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Long J, Xu Y, Zhang X, Wu B, Wang C. Role of FXR in the development of NAFLD and intervention strategies of small molecules. Arch Biochem Biophys 2024; 757:110024. [PMID: 38703803 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2024.110024] [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: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains a prevailing etiological agent behind hepatocyte diseases like chronic liver disease. The spectrum of processes involved in NAFLD stages includes hepatic steatosis, non-alcoholic fatty liver, and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Without intervention, the progression of NASH can further deteriorate into cirrhosis and ultimately, hepatocellular carcinoma. The cardinal features that characterize NAFLD are insulin resistance, lipogenesis, oxidative stress and inflammation, extracellular matrix deposition and fibrosis. Due to its complex pathogenesis, existing pharmaceutical agents fail to take a curative or ameliorative effect on NAFLD. Consequently, it is imperative to identify novel therapeutic targets and strategies for NAFLD, ideally to improve the aforementioned key features in patients. As an enterohepatic regulator of bile acid homeostasis, lipid metabolism, and inflammation, FarnesoidX receptor (FXR) is an important pharmacological target for the treatment of NAFLD. Manipulating FXR to regulate lipid metabolic signaling pathways is a potential mechanism to mitigate NAFLD. Therefore, elucidating the modulatory character of FXR in regulating lipid metabolism in NAFLD has the potential to yield groundbreaking perspectives for drug design. This review details recent advances in the regulation of lipid depletion in hepatocytes and investigates the pivotal function of FXR in the progress of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiachan Long
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yuanhang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xuerong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Bingxing Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Caiyan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
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2
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Lee B, Lee SM, Song JW, Choi JW. Gut Microbiota Metabolite Messengers in Brain Function and Pathology at a View of Cell Type-Based Receptor and Enzyme Reaction. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2024; 32:403-423. [PMID: 38898687 PMCID: PMC11214962 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2024.009] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The human gastrointestinal (GI) tract houses a diverse microbial community, known as the gut microbiome comprising bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining the body's equilibrium and has recently been discovered to influence the functioning of the central nervous system (CNS). The communication between the nervous system and the GI tract occurs through a two-way network called the gut-brain axis. The nervous system and the GI tract can modulate each other through activated neuronal cells, the immune system, and metabolites produced by the gut microbiome. Extensive research both in preclinical and clinical realms, has highlighted the complex relationship between the gut and diseases associated with the CNS, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. This review aims to delineate receptor and target enzymes linked with gut microbiota metabolites and explore their specific roles within the brain, particularly their impact on CNS-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bada Lee
- Department of Biomedicinal and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Min Lee
- Department of Biomedicinal and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Won Song
- Department of Regulatory Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Woo Choi
- Department of Biomedicinal and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Department of Regulatory Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
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Zhang L, Feng F, Wang X, Liang H, Yao X, Liu D. Dose Prediction and Pharmacokinetic Simulation of XZP-5610, a Small Molecule for NASH Therapy, Using Allometric Scaling and Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Models. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:369. [PMID: 38543155 PMCID: PMC10975475 DOI: 10.3390/ph17030369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to support dose selection of a novel FXR agonist XZP-5610 in first-in-human (FIH) trials and to predict its liver concentrations in Chinese healthy adults. Key parameters for extrapolation were measured using in vitro and in vivo models. Allometric scaling methods were employed to predict human pharmacokinetics (PK) parameters and doses for FIH clinical trials. To simulate the PK profiles, a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model was developed using animal data and subsequently validated with clinical data. The PBPK model was employed to simulate XZP-5610 concentrations in the human liver across different dose groups. XZP-5610 exhibited high permeability, poor solubility, and extensive binding to plasma proteins. After a single intravenous or oral administration of XZP-5610, the PK parameters obtained from rats and beagle dogs were used to extrapolate human parameters, resulting in a clearance of 138 mL/min and an apparent volume of distribution of 41.8 L. The predicted maximum recommended starting dose (MRSD), minimal anticipated biological effect level (MABEL), and maximum tolerated dose (MTD) were 0.15, 2, and 3 mg, respectively. The PK profiles and parameters of XZP-5610, predicted using the PBPK model, demonstrated good consistency with the clinical data. By using allometric scaling and PBPK models, the doses, PK profile, and especially the liver concentrations were successfully predicted in the FIH study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Department of Cardiology and Institute of Vascular Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China;
- Drug Clinical Trial Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; (F.F.); (X.W.); (H.L.)
- Center of Clinical Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Feifei Feng
- Drug Clinical Trial Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; (F.F.); (X.W.); (H.L.)
- Center of Clinical Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xiaohan Wang
- Drug Clinical Trial Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; (F.F.); (X.W.); (H.L.)
| | - Hao Liang
- Drug Clinical Trial Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; (F.F.); (X.W.); (H.L.)
- Center of Clinical Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xueting Yao
- Drug Clinical Trial Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; (F.F.); (X.W.); (H.L.)
- Center of Clinical Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Dongyang Liu
- Drug Clinical Trial Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; (F.F.); (X.W.); (H.L.)
