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Haaker MW, Goossens V, Hoogland NAN, van Doorne H, Wang Z, Jansen JWA, Kaloyanova DV, van de Lest CHA, Houweling M, Vaandrager AB, Helms JB. Early activation of hepatic stellate cells induces rapid initiation of retinyl ester breakdown while maintaining lecithin:retinol acyltransferase (LRAT) activity. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2024; 1869:159540. [PMID: 39068984 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2024.159540] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Lecithin:retinol acyltransferase (LRAT) is the main enzyme producing retinyl esters (REs) in quiescent hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). When cultured on stiff plastic culture plates, quiescent HSCs activate and lose their RE stores in a process similar to that in the liver following tissue damage, leading to fibrosis. Here we validated HSC cultures in soft gels to study RE metabolism in stable quiescent HSCs and investigated RE synthesis and breakdown in activating HSCs. HSCs cultured in a soft gel maintained characteristics of quiescent HSCs, including the size, amount and composition of their characteristic large lipid droplets. Quiescent gel-cultured HSCs maintained high expression levels of Lrat and a RE storing phenotype with low levels of RE breakdown. Newly formed REs are highly enriched in retinyl palmitate (RP), similar to freshly isolated quiescent HSCs, which is associated with high LRAT activity. Comparison of these quiescent gel-cultured HSCs with activated plastic-cultured HSCs showed that although during early activation the total RE levels and RP-enrichment are reduced, levels of RE formation are maintained and mediated by LRAT. Loss of REs was caused by enhanced RE breakdown in activating HSCs. Upon prolonged culturing, activated HSCs have lost their LRAT activity and produce small amounts of REs by DGAT1. This study reveals unexpected dynamics in RE metabolism during early HSC activation, which might be important in liver disease as early stages are reversible. Soft gel cultures provide a promising model to study RE metabolism in quiescent HSCs, allowing detailed molecular investigations on the mechanisms for storage and release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya W Haaker
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Cell Biology, Metabolism & Cancer, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Vera Goossens
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Cell Biology, Metabolism & Cancer, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Nina A N Hoogland
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Cell Biology, Metabolism & Cancer, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hidde van Doorne
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Cell Biology, Metabolism & Cancer, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Ziqiong Wang
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Cell Biology, Metabolism & Cancer, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jeroen W A Jansen
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Cell Biology, Metabolism & Cancer, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Dora V Kaloyanova
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Cell Biology, Metabolism & Cancer, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Chris H A van de Lest
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Cell Biology, Metabolism & Cancer, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Martin Houweling
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Cell Biology, Metabolism & Cancer, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - A Bas Vaandrager
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Cell Biology, Metabolism & Cancer, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - J Bernd Helms
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Cell Biology, Metabolism & Cancer, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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Huang P, Xu J, Jiang S, Zhang Y, Wang X, Xiong C, Xia C. The impact of ICOSL/ICOS pathway-regulated long non-coding RNAs on liver fibrosis in mice infected with Schistosoma japonicum. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:317. [PMID: 39044218 PMCID: PMC11267842 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06399-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The primary pathogenic mechanism of schistosomiasis-associated liver fibrosis involves the deposition of schistosome eggs, leading to the formation of liver egg granulomas and subsequent liver fibrosis. Hepatic stellate cells are abnormally activated, resulting in excessive collagen deposition and fibrosis development. While specific long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been associated with fibrotic processes, their roles in schistosomiasis-associated liver fibrosis remain unclear. METHODS Our previous research indicated that downregulating the ICOSL/ICOS could partially alleviate liver fibrosis. In this study, we established a schistosomiasis infection model in C57BL/6 and ICOSL knockout (KO) mice, and the liver pathology changes were observed at various weeks postinfection (wpi) using hematoxylin and eosin and Masson's trichrome staining. Within the first 4 wpi, no significant liver abnormalities were observed. However, mice exhibited evident egg granulomas and fibrosis in their livers at 7 wpi. Notably, ICOSL-KO mice had significantly smaller pathological variations compared with simultaneously infected C57BL/6 mice. To investigate the impact of lncRNAs on schistosomiasis-associated liver fibrosis, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to monitor the dynamic changes of lncRNAs in hepatic stellate cells of infected mice. RESULTS The results demonstrated that lncRNA-H19, -MALAT1, -PVT1, -P21 and -GAS5 all participated in liver fibrosis formation after schistosome infection. In addition, ICOSL-KO mice exhibited significantly inhibited expression of lncRNA-H19, -MALAT1 and -PVT1 after 7 wpi. In contrast, they showed enhanced expression of lncRNA-P21 and -GAS5 compared with C57BL/6 mice, influencing liver fibrosis development. Furthermore, small interfering RNA transfection (siRNA) in JS-1 cells in vitro confirmed that lncRNA-H19, -MALAT1, and -PVT1 promoted liver fibrosis, whereas lncRNA-P21 and -GAS5 had the opposite effect on key fibrotic molecules, including α- smooth muscle actin and collagen I expression. CONCLUSIONS This study uncovers that ICOSL/ICOS may play a role in activating hepatic stellate cells and promoting liver fibrosis in mice infected with Schistosoma japonicum by dynamically regulating the expression of specific lncRNAs. These findings offer potential therapeutic targets for schistosomiasis-associated liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Huang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Pathogen Bioscience and Anti-Infective Medicine, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Parasitology, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Pathogen Bioscience and Anti-Infective Medicine, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Suqin Jiang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yanan Zhang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xinyi Wang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Chunrong Xiong
- Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi City, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Chaoming Xia
- Department of Parasitology, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China.
- MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Pathogen Bioscience and Anti-Infective Medicine, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Yang T, Wang L, Ma H, Li K, Wang Y, Tang W, Wang Z, An M, Gao X, Xu L, Guo Y, Guo J, Liu Y, Wang H, Liu Y, Zhang Q. Role of Emerin in regulating fibroblast differentiation and migration at the substrate of stiffness coupled topology. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2024; 56:1387-1400. [PMID: 38978507 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2024094] [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] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
In hypertrophic scars, the differentiation and migration of fibroblasts are influenced by the extracellular matrix microenvironment, which includes factors such as stiffness, restraint, and tensile force. These mechanical stresses incite alterations in cell behavior, accompanied by cytoskeletal protein reorganization. However, the role of nucleo-skeletal proteins in this context remains underexplored. In this study, we use a polyacrylamide hydrogel (PAA) to simulate the mechanical stress experienced by cells in scar tissue and investigate the impact of Emerin on cell behavior. We utilize atomic force microscopy (AFM) and RNA interference technology to analyze cell differentiation, migration, and stiffness. Our findings reveal that rigid substrates and cellular restriction elevate Emerin expression and diminish differentiation. Conversely, reducing Emerin expression leads to attenuated cell differentiation, where stiffness and constraining factors exert no notable influence. Furthermore, a softening of cells and an enhanced migration rate are also markedly observed. These observations indicate that variations in nuclear skeletal proteins, prompted by diverse matrix microenvironments, play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of hypertrophic scars (HSs). This research offers novel insights and a reference point for understanding scar fibrosis formation mechanisms and preventing fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiantian Yang
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Li Wang
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Haiyang Ma
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Kailun Li
- Trauma Center, Trauma Orthopaedics, ZhouKou Orthopaedic Hospital, Zhoukou 466000, China
| | - Yajing Wang
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Wenjie Tang
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Zichen Wang
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Meiwen An
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Xiang Gao
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Ludan Xu
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Yunyun Guo
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Jiqiang Guo
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
- Shanxi Bethune Hospital, the Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030053, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Dermatology Department, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Taiyuan 030032, China
| | - Hugen Wang
- Orthopaedics department, the First People's Hospital of Jinzhong, Jinzhong 030600, China
| | - Yang Liu
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, the First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030012, China
| | - Quanyou Zhang
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China
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4
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Liu G, Li B, Qin S, Nice EC, Yang J, Yang L, Huang C. Redox signaling-mediated tumor extracellular matrix remodeling: pleiotropic regulatory mechanisms. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024; 47:429-445. [PMID: 37792154 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-023-00884-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The extracellular matrix (ECM), a fundamental constituent of all tissues and organs, is crucial for shaping the tumor microenvironment. Dysregulation of ECM remodeling has been closely linked to tumor initiation and progression, where specific signaling pathways, including redox signaling, play essential roles. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are risk factors for carcinogenesis whose excess can facilitate the oxidative damage of biomacromolecules, such as DNA and proteins. Emerging evidence suggests that redox effects can aid the modification, stimulation, and degradation of ECM, thus affecting ECM remodeling. These alterations in both the density and components of the ECM subsequently act as critical drivers for tumorigenesis. In this review, we provide an overview of the functions and primary traits of the ECM, and it delves into our current understanding of how redox reactions participate in ECM remodeling during cancer progression. We also discuss the opportunities and challenges presented by clinical strategies targeting redox-controlled ECM remodeling to overcome cancer. CONCLUSIONS The redox-mediated ECM remodeling contributes importantly to tumor survival, progression, metastasis, and poor prognosis. A comprehensive investigation of the concrete mechanism of redox-mediated tumor ECM remodeling and the combination usage of redox-targeted drugs with existing treatment means may reveal new therapeutic strategy for future antitumor therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guowen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and , Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Bowen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and , Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Siyuan Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and , Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Edouard C Nice
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Jinlin Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Sichuan Province, No.37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Sichuan University-Oxford University Huaxi Gastrointestinal Cancer Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Li Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Sichuan Province, No.37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Sichuan University-Oxford University Huaxi Gastrointestinal Cancer Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Canhua Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and , Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Ryoo H, Giovanni R, Kimmel H, Jain I, Underhill GH. Combinatorial Microgels for 3D ECM Screening and Heterogeneous Microenvironmental Culture of Primary Human Hepatic Stellate Cells. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2303128. [PMID: 38348560 PMCID: PMC11022709 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202303128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease affects 30% of the United States population and its progression can lead to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and increased risks for cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. NASH is characterized by a highly heterogeneous liver microenvironment created by the fibrotic activity of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). While HSCs have been widely studied in 2D, further advancements in physiologically relevant 3D culture platforms for the in vitro modeling of these heterogeneous environments are needed. In this study, the use of stiffness-variable, extracellular matrix (ECM) protein-conjugated polyethylene glycol microgels as 3D cell culture scaffolds to modulate HSC activation is demonstrated. These microgels as a high throughput ECM screening system to identify HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities in distinct heterogeneous microenvironmental conditions are further employed. The 6 kPa fibronectin microgels are shown to significantly increase HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities in single or multiple-component microenvironments. Overall, heterogeneous microenvironments consisting of multiple distinct ECM microgels promoted a decrease in HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities compared to homogeneous microenvironments. The study envisions this ECM screening platform being adapted to a broad number of cell types to aid the identification of ECM microenvironments that best recapitulate the desired phenotype, differentiation, or drug efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Ryoo
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
| | - Regina Giovanni
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
| | - Hannah Kimmel
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
| | - Ishita Jain
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
| | - Gregory H. Underhill
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
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Li J, Liu Y, Zheng R, Qu C, Li J. Molecular mechanisms of TACE refractoriness: Directions for improvement of the TACE procedure. Life Sci 2024; 342:122540. [PMID: 38428568 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122540] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Transcatheter arterial chemoembolisation (TACE) is the standard of care for intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma and selected patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. However, TACE does not achieve a satisfactory objective response rate, and the concept of TACE refractoriness has been proposed to identify patients who do not fully benefit from TACE. Moreover, repeated TACE is necessary to obtain an optimal and sustained anti-tumour response, which may damage the patient's liver function. Therefore, studies have recently been performed to improve the effectiveness of TACE. In this review, we summarise the detailed molecular mechanisms associated with TACE responsiveness and relapse after this treatment to provide more effective targets for adjuvant therapy while helping to improve TACE regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao Li
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China; The Public Laboratory Platform of the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingnan Liu
- Department of Radiology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruipeng Zheng
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Qu
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China; The Public Laboratory Platform of the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiarui Li
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China.
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Zhao Z, Han W, Huang G, He Y, Zuo X, Hong L. Increased extracellular matrix stiffness regulates myofibroblast transformation through induction of autophagy-mediated Kindlin-2 cytoplasmic translocation. Exp Cell Res 2024; 436:113974. [PMID: 38346630 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2024.113974] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) mechanical properties regulate biological processes, such as fibroblast-myofibroblast transformation (FMT), which is a crucial component in pelvic organ prolapse (POP) development. The 'Kindlin-2' protein, expressed by fibroblasts, plays an important role in the development of the mesoderm, which is responsible for connective tissue formation; however, the role of Kindlin-2 in FMT remains to be explored. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of Kindlin-2 in FMT as it relates to POP. We found that ECM stiffness induces autophagy to translocate Kindlin-2 to the cytoplasm of L929 cells, where it interacts with and degrades MOB1, thereby facilitating Yes-associated protein (YAP) entry into the nucleus and influencing FMT progression. Stiffness-induced autophagy was inhibited when using an autophagy inhibitor, which blocked the translocation of Kindlin-2 to the cytoplasm and partially reversed high-stiffness-induced FMT. In patients with POP, we observed an increase in cytoplasmic Kindlin-2 and nuclear YAP levels. Similar changes in vaginal wall-associated proteins were observed in a mouse model of acute vaginal injury. In conclusion, Kindlin-2 is a key gene affecting ECM stiffness, which regulates FMT by inducing autophagy and may influence the development of POP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihan Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Wuyue Han
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Guotao Huang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Yong He
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Xiaohu Zuo
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Li Hong
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei Province, PR China.
