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Lawitz EJ, Ertle J, Schoelch C, Gashaw I, McRae MP, Helmke SM, Everson GT. Hepatic improvement within 27 days of avenciguat treatment in Child-Pugh A cirrhosis detected by an oral cholate challenge test. Liver Transpl 2024; 30:982-990. [PMID: 38869987 DOI: 10.1097/lvt.0000000000000420] [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: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
New methods for measuring hepatic improvement in clinical trials and the clinic are needed. One new method, HepQuant SHUNT, detected dose-dependent improvements in hepatic function and portal physiology in the phase 1b study (NCT03842761) of avenciguat, an activator of soluble guanylyl cyclase that is being developed for the treatment of portal hypertension. Herein, we examined whether HepQuant Duo, an easy-to-administer test version, could similarly detect the effects of avenciguat. Twenty-three patients with Child-Pugh A cirrhosis and liver stiffness >15 kPa received either a placebo (n = 5) or a maximum twice-daily avenciguat dose of 1, 2, or 3 mg (n = 6 per group) for 28 days. The DuO test was performed at baseline and on days 11 and 27 in each subject. The test involved administering 40 mg of d4-cholate orally, measuring d4-cholate concentrations in serum at 20 and 60 minutes, and calculating portal hepatic filtration rate, disease severity index, portal-systemic shunting (SHUNT%), and hepatic reserve (HR%). Avenciguat demonstrated dose-dependent improvement in all test parameters. Changes from baseline in SHUNT% after 27 days' treatment were 0.1 ± 9.0% for placebo, 1.7 ± 5.5% for 1 mg twice-daily, -3.2 ± 2.7% for 2 mg twice-daily, and -6.1 ± 5.0% for 3 mg twice-daily (paired t test for change from baseline p = 0.98, 0.48, 0.04, and 0.03, respectively). The changes detected by HepQuant DuO were similar to those previously observed and reported for HepQuant SHUNT. The results support further study of avenciguat in treating portal hypertension and spotlight the utility of HepQuant DuO in the development of drug therapy for liver disease. HepQuant DuO facilitates the use of function testing to measure hepatic improvement in clinical trials and the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric J Lawitz
- Texas Liver Institute, University Transplant Center, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Judith Ertle
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Ingelheim, Germany
| | | | - Isabella Gashaw
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Ingelheim, Germany
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2
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Kumar P, Schroder EA, Rajaram MVS, Harris EN, Ganesan LP. The Battle of LPS Clearance in Host Defense vs. Inflammatory Signaling. Cells 2024; 13:1590. [PMID: 39329771 PMCID: PMC11430141 DOI: 10.3390/cells13181590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2024] [Revised: 09/17/2024] [Accepted: 09/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in blood circulation causes endotoxemia and is linked to various disease conditions. Current treatments focus on preventing LPS from interacting with its receptor Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and reducing inflammation. However, our body has a natural defense mechanism: reticuloendothelial cells in the liver rapidly degrade and inactivate much of the circulating LPS within minutes. But this LPS clearance mechanism is not perfect. Excessive LPS that escape this clearance mechanism cause systemic inflammatory damage through TLR4. Despite its importance, the role of reticuloendothelial cells in LPS elimination is not well-studied, especially regarding the specific cells, receptors, and mechanisms involved. This gap hampers the development of effective therapies for endotoxemia and related diseases. This review consolidates the current understanding of LPS clearance, narrates known and explores potential mechanisms, and discusses the relationship between LPS clearance and LPS signaling. It also aims to highlight key insights that can guide the development of strategies to reduce circulating LPS by way of bolstering host defense mechanisms. Ultimately, we seek to provide a foundation for future research that could lead to innovative approaches for enhancing the body's natural ability to clear LPS and thereby lower the risk of endotoxin-related inflammatory diseases, including sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Kumar
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA;
| | - Evan A. Schroder
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA; (E.A.S.); (E.N.H.)
| | - Murugesan V. S. Rajaram
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA;
| | - Edward N. Harris
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA; (E.A.S.); (E.N.H.)
| | - Latha P. Ganesan
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA;
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Nian F, Chen Y, Xia Q, Zhu C, Wu L, Lu X. Gut microbiota metabolite trimethylamine N-oxide promoted NAFLD progression by exacerbating intestinal barrier disruption and intrahepatic cellular imbalance. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 142:113173. [PMID: 39298816 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.113173] [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: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 09/07/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most common chronic liver disease worldwide, with the gut microbiota and its metabolites are important regulators of its progression. Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), a metabolite of the gut microbiota, has been closely associated with various metabolic diseases, but its relationship with NAFLD remains to be elucidated. In this study, we found that fecal TMAO levels correlated with NAFLD severity. Moreover, TMAO promoted lipid deposition in HepG2 fatty liver cells and exacerbated hepatic steatosis in NAFLD rats. In the colon, TMAO undermined the structure and function of the intestinal barrier at various levels, further activated the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway, and inhibited the WNT/β-catenin pathway. In the liver, TMAO induced endothelial dysfunction with capillarization of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, while modulating macrophage polarization. In conclusion, our study suggests that gut microbiota metabolite TMAO promotes NAFLD progression by impairing the gut and liver and that targeting TMAO could be an alternative therapeutic strategy for NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fulin Nian
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Yueying Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiaoyun Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Longyun Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaolan Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China.
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4
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Gao J, Lan T, Kostallari E, Guo Y, Lai E, Guillot A, Ding B, Tacke F, Tang C, Shah VH. Angiocrine signaling in sinusoidal homeostasis and liver diseases. J Hepatol 2024; 81:543-561. [PMID: 38763358 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
The hepatic sinusoids are composed of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), which are surrounded by hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and contain liver-resident macrophages called Kupffer cells, and other patrolling immune cells. All these cells communicate with each other and with hepatocytes to maintain sinusoidal homeostasis and a spectrum of hepatic functions under healthy conditions. Sinusoidal homeostasis is disrupted by metabolites, toxins, viruses, and other pathological factors, leading to liver injury, chronic liver diseases, and cirrhosis. Alterations in hepatic sinusoids are linked to fibrosis progression and portal hypertension. LSECs are crucial regulators of cellular crosstalk within their microenvironment via angiocrine signaling. This review discusses the mechanisms by which angiocrine signaling orchestrates sinusoidal homeostasis, as well as the development of liver diseases. Here, we summarise the crosstalk between LSECs, HSCs, hepatocytes, cholangiocytes, and immune cells in health and disease and comment on potential novel therapeutic methods for treating liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhang Gao
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tian Lan
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany
| | - Enis Kostallari
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Yangkun Guo
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Enjiang Lai
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Adrien Guillot
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bisen Ding
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Chengwei Tang
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Vijay H Shah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
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Yin Y, Feng W, Chen J, Chen X, Wang G, Wang S, Xu X, Nie Y, Fan D, Wu K, Xia L. Immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in the progression, metastasis, and therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma: from bench to bedside. Exp Hematol Oncol 2024; 13:72. [PMID: 39085965 PMCID: PMC11292955 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-024-00539-x] [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: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly heterogeneous malignancy with high incidence, recurrence, and metastasis rates. The emergence of immunotherapy has improved the treatment of advanced HCC, but problems such as drug resistance and immune-related adverse events still exist in clinical practice. The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) of HCC restricts the efficacy of immunotherapy and is essential for HCC progression and metastasis. Therefore, it is necessary to elucidate the mechanisms behind immunosuppressive TME to develop and apply immunotherapy. This review systematically summarizes the pathogenesis of HCC, the formation of the highly heterogeneous TME, and the mechanisms by which the immunosuppressive TME accelerates HCC progression and metastasis. We also review the status of HCC immunotherapy and further discuss the existing challenges and potential therapeutic strategies targeting immunosuppressive TME. We hope to inspire optimizing and innovating immunotherapeutic strategies by comprehensively understanding the structure and function of immunosuppressive TME in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Weibo Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xilang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Guodong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Yongzhan Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Daiming Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Kaichun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Limin Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China.
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6
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Duan Y, Yang Y, Zhao S, Bai Y, Yao W, Gao X, Yin J. Crosstalk in extrahepatic and hepatic system in NAFLD/NASH. Liver Int 2024; 44:1856-1871. [PMID: 38717072 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has emerged as the most prevalent chronic liver disease globally. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) represents an extremely progressive form of NAFLD, which, without timely intervention, may progress to cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma. Presently, a definitive comprehension of the pathogenesis of NAFLD/NASH eludes us, and pharmacological interventions targeting NASH specifically remain constrained. The aetiology of NAFLD encompasses a myriad of external factors including environmental influences, dietary habits and gender disparities. More significantly, inter-organ and cellular interactions within the human body play a role in the development or regression of the disease. In this review, we categorize the influences affecting NAFLD both intra- and extrahepatically, elaborating meticulously on the mechanisms governing the onset and progression of NAFLD/NASH. This exploration delves into progress in aetiology and promising therapeutic targets. As a metabolic disorder, the development of NAFLD involves complexities related to nutrient metabolism, liver-gut axis interactions and insulin resistance, among other regulatory functions of extraneous organs. It further encompasses intra-hepatic interactions among hepatic cells, Kupffer cells (KCs) and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). A comprehensive understanding of the pathogenesis of NAFLD/NASH from a macroscopic standpoint is instrumental in the formulation of future therapies for NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiliang Duan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Yang
- The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shuqiang Zhao
- Jiangsu Institute for Food and Drug Control, NMPA Key Laboratory for Impurity Profile of Chemical Drugs, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuesong Bai
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenbing Yao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiangdong Gao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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Unagolla JM, Das S, Flanagan R, Oehler M, Menon JU. Targeting chronic liver diseases: Molecular markers, drug delivery strategies and future perspectives. Int J Pharm 2024; 660:124381. [PMID: 38917958 PMCID: PMC11246230 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124381] [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: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Chronic liver inflammation, a pervasive global health issue, results in millions of annual deaths due to its progression from fibrosis to the more severe forms of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This insidious condition stems from diverse factors such as obesity, genetic conditions, alcohol abuse, viral infections, autoimmune diseases, and toxic accumulation, manifesting as chronic liver diseases (CLDs) such as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), alcoholic liver disease (ALD), viral hepatitis, drug-induced liver injury, and autoimmune hepatitis. Late detection of CLDs necessitates effective treatments to inhibit and potentially reverse disease progression. However, current therapies exhibit limitations in consistency and safety. A potential breakthrough lies in nanoparticle-based drug delivery strategies, offering targeted delivery to specific liver cell types, such as hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, and hepatic stellate cells. This review explores molecular targets for CLD treatment, ongoing clinical trials, recent advances in nanoparticle-based drug delivery, and the future outlook of this research field. Early intervention is crucial for chronic liver disease. Having a comprehensive understanding of current treatments, molecular biomarkers and novel nanoparticle-based drug delivery strategies can have enormous impact in guiding future strategies for the prevention and treatment of CLDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janitha M Unagolla
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Subarna Das
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Riley Flanagan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Marin Oehler
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Jyothi U Menon
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA; Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA.
