1
|
He Q, He W, Dong H, Guo Y, Yuan G, Shi X, Wang D, Lu F. Role of liver sinusoidal endothelial cell in metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:346. [PMID: 38943171 PMCID: PMC11214243 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01720-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are highly specialized endothelial cells that represent the interface between blood cells on one side and hepatocytes on the other side. LSECs not only form a barrier within the hepatic sinus, but also play important physiological functions such as regulating hepatic vascular pressure, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic. Pathologically, pathogenic factors can induce LSECs capillarization, that is, loss of fenestra and dysfunction, which are conducive to early steatosis, lay the foundation for the progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), and accelerate metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and liver fibrosis. The unique localization, phenotype, and function of LSECs make them potential candidates for reducing liver injury, inflammation, and preventing or reversing fibrosis in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiongyao He
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Wu He
- Division of Cardiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Hui Dong
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yujin Guo
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Gang Yuan
- Department of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xiaoli Shi
- Department of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Dingkun Wang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Fuer Lu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Baffy G, Portincasa P. Gut Microbiota and Sinusoidal Vasoregulation in MASLD: A Portal Perspective. Metabolites 2024; 14:324. [PMID: 38921459 PMCID: PMC11205793 DOI: 10.3390/metabo14060324] [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: 05/11/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a common condition with heterogeneous outcomes difficult to predict at the individual level. Feared complications of advanced MASLD are linked to clinically significant portal hypertension and are initiated by functional and mechanical changes in the unique sinusoidal capillary network of the liver. Early sinusoidal vasoregulatory changes in MASLD lead to increased intrahepatic vascular resistance and represent the beginning of portal hypertension. In addition, the composition and function of gut microbiota in MASLD are distinctly different from the healthy state, and multiple lines of evidence demonstrate the association of dysbiosis with these vasoregulatory changes. The gut microbiota is involved in the biotransformation of nutrients, production of de novo metabolites, release of microbial structural components, and impairment of the intestinal barrier with impact on innate immune responses, metabolism, inflammation, fibrosis, and vasoregulation in the liver and beyond. The gut-liver axis is a conceptual framework in which portal circulation is the primary connection between gut microbiota and the liver. Accordingly, biochemical and hemodynamic attributes of portal circulation may hold the key to better understanding and predicting disease progression in MASLD. However, many specific details remain hidden due to limited access to the portal circulation, indicating a major unmet need for the development of innovative diagnostic tools to analyze portal metabolites and explore their effect on health and disease. We also need to safely and reliably monitor portal hemodynamics with the goal of providing preventive and curative interventions in all stages of MASLD. Here, we review recent advances that link portal metabolomics to altered sinusoidal vasoregulation and may allow for new insights into the development of portal hypertension in MASLD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gyorgy Baffy
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 02130, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Piero Portincasa
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine, University ‘Aldo Moro’ Medical School, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Paternostro R, Kwanten WJ, Hofer BS, Semmler G, Bagdadi A, Luzko I, Hernández-Gea V, Graupera I, García-Pagán JC, Saltini D, Indulti F, Schepis F, Moga L, Rautou PE, Llop E, Téllez L, Albillos A, Fortea JI, Puente A, Tosetti G, Primignani M, Zipprich A, Vuille-Lessard E, Berzigotti A, Taru MG, Taru V, Procopet B, Jansen C, Praktiknjo M, Gu W, Trebicka J, Ibanez-Samaniego L, Bañares R, Rivera-Esteban J, Pericas JM, Genesca J, Alvarado E, Villanueva C, Larrue H, Bureau C, Laleman W, Ardevol A, Masnou H, Vanwolleghem T, Trauner M, Mandorfer M, Francque S, Reiberger T. Hepatic venous pressure gradient predicts risk of hepatic decompensation and liver-related mortality in patients with MASLD. J Hepatol 2024:S0168-8278(24)00368-4. [PMID: 38823501 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.05.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a leading cause of advanced chronic liver disease (ACLD). Portal hypertension drives hepatic decompensation and is best diagnosed by hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) measurement. Here we investigate the prognostic value of HVPG in compensated (cACLD) MASLD. METHODS This European multicentre study included MASLD-cACLD patients characterised by HVPG at baseline. Hepatic decompensation (variceal bleeding/ ascites/hepatic encephalopathy) and liver-related mortality were considered the primary events of interest. RESULTS 340 MASLD-cACLD patients [56.2% men; age: 62 (55-68) years; MELD: 8 (7-9); 71.2% diabetes] were included. Clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH; i.e., HVPG ≥10 mmHg) was found in 209 patients (61.5%). During a median follow-up of 41.5 (27.5-65.8) months, 65 patients developed hepatic decompensation with a cumulative incidence of 10.0% after 2 years (2Y) and 30.7% after 5 years (5Y) in MASLD-cACLD with CSPH, compared to 2.4% after 2Y and 9.4% after 5Y in patients without CSPH. Variceal bleeding did not occur without CSPH. CSPH (subdistribution hazard ratio, SHR:5.13; p<0.001) was associated with an increased decompensation risk and a higher HVPG remained an independent risk factor in the multivariable model (aSHR per mmHg:1.12; p<0.001). Liver-related mortality occurred in 37 patients with a cumulative incidence of 3.3% after 2Y and 21.4% after 5Y in CSPH. Without CSPH, the incidence after 5Y was 0.8%. Accordingly, a higher HVPG was also independently associated with a higher risk of liver-related death (aSHR per mmHg:1.20; p<0.001). CONCLUSION HVPG measurement is of high prognostic value in MASLD-cACLD. While MASLD-cACLD patients without CSPH show a very low short-term risk of decompensation and liver-related mortality is rare, the presence of CSPH substantially increases both risks. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS While the incidence of compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD) due to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is increasing worldwide, insights into the impact of clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) on the risk of liver-related events in MASLD-cACLD remain limited. Based on the findings of this European multicentre study including 340 MASLD-cACLD, we could show that increasing HVPG values and the presence of CSPH in particular were associated with a significantly higher risk of first hepatic decompensation and liver-related mortality. In contrast, the short-term incidence of decompensation in MASLD-cACLD patients without CSPH was low and the risk of liver-mortality remained negligible. Thus, HVPG measurements can provide important prognostic information for individualised risk-stratification in MASLD-cACLD and may help facilitate the study of novel and promising treatment possibilities for MASLD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Paternostro
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wilhelmus J Kwanten
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium; Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP), Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Benedikt Silvester Hofer
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Georg Semmler
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ali Bagdadi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Irina Luzko
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Isabel Graupera
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Dario Saltini
- Division of Gastroenterology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena and University of Modena and Reggio emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federica Indulti
- Division of Gastroenterology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena and University of Modena and Reggio emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Filippo Schepis
- Division of Gastroenterology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena and University of Modena and Reggio emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Lucile Moga
- Service d'Hépatologie, AP-HP, Hôpital Beaujon, DMU DIGEST, Centre de Référence des Maladies Vasculaires du Foie, FILFOIE, Clichy, France
| | - Pierre-Emanuel Rautou
- Service d'Hépatologie, AP-HP, Hôpital Beaujon, DMU DIGEST, Centre de Référence des Maladies Vasculaires du Foie, FILFOIE, Clichy, France
| | - Elba Llop
- Liver unit, Hospital U, Puerta de Hierro. Universidad Autònoma de Madrid, CIBERehd, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Téllez
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal. Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Spain
| | - Agustín Albillos
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal. Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose Ignacio Fortea
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla, Health Research Institute Marqués de Valdecilla (IDIVAL), Santander, Spain
| | - Angela Puente
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla, Health Research Institute Marqués de Valdecilla (IDIVAL), Santander, Spain
| | - Giulia Tosetti
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fundation IRCCS CáGranda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Primignani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fundation IRCCS CáGranda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alexander Zipprich
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany; Department of Internal Medicine IV, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller University Jena
| | - Elise Vuille-Lessard
- Hepatology, Inselspital, University Clinic of Visceral Surgery and Medicine (UVCM), University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Annalisa Berzigotti
- Hepatology, Inselspital, University Clinic of Visceral Surgery and Medicine (UVCM), University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Madalina-Gabriela Taru
- Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology "Octavian fodor", Hepatology Department and "luliu Hatieganu" University of medicine and Pharmacy, 3rd Medical Clinic, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Vlad Taru
- Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology "Octavian fodor", Hepatology Department and "luliu Hatieganu" University of medicine and Pharmacy, 3rd Medical Clinic, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Bogdan Procopet
- Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology "Octavian fodor", Hepatology Department and "luliu Hatieganu" University of medicine and Pharmacy, 3rd Medical Clinic, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Christian Jansen
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Michael Praktiknjo
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Wenyi Gu
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Jonel Trebicka
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Luis Ibanez-Samaniego
- Servicio de Medicina del Aparato Digestivo. IiSGM. Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón. Facultad de Medicina. Universidad Complutense. CIBERehd. Madrid. Spain
| | - Rafael Bañares
- Servicio de Medicina del Aparato Digestivo. IiSGM. Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón. Facultad de Medicina. Universidad Complutense. CIBERehd. Madrid. Spain
| | - Jesús Rivera-Esteban
- Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Institut of Research (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Autonomous University of Barcelona,Barcelona; CIBEREHD, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan M Pericas
- Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Institut of Research (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Autonomous University of Barcelona,Barcelona; CIBEREHD, Madrid, Spain
| | - Joan Genesca
- Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Institut of Research (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Autonomous University of Barcelona,Barcelona; CIBEREHD, Madrid, Spain
| | - Edilmar Alvarado
- Servei de Patología Digestiva, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona Spain; Universitat autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Candid Villanueva
- Servei de Patología Digestiva, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona Spain; Universitat autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Helene Larrue
- Department of Hepato-gastroenterology, Purpan Hospital, CHU Toulouse, InSERM U858, University of Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier Touluse, France
| | - Christophe Bureau
- Department of Hepato-gastroenterology, Purpan Hospital, CHU Toulouse, InSERM U858, University of Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier Touluse, France
| | - Wim Laleman
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Alba Ardevol
- Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Spain
| | - Helena Masnou
- Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Spain
| | - Thomas Vanwolleghem
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mattias Mandorfer
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sven Francque
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium; Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP), Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Thomas Reiberger
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Van Eyck A, Kwanten WJ, Peleman C, Makhout S, Van Laere S, Van De Maele K, Van Hoorenbeeck K, De Man J, De Winter BY, Francque S, Verhulst SL. The role of adipose tissue and subsequent liver tissue hypoxia in obesity and early stage metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease. Int J Obes (Lond) 2024; 48:512-522. [PMID: 38142264 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-023-01443-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity is linked to several health complication, including Metabolic Dysfunction Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD). Adipose tissue hypoxia has been suggested as an important player in the pathophysiological mechanism leading to chronic inflammation in obesity, and in the progression of MASLD. The study aims to investigate the effect of progressive obesity on adipose and liver tissue hypoxia. METHODS Male 8-week-old C57BL/6J mice were fed a high-fat high-fructose diet (HFHFD) or control diet (CD) for 4, 8, 12, 16 and 20 weeks. Serum ALT, AST and lipid levels were determined, and glucose and insulin tolerance testing was performed. Liver, gonadal and subcutaneous adipose tissue was assessed histologically. In vivo tissue pO2 measurements were performed in gonadal adipose tissue and liver under anesthesia. A PCR array for hypoxia responsive genes was performed in liver and adipose tissue. The main findings in the liver were validated in another diet-induced MASLD mice model, the choline-deficient L-amino acid defined high-fat diet (CDAHFD). RESULTS HFHFD feeding induced a progressive obesity, dyslipidaemia, insulin resistance and MASLD. In vivo pO2 was decreased in gonadal adipose tissue after 8 weeks of HFHFD compared to CD, and decreased further until 20 weeks. Liver pO2 was only significantly decreased after 16 and 20 weeks of HFHFD. Gene expression and histology confirmed the presence of hypoxia in liver and adipose tissue. Hypoxia could not be confirmed in mice fed a CDAHFD. CONCLUSION Diet-induced obesity in mice is associated with hypoxia in liver and adipose tissue. Adipose tissue hypoxia develops early in obesity, while liver hypoxia occurs later in the obesity development but still within the early stages of MASLD. Liver hypoxia could not be directly confirmed in a non-obese liver-only MASLD mice model, indicating that obesity-related processes such as adipose tissue hypoxia are important in the pathophysiology of obesity and MASLD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annelies Van Eyck
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics and member of the Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
- Department of Pediatrics, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium.
