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Ye L, Huang J, Liang X, Guo W, Sun X, Shao C, He Y, Zhang J. Jiawei Taohe Chengqi Decoction attenuates CCl 4 induced hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting HSCs activation via TGF-β1/CUGBP1 and IFN-γ/Smad7 pathway. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 133:155916. [PMID: 39094440 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is an essential stage in the progression of different chronic liver conditions to cirrhosis and even hepatocellular carcinoma. The activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) plays a crucial role in the progression of HF. IFN- γ/Smad7 pathway can inhibit HSCs activation, while TGF-β1/CUGBP1 pathway can inhibit IFN-γ/Smad7 pathway transduction and promote HSCs activation. Thus, inhibiting the TGF-β1/CUGBP1 pathway and activating the IFN-γ/Smad7 pathway reverses HSCs activation and inhibits HF. Jiawei Taohe Chengqi Decoction (JTCD) was derived from the Taohe Chengqi Tang in the ancient Chinese medical text titled "Treatise on Febrile Diseases". We found several anti-HF components in JTCD including ginsenoside Rb1 and others, but the specific mechanism of anti-HF in JTCD is not clear. PURPOSE To elucidate the specific mechanism by which JTCD reverses HF by inhibiting the activation of HSCs, and to establish a scientific foundation for treating HF with Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). METHODS We constructed a CCl4-induced mice HF model in vivo and activated human hepatic stellate cell line (LX-2) with TGF-β1 in vitro, after which they were treated with JTCD and the corresponding inhibitors. We examined the expression of pivotal molecules in the two pathways mentioned above by immunofluorescence staining, Western blotting and RT-PCR. RESULTS JTCD attenuated liver injury and reduced serum ALT and AST levels in mice. In addition, JTCD attenuated CCl4-induced HF by decreasing the expression of α-SMA, COL1A1 and other markers of HSCs activation in mice liver tissue. Moreover, JTCD effectively suppressed the levels of TGF-β1, p-Smad3, p-p38MAPK, p-ATF2, and CUGBP1 in vivo and in vitro and upregulated the levels of IFN-γ, p-STAT1, and Smad7. Mechanically, after using the inhibitors of both pathways in vitro, we found that JTCD inhibited the activation of HSCs by restoring the balance of the TGF-β1/CUGBP1 and IFN-γ/Smad7 pathways. CONCLUSION We demonstrated that JTCD inhibited HSCs activation and reversed HF by inhibiting the TGF-β1/CUGBP1 signalling pathway and upregulating the IFN-γ/Smad7 signalling pathway. Moreover, we have identified specific links where JTCD interferes with both pathways to inhibit HSCs activation. JTCD is an effective candidate for the clinical treatment of HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linmao Ye
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Jiaxin Huang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Xiaofan Liang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Wenqin Guo
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Xiguang Sun
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Chang Shao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Yi He
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Junjie Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China.
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Chen JY, Yang YJ, Meng XY, Lin RH, Tian XY, Zhang Y, Lai WF, Yang C, Ma XQ, Huang MQ. Oxysophoridine inhibits oxidative stress and inflammation in hepatic fibrosis via regulating Nrf2 and NF-κB pathways. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 132:155585. [PMID: 39068811 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic fibrosis (HF) runs through multiple stages of liver diseases and promotes these diseases progression. Oxysophoridine (OSR), derived from Sophora alopecuroides l., is a bioactive alkaloid that has been reported to antagonize alcoholic hepatic injury. However, whether OSR suppresses HF and the mechanisms involved in Nrf2 remain unknown. PURPOSE Since the dysregulation of inflammation and oxidative stress is responsible for the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) and fibrosis in the liver. We hypothesized that OSR may attenuate HF by inhibiting inflammation and oxidative stress through activating Nrf2 signaling. METHODS In this study, we employed LPS-stimulated HSC-T6 cells, RAW264.7 cells, and a CCl4-induced C57BL/6 mouse fibrotic model to evaluate its suppressing inflammation and oxidative stress, as well as fibrosis. RESULTS The result showed that OSR significantly reduced α-SMA and TGF-β1 at a low dose of 10 μM in vitro and at a dose of 50 mg/kg in vivo, which is comparable to Silymarin, the only Chinese herbal active ingredient that has been marketed for anti-liver fibrosis. Moreover, OSR effectively suppressed the expression of iNOS at a dose of 10 μM and COX-2 at a dose of 40 μM, respectively. Furthermore, OSR demonstrated inhibitory effects on the IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in vitro and almost extinguished cytokine storm in vivo. OSR exhibited antioxidative effects by reducing MDA and increasing GSH, thereby protecting the cell membrane against oxidative damage and reducing LDH release. Moreover, OSR effectively upregulated the protein levels of Nrf2, HO-1, and p62, but decreased p-NF-κB p65, p-IκBα, and Keap1. Alternatively, mechanisms involved in Nrf2 were verified by siNrf2 interference, siNrf2 interference revealed that the anti-fibrotic effect of OSR was attributed to its activation of Nrf2. CONCLUSION The present study provided an effective candidate for HF involved in both activation of Nrf2 and blockage of NF-κB, which has not been reported in the published work. The present study provides new insights for the identification of novel drug development for HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Yu Chen
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.1, Hua Tuo Road, Min Hou Shang Jie, Fuzhou 350122, PR China
| | - Ying-Jie Yang
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.1, Hua Tuo Road, Min Hou Shang Jie, Fuzhou 350122, PR China
| | - Xiong-Yu Meng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053 Zhejiang Province, PR China
| | - Ru-Hui Lin
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.1, Hua Tuo Road, Min Hou Shang Jie, Fuzhou 350122, PR China
| | - Xiao-Yun Tian
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.1, Hua Tuo Road, Min Hou Shang Jie, Fuzhou 350122, PR China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.1, Hua Tuo Road, Min Hou Shang Jie, Fuzhou 350122, PR China
| | - Wen-Fang Lai
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.1, Hua Tuo Road, Min Hou Shang Jie, Fuzhou 350122, PR China.
| | - Chunxue Yang
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, PR China.
| | - Xue-Qin Ma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shenli Street, Yinchuan 750004, PR China.
| | - Ming-Qing Huang
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.1, Hua Tuo Road, Min Hou Shang Jie, Fuzhou 350122, PR China.
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Al Saihati HA, Badr OA, Dessouky AA, Mostafa O, Samir Farid A, Aborayah NH, Abdullah Aljasir M, Baioumy B, Mahmoud Taha N, El-Sherbiny M, Hamed Al-Serwi R, Ramadan MM, Salim RF, Shaheen D, E M Ali F, Ebrahim N. Exploring the cytoprotective role of mesenchymal stem Cell-Derived exosomes in chronic liver Fibrosis: Insights into the Nrf2/Keap1/p62 signaling pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 141:112934. [PMID: 39178516 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112934] [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: 06/01/2024] [Revised: 08/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a common pathology present in most chronic liver diseases. Autophagy is a lysosome-mediated intracellular catabolic and recycling process that plays an essential role in maintaining normal hepatic functions. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2 (Nrf2) is a transcription factor responsible for the regulation of cellular anti-oxidative stress response. This study was designed to assess the cytoprotective effect of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-exos) on endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in Carbon Tetrachloride (CCL4) induced liver fibrosis. Rats were treated with 0.1 ml of CCL4 twice weekly for 8 weeks, followed by administration of a single dose of MSC-exos. Rats were then sacrificed after 4 weeks, and liver samples were collected for gene expression analyses, Western blot, histological studies, immunohistochemistry, and transmission electron microscopy. Our results showed that MSC-exos administration decreased collagen deposition, apoptosis, and inflammation. Exosomes modulate the Nrf2/Keap1/p62 pathway, restoring autophagy and Nrf2 levels through modulation of the non-canonical pathway of Nrf2/Keap1/p62. Additionally, MSC-exos regulated miR-153-3p, miR-27a, miR-144 and miRNA-34a expression. In conclusion, the present study shed light on MSC-exos as a cytoprotective agent against EMT and tumorigenesis in chronic liver inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajir A Al Saihati
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Hafr Albatin, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Omnia A Badr
- Department of Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Benha University, Egypt.
| | - Arigue A Dessouky
- Department of Medical Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, 44519 Zagazig, Egypt.
| | - Ola Mostafa
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Egypt.
| | - Ayman Samir Farid
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Moshtohor, Toukh 13736, Qalyubia, Egypt.
| | - Nashwa H Aborayah
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Egypt, Department of Pharmacology, Mutah University, Mutah 61710, Jordan.
| | - Mohammad Abdullah Aljasir
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Bodour Baioumy
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Egypt.
| | | | - Mohamed El-Sherbiny
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Egypt.
| | - Rasha Hamed Al-Serwi
- Department of Basic Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mahmoud M Ramadan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah City, United Arab Emirates; Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura City, Egypt.
| | - Rabab F Salim
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha Universit, Egypt.
| | - Dalia Shaheen
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.
| | - Fares E M Ali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut Branch, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Nesrine Ebrahim
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Stem Cell Unit, Egypt.
