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Jiao W, Jiao Y, Sang Y, Wang X, Wang S. 6-Shogaol alleviates high-fat diet induced hepatic steatosis through miR-3066-5p/Grem2 pathway. Food Chem 2024; 457:140197. [PMID: 38941907 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.140197] [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: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to investigate the mechanism by which 6-shogaol ameliorates hepatic steatosis via miRNA-mRNA interaction analysis. C57BL/6 J mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks, during which 6-shogaol was administered orally. The liver lipid level, liver function and oxidative damage in mice were evaluated. mRNA sequencing, miRNA sequencing, and RT-qPCR were employed to compare the expression profiles between the HFD group and the 6-shogaol-treated group. High-throughput sequencing was used to construct the mRNA and miRNA libraries. Target prediction and integration analysis identified eight potential miRNA-mRNA pairs involved in hepatic steatosis, which were subsequently validated in liver tissues and AML12 cells. The findings revealed that 6-shogaol modulates the miR-3066-5p/Grem2 pathway, thereby improving hepatic steatosis. This study provides new insights into the mechanisms through which 6-shogaol alleviates hepatic steatosis, establishing a foundation for future research on natural active compounds for the treatment of metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenya Jiao
- College of Food Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Yingshuai Jiao
- College of Food Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Yaxin Sang
- College of Food Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Xianghong Wang
- College of Food Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding 071000, China.
| | - Shuo Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Food Science and Health, School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
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Kawaguchi T, Murotani K, Kajiyama H, Obara H, Yamaguchi H, Toyofuku Y, Kaneko F, Seino Y, Uchida S. Effects of luseogliflozin on suspected MASLD in patients with diabetes: a pooled meta-analysis of phase III clinical trials. J Gastroenterol 2024; 59:836-848. [PMID: 39060520 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-024-02122-x] [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: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Luseogliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor, potentially exerts pleiotropic effects on the liver. However, the sufficient evidence is still lacking. We aimed to investigate the effects of luseogliflozin on hepatic steatosis, fibrosis, and cardiometabolic risk factors in diabetic patients by a pooled meta-analysis. METHODS In this pooled meta-analysis, we enrolled diabetic patients who participated in phase III clinical trials of luseogliflozin (luseogliflozin group n = 302, placebo group n = 191). The primary outcomes were changes in fatty liver index (FLI) and Hepamet fibrosis score (HFS) after 24 weeks. The secondary outcomes were changes in cardiometabolic risk factors after 24 weeks. Statistical analysis was performed using propensity scoring analysis by the inverse probability of treatment weighting method. RESULTS Primary outcomes: Luseogliflozin significantly decreased FLI compared to placebo after 24 weeks (adjusted coefficient - 5.423, 95%CI - 8.760 to - 2.086, P = 0.0016). There was no significant difference in changes in HFS between the two groups. However, luseogliflozin significantly decreased HFS compared to placebo in diabetic patients with ALT > 30 U/L (adjusted coefficient - 0.039, 95%CI - 0.077 to - 0.001, P = 0.0438) and with FIB-4 index > 1.3 (adjusted coefficient - 0.0453, 95%CI - 0.075 to - 0.016, P = 0.0026). Secondary outcom8es: Luseogliflozin significantly decreased HbA1c level, HOMA-IR value, BMI, and uric acids level, and increased HDL cholesterol level compared to placebo. CONCLUSIONS This pooled meta-analysis demonstrated that 24-week treatment with luseogliflozin improved hepatic steatosis and fibrosis indexes in diabetic patients, especially those with liver injury. Furthermore, luseogliflozin improved various cardiometabolic risk factors. Thus, luseogliflozin may be useful for improving MASLD in diabetic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takumi Kawaguchi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahi-Machi, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan.
