1
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Kim JY, Kang W, Yang S, Park SH, Ha SY, Paik YH. NADPH oxidase 4 deficiency promotes hepatocellular carcinoma arising from hepatic fibrosis by inducing M2-macrophages in the tumor microenvironment. Sci Rep 2024; 14:22358. [PMID: 39333166 PMCID: PMC11437090 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-72721-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) often arises in the cirrhotic livers, highlighting the intricate link between hepatic fibrosis and carcinogenesis. Reactive oxygen species produced by NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) contribute to liver injury leading to hepatic fibrosis. Paradoxically, NOX4 is known to inhibit HCC progression. This study aims to elucidate the role of NOX4 in hepatocarcinogenesis in the background of hepatic fibrosis. We established the mouse model of HCC arising from the fibrotic liver by administering diethylnitrosamine and carbon tetrachloride to wild-type (WT) or NOX4-/- mice. Hepatic fibrogenesis, tumorigenesis, and macrophage polarization were assessed by immunohistochemistry, PCR, and flow cytometry using in vivo and in vitro models. In NOX4-/- mice, hepatic fibrosis was attenuated, while the number of tumors and the proliferation of HCC cells were increased compared to WT mice. Notably, a significant increase in M2-polarized macrophages was observed in NOX4-/- mice through immunohistochemistry and PCR analysis. Subsequent experiments demonstrated that NOX4-silenced HCC cells promote macrophage polarization toward M2. In addition to attenuating hepatic fibrogenesis, NOX4 deficiency triggers macrophage polarization towards the M2 phenotype in the fibrotic liver, thereby promoting hepatocellular carcinogenesis. These findings provide novel insights into the mechanism of NOX4-mediated tumor suppression in HCC arising from fibrotic livers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Young Kim
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Samsung Advanced Institute of Health Sciences and Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, 06355, Republic of Korea
| | - Wonseok Kang
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Samsung Advanced Institute of Health Sciences and Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, 06355, Republic of Korea
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, 06351, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute for Future Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, 06351, Republic of Korea
- Samsung Genome Institute, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - Sera Yang
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Hyun Park
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Samsung Advanced Institute of Health Sciences and Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, 06355, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Yun Ha
- Department of Pathology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Han Paik
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Samsung Advanced Institute of Health Sciences and Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, 06355, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, 06351, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Zhang X, Shi L, Lu X, Zheng W, Shi J, Yu S, Feng H, Yu Z. Bile Acids and Liver Cancer: Molecular Mechanism and Therapeutic Prospects. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:1142. [PMID: 39338306 PMCID: PMC11435149 DOI: 10.3390/ph17091142] [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: 06/26/2024] [Revised: 08/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly aggressive liver malignancy and one of the most lethal cancers globally, with limited effective therapeutic options. Bile acids (BAs), as primary metabolites of hepatic cholesterol, undergo enterohepatic circulation involving secretion into the intestine and reabsorption into the liver, and their composition is modulated in this process. Recent clinical observations have revealed a correlation between alteration in the BAs profile and HCC incidence, and the effect of various species of BAs on HCC development has been investigated. The regulatory effect of different BA species on cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis in tumor cells, as well as their interaction with gut microbiota, inflammation, and immunity have been identified to be involved in HCC progression. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the diverse functions of BAs in HCC pathogenesis and therapy, from elucidating the fundamental mechanisms underlying both tumor-promoting and tumor-suppressive consequences of various BA species to exploring potential strategies for leveraging BAs for HCC therapy. We also discuss ongoing efforts to target specific BA species in HCC treatment while highlighting new frontiers in BA biology that may inspire further exploration regarding their connection to HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemei Zhang
- Department of Hepatopathy, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (X.Z.); (X.L.); (W.Z.); (J.S.); (S.Y.)
| | - Lei Shi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Chinese Traditional Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China;
| | - Xiaona Lu
- Department of Hepatopathy, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (X.Z.); (X.L.); (W.Z.); (J.S.); (S.Y.)
| | - Wenlan Zheng
- Department of Hepatopathy, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (X.Z.); (X.L.); (W.Z.); (J.S.); (S.Y.)
| | - Jia Shi
- Department of Hepatopathy, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (X.Z.); (X.L.); (W.Z.); (J.S.); (S.Y.)
| | - Shihan Yu
- Department of Hepatopathy, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (X.Z.); (X.L.); (W.Z.); (J.S.); (S.Y.)
| | - Hai Feng
- Institute of Infectious Disease, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zhuo Yu
- Department of Hepatopathy, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (X.Z.); (X.L.); (W.Z.); (J.S.); (S.Y.)
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3
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Wang W, Lin H, Liu D, Wang T, Zhu Z, Yu P, Zhang J. Ropivacaine synergizes with sorafenib to induce apoptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma cells via the IL-6/STAT3 pathway. Cancer Sci 2024. [PMID: 39014520 DOI: 10.1111/cas.16261] [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: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells limits the effectiveness of sorafenib, but combination therapy with other drugs may have a positive effect. However, the effect of ropivacaine combined with sorafenib on the treatment of HCC cells and its potential regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. The proliferation and apoptosis of HCC cells treated with ropivacaine, sorafenib, and ropivacaine plus sorafenib were analyzed by cell-counting kit 8 and flow cytometry. The protein levels were measured by Western blot. The antitumor effect of ropivacaine, sorafenib, and their combination was verified by a tumor xenograft model. Ropivacaine and sorafenib markedly impeded the viability of HCC cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Compared with ropivacaine or sorafenib treatment alone, ropivacaine and sorafenib combination treatment impeded HCC cell proliferation, facilitated apoptosis, enhanced cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-9, and cyclin D1 protein expression, while it reduced IL-6 and p-STAT3 expression and inhibited tumor growth in vivo. Importantly, the activation of the IL-6/STAT3 pathway could reverse the repressive or stimulative effects of ropivacaine and sorafenib on the proliferation and apoptosis in HCC cells. In summary, ropivacaine synergistically induces sorafenib-stimulated apoptosis of HCC cells via the IL-6/STAT3 pathway. Ropivacaine is a potential drug for the treatment of HCC when combined with sorafenib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Hongyun Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Desheng Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Zicheng Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Peng Yu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
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4
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Zhao Y, Chen C, Chen K, Sun Y, He N, Zhang X, Xu J, Shen A, Zhao S. Multi-omics analysis of macrophage-associated receptor and ligand reveals a strong prognostic signature and subtypes in hepatocellular carcinoma. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12163. [PMID: 38806553 PMCID: PMC11133315 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62668-x] [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: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality worldwide. The interaction between receptors and ligands is the primary mode of intercellular signaling and plays a vital role in the progression of HCC. This study aimed to identify the macrophage-related receptor ligand marker genes associated with HCC and further explored the molecular immune mechanisms attributed to altered biomarkers. Single-cell RNA sequencing data containing primary and recurrent samples were downloaded from the China National GeneBank. Cell types were first identified to explore differences between immune cells from different sample sources. CellChat analysis was used to infer and analyze intercellular communication networks quantitatively. Three molecular subtypes were constructed based on the screened twenty macrophage-associated receptor ligand genes. Bulk RNA-Seq data were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus databases. After the screening, the minor absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression model was employed to identify key markers. After collecting peripheral blood and clinical information from patients, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect the correlation between key markers and IL-10, one of the macrophage markers. After developing a new HCC risk adjustment model and conducting analysis, it was found that there were significant differences in immune status and gene mutations between the high-risk and low-risk groups of patients based on macrophage-associated receptor and ligand genes. This study identified SPP1, ANGPT2, and NCL as key biological targets for HCC. The drug-gene interaction network analysis identified wortmannin, ribavirin, and tarnafloxin as potential therapeutic drugs for the three key markers. In a clinical cohort study, patients with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) resistance had significantly higher expression levels of OPN, ANGPT2, NCL, and IL-10 than patients with ICI-responsiveness. These three key markers were positively correlated with the expression level of IL-10. The signature based on macrophage-associated receptor and ligand genes can accurately predict the prognosis of patients with HCC and the sensitivity to immunotherapy. These results may help guide the development of targeted prevention and personalized treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulou Zhao
- Department of Interventional and Vascular Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Cong Chen
- Department of Interventional and Vascular Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Kang Chen
- Department of Interventional and Vascular Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yanjun Sun
- The Sixth People's Hospital of Yancheng City, Yancheng, China
| | - Ning He
- Department of Interventional and Vascular Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xiubing Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Nantong Second People's Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jian Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Nantong Second People's Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Aiguo Shen
- Cancer Research Center Nantong, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China.
| | - Suming Zhao
- Department of Interventional and Vascular Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China.
