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Bogomolova A, Balakrishnan A, Ott M, Sharma AD. "The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly" - About Diverse Phenotypes of Hepatic Stellate Cells in the Liver. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 17:607-622. [PMID: 38216053 PMCID: PMC10900761 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2024.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and their activated derivatives, often referred to as myofibroblasts (MFs), play a key role in progression of chronic liver injuries leading to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Until recently, MFs were considered a homogenous cell type majorly due to lack of techniques that allow complex molecular studies at a single-cell resolution. Recent technical advancements in genetic lineage-tracing models as well as the exponential growth of studies with single-cell transcriptome and proteome analyses have uncovered hidden heterogeneities among the HSC and MF populations in healthy states as well as chronic liver injuries at the various stages of tissue deformation. The identification of different phenotypes along the HSC/MF axis, which either maintain essential liver functions ("good" HSCs), emerge during fibrosis ("bad" HSCs), or even promote hepatocellular carcinoma ("ugly" HSCs), may lay the foundation for targeting a particular MF phenotype as potential treatment for chronic liver injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Bogomolova
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Research Group RNA Therapeutics & Liver Regeneration, REBIRTH-Research Center for Translational Regenerative Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Asha Balakrishnan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Michael Ott
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Amar Deep Sharma
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Research Group RNA Therapeutics & Liver Regeneration, REBIRTH-Research Center for Translational Regenerative Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
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2
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Tan X, Hao Y, Ma N, Yang Y, Jin W, Meng Y, Zhou C, Zheng W, Zhang Y. M6P-modified solid lipid nanoparticles loaded with matrine for the treatment of fibrotic liver. Drug Deliv 2023; 30:2219432. [PMID: 37300371 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2023.2219432] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a key pathological process shared by the progression of various chronic liver diseases. Treatment of liver fibrosis can effectively block the occurrence and development of hepatic cirrhosis or even carcinoma. Currently, there is no effective drug delivery vehicle for curing liver fibrosis. In this study, we designed matrine (MT)-loaded mannose 6-phosphate (M6P) modified human serum albumin (HSA) conjugated solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN), named M6P-HSA-MT-SLN for treatment of hepatic fibrosis. We demonstrated that M6P-HSA-MT-SLN exhibited controlled and sustained release properties and good stability over 7 days. The drug release experiments showed that M6P-HSA-MT-SLN exhibited slow and controlled drug release characteristics. In addition, M6P-HSA-MT-SLN showed a significant targeted ability to fibrotic liver. Importantly, in vivo studies indicated that M6P-HSA-MT-SLN could significantly improve histopathological morphology and inhibit the fibrotic phenotype. In addition, in vivo experiments demonstrate that M6P-HSA-MT-SLN could reduce the expression of fibrosis markers and alleviate the damage of liver structure. Hence, the M6P-HSA-MT-SLN provide a promising strategy to deliver therapeutic agents to fibrotic liver to prevent liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochuan Tan
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulation, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yumei Hao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulation, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Nai Ma
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulation, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yige Yang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulation, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wenzhen Jin
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulation, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ya Meng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulation, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chuchu Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulation, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wensheng Zheng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulation, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yujia Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulation, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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3
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Lu Y, Feng N, Du Y, Yu R. Nanoparticle-Based Therapeutics to Overcome Obstacles in the Tumor Microenvironment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:nano12162832. [PMID: 36014696 PMCID: PMC9414814 DOI: 10.3390/nano12162832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still a main health concern around the world, with a rising incidence and high mortality rate. The tumor-promoting components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) play a vital role in the development and metastasis of HCC. TME-targeted therapies have recently drawn increasing interest in the treatment of HCC. However, the short medication retention time in TME limits the efficiency of TME modulating strategies. The nanoparticles can be elaborately designed as needed to specifically target the tumor-promoting components in TME. In this regard, the use of nanomedicine to modulate TME components by delivering drugs with protection and prolonged circulation time in a spatiotemporal manner has shown promising potential. In this review, we briefly introduce the obstacles of TME and highlight the updated information on nanoparticles that modulate these obstacles. Furthermore, the present challenges and future prospects of TME modulating nanomedicines will be briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanfei Lu
- Department of Radiology, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou 310009, China
| | - Na Feng
- Department of Radiology, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou 310009, China
| | - Yongzhong Du
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Correspondence: (Y.D.); (R.Y.); Tel.: +86-571-88208435 (Y.D.); +86-571-87783925 (R.Y.)
| | - Risheng Yu
- Department of Radiology, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Correspondence: (Y.D.); (R.Y.); Tel.: +86-571-88208435 (Y.D.); +86-571-87783925 (R.Y.)
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Salvati A, Poelstra K. Drug Targeting and Nanomedicine: Lessons Learned from Liver Targeting and Opportunities for Drug Innovation. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:217. [PMID: 35057111 PMCID: PMC8777931 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14010217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug targeting and nanomedicine are different strategies for improving the delivery of drugs to their target. Several antibodies, immuno-drug conjugates and nanomedicines are already approved and used in clinics, demonstrating the potential of such approaches, including the recent examples of the DNA- and RNA-based vaccines against COVID-19 infections. Nevertheless, targeting remains a major challenge in drug delivery and different aspects of how these objects are processed at organism and cell level still remain unclear, hampering the further development of efficient targeted drugs. In this review, we compare properties and advantages of smaller targeted drug constructs on the one hand, and larger nanomedicines carrying higher drug payload on the other hand. With examples from ongoing research in our Department and experiences from drug delivery to liver fibrosis, we illustrate opportunities in drug targeting and nanomedicine and current challenges that the field needs to address in order to further improve their success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Salvati
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (K.P.); Tel.: +31-503639831 (A.S.); +31-503633287 (K.P.)
| | - Klaas Poelstra
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (K.P.); Tel.: +31-503639831 (A.S.); +31-503633287 (K.P.)
