1
|
Liu C, Fisher D, Pronyuk K, Musabaev E, Thu Hien NT, Dang Y, Zhao L. Therapeutic potential of natural products in schistosomiasis-associated liver fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1332027. [PMID: 38770001 PMCID: PMC11102961 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1332027] [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: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease that endangers human health and social development. The granulomatous reaction of Schistosoma eggs in the liver is the main cause of hepatosplenomegaly and fibrotic lesions. Anti liver fibrosis therapy is crucial for patients with chronic schistosomiasis. Although Praziquantel is the only clinical drug used, it is limited in insecticide treatment and has a long-term large-scale use, which is forcing the search for cost-effective alternatives. Previous research has demonstrated that plant metabolites and extracts have effective therapeutic effects on liver fibrosis associated with schistosomiasis. This paper summarizes the mechanisms of action of metabolites and some plant extracts in alleviating schistosomiasis-associated liver fibrosis. The analysis was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) databases. Some plant metabolites and extracts ameliorate liver fibrosis by targeting multiple signaling pathways, including reducing inflammatory infiltration, oxidative stress, inhibiting alternate macrophage activation, suppressing hepatic stellate cell activation, and reducing worm egg load. Natural products improve liver fibrosis associated with schistosomiasis, but further research is needed to elucidate the effectiveness of natural products in treating liver fibrosis caused by schistosomiasis, as there is no reported data from clinical trials in the literature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cuiling Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - David Fisher
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Khrystyna Pronyuk
- Infectious Diseases Department, O.Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Erkin Musabaev
- The Research Institute of Virology, Ministry of Health, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
| | | | - Yiping Dang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhou X, Hong Y, Shang Z, Abuzeid AMI, Lin J, Li G. The Potential Role of MicroRNA‐124‐3p in Growth, Development, and Reproduction of Schistosoma japonicum. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:862496. [PMID: 35493736 PMCID: PMC9043613 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.862496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The microRNA‐124‐3p plays an important role in regulating development and neurogenesis. Previous microRNA sequencing analyses of Schistosoma japonicum revealed sja-miR-124-3p differential expression patterns in schistosomes from different hosts and at different developmental stages. This study explores the regulatory role of sja-miR-124-3p in S. japonicum development and reproduction. Quantitative reverse-transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) showed that the expression level of sja-miR-124-3p in S. japonicum from resistant hosts, such as Microtus fortis, and unsuitable hosts, such as rats and water buffalo, was significantly higher than that in mice and yellow cattle at the same developmental stage. Overexpressing sja-miR-124-3p in infected mice led to a hepatic egg reduction rate of 36.97%, smaller egg granulomas in the livers, increased liver weight, subsided hepatocyte necrosis, and diminished inflammatory cell infiltration. The width of female worms increased but decreased in males. The vitelline cells were irregular, swollen, or fused. The teguments and ventral sucker of males and females were swollen and broken, but the morphological changes were particularly notable in males. qRT-PCR and dual-luciferase reporter assay system were used to confirm the in-silico-predicted target genes, S. japonicum DEAD-box ATP-dependent RNA helicase 1 (sjDDX1) and DNA polymerase II subunit 2 (sjPOLE2). Our results showed that RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated sjDDX1 silencing in mice provided a 24.55% worm reduction rate and an 18.36% egg reduction rate, but the difference was not significant (p > 0.05). Thus, our findings suggest that sja-miR-124-3p has an important role in growth, development, and reproduction in S. japonicum. All these results will greatly contribute toward providing important clues for searching vaccine candidates and new drug targets against schistosomiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xue Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Hong
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Hong, ; Jiaojiao Lin, ; Guoqing Li,
| | - Zheng Shang
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Asmaa M. I. Abuzeid
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Jiaojiao Lin
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Hong, ; Jiaojiao Lin, ; Guoqing Li,
| | - Guoqing Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Hong, ; Jiaojiao Lin, ; Guoqing Li,
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bi NN, Zhao S, Zhang JF, Cheng Y, Zuo CY, Yang GL, Yang K. Proteomics Investigations of Potential Protein Biomarkers in Sera of Rabbits Infected With Schistosoma japonicum. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 11:784279. [PMID: 35004354 PMCID: PMC8729878 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.784279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a chronic parasitic disease that continues to be a pressing public health problem in many developing countries. The primary pathological damage from the disease is granuloma and fibrosis caused by egg aggregation, and early treatment can effectively prevent the occurrence of liver fibrosis. Therefore, it is very important to identify biomarkers that can be used for early diagnosis of Schistosoma japonicum infection. In this study, a label-free proteomics method was performed to observe the alteration of proteins before infection, 1 and 6 weeks after infection, and 5 and 7 weeks after treatment. A total of 10 proteins derived from S. japonicum and 242 host-derived proteins were identified and quantified as significantly changed. Temporal analysis was carried out to further analyze potential biomarkers with coherent changes during infection and treatment. The results revealed biological process changes in serum proteins compared to infection and treatment groups, which implicated receptor-mediated endocytosis, inflammatory response, and acute-phase response such as mannan-binding lectin serine peptidase 1, immunoglobulin, and collagen. These findings offer guidance for the in-depth analysis of potential biomarkers of schistosomiasis, host protein, and early diagnosis of S. japonicum and its pathogenesis. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD029635.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nian-Nian Bi
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Song Zhao
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, China.,The Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry & Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Jian-Feng Zhang
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, China
| | - Ying Cheng
- The Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry & Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Chen-Yang Zuo
- The Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry & Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Gang-Long Yang
- The Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry & Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Kun Yang
