1
|
Qiu ZX, Huang LX, Wang XX, Wang ZL, Li XH, Feng B. Exploring the Pathogenesis of Autoimmune Liver Diseases from the Heterogeneity of Target Cells. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2024; 12:659-666. [PMID: 38993508 PMCID: PMC11233981 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2023.00531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence of autoimmune liver diseases (ALDs) and research on their pathogenesis are increasing annually. However, except for autoimmune hepatitis, which responds well to immunosuppression, primary biliary cholangitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis are insensitive to immunosuppressive therapy. Besides the known effects of the environment, genetics, and immunity on ALDs, the heterogeneity of target cells provides new insights into their pathogenesis. This review started by exploring the heterogeneity in the development, structures, and functions of hepatocytes and epithelial cells of the small and large bile ducts. For example, cytokeratin (CK) 8 and CK18 are primarily expressed in hepatocytes, while CK7 and CK19 are primarily expressed in intrahepatic cholangiocytes. Additionally, emerging technologies of single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomic are being applied to study ALDs. This review offered a new perspective on understanding the pathogenic mechanisms and potential treatment strategies for ALDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Xiao-Xiao Wang
- Peking University People’s Hospital, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Beijing International Cooperation Base for Science and Technology on NAFLD Diagnosis, Beijing, China
| | - Zi-Long Wang
- Peking University People’s Hospital, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Beijing International Cooperation Base for Science and Technology on NAFLD Diagnosis, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-He Li
- Peking University People’s Hospital, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Beijing International Cooperation Base for Science and Technology on NAFLD Diagnosis, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Feng
- Peking University People’s Hospital, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Beijing International Cooperation Base for Science and Technology on NAFLD Diagnosis, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhang L, Xie P, Li M, Zhang X, Fei S, Zhao N, Li L, Xie Q, Xu Z, Tang W, Zhu G, Zhu Z, Xu Z, Li J, Zhang C, Boyer JL, Chen W, Cai SY, Pan Q, Chai J. Hepatic GDP-fucose transporter SLC35C1 attenuates cholestatic liver injury and inflammation by inducing CEACAM1 N153 fucosylation. Hepatology 2024:01515467-990000000-00953. [PMID: 38985995 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000001003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Inflammatory response is crucial for bile acid (BA)-induced cholestatic liver injury, but molecular mechanisms remain to be elucidated. Solute Carrier Family 35 Member C1 (SLC35C1) can transport Guanosine diphosphate-fucose into the Golgi to facilitate protein glycosylation. Its mutation leads to the deficiency of leukocyte adhesion and enhances inflammation in humans. However, little is known about its role in liver diseases. APPROACH AND RESULTS Hepatic SLC35C1 mRNA transcripts and protein expression were significantly increased in patients with obstructive cholestasis and mouse models of cholestasis. Immunofluorescence revealed that the upregulated SLC35C1 expression mainly occurred in hepatocytes. Liver-specific ablation of Slc35c1 ( Slc35c1 cKO ) significantly aggravated liver injury in mouse models of cholestasis induced by bile duct ligation and 1% cholic acid-feeding, evidenced by increased liver necrosis, inflammation, fibrosis, and bile ductular proliferation. The Slc35c1 cKO increased hepatic chemokine Ccl2 and Cxcl2 expression and T cell, neutrophil, and F4/80 macrophage infiltration but did not affect the levels of serum and liver BA in mouse models of cholestasis. Liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry analysis revealed that hepatic Slc35c1 deficiency substantially reduced the fucosylation of cell-cell adhesion protein CEACAM1 at N153. Mechanistically, cholestatic levels of conjugated BAs stimulated SLC35C1 expression by activating the STAT3 signaling to facilitate CEACAM1 fucosylation at N153, and deficiency in the fucosylation of CEACAM1 at N135 enhanced the BA-stimulated CCL2 and CXCL2 mRNA expression in primary mouse hepatocytes and Primary Liver Carcinoma/Poliomyelitis Research Foundation/5- ASBT cells. CONCLUSIONS Elevated hepatic SLC35C1 expression attenuates cholestatic liver injury by enhancing CEACAM1 fucosylation to suppress CCL2 and CXCL2 expression and liver inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liangjun Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Pingfan Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Mingqiao Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoxun Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Shuke Fei
