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Sande-Melon M, Bergemann D, Fernández-Lajarín M, González-Rosa JM, Cox AG. Development of a hepatic cryoinjury model to study liver regeneration. Development 2024; 151:dev203124. [PMID: 38975841 PMCID: PMC11318111 DOI: 10.1242/dev.203124] [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: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
The liver is a remarkable organ that can regenerate in response to injury. Depending on the extent of injury, the liver can undergo compensatory hyperplasia or fibrosis. Despite decades of research, the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes are poorly understood. Here, we developed a new model to study liver regeneration based on cryoinjury. To visualise liver regeneration at cellular resolution, we adapted the CUBIC tissue-clearing approach. Hepatic cryoinjury induced a localised necrotic and apoptotic lesion characterised by inflammation and infiltration of innate immune cells. After this initial phase, we observed fibrosis, which resolved as regeneration re-established homeostasis in 30 days. Importantly, this approach enables the comparison of healthy and injured parenchyma within an individual animal, providing unique advantages to previous models. In summary, the hepatic cryoinjury model provides a fast and reproducible method for studying the cellular and molecular pathways underpinning fibrosis and liver regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Sande-Melon
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - David Bergemann
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Charlestown Navy Yard Campus, 149, 13th Street, MA 02129, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Miriam Fernández-Lajarín
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Charlestown Navy Yard Campus, 149, 13th Street, MA 02129, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Biology Department, Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA
| | - Juan Manuel González-Rosa
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Charlestown Navy Yard Campus, 149, 13th Street, MA 02129, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Biology Department, Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA
| | - Andrew G. Cox
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
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2
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Xu C, Fang X, Song Y, Xiang Z, Xu X, Wei X. Transcriptional Control: A Directional Sign at the Crossroads of Adult Hepatic Progenitor Cells' Fates. Int J Biol Sci 2024; 20:3544-3556. [PMID: 38993564 PMCID: PMC11234216 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.93739] [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: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) have a bidirectional potential to differentiate into hepatocytes and bile duct epithelial cells and constitute a second barrier to liver regeneration in the adult liver. They are usually located in the Hering duct in the portal vein region where various cells, extracellular matrix, cytokines, and communication signals together constitute the niche of HPCs in homeostasis to maintain cellular plasticity. In various types of liver injury, different cellular signaling streams crosstalk with each other and point to the inducible transcription factor set, including FoxA1/2/3, YB-1, Foxl1, Sox9, HNF4α, HNF1α, and HNF1β. These transcription factors exert different functions by binding to specific target genes, and their products often interact with each other, with diverse cascades of regulation in different molecular events that are essential for homeostatic regulation, self-renewal, proliferation, and selective differentiation of HPCs. Furthermore, the tumor predisposition of adult HPCs is found to be significantly increased under transcriptional factor dysregulation in transcriptional analysis, and the altered initial commitment of the differentiation pathway of HPCs may be one of the sources of intrahepatic tumors. Related transcription factors such as HNF4α and HNF1 are expected to be future targets for tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenhao Xu
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Hangzhou 310006, China
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Xixi Fang
- Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Yisu Song
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Hangzhou 310006, China
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Ze Xiang
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Hangzhou 310006, China
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Xuyong Wei
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Hangzhou 310006, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310006, China
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3
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Sande-Melon M, Bergemann D, Fernández-Lajarín M, González-Rosa JM, Cox AG. Development of a hepatic cryoinjury model to study liver regeneration. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.07.24.550437. [PMID: 38948752 PMCID: PMC11212901 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.24.550437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
The liver is a remarkable organ that can regenerate in response to injury. Depending on the extent of injury, the liver can undergo compensatory hyperplasia or fibrosis. Despite decades of research, the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes are poorly understood. Here, we developed a new model to study liver regeneration based on cryoinjury. To visualise liver regeneration at cellular resolution, we adapted the CUBIC tissue-clearing approach. Hepatic cryoinjury induced a localised necrotic and apoptotic lesion characterised by inflammation and infiltration of innate immune cells. Following this initial phase, we observed fibrosis, which resolved as regeneration re-established homeostasis in 30 days. Importantly, this approach enables the comparison of healthy and injured parenchyma with an individual animal, providing unique advantages to previous models. In summary, the hepatic cryoinjury model provides a fast and reproducible method for studying the cellular and molecular pathways underpinning fibrosis and liver regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Sande-Melon