- Center of Clinical Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
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Wang K, Zhang Y, Wang G, Hao H, Wang H. FXR agonists for MASH therapy: Lessons and perspectives from obeticholic acid. Med Res Rev 2024; 44:568-586. [PMID: 37899676 DOI: 10.1002/med.21991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, also called metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, is the most common liver disease worldwide and has no approved pharmacotherapy. Due to its beneficial effects on metabolic regulation, inflammation suppression, cell death prevention, and fibrogenesis inhibition, farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is widely accepted as a promising therapeutic target for nonalcoholic steatosis (NASH) or called metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). Many FXR agonists have been developed for NASH/MASH therapy. Obeticholic acid (OCA) is the pioneering frontrunner FXR agonist and the first demonstrating success in clinical trials. Unfortunately, OCA did not receive regulatory approval as a NASH pharmacotherapy because its moderate benefits did not outweigh its safety risks, which may cast a shadow over FXR-based drug development for NASH/MASH. This review summarizes the milestones in the development of OCA for NASH/MASH and discuss its limitations, including moderate hepatoprotection and the undesirable side effects of dyslipidemia, pruritus, cholelithiasis, and liver toxicity risk, in depth. More importantly, we provide perspectives on FXR-based therapy for NASH/MASH, hoping to support a successful bench-to-clinic transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuecan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guangji Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Haiping Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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Gao C, Hu ZH, Cui ZY, Jiang YC, Dou JY, Li ZX, Lian LH, Nan JX, Wu YL. Angelica dahurica extract and its effective component bergapten alleviated hepatic fibrosis by activating FXR signaling pathway. J Nat Med 2024; 78:427-438. [PMID: 38334900 DOI: 10.1007/s11418-024-01780-8] [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: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Angelica dahurica (A. dahurica) has a wide range of pharmacological effects, including analgesic, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects. In this study, we investigated the effect of A. dahurica extract (AD) and its effective component bergapten (BG) on hepatic fibrosis and potential mechanisms. Hepatic fibrosis was induced by intraperitoneal injection with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) for 1 week, and mice were administrated with AD or BG by gavage for 1 week before CCl4 injection. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were stimulated by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and cultured with AD, BG, GW4064 (FXR agonist) or Guggulsterone (FXR inhibitor). In CCl4-induced mice, AD significantly decreased serum aminotransferase, reduced excess accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM), inhibited caspase-1 and IL-1β, and increased FXR expressions. In activated HSCs, AD suppressed the expressions of α-SMA, collagen I, and TIMP-1/MMP-13 ratio and inflammatory factors, functioning as FXR agonist. In CCl4-induced mice, BG significantly improved serum transaminase and histopathological changes, reduced ECM excessive deposition, inflammatory response, and activated FXR expression. BG increased FXR expression and inhibited α-SMA and IL-1β expressions in activated HSCs, functioning as GW4064. FXR deficiency significantly attenuated the decreasing effect of BG on α-SMA and IL-1β expressions in LX-2 cells. In conclusion, AD could regulate hepatic fibrosis by regulating ECM excessive deposition and inflammation. Activating FXR signaling by BG might be the potential mechanism of AD against hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Gao
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Zhong-He Hu
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Zhen-Yu Cui
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yu-Chen Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Jia-Yi Dou
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Zhao-Xu Li
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Li-Hua Lian
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Ji-Xing Nan
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China.
| | - Yan-Ling Wu
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China.
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Yang F, Hu Y, Shi Z, Liu M, Hu K, Ye G, Pang Q, Hou R, Tang K, Zhu Y. The occurrence and development mechanisms of esophageal stricture: state of the art review. J Transl Med 2024; 22:123. [PMID: 38297325 PMCID: PMC10832115 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-04932-2] [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: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Esophageal strictures significantly impair patient quality of life and present a therapeutic challenge, particularly due to the high recurrence post-ESD/EMR. Current treatments manage symptoms rather than addressing the disease's etiology. This review concentrates on the mechanisms of esophageal stricture formation and recurrence, seeking to highlight areas for potential therapeutic intervention. METHODS A literature search was conducted through PUBMED using search terms: esophageal stricture, mucosal resection, submucosal dissection. Relevant articles were identified through manual review with reference lists reviewed for additional articles. RESULTS Preclinical studies and data from animal studies suggest that the mechanisms that may lead to esophageal stricture include overdifferentiation of fibroblasts, inflammatory response that is not healed in time, impaired epithelial barrier function, and multimethod factors leading to it. Dysfunction of the epithelial barrier may be the initiating mechanism for esophageal stricture. Achieving perfect in-epithelialization by tissue-engineered fabrication of cell patches has been shown to be effective in the treatment and prevention of esophageal strictures. CONCLUSION The development of esophageal stricture involves three stages: structural damage to the esophageal epithelial barrier (EEB), chronic inflammation, and severe fibrosis, in which dysfunction or damage to the EEB is the initiating mechanism leading to esophageal stricture. Re-epithelialization is essential for the treatment and prevention of esophageal stricture. This information will help clinicians or scientists to develop effective techniques to treat esophageal stricture in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Yang
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiwei Hu
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, People's Republic of China
| | - Zewen Shi
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, People's Republic of China
- Ningbo No.2 Hospital, Ningbo, 315001, People's Republic of China
| | - Mujie Liu
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, People's Republic of China
| | - Kefeng Hu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315000, People's Republic of China
| | - Guoliang Ye
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315000, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Pang
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruixia Hou
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, People's Republic of China
| | - Keqi Tang
- Institute of Mass Spectrometry, School of Material Science and Chemical Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yabin Zhu
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, People's Republic of China.
