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Lewis A, Humphreys DT, Pan-Castillo B, Berti G, Felice C, Gordon H, Gadhok R, Nijhuis A, Mehta S S, Eleid L, Iqbal S, Armuzzi A, Minicozzi A, Giannoulatou E, ChinAleong J, Feakins R, Sagi-Kiss V, Barisic D, Koufaki MI, Bundy JG, Lindsay JO, Silver A. Epigenetic and Metabolic Reprogramming of Fibroblasts in Crohn's Disease Strictures Reveals Histone Deacetylases as Therapeutic Targets. J Crohns Colitis 2024; 18:895-907. [PMID: 38069679 PMCID: PMC11147807 DOI: 10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjad209] [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] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS No effective therapeutic intervention exists for intestinal fibrosis in Crohn's disease [CD]. We characterized fibroblast subtypes, epigenetic and metabolic changes, and signalling pathways in CD fibrosis to inform future therapeutic strategies. METHODS We undertook immunohistochemistry, metabolic, signalling pathway and epigenetic [Transposase-Accessible Chromatin using sequencing] analyses associated with collagen production in CCD-18Co intestinal fibroblasts and primary fibroblasts isolated from stricturing [SCD] and non-stricturing [NSCD] CD small intestine. SCD/NSCD fibroblasts were cultured with TGFβ and valproic acid [VPA]. RESULTS Stricturing CD was characterized by distinct histone deacetylase [HDAC] expression profiles, particularly HDAC1, HDAC2, and HDAC7. As a proxy for HDAC activity, reduced numbers of H3K27ac+ cells were found in SCD compared to NSCD sections. Primary fibroblasts had increased extracellular lactate [increased glycolytic activity] and intracellular hydroxyproline [increased collagen production] in SCD compared to NSCD cultures. The metabolic effect of TGFβ stimulation was reversed by the HDAC inhibitor VPA. SCD fibroblasts appeared 'metabolically primed' and responded more strongly to both TGFβ and VPA. Treatment with VPA revealed TGFβ-dependent and TGFβ-independent Collagen-I production in CCD-18Co cells and primary fibroblasts. VPA altered the epigenetic landscape with reduced chromatin accessibility at the COL1A1 and COL1A2 promoters. CONCLUSIONS Increased HDAC expression profiles, H3K27ac hypoacetylation, a significant glycolytic phenotype and metabolic priming characterize SCD-derived as compared to NSCD fibroblasts. Our results reveal a novel epigenetic component to Collagen-I regulation and TGFβ-mediated CD fibrosis. HDAC inhibitor therapy may 'reset' the epigenetic changes associated with fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Lewis
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - David T Humphreys
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
- St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Belen Pan-Castillo
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - Giulio Berti
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - Carla Felice
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London E1 2AT, UK
- Department of Internal Medicine University of Padua, Internal Medicine 1 Unit, Ca' Foncello Hospital, Treviso, Italy
| | - Hannah Gordon
- Centre for Immunobiology, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - Radha Gadhok
- Centre for Immunobiology, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - Anke Nijhuis
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - Shameer Mehta S
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - Liliane Eleid
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - Sidra Iqbal
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London E1 2AT, UK
| | | | - Annamaria Minicozzi
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Division of Surgery & Perioperative Care, The Royal London Hospital, Whitechapel, London E1 1BB, UK
| | - Eleni Giannoulatou
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
- St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Joanne ChinAleong
- Department of Histopathology, The Royal London Hospital, London E1 1BB, UK
| | - Roger Feakins
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London NW3 2QG, UK
| | - Virag Sagi-Kiss
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Burlington Danes Building, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Dora Barisic
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Burlington Danes Building, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Margarita-Ioanna Koufaki
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Burlington Danes Building, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Jacob G Bundy
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Burlington Danes Building, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - James O Lindsay
- Centre for Immunobiology, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - Andrew Silver
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London E1 2AT, UK
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Li D, Zhang X, Song Z, Zhao S, Huang Y, Qian W, Cai X. Advances in common in vitro cellular models of pulmonary fibrosis. Immunol Cell Biol 2024. [PMID: 38714318 DOI: 10.1111/imcb.12756] [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: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