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
- The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
| | - David Bergemann
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Charlestown Navy Yard Campus, 149, 13 Street, 02129 MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School
| | - Miriam Fernández-Lajarín
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Charlestown Navy Yard Campus, 149, 13 Street, 02129 MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School
- Biology Department, Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
| | - Juan Manuel González-Rosa
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Charlestown Navy Yard Campus, 149, 13 Street, 02129 MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School
- Biology Department, Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
| | - Andrew G. Cox
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
- The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
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4
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Lee S, Ren L, Paranjpe A, Zhou P, Potter A, Huppert SS, Shin S. Rbpj deletion in hepatic progenitor cells attenuates endothelial responses in a mouse model of cholestatic liver disease. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.13.589277. [PMID: 38659780 PMCID: PMC11042221 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.13.589277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Background and Aims Since the role of hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) constituting ductular reactions in pathogenesis remains ambiguous, we aimed to establish the in vivo cause-and-effect relationship between HPCs and angiogenesis, a process associated with chronic liver disease progression. We previously demonstrated that peritumoral ductules are associated with angiogenesis in liver tumors and forkhead box L1 (Foxl1)- expressing murine HPCs secrete angiogenic factors in vitro. Therefore, we hypothesized that HPCs are capable of remodeling the vascular microenvironment and this function of HPCs is dependent on recombination signal binding protein for immunoglobulin kappa J region (RBPJ), a key effector of the Notch signaling pathway. Approach and Results We generated HPC-specific Rbpj conditional knockout mice using Foxl1-Cre and treated them with the 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine-supplemented diet to induce cholestatic liver disease. Knockout mice displayed significant reduction of HPC proliferation and ductular reactions as well as attenuated vascular and fibrotic areas compared to control mice. Assessment of vascular endothelial growth factor A-positive areas in vivo and the effects of Rbpj shRNAs in vitro indicated that Rbpj knockout in HPCs reduces the total number of angiogenic factor-expressing cells rather than affecting angiogenic factor expression within HPCs. Single-nucleus RNA sequencing analysis indicated that conditional Rbpj knockout in HPCs induces transcriptional changes in endothelial cells and alters expression of genes involved in various functions of the endothelium. Conclusion Our findings indicate that HPCs regulate endothelial responses to cholestatic liver disease and Rbpj deletion in HPCs attenuates these responses, identifying novel targets for modulating angiogenesis during disease progression.
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Li L, He Y, Liu K, Liu L, Shan S, Liu H, Ren J, Sun S, Wang M, Jia J, Wang P. GITRL impairs hepatocyte repopulation by liver progenitor cells to aggravate inflammation and fibrosis by GITR +CD8 + T lymphocytes in CDE Mice. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:114. [PMID: 38321001 PMCID: PMC10847460 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06506-y] [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: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
As an alternative pathway for liver regeneration, liver progenitor cells and their derived ductular reaction cells increase during the progression of many chronic liver diseases. However, the mechanism underlying their hepatocyte repopulation after liver injury remains unknown. Here, we conducted progenitor cell lineage tracing in mice and found that fewer than 2% of hepatocytes were derived from liver progenitor cells after 9 weeks of injury with a choline-deficient diet supplemented with ethionine (CDE), and this percentage increased approximately three-fold after 3 weeks of recovery. We also found that the proportion of liver progenitor cells double positive for the ligand of glucocorticoid-induced tumour necrosis factor receptor (GITRL, also called Tnfsf18) and SRY-related HMG box transcription 9 (Sox9) among nonparenchymal cells increased time-dependently upon CDE injury and reduced after recovery. When GITRL was conditionally knocked out from hepatic progenitor cells, its expression in nonparenchymal cells was downregulated by approximately fifty percent, and hepatocyte repopulation increased by approximately three folds. Simultaneously, conditional knockout of GITRL reduced the proportion of liver-infiltrating CD8+ T lymphocytes and glucocorticoid-induced tumour necrosis factor receptor (GITR)-positive CD8+ T lymphocytes. Mechanistically, GITRL stimulated cell proliferation but suppressed the differentiation of liver progenitor organoids into hepatocytes, and CD8+ T cells further reduced their hepatocyte differentiation by downregulating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Therefore, GITRL expressed by liver progenitor cells impairs hepatocyte differentiation, thus hindering progenitor cell-mediated liver regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Yu He
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Kai Liu
- Beijing Clinical Research Institute, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Shan Shan
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Helin Liu
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Jiangbo Ren
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Shujie Sun
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Min Wang
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Jidong Jia
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China.