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Department of Hepatobiliary, Pancreatic and Splenic Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Nan Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Ling Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Qiaoling Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Ziqian Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Wan Tang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Guanyu Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Zhixian Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Zuzhi Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China
| | - Jianwei Li
- Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Chengcheng Zhang
- Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - James L Boyer
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Wensheng Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Shi-Ying Cai
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Qiong Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jin Chai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Garcia Moreno AS, Guicciardi ME, Wixom AQ, Jessen E, Yang J, Ilyas SI, Bianchi JK, Pinto e Vairo F, Lazaridis KN, Gores GJ. IL-17 signaling in primary sclerosing cholangitis patient-derived organoids. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0454. [PMID: 38829197 PMCID: PMC11150034 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pathogenesis of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is unclear, although studies implicate IL-17A as an inflammatory mediator in this disease. However, a direct assessment of IL-17 signaling in PSC cholangiocytes is lacking. In this study, we aimed to investigate and characterize the response of PSC extrahepatic cholangiocyte organoids (ECO) to IL-17A stimulation. METHODS Cholangiocytes obtained from patients with PSC and without PSC by endoscopic retrograde cholangiography were cultured as ECO. The ECO were treated with vehicle or IL-17A and assessed by transcriptomics, secretome analysis, and genome sequencing. RESULTS Unsupervised clustering of all integrated single-cell RNA sequencing data identified 8 cholangiocyte clusters that did not differ between PSC and non-PSC ECO. However, PSC ECO cells demonstrated a robust response to IL-17 treatment, as noted by an increased number of differentially expressed genes by transcriptomics and more abundant chemokine and cytokine expression and secretion. After rigorous filtering, genome sequencing identified candidate somatic variants shared among PSC ECO from unrelated individuals. However, no candidate rare variants in genes regulating the IL-17 pathway were identified, but rare variants regulating the MAPK signaling pathway were present in all PSC ECO. CONCLUSIONS PSC and non-PSC patient-derived ECO respond differently to IL-17 stimulation, implicating this pathway in the pathogenesis of PSC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana S. Garcia Moreno
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Maria E. Guicciardi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Alexander Q. Wixom
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Erik Jessen
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jingchun Yang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Sumera I. Ilyas
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jackie K. Bianchi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Filippo Pinto e Vairo
- Center for Individualized Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
- Department of Clinical Genomics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Konstantinos N. Lazaridis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Gregory J. Gores
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ma D, Liu X, Li J, Wu H, Ma J, Tai W. ELMO1 regulates macrophage directed migration and attenuates inflammation via NF-κB signaling pathway in primary biliary cholangitis. Dig Liver Dis 2024:S1590-8658(24)00769-2. [PMID: 38825413 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2024.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), a typical autoimmune liver disease, is characterized by an increased infiltration of immune cells. However, the specific molecular mechanisms regulating immune cell migration in PBC are unknown. Engulfment and cell motility 1 (ELMO1) plays an important function in cellular dynamics. In view of this, the aim of this study was to explore the expression of ELMO1 in PBC, its effects on the proliferation, migration, and secretion of inflammatory factors by the mainly regulated immune cells and the specific molecular mechanisms behind it. METHODS To determine the expression of ELMO1 in PBC and its major regulatory immune cells in PBC. The migratory and proliferative capacities of ELMO1-deficient macrophages were measured, and their pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion was also detected and explored mechanistically. RESULTS ELMO1 expression was up-regulated in the PBC patients and positively correlated with alkaline phosphatase (ALP). ELMO1 mainly regulated macrophages in the liver of PBC patients. Knockdown of ELMO1 did not affect macrophage proliferation, however,knockdown of ELMO1 significantly inhibited macrophage migration,downstream RAC1 activity was diminished, and reduced F-actin synthesis. Knockdown of ELMO1 reduced macrophage inflammatory factor secretion and NF-κB signaling pathway activity was decreased. CONCLUSIONS ELMO1 regulates macrophage directed migration and attenuates inflammation via NF-κB signaling pathway in primary biliary cholangitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Di Ma
