COL1A2 promoter, co-immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting for pSmad3/RUNX1 or CBFβ/RUNX1, and knockdown or upregulation of Smad3 and RUNX1 were used. RUNX1 production was regulated by TGF-β1/pSmad3 signaling pathway in RP-2 cells. RUNX1 formed a coactivator with CBFβ in TGF-β1-treated RP-2 cells to regulate the transcriptions of COL1A1/1A2 mRNAs under a fashion of pSmad3/RUNX1/CBFβ complex. However, Cal effectively abrogated the levels of COL1A1/1A2 transcripts in TGF-β1-treated RP-2 cells by downregulating RUNX1 production and hindering the formation of pSmad3/RUNX1/CBFβ complexes. This study suggests that RUNX1 may be a promising antifibrotic target for the treatment of chronic pancreatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meifang Zheng
- Department of Hepatic biliary Pancreatic Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hongyan Li
- Department of Hepatic biliary Pancreatic Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Hepatic biliary Pancreatic Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Shiyuan Cui
- Department of Hepatic biliary Pancreatic Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Hepatic biliary Pancreatic Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yanhang Gao
- Department of Hepatic biliary Pancreatic Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China; Department of Infectious Diseases, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
| | - Runping Gao
- Department of Hepatic biliary Pancreatic Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China; Department of Infectious Diseases, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
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3
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Fiorucci S, Urbani G, Di Giorgio C, Biagioli M, Distrutti E. Current Landscape and Evolving Therapies for Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Cells 2024; 13:1580. [PMID: 39329760 PMCID: PMC11429758 DOI: 10.3390/cells13181580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2024] [Revised: 09/18/2024] [Accepted: 09/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic autoimmune liver disorder characterized by progressive cholestatic that, if untreated, can progress to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and liver decompensation requiring liver transplant. Although the pathogenesis of the disease is multifactorial, there is a consensus that individuals with a genetic predisposition develop the disease in the presence of specific environmental triggers. A dysbiosis of intestinal microbiota is increasingly considered among the potential pathogenic factors. Cholangiocytes, the epithelial cells lining the bile ducts, are the main target of a dysregulated immune response, and cholangiocytes senescence has been recognized as a driving mechanism, leading to impaired bile duct function, in disease progression. Bile acids are also recognized as playing an important role, both in disease development and therapy. Thus, while bile acid-based therapies, specifically ursodeoxycholic acid and obeticholic acid, have been the cornerstone of therapy in PBC, novel therapeutic approaches have been developed in recent years. In this review, we will examine published and ongoing clinical trials in PBC, including the recently approved peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) agonist, elafibranor and seladelpar. These novel second-line therapies are expected to improve therapy in PBC and the development of personalized approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Fiorucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (G.U.); (C.D.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Ginevra Urbani
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (G.U.); (C.D.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Cristina Di Giorgio
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (G.U.); (C.D.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Michele Biagioli
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (G.U.); (C.D.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Eleonora Distrutti
- SC di Gastroenterologia ed Epatologia, Azienda Ospedaliera di Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy;
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4
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Wang P, Pan J, Gong S, Zhang Z, Li B. Yes-associated protein inhibition ameliorates carbon tetrachloride-induced acute liver injury in mice by reducing VDR. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 399:111139. [PMID: 38992766 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.111139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) has a wide range of toxic effects, especially causing acute liver injury (ALI), in which rapid compensation for hepatocyte loss ensures liver survival, but proliferation of surviving hepatocytes (known as endoreplication) may imply impaired residual function. Yes-associated protein (YAP) drives hepatocytes to undergo endoreplication and ploidy, the underlying mechanisms of which remain a mystery. In the present study, we uncover during CCl4-mediated ALI accompanied by increased hepatocytes proliferation and YAP activation. Notably, bioinformatics analyses elucidate that hepatic-specific deletion of YAP substantially ameliorated CCl4-induced hepatic proliferation, effectively decreased the vitamin D receptor (VDR) expression. Additionally, a mouse model of acute liver injury substantiated that inhibition of YAP could suppress hepatocytes proliferation via VDR. Furthermore, we also disclosed that the VDR agonist nullifies CCl4-induced ALI alleviated by the YAP inhibitor in vivo. Importantly, hepatocytes were isolated from mice, and it was spotlighted that the anti-proliferative impact of the YAP inhibitor was abolished by the activation of VDR within these hepatocytes. Similarly, primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were isolated and it was manifested that YAP inhibitor suppressed HSC activation via VDR during acute liver injury. Our findings further elucidate the YAP's role in ALI and may provide new avenues for protection against CCl4-drived acute liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Jinjing Pan
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Sheyang County People's Hospital, Yancheng, 224300, China
| | - Shiyi Gong
- Deparment of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Zengli Zhang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| | - Bingyan Li
- Deparment of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
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Feng R, Cheng S, Zhang F, Xu K, Liu L, Yang M, Xu P. Evaluating the association between lifestyle factors and heel bone mineral density in different inflammatory states. Heliyon 2024; 10:e33435. [PMID: 39040264 PMCID: PMC11261795 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e33435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Rationale It is unclear whether lifestyle factors affect bone mineral density (BMD) during different inflammatory states. Objective This study investigated the effects of coffee consumption, vitamin D (VD) intake, smoking, and alcohol consumption on heel BMD in adults with different inflammatory states. Methods The phenotypic data from 249,825 participants were analyzed using the UK Biobank cohort. The inflammatory status was evaluated using C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and the systemic immune-inflammation index. Linear regression analysis was used to examine the association between coffee consumption, VD, smoking, alcohol consumption, and heel BMD in adults with different inflammatory states. Linear regression models were used to analyze the interaction between inflammation and the four lifestyle factors with respect to their influence on heel BMD in adults. Results Our findings revealed that VD was positively associated with adult heel BMD (β = 2.41 × 10-2, SE = 5.14 × 10-3, P = 2.72 × 10-6), while alcohol consumption and smoking were negatively associated with adult heel BMD. Coffee was negatively associated with adult heel BMD in low inflammatory states (β = -1.27 × 10-2, SE = 4.79 × 10-3, P = 8.00 × 10-3), while there was no association between coffee and adult heel BMD in high inflammatory states. Overall, it was found that these four lifestyle factors interacted negatively with inflammatory states. Conclusion Our study suggests that VD is positively associated with adult heel BMD and that alcohol consumption and smoking are negatively associated with adult heel BMD. Coffee may reverse the adverse effects of inflammation on BMD when the patient is in a highly inflammatory state, thus acting as a protective agent against heel BMD in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoyang Feng
- Department of Joint Surgery, HongHui Hospital, Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, Shanxi, 710054, China
| | - Shiqiang Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases of National Health and Family Planning Commission, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases of National Health and Family Planning Commission, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Ke Xu
- Department of Joint Surgery, HongHui Hospital, Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, Shanxi, 710054, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Department of Joint Surgery, HongHui Hospital, Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, Shanxi, 710054, China
| | - Mingyi Yang
- Department of Joint Surgery, HongHui Hospital, Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, Shanxi, 710054, China
| | - Peng Xu
- Department of Joint Surgery, HongHui Hospital, Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, Shanxi, 710054, China
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6
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Elangovan H, Stokes RA, Keane J, Chahal S, Samer C, Agoncillo M, Yu J, Chen J, Downes M, Evans RM, Liddle C, Gunton JE. Vitamin D Receptor Regulates Liver Regeneration After Partial Hepatectomy in Male Mice. Endocrinology 2024; 165:bqae077. [PMID: 38963813 PMCID: PMC11250209 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqae077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Vitamin D signals through the vitamin D receptor (VDR) to induce its end-organ effects. Hepatic stellate cells control development of liver fibrosis in response to stressors and vitamin D signaling decreases fibrogenesis. VDR expression in hepatocytes is low in healthy liver, and the role of VDR in hepatocyte proliferation is unclear. Hepatocyte-VDR null mice (hVDR) were used to assess the role of VDR and vitamin D signaling in hepatic regeneration. hVDR mice have impaired liver regeneration and impaired hepatocyte proliferation associated with significant differential changes in bile salts. Notably, mice lacking hepatocyte VDR had significant increases in expression of conjugated bile acids after partial hepatectomy, consistent with failure to normalize hepatic function by the 14-day time point tested. Real-time PCR of hVDR and control livers showed significant changes in expression of cell-cycle genes including cyclins D1 and E1 and cyclin-dependent kinase 2. Gene expression profiling of hepatocytes treated with vitamin D or control showed regulation of groups of genes involved in liver proliferation, hepatitis, liver hyperplasia/hyperproliferation, and liver necrosis/cell death. Together, these studies demonstrate an important functional role for VDR in hepatocytes during liver regeneration. Combined with the known profibrotic effects of impaired VDR signaling in stellate cells, the studies provide a mechanism whereby vitamin D deficiency would both reduce hepatocyte proliferation and permit fibrosis, leading to significant liver compromise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harendran Elangovan
- The Centre for Diabetes, Obesity and Endocrinology Research (CDOER), The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Rebecca A Stokes
- The Centre for Diabetes, Obesity and Endocrinology Research (CDOER), The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Jeremy Keane
- The Centre for Diabetes, Obesity and Endocrinology Research (CDOER), The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Sarinder Chahal
- The Centre for Diabetes, Obesity and Endocrinology Research (CDOER), The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Caroline Samer
- Pharmacogenomics and Personalized Therapy Unit, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva 1205, Switzerland
| | - Miguel Agoncillo
- The Centre for Diabetes, Obesity and Endocrinology Research (CDOER), The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Josephine Yu
- The Centre for Diabetes, Obesity and Endocrinology Research (CDOER), The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Jennifer Chen
- The Centre for Diabetes, Obesity and Endocrinology Research (CDOER), The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Michael Downes
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037-1002, USA
| | - Ronald M Evans
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037-1002, USA
| | - Christopher Liddle
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Jenny E Gunton
- The Centre for Diabetes, Obesity and Endocrinology Research (CDOER), The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
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7
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Fiorucci S, Marchianò S, Urbani G, Di Giorgio C, Distrutti E, Zampella A, Biagioli M. Immunology of bile acids regulated receptors. Prog Lipid Res 2024; 95:101291. [PMID: 39122016 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2024.101291] [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: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Bile acids are steroids formed at the interface of host metabolism and intestinal microbiota. While primary bile acids are generated in the liver from cholesterol metabolism, secondary bile acids represent the products of microbial enzymes. Close to 100 different enzymatic modifications of bile acids structures occur in the human intestine and clinically guided metagenomic and metabolomic analyses have led to the identification of an extraordinary number of novel metabolites. These chemical mediators make an essential contribution to the composition and function of the postbiota, participating to the bidirectional communications of the intestinal microbiota with the host and contributing to the architecture of intestinal-liver and -brain and -endocrine axes. Bile acids exert their function by binding to a group of cell membrane and nuclear receptors collectively known as bile acid-regulated receptors (BARRs), expressed in monocytes, tissue-resident macrophages, CD4+ T effector cells, including Th17, T regulatory cells, dendritic cells and type 3 of intestinal lymphoid cells and NKT cells, highlighting their role in immune regulation. In this review we report on how bile acids and their metabolitesmodulate the immune system in inflammations and cancers and could be exploiting for developing novel therapeutic approaches in these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Fiorucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy.