| | - Wilhelmus J Kwanten
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics and member of the Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Cédric Peleman
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics and member of the Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Sanae Makhout
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics and member of the Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Steven Van Laere
- Center of Oncological Research (CORE), MIPRO, IPPON, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Karolien Van De Maele
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics and member of the Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Pediatrics, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Kim Van Hoorenbeeck
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics and member of the Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Pediatrics, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Joris De Man
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics and member of the Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Benedicte Y De Winter
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics and member of the Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Sven Francque
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics and member of the Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Stijn L Verhulst
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics and member of the Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Pediatrics, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Minciuna I, Taru MG, Procopet B, Stefanescu H. The Interplay between Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells, Platelets, and Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in the Development and Progression of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1406. [PMID: 38592258 PMCID: PMC10932189 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13051406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) represents a societal burden due to the lack of effective treatment and incomplete pathophysiology understanding. This review explores the intricate connections among liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), platelets, neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), and coagulation disruptions in MASLD pathogenesis. In MASLD's early stages, LSECs undergo capillarization and dysfunction due to excessive dietary macronutrients and gut-derived products. Capillarization leads to ischemic changes in hepatocytes, triggering pro-inflammatory responses in Kupffer cells (KCs) and activating hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Capillarized LSECs show a pro-inflammatory phenotype through adhesion molecule overexpression, autophagy loss, and increased cytokines production. Platelet interaction favors leucocyte recruitment, NETs formation, and liver inflammatory foci. Liver fibrosis is facilitated by reduced nitric oxide, HSC activation, profibrogenic mediators, and increased angiogenesis. Moreover, platelet attachment, activation, α-granule cargo release, and NETs formation contribute to MASLD progression. Platelets foster fibrosis and microthrombosis, leading to parenchymal extinction and fibrotic healing. Additionally, platelets promote tumor growth, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and tumor cell metastasis. MASLD's prothrombotic features are exacerbated by insulin resistance, diabetes, and obesity, manifesting as increased von Willebrand factor, platelet hyperaggregability, hypo-fibrinolysis, and a prothrombotic fibrin clot structure. Improving LSEC health and using antiplatelet treatment appear promising for preventing MASLD development and progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iulia Minciuna
- Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology “Prof. Dr. Octavian Fodor”, 400394 Cluj-Napoca, Romania (H.S.)
- Deaprtment IV, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Madalina Gabriela Taru
- Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology “Prof. Dr. Octavian Fodor”, 400394 Cluj-Napoca, Romania (H.S.)
- Deaprtment IV, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Bogdan Procopet
- Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology “Prof. Dr. Octavian Fodor”, 400394 Cluj-Napoca, Romania (H.S.)
- Deaprtment IV, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Horia Stefanescu
- Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology “Prof. Dr. Octavian Fodor”, 400394 Cluj-Napoca, Romania (H.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Madir A, Grgurevic I, Tsochatzis EA, Pinzani M. Portal hypertension in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: Current knowledge and challenges. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:290-307. [PMID: 38313235 PMCID: PMC10835535 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i4.290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Portal hypertension (PH) has traditionally been observed as a consequence of significant fibrosis and cirrhosis in advanced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, recent studies have provided evidence that PH may develop in earlier stages of NAFLD, suggesting that there are additional pathogenetic mechanisms at work in addition to liver fibrosis. The early development of PH in NAFLD is associated with hepatocellular lipid accumulation and ballooning, leading to the compression of liver sinusoids. External compression and intra-luminal obstacles cause mechanical forces such as strain, shear stress and elevated hydrostatic pressure that in turn activate mechanotransduction pathways, resulting in endothelial dysfunction and the development of fibrosis. The spatial distribution of histological and functional changes in the periportal and perisinusoidal areas of the liver lobule are considered responsible for the pre-sinusoidal component of PH in patients with NAFLD. Thus, current diagnostic methods such as hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) measurement tend to underestimate portal pressure (PP) in NAFLD patients, who might decompensate below the HVPG threshold of 10 mmHg, which is traditionally considered the most relevant indicator of clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH). This creates further challenges in finding a reliable diagnostic method to stratify the prognostic risk in this population of patients. In theory, the measurement of the portal pressure gradient guided by endoscopic ultrasound might overcome the limitations of HVPG measurement by avoiding the influence of the pre-sinusoidal component, but more investigations are needed to test its clinical utility for this indication. Liver and spleen stiffness measurement in combination with platelet count is currently the best-validated non-invasive approach for diagnosing CSPH and varices needing treatment. Lifestyle change remains the cornerstone of the treatment of PH in NAFLD, together with correcting the components of metabolic syndrome, using nonselective beta blockers, whereas emerging candidate drugs require more robust confirmation from clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anita Madir
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Dubrava, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Ivica Grgurevic
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Dubrava, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Emmanuel A Tsochatzis
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Royal Free Hospital and University College London, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom
| | - Massimo Pinzani
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Royal Free Hospital and University College London, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Bekheit M, Grundy L, Salih AK, Bucur P, Vibert E, Ghazanfar M. Post-hepatectomy liver failure: A timeline centered review. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2023; 22:554-569. [PMID: 36973111 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2023.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) is a leading cause of postoperative mortality after liver surgery. Due to its significant impact, it is imperative to understand the risk stratification and preventative strategies for PHLF. The main objective of this review is to highlight the role of these strategies in a timeline centered way around curative resection. DATA SOURCES This review includes studies on both humans and animals, where they addressed PHLF. A literature search was conducted across the Cochrane Library, Embase, MEDLINE/PubMed, and Web of Knowledge electronic databases for English language studies published between July 1997 and June 2020. Studies presented in other languages were equally considered. The quality of included publications was assessed using Downs and Black's checklist. The results were presented in qualitative summaries owing to the lack of studies qualifying for quantitative analysis. RESULTS This systematic review with 245 studies, provides insight into the current prediction, prevention, diagnosis, and management options for PHLF. This review highlighted that liver volume manipulation is the most frequently studied preventive measure against PHLF in clinical practice, with modest improvement in the treatment strategies over the past decade. CONCLUSIONS Remnant liver volume manipulation is the most consistent preventive measure against PHLF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Bekheit
- Department of Surgery, NHS Grampian, Foresterhill Health Campus, Ashgrove Road, AB252ZN Aberdeen, UK; Institute of Medical Sciences, Medical School, Foresterhill Health Campus, Ashgrove Road, AB252ZN Aberdeen, UK; Hépatica, Integrated Center of HPB Care, Elite Hospital, Agriculture Road, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Lisa Grundy
- Department of Surgery, NHS Grampian, Foresterhill Health Campus, Ashgrove Road, AB252ZN Aberdeen, UK
| | - Ahmed Ka Salih
- Department of Surgery, NHS Grampian, Foresterhill Health Campus, Ashgrove Road, AB252ZN Aberdeen, UK; Institute of Medical Sciences, Medical School, Foresterhill Health Campus, Ashgrove Road, AB252ZN Aberdeen, UK
| | - Petru Bucur
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Tours, Val de la Loire 37000, France
| | - Eric Vibert
- Centre Hépatobiliaire, Paul Brousse Hospital, 12 Paul Valliant Couturier, 94804 Villejuif, France
| | - Mudassar Ghazanfar
- Department of Surgery, NHS Grampian, Foresterhill Health Campus, Ashgrove Road, AB252ZN Aberdeen, UK
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Staels B, Butruille L, Francque S. Treating NASH by targeting peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. J Hepatol 2023; 79:1302-1316. [PMID: 37459921 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
The pathophysiology of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) encompasses a complex set of intra- and extrahepatic driving mechanisms, involving numerous metabolic, inflammatory, vascular and fibrogenic pathways. The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) α, β/δ and γ belong to the nuclear receptor family of ligand-activated transcription factors. Activated PPARs modulate target tissue transcriptomic profiles, enabling the body's adaptation to changing nutritional, metabolic and inflammatory environments. PPARs hence regulate several pathways involved in NASH pathogenesis. Whereas single PPAR agonists exert robust anti-NASH activity in several preclinical models, their clinical effects on histological endpoints of NASH resolution and fibrosis regression appear more modest. Simultaneous activation of several PPAR isotypes across different organs and within-organ cell types, resulting in pleiotropic actions, enhances the therapeutic potential of PPAR agonists as pharmacological agents for NASH and NASH-related hepatic and extrahepatic morbidity, with some compounds having already shown clinical efficacy on histological endpoints.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bart Staels
- University of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1011-EGID, Lille, France.