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yu W, Zeng M, Xu P, Liu J, Wang H. Effect of paeoniflorin on acute lung injury induced by influenza A virus in mice. Evidences of its mechanism of action. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 92:153724. [PMID: 34509953 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Influenza often leads to acute lung injury (ALI). Few therapeutics options such as vaccines and other antiviral drugs are available. Paeoniflorin is a monoterpene glucoside isolated from the roots of Paeonia lactiflora Pall. that has showed good anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects. However, it is not known whether paeoniflorin has an effect on influenza virus-induced ALI. PURPOSE To investigative the protective effect and potential mechanism of paeoniflorin on ALI induced by influenza A virus (IAV). STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS The anti-influenza activity of paeoniflorin in vitro was investigated. Influenza virus A/FM/1/47 was intranasally infected in mice to induce ALI, and paeoniflorin (50 and 100 mg/kg) was given orally to mice during 5 days, beginning 2 h after infection. On day 6 post-infection, body and lung weights, histology and survival were observed, and the lungs were examined for viral load, cytokine and cellular pathway protein expression. RESULTS Results showed that paeoniflorin (50 and 100 mg/kg) reduced IAV-induced ALI. It reduces pulmonary oedema and improves histopathological changes in the lung, and also diminishes the accumulation of inflammatory cells in the lung. It was shown that paeoniflorin (50 and 100 mg/kg) alleviated IAV-induced ALI, as evidenced by improved survival in infected mice (40% and 50%, respectively), reduced viral titer in lung tissue, improved histological changes, and reduced lung inflammation. Paeoniflorin also improves pulmonary fibrosis by reducing the levels of pulmonary fibrotic markers (collagen type IV, alpha-smooth muscle actin, hyaluronic acid, laminin, and procollagen type III) and downregulating the expression levels of type I collagen (Col I) and type III collagen (Col III) in the lung tissues. Additionally, paeoniflorin inhibits the expression of αvβ3, TGF-β1, Smad2, NF-κB, and p38MAPK in the lung tissues. CONCLUSION The results showed that paeoniflorin (50 and 100 mg/kg) protected against IAV-induced ALI, and the underlying mechanism may be related to the reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokine production and lung collagen deposition through down-regulation of activation of αvβ3/TGF-β1 pathway in lung tissue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wendi Yu
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 12 Jichang Rd., San Yuanli St., Bai Yun Dist., Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, PR China
| | - Maosen Zeng
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 12 Jichang Rd., San Yuanli St., Bai Yun Dist., Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, PR China
| | - Peiping Xu
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 12 Jichang Rd., San Yuanli St., Bai Yun Dist., Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, PR China.
| | - Jinyuan Liu
- Basic Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, PR China.
| | - Huixian Wang
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 12 Jichang Rd., San Yuanli St., Bai Yun Dist., Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhou C, Li D, Ding C, Yuan Q, Yu S, Du D, Huang W, Wang D. Involvement of SIRT1 in amelioration of schistosomiasis-induced hepatic fibrosis by genistein. Acta Trop 2021; 220:105961. [PMID: 34010594 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.105961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Previous study revealed that genistein alleviate the extent of hepatic fibrosis in schistosomiasis-infected mice, however, the potential mechanism is still incomplete. Present study was, therefore, carried out to investigate the underlying mechanism of ameliorating schistosomiasis-induced hepatic fibrosis by genistein. α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression, as a critical fibrotic marker, was markedly upregulated in Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum) egg-induced liver fibrosis, and gradually inhibited by genistein administration in infected mice. Contrary to the changes of α-SMA expression, hepatic SIRT1 expression and activity was greatly inhibited in mice upon S. japonicum infection, and the repression was reversed in liver tissues after receiving 25 mg/kg genistein. 50 mg/kg genistein treatment gave rise to the higher SIRT1 expression and activity than that of the control group. In hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), genistein (5, 10, 20 μM) treatment resulted in the increases of SIRT1 expression and activity in concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, to mimic the fibrogenesis in vivo, macrophage was treated with soluble egg antigen (SEA) to obtain macrophage-conditioned medium (MφCM), which was used to stimulate HSCs. Intriguingly, SIRT1 overexpression decreased fibrosis associated gene expression in HSCs exposed to MφCM or not. Additionally, MφCM gave rise to high levels of α-SMA and p-Smad3 and the increments were reversed upon genistein treatment in HSCs. Furthermore, EX527, SIRT1 specific inhibitor, abrogated the inhibitory effects of genistein on HSCs activation. Together, the results support the notion that the strong elevation of SIRT1 expression and activity may represent a potential mechanism of protection against schistosomiasis-induced hepatic fibrosis by genistein.
Collapse
|
6
|
You H, Mayer JU, Johnston RL, Sivakumaran H, Ranasinghe S, Rivera V, Kondrashova O, Koufariotis LT, Du X, Driguez P, French JD, Waddell N, Duke MG, Ittiprasert W, Mann VH, Brindley PJ, Jones MK, McManus DP. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing of Schistosoma mansoni acetylcholinesterase. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21205. [PMID: 33337558 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202001745rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing shows cogent potential for the genetic modification of helminth parasites. We report successful gene knock-in (KI) into the genome of the egg of Schistosoma mansoni by combining CRISPR/Cas9 with single-stranded oligodeoxynucleotides (ssODNs). We edited the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) gene of S. mansoni targeting two guide RNAs (gRNAs), X5 and X7, located on exon 5 and exon 7 of Smp_154600, respectively. Eggs recovered from livers of experimentally infected mice were transfected by electroporation with a CRISPR/Cas9-vector encoding gRNA X5 or X7 combining with/ without a ssODN donor. Next generation sequencing analysis of reads of amplicon libraries spanning targeted regions revealed that the major modifications induced by CRISPR/Cas9 in the eggs were generated by homology directed repair (HDR). Furthermore, soluble egg antigen from AChE-edited eggs exhibited markedly reduced AChE activity, indicative that programed Cas9 cleavage mutated the AChE gene. Following injection of AChE-edited schistosome eggs into the tail veins of mice, an significantly enhanced Th2 response involving IL-4, -5, -10, and-13 was detected in lung cells and splenocytes in mice injected with X5-KI eggs in comparison to control mice injected with unmutated eggs. A Th2-predominant response, with increased levels of IL-4, -13, and GATA3, also was induced by X5 KI eggs in small intestine-draining mesenteric lymph node cells when the gene-edited eggs were introduced into the subserosa of the ileum of the mice. These findings confirmed the potential and the utility of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing for functional genomics in schistosomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong You
- Immunology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Rebecca L Johnston
- Genetics & Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Haran Sivakumaran
- Genetics & Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Shiwanthi Ranasinghe
- Immunology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Vanessa Rivera
- Immunology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Olga Kondrashova