- Clinical Research Center, Kurume University Hospital, Kurume, Japan.
| | - Kenta Murotani
- Clinical Research Center, Kurume University Hospital, Kurume, Japan
- Biostatistics Center, Kurume University, Kurume, Japan
- School of Medical Technology, Kurume University, Kurume, Japan
| | | | - Hitoshi Obara
- Clinical Research Center, Kurume University Hospital, Kurume, Japan
- Biostatistics Center, Kurume University, Kurume, Japan
| | | | - Yuko Toyofuku
- Clinical Research Center, Kurume University Hospital, Kurume, Japan
| | - Fumi Kaneko
- Clinical Research Center, Kurume University Hospital, Kurume, Japan
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Huang Q, Chen J, Liao S, Long J, Fang R, He Y, Chen P, Liu D. The SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin inhibits skeletal muscle fibrosis in naturally aging male mice through the AMPKα/MMP9/TGF-β1/Smad pathway. Biogerontology 2024; 25:567-581. [PMID: 38403802 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-024-10093-y] [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: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
ABSTACT With advancing age, the incidence of sarcopenia increases, eventually leading to a cascade of adverse events. However, there is currently a lack of effective pharmacological treatment for sarcopenia. Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) empagliflozin demonstrates anti-fibrotic capabilities in various organs. This study aims to determine whether empagliflozin can improve skeletal muscle fibrosis induced by sarcopenia in naturally aging mice. A natural aging model was established by feeding male mice from 13 months of age to 19 months of age. A fibrosis model was created by stimulating skeletal muscle fibroblasts with TGF-β1. The Forelimb grip strength test assessed skeletal muscle function, and expression levels of COL1A1, COL3A1, and α-SMA were analyzed by western blot, qPCR, and immunohistochemistry. Additionally, levels of AMPKα/MMP9/TGFβ1/Smad signaling pathways were examined. In naturally aging mice, skeletal muscle function declines, expression of muscle fibrosis markers increases, AMPKα expression is downregulated, and MMP9/TGFβ1/Smad signaling pathways are upregulated. However, treatment with empagliflozin reverses this phenomenon. At the cellular level, empagliflozin exhibits similar anti-fibrotic effects, and these effects are attenuated by Compound C and siAMPKα. Empagliflozin exhibits anti-fibrotic effects, possibly associated with the AMPK/MMP9/TGFβ1/Smad signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qixuan Huang
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China
- Department of Endocrinology, The Ninth People's Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400700, China
| | - Siqi Liao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Jiangchuan Long
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Ronghua Fang
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Yusen He
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Peiyun Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Dongfang Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China.
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Lin YH, Zhang ZJ, Zhong JQ, Wang ZY, Peng YT, Lin YM, Zhang HP, Tian JQ. Semaglutide combined with empagliflozin vs. monotherapy for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in type 2 diabetes: Study protocol for a randomized clinical trial. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302155. [PMID: 38701096 PMCID: PMC11068176 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is strongly associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Lifestyle intervention remains a preferred treatment modality for NAFLD. The glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) receptor agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors have been developed as new glucose-lowering drugs, which can improve fatty liver via an insulin-independent glucose-lowering effect. However, studies exploring the efficacy of GLP-1 receptor agonists combined with SGLT-2 inhibitors in patients with NAFLD and T2DM are scanty. Thus, the present randomised controlled trial aims at comparing the efficacy and safety of semaglutide plus empagliflozin with each treatment alone in patients with NAFLD and T2DM. METHODS This 52-week double-blinded, randomised, parallel-group, active-controlled trial evaluates the effects of semaglutide, empagliflozin and semaglutide + empagliflozin in 105 eligible overweight/obese subjects with NAFLD and T2DM. The primary outcome will be a change from baseline to week 52 in the controlled attenuation parameter, free fatty acid and glucagon. Secondary endpoints include changes in liver stiffness measurement, liver enzymes, blood glucose, lipid levels, renal function, electrolyte balances, minerals and bone metabolism, cytokines, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, ferritin, anthropometric indicators, nonalcoholic fatty liver fibrosis score, fibrosis 4 score and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance. In addition, intention-to-treat, interim analysis and safety analysis will be performed. DISCUSSION This double-blinded, randomised, clinical trial involves a multi-disciplinary approach and aims to explore the synergistic effects of the combination of semaglutide and empagliflozin. The results can provide important insights into mechanisms of GLP-1 receptor agonists and/or SGLT-2 inhibitors in patients with NAFLD and T2DM. TRIAL REGISTRATION This study has been registered with Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2300070674).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Hao Lin