| | - Laura Butruille
- University of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1011-EGID, Lille, France
| | - Sven Francque
- Department of Gastroenterology Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Drie Eikenstraat 655, B-2650, Edegem, Belgium; InflaMed Centre of Excellence, Laboratory for Experimental Medicine and Paediatrics, Translational Sciences in Inflammation and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610, Wilrijk, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mitten EK, Portincasa P, Baffy G. Portal Hypertension in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Challenges and Paradigms. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2023; 11:1201-1211. [PMID: 37577237 PMCID: PMC10412712 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2023.00029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Portal hypertension in cirrhosis is defined as an increase in the portal pressure gradient (PPG) between the portal and hepatic veins and is traditionally estimated by the hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG), which is the difference in pressure between the free-floating and wedged positions of a balloon catheter in the hepatic vein. By convention, HVPG≥10 mmHg indicates clinically significant portal hypertension, which is associated with adverse clinical outcomes. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common disorder with a heterogeneous clinical course, which includes the development of portal hypertension. There is increasing evidence that portal hypertension in NAFLD deserves special considerations. First, elevated PPG often precedes fibrosis in NAFLD, suggesting a bidirectional relationship between these pathological processes. Second, HVPG underestimates PPG in NAFLD, suggesting that portal hypertension is more prevalent in this condition than currently believed. Third, cellular mechanoresponses generated early in the pathogenesis of NAFLD provide a mechanistic explanation for the pressure-fibrosis paradigm. Finally, a better understanding of liver mechanobiology in NAFLD may aid in the development of novel pharmaceutical targets for prevention and management of this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emilie K. Mitten
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Piero Portincasa
- Division of Internal Medicine and Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, University ‘Aldo Moro’ Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - György Baffy
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endoscopy, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
McConnell MJ, Kostallari E, Ibrahim SH, Iwakiri Y. The evolving role of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells in liver health and disease. Hepatology 2023; 78:649-669. [PMID: 36626620 PMCID: PMC10315420 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
LSECs are a unique population of endothelial cells within the liver and are recognized as key regulators of liver homeostasis. LSECs also play a key role in liver disease, as dysregulation of their quiescent phenotype promotes pathological processes within the liver including inflammation, microvascular thrombosis, fibrosis, and portal hypertension. Recent technical advances in single-cell analysis have characterized distinct subpopulations of the LSECs themselves with a high resolution and defined their gene expression profile and phenotype, broadening our understanding of their mechanistic role in liver biology. This article will review 4 broad advances in our understanding of LSEC biology in general: (1) LSEC heterogeneity, (2) LSEC aging and senescence, (3) LSEC role in liver regeneration, and (4) LSEC role in liver inflammation and will then review the role of LSECs in various liver pathologies including fibrosis, DILI, alcohol-associated liver disease, NASH, viral hepatitis, liver transplant rejection, and ischemia reperfusion injury. The review will conclude with a discussion of gaps in knowledge and areas for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. McConnell
- Section of Digestive Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | - Samar H. Ibrahim
- Division of Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Yasuko Iwakiri
- Section of Digestive Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Cooper SA, Kostallari E, Shah VH. Angiocrine Signaling in Sinusoidal Health and Disease. Semin Liver Dis 2023; 43:245-257. [PMID: 37442155 PMCID: PMC10798369 DOI: 10.1055/a-2128-5907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are key players in maintaining hepatic homeostasis. They also play crucial roles during liver injury by communicating with liver cell types as well as immune cells and promoting portal hypertension, fibrosis, and inflammation. Cutting-edge technology, such as single cell and spatial transcriptomics, have revealed the existence of distinct LSEC subpopulations with a clear zonation in the liver. The signals released by LSECs are commonly called "angiocrine signaling." In this review, we summarize the role of angiocrine signaling in health and disease, including zonation in healthy liver, regeneration, fibrosis, portal hypertension, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, alcohol-associated liver disease, aging, drug-induced liver injury, and ischemia/reperfusion, as well as potential therapeutic advances. In conclusion, sinusoidal endotheliopathy is recognized in liver disease and promising preclinical studies are paving the path toward LSEC-specific pharmacotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shawna A. Cooper
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Enis Kostallari
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Vijay H. Shah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yan M, Li H, Xu S, Wu J, Li J, Xiao C, Mo C, Ding BS. Targeting Endothelial Necroptosis Disrupts Profibrotic Endothelial-Hepatic Stellate Cells Crosstalk to Alleviate Liver Fibrosis in Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11313. [PMID: 37511074 PMCID: PMC10379228 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases affect over a billion people worldwide and often lead to fibrosis. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a disease paralleling a worldwide surge in metabolic syndromes, is characterized by liver fibrosis, and its pathogenesis remains largely unknown, with no effective treatment available. Necroptosis has been implicated in liver fibrosis pathogenesis. However, there is a lack of research on necroptosis specific to certain cell types, particularly the vascular system, in the context of liver fibrosis and NASH. Here, we employed a mouse model of NASH in combination with inducible gene knockout mice to investigate the role of endothelial necroptosis in NASH progression. We found that endothelial cell (EC)-specific knockout of mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL), a critical executioner involved in the disruption of cell membranes during necroptosis, alleviated liver fibrosis in the mouse NASH model. Mechanistically, EC-specific deletion of Mlkl mitigated the activation of TGFβ/Smad 2/3 pathway, disrupting the pro-fibrotic crosstalk between endothelial cells and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Our findings highlight endothelial MLKL as a promising molecular target for developing therapeutic interventions for NASH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengli Yan
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Hui Li
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Shiyu Xu
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Jinyan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Jiachen Li
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Chengju Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Chunheng Mo
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Bi-Sen Ding
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
- Fibrosis Research Program, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Paternostro R, Kwanten WJ, Reiberger T. Portal hypertension is a key determinant of the risk for liver-related events in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. J Hepatol 2023; 78:e102-e104. [PMID: 36070837 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Paternostro
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wilhelmus J Kwanten
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium; Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Thomas Reiberger
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Christian Doppler Laboratory for Portal Hypertension and Liver Fibrosis, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Di Ciaula A, Shanmugam H, Ribeiro R, Pina A, Andrade R, Bonfrate L, Raposo JF, Macedo MP, Portincasa P. Liver fat accumulation more than fibrosis causes early liver dynamic dysfunction in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Eur J Intern Med 2023; 107:52-59. [PMID: 36344354 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2022.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), events driving early hepatic dysfunction with respect to specific metabolic pathways are still poorly known. METHODS We enrolled 84 subjects with obesity and/or type 2 diabetes (T2D). FibroScan® served to assess NAFLD by controlled attenuation parameter (CAP), and fibrosis by liver stiffness (LS). Patients with LS above 7 kPa were excluded. APRI and FIB-4 were used as additional serum biomarkers of fibrosis. The stable-isotope dynamic breath test was used to assess the hepatic efficiency of portal extraction (as DOB15) and microsomal metabolization (as cPDR30) of orally-administered (13C)-methacetin. RESULTS NAFLD occurred in 45%, 65.9%, and 91.3% of normal weight, overweight, and obese subjects, respectively. Biomarkers of liver fibrosis were comparable across subgroups, and LS was higher in obese, than in normal weight subjects. DOB15 was 23.2 ± 1.5‰ in normal weight subjects, tended to decrease in overweight (19.9 ± 1.0‰) and decreased significantly in obese subjects (16.9 ± 1.3, P = 0.008 vs. normal weight). Subjects with NAFLD had lower DOB15 (18.7 ± 0.9 vs. 22.1 ± 1.2, P = 0.03) but higher LS (4.7 ± 0.1 vs. 4.0 ± 0.2 kPa, P = 0.0003) than subjects without NAFLD, irrespective of fibrosis. DOB15 (but not cPDR30) decreased with increasing degree of NAFLD (R = -0.26; P = 0.01) and LS (R = -0.23, P = 0.03). Patients with T2D showed increased rate of NAFLD than those without T2D but similar LS, DOB15 and cPDR30. CONCLUSIONS Overweight, obesity and liver fat accumulation manifest with deranged portal extraction efficiency of methacetin into the steatotic hepatocyte. This functional alteration occurs early, and irrespective of significant fibrosis and presence of T2D.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agostino Di Ciaula
- Clinica Medica "A. Murri", Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Medical School, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, Bari 70124, Italy
| | - Harshitha Shanmugam
- Clinica Medica "A. Murri", Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Medical School, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, Bari 70124, Italy
| | - Rogério Ribeiro
- Portuguese Diabetes Association-Education and Research Center (APDP-ERC), Lisbon 1150-082, Portugal
| | - Ana Pina
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa 1169-056, Portugal
| | - Rita Andrade
- Portuguese Diabetes Association-Education and Research Center (APDP-ERC), Lisbon 1150-082, Portugal
| | - Leonilde Bonfrate
- Clinica Medica "A. Murri", Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Medical School, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, Bari 70124, Italy.
| | - João F Raposo
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa 1169-056, Portugal; Portuguese Diabetes Association-Education and Research Center (APDP-ERC), Lisbon 1150-082, Portugal
| | - M Paula Macedo
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa 1169-056, Portugal; Portuguese Diabetes Association-Education and Research Center (APDP-ERC), Lisbon 1150-082, Portugal
| | - Piero Portincasa
- Clinica Medica "A. Murri", Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Medical School, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, Bari 70124, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Brougham-Cook A, Kimmel HRC, Monckton CP, Owen D, Khetani SR, Underhill GH. Engineered matrix microenvironments reveal the heterogeneity of liver sinusoidal endothelial cell phenotypic responses. APL Bioeng 2022; 6:046102. [PMID: 36345318 PMCID: PMC9637025 DOI: 10.1063/5.0097602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is one of the hallmarks of chronic liver disease and is associated with aberrant wound healing. Changes in the composition of the liver microenvironment during fibrosis result in a complex crosstalk of extracellular cues that promote altered behaviors in the cell types that comprise the liver sinusoid, particularly liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs). Recently, it has been observed that LSECs may sustain injury before other fibrogenesis-associated cells of the sinusoid, implicating LSECs as key actors in the fibrotic cascade. A high-throughput cellular microarray platform was used to deconstruct the collective influences of defined combinations of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, substrate stiffness, and soluble factors on primary human LSEC phenotype in vitro. We observed remarkable heterogeneity in LSEC phenotype as a function of stiffness, ECM, and soluble factor context. LYVE-1 and CD-31 expressions were highest on 1 kPa substrates, and the VE-cadherin junction localization was highest on 25 kPa substrates. Also, LSECs formed distinct spatial patterns of LYVE-1 expression, with LYVE-1+ cells observed in the center of multicellular domains, and pattern size regulated by microenvironmental context. ECM composition also influenced a substantial dynamic range of expression levels for all markers, and the collagen type IV was observed to promote elevated expressions of LYVE-1, VE-cadherin, and CD-31. These studies highlight key microenvironmental regulators of LSEC phenotype and reveal unique spatial patterning of the sinusoidal marker LYVE-1. Furthermore, these data provide insight into understanding more precisely how LSECs respond to fibrotic microenvironments, which will aid drug development and identification of targets to treat liver fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aidan Brougham-Cook
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Hannah R. C. Kimmel
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Chase P. Monckton
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60607, USA
| | - Daniel Owen
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Salman R. Khetani
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60607, USA
| | - Gregory H. Underhill
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA,Author to whom correspondence should be addressed:. Tel.: 217–244-2169
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Chronic Kidney Disease: Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, and Clinical and Research Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113320. [PMID: 36362108 PMCID: PMC9654863 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most common cause of chronic liver disease worldwide, affecting up to ~30% of adult populations. NAFLD defines a spectrum of progressive liver conditions ranging from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma, which often occur in close and bidirectional associations with metabolic disorders. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by anatomic and/or functional renal damage, ultimately resulting in a reduced glomerular filtration rate. The physiological axis linking the liver and kidneys often passes unnoticed until clinically significant portal hypertension, as a major complication of cirrhosis, becomes apparent in the form of ascites, refractory ascites, or hepatorenal syndrome. However, the extensive evidence accumulated since 2008 indicates that noncirrhotic NAFLD is associated with a higher risk of incident CKD, independent of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other common renal risk factors. In addition, subclinical portal hypertension has been demonstrated to occur in noncirrhotic NAFLD, with a potential adverse impact on renal vasoregulation. However, the mechanisms underlying this association remain unexplored to a substantial extent. With this background, in this review we discuss the current evidence showing a strong association between NAFLD and the risk of CKD, and the putative biological mechanisms underpinning this association. We also discuss in depth the potential pathogenic role of the hepatorenal reflex, which may be triggered by subclinical portal hypertension and is a poorly investigated but promising research topic. Finally, we address emerging pharmacotherapies for NAFLD that may also beneficially affect the risk of developing CKD in individuals with NAFLD.
