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Yang Z, Wang J, Zhao T, Wang L, Liang T, Zheng Y. Mitochondrial structure and function: A new direction for the targeted treatment of chronic liver disease with Chinese herbal medicine. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 334:118461. [PMID: 38908494 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Excessive fat accumulation, biological clock dysregulation, viral infections, and sustained inflammatory responses can lead to liver inflammation, fibrosis, and cancer, thus promoting the development of chronic liver disease. A comprehensive understanding of the etiological factors leading to chronic liver disease and the intrinsic mechanisms influencing its onset and progression can aid in identifying potential targets for targeted therapy. Mitochondria, as key organelles that maintain the metabolic homeostasis of the liver, provide an important foundation for exploring therapeutic targets for chronic liver disease. Recent studies have shown that active ingredients in herbal medicines and their natural products can modulate chronic liver disease by influencing the structure and function of mitochondria. Therefore, studying how Chinese herbs target mitochondrial structure and function to treat chronic liver diseases is of great significance. AIM OF THE STUDY Investigating the prospects of herbal medicine the Lens of chronic liver disease based on mitochondrial structure and function. MATERIALS AND METHODS A computerized search of PubMed was conducted using the keywords "mitochondrial structure", "mitochondrial function", "mitochondria and chronic liver disease", "botanicals, mitochondria and chronic liver disease".Data from the Web of Science and Science Direct databases were also included. The research findings regarding herbal medicines targeting mitochondrial structure and function for the treatment of chronic liver disease are summarized. RESULTS A computerized search of PubMed using the keywords "mitochondrial structure", "mitochondrial function", "mitochondria and chronic liver disease", "phytopharmaceuticals, mitochondria, and chronic liver disease", as well as the Web of Science and Science Direct databases was conducted to summarize information on studies of mitochondrial structure- and function-based Chinese herbal medicines for the treatment of chronic liver disease and to suggest that the effects of herbal medicines on mitochondrial division and fusion.The study suggested that there is much room for research on the influence of Chinese herbs on mitochondrial division and fusion. CONCLUSIONS Targeting mitochondrial structure and function is crucial for herbal medicine to combat chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihui Yang
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Chinese Medicine Science Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, 530222, China
| | - Jiahui Wang
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Chinese Medicine Science Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, 530222, China
| | - Tiejian Zhao
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Chinese Medicine Science Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, 530222, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Chinese Medicine Science Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, 530222, China
| | - Tianjian Liang
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Chinese Medicine Science Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, 530222, China.
| | - Yang Zheng
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Chinese Medicine Science Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, 530222, China.
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Dong QQ, Yang Y, Tao H, Lu C, Yang JJ. m6A epitranscriptomic and epigenetic crosstalk in liver fibrosis: Special emphasis on DNA methylation and non-coding RNAs. Cell Signal 2024; 122:111302. [PMID: 39025344 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2024.111302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a pathological process caused by a variety of chronic liver diseases. Currently, therapeutic options for liver fibrosis are very limited, highlighting the urgent need to explore new treatment approaches. Epigenetic modifications and epitranscriptomic modifications, as reversible regulatory mechanisms, are involved in the development of liver fibrosis. In recent years, researches in epitranscriptomics and epigenetics have opened new perspectives for understanding the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. Exploring the epigenetic mechanisms of liver fibrosis may provide valuable insights into the development of new therapies for chronic liver diseases. This review primarily focus on the regulatory mechanisms of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification, non-coding RNA, and DNA methylation in organ fibrosis. It discusses the interactions between m6A modification and DNA methylation, as well as between m6A modification and non-coding RNA, providing a reference for understanding the interplay between epitranscriptomics and epigenetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Qi Dong
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China; School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Suzhou 215153, China
| | - Hui Tao
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China.
| | - Chao Lu
- First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui University of Science & Technology, Huainan 232001, China.
| | - Jing-Jing Yang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China.
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Akkız H, Gieseler RK, Canbay A. Liver Fibrosis: From Basic Science towards Clinical Progress, Focusing on the Central Role of Hepatic Stellate Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7873. [PMID: 39063116 PMCID: PMC11277292 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The burden of chronic liver disease is globally increasing at an alarming rate. Chronic liver injury leads to liver inflammation and fibrosis (LF) as critical determinants of long-term outcomes such as cirrhosis, liver cancer, and mortality. LF is a wound-healing process characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins due to the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). In the healthy liver, quiescent HSCs metabolize and store retinoids. Upon fibrogenic activation, quiescent HSCs transdifferentiate into myofibroblasts; lose their vitamin A; upregulate α-smooth muscle actin; and produce proinflammatory soluble mediators, collagens, and inhibitors of ECM degradation. Activated HSCs are the main effector cells during hepatic fibrogenesis. In addition, the accumulation and activation of profibrogenic macrophages in response to hepatocyte death play a critical role in the initiation of HSC activation and survival. The main source of myofibroblasts is resident HSCs. Activated HSCs migrate to the site of active fibrogenesis to initiate the formation of a fibrous scar. Single-cell technologies revealed that quiescent HSCs are highly homogenous, while activated HSCs/myofibroblasts are much more heterogeneous. The complex process of inflammation results from the response of various hepatic cells to hepatocellular death and inflammatory signals related to intrahepatic injury pathways or extrahepatic mediators. Inflammatory processes modulate fibrogenesis by activating HSCs and, in turn, drive immune mechanisms via cytokines and chemokines. Increasing evidence also suggests that cellular stress responses contribute to fibrogenesis. Recent data demonstrated that LF can revert even at advanced stages of cirrhosis if the underlying cause is eliminated, which inhibits the inflammatory and profibrogenic cells. However, despite numerous clinical studies on plausible drug candidates, an approved antifibrotic therapy still remains elusive. This state-of-the-art review presents cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in hepatic fibrogenesis and its resolution, as well as comprehensively discusses the drivers linking liver injury to chronic liver inflammation and LF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hikmet Akkız
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Bahçeşehir, Beşiktaş, Istanbul 34353, Turkey
| | - Robert K. Gieseler
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus, Ruhr University Bochum, In der Schornau 23–25, 44892 Bochum, Germany; (R.K.G.); (A.C.)
| | - Ali Canbay
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus, Ruhr University Bochum, In der Schornau 23–25, 44892 Bochum, Germany; (R.K.G.); (A.C.)
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Wang J, Zhang Y, Ma Y, Zhao S, Wang J, Chen H, Zhang J, Liu J. TET1 inhibits liver fibrosis by blocking hepatic stellate cell activation. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 39:1403-1412. [PMID: 38369780 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are critical regulator contributing to the onset and progression of liver fibrosis. Chronic liver injury triggers HSCs to undergo vast changes and trans-differentiation into a myofibroblast HSCs, the mechanism remains to be elucidated. This study investigated that the involvement of hydroxymethylase TET1 (ten-eleven translocation 1) in HSC activation and liver fibrosis. It is revealed that TET1 levels were downregulated in the livers in mouse models of liver fibrosis and patients with cirrhosis, as well as activated HSCs in comparison to quiescent HSCs. In vitro data showed that the inhibition of TET1 promoted the activation HSC, whereas TET1 overexpression inhibited HSC activation. Moreover, TET1 could regulate KLF2 (Kruppel-like transcription factors) transcription by promoting hydroxymethylation of its promoter, which in turn suppressed the activation of HSCs. In vivo, it is confirmed that liver fibrosis was aggravated in Tet1 knockout mice after CCl4 injection, accompanied by excessive activation of primary stellate cells, in contrast to wild-type mice. In conclusion, we suggested that TET1 plays a significant role in HSC activation and liver fibrosis, which provides a promising target for anti-fibrotic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjie Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yitong Zhang
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanyun Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Anthropology and Human Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Six-sector Industrial Research Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Suhan Zhao
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiucun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Anthropology and Human Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongtan Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Yang M, Wang D, Wang X, Mei J, Gong Q. Role of Folate in Liver Diseases. Nutrients 2024; 16:1872. [PMID: 38931227 PMCID: PMC11206401 DOI: 10.3390/nu16121872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Folate is a water-soluble B vitamin involved in the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines and is one of the essential vitamins for human growth and reproduction. Folate deficiency due to low dietary intake, poor absorption of folate, and alterations in folate metabolism due to genetic defects or drug interactions significantly increases the risk of diseases such as neural tube defects, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and cognitive dysfunction. Recent studies have shown that folate deficiency can cause hyperhomocysteinemia, which increases the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease, and that high homocysteine levels are an independent risk factor for liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. In addition, folate deficiency results in increased secretion of pro-inflammatory factors and impaired lipid metabolism in the liver, leading to lipid accumulation in hepatocytes and fibrosis. There is substantial evidence that folate deficiency contributes to the development and progression of a variety of liver diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), alcoholic liver disease (ALD), viral hepatitis, hepatic fibrosis, and liver cancer. Here we review key studies on the role of folate in the pathophysiology of liver diseases, summarize the current status of studies on folate in the treatment of liver diseases, and speculate that folate may be a potential therapeutic target for liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minlan Yang
- School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434020, China
| | | | | | | | - Quan Gong
- School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434020, China
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Pan Z, Bayoumi A, Metwally M, George J, Eslam M. Exportin 4 DNA promoter methylation in liver fibrosis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302786. [PMID: 38722973 PMCID: PMC11081319 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
A role for exportin 4 (XPO4) in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis was recently identified. We sought to determine changes in hepatic XPO4 promoter methylation levels during liver fibrosis. The quantitative real-time RT-PCR technique was used to quantify the mRNA level of XPO4. Additionally, pyrosequencing was utilized to assess the promoter methylation status of XPO4. The methylation rate of the XPO4 promoter was significantly increased with fibrosis in human and mouse models, while XPO4 mRNA expression negatively correlated with methylation of its promoter. DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) levels (enzymes that drive DNA methylation) were upregulated in patients with liver fibrosis compared to healthy controls and in hepatic stellate cells upon transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) stimulation. The DNA methylation inhibitor 5-Aza or specific siRNAs for these DNMTs led to restoration of XPO4 expression. The process of DNA methylation plays a crucial role in the repression of XPO4 transcription in the context of liver fibrosis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyan Pan
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ali Bayoumi
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mayada Metwally
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacob George
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mohammed Eslam
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Jia L, Yang Y, Sun F, Tao H, Lu C, Yang JJ. Mitochondrial quality control in liver fibrosis: Epigenetic hallmarks and therapeutic strategies. Cell Signal 2024; 115:111035. [PMID: 38182067 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2024.111035] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Mitochondrial quality control (MQC) plays a significant role in the progression of liver fibrosis, with key processes such as mitochondrial fission, fusion, mitophagy and biogenesis maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis. To understand the molecular mechanisms underlying epigenetic regulation of mitochondrial quality control in liver fibrosis, with the aim of uncovering novel therapeutic targets for treating, mitigating, and potentially reversing liver fibrosis, in light of the most recent advances in this field. METHODS We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus for published manuscripts using terms "mitochondrial quality control" "mitochondrial fission" "mitochondrial fusion" "mitochondrial biogenesis" "mitophagy" "liver fibrosis" "epigenetic regulation" "DNA methylation" "RNA methylation" "histone modification" and "non-coding RNA". Manuscripts were collated, studied and carried forward for discussion where appropriate. RESULTS Mitochondrial fission, fusion, biogenesis, and mitophagy regulate the homeostasis of mitochondria, and the imbalance of mitochondrial homeostasis can induce liver fibrosis. Epigenetic regulation, including DNA methylation, RNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs, plays a significant role in regulating the processes of mitochondrial homeostasis. CONCLUSION Mitochondrial quality control and epigenetic mechanisms are intricately linked to the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. Understanding these molecular interactions provides insight into potential therapeutic strategies. Further research is necessary to translate these findings into clinical applications, with a focus on developing epigenetic drugs to ameliorate liver fibrosis by modulating MQC and epigenetic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Jia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China; School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Suzhou 215153, China
| | - Feng Sun
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China; School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Hui Tao
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China.
| | - Chao Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui University of Science & Technology, Huainan 232001, China.
| | - Jing-Jing Yang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China.
