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Liu KX, Wang ZY, Ying YT, Wei RM, Dong DL, Sun ZJ. The antiprotozoal drug nitazoxanide improves experimental liver fibrosis in mice. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 224:116205. [PMID: 38615918 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Nitazoxanide is an FDA-approved antiprotozoal drug. Our previous studies find that nitazoxanide and its metabolite tizoxanide affect AMPK, STAT3, and Smad2/3 signals which are involved in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis, therefore, in the present study, we examined the effect of nitazoxanide on experimental liver fibrosis and elucidated the potential mechanisms. The in vivo experiment results showed that oral nitazoxanide (75, 100 mg·kg-1) significantly improved CCl4- and bile duct ligation-induced liver fibrosis in mice. Oral nitazoxanide activated the inhibited AMPK and inhibited the activated STAT3 in liver tissues from liver fibrosis mice. The in vitro experiment results showed that nitazoxanide and its metabolite tizoxanide activated AMPK and inhibited STAT3 signals in LX-2 cells (human hepatic stellate cells). Nitazoxanide and tizoxanide inhibited cell proliferation and collagen I expression and secretion of LX-2 cells. Nitazoxanide and tizoxanide inhibited transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)- and IL-6-induced increases of cell proliferation, collagen I expression and secretion, inhibited TGF-β1- and IL-6-induced STAT3 and Smad2/3 activation in LX-2 cells. In mouse primary hepatic stellate cells, nitazoxanide and tizoxanide also activated AMPK, inhibited STAT3 and Smad2/3 activation, inhibited cell proliferation, collagen I expression and secretion. In conclusion, nitazoxanide inhibits liver fibrosis and the underlying mechanisms involve AMPK activation, and STAT3 and Smad2/3 inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Xin Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zeng-Yang Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ya-Ting Ying
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui-Miao Wei
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - De-Li Dong
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhi-Jie Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
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Xia Y, Luo Q, Gao Q, Huang C, Chen P, Zou Y, Chen X, Liu W, Chen Z. SIRT1 activation ameliorates rhesus monkey liver fibrosis by inhibiting the TGF-β/smad signaling pathway. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 394:110979. [PMID: 38555046 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.110979] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway plays an important role in the pathogenesis and progression of liver fibrosis. Silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) is a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) dependent enzyme and responsible for deacetylating the proteins. Increasing numbers of reports have shown that the molecular mechanism of SIRT1 as an effective therapeutic target for liver fibrosis but the transformation is not very clear. In the present study, liver fibrotic tissues were screened by staining with Masson, hematoxylin-eosin staining (H&E) and Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for histopathological observation from the liver biopsy of seventy-seven rhesus monkey, which fixed with 4% paraformaldehyde (PFA) after treatment with high-fat diet (HFD) for two years. And the liver function was further determined by serum biochemical tests. The mRNA levels and protein expression of rat hepatic stellate (HSC-T6) cells were determined after treatment with Resveratrol (RSV) and Nicotinamide (NAM), respectively. The results showed that with the increasing of hepatic fibrosis in rhesus monkeys, the liver function impaired, and the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), p-Smad3 (p-Smad3) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) was up-regulated, while SIRT1 and Smad7 were down-regulated. Moreover, when stimulated the HSC-T6 with RSV to activate SIRT1 for 6, 12, and 24 h, the results showed that RSV promoted the expression of smad7, while the expression of TGF-β1, p-Smad3 and α-SMA were inhibited. In contrast, when the cells stimulated with NAM to inhibit SIRT1 for 6, 12, and 24 h, the Smad7 expression was decreased, while TGF-β1, p-Smad3, and α-SMA expressions were increased. These results indicate that SIRT1 acts as an important protective factor for liver fibrosis, which may be attributed to inhibiting the signaling pathway of TGF-β/Smad in hepatic fibrosis of the rhesus monkey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Xia
- Laboratory of Animal Disease Model, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China; Animal Disease Prevention and Control and Healthy Breeding Engineering Technology, Research Centre, Mianyang Normal University, Mianyang, 621000, China
| | - Qihui Luo
- Laboratory of Animal Disease Model, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China; Sichuan Primed Bio-Tech Group Co., Ltd., Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Qi Gao
- Laboratory of Animal Disease Model, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Chao Huang
- Laboratory of Animal Disease Model, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Ping Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Disease Model, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Yao Zou
- Wanzhou District Livestock Industry Development Center, Chongqing, 404120, China
| | - Xiwen Chen
- Animal Disease Prevention and Control and Healthy Breeding Engineering Technology, Research Centre, Mianyang Normal University, Mianyang, 621000, China
| | - Wentao Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Disease Model, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Zhengli Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Disease Model, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China; Sichuan Primed Bio-Tech Group Co., Ltd., Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Zhou H, Liu Y, Su Y, Ji P, Kong L, Sun R, Zhang D, Xu H, Li W, Li W. Ginsenoside Rg1 attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced chronic liver damage by activating Nrf2 signaling and inhibiting inflammasomes in hepatic cells. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 324:117794. [PMID: 38244950 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117794] [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: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Ginseng (Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer) is a precious traditional Chinese medicine with multiple pharmacological effects. Ginsenoside Rg1 is a main active ingredient extracted from ginseng, which is known for its age-delaying and antioxidant effects. Increasing evidence indicates that Rg1 exhibits anti-inflammatory properties in numerous diseases and may ameliorate oxidative damage and inflammation in many chronic liver diseases. AIM OF THE STUDY Chronic inflammatory injury in liver cells is an important pathological basis of many liver diseases. However, its mechanism remains unclear and therapeutic strategies to prevent its development need to be further explored. Thus, our study is to delve the protective effect and mechanism of Rg1 against chronic hepatic inflammatory injuries induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). MATERIALS AND METHODS The chronic liver damage model in mice was build up by injecting intraperitoneally with LPS (200 μg/kg) for 21 days. Serum liver function indicators and levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were examined by using corresponding Kits. Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E), Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), and Masson stains were utilized to visualize hepatic histopathological damage, glycogen deposition, and liver fibrosis. The nuclear import of p-Nrf2 and the generation of Col4 in the liver were detected by IF, while IHC was employed to detect the expressions of NLRP3 and AIM2 in the hepatic. The Western blot and q-PCR were used to survey the expressions of proteins and mRNAs of fibrosis and apoptosis, and the expressions of Keap1, p-Nrf2 and NLRP3, NLRP1, AIM2 inflammasome-related proteins in mouse liver. The cell viability of human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2) was detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 to select the action concentration of LPS, and intracellular ROS generation was detected using a kit. The expressions of Nuclear Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1 and NLRP3, NLRP1, and AIM2 inflammasome-related proteins in HepG2 cells were detected by Western blot. Finally, the feasibility of the molecular interlinking between Rg1 and Nrf2 was demonstrated by molecular docking. RESULTS Rg1 treatment for 21 days decreased the levels of ALT, AST, and inflammatory factors of serum IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α in mice induced by LPS. Pathological results indicated that Rg1 treatment obviously alleviated hepatocellular injury and apoptosis, inflammatory cell infiltration and liver fibrosis in LPS stimulated mice. Rg1 promoted Keap1 degradation and enhanced the expressions of p-Nrf2, HO-1 and decreased the levels of NLRP1, NLRP3, AIM2, cleaved caspase-1, IL-1β and IL-6 in livers caused by LPS. Furthermore, Rg1 effectively suppressed the rise of ROS in HepG2 cells induced by LPS, whereas inhibition of Nrf2 reversed the role of Rg1 in reducing the production of ROS and NLRP3, NLRP1, and AIM2 expressions in LPS-stimulated HepG2 cells. Finally, the molecular docking illustrated that Rg1 exhibits a strong affinity towards Nrf2. CONCLUSION The findings indicate that Rg1 significantly ameliorates chronic liver damage and fibrosis induced by LPS. The mechanism may be mediated through promoting the dissociation of Nrf2 from Keap1 and then activating Nrf2 signaling and further inhibiting NLRP3, NLRP1, and AIM2 inflammasomes in liver cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immunopharmacology, Ministry of Education, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immunopharmacology, Ministry of Education, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Yong Su
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Pengmin Ji
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immunopharmacology, Ministry of Education, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Liangliang Kong
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immunopharmacology, Ministry of Education, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Ran Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immunopharmacology, Ministry of Education, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Duoduo Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immunopharmacology, Ministry of Education, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Hanyang Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immunopharmacology, Ministry of Education, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Weiping Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immunopharmacology, Ministry of Education, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
| | - Weizu Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immunopharmacology, Ministry of Education, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
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Fang C, Liu S, Yang W, Zheng G, Zhou F, Gao X, Qin L, Yang G, Yang J, Zhu G, Wang X, Huang K, Yang X, Wei Y, Peng S, Li L. Exercise ameliorates lipid droplet metabolism disorder by the PLIN2-LIPA axis-mediated lipophagy in mouse model of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167045. [PMID: 38306800 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Excessive hepatic lipid droplets (LDs) accumulation-induced lipid metabolism disorder contributes to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Exercise is a promising therapeutic strategy for NAFLD. However, the mechanism by which exercise ameliorates NAFLD through regulating the catabolism of hepatic LDs remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the effect of perilipin2 (PLIN2)-lysosomal acid lipase (LIPA) axis mediating exercise-triggered lipophagy in a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NAFLD mouse model. Our results showed that exercise could reduce HFD-induced hepatic LDs accumulation and change the expression of lipolysis-related enzymes. Moreover, exercise upregulated the expression of microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) and autophagy-related proteins, and downregulated sequestosome 1 (P62) expression and promoted autophagosomes formation. Interestingly, exercise downregulated PLIN2 expression, upregulated LIPA expression, and increased the activity of hepatic LIPA and serum levels of LIPA in the NAFLD mouse model. Further mechanistic studies demonstrated that adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator-5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleoside (AICAr) treatment significantly increased mRNA levels and protein expression of LIPA and LC3II and decreased levels of PLIN2 and P62 in palmitic acid (PA)-treated HepG2 cells. PLIN2 silencing and LIPA overexpression notably increased the mRNA level and protein expression of LC3II and decreased the mRNA level and protein expression of p62, respectively. In summary, our findings reveal novel insights into the effect of exercise on improving lipid droplet metabolism disorder in NAFLD. Enhancing the PLIN2-LIPA axis-mediated lipophagy may be one of the key mechanisms involved in NAFLD alleviation by exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunlu Fang
- School of Sport and Health Sciences, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China; Key Laboratory of Sports Technique, Tactics and Physical Function of General Administration of Sport of China, Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China
| | - Shujing Liu
- School of Sport and Health Sciences, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China; Key Laboratory of Sports Technique, Tactics and Physical Function of General Administration of Sport of China, Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China
| | - Wenqi Yang
- School of Sport and Health Sciences, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China; Key Laboratory of Sports Technique, Tactics and Physical Function of General Administration of Sport of China, Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China
| | - Guohua Zheng
- Institute of leisure, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Fu Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Sports Technique, Tactics and Physical Function of General Administration of Sport of China, Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China
| | - Xiang Gao
- Sports Training Institute, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China
| | - Lian Qin
- Key Laboratory of Sports Technique, Tactics and Physical Function of General Administration of Sport of China, Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China
| | - Guirong Yang
- Key Laboratory of Sports Technique, Tactics and Physical Function of General Administration of Sport of China, Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China
