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Nijiati N, Wubuli D, Li X, Zhou Z, Julaiti M, Huang P, Hu B. The Construction of Stem Cell-Induced Hepatocyte Model And Its Application in Evaluation of Developmental Hepatotoxicity of Environmental Pollutants. Stem Cells Dev 2024. [PMID: 39109950 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2024.0117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Stem cells, with their ability to self-renew and differentiate into various cell types, are a unique and valuable resource for medical research and toxicological studies. The liver is the most crucial metabolic organ in the human body and serves as the primary site for the accumulation of environmental pollutants. Enrichment with environmental pollutants can disrupt the early developmental processes of the liver and have a significant impact on liver function. The liver comprises a complex array of cell types, and different environmental pollutants have varying effects on these cells. Currently, there is a lack of well-established research models that can effectively demonstrate the mechanisms by which environmental pollutants affect human liver development. The emergence of liver cells and organoids derived from stem cells offers a promising tool for investigating the impact of environmental pollutants on human health. Therefore, this study systematically reviewed the developmental processes of different types of liver cells and provided an overview of studies on the developmental toxicity of various environmental pollutants using stem cell models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadire Nijiati
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Endemic Diseases, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Dilixiati Wubuli
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Xiaobing Li
- The Third Clinical Medicine College of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Zidong Zhou
- The Third Clinical Medicine College of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Mulati Julaiti
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Endemic Diseases, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Pengfei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Endemic Diseases, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Bowen Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Endemic Diseases, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
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2
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Karnawat K, Parthasarathy R, Sakhrie M, Karthik H, Krishna KV, Balachander GM. Building in vitro models for mechanistic understanding of liver regeneration in chronic liver diseases. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:7669-7691. [PMID: 38973693 DOI: 10.1039/d4tb00738g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
The liver has excellent regeneration potential and attains complete functional recovery from partial hepatectomy. The regenerative mechanisms malfunction in chronic liver diseases (CLDs), which fuels disease progression. CLDs account for 2 million deaths per year worldwide. Pathophysiological studies with clinical correlation have shown evidence of deviation of normal regenerative mechanisms and its contribution to fueling fibrosis and disease progression. However, we lack realistic in vitro models that can allow experimental manipulation for mechanistic understanding of liver regeneration in CLDs and testing of candidate drugs. In this review, we aim to provide the framework for building appropriate organotypic models for dissecting regenerative responses in CLDs, with the focus on non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). By drawing parallels with development and hepatectomy, we explain the selection of critical components such as cells, signaling, and, substrate-driven biophysical cues to build an appropriate CLD model. We highlight the organoid-based organotypic models available for NASH disease modeling, including organ-on-a-chip and 3D bioprinted models. With the focus on bioprinting as a fabrication method, we prescribe building in vitro CLD models and testing schemes for exploring the regenerative responses in the bioprinted model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khushi Karnawat
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
| | - Rithika Parthasarathy
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
| | - Mesevilhou Sakhrie
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
| | - Harikeshav Karthik
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
| | - Konatala Vibhuvan Krishna
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
| | - Gowri Manohari Balachander
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
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Wilhelmsen I, Combriat T, Dalmao-Fernandez A, Stokowiec J, Wang C, Olsen PA, Wik JA, Boichuk Y, Aizenshtadt A, Krauss S. The effects of TGF-β-induced activation and starvation of vitamin A and palmitic acid on human stem cell-derived hepatic stellate cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:223. [PMID: 39044210 PMCID: PMC11267759 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03852-8] [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: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) have numerous critical roles in liver function and homeostasis, while they are also known for their importance during liver injury and fibrosis. There is therefore a need for relevant in vitro human HSC models to fill current knowledge gaps. In particular, the roles of vitamin A (VA), lipid droplets (LDs), and energy metabolism in human HSC activation are poorly understood. METHODS In this study, human pluripotent stem cell-derived HSCs (scHSCs), benchmarked to human primary HSC, were exposed to 48-hour starvation of retinol (ROL) and palmitic acid (PA) in the presence or absence of the potent HSC activator TGF-β. The interventions were studied by an extensive set of phenotypic and functional analyses, including transcriptomic analysis, measurement of activation-related proteins and cytokines, VA- and LD storage, and cell energy metabolism. RESULTS The results show that though the starvation of ROL and PA alone did not induce scHSC activation, the starvation amplified the TGF-β-induced activation-related transcriptome. However, TGF-β-induced activation alone did not lead to a reduction in VA or LD stores. Additionally, reduced glycolysis and increased mitochondrial fission were observed in response to TGF-β. CONCLUSIONS scHSCs are robust models for activation studies. The loss of VA and LDs is not sufficient for scHSC activation in vitro, but may amplify the TGF-β-induced activation response. Collectively, our work provides an extensive framework for studying human HSCs in healthy and diseased conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Wilhelmsen
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway.
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway.