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8
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He J, Fang B, Shan S, Li Q. Mechanical stiffness promotes skin fibrosis through FAPα-AKT signaling pathway. J Dermatol Sci 2024; 113:51-61. [PMID: 38155020 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2023.12.004] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myofibroblasts contribute to the excessive production, remodeling and cross-linking of the extracellular matrix that characterizes the progression of skin fibrosis. An important insight into the pathogenesis of tissue fibrosis has been the discovery that increased matrix stiffness during fibrosis progression is involved in myofibroblast activation. However, mechanistic basis for this phenomenon remains elusive. OBJECTIVE To explore the role of fibroblast activation protein-α (FAPα) in mechanical stiffness-induced skin fibrosis progression. METHODS RNA-seq was performed to compare differential genes of mouse dermal fibroblasts (MDFs) grown on low or high stiffness plates. This process identified FAPα, which is a membrane protein usually overexpressed in activated fibroblasts, as a suitable candidate. In vitro assay, we investigate the role of FAPα in mechanical stiffness-induced MDFs activation and downstream pathway. By establishing mouse skin fibrosis model and intradermally administrating FAPα adeno-associated virus (AAV) or a selective Fap inhibitor FAPi, we explore the role of FAPα in skin fibrosis in vivo. RESULTS We show that FAPα, a membrane protein highly expressed in myofibroblasts of skin fibrotic tissues, is regulated by increased matrix stiffness. Genetic deletion or pharmacological inhibition of FAPα significantly inhibits mechanical stiffness-induced activation of myofibroblasts in vitro. Mechanistically, FAPα promotes myofibroblast activation by stimulating the PI3K-Akt pathway. Furthermore, we showed that administration of the inhibitor FAPi or FAPα targeted knockdown ameliorated the progression of skin fibrosis. CONCLUSION Taken together, we identify FAPα as an important driver of mechanical stiffness-induced skin fibrosis and a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of skin fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao He
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Fang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Shengzhou Shan
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Qingfeng Li
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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9
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Zhang X, Zhao Y, Li M, Wang M, Qian J, Wang Z, Wang Y, Wang F, Guo K, Gao D, Zhao Y, Chen R, Ren Z, Song H, Cui J. A synergistic regulation works in matrix stiffness-driven invadopodia formation in HCC. Cancer Lett 2024; 582:216597. [PMID: 38145655 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216597] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence has suggested that increased matrix stiffness can significantly strengthen the malignant characteristics of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. However, whether and how increased matrix stiffness regulates the formation of invadopodia in HCC cells remain largely unknown. In the study, we developed different experimental systems in vitro and in vivo to explore the effects of matrix stiffness on the formation of invadopodia and its relevant molecular mechanism. Our results demonstrated that increased matrix stiffness remarkably augmented the migration and invasion abilities of HCC cells, upregulated the expressions of invadopodia-associated genes and enhanced the number of invadopodia. Two regulatory pathways contribute to matrix stiffness-driven invadopodia formation together in HCC cells, including direct triggering invadopodia formation through activating integrin β1 or Piezo1/ FAK/Src/Arg/cortactin pathway, and indirect stimulating invadopodia formation through improving EGF production to activate EGFR/Src/Arg/cortactin pathway. Src was identified as the common hub molecule of two synergistic regulatory pathways. Simultaneously, activation of integrin β1/RhoA/ROCK1/MLC2 and Piezo1/Ca2+/MLCK/MLC2 pathways mediate matrix stiffness-reinforced cell migration. This study uncovers a new mechanism by which mechanosensory pathway and biochemical signal pathway synergistically regulate the formation of invadopodia in HCC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Zhang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Yingying Zhao
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Miao Li
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Mimi Wang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Jiali Qian
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Zhiming Wang
- Department of Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Yaohui Wang
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Fan Wang
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, PR China
| | - Kun Guo
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Dongmei Gao
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Rongxin Chen
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Zhenggang Ren
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Haiyan Song
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, PR China.
| | - Jiefeng Cui
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China.
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10
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Sleeboom JJF, van Tienderen GS, Schenke-Layland K, van der Laan LJW, Khalil AA, Verstegen MMA. The extracellular matrix as hallmark of cancer and metastasis: From biomechanics to therapeutic targets. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadg3840. [PMID: 38170791 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adg3840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is essential for cell support during homeostasis and plays a critical role in cancer. Although research often concentrates on the tumor's cellular aspect, attention is growing for the importance of the cancer-associated ECM. Biochemical and physical ECM signals affect tumor formation, invasion, metastasis, and therapy resistance. Examining the tumor microenvironment uncovers intricate ECM dysregulation and interactions with cancer and stromal cells. Anticancer therapies targeting ECM sensors and remodelers, including integrins and matrix metalloproteinases, and ECM-remodeling cells, have seen limited success. This review explores the ECM's role in cancer and discusses potential therapeutic strategies for cell-ECM interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelle J F Sleeboom
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Postbox 2040, 3000CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Biomechanical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Mekelweg 2, 2628CD Delft, Netherlands
| | - Gilles S van Tienderen
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Postbox 2040, 3000CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Katja Schenke-Layland
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department for Medical Technologies and Regenerative Medicine, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University Tübingen, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies," Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Luc J W van der Laan
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Postbox 2040, 3000CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Antoine A Khalil
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Universiteitsweg 100, 3584 CG Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Monique M A Verstegen
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Postbox 2040, 3000CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
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11
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Min Q, Gao Y, Wang Y. Bioelectricity in dental medicine: a narrative review. Biomed Eng Online 2024; 23:3. [PMID: 38172866 PMCID: PMC10765628 DOI: 10.1186/s12938-023-01189-6] [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: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bioelectric signals, whether exogenous or endogenous, play crucial roles in the life processes of organisms. Recently, the significance of bioelectricity in the field of dentistry is steadily gaining greater attention. OBJECTIVE This narrative review aims to comprehensively outline the theory, physiological effects, and practical applications of bioelectricity in dental medicine and to offer insights into its potential future direction. It attempts to provide dental clinicians and researchers with an electrophysiological perspective to enhance their clinical practice or fundamental research endeavors. METHODS An online computer search for relevant literature was performed in PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane Library, with the keywords "bioelectricity, endogenous electric signal, electric stimulation, dental medicine." RESULTS Eventually, 288 documents were included for review. The variance in ion concentration between the interior and exterior of the cell membrane, referred to as transmembrane potential, forms the fundamental basis of bioelectricity. Transmembrane potential has been established as an essential regulator of intercellular communication, mechanotransduction, migration, proliferation, and immune responses. Thus, exogenous electric stimulation can significantly alter cellular action by affecting transmembrane potential. In the field of dental medicine, electric stimulation has proven useful for assessing pulp condition, locating root apices, improving the properties of dental biomaterials, expediting orthodontic tooth movement, facilitating implant osteointegration, addressing maxillofacial malignancies, and managing neuromuscular dysfunction. Furthermore, the reprogramming of bioelectric signals holds promise as a means to guide organism development and intervene in disease processes. Besides, the development of high-throughput electrophysiological tools will be imperative for identifying ion channel targets and precisely modulating bioelectricity in the future. CONCLUSIONS Bioelectricity has found application in various concepts of dental medicine but large-scale, standardized, randomized controlled clinical trials are still necessary in the future. In addition, the precise, repeatable and predictable measurement and modulation methods of bioelectric signal patterns are essential research direction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Min
- Department of Endodontics, Wuxi Stomatology Hospital, Wuxi, 214000, China
| | - Yajun Gao
- Department of Endodontics, Wuxi Stomatology Hospital, Wuxi, 214000, China
| | - Yao Wang
- Department of Implantology, Wuxi Stomatology Hospital, Wuxi, 214000, China.
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12
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Song Y, Kim N, Heo J, Shum D, Heo T, Seo HR. Inhibition of DNMT3B expression in activated hepatic stellate cells overcomes chemoresistance in the tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Sci Rep 2024; 14:115. [PMID: 38168140 PMCID: PMC10761987 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50680-6] [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: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a complex disease associated with a plethora of environmental and genetic/hereditary causative risk factors, more so than other oncological indications. Additionally, patients with HCC exhibit fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver-related disease. This complicated etiology can affect the disease course and likely contributes to its poor prognosis. In this study, we aimed to improve HCC therapy by evaluating combination treatment using anti-cancer and anti-fibrosis drugs via identification of novel anti-fibrosis drugs. We performed high-throughput screening of 10,000 compounds to identify hepatic fibrosis inhibitors through morphometry analysis of multicellular hepatic spheroid (MCHS) models and identified CHIR-99021 as a candidate anti-fibrotic drug. Treatment with CHIR-99021 induced loss of cell-cell interactions and suppression of extracellular matrix-related protein expression via reprogramming of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation in MCHSs. In particular, CHIR-99021 regulated DNMT3B expression only in activated HSCs. Moreover, CHIR-99021 markedly improved the efficacy of sorafenib in HCC- multicellular tumor spheroids in vitro and through induction of apoptosis by decreasing DNMT3B expression in vivo. In summary, these findings suggest that targeting HSC reprogramming by attenuation of DNMT3B expression in the tumor environment might represent a promising therapeutic strategy for liver fibrosis and HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeonhwa Song
- Advanced Biomedical Research Laboratory, Institut Pasteur Korea, 16, Daewangpangyo-ro 712 beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Namjeong Kim
- Advanced Biomedical Research Laboratory, Institut Pasteur Korea, 16, Daewangpangyo-ro 712 beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinyeong Heo
- Screening Discovery Platform, Institut Pasteur Korea, 16, Daewangpangyo-ro 712 beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - David Shum
- Screening Discovery Platform, Institut Pasteur Korea, 16, Daewangpangyo-ro 712 beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Taemoo Heo
- Advanced Biomedical Research Laboratory, Institut Pasteur Korea, 16, Daewangpangyo-ro 712 beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Haeng Ran Seo
- Advanced Biomedical Research Laboratory, Institut Pasteur Korea, 16, Daewangpangyo-ro 712 beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13488, Republic of Korea.