- Department of Endocrinology, Xiamen Humanity Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Zhi-Jun Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Xiamen Humanity Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Jin-Qing Zhong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Xiamen Humanity Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Zhi-Yi Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Xiamen Humanity Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yi-Ting Peng
- Department of Endocrinology, Zhongshan Hospital Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yan-Mei Lin
- Department of Endocrinology, Xiamen Humanity Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Huo-Ping Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Xiamen Humanity Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Jian-Qing Tian
- Department of Endocrinology, Xiamen Humanity Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
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Mashayekhi M, Safa BI, Gonzalez MSC, Kim SF, Echouffo-Tcheugui JB. Systemic and organ-specific anti-inflammatory effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2024; 35:425-438. [PMID: 38423898 PMCID: PMC11096060 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Inflammation plays an essential role and is a common feature in the pathogenesis of many chronic diseases. The exact mechanisms through which sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors achieve their much-acclaimed clinical benefits largely remain unknown. In this review, we detail the systemic and tissue- or organ-specific anti-inflammatory effects of SGLT2 inhibitors using evidence from animal and human studies. We discuss the potential pathways through which SGLT2 inhibitors exert their anti-inflammatory effects, including oxidative stress, mitochondrial, and inflammasome pathways. Finally, we highlight the need for further investigation of the extent of the contribution of the anti-inflammatory effects of SGLT2 inhibition to improvements in cardiometabolic and renal outcomes in clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Mashayekhi
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Bilgunay Ilkin Safa
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Matthew S C Gonzalez
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Sangwon F Kim
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Justin B Echouffo-Tcheugui
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Huo Q, Yue T, Li W, Wang X, Dong Y, Li D. Empagliflozin attenuates radiation-induced hematopoietic damage via NOX-4/ROS/p38 pathway. Life Sci 2024; 341:122486. [PMID: 38331314 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122486] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Damage to the hematopoietic system and functional inhibition are severe consequences of radiation exposure. In this study, we have investigated the effect of empagliflozin on radiation-induced hematopoietic damage, with the aim of providing new preventive approach to such injuries. METHODS AND MATERIALS Mice were given 4 Gy total body irradiation (TBI) 1 h after the oral administration of empagliflozin, followed by the continuous administration of the same dose of empagliflozin for 6d, and then sacrificed on the 10th day after irradiation. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in hematopoietic cells and their regulatory mechanisms were also been investigated. Colony forming unit granulocyte macrophage assay and bone marrow transplantation assays were performed to detect the function of the bone marrow cells. KEY FINDINGS Empagliflozin increased the cell viability, reduced ROS levels, and attenuated apoptosis in vitro after the bone marrow cells were exposed to 1 Gy radiation. Empagliflozin significantly attenuated ionizing radiation injuries to the hematopoietic system, increased the peripheral blood cell count, and enhanced the proportion and function of hematopoietic stem cells in mice exposed to 4 Gy TBI. These effects may be related to the NOX-4/ROS/p38 pathway-mediated suppression of MAPK in hematopoietic stem cells. Empagliflozin also influenced the expression of Nrf-2 and increased glutathione peroxidase activity, thereby promoting the clearance of reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, empagliflozin mitigated metabolic abnormalities by inhibiting the mammalian target of rapamycin. SIGNIFICANCE Our study has demonstrated that empagliflozin can reduce radiation-induced injury in hematopoietic stem cells. This finding suggests that empagliflozin is a promising novel agent for preventing radiation-induced damage to the hematopoietic system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qidong Huo
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Tongpeng Yue
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenxuan Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Xinyue Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Yinping Dong
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China.
| | - Deguan Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China.