| | - Thomas Combriat
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
| | - Andrea Dalmao-Fernandez
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
- Section for Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Department of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1068, Blindern, Oslo, 0316, Norway
| | - Justyna Stokowiec
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
| | - Chencheng Wang
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
- Department of Transplantation Medicine, Institute for Surgical Research, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway
| | - Petter Angell Olsen
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
| | - Jonas Aakre Wik
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
| | - Yuliia Boichuk
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
| | - Aleksandra Aizenshtadt
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
| | - Stefan Krauss
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
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Cools L, Dastjerd MK, Smout A, Merens V, Yang Y, Reynaert H, Messaoudi N, Smet VD, Kumar M, Verhulst S, Verfaillie C, van Grunsven LA. Human iPSC-derived liver co-culture spheroids to model liver fibrosis. Biofabrication 2024; 16:035032. [PMID: 38865994 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ad5766] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
The lack of adequate humanin vitromodels that recapitulate the cellular composition and response of the human liver to injury hampers the development of anti-fibrotic drugs. The goal of this study was to develop a human spheroid culture model to study liver fibrosis by using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived liver cells. iPSCs were independently differentiated towards hepatoblasts (iHepatoblasts), hepatic stellate cells (iHSCs), endothelial cells (iECs) and macrophages (iMΦ), before assembly into free floating spheroids by culturing cells in 96-well U-bottom plates and orbital shaking for up to 21 days to allow further maturation. Through transcriptome analysis, we show further maturation of iECs and iMΦ, the differentiation of the iHepatoblasts towards hepatocyte-like cells (iHeps) and the inactivation of the iHSCs by the end of the 3D culture. Moreover, these cultures display a similar expression of cell-specific marker genes (CYP3A4, PDGFRβ, CD31andCD68) and sensitivity to hepatotoxicity as spheroids made using freshly isolated primary human liver cells. Furthermore, we show the functionality of the iHeps and the iHSCs by mimicking liver fibrosis through iHep-induced iHSC activation, using acetaminophen. In conclusion, we have established a reproducible human iPSC-derived liver culture model that can be used to mimic fibrosisin vitroas a replacement of primary human liver derived 3D models. The model can be used to investigate pathways involved in fibrosis development and to identify new targets for chronic liver disease therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cools
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mina Kazemzadeh Dastjerd
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ayla Smout
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Vincent Merens
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yuwei Yang
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hendrik Reynaert
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nouredin Messaoudi
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Vincent De Smet
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Stem Cell Institute Leuven, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Stefaan Verhulst
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Catherine Verfaillie
- Stem Cell Institute Leuven, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Leo A van Grunsven
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
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5
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Du K, Jun JH, Dutta RK, Diehl AM. Plasticity, heterogeneity, and multifunctionality of hepatic stellate cells in liver pathophysiology. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0411. [PMID: 38619452 PMCID: PMC11019831 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
HSCs, the resident pericytes of the liver, have consistently been at the forefront of liver research due to their crucial roles in various hepatic pathological processes. Prior literature often depicted HSCs in a binary framework, categorizing them as either quiescent or activated. However, recent advances in HSC research, particularly the advent of single-cell RNA-sequencing, have revolutionized our understanding of these cells. This sophisticated technique offers an unparalleled, high-resolution insight into HSC populations, uncovering a spectrum of diversity and functional heterogeneity across various physiological states of the liver, ranging from liver development to the liver aging process. The single-cell RNA-sequencing revelations have also highlighted the intrinsic plasticity of HSCs and underscored their complex roles in a myriad of pathophysiological processes, including liver injury, repair, and carcinogenesis. This review aims to integrate and clarify these recent discoveries, focusing on how the inherent plasticity of HSCs is central to their dynamic roles both in maintaining liver homeostasis and orchestrating responses to liver injury. Future research will clarify whether findings from rodent models can be translated to human livers and guide how these insights are harnessed to develop targeted therapeutic interventions.
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6
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Lucena MI, Villanueva-Paz M, Alvarez-Alvarez I, Aithal GP, Björnsson ES, Cakan-Akdogan G, Cubero FJ, Esteves F, Falcon-Perez JM, Fromenty B, Garcia-Ruiz C, Grove JI, Konu O, Kranendonk M, Kullak-Ublick GA, Miranda JP, Remesal-Doblado A, Sancho-Bru P, Nelson L, Andrade RJ, Daly AK, Fernandez-Checa JC. Roadmap to DILI research in Europe. A proposal from COST action ProEuroDILINet. Pharmacol Res 2024; 200:107046. [PMID: 38159783 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.107046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
In the current article the aims for a constructive way forward in Drug-Induced Liver Injury (DILI) are to highlight the most important priorities in research and clinical science, therefore supporting a more informed, focused, and better funded future for European DILI research. This Roadmap aims to identify key challenges, define a shared vision across all stakeholders for the opportunities to overcome these challenges and propose a high-quality research program to achieve progress on the prediction, prevention, diagnosis and management of this condition and impact on healthcare practice in the field of DILI. This will involve 1. Creation of a database encompassing optimised case report form for prospectively identified DILI cases with well-characterised controls with competing diagnoses, biological samples, and imaging data; 2. Establishing of preclinical models to improve the assessment and prediction of hepatotoxicity in humans to guide future drug safety testing; 3. Emphasis on implementation science and 4. Enhanced collaboration between drug-developers, clinicians and regulatory scientists. This proposed operational framework will advance DILI research and may bring together basic, applied, translational and clinical research in DILI.
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Affiliation(s)
- M I Lucena
- Servicios de Aparato Digestivo y Farmacología Clínica, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma BIONAND, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain; Plataforma de Investigación Clínica y Ensayos Clínicos UICEC-IBIMA, Plataforma ISCIII de Investigación Clínica, Madrid, Spain.