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5
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Floreani A, Gabbia D, De Martin S. Current Perspectives on the Molecular and Clinical Relationships between Primary Biliary Cholangitis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2194. [PMID: 38396870 PMCID: PMC10888596 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042194] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune liver disease characterised by the immune-mediated destruction of small and medium intrahepatic bile ducts, with variable outcomes and progression. This review summarises the state of the art regarding the risk of neoplastic progression in PBC patients, with a particular focus on the molecular alterations present in PBC and in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which is the most frequent liver cancer in these patients. Major risk factors are male gender, viral infections, e.g., HBV and HCV, non-response to UDCA, and high alcohol intake, as well as some metabolic-associated factors. Overall, HCC development is significantly more frequent in patients with advanced histological stages, being related to liver cirrhosis. It seems to be of fundamental importance to unravel eventual dysfunctional molecular pathways in PBC patients that may be used as biomarkers for HCC development. In the near future, this will possibly take advantage of artificial intelligence-designed algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annarosa Floreani
- University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy;
- Scientific Consultant IRCCS Negrar, 37024 Verona, Italy
| | - Daniela Gabbia
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Sara De Martin
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy;
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6
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Fatemi N, Karimpour M, Bahrami H, Zali MR, Chaleshi V, Riccio A, Nazemalhosseini-Mojarad E, Totonchi M. Current trends and future prospects of drug repositioning in gastrointestinal oncology. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1329244. [PMID: 38239190 PMCID: PMC10794567 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1329244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers comprise a significant number of cancer cases worldwide and contribute to a high percentage of cancer-related deaths. To improve survival rates of GI cancer patients, it is important to find and implement more effective therapeutic strategies with better prognoses and fewer side effects. The development of new drugs can be a lengthy and expensive process, often involving clinical trials that may fail in the early stages. One strategy to address these challenges is drug repurposing (DR). Drug repurposing is a developmental strategy that involves using existing drugs approved for other diseases and leveraging their safety and pharmacological data to explore their potential use in treating different diseases. In this paper, we outline the existing therapeutic strategies and challenges associated with GI cancers and explore DR as a promising alternative approach. We have presented an extensive review of different DR methodologies, research efforts and examples of repurposed drugs within various GI cancer types, such as colorectal, pancreatic and liver cancers. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive overview of employing the DR approach in GI cancers to inform future research endeavors and clinical trials in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayeralsadat Fatemi
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mina Karimpour
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hoda Bahrami
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Zali
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Chaleshi
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Andrea Riccio
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DiSTABiF), Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Caserta, Italy
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics (IGB) “Adriano Buzzati-Traverso”, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Ehsan Nazemalhosseini-Mojarad
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Totonchi
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DiSTABiF), Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Caserta, Italy
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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7
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Li Z, Zheng D, Zhang T, Ruan S, Li N, Yu Y, Peng Y, Wang D. The roles of nuclear receptors in cholesterol metabolism and reverse cholesterol transport in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0343. [PMID: 38099854 PMCID: PMC10727660 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000343] [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: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
As the most prevalent chronic liver disease globally, NAFLD encompasses a pathological process that ranges from simple steatosis to NASH, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and HCC, closely associated with numerous extrahepatic diseases. While the initial etiology was believed to be hepatocyte injury caused by lipid toxicity from accumulated triglycerides, recent studies suggest that an imbalance of cholesterol homeostasis is of greater significance. The role of nuclear receptors in regulating liver cholesterol homeostasis has been demonstrated to be crucial. This review summarizes the roles and regulatory mechanisms of nuclear receptors in the 3 main aspects of cholesterol production, excretion, and storage in the liver, as well as their cross talk in reverse cholesterol transport. It is hoped that this review will offer new insights and theoretical foundations for the study of the pathogenesis and progression of NAFLD and provide new research directions for extrahepatic diseases associated with NAFLD.
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8
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Song Y, Lau HCH, Zhang X, Yu J. Bile acids, gut microbiota, and therapeutic insights in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Biol Med 2023; 21:j.issn.2095-3941.2023.0394. [PMID: 38148326 PMCID: PMC10884537 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2023.0394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent and aggressive liver malignancy. The interplay between bile acids (BAs) and the gut microbiota has emerged as a critical factor in HCC development and progression. Under normal conditions, BA metabolism is tightly regulated through a bidirectional interplay between gut microorganisms and BAs. The gut microbiota plays a critical role in BA metabolism, and BAs are endogenous signaling molecules that help maintain liver and intestinal homeostasis. Of note, dysbiotic changes in the gut microbiota during pathogenesis and cancer development can disrupt BA homeostasis, thereby leading to liver inflammation and fibrosis, and ultimately contributing to HCC development. Therefore, understanding the intricate interplay between BAs and the gut microbiota is crucial for elucidating the mechanisms underlying hepatocarcinogenesis. In this review, we comprehensively explore the roles and functions of BA metabolism, with a focus on the interactions between BAs and gut microorganisms in HCC. Additionally, therapeutic strategies targeting BA metabolism and the gut microbiota are discussed, including the use of BA agonists/antagonists, probiotic/prebiotic and dietary interventions, fecal microbiota transplantation, and engineered bacteria. In summary, understanding the complex BA-microbiota crosstalk can provide valuable insights into HCC development and facilitate the development of innovative therapeutic approaches for liver malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Song
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, CUHK Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongshan Hospital Xiamen University, Xiamen 361004, China
| | - Harry CH Lau
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, CUHK Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, CUHK Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, CUHK Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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9
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Rajapakse J, Khatiwada S, Akon AC, Yu KL, Shen S, Zekry A. Unveiling the complex relationship between gut microbiota and liver cancer: opportunities for novel therapeutic interventions. Gut Microbes 2023; 15:2240031. [PMID: 37615334 PMCID: PMC10454000 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2023.2240031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been linked to the gut microbiota, with recent studies revealing the potential of gut-generated responses to influence several arms of the immune responses relevant to HCC formation. The pro- or anti-tumor effects of specific bacterial strains or gut microbiota-related metabolites, such as bile acids and short-chain fatty acids, have been highlighted in many human and animal studies. The critical role of the gut microbiota in HCC development has spurred interest in modulating the gut microbiota through dietary interventions, probiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation as a potential strategy to improve liver cancer outcomes. Encouragingly, preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated that modulation of the gut microbiota can ameliorate liver function, reduce inflammation, and inhibit liver tumor growth, underscoring the potential of this approach to improve HCC outcomes. As research continues to unravel the complex and dynamic mechanisms underlying the gut-liver axis, the development of safe and effective interventions to target this pathway for liver cancer prevention and treatment appears to be on the horizon, heralding a significant advance in our ongoing efforts to combat this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayashi Rajapakse
- UNSW Microbiome Research Centre, St George and Sutherland Clinical Campus, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney, Australia
| | - Saroj Khatiwada
- UNSW Microbiome Research Centre, St George and Sutherland Clinical Campus, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney, Australia
| | - Anna Camille Akon
- St George Hospital, Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kin Lam Yu
- UNSW Microbiome Research Centre, St George and Sutherland Clinical Campus, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney, Australia
| | - Sj Shen
- UNSW Microbiome Research Centre, St George and Sutherland Clinical Campus, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney, Australia
| | - Amany Zekry
- UNSW Microbiome Research Centre, St George and Sutherland Clinical Campus, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney, Australia
- St George Hospital, Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Sydney, Australia
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10
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Xu Z, Huang Z, Zhang Y, Sun H, Hinz U, Heger U, Loos M, Gonzalez FJ, Hackert T, Bergmann F, Fortunato F. Farnesoid X receptor activation inhibits pancreatic carcinogenesis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166811. [PMID: 37515840 PMCID: PMC10935600 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166811] [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: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily that controls bile acid (BA) homeostasis, has also been proposed as a tumor suppressor for breast and liver cancer. However, its role in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tumorigenesis remains controversial. We recently found that FXR attenuates acinar cell autophagy in chronic pancreatitis resulting in reduced autophagy and promotion of pancreatic carcinogenesis. Feeding Kras-p48-Cre (KC) mice with the BA chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA), an FXR agonist, attenuated pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) progression, reduced cell proliferation, neoplastic cells and autophagic activity, and increased acinar cells, elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, with a compensatory increase in the anti-inflammatory response. Surprisingly, FXR-deficient KC mice did not show any response to CDCA, suggesting that CDCA attenuates PanIN progression and decelerate tumorigenesis in KC mice through activating pancreatic FXR. FXR is activated in pancreatic cancer cell lines in response to CDCA in vitro. FXR levels were highly increased in adjuvant and neoadjuvant PDAC tissue compared to healthy pancreatic tissue, indicating that FXR is expressed and potentially activated in human PDAC. These results suggest that BA exposure activates inflammation and suppresses autophagy in KC mice, resulting in reduced PanIN lesion progression. These data suggest that activation of pancreatic FXR has a protective role by reducing the growth of pre-cancerous PDAC lesions in response to CDCA and possibly other FXR agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Xu
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; Section Surgical Research, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Zhenhua Huang
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; Section Surgical Research, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Yifan Zhang
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; Section Surgical Research, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Haitao Sun
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; Section Surgical Research, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ulf Hinz
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ulrike Heger
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Martin Loos
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Frank J Gonzalez
- National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, MD, Bethesda, USA
| | - Thilo Hackert
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Frank Bergmann
- Institute of Pathology, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Franco Fortunato
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; Section Surgical Research, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
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11
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Burgermeister E. Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase and Nuclear Hormone Receptor Crosstalk in Cancer Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13661. [PMID: 37686465 PMCID: PMC10488039 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The three major MAP-kinase (MAPK) pathways, ERK1/2, p38 and JNK/SAPK, are upstream regulators of the nuclear "hormone" receptor superfamily (NHRSF), with a prime example given by the estrogen receptor in breast cancer. These ligand-activated transcription factors exert non-genomic and genomic functions, where they are either post-translationally modified by phosphorylation or directly interact with components of the MAPK pathways, events that govern their transcriptional activity towards target genes involved in cell differentiation, proliferation, metabolism and host immunity. This molecular crosstalk takes place not only in normal epithelial or tumor cells, but also in a plethora of immune cells from the adaptive and innate immune system in the tumor-stroma tissue microenvironment. Thus, the drugability of both the MAPK and the NHRSF pathways suggests potential for intervention therapies, especially for cancer immunotherapy. This review summarizes the existing literature covering the expression and function of NHRSF subclasses in human tumors, both solid and leukemias, and their effects in combination with current clinically approved therapeutics against immune checkpoint molecules (e.g., PD1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Burgermeister
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, D-68167 Mannheim, Germany
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12
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Hegde M, Girisa S, Naliyadhara N, Kumar A, Alqahtani MS, Abbas M, Mohan CD, Warrier S, Hui KM, Rangappa KS, Sethi G, Kunnumakkara AB. Natural compounds targeting nuclear receptors for effective cancer therapy. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2023; 42:765-822. [PMID: 36482154 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-022-10068-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human nuclear receptors (NRs) are a family of forty-eight transcription factors that modulate gene expression both spatially and temporally. Numerous biochemical, physiological, and pathological processes including cell survival, proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, immune modulation, development, reproduction, and aging are extensively orchestrated by different NRs. The involvement of dysregulated NRs and NR-mediated signaling pathways in driving cancer cell hallmarks has been thoroughly investigated. Targeting NRs has been one of the major focuses of drug development strategies for cancer interventions. Interestingly, rapid progress in molecular biology and drug screening reveals that the naturally occurring compounds are promising modern oncology drugs which are free of potentially inevitable repercussions that are associated with synthetic compounds. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to draw our attention to the potential therapeutic effects of various classes of natural compounds that target NRs such as phytochemicals, dietary components, venom constituents, royal jelly-derived compounds, and microbial derivatives in the establishment of novel and safe medications for cancer treatment. This review also emphasizes molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways that are leveraged to promote the anti-cancer effects of these natural compounds. We have also critically reviewed and assessed the advantages and limitations of current preclinical and clinical studies on this subject for cancer prophylaxis. This might subsequently pave the way for new paradigms in the discovery of drugs that target specific cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mangala Hegde
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Sosmitha Girisa
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Nikunj Naliyadhara
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Aviral Kumar
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Mohammed S Alqahtani
- Radiological Sciences Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, 61421, Saudi Arabia
- BioImaging Unit, Space Research Centre, University of Leicester, Michael Atiyah Building, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Mohamed Abbas
- Electrical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Khalid University, Abha, 61421, Saudi Arabia
- Electronics and Communications Department, College of Engineering, Delta University for Science and Technology, 35712, Gamasa, Egypt
| | | | - Sudha Warrier
- Division of Cancer Stem Cells and Cardiovascular Regeneration, School of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore, 560065, India
- Cuor Stem Cellutions Pvt Ltd, Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore, 560065, India
| | - Kam Man Hui
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, Humphrey Oei Institute of Cancer Research, National Cancer Centre, Singapore, 169610, Singapore
| | | | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore.
