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Doxazosin and Carvedilol Treatment Improves Hepatic Regeneration in a Hamster Model of Cirrhosis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:4706976. [PMID: 30643808 PMCID: PMC6311259 DOI: 10.1155/2018/4706976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Revised: 09/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Regulation of the mechanisms of fibrosis is an important goal in the treatment of liver cirrhosis. One mechanism is the participation of hepatic stellate cells in fibrogenesis when activated by catecholamines. Consequently, α/β adrenoblockers are proposed as an alternative treatment for chronic liver lesions such as fibrosis and/or cirrhosis and for possible liver regeneration. We herein analyzed the effect of doxazosin and carvedilol treatments during the regeneration of tissue in a hamster model of liver cirrhosis. Tissue samples were examined by H&E and PAS to evaluate tissue damage and with Sirius red to assess collagen fiber content. ALT, AST, albumin, and total proteins were examined by spectrophotometry. Determination of the levels of α-SMA and TGF-β in hepatic tissue was examined by Western blot and of the expression of TIMP-2, MMP-13, α-FP, HGF, CK-7, and c-Myc was examined by qPCR. Treatment with doxazosin or carvedilol prompted histological recovery and reduced collagen fibers in the livers of cirrhotic hamsters. The expression of TIMP-2 decreased and that of MMP-13 increases in animals treated with adrenoblockers with respect to the group with cirrhosis. Additionally, the concentration of α-SMA and TGF-β declined with both drugs with respect to placebo p<0.05. On the other hand, each drug treatment led to a distinct scenario for cell proliferation markers. Whereas doxazosin produced no irregularities in α-FP, Ki-67, and c-Myc expression, carvedilol induced an increment in the expression of these markers with respect to the intact. Hence, doxazosin and carvedilol are potential treatments for the regression of hepatic cirrhosis in hamsters in relation to the decrease of collagen in the hepatic parenchyma. However, at regeneration level we observed that doxazosin caused slight morphological changes in hepatocytes, such as its balonization without affecting the hepatic function, and on the other hand, carvedilol elicited a slight irregular expression of cell proliferation markers.
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Benten D, Kluwe J, Wirth JW, Thiele ND, Follenzi A, Bhargava KK, Palestro CJ, Koepke M, Tjandra R, Volz T, Lutgehetmann M, Gupta S. A humanized mouse model of liver fibrosis following expansion of transplanted hepatic stellate cells. J Transl Med 2018; 98:525-536. [PMID: 29352225 PMCID: PMC6526950 DOI: 10.1038/s41374-017-0010-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are major contributors to liver fibrosis, as hepatic injuries may cause their transdifferentiation into myofibroblast-like cells capable of producing excessive extracellular matrix proteins. Also, HSCs can modulate engraftment of transplanted hepatocytes and contribute to liver regeneration. Therefore, understanding the biology of human HSCs (hHSCs) is important, but effective methods have not been available to address their fate in vivo. To investigate whether HSCs could engraft and repopulate the liver, we transplanted GFP-transduced immortalized hHSCs into immunodeficient NOD/SCID mice. Biodistribution analysis with radiolabeled hHSCs showed that after intrasplenic injection, the majority of transplanted cells rapidly translocated to the liver. GFP-immunohistochemistry demonstrated that transplanted hHSCs engrafted alongside hepatic sinusoids. Prior permeabilization of the sinusoidal endothelial layer with monocrotaline enhanced engraftment of hHSCs. Transplanted hHSCs remained engrafted without relevant proliferation in the healthy liver. However, after CCl4 or bile duct ligation-induced liver damage, transplanted hHSCs expanded and contributed to extracellular matrix production, formation of bridging cell-septae and cirrhosis-like hepatic pseudolobules. CCl4-induced injury recruited hHSCs mainly to zone 3, whereas after bile duct ligation, hHSCs were mainly in zone 1 of the liver lobule. Transplanted hHSCs neither transdifferentiated into other cell types nor formed tumors in these settings. In conclusion, a humanized mouse model was generated by transplanting hHSCs, which proliferated during hepatic injury and inflammation, and contributed to liver fibrosis. The ability to repopulate the liver with transplanted hHSCs will be particularly significant for mechanistic studies of cell-cell interactions and fibrogenesis within the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Benten
- Departments of Medicine and Pathology, Marion Bessin Liver Research Center, Diabetes Center, Cancer Center, Ruth L. and David S. Gottesman Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research, Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA. .,Department of Medicine, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany. .,Helios Klinikum Duisburg, Duisburg, Germany.
| | - Johannes Kluwe
- Department of Medicine, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jan W. Wirth
- Department of Medicine, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nina D. Thiele
- Department of Medicine, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Antonia Follenzi
- Department of HealthSciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “A. Avogadro”, Novara, Italy
| | - Kuldeep K. Bhargava
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Long Island Jewish Health Center, NorthWell Health, New Hyde Park, NY, USA
| | - Christopher J. Palestro
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Long Island Jewish Health Center, NorthWell Health, New Hyde Park, NY, USA
| | - Michael Koepke
- Department of Medicine, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Reni Tjandra
- Department of Medicine, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tassilo Volz
- Department of Medicine, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marc Lutgehetmann
- Department of Medicine, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sanjeev Gupta
- Departments of Medicine and Pathology, Marion Bessin Liver Research Center, Diabetes Center, Cancer Center, Ruth L. and David S. Gottesman Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research, Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
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Li Y, Lu L, Qian S, Fung JJ, Lin F. Hepatic Stellate Cells Directly Inhibit B Cells via Programmed Death-Ligand 1. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2016; 196:1617-25. [PMID: 26755818 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1501737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 12/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
We demonstrated previously that mouse hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) suppress T cells via programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), but it remains unknown whether they exert any effects on B cells, the other component of the adaptive immune system. In this study, we found that mouse HSCs directly inhibited B cells and that PD-L1 was also integrally involved. We found that HSCs inhibited the upregulation of activation markers on activated B cells, as well as the proliferation of activated B cells and their cytokine/Ig production in vitro, and that pharmaceutically or genetically blocking the interaction of PD-L1 with programmed cell death protein 1 impaired the ability of HSCs to inhibit B cells. To test the newly discovered B cell-inhibitory activity of HSCs in vivo, we developed a protocol of intrasplenic artery injection to directly deliver HSCs into the spleen. We found that local delivery of wild-type HSCs into the spleens of mice that had been immunized with 4-hydroxy-3-nitrophenylacetyl-Ficoll, a T cell-independent Ag, significantly suppressed Ag-specific IgM and IgG production in vivo, whereas splenic artery delivery of PD-L1-deficient HSCs failed to do so. In conclusion, in addition to inhibiting T cells, mouse HSCs concurrently inhibit B cells via PD-L1. This direct B cell-inhibitory activity of HSCs should contribute to the mechanism by which HSCs maintain the liver's immune homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Department of Immunology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195; and
| | - Lina Lu
- Department of Immunology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195; and Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195
| | - Shiguang Qian
- Department of Immunology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195; and Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195
| | - John J Fung
- Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195
| | - Feng Lin
- Department of Immunology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195; and
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Lv P, Meng Q, Liu J, Wang C. Thalidomide Accelerates the Degradation of Extracellular Matrix in Rat Hepatic Cirrhosis via Down-Regulation of Transforming Growth Factor-β1. Yonsei Med J 2015; 56:1572-81. [PMID: 26446639 PMCID: PMC4630045 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2015.56.6.1572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2014] [Revised: 11/08/2014] [Accepted: 12/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The degradation of the extracellular matrix has been shown to play an important role in the treatment of hepatic cirrhosis. In this study, the effect of thalidomide on the degradation of extracellular matrix was evaluated in a rat model of hepatic cirrhosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Cirrhosis was induced in Wistar rats by intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) three times weekly for 8 weeks. Then CCl₄ was discontinued and thalidomide (100 mg/kg) or its vehicle was administered daily by gavage for 6 weeks. Serum hyaluronic acid, laminin, procollagen type III, and collagen type IV were examined by using a radioimmunoassay. Matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1), and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) protein in the liver, transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) protein in cytoplasm by using immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis, and MMP-13, TIMP-1, and TGF-β1 mRNA levels in the liver were studied using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Liver histopathology was significantly better in rats given thalidomide than in the untreated model group. The levels of TIMP-1 and TGF-β1 mRNA and protein expressions were decreased significantly and MMP-13 mRNA and protein in the liver were significantly elevated in the thalidomide-treated group. CONCLUSION Thalidomide may exert its effects on the regulation of MMP-13 and TIMP-1 via inhibition of the TGF-β1 signaling pathway, which enhances the degradation of extracellular matrix and accelerates the regression of hepatic cirrhosis in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Lv
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jining First People's Hospital, Jining, China.