- Genetics & Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Lambros T Koufariotis
- Genetics & Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Xiaofeng Du
- Immunology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Patrick Driguez
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Juliet D French
- Genetics & Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Nicola Waddell
- Genetics & Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Mary G Duke
- Immunology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Wannaporn Ittiprasert
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, & Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Victoria H Mann
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, & Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Paul J Brindley
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, & Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Malcolm K Jones
- Immunology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Donald P McManus
- Immunology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kong DL, Kong FY, Liu XY, Yan C, Cui J, Tang RX, Zheng KY. Soluble egg antigen of Schistosoma japonicum induces pyroptosis in hepatic stellate cells by modulating ROS production. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:475. [PMID: 31610797 PMCID: PMC6791022 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3729-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammation-induced dysfunction of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is involved in schistosomiasis-associated liver fibrosis, and soluble egg antigen (SEA) is a crucial pathogen-associated molecular pattern associated with liver injury in schistosomiasis. In addition, numerous studies have shown that caspase-1-mediated pyroptosis participates in the development of multiple inflammation-related diseases. However, whether pyroptotic cell death of HSCs is involved in SEA-mediated liver damage is not well understood. METHODS Primary cultured HSCs and Schistosoma japonicum-infected mouse liver tissue were analysed for histological changes and caspase-1 activation, and the role of pyroptosis in the mechanisms underlying SEA-induced HSC death was investigated. Accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in infected livers and SEA-stimulated HSCs was measured by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. RESULTS Caspase-1 activity was elevated in both liver tissues and HSCs of S. japonicum-infected mice. Furthermore, SEA stimulation increased the proportion of pyroptotic HSCs, as shown by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assays and by flow cytometric analysis of propidium iodide (PI) and caspase-1 double staining in cells. In addition, ROS generation was elevated in infected liver tissues and SEA-stimulated HSCs, and ROS inhibition downregulated SEA-induced caspase-1 activation and pyroptosis in HSCs. CONCLUSIONS Our present study demonstrates that pyroptotic cell death in HSCs induced by SEA via ROS-mediated caspase-1 activation may serve as a significant mechanism to initiate the inflammatory response and thereby exacerbate liver injury during S. japonicum infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- De-Long Kong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan-Yun Kong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang-Ye Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Yan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Cui
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Ren-Xian Tang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
| | - Kui-Yang Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Tang CL, Yu XH, Li Y, Zhang RH, Xie J, Liu ZM. Schistosoma japonicum Soluble Egg Antigen Protects Against Type 2 Diabetes in Lepr db/db Mice by Enhancing Regulatory T Cells and Th2 Cytokines. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1471. [PMID: 31297120 PMCID: PMC6607994 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by persistently elevated glucose levels. There is no effective treatment strategy for this condition, and it poses a massive economic burden globally. Schistosoma soluble egg antigen (SEA)-induced immunomodulatory mechanisms have been reported in the treatment of autoimmune disease. This study aimed to determine the ability of Schistosoma japonicum SEA to protect against type 2 diabetes in Leprdb/db mice and understand the associated mechanisms. The mice were divided into four groups: C57BL/6 (the normal group), SEA (C57BL/6 mice treated with SEA), Leprdb/db, and SEA and Leprdb/db co-treatment groups. The mice in the SEA and co-treatment groups were injected with 50 μg of SEA (twice a week for 6 weeks), and the same volume of PBS was used as control. Blood glucose, insulin, and HOMA-IR levels were measured in all mice, which were sacrificed 6 weeks after the last SEA administration. Flow cytometry was used to detect the percentages of regulatory T cells in splenocytes. ELISA was used to detect the levels of IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, and IL-5 in cell culture supernatants. Compared with the mice in the Leprdb/db group, the mice in the SEA + Leprdb/db group exhibited significantly reduced insulin resistance, as evidenced by the enhancement of wound healing. The frequency of spleen regulatory T cells increased significantly after SEA administration; meanwhile, the secretion of IL-4 and IL-5 in spleen cells was elevated. These results indicate that SEA can reduce insulin resistance and provide new targets for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. The potential mechanisms might be associated with increases in regulatory T cells and Th2 cytokines in Leprdb/db mice, which warrants further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Lian Tang
- Wuchang Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao-Hong Yu
- Wuchang Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Li
- Wuchang Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Rong-Hui Zhang
- Wuchang Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jun Xie
- Medical College of Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhi-Ming Liu
- Wuchang Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Tu J, Guo Y, Hong W, Fang Y, Han D, Zhang P, Wang X, Körner H, Wei W. The Regulatory Effects of Paeoniflorin and Its Derivative Paeoniflorin-6'-O-Benzene Sulfonate CP-25 on Inflammation and Immune Diseases. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:57. [PMID: 30804784 PMCID: PMC6370653 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The plant extract "total glucosides of peony" (TGP) constitutes a mixture of glycosides that is isolated from the roots of the well-known traditional Chinese herb Paeonia lactiflora Pall. Paeoniflorin (Pae) is the most abundant component and the main biologically active ingredient of TGP. Pharmacologically, Pae exhibits powerful anti-inflammatory and immune regulatory effects in some animal models of autoimmune diseases including Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). Recently, we modified Pae with an addition of benzene sulfonate to achieve better bioavailability and higher anti-inflammatory immune regulatory effects. This review summarizes the pharmacological activities of Pae and the novel anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory agent Paeoniflorin-6'-O-benzenesulfonate (CP-25) in various chronic inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. The regulatory effects of Pae and CP-25 make them promising agents for other related diseases, which require extensive investigation in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiajie Tu
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yawei Guo
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wenming Hong
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yilong Fang
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Dafei Han
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Pengying Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xinming Wang