The development of in vitro models is essential for a comprehensive understanding and investigation of pulmonary fibrosis (PF) at both cellular and molecular levels. This study presents a literature review and an analysis of various cellular models used in scientific studies, specifically focusing on their applications in elucidating the pathogenesis of PF. Our study highlights the importance of taking a comprehensive approach to studing PF, emphasizing the necessity of considering multiple cell types and organs and integrating diverse analytical perspectives. Notably, primary cells demonstrate remarkable cell growth characteristics and gene expression profiles; however, their limited availability, maintenance challenges, inability for continuous propagation and susceptibility to phenotypic changes over time significantly limit their utility in scientific investigation. By contrast, immortalized cell lines are easily accessible, cultured and continuously propagated, although they may have some phenotypic differences from primary cells. Furthermore, in vitro coculture models offer a more practical and precise method to explore complex interactions among cells, tissues and organs. Consequently, when developing models of PF, researchers should thoroughly assess the advantages, limitations and relevant mechanisms of different cell models to ensure their selection is consistent with the research objectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Die Li
- First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xinyue Zhang
- Department of Lung Disease, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ziqiong Song
- Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong Academy of Occupational Health and Occupational Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shan Zhao
- First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yuan Huang
- First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Weibin Qian
- Department of Lung Disease, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xinrui Cai
- Shandong Academy of Occupational Health and Occupational Medicine, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
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3
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Lan YW, Chen YC, Yen CC, Chen HL, Tung MC, Fan HC, Chen CM. Kefir peptides mitigate bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice through modulating oxidative stress, inflammation and gut microbiota. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 174:116431. [PMID: 38522238 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive and life-threatening lung disease with high mortality rates. The limited availability of effective drugs for IPF treatment, coupled with concerns regarding adverse effects and restricted responsiveness, underscores the need for alternative approaches. Kefir peptides (KPs) have demonstrated antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic properties, along with the capability to modulate gut microbiota. This study aims to investigate the impact of KPs on bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. METHODS Mice were treated with KPs for four days, followed by intratracheal injection of bleomycin for 21 days. Comprehensive assessments included pulmonary functional tests, micro-computed tomography (µ-CT), in vivo image analysis using MMPsense750, evaluation of inflammation- and fibrosis-related gene expression in lung tissue, and histopathological examinations. Furthermore, a detailed investigation of the gut microbiota community was performed using full-length 16 S rRNA sequencing in control mice, bleomycin-induced fibrotic mice, and KPs-pretreated fibrotic mice. RESULTS In KPs-pretreated bleomycin-induced lung fibrotic mice, notable outcomes included the absence of significant bodyweight loss, enhanced pulmonary functions, restored lung tissue architecture, and diminished thickening of inter-alveolar septa, as elucidated by morphological and histopathological analyses. Concurrently, a reduction in the expression levels of oxidative biomarkers, inflammatory factors, and fibrotic indicators was observed. Moreover, 16 S rRNA sequencing demonstrated that KPs pretreatment induced alterations in the relative abundances of gut microbiota, notably affecting Barnesiella_intestinihominis, Kineothrix_alysoides, and Clostridium_viride. CONCLUSIONS Kefir peptides exerted preventive effects, protecting mice against bleomycin-induced lung oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis. These effects are likely linked to modifications in the gut microbiota community. The findings highlight the therapeutic potential of KPs in mitigating pulmonary fibrosis and advocate for additional exploration in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Wei Lan
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; Phoenix Children's Health Research Institute, Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix 85004, USA.
| | - Ying-Cheng Chen
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Veterinary Medicines, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47906, USA.
| | - Chih-Ching Yen
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404, Taiwan.
| | - Hsiao-Ling Chen
- Department of Biomedical Science, Da-Yeh University, Changhua 515, Taiwan; Phermpep Co., Ltd., China Chemical & Pharmaceutical Group (CCPG), Taichung 42881, Taiwan
| | - Min-Che Tung
- Department of Surgery, and Tungs' Taichung Metro Harbor Hospital, Taichung 435, Taiwan
| | - Hueng-Chuen Fan
- Department of Surgery, and Tungs' Taichung Metro Harbor Hospital, Taichung 435, Taiwan
| | - Chuan-Mu Chen
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; The iEGG and Animal Biotechnology Research Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan.