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Wei S, Wang L, Evans PC, Xu S. NAFLD and NASH: etiology, targets and emerging therapies. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:103910. [PMID: 38301798 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.103910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) pose a significant threat to human health and cause a tremendous socioeconomic burden. Currently, the molecular mechanisms of NAFLD and NASH remain incompletely understood, and no effective pharmacotherapies have been approved. In the past five years, significant advances have been achieved in our understanding of the pathomechanisms and potential pharmacotherapies of NAFLD and NASH. Research advances include the investigation of the effects of the fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) analog pegozafermin and the thyroid hormone receptor-β (THRβ) agonist resmetriom on hepatic fat content, NASH resolution and/or fibrosis regression. Future directions of NAFLD and NASH research (including combination therapy, organoids and humanized mouse models) are also discussed in this state-of-the-art review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shulin Wei
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China; Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, China
| | - Paul C Evans
- Centre for Biochemical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Suowen Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
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Nguyen Thi YV, Ho TT, Caglayan S, Ramasamy TS, Chu DT. RNA therapeutics for treatment of diabetes. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2024; 203:287-300. [PMID: 38360004 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.12.013] [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: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Diabetes is an ongoing global problem as it affects health of more than 537 million people around the world. Diabetes leaves many serious complications that affect patients and can cause death if not detected and treated promptly. Some of the complications of diabetes include impaired vascular system, increased risk of stroke, neurological diseases that cause pain and numbness, diseases related to the retina leading to blindness, and other complications affecting kidneys, heart failure, muscle weakness, muscle atrophy. All complications of diabetes seriously affect the health of patients. Recently, gene therapy has emerged as a viable treatment strategy for various diseases. DNA and RNA are among the target molecules that can change the structure and function of proteins and are effective methods of treating diseases, especially genetically inherited diseases. RNA therapeutics has attracted deep interest as it has been approved for application in the treatment of functional system disorders such as spinal muscular atrophy, and muscular dystrophy. In this review, we cover the types of RNA therapies considered for treatment of diabetes. In particular, we delve into the mechanism of action of RNA therapies for diabetes, and studies involving testing of these RNA therapies. Finally, we have highlighted the limitations of the current understanding in the mechanism of action of RNA therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen Vy Nguyen Thi
- Faculty of Applied Sciences, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thuy Tien Ho
- Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Thamil Selvee Ramasamy
- Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Dinh-Toi Chu
- Faculty of Applied Sciences, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam; Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam.
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Stachteas P, Karakasis P, Patoulias D, Clemenza F, Fragakis N, Rizzo M. The effect of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors on markers of subclinical atherosclerosis. Ann Med 2024; 55:2304667. [PMID: 38233735 PMCID: PMC10798275 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2024.2304667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the widespread use of classical cholesterol-lowering drugs to mitigate the adverse impacts of dyslipidaemia on atherosclerosis, many patients still face a substantial residual risk of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD). This risk is partially attributed to non-traditional pathophysiological pathways. Latest evidence suggests that sodium glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are beneficial for patients suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) or established CVD by reducing morbidity and mortality. However, the underlying mechanisms of this benefit have not been clearly elucidated. It has been hypothesized that one possible mechanism could be the attenuation of subclinical atherosclerosis (SA) progression. AIM The objective of this narrative review is to examine the present evidence concerning the impact of SGLT2 inhibitors on markers of SA. RESULTS The current evidence on the efficacy of SGLT2 on SA, endothelial function and arterial stiffness remains controversial. Findings from observational and randomized studies are quite heterogeneous; however, they converge that the antiatherosclerotic activity of SGLT2 inhibitors is not strong enough to be widely used for prevention of atherosclerosis progression in patients with or without T2DM. CONCLUSIONS Further research is needed to investigate the underlying mechanisms and the possible beneficial impact of SGLT2i on primary and secondary CVD prevention through attenuation of premature atherosclerosis progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Stachteas
- Second Department of Cardiology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Paschalis Karakasis
- Second Department of Cardiology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Patoulias