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4
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Gu W, Wu G, Chen G, Meng X, Xie Z, Cai S. Polyphenols alleviate metabolic disorders: the role of ubiquitin-proteasome system. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1445080. [PMID: 39188976 PMCID: PMC11345163 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1445080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic disorders include obesity, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. It has become a major health issue around the world. Ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) is essential for nearly all cellular processes, functions as a primary pathway for intracellular protein degradation. Recent researches indicated that dysfunctions in the UPS may result in the accumulation of toxic proteins, lipotoxicity, oxidative stress, inflammation, and insulin resistance, all of which contribute to the development and progression of metabolic disorders. An increasing body of evidence indicates that specific dietary polyphenols ameliorate metabolic disorders by preventing lipid synthesis and transport, excessive inflammation, hyperglycemia and insulin resistance, and oxidative stress, through regulation of the UPS. This review summarized the latest research progress of natural polyphenols improving metabolic disorders by regulating lipid accumulation, inflammation, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance through the UPS. In addition, the possible mechanisms of UPS-mediated prevention of metabolic disorders are comprehensively proposed. We aim to provide new angle to the development and utilization of polyphenols in improving metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Tea Plant Biology and Utilization, School of Tea and Food Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Joint Research Center for Food Nutrition and Health of IHM, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Guohuo Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Tea Plant Biology and Utilization, School of Tea and Food Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Joint Research Center for Food Nutrition and Health of IHM, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Guijie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Tea Plant Biology and Utilization, School of Tea and Food Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Joint Research Center for Food Nutrition and Health of IHM, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xianghui Meng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Zhongwen Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Tea Plant Biology and Utilization, School of Tea and Food Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Joint Research Center for Food Nutrition and Health of IHM, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Shanbao Cai
- The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
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5
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Wu Z, Chen H, Yang B, Zhao J, Chen W. Structural identification and antioxidant activity of trans-9, trans-11, cis-15-conjugated linolenic acid converted by probiotics. Food Res Int 2024; 184:114258. [PMID: 38609236 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.114258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
The study aimed to determine the chemical structures of octadecatrienoic acid isomers produced by probiotics through the bioconversion of α-linolenic acid and to assess their antioxidant capacities. The chemical structures were identified using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS), while the antioxidant capacities were evaluated in vitro and in cellular. The NMR signals obtained allowed for definitive characterization, with the main ion fragments detected being m/z 58.0062, 59.0140, 71.0141, 113.0616, 127.0777, and 181.5833. Compounds at concentrations below 40 μM maintained the antioxidant capacity of HepG2 cells by protecting endogenous antioxidative enzymes and mitochondrial membrane potential. However, doses higher than 40 μM increase oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction. These results confirmed the structure of the probiotic-derived compound as trans9, trans11, cis15-conjugated linolenic acid. Additionally, appropriate doses of CLNA can alleviate oxidative stress induced by AAPH, while high doses aggravate cellular damage. These findings provide foundational information for the further exploration of probiotic-derived edible lipids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihuan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Haiqin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China.
| | - Bo Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Jianxin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; National Engineering Research Center for Functional Food, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Wei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
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Wu X, Wang Y, Wang D, Wang Z, Yang M, Yang L, Wang F, Wang W, Zhang X. Formation of EGCG oxidation self-assembled nanoparticles and their antioxidant activity in vitro and hepatic REDOX regulation activity in vivo. Food Funct 2024; 15:2181-2196. [PMID: 38315103 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo05309a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
(-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is a major polyphenol in tea and exerts several health-promoting effects. It easily autoxidizes into complex polymers and becomes deactivated due to the presence of multiple phenolic hydroxyl structures. Nonetheless, the morphology and biological activity of complex EGCG polymers are yet to be clarified. The present study demonstrated that EGCG autoxidation self-assembled nanoparticles (ENPs) exhibit antioxidant activity in vitro and hepatic REDOX homeostasis regulation activity in vivo. Also, the formation of ENPs during the EGCG autoxidation process was based on the intermolecular interaction forces that maintain the stability of the nanoparticles. Similar to EGCG, ENPs are scavengers of reactive oxygen species and hydroxyl radicals in vitro and also regulate hepatic REDOX activity through liver redox enzymes, including thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), thioredoxin (Trx), glutathione reductase (GR), glutaredoxin (Grx), and glutathione S-transferase (GST) in vivo. Moreover, ENPs activate the NRF2 antioxidant-responsive element pathway, exerting a detoxification effect at high doses. Unlike EGCG, ENPs do not cause liver damage at low doses and also maintain liver biosafety at high doses through self-assembly, forming large particles, which is supported by the unchanged levels of liver damage biomarkers, including serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), liver γ-phosphorylated histone 2AX (γ-H2AX), and P53-related genes (Thbs, MDM2, P53, and Bax). Collectively, these findings revealed that ENPs, with adequate biosafety and regulation of hepatic redox activity in vivo, may serve as substitutes with significant potential for antioxidant applications or as food additives to overcome the instability and liver toxicity of EGCG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ximing Wu
- Anhui Engineering Laboratory for Medicinal and Food Homologous Natural Resources Exploration, School of Biological and Food Engineering, Hefei Normal University, Hefei, 230601, China.
- Laboratory of Redox Biology, State Key Laboratory of Tea Plant Biology and Utilization, School of Tea and Food Science, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, China
- Tea Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, 310008, China.
| | - Yijun Wang
- Laboratory of Redox Biology, State Key Laboratory of Tea Plant Biology and Utilization, School of Tea and Food Science, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, China
| | - Dongxu Wang
- School of Grain Science and Technology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, 212100, China
| | - Ziqi Wang
- Tea Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, 310008, China.
| | - Mingchuan Yang
- Laboratory of Redox Biology, State Key Laboratory of Tea Plant Biology and Utilization, School of Tea and Food Science, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, China
| | - Lumin Yang
- Laboratory of Redox Biology, State Key Laboratory of Tea Plant Biology and Utilization, School of Tea and Food Science, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, China
| | - Fuming Wang
- Laboratory of Redox Biology, State Key Laboratory of Tea Plant Biology and Utilization, School of Tea and Food Science, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Anhui Engineering Laboratory for Medicinal and Food Homologous Natural Resources Exploration, School of Biological and Food Engineering, Hefei Normal University, Hefei, 230601, China.
| | - Xiangchun Zhang
- Tea Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, 310008, China.
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Tavakoli Pirzaman A, Alishah A, Babajani B, Ebrahimi P, Sheikhi SA, Moosaei F, Salarfar A, Doostmohamadian S, Kazemi S. The Role of microRNAs in Hepatocellular Cancer: A Narrative Review Focused on Tumor Microenvironment and Drug Resistance. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2024; 23:15330338241239188. [PMID: 38634139 PMCID: PMC11025440 DOI: 10.1177/15330338241239188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Globally, hepatic cancer ranks fourth in terms of cancer-related mortality and is the sixth most frequent kind of cancer. Around 80% of liver cancers are hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC), which are the leading cause of cancer death. It is well known that HCC may develop resistance to the available chemotherapy treatments very fast. One of the biggest obstacles in providing cancer patients with appropriate care is drug resistance. According to reports, more than 90% of cancer-specific fatalities are caused by treatment resistance. By binding to the 3'-untranslated region of target messenger RNAs (mRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), a group of noncoding RNAs which are around 17 to 25 nucleotides long, regulate target gene expression. Moreover, they play role in the control of signaling pathways, cell proliferation, and cell death. As a result, miRNAs play an important role in the microenvironment of HCC by changing immune phenotypes, hypoxic conditions, and acidification, as well as angiogenesis and extracellular matrix components. Moreover, changes in miRNA levels in HCC can effectively resist cancer cells to chemotherapy by affecting various cellular processes such as autophagy, apoptosis, and membrane transporter activity. In the current work, we narratively reviewed the role of miRNAs in HCC, with a special focus on tumor microenvironment and drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali Alishah
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Bahareh Babajani
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Pouyan Ebrahimi
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Seyyed Ali Sheikhi
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Farhad Moosaei
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | | | | | - Sohrab Kazemi
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Center, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
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Li JZ, Chen N, Ma N, Li MR. Mechanism and Progress of Natural Products in the Treatment of NAFLD-Related Fibrosis. Molecules 2023; 28:7936. [PMID: 38067665 PMCID: PMC10707854 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28237936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has emerged as the most prevalent chronic liver disorder worldwide, with liver fibrosis (LF) serving as a pivotal juncture in NAFLD progression. Natural products have demonstrated substantial antifibrotic properties, ushering in novel avenues for NAFLD treatment. This study provides a comprehensive review of the potential of natural products as antifibrotic agents, including flavonoids, polyphenol compounds, and terpenoids, with specific emphasis on the role of Baicalin in NAFLD-associated fibrosis. Mechanistically, these natural products have exhibited the capacity to target a multitude of signaling pathways, including Hedgehog, Wnt/β-catenin, TGF-β1, and NF-κB. Moreover, they can augment the activities of antioxidant enzymes, inhibit pro-fibrotic factors, and diminish fibrosis markers. In conclusion, this review underscores the considerable potential of natural products in addressing NAFLD-related liver fibrosis through multifaceted mechanisms. Nonetheless, it underscores the imperative need for further clinical investigation to authenticate their effectiveness, offering invaluable insights for future therapeutic advancements in this domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Zhong Li
- Division of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Ning Chen
- General Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Nan Ma
- Center for Bioactive Natural Molecules and Innovative Drugs Research, College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
- JNU-HKUST Joint Laboratory for Neuroscience and Innovative Drug Research, College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Min-Ran Li
- Division of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
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Park JS, Rustamov N, Roh YS. The Roles of NFR2-Regulated Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Quality Control in Chronic Liver Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1928. [PMID: 38001781 PMCID: PMC10669501 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12111928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver disease (CLD) affects a significant portion of the global population, leading to a substantial number of deaths each year. Distinct forms like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver disease (ALD), though they have different etiologies, highlight shared pathologies rooted in oxidative stress. Central to liver metabolism, mitochondria are essential for ATP production, gluconeogenesis, fatty acid oxidation, and heme synthesis. However, in diseases like NAFLD, ALD, and liver fibrosis, mitochondrial function is compromised by inflammatory cytokines, hepatotoxins, and metabolic irregularities. This dysfunction, especially electron leakage, exacerbates the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), augmenting liver damage. Amidst this, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) emerges as a cellular protector. It not only counters oxidative stress by regulating antioxidant genes but also maintains mitochondrial health by overseeing autophagy and biogenesis. The synergy between NRF2 modulation and mitochondrial function introduces new therapeutic potentials for CLD, focusing on preserving mitochondrial integrity against oxidative threats. This review delves into the intricate role of oxidative stress in CLD, shedding light on innovative strategies for its prevention and treatment, especially through the modulation of the NRF2 and mitochondrial pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yoon-Seok Roh
- College of Pharmacy and Medical Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28160, Republic of Korea; (J.-S.P.); (N.R.)