| | - Silvia Marchianò
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Ginevra Urbani
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | | | - Eleonora Distrutti
- SC di Gastroenterologia ed Epatologia, Azienda Ospedaliera di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Angela Zampella
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Michele Biagioli
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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8
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Patrick R, Janbandhu V, Tallapragada V, Tan SSM, McKinna EE, Contreras O, Ghazanfar S, Humphreys DT, Murray NJ, Tran YTH, Hume RD, Chong JJH, Harvey RP. Integration mapping of cardiac fibroblast single-cell transcriptomes elucidates cellular principles of fibrosis in diverse pathologies. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadk8501. [PMID: 38905342 PMCID: PMC11192082 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adk8501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Single-cell technology has allowed researchers to probe tissue complexity and dynamics at unprecedented depth in health and disease. However, the generation of high-dimensionality single-cell atlases and virtual three-dimensional tissues requires integrated reference maps that harmonize disparate experimental designs, analytical pipelines, and taxonomies. Here, we present a comprehensive single-cell transcriptome integration map of cardiac fibrosis, which underpins pathophysiology in most cardiovascular diseases. Our findings reveal similarity between cardiac fibroblast (CF) identities and dynamics in ischemic versus pressure overload models of cardiomyopathy. We also describe timelines for commitment of activated CFs to proliferation and myofibrogenesis, profibrotic and antifibrotic polarization of myofibroblasts and matrifibrocytes, and CF conservation across mouse and human healthy and diseased hearts. These insights have the potential to inform knowledge-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph Patrick
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Vaibhao Janbandhu
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | | | - Shannon S. M. Tan
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Emily E. McKinna
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Osvaldo Contreras
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Shila Ghazanfar
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
- Sydney Precision Data Science Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - David T. Humphreys
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Nicholas J. Murray
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Yen T. H. Tran
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Robert D. Hume
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- School of Medical Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
- Centre for Heart Failure and Diseases of the Aorta, The Baird Institute, Sydney, NSW 2042, Australia
| | - James J. H. Chong
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Department of Cardiology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Richard P. Harvey
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Science, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
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9
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Powała A, Żołek T, Brown G, Kutner A. Structure and the Anticancer Activity of Vitamin D Receptor Agonists. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6624. [PMID: 38928329 PMCID: PMC11203455 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Vitamin D is a group of seco-steroidal fat-soluble compounds. The two basic forms, vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), do not have biological activity. They are converted in the body by a two-step enzymatic hydroxylation into biologically active forms, 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D2 [ercalcitriol, 1,25(OH)2D2] and 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [calcitriol, 1,25(OH)2D3], which act as classical steroid hormones. 1,25(OH)2D3 exerts most of its physiological functions by binding to the nuclear vitamin D receptor (VDR), which is present in most body tissues to provide support to a broad range of physiological processes. Vitamin D-liganded VDR controls the expression of many genes. High levels of 1,25(OH)2D3 cause an increase in calcium in the blood, which can lead to harmful hypercalcemia. Several analogs of 1,25(OH)2D3 and 1,25(OH)2D2 have been designed and synthesized with the aim of developing compounds that have a specific therapeutic function, for example, with potent anticancer activity and a reduced toxic calcemic effect. Particular structural modifications to vitamin D analogs have led to increased anticancer activity and reduced calcemic action with the prospect of extending work to provide future innovative therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Powała
- Department of Organic and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 1 Stefana Banacha, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Teresa Żołek
- Department of Organic and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 1 Stefana Banacha, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Geoffrey Brown
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK;
| | - Andrzej Kutner
- Department of Drug Chemistry Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 1 Stefana Banacha, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
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10
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Eldredge JA, Oliver MR, Ooi CY. Cystic fibrosis liver disease in the new era of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulators. Paediatr Respir Rev 2024; 50:54-61. [PMID: 38281822 DOI: 10.1016/j.prrv.2023.12.005] [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: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis liver disease (CFLD) is characterised by a wide heterogenity of manifestations and severity. It represents a major cause of morbidity in people with cystic fibrosis (PwCF), which will be of increasing relevance as survival increases in the new era of cystic fibrosis care. No medical therapy currently available has evidence to treat or prevent progression of liver disease. Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) modulators may be transformative on pulmonary, nutritional and quality of life, but direct effect on long term liver disease outcomes is not yet established. Drug-associated hepatic adverse effects may be common, and clinician familiarity with drug-monitoring recommendations is essential. Longitudinal studies are required to understand the effect of CFTR modulators on the incidence and natural history of CFLD, including with early treatment initiation, in established advanced liver disease, and post liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Eldredge
- Department of Gastroenterology and Clinical Nutrition, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Mark R Oliver
- Department of Gastroenterology and Clinical Nutrition, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Chee Y Ooi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sydney Children's Hospital Randwick, NSW, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, UNSW Medicine & Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
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11
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Guo E, Yuan H, Li R, Yang J, Liu S, Liu A, Jiang X. Calcitriol ameliorates the progression of hepatic fibrosis through autophagy-related gene 16-like 1-mediated autophagy. Am J Med Sci 2024; 367:382-396. [PMID: 38431191 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjms.2024.02.010] [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: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Calcitriol has the potential to counteract fibrotic diseases beyond its classical action of maintaining calcium and bone metabolism; however, its functional mechanism remains unknown. Autophagy-related gene 16-like 1 (Atg16l1) is one of the genes related to autophagy and is involved in protecting against fibrotic diseases. The present study aimed to explore the contribution of autophagy to the inhibition of calcitriol-induced hepatic fibrosis, as well as its potential molecular mechanism. METHODS Carbon tetrachloride (Ccl4)-treated mice were established as hepatic fibrosis models and received calcitriol treatment for 6 weeks. Quantification of Sirius red staining and measurement of key fibrotic markers (collagen-1 and α-SMA) was performed to detect hepatic fibrosis. Chloroquine (CQ) treatment was used to observe autophagic flux, and 3-methyladenine (3-MA) was used to inhibit autophagy. Furthermore, the effects of calcitriol on transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1)-stimulated primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were detected. Downregulation of Atg16l1 or vitamin D receptor (VDR) in LX-2 cells was used to explore the mechanism of action of calcitriol in fibrosis and autophagy. Additionally, the electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) was used to investigate the interactions between VDR and ATG16L1. RESULTS Calcitriol increased the expression of VDR and ATG16L1, enhanced autophagy and attenuated hepatic fibrosis. 3-MA treatment and VDR silencing abolished the protective effects of calcitriol against fibrosis. Calcitriol-induced anti-fibrosis effects were blocked by ATG16L1 suppression. Furthermore, VDR bound to the ATG16L1 promoter and downregulation of VDR decreased the expression of ATG16L1 in LX-2 cells. CONCLUSION Calcitriol mitigates hepatic fibrosis partly through ATG16L1-mediated autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enshuang Guo
- Experimental Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Department of Infectious Diseases, General Hospital of Central Theater Command of PLA, Wuhan 430070, China; Department of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Huixing Yuan
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Renlong Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, General Hospital of Central Theater Command of PLA, Wuhan 430070, China; Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jiankun Yang
- Experimental Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Shenpei Liu
- Experimental Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Anding Liu
- Experimental Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Xiaojing Jiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, General Hospital of Central Theater Command of PLA, Wuhan 430070, China; Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
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12
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Liang R, Shi W, Li T, Gao H, Wan T, Li B, Zhou X. Effect of exogenous calcitriol on myopia development and axial length in guinea pigs with form deprivation myopia. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11382. [PMID: 38762668 PMCID: PMC11102427 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62131-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The annual increase in myopia prevalence poses a significant economic and health challenge. Our study investigated the effect of calcitriol role in myopia by inducing the condition in guinea pigs through form deprivation for four weeks. Untargeted metabolomics methods were used to analyze the differences in metabolites in the vitreous body, and the expression of vitamin D receptor (VDR) in the retina was detected. Following form deprivation, the guinea pigs received intraperitoneal injections of calcitriol at different concentrations. We assessed myopia progression using diopter measurements and biometric analysis after four weeks. Results indicated that form deprivation led to a pronounced shift towards myopia, characterized by reduced choroidal and scleral thickness, disorganized collagen fibers, and decreased scleral collagen fiber diameter. Notably, a reduction in calcitriol expression in vitreous body, diminished vitamin D and calcitriol levels in the blood, and decreased VDR protein expression in retinal tissues were observed in myopic guinea pigs. Calcitriol administration effectively slowed myopia progression, preserved choroidal and scleral thickness, and prevented the reduction of scleral collagen fiber diameter. Our findings highlight a significant decrease in calcitriol and VDR expressions in myopic guinea pigs and demonstrate that exogenous calcitriol supplementation can halt myopia development, enhancing choroidal and scleral thickness and scleral collagen fiber diameter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongbin Liang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jinshan Hospital of Fudan University, No. 1508 Longhang Road, Jinshan District, Shanghai, 201500, China
| | - Wenqing Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jinshan Hospital of Fudan University, No. 1508 Longhang Road, Jinshan District, Shanghai, 201500, China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jinshan Hospital of Fudan University, No. 1508 Longhang Road, Jinshan District, Shanghai, 201500, China
| | - Hui Gao
- Department of Anatomy & Embryology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ting Wan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jinshan Hospital of Fudan University, No. 1508 Longhang Road, Jinshan District, Shanghai, 201500, China
| | - Bing Li
- Department of Central Laboratory, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaodong Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jinshan Hospital of Fudan University, No. 1508 Longhang Road, Jinshan District, Shanghai, 201500, China.