| | - Qingshun Meng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jining First People's Hospital, Jining, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jining First People's Hospital, Jining, China
| | - Chuanfang Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jining First People's Hospital, Jining, China
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5
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Kantari-Mimoun C, Castells M, Klose R, Meinecke AK, Lemberger UJ, Rautou PE, Pinot-Roussel H, Badoual C, Schrödter K, Österreicher CH, Fandrey J, Stockmann C. Resolution of liver fibrosis requires myeloid cell-driven sinusoidal angiogenesis. Hepatology 2015; 61:2042-55. [PMID: 25475053 DOI: 10.1002/hep.27635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 12/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Angiogenesis is a key feature of liver fibrosis. Although sinusoidal remodeling is believed to contribute to fibrogenesis, the impact of sinusoidal angiogenesis on the resolution of liver fibrosis remains undefined. Myeloid cells, particularly macrophages, constantly infiltrate the fibrotic liver and can profoundly contribute to remodeling of liver sinusoids. We observe that the development of fibrosis is associated with decreased hepatic vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression as well as sinusoidal rarefication of the fibrotic scar. In contrast, the resolution of fibrosis is characterized by a rise in hepatic VEGF levels and revascularization of the fibrotic tissue. Genetic ablation of VEGF in myeloid cells or pharmacological inhibition of VEGF receptor 2 signaling prevents this angiogenic response and the resolution of liver fibrosis. We observe increased expression of matrix metalloproteases as well as decreased expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteases confined to sinusoidal endothelial cells in response to myeloid cell VEGF. Remarkably, reintroduction of myeloid cell-derived VEGF upon recovery restores collagenolytic acitivity and the resolution of fibrosis. CONCLUSION We identify myeloid cell-derived VEGF as a critical regulator of extracellular matrix degradation by liver endothelial cells, thereby unmasking an unanticipated link between angiogenesis and the resolution of fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chahrazade Kantari-Mimoun
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Unit 970, Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Magali Castells
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Unit 970, Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Ralph Klose
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Unit 970, Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Anna-Katharina Meinecke
- Institut für Physiologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Universität Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
| | - Ursula J Lemberger
- Institute of Pharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Pierre-Emmanuel Rautou
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Unit 970, Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Paris, France.,DHU Unity, Pôle des Maladies de l'Appareil Digestif, Service d'Hépatologie, Centre de Référence des Maladies Vasculaires du Foie, Hôpital Beaujon, AP-HP, Clichy, France
| | - Hélène Pinot-Roussel
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Unit 970, Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Paris, France.,Service d'Anatomie et Pathologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Cécile Badoual
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Unit 970, Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Paris, France.,Service d'Anatomie et Pathologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Katrin Schrödter
- Institut für Physiologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Universität Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
| | - Christoph H Österreicher
- Institute of Pharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Joachim Fandrey
- Institut für Physiologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Universität Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
| | - Christian Stockmann
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Unit 970, Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Paris, France
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Neuman MG, French SW, French BA, Seitz HK, Cohen LB, Mueller S, Osna NA, Kharbanda KK, Seth D, Bautista A, Thompson KJ, McKillop IH, Kirpich IA, McClain CJ, Bataller R, Nanau RM, Voiculescu M, Opris M, Shen H, Tillman B, Li J, Liu H, Thomes PG, Ganesan M, Malnick S. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Exp Mol Pathol 2014; 97:492-510. [PMID: 25217800 PMCID: PMC4696068 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2014.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2014] [Accepted: 09/08/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
This paper is based upon the "Charles Lieber Satellite Symposia" organized by Manuela G. Neuman at the Research Society on Alcoholism (RSA) Annual Meetings, 2013 and 2014. The present review includes pre-clinical, translational and clinical research that characterize alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). In addition, a literature search in the discussed area was performed. Strong clinical and experimental evidence lead to recognition of the key toxic role of alcohol in the pathogenesis of ALD. The liver biopsy can confirm the etiology of NASH or alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH) and assess structural alterations of cells, their organelles, as well as inflammatory activity. Three histological stages of ALD are simple steatosis, ASH, and chronic hepatitis with hepatic fibrosis or cirrhosis. These latter stages may also be associated with a number of cellular and histological changes, including the presence of Mallory's hyaline, megamitochondria, or perivenular and perisinusoidal fibrosis. Genetic polymorphisms of ethanol metabolizing enzymes such as cytochrome p450 (CYP) 2E1 activation may change the severity of ASH and NASH. Alcohol mediated hepatocarcinogenesis, immune response to alcohol in ASH, as well as the role of other risk factors such as its co-morbidities with chronic viral hepatitis in the presence or absence of human immunodeficiency virus are discussed. Dysregulation of hepatic methylation, as result of ethanol exposure, in hepatocytes transfected with hepatitis C virus (HCV), illustrates an impaired interferon signaling. The hepatotoxic effects of ethanol undermine the contribution of malnutrition to the liver injury. Dietary interventions such as micro and macronutrients, as well as changes to the microbiota are suggested. The clinical aspects of NASH, as part of metabolic syndrome in the aging population, are offered. The integrative symposia investigate different aspects of alcohol-induced liver damage and possible repair. We aim to (1) determine the immuno-pathology of alcohol-induced liver damage, (2) examine the role of genetics in the development of ASH, (3) propose diagnostic markers of ASH and NASH, (4) examine age differences, (5) develop common research tools to study alcohol-induced effects in clinical and pre-clinical studies, and (6) focus on factors that aggravate severity of organ-damage. The intention of these symposia is to advance the international profile of the biological research on alcoholism. We also wish to further our mission of leading the forum to progress the science and practice of translational research in alcoholism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela G Neuman
- In Vitro Drug Safety and Biotechnology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | | | - Helmut K Seitz
- Centre of Alcohol Research, University of Heidelberg and Department of Medicine (Gastroenterology and Hepatology), Salem Medical Centre, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lawrence B Cohen
- Division of Gastroenterology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sebastian Mueller
- Centre of Alcohol Research, University of Heidelberg and Department of Medicine (Gastroenterology and Hepatology), Salem Medical Centre, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Natalia A Osna
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Internal Medicine, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Kusum K Kharbanda
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Internal Medicine, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Devanshi Seth
- Drug Health Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Centenary Institute of Cancer Medicine and Cell Biology, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Abraham Bautista
- Office of Extramural Activities, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Kyle J Thompson
- Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Iain H McKillop
- Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Irina A Kirpich
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine and Department of Pharmacology; Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Craig J McClain
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine and Department of Pharmacology; Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA; Robley Rex Veterans Medical Center, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Ramon Bataller
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Radu M Nanau
- In Vitro Drug Safety and Biotechnology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mihai Voiculescu
- Division of Nephrology and Internal Medicine, Fundeni Clinical Institute and University of Medicine and Pharmacy, "Carol Davila", Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihai Opris
- In Vitro Drug Safety and Biotechnology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Family Medicine Clinic CAR, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Hong Shen
- Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | | | - Jun Li
- Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Hui Liu
- Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Paul G Thomes
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Internal Medicine, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Murali Ganesan
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Internal Medicine, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Steve Malnick
- Department Internal Medicine, Kaplan Medical Centre and Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
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7
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Iqbal J, McRae S, Mai T, Banaudha K, Sarkar-Dutta M, Waris G. Role of hepatitis C virus induced osteopontin in epithelial to mesenchymal transition, migration and invasion of hepatocytes. PLoS One 2014; 9:e87464. [PMID: 24498111 PMCID: PMC3909125 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0087464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2013] [Accepted: 12/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteopontin (OPN) is a secreted phosphoprotein which has been linked to tumor progression and metastasis in a variety of cancers including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Previous studies have shown that OPN is upregulated during liver injury and inflammation. However, the role of OPN in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-induced liver disease pathogenesis is not known. In this study, we determined the induction of OPN, and then investigated the effect of secreted forms of OPN in epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), migration and invasion of hepatocytes. We show the induction of OPN mRNA and protein expression by HCV-infection. Our results also demonstrate the processing of precursor OPN (75 kDa) into 55 kDa, 42 kDa and 36 kDa forms of OPN in HCV-infected cells. Furthermore, we show the binding of secreted OPN to integrin αVβ3 and CD44 at the cell surface, leading to the activation of downstream cellular kinases such as focal adhesion kinase (FAK), Src, and Akt. Importantly, our results show the reduced expression of epithelial marker (E-cadherin) and induction of mesenchymal marker (N-cadherin) in HCV-infected cells. We also show the migration and invasion of HCV-infected cells using wound healing assay and matrigel coated Boyden chamber. In addition, we demonstrate the activation of above EMT markers, and the critical players involved in OPN-mediated cell signaling cascade using primary human hepatocytes infected with Japanese fulminant hepatitis (JFH)-1 HCV. Taken together, these studies suggest a potential role of OPN in inducing chronic liver disease and HCC associated with chronic HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jawed Iqbal
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, H.