| | - Ajaikumar B Kunnumakkara
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India.
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Yu D, Lu Z, Wang R, Xiang Y, Li H, Lu J, Zhang L, Chen H, Li W, Luan X, Chen L. FXR agonists for colorectal and liver cancers, as a stand-alone or in combination therapy. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 212:115570. [PMID: 37119860 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Farnesoid X receptor (FXR, NR1H4) is generally considered as a tumor suppressor of colorectal and liver cancers. The interaction between FXR, bile acids (BAs) and gut microbiota is closely associated with an increased risk of colorectal and liver cancers. Increasing evidence shows that FXR agonists may be potential therapeutic agents for colorectal and liver cancers. However, FXR agonists alone do not produce the desired results due to the complicated pathogenesis and single therapeutic mechanism, which suggests that effective treatments will require a multimodal approach. Based on the principle of improvingefficacy andreducingside effects, combination therapy is currently receiving considerable attention. In this review, colorectal and liver cancers are grouped together to discuss the effects of FXR agonists alone or in combination for combating the two cancers. We hope that this review will provide a theoretical basis for the clinical application of novel FXR agonists or combination with FXR agonists against colorectal and liver cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danmei Yu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Zhou Lu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Ruyu Wang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yusen Xiang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Hongtao Li
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jiani Lu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Lijun Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Hongzhuan Chen
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Weihua Li
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Xin Luan
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Lili Chen
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
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Human papillomavirus 16 E6 promotes angiogenesis of lung cancer via SNHG1. Cell Biochem Biophys 2023:10.1007/s12013-022-01121-0. [PMID: 36690880 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-022-01121-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a risk factor for lung cancer. However, the underlying mechanisms are not known. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been found to play an important role in the occurrence and development of lung cancer due to their particular characteristics. HPV-induced lung carcinogenesis is incompletely defined. We aimed to screen and clarify the functions of lncRNAs that are differentially expressed in HPV-related lung cancer. We found that lncRNA SNHG1 is upregulated in lung cancer cells infected with HPV16 E6 by qRT‒PCR. Further results demonstrated that SNHG1 overexpression facilitates the tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro. Our results also indicated that SNHG1 might function in lung cancer by binding with EGFR. Further studies revealed that SNHG1 overexpression could activate the nuclear factor κb (NF-κB) pathway, which increases the expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6). We also found that IL-6 can activate the STAT3 pathway, which promotes VEGF-D expression. These results expanded our understanding of SNHG1 as a new avenue for therapeutic intervention against lung cancer progression. Upregulation of SNHG1 by HPV infection might be an undefined link between lung cancer and HPV.
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15
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Xia JK, Tang N, Wu XY, Ren HZ. Deregulated bile acids may drive hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis by inducing an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1033145. [PMID: 36338764 PMCID: PMC9634065 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1033145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Bile acids (BAs) are physiological detergents that can not only promote the digestion and absorption of lipids, but also may be a potential carcinogen. The accumulation of BAs in the body can lead to cholestatic liver cirrhosis and even liver cancer. Recently, studies demonstrated that BAs are highly accumulated in metastatic lymph nodes, but not in normal healthy lymph nodes or primary tumors. Lymph node metastasis is second only to hematogenous metastasis in liver cancer metastasis, and the survival and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with lymph node metastasis are significantly worse than those without lymph node metastasis. Meanwhile, component of BAs was found to significantly enhance the invasive potential of HCC cells. However, it is still poorly understood how deregulated BAs fuel the metastasis process of liver cancer. The tumor microenvironment is a complex cellular ecosystem that evolves with and supports tumor cells during their malignant transformation and metastasis progression. Aberrant BAs metabolism were found to modulate tumor immune microenvironment by preventing natural killer T (NKT) cells recruitment and increasing M2-like tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) polarization, thus facilitate tumor immune escape and HCC development. Based on these available evidence, we hypothesize that a combination of genetic and epigenetic factors in cancerous liver tissue inhibits the uptake and stimulates the synthesis of BAs by the liver, and excess BAs further promote liver carcinogenesis and HCC metastasis by inducing immunosuppressive microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-kun Xia
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China,Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ning Tang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Xing-yu Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China,*Correspondence: Hao-zhen Ren, ; Xing-yu Wu,
| | - Hao-zhen Ren
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China,Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China,*Correspondence: Hao-zhen Ren, ; Xing-yu Wu,
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16
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Luo W, Guo S, Zhou Y, Zhu J, Zhao J, Wang M, Sang L, Wang B, Chang B. Hepatocellular carcinoma: Novel understandings and therapeutic strategies based on bile acids (Review). Int J Oncol 2022; 61:117. [PMID: 35929515 PMCID: PMC9450808 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2022.5407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Bile acids (BAs) are the major components of bile and products of cholesterol metabolism. Cholesterol is catalyzed by a variety of enzymes in the liver to form primary BAs, which are excreted into the intestine with bile, and secondary BAs are formed under the modification of the gut microbiota. Most of the BAs return to the liver via the portal vein, completing the process of enterohepatic circulation. BAs have an important role in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which may participate in the progression of HCC by recognizing receptors such as farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and mediating multiple downstream pathways. Certain BAs, such as ursodeoxycholic acid and obeticholic acid, were indicated to be able to delay liver injury and HCC progression. In the present review, the structure and function of BAs were introduced and the metabolism of BAs and the process of enterohepatic circulation were outlined. Furthermore, the mechanisms by which BAs participate in the development of HCC were summarized and possible strategies for targeting BAs and key sites of their metabolic processes to treat HCC were suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyu Luo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, P.R. China
| | - Shiqi Guo
- 104K class 87, The Second Clinical College, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, P.R. China
| | - Yang Zhou
- 104K class 87, The Second Clinical College, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, P.R. China
| | - Junfeng Zhu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541001, P.R. China
| | - Jingwen Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004, P.R. China
| | - Mengyao Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004, P.R. China
| | - Lixuan Sang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004, P.R. China
| | - Bingyuan Wang
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, P.R. China
| | - Bing Chang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, P.R. China
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17
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Panzitt K, Zollner G, Marschall HU, Wagner M. Recent advances on FXR-targeting therapeutics. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 552:111678. [PMID: 35605722 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2022.111678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The bile acid receptor FXR has emerged as a bona fide drug target for chronic cholestatic and metabolic liver diseases, ahead of all non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). FXR is highly expressed in the liver and intestine and activation at both sites differentially contributes to its desired metabolic effects. Unrestricted FXR activation, however, also comes along with undesired effects such as a pro-atherogenic lipid profile, pruritus and hepatocellular toxicity under certain conditions. Several pre-clinical studies have confirmed the potency of FXR activation for cholestatic and metabolic liver diseases, but overall it remains still open whether selective activation of intestinal FXR is advantageous over pan-FXR activation and whether restricted or modulated FXR activation can limit some of the side effects. Even more, FXR antagonist also bear the potential as intestinal-selective drugs in NAFLD models. In this review we will discuss the molecular prerequisites for FXR activation, pan-FXR activation and intestinal FXR in/activation from a therapeutic point of view, different steroidal and non-steroidal FXR agonists, ways to restrict FXR activation and finally what we have learned from pre-clinical models and clinical trials with different FXR therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Panzitt
- Research Unit for Translational Nuclear Receptor Research, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria; Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Gernot Zollner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Hanns-Ulrich Marschall
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Wallenberg Laboratory, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Martin Wagner
- Research Unit for Translational Nuclear Receptor Research, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria; Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria.