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Siani A, Infante-Teixeira L, d'Arcy R, Roberts IV, El Mohtadi F, Donno R, Tirelli N. Polysulfide nanoparticles inhibit fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition via extracellular ROS scavenging and have potential anti-fibrotic properties. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 153:213537. [PMID: 37406516 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
This paper is about the effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS) - and of their nanoparticle-mediated extracellular removal - in the TGF-β1-induced differentiation of fibroblasts (human dermal fibroblasts - HDFa) to more contractile myofibroblasts, and in the maintenance of this phenotype. Here, poly(propylene sulfide) (PPS) nanoparticles have been employed on 2D and 3D in vitro models, showing extremely low toxicity and undergoing negligible internalization, thereby ensuring an extracellular-only action. Firstly, PPS nanoparticles abrogated ROS-mediated downstream molecular events such as glutathione oxidation, NF-κB activation, and heme oxidase-1 (HMOX) overexpression. Secondly, PPS nanoparticles were also capable to inhibit, prevent and reverse the TGF-β1-induced upregulation of key biomechanical elements, such as ED-a fibronectin (EF-A FN) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), respectively markers of protomyofibroblastic and of myofibroblastic differentiation. We also confirmed that ROS alone are ineffective promoters of the myofibroblastic transition, although their presence contributes to its stabilization. Finally, the particles also countered TGF-β1-induced matrix- and tissue-level phenomena, e.g., the upregulation of collagen type 1, the development of aberrant collagen type 1/3 ratios and the contracture of HDFa 3D-seeded fibrin constructs. In short, experimental data at molecular, cellular and tissue levels show a significant potential in the use of PPS nanoparticles as anti-fibrotic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Siani
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Stopford Building, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Lorena Infante-Teixeira
- Laboratory of Polymers and Biomaterials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Richard d'Arcy
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Stopford Building, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK; Laboratory of Polymers and Biomaterials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy.
| | - Iwan V Roberts
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Stopford Building, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Farah El Mohtadi
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Stopford Building, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Roberto Donno
- Laboratory of Polymers and Biomaterials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Nicola Tirelli
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Stopford Building, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK; Laboratory of Polymers and Biomaterials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy.
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11
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Yan C, Hu W, Tu J, Li J, Liang Q, Han S. Pathogenic mechanisms and regulatory factors involved in alcoholic liver disease. J Transl Med 2023; 21:300. [PMID: 37143126 PMCID: PMC10158301 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04166-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcoholism is a widespread and damaging behaviour of people throughout the world. Long-term alcohol consumption has resulted in alcoholic liver disease (ALD) being the leading cause of chronic liver disease. Many metabolic enzymes, including alcohol dehydrogenases such as ADH, CYP2E1, and CATacetaldehyde dehydrogenases ALDHsand nonoxidative metabolizing enzymes such as SULT, UGT, and FAEES, are involved in the metabolism of ethanol, the main component in alcoholic beverages. Ethanol consumption changes the functional or expression profiles of various regulatory factors, such as kinases, transcription factors, and microRNAs. Therefore, the underlying mechanisms of ALD are complex, involving inflammation, mitochondrial damage, endoplasmic reticulum stress, nitrification, and oxidative stress. Moreover, recent evidence has demonstrated that the gut-liver axis plays a critical role in ALD pathogenesis. For example, ethanol damages the intestinal barrier, resulting in the release of endotoxins and alterations in intestinal flora content and bile acid metabolism. However, ALD therapies show low effectiveness. Therefore, this review summarizes ethanol metabolism pathways and highly influential pathogenic mechanisms and regulatory factors involved in ALD pathology with the aim of new therapeutic insights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuyun Yan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Wanting Hu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Key Lab of Microanalytical Methods & Instrumentation, Department of Chemistry, Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Jinqi Tu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College of Wuhu, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241000, Anhui, China
| | - Jinyao Li
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, 830046, China
| | - Qionglin Liang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Key Lab of Microanalytical Methods & Instrumentation, Department of Chemistry, Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Shuxin Han
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China.
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, 830046, China.
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12
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Park H, Lee EJ, Moon D, Yun H, Cha A, Hwang I, Kim HS. Discovery of 3,7-dimethoxyflavone that inhibits liver fibrosis based on dual mechanisms of antioxidant and inhibitor of activated hepatic stellate cell. Free Radic Biol Med 2023; 204:195-206. [PMID: 37146699 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2023.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The important pathway toward liver fibrosis is the TGF-β1-induced activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). To discover chemicals to inhibit liver fibrosis, we screened 3000 chemicals using cell array system where human HSCs line LX2 cells are activated with TGF-β1. We discovered 3,7-dimethoxyflavone (3,7-DMF) as a chemical to inhibit TGF-β1-induced activation of HSCs. In the thioacetamide (TAA)-induced mouse liver fibrosis model, 3,7-DMF treatment via intraperitoneal or oral administration prevented liver fibrosis as well as reversed the established fibrosis in the separate experiments. It also reduced liver enzyme elevation, suggesting protective effect on hepatocytes because it has antioxidant effect. Treatment with 3,7-DMF induced antioxidant genes, quenches ROS away, and improved the hepatocyte condition that was impaired by H2O2 as reflected by restoration of HNF-4α and albumin. In the TAA-mouse liver injury model also, TAA significantly increased ROS in the liver which led to decrease of albumin and nuclear expression of HNF-4α, increase of TGF-β1 and hepatocytes death, accumulation of lipid, and extra-nuclear localization of HMGB1. Treatment of 3,7-DMF normalized all these pathologic findings and prevented or resolved liver fibrosis. In conclusion, we discovered 3,7-DMF that inhibits liver fibrosis based on dual actions; antioxidant and inhibitor of TGF-β1-induced activation of HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyomin Park
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea; Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
| | - Eun Ju Lee
- Interdisciplinary Program in Stem Cell Biology, Seoul National University of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea; Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
| | - Dodam Moon
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea; Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyunji Yun
- Interdisciplinary Program in Stem Cell Biology, Seoul National University of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea; Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
| | - Areum Cha
- Interdisciplinary Program in Stem Cell Biology, Seoul National University of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea; Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
| | - Injoo Hwang
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea; Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyo-Soo Kim
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea; Interdisciplinary Program in Stem Cell Biology, Seoul National University of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea; Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
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13
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Xiong Y, Wu B, Guo X, Shi D, Xia H, Xu H, Liu X. Galangin delivered by retinoic acid-modified nanoparticles targeted hepatic stellate cells for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis. RSC Adv 2023; 13:10987-11001. [PMID: 37033441 PMCID: PMC10077338 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra07561j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is a chronic hepatic pathological process induced by various liver injuries, with few available therapies. Previous research studies revealed that HF is characterized by the accumulation of excess extracellular matrix in the liver, mainly overexpressed by activated hepatic stellate cells (HSC). Therefore, HSC have been targeted in clinical trials for the management of HF. The aim of the present study was to develop an anti-HF drug delivery system with acrylic resin (Eudragit® RS100, Eud RS100) nanoparticles (NPs) through modification by retinoic acid (RA), modified for binding the retinol-binding protein reporter (RBPR) in HSC. Galangin (GA), is a multiple effects flavonoid which has demonstrated an anti-HF effect in our previous studies. In this study, GA was utilized for the treatment of HF. The results revealed that the NPs were well formed (diameter: 70 nm), spherical in shape, and exhibited uniform distribution and a high encapsulation efficiency. Moreover, a prominent controlled release effect and a significant increase in bioavailability was observed following the encapsulation of GA in NPs. These findings indicated that the limitation of low bioavailability due to the hydrophobic feature of GA was overcome. Furthermore, the pharmacodynamics studies demonstrated that NPs could drastically influence the anti-HF effects of GA after modification with retinoic acid. The results of the present study suggested that retinoic acid-modified GA NPs represent a promising candidate in the development of an anti-HF drug delivery system for the treatment of HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanguo Xiong
- Department of Pharmacy, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University Wuhan 430060 China
- School of Pharmaceuticals, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, No. 1 HuangJiahu Road West Wuhan 430065 China +86 27 68890239
| | - Bing Wu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine Shiyan 442000 China
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University Jiefang Road 238 Wuhan 430060 China +86 27 88041911 +86 27 88041911
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University Jiefang Road 238 Wuhan 430060 China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology Wuhan 430060 China
| | - Xianxi Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University Wuhan 430060 China
| | - Dong Shi
- School of Pharmaceuticals, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, No. 1 HuangJiahu Road West Wuhan 430065 China +86 27 68890239
| | - Hao Xia
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University Jiefang Road 238 Wuhan 430060 China +86 27 88041911 +86 27 88041911
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University Jiefang Road 238 Wuhan 430060 China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology Wuhan 430060 China
| | - Hanlin Xu
- School of Pharmaceuticals, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, No. 1 HuangJiahu Road West Wuhan 430065 China +86 27 68890239
| | - Xiaoxiong Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University Jiefang Road 238 Wuhan 430060 China +86 27 88041911 +86 27 88041911
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University Jiefang Road 238 Wuhan 430060 China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology Wuhan 430060 China
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14