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China.
| | - Ping Wang
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing, 100069, China.
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Translational Medicine on Cirrhosis, Beijing, 100050, China.
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6
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Wang X, Pu W, Zhu H, Zhang M, Zhou B. Establishment of a Fah-LSL mouse model to study BEC-to-hepatocyte conversion. BIOPHYSICS REPORTS 2023; 9:309-324. [PMID: 38524699 PMCID: PMC10960572 DOI: 10.52601/bpr.2023.230034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The liver consists predominantly of hepatocytes and biliary epithelial cells (BECs), which serve distinct physiological functions. Although hepatocytes primarily replenish their own population during homeostasis and injury repair, recent findings have suggested that BECs can transdifferentiate into hepatocytes when hepatocyte-mediated liver regeneration is impaired. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms governing this BEC-to-hepatocyte conversion remain poorly understood largely because of the inefficiency of existing methods for inducing lineage conversion. Therefore, this study introduces a novel mouse model engineered by the Zhou's lab, where hepatocyte senescence is induced by the deletion of the fumarylacetoacetate (Fah) gene. This model facilitates the efficient conversion of BECs to hepatocytes and allows for the simultaneous lineage tracing of BECs; consequently, a transitional liver progenitor cell population can be identified during lineage conversion. This study also outlines the technical procedures for utilizing this model to determine the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms of BEC-to-hepatocyte conversion and provides new insights into liver regeneration and its underlying molecular mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingrui Wang
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Wenjuan Pu
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Huan Zhu
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Mingjun Zhang
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Bin Zhou
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 200031, China
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7
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Hu Y, Wang R, Liu J, Wang Y, Dong J. Lipid droplet deposition in the regenerating liver: A promoter, inhibitor, or bystander? Hepatol Commun 2023; 7:e0267. [PMID: 37708445 PMCID: PMC10503682 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver regeneration (LR) is a complex process involving intricate networks of cellular connections, cytokines, and growth factors. During the early stages of LR, hepatocytes accumulate lipids, primarily triacylglycerol, and cholesterol esters, in the lipid droplets. Although it is widely accepted that this phenomenon contributes to LR, the impact of lipid droplet deposition on LR remains a matter of debate. Some studies have suggested that lipid droplet deposition has no effect or may even be detrimental to LR. This review article focuses on transient regeneration-associated steatosis and its relationship with the liver regenerative response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuelei Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ruilin Wang
- Department of Cadre’s Wards Ultrasound Diagnostics. Ultrasound Diagnostic Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Juan Liu
- Research Unit of Precision Hepatobiliary Surgery Paradigm, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Center, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Institute for Organ Transplant and Bionic Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Clinical Translational Science Center, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yunfang Wang
- Research Unit of Precision Hepatobiliary Surgery Paradigm, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Center, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Institute for Organ Transplant and Bionic Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Clinical Translational Science Center, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiahong Dong
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Research Unit of Precision Hepatobiliary Surgery Paradigm, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Center, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Institute for Organ Transplant and Bionic Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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8
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Passman AM, Haughey MJ, Carlotti E, Williams MJ, Cereser B, Lin ML, Devkumar S, Gabriel JP, Gringeri E, Cillo U, Russo FP, Hoare M, ChinAleong J, Jansen M, Wright NA, Kocher HM, Huang W, Alison MR, McDonald SAC. Hepatocytes undergo punctuated expansion dynamics from a periportal stem cell niche in normal human liver. J Hepatol 2023; 79:417-432. [PMID: 37088309 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.03.044] [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: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS While normal human liver is thought to be generally quiescent, clonal hepatocyte expansions have been observed, though neither their cellular source nor their expansion dynamics have been determined. Knowing the hepatocyte cell of origin, and their subsequent dynamics and trajectory within the human liver will provide an important basis to understand disease-associated dysregulation. METHODS Herein, we use in vivo lineage tracing and methylation sequence analysis to demonstrate normal human hepatocyte ancestry. We exploit next-generation mitochondrial sequencing to determine hepatocyte clonal expansion dynamics across spatially distinct areas of laser-captured, microdissected, clones, in tandem with computational modelling in morphologically normal human liver. RESULTS Hepatocyte clones and rare SOX9+ hepatocyte progenitors commonly associate with portal tracts and we present evidence that clones can lineage-trace with cholangiocytes, indicating the presence of a bipotential common ancestor at this niche. Within clones, we demonstrate methylation CpG sequence diversity patterns indicative of periportal not pericentral ancestral origins, indicating a portal to central vein expansion trajectory. Using spatial analysis of mitochondrial DNA variants by next-generation sequencing coupled with mathematical modelling and Bayesian inference across the portal-central axis, we demonstrate that patterns of mitochondrial DNA variants reveal large numbers of spatially restricted mutations in conjunction with limited numbers of clonal mutations. CONCLUSIONS These datasets support the existence of a periportal progenitor niche and indicate that clonal patches exhibit punctuated but slow growth, then quiesce, likely due to acute environmental stimuli. These findings crucially contribute to our understanding of hepatocyte dynamics in the normal human liver. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS The liver is mainly composed of hepatocytes, but we know little regarding the source of these cells or how they multiply over time within the disease-free human liver. In this study, we determine a source of new hepatocytes by combining many different lab-based methods and computational predictions to show that hepatocytes share a common cell of origin with bile ducts. Both our experimental and computational data also demonstrate hepatocyte clones are likely to expand in slow waves across the liver in a specific trajectory, but often lie dormant for many years. These data show for the first time the expansion dynamics of hepatocytes in normal liver and their cell of origin enabling the accurate measurment of changes to their dynamics that may lead to liver disease. These findings are important for researchers determining cancer risk in human liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam M Passman