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Sisto M, Lisi S. Epigenetic Regulation of EMP/EMT-Dependent Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2775. [PMID: 38474021 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052775] [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: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis represents a process characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. It often represents the evolution of pathological conditions, causes organ failure, and can, in extreme cases, compromise the functionality of organs to the point of causing death. In recent years, considerable efforts have been made to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying fibrotic evolution and to identify possible therapeutic strategies. Great interest has been aroused by the discovery of a molecular association between epithelial to mesenchymal plasticity (EMP), in particular epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), and fibrogenesis, which has led to the identification of complex molecular mechanisms closely interconnected with each other, which could explain EMT-dependent fibrosis. However, the result remains unsatisfactory from a therapeutic point of view. In recent years, advances in epigenetics, based on chromatin remodeling through various histone modifications or through the intervention of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), have provided more information on the fibrotic process, and this could represent a promising path forward for the identification of innovative therapeutic strategies for organ fibrosis. In this review, we summarize current research on epigenetic mechanisms involved in organ fibrosis, with a focus on epigenetic regulation of EMP/EMT-dependent fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Sisto
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Bari, Piazza Giulio Cesare 1, I-70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Sabrina Lisi
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Bari, Piazza Giulio Cesare 1, I-70124 Bari, Italy
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5
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Benza RL, Adamson PB, Bhatt DL, Frick F, Olsson G, Bergh N, Dahlöf B. CS1, a controlled-release formulation of valproic acid, for the treatment of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension: Rationale and design of a Phase 2 clinical trial. Pulm Circ 2024; 14:e12323. [PMID: 38174159 PMCID: PMC10763516 DOI: 10.1002/pul2.12323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Although rare, pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is associated with substantial morbidity and a median survival of approximately 7 years, even with treatment. Current medical therapies have a primarily vasodilatory effect and do not modify the underlying pathology of the disease. CS1 is a novel oral, controlled-release formulation of valproic acid, which exhibits a multi-targeted mode of action (pulmonary pressure reduction, reversal of vascular remodeling, anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and anti-thrombotic) and therefore potential for disease modification and right ventricular modeling in patients with PAH. A Phase 1 study conducted in healthy volunteers indicated favorable safety and tolerability, with no increased risk of bleeding and significant reduction of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1. In an ongoing randomized Phase 2 clinical trial, three doses of open-label CS1 administered for 12 weeks is evaluating the use of multiple outcome measures. The primary endpoint is safety and tolerability, as measured by the occurrence of adverse events. Secondary outcome measures include the use of the CardioMEMS™ HF System, which provides a noninvasive method of monitoring pulmonary artery pressure, as well as cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and echocardiography. Other outcomes include changes in risk stratification (using the REVEAL 2.0 and REVEAL Lite 2 tools), patient reported outcomes, functional capacity, 6-min walk distance, actigraphy, and biomarkers. The pharmacokinetic profile of CS1 will also be evaluated. Overall, the novel design and unique, extensive clinical phenotyping of participants in this trial will provide ample evidence to inform the design of any future Phase 3 studies with CS1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond L. Benza
- Ohio State Wexner Medical CenterThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | | | - Deepak L. Bhatt
- Mount Sinai HeartIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | | | - Gunnar Olsson
- Institute of MedicineUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
| | - Niklas Bergh
- Institute of MedicineUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
- Early Clinical Development, Biopharmaceuticals Research and Development—CardiovascularRenal and Metabolism, AstraZenecaMölndalSweden
| | - Björn Dahlöf
- Cereno ScientificGothenburgSweden
- Institute of MedicineUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
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6
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Zhang YS, Tu B, Song K, Lin LC, Liu ZY, Lu D, Chen Q, Tao H. Epigenetic hallmarks in pulmonary fibrosis: New advances and perspectives. Cell Signal 2023; 110:110842. [PMID: 37544633 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetics indicates that certain phenotypes of an organism can undergo heritable changes in the absence of changes in the genetic DNA sequence. Many studies have shown that epigenetic patterns play an important role in the lung and lung diseases. Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is also a type of lung disease. PF is an end-stage change of a large group of lung diseases, characterized by fibroblast proliferation and massive accumulation of extracellular matrix, accompanied by inflammatory injury and histological destruction, that is, structural abnormalities caused by abnormal repair of normal alveolar tissue. It causes loss of lung function in patients with multiple complex diseases, leading to respiratory failure and subsequent death. However, current treatment options for IPF are very limited and no drugs have been shown to significantly prolong the survival of patients. Therefore, based on a systematic understanding of the disease mechanisms of PF, this review integrates the role of epigenetics in the development and course of PF, describes preventive and potential therapeutic targets for PF, and provides a theoretical basis for further exploration of the mechanisms of PF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Sen Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Bin Tu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Kai Song
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Li-Chan Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Zhi-Yan Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Dong Lu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, PR China.