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5
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Yang Z, Zhang L, Zhu H, Zhou K, Wang H, Wang Y, Su R, Guo D, Zhou L, Xu X, Song P, Zheng S, Xie H. Nanoparticle formulation of mycophenolate mofetil achieves enhanced efficacy against hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting tumour-associated fibroblast. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:3511-3523. [PMID: 33713546 PMCID: PMC8034467 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most aggressive tumours with marked fibrosis. Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) was well‐established to have antitumour and anti‐fibrotic properties. To overcome the poor bioavailability of MMF, this study constructed two MMF nanosystems, MMF‐LA@DSPE‐PEG and MMF‐LA@PEG‐PLA, by covalently conjugating linoleic acid (LA) to MMF and then loading the conjugate into polymer materials, PEG5k‐PLA8k and DSPE‐ PEG2k, respectively. Hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines and C57BL/6 xenograft model were used to examine the anti‐HCC efficacy of nanoparticles (NPs), whereas NIH‐3T3 fibroblasts and highly‐fibrotic HCC models were used to explore the anti‐fibrotic efficacy. Administration of NPs dramatically inhibited the proliferation of HCC cells and fibroblasts in vitro. Animal experiments revealed that MMF‐LA@DSPE‐PEG achieved significantly higher anti‐HCC efficacy than free MMF and MMF‐LA@PEG‐PLA both in C57BL/6 HCC model and highly‐fibrotic HCC models. Immunohistochemistry further confirmed that MMF‐LA@DSPE‐PEG dramatically reduced cancer‐associated fibroblast (CAF) density in tumours, as the expression levels of alpha‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), fibroblast activation protein (FAP) and collagen IV were significantly downregulated. In addition, we found the presence of CAF strongly correlated with increased HCC recurrence risk after liver transplantation. MMF‐LA@DSPE‐PEG might act as a rational therapeutic strategy in treating HCC and preventing post‐transplant HCC recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhentao Yang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Afliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Afliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hai Zhu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Afliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ke Zhou
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Afliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hangxiang Wang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Afliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuchen Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
| | - Rong Su
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
| | - Danjing Guo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Afliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Afliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
| | - Penghong Song
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Afliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shusen Zheng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Afliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haiyang Xie
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Afliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
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Abstract
The phenomenal advances in pharmaceutical sciences over the last few decades have led to the development of new therapeutics like peptides, proteins, RNAs, DNAs and highly potent small molecules. Fruitful applications of these therapeutics have been challenged by several anatomical and physiological barriers that limit adequate drug disposition at the site-of-action and by off-target drug distribution to undesired tissues, which together result in the reduced effectiveness and increased side effects of therapeutic agents. As such, the development of drug delivery and targeting systems has been recognised as a cornerstone for future drug development. Research in pharmaceutical sciences is now devoted to tackling delivery challenges through engineering delivery systems that move beyond conventional dosage forms and regimens into state-of-the-art targeted drug delivery tailored toward specific therapeutic needs. Modern drug delivery systems comprise passive and active targeting approaches. While passive targeting relies on the natural course of distribution of drugs or drug carriers in the body, as governed by their physicochemical properties, active targeting often exploits targeting moieties that home preferentially into target tissues. Here, we provide an overview of theories of and approaches to passive and active drug delivery. As the design of drug delivery is dependent on the unique structure of target tissues and organs, we present our discussion in an organ-specific manner with the aim to inspire the development of new strategies for curing disease with high accuracy and efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Alsaggar
- a Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, College of Pharmacy , Jordon University of Science and Technology , Irbid , Jordan
| | - Dexi Liu
- b Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy , University of Georgia , Athens , GA , USA
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7
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El-Mezayen NS, El-Hadidy WF, El-Refaie WM, Shalaby T, Khattab MM, El-Khatib AS. Hepatic stellate cell-targeted imatinib nanomedicine versus conventional imatinib: A novel strategy with potent efficacy in experimental liver fibrosis. J Control Release 2017; 266:226-237. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2017.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Revised: 09/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Schon HT, Bartneck M, Borkham-Kamphorst E, Nattermann J, Lammers T, Tacke F, Weiskirchen R. Pharmacological Intervention in Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Hepatic Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:33. [PMID: 26941644 PMCID: PMC4764688 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 02/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The activation and transdifferentiation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) into contractile, matrix-producing myofibroblasts (MFBs) are central events in hepatic fibrogenesis. These processes are driven by autocrine- and paracrine-acting soluble factors (i.e., cytokines and chemokines). Proof-of-concept studies of the last decades have shown that both the deactivation and removal of hepatic MFBs as well as antagonizing profibrogenic factors are in principle suitable to attenuate ongoing hepatic fibrosis. Although several drugs show potent antifibrotic activities in experimental models of hepatic fibrosis, there is presently no effective pharmaceutical intervention specifically approved for the treatment of liver fibrosis. Pharmaceutical interventions are generally hampered by insufficient supply of drugs to the diseased liver tissue and/or by adverse effects as a result of affecting non-target cells. Therefore, targeted delivery systems that bind specifically to receptors solely expressed on activated HSCs or transdifferentiated MFBs and delivery systems that can improve drug distribution to the liver in general are urgently needed. In this review, we summarize current strategies for targeted delivery of drugs to the liver and in particular to pro-fibrogenic liver cells. The applicability and efficacy of sequestering molecules, selective protein carriers, lipid-based drug vehicles, viral vectors, transcriptional targeting approaches, therapeutic liver- and HSC-specific nanoparticles, and miRNA-based strategies are discussed. Some of these delivery systems that had already been successfully tested in experimental animal models of ongoing hepatic fibrogenesis are expected to translate into clinically useful therapeutics specifically targeting HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans-Theo Schon
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry, RWTH University Hospital Aachen Aachen, Germany
| | - Matthias Bartneck
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen Aachen, Germany
| | - Erawan Borkham-Kamphorst
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry, RWTH University Hospital Aachen Aachen, Germany
| | - Jacob Nattermann
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University of Bonn Bonn, Germany
| | - Twan Lammers
- Department for Experimental Molecular Imaging, University Clinic and Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University Aachen, Germany
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen Aachen, Germany
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry, RWTH University Hospital Aachen Aachen, Germany
