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Shamsan E, Almezgagi M, Gamah M, Khan N, Qasem A, Chuanchuan L, Haining F. The role of PI3k/AKT signaling pathway in attenuating liver fibrosis: a comprehensive review. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1389329. [PMID: 38590313 PMCID: PMC10999701 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1389329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components within the liver leads to a pathological condition known as liver fibrosis. Alcohol abuse, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), autoimmune issues, and viral hepatitis cause chronic liver injury. Exploring potential therapeutic targets and understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in liver fibrosis are essential for the development of effective interventions. The goal of this comprehensive review is to explain how the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway contributes to the reduction of liver fibrosis. The potential of this pathway as a therapeutic target is investigated through a summary of results from in vivo and in vitro studies. Studies focusing on PI3K/AKT activation have shown a significant decrease in fibrosis markers and a significant improvement in liver function. The review emphasizes how this pathway may prevent ECM synthesis and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation, ultimately reducing the fibrotic response. The specific mechanisms and downstream effectors of the PI3K/AKT pathway in liver fibrosis constitute a rapidly developing field of study. In conclusion, the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway plays a significant role in attenuating liver fibrosis. Its complex role in regulating HSC activation and ECM production, demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo, underscores its potential as a effective therapeutic approach for managing liver fibrosis and slowing disease progression. A comprehensive review of this field provides valuable insights into its future developments and implications for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emad Shamsan
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- College of Medical Science, Taiz University, Taiz, Yemen
| | - Maged Almezgagi
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Mohammed Gamah
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Naveed Khan
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | | | - Liu Chuanchuan
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital, Xining, China
| | - Fan Haining
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital, Xining, China
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Yang Q, Tan T, He Q, Guo C, Chen D, Tan Y, Feng J, Song X, Gong T, Li J. Combined Amphiphilic Silybin Meglumine Nanosuspension Effective Against Hepatic Fibrosis in Mice Model. Int J Nanomedicine 2023; 18:5197-5211. [PMID: 37720597 PMCID: PMC10505037 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s407762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Silybin (SLB) as an effective hepatoprotective phytomedicine has been limited by its hydrophobicity, poor bioavailability and accumulation at lesion sites. Additionally, present drug loading methods are impeded by their low drug loading capacity, potential hazard of materials and poor therapeutic effects. Consequently, there is a pressing need to devise an innovative approach for preparing nanosuspensions loaded with both SLB and Silybin Meglumine salt (SLB-M), as well as to investigate the therapeutic effects of SLB nanosuspensions against hepatic fibrosis. Methods The SLB nanosuspension (NS-SLB) was prepared and further modified with a hyaluronic acid-cholesterol conjugate (NS-SLB-HC) to improve the CD44 targeting proficiency of NS-SLB. To validate the accumulation of CD44 and ensure minimal cytotoxicity, cellular uptake and cytotoxicity assessments were carried out for the nanosuspensions. Western blotting was employed to evaluate the anti-hepatic fibrosis efficacy in LX-2 cells by inhibiting the secretion of collagen I. Hepatic fibrosis mouse models were used to further confirm the effectiveness of NS-SLB and NS-SLB-HC against hepatic fibrosis in vivo. Results Uniform nanosuspensions were prepared through self-assembly, achieving high drug loading rates of 89.44% and 60.67%, respectively. Both SLB nanosuspensions showed minimal cytotoxicity in cellular environments and mitigated hepatic fibrosis in vitro. NS-SLB-HC was demonstrated to target activated hepatic stellate cells by receptor-ligand interaction between HA and CD44. They can reverse hepatic fibrosis in vivo by downregulating TGF-β and inhibiting the secretion of α-SMA and collagen I. Conclusion Designed as a medical excipient analogue, SLB-M was aimed to establish an innovative nanosuspension preparation method, characterized by high drug loading capacity and a notable impact against hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Yang
- School of Pharmacy, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong637100, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tiantian Tan
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qin He
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chenqi Guo
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yulu Tan
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiaxing Feng
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xu Song
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Gong
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jia Li
- West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, People’s Republic of China
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Shomali N, Kamrani A, Nasiri H, Heris JA, Shahabi P, Yousefi M, Mohammadinasab R, Sadeghvand S, Akbari M. An updated review of a novel method for examining P53 mutations in different forms of cancer. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 248:154585. [PMID: 37302277 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In the past fifteen years, it has been clear that tumor-associated p53 mutations can cause behaviors distinct from those brought on by a simple loss of p53's tumor-suppressive function in its wild-type form. Many of these mutant p53 proteins develop oncogenic characteristics that allow them to encourage cell survival, invasion, and metastasis. But it is now understood that the immune response is also significantly influenced by the cancer cell's p53 status. The recruitment and activity of myeloid and T cells can be impacted by p53 loss or mutation in malignancies, allowing immune evasion and accelerating cancer growth. Additionally, p53 can work in immune cells, which can have various effects that either hinder or assist the growth of tumors. In this review article, we examined different mutations of P53 in some significant cancers, such as liver, colorectal, and prostate, and reviewed some new therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navid Shomali