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Akkız H, Gieseler RK, Canbay A. Liver Fibrosis: From Basic Science towards Clinical Progress, Focusing on the Central Role of Hepatic Stellate Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7873. [PMID: 39063116 PMCID: PMC11277292 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147873] [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: 05/23/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The burden of chronic liver disease is globally increasing at an alarming rate. Chronic liver injury leads to liver inflammation and fibrosis (LF) as critical determinants of long-term outcomes such as cirrhosis, liver cancer, and mortality. LF is a wound-healing process characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins due to the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). In the healthy liver, quiescent HSCs metabolize and store retinoids. Upon fibrogenic activation, quiescent HSCs transdifferentiate into myofibroblasts; lose their vitamin A; upregulate α-smooth muscle actin; and produce proinflammatory soluble mediators, collagens, and inhibitors of ECM degradation. Activated HSCs are the main effector cells during hepatic fibrogenesis. In addition, the accumulation and activation of profibrogenic macrophages in response to hepatocyte death play a critical role in the initiation of HSC activation and survival. The main source of myofibroblasts is resident HSCs. Activated HSCs migrate to the site of active fibrogenesis to initiate the formation of a fibrous scar. Single-cell technologies revealed that quiescent HSCs are highly homogenous, while activated HSCs/myofibroblasts are much more heterogeneous. The complex process of inflammation results from the response of various hepatic cells to hepatocellular death and inflammatory signals related to intrahepatic injury pathways or extrahepatic mediators. Inflammatory processes modulate fibrogenesis by activating HSCs and, in turn, drive immune mechanisms via cytokines and chemokines. Increasing evidence also suggests that cellular stress responses contribute to fibrogenesis. Recent data demonstrated that LF can revert even at advanced stages of cirrhosis if the underlying cause is eliminated, which inhibits the inflammatory and profibrogenic cells. However, despite numerous clinical studies on plausible drug candidates, an approved antifibrotic therapy still remains elusive. This state-of-the-art review presents cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in hepatic fibrogenesis and its resolution, as well as comprehensively discusses the drivers linking liver injury to chronic liver inflammation and LF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hikmet Akkız
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Bahçeşehir, Beşiktaş, Istanbul 34353, Turkey
| | - Robert K. Gieseler
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus, Ruhr University Bochum, In der Schornau 23–25, 44892 Bochum, Germany; (R.K.G.); (A.C.)
| | - Ali Canbay
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus, Ruhr University Bochum, In der Schornau 23–25, 44892 Bochum, Germany; (R.K.G.); (A.C.)
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Mishra F, Yuan Y, Yang JJ, Li B, Chan P, Liu Z. Depletion of Activated Hepatic Stellate Cells and Capillarized Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells Using a Rationally Designed Protein for Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis and Alcoholic Hepatitis Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7447. [PMID: 39000553 PMCID: PMC11242029 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and alcoholic hepatitis (AH) affect a large part of the general population worldwide. Dysregulation of lipid metabolism and alcohol toxicity drive disease progression by the activation of hepatic stellate cells and the capillarization of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells. Collagen deposition, along with sinusoidal remodeling, alters sinusoid structure, resulting in hepatic inflammation, portal hypertension, liver failure, and other complications. Efforts were made to develop treatments for NASH and AH. However, the success of such treatments is limited and unpredictable. We report a strategy for NASH and AH treatment involving the induction of integrin αvβ3-mediated cell apoptosis using a rationally designed protein (ProAgio). Integrin αvβ3 is highly expressed in activated hepatic stellate cells (αHSCs), the angiogenic endothelium, and capillarized liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (caLSECs). ProAgio induces the apoptosis of these disease-driving cells, therefore decreasing collagen fibril, reversing sinusoid remodeling, and reducing immune cell infiltration. The reversal of sinusoid remodeling reduces the expression of leukocyte adhesion molecules on LSECs, thus decreasing leukocyte infiltration/activation in the diseased liver. Our studies present a novel and effective approach for NASH and AH treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Falguni Mishra
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Yi Yuan
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Jenny J Yang
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Payton Chan
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Zhiren Liu
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
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10
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He S, Luo Y, Ma W, Wang X, Yan C, Hao W, Fang Y, Su H, Lai B, Liu J, Xiong Y, Bai T, Ren X, Liu E, Han H, Wu Y, Yuan Z, Wang Y. Endothelial POFUT1 controls injury-induced liver fibrosis by repressing fibrinogen synthesis. J Hepatol 2024; 81:135-148. [PMID: 38460791 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS NOTCH signaling in liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) regulates liver fibrosis, a pathological feature of chronic liver diseases. POFUT1 is an essential regulator of NOTCH signaling. Here, we investigated the role of LSEC-expressed POFUT1 in liver fibrosis. METHODS Endothelial-specific Pofut1 knockout mice were generated and experimental liver fibrosis was induced by chronic carbon tetrachloride exposure or common bile duct ligation. Liver samples were assessed by ELISA, histology, electron microscopy, immunostaining and RNA in situ hybridization. LSECs and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were isolated for gene expression analysis by RNA sequencing, qPCR, and western blotting. Signaling crosstalk between LSECs and HSCs was investigated by treating HSCs with supernatant from LSEC cultures. Liver single-cell RNA sequencing datasets from patients with cirrhosis and healthy individuals were analyzed to evaluate the clinical relevance of gene expression changes observed in mouse studies. RESULTS POFUT1 loss promoted injury-induced LSEC capillarization and HSC activation, leading to aggravated liver fibrosis. RNA sequencing analysis revealed that POFUT1 deficiency upregulated fibrinogen expression in LSECs. Consistently, fibrinogen was elevated in LSECs of patients with cirrhosis. HSCs treated with supernatant from LSECs of Pofut1 null mice showed exacerbated activation compared to those treated with supernatant from control LSECs, and this effect was attenuated by knockdown of fibrinogen or by pharmacological inhibition of fibrinogen receptor signaling, altogether suggesting that LSEC-derived fibrinogen induced the activation of HSCs. Mechanistically, POFUT1 loss augmented fibrinogen expression by enhancing NOTCH/HES1/STAT3 signaling. CONCLUSIONS Endothelial POFUT1 prevents injury-induced liver fibrosis by repressing the expression of fibrinogen, which functions as a profibrotic paracrine signal to activate HSCs. Therapies targeting the POFUT1/fibrinogen axis offer a promising strategy for the prevention and treatment of fibrotic liver diseases. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS Paracrine signals produced by liver vasculature play a major role in the development of liver fibrosis, which is a pathological hallmark of most liver diseases. Identifying those paracrine signals is clinically relevant in that they may serve as therapeutic targets. In this study, we discovered that genetic deletion of Pofut1 aggravated experimental liver fibrosis in mouse models. Moreover, fibrinogen was identified as a downstream target repressed by Pofut1 in liver endothelial cells and functioned as a novel paracrine signal that drove liver fibrosis. In addition, fibrinogen was found to be relevant to cirrhosis and may serve as a potential therapeutic target for this devastating human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan He
- The Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China; Department of Stomatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuru Luo
- The Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wangge Ma
- Cardiovascular Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaoke Wang
- Cardiovascular Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chengrong Yan
- The Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wenyang Hao
- The Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuan Fang
- The Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hongyu Su
- The Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Baochang Lai
- The Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Junhui Liu
- Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ying Xiong
- Cardiovascular Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ting Bai
- Cardiovascular Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaoyong Ren
- Department of Stomatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Enqi Liu
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hua Han
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancer and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yue Wu
- Cardiovascular Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China; Cardiometabolic Innovation Center, Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Zuyi Yuan
- Cardiovascular Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China; Cardiometabolic Innovation Center, Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Yidong Wang
- The Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China; Cardiovascular Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China; Cardiometabolic Innovation Center, Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China; Department of Cardiology, Wenling First People's Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenling, Zhejiang, China.
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11
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Chen S, Zhuang D, Jia Q, Guo B, Hu G. Advances in Noninvasive Molecular Imaging Probes for Liver Fibrosis Diagnosis. Biomater Res 2024; 28:0042. [PMID: 38952717 PMCID: PMC11214848 DOI: 10.34133/bmr.0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a wound-healing response to chronic liver injury, which may lead to cirrhosis and cancer. Early-stage fibrosis is reversible, and it is difficult to precisely diagnose with conventional imaging modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, single-photon emission computed tomography, and ultrasound imaging. In contrast, probe-assisted molecular imaging offers a promising noninvasive approach to visualize early fibrosis changes in vivo, thus facilitating early diagnosis and staging liver fibrosis, and even monitoring of the treatment response. Here, the most recent progress in molecular imaging technologies for liver fibrosis is updated. We start by illustrating pathogenesis for liver fibrosis, which includes capillarization of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, cellular and molecular processes involved in inflammation and fibrogenesis, as well as processes of collagen synthesis, oxidation, and cross-linking. Furthermore, the biological targets used in molecular imaging of liver fibrosis are summarized, which are composed of receptors on hepatic stellate cells, macrophages, and even liver collagen. Notably, the focus is on insights into the advances in imaging modalities developed for liver fibrosis diagnosis and the update in the corresponding contrast agents. In addition, challenges and opportunities for future research and clinical translation of the molecular imaging modalities and the contrast agents are pointed out. We hope that this review would serve as a guide for scientists and students who are interested in liver fibrosis imaging and treatment, and as well expedite the translation of molecular imaging technologies from bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaofang Chen
- Department of Radiology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College,
Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, Guangdong, China
| | - Danping Zhuang
- Department of Radiology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College,
Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, Guangdong, China
| | - Qingyun Jia
- Department of Radiology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College,
Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, Guangdong, China
| | - Bing Guo
- School of Science, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Flexible Printed Electronics Technology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Carbon Materials Research and Comprehensive Application,
Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Genwen Hu
- Department of Radiology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College,
Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, Guangdong, China
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12
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He Q, He W, Dong H, Guo Y, Yuan G, Shi X, Wang D, Lu F. Role of liver sinusoidal endothelial cell in metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:346. [PMID: 38943171 PMCID: PMC11214243 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01720-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are highly specialized endothelial cells that represent the interface between blood cells on one side and hepatocytes on the other side. LSECs not only form a barrier within the hepatic sinus, but also play important physiological functions such as regulating hepatic vascular pressure, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic. Pathologically, pathogenic factors can induce LSECs capillarization, that is, loss of fenestra and dysfunction, which are conducive to early steatosis, lay the foundation for the progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), and accelerate metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and liver fibrosis. The unique localization, phenotype, and function of LSECs make them potential candidates for reducing liver injury, inflammation, and preventing or reversing fibrosis in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiongyao He
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Wu He
- Division of Cardiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Hui Dong
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yujin Guo
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Gang Yuan
- Department of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xiaoli Shi
- Department of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Dingkun Wang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Fuer Lu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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13
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Shi J, Li Q, Li J, Zhou J, Zhang X, Wang S, Guo L. Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Reveals the Spatial Heterogeneity and Functional Alteration of Endothelial Cells in Chronic Hepatitis B Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7016. [PMID: 39000126 PMCID: PMC11241719 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic Hepatitis B virus (CHB) infection is a global health challenge, causing damage ranging from hepatitis to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. In our study, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis was performed in livers from mice models with chronic inflammation induced by CHB infection and we found that endothelial cells (ECs) exhibited the largest number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) among all ten cell types. NF-κB signaling was activated in ECs to induce cell dysfunction and subsequent hepatic inflammation, which might be mediated by the interaction of macrophage-derived and cholangiocyte-derived VISFATIN/Nampt signaling. Moreover, we divided ECs into three subclusters, including periportal ECs (EC_Z1), midzonal ECs (EC_Z2), and pericentral ECs (EC_Z3) according to hepatic zonation. Functional analysis suggested that pericentral ECs and midzonal ECs, instead of periportal ECs, were more vulnerable to HBV infection, as the VISFATIN/Nampt- NF-κB axis was mainly altered in these two subpopulations. Interestingly, pericentral ECs showed increasing communication with macrophages and cholangiocytes via the Nampt-Insr and Nampt-Itga5/Itgb1 axis upon CHB infection, which contribute to angiogenesis and vascular capillarization. Additionally, ECs, especially pericentral ECs, showed a close connection with nature killer (NK) cells and T cells via the Cxcl6-Cxcr6 axis, which is involved in shaping the microenvironment in CHB mice livers. Thus, our study described the heterogeneity and functional alterations of three subclusters in ECs. We revealed the potential role of VISFATIN/Nampt signaling in modulating ECs characteristics and related hepatic inflammation, and EC-derived chemokine Cxcl16 in shaping NK and T cell recruitment, providing key insights into the multifunctionality of ECs in CHB-associated pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingqi Shi
- Bioinformatics Center of AMMS, Beijing 100039, China
| | - Qingyu Li
- Bioinformatics Center of AMMS, Beijing 100039, China
| | - Jian Li
- Bioinformatics Center of AMMS, Beijing 100039, China
| | - Jianglin Zhou
- Bioinformatics Center of AMMS, Beijing 100039, China
| | | | - Shengqi Wang
- Bioinformatics Center of AMMS, Beijing 100039, China
| | - Liang Guo
- Bioinformatics Center of AMMS, Beijing 100039, China
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14
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Wu Q, Sun Q, Zhang Q, Wang N, Lv W, Han D. Extracellular Matrix Stiffness-Induced Mechanotransduction of Capillarized Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:644. [PMID: 38794214 PMCID: PMC11124019 DOI: 10.3390/ph17050644] [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: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The mechanobiological response mechanism of the fenestrae of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) to the physical stiffness of the extracellular matrix (ECM) remains unclear. We investigated how the mechanical properties of their substrates affect the LSECs' fenestrae by the nitric oxide (NO)-dependent pathway and how they relate to the progression of hepatic sinus capillarization during liver fibrosis. We detected different stiffnesses of ECM in the progress of liver fibrosis (LF) and developed polyacrylamide hydrogel (PAM) substrates to simulate them. Softer stiffness substrates contributed to LSECs maintaining fenestrae phenotype in vitro. The stiffness of liver fibrosis tissue could be reversed in vivo via treatment with anti-ECM deposition drugs. Similarly, the capillarization of LSECs could be reversed by decreasing the ECM stiffness. Our results also indicate that the NO-dependent pathway plays a key regulatory role in the capillarization of ECM-LSECs. Our study reveals ECM-induced mechanotransduction of capillarized LSECs through a NO-dependent pathway via a previously unrevealed mechanotransduction mechanism. The elucidation of this mechanism may offer precise biomechanics-specific intervention strategies targeting liver fibrosis progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingjuan Wu
- Guang Anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100010, China; (Q.W.); (N.W.)