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13
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Giampazolias E, da Costa MP, Lam KC, Lim KHJ, Cardoso A, Piot C, Chakravarty P, Blasche S, Patel S, Biram A, Castro-Dopico T, Buck MD, Rodrigues RR, Poulsen GJ, Palma-Duran SA, Rogers NC, Koufaki MA, Minutti CM, Wang P, Vdovin A, Frederico B, Childs E, Lee S, Simpson B, Iseppon A, Omenetti S, Kelly G, Goldstone R, Nye E, Suárez-Bonnet A, Priestnall SL, MacRae JI, Zelenay S, Patil KR, Litchfield K, Lee JC, Jess T, Goldszmid RS, Sousa CRE. Vitamin D regulates microbiome-dependent cancer immunity. Science 2024; 384:428-437. [PMID: 38662827 PMCID: PMC7615937 DOI: 10.1126/science.adh7954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
A role for vitamin D in immune modulation and in cancer has been suggested. In this work, we report that mice with increased availability of vitamin D display greater immune-dependent resistance to transplantable cancers and augmented responses to checkpoint blockade immunotherapies. Similarly, in humans, vitamin D-induced genes correlate with improved responses to immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment as well as with immunity to cancer and increased overall survival. In mice, resistance is attributable to the activity of vitamin D on intestinal epithelial cells, which alters microbiome composition in favor of Bacteroides fragilis, which positively regulates cancer immunity. Our findings indicate a previously unappreciated connection between vitamin D, microbial commensal communities, and immune responses to cancer. Collectively, they highlight vitamin D levels as a potential determinant of cancer immunity and immunotherapy success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelos Giampazolias
- Immunobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
- Cancer Immunosurveillance Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UK
| | | | - Khiem C. Lam
- Inflammatory Cell Dynamics Section, Laboratory of Integrative Cancer Immunology (LICI), Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), 37 Convent Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892-0001, USA
| | - Kok Haw Jonathan Lim
- Immunobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Ana Cardoso
- Immunobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Cécile Piot
- Immunobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Probir Chakravarty
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics STP, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Sonja Blasche
- MRC Toxicology Unit, University of Cambridge, Gleeson Building, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QR, UK
| | - Swara Patel
- Cancer Immunosurveillance Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UK
| | - Adi Biram
- Immunobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Tomas Castro-Dopico
- Immunobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Michael D. Buck
- Immunobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Richard R. Rodrigues
- Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
- Microbiome and Genetics Core, LICI, CCR, NCI, 37 Convent Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892-0001, USA
| | - Gry Juul Poulsen
- National Center of Excellence for Molecular Prediction of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, PREDICT, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Aalborg University Hospital, A.C. Meyers Vænge 15, A DK-2450 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Neil C. Rogers
- Immunobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Maria A. Koufaki
- Cancer Inflammation and Immunity Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UK
| | - Carlos M. Minutti
- Immunobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Pengbo Wang
- Cancer Immunosurveillance Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UK
| | - Alexander Vdovin
- Cancer Immunosurveillance Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UK
| | - Bruno Frederico
- Immunobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Eleanor Childs
- Immunobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Sonia Lee
- Immunobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Ben Simpson
- Tumor ImmunoGenomics and Immunosurveillance (TIGI) Lab, UCL Cancer Institute, 72 Huntley St, London WC1E 6DD, UK
| | - Andrea Iseppon
- AhRimmunity Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Sara Omenetti
- AhRimmunity Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Gavin Kelly
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics STP, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Robert Goldstone
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics STP, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Emma Nye
- Experimental Histopathology, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Alejandro Suárez-Bonnet
- Experimental Histopathology, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Simon L. Priestnall
- Experimental Histopathology, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK
| | - James I. MacRae
- Metabolomics STP, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Santiago Zelenay
- Cancer Inflammation and Immunity Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UK
| | - Kiran Raosaheb Patil
- MRC Toxicology Unit, University of Cambridge, Gleeson Building, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QR, UK
| | - Kevin Litchfield
- Tumor ImmunoGenomics and Immunosurveillance (TIGI) Lab, UCL Cancer Institute, 72 Huntley St, London WC1E 6DD, UK
| | - James C. Lee
- Genetic Mechanisms of Disease Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
- Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, Royal Free Hospital, University College London, London, NW3 2QG, UK
| | - Tine Jess
- National Center of Excellence for Molecular Prediction of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, PREDICT, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Aalborg University Hospital, A.C. Meyers Vænge 15, A DK-2450 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Romina S. Goldszmid
- Inflammatory Cell Dynamics Section, Laboratory of Integrative Cancer Immunology (LICI), Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), 37 Convent Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892-0001, USA
| | - Caetano Reis e Sousa
- Immunobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
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14
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Yang A, Chen Y, Gao Y, Lv Q, Li Y, Li F, Yu R, Han Z, Dai S, Zhu J, Yang C, Zhan S, Sun L, Zhou JC. Vitamin D 3 exacerbates steatosis while calcipotriol inhibits inflammation in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in Sod1 knockout mice: a comparative study of two forms of vitamin D. Food Funct 2024; 15:4614-4626. [PMID: 38590249 DOI: 10.1039/d4fo00215f] [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: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The role of vitamin D (VD) in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains controversial, possibly due to the differential effects of various forms of VD. In our study, Sod1 gene knockout (SKO) mice were utilized as lean NAFLD models, which were administered 15 000 IU VD3 per kg diet, or intraperitoneally injected with the active VD analog calcipotriol for 12 weeks. We found that VD3 exacerbated hepatic steatosis in SKO mice, with an increase in the levels of Cd36, Fatp2, Dgat2, and CEBPA. However, calcipotriol exerted no significant effect on hepatic steatosis. Calcipotriol inhibited the expression of Il-1a, Il-1b, Il-6, Adgre1, and TNF, with a reduction of NFκB phosphorylation in SKO mice. No effect was observed by either VD3 or calcipotriol on hepatocyte injury and hepatic fibrosis. Co-immunofluorescence stains of CD68, a liver macrophage marker, and VDR showed that calcipotriol reduced CD68 positive cells, and increased the colocalization of VDR with CD68. However, VD3 elevated hepatocyte VDR expression, with no substantial effect on the colocalization of VDR with CD68. Finally, we found that VD3 increased the levels of serum 25(OH)D3 and 24,25(OH)2D3, whereas calcipotriol decreased both. Both VD3 and calcipotriol did not disturb serum calcium and phosphate levels. In summary, our study found that VD3 accentuated hepatic steatosis, while calcipotriol diminished inflammation levels in SKO mice, and the difference might stem from their distinct cellular selectivity in activating VDR. This study provides a reference for the application of VD in the treatment of lean NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aolin Yang
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yanmei Chen
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China.
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510440, China
| | - Yizhen Gao
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China.
| | - Qingqing Lv
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yao Li
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China.
| | - Fengna Li
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China.
| | - Ruirui Yu
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China.
| | - Ziyu Han
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China.
| | - Shimiao Dai
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China.
| | - Junying Zhu
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China.
| | - Chenggang Yang
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China.
| | - Shi Zhan
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China.
| | - Litao Sun
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China.
| | - Ji-Chang Zhou
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China.
- Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Nutrition Translation, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
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15
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Pan Z, El Sharkway R, Bayoumi A, Metwally M, Gloss BS, Brink R, Lu DB, Liddle C, Alqahtani SA, Yu J, O'Connell PJ, George J, Eslam M. Inhibition of MERTK reduces organ fibrosis in mouse models of fibrotic disease. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadj0133. [PMID: 38569018 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adj0133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) drives fibrosis and disease progression in a number of chronic disorders, but targeting this ubiquitously expressed cytokine may not yield a viable and safe antifibrotic therapy. Here, we sought to identify alternative ways to inhibit TGFβ signaling using human hepatic stellate cells and macrophages from humans and mice in vitro, as well as mouse models of liver, kidney, and lung fibrosis. We identified Mer tyrosine kinase (MERTK) as a TGFβ-inducible effector of fibrosis that was up-regulated during fibrosis in multiple organs in three mouse models. We confirmed these findings in liver biopsy samples from patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). MERTK also induced TGFβ expression and drove TGFβ signaling resulting in a positive feedback loop that promoted fibrosis in cultured cells. MERTK regulated both canonical and noncanonical TGFβ signaling in both mouse and human cells in vitro. MERTK increased transcription of genes regulating fibrosis by modulating chromatin accessibility and RNA polymerase II activity. In each of the three mouse models, disrupting the fibrosis-promoting signaling loop by reducing MERTK expression reduced organ fibrosis. Pharmacological inhibition of MERTK reduced fibrosis in these mouse models either when initiated immediately after injury or when initiated after fibrosis was established. Together, these data suggest that MERTK plays a role in modulating organ fibrosis and may be a potential target for treating fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyan Pan
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Rasha El Sharkway
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Ali Bayoumi
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Mayada Metwally
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Brian S Gloss
- Westmead Research Hub, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Robert Brink
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
- St. Vincent's Healthcare Clinical Campus, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David Bo Lu
- Centre for Transplant and Renal Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Christopher Liddle
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Saleh A Alqahtani
- Organ Transplant Centre of Excellence, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jun Yu
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, CUHK-Shenzhen Research Institute, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Philip J O'Connell
- Centre for Transplant and Renal Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Mohammed Eslam
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
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Anton-Păduraru DT, Azoicăi AN, Trofin F, Murgu AM, Mîndru DE, Bocec AS, Halițchi COI, Zota GR, Păduraru D, Nastase EV. Diagnosis, Management, and Prognosis of Cystic Fibrosis-Related Liver Disease in Children. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:538. [PMID: 38473009 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14050538] [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: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multifaceted disorder predominantly investigated for its pulmonary manifestations, yet patients with CF also exhibit a spectrum of extrapulmonary manifestations, notably those involving the hepatobiliary system. The latter constitutes the third leading cause of morbidity and mortality in individuals with CF. Cystic fibrosis-related liver disease (CFLD), with an escalating prevalence, manifests diverse clinical presentations ranging from hepatomegaly to cirrhosis and hepatopulmonary syndrome. Consequently, early detection and appropriate management are imperative for sustaining the health and influencing the quality of life of CF patients afflicted with CFLD. This review aims to consolidate existing knowledge by providing a comprehensive overview of hepatobiliary manifestations associated with CF. It delineates the clinical hepatobiliary manifestations, diagnostic methodologies, incorporating minimally invasive markers, and therapeutic approaches, encompassing the impact of novel CFTR modulators on CFLD. Given the exigency of early diagnosis and the intricate management of CFLD, a multidisciplinary team approach is essential to optimize care and enhance the quality of life for this subset of patients. In conclusion, recognizing CF as more than solely a pulmonary ailment, the authors underscore the imperative for further clinical investigations to establish a more robust evidence base for CFLD management within the continuum of this chronic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana-Teodora Anton-Păduraru
- Department of Mother and Child Medicine, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iaṣi, Romania
- "Sf. Maria" Children Emergency Hospital, 700309 Iasi, Romania
| | - Alice Nicoleta Azoicăi
- Department of Mother and Child Medicine, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iaṣi, Romania
- "Sf. Maria" Children Emergency Hospital, 700309 Iasi, Romania
| | - Felicia Trofin
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Interdisciplinarity-Microbiology, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iaṣi, Romania
| | - Alina Mariela Murgu
- Department of Mother and Child Medicine, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iaṣi, Romania
- "Sf. Maria" Children Emergency Hospital, 700309 Iasi, Romania
| | - Dana Elena Mîndru
- Department of Mother and Child Medicine, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iaṣi, Romania
- "Sf. Maria" Children Emergency Hospital, 700309 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ana Simona Bocec
- Department of Mother and Child Medicine, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iaṣi, Romania
| | | | - Gabriela Rusu Zota
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Algesiology, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Diana Păduraru
- "Dr. C. I. Parhon" Clinical Hospital, 700503 Iaṣi, Romania
| | - Eduard Vasile Nastase
- Department of Internal Medicine II-Infectious Diseases, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Clinical Hospital of Infectious Diseases "Sf. Parascheva", 700116 Iasi, Romania
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17
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Sinha RA. Targeting nuclear receptors for NASH/MASH: From bench to bedside. LIVER RESEARCH 2024; 8:34-45. [PMID: 38544909 PMCID: PMC7615772 DOI: 10.1016/j.livres.2024.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
The onset of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) represents a tipping point leading to liver injury and subsequent hepatic complications in the natural progression of what is now termed metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver diseases (MASLD), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). With no pharmacological treatment currently available for MASH/NASH, the race is on to develop drugs targeting multiple facets of hepatic metabolism, inflammation, and pro-fibrotic events, which are major drivers of MASH. Nuclear receptors (NRs) regulate genomic transcription upon binding to lipophilic ligands and govern multiple aspects of liver metabolism and inflammation. Ligands of NRs may include hormones, lipids, bile acids, and synthetic ligands, which upon binding to NRs regulate the transcriptional activities of target genes. NR ligands are presently the most promising drug candidates expected to receive approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration as a pharmacological treatment for MASH. This review aims to cover the current understanding of NRs, including nuclear hormone receptors, non-steroid hormone receptors, circadian NRs, and orphan NRs, which are currently undergoing clinical trials for MASH treatment, along with NRs that have shown promising results in preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit A Sinha
- Department of Endocrinology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
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Ebrahimpour-Koujan S, Sohrabpour AA, Giovannucci E, Vatannejad A, Esmaillzadeh A. Effects of vitamin D supplementation on liver fibrogenic factors, vitamin D receptor and liver fibrogenic microRNAs in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) patients: an exploratory randomized clinical trial. Nutr J 2024; 23:24. [PMID: 38413933 PMCID: PMC10898146 DOI: 10.1186/s12937-024-00911-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a global metabolic problem which can lead to irreversible liver fibrosis. It has been shown that vitamin D and its receptors contribute to fibrogenic pathways in the liver. However, the effect of vitamin D supplementation on liver fibrosis related factors have not been examined. This double blinded placebo controlled clinical trial was designed to investigate the effects on vitamin D supplementation on serum levels of VDR, fibrogenic factors and fibrogenic MicroRNAs in MASLD patients. METHODS Forty six MASLD patients after block matching for sex and BMI were randomly assigned to receive 4000 IU/d vitamin D or placebo for 12 weeks. Weight, height and waist circumference were measured. Serum fibrogenic microRNAs, laminin, collagen type IV, hyaluronic acid, vitamin D, VDR, PTH, blood fasting glucose, serum fasting insulin, lipid profile, ALT and AST were determined at the baseline and at the end of the trial. Insulin resistance and insulin sensitivity were calculated using the HOMA-IR and QUICKI equation. RESULTS Supplementation with vitamin D for 12 weeks led to the significant increases in serum 25(OH) vitamin D, VDR and HDL-C compared to placebo (P < 0.001, P = 0.008 and P < 0.001). There were significant decreases in ALT, AST, FBS and LDL-C levels in the vitamin D group as compared to the placebo (P < 0.05). Laminin and hyaluronic acid concentrations were significantly decreased in the vitamin D group as compared to the placebo group, by -10.6 and - 28.7 ng/mL, respectively. Supplementation with vitamin D for 12 weeks resulted in a significant lower MiR-21 and MiR-122 gene expressions compared to the placebo group (P = 0.01 and P < 0.001, respectively). DISCUSSION As the first randomized controlled trial on the effect of vitamin D supplementation on serum levels of VDR, fibrogenic factors and fibrogenic MicroRNAs in MASLD patients, we found a significant reduction in some liver fibrogenic factors, in liver transaminases and corresponding changes in some fibrosis-related MiRs and some metabolic factors. Further clinical trials with larger sample sizes and direct measures of liver fibrosis are needed to confirm these findings. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER (available at: http://www.irct.ir , identifier: IRCT201405251485N13), Registration date: 14-03-2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soraiya Ebrahimpour-Koujan
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 14155-6117, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Ali Sohrabpour
- The Liver, Pancreatic, and Biliary Disease Research Center, Digestive Disease Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Edward Giovannucci
- Departments of Nutrition and Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Akram Vatannejad
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Esmaillzadeh
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 14155-6117, Tehran, Iran.
