1
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Xu L, Fan YH, Zhang XJ, Bai L. Unraveling the relationship between histone methylation and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. World J Hepatol 2024; 16:703-715. [PMID: 38818286 PMCID: PMC11135277 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v16.i5.703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) poses a significant health challenge in modern societies due to shifts in lifestyle and dietary habits. Its complexity stems from genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and metabolic factors. Epigenetic processes govern various cellular functions such as transcription, chromatin structure, and cell division. In NAFLD, these epigenetic tendencies, especially the process of histone methylation, are intricately intertwined with fat accumulation in the liver. Histone methylation is regulated by different enzymes like methyltransferases and demethylases and influences the expression of genes related to adipogenesis. While early-stage NAFLD is reversible, its progression to severe stages becomes almost irreversible. Therefore, early detection and intervention in NAFLD are crucial, and understanding the precise role of histone methylation in the early stages of NAFLD could be vital in halting or potentially reversing the progression of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Xu
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases; Gannan Innovation and Translational Medicine Research Institute, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, China
| | - Yu-Hong Fan
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases; Gannan Innovation and Translational Medicine Research Institute, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, China
| | - Xiao-Jing Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China; State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, Gannan Innovation and Translational Medicine Research Institute, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, China
| | - Lan Bai
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases; Gannan Innovation and Translational Medicine Research Institute, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, China.
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2
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Osna NA, Tikhanovich I, Ortega-Ribera M, Mueller S, Zheng C, Mueller J, Li S, Sakane S, Weber RCG, Kim HY, Lee W, Ganguly S, Kimura Y, Liu X, Dhar D, Diggle K, Brenner DA, Kisseleva T, Attal N, McKillop IH, Chokshi S, Mahato R, Rasineni K, Szabo G, Kharbanda KK. Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease Outcomes: Critical Mechanisms of Liver Injury Progression. Biomolecules 2024; 14:404. [PMID: 38672422 PMCID: PMC11048648 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040404] [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: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is a substantial cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and represents a spectrum of liver injury beginning with hepatic steatosis (fatty liver) progressing to inflammation and culminating in cirrhosis. Multiple factors contribute to ALD progression and disease severity. Here, we overview several crucial mechanisms related to ALD end-stage outcome development, such as epigenetic changes, cell death, hemolysis, hepatic stellate cells activation, and hepatic fatty acid binding protein 4. Additionally, in this review, we also present two clinically relevant models using human precision-cut liver slices and hepatic organoids to examine ALD pathogenesis and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia A. Osna
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68106, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68106, USA
| | - Irina Tikhanovich
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA;
| | - Martí Ortega-Ribera
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.O.-R.); (G.S.)
| | - Sebastian Mueller
- Center for Alcohol Research, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (S.M.); (C.Z.); (J.M.); (S.L.)
- Viscera AG Bauchmedizin, 83011 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Chaowen Zheng
- Center for Alcohol Research, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (S.M.); (C.Z.); (J.M.); (S.L.)
| | - Johannes Mueller
- Center for Alcohol Research, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (S.M.); (C.Z.); (J.M.); (S.L.)
| | - Siyuan Li
- Center for Alcohol Research, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (S.M.); (C.Z.); (J.M.); (S.L.)
| | - Sadatsugu Sakane
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (S.S.); (R.C.G.W.); (H.Y.K.); (W.L.); (S.G.); (Y.K.); (X.L.); (D.D.); (K.D.); (D.A.B.)
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Raquel Carvalho Gontijo Weber
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (S.S.); (R.C.G.W.); (H.Y.K.); (W.L.); (S.G.); (Y.K.); (X.L.); (D.D.); (K.D.); (D.A.B.)
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Hyun Young Kim
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (S.S.); (R.C.G.W.); (H.Y.K.); (W.L.); (S.G.); (Y.K.); (X.L.); (D.D.); (K.D.); (D.A.B.)
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Wonseok Lee
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (S.S.); (R.C.G.W.); (H.Y.K.); (W.L.); (S.G.); (Y.K.); (X.L.); (D.D.); (K.D.); (D.A.B.)
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Souradipta Ganguly
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (S.S.); (R.C.G.W.); (H.Y.K.); (W.L.); (S.G.); (Y.K.); (X.L.); (D.D.); (K.D.); (D.A.B.)
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Yusuke Kimura
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (S.S.); (R.C.G.W.); (H.Y.K.); (W.L.); (S.G.); (Y.K.); (X.L.); (D.D.); (K.D.); (D.A.B.)
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Xiao Liu
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (S.S.); (R.C.G.W.); (H.Y.K.); (W.L.); (S.G.); (Y.K.); (X.L.); (D.D.); (K.D.); (D.A.B.)
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Debanjan Dhar
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (S.S.); (R.C.G.W.); (H.Y.K.); (W.L.); (S.G.); (Y.K.); (X.L.); (D.D.); (K.D.); (D.A.B.)
| | - Karin Diggle
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (S.S.); (R.C.G.W.); (H.Y.K.); (W.L.); (S.G.); (Y.K.); (X.L.); (D.D.); (K.D.); (D.A.B.)
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
| | - David A. Brenner
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (S.S.); (R.C.G.W.); (H.Y.K.); (W.L.); (S.G.); (Y.K.); (X.L.); (D.D.); (K.D.); (D.A.B.)
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Tatiana Kisseleva
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Neha Attal
- Department of Surgery, Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC 28203, USA; (N.A.); (I.H.M.)
| | - Iain H. McKillop
- Department of Surgery, Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC 28203, USA; (N.A.); (I.H.M.)
| | - Shilpa Chokshi
- The Roger Williams Institute of Hepatology, Foundation for Liver Research, London SE59NT, UK;
- School of Microbial Sciences, King’s College, London SE59NT, UK
| | - Ram Mahato
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68106, USA;
| | - Karuna Rasineni
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68106, USA;
| | - Gyongyi Szabo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.O.-R.); (G.S.)
| | - Kusum K. Kharbanda
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68106, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68106, USA;
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
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3
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Liu R, Li Y, Zheng Q, Ding M, Zhou H, Li X. Epigenetic modification in liver fibrosis: Promising therapeutic direction with significant challenges ahead. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:1009-1029. [PMID: 38486982 PMCID: PMC10935124 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis, characterized by scar tissue formation, can ultimately result in liver failure. It's a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally, often associated with chronic liver diseases like hepatitis or alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases. However, current treatment options are limited, highlighting the urgent need for the development of new therapies. As a reversible regulatory mechanism, epigenetic modification is implicated in many biological processes, including liver fibrosis. Exploring the epigenetic mechanisms involved in liver fibrosis could provide valuable insights into developing new treatments for chronic liver diseases, although the current evidence is still controversial. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the regulatory mechanisms and critical targets of epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and RNA modification, in liver fibrotic diseases. The potential cooperation of different epigenetic modifications in promoting fibrogenesis was also highlighted. Finally, available agonists or inhibitors regulating these epigenetic mechanisms and their potential application in preventing liver fibrosis were discussed. In summary, elucidating specific druggable epigenetic targets and developing more selective and specific candidate medicines may represent a promising approach with bright prospects for the treatment of chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runping Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102400, China
| | - Yajing Li
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102400, China
| | - Qi Zheng
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102400, China
| | - Mingning Ding
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102400, China
| | - Huiping Zhou
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 22460, USA
| | - Xiaojiaoyang Li
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102400, China
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4
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Georgieva M, Xenodochidis C, Krasteva N. Old age as a risk factor for liver diseases: Modern therapeutic approaches. Exp Gerontol 2023; 184:112334. [PMID: 37977514 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2023.112334] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Recent scientific interest has been directed towards age-related diseases, driven by the significant increase in global life expectancy and the growing population of individuals aged 65 and above. The ageing process encompasses various biological, physiological, environmental, psychological, behavioural, and social changes, leading to an augmented susceptibility to chronic illnesses. Cardiovascular, neurological, musculoskeletal, liver and oncological diseases are prevalent in the elderly. Moreover, ageing individuals demonstrate reduced regenerative capacity and decreased tolerance towards therapeutic interventions, including organ transplantation. Liver diseases, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, hepatitis, fibrosis, and cirrhosis, have emerged as significant public health concerns. Paradoxically, these conditions remain underestimated despite their substantial global impact. Age-related factors are closely associated with the severity and unfavorable prognosis of various liver diseases, warranting further investigation to enhance clinical management and develop novel therapeutic strategies. This comprehensive review focuses specifically on age-related liver diseases, their treatment strategies, and contemporary practices. It provides a detailed account of the global burden, types, molecular mechanisms, and epigenetic alterations underlying these liver pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Georgieva
- Institute of Molecular Biology "Acad. Roumen Tsanev", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria.
| | - Charilaos Xenodochidis
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Natalia Krasteva
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria.