| | - Quanmei Sun
- National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China;
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Nano-Biotechnology, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066104, China;
| | - Ning Wang
- Guang Anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100010, China; (Q.W.); (N.W.)
| | - Wenliang Lv
- Guang Anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100010, China; (Q.W.); (N.W.)
| | - Dong Han
- National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China;
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15
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Gan C, Yaqoob U, Lu J, Xie M, Anwar A, Jalan-Sakrikar N, Jerez S, Sehrawat TS, Navarro-Corcuera A, Kostallari E, Habash NW, Cao S, Shah VH. Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells contribute to portal hypertension through collagen type IV-driven sinusoidal remodeling. JCI Insight 2024; 9:e174775. [PMID: 38713515 PMCID: PMC11382879 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.174775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Portal hypertension (PHTN) is a severe complication of liver cirrhosis and is associated with intrahepatic sinusoidal remodeling induced by sinusoidal resistance and angiogenesis. Collagen type IV (COL4), a major component of basement membrane, forms in liver sinusoids upon chronic liver injury. However, the role, cellular source, and expression regulation of COL4 in liver diseases are unknown. Here, we examined how COL4 is produced and how it regulates sinusoidal remodeling in fibrosis and PHTN. Human cirrhotic liver sample RNA sequencing showed increased COL4 expression, which was further verified via immunofluorescence staining. Single-cell RNA sequencing identified liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) as the predominant source of COL4 upregulation in mouse fibrotic liver. In addition, COL4 was upregulated in a TNF-α/NF-κB-dependent manner through an epigenetic mechanism in LSECs in vitro. Indeed, by utilizing a CRISPRi-dCas9-KRAB epigenome-editing approach, epigenetic repression of the enhancer-promoter interaction showed silencing of COL4 gene expression. LSEC-specific COL4 gene mutation or repression in vivo abrogated sinusoidal resistance and angiogenesis, which thereby alleviated sinusoidal remodeling and PHTN. Our findings reveal that LSECs promote sinusoidal remodeling and PHTN during liver fibrosis through COL4 deposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Can Gan
- Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Usman Yaqoob
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jianwen Lu
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Man Xie
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
- Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Abid Anwar
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Nidhi Jalan-Sakrikar
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Sofia Jerez
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Tejasav S Sehrawat
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Enis Kostallari
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Nawras W Habash
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Sheng Cao
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Vijay H Shah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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16
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Yap KK, Schröder J, Gerrand YW, Dobric A, Kong AM, Fox AM, Knowles B, Banting SW, Elefanty AG, Stanley EG, Yeoh GC, Lockwood GP, Cogger VC, Morrison WA, Polo JM, Mitchell GM. Liver specification of human iPSC-derived endothelial cells transplanted into mouse liver. JHEP Rep 2024; 6:101023. [PMID: 38681862 PMCID: PMC11046210 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2024.101023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are important in liver development, regeneration, and pathophysiology, but the differentiation process underlying their tissue-specific phenotype is poorly understood and difficult to study because primary human cells are scarce. The aim of this study was to use human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived LSEC-like cells to investigate the differentiation process of LSECs. Methods hiPSC-derived endothelial cells (iECs) were transplanted into the livers of Fah-/-/Rag2-/-/Il2rg-/- mice and assessed over a 12-week period. Lineage tracing, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, plasma human factor VIII measurement, and bulk and single cell transcriptomic analysis were used to assess the molecular and functional changes that occurred following transplantation. Results Progressive and long-term repopulation of the liver vasculature occurred as iECs expanded along the sinusoids between hepatocytes and increasingly produced human factor VIII, indicating differentiation into LSEC-like cells. To chart the developmental profile associated with LSEC specification, the bulk transcriptomes of transplanted cells between 1 and 12 weeks after transplantation were compared against primary human adult LSECs. This demonstrated a chronological increase in LSEC markers, LSEC differentiation pathways, and zonation. Bulk transcriptome analysis suggested that the transcription factors NOTCH1, GATA4, and FOS have a central role in LSEC specification, interacting with a network of 27 transcription factors. Novel markers associated with this process included EMCN and CLEC14A. Additionally, single cell transcriptomic analysis demonstrated that transplanted iECs at 4 weeks contained zonal subpopulations with a region-specific phenotype. Conclusions Collectively, this study confirms that hiPSCs can adopt LSEC-like features and provides insight into LSEC specification. This humanised xenograft system can be applied to further interrogate LSEC developmental biology and pathophysiology, bypassing current logistical obstacles associated with primary human LSECs. Impact and implications Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are important cells for liver biology, but better model systems are required to study them. We present a pluripotent stem cell xenografting model that produces human LSEC-like cells. A detailed and longitudinal transcriptomic analysis of the development of LSEC-like cells is included, which will guide future studies to interrogate LSEC biology and produce LSEC-like cells that could be used for regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiryu K. Yap
- O’Brien Department of St Vincent’s Institute, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- University of Melbourne Department of Surgery, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Jan Schröder
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Doherty Institute & University of Melbourne Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Yi-Wen Gerrand
- O’Brien Department of St Vincent’s Institute, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Aleksandar Dobric
- O’Brien Department of St Vincent’s Institute, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Anne M. Kong
- O’Brien Department of St Vincent’s Institute, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Adrian M. Fox
- University of Melbourne Department of Surgery, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Unit, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Brett Knowles
- University of Melbourne Department of Surgery, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Unit, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Simon W. Banting
- University of Melbourne Department of Surgery, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Unit, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew G. Elefanty
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Eduoard G. Stanley
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - George C. Yeoh
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and Centre for Medical Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Glen P. Lockwood
- ANZAC Research Institute and University of Sydney, Concord, NSW, Australia
| | - Victoria C. Cogger
- ANZAC Research Institute and University of Sydney, Concord, NSW, Australia
| | - Wayne A. Morrison
- O’Brien Department of St Vincent’s Institute, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- University of Melbourne Department of Surgery, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Jose M. Polo
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Adelaide Centre for Epigenetics, South Australian Immunogenomics Cancer Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Geraldine M. Mitchell
- O’Brien Department of St Vincent’s Institute, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- University of Melbourne Department of Surgery, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
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17
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Ning Y, Dou X, Wang Z, Shi K, Wang Z, Ding C, Sang X, Zhong X, Shao M, Han X, Cao G. SIRT3: A potential therapeutic target for liver fibrosis. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 257:108639. [PMID: 38561088 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Sirtuin3 (SIRT3) is a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+)-dependent protein deacetylase located in the mitochondria, which mainly regulates the acetylation of mitochondrial proteins. In addition, SIRT3 is involved in critical biological processes, including oxidative stress, inflammation, DNA damage, and apoptosis, all of which are closely related to the progression of liver disease. Liver fibrosis characterized by the deposition of extracellular matrix is a result of long termed or repeated liver damage, frequently accompanied by damaged hepatocytes, the recruitment of inflammatory cells, and the activation of hepatic stellate cells. Based on the functions and pharmacology of SIRT3, we will review its roles in liver fibrosis from three aspects: First, the main functions and pharmacological effects of SIRT3 were investigated based on its structure. Second, the roles of SIRT3 in major cells in the liver were summarized to reveal its mechanism in developing liver fibrosis. Last, drugs that regulate SIRT3 to prevent and treat liver fibrosis were discussed. In conclusion, exploring the pharmacological effects of SIRT3, especially in the liver, may be a potential strategy for treating liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Ning
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinyue Dou
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhichao Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kao Shi
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zeping Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chuan Ding
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xianan Sang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Zhong
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Meiyu Shao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xin Han
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Gang Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China; The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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18
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Zhang LF, Deng WQ, Huang QW, Zhang JJ, Wang Y, Zhou TJ, Xing L, Jiang HL. Vicious Cycle-Breaking Lipid Nanoparticles Remodeling Multicellular Crosstalk to Reverse Liver Fibrosis. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2311474. [PMID: 38194906 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202311474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
During liver fibrogenesis, the reciprocal crosstalk among capillarized liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), and dysfunctional hepatocytes constructs a self-amplifying vicious cycle, greatly exacerbating the disease condition and weakening therapeutic effect. Limited by the malignant cellular interactions, the previous single-cell centric treatment approaches show unsatisfactory efficacy and fail to meet clinical demand. Herein, a vicious cycle-breaking strategy is proposed to target and repair pathological cells separately to terminate the malignant progression of liver fibrosis. Chondroitin sulfate-modified and vismodegib-loaded nanoparticles (CS-NPs/VDG) are designed to efficiently normalize the fenestrae phenotype of LSECs and restore HSCs to quiescent state by inhibiting Hedgehog signaling pathway. In addition, glycyrrhetinic acid-modified and silybin-loaded nanoparticles (GA-NPs/SIB) are prepared to restore hepatocytes function by relieving oxidative stress. The results show successful interruption of vicious cycle as well as distinct fibrosis resolution in two animal models through multiregulation of the pathological cells. This work not only highlights the significance of modulating cellular crosstalk but also provides a promising avenue for developing antifibrotic regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Feng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Wen-Qi Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Qing-Wen Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jiao-Jiao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Tian-Jiao Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Lei Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Hu-Lin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
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19
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Qing Z, Luo Q, Duan J, Lin J, Huang H, Yang S, Zeng Z. SENP1 attenuates hypoxia‑reoxygenation injury in liver sinusoid endothelial cells by relying on the HIF‑1α signaling pathway. Mol Med Rep 2024; 29:64. [PMID: 38426545 PMCID: PMC10926105 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2024.13188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) have an important role in hepatic ischemia‑reperfusion injury (I/R), but the specific molecular mechanism of action is unknown. LSEC proliferation is regulated and fenestration is maintained via the Sentrin/SUMO‑specific protease 1 (SENP1)/hypoxia‑inducible factor‑1α (HIF‑1α) signaling axis under hypoxic conditions. In the present study, a hypoxia‑reoxygenation (H‑R) injury model was established using mouse LSECs to explore the relationship between SENP1 and H‑R injury in vitro, and the specific underlying mechanism was identified, revealing new targets for the clinical attenuation of hepatic I/R injury. Following the culture of LSECs under H‑R conditions, it was demonstrated that the expression of SENP1 was upregulated by reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting (WB). In addition, scanning electron microscopy indicated that fenestrae damage was increased, a Cell Counting Kit‑8 assay demonstrated that the proliferation of cells was impaired and flow cytometry showed that apoptosis was increased. After silencing SENP1 expression with short interfering RNA, the proliferation activity of LSECs decreased, the fenestrae damage increased, the apoptosis rate increased and the expression levels of SENP1, HIF‑1α, heme oxygenase and Bcl‑2 were downregulated (as demonstrated by WB), while the expression levels of apoptosis‑related proteins, cleaved‑caspase‑3 and Bax, were upregulated. Enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assay detection showed that the level of vascular endothelial growth factor in the supernatant decreased and the level of IL‑6 and TNF‑α increased. Following the administration of an HIF‑1α signaling pathway agonist, the situation was reversed. These results therefore suggested that SENP1 attenuated the reduction in proliferation, apoptosis and fenestration of LSECs observed following H‑R injury through the HIF‑1α signaling pathway. In conclusion, SENP1 may attenuate H‑R injury in LSECs in a HIF‑1α signaling pathway‑dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Qing
- General Surgery Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
| | - Qun Luo
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
| | - Jian Duan
