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Gong HY, Zhou PC, Zhang HY, Chen LM, Zhou YM, Liu ZG. Transcriptional regulation of Glis2 in hepatic fibrosis. Exp Mol Med 2023:10.1038/s12276-023-01031-y. [PMID: 37394585 PMCID: PMC10393978 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01031-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of Gli-similar 2 (Glis2) in hepatic fibrosis (HF) is controversial. In this study, we focused on the functional and molecular mechanisms involved in the Glis2-mediated activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs)-a milestone event leading to HF. The expression levels of Glis2 mRNA and protein were significantly decreased in the liver tissues of patients with severe HF and in mouse fibrotic liver tissues as well as HSCs activated by TGFβ1. Functional studies indicated that upregulated Glis2 significantly inhibited HSC activation and alleviated BDL-induced HF in mice. Downregulation of Glis2 was found to correlate significantly with DNA methylation of the Glis2 promoter mediated by methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1), which restricted the binding of hepatic nuclear factor 1-α (HNF1-α), a liver-specific transcription factor, to Glis2 promoters. In addition, the enrichment of DNMT1 in the Glis2 promoter region was mediated by metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcriptor-1 (MALAT1) lncRNA, leading to transcriptional silencing of Glis2 and activation of HSCs. In conclusion, our findings reveal that the upregulation of Glis2 can maintain the resting state of HSCs. The decreased expression of Glis2 under pathological conditions may lead to the occurrence and development of HF with the expression silencing of DNA methylation mediated by MALAT1 and DNMT1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan-Yu Gong
- Department of Infectious Disease, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, PR China
| | - Peng-Cheng Zhou
- Department of Infectious Disease, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, PR China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, PR China
| | - Hao-Ye Zhang
- Department of Infectious Disease, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, PR China
| | - Li-Min Chen
- Department of Infectious Disease, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, PR China
| | - Yang-Mei Zhou
- Department of Infectious Disease, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, PR China
| | - Zhen-Guo Liu
- Department of Infectious Disease, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, PR China.
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, PR China.
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2
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Zhao D, Gao Y, Su Y, Zhou Y, Yang T, Li Y, Wang Y, Sun Y, Chen L, Zhang F, Zhang Z, Wang F, Shao J, Zheng S. Oroxylin A regulates cGAS DNA hypermethylation induced by methionine metabolism to promote HSC senescence. Pharmacol Res 2023; 187:106590. [PMID: 36464146 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Relevant studies have recognized the important role of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) senescence in anti-liver fibrosis. Cellular senescence is believed to be regulated by the cGAS-STING signaling pathway. However, underlying exact mechanisms of cGAS-STING pathway in hepatic stellate cell senescence are still unclear. Here, we found that Oroxylin A could promote senescence in HSC by activating the cGAS-STING pathway. Moreover, activation of the cGAS-STING pathway was dependent on DNMT3A downregulation, which suppressed cGAS gene DNA methylation. Interestingly, the attenuation of DNMT activity relied on the reduction of methyl donor SAM level. Noteworthy, the downregulation of SAM levels implied the imbalance of methionine cycle metabolism, and MAT2A was considered to be an important regulatory enzyme in metabolic processes. In vivo experiments also indicated that Oroxylin A induced senescence of HSCs in mice with liver fibrosis, and DNMT3A overexpression partly offset this effect. In conclusion, we discovered that Oroxylin A prevented the methylation of the cGAS gene by preventing the production of methionine metabolites, which promoted the senescence of HSCs. This finding offers a fresh hypothesis for further research into the anti-liver fibrosis mechanism of natural medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danli Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuanyuan Gao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Ying Su
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Ting Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yang Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yingqian Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Ying Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Li Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zili Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Feixia Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiangjuan Shao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
| | - Shizhong Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
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3
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Sun QF, Tang LJ, Wang MJ, Zhu PW, Li YY, Ma HL, Huang OY, Hong L, Li G, Byrne CD, Targher G, Liu WY, Lu Y, Ding JG, Zheng MH. Potential Blood DNA Methylation Biomarker Genes for Diagnosis of Liver Fibrosis in Patients With Biopsy-Proven Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:864570. [PMID: 35433752 PMCID: PMC9008751 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.864570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and objectiveThis pilot study aimed to identify potential blood DNA methylation (BDM) biomarker genes for the diagnosis of liver fibrosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).MethodsWe included a total of 16 NAFLD patients with significant (SLF, liver fibrosis stage ≥ 2) and 16 patients with non-significant liver fibrosis (NSLF, fibrosis stages 0–1). The association between BDM and liver fibrosis was analyzed. Genes were selected based on a stepwise-filtering with CpG islands containing significant differentially methylated probes.ResultsThe two groups of patients were distinguishable through both t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (t-SNE) analysis and unsupervised hierarchical clustering analysis