Collapse
|
17
|
Nababan SHH, Lesmana CRA. Portal Hypertension in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: From Pathogenesis to Clinical Practice. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2022; 10:979-985. [PMID: 36304507 PMCID: PMC9547264 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2021.00593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Portal hypertension in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) mostly occur in cirrhotic stage. However, several experimental and clinical studies showed evidence of portal hypertension in NAFLD without significant or advance fibrosis. This early development of portal hypertension in NAFLD is associated with liver sinusoidal contraction by hepatocellular lipid accumulation and ballooning, which is also accompanied by capillarization and dysfunction of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells. Both of these impaired mechanical and molecular components can cause an increase in intrahepatic vascular resistance which lead to the increase of portal pressure in the absence of significant liver fibrosis. Extrahepatic factors such as insulin resistance and gut dysbiosis may also contribute to liver sinusoidal endothelial dysfunction and early portal hypertension in NAFLD. The clinical impact of early portal hypertension in NAFLD is still unclear. However, clinical tools for diagnosis and monitoring of portal hypertension in NAFLD are being investigated to predict high-risk patients and to guide therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saut Horas H. Nababan
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Dr Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Medical Faculty Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Gastrointestinal Cancer Center, MRCCC Siloam Semanggi Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Cosmas Rinaldi Adithya Lesmana
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Dr Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Medical Faculty Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Gastrointestinal Cancer Center, MRCCC Siloam Semanggi Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Digestive Disease & GI Oncology Center, Medistra Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Correspondence to: Cosmas Rinaldi Adithya Lesmana, Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Dr Cipto Mangunkusomo National General Hospital Medical Faculty Universitas Indonesia, Jl. Diponegoro No.71 Jakarta 10430, Indonesia. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9992-9968. Tel: +62-21-31900924, Fax: +62-21-3918842, E-mail: mailto:
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Liver steatosis induces portal hypertension regardless of fibrosis in patients with NAFLD: A proof of concept case report. JHEP Rep 2022; 5:100618. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2022.100618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
|
19
|
Hernández-Bustabad A, Morales-Arraez D, González-Paredes FJ, Abrante B, Díaz-Flores F, Abreu-González P, de la Barreda R, Quintero E, Hernández-Guerra M. Chronic intermittent hypoxia promotes early intrahepatic endothelial impairment in rats with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2022; 323:G362-G374. [PMID: 35916415 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00300.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a progressive disease that ranges from simple steatosis to cirrhosis. Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) are implicated in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. However, the overlapping consequences of CIH on liver sinusoidal endothelial function over time in NAFLD are largely unknown. We explored endothelial dysfunction in a rat model of NAFLD with a high-fat diet exposed to CIH [12 h/day, every 30 s to fractional concentration of oxygen ([Formula: see text] 8%-10%]. The livers were isolated and perfused, and the endothelial function was determined by testing the vasodilation of the liver circulation to increased concentrations of acetylcholine and von Willebrand factor (vWF) and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) expression. Phosphorylated endothelial nitric oxide synthase (p-eNOS), cGMP, and oxidative stress were assessed to determine nitric oxide bioavailability. Inflammation and fibrosis were evaluated by transaminases, myeloperoxidase activity, hydroxyproline, and histological evaluation. Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) were studied as a marker of hypoxia and after a second insult with acetaminophen. CIH exposure provoked typical systemic features of OSAS and provoked a decreased response in vasodilation to acetylcholine. This was associated with increased oxidative stress and reduced p-eNOS and cGMP. The microcirculation impairment due to CIH preceded significant hepatic inflammation and fibrotic changes, despite the presence of HIF expression. In conclusion, CIH exacerbates endothelial dysfunction in NAFLD rats associated with increased oxidative stress and reduced nitric oxide bioavailability. This occurs before inflammation and fibrosis establish. Our results suggest that with CIH endothelial dysfunction should be considered an early target.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We believe the findings are of relevance because we demonstrate that chronic intermittent hypoxia further augments impaired hepatic endothelial dysfunction in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease rats. Because obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is associated with systemic endothelial dysfunction in cardiovascular disorders, and chronic intermittent hypoxia is an independent and reversible risk factor for hypertension and coronary artery disease, we hypothesized that this entity may be of potential relevance in the pathophysiology of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Dalia Morales-Arraez
- Liver Unit, University Hospital of the Canary Islands, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier González-Paredes
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Technologies and Canarian Biomedical Research Centre, University of La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Beatriz Abrante
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Technologies and Canarian Biomedical Research Centre, University of La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Felicitas Díaz-Flores
- Central Laboratory Department, University Hospital of the Canary Islands, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Pedro Abreu-González
- Physiology Department, University Hospital of the Canary Islands, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Raquel de la Barreda
- Liver Unit, University Hospital of the Canary Islands, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Enrique Quintero
- Liver Unit, University Hospital of the Canary Islands, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Manuel Hernández-Guerra
- Liver Unit, University Hospital of the Canary Islands, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain.,Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Technologies and Canarian Biomedical Research Centre, University of La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Nasiri-Ansari N, Androutsakos T, Flessa CM, Kyrou I, Siasos G, Randeva HS, Kassi E, Papavassiliou AG. Endothelial Cell Dysfunction and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): A Concise Review. Cells 2022; 11:cells11162511. [PMID: 36010588 PMCID: PMC9407007 DOI: 10.3390/cells11162511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common liver diseases worldwide. It is strongly associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and other metabolic syndrome features. Reflecting the underlying pathogenesis and the cardiometabolic disorders associated with NAFLD, the term metabolic (dysfunction)-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has recently been proposed. Indeed, over the past few years, growing evidence supports a strong correlation between NAFLD and increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, independent of the presence of diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. This implies that NAFLD may also be directly involved in the pathogenesis of CVD. Notably, liver sinusoidal endothelial cell (LSEC) dysfunction appears to be implicated in the progression of NAFLD via numerous mechanisms, including the regulation of the inflammatory process, hepatic stellate activation, augmented vascular resistance, and the distortion of microcirculation, resulting in the progression of NAFLD. Vice versa, the liver secretes inflammatory molecules that are considered pro-atherogenic and may contribute to vascular endothelial dysfunction, resulting in atherosclerosis and CVD. In this review, we provide current evidence supporting the role of endothelial cell dysfunction in the pathogenesis of NAFLD and NAFLD-associated atherosclerosis. Endothelial cells could thus represent a "golden target" for the development of new treatment strategies for NAFLD and its comorbid CVD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Narjes Nasiri-Ansari
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Theodoros Androutsakos
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Christina-Maria Flessa
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Warwickshire Institute for the Study of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism (WISDEM), University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry CV2 2DX, UK
| | - Ioannis Kyrou
- Warwickshire Institute for the Study of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism (WISDEM), University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry CV2 2DX, UK
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
- Laboratory of Dietetics and Quality of Life, Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Agricultural University of Athens, 11855 Athens, Greece
| | - Gerasimos Siasos
- Third Department of Cardiology, ‘Sotiria’ Thoracic Diseases General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Harpal S. Randeva
- Warwickshire Institute for the Study of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism (WISDEM), University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry CV2 2DX, UK
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Eva Kassi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Endocrine Unit, 1st Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, ‘Laiko’ General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence: (E.K.); (A.G.P.)
| | - Athanasios G. Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence: (E.K.); (A.G.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Li H. Intercellular crosstalk of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells in liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Dig Liver Dis 2022; 54:598-613. [PMID: 34344577 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2021.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Intercellular crosstalk among various liver cells plays an important role in liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Capillarization of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) precedes fibrosis and accumulating evidence suggests that the crosstalk between LSECs and other liver cells is critical in the development and progression of liver fibrosis. LSECs dysfunction, a key event in the progression from fibrosis to cirrhosis, and subsequently obstruction of hepatic sinuses and increased intrahepatic vascular resistance (IHVR) contribute to development of portal hypertension (PHT) and cirrhosis. More importantly, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), which is closely related to the crosstalk between LSECs and immune liver cells like CD8+ T cells, promotes advances tumorigenesis, especially HCC. However, the connections within the crosstalk between LSECs and other liver cells during the progression from liver fibrosis to cirrhosis to HCC have yet to be discussed. In this review, we first summarize the current knowledge of how different crosstalk between LSECs and other liver cells, including hepatocytes, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), macrophoges, immune cells in liver and extra cellular matrix (ECM) contribute to the physiological function and the progrssion from liver fibrosis to cirrhosis, or even to HCC. Then we examine current treatment strategies for LSECs crosstalk in liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- Central Laboratory, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO. 39 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ogresta D, Mrzljak A, Cigrovski Berkovic M, Bilic-Curcic I, Stojsavljevic-Shapeski S, Virovic-Jukic L. Coagulation and Endothelial Dysfunction Associated with NAFLD: Current Status and Therapeutic Implications. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2022; 10:339-355. [PMID: 35528987 PMCID: PMC9039716 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2021.00268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is closely related to insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity. It is considered a multisystem disease and there is a strong association with cardiovascular disease and arterial hypertension, which interfere with changes in the coagulation system. Coagulation disorders are common in patients with hepatic impairment and are dependent on the degree of liver damage. Through a review of the literature, we consider and discuss possible disorders in the coagulation cascade and fibrinolysis, endothelial dysfunction and platelet abnormalities in patients with NAFLD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Doris Ogresta
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Anna Mrzljak
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Medicine, University of Zagreb, School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Maja Cigrovski Berkovic
- Department for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Pharmacology, University Hospital Dubrava, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Kinesiological Anthropology and Methodology, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Zagreb
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of JJ Strossmayer, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Ines Bilic-Curcic
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of JJ Strossmayer, Osijek, Croatia
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism Disorders, University Hospital Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
| | | | - Lucija Virovic-Jukic
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Medicine, University of Zagreb, School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
- Correspondence to: Lucija Virović-Jukić, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Department of Medicine; Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Vinogradska cesta 29, Zagreb 10000, Croatia. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6350-317X. Tel: +385-1-3787178, Fax: +385-1-3787448, E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Scorletti E, Carr RM. A new perspective on NAFLD: Focusing on lipid droplets. J Hepatol 2022; 76:934-945. [PMID: 34793866 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Lipid droplets (LDs) are complex and metabolically active organelles. They are composed of a neutral lipid core surrounded by a monolayer of phospholipids and proteins. LD accumulation in hepatocytes is the distinctive characteristic of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is a chronic, heterogeneous liver condition that can progress to liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Though recent research has improved our understanding of the mechanisms linking LD accumulation to NAFLD progression, numerous aspects of LD biology are either poorly understood or unknown. In this review, we provide a description of several key mechanisms that contribute to LD accumulation in hepatocytes, favouring NAFLD progression. First, we highlight the importance of LD architecture and describe how the dysregulation of LD biogenesis leads to endoplasmic reticulum stress and inflammation. This is followed by an analysis of the causal nexus that exists between LD proteome composition and LD degradation. Finally, we describe how the increase in size of LDs causes activation of hepatic stellate cells, leading to liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. We conclude that acquiring a more sophisticated understanding of LD biology will provide crucial insights into the heterogeneity of NAFLD and assist in the development of therapeutic approaches for this liver disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Scorletti
- Division of Translational Medicine and Human Genetics, The Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Rotonya M Carr
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-6424, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Dalbeni A, Castelli M, Zoncapè M, Minuz P, Sacerdoti D. Platelets in Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:842636. [PMID: 35250588 PMCID: PMC8895200 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.842636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Non alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is the inflammatory reaction of the liver to excessive accumulation of lipids in the hepatocytes. NASH can progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Fatty liver is the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome. A subclinical inflammatory state is present in patients with metabolic alterations like insulin resistance, type-2 diabetes, obesity, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension. Platelets participate in immune cells recruitment and cytokines-induced liver damage. It is hypothesized that lipid toxicity cause accumulation of platelets in the liver, platelet adhesion and activation, which primes the immunoinflammatory reaction and activation of stellate cells. Recent data suggest that antiplatelet drugs may interrupt this cascade and prevent/improve NASH. They may also improve some metabolic alterations. The pathophysiology of inflammatory liver disease and the implication of platelets are discussed in details.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Dalbeni
- Division of General Medicine C, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Liver Unit, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marco Castelli
- Division of General Medicine C, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Mirko Zoncapè
- Division of General Medicine C, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Liver Unit, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Pietro Minuz
- Division of General Medicine C, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
- *Correspondence: Pietro Minuz,
| | - David Sacerdoti
- Liver Unit, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
van der Graaff D, Chotkoe S, De Winter B, De Man J, Casteleyn C, Timmermans JP, Pintelon I, Vonghia L, Kwanten WJ, Francque S. Vasoconstrictor antagonism improves functional and structural vascular alterations and liver damage in rats with early NAFLD. JHEP Rep 2022; 4:100412. [PMID: 35036886 PMCID: PMC8749167 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Intrahepatic vascular resistance is increased in early non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), potentially leading to tissue hypoxia and triggering disease progression. Hepatic vascular hyperreactivity to vasoconstrictors has been identified as an underlying mechanism. This study investigates vasoconstrictive agonism and antagonism in 2 models of early NAFLD and in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). METHODS The effects of endothelin-1 (ET-1), angiotensin II (ATII) and thromboxane A2 (TxA2) agonism and antagonism were studied by in situ ex vivo liver perfusion and preventive/therapeutic treatment experiments in a methionine-choline-deficient diet model of steatosis. Furthermore, important results were validated in Zucker fatty rats after 4 or 8 weeks of high-fat high-fructose diet feeding. In vivo systemic and portal pressures, ex vivo transhepatic pressure gradients (THPG) and transaminase levels were measured. Liver tissue was harvested for structural and mRNA analysis. RESULTS The THPG and consequent portal pressure were significantly increased in both models of steatosis and in NASH. ET-1, ATII and TxA2 increased the THPG even further. Bosentan (ET-1 receptor antagonist), valsartan (ATII receptor blocker) and celecoxib (COX-2 inhibitor) attenuated or even normalised the increased THPG in steatosis. Simultaneously, bosentan and valsartan treatment improved transaminase levels. Moreover, bosentan was able to mitigate the degree of steatosis and restored the disrupted microvascular structure. Finally, beneficial vascular effects of bosentan endured in NASH. CONCLUSIONS Antagonism of vasoconstrictive mediators improves intrahepatic vascular function. Both ET-1 and ATII antagonists showed additional benefit and bosentan even mitigated steatosis and structural liver damage. In conclusion, vasoconstrictive antagonism is a potentially promising therapeutic option for the treatment of early NAFLD. LAY SUMMARY In non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), hepatic blood flow is impaired and the blood pressure in the liver blood vessels is increased as a result of an increased response of the liver vasculature to vasoconstrictors. Using drugs to block the constriction of the intrahepatic vasculature, the resistance of the liver blood vessels decreases and the increased portal pressure is reduced. Moreover, blocking the vasoconstrictive endothelin-1 pathway restored parenchymal architecture and reduced disease severity.