| | - Jiapei Yang
- Key Laboratory of Sports Technique, Tactics and Physical Function of General Administration of Sport of China, Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China
| | - Guangming Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Sports Technique, Tactics and Physical Function of General Administration of Sport of China, Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China
| | - Xinzhuang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Sports Technique, Tactics and Physical Function of General Administration of Sport of China, Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China
| | - Kailing Huang
- Key Laboratory of Sports Technique, Tactics and Physical Function of General Administration of Sport of China, Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China
| | - Xincheng Yang
- Key Laboratory of Sports Technique, Tactics and Physical Function of General Administration of Sport of China, Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China
| | - Yuan Wei
- Key Laboratory of Sports Technique, Tactics and Physical Function of General Administration of Sport of China, Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China.
| | - Shuang Peng
- School of Sport and Health Sciences, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China; Key Laboratory of Sports Technique, Tactics and Physical Function of General Administration of Sport of China, Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China.
| | - Liangming Li
- School of Sport and Health Sciences, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China; Key Laboratory of Sports Technique, Tactics and Physical Function of General Administration of Sport of China, Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China.
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Bai J, Qian B, Cai T, Chen Y, Li T, Cheng Y, Wu Z, Liu C, Ye M, Du Y, Fu W. Aloin Attenuates Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and CCl 4-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Mice: Possible Role of TGF-β/Smad Signaling. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:19475-19487. [PMID: 38038700 PMCID: PMC10723061 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c01721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis refers to the excessive buildup of extracellular matrix (ECM) components in liver tissue. It is considered a pathological response to liver damage for which there is no effective treatment. Aloin, an anthraquinone compound isolated from the aloe plant, has shown good pharmacological effects in the treatment of gastric cancer, ulcerative colitis, myocardial hypertrophy, traumatic brain injury, and other diseases; however, its specific impact on liver fibrosis remains unclear. To address this gap, we conducted a study to explore the mechanisms underlying the potential antifibrotic effect of aloin. We constructed a mouse liver fibrosis model using carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) dissolved in olive oil as a modeling drug. Additionally, a cellular model was developed by using transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) as a stimulus applied to hepatic stellate cells. After aloin intervention, serum alanine aminotransferase, hepatic hydroxyproline, and serum aspartate aminotransferase were reduced in mice after aloin intervention compared to CCl4-mediated liver injury without aloin intervention. Aloin relieved the oxidative stress caused by CCl4 via reducing hepatic malondialdehyde in liver tissue and increasing the level of superoxide dismutase. Aloin treatment decreased interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α and increased the expression of IL-10, which inhibited the inflammatory response in liver injury. In addition, aloin inhibited the activation of hepatic stellate cells and reduced the level of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and collagen type I. In cell and animal experiments, aloin attenuated liver fibrosis, acting through the TGF-β/Smad2/3 signaling pathway, and mitigated CCl4- and TGF-β1-induced inflammation. Thus, the findings of this study provided theoretical data support and a new possible treatment strategy for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Bai
- Department
of General Surgery (Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery), The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, 646000 Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Baolin Qian
- Department
of General Surgery (Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery), The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, 646000 Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- Key
Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 150076 Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Tianying Cai
- Department
of General Surgery (Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery), The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, 646000 Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Yifan Chen
- Department
of General Surgery (Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery), The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, 646000 Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Tongxi Li
- Department
of General Surgery (Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery), The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, 646000 Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Yonglang Cheng
- Department
of General Surgery (Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery), The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, 646000 Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Ziming Wu
- Department
of General Surgery (Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery), The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, 646000 Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Chen Liu
- Department
of General Surgery (Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery), The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, 646000 Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Mingxin Ye
- Department
of General Surgery (Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery), The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, 646000 Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Yichao Du
- Academician
(Expert) Workstation of Sichuan Province, Metabolic Hepatobiliary
and Pancreatic Diseases Key Laboratory of Luzhou City, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, 646000 Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Wenguang Fu
- Department
of General Surgery (Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery), The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, 646000 Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- Academician
(Expert) Workstation of Sichuan Province, Metabolic Hepatobiliary
and Pancreatic Diseases Key Laboratory of Luzhou City, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, 646000 Luzhou, Sichuan, China