based on their BDM status. BDM levels were significantly higher in the NSLF group than in the SLF group. The methylation levels in the island and shelf regions were also significantly higher in the NSLF group, as well as the methylation levels in the first exon, 3′-untranslated region, body, ExonBnd, non-intergenic region, transcription start site (TSS)1500, and TSS200 regions (all p < 0.05). BDM status was associated with greater histological liver fibrosis, but not with age, sex, or other histological features of NAFLD (p < 0.05). The methylation levels of the hypomethylated CpG island region of CISTR, IFT140, and RGS14 genes were increased in the NSLF group compared to the SLF group (all p < 0.05).ConclusionBDM may stratify NAFLD patients with significant and non-significant liver fibrosis. The CISTR, IFT140, and RGS14 genes are potential novel candidate BDM biomarkers for liver fibrosis and these pilot data suggest further work on BDM biomarkers is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Feng Sun
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Liang-Jie Tang
- NAFLD Research Center, Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ming-Jie Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Pei-Wu Zhu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yang-Yang Li
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Hong-Lei Ma
- NAFLD Research Center, Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Department of General Practice, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ou-Yang Huang
- NAFLD Research Center, Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Liang Hong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Gang Li
- NAFLD Research Center, Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Christopher D. Byrne
- National Institute for Health Research Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Giovanni Targher
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Wen-Yue Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ji-Guang Ding
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Ji-Guang Ding,
| | - Ming-Hua Zheng
- NAFLD Research Center, Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Institute of Hepatology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment for the Development of Chronic Liver Disease in Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Ming-Hua Zheng,
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4
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Pastar I, Marjanovic J, Stone RC, Chen V, Burgess JL, Mervis JS, Tomic-Canic M. Epigenetic regulation of cellular functions in wound healing. Exp Dermatol 2021; 30:1073-1089. [PMID: 33690920 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Stringent spatiotemporal regulation of the wound healing process involving multiple cell types is associated with epigenetic mechanisms of gene regulation, such as DNA methylation, histone modification and chromatin remodelling, as well as non-coding RNAs. Here, we discuss the epigenetic changes that occur during wound healing and the rapidly expanding understanding of how these mechanisms affect healing resolution in both acute and chronic wound milieu. We provide a focussed overview of current research into epigenetic regulators that contribute to wound healing by specific cell type. We highlight the role of epigenetic regulators in the molecular pathophysiology of chronic wound conditions. The understanding of how epigenetic regulators can affect cellular functions during normal and impaired wound healing could lead to novel therapeutic approaches, and we outline questions that can provide guidance for future research on epigenetic-based interventions to promote healing. Dissecting the dynamic interplay between cellular subtypes involved in wound healing and epigenetic parameters during barrier repair will deepen our understanding of how to improve healing outcomes in patients affected by chronic non-healing wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Pastar
- Dr Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine Research Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jelena Marjanovic
- Dr Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine Research Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Rivka C Stone
- Dr Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine Research Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Vivien Chen
- Dr Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine Research Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jamie L Burgess
- Dr Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine Research Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Joshua S Mervis
- Dr Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine Research Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Marjana Tomic-Canic
- Dr Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine Research Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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5
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Antifibrotics in liver disease: are we getting closer to clinical use? Hepatol Int 2018; 13:25-39. [PMID: 30302735 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-018-9897-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The process of wound healing in response to chronic liver injury leads to the development of liver fibrosis. Regardless of etiology, the profound impact of the degree of liver fibrosis on the prognosis of chronic liver diseases has been well demonstrated. While disease-specific therapy, such as treatments for viral hepatitis, has been shown to reverse liver fibrosis and cirrhosis in both clinical trials and real-life practice, subsets of patients do not demonstrate fibrosis regression. Moreover, where disease-specific therapies are not available, the need for antifibrotics exists. Increased understanding into the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis sets the stage to focus on antifibrotic therapies attempting to: (1) Minimize liver injury and inflammation; (2) Inhibit liver fibrogenesis by enhancing or inhibiting target receptor-ligand interactions or intracellular signaling pathways; and (3) Promote fibrosis resolution. While no antifibrotic therapies are currently available, a number are now being evaluated in clinical trials, and their use is becoming closer to reality for select subsets of patients.