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5
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Borrello MT, Mann D. Chronic liver diseases: From development to novel pharmacological therapies: IUPHAR Review 37. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:2880-2897. [PMID: 35393658 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases comprise a broad spectrum of burdensome diseases that still lack effective pharmacological therapies. Our research group focuses on fibrosis, which is a major precursor of liver cirrhosis. Fibrosis consists in a progressive disturbance of liver sinusoidal architecture characterised by connective tissue deposition as a reparative response to tissue injury. Multifactorial events and several types of cells participate in fibrosis initiation and progression, and the process still needs to be completely understood. The development of experimental models of liver fibrosis alongside the identification of critical factors progressing fibrosis to cirrhosis will facilitate the development of more effective therapeutic approaches for such condition. This review provides an overlook of the main process leading to hepatic fibrosis and therapeutic approaches that have emerged from a deep knowledge of the molecular regulation of fibrogenesis in the liver. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Translational Advances in Fibrosis as a Therapeutic Target. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v180.22/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Borrello
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Derek Mann
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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6
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Shi Y, Qi W. Histone Modifications in NAFLD: Mechanisms and Potential Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14653. [PMID: 37834101 PMCID: PMC10572202 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914653] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a progressive condition that encompasses a spectrum of liver disorders, beginning with the simple steatosis, progressing to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and possibly leading to more severe diseases, including liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In recent years, the prevalence of NAFLD has increased due to a shift towards energy-dense dietary patterns and a sedentary lifestyle. NAFLD is also strongly associated with metabolic disorders such as obesity and hyperlipidemia. The progression of NAFLD could be influenced by a variety of factors, such as diet, genetic factors, and even epigenetic factors. In contrast to genetic factors, epigenetic factors, including histone modifications, exhibit dynamic and reversible features. Therefore, the epigenetic regulation of the initiation and progression of NAFLD is one of the directions under intensive investigation in terms of pathogenic mechanisms and possible therapeutic interventions. This review aims to discuss the possible mechanisms and the crucial role of histone modifications in the framework of epigenetic regulation in NAFLD, which may provide potential therapeutic targets and a scientific basis for the treatment of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulei Shi
- Gene Editing Center, School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Wei Qi
- Gene Editing Center, School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
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7
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Jain I, Brougham-Cook A, Underhill GH. Effect of distinct ECM microenvironments on the genome-wide chromatin accessibility and gene expression responses of hepatic stellate cells. Acta Biomater 2023; 167:278-292. [PMID: 37343907 PMCID: PMC10527607 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are one of the primary drivers of liver fibrosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Although HSC activation in liver disease is associated with changes in extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and remodeling, it remains unclear how ECM regulates the phenotypic state transitions of HSCs. Using high-throughput cellular microarrays, coupled with genome-wide ATAC and RNA sequencing within engineered ECM microenvironments, we investigated the effect of ECM and substrate stiffness on chromatin accessibility and resulting gene expression in activated primary human HSCs. Cell microarrays demonstrated the cooperative effects of stiffness and ECM composition on H3K4 and H3K9 methylation/acetylation. ATAC sequencing revealed higher chromatin accessibility in HSCs on 1kPa compared to 25kPa substrates for all ECM conditions. Gene set enrichment analysis using RNA sequencing data of HSCs in defined ECM microenvironments demonstrated higher enrichment of NAFLD and fibrosis-related genes in pre-activated HSCs on 1kPa relative to 25kPa. Overall, these findings are indicative of a microenvironmental adaptation response in HSCs, and the acquisition of a persistent activation state. Combined ATAC/RNA sequencing analyses enabled identification of candidate regulatory factors, including HSD11B1 and CEBPb. siRNA-mediated knockdown of HSD11b1 and CEBPb demonstrated microenvironmental controlled reduction in fibrogenic markers in HSCs. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are one of the primary drivers of liver fibrosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Although HSC activation in liver disease is associated with changes in extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and remodeling, it remains unclear how ECM regulates the phenotypic state transitions of HSCs. Using high-throughput cellular microarrays, coupled with genome-wide ATAC and RNA sequencing within engineered ECM microenvironments, we investigated the effect of ECM and substrate stiffness on chromatin accessibility and resulting gene expression in activated primary human HSCs. Overall, these findings were indicative of a microenvironmental adaptation response in HSCs, and the acquisition of a persistent activation state. Combined ATAC/RNA sequencing analyses enabled identification of candidate regulatory factors, including HSD11B1 and CEBPb. siRNA-mediated knockdown of HSD11b1 and CEBPb demonstrated microenvironmental controlled reduction in fibrogenic markers in HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishita Jain
- University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Urbana, USA
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8
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Basta MD, Petruk S, Mazo A, Walker JL. Fibrosis-the tale of H3K27 histone methyltransferases and demethylases. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1193344. [PMID: 37476157 PMCID: PMC10354294 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1193344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis, or excessive scarring, is characterized by the emergence of alpha-smooth muscle actin (αSMA)-expressing myofibroblasts and the excessive accumulation of fibrotic extracellular matrix (ECM). Currently, there is a lack of effective treatment options for fibrosis, highlighting an unmet need to identify new therapeutic targets. The acquisition of a fibrotic phenotype is associated with changes in chromatin structure, a key determinant of gene transcription activation and repression. The major repressive histone mark, H3K27me3, has been linked to dynamic changes in gene expression in fibrosis through alterations in chromatin structure. H3K27-specific homologous histone methylase (HMT) enzymes, Enhancer of zeste 1 and 2 (EZH1, EZH2), which are the alternative subunits of the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2) and demethylase (KDM) enzymes, Ubiquitously transcribed tetratricopeptide repeat, X chromosome (UTX), and Lysine demethylase 6B (KDM6B), are responsible for regulating methylation status of H3K27me3. In this review, we explore how these key enzymes regulate chromatin structure to alter gene expression in fibrosis, highlighting them as attractive targets for the treatment of fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan D. Basta
- Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Svetlana Petruk
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Alexander Mazo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Janice L. Walker
- Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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9
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Gauthier V, Kyriazi M, Nefla M, Pucino V, Raza K, Buckley CD, Alsaleh G. Fibroblast heterogeneity: Keystone of tissue homeostasis and pathology in inflammation and ageing. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1137659. [PMID: 36926329 PMCID: PMC10011104 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1137659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibroblasts, derived from the embryonic mesenchyme, are a diverse array of cells with roles in development, homeostasis, repair, and disease across tissues. In doing so, fibroblasts maintain micro-environmental homeostasis and create tissue niches by producing a complex extracellular matrix (ECM) including various structural proteins. Although long considered phenotypically homogenous and functionally identical, the emergence of novel technologies such as single cell transcriptomics has allowed the identification of different phenotypic and cellular states to be attributed to fibroblasts, highlighting their role in tissue regulation and inflammation. Therefore, fibroblasts are now recognised as central actors in many diseases, increasing the need to discover new therapies targeting those cells. Herein, we review the phenotypic heterogeneity and functionality of these cells and their roles in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Gauthier
- Botnar Institute for Musculoskeletal Sciences, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS), University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS), University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Kyriazi
- Botnar Institute for Musculoskeletal Sciences, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS), University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Meriam Nefla
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS), University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Valentina Pucino
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS), University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Karim Raza
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.,Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West, Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher D Buckley
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS), University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Ghada Alsaleh
- Botnar Institute for Musculoskeletal Sciences, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS), University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS), University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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10
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Fu Y, Zhou Y, Shen L, Li X, Zhang H, Cui Y, Zhang K, Li W, Chen WD, Zhao S, Li Y, Ye W. Diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:973366. [PMID: 36408234 PMCID: PMC9666875 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.973366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The global incidence rate of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is approximately 25%. With the global increase in obesity and its associated metabolic syndromes, NAFLD has become an important cause of chronic liver disease in many countries. Despite recent advances in pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapeutics, there are still challenges in its treatment. In this review, we briefly describe diagnostic methods, therapeutic targets, and drugs related to NAFLD. In particular, we focus on evaluating carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, lipotoxicity, cell death, inflammation, and fibrosis as potential therapeutic targets for NAFLD. We also summarized the clinical research progress in terms of drug development and combination therapy, thereby providing references for NAFLD drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajie Fu
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yanzhi Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Linhu Shen
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Xuewen Li
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Haorui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yeqi Cui
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Ke Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Weiguo Li
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Wei-dong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Science, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Shizhen Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- *Correspondence: Shizhen Zhao, ; Yunfu Li, ; Wenling Ye,
| | - Yunfu Li
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- *Correspondence: Shizhen Zhao, ; Yunfu Li, ; Wenling Ye,
| | - Wenling Ye
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- *Correspondence: Shizhen Zhao, ; Yunfu Li, ; Wenling Ye,
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11
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Missing Causality and Heritability of Autoimmune Hepatitis. Dig Dis Sci 2022; 68:1585-1604. [PMID: 36261672 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-022-07728-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autoimmune hepatitis has an unknown cause and genetic associations that are not disease-specific or always present. Clarification of its missing causality and heritability could improve prevention and management strategies. AIMS Describe the key epigenetic and genetic mechanisms that could account for missing causality and heritability in autoimmune hepatitis; indicate the prospects of these mechanisms as pivotal factors; and encourage investigations of their pathogenic role and therapeutic potential. METHODS English abstracts were identified in PubMed using multiple key search phases. Several hundred abstracts and 210 full-length articles were reviewed. RESULTS Environmental induction of epigenetic changes is the prime candidate for explaining the missing causality of autoimmune hepatitis. Environmental factors (diet, toxic exposures) can alter chromatin structure and the production of micro-ribonucleic acids that affect gene expression. Epistatic interaction between unsuspected genes is the prime candidate for explaining the missing heritability. The non-additive, interactive effects of multiple genes could enhance their impact on the propensity and phenotype of autoimmune hepatitis. Transgenerational inheritance of acquired epigenetic marks constitutes another mechanism of transmitting parental adaptations that could affect susceptibility. Management strategies could range from lifestyle adjustments and nutritional supplements to precision editing of the epigenetic landscape. CONCLUSIONS Autoimmune hepatitis has a missing causality that might be explained by epigenetic changes induced by environmental factors and a missing heritability that might reflect epistatic gene interactions or transgenerational transmission of acquired epigenetic marks. These unassessed or under-evaluated areas warrant investigation.
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12
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Zhao YB, Wei W, Lin XX, Chai YF, Jin H. The Role of Histone H3 Methylation in Acute Kidney Injury. Drug Des Devel Ther 2022; 16:2453-2461. [PMID: 35941926 PMCID: PMC9356748 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s376673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a clinical syndrome in which kidney function declines sharply due to various reasons. Although the morbidity and mortality of AKI are high, the mechanism of occurrence and development of AKI has not been fully elucidated, and precise prevention and treatment measures are lacking. Epigenetics is a branch of genetics that provides a new perspective to explore the pathophysiology of AKI and renal repair. A large amount of literature shows that the methylation mechanism of H3 in histones is closely related to the development of kidney diseases. The sorting out of histone H3 methylation mechanism in AKI and kidney repair can help understand the pathophysiological process of the disease more deeply. It may also provide new ideas for diagnosing and treating of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Bo Zhao
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Xi Lin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan-Fen Chai
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Heng Jin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300000, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Heng Jin; Yan-Fen Chai, Department of Emergency Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300000, People’s Republic of China, Email ;
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13
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Bergant V, Yamada S, Grass V, Tsukamoto Y, Lavacca T, Krey K, Mühlhofer MT, Wittmann S, Ensser A, Herrmann A, Vom Hemdt A, Tomita Y, Matsuyama S, Hirokawa T, Huang Y, Piras A, Jakwerth CA, Oelsner M, Thieme S, Graf A, Krebs S, Blum H, Kümmerer BM, Stukalov A, Schmidt-Weber CB, Igarashi M, Gramberg T, Pichlmair A, Kato H. Attenuation of SARS-CoV-2 replication and associated inflammation by concomitant targeting of viral and host cap 2'-O-ribose methyltransferases. EMBO J 2022; 41:e111608. [PMID: 35833542 PMCID: PMC9350232 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2022111608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The SARS‐CoV‐2 infection cycle is a multistage process that relies on functional interactions between the host and the pathogen. Here, we repurposed antiviral drugs against both viral and host enzymes to pharmaceutically block methylation of the viral RNA 2'‐O‐ribose cap needed for viral immune escape. We find that the host cap 2'‐O‐ribose methyltransferase MTr1 can compensate for loss of viral NSP16 methyltransferase in facilitating virus replication. Concomitant inhibition of MTr1 and NSP16 efficiently suppresses SARS‐CoV‐2 replication. Using in silico target‐based drug screening, we identify a bispecific MTr1/NSP16 inhibitor with anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 activity in vitro and in vivo but with unfavorable side effects. We further show antiviral activity of inhibitors that target independent stages of the host SAM cycle providing the methyltransferase co‐substrate. In particular, the adenosylhomocysteinase (AHCY) inhibitor DZNep is antiviral in in vitro, in ex vivo, and in a mouse infection model and synergizes with existing COVID‐19 treatments. Moreover, DZNep exhibits a strong immunomodulatory effect curbing infection‐induced hyperinflammation and reduces lung fibrosis markers ex vivo. Thus, multispecific and metabolic MTase inhibitors constitute yet unexplored treatment options against COVID‐19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valter Bergant