- General Surgery Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
| | - Jie Lin
- Organ Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
| | - Hanfei Huang
- Organ Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
| | - Shikun Yang
- Organ Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
| | - Zhong Zeng
- Organ Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
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20
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Zhang X, Li P, Zhou J, Zhang Z, Wu H, Shu X, Li W, Wu Y, Du Y, Lü D, Lü S, Li N, Long M. FAK-p38 signaling serves as a potential target for reverting matrix stiffness-modulated liver sinusoidal endothelial cell defenestration. Biomaterials 2024; 305:122462. [PMID: 38171118 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are highly specific endothelial cells which play an essential role in the maintenance of liver homeostasis. During the progression of liver fibrosis, matrix stiffening promotes LSEC defenestration, however, the underlying mechanotransduction mechanism remains poorly understood. Here, we applied stiffness-tunable hydrogels to assess the matrix stiffening-induced phenotypic changes in primary mouse LSECs. Results indicated that increased stiffness promoted LSEC defenestration through cytoskeletal reorganization. LSECs sensed the increased matrix stiffness via focal adhesion kinase (FAK), leading to the activation of p38-mitogen activated protein kinase activated protein kinase 2 (MK2) pathway, thereby inducing actin remodeling via LIM Kinase 1 (LIMK1) and Cofilin. Interestingly, inhibition of FAK or p38-MK2 pathway was able to effectively restore the fenestrae to a certain degree in LSECs isolated from early to late stages of liver fibrosis mice. Thus, this study highlights the impact of mechanotransduction in LSEC defenestration, and provides novel insights for potential therapeutic interventions for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Zhang
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology and Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Engineering Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Peiwen Li
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology and Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Jin Zhou
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology and Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Ziliang Zhang
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology and Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China; Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, China
| | - Huan Wu
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology and Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Xinyu Shu
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology and Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Engineering Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Wang Li
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology and Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Engineering Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yi Wu
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology and Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Engineering Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yu Du
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology and Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Dongyuan Lü
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology and Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Engineering Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Shouqin Lü
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology and Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Engineering Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Ning Li
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology and Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Engineering Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Mian Long
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology and Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Engineering Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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21
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Gao J, Zuo B, He Y. Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells as potential drivers of liver fibrosis (Review). Mol Med Rep 2024; 29:40. [PMID: 38240102 PMCID: PMC10828992 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2024.13164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis due to viral or metabolic chronic liver diseases is a major challenge of global health. It is a critical pre‑stage condition of severe hepatopathy, characterized by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix components and ongoing chronic inflammation. To date, early prevention of liver fibrosis remains challenging. As the most abundant non‑parenchymal hepatic cell population, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are stabilizers that maintain the intrahepatic environment. Notably, LSECs dysfunction appears to be implicated in the progression of liver fibrosis via numerous mechanisms. Following sustained liver injury, they lose their fenestrae (cytoplasmic pores) and change their crosstalk with other cellular interactions in the hepatic blood environment. LSEC‑targeted therapy has shown promising effects on fibrosis resolution, opening up new opportunities for anti‑fibrotic therapy. In light of this, the present study summarized changes in LSECs during liver fibrosis and their interactions with hepatic milieu, as well as possible therapeutic approaches that specially target LSECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqin Gao
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
- Ministry of Education Engineering Center of Hematological Disease, Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, P.R. China
| | - Bin Zuo
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
- Ministry of Education Engineering Center of Hematological Disease, Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, P.R. China
| | - Yang He
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
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22
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Wang J, Wu Z, Xia M, Salas SS, Ospina JA, Buist-Homan M, Harmsen MC, Moshage H. Extracellular vesicles derived from liver sinusoidal endothelial cells inhibit the activation of hepatic stellate cells and Kupffer cells in vitro. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167020. [PMID: 38244390 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) play a crucial role in maintaining liver microcirculation and exchange of nutrients in the liver and are thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and Kupffer cells (KCs) has been considered to be responsible for the onset of liver fibrosis and the aggravation of liver injury. However, the paracrine regulatory effects of LSECs in the development of MASLD, in particular the role of LSEC-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of LSEC-derived EVs on HSCs and KCs. Primary rat LSECs, HSCs and KCs were isolated from male Wistar rats. LSEC-derived EVs were isolated from conditioned medium by ultracentrifugation and analyzed by nanoparticle tracking analysis, and expression of specific markers. LSEC-derived EVs reduced the expression of activation markers in activated HSCs but did not affect quiescent HSCs. Also, LSEC-derived EVs suppressed proliferation of activated HSCs activation, as assessed by Xcelligence and BrdU assay. LSEC-derived EVs also increased the expression of inflammatory genes in HSCs that normally are lowly expression during their activation. In contrast, EVs decreased the expression of inflammatory genes in activated KCs. In summary, our results suggest that LSEC-derived EVs may attenuate the fibrogenic phenotype of activated HSCs and the inflammatory phenotype of KCs. Our results show promise for LSEC-derived EVs as therapeutic moieties to treat MASLD. In addition, these EVs might prove of diagnostic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyu Wang
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Zongmei Wu
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Mengmeng Xia
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sandra Serna Salas
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Johanna Arroyave Ospina
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Manon Buist-Homan
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Groningen, the Netherlands; University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Martin C Harmsen
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Groningen, the Netherlands; University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Han Moshage
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Groningen, the Netherlands; University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Groningen, the Netherlands.
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23
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Li QF, Li YX, Yang YY, Dong PP, Mei CJ, Lu JL, Zhang JF, Hua HY, Xiong CR, Yu CX, Song LJ, Yang K. The egg ribonuclease SjCP1412 accelerates liver fibrosis caused by Schistosoma japonicum infection involving damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). Parasitology 2024; 151:260-270. [PMID: 38105713 PMCID: PMC11007278 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182023001361] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, a parasite infectious disease caused by Schistosoma japonicum, often leads to egg granuloma and fibrosis due to the inflammatory reaction triggered by egg antigens released in the host liver. This study focuses on the role of the egg antigens CP1412 protein of S. japonicum (SjCP1412) with RNase activity in promoting liver fibrosis. In this study, the recombinant egg ribonuclease SjCP1412, which had RNase activity, was successfully prepared. By analysing the serum of the population, it has been proven that the anti-SjCP1412 IgG in the serum of patients with advanced schistosomiasis was moderately correlated with liver fibrosis, and SjCP1412 may be an important antigen associated with liver fibrosis in schistosomiasis. In vitro, the rSjCP1412 protein induced the human liver cancer cell line Hep G2 and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells apoptosis and necrosis and the release of proinflammatory damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). In mice infected with schistosomes, rSjCP1412 immunization or antibody neutralization of SjCP1412 activity significantly reduced cell apoptosis and necroptosis in liver tissue, thereby reducing inflammation and liver fibrosis. In summary, the SjCP1412 protein plays a crucial role in promoting liver fibrosis during schistosomiasis through mediating the liver cells apoptosis and necroptosis to release DAMPs inducing an inflammatory reaction. Blocking SjCP1412 activity could inhibit its proapoptotic and necrotic effects and alleviate hepatic fibrosis. These findings suggest that SjCP1412 may be served as a promising drug target for managing liver fibrosis in schistosomiasis japonica.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Feng Li
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Laboratory, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214064, China
| | - Yi-Xin Li
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Laboratory, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214064, China
| | - Ying-Ying Yang
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Laboratory, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214064, China
| | - Pan-Pan Dong
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Laboratory, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214064, China
| | - Cong-Jin Mei
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Laboratory, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214064, China
| | - Ju-Lu Lu
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Laboratory, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214064, China
| | - Jian-Feng Zhang
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Laboratory, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214064, China
| | - Hai-Yong Hua
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Laboratory, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214064, China
| | - Chun-Rong Xiong
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Laboratory, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214064, China
| | - Chuan-Xin Yu
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Laboratory, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214064, China
| | - Li-Jun Song
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Laboratory, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214064, China
| | - Kun Yang
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Laboratory, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214064, China
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24
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Minciuna I, Taru MG, Procopet B, Stefanescu H. The Interplay between Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells, Platelets, and Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in the Development and Progression of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1406. [PMID: 38592258 PMCID: PMC10932189 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13051406] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) represents a societal burden due to the lack of effective treatment and incomplete pathophysiology understanding. This review explores the intricate connections among liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), platelets, neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), and coagulation disruptions in MASLD pathogenesis. In MASLD's early stages, LSECs undergo capillarization and dysfunction due to excessive dietary macronutrients and gut-derived products. Capillarization leads to ischemic changes in hepatocytes, triggering pro-inflammatory responses in Kupffer cells (KCs) and activating hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Capillarized LSECs show a pro-inflammatory phenotype through adhesion molecule overexpression, autophagy loss, and increased cytokines production. Platelet interaction favors leucocyte recruitment, NETs formation, and liver inflammatory foci. Liver fibrosis is facilitated by reduced nitric oxide, HSC activation, profibrogenic mediators, and increased angiogenesis. Moreover, platelet attachment, activation, α-granule cargo release, and NETs formation contribute to MASLD progression. Platelets foster fibrosis and microthrombosis, leading to parenchymal extinction and fibrotic healing. Additionally, platelets promote tumor growth, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and tumor cell metastasis. MASLD's prothrombotic features are exacerbated by insulin resistance, diabetes, and obesity, manifesting as increased von Willebrand factor, platelet hyperaggregability, hypo-fibrinolysis, and a prothrombotic fibrin clot structure. Improving LSEC health and using antiplatelet treatment appear promising for preventing MASLD development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iulia Minciuna
- Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology “Prof. Dr. Octavian Fodor”, 400394 Cluj-Napoca, Romania (H.S.)
- Deaprtment IV, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Madalina Gabriela Taru
- Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology “Prof. Dr. Octavian Fodor”, 400394 Cluj-Napoca, Romania (H.S.)
- Deaprtment IV, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Bogdan Procopet
- Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology “Prof. Dr. Octavian Fodor”, 400394 Cluj-Napoca, Romania (H.S.)
- Deaprtment IV, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Horia Stefanescu
- Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology “Prof. Dr. Octavian Fodor”, 400394 Cluj-Napoca, Romania (H.S.)