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Liu R, Li Y, Zheng Q, Ding M, Zhou H, Li X. Epigenetic modification in liver fibrosis: Promising therapeutic direction with significant challenges ahead. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:1009-1029. [PMID: 38486982 PMCID: PMC10935124 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis, characterized by scar tissue formation, can ultimately result in liver failure. It's a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally, often associated with chronic liver diseases like hepatitis or alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases. However, current treatment options are limited, highlighting the urgent need for the development of new therapies. As a reversible regulatory mechanism, epigenetic modification is implicated in many biological processes, including liver fibrosis. Exploring the epigenetic mechanisms involved in liver fibrosis could provide valuable insights into developing new treatments for chronic liver diseases, although the current evidence is still controversial. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the regulatory mechanisms and critical targets of epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and RNA modification, in liver fibrotic diseases. The potential cooperation of different epigenetic modifications in promoting fibrogenesis was also highlighted. Finally, available agonists or inhibitors regulating these epigenetic mechanisms and their potential application in preventing liver fibrosis were discussed. In summary, elucidating specific druggable epigenetic targets and developing more selective and specific candidate medicines may represent a promising approach with bright prospects for the treatment of chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runping Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102400, China
| | - Yajing Li
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102400, China
| | - Qi Zheng
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102400, China
| | - Mingning Ding
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102400, China
| | - Huiping Zhou
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 22460, USA
| | - Xiaojiaoyang Li
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102400, China
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Song Y, Kim N, Heo J, Shum D, Heo T, Seo HR. Inhibition of DNMT3B expression in activated hepatic stellate cells overcomes chemoresistance in the tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Sci Rep 2024; 14:115. [PMID: 38168140 PMCID: PMC10761987 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50680-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a complex disease associated with a plethora of environmental and genetic/hereditary causative risk factors, more so than other oncological indications. Additionally, patients with HCC exhibit fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver-related disease. This complicated etiology can affect the disease course and likely contributes to its poor prognosis. In this study, we aimed to improve HCC therapy by evaluating combination treatment using anti-cancer and anti-fibrosis drugs via identification of novel anti-fibrosis drugs. We performed high-throughput screening of 10,000 compounds to identify hepatic fibrosis inhibitors through morphometry analysis of multicellular hepatic spheroid (MCHS) models and identified CHIR-99021 as a candidate anti-fibrotic drug. Treatment with CHIR-99021 induced loss of cell-cell interactions and suppression of extracellular matrix-related protein expression via reprogramming of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation in MCHSs. In particular, CHIR-99021 regulated DNMT3B expression only in activated HSCs. Moreover, CHIR-99021 markedly improved the efficacy of sorafenib in HCC- multicellular tumor spheroids in vitro and through induction of apoptosis by decreasing DNMT3B expression in vivo. In summary, these findings suggest that targeting HSC reprogramming by attenuation of DNMT3B expression in the tumor environment might represent a promising therapeutic strategy for liver fibrosis and HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeonhwa Song
- Advanced Biomedical Research Laboratory, Institut Pasteur Korea, 16, Daewangpangyo-ro 712 beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Namjeong Kim
- Advanced Biomedical Research Laboratory, Institut Pasteur Korea, 16, Daewangpangyo-ro 712 beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinyeong Heo
- Screening Discovery Platform, Institut Pasteur Korea, 16, Daewangpangyo-ro 712 beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - David Shum
- Screening Discovery Platform, Institut Pasteur Korea, 16, Daewangpangyo-ro 712 beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Taemoo Heo
- Advanced Biomedical Research Laboratory, Institut Pasteur Korea, 16, Daewangpangyo-ro 712 beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Haeng Ran Seo
- Advanced Biomedical Research Laboratory, Institut Pasteur Korea, 16, Daewangpangyo-ro 712 beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13488, Republic of Korea.
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Nazeer B, Khawar MB, Khalid MU, Hamid SE, Rafiq M, Abbasi MH, Sheikh N, Ali A, Fatima H, Ahmad S. Emerging role of lipophagy in liver disorders. Mol Cell Biochem 2024; 479:1-11. [PMID: 36943663 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-023-04707-1] [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: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Lipophagy is a selective degradation of lipids by a lysosomal-mediated pathway, and dysregulation of lipophagy is linked with the pathological hallmark of many liver diseases. Downregulation of lipophagy in liver cells results in abnormal accumulation of LDs (Lipid droplets) in hepatocytes which is a characteristic feature of several liver pathologies such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Contrarily, upregulation of lipophagy in activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is associated with hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis. Lipid metabolism reprogramming in violent cancer cells contributes to the progression of liver cancer. In this review, we have summarized the recent studies focusing on various components of the lipophagic machinery that can be modulated for their potential role as therapeutic agents against a wide range of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bismillah Nazeer
- Molecular Medicine and Cancer Therapeutics Lab, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Central Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Babar Khawar
- Applied Molecular Biology and Biomedicine Lab, Department of Zoology, University of Narowal, Narowal, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Usman Khalid
- Molecular Medicine and Cancer Therapeutics Lab, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Central Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Syeda Eisha Hamid
- Molecular Medicine and Cancer Therapeutics Lab, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Central Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Mussarat Rafiq
- Cell and Molecular Biology Lab, Institute of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Nadeem Sheikh
- Cell and Molecular Biology Lab, Institute of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan.
| | - Ahmad Ali
- Molecular Medicine and Cancer Therapeutics Lab, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Central Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Hooriya Fatima
- Molecular Medicine and Cancer Therapeutics Lab, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Central Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Sadia Ahmad
- Molecular Medicine and Cancer Therapeutics Lab, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Central Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
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Borrello MT, Mann D. Chronic liver diseases: From development to novel pharmacological therapies: IUPHAR Review 37. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:2880-2897. [PMID: 35393658 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15853] [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: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases comprise a broad spectrum of burdensome diseases that still lack effective pharmacological therapies. Our research group focuses on fibrosis, which is a major precursor of liver cirrhosis. Fibrosis consists in a progressive disturbance of liver sinusoidal architecture characterised by connective tissue deposition as a reparative response to tissue injury. Multifactorial events and several types of cells participate in fibrosis initiation and progression, and the process still needs to be completely understood. The development of experimental models of liver fibrosis alongside the identification of critical factors progressing fibrosis to cirrhosis will facilitate the development of more effective therapeutic approaches for such condition. This review provides an overlook of the main process leading to hepatic fibrosis and therapeutic approaches that have emerged from a deep knowledge of the molecular regulation of fibrogenesis in the liver. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Translational Advances in Fibrosis as a Therapeutic Target. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v180.22/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Borrello
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Derek Mann
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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12
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Liu R, Feng L, Tang S, Liu Y, Yang Q. The impact and mechanism of TET3 overexpression on the progression of hepatic fibrosis. Epigenomics 2023; 15:577-591. [PMID: 37464780 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2023-0146] [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] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims: To investigate whether TET3 regulates hepatic stellate cell apoptosis and understand the role of demethylation in hepatic fibrosis (HF). Methods: LX-2T cells were infected with TET3 lentivirus. After TET3 adenovirus infection, the degree of HF in each group was analyzed. Chromatin immunoprecipitation was used to verify the targeting relationship between TET3 and CBP, and finally the expression of various proteins was detected. Results: TET3 overexpression activated the CBP/FOXO1-BIM pathway, increased the expression of apoptotic proteins and accelerated the apoptosis of activated LX-2 cells. The degree of HF was improved in the TET3 upregulation group. Conclusion: TET3 can activate the CBP/FOXO1-BIM pathway to accelerate the apoptosis of activated hepatic stellate cells and ultimately alleviate HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranyang Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis & Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Linlin Feng
- Department of Pathophysiology, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis & Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Clinical Laboratory Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Shuang Tang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis & Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Yin Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis & Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Qin Yang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis & Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guiyang, 550025, China
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13
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Feng Y, Guo S, Zhao Y, Dong H, Qian J, Hu Y, Wu L, Jia Y, Zhao R. DNA 5mC and RNA m 6A modification successively facilitates the initiation and perpetuation stages of HSC activation in liver fibrosis progression. Cell Death Differ 2023; 30:1211-1220. [PMID: 36841889 PMCID: PMC10154415 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-023-01130-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) are key effector cells in liver fibrosis. Upon stimulation, the quiescent HSC undergoes complex morphological and functional changes to transdifferentiate into activated collagen-producing myofibroblasts. DNA/RNA methylations (5mC/m6A) are both implicated to participate in hepatic fibrosis, yet their respective roles and specific targets in HSC activation remain elusive. Here, we demonstrate that 5mC is indispensable for the initiation stage of HSC activation (myofibroblast transdifferentiation), whereas m6A is essential for the perpetuation stage of HSC activation (excessive ECM production). Mechanistically, DNA 5mC hypermethylation on the promoter of SOCS3 and PPARγ genes leads to STAT3-mediated metabolic reprogramming and lipid loss in the initiation stage. RNA m6A hypermethylation on the transcripts of major collagen genes enhances the mRNA stability in a YTHDF1-dependent manner, which contributes to massive ECM production. Vitamin A-coupled YTHDF1 siRNA alleviates CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in mice through HSC-specific inhibition of collagen production. HIF-1α, which is transactivated by STAT3, serves as a bridge linking the initiation and the perpetuation stages through transactivating YTHDF1. These findings indicate successive roles of DNA 5mC and RNA m6A modification in the progression of HSC activation, which provides new drug targets for epigenetic therapy of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Feng
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Shihui Guo
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Yulan Zhao
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Haibo Dong
- Center for Translational Biomedical Research, UNCG, Kannapolis, NC, USA
| | - Jiayu Qian
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Yun Hu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Lei Wu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Yimin Jia
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Ruqian Zhao
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China.