Collapse
Key Words
- ALT, alanine aminotransferase
- ARB, angiotensin receptor blocker
- AST, aspartate aminotransferase
- ATII, angiotensin II
- COX, cyclooxygenase
- ET, endothelin
- HFHFD, high-fat high-fructose diet
- IHVR, intrahepatic vascular resistance
- Jak2, Janus-kinase-2
- MCD, methionine-choline deficient diet
- Mx, methoxamine
- NAFLD, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- NASH, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis
- NO, nitric oxide
- PP, portal pressure
- PR, pulse rate
- SEM, scanning electron microscopy
- TBW, total body weight
- TEM, transmission electron microscopy
- TXAS, thromboxane synthase
- TxA2, thromboxane A2
- ZFR, Zucker fatty rats
- angiotensin II
- endothelin-1
- non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- portal hypertension
- thromboxane A2
- transhepatic pressure gradient
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Denise van der Graaff
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
- European Reference Network Rare Hepatic Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP), Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Shivani Chotkoe
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
- European Reference Network Rare Hepatic Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP), Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Benedicte De Winter
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
- European Reference Network Rare Hepatic Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP), Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Joris De Man
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP), Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Christophe Casteleyn
- Department of Morphology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Applied Veterinary Morphology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jean-Pierre Timmermans
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, Antwerp Centre for Advanced Microscopy (ACAM), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Isabel Pintelon
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, Antwerp Centre for Advanced Microscopy (ACAM), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Luisa Vonghia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
- European Reference Network Rare Hepatic Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP), Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Wilhelmus J. Kwanten
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
- European Reference Network Rare Hepatic Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP), Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Sven Francque
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
- European Reference Network Rare Hepatic Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP), Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Baffy G, Bosch J. Overlooked subclinical portal hypertension in non-cirrhotic NAFLD: Is it real and how to measure it? J Hepatol 2022; 76:458-463. [PMID: 34606912 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Clinical and experimental advances related to the detection, magnitude and pathobiology of subclinical portal hypertension in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), primarily observed in the presence of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), prompt us to revisit current disease paradigms. Hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) has been reported to underestimate portal pressure in NASH-related cirrhosis, while inaccuracy is more likely in non-cirrhotic livers, indicating a potential need for new and preferably non-invasive methods of measurement. Although clinically significant portal hypertension (HVPG ≥10 mmHg) retains its prognostic significance in NASH, subclinical portal hypertension (HVPG 6.0-9.5 mmHg) has been repeatedly detected in patients with NAFLD in the absence of cirrhosis or even significant fibrosis whereas the impact of these findings on disease outcomes remains unclear. Mechanocrine signalling pathways in various types of liver cell reveal a molecular basis for the adverse effects of subclinical portal hypertension and suggest a bidirectional relationship between portal pressure and fibrosis. These findings may guide efforts to improve risk assessment and identify novel therapeutic targets in NAFLD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gyorgy Baffy
- Department of Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
| | - Jaume Bosch
- Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Institut d'Investigacions Biomediques August Pi i Sunyer and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Yin H, Shi A, Wu J. Platelet-Activating Factor Promotes the Development of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2022; 15:2003-2030. [PMID: 35837578 PMCID: PMC9275506 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s367483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a multifaceted clinicopathological syndrome characterised by excessive hepatic lipid accumulation that causes steatosis, excluding alcoholic factors. Platelet-activating factor (PAF), a biologically active lipid transmitter, induces platelet activation upon binding to the PAF receptor. Recent studies have found that PAF is associated with gamma-glutamyl transferase, which is an indicator of liver disease. Moreover, PAF can stimulate hepatic lipid synthesis and cause hypertriglyceridaemia. Furthermore, the knockdown of the PAF receptor gene in the animal models of NAFLD helped reduce the inflammatory response, improve glucose homeostasis and delay the development of NAFLD. These findings suggest that PAF is associated with NAFLD development. According to reports, patients with NAFLD or animal models have marked platelet activation abnormalities, mainly manifested as enhanced platelet adhesion and aggregation and altered blood rheology. Pharmacological interventions were accompanied by remission of abnormal platelet activation and significant improvement in liver function and lipids in the animal model of NAFLD. These confirm that platelet activation may accompany a critical importance in NAFLD development and progression. However, how PAFs are involved in the NAFLD signalling pathway needs further investigation. In this paper, we review the relevant literature in recent years and discuss the role played by PAF in NAFLD development. It is important to elucidate the pathogenesis of NAFLD and to find effective interventions for treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hang Yin
- Key Laboratory of Microcosmic Syndrome Differentiation, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, People’s Republic of China
| | - Anhua Shi
- Key Laboratory of Microcosmic Syndrome Differentiation, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, People’s Republic of China
| | - Junzi Wu
- Key Laboratory of Microcosmic Syndrome Differentiation, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Junzi Wu; Anhua Shi, Key Laboratory of Microcosmic Syndrome Differentiation, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, People’s Republic of China, Tel/Fax +86 187 8855 7524; +86 138 8885 0813, Email ;
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Rong L, Zou J, Ran W, Qi X, Chen Y, Cui H, Guo J. Advancements in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1087260. [PMID: 36726464 PMCID: PMC9884828 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1087260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a series of diseases, involving excessive lipid deposition in the liver and is often accompanied by obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, abnormal blood pressure, and other metabolic disorders. In order to more accurately reflect its pathogenesis, an international consensus renamed NAFLD in 2020 as metabolic (dysfunction) associated with fatty liver disease (MAFLD). The changes in diet and lifestyle are recognized the non-drug treatment strategies; however, due to the complex pathogenesis of NAFLD, the current drug therapies are mainly focused on its pathogenic factors, key links of pathogenesis, and related metabolic disorders as targets. There is still a lack of specific drugs. In clinical studies, the common NAFLD treatments include the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism to protect the liver and anti-inflammation. The NAFLD treatments based on the enterohepatic axis, targeting gut microbiota, are gradually emerging, and various new metabolism-regulating drugs are also under clinical development. Therefore, this review article has comprehensively discussed the research advancements in NAFLD treatment in recent years.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Rong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Bishan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Bishan Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Junyan Zou
- Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Public Health Hospital Affiliated to Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Ran
- Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Public Health Hospital Affiliated to Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaohong Qi
- Department of General surgery, Baoshan People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province, Baoshan, Yunnan, China
| | - Yaokai Chen
- Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Public Health Hospital Affiliated to Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongjuan Cui
- Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jinjun Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Bishan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Bishan Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Jinjun Guo,
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Di Ciaula A, Carbone F, Shanmugham H, Molina-Molina E, Bonfrate L, Ministrini S, Montecucco F, Portincasa P. Adiponectin involved in portal flow hepatic extraction of 13C-methacetin in obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver. Eur J Intern Med 2021; 89:56-64. [PMID: 33867228 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2021.03.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are high prevalence, inter-related conditions at increased risk for advanced liver diseases and related mortality. Adiponectin and leptin have divergent roles in the pathogenesis of fat accumulation and NAFLD. However, the relationships between body and liver fat accumulation, early modification of liver function and unbalanced adipokine levels are still scarcely explored. We studied by (13C)-methacetin breath test ((13C)-MBT) 67 adults stratified according to body mass index, and to presence/absence of ultrasonographic nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (uNAFLD). uNAFLD was detected in 20%, 73% and 96% of normal weight, overweight and obese subjects, respectively. The delta over baseline after 15 min (DOB15), a marker of hepatic extraction efficiency from portal blood flow, was lower in obese than in normal weight subjects, and in subjects with-, as compared to those without uNAFLD. The cumulative percent dose recovery after 30 min (cPDR30), a marker of liver microsomal function, was lower in uNAFLD patients. DOB15 was positively correlated with adiponectin levels in obese and in uNAFLD patients. uNAFLD patients also showed a positive correlation between cPDR30 values and adiponectin. Our data indicate the existence of early alterations of liver function in obese and in patients with uNAFLD. These dysfunctions are linked to altered leptin/adiponectin balance and can be identified noninvasively by (13C)-MBT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agostino Di Ciaula
- Clinica Medica "A. Murri", Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari 70124, Italy.
| | - Federico Carbone
- First Clinic of internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, 6 viale Benedetto XV, 16132 Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa - Italian Cardiovascular Network, 10 Largo Benzi, 16132 Genoa, Italy..
| | - Harshitha Shanmugham
- Clinica Medica "A. Murri", Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari 70124, Italy
| | - Emilio Molina-Molina
- Clinica Medica "A. Murri", Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari 70124, Italy
| | - Leonilde Bonfrate
- Clinica Medica "A. Murri", Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari 70124, Italy.
| | - Stefano Ministrini
- Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Università degli Studi di Perugia, 1 piazzale Gambuli, 06129, Perugia, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Montecucco
- First Clinic of internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, 6 viale Benedetto XV, 16132 Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa - Italian Cardiovascular Network, 10 Largo Benzi, 16132 Genoa, Italy..
| | - Piero Portincasa
- Clinica Medica "A. Murri", Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari 70124, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Ibrahim SH. Sinusoidal endotheliopathy in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis: therapeutic implications. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2021; 321:G67-G74. [PMID: 34037463 PMCID: PMC8321796 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00009.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are distinct subtypes of endothelial cells lining a low flow vascular bed at the interface of the liver parenchyma and the circulating immune cells and soluble factors. Emerging literature implicates LSEC in the pathogenesis and progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). During the evolution of NAFLD, LSEC dysfunction ensues. LSECs undergo morphological and functional transformation known as "capillarization," as well as a pathogenic increase in surface adhesion molecules expression, referred to in this review as "endotheliopathy." LSECs govern the composition of hepatic immune cell populations in nonalcoholic steatohepatis (NASH) by mediating leukocyte subset adhesion through specific combinations of activated adhesion molecules and secreted chemokines. Moreover, extracellular vesicles released by hepatocyte under lipotoxic stress in NASH act as a catalyst for the inflammatory response and promote immune cell chemotaxis and adhesion. In the current review, we highlight leukocyte adhesion to LSEC as an initiating event in the sterile inflammatory response in NASH. We discuss preclinical studies targeting immune cells adhesion in NASH mouse models and potential therapeutic anti-inflammatory strategies for human NASH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samar H. Ibrahim
- 1Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota,2Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) form the wall of the hepatic sinusoids. Unlike other capillaries, they lack an organized basement membrane and have cytoplasm that is penetrated by open fenestrae, making the hepatic microvascular endothelium discontinuous. LSECs have essential roles in the maintenance of hepatic homeostasis, including regulation of the vascular tone, inflammation and thrombosis, and they are essential for control of the hepatic immune response. On a background of acute or chronic liver injury, LSECs modify their phenotype and negatively affect neighbouring cells and liver disease pathophysiology. This Review describes the main functions and phenotypic dysregulations of LSECs in liver diseases, specifically in the context of acute injury (ischaemia-reperfusion injury, drug-induced liver injury and bacterial and viral infection), chronic liver disease (metabolism-associated liver disease, alcoholic steatohepatitis and chronic hepatotoxic injury) and hepatocellular carcinoma, and provides a comprehensive update of the role of LSECs as therapeutic targets for liver disease. Finally, we discuss the open questions in the field of LSEC pathobiology and future avenues of research.