- Clinical Laboratory Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China, 650101
| | - Xiaoxiao Liu
- Clinical Laboratory Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China, 650101
| | - Jinyu Li
- Clinical Laboratory Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China, 650101
| | - Hanxin Wu
- Clinical Laboratory Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China, 650101
| | - Jiaxuan Ma
- Clinical Laboratory Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China, 650101
| | - Wenlin Tai
- Clinical Laboratory Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China, 650101.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Fu M, Guo Z, Chen Y, Lamb JR, Zhong S, Xia H, Wen Z, Zhang R. Proteomics Defines Plasma Biomarkers for the Early Diagnosis of Biliary Atresia. J Proteome Res 2024; 23:1744-1756. [PMID: 38569191 PMCID: PMC11077583 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.3c00873] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Early diagnosis of biliary atresia (BA) is crucial for improving the chances of survival and preserving the liver function of pediatric patients with BA. Herein, we performed proteomics analysis using data-independent acquisition (DIA) and parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) to explore potential biomarkers for the early diagnosis of BA compared to other non-BA jaundice cases. Consequently, we detected and validated differential protein expression in the plasma of patients with BA compared to the plasma of patients with intrahepatic cholestasis. Bioinformatics analysis revealed the enriched biological processes characteristic of BA by identifying the differential expression of specific proteins. Signaling pathway analysis revealed changes in the expression levels of proteins associated with an alteration in immunoglobulin levels, which is indicative of immune dysfunction in BA. The combination of polymeric immunoglobulin receptor expression and immunoglobulin lambda variable chain (IGL c2225_light_IGLV1-47_IGLJ2), as revealed via machine learning, provided a useful early diagnostic model for BA, with a sensitivity of 0.8, specificity of 1, accuracy of 0.89, and area under the curve value of 0.944. Thus, our study identified a possible effective plasma biomarker for the early diagnosis of BA and could help elucidate the underlying mechanisms of BA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming Fu
- Provincial
Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department
of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical
Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510623, China
| | - Zhipeng Guo
- Provincial
Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department
of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical
Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510623, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Provincial
Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department
of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical
Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510623, China
- Faculty
of Medicine, Macau University of Science
and Technology, Avenida
Wai Long, Taipa, Macau China
| | - Jonathan R. Lamb
- Department
of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, United
Kingdom
| | - Suirui Zhong
- Provincial
Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department
of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical
Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510623, China
| | - Huimin Xia
- Provincial
Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department
of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical
Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510623, China
| | - Zhe Wen
- Provincial
Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department
of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical
Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510623, China
| | - Ruizhong Zhang
- Provincial
Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department
of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical
Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510623, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Fujiwara N, Kimura G, Nakagawa H. Emerging Roles of Spatial Transcriptomics in Liver Research. Semin Liver Dis 2024; 44:115-132. [PMID: 38574750 DOI: 10.1055/a-2299-7880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Spatial transcriptomics, leveraging sequencing- and imaging-based techniques, has emerged as a groundbreaking technology for mapping gene expression within the complex architectures of tissues. This approach provides an in-depth understanding of cellular and molecular dynamics across various states of healthy and diseased livers. Through the integration of sophisticated bioinformatics strategies, it enables detailed exploration of cellular heterogeneity, transitions in cell states, and intricate cell-cell interactions with remarkable precision. In liver research, spatial transcriptomics has been particularly revelatory, identifying distinct zonated functions of hepatocytes that are crucial for understanding the metabolic and detoxification processes of the liver. Moreover, this technology has unveiled new insights into the pathogenesis of liver diseases, such as the role of lipid-associated macrophages in steatosis and endothelial cell signals in liver regeneration and repair. In the domain of liver cancer, spatial transcriptomics has proven instrumental in delineating intratumor heterogeneity, identifying supportive microenvironmental niches and revealing the complex interplay between tumor cells and the immune system as well as susceptibility to immune checkpoint inhibitors. In conclusion, spatial transcriptomics represents a significant advance in hepatology, promising to enhance our understanding and treatment of liver diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naoto Fujiwara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Mie, Japan
| | - Genki Kimura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Mie, Japan
| | - Hayato Nakagawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Mie, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhu HX, Yang SH, Gao CY, Bian ZH, Chen XM, Huang RR, Meng QL, Li X, Jin H, Tsuneyama K, Han Y, Li L, Zhao ZB, Gershwin ME, Lian ZX. Targeting pathogenic CD8 + tissue-resident T cells with chimeric antigen receptor therapy in murine autoimmune cholangitis. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2936. [PMID: 38580644 PMCID: PMC10997620 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46654-5] [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: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a cholestatic autoimmune liver disease characterized by autoreactive T cell response against intrahepatic small bile ducts. Here, we use Il12b-/-Il2ra-/- mice (DKO mice) as a model of autoimmune cholangitis and demonstrate that Cd8a knockout or treatment with an anti-CD8α antibody prevents/reduces biliary immunopathology. Using single-cell RNA sequencing analysis, we identified CD8+ tissue-resident memory T (Trm) cells in the livers of DKO mice, which highly express activation- and cytotoxicity-associated markers and induce apoptosis of bile duct epithelial cells. Liver CD8+ Trm cells also upregulate the expression of several immune checkpoint molecules, including PD-1. We describe the development of a chimeric antigen receptor to target PD-1-expressing CD8+ Trm cells. Treatment of DKO mice with PD-1-targeting CAR-T cells selectively depleted liver CD8+ Trm cells and alleviated autoimmune cholangitis. Our work highlights the pathogenic role of CD8+ Trm cells and the potential therapeutic usage of PD-1-targeting CAR-T cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao-Xian Zhu
- Chronic Disease Laboratory, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shu-Han Yang
- Chronic Disease Laboratory, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cai-Yue Gao
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhen-Hua Bian
- Chronic Disease Laboratory, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Min Chen
- Chronic Disease Laboratory, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rong-Rong Huang
- Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qian-Li Meng
- Guangdong Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin Li
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haosheng Jin
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Koichi Tsuneyama
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Ying Han
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases and Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Liang Li
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Zhi-Bin Zhao
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - M Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
| | - Zhe-Xiong Lian
- Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wang Z, Liu Z, Zheng J, Huang L, Jin R, Wang X, Chen D, Xie Y, Feng B. The effects of low-dose IL-2 on Th17/Treg cell imbalance in primary biliary cholangitis mouse models. BMC Gastroenterol 2024; 24:87. [PMID: 38408917 PMCID: PMC10895794 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-024-03176-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease. The imbalance of Th17/Treg cells has been reported in PBC patients. Low-dose IL-2 can alleviate disease severity through modulating CD4 + T cell subsets in patients with autoimmune diseases. Hence, the present study aimed to examine the effects and mechanism of low-dose IL-2 in PBC mouse models. METHODS PBC models were induced in female C57BL/6 mice by two immunizations with 2OA-BSA at two-week intervals, and poly I: C every three days. PBC mouse models were divided into the IL-2 treated and untreated groups and low-dose IL-2 was injected at three different time points. Th17 and Tregs were analyzed by flow cytometry, and the related cytokines were analyzed by ELISA. Liver histopathology was examined by H&E and immunohistochemical staining. RESULTS Twelve weeks after modeling, the serum AMA was positive and the ALP was significantly increased in PBC mouse models (P<0.05). The pathology showed lymphocyte infiltration in the portal area, damage, and reactive proliferation of the small bile duct (P<0.05). The flow cytometric showed the imbalance of Th17/Treg cells in the liver of PBC mouse models, with decreased Treg cells, increased Th17 cells, and Th17/Treg ratio (P < 0.05). After the low-dose IL-2 intervention, biochemical index and liver pathologies showed improvement at 12 weeks. Besides, the imbalance of Th17 and Treg cells recovered. Public database mining showed that Th17 cell differentiation may contribute to poor response in PBC patients. CONCLUSION Low-dose IL-2 can significantly improve liver biochemistry and pathology by reversing the imbalance of Th17 and Treg cells, suggesting that it may be a potential therapeutic target for PBC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zilong Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Beijing International Cooperation Base for Science and Technology on NAFLD Diagnosis, Beijing, China
| | - Zhicheng Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Beijing International Cooperation Base for Science and Technology on NAFLD Diagnosis, Beijing, China
| | - Jiarui Zheng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Beijing International Cooperation Base for Science and Technology on NAFLD Diagnosis, Beijing, China
| | - Linxiang Huang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Beijing International Cooperation Base for Science and Technology on NAFLD Diagnosis, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Jin
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Beijing International Cooperation Base for Science and Technology on NAFLD Diagnosis, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Beijing International Cooperation Base for Science and Technology on NAFLD Diagnosis, Beijing, China
| | - Dongbo Chen
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Beijing International Cooperation Base for Science and Technology on NAFLD Diagnosis, Beijing, China
| | - Yandi Xie
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Beijing International Cooperation Base for Science and Technology on NAFLD Diagnosis, Beijing, China.
| | - Bo Feng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Beijing International Cooperation Base for Science and Technology on NAFLD Diagnosis, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang Z, Xu J, Zhang Y, Chen C, Kong C, Tang L, Jiang Y, Yu R, Zong Q, Zhang L, Wang D. Prediction of acute kidney injury incidence following acute type A aortic dissection surgery with novel biomarkers: a prospective observational study. BMC Med 2023; 21:503. [PMID: 38110934 PMCID: PMC10729328 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-023-03215-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a prevalent complication following acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) surgery and is closely associated with unfavorable prognostic outcomes. Hence, the development of a robust and efficient diagnostic approach to identify high-risk patients is of paramount importance. METHODS We conducted a prospective study involving 328 patients who underwent ATAAD surgery at our institution, comprising three distinct cohorts. In addition, 52 patients undergoing alternative cardiopulmonary surgeries and 37 healthy individuals were enrolled as control groups. Employing proteomic analysis, we initially identified plasma proteins potentially linked to AKI occurrence within the plasma proteomic cohort. Subsequent validation was performed in an independent cohort. Utilizing predictors derived from multivariate logistic regression analysis, a nomogram was meticulously formulated and its efficacy was validated in the model construction cohort. RESULTS Proteomics revealed significant elevation of plasma levels of S100A8/A9, pentraxin 3 (PTX3), and chitinase 3-like 1 (CHI3L1) immediately post-surgery in patients who developed ATAAD surgery-associated AKI (ASA-AKI). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves demonstrated impressive predictive performance of S100A8/A9, PTX3, and CHI3L1 at 0 h post-surgery, yielding area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.823, 0.786, and 0.803, respectively, for ASA-AKI prediction. Furthermore, our findings exhibited positive correlations between plasma levels of S100A8/A9, PTX3, CHI3L1, and urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) at 0 h post-surgery, along with correlations between plasma S100A8/A9, CHI3L1 levels, and the Cleveland Clinic score. A logistic regression model incorporating plasma S100A8/A9, PTX3, CHI3L1 levels, urinary NGAL levels, and the Cleveland Clinic score facilitated the construction of a predictive nomogram for ASA-AKI. This nomogram demonstrated robust discriminative ability, achieving an AUC of 0.963 in the model construction cohort. CONCLUSIONS Our study underscored the augmentation of plasma S100A8/A9, PTX3, and CHI3L1 levels immediately post-surgery in patients developing ASA-AKI. The incorporation of these three biomarkers, in conjunction with the Cleveland Clinic score and NGAL, into a nomogram demonstrated commendable predictive efficacy. This presents a practical tool for identifying patients at an elevated risk of AKI following ATAAD surgery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhigang Wang
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jingfang Xu
- Department of Nephrology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Cheng Chen
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chuiyu Kong
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lu Tang
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yi Jiang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical, Beijing, China
| | - Ronghuang Yu
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qiuyan Zong
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lifang Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Dongjin Wang
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wang X, Wei Y, Yang Y, Yang Y, Li H, Li Y, Zhang F, Wang L. Animal models of primary biliary cholangitis: status and challenges. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:214. [PMID: 37993960 PMCID: PMC10664283 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01170-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune liver disease. The aetiology of PBC remains unclear, and its pathogenesis is complex. Animal models are essential to clarify the pathogenesis of PBC and explore the occurrence of early events. MAIN BODY Herein, we review recent research progress in PBC animal models, including genetically modified, chemically inducible, biologically inducible, and protein-immunised models. Although these animal models exhibit several immunological and pathological features of PBC, they all have limitations that constrain further research and weaken their connection with clinical practice. CONCLUSION The review will benefit efforts to understand and optimise animal models in order to further clarify PBC pathogenesis and molecular targets for therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xu Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Wei
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Yanlei Yang
- Clinical Biobank, Department Medical Research Central, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yunjiao Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Haolong Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yongzhe Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Fengchun Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Garcia Moreno AS, Guicciardi ME, Wixom AQ, Jessen E, Yang J, Ilyas SI, Bianchi JK, Pinto E Vairo F, Lazaridis KN, Gores GJ. IL-17 Signaling in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis Patient-Derived Organoids. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3406046. [PMID: 37886596 PMCID: PMC10602181 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3406046/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is unclear, although studies implicate IL-17A as an inflammatory mediator in this disease. However, a direct assessment of IL-17 signaling in PSC cholangiocytes is lacking. In this study we aimed to investigate the response of PSC extrahepatic cholangiocyte organoids (ECO) to IL-17A stimulation. Cholangiocytes obtained from PSC and non-PSC patients by endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) were cultured as ECO. The ECO were treated with vehicle or IL-17A and assessed by transcriptomics, secretome analysis, and genome sequencing (GS). Unsupervised clustering of all integrated scRNA-seq data identified 8 cholangiocyte clusters which did not differ between PSC and non-PSC ECO. However, PSC ECO cells demonstrated a robust response to IL-17 treatment, noted by an increased number of differentially expressed genes (DEG) by transcriptomics, and more abundant chemokine and cytokine expression and secretion. After rigorous filtering, GS identified candidate somatic variants shared among PSC ECO from unrelated individuals. However, no candidate rare variants in genes regulating the IL-17 pathway were identified, but rare variants regulating the MAPK signaling pathway were present in all PSC ECO. In conclusion, PSC and non-PSC patient derived ECO respond differently to IL-17 stimulation implicating this pathway in the pathogenesis of PSC.
