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Yao H, He Q, Xiang L, Liu S, Yang Z, Li X, Liu W, Huang C, Wang B, Xie Q, Gao Y, Zheng C, Li X. Guizhi Fuling Wan attenuates tetrachloromethane-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats via PTEN/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 334:118593. [PMID: 39032663 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118593] [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: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 07/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Treatment options for hepatic fibrosis, a prevalent liver condition closely linked to cirrhosis, are currently limited. While Guizhi Fuling Wan (GFW), a pill derived from traditional Chinese herbs, has been reported to possess hepatoprotective properties, its therapeutic effect and mechanism in hepatic fibrosis remain elusive. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to evaluate the anti-fibrotic impact of GFW and its underlying mechanisms in both in vivo and in vitro settings. MATERIALS AND METHODS Tetrachloromethane (CCl4) was used to induce hepatic fibrosis in male rats. In vitro, activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) was triggered by platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB). In vivo, liver function, pathological alterations, and HSC activation were evaluated. Additionally, the impact of GFW on the activated phenotypes of Lieming Xu-2 (LX-2) cells was examined in vitro. Network pharmacology was employed to identify the potential targets of GFW in hepatic fibrosis. Lastly, the impact of GFW on the PTEN/AKT/mTOR pathway and PTEN ubiquitination in HSCs was investigated. RESULTS GFW alleviated CCl4-induced liver damage and scarring in rats in a dose-dependent manner and suppressed HSC activation in vivo. Moreover, GFW inhibited the proliferation, migration, differentiation, and extracellular matrix (ECM) production of activated HSCs in vitro. GFW also promoted autophagy and apoptosis of HSCs. Meanwhile, network pharmacology and in vitro studies suggested that GFW inhibits the AKT/mTOR pathway by preventing PTEN degradation by suppressing ubiquitination. CONCLUSION GFW attenuates Ccl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in male rats by regulating the PTEN/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, positioning it as a potential candidate for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Yao
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, Sichuan, China; Sichuan Provincial Engineering Research Center of Innovative Re-development of Famous Classical Formulas, Tianfu TCM Innovation Harbour, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611930, China.
| | - Qingman He
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610072, Sichuan, China.
| | - Li Xiang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610072, Sichuan, China.
| | - Sixian Liu
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610072, Sichuan, China.
| | - Zhuodi Yang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610072, Sichuan, China.
| | - Xue Li
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610072, Sichuan, China.
| | - Weiwei Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, Sichuan, China.
| | - Cong Huang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, Sichuan, China.
| | - Baojia Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, Sichuan, China.
| | - Qian Xie
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, Sichuan, China.
| | - Yongxiang Gao
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610072, Sichuan, China.
| | - Chuan Zheng
- Sichuan Provincial Engineering Research Center of Innovative Re-development of Famous Classical Formulas, Tianfu TCM Innovation Harbour, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611930, China; TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610072, China.
| | - Xueping Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, Sichuan, China.
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Meng L, Lv H, Kong Q, Li S, Jiang N, Yu C, Duan Z, Xiao Y, Liu Y. The combination of paeoniflorin and metformin synergistically inhibits the progression of liver fibrosis in mice. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 981:176917. [PMID: 39154824 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a pathological process that endangers human health, for which effective treatments remain elusive to date. Paeoniflorin (PAE), a pineane-type monoter penoid compound from the traditional Chinese medicine PaeoniaeRubra Radix, and metformin (MET), an oral biguanide hypoglycemic agent, both demonstrate anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects. In current work, we first discovered that the combined treatment of PAE and MET synergistically inhibited the progression of liver fibrosis in two different animal models: therapeutic and preventive. This therapeutic effect is evidenced by a reduction in the expression levels of liver fibrosis markers and an improvement in histopathological characteristics. Mechanistic exploration further revealed that this combination therapy downregulated the expression of TGF-β1 and p-Smad2, while upregulating Smad7 expression in both models. Importantly, we also found that this combinatorial approach significantly reduced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in both models. Our findings suggest an effective combination therapy for liver fibrosis and provide the possibility of therapeutic improvement for patients with liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingjie Meng
- Guizhou Provincial College-based Key Lab for Tumor Prevention and Treatment with Distinctive Medicines, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; Institute of Life Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China
| | - Huijing Lv
- Guizhou Provincial College-based Key Lab for Tumor Prevention and Treatment with Distinctive Medicines, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; Institute of Life Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China
| | - Qinghong Kong
- Guizhou Provincial College-based Key Lab for Tumor Prevention and Treatment with Distinctive Medicines, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; Institute of Life Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China
| | - Sanhua Li
- Guizhou Provincial College-based Key Lab for Tumor Prevention and Treatment with Distinctive Medicines, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; Institute of Life Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China
| | - Nian Jiang
- Guizhou Provincial College-based Key Lab for Tumor Prevention and Treatment with Distinctive Medicines, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; Institute of Life Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China
| | - Changyan Yu
- Guizhou Provincial College-based Key Lab for Tumor Prevention and Treatment with Distinctive Medicines, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; Institute of Life Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China
| | - Zhen Duan
- Topscience Company Limited, Shanghai, 200436, China.
| | - Yi Xiao
- Guizhou Provincial College-based Key Lab for Tumor Prevention and Treatment with Distinctive Medicines, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; Institute of Life Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China.
| | - Yun Liu
- Guizhou Provincial College-based Key Lab for Tumor Prevention and Treatment with Distinctive Medicines, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; Institute of Life Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; School of Forensic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China.
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Li Y, Zhang J, Chen S, Ke Y, Li Y, Chen Y. Growth differentiation factor 15: Emerging role in liver diseases. Cytokine 2024; 182:156727. [PMID: 39111112 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2024.156727] [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: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/25/2024]
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) is a cell stress-response cytokine within the transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) superfamily. It is known to exert diverse effects on many metabolic pathways through its receptor GFRAL, which is expressed in the hindbrain, and transduces signals through the downstream receptor tyrosine kinase Ret. Since the liver is the core organ of metabolism, summarizing the functions of GDF15 is highly important. In this review, we assessed the relevant literature regarding the main metabolic, inflammatory, fibrogenic, tumorigenic and other effects of GDF15 on different liver diseases, including Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD), alcohol and drug-induced liver injury, as well as autoimmune and viral hepatitis, with a particular focus on the pathogenesis of MASLD progression from hepatic steatosis to MASH, liver fibrosis and even hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Finally, we discuss the prospects of the clinical application potential of GDF15 along with its research and development progress. With better knowledge of GDF15, increasing in-depth research will lead to a new era in the field of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Shurong Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Yini Ke
- Department of Rheumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Youming Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China.
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Deng J, Long J, Yang Y, Yang F, Wei Y. Gentiana decoction inhibits liver fibrosis and the activation of hepatic stellate cells via upregulating the expression of Parkin. Fitoterapia 2024; 178:106170. [PMID: 39122121 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2024.106170] [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: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a wound-healing process. It can be induced by various chronic liver diseases. Liver fibrosis is characterized by the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), a key event. However, no effective treatment strategies to cure or alleviate liver fibrosis-induced pathologic changes have yet been developed. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) exhibits a good anti-fibrosis action, with few side effects. Gentiana decoction, a TCM also called Longdan Xiegan Tang (LXT), is used for purging the liver in clinical settings. However, the role of LXT in preventing liver fibrosis and the underlying regulatory mechanism have not yet been investigated. This study demonstrates that LXT treatment can protect the liver from the injuries resulting from CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in mice and suppress the activation of HSCs. The mice in the LXT group exhibit litter collagen I and HSC activation marker α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression. Transcriptome sequencing of the mouse liver tissue reveals that the level of Parkin, a mitophagy marker, decreased in CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. Further study shows that the injection of Parkin-overexpression adeno-associated virus (Parkin-AAV) via the tail vein can reduce CCl4-induced liver fibrogenesis in mice. We conducted a mechanistic study also, which suggests that LXT treatment suppresses the activation of HSCs by upregulating the expression of Parkin. Hence, it can be suggested that LXT inhibits liver fibrosis by activating the Parkin signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Deng
- Guangzhou Institute of Cancer Research, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Hengzhi 78nd Road, Guangzhou 510095, China.
| | - Jun Long
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neuroscience Center, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510310, PR China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, 74 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Fengyu Yang
- Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, 74 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yongjie Wei
- Guangzhou Institute of Cancer Research, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Hengzhi 78nd Road, Guangzhou 510095, China.
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5
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Wang Q, Lu T, Song P, Dong Y, Dai C, Zhang W, Jia X, Guo Z, Zhao M, Zhang J, Wang P, Wang J, Guo Q. Glycyrrhizic acid ameliorates hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting oxidative stress via AKR7A2. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 133:155878. [PMID: 39121535 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155878] [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: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic fibrosis is a reversible pathological phenomenon caused by the abnormal proliferation of connective tissues in the liver for self-repair after persistent liver injury. Among these tissues, the activation status of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is crucial. Glycyrrhizic acid (GA) agents have been proven to have excellent anti-fibrosis effects, but their targets are unclear. PURPOSE To investigate the anti-hepatic fibrosis effect of GA and its target in activated HSCs. METHODS A mouse model of hepatic fibrosis was prepared with 20 % carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and GA was administered continuously for 4 weeks. Subsequently, the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), type Ⅲ procollagen peptide (P III P), laminin (LN), hyaluronic acid (HA), and type Ⅳ collagen (Col Ⅳ) were measured. Liver tissues were subjected to hematoxylin and eosin (HE), Masson, and Sirius red staining and proteome sequencing analysis. Based on LX-2 cells, activity-based protein profiling (ABPP) was used to investigate the potential targets of GA, which was further validated by the cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA), immunofluorescence co-localization, molecular docking, small interfering RNA (siRNA) and western blot (WB) assays. RESULTS In vivo, GA significantly reduced serum ALT, AST, HA, P III P, Col IV, and LN levels. HE, Masson, and Sirius red staining showed that GA significantly ameliorated hepatic inflammatory response and collagen deposition in CCl4-treated mice. Proteome sequencing results showed that GA mainly regulated glutathione S-transferase family members involved in glutathione metabolism. In vitro, GA significantly inhibited LX-2 cell proliferation and reduced reactive oxygen species accumulation. ABPP suggested that aldo-keto reductase family 7 member A2 (AKR7A2) was the major binding protein of GA in LX-2 cells. CETSA, fluorescence co-localization, molecular docking, and surface plasmon resonance further validated GA binding to AKR7A2. The WB results showed that GA up-regulated AKR7A2 expression both in vitro and in vivo and was corroborated by siRNA experiments. CONCLUSION GA targeted AKR7A2 in LX-2 cells to defend against sustained oxidative stress injury, thereby inhibiting the proliferation of activated HSCs and reversing hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qixin Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, PR China
| | - Tianming Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, PR China
| | - Ping Song
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, PR China
| | - Yanqi Dong
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, PR China
| | - Chuanhao Dai
- State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, PR China
| | - Wenjing Zhang
- Chinese Medical Association, Beijing, 100710, PR China
| | - Xuan Jia
- State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, PR China
| | - Zuchang Guo
- State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, PR China
| | - Minghong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, PR China
| | - Junzhe Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, PR China
| | - Peili Wang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, PR China.
| | - Jigang Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, PR China; Department of Nephrology, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Shenzhen Clinical Research Center for Geriatric, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, Guangdong, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, PR China.
| | - Qiuyan Guo
- State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, PR China.