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amin Kamrani
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hadi Nasiri
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Javad Ahmadian Heris
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Pediatric Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Parviz Shahabi
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Yousefi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Mohammadinasab
- Department of History of Medicine, School of Traditional Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shahram Sadeghvand
- Pediatrics Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Morteza Akbari
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Kalairajan S, K K K, P G. Red Cell Distribution Width in Chronic Liver Disease: An Observational Study. Cureus 2023; 15:e40158. [PMID: 37431329 PMCID: PMC10329736 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.40158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic liver diseases (CLDs) encompass a group of conditions that are marked by diminished liver function due to ongoing inflammation or damage. This study aimed to establish a relationship between the red cell distribution width (RDW) and two scoring systems, namely the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score and Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score, in individuals diagnosed with CLDs. METHODS The study was carried out at Aarupadai Veedu Medical College & Hospital, Pondicherry, India, following approval from the Institutional Ethical Committee in the Department of General Medicine and Gastroenterology. It involved 50 patients aged 18 years and above who were diagnosed with CLD. The RDW of all selected patients was measured using a three-part autoanalyzer, and its correlation with the MELD and CTP scores was examined. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences), version 21.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), with a significance level set at p < 0.05. RESULTS When comparing the baseline characteristics including age, gender, and encephalopathy, no statistically significant differences were found between RDW-standard deviation (RDW-SD) and RDW-corpuscular value (RDW-CV) (p > 0.05). However, a statistically significant correlation was observed between the presence of ascites and RDW-CV values (p = 0.029). Furthermore, there was a significant association between the CTP score and RDW-SD (p < 0.0001). The association between the MELD score and RDW-SD was also found to be statistically significant (p = 0.006). Similarly, statistically significant results were obtained between the MELD score and RDW-CV (p = 0.034). CONCLUSION The utilization of RDW holds promise as a convenient and effective tool for evaluating the severity of individuals with CLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sankar Kalairajan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Aarupadai Veedu Medical College and Hospital, Vinayaka Mission's Research Foundation (DU), Pondicherry, IND
| | - Kavitha K K
- Department of Microbiology, Swamy Vivekanandha Medical College Hospital and Research Institute, Tiruchengode, IND
| | - Govindaraj P
- Department of Internal Medicine, Aarupadai Veedu Medical College and Hospital, Vinayaka Mission's Research Foundation (DU), Pondicherry, IND
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Luo S, Yang Y, Zhao T, Zhang R, Fang C, Li Y, Zhang Z, Gong T. Albumin-Based Silibinin Nanocrystals Targeting Activated Hepatic Stellate Cells for Liver Fibrosis Therapy. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:7747-7758. [PMID: 36719351 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c19269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) are critical during the development and progression of liver fibrosis. Once liver fibrosis occurs, aHSCs highly express secreted protein, acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC), a typical albumin-binding protein. We designed a nano platform, silibinin albumin nanocrystals (SLB-HSA NCs), to target aHSCs for liver fibrosis therapy. The prepared SLB-HSA NCs showed uniform particle size distribution of approximately 60 nm with PDI < 0.15 and high loading efficiency up to 49.4%. Albumin coated on the surface of nanocrystals was demonstrated to increase cellular uptake by aHSCs through SPARC-mediated endocytosis. In addition, SLB-HSA NCs significantly improved the bioavailability compared with free SLB in pharmacokinetic study. Following tail-vein injection, SLB-HSA NCs were massively accumulated in the fibrotic liver and exhibited enhanced antifibrotic effects in hepatic fibrosis mice. Overall, our findings prove the great potential of SLB-HSA NCs in the targeted treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiqin Luo
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, China
| | - Yuping Yang
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, China
| | - Ting Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, China
| | - Rongping Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, China
| | - Changlong Fang
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, China
| | - Yan Li
- Sichuan Institute for Drug Control NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Control and Evaluation of Vaccines and Biological Products, Chengdu611731, China
| | - Zhirong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, China
| | - Tao Gong
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu610041, China
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Zhao Q, Bai J, Chen Y, Liu X, Zhao S, Ling G, Jia S, Zhai F, Xiang R. An optimized herbal combination for the treatment of liver fibrosis: Hub genes, bioactive ingredients, and molecular mechanisms. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 297:115567. [PMID: 35870684 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Liver fibrosis is a chronic liver disease that can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma, and it is associated with long-term adverse outcomes and mortality. As a primary resource for complementary and alternative medicine, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has accumulated a large number of effective formulas for the treatment of liver fibrosis in clinical practice. However, studies on how to systematically optimize TCM formulas are still lacking. AIM OF THE REVIEW To provide a methodological reference for the systematic optimization of TCM formulae against liver fibrosis and explored the underlying molecular mechanisms; To provide an efficient method for searching for lead compounds from natural sources and developing from herbal medicines; To enable clinicians and patients to make more reasonable choices and promote the effective treatment toward those patients with liver fibrosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS TCM formulas related to treating liver fibrosis were collected from the Web of Science, PubMed, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wan Fang, and the Chinese Scientific Journals Database (VIP). Furthermore, the TCM compatibility patterns were mined using association analysis. The core TCM combinations were found by designing an optimized formulas algorithm. Finally, the hub target proteins, potential molecular mechanisms, and active compounds were explored through integrative pharmacology and docking-based inverse virtual screening (IVS) approaches. RESULTS We found that the herbs for reinforcing deficiency, activating blood, removing blood stasis, and clearing heat were the basis of TCM formulae patterns. Furthermore, the combination of Salviae Miltiorrhizae (Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge; Chinese salvia/Danshen), Astragali Radix (Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bunge; Astragalus/Huangqi), and Radix Bupleuri (Bupleurum chinense DC.; Bupleurum/Chaihu) was identified as core groups. A total of six targets (TNF, STAT3, EGFR, IL2, ICAM1, PTGS2) play a pivotal role in TCM-mediated liver fibrosis inhibition. (-)-Cryptotanshinone, Tanshinaldehyde, Ononin, Thymol, Daidzein, and Formononetin were identified as active compounds in TCM. And mechanistically, TCM could affect the development of liver fibrosis by regulating inflammation, immunity, angiogenesis, antioxidants, and involvement in TNF, MicroRNAs, Jak-STAT, NF-kappa B, and C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) signaling pathways. Molecular docking results showed that key components had good potential to bind to the target genes. CONCLUSION In summary, this study provides a methodological reference for the systematic optimization of TCM formulae and exploration of underlying molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China.
| | - Jinwei Bai
- School of Medical Equipment, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China.
| | - Yiwei Chen
- Faculty of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China.
| | - Xin Liu
- Faculty of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China.
| | - Shangfeng Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China.
| | - Guixia Ling
- School of Medical Equipment, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China.
| | - Shubing Jia
- Faculty of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China.
| | - Fei Zhai
- School of Medical Equipment, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China.
| | - Rongwu Xiang
- School of Medical Equipment, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China; Liaoning Professional Technology Innovation Center on Medical Big Data and Artificial Intelligence, Shenyang, 110016, China.
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Ezhilarasan D. Advantages and challenges in nanomedicines for chronic liver diseases: A hepatologist's perspectives. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 893:173832. [PMID: 33359144 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases (CLD) are responsible for significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. CLD patients are at a high risk of developing progressive liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and subsequent liver failure. To date, there is no specific and effective therapies exist for patients with various forms of CLD. The application of nanotechnology has emerged as a rapidly developing area of interest for the safe and target-specific delivery of poorly aqueous soluble hepatoprotective agents and nucleic acids (siRNA/miRNAs) in CLD. The nanoparticle combination improves bioavailability and plasma stability of drugs with poor aqueous solubility. However, the extent of successful functional delivery of nanoparticles into hepatocytes is often surprisingly low. High Kupffer cells interaction reduces the nanomedicine efficacy. During fibrosis, the extracellular matrix accumulation in the perisinusoidal space restricts nanoparticle delivery to hepatocytes. The availability and uptake of nanoparticles exposure to different cells in the liver microenvironment is as Kupffer cells > sinusoidal endothelial cells > HSCs > hepatocytes. The most widely used strategy to reduce nanoparticles and macrophages interaction is to coat the particle surface with polyethylene glycol. The cationic charged nanoparticles have increased hepatocyte delivery by increased cellular interaction by disrupting the endosomal system via their pH buffering capacity. The immune clearance and toxicity of nanoparticles are mainly unpredictable. Therefore, more elaborate knowledge on exact cellular uptake and intracellular accumulation, trafficking, and endosomal sorting of nanoparticle is the need of the hour to improve the rational carrier design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, Drug and Molecular Medicine Laboratory (The Blue Lab), Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), No.162, PH Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600 077, India.
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A Comprehensive Review of Natural Products against Liver Fibrosis: Flavonoids, Quinones, Lignans, Phenols, and Acids. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:7171498. [PMID: 33082829 PMCID: PMC7556091 DOI: 10.1155/2020/7171498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis resulting from continuous long-term hepatic damage represents a heavy burden worldwide. Liver fibrosis is recognized as a complicated pathogenic mechanism with extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. A series of drugs demonstrate significant antifibrotic activity in vitro and in vivo. No specific agents with ideally clinical efficacy for liver fibrosis treatment have been developed. In this review, we summarized the antifibrotic effects and molecular mechanisms of 29 kinds of common natural products. The mechanism of these compounds is correlated with anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and antifibrotic activities. Moreover, parenchymal hepatic cell survival, HSC deactivation, and ECM degradation by interfering with multiple targets and signaling pathways are also involved in the antifibrotic effects of these compounds. However, there remain two bottlenecks for clinical breakthroughs. The low bioavailability of natural products should be improved, and the combined application of two or more compounds should be investigated for more prominent pharmacological effects. In summary, exploration on natural products against liver fibrosis is becoming increasingly extensive. Therefore, natural products are potential resources for the development of agents to treat liver fibrosis.