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13
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Carvalho AM, Bansal R, Barrias CC, Sarmento B. The Material World of 3D-Bioprinted and Microfluidic-Chip Models of Human Liver Fibrosis. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2307673. [PMID: 37961933 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202307673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Biomaterials are extensively used to mimic cell-matrix interactions, which are essential for cell growth, function, and differentiation. This is particularly relevant when developing in vitro disease models of organs rich in extracellular matrix, like the liver. Liver disease involves a chronic wound-healing response with formation of scar tissue known as fibrosis. At early stages, liver disease can be reverted, but as disease progresses, reversion is no longer possible, and there is no cure. Research for new therapies is hampered by the lack of adequate models that replicate the mechanical properties and biochemical stimuli present in the fibrotic liver. Fibrosis is associated with changes in the composition of the extracellular matrix that directly influence cell behavior. Biomaterials could play an essential role in better emulating the disease microenvironment. In this paper, the recent and cutting-edge biomaterials used for creating in vitro models of human liver fibrosis are revised, in combination with cells, bioprinting, and/or microfluidics. These technologies have been instrumental to replicate the intricate structure of the unhealthy tissue and promote medium perfusion that improves cell growth and function, respectively. A comprehensive analysis of the impact of material hints and cell-material interactions in a tridimensional context is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Margarida Carvalho
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, Porto, 4050-313, Portugal
| | - Ruchi Bansal
- Translational Liver Research, Department of Medical Cell Biophysics, Technical Medical Center, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, 7522 NB, The Netherlands
| | - Cristina C Barrias
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, Porto, 4050-313, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sarmento
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- IUCS - Instituto Universitário de Ciências da Saúde, CESPU, Rua Central de Gandra 1317, Gandra, 4585-116, Portugal
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14
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Xia L, Zhou Z, Chen X, Luo W, Ding L, Xie H, Zhuang W, Ni K, Li G. Ligand-dependent CD36 functions in cancer progression, metastasis, immune response, and drug resistance. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115834. [PMID: 37931517 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115834] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
CD36, a multifunctional glycoprotein, has been shown to play critical roles in tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, immune response, and drug resistance. CD36 serves as a receptor for a wide range of ligands, including lipid-related ligands (e.g., long-chain fatty acid (LCFA), oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), and oxidized phospholipids), as well as protein-related ligands (e.g., thrombospondins, amyloid proteins, collagens I and IV). CD36 is overexpressed in various cancers and may act as an independent prognostic marker. While it was initially identified as a mediator of anti-angiogenesis through its interaction with thrombospondin-1 (TSP1), recent research has highlighted its role in promoting tumor growth, metastasis, drug resistance, and immune suppression. The varied impact of CD36 on cancer is likely ligand-dependent. Therefore, we focus specifically on the ligand-dependent role of CD36 in cancer to provide a critical review of recent advances, perspectives, and challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqun Xia
- Department of Urology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Zhenwei Zhou
- Department of Urology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xianjiong Chen
- Department of Urology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenqin Luo
- Department of Urology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lifeng Ding
- Department of Urology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haiyun Xie
- Department of Urology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhuang
- Department of Urology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fujian, China
| | - Kangxin Ni
- Department of Urology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Gonghui Li
- Department of Urology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
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15
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Zhang M, Jing Y, Xu W, Shi X, Zhang W, Chen P, Cao X, Han X, Duan X, Ren J. The C-type lectin COLEC10 is predominantly produced by hepatic stellate cells and involved in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:785. [PMID: 38036508 PMCID: PMC10689734 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06324-8] [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: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cell is one of the major nonparenchymal cell types in liver. It has been proved the hepatic stellate cells are activated upon liver injury and produce excessive extracellular matrix to induce liver fibrosis. Single-cell RNA sequencing has been introduced to identify the subpopulations and function of hepatic stellate cells for its remarkable resolution of representation of single-cell transcriptome. According to the re-analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing data and pseudotime trajectory inference, we have found the C-type lectins including Colec10 and Colec11 are not produced by hepatocytes but predominantly produced by hepatic stellate cells, especially quiescent ones in the mice livers. In addition, the expression of Colec10 is decreased in the fibrotic livers of CCl4-challenged mice. COLEC10 is also mainly expressed in the hepatic stellate cells of human livers and the expression of COLEC10 is decreased with the progression of liver fibrosis. The bulk RNA sequencing data of the lentivirus transfected LX-2 cells indicates the function of COLEC10 is associated with inflammation, angiogenesis and extracellular matrix alteration. Surprisingly, the in vitro overexpression of COLEC10 in LX-2 cells promotes the mRNA expression of extracellular matrix components including COL1A1, COL1A2 and COL3A1 and the extracellular matrix degradation enzyme MMP2. To further investigate the role of COLEC10 in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis, the serum concentration of COLEC10 in patients with chronic liver disease and healthy donors is measured. The serum concentration of COLEC10 is elevated in the patients with chronic liver disease compared to the healthy donors and positively correlated with serum concentration of the D-dimer but not the most of liver function markers. Altogether, we conclude that the C-type lectin COLEC10 is predominantly produced by the hepatic stellate cells and involved in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengfan Zhang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Yang Jing
- Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Wenze Xu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Xiaojing Shi
- Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Wenguang Zhang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Pengfei Chen
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Xiaocang Cao
- Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Xinwei Han
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China.
| | - Xuhua Duan
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China.
| | - Jianzhuang Ren
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China.
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16
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Ye L, Li Y, Zhang S, Wang J, Lei B. Exosomes-regulated lipid metabolism in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2023; 73:27-39. [PMID: 37291031 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2023.05.002] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Increasing evidence highlights the role of lipid metabolism in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. Targeting the processes of lipid metabolism, including lipogenesis, lipid uptake, fatty acid oxidation, and lipolysis, is an optimal strategy for anti-cancer therapy. Beyond cell-cell membrane surface interaction, exosomes are pivotal factors that transduce intercellular signals in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Most research focuses on the role of lipid metabolism in regulating exosome biogenesis and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. The mechanisms of exosome and ECM-mediated reprogramming of lipid metabolism are currently unclear. We summarize several mechanisms associated with the regulation of lipid metabolism in cancer, including transport of exosomal carriers and membrane receptors, activation of the PI3K pathway, ECM ligand-receptor interactions, and mechanical stimulation. This review aims to highlight the significance of these intercellular factors in TME and to deepen the understanding of the functions of exosomes and ECM in the regulation of lipid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leiguang Ye
- Department of Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Yingpu Li
- Department of Breast Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Sifan Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Jinsong Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150081, China.
| | - Bo Lei
- Department of Breast Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150081, China.