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Huang Y, Luo W, Chen S, Su H, Zhu W, Wei Y, Qiu Y, Long Y, Shi Y, Wei J. Isovitexin alleviates hepatic fibrosis by regulating miR-21-mediated PI3K/Akt signaling and glutathione metabolic pathway: based on transcriptomics and metabolomics. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 121:155117. [PMID: 37820467 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155117] [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] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effective drugs for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis have not yet been identified. Isovitexin (IVT) is a promising hepatoprotective agent owing to its efficacy against acute liver injury. However, the role of IVT in liver fibrosis has not been reported. PURPOSE To explore the effect of IVT on liver fibrosis both in vitro and in vivo. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS A mouse model of liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and two types of hepatic stellate cell models induced by platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) were established to evaluate the effect of IVT on hepatic fibrosis. Transcriptomics and metabolomics were used to predict the underlying targets of IVT and were validated by a combination of in vitro and in vivo experiments. Exploration of miRNA and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications was also carried out to detect the key upstream targets of the above targets. RESULTS IVT reduced collagen deposition and hepatic stellate cell activation to alleviate liver fibrosis. The transcriptomics and metabolomics analyses showed that phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) signaling and the glutathione (GSH) metabolic pathway may be the main regulatory processes of IVT in hepatic fibrosis. Both the in vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed the inhibitory effect of IVT on the PTEN-PI3K-Akt-mTOR axis and activation of the GSH metabolic pathway. A miR-21 mimic inhibited the effects of IVT on these two pathways, suggesting that miR-21 is the hub for IVT regulation of PI3K-Akt signaling and the GSH metabolic pathway. IVT also increased pri-miR-21 level and reduced the m6A enrichment of pri-miR-21, demonstrating that IVT may regulate pri-miR-21 through m6A modification, thereby affecting the maturation of miR-21. CONCLUSION This study is the first to propose a protective effect of IVT against liver fibrosis. The mechanism of IVT against hepatic fibrosis is based on the regulation of miR-21, targeting PTEN-Akt signaling and the GSH metabolic pathway, which is also a novel discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yushen Huang
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Wen Luo
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Liuzhou Workers Hospital, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Siyun Chen
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Hongmei Su
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Wuchang Zhu
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wei
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yue Qiu
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yan Long
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yanxia Shi
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jinbin Wei
- Pharmaceutical College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China; National Center for International Research of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China.
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7
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Correa-Gallegos D, Ye H, Dasgupta B, Sardogan A, Kadri S, Kandi R, Dai R, Lin Y, Kopplin R, Shenai DS, Wannemacher J, Ichijo R, Jiang D, Strunz M, Ansari M, Angelidis I, Schiller HB, Volz T, Machens HG, Rinkevich Y. CD201 + fascia progenitors choreograph injury repair. Nature 2023; 623:792-802. [PMID: 37968392 PMCID: PMC10665192 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06725-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: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Optimal tissue recovery and organismal survival are achieved by spatiotemporal tuning of tissue inflammation, contraction and scar formation1. Here we identify a multipotent fibroblast progenitor marked by CD201 expression in the fascia, the deepest connective tissue layer of the skin. Using skin injury models in mice, single-cell transcriptomics and genetic lineage tracing, ablation and gene deletion models, we demonstrate that CD201+ progenitors control the pace of wound healing by generating multiple specialized cell types, from proinflammatory fibroblasts to myofibroblasts, in a spatiotemporally tuned sequence. We identified retinoic acid and hypoxia signalling as the entry checkpoints into proinflammatory and myofibroblast states. Modulating CD201+ progenitor differentiation impaired the spatiotemporal appearances of fibroblasts and chronically delayed wound healing. The discovery of proinflammatory and myofibroblast progenitors and their differentiation pathways provide a new roadmap to understand and clinically treat impaired wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Haifeng Ye
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine (IRBM), Helmholtz Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Bikram Dasgupta
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine (IRBM), Helmholtz Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Aydan Sardogan
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine (IRBM), Helmholtz Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Safwen Kadri
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine (IRBM), Helmholtz Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ravinder Kandi
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine (IRBM), Helmholtz Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ruoxuan Dai
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine (IRBM), Helmholtz Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Yue Lin
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine (IRBM), Helmholtz Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Robert Kopplin
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine (IRBM), Helmholtz Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Disha Shantaram Shenai
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine (IRBM), Helmholtz Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Juliane Wannemacher
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine (IRBM), Helmholtz Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ryo Ichijo
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine (IRBM), Helmholtz Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Dongsheng Jiang
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine (IRBM), Helmholtz Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Maximilian Strunz
- Member of the German Centre for Lung Research (DZL), Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC) and Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI), Helmholtz Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Meshal Ansari
- Member of the German Centre for Lung Research (DZL), Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC) and Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI), Helmholtz Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Illias Angelidis
- Member of the German Centre for Lung Research (DZL), Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC) and Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI), Helmholtz Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Herbert B Schiller
- Member of the German Centre for Lung Research (DZL), Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC) and Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI), Helmholtz Munich, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Experimental Pneumology, Ludwig-Maximilians University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Volz
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Hans-Günther Machens
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Yuval Rinkevich
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine (IRBM), Helmholtz Munich, Munich, Germany.