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9
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Critical role of estrogen in the progression of chronic liver diseases. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2020; 19:429-434. [PMID: 32299655 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2020.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estrogens regulate sexual function and also have a significant role in various pathophysiological processes. Estrogens have a non-reproductive role as the modulators of the immune system, growth, neuronal function, and metabolism. Estrogen receptors are expressed in the liver and their impaired expression and function are implicated with obesity and liver associated metabolic dysfunctions. The purpose of the current review is to discuss the disparity role of estrogens on several forms of liver diseases. DATA SOURCES A comprehensive search in PubMed and EMBASE was conducted using the keywords "estrogens and liver diseases", "estradiol and liver diseases", "hormones and liver diseases", "endocrine function in liver diseases", and "female hormones in liver diseases". Relevant papers published before September 30, 2019 were included. RESULTS The present review confirms the imperative role of estrogen in various forms of chronic liver diseases. Estrogens play a key role in maintaining homeostasis and make the liver less susceptible to several forms of chronic liver diseases in healthy premenopausal individuals. In contrast, clinical studies also showed increased estrogen levels with chronic liver diseases. CONCLUSIONS Several studies reported the protective role of estrogens in chronic liver diseases and this has been widely accepted and confirmed in experimental studies using ovariectomized rat models. However, in a few clinical studies, increased estrogen levels are also implicated in chronic liver diseases. Therefore, further studies are warranted at molecular level to explore the role of estrogen in various forms of chronic liver diseases.
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Ezhilarasan D. Endothelin-1 in portal hypertension: The intricate role of hepatic stellate cells. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2020; 245:1504-1512. [PMID: 32791849 DOI: 10.1177/1535370220949148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPACT STATEMENT Portal hypertension is pathologically defined as increase of portal venous pressure, mainly due to chronic liver diseases such as fibrosis and cirrhosis. In fibrotic liver, activated hepatic stellate cells increase their contraction in response to endothelin-1 (ET-1) via autocrine and paracrine stimulation from liver sinusoidal endothelial cells and injured hepatocytes. Clinical studies are limited with ET receptor antagonists in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension. Hence, studies are needed to find molecules that block ET-1 synthesis. Accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins in the perisinusoidal space, tissue contraction, and alteration in blood flow are prominent during portal hypertension. Therefore, novel matrix modulators should be tested experimentally as well as in clinical studies. Specifically, tumor necrosis factor-α, transforming growth factor-β1, Wnt, Notch, rho-associated protein kinase 1 signaling antagonists, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α and γ, interferon-γ and sirtuin 1 agonists should be tested elaborately against cirrhosis patients with portal hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Research Unit and Laboratory Animal Centre, Saveetha Dental College, 194347Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai 600 077, India
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Pan Q, Guo CJ, Xu QY, Wang JZ, Li H, Fang CH. miR-16 integrates signal pathways in myofibroblasts: determinant of cell fate necessary for fibrosis resolution. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:639. [PMID: 32801294 PMCID: PMC7429878 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-02832-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is characterized by the transdifferentiation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) to myofibroblasts and poor response to treatment. This can be attributed to the myofibroblast-specific resistance to phenotype reversal. In this study, we complemented miR-16 into miR-16-deficient myofibroblasts and analyzed the global role of miR-16 using transcriptome profiling and generating a pathway-based action model underlying transcriptomic regulation. Phenotypic analysis of myofibroblasts and fibrogenic characterization were used to understand the effect of miR-16 on phenotypic remodeling of myofibroblasts. miR-16 expression altered the transcriptome of myofibroblasts to resemble that of HSCs. Simultaneous targeting of Smad2 and Wnt3a, etc. by miR-16 integrated signaling pathways of TGF-β and Wnt, etc., which underlay the comprehensive regulation of transcriptome. The synergistic effect of miR-16 on the signaling pathways abolished the phenotypic characteristics of myofibroblasts, including collagen production and inhibition of adipogenesis. In vivo, myofibroblast-specific expression of miR-16 not only eliminated mesenchymal cells with myofibroblast characteristics but also restored the phenotype of HSCs in perisinusoidal space. This phenotypic remodeling resolved liver fibrosis induced by chronic wound healing. Therefore, miR-16 may integrate signaling pathways crucial for the fate determination of myofibroblasts. Its global effect induces the reversal of HSC-to-myofibroblast transdifferentiation and, subsequently, the resolution of fibrogenesis. Taken together, these findings highlight the potential of miR-16 as a promising therapeutic target for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xin-Hua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Can-Jie Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ren-Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Qing-Yang Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xin-Hua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Jin-Zhi Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xin-Hua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Han Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xin-Hua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Chun-Hua Fang