M. Bligh Cancer Research Laboratories, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine
and Science, Chicago Medical School, North Chicago, Illinois, United States of
America
| | - Steven McRae
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, H.
M. Bligh Cancer Research Laboratories, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine
and Science, Chicago Medical School, North Chicago, Illinois, United States of
America
| | - Thi Mai
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, H.
M. Bligh Cancer Research Laboratories, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine
and Science, Chicago Medical School, North Chicago, Illinois, United States of
America
| | - Krishna Banaudha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular
Biology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of
America
| | - Mehuli Sarkar-Dutta
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, H.
M. Bligh Cancer Research Laboratories, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine
and Science, Chicago Medical School, North Chicago, Illinois, United States of
America
| | - Gulam Waris
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, H.
M. Bligh Cancer Research Laboratories, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine
and Science, Chicago Medical School, North Chicago, Illinois, United States of
America
- * E-mail:
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8
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Osteopontin contributes to TGF-β1 mediated hepatic stellate cell activation. Dig Dis Sci 2012; 57:2883-91. [PMID: 22661273 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-012-2248-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2011] [Accepted: 05/03/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Liver fibrosis is characterized by accumulation of extracellular matrix. Our previous study found that osteopontin (OPN) increased in plasma of cirrhotic patients and indicative of cirrhosis staging. The present study was designed to investigate the expression of OPN in liver tissues and plasma of cirrhotic patients and further explore the role of OPN in human hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. METHODS We used immunohistochemical staining and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to evaluate the expression level of OPN in liver tissues and plasma from cirrhotic patients, respectively. We produced lentivirus particles and infected target cell to manipulate OPN expression. Infection efficiency was determined by real-time RT-PCR and western blot. Cell proliferation was determined using CCK8 assay, and phenotypes of HSC activation were determined by real-time RT-PCR. OPN promoter activity was determined by dual luciferase reporter assay. RESULTS We found that OPN expression in human cirrhotic liver tissues was upregulated compared to normal controls. In addition, its expression correlated with Child-Pugh classification, MELD score and the occurrence of complications. We further explored OPN level in patients' plasma and showed that its level correlated with transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). In human HSC cell line LX-2, we found that change of OPN expression level could not only affect the proliferation of cells but also the TGF-β1 mediated HSC activation. Moreover, OPN was increased by TGF-β1 stimulation and regulated by TGF-β1 at transcription level. CONCLUSIONS OPN is upregulated in liver tissues and plasma of cirrhotic patients and promotes TGF-β1 mediated HSC activation.
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9
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Urtasun R, Lopategi A, George J, Leung TM, Lu Y, Wang X, Ge X, Fiel MI, Nieto N. Osteopontin, an oxidant stress sensitive cytokine, up-regulates collagen-I via integrin α(V)β(3) engagement and PI3K/pAkt/NFκB signaling. Hepatology 2012; 55:594-608. [PMID: 21953216 PMCID: PMC3561739 DOI: 10.1002/hep.24701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED A key feature in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis is fibrillar Collagen-I deposition; yet, mediators that could be key therapeutic targets remain elusive. We hypothesized that osteopontin (OPN), an extracellular matrix (ECM) cytokine expressed in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), could drive fibrogenesis by modulating the HSC pro-fibrogenic phenotype and Collagen-I expression. Recombinant OPN (rOPN) up-regulated Collagen-I protein in primary HSCs in a transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ)-independent fashion, whereas it down-regulated matrix metalloprotease-13 (MMP13), thus favoring scarring. rOPN activated primary HSCs, confirmed by increased α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) expression and enhanced their invasive and wound-healing potential. HSCs isolated from wild-type (WT) mice were more profibrogenic than those from OPN knockout (Opn(-/-)) mice and infection of primary HSCs with an Ad-OPN increased Collagen-I, indicating correlation between both proteins. OPN induction of Collagen-I occurred via integrin α(v)β(3) engagement and activation of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/phosphorylated Akt/nuclear factor kappa B (PI3K/pAkt/NFκB)-signaling pathway, whereas cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44) binding and mammalian target of rapamycin/70-kDa ribosomal protein S6 kinase (mTOR/p70S6K) were not involved. Neutralization of integrin α(v) β(3) prevented the OPN-mediated activation of the PI3K/pAkt/NFκB-signaling cascade and Collagen-I up-regulation. Likewise, inhibition of PI3K and NFκB blocked the OPN-mediated Collagen-I increase. Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) cirrhotic patients showed coinduction of Collagen-I and cleaved OPN compared to healthy individuals. Acute and chronic liver injury by CCl(4) injection or thioacetamide (TAA) treatment elevated OPN expression. Reactive oxygen species up-regulated OPN in vitro and in vivo and antioxidants prevented this effect. Transgenic mice overexpressing OPN in hepatocytes (Opn(HEP) Tg) mice developed spontaneous liver fibrosis compared to WT mice. Last, chronic CCl(4) injection and TAA treatment caused more liver fibrosis to WT than to Opn(-/-) mice and the reverse occurred in Opn(HEP) Tg mice. CONCLUSION OPN emerges as a key cytokine within the ECM protein network driving the increase in Collagen-I protein contributing to scarring and liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Maria Isabel Fiel
- Division of Liver Diseases, Departments of Medicine and Pathology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Box 1123, 1425 Madison Avenue, Room 11-76, New York, NY 10029, USA
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10
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Stefano JT, Cogliati B, Santos F, Lima VMR, Mazo DC, Matte U, Alvares-da-Silva MR, Silveira TR, Carrilho FJ, Oliveira CPMS. S-Nitroso-N-acetylcysteine induces de-differentiation of activated hepatic stellate cells and promotes antifibrotic effects in vitro. Nitric Oxide 2011; 25:360-5. [PMID: 21820071 DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2011.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2011] [Revised: 06/22/2011] [Accepted: 07/04/2011] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) has been shown to act as a potent antifibrogenic agent by decreasing myofibroblast differentiation. S-Nitroso-N-acetylcysteine (SNAC), a NO donor, attenuates liver fibrosis in rats, but the cellular and molecular mechanisms on liver myofibroblast-like phenotype still remain unknown. Here, we investigate the antifibrotic effects of SNAC on hepatic stellate cells, the major fibrogenic cell type in the liver. A murine GRX cell line was incubated with SNAC (100μM) or vehicle (control group) for 72h. Cell viability was measured by MTT colorimetric assay and the conversion of myofibroblast into quiescent fat-storing cell phenotype was evaluated by Oil-Red-O staining. TGFβ-1, TIMP-1, and MMP-13 levels were measure in the supernatant by ELISA. Profibrogenic- and fibrolytic-related gene expression was quantified using real-time qPCR. SNAC induced phenotype conversion of myofibroblast-like phenotype into quiescent cells. SNAC decreased gene and protein expression of TGFβ-1 and MMP-2 compared to control groups. Besides, SNAC down-regulated profibrogenic molecules and up-regulated MMP-13 gene expression, which plays a key role in the degradation of interstitial collagen in liver fibrosis. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate that SNAC efficiently can modulate the activation and functionality of murine hepatic stellate cells and could be considered as an antifibrotic treatment to human liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J T Stefano
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