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8
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Lu H, Zhang R, Zhang S, Li Y, Liu Y, Xiong Y, Yu X, Lan T, Li X, Wang M, Liu Z, Zhang G, Li J, Chen S. HSC-derived exosomal miR-199a-5p promotes HSC activation and hepatocyte EMT via targeting SIRT1 in hepatic fibrosis. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 124:111002. [PMID: 37804655 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111002] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Exosomes have been implicated in inflammation-related diseases, such as hepatic fibrosis (HF) and renal fibrosis, via transferring bioactive cargoes to recipient cells. This study aimed to investigate the possible effect of hepatic stellate cell (HSC)-derived exosomes on the initiation and development of HF by delivering microRNA (miR)-199a-5p. In HF rats with cholestasis induced by ligating the common bile duct, miR-199a-5p was upregulated while SIRT1 was downregulated in liver tissues from bile duct ligation (BDL) rats compared with that of sham rats. Furthermore, miR-199a-5p expression was upregulated, but the mRNA and protein expression levels of SIRT1 were downregulated in TGF-β1-activated LX-2. miR-199a-5p promoted the proliferation and further activation of LX-2 and enhanced the expression levels of the HF markers COL1A1 and α-SMA. Subsequently, the binding of miR-199a-5p to the 3'UTR of SIRT1 mRNA was predicted by bioinformatics websites and evidenced by fluorescent reporter assay. Knocking down SIRT1 enhanced the abilities of LX-2 cell proliferation, migration, and colony formation and increased the expression levels of the HF markers α-SMA and COL1A1. LX-2-derived exosomal miR-199a-5p transferred to LX-2 and THLE-2, inhibited the proliferation of THLE-2, and promoted the epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) and senescence of THLE-2. Furthermore, in vivo results suggested that miR-199a-5p overexpression aggravated HF in BDL rats; increased miR-199a-5p, α-SMA, and COL1A1 expression levels; and significantly upregulated the serum ALT, AST, TBA, and TBIL levels. However, reverse results were obtained with inhibited miR-199a-5p expression. In conclusion, HSC-derived exosomal miR-199a-5p may promote HF by accelerating HSC activation and hepatocyte EMT by targeting SIRT1, suggesting that miR-199a-5p and SIRT1 may serve as potential therapeutic targets for HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjian Lu
- North China University of Science and Technology Affiliated Hospital, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Ronghua Zhang
- North China University of Science and Technology Affiliated Hospital, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Shukun Zhang
- Institute of Acute Abdominal Diseases of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tianjin Nankai Hospital, Nankai Clinical College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300100, China
| | - Yufeng Li
- The Cancer Institute, Hebei Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Tangshan People's Hospital, Tangshan 063001, China
| | - Yankun Liu
- The Cancer Institute, Hebei Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Tangshan People's Hospital, Tangshan 063001, China
| | - Yanan Xiong
- North China University of Science and Technology Affiliated Hospital, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Xiaohan Yu
- North China University of Science and Technology Affiliated Hospital, School of Public Health, Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical-Industrial Integration Precision Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063000, China
| | - Tao Lan
- Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery Department, Cangzhou People's Hospital, Cangzhou 061000, China
| | - Xin Li
- Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery Department, Cangzhou People's Hospital, Cangzhou 061000, China
| | - Meimei Wang
- North China University of Science and Technology Affiliated Hospital, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Zhiyong Liu
- Health Science Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Guangling Zhang
- North China University of Science and Technology Affiliated Hospital, School of Public Health, Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical-Industrial Integration Precision Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063000, China.
| | - Jingwu Li
- The Cancer Institute, Hebei Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Tangshan People's Hospital, Tangshan 063001, China.
| | - Shuang Chen
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Early Druggability Evaluation of Innovative Drugs, Tianjin International Joint Academy of Biomedicine, Tianjin 300450, China.
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9
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Gui R, Li W, Li Z, Wang H, Wu Y, Jiao W, Zhao G, Shen Y, Wang L, Zhang J, Chen S, Hao L, Cheng Y. Effects and potential mechanisms of IGF1/IGF1R in the liver fibrosis: A review. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 251:126263. [PMID: 37567540 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126263] [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: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a wound-healing response due to persistent liver damage and it may progress to cirrhosis and even liver cancer if no intervention is given. In the current cognition, liver fibrosis is reversible. So, it is of great significance to explore the related gene targets or biomarker for anti-fibrosis of liver. Insulin like growth factor 1 (IGF1) and IGF1 receptor (IGF1R) are mainly expressed in the liver tissues and play critical roles in the liver function. The present review summarized the role of IGF1/IGF1R and its signaling system in liver fibrosis and illustrated the potential mechanisms including DNA damage repair, cell senescence, lipid metabolism and oxidative stress that may be involved in this process according to the studies on the fibrosis of liver or other organs. In particular, the roles of IGF1 and IGF1R in DNA damage repair were elaborated, including membrane-localized and nucleus-localized IGF1R. In addition, for each of the potential mechanism in anti-fibrosis of liver, the signaling pathways of the IGF1/IGF1R mediated and the cell species in liver acted by IGF1 and IGF1R under different conditions were included. The data in this review will support for the study about the effect of IGF1/IGF1R on liver fibrosis induced by various factors, meanwhile, provide a basis for the study of liver fibrosis to focus on the communications between the different kinds of liver cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruirui Gui
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, College of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Wanqiao Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, College of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Zhipeng Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, College of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Hongbin Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, College of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yuchen Wu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, College of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Wenlin Jiao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, College of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Gang Zhao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, College of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yannan Shen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, College of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Luping Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, College of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Jialu Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, College of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Sihan Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, College of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Linlin Hao
- College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130062, China.