- School of Electronics and Information Engineering, Tong-Ji University, Shanghai, 201804, China
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12
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Murali Iyangar R, Devaraj E. Silibinin Triggers the Mitochondrial Pathway of Apoptosis in Human Oral Squamous Carcinoma Cells. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2020; 21:1877-1882. [PMID: 32711410 PMCID: PMC7573425 DOI: 10.31557/apjcp.2020.21.7.1877] [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: 07/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Silibinin, a natural polyphenolic flavonoid present in seed extracts of milk thistle (Silybum marianum). It has been shown to interact with various cancer-related cell signalling pathways in preclinical models, demonstrating promising anticancer effects in vitro and in vivo. Materials and Methods: The cytotoxic effect of silibinin was evaluated in human oral squamous carcinoma (SCC-25) cells by MTT assay. The apoptosis-related morphological changes were investigated by AO/EB dual staining. The cytochrome c, caspases-3, and -9, B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), and B-cell associated X protein (Bax) gene expressions were analysed by PCR. Results: We have shown that silibinin treatment for 24 h in SCC-25 cells induced cytotoxicity in a concentration-dependent manner. The cytotoxic potential was due to the induction of apoptosis via the release of mitochondrial cytochrome c into the cytosol and subsequent activation of caspases-3 and -9. Dual staining assay was further confirmed the induction of early apoptosis upon silibinin treatment. Conclusion: The results from this study show that silibinin can be considered as a promising drug candidate for the treatment of oral squamous cell carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radhika Murali Iyangar
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Research Unit and Laboratory Animal Research Centre, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ezhilarasan Devaraj
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Research Unit and Laboratory Animal Research Centre, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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13
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Silva CM, Ferrari GD, Alberici LC, Malaspina O, Moraes KCM. Cellular and molecular effects of silymarin on the transdifferentiation processes of LX-2 cells and its connection with lipid metabolism. Mol Cell Biochem 2020; 468:129-142. [PMID: 32185674 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-020-03717-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis process in the liver is a clinical condition established in response to chronic lesions and may be reversible in many situations. In this process, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activate and produce extracellular matrix compounds. During fibrosis, the lipid metabolism is also altered and contributes to the transdifferentiation of the HSCs. Thus, controlling lipid metabolism in HSCs is suggested as a method to control or reverse the fibrotic condition. In the search for therapies that modulate lipid metabolism and treat liver diseases, silymarin has been identified as a relevant natural compound to treat liver pathologies. The present study aimed to evaluate the cellular and molecular effects of silymarin in the transdifferentiation process of HSCs (LX-2) from activated phenotype to a more quiesced-like cells , also focusing on understanding the modulatory effects of silymarin on lipid metabolism of HSCs. In our analyses, 100 µM of silymarin reduced the synthesis of actin filaments in activated cells, the synthesis of the protein level of α-SMA, and other pro-fibrotic factors such as CTGF and PFGF. The concentration of 150 µM silymarin did not reverse the activation aspects of LX-2 cells. However, both evaluated concentrations of the natural compound protected the cells from the negative effects of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Furthermore, we evaluated lipid-related molecules correlated to the transdifferentiation process of LX-2, and 100 µM of silymarin demonstrated to control molecules associated with lipid metabolism such as FASN, MLYCD, ACSL4, CPTs, among others. In contrast, cellular incubation with 150 µM of silymarin increased the synthesis of long-chain fatty acids and triglycerides, regarding the higher presence of DMSO (v/v) in the solvent. In conclusion, silymarin acts as a hepatoprotective agent and modulates the pro-fibrogenic stimuli of LX-2 cells, whose effects depend on stress levels in the cellular environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caio Mateus Silva
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Biologia Geral e Aplicada, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Rio Claro, SP, 13506-900, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Duarte Ferrari
- Departamento de Bioquímica E Imunologia, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, USP, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Luciane Carla Alberici
- Departamento de Física E Química, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, USP, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Osmar Malaspina
- Centro de Estudos de Insetos Sociais, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Rio Claro, SP, Brazil
| | - Karen C M Moraes
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Biologia Geral e Aplicada, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Rio Claro, SP, 13506-900, Brazil.