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Shintaro Yamada
- Institute of Cardiovascular Immunology, University Hospital Bonn (UKB), Bonn, Germany
| | - Vincent Grass
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Yuta Tsukamoto
- Institute of Cardiovascular Immunology, University Hospital Bonn (UKB), Bonn, Germany
| | - Teresa Lavacca
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Karsten Krey
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Maria-Teresa Mühlhofer
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Sabine Wittmann
- Institute of Clinical and Molecular Virology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Armin Ensser
- Institute of Clinical and Molecular Virology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Alexandra Herrmann
- Institute of Clinical and Molecular Virology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anja Vom Hemdt
- Institute of Virology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Yuriko Tomita
- Department of Virology III, National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shutoku Matsuyama
- Department of Virology III, National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takatsugu Hirokawa
- Transborder Medical Research Center, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,Division of Biomedical Science, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yiqi Huang
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Antonio Piras
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Constanze A Jakwerth
- Center for Allergy & Environment (ZAUM), Technical University of Munich (TUM) and Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), CPC-M, Munich, Germany
| | - Madlen Oelsner
- Center for Allergy & Environment (ZAUM), Technical University of Munich (TUM) and Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), CPC-M, Munich, Germany
| | - Susanne Thieme
- Laboratory for functional genome analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Centre, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Alexander Graf
- Laboratory for functional genome analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Centre, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Krebs
- Laboratory for functional genome analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Centre, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Helmut Blum
- Laboratory for functional genome analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Centre, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Beate M Kümmerer
- Institute of Virology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), partner site Bonn-Cologne, Bonn, Germany
| | - Alexey Stukalov
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Carsten B Schmidt-Weber
- Center for Allergy & Environment (ZAUM), Technical University of Munich (TUM) and Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), CPC-M, Munich, Germany
| | - Manabu Igarashi
- International Collaboration Unit, International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan.,Division of Global Epidemiology, International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Thomas Gramberg
- Institute of Clinical and Molecular Virology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andreas Pichlmair
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Munich partner site, Germany
| | - Hiroki Kato
- Institute of Cardiovascular Immunology, University Hospital Bonn (UKB), Bonn, Germany
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14
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Czaja AJ. Epigenetic Aspects and Prospects in Autoimmune Hepatitis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:921765. [PMID: 35844554 PMCID: PMC9281562 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.921765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The observed risk of autoimmune hepatitis exceeds its genetic risk, and epigenetic factors that alter gene expression without changing nucleotide sequence may help explain the disparity. Key objectives of this review are to describe the epigenetic modifications that affect gene expression, discuss how they can affect autoimmune hepatitis, and indicate prospects for improved management. Multiple hypo-methylated genes have been described in the CD4+ and CD19+ T lymphocytes of patients with autoimmune hepatitis, and the circulating micro-ribonucleic acids, miR-21 and miR-122, have correlated with laboratory and histological features of liver inflammation. Both epigenetic agents have also correlated inversely with the stage of liver fibrosis. The reduced hepatic concentration of miR-122 in cirrhosis suggests that its deficiency may de-repress the pro-fibrotic prolyl-4-hydroxylase subunit alpha-1 gene. Conversely, miR-155 is over-expressed in the liver tissue of patients with autoimmune hepatitis, and it may signify active immune-mediated liver injury. Different epigenetic findings have been described in diverse autoimmune and non-autoimmune liver diseases, and these changes may have disease-specificity. They may also be responses to environmental cues or heritable adaptations that distinguish the diseases. Advances in epigenetic editing and methods for blocking micro-ribonucleic acids have improved opportunities to prove causality and develop site-specific, therapeutic interventions. In conclusion, the role of epigenetics in affecting the risk, clinical phenotype, and outcome of autoimmune hepatitis is under-evaluated. Full definition of the epigenome of autoimmune hepatitis promises to enhance understanding of pathogenic mechanisms and satisfy the unmet clinical need to improve therapy for refractory disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert J. Czaja
- *Correspondence: Albert J. Czaja, ; orcid.org/0000-0002-5024-3065
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15
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Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is comprised of either simple steatosis (non-alcoholic fatty liver) or a more advanced inflammatory and fibrogenic stage (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis [NASH]). NASH affects a growing proportion of the global adult and pediatric population, leading to rising rates of liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. NASH is a multifactorial disease that is part of a systemic metabolic disorder. Here, we provide an overview of the metabolic underpinnings of NASH pathogenesis and established drivers of inflammation and fibrosis. Clarification of underlying fibrogenic and inflammatory mechanisms will advance the development of novel treatment strategies as there are no approved therapies at present. We discuss emerging experimental approaches and potential novel investigational strategies derived from animal models including the inflammasome, epigenetic reprogramming, Hippo signaling, Notch signaling, engineered T cells to remove fibrogenic HSCs, and HSC-specific targeting therapies. Recently completed and ongoing clinical trials and antifibrotics are discussed, illuminating the growing expectation that one or more therapies will yield clinical benefit in NASH in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngmin A. Lee
- Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Scott L. Friedman
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
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16
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Cai Q, Gan C, Tang C, Wu H, Gao J. Mechanism and Therapeutic Opportunities of Histone Modifications in Chronic Liver Disease. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:784591. [PMID: 34887768 PMCID: PMC8650224 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.784591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver disease (CLD) represents a global health problem, accounting for the heavy burden of disability and increased health care utilization. Epigenome alterations play an important role in the occurrence and progression of CLD. Histone modifications, which include acetylation, methylation, and phosphorylation, represent an essential part of epigenetic modifications that affect the transcriptional activity of genes. Different from genetic mutations, histone modifications are plastic and reversible. They can be modulated pharmacologically without changing the DNA sequence. Thus, there might be chances to establish interventional solutions by targeting histone modifications to reverse CLD. Here we summarized the roles of histone modifications in the context of alcoholic liver disease (ALD), metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), viral hepatitis, autoimmune liver disease, drug-induced liver injury (DILI), and liver fibrosis or cirrhosis. The potential targets of histone modifications for translation into therapeutics were also investigated. In prospect, high efficacy and low toxicity drugs that are selectively targeting histone modifications are required to completely reverse CLD and prevent the development of liver cirrhosis and malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuyu Cai
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Can Gan
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chengwei Tang
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jinhang Gao
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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17
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Liu SY, Wu JJ, Chen ZH, Zou ML, Teng YY, Zhang KW, Li YY, Guo DY, Yuan FL. The m 6A RNA Modification Modulates Gene Expression and Fibrosis-Related Pathways in Hypertrophic Scar. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:748703. [PMID: 34869335 PMCID: PMC8634666 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.748703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To systematically analyze the overall m6A modification pattern in hyperplastic scars (HS). Methods: The m6A modification patterns in HS and normal skin (NS) tissues were described by m6A sequencing and RNA sequencing, and subsequently bioinformatics analysis was performed. The m6A-related RNA was immunoprecipitated and verified by real-time quantitative PCR. Results: The appearance of 14,791 new m6A peaks in the HS sample was accompanied by the disappearance of 7,835 peaks. The unique m6A-related genes in HS were thus associated with fibrosis-related pathways. We identified the differentially expressed mRNA transcripts in HS samples with hyper-methylated or hypo-methylated m6A peaks. Conclusion: This study is the first to map the m6A transcriptome of human HS, which may help clarify the possible mechanism of m6A-mediated gene expression regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Yu Liu
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Wuxi Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, China
| | - Jun-Jie Wu
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, The Hospital Affiliated to Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Zhong-Hua Chen
- Department of Medicine, The Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Ming-Li Zou
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Wuxi Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, China
| | - Ying-Ying Teng
- The Hospital Affiliated to Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Kai-Wen Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Wuxi Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, China
| | - Yue-Yue Li
- The Hospital Affiliated to Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Dang-Yang Guo
- The Hospital Affiliated to Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Feng-Lai Yuan
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Wuxi Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, China.,Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, The Hospital Affiliated to Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.,The Hospital Affiliated to Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
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18
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Zehender A, Li YN, Lin NY, Stefanica A, Nüchel J, Chen CW, Hsu HH, Zhu H, Ding X, Huang J, Shen L, Györfi AH, Soare A, Rauber S, Bergmann C, Ramming A, Plomann M, Eckes B, Schett G, Distler JHW. TGFβ promotes fibrosis by MYST1-dependent epigenetic regulation of autophagy. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4404. [PMID: 34285225 PMCID: PMC8292318 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24601-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of fibroblasts is essential for physiological tissue repair. Uncontrolled activation of fibroblasts, however, may lead to tissue fibrosis with organ dysfunction. Although several pathways capable of promoting fibroblast activation and tissue repair have been identified, their interplay in the context of chronic fibrotic diseases remains incompletely understood. Here, we provide evidence that transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) activates autophagy by an epigenetic mechanism to amplify its profibrotic effects. TGFβ induces autophagy in fibrotic diseases by SMAD3-dependent downregulation of the H4K16 histone acetyltransferase MYST1, which regulates the expression of core components of the autophagy machinery such as ATG7 and BECLIN1. Activation of autophagy in fibroblasts promotes collagen release and is both, sufficient and required, to induce tissue fibrosis. Forced expression of MYST1 abrogates the stimulatory effects of TGFβ on autophagy and re-establishes the epigenetic control of autophagy in fibrotic conditions. Interference with the aberrant activation of autophagy inhibits TGFβ-induced fibroblast activation and ameliorates experimental dermal and pulmonary fibrosis. These findings link uncontrolled TGFβ signaling to aberrant autophagy and deregulated epigenetics in fibrotic diseases and may contribute to the development of therapeutic interventions in fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariella Zehender
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitaetsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Yi-Nan Li
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitaetsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Neng-Yu Lin
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitaetsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Graduate Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Adrian Stefanica
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitaetsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Julian Nüchel
- Center for Biochemistry, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, Cologne, Germany
| | - Chih-Wei Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitaetsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hsiao-Han Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Honglin Zhu
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitaetsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Department of Rheumatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiao Ding
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitaetsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jingang Huang
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitaetsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lichong Shen
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitaetsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andrea-Hermina Györfi
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitaetsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Alina Soare
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitaetsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Simon Rauber
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitaetsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christina Bergmann
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitaetsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andreas Ramming
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitaetsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Markus Plomann
- Center for Biochemistry, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, Cologne, Germany
| | - Beate Eckes
- Translational Matrix Biology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, Cologne, Germany
- Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitaetsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitaetsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.
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19
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Salunkhe SA, Chitkara D, Mahato RI, Mittal A. Lipid based nanocarriers for effective drug delivery and treatment of diabetes associated liver fibrosis. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 173:394-415. [PMID: 33831474 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a cluster of several liver diseases like hepatic steatosis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL), liver fibrosis, and cirrhosis which may eventually progress to liver carcinoma. One of the primary key factors associated with the development and pathogenesis of NAFLD is diabetes mellitus. The present review emphasizes on diabetes-associated development of liver fibrosis and its treatment using different lipid nanoparticles such as stable nucleic acid lipid nanoparticles, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems, and conjugates including phospholipid, fatty acid and steroid-based. We have comprehensively described the various pathological and molecular events linking effects of elevated free fatty acid levels, insulin resistance, and diabetes with the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. Various passive and active targeting strategies explored for targeting hepatic stellate cells, a key target in liver fibrosis, have also been discussed in detail in this review.