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China.
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14
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Feng LL, Liu RY, An K, Tang S, Wu J, Yang Q. TET3 as a non-invasive screening tool for the detection of fibrosis in patients with chronic liver disease. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6382. [PMID: 37076545 PMCID: PMC10115894 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33564-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Ten-eleven translocation protein 3 (TET3) is one of the key enzymes in DNA demethylation which can be expressed in liver tissues. However, the clinical value of TET3 for diagnosis and treatment of chronic liver disease have not been reported previously. We investigated the diagnostic accuracy of serum TET3 as a non-invasive screening tool for liver fibrosis. 212 patients with chronic liver disease from were enrolled in this study. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure the serum levels of TET3. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) were determined to examine the diagnostic accuracy of TET3 and combination model for diagnosis fibrosis. Serum TET3 level in fibrosis cases was significantly higher than that in non-fibrosis and controls, respectively. The areas under the ROC curve of the TET3 and fibrosis-4 index for liver fibrosis were 0.863 and 0.813, and 0.916 and 0.957 for liver cirrhosis. The combination of TET3 and fibrosis-4 index had a highly promising positive predictive value for detecting liver fibrosis and cirrhosis different stages of (93.5% and 100%) as compared with each diagnostic tool alone. TET3 is related to the development of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. The TET3-fibrosis-4 model enhances discriminatory power and represents a promising non-invasive tool for the diagnosis and screening of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Lin Feng
- Academic Research, Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou Province, China
- Clinical Laboratory Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, Guizhou Province, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research On Common Chronic Diseases, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Ran-Yang Liu
- Academic Research, Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Kun An
- Hepatopathy Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Shuang Tang
- Academic Research, Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Jun Wu
- Hepatopathy Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Qin Yang
- Academic Research, Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou Province, China.
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15
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Sha JM, Zhang RQ, Wang XC, Zhou Y, Song K, Sun H, Tu B, Tao H. Epigenetic reader MeCP2 repressed WIF1 boosts lung fibroblast proliferation, migration and pulmonary fibrosis. Toxicol Lett 2023; 381:1-12. [PMID: 37061208 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2023.04.004] [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: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic has been implicated in pulmonary fibrosis. However, there is limited information regarding the biological role of the epigenetic reader MeCP2 in pulmonary fibrosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of MeCP2 and its target WIF1 in pulmonary fibrosis. The pathological changes and collagen depositions was analyzed by H&E, Masson's Trichrome Staining and Sirius Red staining. MeCP2, WIF1, α-SMA, Wnt1, β-catenin, and collagen I expression were analyzed by western blotting, RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, respectively. The effects of MeCP2 on pulmonary fibrosis involve epigenetic mechanisms, using cultured cells, animal models, and clinical samples. Herein, our results indicated that MeCP2 level was up-regulated, while WIF1 was decreased in Bleomycin (BLM)-induced mice pulmonary fibrosis tissues, patients pulmonary fibrosis tissues and TGF-β1-induced lung fibroblast. Knockdown of MeCP2 by siRNA can rescue WIF1 downregulation in TGF-β1-induced lung fibroblast, inhibited lung fibroblast activation. The DNA methylation inhibitor 5-azadC-treated lung fibroblasts have increased WIF1 expression with reduced MeCP2 association. In addition, we found that reduced expression of WIF1 caused by TGF-β1 is associated with the promoter methylation status of WIF1. Moreover, in vivo studies revealed that knockdown of MeCP2 mice exhibited significantly ameliorated pulmonary fibrosis, decreased interstitial collagen deposition, and increased WIF1 expression. Taken together, our study showed that epigenetic reader MeCP2 repressed WIF1 facilitates lung fibroblast proliferation, migration and pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Ming Sha
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People's Republic of China; Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, P.R. China 230601
| | - Ren-Quan Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xian-Chen Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, P.R. China 230601
| | - Yang Zhou
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, P.R. China 230601
| | - Kai Song
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, P.R. China 230601
| | - He Sun
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, P.R. China 230601
| | - Bin Tu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, P.R. China 230601
| | - Hui Tao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, P.R. China 230601.
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16
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Liu Y, Wen D, Ho C, Yu L, Zheng D, O'Reilly S, Gao Y, Li Q, Zhang Y. Epigenetics as a versatile regulator of fibrosis. J Transl Med 2023; 21:164. [PMID: 36864460 PMCID: PMC9983257 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04018-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis, a process caused by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM), is a common cause and outcome of organ failure and even death. Researchers have made many efforts to understand the mechanism of fibrogenesis and to develop therapeutic strategies; yet, the outcome remains unsatisfactory. In recent years, advances in epigenetics, including chromatin remodeling, histone modification, DNA methylation, and noncoding RNA (ncRNA), have provided more insights into the fibrotic process and have suggested the possibility of novel therapy for organ fibrosis. In this review, we summarize the current research on the epigenetic mechanisms involved in organ fibrosis and their possible clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangdan Liu
- Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, School of Medicine, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Dongsheng Wen
- Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, School of Medicine, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Chiakang Ho
- Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, School of Medicine, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Li Yu
- Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, School of Medicine, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Danning Zheng
- Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, School of Medicine, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | | | - Ya Gao
- Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, School of Medicine, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Qingfeng Li
- Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, School of Medicine, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Yifan Zhang
- Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, School of Medicine, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, China.
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17
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Zhang N, Tian X, Yan T, Wang H, Zhang D, Lin C, Liu Q, Jiang S. Insights into the role of nucleotide methylation in metabolic-associated fatty liver disease. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1148722. [PMID: 37020540 PMCID: PMC10067741 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1148722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a chronic liver disease characterized by fatty infiltration of the liver. In recent years, the MAFLD incidence rate has risen and emerged as a serious public health concern. MAFLD typically progresses from the initial hepatocyte steatosis to steatohepatitis and then gradually advances to liver fibrosis, which may ultimately lead to cirrhosis and carcinogenesis. However, the potential evolutionary mechanisms still need to be clarified. Recent studies have shown that nucleotide methylation, which was directly associated with MAFLD's inflammatory grading, lipid synthesis, and oxidative stress, plays a crucial role in the occurrence and progression of MAFLD. In this review, we highlight the regulatory function and associated mechanisms of nucleotide methylation modification in the progress of MAFLD, with a particular emphasis on its regulatory role in the inflammation of MAFLD, including the regulation of inflammation-related immune and metabolic microenvironment. Additionally, we summarize the potential value of nucleotide methylation in the diagnosis and treatment of MAFLD, intending to provide references for the future investigation of MAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ni Zhang
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xinchen Tian
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Tinghao Yan
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Haochen Wang
- Clinical Medical Laboratory Center, Jining First People’s Hospital, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Dengtian Zhang
- Clinical Medical Laboratory Center, Jining First People’s Hospital, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Cong Lin
- Clinical Medical Laboratory Center, Jining First People’s Hospital, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Qingbin Liu
- Clinical Medical Laboratory Center, Jining First People’s Hospital, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- *Correspondence: Qingbin Liu, ; Shulong Jiang,
| | - Shulong Jiang
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Clinical Medical Laboratory Center, Jining First People’s Hospital, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- *Correspondence: Qingbin Liu, ; Shulong Jiang,
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18
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Kim M, Delgado E, Ko S. DNA methylation in cell plasticity and malignant transformation in liver diseases. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 241:108334. [PMID: 36535346 PMCID: PMC9841769 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108334] [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: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The liver possesses extraordinary regenerative capacity mainly attributable to the ability of hepatocytes (HCs) and biliary epithelial cells (BECs) to self-replicate. This ability is left over from their bipotent parent cell, the hepatoblast, during development. When this innate regeneration is compromised due to the absence of proliferative parenchymal cells, such as during cirrhosis, HCs and BEC can transdifferentiate; thus, adding another layer of complexity to the process of liver repair. In addition, dysregulated lineage maintenance in these two cell populations has been shown to promote malignant growth in experimental conditions. Here, malignant transformation, driven in part by insufficient maintenance of lineage reprogramming, contributes to end-stage liver disease. Epigenetic changes are key drivers for cell fate decisions as well as transformation by finetuning overall transcription and gene expression. In this review, we address how altered DNA methylation contributes to the initiation and progression of hepatic cell fate conversion and cancer formation. We also discussed the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of targeting DNA methylation in liver cancer, its current limitations, and what future research is necessary to facilitate its contribution to clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minwook Kim
- Department of Developmental Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States of America
| | - Evan Delgado
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States of America; Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States of America
| | - Sungjin Ko
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States of America; Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States of America.