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6
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Yang Y, Chen XX, Li WX, Wu XQ, Huang C, Xie J, Zhao YX, Meng XM, Li J. EZH2-mediated repression of Dkk1 promotes hepatic stellate cell activation and hepatic fibrosis. J Cell Mol Med 2017; 21:2317-2328. [PMID: 28332284 PMCID: PMC5618695 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2016] [Accepted: 02/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
EZH2, a histone H3 lysine‐27‐specific methyltransferase, is involved in diverse physiological and pathological processes including cell proliferation and differentiation. However, the role of EZH2 in liver fibrosis is largely unknown. In this study, it was identified that EZH2 promoted Wnt pathway‐stimulated fibroblasts in vitro and in vivo by repressing Dkk‐1, which is a Wnt pathway antagonist. The expression of EZH2 was increased in CCl4‐induced rat liver and primary HSCs as well as TGF‐β1‐treated HSC‐T6, whereas the expression of Dkk1 was reduced. Silencing of EZH2 prevented TGF‐β1‐induced proliferation of HSC‐T6 cells and the expression of α‐SMA. In addition, knockdown of Dkk1 promoted TGF‐β1‐induced activation of HSCs. Moreover, silencing of EZH2 could restore the repression of Dkk‐1 through trimethylation of H3K27me3 in TGF‐β1‐treated HSC‐T6 cells. Interestingly, inhibition of EZH2 had almost no effect on the activation of HSC when Dkk1 was silenced. Collectively, EZH2‐mediated repression of Dkk1 promotes the activation of Wnt/β‐catenin pathway, which is an essential event for HSC activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- The key of Laboratory Precision Medicine for Severe Autoimmune Diseases of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiao-Xia Chen
- The key of Laboratory Precision Medicine for Severe Autoimmune Diseases of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Anhui No. 2 Province People's Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Wan-Xia Li
- The key of Laboratory Precision Medicine for Severe Autoimmune Diseases of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiao-Qin Wu
- The key of Laboratory Precision Medicine for Severe Autoimmune Diseases of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- The key of Laboratory Precision Medicine for Severe Autoimmune Diseases of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Juan Xie
- The key of Laboratory Precision Medicine for Severe Autoimmune Diseases of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yu-Xin Zhao
- The key of Laboratory Precision Medicine for Severe Autoimmune Diseases of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Meng
- The key of Laboratory Precision Medicine for Severe Autoimmune Diseases of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jun Li
- The key of Laboratory Precision Medicine for Severe Autoimmune Diseases of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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7
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Association between Promoter Hypomethylation and Overexpression of Autotaxin with Outcome Parameters in Biliary Atresia. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0169306. [PMID: 28052132 PMCID: PMC5214988 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0169306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Biliary atresia (BA) is a progressive fibroinflammatory liver disease. Autotaxin (ATX) has a profibrotic effect resulting from lysophosphatidic acid activity. The purpose of this study was to examine ATX expression and ATX promoter methylation in peripheral blood leukocytes and liver tissues from BA patients and controls and investigate their associations with outcome parameters in BA patients. Methods A total of 130 subjects (65 BA patients and 65 age-matched controls) were enrolled. DNA was extracted from circulating leukocytes and liver tissues of BA patients and from and age-matched controls. ATX promoter methylation status was determined by bisulfite pyrosequencing. ATX expression was analyzed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Decreased methylation of specific CpGs were observed at the ATX promoter in BA patients. Subsequent analysis revealed that BA patients with advanced stage had lower methylation levels of ATX promoter than those with early stage. ATX promoter methylation levels were found to be associated with hepatic dysfunction in BA. In addition, ATX expression was significantly elevated and correlated with a decrease in ATX promoter methylation in BA patients compared to the controls. Furthermore, promoter hypomethylation and overexpression of ATX were inversely associated with jaundice status, hepatic dysfunction, and liver stiffness in BA patients. Conclusion Accordingly, it has been hypothesized that ATX promoter methylation and ATX expression in peripheral blood may serve as possible biomarkers reflecting the progression of liver fibrosis in postoperative BA. These findings suggest that the promoter hypomethylation and overexpression of ATX might play a contributory role in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis in BA.