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25
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Dumitru A, Matei E, Cozaru GC, Chisoi A, Alexandrescu L, Popescu RC, Butcaru MP, Dumitru E, Rugină S, Tocia C. Endotoxin Inflammatory Action on Cells by Dysregulated-Immunological-Barrier-Linked ROS-Apoptosis Mechanisms in Gut-Liver Axis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2472. [PMID: 38473721 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052472] [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: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Our study highlighted the immune changes by pro-inflammatory biomarkers in the gut-liver-axis-linked ROS-cell death mechanisms in chronic and acute inflammations when gut cells are exposed to endotoxins in patients with hepatic cirrhosis or steatosis. In duodenal tissue samples, gut immune barrier dysfunction was analyzed by pro-inflammatory biomarker expressions, oxidative stress, and cell death by flow cytometry methods. A significant innate and adaptative immune system reaction was observed as result of persistent endotoxin action in gut cells in chronic inflammation tissue samples recovered from hepatic cirrhosis with the A-B child stage. Instead, in patients with C child stage of HC, the endotoxin tolerance was installed in cells, characterized by T lymphocyte silent activation and increased Th1 cytokines expression. Interesting mechanisms of ROS-cell death were observed in chronic and acute inflammation samples when gut cells were exposed to endotoxins and immune changes in the gut-liver axis. Late apoptosis represents the chronic response to injury induction by the gut immune barrier dysfunction, oxidative stress, and liver-dysregulated barrier. Meanwhile, necrosis represents an acute and severe reply to endotoxin action on gut cells when the immune system reacts to pro-inflammatory Th1 and Th2 cytokines releasing, offering protection against PAMPs/DAMPs by monocytes and T lymphocyte activation. Flow cytometric analysis of pro-inflammatory biomarkers linked to oxidative stress-cell death mechanisms shown in our study recommends laboratory techniques in diagnostic fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei Dumitru
- Gastroenterology Department, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 145 Tomis Blvd., 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Medicine Faculty, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 1 Universitatii Street, 900470 Constanta, Romania
| | - Elena Matei
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 145 Tomis Blvd., 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Georgeta Camelia Cozaru
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 145 Tomis Blvd., 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Clinical Service of Pathology, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 145 Tomis Blvd., 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Medical Sciences Academy, 1 I.C. Bratianu Street, 030167 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anca Chisoi
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 145 Tomis Blvd., 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Clinical Service of Pathology, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 145 Tomis Blvd., 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Medical Sciences Academy, 1 I.C. Bratianu Street, 030167 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Luana Alexandrescu
- Gastroenterology Department, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 145 Tomis Blvd., 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Medicine Faculty, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 1 Universitatii Street, 900470 Constanta, Romania
| | - Răzvan Cătălin Popescu
- Medicine Faculty, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 1 Universitatii Street, 900470 Constanta, Romania
| | - Mihaela Pundiche Butcaru
- Medicine Faculty, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 1 Universitatii Street, 900470 Constanta, Romania
| | - Eugen Dumitru
- Gastroenterology Department, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 145 Tomis Blvd., 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Medicine Faculty, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 1 Universitatii Street, 900470 Constanta, Romania
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 145 Tomis Blvd., 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Academy of Romanian Scientist, 3 Ilfov Street, 050044 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sorin Rugină
- Medicine Faculty, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 1 Universitatii Street, 900470 Constanta, Romania
- Academy of Romanian Scientist, 3 Ilfov Street, 050044 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristina Tocia
- Gastroenterology Department, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 145 Tomis Blvd., 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Medicine Faculty, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 1 Universitatii Street, 900470 Constanta, Romania
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26
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Fioretto BS, Rosa I, Andreucci E, Mencucci R, Marini M, Romano E, Manetti M. Pharmacological Stimulation of Soluble Guanylate Cyclase Counteracts the Profibrotic Activation of Human Conjunctival Fibroblasts. Cells 2024; 13:360. [PMID: 38391973 PMCID: PMC10887040 DOI: 10.3390/cells13040360] [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: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Conjunctival fibrosis is a serious clinical concern implicated in a wide spectrum of eye diseases, including outcomes of surgery for pterygium and glaucoma. It is mainly driven by chronic inflammation that stimulates conjunctival fibroblasts to differentiate into myofibroblasts over time, leading to abnormal wound healing and scar formation. Soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) stimulation was found to suppress transforming growth factor β (TGFβ)-induced myofibroblastic differentiation in various stromal cells such as skin and pulmonary fibroblasts, as well as corneal keratocytes. Here, we evaluated the in vitro effects of stimulation of the sGC enzyme with the cell-permeable pyrazolopyridinylpyrimidine compound BAY 41-2272 in modulating the TGFβ1-mediated profibrotic activation of human conjunctival fibroblasts. Cells were pretreated with the sGC stimulator before challenging with recombinant human TGFβ1, and subsequently assayed for viability, proliferation, migration, invasiveness, myofibroblast marker expression, and contractile properties. Stimulation of sGC significantly counteracted TGFβ1-induced cell proliferation, migration, invasiveness, and acquisition of a myofibroblast-like phenotype, as shown by a significant downregulation of FAP, ACTA2, COL1A1, COL1A2, FN1, MMP2, TIMP1, and TIMP2 mRNA levels, as well as by a significant reduction in α-smooth muscle actin, N-cadherin, COL1A1, and FN-EDA protein expression. In addition, pretreatment with the sGC stimulator was capable of significantly dampening TGFβ1-induced acquisition of a contractile phenotype by conjunctival fibroblasts, as well as phosphorylation of Smad3 and release of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-6. Taken together, our findings are the first to demonstrate the effectiveness of pharmacological sGC stimulation in counteracting conjunctival fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition, thus providing a promising scientific background to further explore the feasibility of sGC stimulators as potential new adjuvant therapeutic compounds to treat conjunctival fibrotic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Saveria Fioretto
- Section of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy; (B.S.F.); (I.R.); (M.M.)
| | - Irene Rosa
- Section of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy; (B.S.F.); (I.R.); (M.M.)
| | - Elena Andreucci
- Section of Experimental Pathology and Oncology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Rita Mencucci
- Eye Clinic, Careggi Hospital, Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Pharmacology and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Mirca Marini
- Section of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy; (B.S.F.); (I.R.); (M.M.)
| | - Eloisa Romano
- Section of Internal Medicine, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Section of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy; (B.S.F.); (I.R.); (M.M.)
- Imaging Platform, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
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Ding F, Liu Y, Li J, Wei X, Zhao J, Liu X, Zhang L. TC14012 enhances the anti-fibrosis effects of UC-MSCs on the liver by reducing collagen accumulation and ameliorating inflammation. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:44. [PMID: 38360740 PMCID: PMC10870604 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03648-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are attracting attention as a promising cell-based therapy for the treatment of liver fibrosis or cirrhosis. However, the strategies and potential mechanisms of MSCs therapy need further investigation. The CXCL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 chemokine axis is well known to regulate cell migration and is involved in the regulation of liver fibrosis. This study aims to treat MSCs with a CXCR7-specific agonist to evaluate its therapeutic effects on hepatic fibrosis and potential mechanisms. METHODS TC14012, a potent agonist of CXCR7, has been used to pretreat human umbilical cord-derived MSCs (UC-MSCs) and assess its effect on proliferation, apoptosis, migration, immunoregulation, and gene regulatory network. Then, CCl4-induced liver fibrosis mice models were used to evaluate the therapeutic effect and mechanism of TC14012-treated UC-MSCs for treating hepatic fibrosis. RESULTS TC14012 increased CXCR7 expression in UC-MSCs. Notably, co-culture of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) with TC14012-pretreated UC-MSCs increased CXCR7 expression in LSEC. Additionally, TC14012 promoted cell migration and mediated the immunoregulation of UC-MSCs. Compared to UC-MSCs without TC14012 pretreatment, UC-MSCs treated with TC14012 ameliorated live fibrosis by restoring CXCR7 expression, reducing collagen fibril accumulation, inhibiting hepatic stellate cells activation, and attenuating the inflammatory response. CONCLUSION This study suggests that TC14012 pretreatment can enhance the therapeutic effects of UC-MSCs on liver fibrosis, mainly by promoting the migration and immunoregulation of MSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Ding
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Yuting Liu
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Jia Li
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Xiao Wei
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Jiangdong Zhao
- The Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine, Ministry of Education, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Xiaojing Liu
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
| | - Liqiang Zhang
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China.
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Chen L, Guo W, Mao C, Shen J, Wan M. Liver fibrosis: pathological features, clinical treatment and application of therapeutic nanoagents. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:1446-1466. [PMID: 38265305 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02790b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a reversible damage-repair response, the pathological features of which mainly include damage to hepatocytes, sinusoid capillarization, hepatic stellate cells activation, excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix and inflammatory response. Although some treatments (including drugs and stem cell therapy) for these pathological features have been shown to be effective, more clinical trials are needed to confirm their effectiveness. In recent years, nanomaterials-based therapies have emerged as an innovative and promising alternative to traditional drugs, being explored for the treatment of liver fibrosis diseases. Natural nanomaterials (including extracellular vesicles) and synthetic nanomaterials (including inorganic nanomaterials and organic nanomaterials) are developed to facilitate drug targeting delivery and combination therapy. In this review, the pathological features of liver fibrosis and the current anti-fibrosis drugs in clinical trials are briefly introduced, followed by a detailed introduction of the therapeutic nanoagents for the precise delivery of anti-fibrosis drugs. Finally, the future development trend in this field is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Chen
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Wenyan Guo
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Chun Mao
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Jian Shen
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Mimi Wan
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
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Liang Y, Fang J, Zhou X, Zhang Z, Liu W, Hu Y, Yu X, Mu Y, Zhang H, Liu P, Chen J. Schisantherin A protects hepatocyte via upregulating DDAH1 to ameliorate liver fibrosis in mice. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 124:155330. [PMID: 38185067 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic fibrosis is the pivotal determinant in the progression of chronic liver diseases towards cirrhosis or advanced stages. Studies have shown that Schisantherin A (Sin A), the primary active compound from Schizandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill., exhibits anti-hepatic fibrosis effects. However, the mechanism of Sin A in liver fibrosis remain unclear. PURPOSE To examine the effects and underlying mechanism of Sin A on hepatic fibrosis. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS The effects and mechanism of Sin A were investigated using liver fibrosis mouse models induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) or dimethylnitrosamine (DMN), as well as H2O2-induced hepatocyte injury in vitro. RESULTS Sin A treatment ameliorated hepatocyte injury, inflammation, hepatic sinusoidal capillarization, and hepatic fibrosis in both CCl4-induced and DMN-induced mice. Sin A effectively reversed the reduction of DDAH1 expression, the p-eNOS/eNOS ratio and NO generation and attenuated the elevation of hepatic ADMA level induced by CCl4 and DMN. Knockdown of DDAH1 in hepatocytes not only triggered hepatocyte damage, but it also counteracted the effect of Sin A on protecting hepatocytes in vitro. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that Sin A ameliorates liver fibrosis by upregulating DDAH1 to protect against hepatocyte injury. These results provide compelling evidence for Sin A treatment in liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Liang
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jing Fang
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiaoxi Zhou
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zheng Zhang
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yonghong Hu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiaohan Yu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yongping Mu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Ping Liu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; Institute of Interdisciplinary Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Jiamei Chen
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
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Li H, Li J, Wang T, Sun K, Huang G, Cao Y, Wu F, Xu A. Hepatobiliary organoids differentiated from hiPSCs relieve cholestasis-induced liver fibrosis in nonhuman primates. Int J Biol Sci 2024; 20:1160-1179. [PMID: 38385067 PMCID: PMC10878143 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.90441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
There is an urgent need for novel therapies to treat end-stage liver disease due to the shortage of available organs. Although cell transplantation holds considerable promise, its availability is limited due to the low engrafted cell mass and lack of unifying cell transplantation strategies. Here, we optimally established human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived functional hepatobiliary organoids (HBOs) based on our previous research and transplanted them into a monkey model via liver subcapsular and submesenteric transplantation routes to assess their potential clinical application. Our study revealed that HBO transplantation could safely and effectively improve hepatoprotection effects by antiapoptotic and antifibrotic agents. In addition, we also discovered that while multiple HBO transplantation pathways may have a shared effector mechanism, their respective treatment approaches have distinct advantages. Transplantation of HBOs could promote the high expression of CTSV in hepatic sinusoid endothelial cells, which might halt the progression of hepatic sinusoidal capillarization and liver fibrosis. Liver subcapsular transplants had stronger pro-CTSV upregulation than HBO submesenteric transplants, which could be attributed to naturally high CTSV expression in HBOs. Interestingly, both transplantation routes of HBOs were targeted the injured liver and triggered a new pattern of ductular reaction to alleviate the degree of liver fibrosis by surrounding the area with CK19-positive labeled cells. These residing, homing and repairing effects might be related to the high expression of MMP family genes. By promoting a unique pattern of ductular reactions, submesenteric HBO transplantation has a more representative antifibrotic impact than liver subcapsular transplantation. Altogether, our data strongly imply that the treatment of severe liver diseases with liver subcapsular and submesenteric transplantation of HBOs may be clinically effective and safe. These findings provide new insight into HBOs for further experimental and clinical validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongmei Li