- Obesity and Eating Habits Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular -Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
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Hines OJ, Pandol SJ. Management of chronic pancreatitis. BMJ 2024; 384:e070920. [PMID: 38408777 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2023-070920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Chronic pancreatitis results from repeated episodes of pancreatic inflammation and associated fibrosis leading to the loss of functional exocrine and endocrine pancreatic function. The disease is manifested by abdominal pain, deterioration in quality of life, food maldigestion and malabsorption, diabetes, and an increased risk for pancreatic adenocarcinoma. This review summarizes the latest evidence on the diagnosis and management of chronic pancreatitis and its manifestations. In particular, this review discusses advances in understanding of the role of genetic disorders in the mechanisms of the disease and surgical options for patients refractory to medical therapy. Furthermore, clinical trials are under way to develop medical therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Joe Hines
- Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Stephen J Pandol
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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20
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Gu Y, Chen Q, Yin H, Zeng M, Gao S, Wang X. Cancer-associated fibroblasts in neoadjuvant setting for solid cancers. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 193:104226. [PMID: 38056580 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104226] [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: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic approaches for cancer have become increasingly diverse in recent times. A comprehensive understanding of the tumor microenvironment (TME) holds great potential for enhancing the precision of tumor therapies. Neoadjuvant therapy offers the possibility of alleviating patient symptoms and improving overall quality of life. Additionally, it may facilitate the reduction of inoperable tumors and prevent potential preoperative micrometastases. Within the TME, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a prominent role as they generate various elements that contribute to tumor progression. Particularly, extracellular matrix (ECM) produced by CAFs prevents immune cell infiltration into the TME, hampers drug penetration, and diminishes therapeutic efficacy. Therefore, this review provides a summary of the heterogeneity and interactions of CAFs within the TME, with a specific focus on the influence of neoadjuvant therapy on the microenvironment, particularly CAFs. Finally, we propose several potential and promising therapeutic strategies targeting CAFs, which may efficiently eliminate CAFs to decrease stroma density and impair their functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Gu
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qiangda Chen
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hanlin Yin
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Mengsu Zeng
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shanshan Gao
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Xiaolin Wang
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Zhu Y, Kang A, Kuai Y, Guo Y, Miao X, Zhu L, Kong M, Li N. The chromatin remodeling protein BRG1 regulates HSC-myofibroblast differentiation and liver fibrosis. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:826. [PMID: 38092723 PMCID: PMC10719330 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06351-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Excessive fibrogenic response in the liver disrupts normal hepatic anatomy and function heralding such end-stage liver diseases as hepatocellular carcinoma and cirrhosis. Myofibroblasts, derived primarily from hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), are the effector of liver fibrosis. In the present study we investigated the mechanism by which Brahma-related gene 1 (BRG1, encoded by Smarca4) regulates HSC-myofibroblast transition and the implication in intervention against liver fibrosis. We report that BRG1 expression was elevated during HSC maturation in cell culture, in animal models, and in human cirrhotic liver biopsy specimens. HSC-specific deletion of BRG1 attenuated liver fibrosis in several different animal models. In addition, BRG1 ablation in myofibroblasts ameliorated liver fibrosis. RNA-seq identified IGFBP5 as a novel target for BRG1. Over-expression of IGFBP5 partially rescued the deficiency in myofibroblast activation when BRG1 was depleted. On the contrary, IGFBP5 knockdown suppressed HSC-myofibroblast transition in vitro and mollified liver fibrosis in mice. Mechanistically, IGFBP5 interacted with Bat3 to stabilize the Bat3-TβR complex and sustain TGF-β signaling. In conclusion, our data provide compelling evidence that BRG1 is a pivotal regulator of liver fibrosis by programming HSC-myofibroblast transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwen Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Translational Medicine, Departments of Pathophysiology and Human Anatomy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Aoqi Kang
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Translational Medicine, Departments of Pathophysiology and Human Anatomy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yameng Kuai
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Translational Medicine, Departments of Pathophysiology and Human Anatomy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Guo
- College of Life Sciences and Institute of Biomedical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China
| | - Xiulian Miao
- College of Life Sciences and Institute of Biomedical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China
| | - Li Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, China.
| | - Ming Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Nan Li
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Translational Medicine, Departments of Pathophysiology and Human Anatomy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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22
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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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23
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Yao Y, Chen D, Yue Z. The regulatory role and mechanism of exosomes in hepatic fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1284742. [PMID: 38108065 PMCID: PMC10722150 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1284742] [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: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, the prevalence and fatality rates of liver disorders are on the rise. Among chronic liver conditions, hepatic fibrosis stands out as a central pathological process. Despite this, approved treatments for hepatic fibrosis are currently lacking. Exosomes, small extracellular vesicles secreted by various cell types, play a significant role in intercellular communication and have emerged as essential mediators in liver fibrosis. In this regard, this review compiles the mechanisms through which exosomes regulate hepatic fibrosis, encompassing diverse targets and signaling pathways. Furthermore, it delves into the regulatory impact of exosomes modulated by natural plant-derived, endogenous, and synthetic compounds as potential therapeutic strategies for addressing hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youli Yao
- College of Electronics and Information Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Da Chen
- College of Electronics and Information Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Zengchang Yue
- Department of Neurology, Mindong Hospital Affiliated to Fujian Medical University, Ningde, China
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24
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Zheng M, Li H, Gao Y, Brigstock DR, Gao R. Vitamin D 3 analogue calcipotriol inhibits the profibrotic effects of transforming growth factor- β1 on pancreatic stellate cells. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 957:176000. [PMID: 37604222 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176000] [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: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the inhibitory effect of vitamin D3 analogue calcipotriol (Cal) on the fibrosis of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) induced by TGF-β1 and the rationality of Cal use in alcoholic chronic pancreatitis (ACP). MATERIAL AND METHODS Double-labeling immunofluorescence was used for the identification of VDR+PSCs in the pancreas of healthy controls (HC) and ACP patients. Van Gieson staining for examination of collagen fibers. RT-qPCR and Western Blot for determining the mRNAs and proteins of VDR, TGF-β1 and COL1A1 in the pancreas of ACP or in vitro PSCs. ELISA or LC-MS/MS for detection of serum TGF-β1 and COL1A1 or 25(OH)D3. The PSC line (RP-2 cell) was used for the determination of proteomic alterations in Cal plus TGF-β1 versus TGF-β1 and to examine the effect of VDR gene knockdown. RESULTS Enhanced expression of VDR was detected in RP-2 cells stimulated with alcohol (ALC) plus Cal versus Cal alone and in PSCs in the pancreas of ACP versus HC. The increased VDR+PSCs were positively correlated with the levels of COL1A1 mRNAs or areas of collagen deposition in the pancreas of ACP. TGF-β1 was overexpressed in the pancreas of ACP and ALC-treated RP-2 cells while 25(OH)D3 level in serum was significantly decreased in ACP versus HC. Through a VDR-dependent mechanism, Cal antagonized 16 profibrotic proteins in TGF-β1-induced RP-2 cells that included 7 extracellular matrix components, 2 cytoskeletal proteins, 2 fibrosis-associated factors (RUNX1 and TRAF2), TIMP-1, CCN1, integrin α11, an adhesion scaffold protein (TGFB1i1) and an enzyme mediating TGF-β1-induced fibrogenesis (ENPP1). CONCLUSION This study suggests that Cal administration may be a potential antifibrotic strategy via inhibiting TGF-β1-mediated PSC action during the development of ACP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meifang Zheng
- Department of Hepatic Biliary Pancreatic Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hongyan Li
- Department of Hepatic Biliary Pancreatic Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yanhang Gao
- Department of Hepatic Biliary Pancreatic Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - David R Brigstock
- The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Runping Gao
- Department of Hepatic Biliary Pancreatic Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
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Saengsiwaritt W, Ngamtipakon P, Udomsinprasert W. Vitamin D and autophagy in knee osteoarthritis: A review. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 123:110712. [PMID: 37523972 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Knee osteoarthritis (KOA), the highly prevalent degenerative disease affecting the joint, perpetually devastates the health of the elderly. Of various mechanisms known to participate in KOA etiology, apoptosis of chondrocytes is widely regarded as the primary cause of cartilage degradation. It has been suggested that the induction of autophagy in chondrocytes could potentially prolong the progression of KOA by modulating intracellular metabolic processes, which may be helpful for ameliorating chondrocyte apoptosis and eventual cartilage degeneration. Autophagy, a physiological process characterized by intracellular self-degradation, has been reportedly implicated in various pathologic conditions including KOA. Interestingly, vitamin D has been shown to regulate autophagy in human chondrocytes through multiple pathways, specifically AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway. This observation underscores the potential of vitamin D as a novel approach for restoring the functionality and survivability of chondrocytes in KOA. Supporting vitamin D's clinical significance, previous studies have demonstrated its substantial involvement in the symptoms and irregular joint morphology observed in KOA patients, strengthening potential therapeutic efficacy of vitamin D in treatment of KOA. Herein, the purpose of this review was to determine the mechanisms underlying the multi-processes of vitamin D implicated in autophagy in several cells including chondrocytes, which would bring unique insights into KOA pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Phatchana Ngamtipakon
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Wanvisa Udomsinprasert
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand.