| | - Yunyun Cheng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, College of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
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10
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Yan M, Xie Y, Yao J, Li X. The Dual-Mode Transition of Myofibroblasts Derived from Hepatic Stellate Cells in Liver Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15460. [PMID: 37895138 PMCID: PMC10607848 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the key promoters of liver fibrosis. In response to liver-fibrosis-inducing factors, HSCs express alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and obtain myofibroblast phenotype. Collagen secretion and high expression of α-SMA with related high cell tension and migration limitation are the main characteristics of myofibroblasts. How these two characteristics define the role of myofibroblasts in the initiation and progression of liver fibrosis is worth exploring. From this perspective, we explored the correlation between α-SMA expression and collagen secretion in myofibroblasts and the characteristics of collagen deposition in liver fibrosis. Based on a reasonable hypothesis and experimental verification, we believe that the myofibroblast with the α-SMAhighcollagenhigh model do not effectively explain the initial stage and progression characteristics of liver fibrosis. Therefore, we propose a myofibroblast dual-mode transition model in fibrotic liver (DMTM model). In the DMTM model, myofibroblasts have dual modes. Myofibroblasts obtain enhanced α-SMA expression, accompanied by collagen expression inhibition in the high-concentration region of TGF-β. At the edge of the TGF-β positive region, myofibroblasts convert to a high-migration and high-collagen secretion phenotype. This model reasonably explains collagen deposition and expansion in the initial stage of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengchao Yan
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
- The School of Medical, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Ye Xie
- The School of Medical, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine of Gansu Province, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Jia Yao
- The School of Medical, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine of Gansu Province, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xun Li
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
- The School of Medical, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine of Gansu Province, Lanzhou 730000, China
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11
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Kim JY, Kwon YG, Kim YM. The stress-responsive protein REDD1 and its pathophysiological functions. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:1933-1944. [PMID: 37653030 PMCID: PMC10545776 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01056-3] [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: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulated in development and DNA damage-response 1 (REDD1) is a stress-induced protein that controls various cellular functions, including metabolism, oxidative stress, autophagy, and cell fate, and contributes to the pathogenesis of metabolic and inflammatory disorders, neurodegeneration, and cancer. REDD1 usually exerts deleterious effects, including tumorigenesis, metabolic inflammation, neurodegeneration, and muscle dystrophy; however, it also exhibits protective functions by regulating multiple intrinsic cell activities through either an mTORC1-dependent or -independent mechanism. REDD1 typically regulates mTORC1 signaling, NF-κB activation, and cellular pro-oxidant or antioxidant activity by interacting with 14-3-3 proteins, IκBα, and thioredoxin-interacting protein or 75 kDa glucose-regulated protein, respectively. The diverse functions of REDD1 depend on cell type, cellular context, interaction partners, and cellular localization (e.g., mitochondria, endomembrane, or cytosol). Therefore, comprehensively understanding the molecular mechanisms and biological roles of REDD1 under pathophysiological conditions is of utmost importance. In this review, based on the published literature, we highlight and discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying the REDD1 expression and its actions, biological functions, and pathophysiological roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Yoon Kim
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Hanyang University Hospital, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Guen Kwon
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Myeong Kim
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea.