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Chen C, Zhang B, Tu J, Peng Y, Zhou Y, Yang X, Yu Q, Tan X. Discovery of 4-aminophenylacetamide derivatives as intestine-specific farnesoid X receptor antagonists for the potential treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 264:115992. [PMID: 38043493 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115992] [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: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) plays a key role in bile acid homeostasis, inflammation, fibrosis, lipid and glucose metabolism and is emerging as a promising therapeutic target for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Emerging evidence suggested that intestine-specific FXR antagonists exhibited remarkable metabolic improvements and slowed NASH progression. In this study, we discovered several potent FXR antagonists using a multistage ligand- and structure-based virtual screening approach. Notably, compound V023-9340, which possesses a 4-aminophenylacetamide scaffold, emerged as the most potent FXR antagonist with an IC50 value of 4.27 μM. In vivo, V023-9340 demonstrated selective accumulation in the intestine, substantially ameliorating high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NASH in mice by mitigating hepatic steatosis and inflammation. Mechanistic studies revealed that V023-9340 strongly inhibited intestinal FXR while concurrently feedback-activated hepatic FXR. Further structure-activity relationship optimization employing V023-9340 has resulted in the synthesis of a more efficacious compound V02-8 with an IC50 value of 0.89 μM, which exhibited a 4.8-fold increase in FXR antagonistic activity compared to V023-9340. In summary, 4-aminophenylacetamide derivative V023-9340 represented a novel intestine-specific FXR antagonist and showed improved effects against HFD-induced NASH in mice, which may serve as a promising lead in discovering potential therapeutic drugs for NASH treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Chen
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery and Optimization, College of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541199, China
| | - Bing Zhang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery and Optimization, College of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541199, China
| | - Jiaojiao Tu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery and Optimization, College of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541199, China
| | - Yanfen Peng
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery and Optimization, College of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541199, China
| | - Yihuan Zhou
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery and Optimization, College of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541199, China
| | - Xinping Yang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery and Optimization, College of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541199, China
| | - Qiming Yu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure Omics and Life Cycle Health, College of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541199, China.
| | - Xiangduan Tan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery and Optimization, College of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541199, China.
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Zhang L, Shi J, Shen Q, Fu Y, Qi S, Wu J, Chen J, Zhang H, Mu Y, Chen G, Liu P, Liu W. Astragalus saponins protect against extrahepatic and intrahepatic cholestatic liver fibrosis models by activation of farnesoid X receptor. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 318:116833. [PMID: 37400008 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Cholestatic Liver Fibrosis (CLF) is a hepatobiliary disease that typically arises as a late-stage complication of cholestasis, which can have multiple underlying causes. There are no satisfactory chemical or biological drugs for CLF. Total Astragalus saponins (TAS) are considered to be the main active constituents of the traditional Chinese herb Astragali Radix (AR), which has the obvious improvement effects for treating CLF. However, the mechanism of anti-CLF effects of TAS is still unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY The present study was undertaken to investigate the therapeutic effects of TAS against bile duct ligation (BDL) and 3, 5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydroxychollidine (DDC) -induced CLF models and to reveal the potential mechanism to support its clinic use with scientific evidence. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, BDL-induced CLF rats were treated with TAS (20 mg/kg, 40 mg/kg) and DDC-induced CLF mice were treated with 56 mg/kg TAS. The therapeutic effects of TAS on extrahepatic and intrahepatic CLF models were evaluated by serum biochemical analysis, liver histopathology and hydroxyproline (Hyp). Thirty-nine individual bile acids (BAs) in serum and liver were quantified by using UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap HRMS. qRT-PCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry analysis were used to measure the expression of liver fibrosis and ductular reaction markers, inflammatory factors and BAs related metabolic transporters, along with nuclear receptor farnesoid X receptor (FXR). RESULTS The serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin (TBiL), direct bilirubin (DBiL) and contents of liver Hyp were dose-dependently improved after treatment for TAS in BDL and DDC- induced CLF models. And the increased levels of ALT and AST were significantly improved by total extract from Astragali radix (ASE) in BDL model. The liver fibrosis and ductular reaction markers, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and cytokeratin 19 (CK19), were significantly ameliorated in TAS group. And the liver expression of inflammatory factors: interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin 1β (IL-1β) were significantly decreased after TAS treatment. In addition, TAS significantly ameliorated taurine-conjugated BAs (tau-BAs) levels, particularly α-TMCA, β-TMCA and TCA contents in serum and liver, which correlated with induced expressions of hepatic FXR and BAs secretion transporters. Furthermore, TAS significantly improved short heterodimer partner (SHP), cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase (Cyp7a1), Na+ taurocholate cotransport peptide (NTCP) and bile-salt export pump (BSEP) mRNA and protein expression. CONCLUSIONS TAS exerted a hepatoprotective effect against CLF by ameliorating liver injury, inflammation and restoring the altered tau-BAs metabolism to produce a positive regulatory effect on FXR-related receptors and transporters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linzhang Zhang