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8
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McDonnell F, Irnaten M, Clark AF, O’Brien CJ, Wallace DM. Hypoxia-Induced Changes in DNA Methylation Alter RASAL1 and TGFβ1 Expression in Human Trabecular Meshwork Cells. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0153354. [PMID: 27124111 PMCID: PMC4849706 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2015] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Fibrosis and a hypoxic environment are associated with the trabecular meshwork (TM) region in the blinding disease glaucoma. Hypoxia has been shown to alter DNA methylation, an epigenetic mechanism involved in regulating gene expression such as the pro-fibrotic transforming growth factor (TGF) β1 and the anti-fibrotic Ras protein activator like 1 (RASAL1). The purpose of this study was to compare DNA methylation levels, and the expression of TGFβ1 and RASAL1 in primary human normal (NTM) with glaucomatous (GTM) cells and in NTM cells under hypoxic conditions. Methods Global DNA methylation was assessed by ELISA in cultured age-matched NTM and GTM cells. qPCR was conducted for TGFβ1, collagen 1α1 (COL1A1), and RASAL1 expression. Western immunoblotting was used to determine protein expression. For hypoxia experiments, NTM cells were cultured in a 1%O2, 5%CO2 and 37°C environment. NTM and GTM cells were treated with TGFβ1 (10ng/ml) and the methylation inhibitor 5-azacytidine (5-aza) (0.5μM) respectively to determine their effects on DNA Methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) and RASAL1 expression. Results We found increased DNA methylation, increased TGFβ1 expression and decreased RASAL1 expression in GTM cells compared to NTM cells. Similar results were obtained in NTM cells under hypoxic conditions. TGFβ1 treatment increased DNMT1 and COL1A1, and decreased RASAL1 expression in NTM cells. 5-aza treatment decreased DNMT1, TGFβ1 and COL1A1 expression, and increased RASAL1 expression in GTM cells. Conclusions TGFβ1 and RASAL1 expression, global DNA methylation, and expression of associated methylation enzymes were altered between NTM and GTM cells. We found that hypoxia in NTM cells induced similar results to the GTM cells. Furthermore, DNA methylation, TGFβ1 and RASAL1 appear to have an interacting relationship that may play a role in driving pro-fibrotic disease progression in the glaucomatous TM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona McDonnell
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Mustapha Irnaten
- Dept. Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin 7, Ireland
| | - Abbot F. Clark
- Dept. Cell Biology & Immunology and the North Texas Eye Research Institute, U. North Texas Health Science Center, Ft. Worth, Texas, United States of America
| | - Colm J. O’Brien
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
- Dept. Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin 7, Ireland
| | - Deborah M. Wallace
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
- Dept. Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin 7, Ireland
- * E-mail:
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9
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Heylen L, Thienpont B, Naesens M, Lambrechts D, Sprangers B. The Emerging Role of DNA Methylation in Kidney Transplantation: A Perspective. Am J Transplant 2016; 16:1070-8. [PMID: 26780242 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.13585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2015] [Revised: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 10/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Allograft outcome depends on a range of factors, including donor age, the allo-immune response, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and interstitial fibrosis of the allograft. Changes in the epigenome, and in DNA methylation in particular, have been implicated in each of these processes, in either the kidney or other organ systems. This review provides a primer for DNA methylation analyses and a discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of current studies, but it is also a perspective for future DNA methylation research in kidney transplantation. We present exciting prospects for leveraging DNA methylation analyses as a tool in kidney biology research, and as a diagnostic or prognostic marker for predicting allograft quality and success. Topics discussed include DNA methylation changes in aging and in response to hypoxia and oxidative stress upon ischemia-reperfusion injury. Moreover, emerging evidence suggests that DNA methylation contributes to organ fibrosis and that systemic DNA methylation alterations correlate with the rate of kidney function decline in patients with chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal failure. Monitoring or targeting the epigenome could therefore reveal novel therapeutic approaches in transplantation and open up paths to biomarker discovery and targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Heylen