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Heinrich Körner
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abd El-Aal NF, Abdelbary EH. Paeoniflorin in experimental BALB/c mansoniasis: A novel anti-angiogenic therapy. Exp Parasitol 2018; 197:85-92. [PMID: 30414842 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2018.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Chronic hepatic schistosomiasis causes portal hypertension, fibrosis and lethal hepatosplenic complications. Previous studies focused mainly on schistosomicidal drugs and neglected the therapeutic approaches against the vascular complications after portal hypertension. Investigating a novel anti-angiogenic therapy is an urgent. The current study is to evaluate the performance of Paeoniflorin (PAE) as an anti-angiogenic therapy, being a powerful anti-fibrotic, compared to artemether (ART) and praziqantel (PZQ) in schistosomiasis mansoni BALB/c mice. Thirty two laboratory bred male BALB/c Swiss albino mice. The mice were classified into four groups (8 mice each), control infected (CI), PZQ (300 mg/kg/12 h), ART (0.1 ml/mg/d) and PAE (50 mg/kg/d) treated groups for one month. All mice groups were sacrificed 15 weeks post infection for assessment of the drugs' efficacy by parasitological, histopathological and immunohistochemical studies. Our results in PAE group showed marked reduction in the mean egg count/gram stool, worm burden, egg count/gram liver tissue, granuloma diameter and pro-angiogenic factors as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and CD34; conversely, there was an augmentation of the tissue inhibitor metalloproteinases-2 (TIMP-2) as an anti-angiogenic expression that was exceeded ART and PZQ treated groups compared to CI group (p˂0.001). Conclusively, PAE has an anti-angiogenic impact with no vascular proliferative activity or recanalization, no micro-vessel density (MVD) changes, granuloma resolution and fibrosis regression. PAE is predicted to be a potential therapy for chronic hepatic diseases associated with fibrosis and angiogenesis, hopeful in protecting from advanced serious complications; cancer and metastasis.
Collapse
|
11
|
Tao R, Fan XX, Yu HJ, Ai G, Zhang HY, Kong HY, Song QQ, Huang Y, Huang JQ, Ning Q. MicroRNA-29b-3p prevents Schistosoma japonicum-induced liver fibrosis by targeting COL1A1 and COL3A1. J Cell Biochem 2018; 119:3199-3209. [PMID: 29091295 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.26475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is one of the world's major public health problems in terms of morbidity and mortality, causing granulomatous inflammation and cumulative fibrosis. This study explored in vivo and vitro effects of miR-29b-3p in granulomatous liver fibrosis by targeting COL1A1 and COL3A1 in Schistosoma japonicum infection. Thirty male Balb/c mice were assigned to normal control and model (percutaneous infection of cercariae of S. japonicum) groups. NIH-3T3 mouse embryonic fibroblasts were designated into blank, NC, miR-29b-3p mimic, TGF-β1, TGF-β1 + NC, and TGF-β1 + miR-29b-3p mimic groups. HE and Masson staining were employed to observe the pathological changes and collagenous fibrosis. The expression of α-SMA, COL1A1, COL3A1, TIMP-1 was determined by immunohistochemistry. The RT-qPCR, Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining were conducted to determine expression of miR-29b-3p, COL1A1, and COL3A1. CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry were performed to evaluate viability and apoptosis. The relative expression of miR-29b-3p decreased in the model group. The model group showed marked fibrosis in liver tissues. The expression of α-SMA, COL1A1, COL3A1, TIMP-1 was higher in the model group than that in the normal control group. Dual luciferase reporter gene assay revealed that miR-29b-3p directly targeted COL1A1 and COL3A1. Compared with the blank, NC, TGF-β1 and TGF-β1 + NC groups, the miR-29b-3p mimic group exhibited up-regulated expression of miR-29b-3p and MMP-9 but down-regulated expression of TIMP-1, HSP47, α-SMA, COL1A1, and COL3A1; while lower cell viability but higher apoptosis rate showed. It indicated that miR-29b-3p prevents S. japonicum-induced liver fibrosis by inhibiting COL1A1 and COL3A1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ran Tao
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Xiang-Xue Fan
- Department of Infectious Disease, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, P.R. China
| | - Hai-Jing Yu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Guo Ai
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Yue Zhang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Yan Kong
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Qi-Qin Song
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Yu Huang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Jia-Quan Huang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Qin Ning
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abd El-Aal NF, Hamza RS, Harb O. Paeoniflorin targets apoptosis and ameliorates fibrosis in murine schistosomiasis mansoni : A novel insight. Exp Parasitol 2017; 183:23-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Revised: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
|
13
|
Wei Y, La L, Wang L, Batey R, Wang C, Li Y. Paeoniflorin and liquiritin, two major constituents in Chinese herbal formulas used to treat hyperprolactinemia-associated disorders, inhibits prolactin secretion in prolactinoma cells by different mechanisms. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2017; 204:36-44. [PMID: 28396166 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2017.03.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Revised: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Paeoniflorin and liquiritin are major constituents in some Chinese herbal formulas, such as Yiru Tiaojing (YRTJ) Granule (a hospitalized preparation) and Peony-Glycyrrhiza Decoction, used for hyperprolactinemia-associated disorders. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the effect of paeoniflorin and liquiritin on prolactin secretion. MATERIALS AND METHODS The effect of YRTJ Granule on metoclopramide-induced hyperprolactinemia was tested in rats. Paeoniflorin and liquiritin in the YRTJ Granule extract were identified and quantified by HPLC. The effects of paeoniflorin and liquiritin on prolactin secretion were examined in prolactinoma cells that were identified morphologically and by Western blot. The concentration of prolactin was determined by ELISA. The gene expression was analyzed by Western blot. RESULTS YRTJ Granule ameliorated metoclopramide-induced hyperprolactinemia in rats. The contents of paeoniflorin and liquiritin in YRTJ Granule were 7.43 and 2.05mg/g extract, respectively. Paeoniflorin, liquiritin and bromocriptine (a dopamine D2 receptor (D2R) agonist) decreased prolactin concentration in MMQ cells expressing D2R. However, the effect of liquiritin and bromocriptine was abolished in GH3 cells lacking D2R expression. Interestingly, paeoniflorin still decreased prolactin concentration in GH3 cells in the same manner. Furthermore, paeoniflorin suppressed prolactin protein expression, and was without effect on D2R protein expression in both MMQ and GH3 cells. CONCLUSIONS The present results suggest that paeoniflorin and liquiritin play a role in YRTJ Granule-elicited improvement of hyperprolactinemia. While the effect of liquiritin is D2R-dependent, paeoniflorin D2R-independently inhibits prolactin secretion in prolactinoma cells that may especially benefit the hyperprolactinemic patients who are refractory to dopaminergic therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyi Wei
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Lei La
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Lili Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Robert Batey
- Central Clinical School, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The University of Sydney, Australia.