- School of Life Science, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, People's Republic of China
- Beizhong Jingyuan Biotechnology (Beijing) Limited, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingyi Li
- School of Life Science, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Wang
- School of Life Science, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Sun
- School of Life Science, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangrui Huang
- School of Life Science, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, People's Republic of China
- Beizhong Jingyuan Biotechnology (Beijing) Limited, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yulin Cao
- Beizhong Jingyuan Biotechnology (Beijing) Limited, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Tangyi Holdings (Shenzhen) Limited, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Fenfang Wu
- Shenzhen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen 518116, People's Republic of China
| | - Anlong Xu
- School of Life Science, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, College of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, People's Republic of China
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Dai Q, Qing X, Jiang W, Wang S, Liu S, Liu X, Huang F, Zhao H. Aging aggravates liver fibrosis through downregulated hepatocyte SIRT1-induced liver sinusoidal endothelial cell dysfunction. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0350. [PMID: 38126919 PMCID: PMC10749712 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000350] [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: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aging increases the susceptibility to chronic liver diseases and hastens liver fibrosis deterioration, but the underlying mechanisms remain partially understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of aging and chronic liver diseases on hepatocyte Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and LSECs and their contribution to liver fibrosis pathogeneses. METHODS Young (8-12 wk) and aged (18-20 mo) mice were subjected to carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis. Primary HSCs and LSECs were isolated and cocultured for in vitro experiments. Liver tissues and blood samples from healthy controls and patients with liver fibrosis were analyzed. RESULTS Downregulated hepatocytes SIRT1 in aged mice increased high mobility group box 1 acetylation, cytoplasmic translocation, and extracellular secretion, causing LSECs dysfunction by means of the toll-like receptor 4/AK strain transforming (AKT)/endothelial nitric oxide synthase pathway, ultimately activating HSCs and increasing susceptibility to liver injury and fibrosis. Adeno-associated virus-mediated overexpression of SIRT1 in hepatocytes suppressed the abovementioned alterations and attenuated carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury and fibrosis in liver fibrosis mice, and there were no significant differences in liver injury and fibrosis indicators between young and aged mice after SIRT1 overexpression treatment. In vitro experiments demonstrated that SIRT1 overexpression and endothelial nitric oxide synthase agonist YC-1 improved LSECs function and inhibited HSCs activation, mediated by nitric oxide. Similarly, downregulated hepatocytes SIRT1 and LSECs dysfunction were observed in the livers of aged individuals compared to young individuals and were more pronounced in aged patients with liver fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS Aging aggravates liver fibrosis through downregulated hepatocytes SIRT1-induced LSECs dysfunction, providing a prospective curative approach for preventing and treating liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Dai
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xin Qing
- Department of Anesthesiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Burns, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Shouwen Wang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Shengsheng Liu
- Department of Pathology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xuesheng Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Fan Huang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Hongchuan Zhao
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
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Casari M, Siegl D, Deppermann C, Schuppan D. Macrophages and platelets in liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1277808. [PMID: 38116017 PMCID: PMC10728659 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1277808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
During fibrosis, (myo)fibroblasts deposit large amounts of extracellular matrix proteins, thereby replacing healthy functional tissue. In liver fibrosis, this leads to the loss of hepatocyte function, portal hypertension, variceal bleeding, and increased susceptibility to infection. At an early stage, liver fibrosis is a dynamic and reversible process, however, from the cirrhotic stage, there is significant progression to hepatocellular carcinoma. Both liver-resident macrophages (Kupffer cells) and monocyte-derived macrophages are important drivers of fibrosis progression, but can also induce its regression once triggers of chronic inflammation are eliminated. In liver cancer, they are attracted to the tumor site to become tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) polarized towards a M2- anti-inflammatory/tumor-promoting phenotype. Besides their role in thrombosis and hemostasis, platelets can also stimulate fibrosis and tumor development by secreting profibrogenic factors and regulating the innate immune response, e.g., by interacting with monocytes and macrophages. Here, we review recent literature on the role of macrophages and platelets and their interplay in liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Casari
- Center for Thrombosis and Hemostasis, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Dominik Siegl
- Institute for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Carsten Deppermann
- Center for Thrombosis and Hemostasis, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
- Research Center for Immune Therapy Forschungszentrum für Immuntherapie (FZI), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Detlef Schuppan
- Institute for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
- Research Center for Immune Therapy Forschungszentrum für Immuntherapie (FZI), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
- Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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Borrello MT, Mann D. Chronic liver diseases: From development to novel pharmacological therapies: IUPHAR Review 37. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:2880-2897. [PMID: 35393658 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15853] [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: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases comprise a broad spectrum of burdensome diseases that still lack effective pharmacological therapies. Our research group focuses on fibrosis, which is a major precursor of liver cirrhosis. Fibrosis consists in a progressive disturbance of liver sinusoidal architecture characterised by connective tissue deposition as a reparative response to tissue injury. Multifactorial events and several types of cells participate in fibrosis initiation and progression, and the process still needs to be completely understood. The development of experimental models of liver fibrosis alongside the identification of critical factors progressing fibrosis to cirrhosis will facilitate the development of more effective therapeutic approaches for such condition. This review provides an overlook of the main process leading to hepatic fibrosis and therapeutic approaches that have emerged from a deep knowledge of the molecular regulation of fibrogenesis in the liver. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Translational Advances in Fibrosis as a Therapeutic Target. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v180.22/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Borrello
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Derek Mann
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Felli E, Selicean S, Guixé-Muntet S, Wang C, Bosch J, Berzigotti A, Gracia-Sancho J. Mechanobiology of portal hypertension. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100869. [PMID: 37841641 PMCID: PMC10568428 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The interplay between mechanical stimuli and cellular mechanobiology orchestrates the physiology of tissues and organs in a dynamic balance characterized by constant remodelling and adaptative processes. Environmental mechanical properties can be interpreted as a complex set of information and instructions that cells read continuously, and to which they respond. In cirrhosis, chronic inflammation and injury drive liver cells dysfunction, leading to excessive extracellular matrix deposition, sinusoidal pseudocapillarization, vascular occlusion and parenchymal extinction. These pathological events result in marked remodelling of the liver microarchitecture, which is cause and result of abnormal environmental mechanical forces, triggering and sustaining the long-standing and progressive process of liver fibrosis. Multiple mechanical forces such as strain, shear stress, and hydrostatic pressure can converge at different stages of the disease until reaching a point of no return where the fibrosis is considered non-reversible. Thereafter, reciprocal communication between cells and their niches becomes the driving force for disease progression. Accumulating evidence supports the idea that, rather than being a passive consequence of fibrosis and portal hypertension (PH), mechanical force-mediated pathways could themselves represent strategic targets for novel therapeutic approaches. In this manuscript, we aim to provide a comprehensive review of the mechanobiology of PH, by furnishing an introduction on the most important mechanisms, integrating these concepts into a discussion on the pathogenesis of PH, and exploring potential therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Felli
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sonia Selicean
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sergi Guixé-Muntet
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Spain
| | - Cong Wang
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jaume Bosch
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Spain
| | - Annalisa Berzigotti
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jordi Gracia-Sancho
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Spain
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Tilg H, Adolph TE, Tacke F. Therapeutic modulation of the liver immune microenvironment. Hepatology 2023; 78:1581-1601. [PMID: 37057876 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation is a hallmark of progressive liver diseases such as chronic viral or immune-mediated hepatitis, alcohol-associated liver disease, and NAFLD. Preclinical and clinical studies have provided robust evidence that cytokines and related cellular stress sensors in innate and adaptive immunity orchestrate hepatic disease processes. Unresolved inflammation and liver injury result in hepatic scarring, fibrosis, and cirrhosis, which may culminate in HCC. Liver diseases are accompanied by gut dysbiosis and a bloom of pathobionts, fueling hepatic inflammation. Anti-inflammatory strategies are extensively used to treat human immune-mediated conditions beyond the liver, while evidence for immunomodulatory therapies and cell therapy-based strategies in liver diseases is only emerging. The development and establishment of novel immunomodulatory therapies for chronic liver diseases has been dampened by several clinical challenges, such as invasive monitoring of therapeutic efficacy with liver biopsy in clinical trials and risk of DILI in several studies. Such aspects prevented advancements of novel medical therapies for chronic inflammatory liver diseases. New concepts modulating the liver immune environment are studied and eagerly awaited to improve the management of chronic liver diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herbert Tilg
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, & Metabolism, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Timon E Adolph
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, & Metabolism, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany
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36
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Kulikauskas MR, Oatley M, Yu T, Liu Z, Matsumura L, Kidder E, Ruter D, Bautch VL. Endothelial cell SMAD6 balances Alk1 function to regulate adherens junctions and hepatic vascular development. Development 2023; 150:dev201811. [PMID: 37787089 PMCID: PMC10629679 DOI: 10.1242/dev.201811] [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: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
BMP signaling is crucial to blood vessel formation and function, but how pathway components regulate vascular development is not well-understood. Here, we find that inhibitory SMAD6 functions in endothelial cells to negatively regulate ALK1-mediated responses, and it is required to prevent vessel dysmorphogenesis and hemorrhage in the embryonic liver vasculature. Reduced Alk1 gene dosage rescued embryonic hepatic hemorrhage and microvascular capillarization induced by Smad6 deletion in endothelial cells in vivo. At the cellular level, co-depletion of Smad6 and Alk1 rescued the destabilized junctions and impaired barrier function of endothelial cells depleted for SMAD6 alone. Mechanistically, blockade of actomyosin contractility or increased PI3K signaling rescued endothelial junction defects induced by SMAD6 loss. Thus, SMAD6 normally modulates ALK1 function in endothelial cells to regulate PI3K signaling and contractility, and SMAD6 loss increases signaling through ALK1 that disrupts endothelial cell junctions. ALK1 loss-of-function also disrupts vascular development and function, indicating that balanced ALK1 signaling is crucial for proper vascular development and identifying ALK1 as a 'Goldilocks' pathway in vascular biology that requires a certain signaling amplitude, regulated by SMAD6, to function properly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly R. Kulikauskas
- Cell Biology and Physiology Curriculum, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Morgan Oatley
- Department of Biology, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Tianji Yu
- Department of Biology, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Ziqing Liu
- Department of Biology, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Lauren Matsumura
- Department of Biology, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Elise Kidder
- Department of Biology, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Dana Ruter
- Department of Biology, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Victoria L. Bautch
- Cell Biology and Physiology Curriculum, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Biology, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- McAllister Heart Institute, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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37
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Velliou RI, Legaki AI, Nikolakopoulou P, Vlachogiannis NI, Chatzigeorgiou A. Liver endothelial cells in NAFLD and transition to NASH and HCC. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:314. [PMID: 37798474 PMCID: PMC11072568 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04966-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is considered as the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome, which is characterised by obesity, insulin resistance, hypercholesterolemia and hypertension. NAFLD is the most frequent liver disease worldwide and more than 10% of NAFLD patients progress to the inflammatory and fibrotic stage of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can lead to end-stage liver disease including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most frequent primary malignant liver tumor. Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) are strategically positioned at the interface between blood and hepatic parenchyma. LSECs are highly specialized cells, characterised by the presence of transcellular pores, called fenestrae, and exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic characteristics under physiological conditions. However, during NAFLD development they undergo capillarisation and acquire a phenotype similar to vascular endothelial cells, actively promoting all pathophysiological aspects of NAFLD, including steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis. LSEC dysfunction is critical for the progression to NASH and HCC while restoring LSEC homeostasis appears to be a promising approach to prevent NAFLD progression and its complications and even reverse tissue damage. In this review we present current information on the role of LSEC throughout the progressive phases of NAFLD, summarising in vitro and in vivo experimental evidence and data from human studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rallia-Iliana Velliou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Str., 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Aigli-Ioanna Legaki
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Str., 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Polyxeni Nikolakopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Str., 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos I Vlachogiannis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Str., 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Antonios Chatzigeorgiou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Str., 11527, Athens, Greece.
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus of TU Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany.