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Fiume L, Manerba M, Di Stefano G. Albumin-drug conjugates in the treatment of hepatic disorders. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2014; 11:1203-17. [PMID: 24773257 DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2014.913567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This review deals with the use of serum albumin (SA) as a carrier for the selective delivery of drugs to liver cells. AREAS COVERED The synthesis and properties of the SA conjugates prepared to enhance the performance of the drugs used in the treatment of viral hepatitis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), liver micrometastases and hepatic fibrosis are reported. EXPERT OPINION Studies in humans and laboratory animals demonstrated the capacity of SA conjugates to accomplish a liver targeting of the drugs, but at the same time underscored their limits and drawbacks, which can explain why to date these complexes did not reach a practical application. The major drawback is the need of administration by intravenous route, which prevents long-term daily treatments as required by some liver pathologies, such as chronic virus hepatitis and fibrosis. At present, only a conjugate carrying doxorubicin and addressed to the treatment of HCC showed in laboratory animals a solid potentiality to improve the value of the coupled drug. In the future, conjugation to SA could remain a successful strategy to permit the administration of drugs with rapid resolutive effects inside liver cells without causing severe extrahepatic adverse reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Fiume
- University of Bologna, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine , via San Giacomo 14 - 20126 Bologna , Italy +39 0512094700 ; +39 0512094746 ;
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Jing Z, Gangalum RK, Mock DC, Bhat SP. A gene-specific non-enhancer sequence is critical for expression from the promoter of the small heat shock protein gene αB-crystallin. Hum Genomics 2014; 8:5. [PMID: 24589182 PMCID: PMC3975602 DOI: 10.1186/1479-7364-8-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2013] [Accepted: 02/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deciphering of the information content of eukaryotic promoters has remained confined to universal landmarks and conserved sequence elements such as enhancers and transcription factor binding motifs, which are considered sufficient for gene activation and regulation. Gene-specific sequences, interspersed between the canonical transacting factor binding sites or adjoining them within a promoter, are generally taken to be devoid of any regulatory information and have therefore been largely ignored. An unanswered question therefore is, do gene-specific sequences within a eukaryotic promoter have a role in gene activation? Here, we present an exhaustive experimental analysis of a gene-specific sequence adjoining the heat shock element (HSE) in the proximal promoter of the small heat shock protein gene, αB-crystallin (cryab). These sequences are highly conserved between the rodents and the humans. RESULTS Using human retinal pigment epithelial cells in culture as the host, we have identified a 10-bp gene-specific promoter sequence (GPS), which, unlike an enhancer, controls expression from the promoter of this gene, only when in appropriate position and orientation. Notably, the data suggests that GPS in comparison with the HSE works in a context-independent fashion. Additionally, when moved upstream, about a nucleosome length of DNA (-154 bp) from the transcription start site (TSS), the activity of the promoter is markedly inhibited, suggesting its involvement in local promoter access. Importantly, we demonstrate that deletion of the GPS results in complete loss of cryab promoter activity in transgenic mice. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that gene-specific sequences such as the GPS, identified here, may have critical roles in regulating gene-specific activity from eukaryotic promoters.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Suraj P Bhat
- Jules Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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11
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Efficient hepatic delivery of drugs: novel strategies and their significance. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:382184. [PMID: 24286077 PMCID: PMC3826320 DOI: 10.1155/2013/382184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2013] [Revised: 08/14/2013] [Accepted: 08/25/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Liver is a vital organ responsible for plethora of functions including detoxification, protein synthesis, and the production of biochemicals necessary for the sustenance of life. Therefore, patients with chronic liver diseases such as viral hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma need immediate attention to sustain life and as a result are often exposed to the prolonged treatment with drugs/herbal medications. Lack of site-specific delivery of these medications to the hepatocytes/nonparenchymal cells and adverse effects associated with their off-target interactions limit their continuous use. This calls for the development and fabrication of targeted delivery systems which can deliver the drug payload at the desired site of action for defined period of time. The primary aim of drug targeting is to manipulate the whole body distribution of drugs, that is, to prevent distribution to non-target cells and concomitantly increase the drug concentration at the targeted site. Carrier molecules are designed for their selective cellular uptake, taking advantage of specific receptors or binding sites present on the surface membrane of the target cell. In this review, various aspects of liver targeting of drug molecules and herbal medications have been discussed which elucidate the importance of delivering the drugs/herbal medications at their desired site of action.
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12
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Poelstra K, Prakash J, Beljaars L. Drug targeting to the diseased liver. J Control Release 2012; 161:188-97. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2012.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2011] [Revised: 02/08/2012] [Accepted: 02/11/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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13
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Chen Z, Xiao L, Liu W, Liu D, Xiao YY, Chen J, Liu X, Li WD, Li W, Cai BC. Novel materials which possess the ability to target liver cells. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2012; 9:649-56. [PMID: 22480167 DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2012.679261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatic-targeted drug delivery systems are designed to treat diseases of the liver. However, since there are several different types of liver diseases that are caused by different cells, it is important to select the proper materials to target these different cells. AREAS COVERED This review addresses novel materials that possess the ability to target liver cells via receptor-ligand processes and offers an insight into the aspects of formulation design. It also discusses several approaches used to enhance the targeting efficiency of drug delivery systems to receptors in the liver cells. In addition, the delivery efficiency and therapeutic efficacy of these materials in the treatment of acute or chronic liver diseases is highlighted. EXPERT OPINION Further research into the use of clinical materials and the design of smart materials for multi-drug delivery to different organelles is important for future studies on these new materials. It is hoped that these targeted therapeutics will benefit patients with liver disorders in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhipeng Chen
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Department of Pharmacy, Nanjing 210046, PR China
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14
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Patel G, Kher G, Misra A. Preparation and evaluation of hepatic stellate cell selective, surface conjugated, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma ligand loaded liposomes. J Drug Target 2011; 20:155-65. [PMID: 21913877 DOI: 10.3109/1061186x.2011.610800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation leads to major fibrogenic response in liver fibrosis. Selective localization of drug to HSCs can provide effective antifibrotic therapy. Thus, objectives of study were to prepare peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ ligand (rosiglitazone) loaded mannose 6-phosphate modified human serum albumin (M6P-HSA) conjugated liposomes and evaluate pharmacokinetically and pharmacodynamically in rats for application of findings of studies in development of suitable and relevant product for treatment of liver fibrosis. The HSA was derivatized with mannose 6-phosphate and then coupled to optimized liposomes. Drug distribution in liver and other tissues after intravenous administration in carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis model rats was studied. Histopathological examination, estimation of biochemical markers, and grading of liver fibrosis was performed to evaluate pharmacodynamic efficacy of prepared formulation. The M6P-HSA conjugation to liposomes enhanced rosiglitazone liver uptake significantly (2.61 folds) and disappeared from systemic circulation at double rate. Favorable pharmacokinetics resulted in improved histopathological morphology, biochemical markers level, and decreased fibrosis grade. Hence, critical scrutiny of results suggested preferential and enhanced drug localization in pathogenic cells of liver providing a thinking which may result in development of product that can provide cure or at least prevention to this progressive disease necessitating liver transplant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaurang Patel