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14
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Devaraj E, Roy A, Royapuram Veeraragavan G, Magesh A, Varikalam Sleeba A, Arivarasu L, Marimuthu Parasuraman B. β-Sitosterol attenuates carbon tetrachloride-induced oxidative stress and chronic liver injury in rats. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2020; 393:1067-1075. [PMID: 31930431 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-020-01810-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases are clinically silent and responsible for significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. β-Sitosterol (BSS), major phytosterol in plants, has a wide spectrum of protective effect against various chronic ailments. We investigated the hepatoprotective effect of BSS against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced chronic liver injury in rats. Thirty rats were divided into five groups, with six animals in each group. Group I rats served as control while groups II, III, IV, and V rats were injected intraperitoneally with CCl4 (0.2 mL/100 g b.w. in olive oil (1:1)) for 7 consecutive weeks. After 7 weeks, group II rats were left without any treatments and served as CCl4 alone group, while groups III, IV, and V rats were treated with BSS 25 and 50 mg/kg b.w. and silymarin 100 mg/kg b.w. as oral post-treatments respectively, for the next 4 weeks. At the end of the experiment, hepatotoxicity marker enzymes in serum, oxidative stress, and fibrosis marker were analyzed. CCl4 administration caused significant elevation of marker enzymes of hepatotoxicity in serum and increased lipid peroxidation and fibrosis markers such as hydroxyproline, collagen, α-smooth muscle actin, vimentin, desmin, and matrix metalloproteinases 9 in liver tissue of rats. This treatment also caused a significant diminution of intracellular enyzmic antioxidants such as SOD and CAT in the liver tissue of rats. All the above adversities were significantly mitigated by the BSS post-treatments. The results suggest that BSS could have a hepatoprotective effect against oxidative stress-mediated CLD induced by CCl4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ezhilarasan Devaraj
- Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600 077, India.
| | - Anitha Roy
- Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600 077, India
| | - Geetha Royapuram Veeraragavan
- Department of Microbiology, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600 077, India
| | - Anitha Magesh
- Department of Research and Development, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, 602 105, India
| | | | - Lakshminarayanan Arivarasu
- Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600 077, India
| | - Brundha Marimuthu Parasuraman
- Department of Pathology, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600 077, India
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15
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Zhou J, Li Z, Huang Y, Ju W, Wang D, Zhu X, He X. MicroRNA-26a targets the mdm2/p53 loop directly in response to liver regeneration. Int J Mol Med 2019; 44:1505-1514. [PMID: 31364731 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2019.4282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver regeneration (LR) is the result of a dynamic balance between the increased proliferation and decreased apoptosis of hepatocytes. However, the role of microRNA (miR)‑26a in regulating complex signalling networks involving E3 ubiquitin‑protein ligase Mdm2 (mdm2), p53, p21 and p27 in the process of LR is currently unclear. In the present study, it was hypothesized that miR‑26a may negatively regulate the mdm2/p53 signalling loop in response to LR. In vitro experiments were performed, whereby mouse liver cells were transfected with an miR‑26a vector or an anti/miR‑26a vector. Cell proliferation was analysed using an MTS assay and cell apoptosis, and cell cycle progression were analysed by flow cytometry. In addition, the expression of mdm2, p53, p21 and p27 were assessed using western blotting and reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses. Dual‑luciferase reporter assays were also used to examine the association between mdm2 and miR‑26a. A 70% partial hepatectomy in C57BL/6J mice was then performed, which was followed by injection with an mdm2‑cDNA vector or an mdm2‑small interfering RNA vector. The liver‑to‑body weight ratio and liver function of mice were measured at 72 h following vector administration. The results demonstrated an increase in hepatocyte proliferation accompanied by decreased hepatocyte apoptosis levels. In addition, inhibition of miR‑26a expression was associated with a marked increase in mdm2 expression, while the expression of p53, p21 and p27 was decreased when compared with negative controls. The opposite effects were observed when miR‑26a was overexpressed. Notably, miR‑26a was demonstrated to target the 3'‑untranslated region of mdm2 directly. The results of the present study are the first to demonstrate as far as the authors are aware that the mdm2/p53 negative feedback loop may be targeted by miR‑26a directly in response to LR, and that mdm2 negatively regulates p53, p21 and p27 but not miR‑26a. miR‑26a may therefore function as an important factor that regulates the interaction between mdm2 and p53.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Zhou
- Organ Transplant Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‑sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Zhuoyuan Li
- Organ Transplant Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‑sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Yingbin Huang
- Organ Transplant Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‑sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Weiqiang Ju
- Organ Transplant Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‑sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Dongping Wang
- Organ Transplant Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‑sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Xiaofeng Zhu
- Organ Transplant Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‑sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoshun He
- Organ Transplant Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‑sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
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Xu H, Hong S, Yan Z, Zhao Q, Shi Y, Song N, Xie J, Jiang X. RAP-8 ameliorates liver fibrosis by modulating cell cycle and oxidative stress. Life Sci 2019; 229:200-209. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2019.04.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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17
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Targeting hsp90 family members: A strategy to improve cancer cell death. Biochem Pharmacol 2019; 164:177-187. [PMID: 30981878 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
A crucial process in biology is the conversion of the genetic information into functional proteins that carry out the genetic program. However, a supplementary step is required to obtain functional proteins: the folding of the newly translated polypeptides into well-defined, three-dimensional conformations. Proteins chaperones are crucial for this final step in the readout of genetic information, which results in the formation of functional proteins. In this review, a special attention will be given to the strategies targeting hsp90 family members in order to increase cancer cell death. We argue that disruption of hsp90 machinery and the further client protein degradation is the main consequence of hsp90 oxidative cleavage taking place at the N-terminal nucleotide-binding site. Moreover, modulation of Grp94 expression will be discussed as a potential therapeutic goal looking for a decrease in cancer relapses.