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Elmorsy EA, Saber S, Hamad RS, Abdel-Reheim MA, Nadwa EH, Alibrahim AOE, Alkhamiss AS, AlSalloom AA, Mohamed EA, Nour-El-Din M, Amer MM, Abdel-Hamed MR, Mohamed NB, Abozaid L, Mostafa-Hedeab G, Ahmed SS, Taha HH, Khalifa AK. Modulating the HSP90 control over NFκB/NLRP3/Caspase-1 axis is a new therapeutic target in the management of liver fibrosis: Insights into the role of TAS-116 (Pimitespib). Life Sci 2024; 354:122966. [PMID: 39147320 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122966] [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: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 07/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome is recognized to induce a chronic inflammatory response in the liver, ultimately leading to hepatic fibrosis. HSP90 is suggested to regulate NLRP3 activation and its downstream signaling. This study is the first to explore the potential therapeutic role of pimitespib in mitigating liver fibrosis in rats. The results of the study revealed that pimitespib effectively suppressed hepatic inflammation and fibrogenesis by modulating HSP90's control over the NFκB/NLRP3/caspase-1 axis. In vitro experiments demonstrated that pimitespib reduced LDH levels and increased hepatocyte survival, whereas in vivo, it prolonged the survival of rats with hepatic fibrosis. Additionally, pimitespib exhibited improvements in the function and microscopic characteristics of rat livers. Pimitespib effectively inhibited NFκB, which serves as the priming signal for NLRP3 activation. Pimitespib's inhibitory effect on NLRP3, identified as an HSP90 client protein, plays a central role in the observed anti-fibrotic effect. The simultaneous inhibition of both priming and activation signals of NLRP3 by pimitespib led to a reduction in caspase-1 activity and subsequent suppression of the N-terminal fragment of gasdermin D, ultimately constraining hepatocyte pyroptotic cell death. These diverse effects were associated with a decrease in the transcription of inflammatory mediators IL-1β, IL-18, and TNF-α, as well as the fibrogenic mediators TGF-β, TIMP-1, PDGF-BB, and Col1a1. Moreover, pimitespib induced the expression of HSP70, which could further contribute to the repression of fibrosis development. In summary, our findings provide an evolutionary perspective on managing liver fibrosis, positioning pimitespib as a promising candidate for anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsayed A Elmorsy
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah 51452, Saudi Arabia; Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.
| | - Sameh Saber
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa 11152, Egypt.
| | - Rabab S Hamad
- Biological Sciences Department, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; Central Laboratory, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza 12411, Egypt.
| | - Mustafa Ahmed Abdel-Reheim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Shaqra University, Shaqra 11961, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef 62521, Egypt.
| | - Eman Hassan Nadwa
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia; Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt.
| | - Alaa Oqalaa E Alibrahim
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Abdullah S Alkhamiss
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah 51452, Saudi Arabia.
| | - A A AlSalloom
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah 51452, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Enas A Mohamed
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah 51452, Saudi Arabia; Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - M Nour-El-Din
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah 51452, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Maha M Amer
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah 51452, Saudi Arabia; Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed R Abdel-Hamed
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah 51452, Saudi Arabia; Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Nahla B Mohamed
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah 51452, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Lobaina Abozaid
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah 51452, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Gomaa Mostafa-Hedeab
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia; Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt.
| | - Syed Suhail Ahmed
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah 51452, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Hagir Hussein Taha
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Unaizah College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Unaizah 51452, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Amira Karam Khalifa
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt; Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Nahda University, New Beni Suef 62521, Egypt.
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Zheng S, Xue C, Li S, Qi W, Zao X, Li X, Wang W, Liu Q, Cao X, Zhang P, Ye Y. Research Progress of Chinese Medicine in the Regulation of Liver Fibrosis-Related Signaling Pathways. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2024:1-36. [PMID: 39343991 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x24500666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a common complication of chronic liver disease, significantly affecting patients' quality of life and potentially leading to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite advancements in modern medicine, the treatment of liver fibrosis remains limited and challenging. Thus, identifying new therapeutic strategies is of great clinical importance. Signaling pathways related to liver fibrosis play a crucial regulatory role in immune response and inflammation. Aberrant activation of specific pathways, such as the NF-[Formula: see text]B signaling pathway, results in the overexpression of genes associated with liver inflammation and fibrosis, thereby promoting the progression of liver fibrosis. Chinese medicine offers unique potential advantages as a therapeutic approach. Recent studies have increasingly demonstrated that certain Chinese medicines can effectively treat liver fibrosis by regulating relevant signaling pathways. The active ingredients in these medicines can inhibit hepatic inflammatory responses and fibrotic processes by interfering with these pathways, thus reducing the severity of liver fibrosis. This paper aims to investigate the mechanisms of Chinese medicine in treating liver fibrosis and its modulation of related signaling pathways. Additionally, it discusses the prospects of the clinical application of these treatments and provides valuable references for further research and clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shihao Zheng
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100007, P. R. China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Chengyuan Xue
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100007, P. R. China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Size Li
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100007, P. R. China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Wenying Qi
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100007, P. R. China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Xiaobin Zao
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100007, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoke Li
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100007, P. R. China
- Liver Diseases Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Wei Wang
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100007, P. R. China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Qiyao Liu
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100007, P. R. China
- Liver Diseases Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Xu Cao
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100007, P. R. China
- Liver Diseases Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yongan Ye
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100007, P. R. China
- Liver Diseases Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, P. R. China
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Lin Y, Zhang Y, Li Y, Xu Q, Zhang Y, Chen T, Wang J, Li J, Gong J, Chen Z, Yang Q, Li X. EGCG suppressed activation of hepatic stellate cells by regulating the PLCE1/IP 3/Ca 2+ pathway. Eur J Nutr 2024:10.1007/s00394-024-03504-w. [PMID: 39325099 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-024-03504-w] [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: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
(-)-Epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG), one of the green tea catechins, exhibits significant antioxidant properties that play an essential role in various diseases. However, the functional role and underlying mechanism of EGCG in stimulating of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) remain unexplored in transcriptomics sequencing studies. The present study suggests that oral administration of EGCG at a dosage of 200 mg/kg/day for a duration of four weeks exhibits significant therapeutic potential in a murine model of liver fibrosis induced by CCl4. The activation of HSCs in vitro was dose-dependently inhibited by EGCG. The sequencing analysis data reveled that EGCG exerted a regulatory effect on the calcium signal in mouse HSCs, resulting in a decrease in calcium ion concentration. Further analysis revealed that EGCG inhibited the expression of phospholipase C epsilon-1 (PLCE1) and inositol 1, 4, 5-trisphosphate (IP3) in activated mouse HSCs. Additionally, EGCG contributes to the reduction the concentration of calcium ions by regulating PLCE1. After the knockdown of PLCE1, free calcium ion concentrations decreased, resulting in the inhibition of both cell proliferation and migration. Interestingly, the expression of PLCE1 and cytosolic calcium levels were regulated by reactive oxygen species(ROS). Furthermore, our findings suggest that ROS might inhibit the expression of PLCE1 by inhibiting TFEB, a transcription activator involved in the nuclear translocation process. Our study provided novel evidence regarding the regulatory effects of EGCG on activated HSCs (aHSCs) in mice by the calcium signaling pathway, emphasizing the crucial role of PLCE1 within the calcium signaling network of HSCs. The proposition was also made that PLCE1 holds promise as a novel therapeutic target for murine liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Lin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1838, North of Guangzhou Avenue, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1838, North of Guangzhou Avenue, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1838, North of Guangzhou Avenue, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Qihan Xu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1838, North of Guangzhou Avenue, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Yijie Zhang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1838, North of Guangzhou Avenue, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Tingting Chen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1838, North of Guangzhou Avenue, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1838, North of Guangzhou Avenue, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jierui Li
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1838, North of Guangzhou Avenue, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jiacheng Gong
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1838, North of Guangzhou Avenue, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Zhuoer Chen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1838, North of Guangzhou Avenue, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Qiaomu Yang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1838, North of Guangzhou Avenue, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Xu Li
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1838, North of Guangzhou Avenue, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, 510515, China.
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Agusti A, Molina-Mendoza GV, Tamayo M, Rossini V, Cenit MC, Frances-Cuesta C, Tolosa-Enguis V, Gómez Del Pulgar EM, Flor-Duro A, Sanz Y. Christensenella minuta mitigates behavioral and cardiometabolic hallmarks of social defeat stress. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 180:117377. [PMID: 39316970 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117377] [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: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Psychological stress during early development and adolescence may increase the risk of psychiatric and cardiometabolic comorbidities in adulthood. The gut microbiota has been associated with mental health problems such as depression and anxiety and with cardiometabolic disease, but the potential role of the gut microbiota in their comorbidity is not well understood. We investigated the effects and mode of action of the intestinal bacterium Christensenella minuta DSM 32891 on stress-induced mental health and cardiometabolic disturbances in a mouse model of social defeat stress. We demonstrate that administered C. minuta alleviates chronic stress-induced depressive, anxiogenic and antisocial behavior. These effects are attributed to the bacterium's ability to modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which mediates the stress response. This included the oversecretion of corticosterone and the overexpression of its receptors, as well as the metabolism of dopamine (DA) and the expression of its receptors (D1, D2L and D2S). Additionally, C. minuta administration reduced chronically induced inflammation in plasma, spleen and some brain areas, which likely contribute to the recovery of physical and behavioral function. Furthermore, C. minuta administration prevented chronic stress-induced cardiovascular damage by regulating key enzymes mediating liver fibrosis and oxidative stress. Finally, C. minuta increased the abundance of bacteria associated with mental health. Overall, our study highlights the potential of microbiota-directed interventions to alleviate both the physical and mental effects of chronic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Agusti
- Microbiome, Nutrition & Health Research Unit, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, Spanish National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), Valencia 46980, Spain.
| | - G V Molina-Mendoza
- Microbiome, Nutrition & Health Research Unit, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, Spanish National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), Valencia 46980, Spain
| | - M Tamayo
- Microbiome, Nutrition & Health Research Unit, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, Spanish National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), Valencia 46980, Spain; Department of Medicine, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - V Rossini
- Microbiome, Nutrition & Health Research Unit, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, Spanish National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), Valencia 46980, Spain
| | - M C Cenit
- Microbiome, Nutrition & Health Research Unit, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, Spanish National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), Valencia 46980, Spain; Department of Medicine, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - C Frances-Cuesta
- Microbiome, Nutrition & Health Research Unit, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, Spanish National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), Valencia 46980, Spain
| | - V Tolosa-Enguis
- Microbiome, Nutrition & Health Research Unit, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, Spanish National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), Valencia 46980, Spain
| | - E M Gómez Del Pulgar
- Microbiome, Nutrition & Health Research Unit, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, Spanish National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), Valencia 46980, Spain
| | - A Flor-Duro
- Microbiome, Nutrition & Health Research Unit, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, Spanish National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), Valencia 46980, Spain
| | - Y Sanz
- Microbiome, Nutrition & Health Research Unit, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, Spanish National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), Valencia 46980, Spain.
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10
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Li S, Fu X, Wang J, Yang H, Wang D, Dong X, Duan Y, Wang H, Yan Y, Si W. Therapeutic efficacy and in vivo distribution of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cell spheroids transplanted via B-Ultrasound-guided percutaneous portal vein puncture in rhesus monkey models of liver fibrosis. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:315. [PMID: 39300579 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03934-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver fibrosis can progress to end-stage cirrhosis and liver cancer. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were considered the most promising therapeutic strategy, but most of the MSCs injected intravenously traditionally are trapped in the lungs, rapidly reducing their survival ability. MSC spheroids cultured in 3D have shown higher tolerance to fluid shear stress and better survival than dissociated MSCs. Simulating the route of orthotopic liver transplantation, transplanting MSC spheroids into the liver via hepatic portal vein may impact superior therapeutic effects. METHODS In the present study, human umbilical cord-derived MSC spheroids (hUC-MSCsp) were transplanted into rhesus monkey models of liver fibrosis via B-ultrasound-guided percutaneous portal vein puncture with minimized body invasion. The therapeutic effect is evaluated through hematology, ultrasound, and pathology. To study the effect of hUC-MSCsp on gene expression in rhesus monkeys with liver injury, transcriptome sequencing analysis was performed on the livers of rhesus monkeys. The distribution of transplanted hUC-MSCsp was traced with RNA scope technology. RESULTS We found that hUC-MSCsp significantly restored liver function, including ALT, AST, ALB, GLOB and bilirubin. hUC-MSCsp also significantly reduced liver collagen deposition and inflammatory infiltration, and promote dismission of liver ascites. Subsequently, the therapeutic effects were further validated in TGF-β1/Smad pathway by global transcription profile. The distribution of transplanted hUC-MSCsp were also tracked, and we found that hUC-MSCsp distributed in the liver in a sphere status at 1 h after transplantation. After 16 days, the hUC-MSCsp were dispersed into dissociated cells that were predominantly distributed in the spleen, and a significant number of dissociated cells were still present in the liver. CONCLUSIONS This study reveals the distributions of transplanted hUC-MSCsp after liver portal vein transplantation, and provides a novel approach and new insights into the molecular events of potential molecular events underlying the treatment of liver fibrosis with hUC-MSCsp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650504, China
| | - Xufeng Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650504, China
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Junfeng Wang
- Department of Hepatic and Bile Duct Surgery, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, 650105, China
| | - Hongju Yang
- Geriatric Medical Center, Division of geriatric Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Dan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650504, China
| | - Xudong Dong
- Department of Obstetrics, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, 650105, China
| | - Yanchao Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650504, China
| | - Hong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650504, China
| | - Yaping Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650504, China.
| | - Wei Si
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650504, China.