- Drug Delivery Laboratory, TIFAC Centre of Relevance and Excellence in NDDS, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, India
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15
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Targeted therapy of liver fibrosis/cirrhosis and its complications. J Hepatol 2011; 55:726-728. [PMID: 21601600 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2011.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2011] [Revised: 04/11/2011] [Accepted: 04/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
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16
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Zhang H, Ma Y, Sun XL. Recent developments in carbohydrate-decorated targeted drug/gene delivery. Med Res Rev 2010; 30:270-89. [PMID: 19626595 DOI: 10.1002/med.20171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Targeted delivery of a drug or gene to its site of action has clear therapeutic advantages by maximizing its therapeutic efficiency and minimizing its systemic toxicity. Generally, targeted drug or gene delivery is performed by loading a macromolecular carrier with an appropriate drug or gene, and by targeting the drug/gene carrier to specific cell or tissue with the help of specific targeting ligand. The emergence of glycobiology, glycotechnology, and glycomics and their continual adaptation by pharmaceutical scientists have opened exciting avenue of medicinal applications of carbohydrates. Among them, the biocompatibility and specific receptor recognition ability confer the ability of carbohydrates as potential targeting ligands for targeted drug and gene delivery applications. This review summarizes recent progress of carbohydrate-decorated targeted drug/gene delivery applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailong Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio 44115, USA
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17
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Poelstra K, Greupink R, Beljaars L. Reprint of: Targeting fibrosis with selective drug carriers. Arab J Gastroenterol 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajg.2010.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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18
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Targeting fibrosis with selective drug carriers. Arab J Gastroenterol 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajg.2009.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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19
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Moreno M, Gonzalo T, Kok RJ, Sancho-Bru P, van Beuge M, Swart J, Prakash J, Temming K, Fondevila C, Beljaars L, Lacombe M, van der Hoeven P, Arroyo V, Poelstra K, Brenner DA, Ginès P, Bataller R. Reduction of advanced liver fibrosis by short-term targeted delivery of an angiotensin receptor blocker to hepatic stellate cells in rats. Hepatology 2010; 51:942-52. [PMID: 20044807 DOI: 10.1002/hep.23419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED There is no effective therapy for advanced liver fibrosis. Angiotensin type 1 (AT1) receptor blockers attenuate liver fibrogenesis, yet their efficacy in reversing advanced fibrosis is unknown. We investigated whether the specific delivery of an AT1 receptor blocker to activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) reduces established liver fibrosis. We used a platinum-based linker to develop a conjugate of the AT1 receptor blocker losartan and the HSC-selective drug carrier mannose-6-phosphate modified human serum albumin (losartan-M6PHSA). An average of seven losartan molecules were successfully coupled to M6PHSA. Rats with advanced liver fibrosis due to prolonged bile duct ligation or carbon tetrachloride administration were treated with daily doses of saline, losartan-M6PHSA, M6PHSA or oral losartan during 3 days. Computer-based morphometric quantification of inflammatory cells (CD43), myofibroblasts (smooth muscle alpha-actin [alpha-SMA]) and collagen deposition (Sirius red and hydroxyproline content) were measured. Hepatic expression of procollagen alpha2(I) and genes involved in fibrogenesis was assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Losartan-M6PHSA accumulated in the fibrotic livers and colocalized with HSCs, as assessed by immunostaining of anti-HSA and anti-alpha-SMA. Losartan-M6PHSA, but not oral losartan, reduced collagen deposition, accumulation of myofibroblasts, inflammation and procollagen alpha2(I) gene expression. Losartan-M6PHSA did not affect metalloproteinase type 2 and 9 activity and did not cause apoptosis of activated HSCs. CONCLUSION Short-term treatment with HSC-targeted losartan markedly reduces advanced liver fibrosis. This approach may provide a novel means to treat chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Montserrat Moreno
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer, Centro de investigación biomédica en red de enfermedades hepáticas y digestivas, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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20
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Popov Y, Schuppan D. Targeting liver fibrosis: strategies for development and validation of antifibrotic therapies. Hepatology 2009; 50:1294-306. [PMID: 19711424 DOI: 10.1002/hep.23123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 250] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
We have made striking progress in our understanding of the biochemistry and cell biology that underlies liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, including the development of strategies and agents to prevent and reverse fibrosis. However, translation of this knowledge into clinical practice has been hampered by (1) the limitation of many in vitro and in vivo models to confirm mechanisms and to test antifibrotic agents, and (2) the lack of sensitive methodologies to quantify the degree of liver fibrosis and the dynamics of fibrosis progression or reversal in patients. Furthermore, whereas cirrhosis and subsequent decompensation are accepted hard clinical endpoints, fibrosis and fibrosis progression alone are merely plausible surrogates for future clinical deterioration. In this review we focus on an optimized strategy for preclinical antifibrotic drug development and highlight the current and future techniques that permit noninvasive assessment and quantification of liver fibrosis and fibrogenesis. The availability of such noninvasive methodologies will serve as the pacemaker for the clinical development and validation of potent antifibrotic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yury Popov
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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21
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Abstract
We have made striking progress in our understanding of the biochemistry and cell biology that underlies liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, including the development of strategies and agents to prevent and reverse fibrosis and incipient cirrhosis. However, translation of this knowledge into clinical practice has been hampered by the limitation of many in vitro and in vivo models to confirm mechanisms and to test antifibrotic agents, as well as the lack of sensitive methodologies to quantify the degree of liver fibrosis and the dynamics of fibrosis progression or reversal. Furthermore, while cirrhosis and subsequent decompensation are accepted hard clinical end-points, fibrosis and fibrosis progression alone are merely plausible surrogates for future clinical deterioration. This review focuses on basic mechanisms that underlay liver fibrosis progression and reversal and optimized strategies for preclinical antifibrotic drug development and validation. Therapies include several drugs that are of proven safety for other indications, agents that interfere with major fibrogenic or fibrolytic mechanisms, targeted drug delivery to the fibrogenic liver cells, and their potential combinations with hepatocyte or stem cell replenishment.