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19
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Zhao D, Gao Y, Su Y, Zhou Y, Yang T, Li Y, Wang Y, Sun Y, Chen L, Zhang F, Zhang Z, Wang F, Shao J, Zheng S. Oroxylin A regulates cGAS DNA hypermethylation induced by methionine metabolism to promote HSC senescence. Pharmacol Res 2023; 187:106590. [PMID: 36464146 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Relevant studies have recognized the important role of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) senescence in anti-liver fibrosis. Cellular senescence is believed to be regulated by the cGAS-STING signaling pathway. However, underlying exact mechanisms of cGAS-STING pathway in hepatic stellate cell senescence are still unclear. Here, we found that Oroxylin A could promote senescence in HSC by activating the cGAS-STING pathway. Moreover, activation of the cGAS-STING pathway was dependent on DNMT3A downregulation, which suppressed cGAS gene DNA methylation. Interestingly, the attenuation of DNMT activity relied on the reduction of methyl donor SAM level. Noteworthy, the downregulation of SAM levels implied the imbalance of methionine cycle metabolism, and MAT2A was considered to be an important regulatory enzyme in metabolic processes. In vivo experiments also indicated that Oroxylin A induced senescence of HSCs in mice with liver fibrosis, and DNMT3A overexpression partly offset this effect. In conclusion, we discovered that Oroxylin A prevented the methylation of the cGAS gene by preventing the production of methionine metabolites, which promoted the senescence of HSCs. This finding offers a fresh hypothesis for further research into the anti-liver fibrosis mechanism of natural medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danli Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuanyuan Gao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Ying Su
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Ting Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yang Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yingqian Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Ying Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Li Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zili Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Feixia Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiangjuan Shao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
| | - Shizhong Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
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20
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The m 6A methyltransferase Mettl3 deficiency attenuates hepatic stellate cell activation and liver fibrosis. Mol Ther 2022; 30:3714-3728. [PMID: 35923112 PMCID: PMC9734030 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is a central driver of liver fibrosis. Previous investigations have identified various altered epigenetic landscapes during the cellular progression of HSC activation. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant internal RNA modification in eukaryotic cells and is dynamically regulated under various physiological and pathophysiological conditions. However, the functional role of Mettl3-mediated m6A in liver fibrosis remains elusive. Here, we found that the HSC-specific knockout of m6A methyltransferase Mettl3 suppressed HSC activation and significantly alleviated liver fibrosis. Multi-omics analysis of HSCs showed that Mettl3 depletion reduced m6A deposition on mRNA transcripts of Lats2 (a central player of the Hippo/YAP signaling pathway) and slowed down their degradation. Elevated Lats2 increased phosphorylation of the downstream transcription factor YAP, suppressed YAP nuclear translocation, and decreased pro-fibrotic gene expression. Overexpressing YAP mutant resistant to phosphorylation by Lats2 partially rescued the activation and pro-fibrotic gene expression of Mettl3-deficient HSCs. Our study revealed that disruption of Mettl3 in HSCs mitigated liver fibrosis by controlling the Hippo/YAP signaling pathway, providing potential therapeutic strategies to alleviate liver fibrosis by targeting epitranscriptomic machinery.
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21
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Vachher M, Bansal S, Kumar B, Yadav S, Burman A. Deciphering the role of aberrant DNA methylation in NAFLD and NASH. Heliyon 2022; 8:e11119. [PMID: 36299516 PMCID: PMC9589178 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e11119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The global incidence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is mounting incessantly, and it is emerging as the most frequent cause of chronic and end stage liver disorders. It is the starting point for a range of conditions from simple steatosis to more progressive nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Dysregulation of insulin secretion and dyslipidemia due to obesity and other lifestyle variables are the primary contributors to establishment of NAFLD. Onset and progression of NAFLD is orchestrated by an interplay of metabolic environment with genetic and epigenetic factors. An incompletely understood mechanism of NAFLD progression has greatly hampered the progress in identification of novel prognostic and therapeutic strategies. Emerging evidence suggests altered DNA methylation pattern as a key determinant of NAFLD pathogenesis. Environmental and lifestyle factors can manipulate DNA methylation patterns in a reversible manner, which manifests as changes in gene expression. In this review we attempt to highlight the importance of DNA methylation in establishment and progression of NAFLD. Development of novel diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic strategies centered around DNA methylation signatures and modifiers has also been explored.
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22
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Hu S, Molina L, Tao J, Liu S, Hassan M, Singh S, Poddar M, Bell A, Sia D, Oertel M, Raeman R, Nejak-Bowen K, Singhi A, Luo J, Monga SP, Ko S. NOTCH-YAP1/TEAD-DNMT1 Axis Drives Hepatocyte Reprogramming Into Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma. Gastroenterology 2022; 163:449-465. [PMID: 35550144 PMCID: PMC9329208 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2022.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is a devastating liver cancer with extremely high intra- and inter-tumoral molecular heterogeneity, partly due to its diverse cellular origins. We investigated clinical relevance and the molecular mechanisms underlying hepatocyte (HC)-driven ICC development. METHODS Expression of ICC driver genes in human diseased livers at risk for ICC development were examined. The sleeping beauty and hydrodynamic tail vein injection based Akt-NICD/YAP1 ICC model was used to investigate pathogenetic roles of SRY-box transcription factor 9 (SOX9) and yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) in HC-driven ICC. We identified DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) as a YAP1 target, which was validated by loss- and gain-of-function studies, and its mechanism addressed by chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing. RESULTS Co-expression of AKT and Notch intracellular domain (NICD)/YAP1 in HC yielded ICC that represents 13% to 29% of clinical ICC. NICD independently regulates SOX9 and YAP1 and deletion of either, significantly delays ICC development. Yap1 or TEAD inhibition, but not Sox9 deletion, impairs HC-to-biliary epithelial cell (BEC) reprogramming. DNMT1 was discovered as a novel downstream effector of YAP1-TEAD complex that directs HC-to-BEC/ICC fate switch through the repression of HC-specific genes regulated by master regulators for HC differentiation, including hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha, hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 alpha, and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha/beta. DNMT1 loss prevented NOTCH/YAP1-dependent HC-driven cholangiocarcinogenesis, and DNMT1 re-expression restored ICC development following TEAD repression. Co-expression of DNMT1 with AKT was sufficient to induce tumor development including ICC. DNMT1 was detected in a subset of HCs and dysplastic BECs in cholestatic human livers prone to ICC development. CONCLUSION We identified a novel NOTCH-YAP1/TEAD-DNMT1 axis essential for HC-to-BEC/ICC conversion, which may be relevant in cholestasis-to-ICC pathogenesis in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shikai Hu
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China;,Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Laura Molina
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Junyan Tao
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Silvia Liu
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA;,Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Mohammed Hassan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Sucha Singh
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Minakshi Poddar
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Aaron Bell
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Daniela Sia
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Michael Oertel
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA;,Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Reben Raeman
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA;,Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Kari Nejak-Bowen
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA;,Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Aatur Singhi
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA;,Division of Anatomic Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Jianhua Luo
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA;,Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Satdarshan P. Monga
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA;,Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA;,Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA;,Co-Corresponding Authors: Sungjin Ko, D.V.M., Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Pathology and Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, 200 Lothrop Street S-424 BST, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, Tel: 412-648-8146; Fax: (412) 648-1916; , Satdarshan P. Monga, M.D., FAASLD., Professor of Pathology and Medicine, Director, Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, UPMC Endowed Chair, Vice Chair and Division Chief of Experimental Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine and UPMC, 200 Lothrop Street S-422 BST, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, Tel: (412) 648-9966; Fax: (412) 648-1916;
| | - Sungjin Ko
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
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Epigenetic control of mitochondrial fission enables hepatic stellate cells activation in liver fibrosis via PGC-1α-Drp1 pathway. Mitochondrion 2022; 66:38-50. [PMID: 35905890 DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2022.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Although excessive mitochondrial fission is linked to cell activation, its significance in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation and liver fibrosis is unknown. Here we show that excessive mitochondrial fission triggers HSCs activation and liver fibrosis degradation by the epigenetic regulation. We used a combination of in vitro and in vivo models, including HSCs and clinical cases or CCl4-induced liver fibrosis mice, was performed to investigate the regulation and function of mitochondrial fission in HSCs activation and liver fibrosis. Herein, we show that DNMT3A and Drp1 is up regulated in fibrosis livers and mice liver fibrosis tissues, while PGC-1α was decreased. Interestingly, down expression of DNMT3A substantially reduced Drp1 levels, collagen accumulation, and interstitial fibrosis, while significantly increased PGC-1α levels. Furthermore, silencing DNMT3A remarkably inhibits HSCs activation and mitochondrial fission both in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, co-immunoprecipitation analysis revealed that DNMT3A bound to pull down the protein of PGC-1α. These findings indicated that epigenetic control of mitochondrial fission enables HSCs activation in liver fibrosis via PGC-1α-Drp1 pathway, and provide new insight into the relationship between mitochondrial fission and liver fibrosis.
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24
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Czaja AJ. Epigenetic Aspects and Prospects in Autoimmune Hepatitis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:921765. [PMID: 35844554 PMCID: PMC9281562 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.921765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The observed risk of autoimmune hepatitis exceeds its genetic risk, and epigenetic factors that alter gene expression without changing nucleotide sequence may help explain the disparity. Key objectives of this review are to describe the epigenetic modifications that affect gene expression, discuss how they can affect autoimmune hepatitis, and indicate prospects for improved management. Multiple hypo-methylated genes have been described in the CD4+ and CD19+ T lymphocytes of patients with autoimmune hepatitis, and the circulating micro-ribonucleic acids, miR-21 and miR-122, have correlated with laboratory and histological features of liver inflammation. Both epigenetic agents have also correlated inversely with the stage of liver fibrosis. The reduced hepatic concentration of miR-122 in cirrhosis suggests that its deficiency may de-repress the pro-fibrotic prolyl-4-hydroxylase subunit alpha-1 gene. Conversely, miR-155 is over-expressed in the liver tissue of patients with autoimmune hepatitis, and it may signify active immune-mediated liver injury. Different epigenetic findings have been described in diverse autoimmune and non-autoimmune liver diseases, and these changes may have disease-specificity. They may also be responses to environmental cues or heritable adaptations that distinguish the diseases. Advances in epigenetic editing and methods for blocking micro-ribonucleic acids have improved opportunities to prove causality and develop site-specific, therapeutic interventions. In conclusion, the role of epigenetics in affecting the risk, clinical phenotype, and outcome of autoimmune hepatitis is under-evaluated. Full definition of the epigenome of autoimmune hepatitis promises to enhance understanding of pathogenic mechanisms and satisfy the unmet clinical need to improve therapy for refractory disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert J. Czaja
- *Correspondence: Albert J. Czaja, ; orcid.org/0000-0002-5024-3065
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25
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Jie L, Hong RT, Zhang YJ, Sha LL, Chen W, Ren XF. Melatonin Alleviates Liver Fibrosis by Inhibiting Autophagy. Curr Med Sci 2022; 42:498-504. [PMID: 35583587 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-022-2530-7] [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: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Melatonin has been reported to suppress inflammation and alleviate liver fibrosis, but its effect on autophagy in liver fibrosis has not been studied. This study investigated the effect of melatonin on autophagy in an animal model of liver fibrosis and the hepatic stellate cell (HSC)-T6 cell line. METHODS The model was established in rats through carbon tetrachloride treatment, and melatonin was administered at three doses (2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 mg/kg). Haematoxylin and eosin staining and Van Gieson's staining were performed to examine the pathological changes of liver. The expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and Beclin1 in liver tissues was detected by immunohistochemical staining. The protein levels of α-SMA, Beclin1 and LC3 in the animal model were detected by Western blot analysis, and gene levels of Beclin1 and LC3 were detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) in the animal model. HSC-T6 cells were activated by platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB). The expression of α-SMA, Beclin1 and collagen I was detected by Western blot analysis, and the gene expression of Beclin1 and LC3 was detected by qRT-PCR. RESULTS Melatonin reduced the expression of α-SMA, Beclin1 and LC3 in liver tissues. In addition, melatonin inhibited the activation of HSC-T6 cells and the expression of α-SMA, Beclin1 and LC3 in these cells. These results revealed that melatonin could inhibit autophagy and HSC activation. CONCLUSION Melatonin might ameliorate liver fibrosis by regulating autophagy, suggesting that melatonin is a potential therapeutic agent for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Jie
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Ru-Tao Hong
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230022, China.
