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Gazzin S, Tiribelli C. An egg a day keeps kernicterus away. Pediatr Res 2024:10.1038/s41390-024-03103-9. [PMID: 38402318 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-024-03103-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Gazzin
- Liver Brian Unit "Rita Moretti", Fondazione Italiana Fegato - Onlus, AREA Science Park - Basovizza Campus, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Claudio Tiribelli
- Liver Brian Unit "Rita Moretti", Fondazione Italiana Fegato - Onlus, AREA Science Park - Basovizza Campus, 34149, Trieste, Italy.
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Gazzin S, Bellarosa C, Tiribelli C. Molecular events in brain bilirubin toxicity revisited. Pediatr Res 2024:10.1038/s41390-024-03084-9. [PMID: 38378754 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-024-03084-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
The mechanisms involved in bilirubin neurotoxicity are still far from being fully elucidated. Several different events concur to damage mainly the neurons among which inflammation and alteration of the redox state play a major role. An imbalance of cellular calcium homeostasis has been recently described to be associated with toxic concentrations of bilirubin, and this disequilibrium may in turn elicit an inflammatory reaction. The different and age-dependent sensitivity to bilirubin damage must also be considered in describing the dramatic clinical picture of bilirubin-induced neurological damage (BIND) formerly known as kernicterus spectrum disorder (KSD). This review aims to critically address what is known and what is not in the molecular events of bilirubin neurotoxicity to provide hints for a better diagnosis and more successful treatments. Part of these concepts have been presented at the 38th Annual Audrey K. Brown Kernicterus Symposium of Pediatric American Society, Washington DC, May 1, 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Gazzin
- Liver-Brain Unit "Rita Moretti", Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Cristina Bellarosa
- Liver-Brain Unit "Rita Moretti", Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Claudio Tiribelli
- Liver-Brain Unit "Rita Moretti", Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149, Trieste, Italy.
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Zhou J, Liao S, Zhang C, Luo J, Li G, Li H. Expression profiling of N6-methyladenosine-modified mRNA in PC12 cells in response to unconjugated bilirubin. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:6703-6715. [PMID: 37378749 PMCID: PMC10374823 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08576-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abnormal methylation of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is reportedly associated with central nervous system disorders. However, the role of m6A mRNA methylation in unconjugated bilirubin (UCB) neurotoxicity requires further research. METHODS Rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells treated with UCB were used as in vitro models. After the PC12 cells were treated with UCB (0, 12, 18, and 24 µM) for 24 h, the total RNA m6A levels were measured using an m6A RNA methylation quantification kit. The expression of m6A demethylases and methyltransferases was detected through western blotting. We determined the m6A mRNA methylation profile in PC12 cells exposed to UCB (0 and 18 µM) for 24 h using methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq). RESULTS Compared with the control group, UCB (18 and 24 µM) treatment decreased the expression of the m6A demethylase ALKBH5 and increased the expression of the methyltransferases METTL3 and METTL14, which resulted in an increase in the total m6A levels in PC12 cells. Furthermore, 1533 m6A peaks were significantly elevated and 1331 peaks were reduced in the UCB (18 µM)-treated groups compared with those in the control group. Genes with differential m6A peaks were mainly enriched in protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, cell cycle, and endocytosis. Through combined analysis of the MeRIP-seq and RNA sequencing data, 129 genes with differentially methylated m6A peaks and differentially expressed mRNA levels were identified. CONCLUSION Our study suggests that the modulation of m6A methylation modifications plays a significant role in UCB neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfu Zhou
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, Fujian Province, China
- Medical Genetic Diagnosis and Therapy Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, China
| | - Sining Liao
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, Fujian Province, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, Fujian Province, China
| | - Chenran Zhang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, Fujian Province, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, Fujian Province, China
| | - Jinying Luo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, China
| | - Guilin Li
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, Fujian Province, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, Fujian Province, China
| | - Huangyuan Li
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, Fujian Province, China.
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, Fujian Province, China.
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, Fujian Province, China.