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18
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Silybin Modulates Collagen Turnover in an In Vitro Model of NASH. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24071280. [PMID: 30986937 PMCID: PMC6479571 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24071280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Silybin has been proposed as a treatment for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). In this study, we assessed the effect of Silybin in a well-established in vitro coculture model of early-stage NASH. LX2 and Huh7 cells were exposed to free fatty acid (FFA) and Silybin as mono- or coculture (SCC). Cell viability, LX2 activation, collagen deposition, metalloproteinase 2 and 9 (MMP2-9) activity, and ROS generation were determined at 24, 96, and 144 h. Exposure to FFA induced the activation of LX2 as shown by the increase in cell viability and upregulation of collagen biosynthesis. Interestingly, while cotreatment with Silybin did not affect collagen production in LX2, a significant reduction was observed in SCC. MMP2-9 activity was reduced in FFA-treated Huh7 and SCC and cotreatment with Silybin induced a dose-dependent increase, while no effect was observed in LX2. Silybin also showed antioxidant properties by reducing the FFA-induced production of ROS in all the cell systems. Based on these data, Silybin exerts its beneficial effects by reducing LX2 proliferation and ROS generation. Moreover, MMP2-9 modulation in hepatocytes represents the driving mechanism for the net reduction of collagen in this NASH in vitro model, highlighting the importance of hepatic cells interplay in NASH development and resolution.
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Gheena S, Ezhilarasan D. Syringic acid triggers reactive oxygen species–mediated cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells. Hum Exp Toxicol 2019; 38:694-702. [DOI: 10.1177/0960327119839173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is the second most common cause of cancer death in the world and its incidence has dramatically increased worldwide in the past two decades. Syringic acid (SA) has been studied for its hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, free radical scavenging, and antioxidant activities. We aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic effect of SA against human hepatoma HepG2 cell line. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. HepG2 cells were treated with SA at concentration ranges of 25, 50, and 100 µM for 24 h. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) expression was investigated by dichlorofluorescein staining assay. Morphological changes of SA-treated HepG2 cells were evaluated by acridine orange (AO) and ethidium bromide (EB) dual staining. Apoptotic marker gene expressions were evaluated by qPCR. SA treatment caused significant cytotoxicity and liberation of ROS in HepG2 cells. AO and EB staining showed membrane blebbing and distortion in SA-treated cells. Apoptotic markers such as caspases 3 and 9, cytochrome c, Apaf-1, Bax, and p53 gene expressions were significantly increased upon SA treatment indicating the possibility of apoptosis induction in HepG2 cells. This treatment also caused significant downregulation of Bcl-2 gene expression. SA has a cytotoxic effect on human HepG2 cell line, and this might be a promising agent in anticancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Gheena
- Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
- Department of Oral Pathology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - D Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
- Biomedical Research Unit and Laboratory Animal Centre and Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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20
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Gharbia S, Balta C, Herman H, Rosu M, Váradi J, Bácskay I, Vecsernyés M, Gyöngyösi S, Fenyvesi F, Voicu SN, Stan MS, Cristian RE, Dinischiotu A, Hermenean A. Enhancement of Silymarin Anti-fibrotic Effects by Complexation With Hydroxypropyl (HPBCD) and Randomly Methylated (RAMEB) β-Cyclodextrins in a Mouse Model of Liver Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:883. [PMID: 30150935 PMCID: PMC6099081 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Silymarin (Sy) shows limited water solubility and poor oral bioavailability. Water-soluble hydroxypropyl (HPBCD) and randomly methylated (RAMEB) β-cyclodextrins were designed to enhance anti-fibrotic efficiency of silymarin in CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in mice. Experimental fibrosis was induced by intraperitoneal injection with 2 ml/kg CCl4 (20% v/v) twice a week, for 7 weeks. Mice were orally treated with 50 mg/kg of Sy-HPBCD, Sy-RAMEB and free silymarin. For assessment of the spontaneous reversion of fibrosis, CCl4 treated animals were investigated after 2 weeks of recovery time. The CCl4 administration increased hepatic oxidative stress, augmented the expression of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and Smad 2/3, and decreased Smad 7 expression. Furthermore, increased α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression indicated activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), while up-regulation of collagen I (Col I) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) expression led to an altered extracellular matrix enriched in collagen, confirmed as well by trichrome staining and electron microscopy analysis. Treatment with Sy-HPBCD and Sy-RAMEB significantly reduced liver injury, attenuating oxidative stress, restoring antioxidant balance in the hepatic tissue, and significantly decreasing collagen deposits in the liver. The levels of pro-fibrogenic markers' expression were also significantly down-regulated, whereas in the group for spontaneous regression of fibrosis, they remained significantly higher, even at 2 weeks after CCl4 administration was discontinued. The recovery was significantly lower for free silymarin group compared to silymarin/β cyclodextrins co-treatments. Sy-HPBCD was found to be the most potent anti-fibrotic complex. We demonstrated that Sy-HPBCD and Sy-RAMEB complexes decreased extracellular matrix accumulation by inhibiting HSC activation and diminished the oxidative damage. This might occur via the inhibition of TGF-β1/Smad signal transduction and MMP/tissue inhibitor of MMPs (TIMP) rebalance, by blocking the synthesis of Col I and decreasing collagen deposition. These results suggest that complexation of silymarin with HPBCD or RAMEB represent viable options for the its oral delivery, of the flavonoid as a potential therapeutic entity candidate, with applications in the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami Gharbia