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26
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Zhang Y, Wang L, Shao J, Liu Y, Lu Y, Yang J, Xu S, Zhang J, Li M, Liu X, Zheng M. Nano-calcipotriol as a potent anti-hepatic fibrosis agent. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e354. [PMID: 37638336 PMCID: PMC10458662 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.354] [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: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Calcipotriol (CAL) has been widely studied as a fibrosis inhibitor and used to treat plaque psoriasis via transdermal administration. The clinical application of CAL to treat liver fibrosis is bottlenecked by its unsatisfactory pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, and side effects, such as hypercalcemia in patients. The exploration of CAL as a safe and effective antifibrotic agent remains a major challenge. Therefore, we rationally designed and synthesized a self-assembled drug nanoparticle encapsulating CAL in its internal hydrophobic core for systematic injection (termed NPs/CAL) and further investigated the beneficial effect of the nanomaterial on liver fibrosis. C57BL/6 mice were used as the animal model, and human hepatic stellate cell line LX-2 was used as the cellular model of hepatic fibrogenesis. Immunofluorescence staining, flow cytometry, western blotting, immunohistochemical staining, and in vitro imaging were used for evaluating the efficacy of NPs/CAL treatment. We found NPs/CAL can be quickly internalized in vitro, thus potently deactivating LX-2 cells. In addition, NPs/CAL improved blood circulation and the accumulation of CAL in liver tissue. Importantly, NPs/CAL strongly contributed to the remission of liver fibrosis without inducing hypercalcemia. Overall, our work identifies a promising paradigm for the development of nanomaterial-based agents for liver fibrosis therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yina Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalCollege of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Liying Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Gastroenterology of the Second Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Department of General SurgerySir Run Run Shaw HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education and Center for BionanoengineeringCollege of Chemical and Biological EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Jiajia Shao
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalCollege of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Yanning Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalCollege of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Yining Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalCollege of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Jing Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalCollege of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Siduo Xu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalCollege of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Jingkang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalCollege of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Minwei Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalCollege of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Xiangrui Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Gastroenterology of the Second Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education and Center for BionanoengineeringCollege of Chemical and Biological EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Cancer CenterZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Min Zheng
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalCollege of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
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27
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Liu R, Zhu M, Chen J, Gai J, Huang J, Zhou Y, Wan Y, Tu C. Identification and Characterization of a Novel Nanobody Against Human CTGF to Reveal Its Antifibrotic Effect in an in vitro Model of Liver Fibrosis. Int J Nanomedicine 2023; 18:5407-5422. [PMID: 37753068 PMCID: PMC10519214 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s428430] [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: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background No agents are currently available for the treatment or reversal of liver fibrosis. Novel antifibrotic therapies for chronic liver diseases are thus urgently needed. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) has been shown to contributes profoundly to liver fibrogenesis, which makes CTGF as a promising target for developing antifibrotic agents. Methods In this study, we identified a novel nanobody (Nb) against human CTGF (anti-CTGF Nb) by phage display using an immunized camel, which showed high affinity and specificity in vitro. LX-2 cells, the immortalized human hepatic stellate cells, were induced by transforming growth factor beta1 (TGFβ1) as an in vitro model of liver fibrosis to verify the antifibrotic activity of the anti-CTGF Nb. Results Our data demonstrated that anti-CTGF Nb effectively alleviated TGFβ1-induced LX-2 cell proliferation, activation, and migration, and promoted the apoptosis of activated LX-2 cells in response to TGFβ1. Moreover, the anti-CTGF Nb remarkably reduced the levels of TGFβ1, Smad2, and Smad3 expression in LX-2 stellate cells stimulated by TGFβ1. Conclusion Taken together, we successfully identified a novel Nb against human CTGF, which exhibited antifibrotic effects in vitro by regulating the biological functions of human stellate cells LX-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Zhu
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Shanghai, 201318, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaojiao Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200434, People's Republic of China
| | - Junwei Gai
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Shanghai, 201318, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Huang
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Shanghai, 201318, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingqun Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, People's Republic of China
| | - Yakun Wan
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Shanghai, 201318, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuantao Tu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201508, People's Republic of China
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28
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Srikuea R, Hirunsai M. TGF-β1 stimulation and VDR-dependent activation modulate calcitriol action on skeletal muscle fibroblasts and Smad signalling-associated fibrogenesis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13811. [PMID: 37612333 PMCID: PMC10447566 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40978-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibroblasts play a pivotal role in fibrogenesis after skeletal muscle injury. Excess fibrous formation can disrupt contractile functions and delay functional recovery. Although vitamin D receptor (VDR) is expressed explicitly in regenerating muscle compared with uninjured muscle, how calcitriol [1α,25(OH)2D3] directly regulates skeletal muscle primary fibroblast proliferation, the transition to myofibroblasts, and Smad signalling-associated fibrogenesis is currently unknown. Herein, the effects of calcitriol on cultured skeletal muscle primary fibroblasts of male C57BL/6 mice (aged 1 month old) were investigated. The percentage of BrdU+ nuclei in primary fibroblasts was significantly decreased after calcitriol treatment; however, the antiproliferative effect of calcitriol was diminished after TGF-β1 stimulation to induce fibroblast to myofibroblast transition. This suppressive effect was associated with significantly decreased VDR expression in TGF-β1-treated cells. In addition, Vdr siRNA transfection abolished the effects of calcitriol on the suppression of α-SMA expression and Smad2/3 signalling in myofibroblasts, supporting that its antifibrogenic effect requires VDR activation. Compared with calcitriol, the antifibrotic agent suramin could inhibit fibroblast/myofibroblast proliferation and suppress the expression of TCF-4, which regulates fibrogenic determination. Collectively, these findings suggest that profibrotic stimulation and VDR-dependent activation could modulate the effects of calcitriol on skeletal muscle fibroblast proliferation and fibrogenesis processes. Therefore, TGF-β1 and VDR expression levels are crucial determinants for the antifibrogenic effect of calcitriol on skeletal muscle after injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ratchakrit Srikuea
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand.
| | - Muthita Hirunsai
- Department of Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Srinakharinwirot University, Ongkharak, Nakhon Nayok, 26120, Thailand
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29
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Tsai JM, Aguirre JD, Li YD, Brown J, Focht V, Kater L, Kempf G, Sandoval B, Schmitt S, Rutter JC, Galli P, Sandate CR, Cutler JA, Zou C, Donovan KA, Lumpkin RJ, Cavadini S, Park PMC, Sievers Q, Hatton C, Ener E, Regalado BD, Sperling MT, Słabicki M, Kim J, Zon R, Zhang Z, Miller PG, Belizaire R, Sperling AS, Fischer ES, Irizarry R, Armstrong SA, Thomä NH, Ebert BL. UBR5 forms ligand-dependent complexes on chromatin to regulate nuclear hormone receptor stability. Mol Cell 2023; 83:2753-2767.e10. [PMID: 37478846 PMCID: PMC11134608 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.06.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Nuclear hormone receptors (NRs) are ligand-binding transcription factors that are widely targeted therapeutically. Agonist binding triggers NR activation and subsequent degradation by unknown ligand-dependent ubiquitin ligase machinery. NR degradation is critical for therapeutic efficacy in malignancies that are driven by retinoic acid and estrogen receptors. Here, we demonstrate the ubiquitin ligase UBR5 drives degradation of multiple agonist-bound NRs, including the retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARA), retinoid x receptor alpha (RXRA), glucocorticoid, estrogen, liver-X, progesterone, and vitamin D receptors. We present the high-resolution cryo-EMstructure of full-length human UBR5 and a negative stain model representing its interaction with RARA/RXRA. Agonist ligands induce sequential, mutually exclusive recruitment of nuclear coactivators (NCOAs) and UBR5 to chromatin to regulate transcriptional networks. Other pharmacological ligands such as selective estrogen receptor degraders (SERDs) degrade their receptors through differential recruitment of UBR5 or RNF111. We establish the UBR5 transcriptional regulatory hub as a common mediator and regulator of NR-induced transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Tsai
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jacob D Aguirre
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Yen-Der Li
- Division of Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jared Brown
- Department of Data Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vivian Focht
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lukas Kater
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Georg Kempf
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Brittany Sandoval
- Division of Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Stefan Schmitt
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Justine C Rutter
- Division of Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Pius Galli
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland; Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Colby R Sandate
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jevon A Cutler
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Charles Zou
- Division of Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Katherine A Donovan
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Biological Chemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ryan J Lumpkin
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Biological Chemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Simone Cavadini
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Paul M C Park
- Division of Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Quinlan Sievers
- Division of Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Charlie Hatton
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Ener
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brandon D Regalado
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Micah T Sperling
- Division of Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mikołaj Słabicki
- Division of Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jeonghyeon Kim
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Biological Chemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rebecca Zon
- Division of Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Zinan Zhang
- Division of Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Peter G Miller
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Roger Belizaire
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Pathology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Adam S Sperling
- Division of Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eric S Fischer
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Biological Chemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rafael Irizarry
- Department of Data Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Scott A Armstrong
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nicolas H Thomä
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Benjamin L Ebert
- Division of Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
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Abstract
Tumour cells migrate very early from primary sites to distant sites, and yet metastases often take years to manifest themselves clinically or never even surface within a patient's lifetime. This pause in cancer progression emphasizes the existence of barriers that constrain the growth of disseminated tumour cells (DTCs) at distant sites. Although the nature of these barriers to metastasis might include DTC-intrinsic traits, recent studies have established that the local microenvironment also controls the formation of metastases. In this Perspective, I discuss how site-specific differences of the immune system might be a major selective growth restraint on DTCs, and argue that harnessing tissue immunity will be essential for the next stage in immunotherapy development that reliably prevents the establishment of metastases.
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31
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Chuangchot N, Jamjuntra P, Yangngam S, Luangwattananun P, Thongchot S, Junking M, Thuwajit P, Yenchitsomanus PT, Thuwajit C. Enhancement of PD-L1-attenuated CAR-T cell function through breast cancer-associated fibroblasts-derived IL-6 signaling via STAT3/AKT pathways. Breast Cancer Res 2023; 25:86. [PMID: 37480115 PMCID: PMC10362675 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-023-01684-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a critical role in cancer progression and immune cell modulation. In this study, it was aimed to evaluate the roles of CAFs-derived IL-6 in doxorubicin (Dox) resistance and PD-L1-mediated chimeric antigenic receptor (CAR)-T cell resistance in breast cancer (BCA). METHODS CAF conditioned-media (CM) were collected, and the IL-6 level was measured by ELISA. CAF-CM were treated in MDA-MB-231 and HCC70 TNBC cell lines and siIL-6 receptor (IL-6R) knocked down (KD) cells to determine the effect of CAF-derived IL-6 on Dox resistance by flow cytometry and on increased PD-L1 through STAT3, AKT and ERK1/2 pathways by Western blot analysis. After pre-treating with CM, the folate receptor alpha (FRα)-CAR T cell cytotoxicity was evaluated in 2D and 3D spheroid culture assays. RESULTS The results showed a significant level of IL-6 in CAF-CM compared to that of normal fibroblasts (NFs). The CM with high IL-6 level significantly induced Dox resistance; and PD-L1 expression through STAT3 and AKT pathways in MDA-MB-231 and HCC70 cells. These induction effects were attenuated in siIL-6R KD cells. Moreover, the TNBC cell lines that were CM-treated with STAT3 and an AKT inhibitor had a reduced effect of IL-6 on PD-L1 expression. BCA cells with high IL-6 containing-CM treatment had resistance to cancer cell killing by FRα CAR-T cells compared to untreated cells. CONCLUSION These results highlight CAF-derived IL-6 in the resistance of chemotherapy and T cell therapy. Using inhibitors of IL6-STAT3/AKT-PD-L1 axis may provide a potential benefit of Dox and CAR-T cell therapies in BCA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisa Chuangchot
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Pranisa Jamjuntra
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Supaporn Yangngam
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Piriya Luangwattananun
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Suyanee Thongchot
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Mutita Junking
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Peti Thuwajit
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Pa-Thai Yenchitsomanus
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Chanitra Thuwajit
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand.