- Basic Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription and Syndrome, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China; Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; Department of Pharmacy, The SATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jiewen Shi
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Qin Shen
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yadong Fu
- Basic Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription and Syndrome, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China; Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Shenglan Qi
- Basic Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription and Syndrome, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China; Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; Department of Pharmacy, The SATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jianjun Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Jiamei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yongping Mu
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Gaofeng Chen
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Ping Liu
- Basic Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription and Syndrome, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China; Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; Department of Pharmacy, The SATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Wei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; Department of Pharmacy, The SATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
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Nenkov M, Shi Y, Ma Y, Gaßler N, Chen Y. Targeting Farnesoid X Receptor in Tumor and the Tumor Microenvironment: Implication for Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:6. [PMID: 38203175 PMCID: PMC10778939 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010006] [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: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The farnesoid-X receptor (FXR), a member of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily, can be activated by bile acids (BAs). BAs binding to FXR activates BA signaling which is important for maintaining BA homeostasis. FXR is differentially expressed in human organs and exists in immune cells. The dysregulation of FXR is associated with a wide range of diseases including metabolic disorders, inflammatory diseases, immune disorders, and malignant neoplasm. Recent studies have demonstrated that FXR influences tumor cell progression and development through regulating oncogenic and tumor-suppressive pathways, and, moreover, it affects the tumor microenvironment (TME) by modulating TME components. These characteristics provide a new perspective on the FXR-targeted therapeutic strategy in cancer. In this review, we have summarized the recent research data on the functions of FXR in solid tumors and its influence on the TME, and discussed the mechanisms underlying the distinct function of FXR in various types of tumors. Additionally, the impacts on the TME by other BA receptors such as takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5 (TGR5), sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 2 (S1PR2), and muscarinic receptors (CHRM2 and CHRM3), have been depicted. Finally, the effects of FXR agonists/antagonists in a combination therapy with PD1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitors and other anti-cancer drugs have been addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miljana Nenkov
- Section Pathology of the Institute of Forensic Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747 Jena, Germany; (M.N.); (Y.M.); (N.G.)
| | - Yihui Shi
- California Pacific Medical Center Research Institute, Sutter Bay Hospitals, San Francisco, CA 94107, USA;
| | - Yunxia Ma
- Section Pathology of the Institute of Forensic Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747 Jena, Germany; (M.N.); (Y.M.); (N.G.)
| | - Nikolaus Gaßler
- Section Pathology of the Institute of Forensic Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747 Jena, Germany; (M.N.); (Y.M.); (N.G.)
| | - Yuan Chen
- Section Pathology of the Institute of Forensic Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747 Jena, Germany; (M.N.); (Y.M.); (N.G.)
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10
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Adorini L, Trauner M. FXR agonists in NASH treatment. J Hepatol 2023; 79:1317-1331. [PMID: 37562746 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
The farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a bile acid (BA)-activated nuclear receptor highly expressed in the liver and intestine, regulates the expression of genes involved in cholesterol and bile acid homeostasis, hepatic gluconeogenesis, lipogenesis, inflammation and fibrosis, in addition to controlling intestinal barrier integrity, preventing bacterial translocation and maintaining gut microbiota eubiosis. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), an advanced stage of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, is characterized by hepatic steatosis, hepatocyte damage (ballooning) and inflammation, leading to fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. NASH represents a major unmet medical need, but no pharmacological treatments have yet been approved. The pleiotropic mechanisms involved in NASH development offer a range of therapeutic opportunities and among them FXR activation has emerged as an established pharmacological target. Various FXR agonists with different physicochemical properties, which can be broadly classified as BA derivatives, non-BA-derived steroidal FXR agonists, non-steroidal FXR agonists, and partial FXR agonists, are in advanced clinical development. In this review we will summarize key preclinical and clinical features of the most advanced FXR agonists and critically evaluate their potential in NASH treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciano Adorini
- Intercept Pharmaceuticals Inc., 305 Madison Ave., Morristown, NJ 07960, USA.
| | - Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria.