| | - M Villanueva-Paz
- Servicios de Aparato Digestivo y Farmacología Clínica, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma BIONAND, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - I Alvarez-Alvarez
- Servicios de Aparato Digestivo y Farmacología Clínica, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma BIONAND, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - G P Aithal
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom; NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - E S Björnsson
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Landspitali University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - G Cakan-Akdogan
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey. Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylül University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - F J Cubero
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain; Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ORL, Complutense University School of Medicine, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - F Esteves
- Center for Toxicogenomics and Human Health (ToxOmics), NMS | FCM, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - J M Falcon-Perez
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain; Exosomes Laboratory, Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio, Bizkaia, 48160, Spain. IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Bizkaia 48009, Spain
| | - B Fromenty
- INSERM, Univ Rennes, INRAE, Institut NUMECAN (Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer) UMR_A 1341, UMR_S 1317, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - C Garcia-Ruiz
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain. University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J I Grove
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom; NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - O Konu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey; Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey; UNAM-Institute of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - M Kranendonk
- Center for Toxicogenomics and Human Health (ToxOmics), NMS | FCM, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - G A Kullak-Ublick
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; CMO & Patient Safety, Global Drug Development, Novartis Pharma, Basel, Switzerland
| | - J P Miranda
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - A Remesal-Doblado
- Servicios de Aparato Digestivo y Farmacología Clínica, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma BIONAND, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - P Sancho-Bru
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain. University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - L Nelson
- Institute for Bioengineering, School of Engineering, Faraday Building, The University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - R J Andrade
- Servicios de Aparato Digestivo y Farmacología Clínica, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma BIONAND, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - A K Daly
- Translational & Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - J C Fernandez-Checa
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain. University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
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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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8
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Martínez–Sánchez C, Bassegoda O, Deng H, Almodóvar X, Ibarzabal A, de Hollanda A, Martínez García de la Torre R, Blaya D, Ariño S, Jiménez-Esquivel N, Aguilar-Bravo B, Vallverdú J, Montironi C, Osorio-Conles O, Fundora Y, Sánchez Moreno FJ, Gómez-Valadés AG, Aguilar-Corominas L, Soria A, Pose E, Juanola A, Cervera M, Perez M, Hernández-Gea V, Affò S, Swanson KS, Ferrer-Fàbrega J, Balibrea JM, Sancho-Bru P, Vidal J, Ginès P, Smith AM, Graupera I, Coll M. Therapeutic targeting of adipose tissue macrophages ameliorates liver fibrosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100830. [PMID: 37701336 PMCID: PMC10494470 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims : The accumulation of adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) in obesity has been associated with hepatic injury. However, the contribution of ATMs to hepatic fibrosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains to be elucidated. Herein, we investigate the relationship between ATMs and liver fibrosis in patients with patients with NAFLD and evaluate the impact of modulation of ATMs over hepatic fibrosis in an experimental non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) model. Methods Adipose tissue and liver biopsies from 42 patients with NAFLD with different fibrosis stages were collected. ATMs were characterised by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry and the correlation between ATMs and liver fibrosis stages was assessed. Selective modulation of the ATM phenotype was achieved by i.p. administration of dextran coupled with dexamethasone in diet-induced obesity and NASH murine models. Chronic administration effects were evaluated by histology and gene expression analysis in adipose tissue and liver samples. In vitro crosstalk between human ATMs and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and liver spheroids was performed. Results Patients with NAFLD presented an increased accumulation of pro-inflammatory ATMs that correlated with hepatic fibrosis. Long-term modulation of ATMs significantly reduced pro-inflammatory phenotype and ameliorated adipose tissue inflammation. Moreover, ATMs modulation was associated with an improvement in steatosis and hepatic inflammation and significantly reduced fibrosis progression in an experimental NASH model. In vitro, the reduction of the pro-inflammatory phenotype of human ATMs with dextran-dexamethasone treatment reduced the secretion of inflammatory chemokines and directly attenuated the pro-fibrogenic response in HSCs and liver spheroids. Conclusions Pro-inflammatory ATMs increase in parallel with fibrosis degree in patients with NAFLD and their modulation in an experimental NASH model improves liver fibrosis, uncovering the potential of ATMs as a therapeutic target to mitigate liver fibrosis in NAFLD. Impact and implications We report that human adipose tissue pro-inflammatory macrophages correlate with hepatic fibrosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Furthermore, the modulation of adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) by dextran-nanocarrier conjugated with dexamethasone shifts the pro-inflammatory phenotype of ATMs to an anti-inflammatory phenotype in an experimental murine model of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. This shift ameliorates adipose tissue inflammation, hepatic inflammation, and fibrosis. Our results highlight the relevance of adipose tissue in NAFLD pathophysiology and unveil ATMs as a potential target for NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia Martínez–Sánchez
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Octavi Bassegoda
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Hongping Deng
- Micro and Nanotechnology Laboratory, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Xènia Almodóvar
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ainitze Ibarzabal
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Obesity Unit, Endocrinology and Nutrition Department, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Gastrointestinal Surgery Department, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de la Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana de Hollanda
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Obesity Unit, Endocrinology and Nutrition Department, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de la Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Delia Blaya
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Silvia Ariño
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Natalia Jiménez-Esquivel
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Beatriz Aguilar-Bravo
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Julia Vallverdú
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carla Montironi
- Molecular Biology Core & Pathology Department, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Spain
| | - Oscar Osorio-Conles
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Yiliam Fundora
- Department of General and Digestive Surgery, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Alicia G. Gómez-Valadés
- Neuronal Control of Metabolism (NeuCoMe) Laboratory, Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laia Aguilar-Corominas
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Soria
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisa Pose
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adrià Juanola
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Cervera
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Martina Perez
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Virginia Hernández-Gea
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Silvia Affò
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Kelly S. Swanson
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Joana Ferrer-Fàbrega
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
- Barcelona Clínic Liver Cancer Group (BCLC), IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Hepatic Oncology Unit, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
- Hepatobiliopancreatic Surgery and Liver and Pancreatic Transplantation Unit, Department of Surgery, Institute Clínic of Digestive and Metabolic Diseases (ICMDiM), Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jose Maria Balibrea
- Endocrine, Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery Unit, Germans Trias i Pujol Hospital, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pau Sancho-Bru
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Josep Vidal
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Obesity Unit, Endocrinology and Nutrition Department, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Pere Ginès
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of General and Digestive Surgery, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrew M. Smith
- Micro and Nanotechnology Laboratory, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Carle Illinois College of Medicine, Urbana, IL, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Isabel Graupera
- Fundació de Recerca Clínic Barcelona-Institut d’Investigacións Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (FCRB-IDIABPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mar Coll
- Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Ma L, Wu Q, Tam PKH. The Current Proceedings of PSC-Based Liver Fibrosis Therapy. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:2155-2165. [PMID: 37490204 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10592-4] [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] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis was initially considered to be an irreversible process which will eventually lead to the occurrence of liver cancer. So far there has been no effective therapeutic approach to treat liver fibrosis although scientists have put tremendous efforts into the underlying mechanisms of this disease. Therefore, in-depth research on novel and safe treatments of liver fibrosis is of great significance to human health. Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) play important roles in the study of liver fibrosis due to their unique features in self-renewal ability, pluripotency, and paracrine function. This article mainly reviews the applications of PSCs in the study of liver fibrosis in recent years. We discuss the role of PSC-derived liver organoids in the study of liver fibrosis, and the latest research advances on the differentiation of PSCs into hepatocytes or macrophages. We also highlight the importance of exosomes of PSCs for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Ma
- The State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, China
| | - Qiang Wu
- The State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, China.
| | - Paul Kwong-Hang Tam
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, China.