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China.
| | - Hui Tao
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China; Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China.
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7
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Ezz Eldeen N, Moustafa YM, Alwaili MA, Alrehaili AA, Khodeer DM. Synergistic Power of Piceatannol and/or Vitamin D in Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis In Vivo: A Preliminary Study. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2647. [PMID: 37893021 PMCID: PMC10604873 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102647] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress and epigenetic alterations, including the overexpression of all class I and II histone deacetylases (HDACs), particularly HDAC2 and HDAC4, have been identified as key molecular mechanisms driving pulmonary fibrosis. Treatment with piceatannol (PIC) or vitamin D (Vit D) has previously exhibited mitigating impacts in pulmonary fibrosis models. The present study investigated the effects of PIC, Vit D, or a combination (PIC-Vit D) on the expression of HDAC2, HDAC4, and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) in the lungs; the phosphatidylinositide-3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling pathway; and the antioxidant status of the lungs. The objective was to determine if the treatments had protective mechanisms against pulmonary fibrosis caused by bleomycin (BLM) in rats. Adult male albino rats were given a single intratracheal dosage of BLM (10 mg/kg) to induce pulmonary fibrosis. PIC (15 mg/kg/day, oral (p.o.)), Vit D (0.5 μg/kg/day, intraperitoneal (i.p.)), or PIC-Vit D (15 mg/kg/day, p.o. plus 0.5 μg/kg/day, i.p.) were given the day following BLM instillation and maintained for 14 days. The results showed that PIC, Vit D, and PIC-Vit D significantly improved the histopathological sections; downregulated the expression of HDAC2, HDAC4, and TGF-β in the lungs; inhibited the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway; decreased extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition including collagen type I and alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA); and increased the antioxidant capacity of the lungs by increasing the levels of glutathione (GSH) that had been reduced and decreasing the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) compared with the BLM group at a p-value less than 0.05. The concomitant administration of PIC and Vit D had a synergistic impact that was greater than the impact of monotherapy with either PIC or Vit D. PIC, Vit D, and PIC-Vit D exhibited a notable protective effect through their antioxidant effects, modulation of the expression of HDAC2, HDAC4, and TGF-β in the lungs, and suppression of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nehal Ezz Eldeen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
| | - Yasser M. Moustafa
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Maha Abdullah Alwaili
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amani A. Alrehaili
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dina M. Khodeer
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
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8
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Inhibition of Oncogenic Src Ameliorates Silica-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis via PI3K/AKT Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24010774. [PMID: 36614217 PMCID: PMC9821169 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Silicosis is a refractory disease. Previous studies indicate that damaged alveolar epithelial cells act as a driver in pulmonary fibrosis. Our results show that epithelial cells that acquire the mesenchymal phenotype are associated with the pathogenesis of silicosis. c-Src kinase, a non-receptor tyrosine kinase, has been shown to be a positive regulator of organ fibrosis, but specific mechanisms remain unclear and rarely researched in silicosis. The activated Phosphatidylinositol-3 kinases/AKT(PI3K/AKT) pathway promotes fibrosis. We aimed to determine whether c-Src regulates fibrosis via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in the development of silicosis. C57/BL mice were intratracheally perfused with 10 mg silica suspension to establish a model of silicosis. In vivo, silica particles induced lung fibrosis. The profibrotic cytokine transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) exhibited a high expression in pulmonary fibrosis. The phosphorylated c-Src protein was increased and the PI3K/AKT pathway was activated in model lung tissue. In vitro, silica increased the expression of TGF-β1- and TGF-β1-induced mesenchymal phenotype and fibrosis in a mouse epithelial cells line. siRNA-Src inhibited the c-Src, the phosphorylation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, and the mesenchymal phenotype induced by TGF-β1. LY294002, a specific inhibitor of PI3K, suppressed the phosphorylation of PI3K/AKT but did not affect Src activation. SU6656, a selective Src inhibitor, attenuated fibrosis in silicosis model. In summary, c-Src promotes fibrosis via the PI3K/AKT pathway in silica-induced lung fibrosis, and Src kinase inhibitors are potentially effective for silicosis treatment.