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20
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Ding R, Zheng J, Li N, Cheng Q, Zhu M, Wang Y, Zhou X, Zhang Z, Shi G. DZNep, an inhibitor of the histone methyltransferase EZH2, suppresses hepatic fibrosis through regulating miR-199a-5p/SOCS7 pathway. PeerJ 2021; 9:e11374. [PMID: 34040893 PMCID: PMC8127960 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatic fibrosis is a common response to chronic liver injury. Recently, the role of DZNep (a histone methyltransferase EZH2 inhibitor) in repressing pulmonary and renal fibrosis was verified. However, the potential effect of DZNep on hepatic fibrosis has not been elucidated. Methods The hepatic fibrosis model was established in rats treated with CCl4 and in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) treated with TGF-β1. The liver tissues were stained with H&E and Masson’s trichrome. The expression of EZH2, SOCS7, collagen I, αSMA mRNA and miR-199-5p was assessed using qPCR, immunohistochemical or western blot analysis. A dual-luciferase reporter assay was carried out to validate the regulatory relationship of miR-199a-5p with SOCS7. Results The EZH2 level was increased in CCl4-treated rats and in TGF-β1-treated HSCs, whereas DZNep treatment significantly inhibited EZH2 expression. DZNep repressed hepatic fibrosis in vivo and in vitro, as evidenced by the decrease of hepatic fibrosis markers (α-SMA and Collagen I). Moreover, miR-199a-5p expression was repressed by DZNep in TGF-β1-activated HSCs. Notably, downregulation of miR-199a-5p decreased TGF-β1-induced expression of fibrosis markers. SOCS7 was identified as a direct target of miR-199a-5p. The expression of SOCS7 was decreased in TGF-β1-activated HSCs, but DZNep treatment restore d SOCS7 expression. More importantly, SOCS7 knockdown decreased the effect of DZNep on collagen I and α SMA expression in TGF-β1-activated HSCs. Conclusions DZNep suppresses hepatic fibrosis through regulating miR-199a-5p/SOCS7 axis, suggesting that DZNep may represent a novel treatment for fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongrong Ding
- Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Hepatobiliary Medicine, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianming Zheng
- Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ning Li
- Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qi Cheng
- Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengqi Zhu
- Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanbing Wang
- Hepatobiliary Medicine, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinlan Zhou
- Hepatobiliary Medicine, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhanqing Zhang
- Hepatobiliary Medicine, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guangfeng Shi
- Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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21
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Liao K, Cui Z, Zeng Y, Liu J, Wang Y, Wang Z, Tang S, Chen J. Inhibition of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 prevents corneal myofibroblast transformation in vitro. Exp Eye Res 2021; 208:108611. [PMID: 33992624 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Corneal fibroblast can be transformed into corneal myofibroblasts by TGF-β1. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) upregulation has been observed in the occurrence of other fibrotic disorders. We investigated the role of EZH2 in the progression of corneal fibrosis and the antifibrotic effect of EZH2 inhibition in corneal fibroblasts (CFs). METHODS Primary CFs were isolated from corneal limbi and the CFs were treated with TGF-β1 to induce fibrosis. EPZ-6438 and EZH2 siRNA were used to inhibit EZH2 expression. Myofibroblast activation and extracellular matrix (ECM) protein synthesis was detected by quantitative real-time PCR, western blotting, and immunofluorescence staining assay. The functions of myofibroblast were evaluated by cell migration and collagen gel contraction assays. Molecular mechanisms involved in EZH2 inhibition were investigated by RNA sequencing. RESULTS TGF-β1 activated EZH2 expression in CFs. Treatment with EPZ-6438 (5 μM) and EZH2 siRNA considerably suppressed corneal myofibroblast activation and ECM protein synthesis in CFs induced by TGF-β1 when compared to the control group. EPZ-6438 (5 μM) suppressed cell migration and gel contraction in CFs. RNA sequencing results revealed that antifibrotic genes were activated after EZH2 inhibition to suppress corneal myofibroblast activation. CONCLUSION Inhibition of EZH2 suppresses corneal myofibroblast activation and ECM protein synthesis, and could serve as a novel therapeutic target for preventing corneal scarring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Liao
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zekai Cui
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yong Zeng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yini Wang
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zhijie Wang
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Shibo Tang
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, China; CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jiansu Chen
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, China; Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.
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22
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Tang M, Chen Y, Li B, Sugimoto H, Yang S, Yang C, LeBleu VS, McAndrews KM, Kalluri R. Therapeutic targeting of STAT3 with small interference RNAs and antisense oligonucleotides embedded exosomes in liver fibrosis. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21557. [PMID: 33855751 PMCID: PMC10851328 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202002777rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a wound healing response that results in excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation in response to chronic hepatic injury. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is an important transcription factor associated with the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. Though a promising potential therapeutic target, there are no specific drug candidates for STAT3. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles generated by all cell types with a capacity to efficiently enter cells across different biological barriers. Here, we utilize exosomes as delivery conduit to specifically target STAT3 in liver fibrosis. Exosomes derived from clinical grade fibroblast-like mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were engineered to carry siRNA or antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) targeting STAT3 (iExosiRNA-STAT3 or iExomASO-STAT3 ). Compared to scrambled siRNA control, siRNA-STAT3, or ASO-STAT3, iExosiRNA-STAT3 or iExomASO-STAT3 showed enhanced STAT3 targeting efficiency. iExosiRNA-STAT3 or iExomASO-STAT3 treatments suppressed STAT3 levels and ECM deposition in established liver fibrosis in mice, and significantly improved liver function. iExomASO-Stat3 restored liver function more efficiently when compared to iExosiRNA-STAT3 . Our results identify a novel anti-fibrotic approach for direct targeting of STAT3 with exosomes with immediate translational potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Tang
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Yang Chen
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Bingrui Li
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Hikaru Sugimoto
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Sujuan Yang
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Changqing Yang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Institute of Digestive Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Valerie S. LeBleu
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Kathleen M. McAndrews
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Raghu Kalluri
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
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23
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Arechederra M, Recalde M, Gárate-Rascón M, Fernández-Barrena MG, Ávila MA, Berasain C. Epigenetic Biomarkers for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Liver Disease. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:1265. [PMID: 33809263 PMCID: PMC7998165 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13061265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Research in the last decades has demonstrated the relevance of epigenetics in controlling gene expression to maintain cell homeostasis, and the important role played by epigenome alterations in disease development. Moreover, the reversibility of epigenetic marks can be harnessed as a therapeutic strategy, and epigenetic marks can be used as diagnosis biomarkers. Epigenetic alterations in DNA methylation, histone post-translational modifications (PTMs), and non-coding RNA (ncRNA) expression have been associated with the process of hepatocarcinogenesis. Here, we summarize epigenetic alterations involved in the pathogenesis of chronic liver disease (CLD), particularly focusing on DNA methylation. We also discuss their utility as epigenetic biomarkers in liquid biopsy for the diagnosis and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Finally, we discuss the potential of epigenetic therapeutic strategies for HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Arechederra
- Program of Hepatology, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (M.A.); (M.R.); (M.G.-R.); (M.G.F.-B.)
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Miriam Recalde
- Program of Hepatology, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (M.A.); (M.R.); (M.G.-R.); (M.G.F.-B.)
| | - María Gárate-Rascón
- Program of Hepatology, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (M.A.); (M.R.); (M.G.-R.); (M.G.F.-B.)
| | - Maite G. Fernández-Barrena
- Program of Hepatology, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (M.A.); (M.R.); (M.G.-R.); (M.G.F.-B.)
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, Carlos III Health Institute), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Matías A. Ávila
- Program of Hepatology, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (M.A.); (M.R.); (M.G.-R.); (M.G.F.-B.)
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, Carlos III Health Institute), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Berasain
- Program of Hepatology, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (M.A.); (M.R.); (M.G.-R.); (M.G.F.-B.)
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, Carlos III Health Institute), 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Li T, Yu C, Zhuang S. Histone Methyltransferase EZH2: A Potential Therapeutic Target for Kidney Diseases. Front Physiol 2021; 12:640700. [PMID: 33679454 PMCID: PMC7930071 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.640700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a histone-lysine N-methyltransferase enzyme that catalyzes the addition of methyl groups to histone H3 at lysine 27, leading to gene silencing. Mutation or over-expression of EZH2 has been linked to many cancers including renal carcinoma. Recent studies have shown that EZH2 expression and activity are also increased in several animal models of kidney injury, such as acute kidney injury (AKI), renal fibrosis, diabetic nephropathy, lupus nephritis (LN), and renal transplantation rejection. The pharmacological and/or genetic inhibition of EZH2 can alleviate AKI, renal fibrosis, and LN, but potentiate podocyte injury in animal models, suggesting that the functional role of EZH2 varies with renal cell type and disease model. In this article, we summarize the role of EZH2 in the pathology of renal injury and relevant mechanisms and highlight EZH2 as a potential therapeutic target for kidney diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Li
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shougang Zhuang
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Medicine, Alpert Medical School and Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
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25
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Jiang Y, Xiang C, Zhong F, Zhang Y, Wang L, Zhao Y, Wang J, Ding C, Jin L, He F, Wang H. Histone H3K27 methyltransferase EZH2 and demethylase JMJD3 regulate hepatic stellate cells activation and liver fibrosis. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:361-378. [PMID: 33391480 PMCID: PMC7681085 DOI: 10.7150/thno.46360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: As the central hallmark of liver fibrosis, transdifferentiation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the predominant contributor to fibrogenic hepatic myofibroblast responsible for extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, is characterized with transcriptional and epigenetic remodeling. We aimed to characterize the roles of H3K27 methyltransferase EZH2 and demethylase JMJD3 and identify their effective pathways and novel target genes in HSCs activation and liver fibrosis. Methods: In primary HSCs, we analyzed effects of pharmacological inhibitions and genetic manipulations of EZH2 and JMJD3 on HSCs activation. In HSCs cell lines, we evaluated effects of EZH2 inhibition by DZNep on proliferation, cell cycling, senescence and apoptosis. In CCl4 and BDL murine models of liver fibrosis, we assessed in vivo effects of DZNep administration and Ezh2 silencing. We profiled rat primary HSCs transcriptomes with RNA-seq, screened the pathways and genes associated with DZNep treatment, analyzed EZH2 and JMJD3 regulation towards target genes by ChIP-qPCR. Results: EZH2 inhibition by DZNep resulted in retarded growth, lowered cell viability, cell cycle arrest in S and G2 phases, strengthened senescence, and enhanced apoptosis of HSCs, decreased hepatic collagen deposition and rescued the elevated serum ALT and AST activities of diseased mice, and downregulated cellular and hepatic expressions of H3K27me3, EZH2, α-SMA and COL1A. Ezh2 silencing by RNA interference in vitro and in vivo showed similar effects. JMJD3 inhibition by GSK-J4 and overexpression of wild-type but not mutant Jmjd3 enhanced or repressed HSCs activation respectively. EZH2 inhibition by DZNep transcriptionally inactivated TGF-β1 pathway, cell cycle pathways and vast ECM components in primary HSCs. EZH2 inhibition decreased H3K27me3 recruitment at target genes encoding TGF-β1 pseudoreceptor BAMBI, anti-inflammatory cytokine IL10 and cell cycle regulators CDKN1A, GADD45A and GADD45B, and increased their expressions, while Jmjd3 overexpression manifested alike effects. Conclusions: EZH2 and JMJD3 antagonistically modulate HSCs activation. The therapeutic effects of DZNep as epigenetic drug in liver fibrosis are associated with the regulation of EZH2 towards direct target genes encoding TGF-β1 pseudoreceptor BAMBI, anti-inflammatory cytokine IL10 and cell cycle regulators CDKN1A, GADD45A and GADD45B, which are also regulated by JMJD3. Our present study provides new mechanistic insight into the epigenetic modulation of EZH2 and JMJD3 in HSCs biology and hepatic fibrogenesis.