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11
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Pan M, Li H, Shi X. A New Target for Hepatic Fibrosis Prevention and Treatment: The Warburg Effect. FRONT BIOSCI-LANDMRK 2024; 29:321. [PMID: 39344326 DOI: 10.31083/j.fbl2909321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a major public health problem that endangers human wellbeing. In recent years, a number of studies have revealed the important impact of metabolic reprogramming on the occurrence and development of hepatic fibrosis. Among them, the Warburg effect, as an intracellular glucose metabolism reprogramming, can promote the occurrence and development of hepatic fibrosis by promoting the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and inducing the polarization of liver macrophages (KC). Understanding the Warburg effect and its important role in the progression of hepatic fibrosis will assist in developing new strategies for the prevention and treatment of hepatic fibrosis. This review focuses on the Warburg effect and the specific mechanism by which it affects the progression of hepatic fibrosis by regulating HSCs activation and KC polarization. In addition, we also summarize and discuss the related experimental drugs and their mechanisms that inhibit the Warburg effect by targeting key proteins of glycolysis in order to improve hepatic fibrosis in the hope of providing more effective strategies for the clinical treatment of hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Pan
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, 712046 Xianyang, Shaanxi, China
| | - Huanyu Li
- Second Clinical Medical College, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, 712046 Xianyang, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaoyan Shi
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, 712046 Xianyang, Shaanxi, China
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12
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R LC, P F CM, M UE, V J BB. Hepatic schistosomiasis as a determining factor in the development of hepatic granulomas and liver fibrosis: a review of the current literature. Pathog Glob Health 2024:1-9. [PMID: 39268619 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2024.2400033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatic schistosomiasis is a neglected parasitosis that affects millions of people each year worldwide and leads to high healthcare costs and increased morbidity and mortality in infected humans. It is a disease that has been widely studied in terms of its pathophysiology; therefore, the signaling pathways that lead to liver damage, with the consequent development of liver fibrosis, are now better understood. Research has elucidated the role of soluble egg antigen in the development of hepatic granulomas and liver fibrosis, the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 and its participation in liver damage, the role of heat shock protein 47 and its involvement in liver fibrosis, the anti-inflammatory effects caused by interleukin-37, and the role of natural killer and natural killer T cells in the development of the disease. Hepatic schistosomiasis can range from simple hepatomegaly to the development of portal hypertension combined with hepatic fibrosis. For diagnostic purposes, a microscopic examination of excreta remains the gold standard; however, abdominal ultrasound has recently taken on an important role in the assessment of liver lesions produced by the parasite. Praziquantel is considered the management drug of choice, and has been associated with a potential preventive antifibrotic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara-Cano R
- Translational Research Unit, Medica Sur Clinic & Foundation, Mexico City, Mexico
- Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Uribe-Esquivel M
- Gastroenterology and Obesity Unit, Medica Sur Clinic & Foundation, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Barbero-Becerra V J
- Translational Research Unit, Medica Sur Clinic & Foundation, Mexico City, Mexico
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13
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Guo Q, Yang A, Zhao R, Zhao H, Mu Y, Zhang J, Han Q, Su Y. Nimodipine ameliorates liver fibrosis via reshaping liver immune microenvironment in TAA-induced in mice. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 138:112586. [PMID: 38955030 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112586] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Nimodipine, a calcium antagonist, exert beneficial neurovascular protective effects in clinic. Recently, Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) was reported to protect against liver fibrosis in mice, while the exact effects of Nimodipine on liver injury and hepatic fibrosis remain unclear. In this study, we assessed the effect of nimodipine in Thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrosis mouse model. Then, the collagen deposition and liver inflammation were assessed by HE straining. Also, the frequency and phenotype of NK cells, CD4+T and CD8+T cells and MDSC in liver and spleen were analyzed using flow cytometry. Furthermore, activation and apoptosis of primary Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and HSC line LX2 were detected using α-SMA staining and TUNEL assay, respectively. We found that nimodipine administration significantly attenuated liver inflammation and fibrosis. And the increase of the numbers of hepatic NK and NKT cells, a reversed CD4+/CD8+T ratio, and reduced the numbers of MDSC were observed after nimodipine treatment. Furthermore, nimodipine administration significantly decreased α-SMA expression in liver tissues, and increased TUNEL staining adjacent to hepatic stellate cells. Nimodipine also reduced the proliferation of LX2, and significantly promoted high level of apoptosis in vitro. Moreover, nimodipine downregulated Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl, simultaneously increased expression of JNK, p-JNK, and Caspase-3. Together, nimodipine mediated suppression of growth and fibrogenesis of HSCs may warrant its potential use in the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quanjuan Guo
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Ailu Yang
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Rongrong Zhao
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Huajun Zhao
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yongliang Mu
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Qiuju Han
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China.
| | - Yuhang Su
- Department of Emergency Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China.
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14
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Nian X, Lin P, Bai Y, Yu D, Yang X, Zhou B, Gao J, Zhao Y. Osr1-mediated mesothelial transition of liver mesenchymal cells exacerbates fibrotic liver damage. Mol Ther 2024; 32:2984-2991. [PMID: 38414241 PMCID: PMC11403217 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.02.024] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
In chronic liver diseases, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are induced to form the myofibroblasts responsible for scar formation, leading to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Here, single-cell RNA sequencing with in vivo lineage tracing in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) model mice reveals a subpopulation of HSCs transitioning back to a state resembling their developmental precursors, mesothelial cells (MCs), after liver injury. These damage-associated intermediates between HSCs and MCs (DIHMs) can be traced with a dual recombinase system by labeling Krt19-expressing cells within prelabeled Pdgfrb+ HSCs, and DIHMs highly express inflammation- and fibrosis-associated genes. Cre and Dre-inducible depletion of DIHMs by administering diphtheria toxin reduces liver fibrosis and alleviates liver damage in NASH model mice. Importantly, knockdown of Osr1, a zinc finger transcription factor of the OSR gene family, can block DIHM induction in vitro. Conditional knockout Osr1 in Pdgfrb-expressing mesenchymal cells in NASH model mice can reduce liver fibrosis in vivo. Our study collectively uncovers an injury-induced developmental reversion process wherein HSCs undergo what we call a mesenchymal-to-mesothelial transition, which can be targeted to develop interventions to treat chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Nian
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiometabolic Molecular Medicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Science, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Pengyan Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiometabolic Molecular Medicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yunfei Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiometabolic Molecular Medicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Donglin Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Xinyan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Bin Zhou
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Gao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing Key Surgical Basic Research Laboratory of Liver Cirrhosis and Liver Cancer, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Yang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiometabolic Molecular Medicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Science, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.
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15
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Yang L, Gao ZW, Wang X, Wu XN, Li SM, Dong K, Zhu XM. The different effects of four adenosine receptors in liver fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1424624. [PMID: 39290867 PMCID: PMC11405188 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1424624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The adenosine-adenosine receptor pathway plays important roles in the immune system and inflammation. Four adenosine receptors (i.e., A1R, A2AR, A2BR, and A3R) have been identified. However, the roles of these receptors were different in the disease progress and even play opposite roles in the same disease. This study aims to investigate the roles of A1R/A2AR/A2BR/A3R activation in liver fibrosis. Methods Intraperitoneal injection of CCl4 into C57BL/6 mice was used to induce liver fibrosis in the models. Adenosine receptor agonists CCPA, CGS21680, BAY 60-6583, and namodenoson were used for A1R/A2AR/A2BR/A3R activation, respectively. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were used to evaluate the liver function. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining was used to investigate the pathological damage. Masson staining and Sirius Red staining were performed to evaluate the degree of collagen deposition. CCK8 and scratch assays were used to investigate the proliferation and migration ability of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Results By using liver fibrosis mouse models, we observed that the A1R and A2AR agonists aggravated liver fibrosis, characterized by increasing ALT and AST levels, more serious liver pathological damage, and collagen deposition. However, the A2BR and A3R agonists alleviated liver fibrosis. Moreover, the A1R and A2AR agonist treatment promotes the proliferation and migration of HSC line LX2, while A2BR and A3R agonist treatment inhibited LX2 proliferation and migration. Consistently, A1R and A2AR agonist treatment elevated the expression of α-SMA and Col1α1 in LX2, whereas A2BR and A3R agonist treatment inhibited the expression of α-SMA and Col1α1 in LX2 cells. Additionally, 5'-N-ethyl-carboxamidoadenosine (NECA), a metabolically stable adenosine analog, alleviated liver fibrosis and inhibited LX2 cell activity, proliferation, and migration. Conclusion This study demonstrated the different roles of A1R/A2AR/A2BR/A3R during liver fibrosis development via regulating the HSC activity and proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Yang
- Department of clinical diagnose, Tangdu hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhao-Wei Gao
- Department of clinical diagnose, Tangdu hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of clinical diagnose, Tangdu hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xia-Nan Wu
- Department of clinical diagnose, Tangdu hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Si-Min Li
- Department of clinical diagnose, Tangdu hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ke Dong
- Department of clinical diagnose, Tangdu hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hainan Branch of PLA General Hospital, Sanya, China
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16
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Egresi A, Blázovics A, Lengyel G, Tóth AG, Csongrády B, Jakab Z, Hagymási K. Redox Homeostasis and Non-Invasive Assessment of Significant Liver Fibrosis by Shear Wave Elastography. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:1945. [PMID: 39272729 PMCID: PMC11394606 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14171945] [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: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis with various origins can be estimated non-invasively by using certain biomarkers and imaging-based measurements. The aim of our study was to examine redox homeostasis biomarkers and liver stiffness measurements for the assessment of significant liver fibrosis in different etiologies of chronic liver diseases. A cohort study consisting of 88 chronic liver disease patients of both sexes (age 49.1 ± 14.7 years) was performed. Cytokine profiles as well as redox homeostasis characteristics were determined. Liver fibrosis stages were assessed with shear wave elastography. The plasma levels of four cytokines showed no significant alteration between the four fibrotic stages; however, higher values were measured in the F2-4 stages. Free sulfhydryl group concentration, the marker of redox homeostasis, was lower in significant fibrosis (F0-F1: 0.36 ± 0.06 vs. F2-4: 0.29 ± 0.08 mmol/L, p < 0.05). Higher chemiluminescence values, as free radical-antioxidant parameters, were detected in advanced fibrosis stages in erythrocytes (F0-F1: 36.00 ± 37.13 vs. F2-4: 51.47 ± 44.34 RLU%). These data suggest that oxidative stress markers can predict significant fibrosis, with the aim of reducing the number of protocol liver biopsies in patients unlikely to have significant disease; however, their role in distinguishing between the certain fibrosis groups needs further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Egresi
- Department of Surgery, Transplantation and Gastroenterology, Semmelweis University, 1091 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anna Blázovics
- Department of Surgical Research and Techniques, The Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1091 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gabriella Lengyel
- Department of Surgery, Transplantation and Gastroenterology, Semmelweis University, 1091 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Adrienn Gréta Tóth
- Centre for Bioinformatics, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1078 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Barbara Csongrády
- Department of Radiology, Semmelweis University, 1091 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsuzsanna Jakab
- Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, Semmelweis University, 1091 Budapest, Hungary
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Zhang Y, Gao J, Liu Y, Zhong L, He S, Qiu C. Deubiquitinase USP18 inhibits hepatic stellate cells activation and alleviates liver fibrosis via regulation of TAK1 activity. Exp Cell Res 2024; 442:114235. [PMID: 39236989 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2024.114235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2024] [Revised: 08/31/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is the key process underlying liver fibrosis. Unveiling its molecular mechanism may provide an effective target for inhibiting liver fibrosis. Protein ubiquitination is a dynamic and reversible process. Deubiquitinases (DUBs) catalyze the removal of ubiquitin chains from substrate proteins, thereby inhibiting the biological processes regulated by ubiquitination signals. However, there are few studies revealing the role of deubiquitination in the activation of HSCs. METHODS & RESULTS Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) revealed significantly decreased USP18 expression in activated HSCs when compared to quiescent HSCs. In mouse primary HSCs, continuous activation of HSCs led to a gradual decrease in USP18 expression whilst restoration of USP18 expression significantly inhibited HSC activation. Injection of USP18 lentivirus into the portal vein of a CCl4-induced liver fibrosis mouse model confirmed that overexpression of USP18 can significantly reduce the degree of liver fibrosis. In terms of mechanism, we screened some targets of USP18 in mouse primary HSCs and found that USP18 could directly bind to TAK1. Furthermore, we demonstrated that USP18 can inhibit TAK1 activity by interfering with the K63 ubiquitination of TAK1. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrated that USP18 inhibited HSC activation and alleviated liver fibrosis via modulation of TAK1 activity; this may prove to be an effective target for inhibiting liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Gao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Zhong
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Song He
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chan Qiu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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Zhu J, Li B, Fang W, Zhou X, Li D, Jin J, Li W, Su Y, Yuan R, Ye JM, Wu R. Oral matrine alleviates CCl4-induced liver fibrosis via preserved HSP72 from modulated gut microbiota. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 178:117262. [PMID: 39111080 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is intricately associated with dysregulation of gut microbiota and host metabolomes. Our previous studies have demonstrated that matrine can effectively reduce hepatosteatosis and associated disorders. However, it is poorly understood whether the gut microbiota involved in the attenuation of liver fibrosis by matrine. Herein we explored a novel mechanism of how oral administration of matrine alleviates liver fibrosis by modulating gut microbiota. Administration of matrine not only potently ameliorated liver fibrosis in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced mice, but also significantly preserved hepatic heat shock protein 72 (HSP72) in vivo and in vitro. Matrine was failed to reduce liver fibrosis when HSP72 upregulation was blocked by the HSP72 antagonist VER-155008. Also, consumption of matrine significantly alleviated gut dysbiosis and fecal metabonomic changes in CCl4-treated mice. Transplanted the faces of matrine-treated mice induced a remarkable upregulation of HSP72 and remission of fibrosis in liver in CCl4-exposed mice and inhibition of TGF-β1-induced inflammatory response and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in AML-12 cells. Furthermore, deficiency of HSP72 partly reversed the intestinal microbial composition that prevented matrine from reducing CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in mice. This study reveals the "gut microbiota-hepatic HSP72" axis as a key mechanism of matrine in reducing liver fibrosis and suggest that this axis may be targeted for developing other new therapies for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junye Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Pharmacy and Food Engineering, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, PR China
| | - Bing Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Pharmacy and Food Engineering, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, PR China; International Healthcare Innovation Institute (Jiangmen), Jiangmen 529040, PR China
| | - Weiming Fang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Pharmacy and Food Engineering, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, PR China; International Healthcare Innovation Institute (Jiangmen), Jiangmen 529040, PR China
| | - Xiu Zhou
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Dongli Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Pharmacy and Food Engineering, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, PR China; International Healthcare Innovation Institute (Jiangmen), Jiangmen 529040, PR China
| | - Jingwei Jin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Pharmacy and Food Engineering, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, PR China; International Healthcare Innovation Institute (Jiangmen), Jiangmen 529040, PR China
| | - Wu Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Pharmacy and Food Engineering, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, PR China
| | - Yibo Su
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Pharmacy and Food Engineering, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, PR China; International Healthcare Innovation Institute (Jiangmen), Jiangmen 529040, PR China
| | - Ruinan Yuan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Pharmacy and Food Engineering, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, PR China; International Healthcare Innovation Institute (Jiangmen), Jiangmen 529040, PR China
| | - Ji-Ming Ye
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Rihui Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Pharmacy and Food Engineering, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, PR China; International Healthcare Innovation Institute (Jiangmen), Jiangmen 529040, PR China.