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9
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Guo Z, Wang Y, Wen X, Xu X, Yan L. β-Klotho Promotes the Development of Intrauterine Adhesions via the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911294. [PMID: 36232594 PMCID: PMC9569898 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) refers to injury to the basal layer of the endometrium, which can be caused by various factors. It is often accompanied by clinical symptoms such as abnormal menstruation, infertility, recurrent abortion, and periodic abdominal pain. In recent years, a number of studies have reported the effects of β-Klotho (KLB) on the occurrence and development of human tumors and fibrotic diseases, but its relationship with endometrial fibroblasts and endometrial fibrosis has not been elucidated. In this study, we compared the expression of KLB in endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) from patients with IUA and normal controls. We constructed animal and cell models of IUA and conducted expression verification and functional experiments on KLB. We found that the expression of KLB was significantly increased in the ESCs of IUA patients and rat models compared with the controls. The overexpression of KLB could promote the proliferation and fibrosis of ESCs. In addition, the overexpression of KLB activated the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in ESCs. Our study shows that KLB protein is highly expressed in the ESCs of patients with IUA and can enhance stromal cell proliferation and cell fibrosis by activating the PI3K/AKT pathway, thus promoting the development of IUA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zizhen Guo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan 250000, China
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250000, China
- Reproductive and Genetic Center of Integrative Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Yuqing Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Xiaoyang Wen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Xinxin Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Lei Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan 250000, China
- Correspondence:
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10
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Korfei M, Mahavadi P, Guenther A. Targeting Histone Deacetylases in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: A Future Therapeutic Option. Cells 2022; 11:cells11101626. [PMID: 35626663 PMCID: PMC9139813 DOI: 10.3390/cells11101626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive and fatal lung disease with limited therapeutic options, and there is a huge unmet need for new therapies. A growing body of evidence suggests that the histone deacetylase (HDAC) family of transcriptional corepressors has emerged as crucial mediators of IPF pathogenesis. HDACs deacetylate histones and result in chromatin condensation and epigenetic repression of gene transcription. HDACs also catalyse the deacetylation of many non-histone proteins, including transcription factors, thus also leading to changes in the transcriptome and cellular signalling. Increased HDAC expression is associated with cell proliferation, cell growth and anti-apoptosis and is, thus, a salient feature of many cancers. In IPF, induction and abnormal upregulation of Class I and Class II HDAC enzymes in myofibroblast foci, as well as aberrant bronchiolar epithelium, is an eminent observation, whereas type-II alveolar epithelial cells (AECII) of IPF lungs indicate a significant depletion of many HDACs. We thus suggest that the significant imbalance of HDAC activity in IPF lungs, with a “cancer-like” increase in fibroblastic and bronchial cells versus a lack in AECII, promotes and perpetuates fibrosis. This review focuses on the mechanisms by which Class I and Class II HDACs mediate fibrogenesis and on the mechanisms by which various HDAC inhibitors reverse the deregulated epigenetic responses in IPF, supporting HDAC inhibition as promising IPF therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Korfei
- Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Justus Liebig University Giessen, D-35392 Giessen, Germany; (P.M.); (A.G.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), D-35392 Giessen, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-641-9942425; Fax: +49-641-9942429
| | - Poornima Mahavadi
- Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Justus Liebig University Giessen, D-35392 Giessen, Germany; (P.M.); (A.G.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), D-35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Guenther
- Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Justus Liebig University Giessen, D-35392 Giessen, Germany; (P.M.); (A.G.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), D-35392 Giessen, Germany
- Lung Clinic, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Mittelhessen, D-35398 Giessen, Germany