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38
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Wang S, Friedman SL. Found in translation-Fibrosis in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). Sci Transl Med 2023; 15:eadi0759. [PMID: 37792957 PMCID: PMC10671253 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adi0759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is a severe form of liver disease that poses a global health threat because of its potential to progress to advanced fibrosis, leading to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Recent advances in single-cell methodologies, refined disease models, and genetic and epigenetic insights have provided a nuanced understanding of MASH fibrogenesis, with substantial cellular heterogeneity in MASH livers providing potentially targetable cell-cell interactions and behavior. Unlike fibrogenesis, mechanisms underlying fibrosis regression in MASH are still inadequately understood, although antifibrotic targets have been recently identified. A refined antifibrotic treatment framework could lead to noninvasive assessment and targeted therapies that preserve hepatocellular function and restore the liver's architectural integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Wang
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Scott L. Friedman
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
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39
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Campreciós G, Anton A, Oncins A, Montironi C, Ruart M, Montañés R, García-Calderó H, García-Pagán JC, Hernández-Gea V. Lack of endothelial autophagy does not impair liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy in mice. Liver Int 2023; 43:2302-2308. [PMID: 37461159 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) are key elements in regulating the liver response to injury and regeneration. While endothelial autophagy is essential to protect endothelial cells from injury-induced oxidative stress and fibrosis, its role in liver regeneration has not been elucidated. This study was intended to investigate the role of endothelial autophagy in liver regeneration in the context of partial hepatectomy (PHx). Analysis of autophagy levels in rat LSEC after PHx indicated a tendency to decrease activity the first 2 days after surgery. PHx performed in mice with impaired endothelial autophagy (Atg7flox/flox ;VE-Cadherin-Cre+ ) and their littermate controls showed no differences neither in liver-to-body weight ratio, histological analysis, hepatocyte proliferation nor vascular integrity during the first 7 days after PH and liver regeneration was completely achieved. Our results indicate that endothelial autophagy does not play an essential role in the coordination of the liver regeneration process after PHx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genís Campreciós
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain
| | - Aina Anton
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Oncins
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carla Montironi
- Pathology Department and Molecular Biology Core, Centre de Diagnòstic Biomèdic (CDB), Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Ruart
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rosa Montañés
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Héctor García-Calderó
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain
| | - Joan Carles García-Pagán
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain
- Departament de Medicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Virginia Hernández-Gea
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain
- Departament de Medicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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40
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Banerjee P, Gaddam N, Chandler V, Chakraborty S. Oxidative Stress-Induced Liver Damage and Remodeling of the Liver Vasculature. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 193:1400-1414. [PMID: 37355037 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2023.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
As an organ critically important for targeting and clearing viruses, bacteria, and other foreign material, the liver operates via immune-tolerant, anti-inflammatory mechanisms indispensable to the immune response. Stress and stress-induced factors disrupt the homeostatic balance in the liver, inflicting tissue damage, injury, and remodeling. These factors include oxidative stress (OS) induced by viral infections, environmental toxins, drugs, alcohol, and diet. A recurrent theme seen among stressors common to multiple liver diseases is the induction of mitochondrial dysfunction, increased reactive oxygen species expression, and depletion of ATP. Inflammatory signaling additionally exacerbates the condition, generating a proinflammatory, immunosuppressive microenvironment and activation of apoptotic and necrotic mechanisms that disrupt the integrity of liver morphology. These pathways initiate signaling pathways that significantly contribute to the development of liver steatosis, inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancers. In addition, hypoxia and OS directly enhance angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis in chronic liver diseases. Late-stage consequences of these conditions often narrow the outcomes for liver transplantation or result in death. This review provides a detailed perspective on various stress-induced factors and the specific focus on role of OS in different liver diseases with special emphasis on different molecular mechanisms. It also highlights how resultant changes in the liver vasculature correlate with pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Banerjee
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas.
| | - Niyanshi Gaddam
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas
| | - Vanessa Chandler
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas
| | - Sanjukta Chakraborty
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas.
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41
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Sharma S, Le Guillou D, Chen JY. Cellular stress in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and liver fibrosis. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 20:662-678. [PMID: 37679454 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-023-00832-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
The burden of chronic liver disease is rising substantially worldwide. Fibrosis, characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, is the common pathway leading to cirrhosis, and limited treatment options are available. There is increasing evidence suggesting the role of cellular stress responses contributing to fibrogenesis. This Review provides an overview of studies that analyse the role of cellular stress in different cell types involved in fibrogenesis, including hepatocytes, hepatic stellate cells, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells and macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachin Sharma
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- The Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Dounia Le Guillou
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- The Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Y Chen
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- The Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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42
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Yu F, Zhu Y, Li N, Fu HF, Jiang Z, Zhang XY, Zeng L, Hu XY. Gastro‑oesophageal reflux disease in liver cirrhosis: Possible pathogenesis and clinical intervention (Review). Exp Ther Med 2023; 26:414. [PMID: 37559931 PMCID: PMC10407984 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.12113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Oesophageal variceal bleeding is a common complication of decompensated liver cirrhosis (LC). Some studies have reported that reflux oesophagitis (RE) is a risk factor for upper gastrointestinal bleeding, and greatly impacts the quality of life. However, the frequency and mechanism of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in LC remain unclear. The present review explored the possible pathogenesis, and analysed the advantages and disadvantages of the interventional measures and the need for implementation of these measures. By combining the comprehensive terms associated with LC, GERD and RE, EMBASE, Medline/PubMed and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched. The underlying pathological mechanism of GERD in LC was summarized: Transient relaxation of the lower oesophageal sphincter, delayed gastric emptying, increased intra-abdominal pressure, increased intragastric pressure and excessive nitric oxide production destroyed the 'anti-reflux barrier', causing gastric content reflux. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have been widely used empirically to lower the risk of oesophageal venous rupture and bleeding. However, long-term use of acid inhibitors in patients with LC may induce complications, such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. The metabolic half-life of PPIs is prolonged in patients with severe liver function impairment. Therefore, the indications for using acid inhibitors lack clarity. However, after endoscopic oesophageal variceal eradication, additional benefits may be gained from the long-term use of PPIs in small doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Yue Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Na Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Fang Fu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Zhi Jiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Yi Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Liang Zeng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Yu Hu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
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43
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Mao H, Szafranska K, Kruse L, Holte C, Wolfson DL, Ahluwalia BS, Whitchurch CB, Cole L, Lockwood GP, Diekmann R, Le Couteur D, Cogger VC, McCourt PAG. Effect of caffeine and other xanthines on liver sinusoidal endothelial cell ultrastructure. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13390. [PMID: 37591901 PMCID: PMC10435486 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40227-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Xanthines such as caffeine and theobromine are among the most consumed psychoactive stimulants in the world, either as natural components of coffee, tea and chocolate, or as added ingredients. The present study assessed if xanthines affect liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC). Cultured primary rat LSEC were challenged with xanthines at concentrations typically obtained from normal consumption of xanthine-containing beverages, food or medicines; and at higher concentrations below the in vitro toxic limit. The fenestrated morphology of LSEC were examined with scanning electron and structured illumination microscopy. All xanthine challenges had no toxic effects on LSEC ultrastructure as judged by LSEC fenestration morphology, or function as determined by endocytosis studies. All xanthines in high concentrations (150 μg/mL) increased fenestration frequency but at physiologically relevant concentrations, only theobromine (8 μg/mL) showed an effect. LSEC porosity was influenced only by high caffeine doses which also shifted the fenestration distribution towards smaller pores. Moreover, a dose-dependent increase in fenestration number was observed after caffeine treatment. If these compounds induce similar changes in vivo, age-related reduction of LSEC porosity can be reversed by oral treatment with theobromine or with other xanthines using targeted delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Mao
- Vascular Biology Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway.
- Optical Nanoscopy Research Group, Department of Physics and Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Karolina Szafranska
- Vascular Biology Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Larissa Kruse
- Vascular Biology Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Christopher Holte
- Vascular Biology Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Deanna L Wolfson
- Optical Nanoscopy Research Group, Department of Physics and Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Balpreet Singh Ahluwalia
- Optical Nanoscopy Research Group, Department of Physics and Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Cynthia B Whitchurch
- Microbial Imaging Facility, The ithree Institute, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Louise Cole
- Microbial Imaging Facility, The ithree Institute, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Glen P Lockwood
- Centre for Education and Research, ANZAC Research Institute, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Concord, NSW, Australia
- The Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Robin Diekmann
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Heidelberg, Germany
- LaVision BioTec GmbH, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - David Le Couteur
- Centre for Education and Research, ANZAC Research Institute, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Concord, NSW, Australia
- The Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Victoria C Cogger
- Centre for Education and Research, ANZAC Research Institute, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Concord, NSW, Australia
- The Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Peter A G McCourt
- Vascular Biology Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway
- Centre for Education and Research, ANZAC Research Institute, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Concord, NSW, Australia
- The Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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44
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McConnell MJ, Kostallari E, Ibrahim SH, Iwakiri Y. The evolving role of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells in liver health and disease. Hepatology 2023; 78:649-669. [PMID: 36626620 PMCID: PMC10315420 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
LSECs are a unique population of endothelial cells within the liver and are recognized as key regulators of liver homeostasis. LSECs also play a key role in liver disease, as dysregulation of their quiescent phenotype promotes pathological processes within the liver including inflammation, microvascular thrombosis, fibrosis, and portal hypertension. Recent technical advances in single-cell analysis have characterized distinct subpopulations of the LSECs themselves with a high resolution and defined their gene expression profile and phenotype, broadening our understanding of their mechanistic role in liver biology. This article will review 4 broad advances in our understanding of LSEC biology in general: (1) LSEC heterogeneity, (2) LSEC aging and senescence, (3) LSEC role in liver regeneration, and (4) LSEC role in liver inflammation and will then review the role of LSECs in various liver pathologies including fibrosis, DILI, alcohol-associated liver disease, NASH, viral hepatitis, liver transplant rejection, and ischemia reperfusion injury. The review will conclude with a discussion of gaps in knowledge and areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. McConnell
- Section of Digestive Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | - Samar H. Ibrahim
- Division of Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Yasuko Iwakiri
- Section of Digestive Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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45
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Lurje I, Gaisa NT, Weiskirchen R, Tacke F. Mechanisms of organ fibrosis: Emerging concepts and implications for novel treatment strategies. Mol Aspects Med 2023; 92:101191. [PMID: 37236017 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2023.101191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis, or tissue scarring, develops as a pathological deviation from the physiological wound healing response and can occur in various organs such as the heart, lung, liver, kidney, skin, and bone marrow. Organ fibrosis significantly contributes to global morbidity and mortality. A broad spectrum of etiologies can cause fibrosis, including acute and chronic ischemia, hypertension, chronic viral infection (e.g., viral hepatitis), environmental exposure (e.g., pneumoconiosis, alcohol, nutrition, smoking) and genetic diseases (e.g., cystic fibrosis, alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency). Common mechanisms across organs and disease etiologies involve a sustained injury to parenchymal cells that triggers a wound healing response, which becomes deregulated in the disease process. A transformation of resting fibroblasts into myofibroblasts with excessive extracellular matrix production constitutes the hallmark of disease, however, multiple other cell types such as immune cells, predominantly monocytes/macrophages, endothelial cells, and parenchymal cells form a complex network of profibrotic cellular crosstalk. Across organs, leading mediators include growth factors like transforming growth factor-β and platelet-derived growth factor, cytokines like interleukin-10, interleukin-13, interleukin-17, and danger-associated molecular patterns. More recently, insights into fibrosis regression and resolution of chronic conditions have deepened our understanding of beneficial, protective effects of immune cells, soluble mediators and intracellular signaling. Further in-depth insights into the mechanisms of fibrogenesis can provide the rationale for therapeutic interventions and the development of targeted antifibrotic agents. This review gives insight into shared responses and cellular mechanisms across organs and etiologies, aiming to paint a comprehensive picture of fibrotic diseases in both experimental settings and in human pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Lurje