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Yuan K, Lai K, Miao G, Zhang J, Zhao X, Tan G, Wang X, Wang X. Cholinized-Polymer Functionalized Lipid-Based Drug Carriers Facilitate Liver Fibrosis Therapy via Ultrafast Liver-Targeting Delivery. Biomacromolecules 2024. [PMID: 39213520 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c00691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Here, we report novel cholinized-polymer functionalized lipid-based nanoparticles (CP-LNPs) for rapid and highly effective delivery of drugs to the liver, achieving targeting within 10 min and nearly 100% efficiency. In this study, CP-LNPs loaded with a promising antifibrotic agent curcumin (CP-LNPs/Cur) significantly improved the stability of curcumin under physiological conditions and its distribution in the liver. In vitro experiments demonstrated that CP-LNPs/Cur effectively suppressed the proliferation and migration of activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs), as evidenced by the decreased expression of α-SMA. Moreover, CP-LNPs/Cur attenuated oxidative stress levels in hepatocytes while improving mitochondrial physiological activity. In vivo antifibrosis studies have shown that CP-LNPs/Cur only require a low dose to significantly alleviate liver injury and collagen deposition, thereby preventing the progression of liver fibrosis. These findings indicated that CP-LNPs exhibit great potential in liver fibrosis therapy benefiting from the novel targeting strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Yuan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Constructionand Detection in Tissue Engineering, Biomaterials Research Center, School ofBiomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510515, China
| | - Keren Lai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Constructionand Detection in Tissue Engineering, Biomaterials Research Center, School ofBiomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510515, China
| | - Guifeng Miao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Constructionand Detection in Tissue Engineering, Biomaterials Research Center, School ofBiomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510515, China
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, ZhujiangHospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510280, China
| | - Jibin Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Constructionand Detection in Tissue Engineering, Biomaterials Research Center, School ofBiomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510515, China
| | - Xiaoxi Zhao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Constructionand Detection in Tissue Engineering, Biomaterials Research Center, School ofBiomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510515, China
| | - Guozhu Tan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Constructionand Detection in Tissue Engineering, Biomaterials Research Center, School ofBiomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510515, China
| | - Xiaowu Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, ZhujiangHospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510280, China
| | - Xiaorui Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Constructionand Detection in Tissue Engineering, Biomaterials Research Center, School ofBiomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510515, China
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, ZhujiangHospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510280, China
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20
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Xu Y, Wang XS, Zhou XL, Lu WM, Tang XK, Jin Y, Ye JS. Mesenchymal stem cell therapy for liver fibrosis need "partner": Results based on a meta-analysis of preclinical studies. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:3766-3782. [PMID: 39221071 PMCID: PMC11362880 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i32.3766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in treating liver fibrosis has been demonstrated in several clinical studies. However, their low survival and liver implantation rates remain problematic. In recent years, a large number of studies in animal models of liver fibrosis have shown that MSCs combined with drugs can improve the efficacy of MSCs in the treatment of liver fibrosis alone and inhibit its progression to end-stage liver disease. This has inspired new ways of thinking about treating liver fibrosis. AIM To investigate the effectiveness and mechanisms of MSCs combined with drugs in treating liver fibrosis. METHODS Data sources included four electronic databases and were constructed until January 2024. The subjects, interventions, comparators, outcomes, and study design principle were used to screen the literature, and the quality of the literature was evaluated to assess the risk of bias. Relevant randomised controlled trials were selected, and the final 13 studies were included in the final study. RESULTS A total of 13 studies were included after screening. Pooled analysis showed that MSCs combined with drug therapy significantly improved liver function, promoted the repair of damaged liver tissues, reduced the level of liver fibrosis-related indexes, and effectively ameliorated hepatic fibrosis by modulating the hepatic inflammatory microenvironment, promoting the homing of MSCs, and regulating the relevant signaling pathways, and the treatment efficacy was superior to MSCs alone. However, the combined treatment statistics showed no ame-lioration in serum albumin levels (standardized mean difference = 0.77, 95% confidence interval: -0.13 to 1.68, P = 0.09). CONCLUSION In conclusion, MSCs combined with drugs for treating liver fibrosis effectively make up for the shortcomings of MSCs in their therapeutic effects. However, due to the different drugs, the treatment mechanism and effect also differ. Therefore, more randomized controlled trials are needed to compare the therapeutic efficacy of different drugs in combination with MSCs, aiming to select the "best companion" of MSCs in treating hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Xu
- Subcenter for Stem Cell Clinical Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
- Ganzhou Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Xue-Song Wang
- Subcenter for Stem Cell Clinical Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
- Ganzhou Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Xiao-Lei Zhou
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Wen-Ming Lu
- Subcenter for Stem Cell Clinical Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
- Ganzhou Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Xing-Kun Tang
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yu Jin
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Jun-Song Ye
- Subcenter for Stem Cell Clinical Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
- Ganzhou Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cere-brovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
- Jiangxi Provincal Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
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21
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Yan D, Zhang X, Ma C, Huang W, Hao M, Xie L. Mechanism Study of Xiaoyao San against Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis-Related Liver Fibrosis Based on a Combined Strategy of Transcriptome Analysis and Network Pharmacology. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:1128. [PMID: 39338294 PMCID: PMC11434732 DOI: 10.3390/ph17091128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2024] [Revised: 08/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the leading cause of liver disease worldwide. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is an advanced form of NAFLD. The livers of patients with NASH are more likely to develop fibrosis. Xiaoyao San (XYS) is a classic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula that has been widely used in treating liver diseases. In this study, we elucidated the effects and mechanism of XYS in treating NASH-related liver fibrosis by combining high-throughput sequencing-based high-throughput screening with network pharmacology analysis. Our work revealed that XYS may play a role in preventing NASH-related liver fibrosis by regulating biological functions related to the extracellular matrix (ECM), inflammation, and metabolism. Additionally, Bupleuri Radix, Poria, Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens, and Paeoniae Radix Alba are the key herbs of XYS that could partially represent the functions of XYS. These regulatory effects are mediated by targeting signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) signaling. Narcissin, casuarictin, and γ-sitosterol were identified as representative active compounds in XYS targeting STAT3, NFκB, and PPARγ, respectively. Taken together, our findings provide a novel strategy for investigating the pharmacological effects and biological mechanisms of a TCM formula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Yan
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China;
- Medical Systems Biology Research Center, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China;
- National Engineering Research Center for Beijing Biochip Technology, Beijing 102206, China; (X.Z.); (C.M.); (M.H.)
| | - Xiaoling Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center for Beijing Biochip Technology, Beijing 102206, China; (X.Z.); (C.M.); (M.H.)
| | - Chengmei Ma
- National Engineering Research Center for Beijing Biochip Technology, Beijing 102206, China; (X.Z.); (C.M.); (M.H.)
| | - Wenting Huang
- Medical Systems Biology Research Center, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China;
| | - Mimi Hao
- National Engineering Research Center for Beijing Biochip Technology, Beijing 102206, China; (X.Z.); (C.M.); (M.H.)
| | - Lan Xie
- Medical Systems Biology Research Center, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China;
- National Engineering Research Center for Beijing Biochip Technology, Beijing 102206, China; (X.Z.); (C.M.); (M.H.)