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32
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Tourkochristou E, Tsounis EP, Tzoupis H, Aggeletopoulou I, Tsintoni A, Lourida T, Diamantopoulou G, Zisimopoulos K, Kafentzi T, de Lastic AL, Rodi M, Tselios T, Thomopoulos K, Mouzaki A, Triantos C. The Influence of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms on Vitamin D Receptor Protein Levels and Function in Chronic Liver Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11404. [PMID: 37511164 PMCID: PMC10380285 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411404] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene have been associated with chronic liver disease. We investigated the role of VDR SNPs on VDR protein levels and function in patients with chronic liver disease. VDR expression levels were determined in peripheral T lymphocytes (CD3+VDR+), monocytes (CD14+VDR+), and plasma from patients (n = 66) and healthy controls (n = 38). Genotyping of SNPs and the determination of expression of VDR/vitamin D-related genes were performed by using qPCR. The effect of FokI SNP on vitamin D-binding to VDR was investigated by molecular dynamics simulations. CD14+VDR+ cells were correlated with the MELD score. The ApaI SNP was associated with decreased CD3+VDR+ levels in cirrhotic patients and with higher liver stiffness in HCV patients. The BsmI and TaqI SNPs were associated with increased VDR plasma concentrations in cirrhotic patients and decreased CD14+VDR+ levels in HCV patients. The FokI SNP was associated with increased CD3+VDR+ levels in cirrhotic patients and controls. VDR polymorphisms were significantly related to the expression of genes critical for normal hepatocyte function and immune homeostasis. VDR expression levels were related to the clinical severity of liver disease. VDR SNPs may be related to the progression of chronic liver disease by affecting VDR expression levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evanthia Tourkochristou
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, University Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Efthymios P Tsounis
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, University Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | | | - Ioanna Aggeletopoulou
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, University Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Aggeliki Tsintoni
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, University Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Theoni Lourida
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, University Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Georgia Diamantopoulou
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, University Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Zisimopoulos
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, University Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Theodora Kafentzi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, University Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Anne-Lise de Lastic
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Maria Rodi
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Theodore Tselios
- Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Thomopoulos
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, University Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Athanasia Mouzaki
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Christos Triantos
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, University Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
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33
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Liu J, Song Y, Wang Y, Hong H. Vitamin D/vitamin D receptor pathway in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:1145-1157. [PMID: 37861098 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2274099] [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: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of chronic liver disease worldwide, but underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. In recent years, a growing body of evidence has emphasized the therapeutic role of vitamin D in NAFLD, but the specific mechanism remains to be investigated. AREAS COVERED This review summarized the roles of vitamin D/VDR (vitamin D receptor) pathway in different types of liver cells (such as hepatocytes, hepatic stellate cells, liver macrophages, T lymphocytes, and other hepatic immune cells) in case of NAFLD. Meanwhile, the effects of pathways in the gut-liver axis, adipose tissue-liver axis, and skeletal muscle-liver axis on the development of NAFLD were further reviewed. Relevant literature was searched on PubMed for the writing of this review. EXPERT OPINION The precise regulation of regional vitamin D/VDR signaling pathway based on cell-specific or tissue-specific function will help clarify the potential mechanism of vitamin D in NAFLD, which may provide new therapeutic targets to improve the safety and efficacy of vitamin D based drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingqi Liu
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Department of Geriatrics, Fujian Institute of Geriatrics, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Xiamen Institute of Geriatric Rehabilitation, Department of Geriatrics, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yang Song
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Ye Wang
- Xiamen Institute of Geriatric Rehabilitation, Department of Geriatrics, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Huashan Hong
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Department of Geriatrics, Fujian Institute of Geriatrics, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
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Xing K, Wu Y, Gao F, Dai Y, Guan C, Tong Y, Gao Y, Wang C, Zhang C. Design, synthesis and anti-hepatic fibrosis activity of novel diphenyl vitamin D receptor agonists. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 258:115596. [PMID: 37406383 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115596] [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: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis poses a significant threat to human health due to excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition leading to liver function damage. Ligand-activated vitamin D receptor (VDR) has been identified as an effective target for hepatic fibrosis, reducing ECM by inhibiting hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. Here, a series of novel diphenyl VDR agonists have been rationally designed and synthesized. Among these, compounds 15b, 16i, and 28m showed better transcriptional activity compared to sw-22, which was previously reported to be a potent non-secosteroidal VDR modulator. Moreover, these compounds exhibited outstanding efficacy to inhibit collagen deposition in vitro. In models of CCl4-induced and bile duct ligation-induced hepatic fibrosis, compound 16i showed the most significant therapeutic effect by ultrasound imaging and histological examination. Moreover, 16i was able to repair liver tissue by reducing the expression levels of fibrosis genes and serum liver function indexes without causing hypercalcemia in mice. In conclusion, compound 16i is a potent VDR agonist with significant anti-hepatic fibrosis action both in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Yue Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Fei Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Yupeng Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Chun Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Yu Tong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Yi Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Cong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China.
| | - Can Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China.
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35
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Haussler MR, Haussler CA, Jurutka PW. Genomically anchored vitamin D receptor mediates an abundance of bioprotective actions elicited by its 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D hormonal ligand. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2023; 123:313-383. [PMID: 37717990 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2022.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
The nuclear vitamin D receptor (VDR) mediates the actions of its physiologic 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25D) ligand produced in kidney and at extrarenal sites during times of physiologic and cellular stress. The ligand-receptor complex transcriptionally controls genes encoding factors that regulate calcium and phosphate sensing/transport, bone remodeling, immune function, and nervous system maintenance. With the aid of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), 1,25D/VDR primarily participates in an intricate network of feedback controls that govern extracellular calcium and phosphate concentrations, mainly influencing bone formation and mineralization, ectopic calcification, and indirectly supporting many fundamental roles of calcium. Beyond endocrine and intracrine effects, 1,25D/VDR signaling impacts multiple biochemical phenomena that potentially affect human health and disease, including autophagy, carcinogenesis, cell growth/differentiation, detoxification, metabolic homeostasis, and oxidative stress mitigation. Several health advantages conferred by 1,25D/VDR appear to be promulgated by induction of klotho, an anti-aging renal peptide hormone which functions as a co-receptor for FGF23 and, like 1,25D, regulates nrf2, foxo, mTOR and other cellular protective pathways. Among hundreds of genes for which expression is modulated by 1,25D/VDR either primarily or secondarily in a cell-specific manner, the resulting gene products (in addition to those expressed in the classic skeletal mineral regulatory tissues kidney, intestine, and bone), fall into multiple biochemical categories including apoptosis, cholesterol homeostasis, glycolysis, hypoxia, inflammation, p53 signaling, unfolded protein response and xenobiotic metabolism. Thus, 1,25D/VDR is a bone mineral control instrument that also signals the maintenance of multiple cellular processes in the face of environmental and genetic challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark R Haussler
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, United States.
| | - Carol A Haussler
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Peter W Jurutka
- School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, Arizona State University, Glendale, AZ, United States
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36
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Sun D, Song M, Zeng C, Chen H, Zhang J, Liu F, Luo S, Liao Q, Xiao Y, Xu W, Zeng D, Tan Z, Tian F, Huang X. Associations of vitamin D-related single nucleotide polymorphisms with post-stroke depression among ischemic stroke population. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1148047. [PMID: 37404714 PMCID: PMC10317012 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1148047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) related to vitamin D (VitD) metabolism and post-stroke depression (PSD) in patients with ischemic stroke. Methods A total of 210 patients with ischemic stroke were enrolled at the Department of Neurology in Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, from July 2019 to August 2021. SNPs in the VitD metabolic pathway (VDR, CYP2R1, CYP24A1, and CYP27B1) were genotyped using the SNPscan™ multiplex SNP typing kit. Demographic and clinical data were collected using a standardized questionnaire. Multiple genetic models including dominant, recessive, and over-dominant models were utilized to analyze the associations between SNPs and PSD. Results In the dominant, recessive, and over-dominant models, no significant association was observed between the selected SNPs in the CYP24A1 and CYP2R1 genes and PSD. However, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the CYP27B1 rs10877012 G/G genotype was associated with a decreased risk of PSD (OR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.18-0.92, p = 0.030 and OR: 0.42, 95% CI: 0.18-0.98, p = 0.040, respectively). Furthermore, haplotype association analysis indicated that rs11568820-rs1544410-rs2228570-rs7975232-rs731236 CCGAA haplotype in the VDR gene was associated with a reduced risk of PSD (OR: 0.14, 95% CI: 0.03-0.65, p = 0.010), whereas no significant association was observed between haplotypes in the CYP2R1 and CYP24A1 genes and PSD. Conclusion Our findings suggest that the polymorphisms of VitD metabolic pathway genes VDR and CYP27B1 may be associated with PSD in patients with ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongren Sun
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Mingyu Song
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chang Zeng
- Health Management Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hengshu Chen
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jingyuan Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fan Liu
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shihang Luo
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiao Liao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yeqing Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Hengyang Central Hospital, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Weiye Xu
- Department of Human Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Danfeng Zeng
- Department of Neurology, Xiangtan Central Hospital, Xiangtan, Hunan, China
| | - Zheren Tan
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fafa Tian
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xia Huang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First People’s Hospital of Huaihua, Huaihua, Hunan, China
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Podyacheva E, Danilchuk M, Toropova Y. Molecular mechanisms of endothelial remodeling under doxorubicin treatment. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 162:114576. [PMID: 36989721 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Doxorubicin (DOX) is an effective antineoplastic agent used to treat various types of cancers. However, its use is limited by the development of cardiotoxicity, which may result in heart failure. The exact mechanisms underlying DOX-induced cardiotoxicity are not fully understood, but recent studies have shown that endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) and endothelial damage play a crucial role in this process. EndMT is a biological process in which endothelial cells lose their characteristics and transform into mesenchymal cells, which have a fibroblast-like phenotype. This process has been shown to contribute to tissue fibrosis and remodeling in various diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases. DOX-induced cardiotoxicity has been demonstrated to increase the expression of EndMT markers, suggesting that EndMT may play a critical role in the development of this condition. Furthermore, DOX-induced cardiotoxicity has been shown to cause endothelial damage, leading to the disruption of the endothelial barrier function and increased vascular permeability. This can result in the leakage of plasma proteins, leading to tissue edema and inflammation. Moreover, DOX can impair the production of nitric oxide, endothelin-1, neuregulin, thrombomodulin, thromboxane B2 etc. by endothelial cells, leading to vasoconstriction, thrombosis and further impairing cardiac function. In this regard, this review is devoted to the generalization and structuring of information about the known molecular mechanisms of endothelial remodeling under the action of DOX.