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Liu P, Kong L, Liu Y, Li G, Xie J, Lu X. A key driver to promote HCC: Cellular crosstalk in tumor microenvironment. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1135122. [PMID: 37007125 PMCID: PMC10050394 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1135122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is the third greatest cause of cancer-related mortality, which of the major pathological type is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounting for more than 90%. HCC is characterized by high mortality and is predisposed to metastasis and relapse, leading to a low five-year survival rate and poor clinical prognosis. Numerous crosstalk among tumor parenchymal cells, anti-tumor cells, stroma cells, and immunosuppressive cells contributes to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), in which the function and frequency of anti-tumor cells are reduced with that of associated pro-tumor cells increasing, accordingly resulting in tumor malignant progression. Indeed, sorting out and understanding the signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms of cellular crosstalk in TME is crucial to discover more key targets and specific biomarkers, so that develop more efficient methods for early diagnosis and individualized treatment of liver cancer. This piece of writing offers insight into the recent advances in HCC-TME and reviews various mechanisms that promote HCC malignant progression from the perspective of mutual crosstalk among different types of cells in TME, aiming to assist in identifying the possible research directions and methods in the future for discovering new targets that could prevent HCC malignant progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengyue Liu
- Clinical Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Lingyu Kong
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Clinical Skills Training Center, Tangshan Gongren Hospital, Tangshan, China
| | - Gang Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangshan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Tangshan, China
| | - Jianjia Xie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangshan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Tangshan, China
| | - Xin Lu
- Clinical Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangshan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Tangshan, China
- *Correspondence: Xin Lu,
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15
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Lou L, Wang M, He J, Yang S, Meng F, Wang S, Jin X, Cai J, Cai C. Urolithin A (UA) attenuates ferroptosis in LPS-induced acute lung injury in mice by upregulating Keap1-Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1067402. [PMID: 36969874 PMCID: PMC10034769 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1067402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute lung injury (ALI) is a life-threatening disease with high incidence and mortality rates. Urolithin A (UA) is a pomegranate intestinal flora metabolite with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-aging properties. Ferroptosis is a critical factor in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI). However, the link between UA and ferroptosis is unknown. The purpose of this research was to look into the role of UA in regulating LPS-induced ferroptosis in ALI. The current study used LPS to injure two models, one BEAS-2B cell injury model and one ALI mouse model. UA effectively alleviated LPS-induced ALI compared to the LPS group by lowering in vivo lung wet/dry weight ratio, reactive oxygen species, and malondialdehyde production, as well as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione depletion. Furthermore, by increasing GPX4 and SLC7A11 expression and decreasing Fe2+ levels, lung histopathological damage, inflammatory cytokine secretion, and ferroptosis levels can be significantly reduced. The Keap1-Nrf2/HO-1 pathway was upregulated by UA, which inhibited LPS-induced ALI and ferroptosis. ML385 inhibited UA’s protective effect against LPS-induced ALI. These findings suggested that UA could be a novel potential therapeutic target for ALI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lejing Lou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jingjing He
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Song Yang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Fanxi Meng
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Shijia Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiao Jin
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jihao Cai
- Renji College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Chang Cai
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Chang Cai,
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16
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Combined carvacrol and cilostazol ameliorate ethanol-induced liver fibrosis in rats: Possible role of SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 116:109750. [PMID: 36709594 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.109750] [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: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Carvacrol is a natural phenolic monoterpenoid, and cilostazol is a selective phosphodiesterase-3 inhibitor with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects. This experiment aimed to explore the hepatoprotective effects of carvacrol and cilostazol alone and in combination against alcoholic liver fibrosis (ALF), and the underlying mechanisms, using silymarin as a reference anti-fibrotic product. ALF was induced by oral administration of ethanol (1 ml/100 g/day) thrice per week. Silymarin (100 mg/kg), carvacrol (70 mg/kg), cilostazol (50 mg/kg), or carvacrol + cilostazol combination were administered daily and concurrently with ethanol for six weeks. Hepatic changes were evaluated by quantifying serum biomarkers of liver injury, hepatic MDA, GSH and NOx as oxidative stress markers, interleukin (IL)-10 as an anti-inflammatory cytokine, 4-hydroxyproline (4-HYP) as a collagen synthesis indicator, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 as a profibrogenic cytokine, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) as a marker of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation, histopathological (necroinflammation and fibrosis) scores and hepatic sirtuin-1 (SIRT1), nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) mRNA levels. Our results showed that carvacrol, cilostazol, and their combination significantly ameliorated ethanol-induced hepatic fibrosis manifested as improving hepatic functions and histopathological features, attenuating α-SMA immunostaining, reducing TGF-β1 and 4-HYP levels, suppressing oxidativeinjury and elevating IL-10 contents. Such effects were accompanied by upregulating SIRT1, Nrf2 and HO-1 genes. This work disclosed for the first time the hepatoprotective effect of carvacrol against ALF and, to a greater extent, with carvacrol + cilostazol combination that could be partially accredited to SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway with consequent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic features.
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17
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Association of NRF2 with HIF-2α-induced cancer stem cell phenotypes in chronic hypoxic condition. Redox Biol 2023; 60:102632. [PMID: 36791645 PMCID: PMC9950657 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The acquisition of the cancer stem cell (CSC) properties is often mediated by the surrounding microenvironment, and tumor hypoxia is considered an important factor for CSC phenotype development. High levels of NRF2 (Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Like 2; NFE2L2), a transcription factor that maintains cellular redox balance, have been associated with facilitated tumor growth and therapy resistance. In this study, we investigated the role of NRF2 in hypoxia-induced CSC phenotypes in colorectal cancer cells. Chronic hypoxia for 72 h resulted in CSC phenotypes, including elevation of krupple-like factor 4 (KLF4) and octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4), and an increase in cancer migration and spheroid growth with concomitant hypoxia-inducible factor 2α (HIF-2α) accumulation. All these chronic hypoxia-induced CSC properties were attenuated following HIF-2α-specific silencing. In this chronic hypoxia model, NRF2 inhibition by shRNA-based silencing or brusatol treatment blocked HIF-2α accumulation, which consequently resulted in decreased CSC marker expression and inhibition of CSC properties such as spheroid growth. In contrast, NRF2 overactivation by genetic or chemical approach enhanced the chronic hypoxia-induced HIF-2α accumulation and cancer migration. As a molecular mechanism of the NRF2-inhibition-mediated HIF-2α dysregulation, we demonstrated that miR-181a-2-3p, whose expression is elevated in NRF2-silenced cells, targeted the HIF-2α 3'UTR and subsequently suppressed the chronic hypoxia-induced HIF-2α and CSC phenotypes. The miR-181a-2-3p inhibitor treatment in NRF2-silenced cells could restore the levels of HIF-2α and CSC markers, and increased cancer migration and sphere formation under chronic hypoxia. In line with this, the miR-181a-2-3p inhibitor transfection could increase tumorigenicity of NRF2-silenced colorectal cancer cells. Collectively, our study suggests the involvement of NRF2/miR181a-2-3p signaling in the development of HIF-2α-mediated CSC phenotypes in sustained hypoxic environments.
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Zhang J, Hu Z, Horta CA, Yang J. Regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition by tumor microenvironmental signals and its implication in cancer therapeutics. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 88:46-66. [PMID: 36521737 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been implicated in various aspects of tumor development, including tumor invasion and metastasis, cancer stemness, and therapy resistance. Diverse stroma cell types along with biochemical and biophysical factors in the tumor microenvironment impinge on the EMT program to impact tumor progression. Here we provide an in-depth review of various tumor microenvironmental signals that regulate EMT in cancer. We discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying the role of EMT in therapy resistance and highlight new therapeutic approaches targeting the tumor microenvironment to impact EMT and tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Zhimin Hu
- Department of Pharmacology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Calista A Horta
- Department of Pharmacology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
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19
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Ramos-Tovar E, Muriel P. Free radicals, antioxidants, nuclear factor-E2-related factor-2 and liver damage. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2022; 121:271-292. [PMID: 36707137 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2022.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The liver performs various biochemical and molecular functions. Its location as a portal to blood arriving from the intestines makes it susceptible to several insults, leading to diverse pathologies, including alcoholic liver disease, viral infections, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, and hepatocellular carcinoma, which are causes of death worldwide. Illuminating the molecular mechanism underlying hepatic injury will provide targets to develop new therapeutic strategies to fight liver maladies. In this regard, reactive oxygen species (ROS) are well-recognized mediators of liver damage. ROS induce nuclear factor-κB and the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor protein 3 inflammasome, which are the main proinflammatory signaling pathways that upregulate several proinflammatory and profibrogenic mediators. Additionally, oxygen-derived free radicals induce hepatic stellate cell activation to produce exacerbated quantities of extracellular matrix proteins, leading to fibrosis, cirrhosis and eventually hepatocellular carcinoma. Exogenous and endogenous antioxidants counteract the harmful effects of ROS, preventing liver necroinflammation and fibrogenesis. Therefore, several researchers have demonstrated that the administration of antioxidants, mainly derived from plants, affords beneficial effects on the liver. Notably, nuclear factor-E2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) is a major factor against oxidative stress in the liver. Increasing evidence has demonstrated that Nrf2 plays an important role in liver necroinflammation and fibrogenesis via the induction of antioxidant response element genes. The use of Nrf2 inducers seems to be an interesting approach to prevent/attenuate hepatic disorders, particularly under conditions where ROS play a causative role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Ramos-Tovar
- Postgraduate Studies and Research Section, School of Higher Education in Medicine-IPN, Mexico City, Mexico.
| | - Pablo Muriel
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Mexico City, Mexico.