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11
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Velasco-Loyden G, Pérez-Carreón JI, Agüero JFC, Romero PC, Vidrio-Gómez S, Martínez-Pérez L, Yáñez-Maldonado L, Hernández-Muñoz R, Macías-Silva M, de Sánchez VC. Prevention of in vitro hepatic stellate cells activation by the adenosine derivative compound IFC305. Biochem Pharmacol 2010; 80:1690-9. [PMID: 20813095 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2010.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2010] [Revised: 08/21/2010] [Accepted: 08/23/2010] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
We have previously shown that adenosine and the aspartate salt of adenosine (IFC305) reverse pre-established CCl(4)-induced cirrhosis in rats. However, their molecular mechanism of action is not clearly understood. Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) play a pivotal role in liver fibrogenesis leading to cirrhosis, mainly through their activation, changing from a quiescent adipogenic state to a proliferative myofibrogenic condition. Therefore, we decided to investigate the effect of IFC305 on primary cultured rat HSC. Our results reveal that this compound suppressed the activation of HSC, as demonstrated by the maintenance of a quiescent cell morphology, including lipid droplets content, inhibition of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and collagen α1(I) expression, and up-regulation of MMP-13, Smad7, and PPARγ expression, three key antifibrogenic genes. Furthermore, IFC305 was able to repress the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-induced proliferation of HSC. This inhibition was independent of adenosine receptors stimulation; instead, IFC305 was incorporated into cells by adenosine transporters and converted to AMP by adenosine kinase. On the other hand, addition of pyrimidine ribonucleoside as uridine reversed the suppressive effect of IFC305 on the proliferation and activation of HSC, suggesting that intracellular pyrimidine starvation would be involved in the molecular mechanism of action of IFC305. In conclusion, IFC305 inhibits HSC activation and maintains their quiescence in vitro; these results could explain in part the antifibrotic liver beneficial effect previously described for this compound on the animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Velasco-Loyden
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Desarrollo, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), México 04510, D.F., Apdo. postal 70-243, Mexico
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12
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Harty MW, Muratore CS, Papa EF, Gart MS, Ramm GA, Gregory SH, Tracy TF. Neutrophil depletion blocks early collagen degradation in repairing cholestatic rat livers. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2010; 176:1271-81. [PMID: 20110408 DOI: 10.2353/ajpath.2010.090527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Biliary obstruction results in a well-characterized cholestatic inflammatory and fibrogenic process; however, the mechanisms and potential for liver repair remain unclear. We previously demonstrated that Kupffer cell depletion reduces polymorphonuclear cell (neutrophil) (PMN) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)8 levels in repairing liver. We therefore hypothesized that PMN-dependent MMP activity is essential for successful repair. Male Sprague-Dawley rats received reversible biliary obstruction for 7 days, and the rat PMN-specific antibody RP3 was administered 2 days before biliary decompression (repair) and continued daily until necropsy, when liver underwent morphometric analysis, immunohistochemistry, quantitative RT-PCR, and in situ zymography. We found that RP3 treatment did not reduce Kupffer cell or monocyte number but significantly reduced PMN number at the time of decompression and 2 days after repair. RP3 treatment also blocked resorption of type I collagen. In addition, biliary obstruction resulted in increased expression of MMP3, MMP8, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1. Two days after biliary decompression, both MMP3 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 expression declined toward sham levels, whereas MMP8 expression remained elevated and was identified in bile duct epithelial cells by immunohistochemistry. PMN depletion did not alter the hepatic expression of these genes. Conversely, collagen-based in situ zymography demonstrated markedly diminished collagenase activity following PMN depletion. We conclude that PMNs are essential for collagenase activity and collagen resorption during liver repair, and speculate that PMN-derived MMP8 or PMN-mediated activation of intrinsic hepatic MMPs are responsible for successful liver repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark W Harty
- Department of Surgery, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Hasbro Children's Hospital, Room 147, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903, USA
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13
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Omenetti A, Porrello A, Jung Y, Yang L, Popov Y, Choi SS, Witek RP, Alpini G, Venter J, Vandongen HM, Syn WK, Baroni GS, Benedetti A, Schuppan D, Diehl AM. Hedgehog signaling regulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition during biliary fibrosis in rodents and humans. J Clin Invest 2008; 118:3331-42. [PMID: 18802480 DOI: 10.1172/jci35875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 186] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2008] [Accepted: 07/16/2008] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transitions (EMTs) play an important role in tissue construction during embryogenesis, and evidence suggests that this process may also help to remodel some adult tissues after injury. Activation of the hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway regulates EMT during development. This pathway is also induced by chronic biliary injury, a condition in which EMT has been suggested to have a role. We evaluated the hypothesis that Hh signaling promotes EMT in adult bile ductular cells (cholangiocytes). In liver sections from patients with chronic biliary injury and in primary cholangiocytes isolated from rats that had undergone bile duct ligation (BDL), an experimental model of biliary fibrosis, EMT was localized to cholangiocytes with Hh pathway activity. Relief of ductal obstruction in BDL rats reduced Hh pathway activity, EMT, and biliary fibrosis. In mouse cholangiocytes, coculture with myofibroblastic hepatic stellate cells, a source of soluble Hh ligands, promoted EMT and cell migration. Addition of Hh-neutralizing antibodies to cocultures blocked these effects. Finally, we found that EMT responses to BDL were enhanced in patched-deficient mice, which display excessive activation of the Hh pathway. Together, these data suggest that activation of Hh signaling promotes EMT and contributes to the evolution of biliary fibrosis during chronic cholestasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Omenetti
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, and Institute for Genome Sciences and Policy, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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14
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Das SK, Vasudevan DM. Genesis of hepatic fibrosis and its biochemical markers. Scandinavian Journal of Clinical and Laboratory Investigation 2008; 68:260-9. [PMID: 18609066 DOI: 10.1080/00365510701668516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is characterized by an abnormal hepatic accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) that results from both increased deposition and reduced degradation of collagen fibres. Fibrotic liver injury results in activation of the hepatic stellate cell (HSC). Surrogate markers are gradually being substituted for biomarkers that reflect the complex balance between synthesis and degradation of the extracellular matrix. Once the hepatic stellate cell is activated, the preceding matrix changes and recurrent injurious stimuli will perpetuate the activated state. The ECM directs cellular differentiation, migration, proliferation and fibrogenic activation or deactivation. The metabolism of the extracellular matrix is closely regulated by matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) and their specific tissue inhibitors (TIMP). Although liver biopsy combined with connective tissue stains has been a mainstay of diagnosis, there is a need for less invasive methods. These diagnostic markers should be considered in combination with liver function tests, ultrasonography and clinical manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Das
- Department of Biochemistry, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Kerala, India.