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26
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Russell-Hallinan A, Neary R, Watson CJ, Baugh JA. Repurposing From Oncology to Cardiology: Low-Dose 5-Azacytidine Attenuates Pathological Cardiac Remodeling in Response to Pressure Overload Injury. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther 2020; 26:375-385. [PMID: 33264040 DOI: 10.1177/1074248420979235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recent evidence suggests that transcriptional reprogramming is involved in the pathogenesis of cardiac remodeling (cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and fibrosis) and the development of heart failure. 5-Azacytidine (5aza), an inhibitor of DNA methylation approved for hematological malignancies, has previously demonstrated beneficial effects on cardiac remodeling in hypertension. The aim of our work was to investigate whether pressure overload is associated with alterations in DNA methylation and if intervention with low-dose 5aza can attenuate the associated pathological changes. METHODS AND RESULTS C57Bl6/J mice underwent surgical constriction of the aortic arch for 8 weeks. Mice began treatment 4 weeks post-surgery with either vehicle or 5aza (5 mg/kg). Cardiac structure and function was examined in vivo using echocardiography followed by post mortem histological assessment of hypertrophy and fibrosis. Global DNA methylation was examined by immunostaining for 5-methylcytosine (5MeC) and assessment of DNA methyltransferase expression. The results highlighted that pressure overload-induced pathological cardiac remodeling is associated with increased DNA methylation (elevated cardiac 5MeC positivity and Dnmt1 expression). Administration of 5aza attenuated pathological remodeling and diastolic dysfunction. These beneficial changes were mirrored by a treatment-related reduction in global 5MeC levels and expression of Dnmt1 and Dnmt3B in the heart. CONCLUSION DNA methylation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of pressure overload-induced cardiac remodeling. Therapeutic intervention with 5aza, at a dose 5 times lower than clinically given for oncology treatment, attenuated myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis. Our work supports the rationale for its potential use in cardiac pathologies associated with aberrant cardiac wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Russell-Hallinan
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, 1596Queen's University Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom.,UCD School of Medicine, Conway Institute, 231327University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Roisin Neary
- UCD School of Medicine, Conway Institute, 231327University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Chris J Watson
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, 1596Queen's University Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - John A Baugh
- UCD School of Medicine, Conway Institute, 231327University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
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Lim HJ, Kim M. EZH2 as a Potential Target for NAFLD Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228617. [PMID: 33207561 PMCID: PMC7697020 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a complex disease that is affected by genetic predisposition and epigenetic modification. Deregulation of epigenetic pathways is now recognized as a frequent event in NAFLD, and understanding the mechanistic roles of these epigenetic factors may lead to new strategies for NAFLD treatment. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) catalyzes methylation on Lys 27 of histone H3, which leads to chromatin compaction and gene silencing. EZH2 regulates embryonic development and cell lineage determination and is related to many human diseases. Recent studies show that EZH2 has critical roles in liver development, homeostasis, and regeneration. Moreover, aberrant activation of EZH2 promotes NAFLD progression. Several EZH2 inhibitors have been developed and studied both in vitro and in clinical trials. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the role of EZH2 in NAFLD and highlight its potential as a novel therapeutic target for NAFLD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Jung Lim
- Personalized Genomic Medicine Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Korea;
- Department of Functional Genomics, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34113, Korea
| | - Mirang Kim
- Personalized Genomic Medicine Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Korea;
- Department of Functional Genomics, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34113, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-42-879-8113
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28
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Leslie J, Macia MG, Luli S, Worrell JC, Reilly WJ, Paish HL, Knox A, Barksby BS, Gee LM, Zaki MYW, Collins AL, Burgoyne RA, Cameron R, Bragg C, Xu X, Chung GW, Brown CDA, Blanchard AD, Nanthakumar CB, Karsdal M, Robinson SM, Manas DM, Sen G, French J, White SA, Murphy S, Trost M, Zakrzewski JL, Klein U, Schwabe RF, Mederacke I, Nixon C, Bird T, Teuwen LA, Schoonjans L, Carmeliet P, Mann J, Fisher AJ, Sheerin NS, Borthwick LA, Mann DA, Oakley F. c-Rel orchestrates energy-dependent epithelial and macrophage reprogramming in fibrosis. Nat Metab 2020; 2:1350-1367. [PMID: 33168981 PMCID: PMC7116435 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-020-00306-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a common pathological feature of chronic disease. Deletion of the NF-κB subunit c-Rel limits fibrosis in multiple organs, although the mechanistic nature of this protection is unresolved. Using cell-specific gene-targeting manipulations in mice undergoing liver damage, we elucidate a critical role for c-Rel in controlling metabolic changes required for inflammatory and fibrogenic activities of hepatocytes and macrophages and identify Pfkfb3 as the key downstream metabolic mediator of this response. Independent deletions of Rel in hepatocytes or macrophages suppressed liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride, while combined deletion had an additive anti-fibrogenic effect. In transforming growth factor-β1-induced hepatocytes, c-Rel regulates expression of a pro-fibrogenic secretome comprising inflammatory molecules and connective tissue growth factor, the latter promoting collagen secretion from HMs. Macrophages lacking c-Rel fail to polarize to M1 or M2 states, explaining reduced fibrosis in RelΔLysM mice. Pharmacological inhibition of c-Rel attenuated multi-organ fibrosis in both murine and human fibrosis. In conclusion, activation of c-Rel/Pfkfb3 in damaged tissue instigates a paracrine signalling network among epithelial, myeloid and mesenchymal cells to stimulate fibrogenesis. Targeting the c-Rel-Pfkfb3 axis has potential for therapeutic applications in fibrotic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Leslie
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
| | - Marina García Macia
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Saimir Luli
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Julie C Worrell
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - William J Reilly
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Hannah L Paish
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Amber Knox
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Ben S Barksby
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Lucy M Gee
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Marco Y W Zaki
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Amy L Collins
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Rachel A Burgoyne
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Rainie Cameron
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Charlotte Bragg
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Xin Xu
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Git W Chung
- Newcells Biotech, The Biosphere, Newcastle Helix, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Colin D A Brown
- Newcells Biotech, The Biosphere, Newcastle Helix, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Andrew D Blanchard
- Fibrosis Discovery Performance Unit, Respiratory Therapy Area, Medicines Research Centre, GlaxoSmithKline R&D, Stevenage, UK
| | - Carmel B Nanthakumar
- Fibrosis Discovery Performance Unit, Respiratory Therapy Area, Medicines Research Centre, GlaxoSmithKline R&D, Stevenage, UK
| | - Morten Karsdal
- Nordic Bioscience A/S, Biomarkers & Research, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Stuart M Robinson
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Derek M Manas
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Gourab Sen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jeremy French
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Steven A White
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Sandra Murphy
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Matthias Trost
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Johannes L Zakrzewski
- Center for Discovery and Innovation and John Theurer Cancer Center, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, USA
| | - Ulf Klein
- Division of Haematology & Immunology, Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St. James's, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Ingmar Mederacke
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Colin Nixon
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Glasgow, UK
| | - Tom Bird
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Glasgow, UK
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Glasgow, UK
- MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Laure-Anne Teuwen
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Luc Schoonjans
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Peter Carmeliet
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jelena Mann
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Fibrofind, Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Andrew J Fisher
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Institute of Transplantation, The Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Neil S Sheerin
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Lee A Borthwick
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Fibrofind, Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Derek A Mann
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Fibrofind, Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Fiona Oakley
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
- Fibrofind, Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
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Claveria-Cabello A, Colyn L, Arechederra M, Urman JM, Berasain C, Avila MA, Fernandez-Barrena MG. Epigenetics in Liver Fibrosis: Could HDACs be a Therapeutic Target? Cells 2020; 9:cells9102321. [PMID: 33086678 PMCID: PMC7589994 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases (CLD) represent a worldwide health problem. While CLDs may have diverse etiologies, a common pathogenic denominator is the presence of liver fibrosis. Cirrhosis, the end-stage of CLD, is characterized by extensive fibrosis and is markedly associated with the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. The most important event in hepatic fibrogenesis is the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) following liver injury. Activated HSCs acquire a myofibroblast-like phenotype becoming proliferative, fibrogenic, and contractile cells. While transient activation of HSCs is part of the physiological mechanisms of tissue repair, protracted activation of a wound healing reaction leads to organ fibrosis. The phenotypic changes of activated HSCs involve epigenetic mechanisms mediated by non-coding RNAs (ncRNA) as well as by changes in DNA methylation and histone modifications. During CLD these epigenetic mechanisms become deregulated, with alterations in the expression and activity of epigenetic modulators. Here we provide an overview of the epigenetic alterations involved in fibrogenic HSCs transdifferentiation with particular focus on histones acetylation changes. We also discuss recent studies supporting the promising therapeutic potential of histone deacetylase inhibitors in liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Claveria-Cabello
- Program of Hepatology, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (A.C.-C.); (L.C.); (M.A.); (C.B.)
| | - Leticia Colyn
- Program of Hepatology, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (A.C.-C.); (L.C.); (M.A.); (C.B.)
| | - Maria Arechederra
- Program of Hepatology, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (A.C.-C.); (L.C.); (M.A.); (C.B.)
- National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, Carlos III Health Institute), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
| | - Jesus M. Urman
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Navarra University Hospital Complex, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Carmen Berasain
- Program of Hepatology, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (A.C.-C.); (L.C.); (M.A.); (C.B.)
- National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, Carlos III Health Institute), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
| | - Matias A. Avila
- Program of Hepatology, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (A.C.-C.); (L.C.); (M.A.); (C.B.)
- National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, Carlos III Health Institute), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
- Correspondence: (M.A.A.); (M.G.F.-B.); Tel.: +34-94-819-4700 (M.A.A.); +34-94-819-4700 (M.G.F.-B.)
| | - Maite G. Fernandez-Barrena
- Program of Hepatology, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (A.C.-C.); (L.C.); (M.A.); (C.B.)
- National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, Carlos III Health Institute), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
- Correspondence: (M.A.A.); (M.G.F.-B.); Tel.: +34-94-819-4700 (M.A.A.); +34-94-819-4700 (M.G.F.-B.)