- Centre for Cancer Genomics and Computational Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Magnus J Haughey
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Emanuela Carlotti
- Centre for Cancer Genomics and Computational Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Marc J Williams
- Centre for Cancer Genomics and Computational Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Bianca Cereser
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Meng-Lay Lin
- Centre for Cancer Genomics and Computational Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Shruthi Devkumar
- Centre for Cancer Genomics and Computational Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Jonathan P Gabriel
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Enrico Gringeri
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Umberto Cillo
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Francesco Paolo Russo
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Matthew Hoare
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Marnix Jansen
- Department of Cellular Pathology, University College London, London, UK; UCL Cancer Centre, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nicholas A Wright
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Hermant M Kocher
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK; Cancer Tissue Bank, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK; Barts and the London HPB Centre, The Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Weini Huang
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK; Group of Theoretical Biology, The State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Malcolm R Alison
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Stuart A C McDonald
- Centre for Cancer Genomics and Computational Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
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9
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Chen F, Schönberger K, Tchorz JS. Distinct hepatocyte identities in liver homeostasis and regeneration. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100779. [PMID: 37456678 PMCID: PMC10339260 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The process of metabolic liver zonation is spontaneously established by assigning distributed tasks to hepatocytes along the porto-central blood flow. Hepatocytes fulfil critical metabolic functions, while also maintaining hepatocyte mass by replication when needed. Recent technological advances have enabled us to fine-tune our understanding of hepatocyte identity during homeostasis and regeneration. Subsets of hepatocytes have been identified to be more regenerative and some have even been proposed to function like stem cells, challenging the long-standing view that all hepatocytes are similarly capable of regeneration. The latest data show that hepatocyte renewal during homeostasis and regeneration after liver injury is not limited to rare hepatocytes; however, hepatocytes are not exactly the same. Herein, we review the known differences that give individual hepatocytes distinct identities, recent findings demonstrating how these distinct identities correspond to differences in hepatocyte regenerative capacity, and how the plasticity of hepatocyte identity allows for division of labour among hepatocytes. We further discuss how these distinct hepatocyte identities may play a role during liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Chen
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | | | - Jan S. Tchorz
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
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10
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Pu W, Zhu H, Zhang M, Pikiolek M, Ercan C, Li J, Huang X, Han X, Zhang Z, Lv Z, Li Y, Liu K, He L, Liu X, Heim MH, Terracciano LM, Tchorz JS, Zhou B. Bipotent transitional liver progenitor cells contribute to liver regeneration. Nat Genet 2023; 55:651-664. [PMID: 36914834 PMCID: PMC10101857 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-023-01335-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Following severe liver injury, when hepatocyte-mediated regeneration is impaired, biliary epithelial cells (BECs) can transdifferentiate into functional hepatocytes. However, the subset of BECs with such facultative tissue stem cell potential, as well as the mechanisms enabling transdifferentiation, remains elusive. Here we identify a transitional liver progenitor cell (TLPC), which originates from BECs and differentiates into hepatocytes during regeneration from severe liver injury. By applying a dual genetic lineage tracing approach, we specifically labeled TLPCs and found that they are bipotent, as they either differentiate into hepatocytes or re-adopt BEC fate. Mechanistically, Notch and Wnt/β-catenin signaling orchestrate BEC-to-TLPC and TLPC-to-hepatocyte conversions, respectively. Together, our study provides functional and mechanistic insights into transdifferentiation-assisted liver regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Pu
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Huan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingjun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Monika Pikiolek
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Caner Ercan
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Pathology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiuzhen Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ximeng Han
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenqian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Zan Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Kuo Liu
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lingjuan He
- School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiuxiu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Markus H Heim
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Clarunis University Center for Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Luigi M Terracciano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy.,IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Jan S Tchorz
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Bin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China. .,Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China. .,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China. .,New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Shenzhen, China.