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20
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Shakerinasab N, Azizi M, Mansourian M, Sadeghi H, Salaminia S, Abbasi R, Shahaboddin ME, Doustimotlagh AH. Empagliflozin Exhibits Hepatoprotective Effects Against Bile Duct Ligation-induced Liver Injury in Rats: A Combined Molecular Docking Approach to In Vivo Studies. Curr Pharm Des 2022; 28:3313-3323. [PMID: 36305136 DOI: 10.2174/1381612829666221027112239] [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: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cholestatic liver damage is a chronic disease caused by dysfunction of the hepaticbiliary system. Oxidative stress and inflammation are essential factors in the pathogenesis of cholestasis. Thus, the current study was designed to examine the effect of empagliflozin on bile duct ligation-induced liver damage in rats. METHODS This study was done on male Wistar rats, which were randomly assigned to the four experimental groups: sham control (SC), bile duct ligation (BDL), SC plus empagliflozin (SC+EMPA) (receiving 10 mg of EMPA orally for 7 days), BDL plus empagliflozin 10 mg/kg (BDL+ EMPA). At the end of the study, the rats were sacrificed, and serum and tissue samples were collected to analyze biochemical parameters, biomarkers of oxidative stress, inflammatory markers, and histopathological changes. The molecular docking technique was performed to elucidate the interaction of EMPA and Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD1). RESULTS The results showed that BDL elevated the serum activity of ALT, AST, ALP, and levels of TBIL and TPro. BDL also intensifies the oxidative stress state in rats, which was confirmed by augmenting lipid peroxidation (MDA), protein oxidation (PCO), and altering antioxidant defense parameters through decreased SOD, catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) levels. Furthermore, the histopathological changes in the liver demonstrated the aggravation of inflammation and oxidative stress. In contrast, treatment with EMPA has shown anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects by reducing TNF-α and IL-6 pro-inflammatory marker proteins, restoring the antioxidant status (increased SOD and GPX), reducing ALT, AST, ALP, TBIL levels, and protein oxidation, and improving the histopathological alterations through reducing bile duct proliferation, fibrosis, focal and portal inflammation. According to the attained findings, the SOD1 activity can be regulated by the EMPA. Our documentation presents direct evidence at the molecular level related to the ability of EMPA to exert its antioxidant performance through certain measures in a particular molecular route. CONCLUSION The results showed EMPA to have hepatic protective effects in rats against cholestatic liver injury, an effect mediated by its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasrin Shakerinasab
- Department of Biochemistry, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Mahdokht Azizi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Mahboubeh Mansourian
- Department of Pharmacology, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Hossein Sadeghi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Shirvan Salaminia
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Yasuj University of Medical Science, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Reza Abbasi
- Department of Pediatrics, Yasuj University of Medical Science, Yasuj, Iran
| | | | - Amir Hossein Doustimotlagh
- Department of Pharmacology, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran.,Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
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21
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Li C, Ru YJ, Lin QY, Gao GC, Yang YD, Zhang XQ, Gao JL, Liu SH, Zheng CW, Wang L, Zheng YX, Wu JM. Schisantherin D from Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. exhibits anti-liver fibrosis capacity via modulating ETBR involved signaling, an in vitro and in vivo study. Fitoterapia 2022; 162:105290. [PMID: 36064152 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2022.105290] [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: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Excess levels of chemical hepatotoxicants (alcohol, aflatoxin B1), oxidative drugs (acetaminophen) and some cytokines (ET-1, TGF-β1) can induce chronic or acute liver injury. After these, the severe hepatic disease, especially the liver fibrosis (LF) occurs without taking measures, which brings threat to human health. The dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans of S. chinensis (SCDLs) were found to act as the hepatoprotective components via blocking endothelin B receptor (ETBR). While study on its anti-LF mechanisms especially for its refined compound of schisantherin D (SC-D) is still a lack. So this study aims to investigate the anti-fibrosis effect of SC-D with in vitro and in vivo assays. Bioinformatics analysis revealed the close relations of ETBR to Smad2, Smad3, Nrf2, etc. in LF-related signaling pathways (such as TGF-β/Smad and Nrf2/ARE). Histopathological staining on livers showed the recovery trend in SC-D treated LF mice. SC-D also modulated expressions of ETBR and fibrosis or anti-oxidative related proteins (such as TIMP1, p-Smad2/3, Nrf2, Smad7, etc.) in LF mice livers. Serum levels of TNF-α, COLI, ALT, AST and LDH in SC-D treated mice were also downregulated compared with LF mice, and upregulated expression of GSH. In vitro studies, SC-D also modulated expressions of LF-related proteins to the normal tendency in LX-2 cell, while weakened its anti- LX-2 proliferation effect by transfections of si-Smad7 or si-Nrf2. Accordingly the anti-LF approach of SC-D showed relations with modulating ETBR linked fibrosis and anti-oxidative related signaling. Also, Smad7 and Nrf2 might be the key factors for SC-D mediated anti-LF effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Li
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, China
| | - Yang-Jie Ru
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, China
| | - Quan-Yue Lin
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, China
| | - Guang-Chun Gao
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, China
| | - Yu-Die Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, China
| | - Xiao-Qin Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, China
| | - Jin-Lai Gao
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, China
| | - Shi-Hui Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, China
| | - Chu-Wei Zheng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Jiaxing, Jiaxing 314001, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 610500, China
| | - Ya-Xin Zheng
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province for Specific Structure of Small Molecule Drugs, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu 610500, China
| | - Ji-Ming Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, China.
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22
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Li WQ, Liu WH, Qian D, Liu J, Zhou SQ, Zhang L, Peng W, Su L, Zhang H. Traditional Chinese medicine: An important source for discovering candidate agents against hepatic fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:962525. [PMID: 36081936 PMCID: PMC9445813 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.962525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis (HF) refers to the pathophysiological process of connective tissue dysplasia in the liver caused by various pathogenic factors. Nowadays, HF is becoming a severe threat to the health of human being. However, the drugs available for treating HF are limited. Currently, increasing natural agents derived from traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have been found to be beneficial for HF. A systemic literature search was conducted from PubMed, GeenMedical, Sci-Hub, CNKI, Google Scholar and Baidu Scholar, with the keywords of "traditional Chinese medicine," "herbal medicine," "natural agents," "liver diseases," and "hepatic fibrosis." So far, more than 76 natural monomers have been isolated and identified from the TCMs with inhibitory effect on HF, including alkaloids, flavones, quinones, terpenoids, saponins, phenylpropanoids, and polysaccharides, etc. The anti-hepatic fibrosis effects of these compounds include hepatoprotection, inhibition of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) activation, regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis & secretion, regulation of autophagy, and antioxidant & anti-inflammation, etc. Natural compounds and extracts from TCMs are promising agents for the prevention and treatment of HF, and this review would be of great significance to development of novel drugs for treating HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Qing Li
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Hao Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Tenth People’s Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Die Qian
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jia Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Shi-Qiong Zhou
- Hospital of Nursing, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Su
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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23
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El-Kashef DH, Zaghloul RA. Ameliorative effect of montelukast against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity: Targeting NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. Life Sci 2022; 304:120707. [PMID: 35690106 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Montelukast, a selective antagonist of type 1 cysteinyl-leukotriene receptors, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory abilities. This study aimed to explore its hepatoprotective impact against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity compared to a standard hepatoprotective agent, silymarin. MAIN METHODS Twenty-four albino mice were used in this study, CCl4 (1 mL/kg of 1:1 v/v CCl4:olive oil) was singly injected in mice, and montelukast was administered in a dose of 10 mg/kg. KEY FINDINGS Results revealed that montelukast significantly improved CCl4-induced alterations in both structure and function of the liver, verified respectively through histopathology and by the reduced levels of ALT, AST, ALP, and GGT upon comparison with CCl4. Also, montelukast prevented the induction of oxidative stress via decreasing hepatic MDA content and enhancing GSH levels. Moreover, montelukast produced a profound decrease in the levels of hepatic NLRP3 and its adaptor protein, ASC, and a reduction in the pro-inflammatory markers, NF-κB, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6. In addition, montelukast markedly reduced liver fibrosis, as illustrated by Masson Trichrome, and the decreased hepatic levels of TGF-β and α-SMA. Furthermore, montelukast efficiently decreased apoptosis as manifested by the decreased hepatic level of Caspase 3. SIGNIFICANCE Montelukast protected against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity via exerting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and anti-apoptotic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia H El-Kashef
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.
| | - Randa A Zaghloul
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
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24
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Fan K, Zan X, Zhi Y, Yang Y, Hu K, Zhang X, Zhang X, Zhao S, Chen K, Gong X, Tian R, Zhang L. Immune response gene 1 deficiency impairs Nrf2 activation and aggravates liver fibrosis in mice. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 607:103-109. [PMID: 35367821 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.03.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
A growing body of evidence suggests that metabolic events play essential roles in the development of liver fibrosis. Immune response gene 1 (IRG1) catalyzes the generation of itaconate, which function as a metabolic checkpoint under several pathological circumstances. In the present study, the hepatic level of IRG1 was determined in mice with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis. And then the pathological significance of IRG1 and the pharmacological potential of 4-octyl itaconate (4-OI), a cell-permeable derivate of itaconate, in liver fibrosis were investigated in mice. The results indicated that the hepatic level of IRG1 was upregulated in mice with liver fibrosis. CCl4-induced formation of fibrotic septa and deposition of collagen was aggravated in IRG1 KO mice. IRG1 deletion also resulted in increased expression of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), enhanced phosphorylation of Smad3, elevated level of alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and hydroxyproline, which were associated with compromised activation of nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-mediated antioxidant system and exacerbated oxidative stress. Interestingly, supplementation with 4-OI activated Nrf2 pathway, suppressed TGF-β1 signaling and attenuated fibrogenesis. Our data indicated that upregulation of IRG1 might function as a protective response during the development of liver fibrosis, and 4-OI might have potential value for the pharmacological intervention of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerui Fan
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xinyan Zan
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying Zhi
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yongqiang Yang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Kai Hu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xinyue Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xue Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shuang Zhao
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Kun Chen
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xianqiong Gong
- Hepatology Center, Xiamen Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China
| | - Rui Tian
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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25
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Wu T, Wang X, Chen M, Zhang X, Zhang J, Cheng J, Kong L, Tang M. Respiratory exposure to graphene quantum dots causes fibrotic effects on lung, liver and kidney of mice. Food Chem Toxicol 2022; 163:112971. [PMID: 35358666 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2022.112971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Graphene quantum dots (GQDs), as a novel graphene-based nanoparticle, presented a bright prospect in fields of biomedicine due to their excellent optical property. However, the biosafety assessment of GQDs is far behind their rapid development, which could restrict their wilder applications. This study focused on the potential adverse effects of two kinds of promising GQDs, i.e. nitrogen-doping graphene quantum dots (N-GQDs) and amino-modified graphene quantum dot (A-GQDs) on primary target organs of GNMs, including lung, liver and kidney. The intranasal instillation used here was to imitate the respiratory exposure of GQDs that is a commonly exposure route of GQDs in the environment. Although no severe damages associated with general health occurred in mice treated with GQDs, the fibrosis evidenced by statistically significant increases in the area of collagen I and TGF-ß1 and p-Smad3 expressions were observed in the lung, liver and kidney tissues. Interestingly, the fibrotic effect induced by GQDs could be effectively alleviated by a ferroptosis-specific inhibitor, which demonstrated a close relationship of fibrosis and ferroptosis. This study not only provides new insights on the toxicity mechanisms of GQDs, but also offers some efficient ways to control toxicity of GQDs, like dosage threshold and small molecular drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianshu Wu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China.