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18
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Vitale G, Mattiaccio A, Conti A, Turco L, Seri M, Piscaglia F, Morelli MC. Genetics in Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis: Clinical Patterns and Development of Liver and Biliary Cancers: A Review of the Literature. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143421. [PMID: 35884482 PMCID: PMC9322180 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The family of inherited intrahepatic cholestasis includes autosomal recessive cholestatic rare diseases of childhood involved in bile acids secretion or bile transport defects. Specific genetic pathways potentially cause many otherwise unexplained cholestasis or hepatobiliary tumours in a healthy liver. Lately, next-generation sequencing and whole-exome sequencing have improved the diagnostic procedures of familial intrahepatic cholestasis (FIC), as well as the discovery of several genes responsible for FIC. Moreover, mutations in these genes, even in the heterozygous status, may be responsible for cryptogenic cholestasis in both young and adults. Mutations in FIC genes can influence serum and hepatic levels of bile acids. Experimental studies on the NR1H4 gene have shown that high bile acids concentrations cause excessive production of inflammatory cytokines, resistance to apoptosis, and increased cell regeneration, all risk conditions for developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). NR1H4 gene encodes farnesoid X-activated receptor having a pivotal role in bile salts synthesis. Moreover, HCC and CCA can emerge in patients with several FIC genes such as ABCB11, ABCB4 and TJP2. Herein, we reviewed the available data on FIC-related hepatobiliary cancers, reporting on genetics to the pathophysiology, the risk factors and the clinical presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Vitale
- Internal Medicine Unit for the Treatment of Severe Organ Failure, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (L.T.); (M.C.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Alessandro Mattiaccio
- U.O. Genetica Medica, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (A.M.); (A.C.); (M.S.)
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum-University di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Amalia Conti
- U.O. Genetica Medica, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (A.M.); (A.C.); (M.S.)
| | - Laura Turco
- Internal Medicine Unit for the Treatment of Severe Organ Failure, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (L.T.); (M.C.M.)
| | - Marco Seri
- U.O. Genetica Medica, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (A.M.); (A.C.); (M.S.)
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum-University di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabio Piscaglia
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Maria Cristina Morelli
- Internal Medicine Unit for the Treatment of Severe Organ Failure, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (L.T.); (M.C.M.)
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19
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Leslie J, Geh D, Elsharkawy AM, Mann DA, Vacca M. Metabolic dysfunction and cancer in HCV: Shared pathways and mutual interactions. J Hepatol 2022; 77:219-236. [PMID: 35157957 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
HCV hijacks many host metabolic processes in an effort to aid viral replication. The resulting hepatic metabolic dysfunction underpins many of the hepatic and extrahepatic manifestations of chronic hepatitis C (CHC). However, the natural history of CHC is also substantially influenced by the host metabolic status: obesity, insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis are major determinants of CHC progression toward hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) have transformed the treatment and natural history of CHC. While DAA therapy effectively eradicates the virus, the long-lasting overlapping metabolic disease can persist, especially in the presence of obesity, increasing the risk of liver disease progression. This review covers the mechanisms by which HCV tunes hepatic and systemic metabolism, highlighting how systemic metabolic disturbance, lipotoxicity and chronic inflammation favour disease progression and a precancerous niche. We also highlight the therapeutic implications of sustained metabolic dysfunction following sustained virologic response as well as considerations for patients who develop HCC on the background of metabolic dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Leslie
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Daniel Geh
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Ahmed M Elsharkawy
- Liver Unit, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Queen Elizabeth Medical Centre, Birmingham, B15 2TH UK; National Institute for Health Research, Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Derek A Mann
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Michele Vacca
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Università degli Studi di Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy.
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20
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Guo Y, Peng Q, Hao L, Ji J, Zhang Z, Xue Y, Liu Y, Gao Y, Li C, Shi X. Dihydroartemisinin promoted FXR expression independent of YAP1 in hepatocellular carcinoma. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22361. [PMID: 35616366 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202200171r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Loss of FXR, one of bile acid receptors, enlarged livers. Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1), a dominant oncogene, promotes hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the relationship between FXR and YAP1 was unspecified in bile acid homeostasis in HCC. Here, we used TIMER2.0, the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Database, and Kaplan-Meier Plotter Database and discovered that FXR was positively correlated with better prognosis in liver cancer patients. Our previous research showed that dihydroartemisinin (DHA) inhibited cell proliferation in HepG2 and HepG22215 cells. However, the relationship of YAP1 and the bile acid receptor FXR remains elusive during DHA treatment. Furthermore, we showed that DHA improved FXR and reduced YAP1 in the liver cancer cells and mice. Additionally, the expression of nucleus protein FXR was enhanced in Yap1LKO mice with liver cancer. DHA promoted the expression level of whole and nuclear protein FXR independent of YAP1 in Yap1LKO mice with liver cancer. DHA declined cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase, but not sterol 27-hydroxylase, and depressed cholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid of liver tissue in Yap1LKO mice with liver cancer. Generally, our results suggested that DHA improved FXR and declined YAP1 to suppress bile acid metabolism. Thus, we suggested that FXR acted as a potential therapeutic target in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinglin Guo
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Qing Peng
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Liyuan Hao
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jingmin Ji
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Zhiqin Zhang
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yu Xue
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yiwei Liu
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yuting Gao
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Caige Li
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xinli Shi
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
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21
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Yu J, Yang K, Zheng J, Zhao P, Xia J, Sun X, Zhao W. Activation of FXR and inhibition of EZH2 synergistically inhibit colorectal cancer through cooperatively accelerating FXR nuclear location and upregulating CDX2 expression. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:388. [PMID: 35449124 PMCID: PMC9023572 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04745-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Our previous study indicated that colon cancer cells varied in sensitivity to pharmacological farnesoid X receptor (FXR) activation. Herein, we explore the regulatory mechanism of FXR in colorectal cancer (CRC) development and aim to design effective strategies of combined treatment based on the regulatory axis. We found that the expression of FXR was negatively correlated with enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) in colon cancer tissues. EZH2 transcriptionally suppressed FXR via H3K27me3. The combination of FXR agonist OCA plus EZH2 inhibitor GSK126 acted in a synergistic manner across four colon cancer cells, efficiently inhibiting clonogenic growth and invasion in vitro, retarding tumor growth in vivo, preventing the G0/G1 to S phase transition, and inducing caspase-dependent apoptosis. Benign control cells FHC were growth-arrested without apoptosis induction, but retained long-term proliferation and invasion capacity. Mechanistically, the drug combination dramatically accelerated FXR nuclear location and cooperatively upregulated caudal-related homeobox transcription factor 2 (CDX2) expression. The depletion of CDX2 antagonized the synergistic effects of the drug combination on tumor inhibition. In conclusion, our study demonstrated histone modification-mediated FXR silencing by EZH2 in colorectal tumorigenesis, which offers useful evidence for the clinical use of FXR agonists combined with EZH2 inhibitors in combating CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhui Yu
- grid.452438.c0000 0004 1760 8119Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, 710061 Xi’an, PR China
| | - Kui Yang
- grid.452438.c0000 0004 1760 8119Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, 710061 Xi’an, PR China
| | - Jianbao Zheng
- grid.452438.c0000 0004 1760 8119Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, 710061 Xi’an, PR China
| | - Pengwei Zhao
- grid.452438.c0000 0004 1760 8119Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, 710061 Xi’an, PR China
| | - Jie Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Department of New Drug Research and Development, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100050, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Xuejun Sun
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 710061, Xi'an, PR China.
| | - Wei Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 710061, Xi'an, PR China.
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22
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Huang X, Fan M, Huang W. Pleiotropic roles of FXR in liver and colorectal cancers. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 543:111543. [PMID: 34995680 PMCID: PMC8818033 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear receptor farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is generally considered a cell protector of enterohepatic tissues and a suppressor of liver cancer and colorectal carcinoma (CRC). Loss or reduction of FXR expression occurs during carcinogenesis, and the FXR level is inversely associated with the aggressive behaviors of the malignancy. Global deletion of FXR and tissue-specific deletion of FXR display distinct effects on tumorigenesis. Epigenetic silencing and inflammatory context are two main contributors to impaired FXR expression and activity. FXR exerts its antitumorigenic function via the following mechanisms: 1) FXR regulates multiple metabolic processes, notably bile acid homeostasis; 2) FXR antagonizes hepatic and enteric inflammation; 3) FXR impedes aberrant activation of some cancer-related pathways; and 4) FXR downregulates a number of oncogenes while upregulating some tumor suppressor genes. Restoring FXR functions via its agonists provides a therapeutic approach for patients with liver cancer and CRC. However, an in-depth understanding of the species-specific pharmacological effects is a prerequisite for assessing the clinical safety and efficacy of FXR agonists in human cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiongfei Huang
- Department of Pathology and Institute of Oncology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350004, PR China; Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350108, PR China.
| | - Mingjie Fan
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Arthur Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Wendong Huang
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Arthur Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA.