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17
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Chen Y, Li P, Chen X, Yan R, Zhang Y, Wang M, Qin X, Li S, Zheng C, You F, Li T, Liu Y. Endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondrial calcium transport contributes to soft extracellular matrix-triggered mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy in breast carcinoma cells. Acta Biomater 2023; 169:192-208. [PMID: 37541606 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.07.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Although mitochondrial morphology and function are considered to be closely related to matrix stiffness-driven tumor progression, it remains poorly understood how extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness affects mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy. Here, we found that soft substrate triggered calcium transport by increasing endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium release and mitochondrial (MITO) calcium uptake. ER-MITO calcium transport promoted the recruitment of dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) to mitochondria and phosphorylation at the serine 616 site, which induced mitochondrial fragmentation and Parkin/PINK1-mediated mitophagy. Furthermore, in vivo experiments demonstrated that soft ECM enhanced calcium levels in tumor tissue, Drp1 activity was required for soft ECM-induced mitochondrial dynamics impairment, and inhibition of Drp1 activity enhanced soft ECM-induced tumor necrosis. In conclusion, we revealed a new mechanism whereby ER-MITO calcium transport regulated mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy through Drp1 translocation in response to soft substrates. These findings provide valuable insights into ECM stiffness as a potential target for antitumor therapy. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Here, we examined the relationship between substrate stiffness and mitochondrial dynamics by using polyacrylamide (PAA) substrates to simulate the stages of breast cancer or BAPN to reduce tumor tissue stiffness. The results elucidated that soft substrate triggered the recruitment of DRP1 and subsequent mitochondrial fission and mitophagy by ER-MITO calcium transport. Furthermore, mitophagy partly attenuated soft ECM-mediated tumor tissue necrosis and contributed to tumor survival in vivo. Our discoveries revealed the molecular mechanisms by which mechanical stimulation regulates mitochondrial dynamics, providing valuable insights into ECM stiffness as a target for anti-tumor approaches, which could be beneficial for both biomechanics research and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, and School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, and School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Xiangyan Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, and School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Ran Yan
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, and School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Yixi Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, and School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Meng Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, and School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Xiang Qin
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, and School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Shun Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, and School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Chuan Zheng
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 39 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu 610072, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Fengming You
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 39 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu 610072, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Tingting Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, and School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, PR China.
| | - Yiyao Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, and School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, PR China; TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 39 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu 610072, Sichuan, PR China.
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18
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Young KM, Reinhart-King CA. Cellular mechanosignaling for sensing and transducing matrix rigidity. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2023; 83:102208. [PMID: 37473514 PMCID: PMC10527818 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2023.102208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
The mechanisms by which cells sense their mechanical environment and transduce the signal through focal adhesions and signaling pathways to the nucleus is an area of key focus for the field of mechanobiology. In the past two years, there has been expansion of our knowledge of commonly studied pathways, such as YAP/TAZ, FAK/Src, RhoA/ROCK, and Piezo1 signaling, as well as the discovery of new interactions, such as the effect of matrix rigidity of cell mitochondrial function and metabolism, which represent a new and exciting direction for the field as a whole. This review covers the most recent advances in the field of substrate stiffness sensing as well as perspective on future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine M Young
- Vanderbilt University Department of Biomedical Engineering 2414 Highland Ave, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
| | - Cynthia A Reinhart-King
- Vanderbilt University Department of Biomedical Engineering 2414 Highland Ave, Nashville, TN 37212, USA.
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19
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Ou H, Qian Y, Ma L. MCF2L-AS1 promotes the biological behaviors of hepatocellular carcinoma cells by regulating the miR-33a-5p/FGF2 axis. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:6100-6116. [PMID: 37432067 PMCID: PMC10373981 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNA MCF2L-AS1 functions in the development of cancers like lung cancer, ovarian cancer, and colorectal cancer. Notwithstanding, its function in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) stays obscure. Our research probes its role in MHCC97H and HCCLM3 cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. qRT-PCR gauged MCF2L-AS1 and miR-33a-5p expressions in HCC tissues. CCK8, colony formation, Transwell, and EdU assays detected HCC cell proliferation, invasion, and migration, respectively. The xenograft tumor model was built to confirm the MCF2L-AS1-mediated role in HCC cell growth. Western blot and immunohistochemistry detected FGF2 expression in HCC tissues. Bioinformatics analysis predicted the targeted relationships between MCF2L-AS1 or FGF2 and miR-33a-5p, which were further examined through dual-luciferase reporter gene and pull-down assays. MCF2L-AS1 was expressed highly in HCC tissues and cells. MCF2L-AS1 upregulation enhanced HCC cells' proliferation, growth, migration, and invasion and reduced apoptosis. miR-33a-5p was demonstrated as an underlying target of MCF2L-AS1. miR-33a-5p impeded HCC cells' malignant behaviors. MCF2L-AS1 overexpression reversed miR-33a-5p-mediated effects. MCF2L-AS1 knockdown enhanced miR-33a-5p and negatively regulated FGF2 protein. miR-33a-5p targeted and inhibited FGF2. miR-33a-5p overexpression or FGF2 knockdown inhibited MCF2L-AS1-mediated oncologic effects in MHCC97H. By modulating miR-33a-5p/FGF2, MCF2L-AS1 exerts a tumor-promotive function in HCC. The MCF2L-AS1-miR-33a-5p-FGF2 axis may provide new therapeutic targets for HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongliang Ou
- Department of Liver Diseases, Ningbo No.2 Hospital, University of Chinse Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Yunsong Qian
- Department of Liver Diseases, Ningbo No.2 Hospital, University of Chinse Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Li Ma
- Department of Liver Diseases, Ningbo No.2 Hospital, University of Chinse Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang, P.R. China
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20
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Wang Y, Yin Z, Gao L, Ma B, Shi J, Chen H. Lipid Nanoparticles-Based Therapy in Liver Metastasis Management: From Tumor Cell-Directed Strategy to Liver Microenvironment-Directed Strategy. Int J Nanomedicine 2023; 18:2939-2954. [PMID: 37288351 PMCID: PMC10243353 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s402821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastasis to the liver, as one of the most frequent metastatic patterns, was associated with poor prognosis. Major drawbacks of conventional therapies in liver metastasis were the lack of metastatic-targeting ability, predominant systemic toxicities and incapability of tumor microenvironment modulations. Lipid nanoparticles-based strategies like galactosylated, lyso-thermosensitive or active-targeting chemotherapeutics liposomes have been explored in liver metastasis management. This review aimed to summarize the state-of-art lipid nanoparticles-based therapies in liver metastasis management. Clinical and translational studies on the lipid nanoparticles in treating liver metastasis were searched up to April, 2023 from online databases. This review focused not only on the updates in drug-encapsulated lipid nanoparticles directly targeting metastatic cancer cells in treating liver metastasis, but more importantly on research frontiers in drug-loading lipid nanoparticles targeting nonparenchymal liver tumor microenvironment components in treating liver metastasis, which showed promise for future clinical oncological practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhan Wang
- Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhenyu Yin
- Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lei Gao
- Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bin Ma
- Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianming Shi
- Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, Gansu Province, People’s Republic of China
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21
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Ryoo H, Underhill GH. Combinatorial Microgels for 3D ECM Screening and Heterogeneous Microenvironmental Culture of Primary Human Hepatic Stellate Cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.05.539608. [PMID: 37214995 PMCID: PMC10197534 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.05.539608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease affects 30% of the United States population and its progression can lead to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can result in cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. NASH is characterized by a highly heterogeneous liver microenvironment created by the fibrotic activity of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). While HSCs have been widely studied in 2D, further advancements in physiologically-relevant 3D culture platforms for the in vitro modeling of these heterogeneous environments are needed. In this study, we have demonstrated the use of stiffness-variable, ECM protein-conjugated polyethylene glycol microgels as 3D cell culture scaffolds to modulate HSC activation. We further employed these microgels as a high throughput ECM screening system to identify HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities in distinct heterogeneous microenvironmental conditions. In particular, 6 kPa fibronectin microgels were shown to significantly increase HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities in single or multiple component microenvironments. Overall, heterogeneous microenvironments consisting of multiple distinct ECM microgels promoted a decrease in HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities compared to homogeneous microenvironments. We envision this ECM screening platform being adapted to a broad number of cell types to aid the identification of ECM microenvironments that best recapitulate the desired phenotype, differentiation, or drug efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Ryoo