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhou R, Yang G, Zhang Y, Wang Y. Spatial transcriptomics in development and disease. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2023; 4:32. [PMID: 37806992 PMCID: PMC10560656 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-023-00144-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The proper functioning of diverse biological systems depends on the spatial organization of their cells, a critical factor for biological processes like shaping intricate tissue functions and precisely determining cell fate. Nonetheless, conventional bulk or single-cell RNA sequencing methods were incapable of simultaneously capturing both gene expression profiles and the spatial locations of cells. Hence, a multitude of spatially resolved technologies have emerged, offering a novel dimension for investigating regional gene expression, spatial domains, and interactions between cells. Spatial transcriptomics (ST) is a method that maps gene expression in tissue while preserving spatial information. It can reveal cellular heterogeneity, spatial organization and functional interactions in complex biological systems. ST can also complement and integrate with other omics methods to provide a more comprehensive and holistic view of biological systems at multiple levels of resolution. Since the advent of ST, new methods offering higher throughput and resolution have become available, holding significant potential to expedite fresh insights into comprehending biological complexity. Consequently, a rapid increase in associated research has occurred, using these technologies to unravel the spatial complexity during developmental processes or disease conditions. In this review, we summarize the recent advancement of ST in historical, technical, and application contexts. We compare different types of ST methods based on their principles and workflows, and present the bioinformatics tools for analyzing and integrating ST data with other modalities. We also highlight the applications of ST in various domains of biomedical research, especially development and diseases. Finally, we discuss the current limitations and challenges in the field, and propose the future directions of ST.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ran Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Gaoxia Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Yuan Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Floreani A, Gabbia D, De Martin S. Primary biliary cholangitis: primary autoimmune disease or primary secretory defect. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 17:863-870. [PMID: 37515436 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2023.2242771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease characterized by the immune-mediated destruction of small and medium intrahepatic bile ducts, involving predominantly females. PBC has long been described as an autoimmune liver disease, also because it is very often associated with many autoimmune conditions. More recently, another pathogenic mechanism exploring the damage of cholangiocytes has been hypothesized, i.e. a defect in the biliary umbrella which is physiologically responsible for the exchange of the ions Cl- and HCO3- and maintains the integrity of glycocalyx. To provide a state-of-the-art analysis of this topic, a systematic review of literature in PubMed, Scopus, and Science Direct was conducted (inclusive dates: 1986-2023). AREA COVERED Although the etiology remains unknown, pathogenesis consists of a complex immune-mediated process resulting from a genetic susceptibility. PBC can be triggered by an immune-mediated response to an autoantigen, which leads to a progressive destruction of bile ducts and eventually to a progressive fibrosis with cirrhosis. The defect in the 'bicarbonate umbrella' acts as a protection against the toxic hydrophobic bile acids, leading to a toxic composition of bile. EXPERT OPINION This review offers a summary of the current knowledge about the pathogenesis of PBC, indicating that this is probably based on the mutual relationship between the immune insult and the unbalanced secretory mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annarosa Floreani
- Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare, Negrar, Verona, Italy
- University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Daniela Gabbia
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Sara De Martin
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhang L, Pan Q, Zhang L, Xia H, Liao J, Zhang X, Zhao N, Xie Q, Liao M, Tan Y, Li Q, Zhu J, Li L, Fan S, Li J, Zhang C, Cai SY, Boyer JL, Chai J. Runt-related transcription factor-1 ameliorates bile acid-induced hepatic inflammation in cholestasis through JAK/STAT3 signaling. Hepatology 2023; 77:1866-1881. [PMID: 36647589 PMCID: PMC10921919 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Bile acids trigger a hepatic inflammatory response, causing cholestatic liver injury. Runt-related transcription factor-1 (RUNX1), primarily known as a master modulator in hematopoiesis, plays a pivotal role in mediating inflammatory responses. However, RUNX1 in hepatocytes is poorly characterized, and its role in cholestasis is unclear. Herein, we aimed to investigate the role of hepatic RUNX1 and its underlying mechanisms in cholestasis. APPROACH AND RESULTS Hepatic expression of RUNX1 was examined in cholestatic patients and mouse models. Mice with liver-specific ablation of Runx1 were generated. Bile duct ligation and 1% cholic acid diet were used to induce cholestasis in mice. Primary mouse hepatocytes and the human hepatoma PLC/RPF/5- ASBT cell line were used for mechanistic studies. Hepatic RUNX1 mRNA and protein levels were markedly increased in cholestatic patients and mice. Liver-specific deletion of Runx1 