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Llido JP, Fioriti E, Pascut D, Giuffrè M, Bottin C, Zanconati F, Tiribelli C, Gazzin S. Bilirubin-Induced Transcriptomic Imprinting in Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:834. [PMID: 37372119 DOI: 10.3390/biology12060834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Recent findings indicated aberrant epigenetic control of the central nervous system (CNS) development in hyperbilirubinemic Gunn rats as an additional cause of cerebellar hypoplasia, the landmark of bilirubin neurotoxicity in rodents. Because the symptoms in severely hyperbilirubinemic human neonates suggest other regions as privileged targets of bilirubin neurotoxicity, we expanded the study of the potential impact of bilirubin on the control of postnatal brain development to regions correlating with human symptoms. Histology, transcriptomic, gene correlation, and behavioral studies were performed. The histology revealed widespread perturbation 9 days after birth, restoring in adulthood. At the genetic level, regional differences were noticed. Bilirubin affected synaptogenesis, repair, differentiation, energy, extracellular matrix development, etc., with transient alterations in the hippocampus (memory, learning, and cognition) and inferior colliculi (auditory functions) but permanent changes in the parietal cortex. Behavioral tests confirmed the presence of a permanent motor disability. The data correlate well both with the clinic description of neonatal bilirubin-induced neurotoxicity, as well as with the neurologic syndromes reported in adults that suffered neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. The results pave the way for better deciphering the neurotoxic features of bilirubin and evaluating deeply the efficacy of new therapeutic approaches against the acute and long-lasting sequels of bilirubin neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Paul Llido
- Liver Brain Unit "Rita Moretti", Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, 34149 Basovizza, Italy
- Department of Science and Technology, Philippine Council for Health Research and Development, Bicutan, Taguig City 1631, Philippines
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34139 Trieste, Italy
| | - Emanuela Fioriti
- Liver Brain Unit "Rita Moretti", Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, 34149 Basovizza, Italy
| | - Devis Pascut
- Liver Cancer Unit, Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, 34149 Basovizza, Italy
| | - Mauro Giuffrè
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Cristina Bottin
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Zanconati
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Claudio Tiribelli
- Liver Brain Unit "Rita Moretti", Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, 34149 Basovizza, Italy
| | - Silvia Gazzin
- Liver Brain Unit "Rita Moretti", Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, 34149 Basovizza, Italy
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Jayanti S, Moretti R, Tiribelli C, Gazzin S. Bilirubin Prevents the TH + Dopaminergic Neuron Loss in a Parkinson's Disease Model by Acting on TNF-α. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214276. [PMID: 36430754 PMCID: PMC9693357 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD), the fastest-growing movement disorder, is still challenged by the unavailability of disease-modifying therapy. Mildly elevated levels of unconjugated bilirubin (UCB, PubChem CID 5280352) have been shown to be protective against several extra-CNS diseases, and the effect is attributed to its well-known anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory capability. We explored the neuroprotective effect of low concentrations of UCB (from 0.5 to 4 µM) in our PD model based on organotypic brain cultures of substantia nigra (OBCs-SN) challenged with a low dose of rotenone (Rot). UCB at 0.5 and 1 µM fully protects against the loss of TH+ (dopaminergic) neurons (DOPAn). The alteration in oxidative stress is involved in TH+ positive neuron demise induced by Rot, but is not the key player in UCB-conferred protection. On the contrary, inflammation, specifically tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), was found to be the key to UCB protection against DOPAn sufferance. Further work will be needed to introduce the use of UCB into clinical settings, but determining that TNF-α plays a key role in PD may be crucial in designing therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sri Jayanti
- The Liver-Brain Unit “Rita-Moretti”, Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Hasanuddin, Makassar 90245, Indonesia
- Molecular Biomedicine Ph.D. Program, Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Rita Moretti
- Neurology Clinic, Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34139 Trieste, Italy
| | - Claudio Tiribelli
- The Liver-Brain Unit “Rita-Moretti”, Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-040-375-7840
| | - Silvia Gazzin
- The Liver-Brain Unit “Rita-Moretti”, Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy
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Models of bilirubin neurological damage: lessons learned and new challenges. Pediatr Res 2022:10.1038/s41390-022-02351-x. [PMID: 36302856 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-022-02351-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Jaundice (icterus) is the visible manifestation of the accumulation of bilirubin in the tissue and is indicative of potential toxicity to the brain. Since its very first description more than 2000 years ago, many efforts have been undertaken to understand the molecular determinants of bilirubin toxicity to neuronal cells to reduce the risk of neurological sequelae through the use of available chemicals and in vitro, ex vivo, in vivo, and clinical models. Although several studies have been performed, important questions remain unanswered, such as the reasons for regional sensitivity and the interplay with brain development. The number of new molecular effects identified has increased further, which has added even more complexity to the understanding of the condition. As new research challenges emerged, so does the need to establish solid models of prematurity. METHODS This review critically summarizes the key mechanisms of severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia and the use of the available models and technologies for translational research. IMPACT We critically review the conceptual dogmas and models used for studying bilirubin-induced neurotoxicity. We point out the pitfalls and translational gaps, and suggest new clinical research challenges. We hope to inform researchers on the pro and cons of the models used, and to help direct their experimental focus in a most translational research.