Collapse
|
32
|
Wang XK, Peng ZG. Targeting Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells: An Attractive Therapeutic Strategy to Control Inflammation in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:655557. [PMID: 33935770 PMCID: PMC8082362 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.655557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), especially its advanced stage nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), has become a threatened public health problem worldwide. However, no specific drug has been approved for clinical use to treat patients with NASH, though there are many promising candidates against NAFLD in the drug development pipeline. Recently, accumulated evidence showed that liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) play an essential role in the occurrence and development of liver inflammation in patients with NAFLD. LSECs, as highly specialized endothelial cells with unique structure and anatomical location, contribute to the maintenance of liver homeostasis and could be a promising therapeutic target to control liver inflammation of NAFLD. In this review, we outline the pathophysiological roles of LSECs related to inflammation of NAFLD, highlight the pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory effects of LSECs, and discuss the potential drug development strategies against NAFLD based on targeting to LSECs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Kai Wang
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zong-Gen Peng
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Antimicrobial Agents, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Affiliation(s)
- Sven Francque
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Antwerp University Hospital Antwerp Belgium.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Paediatrics University of Antwerp Antwerp Belgium.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences InflaMed Consortium of Excellence University of Antwerp Antwerp Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Molina-Molina E, Shanmugam H, Di Ciaula A, Grattagliano I, Di Palo DM, Palmieri VO, Portincasa P. ( 13C)-Methacetin breath test provides evidence of subclinical liver dysfunction linked to fat storage but not lifestyle. JHEP Rep 2021; 3:100203. [PMID: 33490935 PMCID: PMC7806794 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2020.100203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterised by the presence of hepatic steatosis in the absence of other causes of secondary hepatic fat accumulation, and is usually associated with visceral, metabolically active obesity. However, the subclinical effects of body and liver fat accumulation on liver function are still unclear. METHODS We used orally administered (13C)-methacetin and breath test to quantify the efficiency of hepatic extraction from portal blood flow and liver microsomal function in 81 participants, in relation to presence/absence of ultrasonographic NAFLD, extent of body fat accumulation, insulin resistance, dietary models, and lifestyle. RESULTS NAFLD was present in 23% of participants with normal weight, and prevalence increased with body fat and insulin resistance. Fat accumulation, NAFLD, and insulin resistance were associated with decreased hepatic extraction efficiency, and liver microsomal function was impaired in moderate-to-severe NAFLD. Caloric intake, dietary models, and lifestyles had a minor role in promoting functional changes. CONCLUSIONS The interplay between body fat accumulation, insulin resistance, and NAFLD is linked with altered hepatic extraction efficiency from blood flow and deranged microsomal function. Non-invasive diagnosis of subclinical alterations of liver function is relevant for primary and secondary prevention measures. Furthermore, the occurrence of NAFLD in lean individuals and the evidence that caloric intake, dietary models, and lifestyle played a minor role require further studies exploring the role of environmental factors in the natural history of these diseases. LAY SUMMARY Obesity is progressively increasing worldwide and is paralleled by fat accumulation in the liver (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease [NAFLD]), the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. NAFLD can alter liver structure and function, with a variety of consequences ranging from asymptomatic and subclinical alterations to cirrhosis and cancer. (13C)-Methacetin breath test, a non-invasive diagnostic tool, can reveal early subclinical alterations of liver dynamic function in individuals with obesity and in patients with NAFLD.
Collapse
Key Words
- (13C), carbon-13
- ALT, alanine aminotransferase
- ARFI, acoustic radiation force impulse
- AST, aspartate aminotransferase
- BT, breath test
- Body mass index
- DOB, delta over baseline
- FLI, fatty liver index
- GGT, gamma-glutamyl transferase
- HOMA, Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance
- HRQoL, health-related quality of life
- IDF, International Diabetes Federation
- KICA, ketoisocaproic acid
- Liver function
- MBT, methacetin breath test
- MD, Mediterranean diet
- MET, metabolic equivalent task
- Microsomal function
- NAFL, non-alcoholic fatty liver
- NAFLD, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- NASH, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- OR, odds ratio
- Portal blood flow
- R-ATPIII, Revised National Cholesterol Education Programme-Adult Treatment Panel III
- SF-36, 36-Item Short Form Health Survey Questionnaire
- US, ultrasonography
- cPDR, cumulative per cent dose recovery
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emilio Molina-Molina
- Clinica Medica ‘A. Murri’, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Harshitha Shanmugam
- Clinica Medica ‘A. Murri’, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Agostino Di Ciaula
- Clinica Medica ‘A. Murri’, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Domenica Maria Di Palo
- Clinica Medica ‘A. Murri’, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Vincenzo O. Palmieri
- Clinica Medica ‘A. Murri’, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Piero Portincasa
- Clinica Medica ‘A. Murri’, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
- Corresponding author. Address: Clinica Medica ‘Augusto Murri’, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Medical School, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy. Tel.: +39 80 5478 227; fax: +39 80 5478 232.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Huang J, Xue W, Wang M, Wu Y, Singh M, Zhu Y, Kumar R, Lin S. MAFLD Criteria May Overlook a Subtype of Patient with Steatohepatitis and Significant Fibrosis. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2021; 14:3417-3425. [PMID: 34349535 PMCID: PMC8326380 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s316096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a novel concept for fatty liver disease. Different from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the diagnosis of MAFLD requires the presence of metabolic risks. This study aimed to characterize patients with liver steatosis but without metabolic risks (non-MR-steatosis) which may not be diagnosed by MAFLD criteria. METHODS Consecutive patients who underwent biopsy were included in this study. The clinic-pathological characteristics of non-MR-steatosis, NAFLD and MAFLD were compared. RESULTS A total of 1217 cases were included. There were 426 (35.00%) cases with MAFLD, 585 (48.07%) with NAFLD and 168 (13.80%) with non-MR-steatosis. The majority of the cases were infected with HBV (93.26%). The age and metabolic profiles were highest in MAFLD and lowest in non-MR-steatosis. The body mass index (BMI) level was also lowest in non-MR-steatosis (20.78 ± 1.54 kg/m2). The ALT and AST levels of the non-MR-steatosis group were not statistically different from those of MAFLD or NAFLD groups (p > 0.05). Histologically, there was no significant difference in the degrees of inflammation and fibrosis among the three groups. The severity of steatosis in non-MR-steatosis group was lower than MAFLD or NAFLD groups (p < 0.05). These results were consistent in both HBV and non-HBV subgroups. CONCLUSION MAFLD criteria may overlook some steatotic patients without metabolic risks, who may also have steatohepatitis and significant fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaofeng Huang
- Department of Hepatology, Hepatology Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350005, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenjuan Xue
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350005, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mingfang Wang
- Department of Hepatology, Hepatology Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350005, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yinlian Wu
- Department of Hepatology, Hepatology Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350005, People’s Republic of China
| | - Medha Singh
- Department of General Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Yueyong Zhu
- Department of Hepatology, Hepatology Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350005, People’s Republic of China
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Precison Medicine for Cancer, the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Rahul Kumar
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Duke-NUS Academic Medical Centre, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Su Lin
- Department of Hepatology, Hepatology Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350005, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Su Lin Department of Hepatology, Hepatology Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, No. 20, Chazhong Road, Taijiang District, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350005, People’s Republic of ChinaTel +86 591-87981657Fax +86 591-87982526 Email
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
The Role of Elastography in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. CURRENT HEALTH SCIENCES JOURNAL 2020; 46:255-269. [PMID: 33304627 PMCID: PMC7716767 DOI: 10.12865/chsj.46.03.07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The most common liver disease in developing countries is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This involves the abnormal accumulation of lipids in the liver, the pathogenesis of the disease being related to dyslipidemia, obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Most often, the diagnosis of NAFLD is incidental, when performing routine blood tests or when performing a transabdominal ultrasound. The NAFLD spectrum ranges from simple forms of hepatic steatosis to the most advanced form of the disease, steatohepatitis (NASH), which in evolution can cause inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis of the liver and even liver cancer. For the evaluation of the prognosis and the clinical evolution, the most important parameter to define is the degree of liver fibrosis. Currently, the gold standard remains the liver biopsy, the differentiation between NAFLD and NASH being made only on the basis of histological analysis. However, liver biopsy is an invasive procedure, with numerous risks such as bleeding, lesions of the other organs and complications related to anesthesia, which significantly reduces its widespread use. Moreover, the risk of a false negative result and the increased costs of the procedure further limits its use in current practice. For this reason, non-invasive methods of evaluating the degree of liver fibrosis have gained ground in recent years. Imaging techniques such as elastography have shown promising results in evaluating and staging NAFLD. The aim of this article is to review the current status of the non-invasive tests for the assessment of NAFLD with a focus on the ultrasound-based elastography techniques.
Collapse
|
37
|
Verlinden W, Van Mieghem E, Depauw L, Vanwolleghem T, Vonghia L, Weyler J, Driessen A, Callens D, Roosens L, Dirinck E, Verrijken A, Gaal LV, Francque S. Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis Decreases Microsomal Liver Function in the Absence of Fibrosis. Biomedicines 2020; 8:E546. [PMID: 33261113 PMCID: PMC7760673 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8120546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is rising across the globe, with the presence of steatohepatitis leading to a more aggressive clinical course. Currently, the diagnosis of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is based on histology, though with the high prevalence of NAFLD, a non-invasive method is needed. The 13C-aminopyrine breath test (ABT) evaluates the microsomal liver function and could be a potential candidate. We aimed to evaluate a potential change in liver function in NASH patients and to evaluate the diagnostic power of ABT to detect NASH. We performed a retrospective analysis on patients suspected of NAFLD who underwent a liver biopsy and ABT. 440 patients were included. ABT did not decrease in patients with isolated liver steatosis but decreased significantly in the presence of NASH without fibrosis and decreased even further with the presence of significant fibrosis. The predictive power of ABT as a single test for NASH was low but improved in combination with ALT and ultrasonographic steatosis. We conclude that microsomal liver function of patients with NASH is significantly decreased, even in the absence of fibrosis. The ABT is thus a valuable tool in assessing the presence of NASH; and could be used as a supplementary diagnostic tool in clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wim Verlinden
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (E.V.M.); (L.D.); (T.V.); (L.V.); (J.W.)
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Eugénie Van Mieghem
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (E.V.M.); (L.D.); (T.V.); (L.V.); (J.W.)
| | - Laura Depauw
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (E.V.M.); (L.D.); (T.V.); (L.V.); (J.W.)
| | - Thomas Vanwolleghem
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (E.V.M.); (L.D.); (T.V.); (L.V.); (J.W.)
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Luisa Vonghia
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (E.V.M.); (L.D.); (T.V.); (L.V.); (J.W.)
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jonas Weyler
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (E.V.M.); (L.D.); (T.V.); (L.V.); (J.W.)
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ann Driessen
- Department of Pathology, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Antwerp, Belgium;
| | - Dirk Callens
- Department of Clinical Biology, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Antwerp, Belgium; (D.C.); (L.R.)
| | - Laurence Roosens
- Department of Clinical Biology, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Antwerp, Belgium; (D.C.); (L.R.)
| | - Eveline Dirinck
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Antwerp, Belgium; (E.D.); (A.V.); (L.V.G.)
| | - An Verrijken
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Antwerp, Belgium; (E.D.); (A.V.); (L.V.G.)
| | - Luc Van Gaal
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Antwerp, Belgium; (E.D.); (A.V.); (L.V.G.)
| | - Sven Francque
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (E.V.M.); (L.D.); (T.V.); (L.V.); (J.W.)
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Antwerp, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Emerging Roles of Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells in Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9110395. [PMID: 33198153 PMCID: PMC7697091 DOI: 10.3390/biology9110395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a hepatic manifestation of the metabolic syndrome. With the prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes, NAFLD is becoming the most common liver disorder worldwide. More than 10% of NAFLD patients progress to an inflammatory and fibrotic form called nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can lead to end-stage liver disease. Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) are highly specialized cells located at the interface between the flowing blood in the liver and the other liver cells. The current review highlights the recent knowledge of the role of LSEC in the development of NASH, and how LSEC change their structure and function during NAFLD progression. Moreover, the review discusses the pathogenic role of nanometer-sized particles called extracellular vesicles that mediate intercellular communication in the NASH liver. The current manuscript has a special emphasis on the role of adhesion molecules expressed on the LSEC surface in the recruitment of circulating leukocytes to the liver, a critical step in liver inflammation in NASH. Furthermore, the review shed some lights on LSEC-targeted potential therapeutic strategies in NASH. Abstract Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has become a growing public health problem worldwide, yet its pathophysiology remains unclear. Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) have unique morphology and function, and play a critical role in liver homeostasis. Emerging literature implicates LSEC in many pathological processes in the liver, including metabolic dysregulation, inflammation, angiogenesis, and carcinogenesis. In this review, we highlight the current knowledge of the role of LSEC in each of the progressive phases of NASH pathophysiology (steatosis, inflammation, fibrosis, and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma). We discuss processes that have important roles in NASH progression including the detrimental transformation of LSEC called “capillarization”, production of inflammatory and profibrogenic mediators by LSEC as well as LSEC-mediated angiogenesis. The current review has a special emphasis on LSEC adhesion molecules, and their key role in the inflammatory response in NASH. Moreover, we discuss the pathogenic role of extracellular vesicles and their bioactive cargos in liver intercellular communication, inflammation, and fibrosis. Finally, we highlight LSEC-adhesion molecules and derived bioactive product as potential therapeutic targets for human NASH.