- The Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Cornel Balta
- The Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Hildegard Herman
- The Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Marcel Rosu
- The Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Judit Váradi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ildikó Bácskay
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Miklós Vecsernyés
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Szilvia Gyöngyösi
- Department of Solid State Physics, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ferenc Fenyvesi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Sorina N Voicu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Miruna S Stan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Roxana E Cristian
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anca Dinischiotu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anca Hermenean
- The Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania.,Department of Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
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Yin Y, Gao H, Guo J, Gao Y. [Effect of Circular RNA UBAP2 Silencing on Proliferation and Invasion of Human Lung Cancer A549 Cells and Its Mechanism]. ZHONGGUO FEI AI ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF LUNG CANCER 2018; 20:800-807. [PMID: 29277177 PMCID: PMC5973395 DOI: 10.3779/j.issn.1009-3419.2017.12.02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been proven that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play an important role on the process of many types cancer and circUBAP2 was a cancer-promoting circRNA, however, the role and mechanism in lung cancer was not clear. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of circUBAP2 on cell proliferation and invasion of human lung cancer A549 cells. METHODS CCK-8 assay was employed to detect the effect of circUBAP2 sliencing on cell proliferation of A549 cells. Fow cytometry was applied to detect the impact of circUBAP2 sliencing on cell cycle and cell anoikis, and Transwell invasion assay was applied to determine cell invasion of A549 cells. We also employed Western blot and Real-time PCR to determine the expressions of CDK6, cyclin D1, p27 and c-IAP1, Bcl-2, Survivin, Bax, FAK, Rac1 and MMP2, and the activities of JNK and ERK1/2, luciferase report gene assay was used to detect the targets. RESULTS CCK-8 assay showed that the inhibition of cell proliferation in the circUBAP2-siRNA group compared to untreated group and siRNA control group. Results of cell cycle detected by flow cytometry showed that cell cycle arrestd at G0/G1 after circUBAP2 silencing, cell apoptosis rate increased also. We also found that after circUBAP2 silencing, cell invasion of A549 cells was significantly inhibited. Western blot and Real-time PCR results showed that expression of CDK6, cyclin D1, c-IAP1, Bcl-2, Survivin, FAK, Rac1 and MMP2 were down-regulated, and the expression of p27 and Bax were up-regulated. Moreover, the activities of JNK and ERK1/2 were inhibited because of circUBAP2 silencing, the target genes were miR-339-5p, miR-96-3p and miR-135b-3p. CONCLUSIONS CircUBAP2 plays an important role in the proliferation and invasion of human lung cancer. Silencing of circUBAP2 might be a novel target for molecular targeted therapy of patients with lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujing Yin
- Department of Pathology, Baotou Cancer Hospital, Baotou 014030, China
| | - Hui Gao
- Department of Pathology, Baotou Cancer Hospital, Baotou 014030, China
| | - Jia Guo
- Department of Pathology, Baotou Cancer Hospital, Baotou 014030, China
| | - Yang Gao
- Department of Pathology, Baotou Cancer Hospital, Baotou 014030, China
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22
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Ezhilarasan D, Sokal E, Najimi M. Hepatic fibrosis: It is time to go with hepatic stellate cell-specific therapeutic targets. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2018; 17:192-197. [PMID: 29709350 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2018.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a pathological lesion, characterized by the progressive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the perisinusoidal space and it is a major problem in chronic liver diseases. Phenotypic activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) plays a central role in the progression of hepatic fibrosis. Retardation of proliferation and clearance of activated HSCs from the injured liver is an appropriate therapeutic strategy for the resolution and treatment of hepatic fibrosis. Clearance of activated HSCs from the injured liver by autophagy inhibitors, proapoptotic agents and senescence inducers with the high affinity toward the activated HSCs may be the novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Biomedical Research Unit and Laboratory Animal Centre, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai 600 077, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Etienne Sokal
- Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Laboratory of Pediatric Hepatology and Cell Therapy, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Mustapha Najimi
- Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Laboratory of Pediatric Hepatology and Cell Therapy, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels 1200, Belgium
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