| | - Chunxia Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Yuhao Li
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Group, Sydney Institute of Health Sciences/Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NSW 2000, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
van der Ree AM, Mutapi F. The helminth parasite proteome at the host-parasite interface - Informing diagnosis and control. Exp Parasitol 2015; 157:48-58. [PMID: 26116863 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2015.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2015] [Revised: 05/16/2015] [Accepted: 06/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Helminth parasites are a significant health burden for humans in the developing world and also cause substantial economic losses in livestock production across the world. The combined lack of vaccines for the major human and veterinary helminth parasites in addition to the development of drug resistance to anthelmintics in sheep and cattle mean that controlling helminth infection and pathology remains a challenge. However, recent high throughput technological advances mean that screening for potential drug and vaccine candidates is now easier than in previous decades. A better understanding of the host-parasite interactions occurring during infection and pathology and identifying pathways that can be therapeutically targeted for more effective and 'evolution proof' interventions is now required. This review highlights some of the advances that have been made in understanding the host-parasite interface in helminth infections using studies of the temporal expression of parasite proteins, i.e. the parasite proteome, and discuss areas for potential future research and translation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna M van der Ree
- Institute of Immunology & Infection Research, Centre for Immunity, Infection and Evolution, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Francisca Mutapi
- Institute of Immunology & Infection Research, Centre for Immunity, Infection and Evolution, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Tissue Transglutaminase-Regulated Transformed Growth Factor-β1 in the Parasite Links Schistosoma japonicum Infection with Liver Fibrosis. Mediators Inflamm 2015. [PMID: 26199461 PMCID: PMC4493306 DOI: 10.1155/2015/659378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor (TGF-β1) is among the strongest factors of liver fibrogenesis, but its association with Schistosoma-caused liver fibrosis is controversial. Tissue transglutaminase (tTG) is the principal enzyme controlling TGF-β1 maturation and contributes to Sj-infected liver fibrosis. Here we aim to explore the consistency between tTG and TGF-β1 and TGF-β1 source and its correlation with liver fibrosis after Sj-infection. TGF-β1 was upregulated at weeks 6 and 8 upon liver fibrosis induction. During tTG inhibition, TGF-β1 level decreased in sera and liver of infected mice. TGF-β1 showed positive staining in liver containing Sj adult worms and eggs. TGF-β1 was also detected in Sj adult worm sections, soluble egg antigen and Sj adult worm antigen, and adult worms' culture medium. The TGF-β1 mature peptide cDNA sequence and its extended sequence were amplified through RT-PCR and RACE-PCR using adult worms as template, and sequence is analyzed and loaded to NCBI GenBank (number GQ338152.1). TGF-β1 transcript in Sj eggs was higher than in adult worms. In Sj-infected liver, transcriptional level of TGF-β1 from Sj, but not mouse liver, correlated with liver fibrosis extent. This study provides evidence that tTG regulates TGF-β1 and illustrates the importance of targeting tTG in treating Sj infection-induced fibrosis.
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhao Y, Ma X, Wang J, Zhu Y, Li R, Wang J, He X, Shan L, Wang R, Wang L, Li Y, Xiao X. Paeoniflorin alleviates liver fibrosis by inhibiting HIF-1α through mTOR-dependent pathway. Fitoterapia 2014; 99:318-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2014.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2014] [Revised: 10/07/2014] [Accepted: 10/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
17
|
Effects of Chinese Medicine Tong xinluo on Diabetic Nephropathy via Inhibiting TGF- β 1-Induced Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2014; 2014:123497. [PMID: 24864150 PMCID: PMC4016864 DOI: 10.1155/2014/123497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2013] [Revised: 03/18/2014] [Accepted: 03/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a major cause of chronic kidney failure and characterized by interstitial and glomeruli fibrosis. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of DN. Tong xinluo (TXL), a Chinese herbal compound, has been used in China with established therapeutic efficacy in patients with DN. To investigate the molecular mechanism of TXL improving DN, KK-Ay mice were selected as models for the evaluation of pathogenesis and treatment in DN. In vitro, TGF-β1 was used to induce EMT. Western blot (WB), immunofluorescence staining, and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were applied to detect the changes of EMT markers in vivo and in vitro, respectively. Results showed the expressions of TGF-β1 and its downstream proteins smad3/p-smad3 were greatly reduced in TXL group; meantime, TXL restored the expression of smad7. As a result, the expressions of collagen IV (Col IV) and fibronectin (FN) were significantly decreased in TXL group. In vivo, 24 h-UAER (24-hour urine albumin excretion ratio) and BUN (blood urea nitrogen) were decreased and Ccr (creatinine clearance ratio) was increased in TXL group compared with DN group. In summary, the present study demonstrates that TXL successfully inhibits TGF-β1-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in DN, which may account for the therapeutic efficacy in TXL-mediated renoprotection.