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nadine T Gaisa
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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Wilhelmsen I, Amirola Martinez M, Stokowiec J, Wang C, Aizenshtadt A, Krauss S. Characterization of human stem cell-derived hepatic stellate cells and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells during extended in vitro culture. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1223737. [PMID: 37560536 PMCID: PMC10408301 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1223737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: There is a significant need for predictive and stable in vitro human liver representations for disease modeling and drug testing. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are important non-parenchymal cell components of the liver and are hence of relevance in a variety of disease models, including hepatic fibrosis. Pluripotent stem cell- (PSC-) derived HSCs (scHSCs) and LSECs (scLSECs) offer an attractive alternative to primary human material; yet, the suitability of scHSCs and scLSECs for extended in vitro modeling has not been characterized. Methods: In this study, we describe the phenotypic and functional development of scHSCs and scLSECs during 14 days of 2D in vitro culture. Cell-specific phenotypes were evaluated by cell morphology, immunofluorescence, and gene- and protein expression. Functionality was assessed in scHSCs by their capacity for intracellular storage of vitamin A and response to pro-fibrotic stimuli induced by TGF-β. scLSECs were evaluated by nitric oxide- and factor VIII secretion as well as endocytic uptake of bioparticles and acetylated low-density lipoprotein. Notch pathway inhibition and co-culturing scHSCs and scLSECs were separately tested as options for enhancing long-term stability and maturation of the cells. Results and Conclusion: Both scHSCs and scLSECs exhibited a post-differentiation cell type-specific phenotype and functionality but deteriorated during extended culture with PSC line-dependent variability. Therefore, the choice of PSC line and experimental timeframe is crucial when designing in vitro platforms involving scHSCs and scLSECs. Notch inhibition modestly improved long-term monoculture in a cell line-dependent manner, while co-culturing scHSCs and scLSECs provides a strategy to enhance phenotypic and functional stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Wilhelmsen
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Mikel Amirola Martinez
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Justyna Stokowiec
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Chencheng Wang
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Aleksandra Aizenshtadt
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Stefan Krauss
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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47
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Oey O, Sunjaya AF, Khan Y, Redfern A. Stromal inflammation, fibrosis and cancer: An old intuition with promising potential. World J Clin Oncol 2023; 14:230-246. [PMID: 37583950 PMCID: PMC10424089 DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v14.i7.230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/19/2023] Open
Abstract
It is now well established that the biology of cancer is influenced by not only malignant cells but also other components of the tumour microenvironment. Chronic inflammation and fibrosis have long been postulated to be involved in carcinogenesis. Chronic inflammation can promote tumorigenesis via growth factor/cytokine-mediated cellular proliferation, apoptotic resistance, immunosuppression; and free-radical-induced oxidative deoxyribonucleic acid damage. Fibrosis could cause a perturbation in the dynamics of the tumour microenvironment, potentially damaging the genome surveillance machinery of normal epithelial cells. In this review, we will provide an in-depth discussion of various diseases characterised by inflammation and fibrosis that have been associated with an increased risk of malignancy. In particular, we will present a comprehensive overview of the impact of alterations in stromal composition on tumorigenesis, induced as a consequence of inflammation and/or fibrosis. Strategies including the application of various therapeutic agents with stromal manipulation potential and targeted cancer screening for certain inflammatory diseases which can reduce the risk of cancer will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Oey
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Crawley NA, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Charles Gardner Hospital, Nedlands 6009, Australia
| | - Angela Felicia Sunjaya
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, London WC1E 6DD, United Kingdom
| | - Yasir Khan
- Department of Medical Oncology, St John of God Midland Public and Private Hospital, Midland 6056, WA, Australia
| | - Andrew Redfern
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Murdoch 6150, WA, Australia
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48
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Kaps L, Limeres MJ, Schneider P, Svensson M, Zeyn Y, Fraude S, Cacicedo ML, Galle PR, Gehring S, Bros M. Liver Cell Type-Specific Targeting by Nanoformulations for Therapeutic Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11869. [PMID: 37511628 PMCID: PMC10380755 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411869] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocytes exert pivotal roles in metabolism, protein synthesis and detoxification. Non-parenchymal liver cells (NPCs), largely comprising macrophages, dendritic cells, hepatic stellate cells and liver sinusoidal cells (LSECs), serve to induce immunological tolerance. Therefore, the liver is an important target for therapeutic approaches, in case of both (inflammatory) metabolic diseases and immunological disorders. This review aims to summarize current preclinical nanodrug-based approaches for the treatment of liver disorders. So far, nano-vaccines that aim to induce hepatitis virus-specific immune responses and nanoformulated adjuvants to overcome the default tolerogenic state of liver NPCs for the treatment of chronic hepatitis have been tested. Moreover, liver cancer may be treated using nanodrugs which specifically target and kill tumor cells. Alternatively, nanodrugs may target and reprogram or deplete immunosuppressive cells of the tumor microenvironment, such as tumor-associated macrophages. Here, combination therapies have been demonstrated to yield synergistic effects. In the case of autoimmune hepatitis and other inflammatory liver diseases, anti-inflammatory agents can be encapsulated into nanoparticles to dampen inflammatory processes specifically in the liver. Finally, the tolerance-promoting activity especially of LSECs has been exploited to induce antigen-specific tolerance for the treatment of allergic and autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard Kaps
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - María José Limeres
- Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Paul Schneider
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Malin Svensson
- Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Yanira Zeyn
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Silvia Fraude
- Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Maximiliano L Cacicedo
- Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Peter R Galle
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Stephan Gehring
- Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Matthias Bros
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
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Jones AK, Chen H, Ng KJ, Villalona J, McHugh M, Zeveleva S, Wilks J, Brilisauer K, Bretschneider T, Qian HS, Fryer RM. Soluble Guanylyl Cyclase Activator BI 685509 Reduces Portal Hypertension and Portosystemic Shunting in a Rat Thioacetamide-Induced Cirrhosis Model. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2023; 386:70-79. [PMID: 37230799 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.122.001532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Portal hypertension (PT) commonly occurs in cirrhosis. Nitric oxide (NO) imbalance contributes to PT via reduced soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) activation and cGMP production, resulting in vasoconstriction, endothelial cell dysfunction, and fibrosis. We assessed the effects of BI 685509, an NO-independent sGC activator, on fibrosis and extrahepatic complications in a thioacetamide (TAA)-induced cirrhosis and PT model. Male Sprague-Dawley rats received TAA twice-weekly for 15 weeks (300-150 mg/kg i.p.). BI 685509 was administered daily for the last 12 weeks (0.3, 1, and 3 mg/kg p.o.; n = 8-11 per group) or the final week only (Acute, 3 mg/kg p.o.; n = 6). Rats were anesthetized to measure portal venous pressure. Pharmacokinetics and hepatic cGMP (target engagement) were measured by mass spectrometry. Hepatic Sirius Red morphometry (SRM) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) were measured by immunohistochemistry; portosystemic shunting was measured using colored microspheres. BI 685509 dose-dependently increased hepatic cGMP at 1 and 3 mg/kg (3.92 ± 0.34 and 5.14 ± 0.44 versus 2.50 ± 0.19 nM in TAA alone; P < 0.05). TAA increased hepatic SRM, αSMA, PT, and portosystemic shunting. Compared with TAA, 3 mg/kg BI 685509 reduced SRM by 38%, αSMA area by 55%, portal venous pressure by 26%, and portosystemic shunting by 10% (P < 0.05). Acute BI 685509 reduced SRM and PT by 45% and 21%, respectively (P < 0.05). BI 685509 improved hepatic and extrahepatic cirrhosis pathophysiology in TAA-induced cirrhosis. These data support the clinical investigation of BI 685509 for PT in patients with cirrhosis. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: BI 685509 is an NO-independent sGC activator that was tested in a preclinical rat model of TAA-induced nodular, liver fibrosis, portal hypertension, and portal systemic shunting. BI 685509 reduced liver fibrosis, portal hypertension, and portal-systemic shunting in a dose-dependent manner, supporting its clinical assessment to treat portal hypertension in patients with cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda K Jones
- Department of Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Ridgefield, Connecticut (A.K.J., H.C., K.J.N., J.V., M.M., S.Z., J.W., H.S.Q., R.M.F.); and Department of Drug Discovery Sciences, Discovery Science Technologies, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co., Biberach an der Riss, Germany (K.B., T.B.)
| | - Hongxing Chen
- Department of Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Ridgefield, Connecticut (A.K.J., H.C., K.J.N., J.V., M.M., S.Z., J.W., H.S.Q., R.M.F.); and Department of Drug Discovery Sciences, Discovery Science Technologies, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co., Biberach an der Riss, Germany (K.B., T.B.)
| | - Khing Jow Ng
- Department of Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Ridgefield, Connecticut (A.K.J., H.C., K.J.N., J.V., M.M., S.Z., J.W., H.S.Q., R.M.F.); and Department of Drug Discovery Sciences, Discovery Science Technologies, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co., Biberach an der Riss, Germany (K.B., T.B.)
| | - Jorge Villalona
- Department of Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Ridgefield, Connecticut (A.K.J., H.C., K.J.N., J.V., M.M., S.Z., J.W., H.S.Q., R.M.F.); and Department of Drug Discovery Sciences, Discovery Science Technologies, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co., Biberach an der Riss, Germany (K.B., T.B.)
| | - Mark McHugh
- Department of Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Ridgefield, Connecticut (A.K.J., H.C., K.J.N., J.V., M.M., S.Z., J.W., H.S.Q., R.M.F.); and Department of Drug Discovery Sciences, Discovery Science Technologies, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co., Biberach an der Riss, Germany (K.B., T.B.)
| | - Svetlana Zeveleva
- Department of Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Ridgefield, Connecticut (A.K.J., H.C., K.J.N., J.V., M.M., S.Z., J.W., H.S.Q., R.M.F.); and Department of Drug Discovery Sciences, Discovery Science Technologies, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co., Biberach an der Riss, Germany (K.B., T.B.)
| | - James Wilks
- Department of Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Ridgefield, Connecticut (A.K.J., H.C., K.J.N., J.V., M.M., S.Z., J.W., H.S.Q., R.M.F.); and Department of Drug Discovery Sciences, Discovery Science Technologies, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co., Biberach an der Riss, Germany (K.B., T.B.)
| | - Klaus Brilisauer
- Department of Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Ridgefield, Connecticut (A.K.J., H.C., K.J.N., J.V., M.M., S.Z., J.W., H.S.Q., R.M.F.); and Department of Drug Discovery Sciences, Discovery Science Technologies, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co., Biberach an der Riss, Germany (K.B., T.B.)
| | - Tom Bretschneider
- Department of Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Ridgefield, Connecticut (A.K.J., H.C., K.J.N., J.V., M.M., S.Z., J.W., H.S.Q., R.M.F.); and Department of Drug Discovery Sciences, Discovery Science Technologies, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co., Biberach an der Riss, Germany (K.B., T.B.)
| | - Hu Sheng Qian
- Department of Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Ridgefield, Connecticut (A.K.J., H.C., K.J.N., J.V., M.M., S.Z., J.W., H.S.Q., R.M.F.); and Department of Drug Discovery Sciences, Discovery Science Technologies, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co., Biberach an der Riss, Germany (K.B., T.B.)
| | - Ryan M Fryer
- Department of Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Ridgefield, Connecticut (A.K.J., H.C., K.J.N., J.V., M.M., S.Z., J.W., H.S.Q., R.M.F.); and Department of Drug Discovery Sciences, Discovery Science Technologies, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co., Biberach an der Riss, Germany (K.B., T.B.)
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50
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Pei Q, Yi Q, Tang L. Liver Fibrosis Resolution: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutic Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119671. [PMID: 37298621 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is a critical system for metabolism in human beings, which plays an essential role in an abundance of physiological processes and is vulnerable to endogenous or exogenous injuries. After the damage to the liver, a type of aberrant wound healing response known as liver fibrosis may happen, which can result in an excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) and then cause cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), seriously endangering human health and causing a great economic burden. However, few effective anti-fibrotic medications are clinically available to treat liver fibrosis. The most efficient approach to liver fibrosis prevention and treatment currently is to eliminate its causes, but this approach's efficiency is too slow, or some causes cannot be fully eliminated, which causes liver fibrosis to worsen. In cases of advanced fibrosis, the only available treatment is liver transplantation. Therefore, new treatments or therapeutic agents need to be explored to stop the further development of early liver fibrosis or to reverse the fibrosis process to achieve liver fibrosis resolution. Understanding the mechanisms that lead to the development of liver fibrosis is necessary to find new therapeutic targets and drugs. The complex process of liver fibrosis is regulated by a variety of cells and cytokines, among which hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the essential cells, and their continued activation will lead to further progression of liver fibrosis. It has been found that inhibiting HSC activation, or inducing apoptosis, and inactivating activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) can reverse fibrosis and thus achieve liver fibrosis regression. Hence, this review will concentrate on how HSCs become activated during liver fibrosis, including intercellular interactions and related signaling pathways, as well as targeting HSCs or liver fibrosis signaling pathways to achieve the resolution of liver fibrosis. Finally, new therapeutic compounds targeting liver fibrosis are summarized to provide more options for the therapy of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiying Pei
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Qian Yi
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Liling Tang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
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