Collapse
|
39
|
Verhaegh P, Wisse E, de Munck T, Greve JW, Verheij J, Riedl R, Duimel H, Masclee A, Jonkers D, Koek G. Electron microscopic observations in perfusion-fixed human non-alcoholic fatty liver disease biopsies. Pathology 2020; 53:220-228. [PMID: 33143903 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2020.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a widespread liver disease in Western society, but its multifactorial pathogenesis is not yet fully understood. Ultrastructural analysis of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) in animal models and in vitro studies shows defenestration early in the course of NAFLD, promoting steatosis. LSECs and fenestrae are important in the transport of lipids across the sinusoids. However, human ultrastructural data, especially on LSECs and fenestrae, are scarce. This study aimed to explore the ultrastructural changes in perfusion type fixed liver biopsies of NAFLD patients with and without non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), with a special focus on LSECs and their fenestration. Liver biopsies from patients with NAFLD were fixed using two perfusion techniques, jet and injection fixation, for needle and wedge biopsies, respectively. Ultrastructural changes were studied using transmission electron microscopy. NASH was diagnosed by bright-field microscopy using the SAF score (steatosis, activity, fibrosis). Thirty-seven patients were included, of which 12 (32.4%) had NASH. Significantly less defenestration was found in NASH compared to noNASH samples (p=0.002). Other features, i.e., giant mitochondria and fenestrae size did not differ between groups. Furthermore, we described new structures, i.e., single cell steatonecrosis and inflammatory fat follicles (IFF) that were observed in both groups. Concluding, defenestration was more common in noNASH compared to NASH in human liver samples. Defenestration was not related to the degree of steatosis or fibrosis. We speculate that defenestration can be a protective mechanism in simple steatosis which is lacking in NASH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Verhaegh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands; School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Eddie Wisse
- Division of Nanoscopy, Maastricht Multimodal Molecular Imaging Institute, and Department of Internal Medicine/Hepatology, The University of Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Toon de Munck
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands; School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Jan Willem Greve
- Department of Surgery, Zuyderland MC, Heerlen, the Netherlands; Department of Gastro-Intestinal Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Joanne Verheij
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Robert Riedl
- Department of Pathology, Zuyderland MC, Heerlen, the Netherlands
| | - Hans Duimel
- Division of Nanoscopy, Maastricht Multimodal Molecular Imaging Institute, and Department of Internal Medicine/Hepatology, The University of Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Ad Masclee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands; School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Daisy Jonkers
- School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Ger Koek
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands; School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Klinikum RWTH, Aachen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Barberá A, Raurell I, García-Lezana T, Torres-Arauz M, Bravo M, Hide D, Gil M, Salcedo MT, Genescà J, Martell M, Augustin S. Steatosis as main determinant of portal hypertension through a restriction of hepatic sinusoidal area in a dietary rat nash model. Liver Int 2020; 40:2732-2743. [PMID: 32770818 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Portal hypertension (PH) can be present in pre-cirrhotic stages, even in absence of fibrosis in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) patients. Liver endothelial dysfunction (ED) has been shown as responsible for this effect in short-term dietary animal models. We evaluated the persistence of PH and underlying mechanisms in a long-term rat model of NASH. METHODS Sprague-Dawley rats were fed 8 or 36 weeks with control diet or high-fat high-glucose/fructose diet. Metabolic parameters, histology, ED and haemodynamics were characterized. Structural characteristics of liver sections were analysed using image analysis. RESULTS Both interventions reproduced NASH histological hallmarks (with steatosis being particularly increased at 36 weeks), but neither induced fibrosis. The 36-week intervention induced a significant increase in portal pressure (PP) compared to controls (12.1 vs 8.7 mmHg, P < .001) and the 8-week model (10.7 mmHg, P = .006), but all features of ED were normalized at 36 weeks. Image analysis revealed that the increased steatosis at 36-week was associated to an increase in hepatocyte area and a significant decrease in the sinusoidal area, which was inversely correlated with PP. The analysis provided a critical sinusoidal area above which animals were protected from developing PH and below which sinusoidal flux was compromised and PP started to increase. CONCLUSION Liver steatosis per se (in absence of fibrosis) can induce PH through a decrease in the sinusoidal area secondary to the increase in hepatocyte area in a long-term diet-induced rat model of NASH. Image analysis of the sinusoidal area might predict the presence of PH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aurora Barberá
- Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Imma Raurell
- Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Manuel Torres-Arauz
- Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miren Bravo
- Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Diana Hide
- Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mar Gil
- Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Teresa Salcedo
- Pathology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d´Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joan Genescà
- Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro De Investigación Biomédica En Red De Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Instituto De Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Martell
- Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro De Investigación Biomédica En Red De Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Instituto De Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Salvador Augustin
- Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro De Investigación Biomédica En Red De Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Instituto De Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Wilkinson AL, Qurashi M, Shetty S. The Role of Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells in the Axis of Inflammation and Cancer Within the Liver. Front Physiol 2020; 11:990. [PMID: 32982772 PMCID: PMC7485256 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) form a unique barrier between the liver sinusoids and the underlying parenchyma, and thus play a crucial role in maintaining metabolic and immune homeostasis, as well as actively contributing to disease pathophysiology. Whilst their endocytic and scavenging function is integral for nutrient exchange and clearance of waste products, their capillarisation and dysfunction precedes fibrogenesis. Furthermore, their ability to promote immune tolerance and recruit distinct immunosuppressive leukocyte subsets can allow persistence of chronic viral infections and facilitate tumour development. In this review, we present the immunological and barrier functions of LSEC, along with their role in orchestrating fibrotic processes which precede tumourigenesis. We also summarise the role of LSEC in modulating the tumour microenvironment, and promoting development of a pre-metastatic niche, which can drive formation of secondary liver tumours. Finally, we summarise closely inter-linked disease pathways which collectively perpetuate pathogenesis, highlighting LSEC as novel targets for therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Shishir Shetty
- Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Ortega‐Ribera M, Hunt NJ, Gracia‐Sancho J, Cogger VC. The Hepatic Sinusoid in Aging and Disease: Update and Advances From the 20th Liver Sinusoid Meeting. Hepatol Commun 2020; 4:1087-1098. [PMID: 32626839 PMCID: PMC7327202 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This is a meeting report of the 2019 Liver Sinusoid Meeting, 20th International Symposium on Cells of the Hepatic Sinusoid, held in Sydney, Australia, in September 2019. The meeting, which was organized by the International Society for Hepatic Sinusoidal Research, provided an update on the recent advances in the field of hepatic sinusoid cells in relation to cell biology, aging, and liver disease, with particular focus on the molecular and cellular targets involved in hepatic fibrosis, nonalcoholic hepatic steatohepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, hepatocellular carcinoma, and cirrhosis. In addition, the meeting highlighted the recent advances in regenerative medicine, targeted nanotechnologies, therapeutics, and novel methodologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martí Ortega‐Ribera
- Liver Vascular Biology Research GroupBarcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic UnitInstitut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i SunyerCentro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y DigestivasBarcelonaSpain
| | - Nicholas J. Hunt
- Centre for Education and Research on AgeingConcord Repatriation General HospitalANZAC Research InstituteAustralian Ageing and Alzheimers InstituteConcordSydneyNSWAustralia
- Faculty of Medicine and HealthUniversity of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Jordi Gracia‐Sancho
- Liver Vascular Biology Research GroupBarcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic UnitInstitut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i SunyerCentro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y DigestivasBarcelonaSpain
- HepatologyDepartment of Biomedical ResearchUniversity of BernInselspitalBernSwitzerland
| | - Victoria C. Cogger
- Centre for Education and Research on AgeingConcord Repatriation General HospitalANZAC Research InstituteAustralian Ageing and Alzheimers InstituteConcordSydneyNSWAustralia
- Faculty of Medicine and HealthUniversity of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Bisaccia G, Ricci F, Mantini C, Tana C, Romani GL, Schiavone C, Gallina S. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and cardiovascular disease phenotypes. SAGE Open Med 2020; 8:2050312120933804. [PMID: 32612827 PMCID: PMC7307287 DOI: 10.1177/2050312120933804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is increasingly recognized as a major global health problem. Intertwined with diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and obesity, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease embraces a spectrum of liver conditions spanning from steatosis to inflammation, fibrosis, and liver failure. Compared with the general population, the prevalence of cardiovascular disease is higher among nonalcoholic fatty liver disease patients, in whom comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessment is highly desirable. Preclinical effects of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease on the heart include both metabolic and structural changes eventually preceding overt myocardial dysfunction. Particularly, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is associated with enhanced atherosclerosis, heart muscle disease, valvular heart disease, and arrhythmias, with endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, metabolic dysregulation, and oxidative stress playing in the background. In this topical review, we aimed to summarize current evidence on the epidemiology of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, discuss the pathophysiological links between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and cardiovascular disease, illustrate nonalcoholic fatty liver disease-related cardiovascular phenotypes, and finally provide a glimpse on the relationship between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and cardiac steatosis, mitochondrial (dys)function, and cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giandomenico Bisaccia
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Institute for Advanced Biomedical Technologies, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti and Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Ricci
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Institute for Advanced Biomedical Technologies, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti and Pescara, Chieti, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Cesare Mantini
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Institute for Advanced Biomedical Technologies, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti and Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Claudio Tana
- Internal Medicine and Critical Subacute Care Unit, Medicine Geriatric-Rehabilitation Department, and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Gian Luca Romani
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Institute for Advanced Biomedical Technologies, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti and Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Cosima Schiavone
- Department of Internistic Ultrasound, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti and Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Sabina Gallina
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Institute for Advanced Biomedical Technologies, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti and Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Lafoz E, Ruart M, Anton A, Oncins A, Hernández-Gea V. The Endothelium as a Driver of Liver Fibrosis and Regeneration. Cells 2020; 9:E929. [PMID: 32290100 PMCID: PMC7226820 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a common feature of sustained liver injury and represents a major public health problem worldwide. Fibrosis is an active research field and discoveries in the last years have contributed to the development of new antifibrotic drugs, although none of them have been approved yet. Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) are highly specialized endothelial cells localized at the interface between the blood and other liver cell types. They lack a basement membrane and display open channels (fenestrae), making them exceptionally permeable. LSEC are the first cells affected by any kind of liver injury orchestrating the liver response to damage. LSEC govern the regenerative process initiation, but aberrant LSEC activation in chronic liver injury induces fibrosis. LSEC are also main players in fibrosis resolution. They maintain liver homeostasis and keep hepatic stellate cell and Kupffer cell quiescence. After sustained hepatic injury, they lose their phenotype and protective properties, promoting angiogenesis and vasoconstriction and contributing to inflammation and fibrosis. Therefore, improving LSEC phenotype is a promising strategy to prevent liver injury progression and complications. This review focuses on changes occurring in LSEC after liver injury and their consequences on fibrosis progression, liver regeneration, and resolution. Finally, a synopsis of the available strategies for LSEC-specific targeting is provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erica Lafoz
- Unidad de Hemodinámica Hepática, Servicio de Hepatología, Hospital Clínic, Universidad de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Augusto Pi Suñer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (E.L.); (M.R.); (A.A.); (A.O.)
| | - Maria Ruart
- Unidad de Hemodinámica Hepática, Servicio de Hepatología, Hospital Clínic, Universidad de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Augusto Pi Suñer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (E.L.); (M.R.); (A.A.); (A.O.)
| | - Aina Anton
- Unidad de Hemodinámica Hepática, Servicio de Hepatología, Hospital Clínic, Universidad de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Augusto Pi Suñer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (E.L.); (M.R.); (A.A.); (A.O.)
| | - Anna Oncins
- Unidad de Hemodinámica Hepática, Servicio de Hepatología, Hospital Clínic, Universidad de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Augusto Pi Suñer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (E.L.); (M.R.); (A.A.); (A.O.)