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22
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Li LN, Li WW, Xiao LS, Lai WN. Lactylation signature identifies liver fibrosis phenotypes and traces fibrotic progression to hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1433393. [PMID: 39257588 PMCID: PMC11383765 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1433393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Precise staging and classification of liver fibrosis are crucial for the hierarchy management of patients. The roles of lactylation are newly found in the progression of liver fibrosis. This study is committed to investigating the signature genes with histone lactylation and their connection with immune infiltration among liver fibrosis with different phenotypes. Methods Firstly, a total of 629 upregulated and 261 downregulated genes were screened out of 3 datasets of patients with liver fibrosis from the GEO database and functional analysis confirmed that these differentially expressed genes (DEGs) participated profoundly in fibrosis-related processes. After intersecting with previously reported lactylation-related genes, 12 DEGs related to histone lactylation were found and narrowed down to 6 core genes using R algorithms, namely S100A6, HMGN4, IFI16, LDHB, S100A4, and VIM. The core DEGs were incorporated into the Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) model to test their power to distinguish the fibrotic stage. Results Advanced fibrosis presented a pattern of immune infiltration different from mild fibrosis, and the core DEGs were significantly correlated with immunocytes. Gene set and enrichment analysis (GSEA) results revealed that core DEGs were closely linked to immune response and chemokine signaling. Samples were classified into 3 clusters using the LASSO model, followed by gene set variation analysis (GSVA), which indicated that liver fibrosis can be divided into status featuring lipid metabolism reprogramming, immunity immersing, and intermediate of both. The regulatory networks of the core genes shared several transcription factors, and certain core DEGs also presented dysregulation in other liver fibrosis and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) cohorts, indicating that lactylation may exert comparable functions in various fibrotic pathology. Lastly, core DEGs also exhibited upregulation in HCC. Discussion Lactylation extensively participates in the pathological progression and immune infiltration of fibrosis. Lactylation and related immune infiltration could be a worthy focus for the investigation of HCC developed from liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Na Li
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wen-Wen Li
- Guangzhou Wondfo Health Science and Technology Co., Ltd, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lu-Shan Xiao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei-Nan Lai
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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23
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Cao X, Chen Y, Chen Y, Jiang M. The Role of Tripartite Motif Family Proteins in Chronic Liver Diseases: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential. Biomolecules 2024; 14:1038. [PMID: 39199424 PMCID: PMC11352684 DOI: 10.3390/biom14081038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2024] [Revised: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The worldwide impact of liver diseases is increasing steadily, with a consistent upswing evidenced in incidence and mortality rates. Chronic liver diseases (CLDs) refer to the liver function's progressive deterioration exceeding six months, which includes abnormal clotting factors, detoxification failure, and hepatic cholestasis. The most common etiologies of CLDs are mainly composed of chronic viral hepatitis, MAFLD/MASH, alcoholic liver disease, and genetic factors, which induce inflammation and harm to the liver, ultimately resulting in cirrhosis, the irreversible final stage of CLDs. The latest research has shown that tripartite motif family proteins (TRIMs) function as E3 ligases, which participate in the progression of CLDs by regulating gene and protein expression levels through post-translational modification. In this review, our objective is to clarify the molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets of TRIMs in CLDs and provide insights for therapy guidelines and future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiwen Cao
- The Queen Mary School, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, 999 Xuefu Road, Nanchang 330031, China;
| | - Yinni Chen
- The National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, 999 Xuefu Road, Nanchang 330031, China;
| | - Yuanli Chen
- Key Laboratory of Major Metabolic Diseases, Nutritional Regulation of Anhui Department of Education, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230002, China;
| | - Meixiu Jiang
- The National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, 999 Xuefu Road, Nanchang 330031, China;
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24
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Buakaew W, Krobthong S, Yingchutrakul Y, Khamto N, Sutana P, Potup P, Thongsri Y, Daowtak K, Ferrante A, Léon C, Usuwanthim K. In Vitro Investigation of the Anti-Fibrotic Effects of 1-Phenyl-2-Pentanol, Identified from Moringa oleifera Lam., on Hepatic Stellate Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8995. [PMID: 39201682 PMCID: PMC11354330 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25168995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2024] [Revised: 08/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis, characterized by excessive extracellular matrix deposition, is driven by activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Due to the limited availability of anti-fibrotic drugs, the research on therapeutic agents continues. Here we have investigated Moringa oleifera Lam. (MO), known for its various bioactive properties, for anti-fibrotic effects. This study has focused on 1-phenyl-2-pentanol (1-PHE), a compound derived from MO leaves, and its effects on LX-2 human hepatic stellate cell activation. TGF-β1-stimulated LX-2 cells were treated with MO extract or 1-PHE, and the changes in liver fibrosis markers were assessed at both gene and protein levels. Proteomic analysis and molecular docking were employed to identify potential protein targets and signaling pathways affected by 1-PHE. Treatment with 1-PHE downregulated fibrosis markers, including collagen type I alpha 1 chain (COL1A1), collagen type IV alpha 1 chain (COL4A1), mothers against decapentaplegic homologs 2 and 3 (SMAD2/3), and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2), and reduced the secretion of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). Proteomic analysis data showed that 1-PHE modulates the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, providing a possible mechanism for its effects. Our results suggest that 1-PHE inhibits the TGF-β1 and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways and HSC activation, indicating its potential as an anti-liver-fibrosis agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Watunyoo Buakaew
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology Research Unit (CMIRU), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand
| | - Sucheewin Krobthong
- Center of Excellence in Natural Products Chemistry (CENP), Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, NSTDA, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand
| | - Yodying Yingchutrakul
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, NSTDA, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand
| | - Nopawit Khamto
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Pornsuda Sutana
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology Research Unit (CMIRU), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand
| | - Pachuen Potup
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology Research Unit (CMIRU), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand
| | - Yordhathai Thongsri
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology Research Unit (CMIRU), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand
| | - Krai Daowtak
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology Research Unit (CMIRU), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand
| | - Antonio Ferrante
- Department of Immunopathology, South Australia (SA) Pathology, Women's and Children's Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5006, Australia
- The Adelaide Medical School, The School of Biological Science and the Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Catherine Léon
- INSERM, UMR_S1255, Université de Strasbourg, Etablissement Français du Sang-GEST, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Kanchana Usuwanthim
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology Research Unit (CMIRU), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand
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Han W, Qian GY, Wang QR, Liu J, Zhang YP, Xu J, Li T, Li Z. Elucidation of the anti-fibrotic diseases mechanism of chelerythrine by integrative approach of network pharmacology and experimental verification. Nat Prod Res 2024:1-7. [PMID: 39155506 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2024.2391071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
In the present study, we conducted an integrative approach of network pharmacology and experimental validation study to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of Chelerythrine (CLT), in treating fibrotic diseases (FD), which are disorders characterised by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix. 27 common targets of CLT against FD were analysed, and these common targets were used to construct the PPI network. The results of GO and KEGG enrichment analyses suggested that CLT exerted pharmacological effects on FD by regulating mTOR signalling pathway, AKT-PI3K pathway and apoptosis signalling pathway. Finally, molecular docking confirmed a strong binding affinity between CLT and the core target proteins. CLT has inhibitory effects on the proliferation and migration of L929 cells, CLT could promote cell apoptosis. CLT decreased levels of the Bcl-2, p-AKT/AKT, p-mTOR/mTOR and p-PI3K/PI3K, meanwhile increased levels of the Bax. Taken together, these results indicate that CLT may be a potential drug for anti-fibrotic diseases therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Han
- College of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, P.R. China
- Innovation Research and Development Center of Veterinary Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, P.R. China
| | - Gui-Yun Qian
- College of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, P.R. China
- Innovation Research and Development Center of Veterinary Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, P.R. China
| | - Qin-Rong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, P.R. China
| | - Jie Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, P.R. China
| | - Yong-Ping Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, P.R. China
| | - Jian Xu
- College of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, P.R. China
| | - Tingting Li
- School of Medicine, Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Liuzhou, P.R. China
| | - Zhe Li
- Innovation Research and Development Center of Veterinary Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, P.R. China
- College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, P.R. China
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Shi W, Zhang Z, Wang X. The Prospect of Hepatic Decellularized Extracellular Matrix as a Bioink for Liver 3D Bioprinting. Biomolecules 2024; 14:1019. [PMID: 39199406 PMCID: PMC11352484 DOI: 10.3390/biom14081019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence of liver diseases is high worldwide. Many factors can cause liver fibrosis, which in turn can lead to liver cirrhosis and even liver cancer. Due to the shortage of donor organs, immunosuppression, and other factors, only a few patients are able to undergo liver transplantation. Therefore, how to construct a bioartificial liver that can be transplanted has become a global research hotspot. With the rapid development of three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, researchers have tried to use various 3D bioprinting technologies to construct bioartificial livers in vitro. In terms of the choice of bioinks, liver decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) has many advantages over other materials for cell-laden hydrogel in 3D bioprinting. This review mainly summarizes the acquisition of liver dECM and its application in liver 3D bioprinting as a bioink with respect to availability, printability, and biocompatibility in many aspects and puts forward the current challenges and prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Shi
- Center of 3D Printing & Organ Manufacturing, School of Intelligent Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China;
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China;
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- Center of 3D Printing & Organ Manufacturing, School of Intelligent Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China;
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Li W, Lv R, Zou T, Chen M. Tricetin protects against liver fibrosis through promoting autophagy and Nrf2 signaling in hepatic stellate cells. Life Sci 2024; 351:122798. [PMID: 38852802 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
AIMS The study aims to investigate the role and underlying mechanisms of tricetin in regulating hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation. MAIN METHODS We treated human hepatic stellate cells line LX-2 and freshly isolated primary mouse hepatic stellate cells (mHSCs) with tricetin, pharmacological inhibitors and siRNAs, western blot, immunofluorescence, quantitative PCR were used to evaluate the expression of fibrotic markers, autophagy levels and Nrf2 (nuclear factor E2-related factor 2) signaling. KEY FINDINGS Herein, we demonstrated that tricetin strongly attenuated the proliferation, migration, lipid droplets (LDs) loss and fibrotic markers Col 1a1 (type I α 1 collagen) and α-SMA (α-smooth muscle actin) expression in LX-2 cells. Moreover, tricetin time- and dose-dependently provoked autophagic formation in LX-2 cells. Autophagy inhibition by pharmacological intervention or genetic ATG5 (autophagy related 5) silencing facilitated tricetin-induced downregulation of profibrotic markers in LX-2 cells. Additionally, tricetin treatment reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, promoted Nrf2 signaling in LX-2 cells and pretreatment with ROS scavenger NAC partially reversed tricetin-induced autophagy and enhanced tricetin-mediated HSCs inactivation. Nrf2 silencing partially reversed tricetin-mediated inhibition of α-SMA expression. Finally, utilizing primary mouse hepatic stellate cells (mHSCs), we demonstrated that tricetin also induced autophagy activation, repressed TGF-β1-induced LDs loss and fibrotic marker expression and pretreatment with CQ further sensitized these effects. SIGNIFICANCE Our study indicates that tricetin's actions may represent an effective strategy to treat liver fibrosis and help identify novel therapeutic targets, especially in combination with autophagy inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanzhi Li
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, No.1 Xincheng Avenue, Songshan Lake Science & Technologic Industry Park, Dongguan, China
| | - Ruyue Lv
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, No.1 Xincheng Avenue, Songshan Lake Science & Technologic Industry Park, Dongguan, China
| | - Tangbin Zou
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, No.1 Xincheng Avenue, Songshan Lake Science & Technologic Industry Park, Dongguan, China; Dongguan Key Laboratory of Chronic Inflammatory Diseases, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, No. 42 Jiaoping Road, Tangxia Town, Dongguan, China.
| | - Ming Chen
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, No.1 Xincheng Avenue, Songshan Lake Science & Technologic Industry Park, Dongguan, China.
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Chen H, Li YY, Nio K, Tang H. Unveiling the Impact of BMP9 in Liver Diseases: Insights into Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Potential. Biomolecules 2024; 14:1013. [PMID: 39199400 PMCID: PMC11353080 DOI: 10.3390/biom14081013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2024] [Revised: 08/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are a group of growth factors belonging to the transforming growth factor β(TGF-β) family. While initially recognized for their role in bone formation, BMPs have emerged as significant players in liver diseases. Among BMPs with various physiological activities, this comprehensive review aims to delve into the involvement of BMP9 specifically in liver diseases and provide insights into the complex BMP signaling pathway. Through an enhanced understanding of BMP9, we anticipate the discovery of new therapeutic options and potential strategies for managing liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Chen
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China;
- Laboratory of Infectious and Liver Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ying-Yi Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Hospital, Kanazawa 9208641, Japan;
| | - Kouki Nio
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Hospital, Kanazawa 9208641, Japan;
| | - Hong Tang
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China;
- Laboratory of Infectious and Liver Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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Zong R, Zheng Y, Yan Y, Sun W, Kong L, Huang Y, Liu Y, Jiang C, Ping J, Li C. Mesenchymal stem cells-derived exosomes alleviate liver fibrosis by targeting Hedgehog/SMO signaling. Hepatol Int 2024:10.1007/s12072-024-10717-y. [PMID: 39138757 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-024-10717-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Despite increasing knowledge regarding the cellular and molecular mechanisms of liver fibrogenesis, there is currently no approved drug for the treatment of liver fibrosis. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent progenitor cells representing an attractive therapeutic tool for tissue damage and inflammation. This study was designed to determine the protective effect and underlying mechanism of human umbilical cord-derived MSCs (UC-MSCs) on thioacetamide-induced liver fibrosis. METHODS Liver fibrosis was induced in mice by intraperitoneal injection of thioacetamide (TAA). Some mice were then given injection of UC-MSCs or UC-MSCs-derived exosomes (UC-MSCs-Exo) via the tail vein. Liver tissues were collected for histologic analysis. RESULTS We found that administration of UC-MSCs significantly reduced serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels, and attenuated hepatic inflammation and fibrosis. Moreover, the therapeutic effect of UC-MSCs-derived exosomes was similar to that of UC-MSCs. Intriguingly, UC-MSCs-Exo treatment downregulated the expression of smoothened (SMO), a fundamental component of Hedgehog signaling which plays a critical role in fibrogenesis, and subsequently inhibited the activation of hepatic stellate cells, a central driver of fibrosis in experimental and human liver injury. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects of UCMSCs- Exo was reversed by the SMO agonist SAG treatment in mice. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that UC-MSCs-Exo exert therapeutic effects on liver fibrosis, at least in part, through inhibiting the Hedgehog/SMO signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruobin Zong
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, 115 Donghu Road, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yan Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, Hubei Aerospace Hospital, Xiaogan, Hubei, China
| | - Yufei Yan
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, 115 Donghu Road, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Wenao Sun
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, 115 Donghu Road, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Liangyi Kong
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, 115 Donghu Road, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yating Huang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, 115 Donghu Road, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yujie Liu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, 115 Donghu Road, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Chaochen Jiang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jie Ping
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Changyong Li
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, 115 Donghu Road, Wuhan, 430071, China.
- Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei, China.
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Naiki-Ito A, Yeewa R, Xiaochen K, Taychaworaditsakul W, Naiki T, Kato H, Nagayasu Y, Chewonarin T, Takahashi S. Hexane insoluble fraction from purple rice extract improves steatohepatitis and fibrosis via inhibition of NF-κB and JNK signaling. Food Funct 2024; 15:8562-8571. [PMID: 39072556 DOI: 10.1039/d4fo00292j] [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: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is fatty liver mainly related to metabolic syndrome. NAFLD with inflammation and hepatocellular damage is defined as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. We have previously reported that a hexane insoluble fraction from an anthocyanin-rich purple rice ethanolic extract (PRE-HIF) can suppress prostate carcinogenesis. However, the extract's effect on NASH has not yet been established. In the present study, we investigated the chemopreventive effect of a PRE-HIF on NASH and liver fibrosis using a connexin 32 (Cx32) dominant negative transgenic (Cx32ΔTg) rat NASH model. Seven-week-old male Cx32ΔTg rats were fed a control diet, a high-fat diet (HFD), or an HFD with 1% PRE-HIF and intraperitoneal administration of dimethylnitrosamine for 17 weeks. Histological findings of NASH such as fat deposition, lobular inflammation, hepatocyte ballooning injury, and bridging fibrosis were observed in the HFD group but not in the control group, and all histological parameters were significantly improved by PRE-HIF treatment. Corresponding to the histological changes, increased expression of inflammatory cytokine mRNAs (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-18, IFN-γ, IL-1β, TGF-β1, TIMP1, TIMP2, COL1A1), along with and activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling were observed in the HFD group, which was significantly decreased by PRE-HIF. The number and area of hepatic precancerous glutathione S-transferase placental form-positive foci tended to be decreased by PRE-HIF. These results indicate that intake of purple rice as a dietary supplement may reduce steatohepatitis, liver injury, and fibrosis in NASH by inactivation of NF-κB or JNK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aya Naiki-Ito
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Tumor Biology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1-Kawasumi, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku 467-8601, Nagoya, Japan.
| | - Ranchana Yeewa
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Tumor Biology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1-Kawasumi, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku 467-8601, Nagoya, Japan.
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 110 Intravaroros Rd., Sripoom, Muang, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand.
| | - Kuang Xiaochen
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Tumor Biology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1-Kawasumi, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku 467-8601, Nagoya, Japan.
| | - Weerakit Taychaworaditsakul
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Tumor Biology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1-Kawasumi, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku 467-8601, Nagoya, Japan.
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 110 Intravaroros Rd., Sripoom, Muang, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand.
| | - Taku Naiki
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Tumor Biology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1-Kawasumi, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku 467-8601, Nagoya, Japan.
| | - Hiroyuki Kato
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Tumor Biology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1-Kawasumi, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku 467-8601, Nagoya, Japan.
| | - Yuko Nagayasu
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Tumor Biology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1-Kawasumi, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku 467-8601, Nagoya, Japan.
| | - Teera Chewonarin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 110 Intravaroros Rd., Sripoom, Muang, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand.
| | - Satoru Takahashi
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Tumor Biology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1-Kawasumi, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku 467-8601, Nagoya, Japan.
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Gao R, Mao J. Noncoding RNA-Mediated Epigenetic Regulation in Hepatic Stellate Cells of Liver Fibrosis. Noncoding RNA 2024; 10:44. [PMID: 39195573 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna10040044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a significant contributor to liver-related disease mortality on a global scale. Despite this, there remains a dearth of effective therapeutic interventions capable of reversing this condition. Consequently, it is imperative that we gain a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms driving liver fibrosis. In this regard, the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is recognized as a pivotal factor in the development and progression of liver fibrosis. The role of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) in epigenetic regulation of HSCs transdifferentiation into myofibroblasts has been established, providing new insights into gene expression changes during HSCs activation. NcRNAs play a crucial role in mediating the epigenetics of HSCs, serving as novel regulators in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. As research on epigenetics expands, the connection between ncRNAs involved in HSCs activation and epigenetic mechanisms becomes more evident. These changes in gene regulation have attracted considerable attention from researchers in the field. Furthermore, epigenetics has contributed valuable insights to drug discovery and the identification of therapeutic targets for individuals suffering from liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. As such, this review offers a thorough discussion on the role of ncRNAs in the HSCs activation of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoyu Gao
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Jingwei Mao
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
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32
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Zhao J, Yue P, Mi N, Li M, Fu W, Zhang X, Gao L, Bai M, Tian L, Jiang N, Lu Y, Ma H, Dong C, Zhang Y, Zhang H, Zhang J, Ren Y, Suzuki A, Wong PF, Tanaka K, Rerknimitr R, Junger HH, Cheung TT, Melloul E, Demartines N, Leung JW, Yao J, Yuan J, Lin Y, Schlitt HJ, Meng W. Biliary fibrosis is an important but neglected pathological feature in hepatobiliary disorders: from molecular mechanisms to clinical implications. MEDICAL REVIEW (2021) 2024; 4:326-365. [PMID: 39135601 PMCID: PMC11317084 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2024-0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis resulting from pathological repair secondary to recurrent or persistent tissue damage often leads to organ failure and mortality. Biliary fibrosis is a crucial but easily neglected pathological feature in hepatobiliary disorders, which may promote the development and progression of benign and malignant biliary diseases through pathological healing mechanisms secondary to biliary tract injuries. Elucidating the etiology and pathogenesis of biliary fibrosis is beneficial to the prevention and treatment of biliary diseases. In this review, we emphasized the importance of biliary fibrosis in cholangiopathies and summarized the clinical manifestations, epidemiology, and aberrant cellular composition involving the biliary ductules, cholangiocytes, immune system, fibroblasts, and the microbiome. We also focused on pivotal signaling pathways and offered insights into ongoing clinical trials and proposing a strategic approach for managing biliary fibrosis-related cholangiopathies. This review will offer a comprehensive perspective on biliary fibrosis and provide an important reference for future mechanism research and innovative therapy to prevent or reverse fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyu Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Ping Yue
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Ningning Mi
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Matu Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Wenkang Fu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Xianzhuo Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Long Gao
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Mingzhen Bai
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Liang Tian
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Ningzu Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Yawen Lu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Haidong Ma
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Chunlu Dong
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Hengwei Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Jinduo Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Yanxian Ren
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Azumi Suzuki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hamamatsu Medical Center, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Peng F. Wong
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Kiyohito Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kyoto Second Red Cross Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Rungsun Rerknimitr
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn, Bangkok, Thailand
- Excellence Center for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Henrik H. Junger
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Tan T. Cheung
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Emmanuel Melloul
- Department of Visceral Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Demartines
- Department of Visceral Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Joseph W. Leung
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UC Davis Medical Center and Sacramento VA Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Jia Yao
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jinqiu Yuan
- Clinical Research Center, Big Data Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanyan Lin
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Hans J. Schlitt
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Wenbo Meng
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
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Yang F, Cheng MH, Pan HF, Gao J. Progranulin: A promising biomarker and therapeutic target for fibrotic diseases. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:3312-3326. [PMID: 39220875 PMCID: PMC11365408 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2024.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Progranulin (PGRN), a multifunctional growth factor-like protein expressed by a variety of cell types, serves an important function in the physiologic and pathologic processes of fibrotic diseases, including wound healing and the inflammatory response. PGRN was discovered to inhibit pro-inflammation effect by competing with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) binding to TNF receptors. Notably, excessive tissue repair in the development of inflammation causes tissue fibrosis. Previous investigations have indicated the significance of PGRN in regulating inflammatory responses. Recently, multiple studies have shown that PGRN was linked to fibrogenesis, and was considered to monitor the formation of fibrosis in multiple organs, including liver, cardiovascular, lung and skin. This paper is a comprehensive review summarizing our current knowledge of PGRN, from its discovery to the role in fibrosis. This is followed by an in-depth look at the characteristics of PGRN, consisting of its structure, basic function and intracellular signaling. Finally, we will discuss the potential of PGRN in the diagnosis and treatment of fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Yang
- Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200000, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Ming-Han Cheng
- Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200000, China
| | - Hai-Feng Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Jian Gao
- Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200000, China
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Ding C, Wang Z, Dou X, Yang Q, Ning Y, Kao S, Sang X, Hao M, Wang K, Peng M, Zhang S, Han X, Cao G. Farnesoid X receptor: From Structure to Function and Its Pharmacology in Liver Fibrosis. Aging Dis 2024; 15:1508-1536. [PMID: 37815898 PMCID: PMC11272191 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a ligand-activated transcription factor, plays a crucial role in regulating bile acid metabolism within the enterohepatic circulation. Beyond its involvement in metabolic disorders and immune imbalances affecting various tissues, FXR is implicated in microbiota modulation, gut-to-brain communication, and liver disease. The liver, as a pivotal metabolic and detoxification organ, is susceptible to damage from factors such as alcohol, viruses, drugs, and high-fat diets. Chronic or recurrent liver injury can culminate in liver fibrosis, which, if left untreated, may progress to cirrhosis and even liver cancer, posing significant health risks. However, therapeutic options for liver fibrosis remain limited in terms of FDA-approved drugs. Recent insights into the structure of FXR, coupled with animal and clinical investigations, have shed light on its potential pharmacological role in hepatic fibrosis. Progress has been achieved in both fundamental research and clinical applications. This review critically examines recent advancements in FXR research, highlighting challenges and potential mechanisms underlying its role in liver fibrosis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Ding
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
- Jinhua Institute, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Jinhua, China.
| | - Zeping Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Xinyue Dou
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Qiao Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Yan Ning
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Shi Kao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Xianan Sang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Min Hao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Kuilong Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Mengyun Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Shuosheng Zhang
- College of Chinese Materia Medica and Food Engineering, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, China.
| | - Xin Han
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
- Jinhua Institute, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Jinhua, China.
| | - Gang Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
- Jinhua Institute, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Jinhua, China.
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Wang C, Zhang S, Li Y, Gong L, Yao C, Fu K, Li Y. Phillygenin Inhibits TGF-β1-induced Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Inflammation: Regulation of the Bax/Bcl-2 and Wnt/β-catenin Pathways. Inflammation 2024; 47:1403-1422. [PMID: 38393550 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-024-01984-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis (HF), a precursor to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, is caused by abnormal proliferation of connective tissue and excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix in the liver. Notably, activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is a key link in the development of HF. Phillygenin (PHI, C21H24O6) is a lignan component extracted from the traditional Chinese medicine Forsythiae Fructus, which has various pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-tumour effects. However, whether PHI can directly inhibit HSC activation and ameliorate the mechanism of action of HF has not been fully elucidated. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the in vitro anti-HF effects of PHI and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-activated mouse HSCs (mHSCs) and human HSCs (LX-2 cells) were used as an in vitro model of HF and treated with different concentrations of PHI for 24 h. Subsequently, cell morphological changes were observed under the microscope, cell viability was analyzed by MTT assay, cell cycle and apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry, and the mechanism of anti-fibrotic effect of PHI was explored by immunofluorescence, ELISA, RT-qPCR and western blot. The results showed that PHI suppressed the proliferation of TGF-β1-activated mHSCs and LX-2 cells, arrested the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase, decreased the levels of α-SMA, Collagen I, TIMP1 and MMP2 genes and proteins, and promoted apoptosis in activated mHSCs and LX-2 cells. Besides, PHI reduced the expression of inflammatory factors in activated mHSCs and LX-2 cells, suggesting a potential anti-inflammatory effect. Mechanically, PHI inhibited TGF-β1-induced HSC activation and inflammation, at least in part through modulation of the Bax/Bcl-2 and Wnt/β-catenin pathways. Overall, PHI has significant anti-HF effects and may be a promising agent for the treatment of HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Shenglin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Yanzhi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Lihong Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Chenhao Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Ke Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Yunxia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China.
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Ni K, Meng L. Mechanism of PANoptosis in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2024; 48:102381. [PMID: 38821484 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2024.102381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, the incidence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has been steadily rising, emerging as a major chronic liver disease of global concern. The course of MASLD is varied, spanning from MASLD to metabolic dysfunction associated steatohepatitis (MASH). MASH is an important contributor to cirrhosis, which may subsequently lead to hepatocellular carcinoma. It has been found that PANoptosis, an emerging inflammatory programmed cell death (PCD), is involved in the pathogenesis of MASLD and facilitates the development of NASH, eventually resulting in inflammatory fibrosis and hepatocyte death. This paper reviews the latest research progress on PANoptosis and MASLD to understand the mechanism of MASLD and provide new directions for future treatment and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keying Ni
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medical), Key Laboratory of Digestive Pathophysiology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lina Meng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medical), Key Laboratory of Digestive Pathophysiology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China.