- Outpatient Department of Cardiometabolic Medicine, Second Department of Cardiology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Francesco Clemenza
- Department for the Study and Treatment of Cardiothoracic Diseases and for Cardiothoracic Transplants, Cardiology Unit, IRCCS – ISMETT, Palermo, Italy
| | - Nikolaos Fragakis
- Second Department of Cardiology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
- Outpatient Department of Cardiometabolic Medicine, Second Department of Cardiology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Manfredi Rizzo
- Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (Promise), School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Morishita A, Oura K, Tadokoro T, Fujita K, Tani J, Kobara H, Ono M, Himoto T, Masaki T. MicroRNAs and Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14482. [PMID: 37833930 PMCID: PMC10572537 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a clinicopathologic syndrome caused by fat deposition in hepatocytes. Patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), an advanced form of NAFLD with severe fibrosis, are at high risk for liver-related complications, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the mechanism of progression from simple fat deposition to NASH is complex, and previous reports have linked NAFLD to gut microbiota, bile acids, immunity, adipokines, oxidative stress, and genetic or epigenetic factors. NASH-related liver injury involves multiple cell types, and intercellular signaling is thought to be mediated by extracellular vesicles. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, noncoding RNAs that play important roles as post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression and have been implicated in the pathogenesis of various diseases. Recently, many reports have implicated microRNAs in the pathogenesis of NALFD/NASH, suggesting that exosomal miRNAs are potential non-invasive and sensitive biomarkers and that the microRNAs involved in the mechanism of the progression of NASH may be potential therapeutic target molecules. We are interested in which miRNAs are involved in the pathogenesis of NASH and which are potential target molecules for therapy. We summarize targeted miRNAs associated with the etiology and progression of NASH and discuss each miRNA in terms of its pathophysiology, potential therapeutic applications, and efficacy as a NASH biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tomoko Tadokoro
- Department of Gastroenterology and Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kita-gun 761-0793, Japan; (A.M.); (K.O.); (K.F.); (J.T.); (H.K.); (M.O.); (T.H.); (T.M.)
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Niu S, Ren Q, Chen S, Pan X, Yue L, Chen X, Li Z, Zhen R. Metabolic and Hepatic Effects of Empagliflozin on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Mice. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2023; 16:2549-2560. [PMID: 37645238 PMCID: PMC10461752 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s422327] [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: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Among chronic liver diseases, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the commonest. Although empagliflozin has several therapeutic uses in treating cardiovascular and renal disorders, its impacts and mechanisms on NAFLD are poorly understood. This research aimed to examine the metabolic regulatory mechanism through which empagliflozin protects against NAFLD. Methods Equal grouping of twenty-seven male C57BL/6J mice into those fed a normal diet (NCD), those fed a high-fat diet (HFD), and those fed an HFD with empagliflozin (Empa) was approached. HE, oil red O staining, and Masson staining were utilized for evaluating the pathological damage to the liver and the mice's liver and body weights. Lipids, blood glucose, and inflammation index were compared across the three groups. Liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC-MS) has been employed for identifying liver metabolomics. Results The findings suggested that empagliflozin mitigated the inflammatory and oxidative stress response associated with the buildup of lipids caused by HFD. Differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) were identified by metabonomics analysis as present in both the HFD/NCD and Empa/HFD groups. These DEMs were primarily found in lipids and organic acids like lysophosphatidylcholine (lysoPC), lecithin (PC), triglyceride (TG), palmitic acid, and L-isoleucine. Among the enriched pathways that were shown to be important were those involved in the metabolism of histidine, arachidonic acid, the control of lipolysis in adipocytes, and insulin resistance. There was a strong correlation between inflammation and oxidative stress in most of the metabolites. The inflammation and oxidative stress unbalance were ameliorated by empagliflozin. Conclusion NAFLD mice model showed considerable improvement in metabolic abnormalities and liver protection after treatment with empagliflozin. The process may include the overexpression of L-isoleucine and the downregulation of lysoPC, PC, TG, and palmitic acid to reduce liver harm caused by lipotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Niu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shijiazhuang People’s Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qingjuan Ren
- Department of Endocrinology, Shijiazhuang People’s Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuchun Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyu Pan
- Department of Endocrinology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lin Yue
- Department of Endocrinology, The Third Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xing Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zelin Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ruoxi Zhen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People’s Republic of China
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