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30
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Perakakis N, Stefanakis K, Mantzoros CS. The role of omics in the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Metabolism 2020; 111S:154320. [PMID: 32712221 PMCID: PMC7377759 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2020.154320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a multifaceted metabolic disorder, whose spectrum covers clinical, histological and pathophysiological developments ranging from simple steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and liver fibrosis, potentially evolving into cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma and liver failure. Liver biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosing NAFLD, while there are no specific treatments. An ever-increasing number of high-throughput Omics investigations on the molecular pathobiology of NAFLD at the cellular, tissue and system levels produce comprehensive biochemical patient snapshots. In the clinical setting, these applications are considerably enhancing our efforts towards obtaining a holistic insight on NAFLD pathophysiology. Omics are also generating non-invasive diagnostic modalities for the distinct stages of NAFLD, that remain though to be validated in multiple, large, heterogenous and independent cohorts, both cross-sectionally as well as prospectively. Finally, they aid in developing novel therapies. By tracing the flow of information from genomics to epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics and glycomics, the chief contributions of these techniques in understanding, diagnosing and treating NAFLD are summarized herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Perakakis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Boston VA Healthcare system and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA..
| | - Konstantinos Stefanakis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Boston VA Healthcare system and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Christos S Mantzoros
- Department of Internal Medicine, Boston VA Healthcare system and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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31
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32
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Liu CS, Schmezer P, Popanda O. Diacylglycerol Kinase Alpha in Radiation-Induced Fibrosis: Potential as a Predictive Marker or Therapeutic Target. Front Oncol 2020; 10:737. [PMID: 32477950 PMCID: PMC7235333 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy is an efficient tool in cancer treatment, but it brings along the risk of side effects such as fibrosis in the irradiated healthy tissue thus limiting tumor control and impairing quality of life of cancer survivors. Knowledge on radiation-related fibrosis risk and therapeutic options is still limited and requires further research. Recent studies demonstrated that epigenetic regulation of diacylglycerol kinase alpha (DGKA) is associated with radiation-induced fibrosis. However, the specific mechanisms are still unknown. In this review, we scrutinized the role of DGKA in the radiation response and in further cellular functions to show the potential of DGKA as a predictive marker or a novel target in fibrosis treatment. DGKA was reported to participate in immune response, lipid signaling, exosome production, and migration as well as cell proliferation, all processes which are suggested to be critical steps in fibrogenesis. Most of these functions are based on the conversion of diacylglycerol (DAG) to phosphatidic acid (PA) at plasma membranes, but DGKA might have also other, yet not well-known functions in the nucleus. Current evidence summarized here underlines that DGKA activation may play a central role in fibrosis formation post-irradiation and shows a potential of direct DGKA inhibitors or epigenetic modulators to attenuate pro-fibrotic reactions, thus providing novel therapeutic choices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Shan Liu
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Schmezer
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Odilia Popanda
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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33
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Fustin JM, Ye S, Rakers C, Kaneko K, Fukumoto K, Yamano M, Versteven M, Grünewald E, Cargill SJ, Tamai TK, Xu Y, Jabbur ML, Kojima R, Lamberti ML, Yoshioka-Kobayashi K, Whitmore D, Tammam S, Howell PL, Kageyama R, Matsuo T, Stanewsky R, Golombek DA, Johnson CH, Kakeya H, van Ooijen G, Okamura H. Methylation deficiency disrupts biological rhythms from bacteria to humans. Commun Biol 2020; 3:211. [PMID: 32376902 PMCID: PMC7203018 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-020-0942-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The methyl cycle is a universal metabolic pathway providing methyl groups for the methylation of nuclei acids and proteins, regulating all aspects of cellular physiology. We have previously shown that methyl cycle inhibition in mammals strongly affects circadian rhythms. Since the methyl cycle and circadian clocks have evolved early during evolution and operate in organisms across the tree of life, we sought to determine whether the link between the two is also conserved. Here, we show that methyl cycle inhibition affects biological rhythms in species ranging from unicellular algae to humans, separated by more than 1 billion years of evolution. In contrast, the cyanobacterial clock is resistant to methyl cycle inhibition, although we demonstrate that methylations themselves regulate circadian rhythms in this organism. Mammalian cells with a rewired bacteria-like methyl cycle are protected, like cyanobacteria, from methyl cycle inhibition, providing interesting new possibilities for the treatment of methylation deficiencies. Fustin et al. reveal the evolutionarily conserved link between methyl metabolism and biological clocks. This study suggests the possibility of translating fundamental understanding of methylation deficiencies to clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Michel Fustin
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular Metabology, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan. .,The University of Manchester, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK.
| | - Shiqi Ye
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular Metabology, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Christin Rakers
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kensuke Kaneko
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of System Chemotherapy and Molecular Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kazuki Fukumoto
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular Metabology, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Mayu Yamano
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular Metabology, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Marijke Versteven
- Institute of Neuro- and Behavioral Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Ellen Grünewald
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - T Katherine Tamai
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yao Xu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Maria Luísa Jabbur
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Melisa L Lamberti
- Department of Science and Technology, National University of Quilmes/CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - David Whitmore
- Centre for Cell and Molecular Dynamics, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Stephanie Tammam
- Molecular Medicine, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning (PGCRL), The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - P Lynne Howell
- Molecular Medicine, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning (PGCRL), The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ryoichiro Kageyama
- Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takuya Matsuo
- Center for Gene Research, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Ralf Stanewsky
- Institute of Neuro- and Behavioral Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Diego A Golombek
- Department of Science and Technology, National University of Quilmes/CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Hideaki Kakeya
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of System Chemotherapy and Molecular Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Gerben van Ooijen
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Hitoshi Okamura
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular Brain Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan. .,Kyoto University, Graduate School of Medicine, Department of Neuroscience, Division of Physiology and Neurobiology, Yoshida-Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan.
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34
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Bayoumi A, Grønbæk H, George J, Eslam M. The Epigenetic Drug Discovery Landscape for Metabolic-associated Fatty Liver Disease. Trends Genet 2020; 36:429-441. [PMID: 32396836 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2020.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite decades of research, effective therapies for metabolic (dysfunction)-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) are lacking. An increasing body of evidence suggests that epigenetic dysregulation is frequent in MAFLD, and orchestrates many aspects of its development and progression. Furthermore, the high plasticity of epigenetic modifications in response to environmental cues renders epigenetics a novel area for therapeutic drug discovery. Over recent years, several epigenetics-based drugs and diagnostic biomarkers have entered clinical development and/or obtained regulatory approval. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of epigenetic regulation and programming during MAFLD, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodelling, transcriptional control, and noncoding (nc)RNAs. We also discuss the potential translational implications and challenges of epigenetics in the context of MAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Bayoumi
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Henning Grønbæk
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mohammed Eslam
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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35
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Nwadozi E, Rudnicki M, Haas TL. Metabolic Coordination of Pericyte Phenotypes: Therapeutic Implications. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:77. [PMID: 32117997 PMCID: PMC7033550 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pericytes are mural vascular cells found predominantly on the abluminal wall of capillaries, where they contribute to the maintenance of capillary structural integrity and vascular permeability. Generally quiescent cells in the adult, pericyte activation and proliferation occur during both physiological and pathological vascular and tissue remodeling. A considerable body of research indicates that pericytes possess attributes of a multipotent adult stem cell, as they are capable of self-renewal as well as commitment and differentiation into multiple lineages. However, pericytes also display phenotypic heterogeneity and recent studies indicate that lineage potential differs between pericyte subpopulations. While numerous microenvironmental cues and cell signaling pathways are known to regulate pericyte functions, the roles that metabolic pathways play in pericyte quiescence, self-renewal or differentiation have been given limited consideration to date. This review will summarize existing data regarding pericyte metabolism and will discuss the coupling of signal pathways to shifts in metabolic pathway preferences that ultimately regulate pericyte quiescence, self-renewal and trans-differentiation. The association between dysregulated metabolic processes and development of pericyte pathologies will be highlighted. Despite ongoing debate regarding pericyte classification and their functional capacity for trans-differentiation in vivo, pericytes are increasingly exploited as a cell therapy tool to promote tissue healing and regeneration. Ultimately, the efficacy of therapeutic approaches hinges on the capacity to effectively control/optimize the fate of the implanted pericytes. Thus, we will identify knowledge gaps that need to be addressed to more effectively harness the opportunity for therapeutic manipulation of pericytes to control pathological outcomes in tissue remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tara L. Haas
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, Angiogenesis Research Group and Muscle Health Research Centre, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
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36
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Anglès F, Hutt DM, Balch WE. HDAC inhibitors rescue multiple disease-causing CFTR variants. Hum Mol Genet 2020; 28:1982-2000. [PMID: 30753450 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddz026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the role of the epigenome in protein-misfolding diseases remains a challenge in light of genetic diversity found in the world-wide population revealed by human genome sequencing efforts and the highly variable response of the disease population to therapeutics. An ever-growing body of evidence has shown that histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors (HDACi) can have significant benefit in correcting protein-misfolding diseases that occur in response to both familial and somatic mutation. Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a familial autosomal recessive disease, caused by genetic diversity in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, a cyclic Adenosine MonoPhosphate (cAMP)-dependent chloride channel expressed at the apical plasma membrane of epithelial cells in multiple tissues. The potential utility of HDACi in correcting the phenylalanine 508 deletion (F508del) CFTR variant as well as the over 2000 CF-associated variants remains controversial. To address this concern, we examined the impact of US Food and Drug Administration-approved HDACi on the trafficking and function of a panel of CFTR variants. Our data reveal that panobinostat (LBH-589) and romidepsin (FK-228) provide functional correction of Class II and III CFTR variants, restoring cell surface chloride channel activity in primary human bronchial epithelial cells. We further demonstrate a synergistic effect of these HDACi with Vx809, which can significantly restore channel activity for multiple CFTR variants. These data suggest that HDACi can serve to level the cellular playing field for correcting CF-causing mutations, a leveling effect that might also extend to other protein-misfolding diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric Anglès
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, North Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Darren M Hutt
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, North Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - William E Balch
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, North Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA, USA.,Skaggs Institute of Chemical Biology, North Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA, USA
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37
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Ulukan B, Sila Ozkaya Y, Zeybel M. Advances in the epigenetics of fibroblast biology and fibrotic diseases. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2019; 49:102-109. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2019.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
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38
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O'Reilly S. Epigenetic modulation as a therapy in systemic sclerosis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2019; 58:191-196. [PMID: 29579252 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/key071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
SSc is an autoimmune idiopathic disease in which there is an inflammatory component driving fibrosis. The chief cell involved is the myofibroblast, which when activated secretes copious amounts of extracellular matrix that forms deposits, leading to stiffness and fibrosis. The fibrosis is most prevalent in the skin and lungs. In recent years epigenetic modifications have been uncovered that positively and negatively regulate the genesis of the myofibroblasts and that can be activated and regulated by a variety of cytokines and hormones. The epigenetic contribution to these cells and to SSc is only now really coming to light, and this opens up a new therapeutic target for the disease for which many epigenetic drugs, such as miRNA replacements, are beginning to be developed. This review will examine the epigenetic regulators in the disease and possible targeting of these.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven O'Reilly
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon-Tyne, UK
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39
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Shi Y, Tao M, Wang Y, Zang X, Ma X, Qiu A, Zhuang S, Liu N. Genetic or pharmacologic blockade of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 inhibits the progression of peritoneal fibrosis. J Pathol 2019; 250:79-94. [PMID: 31579944 DOI: 10.1002/path.5352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 09/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulation of histone methyltransferase enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of many cancers. However, the role of EZH2 in peritoneal fibrosis remains unknown. We investigated EZH2 expression in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients and assessed its role in peritoneal fibrosis in cultured human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMCs) and murine models of peritoneal fibrosis induced by chlorhexidine gluconate (CG) or high glucose peritoneal dialysis fluid (PDF) by using 3-deazaneplanocin A (3-DZNeP), and EZH2 conditional knockout mice. An abundance of EZH2 was detected in the peritoneum of patients with PD associated peritonitis and the dialysis effluent of long-term PD patients, which was positively correlated with expression of TGF-β1, vascular endothelial growth factor, and IL-6. EZH2 was found highly expressed in the peritoneum of mice following injury by CG or PDF. In both mouse models, treatment with 3-DZNeP attenuated peritoneal fibrosis and inhibited activation of several profibrotic signaling pathways, including TGF-β1/Smad3, Notch1, epidermal growth factor receptor and Src. EZH2 inhibition also inhibited STAT3 and nuclear factor-κB phosphorylation, and reduced lymphocyte and macrophage infiltration and angiogenesis in the injured peritoneum. 3-DZNeP effectively improved high glucose PDF-associated peritoneal dysfunction by decreasing the dialysate-to-plasma ratio of blood urea nitrogen and increasing the ratio of dialysate glucose at 2 h after PDF injection to initial dialysate glucose. Moreover, delayed administration of 3-DZNeP inhibited peritoneal fibrosis progression, reversed established peritoneal fibrosis and reduced expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 2, and matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9. Finally, EZH2-KO mice exhibited less peritoneal fibrosis than EZH2-WT mice. In HPMCs, treatment with EZH2 siRNA or 3-DZNeP suppressed TGF-β1-induced upregulation of α-SMA and Collagen I and preserved E-cadherin. These results indicate that EZH2 is a key epigenetic regulator that promotes peritoneal fibrosis. Targeting EZH2 may have the potential to prevent and treat peritoneal fibrosis. © 2019 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingfeng Shi
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Min Tao
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xiujuan Zang
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai Songjiang District Central Hospital, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xiaoyan Ma
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Andong Qiu
- School of Life Science and Technology, Advanced Institute of Translational Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Shougang Zhuang
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.,Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital and Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Na Liu
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
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40
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Dewidar B, Meyer C, Dooley S, Meindl-Beinker N. TGF-β in Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Liver Fibrogenesis-Updated 2019. Cells 2019; 8:cells8111419. [PMID: 31718044 PMCID: PMC6912224 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 409] [Impact Index Per Article: 81.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is an advanced liver disease condition, which could progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. To date, there is no direct approved antifibrotic therapy, and current treatment is mainly the removal of the causative factor. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β is a master profibrogenic cytokine and a promising target to treat fibrosis. However, TGF-β has broad biological functions and its inhibition induces non-desirable side effects, which override therapeutic benefits. Therefore, understanding the pleiotropic effects of TGF-β and its upstream and downstream regulatory mechanisms will help to design better TGF-β based therapeutics. Here, we summarize recent discoveries and milestones on the TGF-β signaling pathway related to liver fibrosis and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation, emphasizing research of the last five years. This comprises impact of TGF-β on liver fibrogenesis related biological processes, such as senescence, metabolism, reactive oxygen species generation, epigenetics, circadian rhythm, epithelial mesenchymal transition, and endothelial-mesenchymal transition. We also describe the influence of the microenvironment on the response of HSC to TGF-β. Finally, we discuss new approaches to target the TGF-β pathway, name current clinical trials, and explain promises and drawbacks that deserve to be adequately addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bedair Dewidar
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (B.D.); (C.M.); (S.D.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, 31527 Tanta, Egypt
| | - Christoph Meyer
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (B.D.); (C.M.); (S.D.)