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15
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Friedman SL. Hepatic fibrosis -- overview. Toxicology 2008; 254:120-9. [PMID: 18662740 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2008.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 258] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2008] [Revised: 06/27/2008] [Accepted: 06/30/2008] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The study of hepatic fibrosis, or scarring in response to chronic liver injury, has witnessed tremendous progress in the past two decades. Clarification of the cellular sources of scar, and emergence of hepatic stellate cells not only as a fibrogenic cell type, but also as a critical immunomodulatory and homeostatic regulator are among the most salient advances. Activation of hepatic stellate cells remains a central event in fibrosis, complemented by evidence of additional sources of matrix-producing cells including bone marrow, portal fibroblasts, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition from both hepatocytes and cholangiocytes. A growing range of cytokines and their receptors and inflammatory cell subsets have further expanded our knowledge about this dynamic process. Collectively, these findings have laid the foundation for continued elucidation of underlying mechanisms, and more importantly for the implementation of rationally based approaches to limit fibrosis, accelerate repair and enhance liver regeneration in patients with chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott L Friedman
- Division of Liver Diseases, Box 1123, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, 1425 Madison Avenue, Room 11-70C, New York, NY 10029-6574, United States.
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16
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Abstract
Substantial improvements in the treatment of chronic liver disease have accelerated interest in uncovering the mechanisms underlying hepatic fibrosis and its resolution. Activation of resident hepatic stellate cells into proliferative, contractile, and fibrogenic cells in liver injury remains a dominant theme driving the field. However, several new areas of rapid progress in the past 5-10 years also have taken root, including: (1) identification of different fibrogenic populations apart from resident stellate cells, for example, portal fibroblasts, fibrocytes, and bone-marrow-derived cells, as well as cells derived from epithelial mesenchymal transition; (2) emergence of stellate cells as finely regulated determinants of hepatic inflammation and immunity; (3) elucidation of multiple pathways controlling gene expression during stellate cell activation including transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and epigenetic mechanisms; (4) recognition of disease-specific pathways of fibrogenesis; (5) re-emergence of hepatic macrophages as determinants of matrix degradation in fibrosis resolution and the importance of matrix cross-linking and scar maturation in determining reversibility; and (6) hints that hepatic stellate cells may contribute to hepatic stem cell behavior, cancer, and regeneration. Clinical and translational implications of these advances have become clear, and have begun to impact significantly on the management and outlook of patients with chronic liver disease.
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17
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Harty MW, Papa EF, Huddleston HM, Young E, Nazareth S, Riley CA, Ramm GA, Gregory SH, Tracy TF. Hepatic macrophages promote the neutrophil-dependent resolution of fibrosis in repairing cholestatic rat livers. Surgery 2008; 143:667-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2008.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2007] [Accepted: 01/31/2008] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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18
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Popov Y, Patsenker E, Stickel F, Zaks J, Bhaskar KR, Niedobitek G, Kolb A, Friess H, Schuppan D. Integrin alphavbeta6 is a marker of the progression of biliary and portal liver fibrosis and a novel target for antifibrotic therapies. J Hepatol 2008; 48:453-64. [PMID: 18221819 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2007.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2007] [Revised: 10/16/2007] [Accepted: 11/04/2007] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS The integrin alphavbeta6 promotes proliferation of specialized epithelia and acts as a receptor for the activation of latent TGFbeta1. We studied alphavbeta6 expression in experimental and human liver fibrosis and the potential of its pharmacological inhibition for treatment of hepatic fibrosis. METHODS alphavbeta6 expression was studied by quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry in rats with cirrhosis due to bile duct ligation (BDL), administration of thioacetamide (TAA), in Mdr2(Abcb4)(-/-) mice with spontaneous biliary fibrosis, and in livers of patients with chronic hepatitis C (n=79) and end-stage liver disease due to various etiologies (n=18). The effect of a selective alphavbeta6 inhibitor was evaluated in Mdr2(Abcb4)(-/-) mice with ongoing fibrogenesis. RESULTS Integrin beta6 mRNA increased with fibrosis stage in hepatitis C and was upregulated between 25- and 100-fold in TAA- and BDL-induced cirrhosis, in Mdr2(Abcb4)(-/-) mice and in human end-stage liver disease. alphavbeta6 protein was absent in normal livers and expressed de novo on (activated) bile duct epithelia and transitional hepatocytes. A single dose of the alphavbeta6 inhibitor injected into Mdr2(Abcb4)(-/-) mice significantly induced profibrolytic matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-8 and -9 after 3 h, with a corresponding increase in extracellular matrix-degrading activities. In parallel profibrogenic transcripts (procollagen alpha1(I), TGFbeta2, and MMP-2) showed a trend of downregulation. CONCLUSIONS (1) Integrin alphavbeta6 is induced de novo in rodent and human liver fibrosis, where it is expressed on activated bile duct epithelia and (transitional) hepatocytes during fibrosis progression. (2) In vivo a single dose of a small molecule alphavbeta6 inhibitor induced antifibrogenic and profibrolytic genes and activities, suggesting alphavbeta6 is a unique target for treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yury Popov
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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19
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Abstract
The hepatic stellate cell has surprised and engaged physiologists, pathologists, and hepatologists for over 130 years, yet clear evidence of its role in hepatic injury and fibrosis only emerged following the refinement of methods for its isolation and characterization. The paradigm in liver injury of activation of quiescent vitamin A-rich stellate cells into proliferative, contractile, and fibrogenic myofibroblasts has launched an era of astonishing progress in understanding the mechanistic basis of hepatic fibrosis progression and regression. But this simple paradigm has now yielded to a remarkably broad appreciation of the cell's functions not only in liver injury, but also in hepatic development, regeneration, xenobiotic responses, intermediary metabolism, and immunoregulation. Among the most exciting prospects is that stellate cells are essential for hepatic progenitor cell amplification and differentiation. Equally intriguing is the remarkable plasticity of stellate cells, not only in their variable intermediate filament phenotype, but also in their functions. Stellate cells can be viewed as the nexus in a complex sinusoidal milieu that requires tightly regulated autocrine and paracrine cross-talk, rapid responses to evolving extracellular matrix content, and exquisite responsiveness to the metabolic needs imposed by liver growth and repair. Moreover, roles vital to systemic homeostasis include their storage and mobilization of retinoids, their emerging capacity for antigen presentation and induction of tolerance, as well as their emerging relationship to bone marrow-derived cells. As interest in this cell type intensifies, more surprises and mysteries are sure to unfold that will ultimately benefit our understanding of liver physiology and the diagnosis and treatment of liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott L Friedman
- Division of Liver Diseases, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York 10029-6574, USA.
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20
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Gutierrez-Reyes G, Gutierrez-Ruiz MC, Kershenobich D. Liver fibrosis and chronic viral hepatitis. Arch Med Res 2007; 38:644-51. [PMID: 17613356 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2006.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2006] [Accepted: 10/02/2006] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis results from chronic damage to the liver in conjunction with the progressive accumulation of fibrillar extracellular matrix proteins. Fibrosis progression in patients with chronic viral hepatitis is a dynamic process where hepatic stellate cells, the most important contributor cell type, respond to a variety of host genetic factors and viral proteins. The abuse of alcohol, superimposed fatty liver disease, and age at the time of viral infection are some of the factors that accelerate liver fibrosis. Liver biopsy remains the gold standard to diagnose fibrosis and significant advances have been made to develop noninvasive markers for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Gutierrez-Reyes
- Departamento de Medicina Experimental, Hospital General de México, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México, D.F., México.