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11
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Yan ZJ, Chen L, Wang HY. To be or not to be: The double-edged sword roles of liver progenitor cells. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188870. [PMID: 36842766 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188870] [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: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
Given the liver's remarkable and unique regenerative capacity, researchers have long focused on liver progenitor cells (LPCs) and liver cancer stem cells (LCSCs). LPCs can differentiate into both hepatocytes and cholangiocytes. However, the mechanism underlying cell conversion and its distinct contribution to liver homeostasis and tumorigenesis remain unclear. In this review, we discuss the complicated conversions involving LPCs and LCSCs. As the critical intermediate state in malignant transformation, LPCs play double-edged sword roles. LPCs are not only involved in hepatic wound-healing responses by supplementing liver cells and bile duct cells in the damaged liver but may transform into LCSCs under dysregulation of key signaling pathways, resulting in refractory malignant liver tumors. Because LPC lineages are temporally and spatially dynamic, we discuss crucial LPC subgroups and summarize regulatory factors correlating with the trajectories of LPCs and LCSCs in the liver tumor microenvironment. This review elaborates on the double-edged sword roles of LPCs to help understand the liver's regenerative potential and tumor heterogeneity. Understanding the sources and transformations of LPCs is essential in determining how to exploit their regenerative capacity in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Jun Yan
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital/National Center for Liver Cancer, Shanghai 200438, PR China; Key Laboratory of Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer (SMMU), Ministry of Education, Shanghai 200438, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Tumor Biology (EHBH), Shanghai 200438, PR China
| | - Lei Chen
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital/National Center for Liver Cancer, Shanghai 200438, PR China; Key Laboratory of Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer (SMMU), Ministry of Education, Shanghai 200438, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Tumor Biology (EHBH), Shanghai 200438, PR China.
| | - Hong-Yang Wang
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital/National Center for Liver Cancer, Shanghai 200438, PR China; Key Laboratory of Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer (SMMU), Ministry of Education, Shanghai 200438, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Tumor Biology (EHBH), Shanghai 200438, PR China.
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12
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Kim M, Rizvi F, Shin D, Gouon-Evans V. Update on Hepatobiliary Plasticity. Semin Liver Dis 2023; 43:13-23. [PMID: 36764306 PMCID: PMC10005859 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1760306] [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] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
The liver field has been debating for decades the contribution of the plasticity of the two epithelial compartments in the liver, hepatocytes and biliary epithelial cells (BECs), to derive each other as a repair mechanism. The hepatobiliary plasticity has been first observed in diseased human livers by the presence of biphenotypic cells expressing hepatocyte and BEC markers within bile ducts and regenerative nodules or budding from strings of proliferative BECs in septa. These observations are not surprising as hepatocytes and BECs derive from a common fetal progenitor, the hepatoblast, and, as such, they are expected to compensate for each other's loss in adults. To investigate the cell origin of regenerated cell compartments and associated molecular mechanisms, numerous murine and zebrafish models with ability to trace cell fates have been extensively developed. This short review summarizes the clinical and preclinical studies illustrating the hepatobiliary plasticity and its potential therapeutic application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minwook Kim
- Department of Developmental Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Fatima Rizvi
- Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology Section, Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Donghun Shin
- Department of Developmental Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Valerie Gouon-Evans
- Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology Section, Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
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13
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Lee S, Karns R, Shin S. Mechanism of paracrine communications between hepatic progenitor cells and endothelial cells. Cell Signal 2022; 100:110458. [PMID: 36055565 PMCID: PMC9971365 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2022.110458] [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: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) are facultative tissue-specific stem cells lining reactive ductules, which are ubiquitously observed in chronic liver diseases and cancer. Although previous research mainly focused on their contribution to liver regeneration, it turned out that in vivo differentiation of HPCs into hepatocytes only occurs after extreme injury. While recent correlative evidence implies the association of HPCs with disease progression, their exact role in pathogenesis remains largely unknown. Our previous research demonstrated that HPCs expressing angiogenic paracrine factors accumulate in the peritumoral area and are