| | - Xinyu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Min Chen
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Xiaomeng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Jixiang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Jin Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Lu Kong
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Meng Tang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
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26
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Li J, Deng SH, Li J, Li L, Zhang F, Zou Y, Wu DM, Xu Y. Obacunone alleviates ferroptosis during lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury by upregulating Nrf2-dependent antioxidant responses. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2022; 27:29. [PMID: 35305560 PMCID: PMC8933916 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-022-00318-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute lung injury (ALI) has received considerable attention in the field of intensive care as it is associated with a high mortality rate. Obacunone (OB), widely found in citrus fruits, is a natural bioactive compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. However, it is not clear whether OB protects against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to evaluate the protective effects of OB and the potential mechanisms against LPS-induced ALI and BEAS-2B cell injury. METHODS We established a model of BEAS-2B cell injury and a mouse model of ALI by treating with LPS. Samples of in vitro model were subjected to cell death, Cell Counting Kit-8, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assays. The total number of cells and neutrophils, protein content, and levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β were determined in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Glutathione, reactive oxygen species, and malondialdehyde levels were determined in lung tissue. Additionally, immunohistochemical analysis, immunofluorescence, western blot, quantitative real-time PCR, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were conducted to examine the effects of OB. Furthermore, mice were treated with an Nrf2 inhibitor (ML385) to verify its role in ferroptosis. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance or paired t-tests. RESULTS Compared with the LPS group, OB effectively alleviated LPS-induced ALI by decreasing lung wet/dry weight ratio, reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde production, and superoxide dismutase and glutathione consumption in vivo. In addition, OB significantly alleviated lung histopathological injury, reduced inflammatory cytokine secretion and Fe2+ and 4-HNE levels, and upregulated GPX4, SLC7A11, and Nrf2 expression. Mechanistically, OB activated Nrf2 by inhibiting Nrf2 ubiquitinated proteasome degradation. ML385 reversed the protective effects of OB against LPS-induced ALI. CONCLUSION Overall, OB alleviates LPS-induced ALI, making it a potential novel protective agent against LPS-induced ALI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610500, People's Republic of China.,School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610500, People's Republic of China
| | - Shi-Hua Deng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610500, People's Republic of China.,School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610500, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610500, People's Republic of China.,School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610500, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610500, People's Republic of China.,School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610500, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610500, People's Republic of China.,School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610500, People's Republic of China
| | - Ye Zou
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610500, People's Republic of China.,School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610500, People's Republic of China
| | - Dong-Ming Wu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610500, People's Republic of China. .,School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610500, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ying Xu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610500, People's Republic of China. .,School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610500, People's Republic of China.
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27
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Joannes A, Morzadec C, Duclos M, Gutierrez FL, Chiforeanu DC, Le Naoures C, De Latour B, Rouzé S, Wollin L, Jouneau S, Vernhet L. Arsenic trioxide inhibits the functions of lung fibroblasts derived from patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2022; 441:115972. [PMID: 35276128 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2022.115972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic and fatal interstitial lung disease. Currently, no treatment can block or reverse the development of lung fibrosis in patients suffering from IPF. Recent studies indicate that arsenic trioxide (ATO), a safe, effective anti-cancer pro-oxidant drug, prevents the differentiation of normal human lung fibroblasts (NHLFs) in vitro and reduces experimental pulmonary fibrosis in vivo. In this context, we investigated the anti-fibrotic effects of ATO on the main fibrosis functions of human lung fibroblasts (HLFs) isolated from patients with IPF. IPF and non-IPF (control) HLFs were incubated with 0.01-1 μM ATO and stimulated with pro-fibrotic factors (PDGF-BB or TGF-β1). We measured their rates of proliferation, migration and differentiation and the cell stress response triggered by ATO. ATO did not affect cell viability but strongly inhibited the proliferation and migration of PDGF-BB-stimulated IPF and control HLFs. ATO also prevented myofibroblastic differentiation, as assessed by the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and collagen-1, and the phosphorylation of SMAD2/3 in TGF-β1-stimulated HLFs. These antifibrotic effects were associated with increased expression of the transcription factor NRF2 and its target genes NQO1 and HMOX1. Genetic silencing of NRF2 inhibited the ATO-induced cell stress response but did not prevent the ATO-dependent inhibition of α-SMA expression in TGF-β1-stimulated HLFs. The results demonstrate that ATO, at concentrations similar to exposure in blood plasma of ATO-treated cancer patients, counteracted pro-fibrotic activities of HLFs from IPF patients. We propose to consider ATO for clinical exploration to define the therapeutic potential in patients with IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Joannes
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail), UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France.
| | - Claudie Morzadec
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail), UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Maëla Duclos
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail), UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | | | | | - Cécile Le Naoures
- Department of Pathology and Cytology, Rennes University Hospital, 35033 Rennes, France
| | - Bertrand De Latour
- Department of Thoracic, Cardiac and Vascular Surgery, Rennes University Hospital, 35033 Rennes, France
| | - Simon Rouzé
- Department of Thoracic, Cardiac and Vascular Surgery, Rennes University Hospital, 35033 Rennes, France
| | - Lutz Wollin
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co, KG, Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | - Stéphane Jouneau
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail), UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France; Department of Respiratory Diseases, Competence Center for Rare Pulmonary Disease, Rennes University Hospital, 35033, Rennes, France
| | - Laurent Vernhet
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail), UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
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28
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Bona S, Fernandes SA, Moreira ACJ, Rodrigues G, Schemitt EG, Di Naso FC, Marroni CA, Marroni NP. Melatonin restores zinc levels, activates the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway, and modulates endoplasmic reticular stress and HSP in rats with chronic hepatotoxicity. World J Gastrointest Pharmacol Ther 2022; 13:11-22. [PMID: 35433098 PMCID: PMC8968507 DOI: 10.4292/wjgpt.v13.i2.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melatonin (MLT) is a potent antioxidant molecule that is shown to have a beneficial effect in various pathological situations, due to its action against free radicals. AIM To evaluate the effect of MLT on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced liver injury in rats in terms of oxidative stress, reticular stress, and cell damage. METHODS Twenty male Wistar rats (230-250 g) were divided into four groups: Control rats, rats treated with MLT alone, rats treated with CCl4 alone, and rats treated with CCl4 plus MLT. CCl4 was administered as follows: Ten doses every 5 d, ten every 4 d, and seven every 3 d. MLT was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 20 mg/kg from the 10th wk to the end of the experiment (16th wk). RESULTS MLT was able to reduce the release of liver enzymes in the bloodstream and to decrease oxidative stress in CCl4 treated rats by decreasing the level of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and increasing superoxide dismutase activity, with a lower reduction in serum zinc levels, guaranteeing a reduction in liver damage; additionally, it increased the expression of nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 and decreased the expression of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1. MLT also decreased the expression of the proteins associated with endoplasmic reticulum stress, i.e., glucose-regulated protein 78 and activating transcription factor 6, as well as of heat shock factor 1 and heat shock protein 70. CONCLUSION MLT has a hepatoprotective effect in an experimental model of CCl4-induced liver injury, since it reduces oxidative stress, restores zinc levels, and modulates endoplasmic reticulum stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Bona
- Medical Sciences Program, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-903, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Sabrina Alves Fernandes
- Posgraduate Program in Hepatology, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90040-001, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Andrea C Janz Moreira
- Biological Sciences Program, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Graziella Rodrigues
- Medical Sciences Program, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-903, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Elizângela G Schemitt
- Medical Sciences Program, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-903, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Fabio Cangeri Di Naso
- Postgraduate Program in Pneumological Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90000-000, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Cláudio A Marroni
- Posgraduate Program in Hepatology, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90040-001, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Norma P Marroni
- Medical Sciences Program, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-903, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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TGF-β1 signaling can worsen NAFLD with liver fibrosis backdrop. Exp Mol Pathol 2021; 124:104733. [PMID: 34914973 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2021.104733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is characterized by the accumulation of fats in the liver. Relatively benign NAFLD often progresses to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver malignancies. Although NAFLD precedes fibrosis, continuous lipid overload keeps fueling fibrosis and the process of disease progression remains unhindered. It is well known that TGF-β1 plays its part in liver fibrosis, yet its effects on liver lipid overload remain unknown. As TGF-β1 signaling has been increasingly attempted to manage liver fibrosis, its actions on the primary suspect (NAFLD) are easily ignored. The complex interaction of inflammatory stress and lipid accumulation aided by mediators scuh as pro-inflammatory interleukins and TGF-β1 forms the basis of NAFLD progression. Anticipatorily, the inhibition of TGF-β1 signaling during anti-fibrotic treatment should reverse the NAFLD though the data remain scattered on this subject to date. TGF-β1 signaling pathway is an important drug target in liver fibrosis and abundant literature is available on it, but its direct effects on NAFLD are rarely studied. This review aims to cover the pathogenesis of NAFLD focusing on the role of the TGF-β1 in the disease progression, especially in the backdrop of liver fibrosis.