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22
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Marek CJ, Wallace K, Durward E, Koruth M, Leel V, Leiper LJ, Wright MC. Low affinity glucocorticoid binding site ligands as potential anti-fibrogenics. COMPARATIVE HEPATOLOGY 2009; 8:1. [PMID: 19432992 PMCID: PMC2688476 DOI: 10.1186/1476-5926-8-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2008] [Accepted: 05/11/2009] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnane X receptor (PXR) agonists inhibit liver fibrosis. However, the rodent PXR activator pregnenolone 16alpha carbonitrile (PCN) blocks, in vitro, hepatic stellate cell-to-myofibroblast trans-differentiation and proliferation in cells from mice with a disrupted PXR gene, suggesting there is an additional anti-fibrogenic drug target for PCN. The role of the low affinity glucocorticoid binding site (LAGS) - which may be identical or associated with the progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) - in mediating this anti-fibrogenic effect has been examined, since binding of dexamethasone to the LAGS in liver microsomal membranes has previously been shown to be inhibited by PCN. RESULTS Quiescent rat and human hepatic stellate cells (HSC) were isolated from livers and cultured to generate liver myofibroblasts. HSC and myofibroblasts expressed PGRMC1 as determined by RT-PCR and Western blotting. Quiescent rat HSC also expressed the truncated HC5 variant of rPGRMC1. Rat PGRMC1 was cloned and expression in COS-7 cells gave rise to specific binding of radiolabelled dexamethasone in cell extracts that was inhibited by PCN, suggesting that PGRMC1 may be identical to LAGS or activates LAGS binding activity. Liver microsomes were used to screen a range of structurally related compounds for their ability to inhibit radiolabelled dexamethasone binding to rat LAGS. These compounds were also screened for their ability to activate rat and human PXR and to inhibit rat HSC-to-myofibroblast trans-differentiation/proliferation. A compound (4 androstene-3-one 17beta-carboxylic acid methyl ester) was identified which bound rat LAGS with high affinity and inhibited both rat and human HSC trans-differentiation/proliferation to fibrogenic myofibroblasts without showing evidence of rat or human PXR agonism. However, despite potent anti-fibrogenic effects in vitro, this compound did not modulate liver fibrosis severity in a rat model of liver fibrosis. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that rat liver myofibroblasts in vivo did not express rPGRMC1. CONCLUSION LAGS ligands inhibit HSC trans-differentiation and proliferation in vitro but show little efficacy in inhibiting liver fibrosis, in vivo. The reason(s) for this disparity is/are likely associated with an altered myofibroblast phenotype, in vitro, with expression of rPGMRC1 in vitro but not in vivo. These data emphasize the limitations of in vitro-derived myofibroblasts for predicting their activity in vivo, in studies of fibrogenesis. The data also demonstrate that the anti-fibrogenic effects of PCN in vivo are likely mediated entirely via the PXR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carylyn J Marek
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, UK.
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23
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Gary-Bobo M, Nirdé P, Jeanjean A, Morère A, Garcia M. Mannose 6-phosphate receptor targeting and its applications in human diseases. Curr Med Chem 2008; 14:2945-53. [PMID: 18220730 DOI: 10.2174/092986707782794005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor is a multifunctional protein which binds at the cell surface to two distinct classes of ligands, the mannose 6-phosphate (M6P) bearing proteins and IGF-II. Its major function is to bind and transport M6P-enzymes to lysosomes, but it can also modulate the activity of a variety of extracellular M6P-glycoproteins (i.e., latent TGFbeta precursor, urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor, Granzyme B, growth factors, Herpes virus). The purpose of this review is to highlight the synthesis and potential use of high affinity M6P analogues able to target this receptor. Several M6P analogues with phosphonate, carboxylate or malonate groups display a higher affinity and a stronger stability in human serum than M6P itself. These derivatives could be used to favour the delivery of specific therapeutic compounds to lysosomes, notably in enzyme replacement therapies of lysosomal diseases or in neoplastic drug targeting. In addition, their potential applications in preventing clinical disorders, which are associated with the activities of other M6P-proteins involved in wound healing, cell growth or viral infection, will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Gary-Bobo
- Inserm unité 826, Bâtiment recherche, CRLC Val d'Aurelle, 34298 Montpellier, France
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24
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Adrian JE, Poelstra K, Kamps JAAM. Addressing liver fibrosis with liposomes targeted to hepatic stellate cells. J Liposome Res 2008; 17:205-18. [PMID: 18027241 DOI: 10.1080/08982100701528047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a chronic disease that results from hepatitis B and C infections, alcohol abuse or metabolic and genetic disorders. Ultimately, progression of fibrosis leads to cirrhosis, a stage of the disease characterized by failure of the normal liver functions. Currently, the treatment of liver fibrosis is mainly based on the removal of the underlying cause of the disease and liver transplantation, which is the only treatment for patients with advanced fibrosis. Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) are considered to be key players in the development of liver fibrosis. Chronically activated HSC produces large amounts of extracellular matrix and enhance fibrosis by secreting a broad spectrum of cytokines that exert pro-fibrotic actions in other cells, and in an autocrine manner perpetuate their own activation. Therefore, therapeutic interventions that inhibit activation of HSC and its pro-fibrotic activities are currently under investigation worldwide. In the present study we applied targeted liposomes as drug carriers to HSC in the fibrotic liver and explored the potential of these liposomes in antifibrotic therapies. Moreover, we investigated effects of bioactive compounds delivered by these liposomes on the progression of liver fibrosis. To our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating that lipid-based drug carriers can be selectively delivered to HSC in the fibrotic liver. By incorporating the bioactive lipid DLPC, these liposomes can modulate different processes such as inflammation and fibrogenesis in the fibrotic liver. This dual functionality of liposomes as a drug carrier system with intrinsic biological effects may be exploited in new approaches to treat liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna E Adrian
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical Biology section, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
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25
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Hagens WI, Mattos A, Greupink R, de Jager-Krikken A, Reker-Smit C, van Loenen-Weemaes A, Gouw ASH, Poelstra K, Beljaars L. Targeting 15d-prostaglandin J2 to hepatic stellate cells: two options evaluated. Pharm Res 2007; 24:566-74. [PMID: 17245650 PMCID: PMC1915609 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-006-9175-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2006] [Accepted: 10/05/2006] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Delivery of apoptosis-inducing compounds to hepatic stellate cells (HSC) may be an effective strategy to reverse liver fibrosis. The aim of this study was therefore to examine the selective targeting of the apoptosis-inducing drug 15-deoxy-delta12,14-prostaglandin J2 (15dPGJ2) with two different HSC-carriers: human serum albumin modified with the sugar mannose-6-phosphate (M6PHSA) or albumin modified with PDGF-receptor recognizing peptides (pPBHSA). METHODS AND RESULTS After chemical conjugation of 15dPGJ2 to the carriers, the constructs displayed pharmacological activity and specific receptor-mediated binding to HSC in vitro. Unlike 15dPGJ2-pPBHSA, the cellular binding of 15dPGJ2-M6PHSA was reduced by a scavenger receptor antagonist. In vivo, both conjugates rapidly accumulated in fibrotic livers. Intrahepatic analysis revealed that 15dPGJ2-M6PHSA mainly accumulated in HSC, and to a lesser extent in Kupffer cells. 15dPGJ2-pPBHSA also predominantly accumulated in HSC with additional uptake in hepatocytes. Assessment of target receptors in human cirrhotic livers revealed that M6P/IGFII-receptor expression was present in fibrotic areas. PDGF-P receptor expression was abundantly expressed on human fibroblasts. CONCLUSIONS These studies show that 15dPGJ2 coupled to either M6PHSA or pPBHSA is specifically taken up by HSC and is highly effective within these cells. Both carriers differ with respect to receptor specificity, leading to differences in intrahepatic distribution. Nevertheless, both carriers can be used to deliver the apoptosis-inducing drug 15dPGJ2 to HSC in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Werner I. Hagens