positively correlated with the extent of intratumoral cell proliferation and angiogenesis in the livers of patients with liver cancer. Given the crucial roles of angiogenesis in liver disease progression and carcinogenesis, we aimed to test the hypothesis that HPCs secrete paracrine factors to communicate with endothelial cells, to determine molecular mechanisms mediating HPCs-endothelial interactions, and to understand how the paracrine function of HPCs is regulated. HPCs promoted viability and tubulogenesis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and upregulated genes known to be involved in angiogenesis, endothelial cell function, and disease progression in a paracrine manner. The paracrine function of HPCs as well as expression of colony stimulating factor 1 (CSF1) were inhibited upon differentiation of HPCs toward hepatocytes. Inhibition of CSF1 receptor partly suppressed the paracrine effects of HPCs on HUVECs. Taken together, our study indicates that inhibition of the paracrine function of HPCs through modulation of their differentiation status and inhibition of CSF1 signaling is a promising strategy for inhibition of angiogenesis during pathological progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanghoon Lee
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Rebekah Karns
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Soona Shin
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
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14
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Qian Y, Shang Z, Gao Y, Wu H, Kong X. Liver Regeneration in Chronic Liver Injuries: Basic and Clinical Applications Focusing on Macrophages and Natural Killer Cells. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 14:971-981. [PMID: 35738473 PMCID: PMC9489753 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2022.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Liver regeneration is a necessary but complex process involving multiple cell types besides hepatocytes. Mechanisms underlying liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy and acute liver injury have been well-described. However, in patients with chronic and severe liver injury, the remnant liver cannot completely restore the liver mass and function, thereby involving liver progenitor-like cells (LPLCs) and various immune cells. RESULTS Macrophages are beneficial to LPLCs proliferation and the differentiation of LPLCs to hepatocytes. Also, cells expressing natural killer (NK) cell markers have been studied in promoting both liver injury and liver regeneration. NK cells can promote LPLC-induced liver regeneration, but the excessive activation of hepatic NK cells may lead to high serum levels of interferon-γ, thus inhibiting liver regeneration. CONCLUSIONS This review summarizes the recent research on 2 important innate immune cells, macrophages and NK cells, in LPLC-induced liver regeneration and the mechanisms of liver regeneration during chronic liver injury, as well as the latest macrophage- and NK cell-based therapies for chronic liver injury. These novel findings can further help identify new treatments for chronic liver injury, saving patients from the pain of liver transplantations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihan Qian
- Central Laboratory, Department of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi Shang
- Central Laboratory, Department of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yueqiu Gao
- Central Laboratory, Department of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hailong Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiaoni Kong
- Central Laboratory, Department of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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15
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Zweerink S, Mueck V, Kraemer LP, Tischler E, Schulte S, Goeser T, Nierhoff D. Repolarization Precedes Oval Cell-mediated Hepatocytic Regeneration in the CDE Diet Mouse Model. J Histochem Cytochem 2022; 70:377-389. [PMID: 35272516 PMCID: PMC9058371 DOI: 10.1369/00221554221084665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver has a unique ability to recover from injury unlike any other organ. A poorly understood aspect of liver regeneration is the role of hepatocellular polarization. Neighbor of Punc E11 (Nope) is an oncofetal stem/progenitor cell marker, which is expressed by depolarized adult hepatocytes after cholestatic liver injury and in hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver injury induced by a choline-deficient and ethionine-supplemented diet is reversible if followed by an additional dietary stop interval and enabled us to study the expression of Nope during the induction of chronic liver injury and during subsequent liver regeneration. We could show by quantitative RT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry that the expression of Nope is induced in depolarized adult hepatocytes during injury. However, after another 2 weeks of a normal diet, the polarization of hepatocytes was almost completely restored and the expression of Nope remained limited to bile ducts and oval cells. Using an inducible CK19-lineage tracing model, we could demonstrate that oval cell-mediated hepatocyte regeneration is rare and was preceded by repolarization of hepatocytes. In conclusion, polarization of hepatocytes is an important part of liver regeneration and precedes oval cell-mediated regeneration of the liver. This process can be visualized by a characteristic expression pattern of Nope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Zweerink
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Vera Mueck
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Laurenz P Kraemer
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Eva Tischler
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany (ET)