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Pranty AI, Shumka S, Adjaye J. Bilirubin-Induced Neurological Damage: Current and Emerging iPSC-Derived Brain Organoid Models. Cells 2022; 11:cells11172647. [PMID: 36078055 PMCID: PMC9454749 DOI: 10.3390/cells11172647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Bilirubin-induced neurological damage (BIND) has been a subject of studies for decades, yet the molecular mechanisms at the core of this damage remain largely unknown. Throughout the years, many in vivo chronic bilirubin encephalopathy models, such as the Gunn rat and transgenic mice, have further elucidated the molecular basis of bilirubin neurotoxicity as well as the correlations between high levels of unconjugated bilirubin (UCB) and brain damage. Regardless of being invaluable, these models cannot accurately recapitulate the human brain and liver system; therefore, establishing a physiologically recapitulating in vitro model has become a prerequisite to unveil the breadth of complexities that accompany the detrimental effects of UCB on the liver and developing human brain. Stem-cell-derived 3D brain organoid models offer a promising platform as they bear more resemblance to the human brain system compared to existing models. This review provides an explicit picture of the current state of the art, advancements, and challenges faced by the various models as well as the possibilities of using stem-cell-derived 3D organoids as an efficient tool to be included in research, drug screening, and therapeutic strategies for future clinical applications.
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Blondel S, Strazielle N, Amara A, Guy R, Bain C, Rose A, Guibaud L, Tiribelli C, Gazzin S, Ghersi-Egea JF. Vascular network expansion, integrity of blood-brain interfaces, and cerebrospinal fluid cytokine concentration during postnatal development in the normal and jaundiced rat. Fluids Barriers CNS 2022; 19:47. [PMID: 35672829 PMCID: PMC9172137 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-022-00332-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe neonatal jaundice resulting from elevated levels of unconjugated bilirubin in the blood induces dramatic neurological impairment. Central oxidative stress and an inflammatory response have been associated with the pathophysiological mechanism. Cells forming the blood-brain barrier and the choroidal blood-CSF barrier are the first CNS cells exposed to increased plasma levels of unconjugated bilirubin. These barriers are key regulators of brain homeostasis and require active oxidative metabolism to fulfill their protective functions. The choroid plexus-CSF system is involved in neuroinflammatory processes. In this paper, we address the impact of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia on some aspects of brain barriers. We describe physiological changes in the neurovascular network, blood-brain/CSF barriers integrities, and CSF cytokine levels during the postnatal period in normobilirubinemic animals, and analyze these parameters in parallel in Gunn rats that are deficient in bilirubin catabolism and develop postnatal hyperbilirubinemia. METHODS Gunn rats bearing a mutation in UGT1a genes were used. The neurovascular network was analyzed by immunofluorescence stereomicroscopy. The integrity of the barriers was evaluated by [14C]-sucrose permeability measurement. CSF cytokine levels were measured by multiplex immunoassay. The choroid plexus-CSF system response to an inflammatory challenge was assessed by enumerating CSF leukocytes. RESULTS In normobilirubinemic animals, the neurovascular network expands postnatally and displays stage-specific regional variations in its complexity. Network expansion is not affected by hyperbilirubinemia. Permeability of the blood-brain and blood-CSF barriers to sucrose decreases between one- and 9-day-old animals, and does not differ between normobilirubinemic and hyperbilirubinemic rats. Cytokine profiles differ between CSF and plasma in all 1-, 9-, and 18-day-old animals. The CSF cytokine