| | - Yu-Jie Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Lu-Lin Sha
- Department of Critical Care Medicine of Cardiothoracic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Xiao-Fei Ren
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230022, China
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26
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Bioinformatics study of the potential therapeutic effects of ginsenoside Rf in reversing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 149:112879. [PMID: 35358801 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Ginsenoside Rf, a tetracyclic triterpenoid only present in Panax ginseng, has been proven to relieve lipid metabolism and inflammatory reactions, which can be a potential treatment for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Therefore, this study aimed to reveal the underlying mechanisms of ginsenoside Rf in the treatment of early-stage NAFLD (NAFL) by using a bioinformatics method and biological experiments. METHODS Target genes associated with NAFL were screened from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, a database repository of high-throughput gene expression data and hybridization arrays, chips, and microarrays. Subsequently, gene set enrichment analysis was performed by using Gene Ontology enrichment analysis tool. Then, the binding capacity between ginsenoside Rf and NAFL-related targets was evaluated by molecular docking. Finally, the FFA-induced HepG2 cell model treated with ginsenoside Rf was adopted to verify the effect of ginsenoside Rf and the related mechanisms. RESULTS There were 41 common differentially expressed genes in the GEO dataset. Gene Ontology and Reactome pathway enrichment analysis of the differentially expressed genes showed that many pathways could be related to the pathogenesis of NAFL, including those participating in the cytokine-mediated signaling pathway, G protein-coupled receptor signaling pathway, and response to lipopolysaccharide. Finally, the qRT-PCR analysis results indicated that ginsenoside Rf therapy could ameliorate the transcription of ANXA2, BAZ1A, DNMT3L and MMP9. CONCLUSION Our research discovered the relevant mechanisms and basic pharmacological effects of ginsenoside Rf in the treatment of NAFL. These results might facilitate the development of ginsenoside Rf as an alternative medication for NAFL.
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27
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Cheung AC, Juran BD, Schlicht EM, McCauley BM, Atkinson EJ, Moore R, Heimbach JK, Watt KD, Wu TT, LaRusso NF, Gores GJ, Sun Z, Lazaridis KN. DNA methylation profile of liver tissue in end-stage cholestatic liver disease. Epigenomics 2022; 14:481-497. [PMID: 35473391 PMCID: PMC9096606 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2021-0343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: In this methylome-wide association study of cholestatic liver diseases (primary sclerosing cholangitis and primary biliary cholangitis), the authors aimed to elucidate changes in methylome and pathway enrichment to identify candidate genes. Patients & methods: Reduced representation bisulfite sequencing was performed on liver tissue from 58 patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (n = 13), primary biliary cholangitis (n = 20), alcoholic liver disease (n = 21) and live liver donors (n = 4). Pathway enrichment and network analysis were used to explore key genes/pathways. Results: Both cholestatic liver diseases were characterized by global hypomethylation, with pathway enrichment demonstrating distinct genes and pathways associated with the methylome. Conclusions: This novel study demonstrated that differential methylation in cholestatic liver disease was associated with unique pathways, suggesting it may drive disease pathogenesis. While DNA is the permanent code that defines each living being, the epigenome comprises sequences attached to DNA that can change with the environment. This means that abnormal changes to the epigenome may lead to disease and that finding and treating these abnormalities may in turn help treat disease. In this study of liver tissue from individuals with two rare liver diseases, primary sclerosing cholangitis and primary biliary cholangitis, the authors found that the epigenome of these two conditions is distinct, suggesting that the epigenome is linked to the development of these conditions and may be the key to treating them. Novel study in rare cholestatic liver diseases (primary sclerosing cholangitis and primary biliary cholangitis) shows unique methylome changes, which may lead to novel treatment opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela C Cheung
- Division of Gastroenterology, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L6, Canada.,Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Brian D Juran
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Erik M Schlicht
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Bryan M McCauley
- Division of Biomedical Statistics & Informatics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Elizabeth J Atkinson
- Division of Biomedical Statistics & Informatics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Raymond Moore
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Julie K Heimbach
- Division of Transplantation Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Kymberly D Watt
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Tsung-Teh Wu
- Division of Anatomic Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Nicholas F LaRusso
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Gregory J Gores
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Zhifu Sun
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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Garbuzenko DV. Pathophysiological mechanisms of hepatic stellate cells activation in liver fibrosis. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:3662-3676. [PMID: 35647163 PMCID: PMC9100727 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i12.3662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a complex pathological process controlled by a variety of cells, mediators and signaling pathways. Hepatic stellate cells play a central role in the development of liver fibrosis. In chronic liver disease, hepatic stellate cells undergo dramatic phenotypic activation and acquire fibrogenic properties. This review focuses on the pathophysiological mechanisms of hepatic stellate cells activation in liver fibrosis. They enter the cell cycle under the influence of various triggers. The “Initiation” phase of hepatic stellate cells activation overlaps and continues with the “Perpetuation” phase, which is characterized by a pronounced inflammatory and fibrogenic reaction. This is followed by a resolution phase if the injury subsides. Knowledge of these pathophysiological mechanisms paved the way for drugs aimed at preventing the development and progression of liver fibrosis. In this respect, impairments in intracellular signaling, epigenetic changes and cellular stress response can be the targets of therapy where the goal is to deactivate hepatic stellate cells. Potential antifibrotic therapy may focus on inducing hepatic stellate cells to return to an inactive state through cellular aging, apoptosis, and/or clearance by immune cells, and serve as potential antifibrotic therapy. It is especially important to prevent the formation of liver cirrhosis since the only radical approach to its treatment is liver transplantation which can be performed in only a limited number of countries.
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29
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Wang H, Wu Y, Tang W. Methionine cycle in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and its potential applications. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 200:115033. [PMID: 35395242 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115033] [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: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
As a chronic metabolic disease affecting epidemic proportions worldwide, the pathogenesis of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is not clear yet. There is also a lack of precise biomarkers and specific medicine for the diagnosis and treatment of NAFLD. Methionine metabolic cycle, which is critical for the maintaining of cellular methylation and redox state, is involved in the pathophysiology of NAFLD. However, the molecular basis and mechanism of methionine metabolism in NAFLD are not completely understood. Here, we mainly focus on specific enzymes that participates in methionine cycle, to reveal their interconnections with NAFLD, in order to recognize the pathogenesis of NAFLD from a new angle and at the same time, explore the clinical characteristics and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoyu Wang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, PR China; Laboratory of Anti-inflammation, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, PR China
| | - Yanwei Wu
- Laboratory of Anti-inflammation, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, PR China
| | - Wei Tang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, PR China; Laboratory of Anti-inflammation, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, PR China.
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30
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Cheng J, Chen Z, Zuo G, Cao W. Integrated analysis of differentially expressed genes, differentially methylated genes, and natural compounds in hepatitis C virus-induced cirrhosis. J Int Med Res 2022; 50:3000605221074525. [PMID: 35086375 PMCID: PMC8801647 DOI: 10.1177/03000605221074525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To identify key genes in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-induced cirrhosis and to predict effective drugs for its treatment. Methods Three datasets were used to screen for differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially methylated genes (DMGs) in HCV-induced cirrhosis. DEGs were subjected to Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses using the clusterProfiler R package. Their respective protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed using Cytoscape. Cross analysis of DEGs and DMGs was performed to identify the genetic landscape of HCV-induced cirrhosis, and five genes were validated by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Molecular autodocking between ISG15 and natural products was performed using AutoDock Tool 1.5.6. Results A total of 357 DEGs and 8,830 DMGs were identified. DEG functional analysis identified several pathways involved in the pathogenesis of HCV-induced cirrhosis. Cross analysis of DEGs and DMGs identified 212 genes, and PPI network analysis identified 25 hub genes. Finally, five genes including ISG15 were identified and confirmed in dataset GSE36411. Artesunate and betulinic acid were shown to have a strong binding affinity to ISG15. Conclusion Our study provides novel insights into the mechanisms of HCV-induced cirrhosis which could lead to the identification of new therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junxiong Cheng
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 12550Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Prevention and Cure of Metabolic Diseases, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Zhiwei Chen
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 12550Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Prevention and Cure of Metabolic Diseases, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Guoqing Zuo
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 12550Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Prevention and Cure of Metabolic Diseases, Chongqing, P. R. China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Wenfu Cao
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 12550Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Prevention and Cure of Metabolic Diseases, Chongqing, P. R. China
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31
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Gatzios A, Rombaut M, Buyl K, De Kock J, Rodrigues RM, Rogiers V, Vanhaecke T, Boeckmans J. From NAFLD to MAFLD: Aligning Translational In Vitro Research to Clinical Insights. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10010161. [PMID: 35052840 PMCID: PMC8773802 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10010161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Although most same-stage non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients exhibit similar histologic sequelae, the underlying mechanisms appear to be highly heterogeneous. Therefore, it was recently proposed to redefine NAFLD to metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in which other known causes of liver disease such as alcohol consumption or viral hepatitis do not need to be excluded. Revised nomenclature envisions speeding up and facilitating anti-MAFLD drug development by means of patient stratification whereby each subgroup would benefit from distinct pharmacological interventions. As human-based in vitro research fulfils an irrefutable step in drug development, action should be taken as well in this stadium of the translational path. Indeed, most established in vitro NAFLD models rely on short-term exposure to fatty acids and use lipid accumulation as a phenotypic benchmark. This general approach to a seemingly ambiguous disease such as NAFLD therefore no longer seems applicable. Human-based in vitro models that accurately reflect distinct disease subgroups of MAFLD should thus be adopted in early preclinical disease modeling and drug testing. In this review article, we outline considerations for setting up translational in vitro experiments in the MAFLD era and allude to potential strategies to implement MAFLD heterogeneity into an in vitro setting so as to better align early drug development with future clinical trial designs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Joost Boeckmans
- Correspondence: (A.G.); (J.B.); Tel.: +32-(0)-2-477-45-94 (A.G.)