| | - Sigrid Schulte
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Tobias Goeser
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Dirk Nierhoff
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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16
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Lan T, Qian S, Tang C, Gao J. Role of Immune Cells in Biliary Repair. Front Immunol 2022; 13:866040. [PMID: 35432349 PMCID: PMC9005827 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.866040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The biliary system is comprised of cholangiocytes and plays an important role in maintaining liver function. Under normal conditions, cholangiocytes remain in the stationary phase and maintain a very low turnover rate. However, the robust biliary repair is initiated in disease conditions, and different repair mechanisms can be activated depending on the pathological changes. During biliary disease, immune cells including monocytes, lymphocytes, neutrophils, and mast cells are recruited to the liver. The cellular interactions between cholangiocytes and these recruited immune cells as well as hepatic resident immune cells, including Kupffer cells, determine disease outcomes. However, the role of immune cells in the initiation, regulation, and suspension of biliary repair remains elusive. The cellular processes of cholangiocyte proliferation, progenitor cell differentiation, and hepatocyte-cholangiocyte transdifferentiation during biliary diseases are reviewed to manifest the underlying mechanism of biliary repair. Furthermore, the potential role of immune cells in crucial biliary repair mechanisms is highlighted. The mechanisms of biliary repair in immune-mediated cholangiopathies, inherited cholangiopathies, obstructive cholangiopathies, and cholangiocarcinoma are also summarized. Additionally, novel techniques that could clarify the underlying mechanisms of biliary repair are displayed. Collectively, this review aims to deepen the understanding of the mechanisms of biliary repair and contributes potential novel therapeutic methods for treating biliary diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Lan
- Lab 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
| | - Shuaijie Qian
- Lab 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
| | - Chengwei Tang
- Lab 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
| | - Jinhang Gao
- Lab 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
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17
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Holczbauer Á, Wangensteen KJ, Shin S. Cellular origins of regenerating liver and hepatocellular carcinoma. JHEP Rep 2022; 4:100416. [PMID: 35243280 PMCID: PMC8873941 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the predominant primary cancer arising from the liver and is one of the major causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The cellular origin of HCC has been a topic of great interest due to conflicting findings regarding whether it originates in hepatocytes, biliary cells, or facultative stem cells. These cell types all undergo changes during liver injury, and there is controversy about their contribution to regenerative responses in the liver. Most HCCs emerge in the setting of chronic liver injury from viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, alcohol, and environmental exposures. The injuries are marked by liver parenchymal changes such as hepatocyte regenerative nodules, biliary duct cellular changes, expansion of myofibroblasts that cause fibrosis and cirrhosis, and inflammatory cell infiltration, all of which may contribute to carcinogenesis. Addressing the cellular origin of HCC is the key to identifying the earliest events that trigger it. Herein, we review data on the cells of origin in regenerating liver and HCC and the implications of these findings for prevention and treatment. We also review the origins of childhood liver cancer and other rare cancers of the liver.
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18
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Jindal A, Jagdish RK, Kumar A. Hepatic Regeneration in Cirrhosis. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2022; 12:603-616. [PMID: 35535091 PMCID: PMC9077225 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2021.08.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
End-stage liver disease is characterized by massive hepatocyte death resulting in clinical decompensation and organ failures. Clinical consequences in cirrhosis are the results of the loss of functional hepatocytes and excessive scarring. The only curative therapy in advanced cirrhosis is orthotropic liver transplantation, but the clinical demand outweighs the availability of acceptable donor organs. Moreover, this also necessitates lifelong immunosuppression and carries associated risks. The liver has a huge capability for regeneration. Self-replication of quiescent differentiated hepatocytes and cholangiocytes occurs in patients with acute liver injury. Due to limited hepatocyte self-renewal capacity in advanced cirrhosis, great interest has therefore been shown in characterizing the possible role of hepatic progenitor cells and bone marrow-derived stem cells to therapeutically aid this process. Transplantation of cells from various sources that can be properly differentiated into functional liver cells or use of growth factors for ex-vivo expansion of progenitor cells is needed at utmost priority. Multiple researches over the last two decades have aided researchers in refining proliferation, differentiation, and storage techniques and understand the functionality of these cells for use in clinical practice. However, these cell-based therapies are still experimental and have to be used in trial settings.