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Drug Delivery, University Centre for Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Adriana Mattos
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Drug Delivery, University Centre for Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Rick Greupink
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Drug Delivery, University Centre for Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alie de Jager-Krikken
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Drug Delivery, University Centre for Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Catharina Reker-Smit
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Drug Delivery, University Centre for Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - AnneMiek van Loenen-Weemaes
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Drug Delivery, University Centre for Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Annette S. H. Gouw
- Department of Pathology and Lab. Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Klaas Poelstra
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Drug Delivery, University Centre for Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Leonie Beljaars
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Drug Delivery, University Centre for Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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26
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Bareford LM, Swaan PW. Endocytic mechanisms for targeted drug delivery. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2007; 59:748-58. [PMID: 17659804 PMCID: PMC2000329 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2007.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 726] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2007] [Accepted: 06/12/2007] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Advances in the delivery of targeted drug systems have evolved to enable highly regulated site specific localization to subcellular organelles. Targeting therapeutics to individual intracellular compartments has resulted in benefits to therapies associated with these unique organelles. Endocytosis, a mechanism common to all cells in the body, internalizes macromolecules and retains them in transport vesicles which traffic along the endolysosomal scaffold. An array of vesicular internalization mechanisms exist, therefore understanding the key players specific to each pathway has allowed researchers to bioengineer macromolecular complexes for highly specialized delivery. Membrane specific receptors most frequently enter the cell through endocytosis following the binding of a high affinity ligand. High affinity ligands interact with membrane receptors, internalize in membrane bound vesicles, and traffic through cells in different manners to allow for accumulation in early endosomal fractions or lysosomally associated fractions. Although most drug delivery complexes aim to avoid lysosomal degradation, more recent studies have shown the clinical utility in directed protein delivery to this environment for the enzymatic release of therapeutics. Targeting nanomedicine complexes to the endolysosomal pathway has serious potential for improving drug delivery for the treatment of lysosomal storage diseases, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease. Although several issues remain for receptor specific targeting, current work is investigating a synthetic receptor approach for high affinity binding of targeted macromolecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M. Bareford
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Center for Nanomedicine and Cellular Drug Delivery, 20 Penn Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Peter W. Swaan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Center for Nanomedicine and Cellular Drug Delivery, 20 Penn Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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27
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Huang M, Ji Y, Itahana K, Zhang Y, Mitchell B. Guanine nucleotide depletion inhibits pre-ribosomal RNA synthesis and causes nucleolar disruption. Leuk Res 2007; 32:131-41. [PMID: 17462731 PMCID: PMC4552191 DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2007.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2007] [Revised: 02/26/2007] [Accepted: 03/12/2007] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH) is a pivotal enzyme in the de novo pathway of guanine nucleotide biosynthesis. Inhibitors of this enzyme decrease intracellular guanine nucleotide levels by 50-80% and have potential as anti-neoplastic agents. Both mycophenolic acid (MPA) and AVN-944 are highly specific inhibitors of IMPDH that cause cell cycle arrest or apoptosis in lymphocytes and leukemic cell lines. We have examined the mechanisms by which these two agents cause cytotoxicity. Both MPA and AVN-944 inhibit the growth of K562 cells, and induce apoptosis in Raji B and CCRF-CEM T cells. Both compounds strikingly inhibit RNA synthesis within 2 h of exposure. Depletion of guanine nucleotides by MPA and AVN-944 also causes an early and near-complete reduction in levels of the 45S precursor rRNA synthesis and the concomitant translocation of nucleolar proteins including nucleolin, nucleophosmin, and nucleostemin from the nucleolus to the nucleoplasm. This efflux correlates temporally with the sustained induction of p53 in cell lines with wild-type p53. We conclude that inhibition of IMPDH causes a primary reduction in rRNA synthesis and secondary nucleolar disruption and efflux of nucleolar proteins that most likely mediate cell cycle arrest or apoptosis. The ability of AVN-944 to induce apoptosis in a number of leukemic cell lines supports its potential utility in the treatment of hematologic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Huang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, Stanford University. Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Yanshan Ji
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Koji Itahana
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Yanping Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Beverly Mitchell
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, Stanford University. Stanford, CA, USA
- Corresponding author: Dr. Beverly S. Mitchell, Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, Stanford University. Stanford, CA 94305-5796, Telephone: 650-725-9621, Fax: 650-736-0607, Email address:
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28
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Greupink R, Bakker HI, van Goor H, de Borst MH, Beljaars L, Poelstra K. Mannose-6-phosphate/insulin-Like growth factor-II receptors may represent a target for the selective delivery of mycophenolic acid to fibrogenic cells. Pharm Res 2007; 23:1827-34. [PMID: 16850269 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-006-9025-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2006] [Accepted: 04/04/2006] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The insulin-like growth factor axis plays an important role in fibrogenesis. However, little is known about mannose-6-phosphate/Insulin-like growth factor-II receptor (M6P/IGF-IIR) expression during fibrosis. When expressed preferentially on fibrogenic cells, this receptor may be used to selectively deliver drugs to these cells. METHODS We investigated M6P/IGF-IIR expression in livers of bile duct-ligated (BDL) rats and in renal vascular walls of renin transgenic TGR(mRen2)27 rats. Both models are characterized by fibrogenic processes. Furthermore, we studied whether drug delivery via M6P/IGF-II-receptor-mediated uptake is possible in fibroblasts. RESULTS M6P/IGF-IIR mRNA expression was investigated 3, 7 and 10 days after BDL. At all time-points hepatic M6P/IGF-IIR expression was significantly increased compared to healthy controls. Moreover, immunohistochemical staining revealed that alpha-sma-positive cells were M6P/IGF-IIR-positive. In kidneys of TGR(mRen2)27 rats, the number of M6P/IGF-IIR-positive arteries per microscopic field was increased 5.5 fold over healthy controls. To examine whether M6P/IGF-IIRs could be used as a port of entry for drugs, we coupled mycophenolic acid (MPA) to mannose-6-phosphate-modified human serum albumin (M6PHSA). M6PHSA-MPA inhibited 3T3-fibroblast proliferation dose-dependently, which was reversed by co-incubation with excess M6PHSA, but not by HSA. CONCLUSIONS M6P/IGF-IIRs are expressed by fibrogenic cells and may be used for receptor-mediated intracellular delivery of the antifibrogenic drug MPA.