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10
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Kømurcu KS, Wilhelmsen I, Thorne JL, Krauss S, Wilson SR, Aizenshtadt A, Røberg-Larsen H. Mass spectrometry reveals that oxysterols are secreted from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease induced organoids. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2023; 232:106355. [PMID: 37380087 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2023.106355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Oxysterols are potential biomarkers for liver metabolism that are altered under disease conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We here apply sterolomics to organoids used for disease modeling of NAFLD. Using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry with on-line sample clean-up and enrichment, we establish that liver organoids produce and secrete oxysterols. We find elevated levels of 26-hydroxycholesterol, an LXR agonist and the first oxysterol in the acidic bile acid synthesis, in medium from steatotic liver organoids compared to untreated organoids. Other upregulated sterols in medium from steatotic liver organoids are dihydroxycholesterols, such as 7α,26-dihydroxycholesterol, and 7α,25-dihydroxycholesterol. Through 26-hydroxycholesterol exposure to human stem cell-derived hepatic stellate cells, we observe a trend of expressional downregulation of the pro-inflammatory cytokine CCL2, suggesting a protective role of 26-hydroxycholesterol during early-phased NAFLD disease development. Our findings support the possibility of oxysterols serving as NAFLD indicators, demonstrating the usefulness of combining organoids and mass spectrometry for disease modeling and biomarker studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Sæterdal Kømurcu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1033 Blindern, 0315 Oslo, Norway; Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110 Blindern, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Ingrid Wilhelmsen
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110 Blindern, 0317 Oslo, Norway; Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, P.O. box 4950 Nydalen, Oslo, Norway
| | - James L Thorne
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Stefan Krauss
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110 Blindern, 0317 Oslo, Norway; Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, P.O. box 4950 Nydalen, Oslo, Norway
| | - Steven Ray Wilson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1033 Blindern, 0315 Oslo, Norway; Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110 Blindern, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Aleksandra Aizenshtadt
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110 Blindern, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Hanne Røberg-Larsen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1033 Blindern, 0315 Oslo, Norway; Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110 Blindern, 0317 Oslo, Norway.
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11
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Chen X, Li K, Chen J, Tan S. Breakthrough in large-scale production of iPSCs-derived exosomes to promote clinical applications. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1257186. [PMID: 37691905 PMCID: PMC10484304 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1257186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Songwen Tan
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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12
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Wilhelmsen I, Amirola Martinez M, Stokowiec J, Wang C, Aizenshtadt A, Krauss S. Characterization of human stem cell-derived hepatic stellate cells and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells during extended in vitro culture. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1223737. [PMID: 37560536 PMCID: PMC10408301 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1223737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: There is a significant need for predictive and stable in vitro human liver representations for disease modeling and drug testing. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are important non-parenchymal cell components of the liver and are hence of relevance in a variety of disease models, including hepatic fibrosis. Pluripotent stem cell- (PSC-) derived HSCs (scHSCs) and LSECs (scLSECs) offer an attractive alternative to primary human material; yet, the suitability of scHSCs and scLSECs for extended in vitro modeling has not been characterized. Methods: In this study, we describe the phenotypic and functional development of scHSCs and scLSECs during 14 days of 2D in vitro culture. Cell-specific phenotypes were evaluated by cell morphology, immunofluorescence, and gene- and protein expression. Functionality was assessed in scHSCs by their capacity for intracellular storage of vitamin A and response to pro-fibrotic stimuli induced by TGF-β. scLSECs were evaluated by nitric oxide- and factor VIII secretion as well as endocytic uptake of bioparticles and acetylated low-density lipoprotein. Notch pathway inhibition and co-culturing scHSCs and scLSECs were separately tested as options for enhancing long-term stability and maturation of the cells. Results and Conclusion: Both scHSCs and scLSECs exhibited a post-differentiation cell type-specific phenotype and functionality but deteriorated during extended culture with PSC line-dependent variability. Therefore, the choice of PSC line and experimental timeframe is crucial when designing in vitro platforms involving scHSCs and scLSECs. Notch inhibition modestly improved long-term monoculture in a cell line-dependent manner, while co-culturing scHSCs and scLSECs provides a strategy to enhance phenotypic and functional stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Wilhelmsen
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Mikel Amirola Martinez
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Justyna Stokowiec
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Chencheng Wang
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Aleksandra Aizenshtadt
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Stefan Krauss
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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13
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Luo Q, Wang N, Que H, Mai E, Hu Y, Tan R, Gu J, Gong P. Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Hepatocyte-like Cells: Induction Methods and Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11592. [PMID: 37511351 PMCID: PMC10380504 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411592] [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: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of regenerative medicine provides new options for the treatment of end-stage liver diseases. Stem cells, such as bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, embryonic stem cells, and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), are effective tools for tissue repair in regenerative medicine. iPSCs are an appropriate source of hepatocytes for the treatment of liver disease due to their unlimited multiplication capacity, their coverage of the entire range of genetics required to simulate human disease, and their evasion of ethical implications. iPSCs have the ability to gradually produce hepatocyte-like cells (HLCs) with homologous phenotypes and physiological functions. However, how to induce iPSCs to differentiate into HLCs efficiently and accurately is still a hot topic. This review describes the existing approaches for inducing the differentiation of iPSCs into HLCs, as well as some challenges faced, and summarizes various parameters for determining the quality and functionality of HLCs. Furthermore, the application of iPSCs for in vitro hepatoprotective drug screening and modeling of liver disease is discussed. In conclusion, iPSCs will be a dependable source of cells for stem-cell therapy to treat end-stage liver disease and are anticipated to facilitate individualized treatment for liver disease in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiulin Luo
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610225, China
| | - Nan Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610225, China
| | - Hanyun Que
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610225, China
| | - Erziya Mai
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610225, China
| | - Yanting Hu
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610225, China
| | - Rui Tan
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610032, China
| | - Jian Gu
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610225, China
| | - Puyang Gong
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610225, China
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14
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Lee YS, Seki E. In Vivo and In Vitro Models to Study Liver Fibrosis: Mechanisms and Limitations. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 16:355-367. [PMID: 37270060 PMCID: PMC10444957 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2023.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a common result of liver injury owing to various kinds of chronic liver diseases. A deeper understanding of the pathophysiology of liver fibrosis and identifying potential therapeutic targets of liver fibrosis is important because liver fibrosis may progress to advanced liver diseases, such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite numerous studies, the underlying mechanisms of liver fibrosis remain unclear. Mechanisms of the development and progression of liver fibrosis differ according to etiologies. Therefore, appropriate liver fibrosis models should be selected according to the purpose of the study and the type of underlying disease. Many in vivo animal and in vitro models have been developed to study liver fibrosis. However, there are no perfect preclinical models for liver fibrosis. In this review, we summarize the current in vivo and in vitro models for studying liver fibrosis and highlight emerging in vitro models, including organoids and liver-on-a-chip models. In addition, we discuss the mechanisms and limitations of each model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Sun Lee
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California; Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ekihiro Seki
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California.