| | - Virginia Hernández-Gea
- Unidad de Hemodinámica Hepática, Servicio de Hepatología, Hospital Clínic, Universidad de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Augusto Pi Suñer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (E.L.); (M.R.); (A.A.); (A.O.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Saki S, Saki N, Poustchi H, Malekzadeh R. Assessment of Genetic Aspects of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver and Premature Cardiovascular Events. Middle East J Dig Dis 2020; 12:65-88. [PMID: 32626560 PMCID: PMC7320986 DOI: 10.34172/mejdd.2020.166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent evidence has demonstrated a strong interplay and multifaceted relationship between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD is the major cause of death in patients with NAFLD. NAFLD also has strong associations with diabetes and metabolic syndrome. In this comprehensive review, we aimed to overview the primary environmental and genetic risk factors of NAFLD, and CVD and also focus on the genetic aspects of these two disorders. NAFLD and CVD are both heterogeneous diseases with common genetic and molecular pathways. We have searched for the latest published articles regarding this matter and tried to provide an overview of recent insights into the genetic aspects of NAFLD and CVD. The common genetic and molecular pathways involved in NAFLD and CVD are insulin resistance (IR), subclinical inflammation, oxidative stress, and atherogenic dyslipidemia. According to an investigation, the exact associations between genomic characteristics of NAFLD and CVD and casual relationships are not fully determined. Different gene polymorphisms have been identified as the genetic components of the NAFLDCVD association. Some of the most documented ones of these gene polymorphisms are patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing protein 3 (PNPLA3), transmembrane 6 superfamily member 2 (TM6SF2), hydroxysteroid 17-beta dehydrogenase 13 (HSD17B13), adiponectin-encoding gene (ADIPOQ), apolipoprotein C3 (APOC3), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR), leptin receptor (LEPR), sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP), manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), membrane-bound O-acyltransferase domain-containing 7 (MBOAT7), and mutation in DYRK1B that substitutes cysteine for arginine at position 102 in kinase-like domain. Further cohort studies with a significant sample size using advanced genomic assessments and next-generation sequencing techniques are needed to shed more light on genetic associations between NAFLD and CVD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Saki
- Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nader Saki
- Hoveizeh Cohort Study, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Hossein Poustchi
- Digestive Disease Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Malekzadeh
- Digestive Disease Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Hammoutene A, Biquard L, Lasselin J, Kheloufi M, Tanguy M, Vion AC, Mérian J, Colnot N, Loyer X, Tedgui A, Codogno P, Lotersztajn S, Paradis V, Boulanger CM, Rautou PE. A defect in endothelial autophagy occurs in patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and promotes inflammation and fibrosis. J Hepatol 2020; 72:528-538. [PMID: 31726115 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2019.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Previous studies demonstrated that autophagy is protective in hepatocytes and macrophages, but detrimental in hepatic stellate cells in chronic liver diseases. The role of autophagy in liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is unknown. Our aim was to analyze the potential implication of autophagy in LSECs in NASH and liver fibrosis. METHODS We analyzed autophagy in LSECs from patients using transmission electron microscopy. We determined the consequences of a deficiency in autophagy: (a) on LSEC phenotype, using primary LSECs and an LSEC line; (b) on early stages of NASH and on advanced stages of liver fibrosis, using transgenic mice deficient in autophagy specifically in endothelial cells and fed a high-fat diet or chronically treated with carbon tetrachloride, respectively. RESULTS Patients with NASH had half as many LSECs containing autophagic vacuoles as patients without liver histological abnormalities, or with simple steatosis. LSECs from mice deficient in endothelial autophagy displayed an upregulation of genes implicated in inflammatory pathways. In the LSEC line, deficiency in autophagy enhanced inflammation (Ccl2, Ccl5, Il6 and VCAM-1 expression), features of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (α-Sma, Tgfb1, Col1a2 expression) and apoptosis (cleaved caspase-3). In mice fed a high-fat diet, deficiency in endothelial autophagy induced liver expression of inflammatory markers (Ccl2, Ccl5, Cd68, Vcam-1), liver cell apoptosis (cleaved caspase-3) and perisinusoidal fibrosis. Mice deficient in endothelial autophagy treated with carbon tetrachloride also developed more perisinusoidal fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS A defect in autophagy in LSECs occurs in patients with NASH. Deficiency in endothelial autophagy promotes the development of liver inflammation, features of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, apoptosis and liver fibrosis in the early stages of NASH, but also favors more advanced stages of liver fibrosis. LAY SUMMARY Autophagy is a physiological process controlling endothelial homeostasis in vascular beds outside the liver. This study demonstrates that autophagy is defective in the liver endothelial cells of patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. This defect promotes liver inflammation and fibrosis at early stages of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, but also at advanced stages of chronic liver disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adel Hammoutene
- Université de Paris, PARCC, INSERM, F-75015, Paris, France; Université de Paris, Centre de recherche sur l'inflammation, Inserm, U1149, CNRS, ERL8252, F-75018, Paris, France
| | - Louise Biquard
- Université de Paris, Centre de recherche sur l'inflammation, Inserm, U1149, CNRS, ERL8252, F-75018, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Marion Tanguy
- Université de Paris, PARCC, INSERM, F-75015, Paris, France; Université de Paris, Centre de recherche sur l'inflammation, Inserm, U1149, CNRS, ERL8252, F-75018, Paris, France
| | | | - Jules Mérian
- Université de Paris, PARCC, INSERM, F-75015, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Colnot
- Service d'Anatomie Pathologique, Hôpital Beaujon, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Clichy, France
| | - Xavier Loyer
- Université de Paris, PARCC, INSERM, F-75015, Paris, France
| | - Alain Tedgui
- Université de Paris, PARCC, INSERM, F-75015, Paris, France
| | - Patrice Codogno
- Université de Paris, INEM, INSERM, F-75014, Paris, France; CNRS UMR-8253, 75014, Paris, France
| | - Sophie Lotersztajn
- Université de Paris, Centre de recherche sur l'inflammation, Inserm, U1149, CNRS, ERL8252, F-75018, Paris, France
| | - Valérie Paradis
- Université de Paris, Centre de recherche sur l'inflammation, Inserm, U1149, CNRS, ERL8252, F-75018, Paris, France; Service d'Anatomie Pathologique, Hôpital Beaujon, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Clichy, France
| | | | - Pierre-Emmanuel Rautou
- Université de Paris, PARCC, INSERM, F-75015, Paris, France; Université de Paris, Centre de recherche sur l'inflammation, Inserm, U1149, CNRS, ERL8252, F-75018, Paris, France; Service d'Hépatologie, DHU Unity, DMU Digest, Hôpital Beaujon, AP-HP, Clichy, France; Centre de Référence des Maladies Vasculaires du Foie, French Network for Rare Liver Diseases (FILFOIE), European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER).
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Stahl EP, Dhindsa DS, Lee SK, Sandesara PB, Chalasani NP, Sperling LS. Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and the Heart: JACC State-of-the-Art Review. J Am Coll Cardiol 2020; 73:948-963. [PMID: 30819364 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2018.11.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 236] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) are both manifestations of end-organ damage of the metabolic syndrome. Through multiple pathophysiological mechanisms, CVD and NAFLD are associated with each other. Systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, hepatic insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and altered lipid metabolism are some of the mechanisms by which NAFLD increases the risk of CVD. Patients with NAFLD develop increased atherosclerosis, cardiomyopathy, and arrhythmia, which clinically result in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Defining the mechanisms linking these 2 diseases offers the opportunity to further develop targeted therapies. The aim of this comprehensive review is to examine the association between CVD and NAFLD and discuss the overlapping management approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric P Stahl
- Department of Internal Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Devinder S Dhindsa
- Emory Clinical Cardiovascular Research Institute, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Suegene K Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Pratik B Sandesara
- Emory Clinical Cardiovascular Research Institute, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Naga P Chalasani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Laurence S Sperling
- Emory Clinical Cardiovascular Research Institute, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Bravo M, Raurell I, Hide D, Fernández-Iglesias A, Gil M, Barberá A, Salcedo MT, Augustin S, Genescà J, Martell M. Restoration of liver sinusoidal cell phenotypes by statins improves portal hypertension and histology in rats with NASH. Sci Rep 2019; 9:20183. [PMID: 31882668 PMCID: PMC6934751 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-56366-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a common chronic liver disorder in developed countries, with the associated clinical complications driven by portal hypertension (PH). PH may precede fibrosis development, probably due to endothelial dysfunction at early stages of the disease. Our aim was to characterize liver sinusoidal endothelial cell (LSEC) dedifferentiation/capillarization and its contribution to PH in NASH, together with assessing statins capability to revert endothelial function improving early NASH stages. Sprague-Dawley rats were fed with high fat glucose-fructose diet (HFGFD), or control diet (CD) for 8 weeks and then treated with simvastatin (sim) (10 mg·kg−1·day−1), atorvastatin (ato) (10 mg·kg−1·day−1) or vehicle during 2 weeks. Biochemical, histological and hemodynamic determinations were carried out. Sinusoidal endothelial dysfunction was assessed in individualized sorted LSEC and hepatic stellate cells (HSC) from animal groups and in whole liver samples. HFGFD rats showed full NASH features without fibrosis but with significantly increased portal pressure compared with CD rats (10.47 ± 0.37 mmHg vs 8.30 ± 0.22 mmHg; p < 0.001). Moreover, HFGFD rats showed a higher percentage of capillarized (CD32b−/CD11b−) LSEC (8% vs 1%, p = 0.005) showing a contractile phenotype associated to HSC activation. Statin treatments caused a significant portal pressure reduction (sim: 9.29 ± 0.25 mmHg, p < 0.01; ato: 8.85 ± 0.30 mmHg, p < 0.001), NASH histology reversion, along with significant recovery of LSEC differentiation and a regression of HSC activation to a more quiescent phenotype. In an early NASH model without fibrosis with PH, LSEC transition to capillarization and HSC activation are reverted by statin treatment inducing portal pressure decrease and NASH features improvement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miren Bravo
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Imma Raurell
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Diana Hide
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anabel Fernández-Iglesias
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab. IDIBAPS-Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mar Gil
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aurora Barberá
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Salvador Augustin
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain. .,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Joan Genescà
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain. .,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - María Martell
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Semmler G, Scheiner B, Schwabl P, Bucsics T, Paternostro R, Chromy D, Stättermayer AF, Trauner M, Mandorfer M, Ferlitsch A, Reiberger T. The impact of hepatic steatosis on portal hypertension. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0224506. [PMID: 31693695 PMCID: PMC6834246 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0224506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims Studies in animal models have suggested that hepatic steatosis impacts on portal pressure, potentially by inducing liver sinusoidal endothelial dysfunction and thereby increasing intrahepatic resistance. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the impact of hepatic steatosis on hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) in patients with chronic liver disease. Method 261 patients undergoing simultaneous HVPG measurements and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP)-based steatosis assessment were included in this retrospective study. Results The majority of patients had cirrhosis (n = 205; 78.5%) and n = 191 (73.2%) had clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH; HVPG≥10mmHg). Hepatic steatosis (S1/2/3; CAP ≥248dB/m) was present in n = 102 (39.1%). Overall, HVPG was comparable between patients with vs. without hepatic steatosis (15.5±7.5 vs. 14.8±7.7mmHg; p = 0.465). Neither in patients with HVPG (<6mmHg; p = 0.371) nor in patients with mild portal hypertension (HVPG 6–9mmHg; p = 0.716) or CSPH (HVPG≥10mmHg; p = 0.311) any correlation between CAP and HVPG was found. Interestingly, in patients with liver fibrosis F2/3, there was a negative correlation between CAP and HVPG (Pearson’s ρ:-0.522; p≤0.001). In multivariate analysis, higher CAP was an independent ‘protective’ factor for the presence of CSPH (odds ratio [OR] per 10dB/m: 0.92, 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.85–1.00; p = 0.045), while liver stiffness was associated with the presence of CSPH (OR per kPa: 1.26, 95%CI: 1.17–1.36; p≤0.001). In 78 patients, in whom liver biopsy was performed, HVPG was neither correlated with percentage of histological steatosis (p = 0.714) nor with histological steatosis grade (p = 0.957). Conclusion Hepatic steatosis, as assessed by CAP and liver histology, did not impact on HVPG in our cohort comprising a high proportion of patients with advanced chronic liver disease. However, high CAP values (i.e. pronounced hepatic steatosis) might lead to overestimation of liver fibrosis by ‘artificially’ increasing transient elastography-based liver stiffness measurements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georg Semmler
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bernhard Scheiner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Philipp Schwabl
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Theresa Bucsics
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Rafael Paternostro
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - David Chromy
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Albert Friedrich Stättermayer
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mattias Mandorfer
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Arnulf Ferlitsch
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Hospital of St. John of God, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Reiberger
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
The effects of hepatic steatosis on thromboxane A2 induced portal hypertension. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2019; 42:534-541. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2019.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
|