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MESH Headings
- 3T3 Cells
- Animals
- Antibiotics, Antineoplastic/administration & dosage
- Antibiotics, Antineoplastic/pharmacology
- Binding, Competitive/drug effects
- Capillaries/drug effects
- Capillaries/metabolism
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Cell Survival/drug effects
- Common Bile Duct/physiology
- DNA/biosynthesis
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Drug Delivery Systems
- Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel
- Fibroblasts/drug effects
- Fibroblasts/metabolism
- Immunohistochemistry
- Ligation
- Liver Cirrhosis/pathology
- Male
- Mannosephosphates/metabolism
- Mice
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/drug effects
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Mycophenolic Acid/administration & dosage
- Mycophenolic Acid/pharmacology
- RNA, Messenger/biosynthesis
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- Rats
- Rats, Wistar
- Receptor, IGF Type 2/metabolism
- Renal Circulation/drug effects
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
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Affiliation(s)
- Rick Greupink
- Groningen University Institute for Drug Exploration (GUIDE), Department of Pharmacokinetics and Drug Delivery, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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29
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Greupink R, Reker-Smit C, Proost JH, van Loenen Weemaes AM, de Hooge M, Poelstra K, Beljaars L. Pharmacokinetics of a hepatic stellate cell-targeted doxorubicin construct in bile duct-ligated rats. Biochem Pharmacol 2006; 73:1455-62. [PMID: 17239825 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2006.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2006] [Revised: 12/09/2006] [Accepted: 12/11/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Inhibition of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) proliferation is a relevant strategy to inhibit liver fibrosis. Coupling of antiproliferative drugs to the HSC-selective drug carrier mannose-6-phosphate-modified human serum albumin (M6PHSA) may lead to cell-selective inhibition of HSC proliferation. We coupled the antiproliferative drug doxorubicin (DOX) to this drug carrier and investigated the pharmacokinetics of this construct in a rat model of liver fibrosis, as well as in cultured HSC. METHODS/RESULTS M6PHSA-DOX was cleared from the plasma in a biphasic manner. Upon i.v. injection of 4 microg kg(-1) (tracer), 2 and 20 mg kg(-1), the clearance in the distribution phase of drug disposition (CL(d)) significantly decreased from 9.7+/-0.7 to 4.7+/-2.3 and 1.0+/-0.1 ml kg(-1)min(-1), respectively. This indicates that saturation of clearance mechanisms occurs in this phase of drug disposition, likely reflecting saturable receptor-mediated uptake in the target cells. Gamma-camera studies revealed that the majority of the conjugate accumulated in the liver within 5 min, and immunohistochemical double-staining of liver sections demonstrated co-localization of the construct with HSC-markers. Simulation of the release of DOX from the carrier, after cellular uptake by HSC, showed that a gradual release of the drug takes place over a 9h period. Studies in cultured HSC illustrated that after 24h incubation with the conjugate, DOX was associated with the cell nucleus. CONCLUSIONS The rapid distribution of M6PHSA-DOX from the blood to HSC, in combination with the expected gradual release of DOX within these cells, make this construct a promising tool for achieving sustained and selective inhibition of HSC proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rick Greupink
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Drug Delivery, University Centre for Pharmacy, Groningen University Institute for Drug Exploration (GUIDE), Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
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Wang LS, Chen YW, Li DG, Lu HM. Arg-gly-asp-mannose-6-phosphate inhibits activation and proliferation of hepatic stellate cells in vitro. World J Gastroenterol 2006; 12:1303-7. [PMID: 16534891 PMCID: PMC4124449 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v12.i8.1303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To investigate the effect of arg-gly-asp-mannose-6 phosphate (RGD-M6P) on the activation and proliferation of primary hepatic stellate cells in vitro.
METHODS: Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were isolated from rats by in situ collagenase perfusion of liver and 18% Nycodenz gradient centrifugation and cultured on uncoated plastic plates for 24 h with DMEM containing 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS/DMEM) before the culture medium was substituted with 2% FBS/DMEM for another 24 h. Then, HSCs were cultured in 2% FBS/DMEM with transforming growth factor β1, M6P, RGD, or RGD-M6P, respectively. Cell morphology was observed under inverted microscope, smooth muscle α-actin (α-SMA) was detected by immunocytochemistry, type III procollagen (PCIII) in supernatant was determined by radioimmunoassay, and the proliferation rate of HSCs was assessed by flow cytometry.
RESULTS: RGD-M6P significantly inhibited the morphological transformation and the α-SMA and PCIII expressions of HSCs in vitro and also dramatically prevented the proliferation of HSCs in vitro. Such effects were remarkably different from those of RGD or M6P.