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32
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Sharma S, Ghufran SM, Das B, Roy B, Ghose S, Biswas S. Survivin expression is essential for early activation of hepatic stellate cells and fibrosis progression in chronic liver injury. Life Sci 2021; 287:120119. [PMID: 34743004 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM Hepatic fibrosis in injured liver is characterized by the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) from their quiescent state. Survivin (BIRC5) is one of the key genes that are upregulated during activation of HSCs but their role in HSC activation and fibrosis progression is unknown. Here, we have investigated the role of survivin protein in early fibrogenic activation of HSCs and fibrosis progression in chronic liver injury. MATERIALS & METHODS Primary quiescent HSCs were isolated from healthy mice liver through perfusion and cultured for fibrogenic activation. Survivin expression was suppressed by its pharmacological suppressant, YM155. We developed chronic liver injury induced fibrotic mice model through administrating repeated dose of CCl4 for 2 weeks and 4 weeks. Mice were pre-treated with YM155 a week before CCl4 administration till 2nd week of dosing and then discontinued. Hepatic parameters were characterized and underlying mechanisms were investigated. KEY FINDINGS Survivin expression gradually increased along with the expression of αSMA, collagen I activation maker in HSCs during their activation from quiescent state. Survivin suppression through YM155 downregulated αSMA, collagen I. Pre-treatment of YM155 in mice ceased the early activation of HSCs and onset of fibrosis in injured liver. However, discontinuation of YM155 initiated the activation of HSCs and fibrosis progression that shows survivin expression in HSCs is essential for their early activation and onset of liver fibrosis. SIGNIFICANCE Survivin expression induces with activation of HSCs and drives onset of liver fibrosis in injured liver. Targeting survivin protein in activated HSCs could be a potential anti-fibrotic therapeutic approach in chronic liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachin Sharma
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shaikh Maryam Ghufran
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Basundhara Das
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Bornika Roy
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sampa Ghose
- Department of Medical Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Subhrajit Biswas
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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Wang Z, Yang X, Gui S, Yang F, Cao Z, Cheng R, Xia X, Li C. The Roles and Mechanisms of lncRNAs in Liver Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:779606. [PMID: 34899344 PMCID: PMC8652206 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.779606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can potentially regulate all aspects of cellular activity including differentiation and development, metabolism, proliferation, apoptosis, and activation, and benefited from advances in transcriptomic and genomic research techniques and database management technologies, its functions and mechanisms in physiological and pathological states have been widely reported. Liver fibrosis is typically characterized by a reversible wound healing response, often accompanied by an excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix. In recent years, a range of lncRNAs have been investigated and found to be involved in several cellular-level regulatory processes as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) that play an important role in the development of liver fibrosis. A variety of lncRNAs have also been shown to contribute to the altered cell cycle, proliferation profile associated with the accelerated development of liver fibrosis. This review aims to discuss the functions and mechanisms of lncRNAs in the development and regression of liver fibrosis, to explore the major lncRNAs involved in the signaling pathways regulating liver fibrosis, to elucidate the mechanisms mediated by lncRNA dysregulation and to provide new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhifa Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Chaohu Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei Anhui, China
| | - Xiaoke Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Siyu Gui
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Fan Yang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Zhuo Cao
- The First Clinical Medical College, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Rong Cheng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaowei Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Chuanying Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital, Hefei, China
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Caligiuri A, Gentilini A, Pastore M, Gitto S, Marra F. Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Liver Fibrosis Regression. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102759. [PMID: 34685739 PMCID: PMC8534788 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver injury of different etiologies may result in hepatic fibrosis, a scar formation process consisting in altered deposition of extracellular matrix. Progression of fibrosis can lead to impaired liver architecture and function, resulting in cirrhosis and organ failure. Although fibrosis was previous thought to be an irreversible process, recent evidence convincingly demonstrated resolution of fibrosis in different organs when the cause of injury is removed. In the liver, due to its high regenerative ability, the extent of fibrosis regression and reversion to normal architecture is higher than in other tissues, even in advanced disease. The mechanisms of liver fibrosis resolution can be recapitulated in the following main points: removal of injurious factors causing chronic hepatic damage, elimination, or inactivation of myofibroblasts (through various cell fates, including apoptosis, senescence, and reprogramming), inactivation of inflammatory response and induction of anti-inflammatory/restorative pathways, and degradation of extracellular matrix. In this review, we will discuss the major cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the regression of fibrosis/cirrhosis and the potential therapeutic approaches aimed at reversing the fibrogenic process.
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Xue T, Qiu X, Liu H, Gan C, Tan Z, Xie Y, Wang Y, Ye T. Epigenetic regulation in fibrosis progress. Pharmacol Res 2021; 173:105910. [PMID: 34562602 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis, a common process of chronic inflammatory diseases, is defined as a repair response disorder when organs undergo continuous damage, ultimately leading to scar formation and functional failure. Around the world, fibrotic diseases cause high mortality, unfortunately, with limited treatment means in clinical practice. With the development and application of deep sequencing technology, comprehensively exploring the epigenetic mechanism in fibrosis has been allowed. Extensive remodeling of epigenetics controlling various cells phenotype and molecular mechanisms involved in fibrogenesis was subsequently verified. In this review, we summarize the regulatory mechanisms of DNA methylation, histone modification, noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification in organ fibrosis, focusing on heart, liver, lung and kidney. Additionally, we emphasize the diversity of epigenetics in the cellular and molecular mechanisms related to fibrosis. Finally, the potential and prospect of targeted therapy for fibrosis based on epigenetic is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taixiong Xue
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Xingyu Qiu
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Hongyao Liu
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Cailing Gan
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Zui Tan
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yuting Xie
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yuxi Wang
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China; Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China; Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China.
| | - Tinghong Ye
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China.
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Aloia L. The influence of tissue spatial geometry and functional organisation on liver regeneration. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 130:70-78. [PMID: 34563460 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The adult liver exerts crucial functions, including nutrient metabolism and storage, bile production and drug detoxification. These complex functions expose the liver to constant damage induced by toxins, metabolic intermediates and oxidative stress. However, the adult liver exhibits an exceptional regenerative potential, which allows fast and efficient restoration of tissue architecture and function both after tissue resection and toxic damage. To accomplish its vital role, the liver shows a peculiar tissue architecture into functional units, which follow the gradient of oxygen and nutrients within the parenchyma. Much less is known about the influence of tissue spatial geometry and functional organisation on adult liver regeneration. Here I examine the experimental evidence in mouse models showing that the spatial organisation of the epithelial and mesenchymal compartments plays a key role in liver regeneration and favours the establishment of regenerative adult liver progenitors following liver injury. I also discuss the advantages and limitations of human and mouse 3D hepatic organoid systems, which recapitulate key aspects of liver function and architecture, as models of liver regeneration and disease. Finally, I analyse the role of the YAP/TAZ transcriptional co-activators as a central hub sensing the extra-cellular matrix (ECM), metabolic and epigenetic remodelling that regulate liver regeneration and promote liver disease, such as fibrosis, chronic liver disease and liver cancer. Together, the findings summarised here demonstrate that local physical and functional cellular interactions determined by the liver peculiar spatial geometry, play a crucial role in liver regeneration, and that their alterations have important implications for human liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Aloia
- MRC Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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Dong XC, Chowdhury K, Huang M, Kim HG. Signal Transduction and Molecular Regulation in Fatty Liver Disease. Antioxid Redox Signal 2021; 35:689-717. [PMID: 33906425 PMCID: PMC8558079 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2021.0076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Significance: Fatty liver disease is a major liver disorder in the modern societies. Comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiology and molecular mechanisms is essential for the prevention and treatment of the disease. Recent Advances: Remarkable progress has been made in the recent years in basic and translational research in the field of fatty liver disease. Multiple signaling pathways have been implicated in the development of fatty liver disease, including AMP-activated protein kinase, mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase, endoplasmic reticulum stress, oxidative stress, inflammation, transforming growth factor β, and yes1-associated transcriptional regulator/transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (YAP/TAZ). In addition, critical molecular regulations at the transcriptional and epigenetic levels have been linked to the pathogenesis of fatty liver disease. Critical Issues: Some critical issues remain to be solved so that research findings can be translated into clinical applications. Robust and reliable biomarkers are needed for diagnosis of different stages of the fatty liver disease. Effective and safe molecular targets remain to be identified and validated. Prevention strategies require solid scientific evidence and population-wide feasibility. Future Directions: As more data are generated with time, integrative approaches are needed to comprehensively understand the disease pathophysiology and mechanisms at multiple levels from population, organismal system, organ/tissue, to cell. The interactions between genes and environmental factors require deeper investigation for the purposes of prevention and personalized treatment of fatty liver disease. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 35, 689-717.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaocheng Charlie Dong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Department of BioHealth Informatics, School of Informatics and Computing, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Kushan Chowdhury
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Menghao Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Hyeong Geug Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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Dietary Patterns Influence Target Gene Expression through Emerging Epigenetic Mechanisms in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9091256. [PMID: 34572442 PMCID: PMC8468830 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) refers to the pathologic buildup of extra fat in the form of triglycerides in liver cells without excessive alcohol intake. NAFLD became the most common cause of chronic liver disease that is tightly associated with key aspects of metabolic disorders, including insulin resistance, obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. It is generally accepted that multiple mechanisms and pathways are involved in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Heredity, sedentary lifestyle, westernized high sugar saturated fat diet, metabolic derangements, and gut microbiota, all may interact on a on genetically susceptible individual to cause the disease initiation and progression. While there is an unquestionable role for gene-diet interaction in the etiopathogenesis of NAFLD, it is increasingly apparent that epigenetic processes can orchestrate many aspects of this interaction and provide additional mechanistic insight. Exciting research demonstrated that epigenetic alterations in chromatin can influence gene expression chiefly at the transcriptional level in response to unbalanced diet, and therefore predispose an individual to NAFLD. Thus, further discoveries into molecular epigenetic mechanisms underlying the link between nutrition and aberrant hepatic gene expression can yield new insights into the pathogenesis of NAFLD, and allow innovative epigenetic-based strategies for its early prevention and targeted therapies. Herein, we outline the current knowledge of the interactive role of a high-fat high-calories diet and gene expression through DNA methylation and histone modifications on the pathogenesis of NAFLD. We also provide perspectives on the advancement of the epigenomics in the field and possible shortcomings and limitations ahead.