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Capobianco E, McGaughey V, Seraphin G, Heckel J, Rieger S, Lisse TS. Vitamin D inhibits osteosarcoma by reprogramming nonsense-mediated RNA decay and SNAI2-mediated epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1188641. [PMID: 37228489 PMCID: PMC10203545 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1188641] [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: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcomas are immune-resistant and metastatic as a result of elevated nonsense-mediated RNA decay (NMD), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Although vitamin D has anti-cancer effects, its effectiveness and mechanism of action against osteosarcomas are poorly understood. In this study, we assessed the impact of vitamin D and its receptor (VDR) on NMD-ROS-EMT signaling in in vitro and in vivo osteosarcoma animal models. Initiation of VDR signaling facilitated the enrichment of EMT pathway genes, after which 1,25(OH)2D, the active vitamin D derivative, inhibited the EMT pathway in osteosarcoma subtypes. The ligand-bound VDR directly downregulated the EMT inducer SNAI2, differentiating highly metastatic from low metastatic subtypes and 1,25(OH)2D sensitivity. Moreover, epigenome-wide motif and putative target gene analysis revealed the VDR's integration with NMD tumorigenic and immunogenic pathways. In an autoregulatory manner, 1,25(OH)2D inhibited NMD machinery genes and upregulated NMD target genes implicated in anti-oncogenic activity, immunorecognition, and cell-to-cell adhesion. Dicer substrate siRNA knockdown of SNAI2 revealed superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2)-mediated antioxidative responses and 1,25(OH)2D sensitization via non-canonical SOD2 nuclear-to-mitochondrial translocalization leading to overall ROS suppression. In a mouse xenograft metastasis model, the therapeutically relevant vitamin D derivative calcipotriol inhibited osteosarcoma metastasis and tumor growth shown for the first time. Our results uncover novel osteosarcoma-inhibiting mechanisms for vitamin D and calcipotriol that may be translated to human patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vanessa McGaughey
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
| | - Gerbenn Seraphin
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
| | - John Heckel
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
| | - Sandra Rieger
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Thomas S. Lisse
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
- iCURA DX, Malvern, PA, United States
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Tourkochristou E, Mouzaki A, Triantos C. Gene Polymorphisms and Biological Effects of Vitamin D Receptor on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Development and Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098288. [PMID: 37175993 PMCID: PMC10179740 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease, with increasing prevalence worldwide. The genetic and molecular background of NAFLD pathogenesis is not yet clear. The vitamin D/vitamin D receptor (VDR) axis is significantly associated with the development and progression of NAFLD. Gene polymorphisms may influence the regulation of the VDR gene, although their biological significance remains to be elucidated. VDR gene polymorphisms are associated with the presence and severity of NAFLD, as they may influence the regulation of adipose tissue activity, fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. Vitamin D binds to the hepatic VDR to exert its biological functions, either by activating VDR transcriptional activity to regulate gene expression associated with inflammation and fibrosis or by inducing intracellular signal transduction through VDR-mediated activation of Ca2+ channels. VDR activity has protective and detrimental effects on hepatic steatosis, a characteristic feature of NAFLD. Vitamin D-VDR signaling may control the progression of NAFLD by regulating immune responses, lipotoxicity, and fibrogenesis. Elucidation of the genetic and molecular background of VDR in the pathophysiology of NAFLD will provide new therapeutic targets for this disease through the development of VDR agonists, which already showed promising results in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evanthia Tourkochristou
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, University Hospital of Patras, Rion, 26504 Patras, Greece
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Athanasia Mouzaki
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Christos Triantos
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, University Hospital of Patras, Rion, 26504 Patras, Greece
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40
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Cinque F, Cespiati A, Lombardi R, Guaraldi G, Sebastiani G. Nutritional and Lifestyle Therapy for NAFLD in People with HIV. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15081990. [PMID: 37111209 PMCID: PMC10140991 DOI: 10.3390/nu15081990] [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: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
HIV infection and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are two major epidemics affecting millions of people worldwide. As people with HIV (PWH) age, there is an increased prevalence of metabolic comorbidities, along with unique HIV factors, such as HIV chronic inflammation and life-long exposure to antiretroviral therapy, which leads to a high prevalence of NAFLD. An unhealthy lifestyle, with a high dietary intake of refined carbohydrates, saturated fatty acids, fructose added beverages, and processed red meat, as well as physical inactivity, are known to trigger and promote the progression of NAFLD to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, liver fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Furthermore, with no currently approved pharmacotherapy and a lack of clinical trials that are inclusive of HIV, nutritional and lifestyle approaches still represent the most recommended treatments for PWH with NAFLD. While sharing common features with the general population, NAFLD in PWH displays its own peculiarities that may also reflect different impacts of nutrition and exercise on its onset and treatment. Therefore, in this narrative review, we aimed to explore the role of nutrients in the development of NAFLD in PWH. In addition, we discussed the nutritional and lifestyle approaches to managing NAFLD in the setting of HIV, with insights into the role of gut microbiota and lean NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felice Cinque
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, and Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Medicine and Metabolic Disease Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via F. Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Annalisa Cespiati
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Medicine and Metabolic Disease Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via F. Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Rosa Lombardi
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Medicine and Metabolic Disease Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via F. Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Guaraldi
- Modena HIV Metabolic Clinic, Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Giada Sebastiani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, and Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
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Carlberg C, Raczyk M, Zawrotna N. Vitamin D: A master example of nutrigenomics. Redox Biol 2023; 62:102695. [PMID: 37043983 PMCID: PMC10119805 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Nutrigenomics attempts to characterize and integrate the relation between dietary molecules and gene expression on a genome-wide level. One of the biologically active nutritional compounds is vitamin D3, which activates via its metabolite 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) the nuclear receptor VDR (vitamin D receptor). Vitamin D3 can be synthesized endogenously in our skin, but since we spend long times indoors and often live at higher latitudes where for many winter months UV-B radiation is too low, it became a true vitamin. The ligand-inducible transcription factor VDR is expressed in the majority of human tissues and cell types, where it modulates the epigenome at thousands of genomic sites. In a tissue-specific fashion this results in the up- and downregulation of primary vitamin D target genes, some of which are involved in attenuating oxidative stress. Vitamin D affects a wide range of physiological functions including the control of metabolism, bone formation and immunity. In this review, we will discuss how the epigenome- and transcriptome-wide effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 and its receptor VDR serve as a master example in nutrigenomics. In this context, we will outline the basis of a mechanistic understanding for personalized nutrition with vitamin D3.
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42
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Wieder R. Fibroblasts as Turned Agents in Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2014. [PMID: 37046676 PMCID: PMC10093070 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiated epithelial cells reside in the homeostatic microenvironment of the native organ stroma. The stroma supports their normal function, their G0 differentiated state, and their expansion/contraction through the various stages of the life cycle and physiologic functions of the host. When malignant transformation begins, the microenvironment tries to suppress and eliminate the transformed cells, while cancer cells, in turn, try to resist these suppressive efforts. The tumor microenvironment encompasses a large variety of cell types recruited by the tumor to perform different functions, among which fibroblasts are the most abundant. The dynamics of the mutual relationship change as the sides undertake an epic battle for control of the other. In the process, the cancer "wounds" the microenvironment through a variety of mechanisms and attracts distant mesenchymal stem cells to change their function from one attempting to suppress the cancer, to one that supports its growth, survival, and metastasis. Analogous reciprocal interactions occur as well between disseminated cancer cells and the metastatic microenvironment, where the microenvironment attempts to eliminate cancer cells or suppress their proliferation. However, the altered microenvironmental cells acquire novel characteristics that support malignant progression. Investigations have attempted to use these traits as targets of novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Wieder
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and the Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
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Nicolini G, Balzan S, Forini F. Activated fibroblasts in cardiac and cancer fibrosis: An overview of analogies and new potential therapeutic options. Life Sci 2023; 321:121575. [PMID: 36933828 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121575] [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: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Heart disease and cancer are two major causes of morbidity and mortality in the industrialized countries, and their increasingly recognized connections are shifting the focus from single disease studies to an interdisciplinary approach. Fibroblast-mediated intercellular crosstalk is critically involved in the evolution of both pathologies. In healthy myocardium and in non-cancerous conditions, resident fibroblasts are the main cell source for synthesis of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and important sentinels of tissue integrity. In the setting of myocardial disease or cancer, quiescent fibroblasts activate, respectively, into myofibroblasts (myoFbs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), characterized by increased production of contractile proteins, and by a highly proliferative and secretory phenotype. Although the initial activation of myoFbs/CAFs is an adaptive process to repair the damaged tissue, massive deposition of ECM proteins leads to maladaptive cardiac or cancer fibrosis, a recognized marker of adverse outcome. A better understanding of the key mechanisms orchestrating fibroblast hyperactivity may help developing innovative therapeutic options to restrain myocardial or tumor stiffness and improve patient prognosis. Albeit still unappreciated, the dynamic transition of myocardial and tumor fibroblasts into myoFbs and CAFs shares several common triggers and signaling pathways relevant to TGF-β dependent cascade, metabolic reprogramming, mechanotransduction, secretory properties, and epigenetic regulation, which might lay the foundation for future antifibrotic intervention. Therefore, the aim of this review is to highlight emerging analogies in the molecular signature underlying myoFbs and CAFs activation with the purpose of identifying novel prognostic/diagnostic biomarkers, and to elucidate the potential of drug repositioning strategies to mitigate cardiac/cancer fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvana Balzan
- CNR Institute of Clinical Physiology, Via G.Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Forini
- CNR Institute of Clinical Physiology, Via G.Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy.