Collapse
|
18
|
Involvement of heat shock protein 47 in Schistosoma japonicum-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice. Int J Parasitol 2014; 44:23-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2013.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2013] [Revised: 08/14/2013] [Accepted: 08/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
19
|
Shin IS, Lee MY, Jeon WY, Kim JC, Shin HK. Ojeok-san, a traditional Korean herbal medicine attenuates airway inflammation and pulmonary fibrosis induced by repeated ovalbumin challenge. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2013; 149:281-7. [PMID: 23816501 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2013.06.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2012] [Revised: 05/07/2013] [Accepted: 06/20/2013] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL EVIDENCE Ojeok-san, a traditional Korean herbal medicine, is widely used in China, Japan and Korea for treatment of the common cold, pain and fever. AIM OF THE STUDY In this study, we investigated the protective effects of Ojeok-san aqueous extract (OJS) against pulmonary fibrosis using a chronic asthma murine model. METHODS Mice were sensitized by intraperitoneal injection of ovalbumin (OVA), followed 1 weeks later by an airway challenge with OVA delivered three times a week for 4 weeks. OJS (50mg/kg or 100mg/kg) was also administered by oral gavage once a day for 4 weeks. RESULTS OJS significantly reduced interleukin (IL)-4, IL-13, eotaxin, immunoglobulin E and the number of inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid; in addition, it reduced inflammatory cell infiltration and mucus production in the respiratory tract. We found that OJS also attenuated the OVA-induced increase in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and Smad3 protein in lung tissue, as determined by Western analysis and immunohistochemistry. These inhibitory effects of OJS were accompanied by a reduction in pulmonary fibrosis, consistent with the histopathology of lung tissue stained with Masson's trichrome. CONCLUSION Administration of OJS reduced the airway inflammation and pulmonary fibrosis, as well as the level of T helper type 2 cytokines and VEGF and TGF-β1/Smad3 expressions in lung tissue. These results suggest that OJS might represent a useful new oral therapy for the treatment of chronic asthma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- In Sik Shin
- Basic Herbal Medicine Research Group, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 483 Expo-ro, Yusung-gu, Daejeon 305-811, Republic of Korea.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Jiao ZJ, Zhou J, Cui ZL, Qian JP, Zeng DH. Preventive effect of blockage of renin-angiptensin-aldosterone system at different levels against hepatic fibrosis in rats. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2013; 21:957-962. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v21.i11.957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To observe the preventive effect of blockage of the renin-angiptensin-aldosterone system at different levels against hepatic fibrosis in rats and to explore the possible mechanisms involved.
METHODS: Fifty 6-week-old SD rats were equally randomized into five groups: normal control group, model group, captopril group, losartan group and Spironolactone group. The normal group received subcutaneous injection of olive oil, while the other groups received subcutaneous injection of CCl4 to induce hepatic fibrosis. Next day, rats of the three treatment groups were injected daily with captopril 60 mg/kg, losartan 10 mg/kg and Spironolactone 100 mg/kg, respectively, while the control group and model group were given equal volume of normal saline. All rats were sacrificed at 8 wk. Hepatic fibrosis was evaluated by hematoxylin-eosin staining and Masson staining. The expression of transforming growth factor β1 and connective tissue growth factor was assessed by real-time PCR and Western blot.
RESULTS: Compared to the model group, the progression of hepatic fibrosis was significantly inhibited in the captopril group, losartan group and spironolactone group. The expression of transforming growth factor β1 and connective tissue growth factor in liver tissue was significantly higher in the model group than in the control group (all P < 0.05), but was significantly decreased in the captopril group, losartan group and spironolactone group compared to the model group (all P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the expression of transforming growth factor β1 and connective tissue growth factor among the three treatment groups.
CONCLUSION: Blockage of the renin-angiptensin-aldosterone system at different levels could suppress the progression of hepatic fibrosis in rats possibly via mechanisms associated with inhibition of expression of transforming growth factor β1 and connective tissue growth factor.
Collapse
|
21
|
Zhou H, Yang HX, Yuan Y, Deng W, Zhang JY, Bian ZY, Zong J, Dai J, Tang QZ. Paeoniflorin attenuates pressure overload-induced cardiac remodeling via inhibition of TGFβ/Smads and NF-κB pathways. J Mol Histol 2013; 44:357-67. [PMID: 23417833 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-013-9491-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2013] [Accepted: 02/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac remodeling is a key determinant in the clinical course and outcome of heart failure and characterized by cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, cardiomyocyte apoptosis and inflammation. The anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and anti-fibrotic effects of paeoniflorin have been identified in various types of tissue and cells. However, the role of paeoniflorin in cardiac remodeling remains unclear. We performed aortic banding (AB) in mice to induce a cardiac remodeling model in response to pressure overload. Paeoniflorin (20 mg/kg) was administered by daily intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection. Paeoniflorin treatment promoted the survival rate and improved cardiac function of mice at 8 weeks post surgery. AB-induced cardiac hypertrophy, as assessed by heart weight, gross heart, HE and WGA staining, cross-sectional area of cardiomyocyte and mRNA expresssion of hypertrophic makers, was attenuated by paeoniflorin. Paeoniflorin also inhibited collagen deposition, expression of TGFβ, CTGF, collagen Iα and collagen IIIα, and phosphorylation of Smad2 and Smad3 in the heart exposed to pressure overload. Cardiomyocyte apoptosis and induction of Bax and cleaved caspase3 in response to AB were suppressed by paeoniflorin. Furthermore, paeoniflorin decreased the quantity of CD68+ cells, protein levels of TNF-α and IL-1β, and phosphorylation of IκBα and NFκB-p65 in the heart after AB. In conclusion, paeoniflorin attenuated cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, apoptosis and inflammation, and improved left ventricular function in pressure overloaded mice. The cardioprotective effect of paeoniflorin is associated with the inhibition of TGFβ/Smads and NF-κB pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heng Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road 238, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ahmad A, Ahmad R. Understanding the mechanism of hepatic fibrosis and potential therapeutic approaches. Saudi J Gastroenterol 2012. [PMID: 22626794 DOI: 10.4103/1319-3767.96445]] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is a progressive condition with serious clinical complications arising from abnormal proliferation and amassing of tough fibrous scar tissue. This defiance of collagen fibers becomes fatal due to ultimate failure of liver functions. Participation of various cell types, interlinked cellular events, and large number of mediator molecules make the fibrotic process enormously complex and dynamic. However, with better appreciation of underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms of fibrosis, the assumption that HF cannot be cured is gradually changing. Recent findings have underlined the therapeutic potential of a number of synthetic compounds as well as plant derivatives for cessation or even the reversal of the processes that transforms the liver into fibrotic tissue. It is expected that future inputs will provide a conceptual framework to develop more specific strategies that would facilitate the assessment of risk factors, shortlist early diagnosis biomarkers, and eventually guide development of effective therapeutic alternatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Areeba Ahmad
- Department of Zoology, Biochemical and Clinical Genetics Research Laboratory, Section of Genetics, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Role of resident liver cells in the pathogenesis of schistosomiasis. Trends Parasitol 2012; 28:572-9. [PMID: 23099112 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2012.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2012] [Revised: 09/14/2012] [Accepted: 09/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pathology in schistosomiasis occurs as a result of eggs deposited in the liver by the schistosome parasite. A granulomatous reaction occurs, resulting in portal hypertension and hepatic fibrosis. Resident non-parenchymal cells within the liver take part in this process, including hepatic stellate cells, which are responsible for collagen production, and Kupffer cells, the liver macrophages involved in both host protection and in pathology. Other cells such as liver sinusoidal endothelial cells or portal fibroblasts may also be involved in this process. This review discusses the possible role of these resident liver cells in the pathology associated with schistosomiasis and provides information which may assist our understanding of the mechanisms associated with chronic liver disease in general.