profile in 1-day-old animals is markedly different from that established in older animals. Hyperbilirubinemia perturbs these cytokine profiles only to a very limited extent, and reduces CSF immune cell infiltration triggered by systemic exposure to a bacterial lipopeptide. CONCLUSION The data highlight developmental specificities of the blood-brain barrier organization and of CSF cytokine content. They also indicate that a direct effect of bilirubin on the vascular system organization, brain barriers morphological integrity, and inflammatory response of the choroid plexus-CSF system is not involved in the alteration of brain functions induced by severe neonatal jaundice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nathalie Strazielle
- Brain-i, Lyon, France
- Fluid Team Lyon Neurosciences Research Center, INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon University, Bron, France
| | - Amel Amara
- Fluid Team Lyon Neurosciences Research Center, INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon University, Bron, France
| | - Rainui Guy
- BIP Facility, Lyon Neurosciences Research Center, Bron, France
| | | | | | - Laurent Guibaud
- Fluid Team Lyon Neurosciences Research Center, INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon University, Bron, France
| | - Claudio Tiribelli
- Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, AREA Science Park, Basovizza, Trieste, Italy
| | - Silvia Gazzin
- Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, AREA Science Park, Basovizza, Trieste, Italy
| | - Jean-François Ghersi-Egea
- BIP Facility, Lyon Neurosciences Research Center, Bron, France.
- Fluid Team Lyon Neurosciences Research Center, INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon University, Bron, France.
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Bianco A, Tiribelli C, Bellarosa C. Translational Approach to the Protective Effect of Bilirubin in Diabetic Kidney Disease. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10030696. [PMID: 35327498 PMCID: PMC8945513 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10030696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Bilirubin has been regarded as a powerful endogenous antioxidant and anti-inflammatory molecule, able to act on cellular pathways as a hormone. Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a common chronic complication of diabetes, and it is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease. Here, we will review the clinical and molecular features of mild hyperbilirubinemia in DKD. The pathogenesis of DKD involves oxidative stress, inflammation, fibrosis, and apoptosis. Serum bilirubin levels are positively correlated with the levels of the antioxidative enzymes as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, while it is inversely correlated with C-reactive protein, TNF-α, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6, and IL-10 release in diabetic kidney disease. Bilirubin downregulates NADPH oxidase, reduces the induction of pro-fibrotic factor HIF-1α expression, cleaved caspase-3, and cleaved PARP induction showing lower DNA fragmentation. Recent experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated its effects in the development and progression of renal diseases, pointing out that only very mild elevations of bilirubin concentrations result in real clinical benefits. Future controlled studies are needed to explore the precise role of bilirubin in the pathogenesis of DKD and to understand if the use of serum bilirubin levels as a marker of progression or therapeutic target in DKD is feasible and realistic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Bianco
- Italian Liver Foundation (FIF), 34149 Trieste, Italy; (A.B.); (C.T.)
- National Research Council, Institute of Biomedical Technologies, Bari Unit, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Claudio Tiribelli
- Italian Liver Foundation (FIF), 34149 Trieste, Italy; (A.B.); (C.T.)
| | - Cristina Bellarosa
- Italian Liver Foundation (FIF), 34149 Trieste, Italy; (A.B.); (C.T.)