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Zhou X, Xu Y, Wang X, Lu W, Tang X, Jin Y, Ye J. Single and combined strategies for mesenchymal stem cell exosomes alleviate liver fibrosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical animal models. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1432683. [PMID: 39144628 PMCID: PMC11322148 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1432683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in treating liver fibrosis has been supported by various clinical studies. However, stem cell transplantation is limited in clinical application due to its low survival rate, low liver implantation rate, and possible carcinogenicity. Recently, there has been increasing interest in the use of MSC-exos due to their widespread availability, low immunogenicity, and non-carcinogenic properties. Numerous studies have demonstrated the potential of MSC-exos in treating liver fibrosis and preventing progression to end-stage liver disease. Objective: This study aimed to systematically investigate the efficacy of MSC-exos single administration in the treatment of hepatic fibrosis and the combined advantages of MSC-exos in combination with drug therapy (MSC-exos-drugs). Methods: Data sources included PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, which were built up to January 2024. The population, intervention, comparison, outcomes, and study design (PICOS) principle was used to screen the literature, and the quality of the literature was evaluated to assess the risk of bias. Finally, the data from each study's outcome indicators were extracted for a combined analysis. Results: After screening, a total of 18 papers (19 studies) were included, of which 12 involved MSC-exos single administration for the treatment of liver fibrosis and 6 involved MSC-exos-drugs for the treatment of liver fibrosis. Pooled analysis revealed that MSC-exos significantly improved liver function, promoted the repair of damaged liver tissue, and slowed the progression of hepatic fibrosis and that MSC-exos-drugs were more efficacious than MSC-exos single administration. Subgroup analyses revealed that the use of AD-MSC-exos resulted in more consistent and significant efficacy when MSC-exos was used to treat hepatic fibrosis. For MSC-exos-drugs, a more stable end result is obtained by kit extraction. Similarly, infusion through the abdominal cavity is more effective. Conclusion: The results suggest that MSC-exos can effectively treat liver fibrosis and that MSC-exos-drugs are more effective than MSC-exos single administration. Although the results of the subgroup analyses provide recommendations for clinical treatment, a large number of high-quality experimental validations are still needed. Systematic Review Registration: CRD42024516199.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolei Zhou
- Subcenter for Stem Cell Clinical Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Subcenter for Stem Cell Clinical Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xuesong Wang
- Subcenter for Stem Cell Clinical Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Wenming Lu
- Subcenter for Stem Cell Clinical Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xingkun Tang
- Subcenter for Stem Cell Clinical Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yu Jin
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Junsong Ye
- Subcenter for Stem Cell Clinical Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- Ganzhou Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- Jiangxi Provincal Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering (2024SSY06291), Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
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Tagliaferro M, Marino M, Basile V, Pocino K, Rapaccini GL, Ciasca G, Basile U, Carnazzo V. New Biomarkers in Liver Fibrosis: A Pass through the Quicksand? J Pers Med 2024; 14:798. [PMID: 39201990 PMCID: PMC11355846 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14080798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases (CLD) stem from various causes and lead to a gradual progression that ultimately may result in fibrosis and eventually cirrhosis. This process is typically prolonged and asymptomatic, characterized by the complex interplay among various cell types, signaling pathways, extracellular matrix components, and immune responses. With the prevalence of CLD increasing, diagnoses are often delayed, which leads to poor prognoses and in some cases, the need for liver transplants. Consequently, there is an urgent need for the development of novel, non-invasive methods for the diagnosis and monitoring of CLD. In this context, serum biomarkers-safer, repeatable, and more acceptable alternatives to tissue biopsies-are attracting significant research interest, although their clinical implementation is not yet widespread. This review summarizes the latest advancements in serum biomarkers for detecting hepatic fibrogenesis and advocates for concerted efforts to consolidate current knowledge, thereby providing patients with early, effective, and accessible diagnoses that facilitate personalized therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Tagliaferro
- Dipartimento di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale Santa Maria Goretti, A.U.S.L. Latina, 04100 Latina, Italy; (M.T.); (V.C.)
| | - Mariapaola Marino
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.L.R.)
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Valerio Basile
- Clinical Pathology Unit and Cancer Biobank, Department of Research and Advanced Technologies, I.R.C.C.S. Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy;
| | - Krizia Pocino
- Clinical Pathology Unit, San Pietro Fatebenefratelli Hospital, 00189 Rome, Italy;
| | - Gian Ludovico Rapaccini
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.L.R.)
| | - Gabriele Ciasca
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Sezione di Fisica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Umberto Basile
- Dipartimento di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale Santa Maria Goretti, A.U.S.L. Latina, 04100 Latina, Italy; (M.T.); (V.C.)
| | - Valeria Carnazzo
- Dipartimento di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale Santa Maria Goretti, A.U.S.L. Latina, 04100 Latina, Italy; (M.T.); (V.C.)
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Yuan J, Liu W, Jiang X, Huang Y, Zong L, Ding H, Shen X, Sun Y, Feng X, Li X, Song Y, Gu J, Wang Y, Liu H, Zheng Z. Molecular dynamics-guided optimization of BGM0504 enhances dual-target agonism for combating diabetes and obesity. Sci Rep 2024; 14:16680. [PMID: 39030216 PMCID: PMC11271627 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-66998-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The dual activation of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor (GIPR) has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity. Tirzepatide, a dual agonist peptide, has exhibited superior clinical efficacy in glycemic and weight control compared to selective GLP-1R agonists. Nevertheless, the structural basis of Tirzepatide's extended half-life, attributed to an acylation side chain on the parent peptide, raises questions regarding its partial agonistic activity. Employing molecular dynamics simulations, we explored the dynamic processes of peptide-receptor interactions. We uncovered a crucial salt bridge between parent peptide and GLP-1R/GIPR at K20, a feature not discernible in cryo-electron microscopy structures. Building upon these insights, we developed an optimization strategy based on the parent peptide which involved repositioning the acylation side chain. The results of both in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that the optimized peptide has twofold to threefold increase in agonistic activity compared to Tirzepatide while maintaining its extended half-life in plasma. This led to the design of BGM0504, which proved to be more effective than its predecessor, Tirzepatide, in both laboratory and animal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiandong Yuan
- BrightGene Bio-Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Suzhou, 215000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wenlang Liu
- Divamics Inc., Suzhou, 215000, People's Republic of China
| | | | - Yangqing Huang
- BrightGene Bio-Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Suzhou, 215000, People's Republic of China
| | - Leilei Zong
- BrightGene Bio-Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Suzhou, 215000, People's Republic of China
| | - Haifeng Ding
- BrightGene Bio-Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Suzhou, 215000, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinyi Shen
- Divamics Inc., Suzhou, 215000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yujia Sun
- Divamics Inc., Suzhou, 215000, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangyang Feng
- BrightGene Bio-Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Suzhou, 215000, People's Republic of China
| | - Xionghao Li
- Divamics Inc., Suzhou, 215000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunsong Song
- BrightGene Bio-Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Suzhou, 215000, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianing Gu
- BrightGene Bio-Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Suzhou, 215000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuhuai Wang
- BrightGene Bio-Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Suzhou, 215000, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Liu
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zheng Zheng
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
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Cagnin S, Pontisso P, Martini A. SerpinB3: A Multifaceted Player in Health and Disease-Review and Future Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2579. [PMID: 39061218 PMCID: PMC11274807 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16142579] [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: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
SerpinB3, a member of the serine-protease inhibitor family, has emerged as a crucial player in various physiological and pathological processes. Initially identified as an oncogenic factor in squamous cell carcinomas, SerpinB3's intricate involvement extends from fibrosis progression and cancer to cell protection in acute oxidative stress conditions. This review explores the multifaceted roles of SerpinB3, focusing on its implications in fibrosis, metabolic syndrome, carcinogenesis and immune system impairment. Furthermore, its involvement in tissue protection from oxidative stress and wound healing underscores its potential as diagnostic and therapeutic tool. Recent studies have described the therapeutic potential of targeting SerpinB3 through its upstream regulators, offering novel strategies for cancer treatment development. Overall, this review underscores the importance of further research to fully elucidate the mechanisms of action of SerpinB3 and to exploit its therapeutic potential across various medical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrizia Pontisso
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35123 Padova, Italy; (S.C.); (A.M.)
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41
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Li S, Han B, Li J, Lv Z, Jiang H, Liu Y, Yang X, Lu J, Zhang Z. Resveratrol Alleviates Liver Fibrosis Induced by Long-Term Inorganic Mercury Exposure through Activating the Sirt1/ PGC-1α Signaling Pathway. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:15985-15997. [PMID: 38959496 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c02349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Liver disease has become an important risk factor for global health. Resveratrol (Res) is a natural polyphenol which is widely found in foods and has a variety of biological activities. This study investigated the role of the microbiota-gut-liver axis in the Res relieving the liver fibrosis induced by inorganic mercury exposure. Twenty-eight mice were divided into four groups (n = 7) and treated with mercuric chloride and/or Res for 24 weeks, respectively. The results showed that Res mitigated the ileum injury induced by inorganic mercury and restrained LPS and alcohol entering the body circulation. Network pharmacological and molecular analyses showed that Res alleviated oxidative stress, metabolism disorders, inflammation, and hepatic stellate cell activation in the liver. In conclusion, Res alleviates liver fibrosis induced by inorganic mercury via activating the Sirt1/PGC-1α signaling pathway and regulating the microbial-gut-liver axis, particularly, increasing the relative enrichment of Bifidobacterium in the intestinal tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Biqi Han
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Jiayi Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Zhanjun Lv
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Huijie Jiang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Yunfeng Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Xu Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Jingjing Lu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
- National Experimental Teaching Demonstration Center of Animal Medicine Foundation, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing 163319, China
| | - Zhigang Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
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42
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Xue Y, Zhu W, Qiao F, Yang Y, Qiu J, Zou C, Gao Y, Zhang X, Li M, Shang Z, Gao Y, Huang L. Ba-Qi-Rougan formula alleviates hepatic fibrosis by suppressing hepatic stellate cell activation via the MSMP/CCR2/PI3K pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 329:118169. [PMID: 38621463 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118169] [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: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The Ba-Qi-Rougan formula (BQRGF) is a traditional and effective compound prescription from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) utilized in treating hepatic fibrosis (HF). AIM OF THE STUDY We aimed to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of BQRGF on HF and explore the underlying mechanisms of action. MATERIALS AND METHODS UPLC-Q-TOF-MS technology was employed to identify the material basis of BQRGF. Mice with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced HF received BQRGF at three doses (3.87, 7.74, and 15.48 g/kg per day). We examined serum and liver biochemical indicators and liver histology to assess the therapeutic impact. Primary mouse cells were isolated and utilized for experimental analysis. MSMP expression levels were examined in vitro and in vivo experimental models, including human and mouse tissue. Furthermore, lentivirus and small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfections were employed to manipulate microseminoprotein (MSMP) expression in LO2 cells (human normal liver cells). These manipulated LO2 cells were then co-cultured with LX2 human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Through the modulation of MSMP expression in co-cultured cells, administering recombinant MSMP (rMSMP) with or without BQRGF-medicated serum, and using specific pathway inhibitors or agonists in LX2 cells, we elucidated the underlying mechanisms. RESULTS A total of 48 compounds were identified from BQRGF, with 12 compounds being absorbed into the bloodstream and 9 compounds being absorbed into the liver. Four weeks of BQRGF treatment in the HF mouse model led to significant improvements in biochemical and molecular assays and histopathology, particularly in the medium and high-dose groups. These improvements included a reduction in the level of liver injury and fibrosis-related factors. MSMP levels were elevated in human and mouse fibrotic liver tissues, and this increase was mitigated in HF mice treated with BQRGF. Moreover, primary cells and co-culture studies revealed that BQRGF reduced MSMP expression, decreased the expression of the hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation markers, and suppressed critical phosphorylated protein levels in the CCR2/PI3K/AKT pathway. These findings were further validated using CCR2/PI3K/AKT signaling inhibitors and agonists in MSMP-activated LX2 cells. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our results suggest that BQRGF combats HF by diminishing MSMP levels and inhibiting MSMP-induced HSC activation through the CCR2/PI3K/AKT pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Xue
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunity, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Wanchun Zhu
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunity, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Fengjie Qiao
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunity, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Yilan Yang
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunity, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Jiaohao Qiu
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunity, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Chen Zou
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunity, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Yating Gao
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunity, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Xin Zhang
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunity, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Man Li
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunity, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Zhi Shang
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunity, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China; Institute of Infectious Disease, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Yueqiu Gao
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunity, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China; Institute of Infectious Disease, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China; Department of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Lingying Huang
- Department of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