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Rodríguez MJ, Sabaj M, Tolosa G, Herrera Vielma F, Zúñiga MJ, González DR, Zúñiga-Hernández J. Maresin-1 Prevents Liver Fibrosis by Targeting Nrf2 and NF-κB, Reducing Oxidative Stress and Inflammation. Cells 2021; 10:3406. [PMID: 34943914 PMCID: PMC8699629 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a complex process characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) and an alteration in liver architecture, as a result of most types of chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver failure. Maresin-1 (MaR1) is derivative of ω-3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which has been shown to have pro-resolutive and anti-inflammatory effects. We tested the hypothesis that the application of MaR1 could prevent the development of fibrosis in an animal model of chronic hepatic damage. Sprague-Dawley rats were induced with liver fibrosis by injections of diethylnitrosamine (DEN) and treated with or without MaR1 for four weeks. In the MaR1-treated animals, levels of AST and ALT were normalized in comparison with DEN alone, the hepatic architecture was improved, and inflammation and necrotic areas were reduced. Cell proliferation, assessed by the mitotic activity index and the expression of Ki-67, was increased in the MaR1-treated group. MaR1 attenuated liver fibrosis and oxidative stress was induced by DEN. Plasma levels of the pro-inflammatory mediators TNF-α and IL-1β were reduced in MaR1-treated animals, whereas the levels of IL-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine, increased. Interestingly, MaR1 inhibited the translocation of the p65 subunit of NF-κB, while increasing the activation of Nrf2, a key regulator of the antioxidant response. Finally, MaR1 treatment reduced the levels of the pro-fibrotic mediator TGF-β and its receptor, while normalizing the hepatic levels of IGF-1, a proliferative agent. Taken together, these results suggest that MaR1 improves the parameters of DEN-induced liver fibrosis, activating hepatocyte proliferation and decreasing oxidative stress and inflammation. These results open the possibility of MaR1 as a potential therapeutic agent in fibrosis and other liver pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- María José Rodríguez
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Talca, Talca 3460000, Chile; (M.J.R.); (F.H.V.); (M.J.Z.); (D.R.G.)
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Mención Investigación y Desarrollo de Productos Bioactivos, Instituto de Química de los Recursos Naturales, Universidad de Talca, Talca 3460000, Chile
| | - Matías Sabaj
- Escuela de Tecnología Médica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Talca, Talca 3460000, Chile; (M.S.); (G.T.)
| | - Gerardo Tolosa
- Escuela de Tecnología Médica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Talca, Talca 3460000, Chile; (M.S.); (G.T.)
| | - Francisca Herrera Vielma
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Talca, Talca 3460000, Chile; (M.J.R.); (F.H.V.); (M.J.Z.); (D.R.G.)
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Mención Investigación y Desarrollo de Productos Bioactivos, Instituto de Química de los Recursos Naturales, Universidad de Talca, Talca 3460000, Chile
| | - María José Zúñiga
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Talca, Talca 3460000, Chile; (M.J.R.); (F.H.V.); (M.J.Z.); (D.R.G.)
| | - Daniel R. González
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Talca, Talca 3460000, Chile; (M.J.R.); (F.H.V.); (M.J.Z.); (D.R.G.)
| | - Jessica Zúñiga-Hernández
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Talca, Talca 3460000, Chile; (M.J.R.); (F.H.V.); (M.J.Z.); (D.R.G.)
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Wu TH, Wang PW, Lin TY, Yang PM, Li WT, Yeh CT, Pan TL. Antioxidant properties of red raspberry extract alleviate hepatic fibrosis via inducing apoptosis and transdifferentiation of activated hepatic stellate cells. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 144:112284. [PMID: 34626932 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a wound-healing process caused by prolonged liver damage and often occurs due to hepatic stellate cell activation in response to reactive oxygen species (ROS). Red raspberry has been found to attenuate oxidative stress, mainly because it is rich in bioactive components. In the current study, we investigated the inhibitory effects and associated molecular mechanisms of red raspberry extract (RBE) upon activated hepatic stellate cell (aHSC) in cellular and rat models. Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were increased in the dimethylnitrosamine (DMN)-applied samples, whereas treatment of RBE significantly suppressed the activities of these enzymes. In addition, a histopathological analysis demonstrated that RBE could substantially diminish the hepatic collagen content and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression induced by DMN. Administration of 250 μg/mL RBE could also arrest the growth and enhance the apoptosis of activated HSC-T6 cells, which was accompanied with elevated levels of activated caspases and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage. Particularly, RBE application remarkably abolished oxidative damage within the cells and reduced the carbonylation of proteins, which was attributed to the upregulation of catalase, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Moreover, the knockdown of Nrf2 together with the RBE treatment synergistically abrogated the expression of α-SMA and promoted the level of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ), suggesting that RBE could mitigate the transdifferentiation of HSC in a Nrf2-independent manner. These findings implied that the application of RBE could effectively remove oxidative stress and relieve the activation of HSC via modulating the caspase/PARP, Nrf2/HO-1 and PPAR-γ pathways, which may allow the development of novel therapeutic strategies against chemical-caused liver fibrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tung-Ho Wu
- Surgical Critical Care division of Critical care department, Cardiovascular division of Surgical department, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Wen Wang
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tung-Yi Lin
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ming Yang
- TMU Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Tai Li
- National Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chau-Ting Yeh
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Tai-Long Pan
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine and Research Center for Food and Cosmetic Safety, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
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32
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Nuwormegbe S, Park NY, Kim SW. Lobeglitazone attenuates fibrosis in corneal fibroblasts by interrupting TGF-beta-mediated Smad signaling. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2021; 260:149-162. [PMID: 34468828 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-021-05370-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) is an important cytokine released after ocular surface injury to promote wound healing. However, its persistence at the injury site triggers a fibrotic response that leads to corneal scarring and opacity. Thiazolidinediones (TZDs) are synthetic peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) ligands used to regulate glucose and lipid metabolism in the management of type 2 diabetes. Studies have also showed TZDs have antifibrotic effect. In this study, we investigated the antifibrotic effect of the TZD lobeglitazone on TGF-β1-induced fibrosis in corneal fibroblasts. METHODS Human primary corneal fibroblasts were cultivated and treated with TGF-β1 (5 ng/mL) to induce fibrosis, with or without pre-treatments with different concentrations of lobeglitazone. Myofibroblast differentiation and extracellular matrix (ECM) protein expression was evaluated by western blotting, immunofluorescence, real-time PCR, and collagen gel contraction assay. The effect of lobeglitazone on TGF-β1-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was evaluated by DCFDA-cellular ROS detection assay kit. Signaling proteins were evaluated by western blotting to determine the mechanism underlying the antifibrotic effect. RESULTS Our results showed lobeglitazone attenuated TGF-β1-induced ECM synthesis and myofibroblast differentiation of corneal fibroblasts. This antifibrotic effect appeared to be independent of PPAR signaling and rather due to the inhibition of the TGF-β1-induced Smad signaling. Lobeglitazone also blocked TGF-β1-induced ROS generation and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase (Nox) 4 transcription. CONCLUSION These findings indicate that lobeglitazone may be a promising therapeutic agent for corneal scarring. KEY MESSAGES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selikem Nuwormegbe
- Department of Global Medical Science, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, Ilsan-ro, Gangwon-do, 26426, Republic of Korea
| | - Na-Young Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, Ilsan-ro, Gangwon-do, 26426, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Woong Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, Ilsan-ro, Gangwon-do, 26426, Republic of Korea.
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Jiménez-Villegas J, Ferraiuolo L, Mead RJ, Shaw PJ, Cuadrado A, Rojo AI. NRF2 as a therapeutic opportunity to impact in the molecular roadmap of ALS. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 173:125-141. [PMID: 34314817 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating heterogeneous disease with still no convincing therapy. To identify the most strategically significant hallmarks for therapeutic intervention, we have performed a comprehensive transcriptomics analysis of dysregulated pathways, comparing datasets from ALS patients and healthy donors. We have identified crucial alterations in RNA metabolism, intracellular transport, vascular system, redox homeostasis, proteostasis and inflammatory responses. Interestingly, the transcription factor NRF2 (nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2) has significant effects in modulating these pathways. NRF2 has been classically considered as the master regulator of the antioxidant cellular response, although it is currently considered as a key component of the transduction machinery to maintain coordinated control of protein quality, inflammation, and redox homeostasis. Herein, we will summarize the data from NRF2 activators in ALS pre-clinical models as well as those that are being studied in clinical trials. As we will discuss, NRF2 is a promising target to build a coordinated transcriptional response to motor neuron injury, highlighting its therapeutic potential to combat ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Jiménez-Villegas
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College, Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas "Alberto Sols" (CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Paz (IdiPaz), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - L Ferraiuolo
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - R J Mead
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - P J Shaw
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - A Cuadrado
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College, Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas "Alberto Sols" (CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Paz (IdiPaz), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - A I Rojo
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College, Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas "Alberto Sols" (CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Paz (IdiPaz), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain.