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Liu X, Wu Y, Li Y, Li K, Hou S, Ding M, Tan J, Zhu Z, Tang Y, Liu Y, Sun Q, Wang C, Zhang C. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) mediates the quiescence of activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) by regulating M2 macrophage exosomal smooth muscle cell-associated protein 5 (SMAP-5). J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2023; 24:248-261. [PMID: 36916000 PMCID: PMC10014314 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b2200383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
An effective therapeutic regimen for hepatic fibrosis requires a deep understanding of the pathogenesis mechanism. Hepatic fibrosis is characterized by activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) with an excessive production of extracellular matrix. Although promoted activation of HSCs by M2 macrophages has been demonstrated, the molecular mechanism involved remains ambiguous. Herein, we propose that the vitamin D receptor (VDR) involved in macrophage polarization may regulate the communication between macrophages and HSCs by changing the functions of exosomes. We confirm that activating the VDR can inhibit the effect of M2 macrophages on HSC activation. The exosomes derived from M2 macrophages can promote HSC activation, while stimulating VDR alters the protein profiles and reverses their roles in M2 macrophage exosomes. Smooth muscle cell-associated protein 5 (SMAP-5) was found to be the key effector protein in promoting HSC activation by regulating autophagy flux. Building on these results, we show that a combined treatment of a VDR agonist and a macrophage-targeted exosomal secretion inhibitor achieves an excellent anti-hepatic fibrosis effect. In this study, we aim to elucidate the association between VDR and macrophages in HSC activation. The results contribute to our understanding of the pathogenesis mechanism of hepatic fibrosis, and provide potential therapeutic targets for its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuwentai Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yue Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yanyi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Kaiming Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Siyuan Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ming Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jingmin Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zijing Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yingqi Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yuming Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Qianhui Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Cong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China. ,
| | - Can Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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Mohamed AA, Halim AA, Mohamed S, Mahmoud SM, Bahgat Eldemiry EM, Mohamed RS, Shaheen MM, Naguib GG, Muharram NM, Khalil MG, Saed S, Ibrahim R, Salah Seif A, Kamal N, Nasraldin K, Abdelrahman AE, El Borolossy R. The effect of high oral loading dose of cholecalciferol in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients. A randomized placebo controlled trial. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1149967. [PMID: 36998617 PMCID: PMC10043211 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1149967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD) is one of the most common progressive metabolic disorders worldwide. There are increasing scientific interests nowadays for the association between vitamin D status and Non-alcoholic fatty liver. Earlier studies have revealed that vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in Non-alcoholic fatty liver patients that contributes to poor outcomes. Hence, the present study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of oral cholecalciferol on Non-alcoholic fatty liver patients.Subjects and Methods: This study was conducted on 140 patients that were randomized either to group 1 that received the standard conventional therapy in addition to placebo or group 2 that received the standard conventional therapy in addition to cholecalciferol during the 4 months study period.Results: At the end of the study group 2 revealed significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the mean serum level of TG, LDL-C, TC, hsCRP as compared to their baseline results and group 1 results. Additionally, a significant improvement in the serum levels of ALT (p = 0.001) was seen in group 2 at the end of the study when compared to group 1. Whereas group 1 did not show any change in these parameters when compared to group 2 and their baseline results.Conclusion: Cholecalciferol was shown to have beneficial effects on serum ALT levels, hsCRP levels and lipid profile of NAFLD patients.Clinical Trial Registration:https://prsinfo.clinicaltrials.gov/prs-users-guide.html, identifier NCT05613192
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal Ahmed Mohamed
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Hepatology and Tropical Medicine Research Institute, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Abdel Halim
- Tropical Medicine Department, National Hepatology and Tropical Medicine Research Institute, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sahar Mohamed
- Tropical Medicine Department, National Hepatology and Tropical Medicine Research Institute, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | | | - Rasha Sobh Mohamed
- Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Gina G. Naguib
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nashwa M. Muharram
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Mona G. Khalil
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Modern University for Technology and Information, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Salma Saed
- Clinical and Chemical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Randa Ibrahim
- Clinical and Chemical Pathology Department, Nutrition Institute, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Salah Seif
- Tropical Medicine Hepatology and Gastroenterology Department, Shebeen El-Kom Teaching Hospital, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Noha Kamal
- Clinical Pathology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI), Ministry of Scientific Research and Higher Education, Gulf Medical University (GMU), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Karima Nasraldin
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Modern Science and Arts University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ali Elsaid Abdelrahman
- Diagnostic and Intervention Radiology, National Hepatology and Tropical Medicine Research Institute, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Radwa El Borolossy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
- *Correspondence: Radwa El Borolossy,
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Capobianco E, McGaughey V, Seraphin G, Heckel J, Rieger S, Lisse TS. Vitamin D inhibits osteosarcoma by reprogramming nonsense-mediated RNA decay and SNAI2-mediated epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.04.522778. [PMID: 36711643 PMCID: PMC9882006 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.04.522778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Osteosarcomas are immune-resistant and metastatic as a result of elevated nonsense-mediated RNA decay (NMD), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Although vitamin D has anti-cancer effects, its effectiveness and mechanism of action against osteosarcomas are poorly understood. In this study, we assessed the impact of vitamin D and its receptor (VDR) on the NMD-ROS-EMT signaling axis in in vitro and in vivo osteosarcoma animal models. Initiation of VDR signaling facilitated the enrichment of EMT pathway genes, after which 1,25(OH) 2 D, the active vitamin D derivative, inhibited the EMT pathway in osteosarcoma subtypes. The ligand-bound VDR directly downregulated the EMT inducer SNAI2 , differentiating highly metastatic from low metastatic subtypes and 1,25(OH) 2 D sensitivity. Moreover, epigenome-wide motif and putative target gene analysis revealed the VDR’s integration with NMD tumorigenic and immunogenic pathways. In an autoregulatory manner, 1,25(OH) 2 D inhibited NMD machinery genes and upregulated NMD target genes implicated in anti-oncogenic activity, immunorecognition, and cell-to-cell adhesion. Dicer substrate siRNA knockdown of SNAI2 revealed superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2)-mediated antioxidative responses and 1,25(OH) 2 D sensitization via non-canonical SOD2 nuclear-to-mitochondrial translocalization leading to overall ROS suppression. In a mouse xenograft metastasis model, the therapeutically relevant vitamin D derivative calcipotriol inhibited osteosarcoma metastasis and tumor growth shown for the first time. Our results uncover novel osteosarcoma-inhibiting mechanisms for vitamin D and calcipotriol that may be translated to human patients.
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Aseem SO, Hylemon PB, Zhou H. Bile Acids and Biliary Fibrosis. Cells 2023; 12:cells12050792. [PMID: 36899928 PMCID: PMC10001305 DOI: 10.3390/cells12050792] [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: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Biliary fibrosis is the driving pathological process in cholangiopathies such as primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Cholangiopathies are also associated with cholestasis, which is the retention of biliary components, including bile acids, in the liver and blood. Cholestasis may worsen with biliary fibrosis. Furthermore, bile acid levels, composition and homeostasis are dysregulated in PBC and PSC. In fact, mounting data from animal models and human cholangiopathies suggest that bile acids play a crucial role in the pathogenesis and progression of biliary fibrosis. The identification of bile acid receptors has advanced our understanding of various signaling pathways involved in regulating cholangiocyte functions and the potential impact on biliary fibrosis. We will also briefly review recent findings linking these receptors with epigenetic regulatory mechanisms. Further detailed understanding of bile acid signaling in the pathogenesis of biliary fibrosis will uncover additional therapeutic avenues for cholangiopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayed Obaidullah Aseem
- Stravitz-Sanyal Institute for Liver Disease & Metabolic Health, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Phillip B. Hylemon
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
- Central Virginia Veterans Healthcare System, Richmond, VA 23249, USA
| | - Huiping Zhou
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
- Central Virginia Veterans Healthcare System, Richmond, VA 23249, USA
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SIRT7 affects autophagy and activation of hepatic stellate cells by regulating the acetylation level of high mobility group protein 1. Immunobiology 2023; 228:152323. [PMID: 36753789 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2022.152323] [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: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Preventing the progression of hepatic fibrosis is an important strategy to improve the prognosis of liver disease. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of sirtuin7 (SIRT7) and high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) acetylation in the occurrence and development of hepatic fibrosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Hepatic fibrosis mice model was induced by CCl4. TGF-β1 was used to activated quiescent hepatic stellate cell (qHSC) into activated HSC (aHSC). Hematoxylin-eosin evaluated hepatic fibrosis in vivo, and the distribution of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) or HMGB1 was detected by immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence. The expressions of SIRT7, autophagy related proteins, and HSC activation-related proteins were detected by Western blot. Immunoprecipitation detected the acetylation level of HMGB1. Lysine mutants of HMGB1 were constructed in vitro to explore the acetylation sites of HMGB1. RESULTS Hepatocyte autophagy and activation levels were enhanced in CCl4 group or aHSC group, and the acetylation level of HMGB1 was increased. Nuclear transfer of HMGB1 occurred in aHSC, and HMGB1was mainly distributed in cytoplasm. The expression of SIRT7 in CCl4 group or aHSC group was most significantly decreased, and knockdown of SIRT7 leads to increased levels of HSCs autophagy and activation. Overexpression of SIRT7 or interference of HMGB1 alone in aHSC can reduce the level of autophagy and activation of aHSC. However, continued overexpression of SIRT7 in shHMGB1-aHSC could not reduce the autophagy and activation levels of aHSC. Among the 11 Flag-HMGB1 mutants, the acetylation level of K86R-Flag-HMGB1 was the lowest. The acetylation level of K86R-Flag-HMGB1 did not change due to SIRT7 downregulation. CONCLUSION This study proved that SIRT7 can directly target the K86R site of HMGB1 and participate in regulating the expression and distribution of HMGB1, thus affecting the autophagy and activation level of HSCs.
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Zhang Q, Jia R, Chen M, Wang J, Huang F, Shi M, Sheng H, Xu L. Antagonizing EZH2 combined with vitamin D3 exerts a synergistic role in anti-fibrosis through bidirectional effects on hepatocytes and hepatic stellate cells. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 38:441-450. [PMID: 36652457 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Whether vitamin D3 (VD3) supplementation is associated with improved liver fibrosis is controversial. METHODS Liver fibrosis models were treated with VD3, active VD (1,25-OH2 Vitamin D3), or collaboration with GSK126 (Ezh2 inhibitor), respectively. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were co-cultured with hepatocytes and then stimulated with TGF-β. Autophagy of hepatocytes was determined after the intervention of 1,25-OH2 Vitamin D3 and GSK126. Also, the active status of HSCs and the mechanism with 1,25-OH2 Vitamin D3 and GSK126 intervention were detected. RESULTS 1,25-OH2 Vitamin D3, but not VD3, is involved in anti-fibrosis and partially improves liver function, which might be associated with related enzymes and receptors (especially CYP2R1), leading to decreased of its biotransformation. GSK126 plays a synergistic role in anti-fibrosis. The co-culture system showed increased hepatocyte autophagy after HSCs activation. Supplementation with 1,25-OH2 Vitamin D3 or combined GSK126 reduced these effects. Further studies showed that 1,25-OH2 Vitamin D3 promoted H3K27 methylation of DKK1 promoter through VDR/Ezh2 due to the weakening for HSCs inhibitory signal. CONCLUSIONS VD3 bioactive form 1,25-OH2 Vitamin D3 is responsible for the anti-fibrosis, which might have bidirectional effects on HSCs by regulating histone modification. The inhibitor of Ezh2 plays a synergistic role in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinghui Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Kunshan First People's Hospital, Jiangsu University, Kunshan, China
| | - Rongrong Jia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Minjie Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianjun Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Kunshan First People's Hospital, Jiangsu University, Kunshan, China
| | - Feng Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Kunshan First People's Hospital, Jiangsu University, Kunshan, China
| | - Min Shi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Huiming Sheng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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The Novel RXR Agonist MSU-42011 Differentially Regulates Gene Expression in Mammary Tumors of MMTV-Neu Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054298. [PMID: 36901727 PMCID: PMC10001983 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054298] [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: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinoid X receptor (RXR) agonists, which activate the RXR nuclear receptor, are effective in multiple preclinical cancer models for both treatment and prevention. While RXR is the direct target of these compounds, the downstream changes in gene expression differ between compounds. RNA sequencing was used to elucidate the effects of the novel RXRα agonist MSU-42011 on the transcriptome in mammary tumors of HER2+ mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV)-Neu mice. For comparison, mammary tumors treated with the FDA approved RXR agonist bexarotene were also analyzed. Each treatment differentially regulated cancer-relevant gene categories, including focal adhesion, extracellular matrix, and immune pathways. The most prominent genes altered by RXR agonists positively correlate with survival in breast cancer patients. While MSU-42011 and bexarotene act on many common pathways, these experiments highlight the differences in gene expression between these two RXR agonists. MSU-42011 targets immune regulatory and biosynthetic pathways, while bexarotene acts on several proteoglycan and matrix metalloproteinase pathways. Exploration of these differential effects on gene transcription may lead to an increased understanding of the complex biology behind RXR agonists and how the activities of this diverse class of compounds can be utilized to treat cancer.
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