- Correspondence:
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Liu D, Yu Q, Li Z, Zhang L, Hu M, Wang C, Liu Z. UGT1A1 dysfunction increases liver burden and aggravates hepatocyte damage caused by long-term bilirubin metabolism disorder. Biochem Pharmacol 2021; 190:114592. [PMID: 33961837 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
UGT1A1 is the only enzyme that can metabolize bilirubin, and its encoding gene is frequently mutated. UGT1A1*6 (G71R) is a common mutant in Asia which leads to the decrease of UGT1A1 activity and abnormal bilirubin metabolism. However, it is not clear whether low UGT1A1 activity-induced bilirubin metabolism disorder increases hepatocyte fragility. ugt1a+/- mice were used to simulate the UGT1A1*6 (G71R) population. Under the same CCl4 induction condition, ugt1a+/- mice showed severer liver damage and fibrosis, indicating that ugt1a1 dysfunction increased liver burden and aggravated hepatocyte damage. In the animal experiment with a continuous intraperitoneal injection of bilirubin, the ugt1a+/- mice livers had more serious unconjugated bilirubin accumulation. The accumulated bilirubin leads to hyperphosphorylation of IκB-α, Ikk-β, and p65 and a significant increase of inflammatory factor. The α-SMA and Collagen I proteins markedly up-regulated in the ugt1a+/- mice livers. Immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy showed that hepatic stellate cells and Kupffer cells were activated in ugt1a+/- mice. Comprehensive results show that there was a crosstalk relationship between low UGT1A1 activity-bilirubin-liver damage. Furthermore, cell experiments confirmed that unconjugated bilirubin activated the NF-κB pathway and induced DNA damage in hepatocytes, leading to the significant increase of inflammatory factors. UGT1A1 knockdown in hepatocytes aggravated the toxicity of unconjugated bilirubin. Conversely, overexpression of UGT1A1 had a protective effect on hepatocytes. Finally, Schisandrin B, an active ingredient with hepatoprotective effects, extracted from a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, which could protect the liver from bilirubin metabolism disorders caused by ugt1a1 deficiency by downregulating p65 phosphorylation, inhibiting Kupffer cells, reducing inflammation levels. Our data clarified the mechanism of liver vulnerability caused by cross-talk between low UGT1A1 activity bilirubin, and provided a reference for individualized prevention of liver fragility in Gilbert's syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China; Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210028, China
| | - Qi Yu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Zibo Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Ming Hu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China; Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Caiyan Wang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China.
| | - Zhongqiu Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China.
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Bianco A, Pinci S, Tiribelli C, Bellarosa C. Life-Long Hyperbilirubinemia Exposure and Bilirubin Priming Prevent In Vitro Metabolic Damage. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:646953. [PMID: 33776779 PMCID: PMC7994257 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.646953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Unconjugated bilirubin (UCB) is more than the final product of heme catabolism. Mildly elevated systemic bilirubin concentrations, such as in Gilbert syndrome (GS), protect against various oxidative stress-mediated and metabolic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, cancer, and age-related disease. The Gunn rat is an animal model of hereditary hyperbilirubinemia widely used in assessing the effect of high serum bilirubin concentration in various organs. The present work aims to understand if life-long hyperbilirubinemia and bilirubin-priming might contribute to protection against atherosclerosis and diabetic nephropathy (DN) at the cellular level. Methods: Primary aortic endothelial cells and podocytes obtained from hyperbilirubinemic homozygous jj and normobilirubinemic heterozygous Nj Gunn rats were exposed to Palmitic Acid (PA) and Angiotensin II (Ang II), respectively, and the effects on cell viability and the activation of damage-related metabolic pathways evaluated. Results were validated on immortalized H5V and HK2 cells exposed to damage after UCB pretreatment. Results: In both primary cell models, cells obtained from jj Gunn rats showed as significantly higher than Nj Gunn rats at any dose of the toxic agent. Reduction in CHOP expression and IL-6 release was observed in jj primary aortic endothelial cells exposed to PA compared to Nj cells. The same occurred on H5V pretreated with Unconjugated bilirubin. Upon Ang II treatment, primary podocytes from jj Gunn rats showed lower DNA fragmentation, cleaved caspase-3, and cleaved PARP induction than primary podocytes from Nj Gunn rats. In HK2 cells, the induction by Ang II of HIF-1α and LOXl2 was significantly reduced by UCB pretreatment. Conclusion: Our data suggest that in models of atherosclerosis and DN life–long hyperbilirubinemia exposure or bilirubin-priming significantly contribute to decrease the injury by enhancing thecellular defensive response,
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Bianco
- Italian Liver Foundation (FIF), Trieste, Italy.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Serena Pinci
- Italian Liver Foundation (FIF), Trieste, Italy.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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Gazzin S, Dal Ben M, Montrone M, Jayanti S, Lorenzon A, Bramante A, Bottin C, Moretti R, Tiribelli C. Curcumin Prevents Cerebellar Hypoplasia and Restores the Behavior in Hyperbilirubinemic Gunn Rat by a Pleiotropic Effect on the Molecular Effectors of Brain Damage. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010299. [PMID: 33396688 PMCID: PMC7795686 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Bilirubin toxicity to the central nervous system (CNS) is responsible for severe and permanent neurologic damage, resulting in hearing loss, cognitive, and movement impairment. Timely and effective management of severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia by phototherapy or exchange transfusion is crucial for avoiding permanent neurological consequences, but these therapies are not always possible, particularly in low-income countries. To explore alternative options, we investigated a pharmaceutical approach focused on protecting the CNS from pigment toxicity, independently from serum bilirubin level. To this goal, we tested the ability of curcumin, a nutraceutical already used with relevant results in animal models as well as in clinics in other diseases, in the Gunn rat, the spontaneous model of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. Curcumin treatment fully abolished the landmark cerebellar hypoplasia of Gunn rat, restoring the histological features, and reverting the behavioral abnormalities present in the hyperbilirubinemic rat. The protection was mediated by a multi-target action on the main bilirubin-induced pathological mechanism ongoing CNS damage (inflammation, redox imbalance, and glutamate neurotoxicity). If confirmed by independent studies, the result suggests the potential of curcumin as an alternative/complementary approach to bilirubin-induced brain damage in the clinical scenario.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Gazzin
- Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (M.D.B.); (M.M.); (S.J.); (C.T.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Matteo Dal Ben
- Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (M.D.B.); (M.M.); (S.J.); (C.T.)