- European IPF Registry and Biobank, D-35392 Giessen, Germany
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11
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Li A, Chen JY, Hsu CL, Oyang YJ, Huang HC, Juan HF. A Single-Cell Network-Based Drug Repositioning Strategy for Post-COVID-19 Pulmonary Fibrosis. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14050971. [PMID: 35631558 PMCID: PMC9147547 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14050971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis (PCPF) is a long-term complication that appears in some COVID-19 survivors. However, there are currently limited options for treating PCPF patients. To address this problem, we investigated COVID-19 patients’ transcriptome at single-cell resolution and combined biological network analyses to repurpose the drugs treating PCPF. We revealed a novel gene signature of PCPF. The signature is functionally associated with the viral infection and lung fibrosis. Further, the signature has good performance in diagnosing and assessing pulmonary fibrosis. Next, we applied a network-based drug repurposing method to explore novel treatments for PCPF. By quantifying the proximity between the drug targets and the signature in the interactome, we identified several potential candidates and provided a drug list ranked by their proximity. Taken together, we revealed a novel gene expression signature as a theragnostic biomarker for PCPF by integrating different computational approaches. Moreover, we showed that network-based proximity could be used as a framework to repurpose drugs for PCPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Li
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Electronics and Bioinformatics, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan; (A.L.); (J.-Y.C.); (Y.-J.O.)
| | - Jhih-Yu Chen
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Electronics and Bioinformatics, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan; (A.L.); (J.-Y.C.); (Y.-J.O.)
| | - Chia-Lang Hsu
- Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 106, Taiwan;
- Graduate Institute of Medical Genomics and Proteomics, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Jen Oyang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Electronics and Bioinformatics, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan; (A.L.); (J.-Y.C.); (Y.-J.O.)
| | - Hsuan-Cheng Huang
- Institute of Biomedical Informatics, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (H.-C.H.); (H.-F.J.)
| | - Hsueh-Fen Juan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Electronics and Bioinformatics, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan; (A.L.); (J.-Y.C.); (Y.-J.O.)
- Department of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
- Center for Computational and Systems Biology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (H.-C.H.); (H.-F.J.)
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12
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Stakišaitis D, Kapočius L, Valančiūtė A, Balnytė I, Tamošuitis T, Vaitkevičius A, Sužiedėlis K, Urbonienė D, Tatarūnas V, Kilimaitė E, Gečys D, Lesauskaitė V. SARS-CoV-2 Infection, Sex-Related Differences, and a Possible Personalized Treatment Approach with Valproic Acid: A Review. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10050962. [PMID: 35625699 PMCID: PMC9138665 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10050962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex differences identified in the COVID-19 pandemic are necessary to study. It is essential to investigate the efficacy of the drugs in clinical trials for the treatment of COVID-19, and to analyse the sex-related beneficial and adverse effects. The histone deacetylase inhibitor valproic acid (VPA) is a potential drug that could be adapted to prevent the progression and complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection. VPA has a history of research in the treatment of various viral infections. This article reviews the preclinical data, showing that the pharmacological impact of VPA may apply to COVID-19 pathogenetic mechanisms. VPA inhibits SARS-CoV-2 virus entry, suppresses the pro-inflammatory immune cell and cytokine response to infection, and reduces inflammatory tissue and organ damage by mechanisms that may appear to be sex-related. The antithrombotic, antiplatelet, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, glucose- and testosterone-lowering in blood serum effects of VPA suggest that the drug could be promising for therapy of COVID-19. Sex-related differences in the efficacy of VPA treatment may be significant in developing a personalised treatment strategy for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatas Stakišaitis
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Institute, 08660 Vilnius, Lithuania;
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, 44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (L.K.); (A.V.); (I.B.); (E.K.)