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is a progressive condition with serious clinical complications arising from abnormal proliferation and amassing of tough fibrous scar tissue. This defiance of collagen fibers becomes fatal due to ultimate failure of liver functions. Participation of various cell types, interlinked cellular events, and large number of mediator molecules make the fibrotic process enormously complex and dynamic. However, with better appreciation of underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms of fibrosis, the assumption that HF cannot be cured is gradually changing. Recent findings have underlined the therapeutic potential of a number of synthetic compounds as well as plant derivatives for cessation or even the reversal of the processes that transforms the liver into fibrotic tissue. It is expected that future inputs will provide a conceptual framework to develop more specific strategies that would facilitate the assessment of risk factors, shortlist early diagnosis biomarkers, and eventually guide development of effective therapeutic alternatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Areeba Ahmad
- Department of Zoology, Biochemical and Clinical Genetics Research Laboratory, Section of Genetics, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Riaz Ahmad
- Department of Zoology, Biochemical and Clinical Genetics Research Laboratory, Section of Genetics, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India,Address for correspondence: Dr. Riaz Ahmad, Department of Zoology, Biochemical and Clinical Genetics Research Laboratory, Section of Genetics, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh- 202 002, Uttar Pradesh, India. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Paeoniflorin attenuates schistosomiasis japonica-associated liver fibrosis through inhibiting alternative activation of macrophages. Parasitology 2011; 138:1259-71. [PMID: 21810309 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182011001065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)-13 and alternatively activated macrophages (AAMs) play an important role in liver granuloma and fibrosis of schistosomiasis. Paeoniflorin (PAE, C23H28O11) has been reported to have an anti-hepatic fibrosis effect in schistosomiasis; however, the mechanism has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we measured serum hyaluronic acid (HA) concentrations, liver granuloma diameter and volume density, fibrosis degree and expressions of IL-13, arginase-1 (ARG-1), nitric oxide synthase-2 (NOS-2), and phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (p-STAT6) in mice liver of schistosomiasis. Then we detected expressions of specific biomarkers of AAMs and activity of Arg-1 in Kupffer cells (KCs) from infected and PAE-treated mice, or in KCs from uninfected mice, but exposed to rIL-13 in vitro. Finally, we observed expression of IL-13 signalling molecules in KCs and secretion of IL-13 from lymphocytes of infected and PAE-treated mice. Our results showed that during schistosomiasis, IL-13 expression and secretion increased with liver macrophages activated alternatively. PAE not only directly inhibited alternative activation of macrophages via reducing the phosphorylations of janus-activated kinase 2 (JAK2) and/or STAT6, leading to reduction of AAMs-related markers and Arg-1 activity, but also indirectly suppressed alternative activation of macrophages through decreasing secretion of IL-13. PAE might be a promising prophylactic agent for hepatic granuloma and fibrosis of schistosomiasis japonica.