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Jiang L, Liu X, Wei H, Dai S, Qu L, Chen X, Guo M, Chen Y. Structural insight into the molecular mechanism of cilofexor binding to the farnesoid X receptor. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 595:1-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.01.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is comprised of either simple steatosis (non-alcoholic fatty liver) or a more advanced inflammatory and fibrogenic stage (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis [NASH]). NASH affects a growing proportion of the global adult and pediatric population, leading to rising rates of liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. NASH is a multifactorial disease that is part of a systemic metabolic disorder. Here, we provide an overview of the metabolic underpinnings of NASH pathogenesis and established drivers of inflammation and fibrosis. Clarification of underlying fibrogenic and inflammatory mechanisms will advance the development of novel treatment strategies as there are no approved therapies at present. We discuss emerging experimental approaches and potential novel investigational strategies derived from animal models including the inflammasome, epigenetic reprogramming, Hippo signaling, Notch signaling, engineered T cells to remove fibrogenic HSCs, and HSC-specific targeting therapies. Recently completed and ongoing clinical trials and antifibrotics are discussed, illuminating the growing expectation that one or more therapies will yield clinical benefit in NASH in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngmin A. Lee
- Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Scott L. Friedman
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
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25
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Xu J, Lin H, Wu G, Zhu M, Li M. IL-6/STAT3 Is a Promising Therapeutic Target for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:760971. [PMID: 34976809 PMCID: PMC8714735 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.760971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignant tumor of which the occurrence and development, the tumorigenicity of HCC is involving in multistep and multifactor interactions. Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a multifunctional inflammatory cytokine, has increased expression in HCC patients and is closely related to the occurrence of HCC and prognosis. IL-6 plays a role by binding to the IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) and then triggering the Janus kinase (JAK) associated with the receptor, stimulating phosphorylation and activating signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) to initiate downstream signals, participating in the processes of anti-apoptosis, angiogenesis, proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance of cancer cells. IL-6/STAT3 signal axes elicit an immunosuppressive in tumor microenvironment, it is important to therapy HCC by blocking the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway. Recent, some inhibitors of IL-6/STAT3 have been development, such as S31-201 or IL-6 neutralizing monoclonal antibody (IL-6 mAb), Madindoline A (Inhibits the dimerization of IL-6/IL-6R/gpl30 trimeric complexes), C188-9 and Curcumin (Inhibits STAT3 phosphorylation), etc. for treatment of cancers. Overall, consideration of the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway, and its role in the carcinogenesis and progression of HCC will contribute to the development of potential drugs for targeting treatment of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junnv Xu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Haifeng Lin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Gang Wu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Mingyue Zhu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Mengsen Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
- Institution of Tumour, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
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26
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Ji G, Si X, Dong S, Xu Y, Li M, Yang B, Tang Z, Fang X, Huang L, Song W, Chen X. Manipulating Liver Bile Acid Signaling by Nanodelivery of Bile Acid Receptor Modulators for Liver Cancer Immunotherapy. NANO LETTERS 2021; 21:6781-6791. [PMID: 34382807 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.1c01360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Gut bacteria and their metabolites influence the immune microenvironment of liver through the gut-liver axis, thus representing emerging therapeutic targets for liver cancer therapy. However, directly manipulating gut microbiota or their metabolites is not practical in clinic since the safety concerns and the complicated mechanism of action. Considering the dysregulated bile acid profiles associated with liver cancer, here we propose a strategy that directly manipulates the primary and secondary bile acid receptors through nanoapproach as an alternative and more precise way for liver cancer therapy. We show that nanodelivery of bile acid receptor modulators elicited robust antitumor immune responses and significantly changed the immune microenvironment in the murine hepatic tumor. In addition, ex vivo stimulation on both murine and patient hepatic tumor tissues suggests the observation here may be meaningful for clinical practice. This study elucidates a novel and precise strategy for liver cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guofeng Ji
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
- Department of General Surgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Xinghui Si
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
- Jilin Biomedical Polymers Engineering Laboratory, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Si Dong
- College of Chemistry, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China
| | - Yajun Xu
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Mingqiang Li
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130000, China
| | - Zhaohui Tang
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
- Jilin Biomedical Polymers Engineering Laboratory, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Xuedong Fang
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Colorectal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130033, China
| | - Leaf Huang
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Wantong Song
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
- Jilin Biomedical Polymers Engineering Laboratory, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Xuesi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
- Jilin Biomedical Polymers Engineering Laboratory, Changchun 130022, China
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
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27
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Orabi D, Berger NA, Brown JM. Abnormal Metabolism in the Progression of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease to Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Mechanistic Insights to Chemoprevention. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3473. [PMID: 34298687 PMCID: PMC8307710 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is on the rise and becoming a major contributor to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Reasons for this include the rise in obesity and metabolic syndrome in contrast to the marked advances in prevention and treatment strategies of viral HCC. These shifts are expected to rapidly propel this trend even further in the coming decades, with NAFLD on course to become the leading etiology of end-stage liver disease and HCC. No Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medications are currently available for the treatment of NAFLD, and advances are desperately needed. Numerous medications with varying mechanisms of action targeting liver steatosis and fibrosis are being investigated including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) agonists and farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonists. Additionally, drugs targeting components of metabolic syndrome, such as antihyperglycemics, have been found to affect NAFLD progression and are now being considered in the treatment of these patients. As NAFLD drug discovery continues, special attention should be given to their relationship to HCC. Several mechanisms in the pathogenesis of NAFLD have been implicated in hepatocarcinogenesis, and therapies aimed at NAFLD may additionally harbor independent antitumorigenic potential. This approach may provide novel prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danny Orabi
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute of the Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
- Center for Microbiome and Human Health, Lerner Research Institute of the Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
- Department of General Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Nathan A. Berger
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
- Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - J. Mark Brown
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute of the Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
- Center for Microbiome and Human Health, Lerner Research Institute of the Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
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Girisa S, Henamayee S, Parama D, Rana V, Dutta U, Kunnumakkara AB. Targeting Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) for developing novel therapeutics against cancer. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2021; 2:21. [PMID: 35006466 PMCID: PMC8607382 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-021-00035-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the lethal diseases that arise due to the molecular alterations in the cell. One of those alterations associated with cancer corresponds to differential expression of Farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a nuclear receptor regulating bile, cholesterol homeostasis, lipid, and glucose metabolism. FXR is known to regulate several diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases, the two highly reported causes of mortality globally. Recent studies have shown the association of FXR overexpression with cancer development and progression in different types of cancers of breast, lung, pancreas, and oesophagus. It has also been associated with tissue-specific and cell-specific roles in various cancers. It has been shown to modulate several cell-signalling pathways such as EGFR/ERK, NF-κB, p38/MAPK, PI3K/AKT, Wnt/β-catenin, and JAK/STAT along with their targets such as caspases, MMPs, cyclins; tumour suppressor proteins like p53, C/EBPβ, and p-Rb; various cytokines; EMT markers; and many more. Therefore, FXR has high potential as novel biomarkers for the diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy of cancer. Thus, the present review focuses on the diverse role of FXR in different cancers and its agonists and antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sosmitha Girisa
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Sahu Henamayee
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Dey Parama
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Varsha Rana
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Uma Dutta
- Cell and Molecular Biology Lab, Department of Zoology, Cotton University, Guwahati, Assam, 781001, India.
| | - Ajaikumar B Kunnumakkara
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India.
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29
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Li H, Luo D, Huttad L, Zhang M, Wang Y, Feng J, Ding Y, Han B. RIPK4 Suppresses the Invasion and Metastasis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Inhibiting the Phosphorylation of STAT3. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:654766. [PMID: 34222329 PMCID: PMC8249771 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.654766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Receptor interacting serine/threonine kinase 4 (RIPK4) is a member of the threonine/serine protein kinase family; it plays related functions in a variety of tumours, but its biological function has not been fully revealed. It has been reported that it is differentially expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Our research aimed to reveal the role of RIPK4 in the progression of HCC and to reveal the biological behaviour of RIPK4 in HCC. We analysed the differences in RIPK4 expression in HCC by using a publicly available data set. By using PCR, Western blotting and immunohistochemical staining methods, we detected the expression level of RIPK4 in HCC patient specimens and studied the relationship between the expression of RIPK4 and the clinicopathological features of HCC patients. The prognostic data were combined to analyse the relationship between RIPK4 and HCC patient survival and tumour recurrence. We found that the expression level of RIPK4 in nontumour tissues was significantly higher than that in tumour tissues, and the level of RIPK4 was significantly positively correlated with postoperative survival and recurrence in HCC patients. Further, our study found that RIPK4 inhibits the progression of HCC by influencing the invasion and metastasis of HCC and that overexpression of RIPK4 reduces the invasion and metastasis of HCC by inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the STAT3 pathway. In in vivo experiments, overexpression of RIPK4 stably inhibited HCC metastasis. To summarize, our research revealed the relationship between RIPK4 and the prognosis of patients with HCC. We discovered that RIPK4 affects the invasion and metastasis of HCC through the EMT and STAT3 pathways. Targeted inhibition of the RIPK4 gene and the STAT3 pathway may be potential therapeutic strategies for inhibiting the postoperative recurrence and metastasis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoran Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Dingan Luo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lakshmi Huttad
- Asian Liver Center, Department of Surgery, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
| | - Mao Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Youpeng Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Juan Feng
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yunfeng Ding
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Bing Han
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
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Abstract
Our understanding of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease pathophysiology continues to advance rapidly. Accordingly, the field has moved from describing the clinical phenotype through the presence of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and degree of fibrosis to deep phenotyping with a description of associated comorbidities, genetic polymorphisms and environmental influences that could be associated with disease progression. These insights have fuelled a robust therapeutic pipeline across a variety of new targets to resolve steatohepatitis or reverse fibrosis, or both. Additionally, some of these therapies have beneficial effects that extend beyond the liver, such as effects on glycaemic control, lipid profile and weight loss. In addition, emerging therapies for NASH cirrhosis would have to demonstrate either reversal of fibrosis with associated reduction in portal hypertension or at least delay the progression with eventual decrease in liver-related outcomes. For non-cirrhotic NASH, it is the expectation that reversal of fibrosis by one stage or resolution of NASH with no worsening in fibrosis will need to be accompanied by overall survival benefits. In this Review, we summarize NASH therapies that have progressed to phase II and beyond. We also discuss some of the potential clinical challenges with the use of these new therapies when approved.