| | - Steven Dooley
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (B.D.); (C.M.); (S.D.)
| | - Nadja Meindl-Beinker
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (B.D.); (C.M.); (S.D.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-621-383-4983; Fax: +49-621-383-1467
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Jalan-Sakrikar N, De Assuncao TM, Shi G, Aseem S, Chi C, Shah VH, Huebert RC. Proteasomal Degradation of Enhancer of Zeste Homologue 2 in Cholangiocytes Promotes Biliary Fibrosis. Hepatology 2019; 70:1674-1689. [PMID: 31070797 PMCID: PMC6819212 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
During biliary disease, cholangiocytes become activated by various pathological stimuli, including transforming growth factor β (TGF-β). The result is an epigenetically regulated transcriptional program leading to a pro-fibrogenic microenvironment, activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), and progression of biliary fibrosis. This study evaluated how TGF-β signaling intersects with epigenetic machinery in cholangiocytes to support fibrogenic gene transcription. We performed RNA sequencing in cholangiocytes with or without TGF-β. Ingenuity pathway analysis identified "HSC Activation" as the highly up-regulated pathway, including overexpression of fibronectin 1 (FN), connective tissue growth factor, and other genes. Bioinformatics identified enhancer of zeste homologue 2 (EZH2) as an epigenetic regulator of the cholangiocyte TGF-β response. EZH2 overexpression suppressed TGF-β-induced FN protein in vitro, suggesting FN as a direct target of EZH2-based repression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays identified an FN promoter element in which EZH2-mediated tri-methylation of lysine 27 on histone 3 is diminished by TGF-β. TGF-β also caused a 50% reduction in EZH2 protein levels. Proteasome inhibition rescued EZH2 protein and led to reduced FN production. Immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry identified ubiquitin protein ligase E3 component N-recognin 4 in complex with EZH2, which was validated by western blotting in vitro. Ubiquitin mutation studies suggested K63-based ubiquitin linkage and chain elongation on EZH2 in response to TGF-β. A deletion mutant of EZH2, lacking its N-terminal domain, abrogates both TGF-β-stimulated EZH2 degradation and FN release. In vivo, cholangiocyte-selective knockout of EZH2 exacerbates bile duct ligation-induced fibrosis whereas MDR2-/- mice are protected from fibrosis by the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib. Conclusion: TGF-β regulates proteasomal degradation of EZH2 through N-terminal, K63-linked ubiquitination in cholangiocytes and activates transcription of a fibrogenic gene program that supports biliary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nidhi Jalan-Sakrikar
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN.,Gastroenterology Research Unit, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN
| | - Thiago M. De Assuncao
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN.,Gastroenterology Research Unit, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN
| | - Guang Shi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN.,Gastroenterology Research Unit, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN
| | - SayedObaidullah Aseem
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN.,Gastroenterology Research Unit, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN
| | - Cheng Chi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN.,Gastroenterology Research Unit, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN
| | - Vijay H. Shah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN.,Gastroenterology Research Unit, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN.,Center for Cell Signaling in Gastroenterology; Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN
| | - Robert C. Huebert
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN.,Gastroenterology Research Unit, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN.,Center for Cell Signaling in Gastroenterology; Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN
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Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a severe autoimmune disease that is characterized by vascular abnormalities, immunological alterations and fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. The results of genetic studies in patients with SSc have revealed statistically significant genetic associations with disease manifestations and progression. Nevertheless, genetic susceptibility to SSc is moderate, and the functional consequences of genetic associations remain only partially characterized. A current hypothesis is that, in genetically susceptible individuals, epigenetic modifications constitute the driving force for disease initiation. As epigenetic alterations can occur years before fibrosis appears, these changes could represent a potential link between inflammation and tissue fibrosis. Epigenetics is a fast-growing discipline, and a considerable number of important epigenetic studies in SSc have been published in the past few years that span histone post-translational modifications, DNA methylation, microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs. This Review describes the latest insights into genetic and epigenetic contributions to the pathogenesis of SSc and aims to provide an improved understanding of the molecular pathways that link inflammation and fibrosis. This knowledge will be of paramount importance for the development of medicines that are effective in treating or even reversing tissue fibrosis.
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43
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Jia Y, Reddy MA, Das S, Oh HJ, Abdollahi M, Yuan H, Zhang E, Lanting L, Wang M, Natarajan R. Dysregulation of histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation in transforming growth factor-β1-induced gene expression in mesangial cells and diabetic kidney. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:12695-12707. [PMID: 31266808 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.007575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β)-induced fibrotic and inflammatory genes in renal mesangial cells (MCs) play important roles in glomerular dysfunction associated with diabetic nephropathy (DN). TGF-β regulates gene expression in MCs by altering key chromatin histone modifications at target gene promoters. However, the role of the repressive histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) modification is unclear. Here we show that TGF-β reduces H3K27me3 at the Ctgf, Serpine1, and Ccl2 gene promoters in rat MCs (RMCs) and reciprocally up-regulates the expression of these pro-fibrotic and inflammatory genes. In parallel, TGF-β down-regulates Enhancer of Zeste homolog 2 (Ezh2), an H3K27me3 methyltransferase, and decreases its recruitment at Ctgf and Ccl2 but not Serpine1 promoters. Ezh2 knockdown with siRNAs enhances TGF-β-induced expression of these genes, supporting its repressive function. Mechanistically, Ezh2 down-regulation is mediated by TGF-β-induced microRNA, miR-101b, which targets Ezh2 3'-UTR. TGF-β also up-regulates Jmjd3 and Utx in RMCs, suggesting a key role for these H3K27me3 demethylases in H3K27me3 inhibition. In RMCs, Utx knockdown inhibits hypertrophy, a key event in glomerular dysfunction. The H3K27me3 regulators are similarly altered in human and mouse MCs. High glucose inhibits Ezh2 and increases miR-101b in a TGF-β-dependent manner. Furthermore, in kidneys from rodent models of DN, fibrotic genes, miR-101b, and H3K27me3 demethylases are up-regulated, whereas Ezh2 protein levels as well as enrichment of Ezh2 and H3K27me3 at target genes are decreased, demonstrating in vivo relevance. These results suggest that H3K27me3 inhibition by TGF-β via dysregulation of related histone-modifying enzymes and miRNAs augments pathological genes mediating glomerular mesangial dysfunction and DN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Jia
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California 91010.,Division of Nephrology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Marpadga A Reddy
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California 91010
| | - Sadhan Das
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California 91010
| | - Hyung Jung Oh
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California 91010.,Ewha Institute of Convergence Medicine, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Seoul 07985, South Korea
| | - Maryam Abdollahi
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California 91010
| | - Hang Yuan
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California 91010.,Division of Nephrology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Erli Zhang
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California 91010.,Department of Cardiology, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Linda Lanting
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California 91010
| | - Mei Wang
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California 91010
| | - Rama Natarajan
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California 91010
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44
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Epigenetic Mechanisms in Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation During Liver Fibrosis and Carcinogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20102507. [PMID: 31117267 PMCID: PMC6566358 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20102507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is an essential component of chronic liver disease (CLD) and hepatocarcinogenesis. The fibrotic stroma is a consequence of sustained liver damage combined with exacerbated extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation. In this context, activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) plays a key role in both initiation and perpetuation of fibrogenesis. These cells suffer profound remodeling of gene expression in this process. This review is focused on the epigenetic alterations participating in the transdifferentiation of HSCs from the quiescent to activated state. Recent advances in the field of DNA methylation and post-translational modifications (PTM) of histones (acetylation and methylation) patterns are discussed here, together with altered expression and activity of epigenetic remodelers. We also consider recent advances in translational approaches, including the use of epigenetic marks as biomarkers and the promising antifibrotic properties of epigenetic drugs that are currently being used in patients.