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Alcaraz J, Ikemori R, Llorente A, Díaz-Valdivia N, Reguart N, Vizoso M. Epigenetic Reprogramming of Tumor-Associated Fibroblasts in Lung Cancer: Therapeutic Opportunities. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13153782. [PMID: 34359678 PMCID: PMC8345093 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among both men and women, partly due to limited therapy responses. New avenues of knowledge are indicating that lung cancer cells do not form a tumor in isolation but rather obtain essential support from their surrounding host tissue rich in altered fibroblasts. Notably, there is growing evidence that tumor progression and even the current limited responses to therapies could be prevented by rescuing the normal behavior of fibroblasts, which are critical housekeepers of normal tissue function. For this purpose, it is key to improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving the pathologic alterations of fibroblasts in cancer. This work provides a comprehensive review of the main molecular mechanisms involved in fibroblast transformation based on epigenetic reprogramming, and summarizes emerging therapeutic approaches to prevent or overcome the pathologic effects of tumor-associated fibroblasts. Abstract Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. The desmoplastic stroma of lung cancer and other solid tumors is rich in tumor-associated fibroblasts (TAFs) exhibiting an activated/myofibroblast-like phenotype. There is growing awareness that TAFs support key steps of tumor progression and are epigenetically reprogrammed compared to healthy fibroblasts. Although the mechanisms underlying such epigenetic reprogramming are incompletely understood, there is increasing evidence that they involve interactions with either cancer cells, pro-fibrotic cytokines such as TGF-β, the stiffening of the surrounding extracellular matrix, smoking cigarette particles and other environmental cues. These aberrant interactions elicit a global DNA hypomethylation and a selective transcriptional repression through hypermethylation of the TGF-β transcription factor SMAD3 in lung TAFs. Likewise, similar DNA methylation changes have been reported in TAFs from other cancer types, as well as histone core modifications and altered microRNA expression. In this review we summarize the evidence of the epigenetic reprogramming of TAFs, how this reprogramming contributes to the acquisition and maintenance of a tumor-promoting phenotype, and how it provides novel venues for therapeutic intervention, with a special focus on lung TAFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Alcaraz
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (R.I.); (A.L.); (N.D.-V.)
- Thoracic Oncology Unit, Hospital Clinic Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain;
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute for Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: (J.A.); (M.V.)
| | - Rafael Ikemori
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (R.I.); (A.L.); (N.D.-V.)
| | - Alejandro Llorente
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (R.I.); (A.L.); (N.D.-V.)
| | - Natalia Díaz-Valdivia
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (R.I.); (A.L.); (N.D.-V.)
| | - Noemí Reguart
- Thoracic Oncology Unit, Hospital Clinic Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain;
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel Vizoso
- Division of Molecular Pathology, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: (J.A.); (M.V.)
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Li F, Ou Q, Lai Z, Pu L, Chen X, Wang L, Sun L, Liang X, Wang Y, Xu H, Wei J, Wu F, Zhu H, Wang L. The Co-occurrence of Chronic Hepatitis B and Fibrosis Is Associated With a Decrease in Hepatic Global DNA Methylation Levels in Patients With Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Front Genet 2021; 12:671552. [PMID: 34335686 PMCID: PMC8318039 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.671552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Global DNA hypomethylation has been reported in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and non-alcoholic fatty-liver disease (NAFLD). However, the global DNA methylation profile of patients with concurrent NAFLD and CHB (NAFLD + CHB) is still unclear. We aimed to detect the hepatic global DNA methylation levels of NAFLD + CHB patients and assess the associated risk factors. Liver biopsies were collected from 55 NAFLD patients with or without CHB. The histological characteristics of the biopsy were then assessed. Hepatic global DNA methylation levels were quantified by fluorometric method. The hepatic global DNA methylation levels in NAFLD + CHB group were significantly lower than that in NAFLD group. Participants with fibrosis showed lower levels of hepatic global DNA methylation than those without fibrosis. Participants with both CHB and fibrosis had lower levels of hepatic global DNA methylation than those without either CHB or fibrosis. The co-occurrence of CHB and fibrosis was significantly associated with a reduction in global DNA methylation levels compared to the absence of both CHB and fibrosis. Our study suggests that patients with NAFLD + CHB exhibited lower levels of global DNA methylation than patients who had NAFLD alone. The co-occurrence of CHB and liver fibrosis in NAFLD patients was associated with a decrease in global DNA methylation levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- FangYuan Li
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qian Ou
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - ZhiWei Lai
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - LiuZhen Pu
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - XingYi Chen
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - LiRong Wang
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - LiuQiao Sun
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - XiaoPing Liang
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - YaoYao Wang
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hang Xu
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun Wei
- Department of Science and Technology, Guangzhou Customs, Guangzhou, China
| | - Feng Wu
- Department of Science and Technology, Guangzhou Customs, Guangzhou, China
| | - HuiLian Zhu
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - LiJun Wang
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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Shi CX, Wang Y, Jiao FZ, Chen Q, Cao P, Pei MH, Zhang LY, Guo J, Deng W, Wang LW, Gong ZJ. Epigenetic Regulation of Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Macrophage in Chronic Liver Inflammation. Front Physiol 2021; 12:683526. [PMID: 34276405 PMCID: PMC8281248 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.683526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver inflammation is a complex pathological process under different stress conditions, and the roles of stellate cells and macrophages in chronic liver inflammation have been widely reported. Moderate liver inflammation can protect the liver from damage and facilitate the recovery of liver injury. However, an inflammatory response that is too intense can result in massive death of hepatocytes, which leads to irreversible damage to the liver parenchyma. Epigenetic regulation plays a key part in liver inflammation. This study reviews the regulation of epigenetics on stellate cells and macrophages to explore the new mechanisms of epigenetics on liver inflammation and provide new ideas for the treatment of liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Xia Shi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yao Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Fang-Zhou Jiao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Pan Cao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Mao-Hua Pei
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lu-Yi Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jin Guo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Deng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lu-Wen Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zuo-Jiong Gong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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Lu S, Zhao H, Zhou Y, Xu F. Curcumin Affects Leptin-Induced Expression of Methionine Adenosyltransferase 2A in Hepatic Stellate Cells by Inhibition of JNK Signaling. Pharmacology 2021; 106:426-434. [PMID: 34148046 DOI: 10.1159/000516892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Obese patients are often accompanied by hyperleptinemia and prone to develop liver fibrosis. Accumulating data including those obtained from human studies suggested the promotion role of leptin in liver fibrosis. The remodeling of the DNA methylation is an epigenetic mechanism for regulating gene expression and is essential for hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation, a key step in liver fibrogenesis. Leptin increases the expression of methionine adenosyltransferase 2A (MAT2A) which is associated with DNA methylation and HSC activation. Curcumin, an active polyphenol of the golden spice turmeric, inhibits leptin-induced HSC activation and liver fibrogenesis. Thus, the present research aimed to investigate the influence of curcumin on the roles of leptin in MAT2A expression in HSCs. METHODS The in vivo experiments were conducted by using leptin-deficient obese mice. The gene expressions were examined by Western blot, real-time PCR, promoter activity assay, and immunostaining analysis. RESULTS Curcumin reduced leptin-induced MAT2A expression. JNK signaling contributed to leptin-induced increase in MAT2A level, which could be interrupted by curcumin treatment. Curcumin inhibited leptin-induced MAT2A promoter activity by influencing MAT2A promoter fragments between -2,847 bp and - 2,752 bp and between -2,752 bp and +49 bp. The effect of curcumin on leptin-induced MAT2A expression paralleled the reductions in leptin-induced activated HSCs and liver fibrosis. CONCLUSION These results might have implications for curcumin inhibition of the liver fibrogenesis in obese patients with hyperleptinemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Lu
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Hongsheng Zhao
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yajun Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Feifan Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong, Nantong, China
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Sun M, Tan L, Hu M. The role of autophagy in hepatic fibrosis. Am J Transl Res 2021; 13:5747-5757. [PMID: 34306323 PMCID: PMC8290830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a chronic liver injury process, and its continuous development can lead to cirrhosis, hepatic failure and even hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Autophagy has attracted much attention because of its controversial role in the course of hepatic fibrosis. In this review, we introduce the mechanism related to noncoding RNAs and some of the signaling pathways that promote or inhibit fibrosis by affecting autophagy. Finally, we list some targets related to autophagy that enable hepatic fibrosis therapy and forecast its prospect in hepatic fibrosis. This review will provide new ideas in diagnosing and treating hepatic fibrosis, which will be helpful to reduce the incidence of cirrhosis and its complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Sun
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Li Tan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Min Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
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44
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DNA methylation profile of liver of mice conceived by in vitro fertilization. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2021; 13:358-366. [PMID: 34121654 DOI: 10.1017/s2040174421000313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Offspring generated by in vitro fertilization (IVF) are believed to be healthy but display a possible predisposition to chronic diseases, like hypertension and glucose intolerance. Since epigenetic changes are believed to underlie such phenotype, this study aimed at describing global DNA methylation changes in the liver of adult mice generated by natural mating (FB group) or by IVF. Embryos were generated by IVF or natural mating. At 30 weeks of age, mice were sacrificed. The liver was removed, and global DNA methylation was assessed using whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS). Genomic Regions for Enrichment Analysis Tool (GREAT) and G:Profilerβ were used to identify differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and for functional enrichment analysis. Overrepresented gene ontology terms were summarized with REVIGO, while canonical pathways (CPs) were identified with Ingenuity® Pathway Analysis. Overall, 2692 DMRs (4.91%) were different between the groups. The majority of DMRs (84.92%) were hypomethylated in the IVF group. Surprisingly, only 0.16% of CpG islands were differentially methylated and only a few DMRs were located on known gene promoters (n = 283) or enhancers (n = 190). Notably, the long-interspersed element (LINE), short-interspersed element (SINE), and long terminal repeat (LTR1) transposable elements showed reduced methylation (P < 0.05) in IVF livers. Cellular metabolic process, hepatic fibrosis, and insulin receptor signaling were some of the principal biological processes and CPs modified by IVF. In summary, IVF modifies the DNA methylation signature in the adult liver, resulting in hypomethylation of genes involved in metabolism and gene transcription regulation. These findings may shed light on the mechanisms underlying the developmental origin of health and disease.