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The role of farnesoid X receptor in metabolic diseases, and gastrointestinal and liver cancer. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 18:335-347. [PMID: 33568795 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-020-00404-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 62.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor involved in the control of bile acid (BA) synthesis and enterohepatic circulation. FXR can influence glucose and lipid homeostasis. Hepatic FXR activation by obeticholic acid is currently used to treat primary biliary cholangitis. Late-stage clinical trials investigating the use of obeticholic acid in the treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis are underway. Mouse models of metabolic disease have demonstrated that inhibition of intestinal FXR signalling reduces obesity, insulin resistance and fatty liver disease by modulation of hepatic and gut bacteria-mediated BA metabolism, and intestinal ceramide synthesis. FXR also has a role in the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal and liver cancers. Studies using tissue-specific and global Fxr-null mice have revealed that FXR acts as a suppressor of hepatocellular carcinoma, mainly through regulating BA homeostasis. Loss of whole-body FXR potentiates progression of spontaneous colorectal cancer, and obesity-induced BA imbalance promotes intestinal stem cell proliferation by suppressing intestinal FXR in Apcmin/+ mice. Owing to altered gut microbiota and FXR signalling, changes in overall BA levels and specific BA metabolites probably contribute to enterohepatic tumorigenesis. Modulating intestinal FXR signalling and altering BA metabolites are potential strategies for gastrointestinal and liver cancer prevention and treatment. In this Review, studies on the role of FXR in metabolic diseases and gastrointestinal and liver cancer are discussed, and the potential for development of targeted drugs are summarized.
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Jiang L, Zhang H, Xiao D, Wei H, Chen Y. Farnesoid X receptor (FXR): Structures and ligands. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2021; 19:2148-2159. [PMID: 33995909 PMCID: PMC8091178 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2021.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is a bile acid activated nuclear receptor (BAR) and is mainly expressed in the liver and intestine. Upon ligand binding, FXR regulates key genes involved in the metabolic process of bile acid synthesis, transport and reabsorption and is also involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids. Because of its important functions, FXR is considered as a promising drug target for the therapy of bile acid-related liver diseases. With the approval of obeticholic acid (OCA) as the first small molecule to target FXR, many other small molecules are being evaluated in clinical trials. This review summarizes the structures of FXR, especially its ligand binding domain, and the development of small molecules (including agonists and antagonists) targeting FXR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longying Jiang
- Department of Pathology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Huajun Zhang
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Desheng Xiao
- Department of Pathology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Hudie Wei
- Department of Pathology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Yongheng Chen
- Department of Pathology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
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33
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Girisa S, Rana V, Parama D, Dutta U, Kunnumakkara AB. Differential roles of farnesoid X receptor (FXR) in modulating apoptosis in cancer cells. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2021; 126:63-90. [PMID: 34090620 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2021.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality in the world. The conventional treatment strategies of cancer are surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. However, in the advanced stage of the disease chemotherapy is the prime treatment and it is effective in only less than 10% of the patients. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find out novel therapeutic targets and delineate the mechanism of action of these targets for better management of this disease. Recent studies have shown that some of the proteins have differential role in different cancers. Therefore, it is pertinent that the targeting of these proteins should be based on the type of cancer. The nuclear receptor, FXR, is one of the vital proteins that regulate cell apoptosis. Besides, it also regulates other processes such as cell proliferation, angiogenesis, invasion, and migration. Studies suggest that the low or high expression of FXR is associated with the progression of carcinogenesis depending on the cancer types. Due to the diverse expression, it functions as both tumor suppressor and promoter. Previous studies suggest the overexpression of FXR in breast, lung, esophageal, and prostate cancer, which is related to poor survival and poor prognosis in patients. Therefore, targeting FXR with agonists and antagonists play different outcome in different cancers. Hence, this review describes the role of FXR in different cancers and the role of its inhibitors and activators for the prevention and treatment of various cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sosmitha Girisa
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Varsha Rana
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Dey Parama
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Uma Dutta
- Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Cotton University, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Ajaikumar B Kunnumakkara
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India.
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Attia YM, Tawfiq RA, Gibriel AA, Ali AA, Kassem DH, Hammam OA, Elmazar MM. Activation of FXR modulates SOCS3/Jak2/STAT3 signaling axis in a NASH-dependent hepatocellular carcinoma animal model. Biochem Pharmacol 2021; 186:114497. [PMID: 33675775 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite the recent substantial progress in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) from viral etiology, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is on a trajectory to become the fastest growing indication for HCC-related liver transplantation. The Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily with multifaceted roles in several metabolic disorders, particularly NASH. Its role as a tumor suppressor was also highlighted. Herein, we investigated the effect of obeticholic acid (OCA), as an FXR agonist, on NASH-associated HCC (NASH-HCC) animal model induced by diethylnitrosamine and high fat choline-deficient diet, exploring the potential impact on the suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3)/Janus kinase 2 (Jak2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway. Results indicated that OCA treatment upregulated FXR and its key mediator, small heterodimer partner (SHP), with remarkable amelioration in the dysplastic foci observed in the NASH-HCC group. This was paralleled with noticeable downregulation of alpha fetoprotein along with reduction in interferon gamma and transforming growth factor beta-1 hepatic levels besides caspase-3 and p53 upregulation. Moreover, sirtuin-1 (SIRT-1), a key regulator of FXR that controls the regenerative response of the liver, was elevated following OCA treatment. Modulation in the SOCS3/Jak2/STAT3 signaling axis was also reported. In conclusion, OCA attenuated the development and progression of NASH-dependent HCC possibly by interfering with SOCS3/Jak2/STAT3 pathway suggesting the potential use of FXR activators in NASH-related disorders, even at later stages of the disease, to impede its progression to the more deteriorating condition of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmeen M Attia
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt; The Center for Drug Research and Development (CDRD), Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Rasha A Tawfiq
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt; The Center for Drug Research and Development (CDRD), Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abdullah A Gibriel
- The Center for Drug Research and Development (CDRD), Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt; Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Aya A Ali
- The Center for Drug Research and Development (CDRD), Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Dina H Kassem
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Olfat A Hammam
- Pathology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed M Elmazar
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt; The Center for Drug Research and Development (CDRD), Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
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Zhao L, Wang L, Zhang D, Chen Y, Jin F. Puerarin alleviates coronary heart disease via suppressing inflammation in a rat model. Gene 2020; 771:145354. [PMID: 33333215 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2020.145354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Puerarin shows inhibitory effects on inflammation in chronic heart failure (CHF), but its efficacy in coronary heart disease (CHD) remained vague. METHODS Rat CHD model was constructed, and serum parameters were determined using a blood liquid biochemical analyzer. Also, contents of creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase MB isoenzyme (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and cardiac troponin (cTnT) were measured using colorimetry. Histological examination was conducted with Hematoxylin-Eosin (H&E) staining, and cardiac function was assessed by Echocardiography. Cell apoptosis was detected using Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. Relative expressions were measured using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot as needed. RESULTS In CHD rats, the levels of TC, LDL and TG and the expressions of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), CD40 ligand (CD40L), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and C-reactive protein (CRP) were increased while HDL level was decreased, accompanied with inflammatory cell infiltration and cardiac malfunction. Also, the contents of CK, CK-MB, LDH and cTnT, the percentage of apoptotic cells, the expressions of Bcl-2 associated X protein (Bax), cleaved Caspase-3, TNF-α, Interleukin-β (IL-β), IL-6 and Lipoprotein-associated Phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) expressions and the levels of oxidized-(ox-)LDL and malondialdehyde (MDA) were upregulated, while the level of super oxidase dismutase (SOD) and the expressions of B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were downregulated. However, Puerarin ameliorated the effects of CHD model construction, suppressed nuclear factor-(NF-)κB expression, and enhanced the expressions of Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR), phosphorylated-AKT (p-AKT) and phosphorylated-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (p-STAT3). CONCLUSION Puerarin alleviated CHD in rats via inhibiting inflammation, providing possible method for CHD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangping Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Gusu District, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province 215004, China.
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Gusu District, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province 215004, China
| | - Daimin Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Nanjing First Hospital, Qinhuai District, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210001, China
| | - Yuqi Chen
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Gusu District, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province 215004, China
| | - Fulu Jin
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Gusu District, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province 215004, China
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Li S, Xu Z, Guo J, Zheng J, Sun X, Yu J. Farnesoid X receptor activation induces antitumour activity in colorectal cancer by suppressing JAK2/STAT3 signalling via transactivation of SOCS3 gene. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:14549-14560. [PMID: 33164339 PMCID: PMC7754034 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Farnesoid X receptor (FXR, encoded by NR1H4), a bile acid‐activated nuclear receptor, is widely implicated in human tumorigenesis. The FXR agonist obeticholic acid (OCA) has preliminarily displayed tumour suppressor potential. However, the anticancer effects of this agent on colorectal cancer (CRC) remain unclear. In this study, the treatment of colon cancer cells with OCA inhibited cell proliferation and invasion in vitro, retarded tumour growth in vivo and prevented the G0/G1 to S phase transition. Moreover, the expression of active caspase‐3, p21 and E‐cadherin was up‐regulated and the expression of cyclin D1, c‐Myc, vimentin, N‐cadherin and MMP9 was down‐regulated in OCA‐treated colon cancer cells. Mechanistic studies indicated that OCA treatment suppressed the activity of JAK2/STAT3 pathway by up‐regulating SOCS3 expression. Colivelin, an agonist of JAK2/STAT3 pathway, antagonized the tumour‐suppressive effect of OCA on colon cancer cells. Dual‐luciferase reporter and quantitative chromatin immunoprecipitation (qChIP) assays further confirmed that OCA promoted SOCS3 transcription by enhancing the binding of FXR to the FXRE/IR9 of the SOCS3 promoter. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that targeting FXR and improving its function might be a promising strategy for CRC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhengshui Xu
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jianbao Zheng
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xuejun Sun
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Junhui Yu
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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Ji G, Ma L, Yao H, Ma S, Si X, Wang Y, Bao X, Ma L, Chen F, Ma C, Huang L, Fang X, Song W. Precise delivery of obeticholic acid via nanoapproach for triggering natural killer T cell-mediated liver cancer immunotherapy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2020; 10:2171-2182. [PMID: 33304784 PMCID: PMC7715527 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2020.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary bile acids were reported to augment secretion of chemokine (C‒X‒C motif) ligand 16 (CXCL16) from liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) and trigger natural killer T (NKT) cell-based immunotherapy for liver cancer. However, abundant expression of receptors for primary bile acids across the gastrointestinal tract overwhelms the possibility of using agonists against these receptors for liver cancer control. Taking advantage of the intrinsic property of LSECs in capturing circulating nanoparticles in the circulation, we proposed a strategy using nanoemulsion-loaded obeticholic acid (OCA), a clinically approved selective farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonist, for precisely manipulating LSECs for triggering NKT cell-mediated liver cancer immunotherapy. The OCA-nanoemulsion (OCA-NE) was prepared via ultrasonic emulsification method, with a diameter of 184 nm and good stability. In vivo biodistribution studies confirmed that the injected OCA-NE mainly accumulated in the liver and especially in LSECs and Kupffer cells. As a result, OCA-NE treatment significantly suppressed hepatic tumor growth in a murine orthotopic H22 tumor model, which performed much better than oral medication of free OCA. Immunologic analysis revealed that the OCA-NE resulted in augmented secretion of CXCL16 and IFN-γ, as well as increased NKT cell populations inside the tumor. Overall, our research provides a new evidence for the antitumor effect of receptors for primary bile acids, and should inspire using nanotechnology for precisely manipulating LSECs for liver cancer therapy.