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Zhu S, Chen X, Wang JN, Xu JJ, Wang A, Li JJ, Wu S, Wu YY, Li XF, Huang C, Li J. Circular RNA circUbe2k promotes hepatic fibrosis via sponging miR-149-5p/TGF-β2 axis. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21622. [PMID: 33982351 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202002738r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Abundant regulatory genes and complex circuits involving non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) monitor the formation and development of hepatic fibrosis (HF). Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of RNAs generated from protein coding genes by back-splicing, playing crucial roles in various pathological processes, including HF. However, little is known about mechanisms of action of circRNAs, let alone in HF. In this study, we found circUbe2k enhanced in CCl4 -induced HF mice and LX-2 cells stimulated with TGF-β1, regulating the development of HF. Restraining the expression of circUbe2k inhibited α-SMA and Col1α1 expression in CCl4 -induced HF mice and in LX-2 cells stimulated with TGF-β1. Furthermore, inhibiting circUbe2k expression reduced hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation and proliferation in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, we demonstrated a direct interaction between circUbe2k and miR-149-5p, which results in the modulation of TGF-β2 expressions. Together, circUbe2k may act as a "catalyst" of HSCs activation and HF through the circUbe2k/miR-149-5p/TGF-β2 axis. Our results provide unprecedented evidence for a significant role for circUbe2k to serve as a potential biomarker for HF therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Zhu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, China.,Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China.,School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, China.,Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China.,School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jia-Nan Wang
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, China.,Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China.,School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jin-Jin Xu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, China.,Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China.,School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ao Wang
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, China.,Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China.,School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Juan-Juan Li
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, China.,Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China.,School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Sha Wu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, China.,Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China.,School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Wu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, China.,Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China.,School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Li
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, China.,Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, China.,Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China.,School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jun Li
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, China.,Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China.,School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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Tumor Immune Microenvironment and Immunosuppressive Therapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115801. [PMID: 34071550 PMCID: PMC8198390 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 62.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer has the fourth highest mortality rate of all cancers worldwide, with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) being the most prevalent subtype. Despite great advances in systemic therapy, such as molecular-targeted agents, HCC has one of the worst prognoses due to drug resistance and frequent recurrence and metastasis. Recently, new therapeutic strategies such as cancer immunosuppressive therapy have prolonged patients' lives, and the combination of an immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) and VEGF inhibitor is now positioned as the first-line therapy for advanced HCC. Since the efficacy of ICIs depends on the tumor immune microenvironment, it is necessary to elucidate the immune environment of HCC to select appropriate ICIs. In this review, we summarize the findings on the immune microenvironment and immunosuppressive approaches focused on monoclonal antibodies against cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein 4 and programmed cell death protein 1 for HCC. We also describe ongoing treatment modalities, including adoptive cell transfer-based therapies and future areas of exploration based on recent literature. The results of pre-clinical studies using immunological classification and animal models will contribute to the development of biomarkers that predict the efficacy of immunosuppressive therapy and aid in the selection of appropriate strategies for HCC treatment.
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36
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Hiebert P. The Nrf2 transcription factor: A multifaceted regulator of the extracellular matrix. Matrix Biol Plus 2021; 10:100057. [PMID: 34195594 PMCID: PMC8233472 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbplus.2021.100057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is widely recognized as a master regulator of the cellular stress response by facilitating the transcription of cytoprotective genes. As such, the Nrf2 pathway is critical in guarding the cell from the harmful effects of excessive reactive oxygen species/reactive nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) and in maintaining cellular redox balance. While excessive ROS/RNS are harmful to the cell, physiological levels of ROS/RNS play important roles in regulating numerous signaling pathways important for normal cellular function, including the synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM). Recent advances have underscored the importance of ROS/RNS, and by extension, factors that influence redox-balance such as Nrf2, in regulating ECM production and deposition. In addition to reducing the oxidative burden in the cell, the discovery that Nrf2 can also directly target genes that regulate and form the ECM has cemented it as a multifaceted player in the regulation of ECM proteins, and provides new insight into its potential usefulness as a target for treating ECM-related pathologies. Reactive oxygen/nitrogen species regulate extracellular matrix. Nrf2 can directly target extracellular matrix gene transcription. Regulation of extracellular matrix by Nrf2 potentially impacts tissue repair/cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Hiebert
- Institute for Molecular Health Sciences, Department of Biology, ETH Zürich, Zürich 8093, Switzerland
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37
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Bai Y, Wang W, Wang L, Ma L, Zhai D, Wang F, Shi R, Liu C, Xu Q, Chen G, Lu Z. Obacunone Attenuates Liver Fibrosis with Enhancing Anti-Oxidant Effects of GPx-4 and Inhibition of EMT. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26020318. [PMID: 33435504 PMCID: PMC7827035 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26020318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Obacunone, a limonin triterpenoid extracted from Phellodendronchinense Schneid or Dictamnus dasycarpusb Turcz plant, elicits a variety of pharmacological effects such as anti-inflammatory, anti-neoplastic, anti-oxidation, and anti-lung-fibrosis ones. However, the anti-fibrotic effect of obacunone and the detailed underlying mechanism in liver fibrosis remain unclear. Liver fibrosis is a debilitating disease threatening human health. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β/P-Smad is a major pathway of fibrosis featured with epithelia mesenchymal transformations (EMT) and collagen depositions, accompanying with excessive oxygen-free radicals. Nrf-2 acts as a key anti-oxidative regulator driving the expressions of various antioxidant-related genes. Glutathionperoxidase-4 (GPx-4) is a member of the glutathione peroxidase family that directly inhibits phospholipid oxidation to alleviate oxidative stress. In the present study, we aimed to explore the role of obacunone in mouse liver fibrosis model induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and in hepatic stellate cells (LX2 cell line) challenging with TGF-β. Obacunone demonstrated potent ameliorative effects on liver fibrosis both in activated LX2 and in mice liver tissues with reduced levels of α-SMA, collagen1, and vimentin. Obacunone also remarkably suppressed the TGF-β/P-Smad signals and EMT process. Meanwhile, obacunone exerted a potent anti-oxidation effect by reducing the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in both models. The antioxidant effect of obacunone was attributed to the activation of GPx-4 and Nrf-2. In addition, the therapeutic effect of obacunone on LX2 cells was significantly removed in vitro plus with GPx-4 antagonist RSL3, in parallel with the re-elevated levels of ROS. Thus, we demonstrate that obacunone is able to attenuate liver fibrosis via enhancing GPx-4 signal and inhibition of the TGF-β/P-Smad pathway and EMT process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongquan Bai
- The College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710127, China; (Y.B.); (L.M.); (F.W.); (R.S.); (C.L.); (Q.X.)
| | - Wenwen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biopharmaceutics, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi’an 710083, China; (W.W.); (L.W.)
| | - Li Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biopharmaceutics, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi’an 710083, China; (W.W.); (L.W.)
| | - Lirong Ma
- The College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710127, China; (Y.B.); (L.M.); (F.W.); (R.S.); (C.L.); (Q.X.)
| | - Dongsheng Zhai
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an 710083, China;
| | - Furong Wang
- The College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710127, China; (Y.B.); (L.M.); (F.W.); (R.S.); (C.L.); (Q.X.)
| | - Rui Shi
- The College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710127, China; (Y.B.); (L.M.); (F.W.); (R.S.); (C.L.); (Q.X.)
| | - Chaoyang Liu
- The College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710127, China; (Y.B.); (L.M.); (F.W.); (R.S.); (C.L.); (Q.X.)
| | - Qing Xu
- The College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710127, China; (Y.B.); (L.M.); (F.W.); (R.S.); (C.L.); (Q.X.)
| | - Guo Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biopharmaceutics, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi’an 710083, China; (W.W.); (L.W.)
- Correspondence: (G.C.); (Z.L.); Tel.: +86-186-2904-7181 (G.C.); +86-152-0296-3679 (Z.L.)
| | - Zifan Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biopharmaceutics, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi’an 710083, China; (W.W.); (L.W.)
- Correspondence: (G.C.); (Z.L.); Tel.: +86-186-2904-7181 (G.C.); +86-152-0296-3679 (Z.L.)
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Wang JH, Lee SB, Lee DS, Son CG. Total Antioxidant Capacity in HBV Carriers, a Promising Biomarker for Evaluating Hepatic Fibrosis: A Pilot Study. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10010077. [PMID: 33435626 PMCID: PMC7826661 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10010077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in the progression of chronic hepatitis B; however, it is unclear whether the status of blood oxidative stress and antioxidant components differs depending on the degree of hepatic fibrosis. To explore the relationship between oxidative stress/antioxidant capacity and the extent of hepatic fibrosis, fifty-four subjects with liver fibrosis (5.5 ≤ liver stiffness measurement (LSM) score ≤ 16.0 kPa) by chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) were analyzed. From the analysis of eight kinds of serum oxidative stress/antioxidant profiles and liver fibrosis degrees, the level of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) reflected a negative correlation with the severity of hepatic fibrosis (Pearson correlation, r = −0.35, p = 0.01). Moreover, TAC showed higher sensitivity (73.91%) than the aspartate transaminase (AST) to platelet ratio index (APRI, 56.52%) in the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Interestingly, the TAC level finely reflected the fibrosis degree in inactive carriers (HBV DNA < 2000 IU/mL), while the APRI did in active carriers (HBV DNA > 2000 IU/mL). In conclusion, TAC is a promising biomarker for evaluating the progression of liver fibrosis in patients with HBV, and this finding may indicate the involvement of TAC-composing factors in the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrosis in chronic HBV carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Hua Wang
- Institute of Bioscience & Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, 75, Daedeok-daero 176, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35235, Korea; (J.-H.W.); (S.-B.L.)
| | - Sung-Bae Lee
- Institute of Bioscience & Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, 75, Daedeok-daero 176, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35235, Korea; (J.-H.W.); (S.-B.L.)
| | - Dong-Soo Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Daejeon St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 64, Daeheung-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 34943, Korea;
| | - Chang-Gue Son
- Institute of Bioscience & Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, 75, Daedeok-daero 176, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35235, Korea; (J.-H.W.); (S.-B.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-42-229-6723; Fax: +82-42-257-6398
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Novel Heme Oxygenase-1 (HO-1) Inducers Based on Dimethyl Fumarate Structure. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21249541. [PMID: 33333908 PMCID: PMC7765375 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Novel heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) inducers based on dimethyl fumarate (DMF) structure are reported in this paper. These compounds are obtained by modification of the DMF backbone. Particularly, maintaining the α, β-unsaturated dicarbonyl function as the central chain crucial for HO-1 induction, different substituted or unsubstituted phenyl rings are introduced by means of an ester or amide linkage. Symmetric and asymmetric derivatives are synthesized. All compounds are tested on a human hepatic stellate cell line LX-2 to assay their capacity for modifying HO-1 expression. Compounds 1b, 1l and 1m stand out for their potency as HO-1 inducers, being 2–3 fold more active than DMF, and for their ability to reverse reactive oxygen species (ROS) production mediated using palmitic acid (PA). These properties, coupled with a low toxicity toward LX-2 cell lines, make these compounds potentially useful for treatment of diseases in which HO-1 overexpression may counteract inflammation, such as hepatic fibrosis. Docking studies show a correlation between predicted binding free energy and experimental HO-1 expression data. These preliminary results may support the development of new approaches in the management of liver fibrosis.
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