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11
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Pal SC, Castillo-Castañeda SM, Díaz-Orozco LE, Ramírez-Mejía MM, Dorantes-Heredia R, Alonso-Morales R, Eslam M, Lammert F, Méndez-Sánchez N. Molecular Mechanisms Involved in MAFLD in Cholecystectomized Patients: A Cohort Study. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1935. [PMID: 37895284 PMCID: PMC10606482 DOI: 10.3390/genes14101935] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Gallstone disease and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) share numerous common risk factors and progression determinants in that they both manifest as organ-specific consequences of metabolic dysfunction. Nevertheless, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying fibrosis development in cholecystectomized MAFLD patients remain inadequately defined. This study aimed to investigate the involvement of farnesoid X receptor 1 (FXR1) and fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4) in the progression of fibrosis in cholecystectomized MAFLD patients. A meticulously characterized cohort of 12 patients diagnosed with MAFLD, who had undergone liver biopsies during programmed cholecystectomies, participated in this study. All enrolled patients underwent a follow-up regimen at 1, 3, and 6 months post-cholecystectomy, during which metabolic biochemical markers were assessed, along with elastography, which served as indirect indicators of fibrosis. Additionally, the hepatic expression levels of FGFR4 and FXR1 were quantified using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Our findings revealed a robust correlation between hepatic FGFR4 expression and various histological features, including the steatosis degree (r = 0.779, p = 0.023), ballooning degeneration (r = 0.764, p = 0.027), interphase inflammation (r = 0.756, p = 0.030), and steatosis activity score (SAS) (r = 0.779, p = 0.023). Conversely, hepatic FXR1 expression did not exhibit any significant correlations with these histological features. In conclusion, our study highlights a substantial correlation between FGFR4 expression and histological liver damage, emphasizing its potential role in lipid and glucose metabolism. These findings suggest that FGFR4 may play a crucial role in the progression of fibrosis in cholecystectomized MAFLD patients. Further research is warranted to elucidate the exact mechanisms through which FGFR4 influences metabolic dysfunction and fibrosis in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreya C. Pal
- Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Tlalpan, Mexico City 04510, Mexico; (S.C.P.); (L.E.D.-O.)
| | - Stephany M. Castillo-Castañeda
- Medical, Dental and Health Sciences Master and Doctorate Program, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Tlalpan, Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
- Liver Research Unit, Medica Sur Clinic & Foundation, Tlalpan, Mexico City 14050, Mexico; (M.M.R.-M.); (R.D.-H.)
| | - Luis E. Díaz-Orozco
- Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Tlalpan, Mexico City 04510, Mexico; (S.C.P.); (L.E.D.-O.)
| | - Mariana M. Ramírez-Mejía
- Liver Research Unit, Medica Sur Clinic & Foundation, Tlalpan, Mexico City 14050, Mexico; (M.M.R.-M.); (R.D.-H.)
- Plan of Combined Studies in Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Tlalpan, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
| | - Rita Dorantes-Heredia
- Liver Research Unit, Medica Sur Clinic & Foundation, Tlalpan, Mexico City 14050, Mexico; (M.M.R.-M.); (R.D.-H.)
| | - Rogelio Alonso-Morales
- Genetic and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Tlalpan, Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | - Mohammed Eslam
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia;
| | - Frank Lammert
- Health Sciences, Hannover Medical School (MHH), 30625 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Nahum Méndez-Sánchez
- Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Tlalpan, Mexico City 04510, Mexico; (S.C.P.); (L.E.D.-O.)
- Liver Research Unit, Medica Sur Clinic & Foundation, Tlalpan, Mexico City 14050, Mexico; (M.M.R.-M.); (R.D.-H.)
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12
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Qiu Y, Kang N, Wang X, Yao Y, Cui J, Zhang X, Zheng L. Loss of Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) accelerates dysregulated glucose and renal injury in db/db mice. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16155. [PMID: 37790634 PMCID: PMC10544308 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background End-stage renal disease is primarily caused by diabetic kidney disease (DKD). The Farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily, has anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering and hypoglycemic properties. It also inhibits renal fibrosis. Although its physiological role is not fully understood, it also plays a role in the control of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Methods In the present study, we examined male FXR & leptin receptor double knockout mice, in which weight, blood glucose, body fat, and other indicators were monitored. After 6 months of rearing, blood and urine samples were collected and biochemical parameters were measured. Fibrosis was assessed by Masson's stain, while the assessment of the resuscitation case's condition was performed using succinate dehydrogenase (SDHA) stain immunohistochemistry, which measures aerobic respiration. Expression of molecules such as connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), SMAD family members 3 (Smad3) and 7 (Smad7), and small heterodimer partner were detected by RT-PCR and Western blotting as part of the application. Results FXR knockout decreased body weight and body fat in db/db mice, but increased blood glucose, urine output, and renal fibrosis. Primary mesangial cells (P-MCs) from FXR+/ + mice stimulated with transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) showed significantly higher levels of related fibrosis factors, TGFβ1 and Smad3 mRNA and protein, and significantly reduced levels of Smad7. These effects were reversed by the action of FXR agonist chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA). P-MCs from FXR-/ - mice stimulated with TGFβ1 resulted in an increase in the expression and protein levels of collagen I and TGFβ1, and the addition of CDCA had no significant effect on TGFβ1 stimulation. However, compared with FXR+/ +db/db mice, the rate of oxygen consumption, the rate of carbon dioxide production, and the rate of energy conversion were increased in FXR-/ -db/db mice, whereas the SDHA succinate dehydrogenase, a marker enzyme for aerobic respiration, was significantly decreased. Conclusions These results provide evidence that FXR plays a critical role in the regulation of mesangial cells in DN. The likely mechanism is that aberrant FXR expression activates TGFβ1, which induces extracellular matrix accumulation through the classical Smad signaling pathway, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxiang Qiu