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Key Words
- ALT, alanine aminotransferase
- AST, aspartate aminotransferase
- BUN, blood urea nitrogen
- CDCA, chenodeoxycholic acid
- Cr, creatinine
- FXR, farnesoid X receptor
- Farnesoid X receptor
- H&E, hematoxylin and eosin
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- HPLC, high-performance liquid chromatography
- HSCs, hepatic stellate cells
- IFN-γ, interferon-γ
- IVIS, in vivo imaging system
- LSECs, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells
- Liver cancer
- Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells
- NE, nanoemulsion
- NKT cells, natural killer T cells
- Nanoemulsion
- OCA, obeticholic acid
- Obeticholic acid
- PBC, primary biliary cholangitis
- TACE, transarterial chemoembolisation
- TSR, tumor suppression rate
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Affiliation(s)
- Guofeng Ji
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Colorectal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130033, China
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Lushun Ma
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Colorectal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130033, China
| | - Haochen Yao
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Chinese Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Sheng Ma
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
- Jilin Biomedical Polymers Engineering Laboratory, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Xinghui Si
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Yalin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
- Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Xin Bao
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
- Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Lili Ma
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
- Jilin Biomedical Polymers Engineering Laboratory, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Fangfang Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Colorectal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130033, China
- State Key Laboratory of Inorganic Synthesis and Preparative Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Chong Ma
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Colorectal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130033, China
| | - Leaf Huang
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Xuedong Fang
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Colorectal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130033, China
- State Key Laboratory of Inorganic Synthesis and Preparative Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Wantong Song
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
- Jilin Biomedical Polymers Engineering Laboratory, Changchun 130022, China
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Synergistic tumor inhibition of colon cancer cells by nitazoxanide and obeticholic acid, a farnesoid X receptor ligand. Cancer Gene Ther 2020; 28:590-601. [PMID: 33046820 PMCID: PMC8203497 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-020-00239-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The tumor-suppressive role of Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) in colorectal tumorigenesis supports restoring FXR expression as a novel therapeutic strategy. However, the complicated signaling network and tumor heterogeneity hinder the effectiveness of FXR agonists in the clinical setting. These difficulties highlight the importance of identifying drug combinations with potency and specificity to enhance the antitumor effects of FXR agonists. In this study, we found that the β-catenin level affected the antitumor effects of the FXR agonist OCA on colon cancer cells. Mechanistic studies identified a novel FXR/β-catenin complex in colon cancer cells. Furthermore, the depletion of β-catenin expedited FXR nuclear localization and enhanced its occupancy of the SHP promoter and thereby sensitized colon cancer cells to OCA. Furthermore, we utilized a drug combination study and identified that the antiparasitic drug nitazoxanide (NTZ) abrogated β-catenin expression and acted synergistically with OCA in colon cancer cells. The combination of OCA plus NTZ exerts synergistic tumor inhibition in CRC both in vitro and in vivo by cooperatively upregulating SHP expression. In conclusion, our study offers useful evidence for the clinical use of FXR agonists combined with β-catenin inhibitors in combating CRC.
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Zhu B, Dong Y, Ma J, Chen M, Ruan S, Zhao W, Feng J. The synthesis and activity evaluation of N‐acylated analogs of echinocandin B with improved solubility and lower toxicity. J Pept Sci 2020; 26:e3278. [DOI: 10.1002/psc.3278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Bing Zhu
- School of Pharmacy Fudan University Shanghai China
| | | | - Jie Ma
- Shanghai Duomirui Biotechnology Ltd. Shanghai China
| | - Minwei Chen
- Shanghai Duomirui Biotechnology Ltd. Shanghai China
| | - Sida Ruan
- State Key Lab of New Drug and Pharmaceutical Process, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Shanghai China
| | - Wenjie Zhao
- State Key Lab of New Drug and Pharmaceutical Process, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Shanghai China
| | - Jun Feng
- State Key Lab of New Drug and Pharmaceutical Process, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Shanghai China
- Shanghai Duomirui Biotechnology Ltd. Shanghai China
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40
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Kang JH, Li MJ, Luan PP, Jiang DK, Chen YW, Xu X, Yu Q, Xu YW, Su Q, Peng WH, Jian WX. NLRC3 silencing accelerates the invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma cell via IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 pathway activation. Cell Biol Int 2020; 44:2053-2064. [PMID: 32584509 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich repeat family with a caspase activation and recruitment domain 3 (NLRC3) participates in both immunity and cancer. The aim of this study was to determine the role of NLRC3 in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the underlying mechanisms. We collected human liver tissues from nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), HCC, and adjacent normal tissues to characterize the pattern of NLRC3 expression by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. Then, we used the HCC cell line, HuH-7, transfected with small interfering RNA to silence the NLRC3 expression. 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine assay, scratch assay, and transwell invasion assay were used for assessing proliferation, migration, and invasion, respectively. Flow cytometry and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay were conducted to assess cell apoptosis. The expression of NLRC3 was reduced in human HCC tissues, compared with normal liver and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis tissues. After knocking down of NLRC3, the proliferation, migration, and invasion were increased in HuH-7 cells. And flow cytometry and TUNEL assay showed that HuH-7 cell apoptosis was suppressed after NLRC3 knockdown. As for the underlying mechanisms, knockdown of NLRC3 in HuH-7 cells was associated with the activation of Janus kinase 2/signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3) pathway under interleukin-6 (IL-6) stimulation. NLRC3 expression was downregulated in human HCC tissues. NLRC3 silencing in HuH-7 cells can promote the proliferation, migration, and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. JAK2/STAT3 pathway activation induced by IL-6 may be the underlying mechanism for HCC when NLRC3 expression is silenced. And the invasion of HuH-7 cells was partially suppressed by the STAT3 specific inhibitor (cryptotanshinone). Therefore, NLRC3 may play a significant role in HCC and might be a therapeutic target for the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Hua Kang
- Department of Endocrinology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming-Jie Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Pei-Pei Luan
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - De-Ke Jiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology Unit, State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Institutes of Liver Diseases Research of Guangdong Province, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuan-Wen Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Yu
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ya-Wei Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Su
- Department of Endocrinology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Hui Peng
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Xia Jian
- Department of Endocrinology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Lequoy M, Gigante E, Couty JP, Desbois-Mouthon C. Hepatocellular carcinoma in the context of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH): recent advances in the pathogenic mechanisms. Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2020; 41:/j/hmbci.ahead-of-print/hmbci-2019-0044/hmbci-2019-0044.xml. [PMID: 32112699 DOI: 10.1515/hmbci-2019-0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer. HCC is particularly aggressive and is one of the leading causes of cancer mortality. In recent decades, the epidemiological landscape of HCC has undergone significant changes. While chronic viral hepatitis and excessive alcohol consumption have long been identified as the main risk factors for HCC, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), paralleling the worldwide epidemic of obesity and type 2 diabetes, has become a growing cause of HCC in the US and Europe. Here, we review the recent advances in epidemiological, genetic, epigenetic and pathogenic mechanisms as well as experimental mouse models that have improved the understanding of NASH progression toward HCC. We also discuss the clinical management of patients with NASH-related HCC and possible therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Lequoy
- Service d'Hépato-Gastro-Entérologie, AP-HP, F-75012 Paris, France
- Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, INSERM, Sorbonne Université, F-75012 Paris, France
| | - Elia Gigante
- Service d'Hépato-Gastro-Entérologie, AP-HP, F-75012 Paris, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Couty
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM, Sorbonne Université, USPC, Université Paris Descartes, Université Paris Diderot, F-75006 Paris, France
| | - Christèle Desbois-Mouthon
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM UMR_S1138, 15 rue de l'école de médecine, Sorbonne Université, USPC, Université Paris Descartes, Université Paris Diderot, F-75006 Paris, France
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Successful stories of drug repurposing for cancer therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma. DRUG REPURPOSING IN CANCER THERAPY 2020. [PMCID: PMC7471801 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-819668-7.00008-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Igelmann S, Neubauer HA, Ferbeyre G. STAT3 and STAT5 Activation in Solid Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11101428. [PMID: 31557897 PMCID: PMC6826753 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11101428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 09/14/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (STAT)3 and 5 proteins are activated by many cytokine receptors to regulate specific gene expression and mitochondrial functions. Their role in cancer is largely context-dependent as they can both act as oncogenes and tumor suppressors. We review here the role of STAT3/5 activation in solid cancers and summarize their association with survival in cancer patients. The molecular mechanisms that underpin the oncogenic activity of STAT3/5 signaling include the regulation of genes that control cell cycle and cell death. However, recent advances also highlight the critical role of STAT3/5 target genes mediating inflammation and stemness. In addition, STAT3 mitochondrial functions are required for transformation. On the other hand, several tumor suppressor pathways act on or are activated by STAT3/5 signaling, including tyrosine phosphatases, the sumo ligase Protein Inhibitor of Activated STAT3 (PIAS3), the E3 ubiquitin ligase TATA Element Modulatory Factor/Androgen Receptor-Coactivator of 160 kDa (TMF/ARA160), the miRNAs miR-124 and miR-1181, the Protein of alternative reading frame 19 (p19ARF)/p53 pathway and the Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling 1 and 3 (SOCS1/3) proteins. Cancer mutations and epigenetic alterations may alter the balance between pro-oncogenic and tumor suppressor activities associated with STAT3/5 signaling, explaining their context-dependent association with tumor progression both in human cancers and animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Igelmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, C.P. 6128, Succ. Centre-Ville, CRCHUM, Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada.