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21
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Hemmann S, Graf J, Roderfeld M, Roeb E. Expression of MMPs and TIMPs in liver fibrosis - a systematic review with special emphasis on anti-fibrotic strategies. J Hepatol 2007; 46:955-75. [PMID: 17383048 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2007.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 365] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In liver tissue matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their specific inhibitors (tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases, TIMPs) play a pivotal role in both, fibrogenesis and fibrolysis. The current knowledge of the pathophysiology of liver fibrogenesis with special emphasis on MMPs and TIMPs is presented. A systematic literature search was conducted. All experimental models of liver fibrosis that evaluated a defined anti-fibrotic intervention in vivo or in vitro considering MMPs and TIMPs were selected. The methodological quality of all these publications has been critically appraised using an objective scoring system and the content has been summarized in a table.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Hemmann
- Department of Medicine II, Gastroenterology, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg GmbH, Paul-Meimberg-Str. 5, 35392 Giessen, Germany
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22
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Omenetti A, Yang L, Li YX, McCall SJ, Jung Y, Sicklick JK, Huang J, Choi S, Suzuki A, Diehl AM. Hedgehog-mediated mesenchymal-epithelial interactions modulate hepatic response to bile duct ligation. J Transl Med 2007; 87:499-514. [PMID: 17334411 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.3700537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In bile duct-ligated (BDL) rodents, as in humans with chronic cholangiopathies, biliary obstruction triggers proliferation of bile ductular cells that are surrounded by fibrosis produced by adjacent myofibroblastic cells in the hepatic mesenchyme. The proximity of the myofibroblasts and cholangiocytes suggests that mesenchymal-epithelial crosstalk promotes the fibroproliferative response to cholestatic liver injury. Studying BDL mice, we found that bile duct obstruction induces activity of the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway, a system that regulates the viability and differentiation of various progenitors during embryogenesis. After BDL, many bile ductular cells and fibroblastic-appearing cells in the portal stroma express Hh ligands, receptor and/or target genes. Transwell cocultures of an immature cholangiocyte line that expresses the Hh receptor, Patched (Ptc), with liver myofibroblastic cells demonstrated that both cell types produced Hh ligands that enhanced each other's viability and proliferation. Further support for the concept that Hh signaling modulates the response to BDL was generated by studying PtcLacZ mice, which have an impaired ability to constrain Hh signaling due to a heterozygous deficiency of Ptc. After BDL, PtcLacZ mice upregulated fibrosis gene expression earlier than wild-type controls and manifested an unusually intense ductular reaction, more expanded fibrotic portal areas, and a greater number of lobular necrotic foci. Our findings reveal that adult livers resurrect developmental signaling systems, such as the Hh pathway, to guide remodeling of the biliary epithelia and stroma after cholestatic injury.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Bile Ducts/metabolism
- Bile Ducts/pathology
- Bile Ducts/surgery
- Biomarkers/metabolism
- Cell Survival
- Cells, Cultured
- Disease Models, Animal
- Epithelium/metabolism
- Hedgehog Proteins/genetics
- Hedgehog Proteins/metabolism
- Hydroxyproline/metabolism
- Kruppel-Like Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Kupffer Cells/metabolism
- Kupffer Cells/pathology
- Ligation
- Liver/metabolism
- Liver/pathology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/etiology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/metabolism
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/pathology
- Mesoderm/metabolism
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Mutant Strains
- Patched Receptors
- Patched-1 Receptor
- Receptors, Cell Surface/deficiency
- Receptors, Cell Surface/genetics
- Receptors, Cell Surface/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- Zinc Finger Protein Gli2
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Omenetti
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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23
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Rachmawati H, Reker-Smit C, Lub-de Hooge MN, van Loenen-Weemaes A, Poelstra K, Beljaars L. Chemical modification of interleukin-10 with mannose 6-phosphate groups yields a liver-selective cytokine. Drug Metab Dispos 2007; 35:814-21. [PMID: 17312017 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.106.013490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytokines are considered a promising immunotherapy for chronic diseases, because of their potency and fundamental roles in pathological processes. However, their therapeutic use is limited because of their poor pharmacokinetics and pleiotropic effects in various organs. These problems may be overcome by cell-specific delivery of the cytokine. This approach involves chemical modification of the protein with homing devices that recognize receptors on target cells. The cytokine interleukin-10 (IL10) may be valuable as a therapeutic cytokine for patients with liver cirrhosis. However, its rapid renal elimination and general immunosuppressive activities limit therapeutic use. We therefore aim to target this cytokine in the liver, in particular to fibrogenic hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). We show that IL10 is successfully modified with mannose 6-phosphate (M6P), which is a homing device for the mannose 6-phosphate/insulin-like growth factor II (M6P/IGFII) receptor expressed on activated HSCs. Chemical modification did not diminish IL10 efficacy with regard to in vitro anti-inflammatory (lipopolysaccharide-stimulated tumor necrosis factor alpha release) and antifibrotic (collagen deposition and degradation) activities. Biodistribution studies with radiolabeled M6P-IL10 and IL10 in rats with liver fibrosis showed that modification with M6P groups induced a shift in the distribution from the kidneys (IL10) to the liver (M6P-IL10). Hepatocellular binding of M6P-IL10 occurred via M6P/IGFII receptors and scavenger receptors, indicating that not only HSCs but also Kupffer and endothelial cells are target cells. IL10 did not bind to these receptors. We conclude that we prepared an active and liver-specific form of the cytokine IL10 that can be evaluated for its efficacy to treat liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heni Rachmawati
- Dept. of Pharmacokinetics and Drug Delivery, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
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24
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Inagaki
- Liver Fibrosis Research Unit, Department of Community Health, Tokai University School of Medicine, Bohseidai, Isehara 259-1193, Japan.
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25
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Lechuga CG, Hernández-Nazara ZH, Hernández E, Bustamante M, Desierto G, Cotty A, Dharker N, Choe M, Rojkind M. PI3K is involved in PDGF-beta receptor upregulation post-PDGF-BB treatment in mouse HSC. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2006; 291:G1051-61. [PMID: 16990448 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00058.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Increased expression of PDGF-beta receptors is a landmark of hepatic stellate cell activation and transdifferentiation into myofibroblasts. However, the molecular mechanisms that regulate the fate of the receptor are lacking. Recent studies suggested that N-acetylcysteine enhances the extracellular degradation of PDGF-beta receptor by cathepsin B, thus suggesting that the absence of PDGF-beta receptors in quiescent cells is due to an active process of elimination and not to a lack of expression. In this communication we investigated further molecular mechanisms involved in PDGF-beta receptor elimination and reappearance after incubation with PDGF-BB. We showed that in culture-activated hepatic stellate cells there is no internal protein pool of receptor, that the protein is maximally phosphorylated by 5 min and completely degraded after 1 h by a lysosomal-dependent mechanism. Inhibition of receptor autophosphorylation by tyrphostin 1296 prevented its degradation, but several proteasomal inhibitors had no effect. We also showed that receptor reappearance is time and dose dependent, being more delayed in cells treated with 50 ng/ml (48 h) compared with 10 ng/ml (24 h).