- Department of Nephropathy, Nantong Third People’s Hospital, Nantong, China
- Department of Nephropathy, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Ningsu Kang
- Department of Nephropathy, Nantong Third People’s Hospital, Nantong, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Nephropathy, Nantong Third People’s Hospital, Nantong, China
| | - Yao Yao
- Department of Nephropathy, Affiliated Hospitaland Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jun Cui
- Department of Nephropathy, Nantong Third People’s Hospital, Nantong, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- Health Science Center, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Zheng
- Department of Nephropathy, Nantong Third People’s Hospital, Nantong, China
- Department of Nephropathy, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong, China
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13
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Zhang D, Liu X, Qi Y, Lin Y, Zhao K, Jin Y, Luo J, Xu L, Yu D, Li C. Binding, activity and risk assessment of bisphenols toward farnesoid X receptor pathway: In vitro and in silico study. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 869:161701. [PMID: 36709907 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenols have been identified as emerging environmental pollutants of high concern with potential adverse effects through interactions with receptor-mediated pathways. However, their potential mechanism of action and health risks through the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) pathway remain poorly understood. In the present study, we aimed to explore the potential disruption mechanism of bisphenols through the FXR signalling pathway. Receptor binding assays showed that bisphenols bound to FXR directly, with tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA; 34-fold), tetrachlorobisphenol A (TCBPA; 8.7-fold), bisphenol AF (BPAF; 2.0-fold), and bisphenol B (BPB; 1.9-fold) showing a significantly stronger binding potency than bisphenol A (BPA). In receptor transcriptional activity assays, bisphenols showed agonistic activity toward FXR, with BPAF, BPB, and bisphenol F (BPF) exhibiting higher activity than BPA, but TBBPA and TCBPA showing significantly weaker activity than BPA. Molecular docking results indicated that the number of hydrogen bonds dictated their binding strength. Intracellular concentrations of bisphenols were quantified using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) in receptor activity assays, and it was found that the intracellular concentrations of TBBPA and TCBPA were 40-fold lower than those of BPA. Using the bioactivity concentrations in the FXR receptor activity assay, the liver concentrations of bisphenols were estimated using physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models through their serum concentrations, and the hazard quotient (HQ) values were calculated. The results suggest a potentially high concern for the risk of activating the FXR pathway for some populations with high exposure. Overall, these results indicate that bisphenols can bind to and activate FXR receptors, and that the activation mechanism is dependent on cellular uptake and binding strength. This study provides important information regarding the exposure risk of bisphenols, which can promote the development of environmentally friendly bisphenols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghui Zhang
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xinya Liu
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Yuan Qi
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Yongfeng Lin
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Kunming Zhao
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Yuan Jin
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Jiao Luo
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Lin Xu
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Dianke Yu
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Chuanhai Li
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, China.
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14
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Zhuge A, Li S, Yuan Y, Han S, Xia J, Wang Q, Wang S, Lou P, Li B, Li L. Microbiota-induced lipid peroxidation impairs obeticholic acid-mediated antifibrotic effect towards nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in mice. Redox Biol 2022; 59:102582. [PMID: 36584600 PMCID: PMC9830314 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2022.102582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Obeticholic acid (OCA) has been examined to treat non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), but has unsatisfactory antifibrotic effect and deficient responsive rate in recent phase III clinical trial. Using a prolonged western diet-feeding murine NASH model, we show that OCA-shaped gut microbiota induces lipid peroxidation and impairs its anti-fibrotic effect. Mechanically, Bacteroides enriched by OCA deconjugates tauro-conjugated bile acids to generate excessive chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA), resulting in liver ROS accumulation. We further elucidate that OCA reduces triglycerides containing polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA-TGs) levels, whereas elevates free PUFAs and phosphatidylethanolamines containing PUFA (PUFA-PEs), which are susceptible to be oxidized to lipid peroxides (notably arachidonic acid (ARA)-derived 12-HHTrE), inducing hepatocyte ferroptosis and activating hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Inhibiting lipid peroxidation with pentoxifylline (PTX) rescues anti-fibrotic effect of OCA, suggesting combination of OCA and lipid peroxidation inhibitor could be a potential antifibrotic pharmacological approach in clinical NASH-fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aoxiang Zhuge
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Shengjie Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Shengyi Han
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Jiafeng Xia
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qiangqiang Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Shuting Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Pengcheng Lou
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Bo Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Research Units of Infectious Disease and Microecology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Lanjuan Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Research Units of Infectious Disease and Microecology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China; Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, 250000, China.