| | - Michele Montrone
- Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (M.D.B.); (M.M.); (S.J.); (C.T.)
| | - Sri Jayanti
- Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (M.D.B.); (M.M.); (S.J.); (C.T.)
| | - Andrea Lorenzon
- SPF Animal Facility, CBM Scarl, Bldg. Q2, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (A.L.); (A.B.)
| | - Alessandra Bramante
- SPF Animal Facility, CBM Scarl, Bldg. Q2, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (A.L.); (A.B.)
| | - Cristina Bottin
- Department of Medical Sciences, Ospedale di Cattinara, University of Trieste, Strada di Fiume 447, 34149 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Rita Moretti
- Neurology Clinic, Department of Medical, Surgical, and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Strada di Fiume 447, 34149 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Claudio Tiribelli
- Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (M.D.B.); (M.M.); (S.J.); (C.T.)
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Jayanti S, Vítek L, Tiribelli C, Gazzin S. The Role of Bilirubin and the Other "Yellow Players" in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:E900. [PMID: 32971784 PMCID: PMC7555389 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9090900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Bilirubin is a yellow endogenous derivate of the heme catabolism. Since the 1980s, it has been recognized as one of the most potent antioxidants in nature, able to counteract 10,000× higher intracellular concentrations of H2O2. In the recent years, not only bilirubin, but also its precursor biliverdin, and the enzymes involved in their productions (namely heme oxygenase and biliverdin reductase; altogether the "yellow players"-YPs) have been recognized playing a protective role in diseases characterized by a chronic prooxidant status. Based on that, there is an ongoing effort in inducing their activity as a therapeutic option. Nevertheless, the understanding of their specific contributions to pathological conditions of the central nervous system (CNS) and their role in these diseases are limited. In this review, we will focus on the most recent evidence linking the role of the YPs specifically to neurodegenerative and neurological conditions. Both the protective, as well as potentially worsening effects of the YP's activity will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sri Jayanti
- Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (S.J.); (C.T.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Hasanuddin, Makassar 90245, Indonesia
- Molecular Biomedicine Ph.D. Program, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Libor Vítek
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, and 4th Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty General Hospital and 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 12000 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Claudio Tiribelli
- Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (S.J.); (C.T.)
| | - Silvia Gazzin
- Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (S.J.); (C.T.)
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Experimental models assessing bilirubin neurotoxicity. Pediatr Res 2020; 87:17-25. [PMID: 31493769 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-019-0570-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The molecular and cellular events leading to bilirubin-induced neurotoxicity, the mechanisms regulating liver and intestine expression in neonates, and alternative pathways of bilirubin catabolism remain incompletely defined. To answer these questions, researchers have developed a number of model systems to closely recapitulate the main characteristics of the disease, ranging from tissue cultures to engineered mouse models. In the present review we describe in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models developed to study bilirubin metabolism and neurotoxicity, with a special focus on the use of engineered animal models. In addition, we discussed the most recent studies related to potential therapeutic approaches to treat neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, ranging from anti-inflammatory drugs, activation of nuclear receptor pathways, blockade of bilirubin catabolism, and stimulation of alternative bilirubin-disposal pathways.
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