- CRCHUM, 900 Saint-Denis St, Montréal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada.
| | - Heidi A Neubauer
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna 1210, Austria.
| | - Gerardo Ferbeyre
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, C.P. 6128, Succ. Centre-Ville, CRCHUM, Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada.
- CRCHUM, 900 Saint-Denis St, Montréal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada.
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Ouchi R, Togo S, Kimura M, Shinozawa T, Koido M, Koike H, Thompson W, Karns RA, Mayhew CN, McGrath PS, McCauley HA, Zhang RR, Lewis K, Hakozaki S, Ferguson A, Saiki N, Yoneyama Y, Takeuchi I, Mabuchi Y, Akazawa C, Yoshikawa HY, Wells JM, Takebe T. Modeling Steatohepatitis in Humans with Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Organoids. Cell Metab 2019; 30:374-384.e6. [PMID: 31155493 PMCID: PMC6687537 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2019.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 290] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2018] [Revised: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Human organoid systems recapitulate in vivo organ architecture yet fail to capture complex pathologies such as inflammation and fibrosis. Here, using 11 different healthy and diseased pluripotent stem cell lines, we developed a reproducible method to derive multi-cellular human liver organoids composed of hepatocyte-, stellate-, and Kupffer-like cells that exhibit transcriptomic resemblance to in vivo-derived tissues. Under free fatty acid treatment, organoids, but not reaggregated cocultured spheroids, recapitulated key features of steatohepatitis, including steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis phenotypes in a successive manner. Interestingly, an organoid-level biophysical readout with atomic force microscopy demonstrated that organoid stiffening reflects the fibrosis severity. Furthermore, organoids from patients with genetic dysfunction of lysosomal acid lipase phenocopied severe steatohepatitis, rescued by FXR agonism-mediated reactive oxygen species suppression. The presented key methodology and preliminary results offer a new approach for studying a personalized basis for inflammation and fibrosis in humans, thus facilitating the discovery of effective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rie Ouchi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition & Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA
| | - Shodai Togo
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition & Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA; Department of Chemistry, Saitama University, Shimo-okubo 255, Sakura-ku, Saitama, Saitama 338-8570, Japan
| | - Masaki Kimura
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition & Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA
| | - Tadahiro Shinozawa
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition & Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA
| | - Masaru Koido
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Fukuura 3-9, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 236-0004, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Koike
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition & Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA
| | - Wendy Thompson
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition & Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA
| | - Rebekah A Karns
- Bioinformatics Core, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229- 3039, USA
| | - Christopher N Mayhew
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition & Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA
| | - Patrick S McGrath
- Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Heather A McCauley
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition & Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA
| | - Ran-Ran Zhang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition & Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA
| | - Kyle Lewis
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition & Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA
| | - Shoyo Hakozaki
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition & Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA
| | - Autumn Ferguson
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition & Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA
| | - Norikazu Saiki
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Fukuura 3-9, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 236-0004, Japan
| | - Yosuke Yoneyama
- Institute of Research, Division of Advanced Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Ichiro Takeuchi
- Division of Gastroenterology, National Center for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 157-8535, Japan
| | - Yo Mabuchi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Chihiro Akazawa
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Y Yoshikawa
- Department of Chemistry, Saitama University, Shimo-okubo 255, Sakura-ku, Saitama, Saitama 338-8570, Japan
| | - James M Wells
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition & Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA; The Center for Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine (CuSTOM), Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA
| | - Takanori Takebe
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition & Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA; Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Fukuura 3-9, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 236-0004, Japan; Institute of Research, Division of Advanced Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan; The Center for Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine (CuSTOM), Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA.
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Zhang C, Zhang M, Song S. Cathepsin D enhances breast cancer invasion and metastasis through promoting hepsin ubiquitin-proteasome degradation. Cancer Lett 2018; 438:105-115. [PMID: 30227221 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2018.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Hepsin is required for the growth and maintenance of normal morphology, as well as for cell motility and development, initiation of blood coagulation and pro-inflammatory immune response. Here we showed that Cathepsin D (CtsD) as a novel protein is involved in the regulation of hepsin. CtsD destabilizes hepsin by promoting its ubiquitylation and subsequent proteasomal degradation in breast cancer cells. Breast cancer tissue microarray also indicated that hepsin expression was negatively correlated with CtsD by immunohistochemistry. Overexpression of CtsD promoted breast cancer cell migration, invasion and metastasis by enhancing the expression of intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) in vitro and in vivo. These effects were inhibited by ectopic hepsin expression. Taken together, our data reveal a critical CtsD-hepsin signaling axis in migration and metastasis, which may contribute to a better understanding of the function and molecular mechanism in breast cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyi Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Mingming Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Shushu Song
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
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Zhu C, Zhang M, Hu J, Li H, Liu S, Li T, Wu L, Han B. Prognostic effect of IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 signal-induced microRNA-21-5p expression on short term recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma after hepatectomy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL PATHOLOGY 2018; 11:4169-4178. [PMID: 31949811 PMCID: PMC6962805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/29/2018] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
AIM To investigate the putative role of interleukin (IL)-6/Janus Kinase (JAK) 2/Signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) 3 signaling pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) short term recurrence (STR), and whether the pathway promotes HCC progression through microRNA-21-5p (miRNA-21). METHODS Immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate the protein expression of IL-6, JAK2 and STAT3. Real-time PCR was used to evaluate the miRNA-21 expression. We also analyzed the correlation of IL-6, JAK2 and STAT3 protein expression with miRNA-21. Clinicopathological variables, including prognosis, were compared between low and high-expressing groups of miRNA-21. RESULTS miRNA-21 expression was significantly increased in the HCC tumor tissue compared to the non-tumor tissue. IL-6 and STAT3 high expression was significantly correlated to high miRNA-21 expression in HCC tumor tissues. Patients with high miRNA-21 expression have more frequent early recurrence. The 6 month overall survival and disease-free survival rate of the miRNA-21 high groups were 72.1% and 30.8%, respectively. Moreover, high miRNA-21 expression was correlated with disease-free survival (DFS) (P < 0.05) and overall survival (OS) (P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed that miRNA-21 and STAT3 high expression were independent prognostic factors of DFS and OS. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of miRNA-21 and STR, DFS, OS was 0.951 (P < 0.001), 0.847 (P < 0.001), 0.844 (P < 0.001), respectively. CONCLUSIONS miRNA-21 expression, induced by IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway, was increased in the early recurrence of HCC patients and indicated poor prognosis. Expression analysis of miRNA-21 revealed that it may be a valuable prognostic biomarker for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengzhan Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao UniversityQingdao, Shandong, P. R. China
| | - Mao Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao UniversityQingdao, Shandong, P. R. China
| | - Jie Hu
- The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Haoran Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao UniversityQingdao, Shandong, P. R. China
| | - Shihai Liu
- Medical Animal Laboratory, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao UniversityQingdao, Shandong, P. R. China
| | - Tianxiang Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao UniversityQingdao, Shandong, P. R. China
| | - Liqun Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao UniversityQingdao, Shandong, P. R. China
| | - Bing Han
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao UniversityQingdao, Shandong, P. R. China
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Farnesoid X Receptor Activation Enhances Transforming Growth Factor β-Induced Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19071898. [PMID: 29958417 PMCID: PMC6073264 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19071898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2018] [Revised: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is a receptor for bile acids and plays an important role in the regulation of bile acid metabolism in the liver. Although FXR has been shown to affect hepatocarcinogenesis through both direct and indirect mechanisms, potential roles of FXR in epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unclear. We examined the effect of several FXR ligands on EMT-related morphological changes in HCC cell lines, such as HuH-7 and Hep3B cells. FXR agonists (chenodeoxycholic acid, GW4064, and obeticholic acid)—but not an antagonist (guggulsterone)—induced actin polymerization and expression of N-cadherin and phosphorylated focal adhesion kinase, although they were less effective than transforming growth factor β (TGF-β). FXR agonist treatment enhanced TGF-β-induced EMT morphologic changes and FXR antagonist inhibited the effect of TGF-β. Thus, FXR activation enhances EMT in HCC and FXR antagonists may be EMT-suppressing drug candidates.
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