- Department of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Immunology and Microbiology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory of Translational Genetics, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Vesalius Research Center, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - B Thienpont
- Laboratory of Translational Genetics, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Vesalius Research Center, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - M Naesens
- Department of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Immunology and Microbiology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - D Lambrechts
- Laboratory of Translational Genetics, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Vesalius Research Center, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - B Sprangers
- Department of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Immunology and Microbiology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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10
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Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an immune-mediated disease of unknown cause that primarily affects the joints and ultimately leads to joint destruction. In recent years, the potential role of DNA methylation in the development of RA is raising great expectations among clinicians and researchers. DNA methylation influences diverse aspects of the disease and regulates epigenetic silencing of genes and behavior of several cell types, especially fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS), the most resident cells in joints. The activation of FLS is generally regarded as a key process in the development of RA that actively results in the promotion of ongoing inflammation and joint damage. It has also been shown that aberrant DNA methylation occurs in the pathogenesis of RA and contributes to the development of the disease. Recently, there has been an impressive increase in studies involving DNA methylation in RA. In this paper, we consider the role of DNA methylation in the development of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng-Lai Yuan
- Department of Orthopaedics and Central Laboratory, The Third Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Wuxi, 214041, Jiangsu, China
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Epigenetic Changes during Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0128745. [PMID: 26065684 PMCID: PMC4466775 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0128745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2015] [Accepted: 05/01/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hepatic stellate cells (HSC), which can participate in liver regeneration and fibrogenesis, have recently been identified as liver-resident mesenchymal stem cells. During their activation HSC adopt a myofibroblast-like phenotype accompanied by profound changes in the gene expression profile. DNA methylation changes at single genes have been reported during HSC activation and may participate in the regulation of this process, but comprehensive DNA methylation analyses are still missing. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the role of DNA methylation during in vitro activation of HSC. METHODS AND RESULTS The analysis of DNA methylation changes by antibody-based assays revealed a strong decrease in the global DNA methylation level during culture-induced activation of HSC. To identify genes which may be regulated by DNA methylation, we performed a genome-wide Methyl-MiniSeq EpiQuest sequencing comparing quiescent and early culture-activated HSC. Approximately 400 differentially methylated regions with a methylation change of at least 20% were identified, showing either hypo- or hypermethylation during activation. Further analysis of selected genes for DNA methylation and expression were performed revealing a good correlation between DNA methylation changes and gene expression. Furthermore, global DNA demethylation during HSC activation was investigated by 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine assay and L-mimosine treatment showing that demethylation was independent of DNA synthesis and thereby excluding a passive DNA demethylation mechanism. CONCLUSIONS In summary, in vitro activation of HSC initiated strong DNA methylation changes, which were associated with gene regulation. These results indicate that epigenetic mechanisms are important for the control of early HSC activation. Furthermore, the data show that global DNA demethylation during activation is based on an active DNA demethylation mechanism.