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45
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3-deazaneplanocin A protects against cisplatin-induced renal tubular cell apoptosis and acute kidney injury by restoration of E-cadherin expression. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:355. [PMID: 31043583 PMCID: PMC6494881 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1589-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
3-deazaneplanocin A (3-DZNeP) has been used as an inhibitor of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2). Here, we explore the role and underlying mechanisms action of 3-DZNeP in abrogating cisplatin nephrotoxicity. Exposure of cultured mouse renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (mTECs) to cisplatin resulted in dose and time-dependent cleavage of caspase-3, decrease of cell viability, and increase of histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3), whereas expression levels of EZH2, a major methyltransferase of H3K27me3, were not affected. Treatment with 3-DZNeP significantly inhibited cisplatin-induced activation of caspase-3, apoptosis, loss of cell viability but did not alter levels of EZH2 and H3K27me3 in cultured mTECs. 3-DZNeP treatment did not affect activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, p38 or c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK) 1/2, which contribute to renal epithelial cell death, but caused dose-dependent restoration of E-cadherin in mTECs exposed to cisplatin. Silencing of E-cadherin expression by siRNA abolished the cytoprotective effects of 3-DZNeP. In contrast, 3-DZNeP treatment potentiated the cytotoxic effect of cisplatin in H1299, a non-small cell lung cancer cell line that expresses lower E-cadherin levels. Finally, administration of 3-DZNeP attenuated renal dysfunction, morphological damage, and renal tubular cell death, which was accompanied by E-cadherin preservation, in a mouse model of cisplatin nephrotoxicity. Overall, these data indicate that 3-DZNeP suppresses cisplatin-induced tubular epithelial cell apoptosis and acute kidney injury via an E-cadherin-dependent mechanism, and suggest that combined application of 3-DZNeP with cisplatin would be a novel chemotherapeutic strategy that enhances the anti-tumor effect of cisplatin and reduces its nephrotoxicity.
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46
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The creative destruction: the reason why the Turkish Gastroenterology community is ready for the new era: a mini-brainstorm to support the fast-growing and encouraging environment in Turkey. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 31:646-647. [PMID: 30920484 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000001392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
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47
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Usher KM, Zhu S, Mavropalias G, Carrino JA, Zhao J, Xu J. Pathological mechanisms and therapeutic outlooks for arthrofibrosis. Bone Res 2019; 7:9. [PMID: 30937213 PMCID: PMC6433953 DOI: 10.1038/s41413-019-0047-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Revised: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Arthrofibrosis is a fibrotic joint disorder that begins with an inflammatory reaction to insults such as injury, surgery and infection. Excessive extracellular matrix and adhesions contract pouches, bursae and tendons, cause pain and prevent a normal range of joint motion, with devastating consequences for patient quality of life. Arthrofibrosis affects people of all ages, with published rates varying. The risk factors and best management strategies are largely unknown due to a poor understanding of the pathology and lack of diagnostic biomarkers. However, current research into the pathogenesis of fibrosis in organs now informs the understanding of arthrofibrosis. The process begins when stress signals stimulate immune cells. The resulting cascade of cytokines and mediators drives fibroblasts to differentiate into myofibroblasts, which secrete fibrillar collagens and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Positive feedback networks then dysregulate processes that normally terminate healing processes. We propose two subtypes of arthrofibrosis occur: active arthrofibrosis and residual arthrofibrosis. In the latter the fibrogenic processes have resolved but the joint remains stiff. The best therapeutic approach for each subtype may differ significantly. Treatment typically involves surgery, however, a pharmacological approach to correct dysregulated cell signalling could be more effective. Recent research shows that myofibroblasts are capable of reversing differentiation, and understanding the mechanisms of pathogenesis and resolution will be essential for the development of cell-based treatments. Therapies with significant promise are currently available, with more in development, including those that inhibit TGF-β signalling and epigenetic modifications. This review focuses on pathogenesis of sterile arthrofibrosis and therapeutic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayley M. Usher
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia Australia
| | - Sipin Zhu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang China
| | - Georgios Mavropalias
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia Australia
| | | | - Jinmin Zhao
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi China
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi China
| | - Jiake Xu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia Australia
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi China
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48
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Peynshaert K, Devoldere J, Minnaert AK, De Smedt SC, Remaut K. Morphology and Composition of the Inner Limiting Membrane: Species-Specific Variations and Relevance toward Drug Delivery Research. Curr Eye Res 2019; 44:465-475. [PMID: 30638413 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2019.1565890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The inner limiting membrane (ILM) represents the structural boundary between the vitreous and the retina, and is suggested to act as a barrier for a wide range of retinal therapies. While it is widely acknowledged that the morphology of the human ILM exhibits regional variations and undergoes age-related changes, insight into its structure in laboratory animals is very limited. Besides presenting a detailed overview of the morphology and composition of the human ILM, this review specifically reflects on the species-specific differences in ILM structure. With these differences in mind, we furthermore summarize the most relevant reports on the barrier role of the ILM with regard to viral vectors, nanoparticles, anti-VEGF medication and stem cells. Overall, this review aims to deliberate on the impact of species-specific ILM variations on drug delivery research as well as to pinpoint knowledge gaps which future basic research should resolve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Peynshaert
- a Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium.,b Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium
| | - Joke Devoldere
- a Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium.,b Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium
| | - An-Katrien Minnaert
- a Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium.,b Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- a Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium.,b Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium
| | - Katrien Remaut
- a Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium.,b Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium
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49
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Khan MI, Hamid A, Rath S, Ateeq B, Khan Q, Siddiqui IA, Adhami VM, Choudhry H, Zamzami MA, Mukhtar H. AKT Inhibition Modulates H3K4 Demethylase Levels in PTEN-Null Prostate Cancer. Mol Cancer Ther 2018; 18:356-363. [PMID: 30446585 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-18-0141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Revised: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Hyperactivated AKT kinase due to loss of its negative regulator PTEN influences many aspects of cancer biology, including chromatin. AKT primarily regulates acetyl-CoA production and phosphorylates many histone-modulating enzymes, resulting in their activation or inhibition. Therefore, understanding the therapeutic impact of AKT inhibition on chromatin-related events is essential. Here, we report that AKT inhibition in prostate-specific PTEN knockout mice significantly induces di- and trimethylation of H3K4 with concomitant reduction in H3K9 acetylation. Mechanistically, we observed that AKT inhibition reduces expression of the H3K4 methylation-specific histone demethylases KDM5 family, especially KDM5B expression at transcriptional levels. Furthermore, we observed that AKT negatively regulates miR-137 levels, which transcriptionally represses KDM5B expression. Overexpression of miR-137 significantly reduced KDM5B and increased H3K4 methylation levels but failed to change AKT phosphorylation. Overall, we observed that AKT transcriptionally regulates KDM5B mainly via repression of miR-137. Our data identify a mechanism by which AKT kinase modulates the prostate cancer epigenome through regulating H3K4 methylation. Additional studies on AKT inhibition-mediated induction of H3K4 methylation will help in designing strategies to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of PI3K/AKT inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Imran Khan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. .,Cancer Metabolism and Epigenetic Unit, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Abid Hamid
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin.,Cancer Pharmacology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Canal Road, Jammu, India
| | - Suvasmita Rath
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Bushra Ateeq
- Molecular Oncology Lab, Department of Biological Sciences & Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology-Kanpur (IIT-K) Kanpur, India
| | - Qateeb Khan
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Imtiaz A Siddiqui
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Vaqar Mustafa Adhami
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Hani Choudhry
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Cancer Metabolism and Epigenetic Unit, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mazin A Zamzami
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Cancer Metabolism and Epigenetic Unit, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hasan Mukhtar
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
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50
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Fernández-Ramos D, Fernández-Tussy P, Lopitz-Otsoa F, Gutiérrez-de-Juan V, Navasa N, Barbier-Torres L, Zubiete-Franco I, Simón J, Fernández AF, Arbelaiz A, Aransay AM, Lavín JL, Beraza N, Perugorria MJ, Banales JM, Villa E, Fraga MF, Anguita J, Avila MA, Berasain C, Iruzibieta P, Crespo J, Lu SC, Varela-Rey M, Mato JM, Delgado TC, Martínez-Chantar ML. MiR-873-5p acts as an epigenetic regulator in early stages of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:958. [PMID: 30237481 PMCID: PMC6148053 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-1014-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Glycine N-methyltransferase (GNMT) is the most abundant methyltransferase in the liver and a master regulator of the transmethylation flux. GNMT downregulation leads to loss of liver function progressing to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Moreover, GNMT deficiency aggravates cholestasis-induced fibrogenesis. To date, little is known about the mechanisms underlying downregulation of GNMT levels in hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis. On this basis, microRNAs are epigenetic regulatory elements that play important roles in liver pathology. In this work, we aim to study the regulation of GNMT by microRNAs during liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Luciferase assay on the 3ʹUTR-Gnmt was used to confirm in silico analysis showing that GNMT is potentially targeted by the microRNA miR-873-5p. Correlation between GNMT and miR-873-5p in human cholestasis and cirrhosis together with miR-873-5p inhibition in vivo in different mouse models of liver cholestasis and fibrosis [bile duct ligation and Mdr2 (Abcb4)-/- mouse] were then assessed. The analysis of liver tissue from cirrhotic and cholestatic patients, as well as from the animal models, showed that miR-873-5p inversely correlated with the expression of GNMT. Importantly, high circulating miR-873-5p was also detected in cholestastic and cirrhotic patients. Preclinical studies with anti-miR-873-5p treatment in bile duct ligation and Mdr2-/- mice recovered GNMT levels in association with ameliorated inflammation and fibrosis mainly by counteracting hepatocyte apoptosis and cholangiocyte proliferation. In conclusion, miR-873-5p emerges as a novel marker for liver fibrosis, cholestasis, and cirrhosis and therapeutic approaches based on anti-miR-873-5p may be effective treatments for liver fibrosis and cholestatic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Fernández-Ramos
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biociencias, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Fernández-Tussy
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biociencias, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Fernando Lopitz-Otsoa
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biociencias, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | | | - Nicolás Navasa
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biociencias, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Lucía Barbier-Torres
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biociencias, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Imanol Zubiete-Franco
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biociencias, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Jorge Simón
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biociencias, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Agustín F Fernández
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory, Institute of Oncology of Asturias (IUOPA), HUCA, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (IISPA), Oviedo, Spain
| | - Ander Arbelaiz
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute-Donostia University Hospital-University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Ana M Aransay
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biociencias, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Luis Lavín
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biociencias, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Naiara Beraza
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biociencias, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - María J Perugorria
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute-Donostia University Hospital-University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), San Sebastian, Spain.,Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Jesus M Banales
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute-Donostia University Hospital-University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), San Sebastian, Spain.,Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Erica Villa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria & University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Mario F Fraga
- Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology Research Center (CINN-CSIC)-Universidad de Oviedo-Principado de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Juan Anguita
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biociencias, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain.,Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Matias A Avila
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Hepatology Programme, CIMA-University of Navarra, IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Carmen Berasain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Hepatology Programme, CIMA-University of Navarra, IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Paula Iruzibieta
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital. Infection, Immunity and Digestive Pathology Group, Research Institute Marqués de Valdecilla (IDIVAL), Santander, Spain
| | - Javier Crespo
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital. Infection, Immunity and Digestive Pathology Group, Research Institute Marqués de Valdecilla (IDIVAL), Santander, Spain
| | - Shelly C Lu
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Marta Varela-Rey
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biociencias, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - José M Mato
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biociencias, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Teresa C Delgado
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biociencias, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain.
| | - María L Martínez-Chantar
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biociencias, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain. .,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
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