- Correspondence: (D.S.); (V.L.)
| | - Linas Kapočius
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, 44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (L.K.); (A.V.); (I.B.); (E.K.)
| | - Angelija Valančiūtė
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, 44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (L.K.); (A.V.); (I.B.); (E.K.)
| | - Ingrida Balnytė
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, 44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (L.K.); (A.V.); (I.B.); (E.K.)
| | - Tomas Tamošuitis
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, 50161 Kaunas, Lithuania;
| | - Arūnas Vaitkevičius
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, Vilnius University, 08661 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Kęstutis Sužiedėlis
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Institute, 08660 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Daiva Urbonienė
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eiveniu 2, 50161 Kaunas, Lithuania;
| | - Vacis Tatarūnas
- Institute of Cardiology, Laboratory of Molecular Cardiology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Sukileliu Ave., 50161 Kaunas, Lithuania; (V.T.); (D.G.)
| | - Evelina Kilimaitė
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, 44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (L.K.); (A.V.); (I.B.); (E.K.)
| | - Dovydas Gečys
- Institute of Cardiology, Laboratory of Molecular Cardiology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Sukileliu Ave., 50161 Kaunas, Lithuania; (V.T.); (D.G.)
| | - Vaiva Lesauskaitė
- Institute of Cardiology, Laboratory of Molecular Cardiology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Sukileliu Ave., 50161 Kaunas, Lithuania; (V.T.); (D.G.)
- Correspondence: (D.S.); (V.L.)
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13
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Liu L, Sun Q, Davis F, Mao J, Zhao H, Ma D. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition in organ fibrosis development: current understanding and treatment strategies. BURNS & TRAUMA 2022; 10:tkac011. [PMID: 35402628 PMCID: PMC8990740 DOI: 10.1093/burnst/tkac011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Organ fibrosis is a process in which cellular homeostasis is disrupted and extracellular matrix is excessively deposited. Fibrosis can lead to vital organ failure and there are no effective treatments yet. Although epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) may be one of the key cellular mechanisms, the underlying mechanisms of fibrosis remain largely unknown. EMT is a cell phenotypic process in which epithelial cells lose their cell-to-cell adhesion and polarization, after which they acquire mesenchymal features such as infiltration and migration ability. Upon injurious stimulation in different organs, EMT can be triggered by multiple signaling pathways and is also regulated by epigenetic mechanisms. This narrative review summarizes the current understanding of the underlying mechanisms of EMT in fibrogenesis and discusses potential strategies for attenuating EMT to prevent and/or inhibit fibrosis. Despite better understanding the role of EMT in fibrosis development, targeting EMT and beyond in developing therapeutics to tackle fibrosis is challenging but likely feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lexin Liu
- Division of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK.,Department of Nephrology and Urology, Pediatric Urolith Center, The Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, China
| | - Qizhe Sun
- Division of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK
| | - Frank Davis
- Division of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK
| | - Jianhua Mao
- Department of Nephrology, The Children Hospital of Zhejiang University, School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, China
| | - Hailin Zhao
- Division of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK
| | - Daqing Ma
- Division of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK
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14
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The Employment of Genera Vaccinium, Citrus, Olea, and Cynara Polyphenols for the Reduction of Selected Anti-Cancer Drug Side Effects. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14081574. [PMID: 35458136 PMCID: PMC9025632 DOI: 10.3390/nu14081574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the most widespread diseases globally and one of the leading causes of death. Known cancer treatments are chemotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy, targeted hormonal therapy, or a combination of these methods. Antitumor drugs, with different mechanisms, interfere with cancer growth by destroying cancer cells. However, anticancer drugs are dangerous, as they significantly affect both cancer cells and healthy cells. In addition, there may be the onset of systemic side effects perceived and mutagenicity, teratogenicity, and further carcinogenicity. Many polyphenolic extracts, taken on top of common anti-tumor drugs, can participate in the anti-proliferative effect of drugs and significantly reduce the side effects developed. This review aims to discuss the current scientific knowledge of the protective effects of polyphenols of the genera Vaccinium, Citrus, Olea, and Cynara on the side effects induced by four known chemotherapy, Cisplatin, Doxorubicin, Tamoxifen, and Paclitaxel. In particular, the summarized data will help to understand whether polyphenols can be used as adjuvants in cancer therapy, although further clinical trials will provide crucial information.
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