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12
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Yang JH. Cytoprotective Effect of Bambusae caulis in Liquamen by Blocking Oxidative Stress in Hepatocytes. Molecules 2023; 28:5862. [PMID: 37570831 PMCID: PMC10421324 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28155862] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Bambusae caulis in Liquamen (BCL), which is extracted from heat-treated fresh bamboo stems, is a traditional herbal medicine widely used in Eastern countries. Recently, it has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and whitening effects. However, the protective effect of BCL on hepatocytes has not yet been elucidated. The present study aimed to determine whether BCL prevents oxidative stress induced by tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP) and exerts cytoprotective effects on hepatocytes. High-performance liquid chromatography and liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectroscopy were performed to analyze the type of polyphenols present in BCL. The activities of antioxidant enzymes and hepatocyte viability were assessed. The benzoic acid content was the highest among polyphenols present in BCL. Benzoic acid acts as a scavenger of free radicals, including reactive oxygen species. BCL increased the expression of antioxidant enzymes (glutamate-cysteine ligase and NADPH quinone dehydrogenase (1)) by activating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and reduced tBHP-induced cell death by inhibiting oxidative stress. BCL inhibited tBHP-induced phosphorylation of p38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase but not that of extracellular signal-regulated kinase. In conclusion, BCL is a promising therapeutic candidate for treating oxidative-stress-induced hepatocyte damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Hye Yang
- College of Korean Medicine, Dongshin University, Naju 58245, Republic of Korea
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13
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Shen Y, Jiang B, Zhang C, Wu Q, Li L, Jiang P. Combined Inhibition of the TGF-β1/Smad Pathway by Prevotella copri and Lactobacillus murinus to Reduce Inflammation and Fibrosis in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11010. [PMID: 37446187 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241311010] [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: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic disease characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of the bile ducts. Cholestasis may lead to hepatic inflammation and fibrosis, and amelioration of cholestasis may allow recovery from inflammatory and fibrotic pathological damage. Prevotella copri (P. copri) interventions have been reported to significantly improve cholestasis and liver fibrosis in 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC)-induced PSC mouse models. Even though P. copri treatment alone cannot bring about recovery from DDC-induced inflammation, it increases the abundance of Lactobacillus murinus (L. murinus) compared with DDC treatment, which has been reported to have anti-inflammatory effects. The abundance of L. murinus still not recovering to a normal level may underlie hepatic inflammation in P. copri + DDC mice. Separate or combined interventions of P. copri and L. murinus were used to investigate the molecular mechanism underlying the improvement in PSC inflammation and fibrosis. P. copri and L. murinus significantly reduced the hepatic inflammatory cell aggregation and inflammatory factor expression as well as the hepatic collagen content and fibrin factor expression in the PSC mice. Further analysis of phosphorylation and dephosphorylation levels revealed that treating the PSC mice with the P. copri and L. murinus combined intervention inhibited the activity of the DDC-activated TGF-β1/Smad pathway, thereby reducing liver inflammation and fibrosis. The combination of P. copri and L. murinus inhibits the TGF-β1/Smad pathway and reduces inflammation and fibrosis in PSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Shen
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Baorong Jiang
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Chenchen Zhang
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Qian Wu
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211166, China
- Key Lab of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Lei Li
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211166, China
- Key Lab of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Ping Jiang
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211166, China
- Key Lab of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211166, China
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14
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Zheng Y, Xie L, Yang D, Luo K, Li X. Small-molecule natural plants for reversing liver fibrosis based on modulation of hepatic stellate cells activation: An update. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 113:154721. [PMID: 36870824 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154721] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver fibrosis (LF) is a trauma repair process carried out by the liver in response to various acute and chronic liver injuries. Its primary pathological characteristics are excessive proliferation and improper dismissal of the extracellular matrix, and if left untreated, it will progress into cirrhosis, liver cancer, and other diseases. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation is intimately associated to the onset of LF, and it is anticipated that addressing HSCs proliferation can reverse LF. Plant-based small-molecule medications have anti-LF properties, and their mechanisms of action involve suppression of extracellular matrix abnormally accumulating as well as anti-inflammation and anti-oxidative stress. New targeting HSC agents will therefore be needed to provide a potential curative response. PURPOSE The most recent HSC routes and small molecule natural plants that target HSC described domestically and internationally in recent years were examined in this review. METHODS The data was looked up using resources including ScienceDirect, CNKI, Web of Science, and PubMed. Keyword searches for information on hepatic stellate cells included "liver fibrosis", "natural plant", "hepatic stellate cells", "adverse reaction", "toxicity", etc. RESULTS: We discovered that plant monomers can target and control various pathways to prevent the activation and proliferation of HSC and promote the apoptosis of HSC in order to achieve the anti-LF effect in this work by compiling the plant monomers that influence many common pathways of HSC in recent years. It demonstrates the wide-ranging potential of plant monomers targeting different routes to combat LF, with a view to supplying new concepts and new strategies for natural plant therapy of LF as well as research and development of novel pharmaceuticals. The investigation of kaempferol, physalin B, and other plant monomers additionally motivated researchers to focus on the structure-activity link between the main chemicals and LF. CONCLUSION The creation of novel pharmaceuticals can benefit greatly from the use of natural components. They are often harmless for people, non-target creatures, and the environment because they are found in nature, and they can be employed as the starting chemicals for the creation of novel medications. Natural plants are valuable resources for creating new medications with fresh action targets because they feature original and distinctive action mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Long Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Dejun Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Kaipei Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Xiaofang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
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15
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Zhang N, Guo F, Song Y. HOXC8/TGF-β1 positive feedback loop promotes liver fibrosis and hepatic stellate cell activation via activating Smad2/Smad3 signaling. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 662:39-46. [PMID: 37099809 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.04.011] [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: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis occurs in any chronic liver disease, where extraordinary increase of extracellular matrix components is caused by the hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. HOXC8 has been disclosed to participate inregulating cell proliferation and fibrosis in tumors. However, the role of HOXC8 in liver fibrosis and the underlying molecular mechanisms has not yet been investigated. In this study, we founded that HOXC8 mRNA and protein was elevated in a carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis mouse model and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-treated human (LX-2) HSC cells. Importantly, we observed that downregulating HOXC8 alleviates liver fibrosis and suppressed the fibrogenic gene induction induced by CCl4 in vivo. In addition, inhibition of HOXC8 suppressed the HSC activation and the expression of fibrosis-associated genes (α-SMA and COL1a1) induced by TGF-β1 in LX-2 cells in vitro, while HOXC8 overexpression had the opposite effects. Mechanistically, we demonstrated HOXC8 activates TGFβ1 transcription and enhanced the phosphorylated Smad2/Smad3 levels, suggesting a positive feedback loop between HOXC8 and TGF-β1 that facilitates TGF-β signaling and subsequent HSCs activation. Collectively, our data strongly indicated that a HOXC8/TGF-β1 positive feedback loop plays as a critical role in controlling the HSC activation and in the liver fibrosis process, suggesting that inhibition of HOXC8 may serve as a promoting therapeutic strategy for diseases characterized by liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, 046000, Shanxi, China.