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15
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Yin KL, Li M, Song PP, Duan YX, Ye WT, Tang W, Kokudo N, Gao Q, Liao R. Unraveling the Emerging Niche Role of Hepatic Stellate Cell-derived Exosomes in Liver Diseases. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2023; 11:441-451. [PMID: 36643031 PMCID: PMC9817040 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2022.00326] [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: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play an essential role in various liver diseases, and exosomes are critical mediators of intercellular communication in local and distant microenvironments. Cellular crosstalk between HSCs and surrounding multiple tissue-resident cells promotes or inhibits the activation of HSCs. Substantial evidence has revealed that HSC-derived exosomes are involved in the occurrence and development of liver diseases through the regulation of retinoid metabolism, lipid metabolism, glucose metabolism, protein metabolism, and mitochondrial metabolism. HSC-derived exosomes are underpinned by vehicle molecules, such as mRNAs and microRNAs, that function in, and significantly affect, the processes of various liver diseases, such as acute liver injury, alcoholic liver disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, fibrosis, and cancer. As such, numerous exosomes derived from HSCs or HSC-associated exosomes have attracted attention because of their biological roles and translational applications as potential targets for therapeutic targets. Herein, we review the pathophysiological and metabolic processes associated with HSC-derived exosomes, their roles in various liver diseases and their potential clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun-Li Yin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Pei-Pei Song
- National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yu-Xin Duan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wen-Tao Ye
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Tang
- National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Norihiro Kokudo
- National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Qiang Gao
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Correspondence to: Qiang Gao, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6695-9906. ; Rui Liao, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0057-2792. E-mail:
| | - Rui Liao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Correspondence to: Qiang Gao, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6695-9906. ; Rui Liao, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0057-2792. E-mail:
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16
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Rezvani M, Vallier L, Guillot A. Modeling Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in the Dish Using Human-Specific Platforms: Strategies and Limitations. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 15:1135-1145. [PMID: 36740045 PMCID: PMC10031472 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2023.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disease affecting multiple cell types of the human liver. The high prevalence of NAFLD and the lack of approved therapies increase the demand for reliable models for the preclinical discovery of drug targets. In the last decade, multiple proof-of-principle studies have demonstrated human-specific NAFLD modeling in the dish. These systems have included technologies based on human induced pluripotent stem cell derivatives, liver tissue section cultures, intrahepatic cholangiocyte organoids, and liver-on-a-chip. These platforms differ in functional maturity, multicellularity, scalability, and spatial organization. Identifying an appropriate model for a specific NAFLD-related research question is challenging. Therefore, we review different platforms for their strengths and limitations in modeling NAFLD. To define the fidelity of the current human in vitro NAFLD models in depth, we define disease hallmarks within the NAFLD spectrum that range from steatosis to severe fibroinflammatory tissue injury. We discuss how the most common methods are efficacious in modeling genetic contributions and aspects of the early NAFLD-related tissue response. We also highlight the shortcoming of current models to recapitulate the complexity of inter-organ crosstalk and the chronic process of liver fibrosis-to-cirrhosis that usually takes decades in patients. Importantly, we provide methodological overviews and discuss implementation hurdles (eg, reproducibility or costs) to help choose the most appropriate NAFLD model for the individual research focus: hepatocyte injury, ductular reaction, cellular crosstalk, or other applications. In sum, we highlight current strategies and deficiencies to model NAFLD in the dish and propose a framework for the next generation of human-specific investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Rezvani
- Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Nephrology and Metabolic Medicine, Berlin, Germany; Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; Berlin Institute of Health, Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Berlin, Germany; Berlin Institute of Health, Clinician-Scientist Program, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ludovic Vallier
- Berlin Institute of Health, Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Berlin, Germany; Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Adrien Guillot
- Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Berlin, Germany.
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17
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Liu P, Qian Y, Liu X, Zhu X, Zhang X, Lv Y, Xiang J. Immunomodulatory role of mesenchymal stem cell therapy in liver fibrosis. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1096402. [PMID: 36685534 PMCID: PMC9848585 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1096402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a fibrogenic and inflammatory process that results from hepatocyte injury and is characterized by hepatic architectural distortion and resultant loss of liver function. There is no effective treatment for advanced fibrosis other than liver transplantation, but it is limited by expensive costs, immune rejection, and postoperative complications. With the development of regenerative medicine in recent years, mesenchymal stem cell (MSCs) transplantation has become the most promising treatment for liver fibrosis. The underlying mechanisms of MSC anti-fibrotic effects include hepatocyte differentiation, paracrine, and immunomodulation, with immunomodulation playing a central role. This review discusses the immune cells involved in liver fibrosis, the immunomodulatory properties of MSCs, and the immunomodulation mechanisms of MSC-based strategies to attenuate liver fibrosis. Meanwhile, we discuss the current challenges and future directions as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Liu
- Center for Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine, Med-X Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yerong Qian
- Center for Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine, Med-X Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Radiotherapy, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xulong Zhu
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xufeng Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yi Lv
- Center for Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine, Med-X Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China,*Correspondence: Junxi Xiang, ; Yi Lv,
| | - Junxi Xiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China,*Correspondence: Junxi Xiang, ; Yi Lv,
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18
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de la Torre RAMG, Sancho-Bru P. Differentiation of Hepatic Stellate Cells from Pluripotent Stem Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2669:33-42. [PMID: 37247052 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3207-9_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are non-parenchymal cells with a mesenchymal origin involved in vitamin A storage and extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis. In response to injury, HSCs activate and acquire myofibroblastic features, participating in the wound healing response. Upon chronic liver injury, HSCs become the main contributors to ECM deposition and to the progression of fibrosis. Due to their relevant roles in liver function and pathophysiology, it is of utmost importance to develop means to obtain HSCs for liver disease modeling and drug development. Here, we describe a directed differentiation protocol from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) to obtain functional HSCs (PSC-HSCs). The procedure is based on the subsequent addition of growth factors during 12 days of differentiation. PSC-HSCs can be used for liver modeling and drug screening assays, hence emerging as a promising and reliable source of HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pau Sancho-Bru
- Liver Cell Plasticity and Tissue Repair Lab at Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Barcelona, Spain.