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Gregory H. Underhill
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
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22
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金 杯, 张 晔, 潘 景. [The Role and Significance of Hepatic Environmental Cells in Tumor Metastatic Colonization to Liver]. SICHUAN DA XUE XUE BAO. YI XUE BAN = JOURNAL OF SICHUAN UNIVERSITY. MEDICAL SCIENCE EDITION 2023; 54:469-474. [PMID: 37248570 PMCID: PMC10475444 DOI: 10.12182/20230560301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Metastasis, a main cause of death in tumor patients, is a complicated process that involves multiple steps, presenting a major clinical challenge. Tumor cells break the physical boundaries of a primary tumor, intravasate into the lumina of blood vessels, travel around through blood circulation, extravasate into distant organs, colonize the host organs, and eventually develop into the foci of metastatic cancer. The metastasis of tumor cells exhibits organ-tropism, i.e., tumor cells preferentially spread to specific organs. Liver is a common site for metastasis. The pattern of metastasis in uveal melanoma, colorectal carcinoma, and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma shows organ-tropism for liver. The anatomical structure of liver determines its hemodynamic characteristics, e.g., low pressure and slow blood flow, which tend to facilitate the stasis and colonization of tumor cells in the liver. Besides the hemodynamic features, the metastatic colonization of liver depends largely on the interaction between tumor cells and the hepatic microenvironment (especially liver-resident cellular components). Resident cells of the hepatic microenvironment include hepatocytes, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), Kupffer cells (KCs), etc. Herein, we discussed the role and significance of liver-resident cells in the metastatic colonization of tumor in the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- 杯 金
- 中山大学中山眼科中心,眼科学国家重点实验室,广东省眼科视觉科学重点实验室 (广州 510060)State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - 晔昱 张
- 中山大学中山眼科中心,眼科学国家重点实验室,广东省眼科视觉科学重点实验室 (广州 510060)State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - 景轩 潘
- 中山大学中山眼科中心,眼科学国家重点实验室,广东省眼科视觉科学重点实验室 (广州 510060)State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
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23
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Liu P, Kong L, Liu Y, Li G, Xie J, Lu X. A key driver to promote HCC: Cellular crosstalk in tumor microenvironment. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1135122. [PMID: 37007125 PMCID: PMC10050394 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1135122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is the third greatest cause of cancer-related mortality, which of the major pathological type is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounting for more than 90%. HCC is characterized by high mortality and is predisposed to metastasis and relapse, leading to a low five-year survival rate and poor clinical prognosis. Numerous crosstalk among tumor parenchymal cells, anti-tumor cells, stroma cells, and immunosuppressive cells contributes to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), in which the function and frequency of anti-tumor cells are reduced with that of associated pro-tumor cells increasing, accordingly resulting in tumor malignant progression. Indeed, sorting out and understanding the signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms of cellular crosstalk in TME is crucial to discover more key targets and specific biomarkers, so that develop more efficient methods for early diagnosis and individualized treatment of liver cancer. This piece of writing offers insight into the recent advances in HCC-TME and reviews various mechanisms that promote HCC malignant progression from the perspective of mutual crosstalk among different types of cells in TME, aiming to assist in identifying the possible research directions and methods in the future for discovering new targets that could prevent HCC malignant progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengyue Liu
- Clinical Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Lingyu Kong
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Clinical Skills Training Center, Tangshan Gongren Hospital, Tangshan, China
| | - Gang Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangshan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Tangshan, China
| | - Jianjia Xie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangshan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Tangshan, China
| | - Xin Lu
- Clinical Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangshan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Tangshan, China
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24
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Ryltseva GA, Dudaev AE, Menzyanova NG, Volova TG, Alexandrushkina NA, Efimenko AY, Shishatskaya EI. Influence of PHA Substrate Surface Characteristics on the Functional State of Endothelial Cells. J Funct Biomater 2023; 14:jfb14020085. [PMID: 36826884 PMCID: PMC9959859 DOI: 10.3390/jfb14020085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The needs of modern regenerative medicine for biodegradable polymers are wide and varied. Restoration of the viability of the vascular tree is one of the most important components of the preservation of the usefulness of organs and tissues. The creation of vascular implants compatible with blood is an important task of vascular bioengineering. The function of the endothelial layer of the vessel, being largely responsible for the development of thrombotic complications, is of great importance for hemocompatibility. The development of surfaces with specific characteristics of biomaterials that are used in vascular technologies is one of the solutions for their correct endothelialization. Linear polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are biodegradable structural polymeric materials suitable for obtaining various types of implants and tissue engineering, having a wide range of structural and physicomechanical properties. The use of PHA of various monomeric compositions in endothelial cultivation makes it possible to evaluate the influence of material properties, especially surface characteristics, on the functional state of cells. It has been established that PHA samples with the inclusion of 3-hydroxyhexanoate have optimal characteristics for the formation of a human umbilical vein endothelial cell, HUVEC, monolayer in terms of cell morphology as well as the levels of expression of vinculin and VE-cadherin. The obtained results provide a rationale for the use of PHA copolymers as materials for direct contact with the endothelium in vascular implants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galina A. Ryltseva
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Fundamental Biology and Biotechnology, Siberian Federal University, 79 Svobodnyi Av., 660041 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
- Correspondence: (G.A.R.); (E.I.S.)
| | - Alexey E. Dudaev
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Fundamental Biology and Biotechnology, Siberian Federal University, 79 Svobodnyi Av., 660041 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
- Institute of Biophysics SB RAS, Federal Research Center “Krasnoyarsk Science Center SB RAS”, 50/50 Akademgorodok, 660036 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Natalia G. Menzyanova
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Fundamental Biology and Biotechnology, Siberian Federal University, 79 Svobodnyi Av., 660041 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Tatiana G. Volova
- Institute of Biophysics SB RAS, Federal Research Center “Krasnoyarsk Science Center SB RAS”, 50/50 Akademgorodok, 660036 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
- Basic Department of Biotechnology, School of Fundamental Biology and Biotechnology, Siberian Federal University, 79 Svobodnyi Av., 660041 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Natalia A. Alexandrushkina
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Medical Research and Education Center, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia
| | - Anastasia Yu. Efimenko
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Medical Research and Education Center, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia
| | - Ekaterina I. Shishatskaya
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Fundamental Biology and Biotechnology, Siberian Federal University, 79 Svobodnyi Av., 660041 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
- Institute of Biophysics SB RAS, Federal Research Center “Krasnoyarsk Science Center SB RAS”, 50/50 Akademgorodok, 660036 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
- Correspondence: (G.A.R.); (E.I.S.)
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25
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Ezhilarasan D, Najimi M. Deciphering the possible reciprocal loop between hepatic stellate cells and cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment of the liver. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2023; 182:103902. [PMID: 36621514 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2022.103902] [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: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs)/myofibroblasts are the important sources of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the liver tumor microenvironment (TME). The crosstalk between activated HSCs and tumor cells mediates HCC progression, metastasis, tumor cell survival, angiogenesis and chemoresistance. In TME, HCC cells secrete various soluble factors responsible for the phenotypic activation of quiescent HSCs. Tumor cells use activated HSC-derived extracellular matrix (ECM) for migration and invasion. Further, in liver TME, activated HSCs and sinusoidal endothelial cells engage in a crosstalk that causes the secretion of angiogenesis and metastasis-related growth factors and cytokines. Activated HSCs and immune cells crosstalk to decrease immune surveillance in the liver TME by increasing the population of T regulatory cells and M2 macrophages or myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Thus, HSCs play a vital role in liver TME cell interactions. Therefore, a deep understanding of HSCs activation and their crosstalk with cancer and immune cells in TME may lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies to target HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600077, India.