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen G Lechuga
- Marion Bessin Liver Research Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
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26
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Sicklick JK, Choi SS, Bustamante M, McCall SJ, Pérez EH, Huang J, Li YX, Rojkind M, Diehl AM. Evidence for epithelial-mesenchymal transitions in adult liver cells. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2006; 291:G575-83. [PMID: 16710052 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00102.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Both myofibroblastic hepatic stellate cells (HSC) and hepatic epithelial progenitors accumulate in damaged livers. In some injured organs, the ability to distinguish between fibroblastic and epithelial cells is sometimes difficult because cells undergo epithelial-mesenchymal transitions (EMT). During EMT, cells coexpress epithelial and mesenchymal cell markers. To determine whether EMT occurs in adult liver cells, we analyzed the expression profile of primary HSC, two HSC lines, and hepatic epithelial progenitors. As expected, all HSC expressed HSC markers. Surprisingly, these markers were also expressed by epithelial progenitors. In addition, one HSC line expressed typical epithelial progenitor mRNAs, and these epithelial markers were inducible in the second HSC line. In normal and damaged livers, small ductular-type cells stained positive for an HSC marker. In conclusion, HSC and hepatic epithelial progenitors both coexpress epithelial and mesenchymal markers, providing evidence that EMT occurs in adult liver cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason K Sicklick
- Duke Univ. Medical Center, Division of Gastroenterology, Snyderman-GSRB I Suite 1073, 595 LaSalle St., Box 3256, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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27
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Kume H, Okazaki K, Sasaki H. Hepatoprotective effects of whey protein on D-galactosamine-induced hepatitis and liver fibrosis in rats. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2006; 70:1281-5. [PMID: 16717438 DOI: 10.1271/bbb.70.1281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The hepatoprotective effects of whey protein on two injections of D-galactosamine (300 mg/kg, i.p.) were investigated in rats fed a modified AIN-93M diet formulated with a protein source of casein or whey for 16 d. The whey protein-containing diet clearly suppressed an increase in plasma alanine and aspartate aminotransferase activity, lactate dehydrogenase and bilirubin, which are hepatitis markers, and also hyaluronic acid, a fibrosis marker. In addition, it suppressed histopathological signs of portal fibrosis, bile duct proliferation, and perivenular sclerosis. These results suggest that supplementation with whey protein can help prevent the development of hepatitis and portal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisae Kume
- Department of Nutritional Research, Food Science Institute, Meiji Dairies Corporation, Odawara, Japan.
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28
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Zhang Y, Ikegami T, Honda A, Miyazaki T, Bouscarel B, Rojkind M, Hyodo I, Matsuzaki Y. Involvement of integrin-linked kinase in carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats. Hepatology 2006; 44:612-22. [PMID: 16941698 DOI: 10.1002/hep.21315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Integrin-linked kinase (ILK) is a multidomain focal adhesion protein implicated in signal transduction between integrins and growth factor receptors. Although its expression is upregulated in pulmonary and renal fibrosis, its role in the development of hepatic fibrosis remains to be determined. Therefore, we considered it important to investigate whether ILK is involved in activation of hepatic stellate cells and thus plays a role in the development of hepatic fibrosis. Immunohistochemical analysis of liver sections obtained from rats with CCl4-induced cirrhosis revealed increased expression and colocalization of ILK and alpha-smooth muscle actin in hepatic stellate cells in perisinusoidal areas. In addition, hepatic stellate cells isolated from fibrotic livers expressed high levels of ILK and alpha-smooth muscle actin, and their expression was sustained in culture. In contrast, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) isolated from normal rat liver did not express ILK, but its expression was increased when the cells were activated in culture. Our studies also showed that ILK is involved in the phosphorylation of ERK 1/2, p38 MAPK, JNK, and PKB and that selective inhibition of ILK expression by siRNA results in a significant decrease in their phosphorylation. These changes were accompanied by significant inhibition of cell spreading and migration without affecting cell proliferation. In conclusion, ILK plays a key role in HSC activation and could be a possible target for antifibrogenic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yining Zhang
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Science, University of Tsukuba, Tsukaba City, and Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University Kasumigaura Hospital, Japan
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29
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Popov Y, Patsenker E, Bauer M, Niedobitek E, Schulze-Krebs A, Schuppan D. Halofuginone induces matrix metalloproteinases in rat hepatic stellate cells via activation of p38 and NFkappaB. J Biol Chem 2006; 281:15090-8. [PMID: 16489207 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m600030200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The semisynthetic plant alkaloid halofuginone (HAL) was reported to prevent and partly reverse experimental liver fibrosis. However, its mechanisms of action are poorly understood. We therefore aimed to determine the antifibrotic potential of HAL and to characterize involved signal transduction pathways in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Results were compared with its in vivo effects in a rat model of reversal of established liver fibrosis induced by thioacetamide. In vitro HAL inhibited HSC proliferation and migration dose dependently at submicromolar concentrations. HAL (200 nm) up-regulated matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3 and MMP-13 expression between 10- and 50-fold, resulting in a 2- to 3-fold increase of interstitial collagenase activity. Procollagen alpha1(I) and MMP-2 transcript levels were suppressed 2- to 3-fold, whereas expression of other profibrogenic mRNAs remained unaffected. p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) and nuclear factor kappaB(NFkappaB) pathways were activated by HAL, and specific inhibitors of p38 MAPK and NFkappaB dose dependently inhibited MMP-13 induction. Treatment with HAL did not affect HSC viability, and observed effects were reversible after its removal. In vivo HAL up-regulated MMP-3 and -13 mRNA expression 1.5- and 2-fold, respectively, in cirrhotic rats, whereas tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 was suppressed by 50%. In conclusion, submicromolar concentrations of HAL inhibit HSC proliferation and migration and up-regulate their expression of fibrolytic MMP-3 and -13 via activation of p38 MAPK and NFkappaB. The remarkable induction of MMP-3 and -13 makes HAL a promising agent for antifibrotic combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yury Popov
- Department of Medicine I, University of Erlangen-Nuernberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
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Garcíade León MDC, Montfort I, Tello Montes E, López Vancell R, Olivos García A, González Canto A, Nequiz-Avendaño M, Pérez-Tamayo R. Hepatocyte production of modulators of extracellular liver matrix in normal and cirrhotic rat liver. Exp Mol Pathol 2005; 80:97-108. [PMID: 16332368 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2005.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2005] [Accepted: 03/28/2005] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, we found collagenolytic and gelatinolytic activity in the supernatants of hepatocyte cultures from rats with experimental CCl(4)-induced liver cirrhosis, in levels significantly higher than in comparable supernatants of hepatocyte cultures from normal rats. In addition, we clearly detected the messenger ribonucleic acids (mRNA) of four matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-10, and MMP-13) and of two tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMP-1 and TIMP-2) in hepatocytes from both normal and cirrhotic rats by RT-PCR and by in situ hybridization. Finally, we demonstrated MMP-2, MMP-3, and MMP-13 and TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 proteins in the same hepatocyte preparations by immunostaining. We conclude that rat hepatocytes produce the major enzymes and inhibitors involved in liver ECM modulation and therefore suggests that they might participate actively in the pathophysiology of liver cirrhosis in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- María del Carmen Garcíade León
- Departamento de Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, y Hospital General, de México, D.F. 06720, México