- University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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19
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Shi Y, Deng J, Sang X, Wang Y, He F, Chen X, Xu A, Wu F. Generation of Hepatocytes and Nonparenchymal Cell Codifferentiation System from Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Stem Cells Int 2022; 2022:3222427. [PMID: 36467281 PMCID: PMC9709383 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3222427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
To date, hepatocytes derived from human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) provide a potentially unlimited resource for clinical application and drug development. However, most hiPSC-derived hepatocyte-like cells initiated differentiation from highly purified definitive endoderm, which are insufficient to accurately replicate the complex regulation of signals among multiple cells and tissues during liver organogenesis, thereby displaying an immature phenotypic and short survival time in vitro. Here, we described a protocol to achieve codifferentiation of endoderm-derived hepatocytes and mesoderm-derived nonparenchymal cells by the inclusion of BMP4 into hepatic differentiation medium, which has a beneficial effect on the hepatocyte maturation and lifespan in vitro. Our codifferentiation system suggests the important role of nonparenchymal cells in liver organogenesis. Hopefully, these hepatocytes described here provide a promising approach in the therapy of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, College of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiali Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, College of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaopu Sang
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yihang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, College of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fei He
- Department of Central Laboratory, Shenzhen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaoni Chen
- Department of Central Laboratory, Shenzhen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Anlong Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, College of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Fenfang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, College of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Central Laboratory, Shenzhen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
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20
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Messelmani T, Morisseau L, Sakai Y, Legallais C, Le Goff A, Leclerc E, Jellali R. Liver organ-on-chip models for toxicity studies and risk assessment. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:2423-2450. [PMID: 35694831 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00307d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The liver is a key organ that plays a pivotal role in metabolism and ensures a variety of functions in the body, including homeostasis, synthesis of essential components, nutrient storage, and detoxification. As the centre of metabolism for exogenous molecules, the liver is continuously exposed to a wide range of compounds, such as drugs, pesticides, and environmental pollutants. Most of these compounds can cause hepatotoxicity and lead to severe and irreversible liver damage. To study the effects of chemicals and drugs on the liver, most commonly, animal models or in vitro 2D cell cultures are used. However, data obtained from animal models lose their relevance when extrapolated to the human metabolic situation and pose ethical concerns, while 2D static cultures are poorly predictive of human in vivo metabolism and toxicity. As a result, there is a widespread need to develop relevant in vitro liver models for toxicology studies. In recent years, progress in tissue engineering, biomaterials, microfabrication, and cell biology has created opportunities for more relevant in vitro models for toxicology studies. Of these models, the liver organ-on-chip (OoC) has shown promising results by reproducing the in vivo behaviour of the cell/organ or a group of organs, the controlled physiological micro-environment, and in vivo cellular metabolic responses. In this review, we discuss the development of liver organ-on-chip technology and its use in toxicity studies. First, we introduce the physiology of the liver and summarize the traditional experimental models for toxicity studies. We then present liver OoC technology, including the general concept, materials used, cell sources, and different approaches. We review the prominent liver OoC and multi-OoC integrating the liver for drug and chemical toxicity studies. Finally, we conclude with the future challenges and directions for developing or improving liver OoC models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taha Messelmani
- Université de Technologie de Compiègne, CNRS, Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Centre de Recherche Royallieu CS 60319, 60203 Compiègne Cedex, France.
| | - Lisa Morisseau
- Université de Technologie de Compiègne, CNRS, Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Centre de Recherche Royallieu CS 60319, 60203 Compiègne Cedex, France.
| | - Yasuyuki Sakai
- CNRS IRL 2820, Laboratory for Integrated Micro Mechatronic Systems, Institute of Industrial Science, University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan.
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Cécile Legallais
- Université de Technologie de Compiègne, CNRS, Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Centre de Recherche Royallieu CS 60319, 60203 Compiègne Cedex, France.
| | - Anne Le Goff
- Université de Technologie de Compiègne, CNRS, Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Centre de Recherche Royallieu CS 60319, 60203 Compiègne Cedex, France.
| | - Eric Leclerc
- CNRS IRL 2820, Laboratory for Integrated Micro Mechatronic Systems, Institute of Industrial Science, University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan.
| | - Rachid Jellali
- Université de Technologie de Compiègne, CNRS, Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Centre de Recherche Royallieu CS 60319, 60203 Compiègne Cedex, France.