| | - Fang Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, 046000, Shanxi, China
| | - Yuanyuan Song
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, 046000, Shanxi, China
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16
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Hu J, Zheng Y, Ying H, Ma H, Li L, Zhao Y. Alanyl-Glutamine Protects Mice against Methionine- and Choline-Deficient-Diet-Induced Steatohepatitis and Fibrosis by Modulating Oxidative Stress and Inflammation. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14183796. [PMID: 36145172 PMCID: PMC9503574 DOI: 10.3390/nu14183796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a common chronic liver disease with increasing prevalence rates over years and is associated with hepatic lipid accumulation, liver injury, oxidative stress, hepatic inflammation, and liver fibrosis and lack of approved pharmacological therapy. Alanyl-glutamine (Ala-Gln) is a recognized gut-trophic nutrient that has multiple pharmacological effects in the prevention of inflammation- and oxidative-stress-associated diseases. Nevertheless, whether Ala-Gln has a protective effect on NASH still lacks evidence. The aim of this study is to explore the influence of Ala-Gln on NASH and its underlying mechanisms. Here, C57BL/6 mice were fed a methionine- and choline-deficient (MCD) diet to establish the model of NASH, and Ala-Gln at doses of 500 and 1500 mg/kg were intraperitoneally administered to mice along with a MCD diet. The results showed that Ala-Gln treatment significantly attenuated MCD-induced hepatic pathological changes, lowered NAFLD activity score, and reduced plasma alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels. Ala-Gln dramatically alleviated lipid accumulation in liver through modulating the expression levels of fatty acid translocase (FAT/CD36) and farnesoid X receptor (FXR). In addition, Ala-Gln exerted an anti-oxidant effect by elevating the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX). Moreover, Ala-Gln exhibited an anti-inflammatory effect via decreasing the accumulation of activated macrophages and suppressing the production of proinflammatory mediators. Notably, Ala-Gln suppressed the development of liver fibrosis in MCD-diet-fed mice, which may be due to the inhibition of hepatic stellate cells activation. In conclusion, these findings revealed that Ala-Gln prevents the progression of NASH through the modulation of oxidative stress and inflammation and provided the proof that Ala-Gln might be an effective pharmacological agent to treat NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaji Hu
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
- Ningbo Institute of Marine Medicine, Peking University, Ningbo 315010, China
| | - Yigang Zheng
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Hanglu Ying
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Huabin Ma
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Long Li
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Correspondence:
| | - Yufen Zhao
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
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17
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Li Y, He XL, Zhou LP, Huang XZ, Li S, Guan S, Li J, Zhang L. Asiatic acid alleviates liver fibrosis via multiple signaling pathways based on integrated network pharmacology and lipidomics. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 931:175193. [PMID: 35963324 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is characterized by the abnormal deposition of the extracellular matrix with a severe inflammatory response and/or metabolic disorder. Asiatic acid (AA), a natural compound derived from Centella asiatica, exhibited potent anti-fibrosis effects. This investigation first confirmed the anti-fibrosis effects of AA in TGF-β-LX-2 cells and CCl4-induced liver fibrosis mice, and then sought to elucidate a novel mechanism of action by integrating network pharmacology and lipidomics. Network pharmacology was used to find potential targets of AA, while lipidomics was used to identify differential metabolites between fibrosis and recovered cohorts. AA could suppress hepatic stellate cell activation in vitro and improve liver fibrosis in vivo. Network pharmacology unveiled the genes involved in pathways in cancer, peroxisome proliferators-activated receptors signaling pathway, and arachidonic acid metabolism pathway. Furthermore, five key genes were found in the both human and mouse databases, indicating that arachidonic acid metabolism was important. Changes in lyso-phosphocholine (22:5), prostaglandin F2α, and other related lipid metabolites also suggested the involvement of arachidonic acid metabolism the anti-fibrotic effect. In summary, our integrated strategies demonstrated that AA targeted multiple targets and impeded the progression of liver fibrosis by ameliorating arachidonic acid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Li
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China; Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Guangdong Sunshine Lake Pharma Co. Ltd, Dongguan, 523000, PR China
| | - Xu-Lin He
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Li-Ping Zhou
- Evaluation and Monitoring Center of Occupational Health, Guangzhou Twelfth People's Hospital, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
| | - Xiao-Zhong Huang
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Guangdong Sunshine Lake Pharma Co. Ltd, Dongguan, 523000, PR China
| | - Shan Li
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Su Guan
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Jing Li
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Lei Zhang
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
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