| | - Mustapha Najimi
- Laboratory of Pediatric Hepatology and Cell Therapy, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), UCLouvain, Brussels 1200, Belgium
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26
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Tumor stiffness measurement using magnetic resonance elastography can predict recurrence and survival after curative resection of hepatocellular carcinoma. Surgery 2023; 173:450-456. [PMID: 36481063 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2022.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor stiffness measurement using magnetic resonance elastography can assess tumor mechanical properties and predict hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence. This study aimed to investigate preoperative tumor stiffness on magnetic resonance elastography as a predictor of overall survival and recurrence-free survival in patients with solitary nodular hepatocellular carcinoma who underwent curative resection. METHODS Seventy-eight patients with solitary nodular hepatocellular carcinoma who underwent preoperative magnetic resonance elastography and curative resection were retrospectively analyzed. Potential associations of tumor stiffness and other clinicopathological variables with overall survival and recurrence-free survival were analyzed in both univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards analyses. The optimal tumor stiffness cutoff value was determined using the minimal P value approach. RESULTS In multivariate analysis, tumor stiffness (hazard ratio 1.31; 95% confidence interval, 1.07-1.59; P = .008) and vascular invasion (hazard ratio 2.62; 95% confidence interval, 1.27-5.17; P = .010) were independent predictors of recurrence-free survival. For overall survival, tumor stiffness (hazard ratio, 1.33; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-1.76; P = .037) was the only independent predictor. The optimal tumor stiffness cutoff value was 5.81 kPa for both overall survival and recurrence-free survival. Patients with tumor stiffness ≥5.81 kPa had a significantly greater risk of death (hazard ratio 6.10; 95% confidence interval, 2.11-21.90; P < .001) than those with tumor stiffness <5.81 kPa. CONCLUSION Preoperative tumor stiffness as measured by magnetic resonance elastography was a predictor of overall survival and recurrence-free survival in hepatocellular carcinoma patients who underwent curative resection. Higher tumor stiffness was associated with higher risk of recurrence and death.
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27
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Nokkeaw A, Thamjamrassri P, Tangkijvanich P, Ariyachet C. Regulatory Functions and Mechanisms of Circular RNAs in Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Liver Fibrosis. Cells 2023; 12:cells12030378. [PMID: 36766720 PMCID: PMC9913196 DOI: 10.3390/cells12030378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver injury induces the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) into myofibroblasts, which produce excessive amounts of extracellular matrix (ECM), resulting in tissue fibrosis. If the injury persists, these fibrous scars could be permanent and disrupt liver architecture and function. Currently, effective anti-fibrotic therapies are lacking; hence, understanding molecular mechanisms that control HSC activation could hold a key to the development of new treatments. Recently, emerging studies have revealed roles of circular RNAs (circRNAs), a class of non-coding RNAs that was initially assumed to be the result of splicing errors, as new regulators in HSC activation. These circRNAs can modulate the activity of microRNAs (miRNAs) and their interacting protein partners involved in regulating fibrogenic signaling cascades. In this review, we will summarize the current knowledge of this class of non-coding RNAs for their molecular function in HSC activation and liver fibrosis progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archittapon Nokkeaw
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Hepatitis and Liver Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Medical Biochemistry Program, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Pannathon Thamjamrassri
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Hepatitis and Liver Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Medical Biochemistry Program, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Pisit Tangkijvanich
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Hepatitis and Liver Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Correspondence: (P.T.); (C.A.)
| | - Chaiyaboot Ariyachet
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Hepatitis and Liver Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Correspondence: (P.T.); (C.A.)
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28
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Guo T, Wantono C, Tan Y, Deng F, Duan T, Liu D. Regulators, functions, and mechanotransduction pathways of matrix stiffness in hepatic disease. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1098129. [PMID: 36711017 PMCID: PMC9878334 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1098129] [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: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) provides physical support and imparts significant biochemical and mechanical cues to cells. Matrix stiffening is a hallmark of liver fibrosis and is associated with many hepatic diseases, especially liver cirrhosis and carcinoma. Increased matrix stiffness is not only a consequence of liver fibrosis but is also recognized as an active driver in the progression of fibrotic hepatic disease. In this article, we provide a comprehensive view of the role of matrix stiffness in the pathological progression of hepatic disease. The regulators that modulate matrix stiffness including ECM components, MMPs, and crosslinking modifications are discussed. The latest advances of the research on the matrix mechanics in regulating intercellular signaling and cell phenotype are classified, especially for hepatic stellate cells, hepatocytes, and immunocytes. The molecular mechanism that sensing and transducing mechanical signaling is highlighted. The current progress of ECM stiffness's role in hepatic cirrhosis and liver cancer is introduced and summarized. Finally, the recent trials targeting ECM stiffness for the treatment of liver disease are detailed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China,Research Center of Digestive Disease, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Cindy Wantono
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China,Research Center of Digestive Disease, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yuyong Tan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China,Research Center of Digestive Disease, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Feihong Deng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China,Research Center of Digestive Disease, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Tianying Duan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China,Research Center of Digestive Disease, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Deliang Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China,Research Center of Digestive Disease, Central South University, Changsha, China,*Correspondence: Deliang Liu,
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29
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Buxton AK, Abbasova S, Bevan CL, Leach DA. Liver Microenvironment Response to Prostate Cancer Metastasis and Hormonal Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:6189. [PMID: 36551674 PMCID: PMC9777323 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer-associated deaths arise from disease progression and metastasis. Metastasis to the liver is associated with the worst clinical outcomes for prostate cancer patients, and these metastatic tumors can be particularly resistant to the currently widely used chemotherapy and hormonal therapies, such as anti-androgens which block androgen synthesis or directly target the androgen receptor. The incidence of liver metastases is reportedly increasing, with a potential correlation with use of anti-androgen therapies. A key player in prostate cancer progression and therapeutic response is the microenvironment of the tumor(s). This is a dynamic and adaptive collection of cells and proteins, which impart signals and stimuli that can alter biological processes within prostate cancer cells. Investigation in the prostate primary site has demonstrated that cells of the microenvironment are also responsive to hormones and hormonal therapies. In this review, we collate information about what happens when cancer moves to the liver: the types of prostate cancer cells that metastasize there, the response of resident mesenchymal cells of the liver, and how the interactions between the cancer cells and the microenvironment may be altered by hormonal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Charlotte L. Bevan
- Division of Cancer, Imperial Centre for Translational & Experimental Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Damien A. Leach
- Division of Cancer, Imperial Centre for Translational & Experimental Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London W12 0NN, UK
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30
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Kim M, Kim M, Salloum S, Qian T, Wong LP, Xu M, Lee Y, Shroff SG, Sadreyev RI, Corey KE, Baumert TF, Hoshida Y, Chung RT. Atorvastatin favorably modulates a clinical hepatocellular carcinoma risk gene signature. Hepatol Commun 2022; 6:2581-2593. [PMID: 35712812 PMCID: PMC9426409 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipophilic but not hydrophilic statins have been shown to be associated with reduced risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with chronic viral hepatitis. We investigated differential actions of lipophilic and hydrophilic statins and their ability to modulate a clinical prognostic liver signature (PLS) predicting HCC risk in patients with liver disease. Hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected Huh7.5.1 cells, recently developed as a model to screen HCC chemopreventive agents, were treated with lipophilic statins (atorvastatin and simvastatin) and hydrophilic statins (rosuvastatin and pravastatin), and then analyzed by RNA sequencing and PLS. Lipophilic statins, particularly atorvastatin, more significantly suppressed the HCV-induced high-risk pattern of PLS and genes in YAP and AKT pathway implicated in fibrogenesis and carcinogenesis, compared with the hydrophilic statins. While atorvastatin inhibited YAP activation through the mevalonate pathway, the distinctive AKT inhibition of atorvastatin was mediated by stabilizing truncated retinoid X receptor alpha, which has been known to enhance AKT activation, representing a target for HCC chemoprevention. In addition, atorvastatin modulated the high-risk PLS in an in vitro model of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Conclusion: Atorvastatin distinctively inhibits YAP and AKT activation, which are biologically implicated in HCC development, and attenuates a high-risk PLS in an in vitro model of HCV infection and NAFLD. These findings suggest that atorvastatin is the most potent statin to reduce HCC risk in patients with viral and metabolic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myung‐Ho Kim