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21
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Cao J, Liu M, Feng S, Li Y, Zheng K. Glaucocalyxin A alleviates lipopolysaccharide‑induced inflammation and apoptosis in pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells and permeability injury by inhibiting STAT3 signaling. Exp Ther Med 2022; 23:313. [PMID: 35369532 PMCID: PMC8943557 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2022.11242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucocalyxin A (GLA), an ent-kauranoid diterpene derived from Rabdosia japonica var. glaucocalyx, possesses antibacterial, anti-oxidative and anti-neuroinflammatory properties. The present study aimed to investigate the potential mechanisms underlying GLA in the pathogenesis of pneumonia. Human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (hPMVECs) treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were treated with GLA, followed by the detection of cell viability, inflammation, apoptosis and cell permeability. Furthermore, the protein expression levels of apoptosis- and permeability-associated proteins were determined using western blot analysis. Following treatment with a signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) activator, the protein expression levels of STAT3 and endoplasmic reticulum stress-associated proteins were determined, to confirm whether STAT3 signaling was mediated by GLA. Lastly, the mRNA expression level of inflammatory cytokines, apoptosis and permeability injury were also determined following treatment with a STAT3 activator. The results revealed that GLA ameliorated inflammation, apoptosis and permeability injury in LPS-induced hPMVECs. Following treatment with a STAT3 activator, the therapeutic effects of GLA on LPS-induced hPMVECs were abrogated. In conclusion, GLA alleviated LPS-induced inflammation, apoptosis and permeability injury in hPMVECs by inhibiting STAT3 signaling, which highlighted the potential therapeutic value of GLA in the treatment of pneumonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianwei Cao
- Pediatrics Department, Zhongshan People's Hospital, Zhongshan, Guangdong 528403, P.R. China
| | - Meiling Liu
- Pediatrics Department, Zhongshan People's Hospital, Zhongshan, Guangdong 528403, P.R. China
| | - Shufang Feng
- Pediatrics Department, Zhongshan People's Hospital, Zhongshan, Guangdong 528403, P.R. China
| | - Yingying Li
- Pediatrics Department, Zhongshan People's Hospital, Zhongshan, Guangdong 528403, P.R. China
| | - Kaijun Zheng
- Pediatrics Department, Zhongshan People's Hospital, Zhongshan, Guangdong 528403, P.R. China
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22
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Susanah S, Widowati W, Sari NM, Revika R, Kusuma H, Rizal R, Faried A. Potential Use of Patient-Specific Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell for Liver Fibrosis Thalassemia Treatment Management. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2022.8326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Thalassemia is the most common inherited single gene blood disease worldwide and present a significant health problem in the world. Approximately, 1.5% of the global populations (An estimated 80–90 million people) are carriers of β-thalassemia. Around 5% of Indonesia population is thought to carry the thalassemia gene. The globin imbalance in β-thalassemia major causes hemolysis and ineffective erythropoiesis which results in anemia leading to increases of iron absorption. Furthermore, repeated blood transfusion and long-term increased iron absorption will lead to excessive accumulation of iron in vital organs, especially in the liver, causes liver fibrosis then leading to liver disease. Iron overload can be controlled by iron chelating drugs with the risk of side effects; therefore, a breakthrough is needed. Stem cell technology has a potential to provide novel insight in thalassemia major, through induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) who has the ability to differentiate into hepatic stellate cells (HSCs)-like cells. iPSCs derived HSC-like cells (iPSC-HSCs) present the phenotypic and functional characteristics of HSCs. The utilization of iPSCs is a new option in personalized thalassemia management.
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23
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Friedman SL, Pinzani M. Hepatic fibrosis 2022: Unmet needs and a blueprint for the future. Hepatology 2022; 75:473-488. [PMID: 34923653 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 90.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Steady progress over four decades toward understanding the pathogenesis and clinical consequences of hepatic fibrosis has led to the expectation of effective antifibrotic drugs, yet none has been approved. Thus, an assessment of the field is timely, to clarify priorities and accelerate progress. Here, we highlight the successes to date but, more importantly, identify gaps and unmet needs, both experimentally and clinically. These include the need to better define cell-cell interactions and etiology-specific elements of fibrogenesis and their link to disease-specific drivers of portal hypertension. Success in treating viral hepatitis has revealed the remarkable capacity of the liver to degrade scar in reversing fibrosis, yet we know little of the mechanisms underlying this response. Thus, there is an exigent need to clarify the cellular and molecular mechanisms of fibrosis regression in order for therapeutics to mimic the liver's endogenous capacity. Better refined and more predictive in vitro and animal models will hasten drug development. From a clinical perspective, current diagnostics are improving but not always biologically plausible or sufficiently accurate to supplant biopsy. More urgently, digital pathology methods that leverage machine learning and artificial intelligence must be validated in order to capture more prognostic information from liver biopsies and better quantify the response to therapies. For more refined treatment of NASH, orthogonal approaches that integrate genetic, clinical, and pathological data sets may yield treatments for specific subphenotypes of the disease. Collectively, these and other advances will strengthen and streamline clinical trials and better link histologic responses to clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott L Friedman
- Division of Liver DiseasesIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Massimo Pinzani
- Institute for Liver and Digestive HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
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24
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Tricot T, Verfaillie CM, Kumar M. Current Status and Challenges of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Liver Models in Drug Discovery. Cells 2022; 11:442. [PMID: 35159250 PMCID: PMC8834601 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The pharmaceutical industry is in high need of efficient and relevant in vitro liver models, which can be incorporated in their drug discovery pipelines to identify potential drugs and their toxicity profiles. Current liver models often rely on cancer cell lines or primary cells, which both have major limitations. However, the development of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) has created a new opportunity for liver disease modeling, drug discovery and liver toxicity research. hiPSCs can be differentiated to any cell of interest, which makes them good candidates for disease modeling and drug discovery. Moreover, hiPSCs, unlike primary cells, can be easily genome-edited, allowing the creation of reporter lines or isogenic controls for patient-derived hiPSCs. Unfortunately, even though liver progeny from hiPSCs has characteristics similar to their in vivo counterparts, the differentiation of iPSCs to fully mature progeny remains highly challenging and is a major obstacle for the full exploitation of these models by pharmaceutical industries. In this review, we discuss current liver-cell differentiation protocols and in vitro iPSC-based liver models that could be used for disease modeling and drug discovery. Furthermore, we will discuss the challenges that still need to be overcome to allow for the successful implementation of these models into pharmaceutical drug discovery platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Manoj Kumar
- Stem Cell Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (T.T.); (C.M.V.)