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Li G, Lu J, Wang C, Chang X, Qu Z, Zhang W, Zhuang C, Miao Z, Xu W. Discovery of Sophoridine α-Aryl Propionamide Derivative ZM600 as a Novel Antihepatic Fibrosis Agent. J Med Chem 2024; 67:11389-11400. [PMID: 38938102 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c01010] [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: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation is a key event in the development of liver fibrosis, and blockage of the activation of HSCs has been shown to alleviate liver fibrosis. Sophoridine, a bioactive alkaloid found in many Chinese herbs, exhibits a broad spectrum of pharmacological effects, but its activities are not strong. In this study, a series of structurally modified derivatives of sophoridine were designed and synthesized. Among them, sophoridine α-aryl propionamide derivative ZM600 displayed a significant inhibitory effect on the activation of HSCs. The in vivo experiment demonstrated that ZM600 markedly ameliorated carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and bile duct ligation (BDL)-induced liver fibrosis with a significant improvement of extracellular matrix deposition. Mechanism investigations revealed that ZM600 specifically inhibited the activation of NF-κB, PI-3K/AKT, and TGF-β/Smads signaling pathways. These results suggest that ZM600 has a protective effect on liver fibrosis, which provides a new candidate for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoqing Li
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, P. R. China
| | - Juanni Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, P. R. China
| | - Chuanhao Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, P. R. China
| | - Xuliang Chang
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, P. R. China
| | - Zhuo Qu
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, P. R. China
| | - Wannian Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, P. R. China
| | - Chunlin Zhuang
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
| | - Zhenyuan Miao
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
| | - Weiheng Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
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44
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Wang J, Fang Y, Luo Z, Wang J, Zhao Y. Emerging mRNA Technology for Liver Disease Therapy. ACS NANO 2024; 18:17378-17406. [PMID: 38916747 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c02987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Liver diseases have consistently posed substantial challenges to global health. It is crucial to find innovative methods to effectively prevent and treat these diseases. In recent times, there has been an increasing interest in the use of mRNA formulations that accumulate in liver tissue for the treatment of hepatic diseases. In this review, we start by providing a detailed introduction to the mRNA technology. Afterward, we highlight types of liver diseases, discussing their causes, risks, and common therapeutic strategies. Additionally, we summarize the latest advancements in mRNA technology for the treatment of liver diseases. This includes systems based on hepatocyte growth factor, hepatitis B virus antibody, left-right determination factor 1, human hepatocyte nuclear factor α, interleukin-12, methylmalonyl-coenzyme A mutase, etc. Lastly, we provide an outlook on the potential of mRNA technology for the treatment of liver diseases, while also highlighting the various technical challenges that need to be addressed. Despite these difficulties, mRNA-based therapeutic strategies may change traditional treatment methods, bringing hope to patients with liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Yile Fang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Zhiqiang Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Jinglin Wang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Transplantation Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Yuanjin Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
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Wei Y, Li J, Zhu B, Hu Q, Lan M, Zhou J, Luo J, Zhu W, Lai Y, Long E, Zhou L. Metagenomic comparison of intestinal microbiota between normal and liver fibrotic rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta). Sci Rep 2024; 14:15677. [PMID: 38977718 PMCID: PMC11231266 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64397-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is an important pathological process in chronic liver disease and cirrhosis. Recent studies have found a close association between intestinal microbiota and the development of liver fibrosis. To determine whether there are differences in the intestinal microbiota between rhesus macaques with liver fibrosis (MG) and normal rhesus macaques (MN), fecal samples were collected from 8 male MG and 12 male MN. The biological composition of the intestinal microbiota was then detected using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The results revealed statistically significant differences in ASVs and Chao1 in the alpha-diversity and the beta-diversity of intestinal microbiota between MG and MN. Both groups shared Prevotella and Lactobacillus as common dominant microbiota. However, beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus were significantly less abundant in MG (P = 0.02). Predictive functional analysis using PICRUSt2 gene prediction revealed that MG exhibited a higher relative abundance of functions related to substance transport and metabolic pathways. This study may provide insight into further exploration of the mechanisms by which intestinal microbiota affect liver fibrosis and its potential future use in treating liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuankui Wei
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Junhui Li
- Departmemt of Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Baoqiang Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, 363 Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qi Hu
- Institute of Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ming Lan
- Departmemt of Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jia Zhou
- Departmemt of Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jianbo Luo
- Departmemt of Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wanlong Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second People's Hospital of Panzhihua, Panzhihua, Sichuan, China
| | - Yong Lai
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Enwu Long
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.
- Departmemt of Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
| | - Liang Zhou
- Departmemt of Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
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Zhang J, Li Y, Yang L, Ma N, Qian S, Chen Y, Duan Y, Xiang X, He Y. New advances in drug development for metabolic dysfunction-associated diseases and alcohol-associated liver disease. Cell Biosci 2024; 14:90. [PMID: 38971765 PMCID: PMC11227172 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-024-01267-9] [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: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic disorders are currently threatening public health worldwide. Discovering new targets and developing promising drugs will reduce the global metabolic-related disease burden. Metabolic disorders primarily consist of lipid and glucose metabolic disorders. Specifically, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatosis liver disease (MASLD) and alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) are two representative lipid metabolism disorders, while diabetes mellitus is a typical glucose metabolism disorder. In this review, we aimed to summarize the new drug candidates with promising efficacy identified in clinical trials for these diseases. These drug candidates may provide alternatives for patients with metabolic disorders and advance the progress of drug discovery for the large disease burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinming Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Yixin Li
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ningning Ma
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shengying Qian
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yingfen Chen
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yajun Duan
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China.
| | - Xiaogang Xiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
| | - Yong He
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Lv M, Chen S, Shan M, Si Y, Huang C, Chen J, Gong L. Arctigenin induces activated HSCs quiescence via AMPK-PPARγ pathway to ameliorate liver fibrosis in mice. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 974:176629. [PMID: 38679116 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176629] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Arctigenin (ATG), a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, is a natural lignan compound extracted from the seeds of burdock (Arctium lappa L, Asteraceae). As a natural product with multiple biological activities, the effect and mechanism of ATG against liver fibrosis are not fully elucidated yet. In current work, we first discovered that ATG could improve CCl4-induced liver injury reflected by lower plasma ALT and AST levels, liver coefficient and pathological scoring of ballooning. Furthermore, it also could reduce the positive areas of Masson, Sirius red and α-SMA staining, inhibit the expression of fibrosis-related genes (Col1a1, Col3a1, Acta2), and decrease the content of hydroxyproline, indicated ATG treatment had benefits in alleviating CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. In vitro, we observed that ATG can inhibit collagen production stimulated by TGF-β1 in LX2 cells. By analysis of the information obtained from SymMap and GeneCards databases and in vitro validation experiments, ATG was proven to be an indirect PPARγ agonist and its effect on collagen production was dependent on PPARγ. Subsequently, we confirmed that ATG activating AMPK was the contributor of its effect on PPARγ and collagen production. Finally, the transformation of activated hepatic stellate cells was determined after treated with ATG, in which ATG treatment could return activated LX2 cells to quiescence because of the elevated quiescent markers and lipid droplets. Our work has highlighted the potential of ATG in the treatment of liver fibrosis and clarified that ATG can activate AMPK/PPARγ pathway to restore the activated hepatic stellate cell to quiescence thereby improving liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjia Lv
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Shiyi Chen
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Mengwen Shan
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yuan Si
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Chenggang Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Jing Chen
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Likun Gong
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China.
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Tarchi SM, Salvatore M, Lichtenstein P, Sekar T, Capaccione K, Luk L, Shaish H, Makkar J, Desperito E, Leb J, Navot B, Goldstein J, Laifer S, Beylergil V, Ma H, Jambawalikar S, Aberle D, D'Souza B, Bentley-Hibbert S, Marin MP. Radiology of fibrosis part II: abdominal organs. J Transl Med 2024; 22:610. [PMID: 38956593 PMCID: PMC11218138 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05346-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is the aberrant process of connective tissue deposition from abnormal tissue repair in response to sustained tissue injury caused by hypoxia, infection, or physical damage. It can affect almost all organs in the body causing dysfunction and ultimate organ failure. Tissue fibrosis also plays a vital role in carcinogenesis and cancer progression. The early and accurate diagnosis of organ fibrosis along with adequate surveillance are helpful to implement early disease-modifying interventions, important to reduce mortality and improve quality of life. While extensive research has already been carried out on the topic, a thorough understanding of how this relationship reveals itself using modern imaging techniques has yet to be established. This work outlines the ways in which fibrosis shows up in abdominal organs and has listed the most relevant imaging technologies employed for its detection. New imaging technologies and developments are discussed along with their promising applications in the early detection of organ fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Maria Tarchi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy.
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Mary Salvatore
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Philip Lichtenstein
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Thillai Sekar
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kathleen Capaccione
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lyndon Luk
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hiram Shaish
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jasnit Makkar
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elise Desperito
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jay Leb
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Benjamin Navot
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jonathan Goldstein
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sherelle Laifer
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Volkan Beylergil
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hong Ma
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sachin Jambawalikar
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dwight Aberle
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Belinda D'Souza
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Monica Pernia Marin
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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49
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Liu XY, Zhang W, Ma BF, Sun MM, Shang QH. Advances in Research on the Effectiveness and Mechanism of Active Ingredients from Traditional Chinese Medicine in Regulating Hepatic Stellate Cells Autophagy Against Hepatic Fibrosis. Drug Des Devel Ther 2024; 18:2715-2727. [PMID: 38974122 PMCID: PMC11227309 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s467480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is a pathological process of structural and functional impairment of the liver and is a key component in the progression of chronic liver disease. There are no specific anti-hepatic fibrosis (anti-HF) drugs, and HF can only be improved or prevented by alleviating the cause. Autophagy of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is closely related to the development of HF. In recent years, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has achieved good therapeutic effects in the prevention and treatment of HF. Several active ingredients from TCM (AITCM) can regulate autophagy in HSCs to exert anti-HF effects through different pathways, but relevant reviews are lacking. This paper reviewed the research progress of AITCM regulating HSCs autophagy against HF, and also discussed the relationship between HSCs autophagy and HF, pointing out the problems and limitations of the current study, in order to provide references for the development of anti-HF drugs targeting HSCs autophagy in TCM. By reviewing the literature in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, CNKI and other databases, we found that the relationship between autophagy of HSCs and HF is currently controversial. HSCs autophagy may promote HF by consuming lipid droplets (LDs) to provide energy for their activation. However, in contrast, inducing autophagy in HSCs can exert the anti-HF effect by stimulating their apoptosis or senescence, reducing type I collagen accumulation, inhibiting the extracellular vesicles release, degrading pro-fibrotic factors and other mechanisms. Some AITCM inhibit HSCs autophagy to resist HF, with the most promising direction being to target LDs. While, others induce HSCs autophagy to resist HF, with the most promising direction being to target HSCs apoptosis. Future research needs to focus on cell targeting research, autophagy targeting research and in vivo verification research, and to explore the reasons for the contradictory effects of HSCs autophagy on HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yu Liu
- College of First Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Liver Disease, The 960th Hospital of the PLA Joint Logistics Support Force, Jinan, Shandong, 250000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bao-Feng Ma
- The third department of encephalopathy, Jinan Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, 271100, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mi-Mi Sun
- Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Liver Diseases, Tai’an 88 Hospital, Tai’an, Shandong, 271000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qing-Hua Shang
- Department of Liver Disease, The 960th Hospital of the PLA Joint Logistics Support Force, Jinan, Shandong, 250000, People’s Republic of China
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50
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Guo M, Gou Y, Dong X, Zhong J, Li A, Hao A, He TC, Fan J. Syrosingopine, an anti-hypertensive drug and lactate transporter (MCT1/4) inhibitor, activates hepatic stellate cells and exacerbates liver fibrosis in a mouse model. Genes Dis 2024; 11:101169. [PMID: 38434753 PMCID: PMC10909599 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.101169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Meichun Guo
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, and the School of Laboratory Diagnostic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yannian Gou
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, and the School of Laboratory Diagnostic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xiangyu Dong
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, and the School of Laboratory Diagnostic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jiamin Zhong
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, and the School of Laboratory Diagnostic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Aohua Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, and the School of Laboratory Diagnostic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Ailing Hao
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, and the School of Laboratory Diagnostic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Tong-Chuan He
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Jiaming Fan
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, and the School of Laboratory Diagnostic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
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