- Liver CenterGastrointestinal DivisionMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Mi‐Young Kim
- Liver CenterGastrointestinal DivisionMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of GastroenterologyCHA Bundang Medical CenterCHA University School of MedicineSeongnamSouth Korea
- Department of Gastroenterology, Chaum Life CenterCHA University School of MedicineSeoulSouth Korea
| | - Shadi Salloum
- Liver CenterGastrointestinal DivisionMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Tongqi Qian
- Liver Tumor Translational Research ProgramSimmons Comprehensive Cancer CenterDivision of Digestive and Liver DiseasesDepartment of Internal MedicineUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTexasUSA
| | - Lai Ping Wong
- Department of Molecular BiologyMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of GeneticsHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Min Xu
- Liver CenterGastrointestinal DivisionMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Yoojin Lee
- Liver CenterGastrointestinal DivisionMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Stuti G. Shroff
- Department of PathologyMassachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Ruslan I. Sadreyev
- Department of Molecular BiologyMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of PathologyMassachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Kathleen E. Corey
- Liver CenterGastrointestinal DivisionMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Thomas F. Baumert
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche MédicaleU1110Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et HépatiquesStrasbourgFrance
- Pole Hepato‐digestif, IHUStrasbourg University HospitalsStrasbourgFrance
| | - Yujin Hoshida
- Liver Tumor Translational Research ProgramSimmons Comprehensive Cancer CenterDivision of Digestive and Liver DiseasesDepartment of Internal MedicineUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTexasUSA
| | - Raymond T. Chung
- Liver CenterGastrointestinal DivisionMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
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Peng H, Zhu E, Zhang Y. Advances of cancer-associated fibroblasts in liver cancer. Biomark Res 2022; 10:59. [PMID: 35971182 PMCID: PMC9380339 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-022-00406-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide, it is ranked sixth in incidence and fourth in mortality. According to the distinct origin of malignant tumor cells, liver cancer is mainly divided into hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). Since most cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, the prognosis of liver cancer is poor. Tumor growth depends on the dynamic interaction of various cellular components in the tumor microenvironment (TME). As the most abundant components of tumor stroma, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have been involved in the progression of liver cancer. The interplay between CAFs and tumor cells, immune cells, or vascular endothelial cells in the TME through direct cell-to-cell contact or indirect paracrine interaction, affects the initiation and development of tumors. Additionally, CAFs are not a homogeneous cell population in liver cancer. Recently, single-cell sequencing technology has been used to help better understand the diversity of CAFs in liver cancer. In this review, we mainly update the knowledge of CAFs both in HCC and CCA, including their cell origins, chemoresistance, tumor stemness induction, tumor immune microenvironment formation, and the role of tumor cells on CAFs. Understanding the context-dependent role of different CAFs subsets provides new strategies for precise liver cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Peng
- Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Erwei Zhu
- The Second People's Hospital of Lianyungang (The Oncology Hospital of Lianyungang), Lianyungang, 222006, China
| | - Yewei Zhang
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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32
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Yu H, Wang C, Ke S, Bai M, Xu Y, Lu S, Feng Z, Qian B, Xu Y, Zhou M, Li Z, Yin B, Li X, Hua Y, Zhou Y, Pan S, Fu Y, Ma Y. Identification of CFHR4 as a Potential Prognosis Biomarker Associated With lmmune Infiltrates in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Immunol 2022; 13:892750. [PMID: 35812416 PMCID: PMC9257081 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.892750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Complement factor H-related 4 (CFHR4) is a protein-coding gene that plays an essential role in multiple diseases. However, the prognostic value of CFHR4 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unknown. Methods Using multiple databases, we investigated CFHR4 expression levels in HCC and multiple cancers. The relationship between CFHR4 expression levels and clinicopathological variables was further analyzed. Various potential biological functions and regulatory pathways of CFHR4 in HCC were identified by performing a Gene Ontology (GO) analysis, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). Single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) was performed to confirm the correlation between CFHR4 expression and immune cell infiltration. The correlations between CFHR4 expression levels in HCC and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications and the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory networks were confirmed in TCGA cohort. Results CFHR4 expression levels were significantly decreased in HCC tissues. Low CFHR4 expression in HCC tissues was significantly correlated with the patients’ sex, race, age, TNM stage, pathological stage, tumor status, residual tumor, histologic grade and alpha fetal protein (AFP) level. GO and KEGG analyses revealed that differentially expressed genes related to CFHR4 may be involved in the synaptic membrane, transmembrane transporter complex, gated channel activity, chemical carcinogenesis, retinol metabolism, calcium signaling pathway, PPAR signaling pathway, insulin and gastric acid secretion. GSEA revealed that the FCGR-activated reaction, PLK1 pathway, ATR pathway, MCM pathway, cascade reactions of PI3K and FGFR1, reactant-mediated MAPK activation and FOXM1 pathway were significantly enriched in HCC with low CFHR4 expression. Moreover, CFHR4 expression was inversely correlated the levels of infiltrating Th2 cells, NK CD56bright cells and Tfh cells. In contrast, we observed positive correlations with the levels of infiltrating DCs, neutrophils, Th17 cells and mast cells. CFHR4 expression showed a strong correlation with various immunomarker groups in HCC. In addition, high CFHR4 expression significantly prolonged the overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS) and progression-free interval (PFI). We observed a substantial correlation between the expression of CFHR4 and multiple N6-methyladenosine genes in HCC and constructed potential CFHR4-related ceRNA regulatory networks. Conclusions CFHR4 might be a potential therapeutic target for improving the HCC prognosis and is closely related to immune cell infiltration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjun Yu
- Department of Minimal Invasive Hepatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Chaoqun Wang
- Department of Minimal Invasive Hepatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Shanjia Ke
- Department of Minimal Invasive Hepatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Miaoyu Bai
- Department of Minimal Invasive Hepatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yanan Xu
- Department of Minimal Invasive Hepatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Shounan Lu
- Department of Minimal Invasive Hepatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Zhigang Feng
- Department of Minimal Invasive Hepatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- The First Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Minzu University, Tongliao, China
| | - Baolin Qian
- Department of Minimal Invasive Hepatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yue Xu
- Department of Pediatrics, Hainan Hospital of PLA General Hospital, Sanya, China
| | - Menghua Zhou
- Department of Minimal Invasive Hepatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Zihao Li
- Department of Minimal Invasive Hepatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Bing Yin
- Department of Minimal Invasive Hepatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xinglong Li
- Department of Minimal Invasive Hepatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yongliang Hua
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yongzhi Zhou
- Department of Minimal Invasive Hepatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Shangha Pan
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yao Fu
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- *Correspondence: Yao Fu, ; Yong Ma,
| | - Yong Ma
- Department of Minimal Invasive Hepatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- *Correspondence: Yao Fu, ; Yong Ma,
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Quercetin Regulates Key Components of the Cellular Microenvironment during Early Hepatocarcinogenesis. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11020358. [PMID: 35204240 PMCID: PMC8868318 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11020358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a health problem worldwide due to its high mortality rate, and the tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a key role in the HCC progression. The current ineffective therapies to fight the disease still warrant the development of preventive strategies. Quercetin has been shown to have different antitumor activities; however, its effect on TME components in preneoplastic lesions has not been fully investigated yet. Here, we aimed to evaluate the effect of quercetin (10 mg/kg) on TME components during the early stages of HCC progression induced in the rat. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses showed that quercetin decreases the size of preneoplastic lesions, glycogen and collagen accumulation, the expression of cancer stem cells and myofibroblasts markers, and that of the transporter ATP binding cassette subfamily C member 3 (ABCC3), a marker of HCC progression and multi-drug resistance. Our results strongly suggest that quercetin has the capability to reduce key components of TME, as well as the expression of ABCC3. Thus, quercetin can be an alternative treatment for inhibiting the growth of early HCC tumors.
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