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Zeybel M, Hardy T, Robinson SM, Fox C, Anstee QM, Ness T, Masson S, Mathers JC, French J, White S, Mann J. Differential DNA methylation of genes involved in fibrosis progression in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and alcoholic liver disease. Clin Epigenetics 2015; 7:25. [PMID: 25859289 PMCID: PMC4391139 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-015-0056-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2014] [Accepted: 02/10/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic liver injury can lead to the development of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis but only in a minority of patients. Currently, it is not clear which factors determine progression to fibrosis. We investigated whether DNA\methylation profile as determined by pyrosequencing can distinguish patients with mild from those with advanced/severe fibrosis in non-alcoholic liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic liver disease (ALD). To this end, paraffin-embedded liver biopsies were collected from patients with biopsy-proven NAFLD or ALD, as well as paraffin-embedded normal liver resections, genomic DNA isolated, bisulfite converted and pyrosequencing assays used to quantify DNA methylation at specific CpGs within PPARα, PPARα, TGFβ1, Collagen 1A1 and PDGFα genes. Furthermore, we assessed the impact of age, gender and anatomical location within the liver on patterns of DNA methylation in the same panel of genes. Results DNA methylation at specific CpGs within genes known to affect fibrogenesis distinguishes between patients with mild from those with severe fibrosis in both NAFLD and ALD, although same CpGs are not equally represented in both etiologies. In normal liver, age, gender or anatomical location had no significant impact on DNA methylation patterns in the liver. Conclusions DNA methylation status at specific CpGs may be useful as part of a wider set of patient data for predicting progression to liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Müjdat Zeybel
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, 4th Floor William Leech Building, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH UK
| | - Timothy Hardy
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, 4th Floor William Leech Building, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH UK
| | - Stuart M Robinson
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, 4th Floor William Leech Building, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH UK
| | - Christopher Fox
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, 4th Floor William Leech Building, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH UK
| | - Quentin M Anstee
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, 4th Floor William Leech Building, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH UK
| | - Thomas Ness
- Cellular Pathology Department, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Victoria Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4LP UK
| | - Steven Masson
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, 4th Floor William Leech Building, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH UK
| | - John C Mathers
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, 4th Floor William Leech Building, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH UK
| | - Jeremy French
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, 4th Floor William Leech Building, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH UK
| | - Steve White
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, 4th Floor William Leech Building, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH UK
| | - Jelena Mann
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, 4th Floor William Leech Building, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH UK
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Brunner SM, Kesselring R, Rubner C, Martin M, Jeiter T, Boerner T, Ruemmele P, Schlitt HJ, Fichtner-Feigl S. Prognosis according to histochemical analysis of liver metastases removed at liver resection. Br J Surg 2014; 101:1681-91. [PMID: 25331841 DOI: 10.1002/bjs.9627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2014] [Revised: 06/26/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver metastases occur in 40-50 per cent of patients with colorectal cancer and determine long-term survival. The aim of this study was to examine the immunological architecture of colorectal liver metastases and its impact on patient survival. METHODS Specimens from patients with colorectal liver metastases were stained with haematoxylin and eosin and Masson trichrome, immunostained for α-smooth muscle actin, CD4, CD45RO and CD8, and analysed by flow cytometry. In addition to histomorphological evaluation, immunohistochemically stained sections were analysed for cell numbers in the tumour area, infiltrative margin and distant liver stroma separately. These findings were correlated with clinical data and patient outcome. RESULTS Tumour containment by a fibrotic capsule around liver metastases was observed in 37·8 per cent of 201 patients and was prognostic for improved survival (median (s.e.) survival 64 (6) and 31 (4) months for patients with capsule and no capsule respectively; P < 0·001) and independently led to higher R0 resection rates (P = 0·040). In multivariable analysis, CD45RO(+) cell infiltration at the peritumoral margin with low CD45RO(+) cell infiltration in the distant liver stroma (P = 0·001) and fibrotic capsule formation (P = 0·008) both independently prolonged patient survival. Using these two factors, a cellular immune score was designed and shown to stratify patient survival in test and validation samples (both P < 0·001). CONCLUSION Fibrotic capsule formation and localized cell infiltration of colorectal liver metastases by CD45RO(+) cells were related to prolonged patient survival. Based on these immunological criteria a cellular immune score was developed to stratify patients according to prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Brunner
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Centre Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Elpek G&O. Cellular and molecular mechanisms in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis: An update. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:7260-7276. [PMID: 24966597 PMCID: PMC4064072 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i23.7260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 242] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2013] [Revised: 02/08/2014] [Accepted: 05/26/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
There have been considerable recent advances towards a better understanding of the complex cellular and molecular network underlying liver fibrogenesis. Recent data indicate that the termination of fibrogenic processes and the restoration of deficient fibrolytic pathways may allow the reversal of advanced fibrosis and even cirrhosis. Therefore, efforts have been made to better clarify the cellular and molecular mechanisms that are involved in liver fibrosis. Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) remains a central event in fibrosis, complemented by other sources of matrix-producing cells, including portal fibroblasts, fibrocytes and bone marrow-derived myofibroblasts. These cells converge in a complex interaction with neighboring cells to provoke scarring in response to persistent injury. Defining the interaction of different cell types, revealing the effects of cytokines on these cells and characterizing the regulatory mechanisms that control gene expression in activated HSCs will enable the discovery of new therapeutic targets. Moreover, the characterization of different pathways associated with different etiologies aid in the development of disease-specific therapies. This article outlines recent advances regarding the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in liver fibrosis that may be translated into future therapies. The pathogenesis of liver fibrosis associated with alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and viral hepatitis are also discussed to emphasize the various mechanisms involved in liver fibrosis.