CONCLUSION: The new compound, RGD-M6P, which has a dramatic effect on primary cultured HSCs in vitro, can inhibit the transformation of HSCs in culture caused by TGFβ1, suppresses the expression of PCIII and decreases proliferation rate of HSC. RGD-M6P can be applied as a selective drug carrier targeting at HSCs, which may be a new approach to the prevention and treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lian-Sheng Wang
- Digestive Disease Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Second Medical University, Shanghai 200092, China
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Gonzalo T, Talman EG, van de Ven A, Temming K, Greupink R, Beljaars L, Reker-Smit C, Meijer DKF, Molema G, Poelstra K, Kok RJ. Selective targeting of pentoxifylline to hepatic stellate cells using a novel platinum-based linker technology. J Control Release 2006; 111:193-203. [PMID: 16466667 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2005.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2005] [Revised: 11/29/2005] [Accepted: 12/08/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Targeting of antifibrotic drugs to hepatic stellate cells (HSC) is a promising strategy to block fibrotic processes leading to liver cirrhosis. For this purpose, we utilized the neo-glycoprotein mannose-6-phosphate-albumin (M6PHSA) that accumulates efficiently in HSC during liver fibrosis. Pentoxifylline (PTX), an antifibrotic compound that inhibits HSC proliferation and activation in vitro, was conjugated to M6PHSA. We employed a new type of platinum-based linker, which conjugates PTX via coordination chemistry rather than via covalent linkage. When incubated in plasma or in the presence of thiol compounds, free PTX was released from PTX-M6PHSA at a sustained slow rate. PTX-M6PHSA displayed pharmacological activity in cultured HSC as evidenced by changes in cell morphology and reduction of collagen I production. PTX-M6PHSA and platinum coupled PTX did not induce platinum-related toxicity (Alamar Blue viability assay) or apoptosis (caspase activation and TUNEL staining). In vivo distribution studies in fibrotic rats demonstrated specific accumulation of the conjugate in nonparenchymal cells in the fibrotic liver. In conclusion, we have developed PTX-M6PHSA employing a novel type of platinum linker, which allows sustained delivery of the drug to HSC in the fibrotic liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Gonzalo
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Drug Delivery, Groningen University Institute for Drug Exploration, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands.
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Greupink R, Bakker HI, Bouma W, Reker-Smit C, Meijer DKF, Beljaars L, Poelstra K. The antiproliferative drug doxorubicin inhibits liver fibrosis in bile duct-ligated rats and can be selectively delivered to hepatic stellate cells in vivo. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2006; 317:514-21. [PMID: 16439617 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.105.099499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cell (HSC) proliferation is a key event in liver fibrosis; therefore, pharmacological intervention with antiproliferative drugs may result in antifibrotic effects. In this article, the antiproliferative effect of three cytostatic drugs was tested in cultured rat HSC. Subsequently, the antifibrotic potential of the most potent drug was evaluated in vivo. As a strategy to overcome drug-related toxicity, we additionally studied how to deliver this drug specifically to HSC by conjugating it to the HSC-selective drug carrier mannose-6-phosphate-modified human serum albumin (M6PHSA). We investigated the effect of cisplatin, chlorambucil, and doxorubicin (DOX) on 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine incorporation in cultured HSC and found DOX to be the most potent drug. Treatment of bile duct-ligated (BDL) rats with daily i.v. injections of 0.35 mg/kg DOX from day 3 to 10 after BDL reduced alpha-smooth muscle actin-stained area in liver sections from 8.5 +/- 0.8 to 5.1 +/- 0.9% (P < 0.01) and collagen-stained area from 13.1 +/- 1.3 to 8.9 +/- 1.5% (P < 0.05). DOX was coupled to M6PHSA, and the organ distribution of this construct (M6PHSA-DOX) was investigated. Twenty minutes after i.v. administration, 50 +/- 6% of the dose was present in the livers, and colocalization of M6PHSA-DOX with HSC markers was observed. In addition, in vitro studies showed selective binding of M6PHSA-DOX to activated HSC. Moreover, M6PHSA-DOX strongly attenuated HSC proliferation in vitro, indicating that active drug is released after uptake of the conjugate. DOX inhibits liver fibrosis in BDL rats, and HSC-selective targeting of this drug is possible. This may offer perspectives for the application of antiproliferative drugs for antifibrotic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rick Greupink
- Groningen University Institute for Drug Exploration (GUIDE), Department of Pharmacokinetics and Drug Delivery, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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Li G, Xie Q, Shi Y, Li D, Zhang M, Jiang S, Zhou H, Lu H, Jin Y. Inhibition of connective tissue growth factor by siRNA prevents liver fibrosis in rats. J Gene Med 2006; 8:889-900. [PMID: 16652398 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a highly profibrogenic molecule implicated in hepatic fibrogenesis. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) is an effective tool to silence gene expression post-transcriptionally. Therefore, we conducted an investigation to determine if intraportal vein siRNA injection targeting CTGF inhibits CTGF expression on rat liver in vivo and furthermore whether it protects the liver from liver fibrosis. METHODS Some rats received carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) by subcutaneous injections every three days for six consecutive weeks, and meantime they also obtained either siRNA (0.1 mg/kg) targeting CTGF, saline or a control siRNA by intraportal vein injection to rats' liver at the same pattern. Other rats received CCl4 by subcutaneous injection for 2 weeks, followed by CCl4 and CTGF siRNA intraportal vein injection for four more weeks. RESULTS Intraportal vein injection of CTGF siRNA specifically reduced the expression of CTGF protein in rat liver, and these effects were maintained for 3 days. Six weeks after CCl4 injection, prominent upregulations were observed in the gene expressions of CTGF, type I, III collagen, laminin, tissue inhibitor metal proteinase-1 (TIMP-1) and transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) in saline or control siRNA-treated rats livers. Administrating CTGF siRNA for 4 or 6 weeks, by contrast, markedly attenuated the induction of CTGF, type I, III collagen, laminin, TIMP-1 and TGF-beta1 genes, whereas Smad2, 7 gene expression was not affected. The number of active hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) determined by the expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin was also significantly decreased. The CTGF siRNA treatment markedly reduced serum procollagen type III, hepatic hydroxyproline and liver fibrosis staging. CONCLUSIONS Silencing CTGF expression with siRNA demonstrates therapeutic potential to prevent liver fibrosis by inhibiting HSC activation with consequent extracellular matrix accumulation and the upregulation of TGF-beta1 gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangming Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Second Medical University, Shanghai 200092, China
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