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15
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Hu J, Zheng Y, Ying H, Ma H, Li L, Zhao Y. Alanyl-Glutamine Protects Mice against Methionine- and Choline-Deficient-Diet-Induced Steatohepatitis and Fibrosis by Modulating Oxidative Stress and Inflammation. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14183796. [PMID: 36145172 PMCID: PMC9503574 DOI: 10.3390/nu14183796] [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: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a common chronic liver disease with increasing prevalence rates over years and is associated with hepatic lipid accumulation, liver injury, oxidative stress, hepatic inflammation, and liver fibrosis and lack of approved pharmacological therapy. Alanyl-glutamine (Ala-Gln) is a recognized gut-trophic nutrient that has multiple pharmacological effects in the prevention of inflammation- and oxidative-stress-associated diseases. Nevertheless, whether Ala-Gln has a protective effect on NASH still lacks evidence. The aim of this study is to explore the influence of Ala-Gln on NASH and its underlying mechanisms. Here, C57BL/6 mice were fed a methionine- and choline-deficient (MCD) diet to establish the model of NASH, and Ala-Gln at doses of 500 and 1500 mg/kg were intraperitoneally administered to mice along with a MCD diet. The results showed that Ala-Gln treatment significantly attenuated MCD-induced hepatic pathological changes, lowered NAFLD activity score, and reduced plasma alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels. Ala-Gln dramatically alleviated lipid accumulation in liver through modulating the expression levels of fatty acid translocase (FAT/CD36) and farnesoid X receptor (FXR). In addition, Ala-Gln exerted an anti-oxidant effect by elevating the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX). Moreover, Ala-Gln exhibited an anti-inflammatory effect via decreasing the accumulation of activated macrophages and suppressing the production of proinflammatory mediators. Notably, Ala-Gln suppressed the development of liver fibrosis in MCD-diet-fed mice, which may be due to the inhibition of hepatic stellate cells activation. In conclusion, these findings revealed that Ala-Gln prevents the progression of NASH through the modulation of oxidative stress and inflammation and provided the proof that Ala-Gln might be an effective pharmacological agent to treat NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaji Hu
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
- Ningbo Institute of Marine Medicine, Peking University, Ningbo 315010, China
| | - Yigang Zheng
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Hanglu Ying
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Huabin Ma
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Long Li
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Correspondence:
| | - Yufen Zhao
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
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16
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Zhou S, You H, Qiu S, Yu D, Bai Y, He J, Cao H, Che Q, Guo J, Su Z. A new perspective on NAFLD: Focusing on the crosstalk between peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) and farnesoid X receptor (FXR). Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 154:113577. [PMID: 35988420 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is primarily caused by abnormal lipid metabolism and the accumulation of triglycerides in the liver. NAFLD is also associated with hepatic steatosis and nutritional and energy imbalances and is a chronic liver disease associated with a number of factors. Nuclear receptors play a key role in balancing energy and nutrient metabolism, and the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) and farnesoid X receptor (FXR) regulate lipid metabolism genes, controlling hepatocyte lipid utilization and regulating bile acid (BA) synthesis and transport. They play an important role in lipid metabolism and BA homeostasis. At present, PPARα and FXR are the most promising targets for the treatment of NAFLD among nuclear receptors. This review focuses on the crosstalk mechanisms and transcriptional regulation of PPARα and FXR in the pathogenesis of NAFLD and summarizes PPARα and FXR drugs in clinical trials, laying a theoretical foundation for the targeted treatment of NAFLD and the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shipeng Zhou
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center of Natural Products and New Drugs, Guangdong Provincial University Engineering Technology Research Center of Natural Products and Drugs, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; Guangdong Metabolic Disease Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, Guangdong TCM Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Huimin You
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center of Natural Products and New Drugs, Guangdong Provincial University Engineering Technology Research Center of Natural Products and Drugs, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; Guangdong Metabolic Disease Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, Guangdong TCM Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Shuting Qiu
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center of Natural Products and New Drugs, Guangdong Provincial University Engineering Technology Research Center of Natural Products and Drugs, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; Guangdong Metabolic Disease Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, Guangdong TCM Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Dawei Yu
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center of Natural Products and New Drugs, Guangdong Provincial University Engineering Technology Research Center of Natural Products and Drugs, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; Guangdong Metabolic Disease Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, Guangdong TCM Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yan Bai
- School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510310, China
| | - Jincan He
- School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510310, China
| | - Hua Cao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Zhongshan 528458, China
| | - Qishi Che
- Guangzhou Rainhome Pharm & Tech Co., Ltd, Science City, Guangzhou 510663, China
| | - Jiao Guo
- Guangdong Metabolic Disease Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, Guangdong TCM Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Zhengquan Su
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center of Natural Products and New Drugs, Guangdong Provincial University Engineering Technology Research Center of Natural Products and Drugs, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; Guangdong Metabolic Disease Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, Guangdong TCM Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
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17