Collapse
|
26
|
Liang YJ, Luo J, Yuan Q, Zheng D, Liu YP, Shi L, Zhou Y, Chen AL, Ren YY, Sun KY, Sun Y, Wang Y, Zhang ZS. New insight into the antifibrotic effects of praziquantel on mice in infection with Schistosoma japonicum. PLoS One 2011; 6:e20247. [PMID: 21629648 PMCID: PMC3101229 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0020247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2010] [Accepted: 04/28/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease infecting more than 200 million people in the world. Although chemotherapy targeting on killing schistosomes is one of the main strategies in the disease control, there are few effective ways of dealing with liver fibrosis caused by the parasite infection in the chronic and advanced stages of schistosomiasis. For this reason, new strategies and prospective drugs, which exert antifibrotic effects, are urgently required. METHODS AND FINDINGS The antifibrotic effects of praziquantel were assessed in the murine models of schistosomiasis japonica. Murine fibrosis models were established by cutaneous infection with 14 ± 2 Schistosoma japonicum cercariae. Then, the mice of both chronic (8 weeks post-infection) and advanced (15 weeks post-infection) schistosomiasis were treated by gavage of praziquantel (250 mg/kg, once daily for 3 days) to eliminate worms, and followed by praziquantel anti-fibrosis treatment (300 mg/kg, twice daily for 30 days). The fibrosis-related parameters assessed were areas of collagen deposition, content of hydroxyproline and mRNA expressions of Col1α1, Col3α1, α-SMA, TGF-β, MMP9, TIMP1, IL-4, IL-10, IL-13 and IFN-γ of liver. Spleen weight index, alanine aminotransferase activity and liver portal venous pressure were also measured. The results showed that anti-fibrosis treatment improved liver fibrosis, splenomegaly, hepatic function, as well as liver portal hypertension. In order to confirm the anti-fibrotic properties of praziquantel, we established a CCL(4)-induced model and revealed that CCL(4)-induced liver fibrosis was inhibited by PZQ treatment for 30 days. Furthermore, we analyzed the effects of praziquantel on mouse primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). It is indicated that mRNA expressions of Col1α1, Col3α1, α-SMA, TGF-β, MMP9 and TIMP1 of HSCs were all inhibited after praziquantel anti-parasite treatments. CONCLUSIONS The significant amelioration of hepatic fibrosis by praziquantel treatment validates it as a promising drug of anti-fibrosis and offers potential of a new chemotherapy for hepatic fibrosis resulting from schistosomiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue-Jin Liang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Luo
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Quan Yuan
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dan Zheng
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ya-Ping Liu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lei Shi
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ai-Ling Chen
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yong-Ya Ren
- Department of Pathology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ke-Yi Sun
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yan Sun
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhao-Song Zhang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Anthony B, Allen JT, Li YS, McManus DP. Hepatic stellate cells and parasite-induced liver fibrosis. Parasit Vectors 2010; 3:60. [PMID: 20663176 PMCID: PMC2915969 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-3-60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2010] [Accepted: 07/21/2010] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrogenesis is a common feature of many diseases where there is severe insult to the liver. The hepatic stellate cell trans-differentiation into a myofibroblast has been identified as an important event in liver fibrogenesis and has been well investigated over the last few years in a number of liver diseases. The trans-differentiation process can be monitored in vitro by evaluation of biomarkers that are characteristic of normal quiescent hepatic stellate cells or activated myofibroblasts. Two major parasitic diseases associated with liver injury and fibrosis are schistosomiasis and echinococcosis. Recent studies have highlighted a role for activated hepatic stellate cells in both murine and human schistosomiasis as well as demonstrating that schistosome antigens are able to regulate this trans-differentiation process. Study of the hepatic stellate cell and its interaction with parasite-derived antigens may be pivotal in our understanding of the pathology associated with schistosomiasis and other parasitic diseases, including echinococcosis, as well as revealing new information on the trans-differentiation process in this cell type.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barrie Anthony
- Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Post Office Royal Brisbane Hospital, Brisbane, Q 4029, Australia.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Paeoniflorin ameliorates schistosomiasis liver fibrosis through regulating IL-13 and its signalling molecules in mice. Parasitology 2010; 137:1213-25. [DOI: 10.1017/s003118201000003x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
SUMMARYTreatment of liver fibrosis associated with Schistosoma japonicum ova-induced granulomas remains a challenging proposition. Paeoniflorin (PAE, C23H28O11) has anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and immunoregulatory effects and it is commonly used in Chinese Herbal prescriptions to treat hepatic disorders. The present study was carried out to investigate the effects of PAE on hepatic fibrosis of mice infected with S. japonicum and to explore its possible mechanism. Upon pathological examination of PAE-treated mice, the size of egg granuloma, fibrosis scores, the concentration of IL-13 and hydroxyproline in liver were significantly reduced compared with the model mice. In the primary culture of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), PAE inhibited IL-13-induced collagen synthesis. These results suggested that PAE might alleviate the hepatic granulomas and fibrosis caused by S. japonicum and the inhibitory effect of PAE on hepatic fibrosis might be associated with its ability to decrease the level of IL-13 and to interfere with the IL-13 signalling molecule in HSCs.
Collapse
|
29
|
Dynamics of hepatic stellate cells, collagen types I and III synthesis and gene expression of selected cytokines during hepatic fibrogenesis following Mesocestoides vogae (Cestoda) infection in mice. Int J Parasitol 2009; 40:163-74. [PMID: 19631650 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2009.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2009] [Revised: 06/11/2009] [Accepted: 06/12/2009] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, the relationship between progression of Mesocestoides vogae infection in the liver of mice, the accumulation rate of collagen types I and III, gene expression of fibrogenic factors and cytokines was examined within 6weeks p.i. Due to asexual multiplication, the total number of larvae in the liver increased considerably and 63.4% were found in collagen capsules on day 42 p.i. Intense staining for both collagens was recorded in the activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) throughout the period of this study in the inflammatory lesions. With progressing infection, cellular expression of both collagens was confined to the flat cells, myofibroblasts, which were scattered among collagen fibres in parenchymal lesions and capsules. Collagen-positive areas mirrored immunostaining of alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA) in HSCs and myofibroblasts. Gene expression of both collagens increased rapidly within 14days p.i. and their expression pattern resembled that for pro-fibrotic cytokine transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1 and alpha-SMA protein. IL-10 cytokine expression was up-regulated following day 14 p.i. and that of IL-13 was up-regulated early p.i., then transcription elevated gradually mirroring the activity of other pro-fibrotic markers. In contrast, transcription activity of TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma was elevated shortly after infection, followed by the partial down-regulation of gene expression, indicating the lack of larval killing, enhanced granulomatous inflammation and the perpetuation of hepatic fibrosis. Histomorphometric analysis of the parenchymal fibrous lesions, surface areas of larvae surrounded with the inflammatory infiltrates and surface areas of developing or mature larva-containing granulomas, correlated with the proportion of free and encapsulated larvae, immunostaining and gene expression patterns of collagens and pro-fibrotic markers. At a later stage of infection (day 28 p.i. onwards) collagen I-positive areas occupied a greater surface area and formed mature larval capsules and scars in the liver. In contrast, collagen III was less abundant and was localised mainly in the fibrous lesions in damaged parenchyma, suggesting their specific up-regulation as the part of host-protecting and tissue-healing responses.
Collapse
|
30
|
Chu D, Li C, Wu Q, Shen J. Paeoniflorin prevents hepatic fibrosis of Schistosomiasis japonica by inhibiting TGF-β1 production from macrophages in mice. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.1007/s11684-008-0029-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
|