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Yang JJ, Tao H, Li J. Hedgehog signaling pathway as key player in liver fibrosis: new insights and perspectives. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2014; 18:1011-21. [PMID: 24935558 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2014.927443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is a pivotal cellular event in liver fibrosis. Therefore, improving our understanding of the molecular pathways that are involved in these processes is essential to generate new therapies for liver fibrosis. Greater knowledge of the role of the hedgehog signaling pathway in liver fibrosis could improve understanding of the liver fibrosis pathogenesis. AREAS COVERED The aim of this review is to describe the present knowledge about the hedgehog signaling pathway, which significantly participates in liver fibrosis and HSC activation, and look ahead on new perspectives of hedgehog signaling pathway research. Moreover, we will discuss the different interactions with hedgehog signaling pathway-regulated liver fibrosis. EXPERT OPINION The hedgehog pathway modulates several important aspects of function, including cell proliferation, activation and differentiation. Targeting the hedgehog pathway can be a promising direction in liver fibrosis treatment. We discuss new perspectives of hedgehog signaling pathway activation in liver fibrosis and HSC fate, including DNA methylation, methyl CpG binding protein 2, microRNA, irradiation and metabolism that influence hedgehog signaling pathway transduction. These findings identify the hedgehog pathway as a potentially important for biomarker development and therapeutic targets in liver fibrosis. Future studies are needed in order to find safer and more effective hedgehog-based drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Jing Yang
- The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Department of Pharmacology , Hefei 230601 , China
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Guvendiren M, Perepelyuk M, Wells RG, Burdick JA. Hydrogels with differential and patterned mechanics to study stiffness-mediated myofibroblastic differentiation of hepatic stellate cells. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2013; 38:198-208. [PMID: 24361340 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2013.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2013] [Revised: 10/17/2013] [Accepted: 11/13/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The differentiation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) into myofibroblasts is a key event in liver fibrosis. Due to the local stiffening of the extracellular matrix (ECM) during fibrosis, it is of great interest to develop mimics that can be used to investigate the cellular response to changes in mechanics. Here, we used a step-wise hydrogel crosslinking technique, where macromolecules are crosslinked using a sequence of addition then UV light-mediated radical crosslinking, to generate hydrogels with tunable stiffness. Freshly isolated HSCs remained rounded with lipid droplets and high levels of PPARγ expression on soft substrates (E~2kPa); however, HSCs spread, lost their lipid droplets, and expressed high levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and type I collagen on stiff substrates (E~24kPa). Similarly, fully differentiated cells reverted to a quiescent state when plated on soft substrates. Stiffness-induced differentiation of HSCs was enhanced in the presence of exogenous TGF-β1, a dominant signal in fibrosis. When the UV-induced secondary crosslinking was restricted with a photomask to spatially control mechanics, HSCs responded based on the local hydrogel stiffness, although they remained quiescent on stiff substrates if the stiff feature size was not sufficient to allow cell spreading. This hydrogel system permits the investigation of HSC response to materials with diverse levels and spatially heterogeneous mechanical properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Guvendiren
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Maryna Perepelyuk
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Rebecca G Wells
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Jason A Burdick
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Oxidative and Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) Stress in Tissue Fibrosis. CURRENT PATHOBIOLOGY REPORTS 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s40139-013-0029-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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