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Popov Y, Patsenker E, Fickert P, Trauner M, Schuppan D. Mdr2 (Abcb4)-/- mice spontaneously develop severe biliary fibrosis via massive dysregulation of pro- and antifibrogenic genes. J Hepatol 2005; 43:1045-54. [PMID: 16223543 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2005.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 193] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2005] [Revised: 06/23/2005] [Accepted: 06/27/2005] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Mdr2 (Abcb4)-/- mice develop hepatic lesions resembling primary sclerosing cholangitis. Our aim was to characterize the evolution of fibrosis in Mdr2-/- mice. METHODS Mdr2-/-mice and their wild-type littermates were sacrificed at 2, 4 and 8 weeks after birth. Hepatic collagen was determined biochemically. Fibrosis related transcript levels were quantified from livers by real-time RT-PCR, and MMP activities determined by substrate assays. Liver histology was assessed by connective tissue staining and immunohistochemistry for alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA). RESULTS Mdr2-/- mice demonstrated a time-dependent increase of relative and total hepatic collagen (fivefold at 8 weeks, compared to wildtype controls), and maximal alpha-SMA immunoreactivity at 4 weeks. Compared to wildtype controls profibrogenic mRNA levels for procollagen alpha1(I), TGFbeta1, TGFbeta2, MMP-2 and -13, TIMP-1, PDGFbeta receptor, and PAI-1 were upregulated up to 27-fold. Most transcripts peaked at 4 weeks, but procollagen alpha1(I) mRNA increased steadily, TIMP-1 mRNA was constantly elevated (20-fold), MMP-13 mRNA was suppressed and interstitial collagenase and gelatinase activities were downregulated. CONCLUSIONS Mdr2-/- mice spontaneously progress to severe biliary fibrosis. This is due to a characteristic temporal pattern of upregulated profibrogenic and downregulated fibrolytic genes and activities. These mice are an attractive model to test potential antifibrotics for the treatment of (biliary) liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yury Popov
- Laboratory of Liver Research, Department of Medicine I, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany; Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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Harty MW, Huddleston HM, Papa EF, Puthawala T, Tracy AP, Ramm GA, Gehring S, Gregory SH, Tracy TF. Repair after cholestatic liver injury correlates with neutrophil infiltration and matrix metalloproteinase 8 activity. Surgery 2005; 138:313-20. [PMID: 16153442 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2005.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2005] [Revised: 04/08/2005] [Accepted: 04/12/2005] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although timely surgical treatment of liver disease can interrupt inflammation and reduce fibrosis, the mechanisms of repair are unknown. We questioned whether these mechanisms of repair include changes in the inflammatory infiltrate and associated biological activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) 8 and 2. METHODS Rats (n >or= 3) underwent biliary ductal suspension for 7 days followed by decompression. Livers were collected after 7 days of obstruction (d0) and after 2, 5, and 7 days of repair (d2, d5, d7, respectively), and assessed morphometrically for collagen, polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs), Kupffer cells (KCs), and inflammatory mononuclear phagocytes (MNPs). In situ zymography was performed by using fluorogenic substrates for MMP-8 and MMP-2 to spatially localize enzymatic activity. RESULTS Cholestatic injury resulted in significantly elevated (P <or= .001) collagen deposition (3-fold), and elevated numbers of MNPs (10-fold), KCs (5-fold), and PMNs (4-fold), compared with shams. PMNs remained elevated through d7, while collagen deposition, KCs, and MNPs returned to sham levels by d2. In situ zymography showed no significant changes in MMP-2 activity after cholestatic injury and repair. MMP-8 activity was significantly (P <or= .05) elevated only during repair. Activity was localized to fibrotic portal triads containing PMNs. CONCLUSIONS Cholestatic injury results in increased fibrosis, MNPs, KCs, and PMNs but no MMP-2 or MMP-8 activity. Biliary decompression results in increased MMP-8 activity co-localized to areas of portal fibrosis and PMN accumulation. We conclude that secretion of MMP-8 by neutrophils may play a critical role in resolving the fibrotic scar generated during cholestasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark W Harty
- Department of Surgery, Brown Medical School, Rhode Island and Hasbro Children's Hospitals, Providence 02903, USA
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Lechuga CG, Hernández-Nazara ZH, Domínguez Rosales JA, Morris ER, Rincón AR, Rivas-Estilla AM, Esteban-Gamboa A, Rojkind M. TGF-beta1 modulates matrix metalloproteinase-13 expression in hepatic stellate cells by complex mechanisms involving p38MAPK, PI3-kinase, AKT, and p70S6k. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2004; 287:G974-87. [PMID: 15246963 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00264.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1), the main cytokine involved in liver fibrogenesis, induces expression of the type I collagen genes in hepatic stellate cells by a transcriptional mechanism, which is hydrogen peroxide and de novo protein synthesis dependent. Our recent studies have revealed that expression of type I collagen and matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) mRNAs in hepatic stellate cells is reciprocally modulated. Because TGF-beta1 induces a transient elevation of alpha1(I) collagen mRNA, we investigated whether this cytokine was able to induce the expression of MMP-13 mRNA during the downfall of the alpha1(I) collagen mRNA. In the present study, we report that TGF-beta1 induces a rapid decline in steady-state levels of MMP-13 mRNA at the time that it induces the expression of alpha1(I) collagen mRNA. This change in MMP-13 mRNA expression occurs within the first 6 h postcytokine administration and is accompanied by a twofold increase in gene transcription and a fivefold decrease in mRNA half-life. This is followed by increased expression of MMP-13 mRNA, which reaches maximal values by 48 h. Our results also show that this TGF-beta1-mediated effect is de novo protein synthesis-dependent and requires the activity of p38MAPK, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, AKT, and p70(S6k). Altogether, our data suggest that regulation of MMP-13 by TGF-beta1 is a complex process involving transcriptional and posttranscriptional mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen G Lechuga
- Marion Bessin Liver Research Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York 10461, USA
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Ye H, Chen ZN, Mi L, Shang P, Qian AR, Jiang JL, Wang L, Xie L, Zhang M. Preparation and functional characterization of the monoclonal antibody HAb18Gedomab1. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2004; 12:2061-2065. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v12.i9.2061] [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] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To obtain mouse anti-human monoclonal antibodies against recombinant extracellular domain of HAb18G (HAb18Ged), and to analyze and identify its character and biological function.
METHODS: Balb/c mice were immunized with HAb18Ged. Hybridoma cell was screened by cell fusion and subcloning approach. The monoclonal antibody in the ascites was purified by ion exchange chromatography and was identified by fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis (FACs) and immunohistochemistry. Gelatin zymography and collagenase type I zymography were used to analyze the effects of HAb18Gedomab1 on activation and production of matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs); Matrigel-boyden degradation chamber method was used to evaluate the infiltrative cells ratio.
RESULTS: A hybridoma cell HAb18Gedomab1 stably secreting anti-HAb18Ged monoclonal antibody was obtained. The titer of this McAb in ascites was 1:106. The purity of the McAb was higher than 90%. The McAb belonged to IgG1 subclass. HAb18Gedomab1 showed high specificity and affinity to the antigen of FHCC-98 cell membrane and the tissue of hepatocellular carcinoma. The McAb induced production and activation of MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-1 and MMP-8 in mouse fibroblast cells (3T3), and also promoted the degradation of reconstituted basement membrane.
CONCLUSION: HAb18Gedomab1 can bind specifically to HAb18Ged protein. The McAb can also induce production and activation of MMPs and promote the degradation of reconstituted basement membrane.
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Hu W, Shi ZH, Ma TF, Yu JP. Effects of Ginkgo biloba extract on liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride in rats. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2004; 12:886-891. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v12.i4.886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To study the effects of Ginko biloba extract (EGb) on hepato-fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (Cl4) in rat model.
METHODS: Rat liver fibrosis model was induced by Cl4 administration. Wistar rats were randomly divided into 5 groups: normal control group, a model group, a interven-tional group, a therapeutic group, and a EGb group. The EGb interventional group, apart from administration of Cl4, was treated concurrently with EGb 0.3 g/kg, ig once a day; the EGb therapeutic group was treated with EGb 0.3 g/kg, ig once a day after cirrhosis was induced successfully, and the EGb group was treated only with EGb 0.3 g/kg, ig once a day. At the end of wk 8 and 16, all the rats were sacrificed. The pathological changes of liver were observed by H-E and Von-Gieson staining.The expression of mRNA and proteins of collagen I/TGF1 in liver were determined by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry.
RESULTS: The degree of liver fibrosis and level of mRNA and proteins of collagen I/TGF1 in liver were significantly reduced in the EGb interventional and therapeutic groups compared with those in the model group (type I collagen mRNA: 0.0 778±0.054 vs 0.2 361±0.113, 0.1 075±0.007 vs 0.2 361±0.113, P < 0.01; type I collagen proteins: 0.2 563±0.0 009 vs 0.2 885±0.0 025, 0.2 541±0.0 076 vs 0.2 885±0.0 025 , P < 0.01; TGF1 mRNA: 0.523±0.015 vs 0.956±0.049 , 0.524±0.009 vs 0.956±0.049, P < 0.01; TGF1 proteins: 0.2 785±0.0 012 vs 0.3 015±0.0 012, 0.2 791±0.0 016 vs 0.3 015±0.0 012, P < 0.01).The EGb group had the same results as the normal control group.
CONCLUSION: EGb has prophylactic and therapeutic effects on CCl4-induced rat liver fibrosis, probably through its anti-lipoperoxidation, suppressing the activation of hepatic stellate cells and transition and reducing the synthesis of hepatic type I collagen and TGF1.
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