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25
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Gamboa CM, Wang Y, Xu H, Kalemba K, Wondisford FE, Sabaawy HE. Optimized 3D Culture of Hepatic Cells for Liver Organoid Metabolic Assays. Cells 2021; 10:cells10123280. [PMID: 34943788 PMCID: PMC8699701 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver is among the principal organs for glucose homeostasis and metabolism. Studies of liver metabolism are limited by the inability to expand primary hepatocytes in vitro while maintaining their metabolic functions. Human hepatic three-dimensional (3D) organoids have been established using defined factors, yet hepatic organoids from adult donors showed impaired expansion. We examined conditions to facilitate the expansion of adult donor-derived hepatic organoids (HepAOs) and HepG2 cells in organoid cultures (HepGOs) using combinations of growth factors and small molecules. The expansion dynamics, gluconeogenic and HNF4α expression, and albumin secretion are assessed. The conditions tested allow the generation of HepAOs and HepGOs in 3D cultures. Nevertheless, gluconeogenic gene expression varies greatly between conditions. The organoid expansion rates are limited when including the TGFβ inhibitor A8301, while are relatively higher with Forskolin (FSK) and Oncostatin M (OSM). Notably, expanded HepGOs grown in the optimized condition maintain detectable gluconeogenic expression in a spatiotemporal distribution at 8 weeks. We present optimized conditions by limiting A8301 and incorporating FSK and OSM to allow the expansion of HepAOs from adult donors and HepGOs with gluconeogenic competence. These models increase the repertoire of human hepatic cellular tools available for use in liver metabolic assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Moya Gamboa
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA;
| | - Yujue Wang
- Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA; (Y.W.); (H.X.); (K.K.)
| | - Huiting Xu
- Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA; (Y.W.); (H.X.); (K.K.)
| | - Katarzyna Kalemba
- Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA; (Y.W.); (H.X.); (K.K.)
| | - Fredric E. Wondisford
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA;
- Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA; (Y.W.); (H.X.); (K.K.)
- Correspondence: (F.E.W.); (H.E.S.); Tel.: +1-732-235-9838 (F.E.W.); +1-732-235-8081 (H.E.S.)
| | - Hatem E. Sabaawy
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA;
- Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA; (Y.W.); (H.X.); (K.K.)
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, RBHS-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
- Correspondence: (F.E.W.); (H.E.S.); Tel.: +1-732-235-9838 (F.E.W.); +1-732-235-8081 (H.E.S.)
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26
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Campbell SA, Stephan TL, Lotto J, Cullum R, Drissler S, Hoodless PA. Signalling pathways and transcriptional regulators orchestrating liver development and cancer. Development 2021; 148:272023. [PMID: 34478514 DOI: 10.1242/dev.199814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Liver development is controlled by key signals and transcription factors that drive cell proliferation, migration, differentiation and functional maturation. In the adult liver, cell maturity can be perturbed by genetic and environmental factors that disrupt hepatic identity and function. Developmental signals and fetal genetic programmes are often dysregulated or reactivated, leading to dedifferentiation and disease. Here, we highlight signalling pathways and transcriptional regulators that drive liver cell development and primary liver cancers. We also discuss emerging models derived from pluripotent stem cells, 3D organoids and bioengineering for improved studies of signalling pathways in liver cancer and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tabea L Stephan
- Terry Fox Laboratory, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada.,Program in Cell and Developmental Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Jeremy Lotto
- Terry Fox Laboratory, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada.,Program in Cell and Developmental Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Rebecca Cullum
- Terry Fox Laboratory, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada
| | - Sibyl Drissler
- Terry Fox Laboratory, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada.,Program in Cell and Developmental Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Pamela A Hoodless
- Terry Fox Laboratory, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada.,Program in Cell and Developmental Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.,Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1, Canada.,School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
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Kumar M, Toprakhisar B, Van Haele M, Antoranz A, Boon R, Chesnais F, De Smedt J, Tricot T, Idoype TI, Canella M, Tilliole P, De Boeck J, Bajaj M, Ranga A, Bosisio FM, Roskams T, van Grunsven LA, Verfaillie CM. A fully defined matrix to support a pluripotent stem cell derived multi-cell-liver steatohepatitis and fibrosis model. Biomaterials 2021; 276:121006. [PMID: 34304139 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.121006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Chronic liver injury, as observed in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), progressive fibrosis, and cirrhosis, remains poorly treatable. Steatohepatitis causes hepatocyte loss in part by a direct lipotoxic insult, which is amplified by derangements in the non-parenchymal cellular (NPC) interactive network wherein hepatocytes reside, including, hepatic stellate cells, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells and liver macrophages. To create an in vitro culture model encompassing all these cells, that allows studying liver steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis caused by NASH, we here developed a fully defined hydrogel microenvironment, termed hepatocyte maturation (HepMat) gel, that supports maturation and maintenance of pluripotent stem cell (PSC) derived hepatocyte- and NPC-like cells for at least one month. The HepMat-based co-culture system modeled key molecular and functional features of TGFβ-induced liver fibrosis and fatty-acid induced inflammation and fibrosis better than monocultures of its constituent cell populations. The novel co-culture system should open new avenues for studying mechanisms underlying liver steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis as well as for assessing drugs counteracting these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Kumar
- Stem Cell Institute, Department of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Burak Toprakhisar
- Stem Cell Institute, Department of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Matthias Van Haele
- Translational Cell & Tissue Research, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Asier Antoranz
- Translational Cell & Tissue Research, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ruben Boon
- Stem Cell Institute, Department of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Francois Chesnais
- Stem Cell Institute, Department of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jonathan De Smedt
- Stem Cell Institute, Department of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tine Tricot
- Stem Cell Institute, Department of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Teresa Izuel Idoype
- Stem Cell Institute, Department of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marco Canella
- Stem Cell Institute, Department of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pierre Tilliole
- Stem Cell Institute, Department of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jolan De Boeck
- Stem Cell Institute, Department of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Manmohan Bajaj
- Stem Cell Institute, Department of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Adrian Ranga
- Biomechanics, Department of Mechanical Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Francesca Maria Bosisio
- Translational Cell & Tissue Research, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tania Roskams
- Translational Cell & Tissue Research, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Leo A van Grunsven
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Catherine M Verfaillie
- Stem Cell Institute, Department of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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