aggravated inflammation and liver injury in cholestatic mice induced by bile duct ligation or 1% cholic acid feeding. Mechanistic studies indicated that elevated bile acids stimulated RUNX1 expression by activating the RUNX1 -P2 promoter through JAK/STAT3 signaling. Increased RUNX1 is directly bound to the promotor region of inflammatory chemokines, including CCL2 and CXCL2 , and transcriptionally repressed their expression in hepatocytes, leading to attenuation of liver inflammatory response. Blocking the JAK signaling or STAT3 phosphorylation completely abolished RUNX1 repression of bile acid-induced CCL2 and CXCL2 in hepatocytes. CONCLUSIONS This study has gained initial evidence establishing the functional role of hepatocyte RUNX1 in alleviating liver inflammation during cholestasis through JAK/STAT3 signaling. Modulating hepatic RUNX1 activity could be a new therapeutic target for cholestasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liangjun Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Disease of PLA, Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Qiong Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Disease of PLA, Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Disease of PLA, Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Haihan Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Disease of PLA, Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Junwei Liao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Disease of PLA, Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Central South University School of Life Sciences, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xiaoxun Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Disease of PLA, Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Nan Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Disease of PLA, Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Qiaoling Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Disease of PLA, Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Min Liao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Disease of PLA, Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Ya Tan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Disease of PLA, Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Qiao Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Disease of PLA, Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jinfei Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Disease of PLA, Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Ling Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Disease of PLA, Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Shijun Fan
- Medical Research Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jianwei Li
- Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Chengcheng Zhang
- Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Shi-Ying Cai
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - James L Boyer
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jin Chai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Disease of PLA, Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital), Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of PLA, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Cholestatic Liver Diseases Center and Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Yang Y, He X, Rojas M, Leung PSC, Gao L. Mechanism-based target therapy in primary biliary cholangitis: opportunities before liver cirrhosis? Front Immunol 2023; 14:1184252. [PMID: 37325634 PMCID: PMC10266968 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1184252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an immune-mediated liver disease characterized by cholestasis, biliary injuries, liver fibrosis, and chronic non-suppurative cholangitis. The pathogenesis of PBC is multifactorial and involves immune dysregulation, abnormal bile metabolism, and progressive fibrosis, ultimately leading to cirrhosis and liver failure. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and obeticholic acid (OCA) are currently used as first- and second-line treatments, respectively. However, many patients do not respond adequately to UDCA, and the long-term effects of these drugs are limited. Recent research has advanced our understanding the mechanisms of pathogenesis in PBC and greatly facilitated development of novel drugs to target mechanistic checkpoints. Animal studies and clinical trials of pipeline drugs have yielded promising results in slowing disease progression. Targeting immune mediated pathogenesis and anti-inflammatory therapies are focused on the early stage, while anti-cholestatic and anti-fibrotic therapies are emphasized in the late stage of disease, which is characterized by fibrosis and cirrhosis development. Nonetheless, it is worth noting that currently, there exists a dearth of therapeutic options that can effectively impede the progression of the disease to its terminal stages. Hence, there is an urgent need for further research aimed at investigating the underlying pathophysiology mechanisms with potential therapeutic effects. This review highlights our current knowledge of the underlying immunological and cellular mechanisms of pathogenesis in PBC. Further, we also address current mechanism-based target therapies for PBC and potential therapeutic strategies to improve the efficacy of existing treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yushu Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - XiaoSong He
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Manuel Rojas
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Center for Autoimmune Diseases Research (CREA), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Patrick S. C. Leung
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Lixia Gao
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|