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Loomba R, Friedman SL, Shulman GI. Mechanisms and disease consequences of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Cell 2021; 184:2537-2564. [PMID: 33989548 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2021.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 876] [Impact Index Per Article: 292.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the leading chronic liver disease worldwide. Its more advanced subtype, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), connotes progressive liver injury that can lead to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Here we provide an in-depth discussion of the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms that lead to progressive liver injury, including the metabolic origins of NAFLD, the effect of NAFLD on hepatic glucose and lipid metabolism, bile acid toxicity, macrophage dysfunction, and hepatic stellate cell activation, and consider the role of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors that promote fibrosis progression and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Loomba
- NAFLD Research Center, Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Scott L Friedman
- Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.
| | - Gerald I Shulman
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Yale Diabetes Research Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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Xu Y, Sun X, Zhang R, Cao T, Cai SY, Boyer JL, Zhang X, Li D, Huang Y. A Positive Feedback Loop of TET3 and TGF-β1 Promotes Liver Fibrosis. Cell Rep 2021; 30:1310-1318.e5. [PMID: 32023451 PMCID: PMC7063678 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.12.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathological activation of TGF-β signaling is universal in fibrosis. Aberrant TGF-β signaling in conjunction with transdifferentiation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) into fibrogenic myofibroblasts plays a central role in liver fibrosis. Here we report that the DNA demethylase TET3 is anomalously upregulated in fibrotic livers in both humans and mice. We demonstrate that in human HSCs, TET3 promotes profibrotic gene expression by upregulation of multiple key TGF-β pathway genes, including TGFB1. TET3 binds to target gene promoters, inducing demethylation, which in turn facilitates chromatin remodeling and transcription. We also reveal a positive feedback loop between TGF-β1 and TET3 in both HSCs and hepatocytes. Furthermore, TET3 knockdown ameliorates liver fibrosis in mice. Our results uncover a TET3/TGF-β1 positive feedback loop as a crucial determinant of liver fibrosis and suggest that inhibiting TET3 may represent a therapeutic strategy for liver fibrosis and perhaps other fibrotic diseases. Xu et al. unmask a positive feedback loop between chromatin demethylase TET3 and TGF-β1 in stressed hepatocytes and stellate cells in humans and mice. Activation of this loop stimulates expression of fibrotic genes, whereas knockdown of TET3 reduces liver fibrosis in mice, suggesting a strategy for treating fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yetao Xu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Xiaoli Sun
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Ruling Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Tiefeng Cao
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong 510070, China
| | - Shi-Ying Cai
- Liver Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - James L Boyer
- Liver Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Xuchen Zhang
- Pathology Department, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Da Li
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China.
| | - Yingqun Huang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.
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Wang F, Malnassy G, Qiu W. The Epigenetic Regulation of Microenvironment in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:653037. [PMID: 33791228 PMCID: PMC8005717 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.653037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly lethal and complex malignancy strongly influenced by the surrounding tumor microenvironment. The HCC microenvironment comprises hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), stromal and endothelial cells, and the underlying extracellular matrix (ECM). Emerging evidence demonstrates that epigenetic regulation plays a crucial role in altering numerous components of the HCC tumor microenvironment. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the mechanisms of epigenetic regulation of the microenvironment in HCC. We review recent studies demonstrating how specific epigenetic mechanisms (DNA methylation, histone regulation, and non-coding RNAs mediated regulation) in HSCs, TAMs, and ECM, and how they contribute to HCC development, so as to gain new insights into the treatment of HCC via regulating epigenetic regulation in the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Wang
- Department of Surgery, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL, United States.,Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL, United States
| | - Greg Malnassy
- Department of Surgery, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL, United States.,Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL, United States
| | - Wei Qiu
- Department of Surgery, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL, United States.,Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL, United States
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Xie Z, Wu Y, Liu S, Lai Y, Tang S. LncRNA-SNHG7/miR-29b/DNMT3A axis affects activation, autophagy and proliferation of hepatic stellate cells in liver fibrosis. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2021; 45:101469. [PMID: 32893175 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2020.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the relative expression of long non-coding small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (lncRNA-SNHG7) in fibrotic liver and hepatic stellate cells, and investigate the biological effects and mechanisms of SNHG7 on liver fibrosis. METHODS Liver fibrosis model of mice was established, primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were cultured from normal mice and induced to activate by TGF-β. Cell viability, proliferation, and autophagy were detected with MTT, BrdU, and MDC stain, respectively. Liver tissue stained with Masson and Sirius Red. The interaction between SNHG7 and miR-29b was investigated by immunoprecipitation, RNA pull-down and Dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. The effects of SNHG7 on the expression of miR-29b, DNMT3A and liver fibrosis related factors were detected in vitro or in vivo transfection experiments. RESULTS SNHG7 was signally increased in liver tissue and HSCs of liver fibrosis model of mice, and inhibition of SNHG7 expression in liver fibrosis mice can reduce liver fibrosis. We also found that SNHG7 could bind to miR-29b in HSCs and inhibit the expression of miR-29b. In TGF-β-stimulated normal HSCs, knockdown of SNHG7 expression after shSNHG7 transfection could restrain DNMT3A and HSCs activation factors α-SMA, Collα1 and autophagy-related factors LC3I/II, Beclin1. However, this shSNHG7 effect was reversed by the inhibition of miR-29b. CONCLUSION Inhibition of lncRNA-SNHG7 can inhibit liver fibrosis. This is partly due to SNHG7 acts as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to affect the expression of DNMT3A, a downstream target gene of miR-29b, by binding to miR-29b, thereby affecting the activation, autophagy and proliferation of HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengyuan Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 Mingde Road, Nanchang 330006, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yuanhao Wu
- The Second Medical College Of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Sifu Liu
- Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yueliang Lai
- Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Shenglan Tang
- Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
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Optimization of the isolation procedure and culturing conditions for hepatic stellate cells obtained from mouse. Biosci Rep 2021; 41:227415. [PMID: 33350435 PMCID: PMC7823195 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20202514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis (LF) mortality rate is approximately 2 million per year. Irrespective of the etiology of LF, a key element in its development is the transition of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) from a quiescent phenotype to a myofibroblast-like cell with the production of fibrotic proteins. It is necessary to define optimal isolation and culturing conditions for good HSCs yield and proper phenotype preservation for studying the activation of HSCs in vitro. In the present study, the optimal conditions of HSC isolation and culture were examined to maintain the HSC’s undifferentiated phenotype. HSCs were isolated from Balb/c mice liver using Nycodenz, 8, 9.6, and 11%. The efficiency of the isolation procedure was evaluated by cell counting and purity determination by flow cytometry. Quiescent HSCs were cultured in test media supplemented with different combinations of fetal bovine serum (FBS), glutamine (GLN), vitamin A (vitA), insulin, and glucose. The cells were assessed at days 3 and 7 of culture by evaluating the morphology, proliferation using cell counting kit-8, lipid storage using Oil Red O (ORO) staining, expression of a-smooth muscle actin, collagen I, and lecithin-retinol acyltransferase by qRT-PCR and immunocytochemistry (ICC). The results showed that Nycodenz, at 9.6%, yielded the best purity and quantity of HSCs. Maintenance of HSC undifferentiated phenotype was achieved optimizing culturing conditions (serum-free Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle’s Medium (DMEM) supplemented with glucose (100 mg/dl), GLN (0.5 mM), vitA (100 μM), and insulin (50 ng/ml)) with a certain degree of proliferation allowing their perpetuation in culture. In conclusion, we have defined optimal conditions for HSCs isolation and culture.
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Guo SW. Cancer-associated mutations in endometriosis: shedding light on the pathogenesis and pathophysiology. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:423-449. [PMID: 32154564 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is a benign gynaecological disease. Thus, it came as a complete surprise when it was reported recently that the majority of deep endometriosis lesions harbour somatic mutations and a sizeable portion of them contain known cancer-associated mutations (CAMs). Four more studies have since been published, all demonstrating the existence of CAMs in different subtypes of endometriosis. While the field is still evolving, the confirmation of CAMs has raised many questions that were previously overlooked. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE A comprehensive overview of CAMs in endometriosis has been produced. In addition, with the recently emerged understanding of the natural history of endometriotic lesions as well as CAMs in normal and apparently healthy tissues, this review attempts to address the following questions: Why has there been such a wild discrepancy in reported mutation frequencies? Why does ectopic endometrium have a higher mutation rate than that of eutopic endometrium? Would the presence of CAMs in endometriotic lesions increase the risk of cancer to the bearers? Why do endometriotic epithelial cells have much higher mutation frequencies than their stromal counterpart? What clinical implications, if any, do the CAMs have for the bearers? Do these CAMs tell us anything about the pathogenesis and/or pathophysiology of endometriosis? SEARCH METHODS The PubMed database was searched, from its inception to September 2019, for all papers in English using the term 'endometriosis and CAM', 'endometriosis and cancer-driver mutation', 'somatic mutations', 'fibrosis', 'fibrosis and epigenetic', 'CAMs and tumorigenesis', 'somatic mutation and normal tissues', 'oestrogen receptor and fibrosis', 'oxidative stress and fibrosis', 'ARID1A mutation', and 'Kirsten rat sarcoma mutation and therapeutics'. All retrieved papers were read and, when relevant, incorporated into the review results. OUTCOMES Seven papers that identified CAMs in endometriosis using various sequencing methods were retrieved, and their results were somewhat different. Yet, it is apparent that those using microdissection techniques and more accurate sequencing methods found more CAMs, echoing recent discoveries that apparently healthy tissues also harbour CAMs as a result of the replicative aging process. Hence endometriotic lesions, irrespective of subtype, if left intact, would generate CAMs as part of replicative aging, oxidative stress and perhaps other factors yet to be identified and, in some rare cases, develop cancer. The published data still are unable to paint a clear picture on pathogenesis of endometriosis. However, since endometriotic epithelial cells have a higher turnover than their stromal counterpart due to cyclic bleeding, and since the endometriotic stromal component can be formed by refresh influx of mesenchymal cells through epithelial-mesenchymal transition, endothelial-mesenchymal transition, mesothelial-mesenchymal transition and other processes as well as recruitment of bone-marrow-derived stem cells and outflow due to smooth muscle metaplasia, endometriotic epithelial cells have much higher mutation frequencies than their stromal counterpart. The epithelial and stromal cellular components develop in a dependent and co-evolving manner. Genes involved in CAMs are likely to be active players in lesional fibrogenesis, and hyperestrogenism and oxidative stress are likely drivers of both CAMs and fibrogenesis. Finally, endometriotic lesions harbouring CAMs would conceivably be more refractory to medical treatment, due, in no small part, to their high fibrotic content and reduced vascularity and cellularity. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The accumulating data on CAMs in endometriosis have shed new light on the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of endometriosis. They also suggest new challenges in management. The distinct yet co-evolving developmental trajectories of endometriotic stroma and epithelium underscore the importance of the lesional microenvironment and ever-changing cellular identity. Mutational profiling of normal endometrium from women of different ages and reproductive history is needed in order to gain a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis. Moreover, one area that has conspicuously received scant attention is the epigenetic landscape of ectopic, eutopic and normal endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
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