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Zhou L, Shen H, Li X, Wang H. Endoplasmic reticulum stress in innate immune cells - a significant contribution to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Front Immunol 2022; 13:951406. [PMID: 35958574 PMCID: PMC9361020 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.951406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver disease and its complications affect millions of people worldwide. NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) is the liver disease associated with metabolic dysfunction and consists of four stages: steatosis with or without mild inflammation (NAFLD), non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis, and cirrhosis. With increased necroinflammation and progression of liver fibrosis, NAFLD may progress to cirrhosis or even hepatocellular carcinoma. Although the underlying mechanisms have not been clearly elucidated in detail, what is clear is that complex immune responses are involved in the pathogenesis of NASH, activation of the innate immune system is critically involved in triggering and amplifying hepatic inflammation and fibrosis in NAFLD/NASH. Additionally, disruption of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis in cells, also known as ER stress, triggers the unfolded protein response (UPR) which has been shown to be involved to inflammation and apoptosis. To further develop the prevention and treatment of NAFLD/NASH, it is imperative to clarify the relationship between NAFLD/NASH and innate immune cells and ER stress. As such, this review focuses on innate immune cells and their ER stress in the occurrence of NAFLD and the progression of cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangliang Zhou
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Haiyuan Shen
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaofeng Li
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Hua Wang,
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Mori H, Svegliati Baroni G, Marzioni M, Di Nicola F, Santori P, Maroni L, Abenavoli L, Scarpellini E. Farnesoid X Receptor, Bile Acid Metabolism, and Gut Microbiota. Metabolites 2022; 12:647. [PMID: 35888771 PMCID: PMC9320384 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12070647] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity, type 2 diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are characterized by the concepts of lipo- and glucotoxicity. NAFLD is characterized by the accumulation of different lipidic species within the hepatocytes. Bile acids (BA), derived from cholesterol, and conjugated and stored in the gallbladder, help the absorption/processing of lipids, and modulate host inflammatory responses and gut microbiota (GM) composition. The latter is the new "actor" that links the GI tract and liver in NAFLD pathogenesis. In fact, the discovery and mechanistic characterization of hepatic and intestinal farnesoid X receptor (FXR) shed new light on the gut-liver axis. We conducted a search on the main medical databases for original articles, reviews, meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials, and case series using the following keywords, their acronyms, and their associations: farnesoid X receptor, bile acids metabolism, gut microbiota, dysbiosis, and liver steatosis. Findings on the synthesis, metabolism, and conjugation processes of BAs, and their action on FXR, change the understanding of NAFLD physiopathology. In detail, BAs act as ligands to several FXRs with GM modulation. On the other hand, the BAs pool is modulated by GM, thus, regulating FXRs functioning in the frame of liver fat deposition and fibrosis development. In conclusion, BAs passed from their role of simple lipid absorption and metabolism agents to messengers between the gut and liver, modulated by GM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideki Mori
- T.A.R.G.I.D., Gasthuisberg University Hospital, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
| | | | - Marco Marzioni
- Gastroenterology Clinic; Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60121 Ancona, Italy; (M.M.); (L.M.)
| | - Francesca Di Nicola
- Hepatology Outpatient Clinic and Internal Medicine Unit, “Madonna del Soccorso” General Hospital, 63074 San Benedetto del Tronto, Italy; (F.D.N.); (P.S.)
| | - Pierangelo Santori
- Hepatology Outpatient Clinic and Internal Medicine Unit, “Madonna del Soccorso” General Hospital, 63074 San Benedetto del Tronto, Italy; (F.D.N.); (P.S.)
| | - Luca Maroni
- Gastroenterology Clinic; Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60121 Ancona, Italy; (M.M.); (L.M.)
| | - Ludovico Abenavoli
- Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Græcia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Emidio Scarpellini
- T.A.R.G.I.D., Gasthuisberg University Hospital, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- Hepatology Outpatient Clinic and Internal Medicine Unit, “Madonna del Soccorso” General Hospital, 63074 San Benedetto del Tronto, Italy; (F.D.N.); (P.S.)
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19
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Xu HE, Guo JS. All about NASH: disease biology, targets, and opportunities on the road to NASH drugs. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2022; 43:1101-1102. [PMID: 35379932 PMCID: PMC9061727 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-022-00900-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- H Eric Xu
- Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Jin-Song Guo
- DrugTimes Team, BioSeed (Shanghai) Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 201203, China.
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20
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Fligor SC, Hirsch TI, Tsikis ST, Adeola A, Puder M. Current and emerging adjuvant therapies in biliary atresia. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:1007813. [PMID: 36313875 PMCID: PMC9614654 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.1007813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Following Kasai hepatic portoenterostomy (HPE), most patients with biliary atresia will eventually require liver transplantation due to progressive cirrhosis and liver failure. Preventing liver transplantation, or even delaying eventual liver transplantation, is the key to improving long-term outcomes. This review first examines the commonly used adjuvant therapies in post-HPE biliary atresia and the strength of the evidence supporting these therapies. Next, it examines the evolving frontiers of management through a comprehensive evaluation of both recently completed and ongoing clinical trials in biliary atresia. Promising therapies used in other cholestatic liver diseases with potential benefit in biliary atresia are discussed. Improving post-HPE management is critical to prevent complications, delay liver transplantation, and ultimately improve the long-term survival of patients with biliary atresia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott C Fligor
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Thomas I Hirsch
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Savas T Tsikis
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Andrew Adeola
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Mark Puder
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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