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Key Words
- Ang2, angiopoietin 2
- BM, Bone marrow
- BM-MNCs, bone marrow mononuclear cells
- BMSC, bone marrow stem cells
- DAMPs, Damage associated molecular patterns
- EPCs, endothelial progenitor cells
- ESRP2, epithelial splicing regulatory protein 2
- GCSF
- HGF, hepatocyte growth factor
- HPC, Hepatocyte progenitor cells
- HSCs, hematopoietic stem cells
- Hh, Hedgehog
- HybHP, hybrid periportal hepatocytes
- MMP, matrix metalloprotease
- MSCs, mesenchymal stromal cells
- OLT, Orthotropic liver transplantation
- PAMPs, Pathogen associated molecular patterns
- SAH, severe alcoholic hepatitis
- SDF1, stromal-derived factor 1
- TNFSF12, tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 12
- Terthigh, high Telomerase reverse transcriptase
- [Hnf4a], Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 4 Alpha
- [Mfsd2a], Major Facilitator Superfamily Domain containing 2A
- acute liver failure
- chronic liver diseases
- hepatocyte transplant
- liver regeneration
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankur Jindal
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi 110070, India
| | | | - Anupam Kumar
- Department of Research, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi 110070, India
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19
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Fu X, He Q, Tao Y, Wang M, Wang W, Wang Y, Yu QC, Zhang F, Zhang X, Chen YG, Gao D, Hu P, Hui L, Wang X, Zeng YA. Recent advances in tissue stem cells. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2021; 64:1998-2029. [PMID: 34865207 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-021-2007-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells capable of self-renewal and differentiation, giving rise to specialized functional cells. Stem cells are of pivotal importance for organ and tissue development, homeostasis, and injury and disease repair. Tissue-specific stem cells are a rare population residing in specific tissues and present powerful potential for regeneration when required. They are usually named based on the resident tissue, such as hematopoietic stem cells and germline stem cells. This review discusses the recent advances in stem cells of various tissues, including neural stem cells, muscle stem cells, liver progenitors, pancreatic islet stem/progenitor cells, intestinal stem cells, and prostate stem cells, and the future perspectives for tissue stem cell research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Fu
- Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Qiang He
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Yu Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Mengdi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou), Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou), Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yalong Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Qing Cissy Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Fang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Ye-Guang Chen
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
- Max-Planck Center for Tissue Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory, Guangzhou, 510530, China.
| | - Dong Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Ping Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.
- Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China.
- Max-Planck Center for Tissue Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory, Guangzhou, 510530, China.
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- Bio-Research Innovation Center, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Suzhou, 215121, China.
| | - Lijian Hui
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- Bio-Research Innovation Center, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Suzhou, 215121, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China.
- School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
| | - Xiaoqun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou), Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China.
| | - Yi Arial Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.
- Bio-Research Innovation Center, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Suzhou, 215121, China.
- School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
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20
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Cell-Based Regeneration and Treatment of Liver Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910276. [PMID: 34638617 PMCID: PMC8508969 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver, in combination with a functional biliary system, is responsible for maintaining a great number of vital body functions. However, acute and chronic liver diseases may lead to irreversible liver damage and, ultimately, liver failure. At the moment, the best curative option for patients suffering from end-stage liver disease is liver transplantation. However, the number of donor livers required by far surpasses the supply, leading to a significant organ shortage. Cellular therapies play an increasing role in the restoration of organ function and can be integrated into organ transplantation protocols. Different types and sources of stem cells are considered for this purpose, but highly specific immune cells are also the focus of attention when developing individualized therapies. In-depth knowledge of the underlying mechanisms governing cell differentiation and engraftment is crucial for clinical implementation. Additionally, novel technologies such as ex vivo machine perfusion and recent developments in tissue engineering may hold promising potential for the implementation of cell-based therapies to restore proper organ function.
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21
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Campana L, Esser H, Huch M, Forbes S. Liver regeneration and inflammation: from fundamental science to clinical applications. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2021; 22:608-624. [PMID: 34079104 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-021-00373-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Liver regeneration is a complex process involving the crosstalk of multiple cell types, including hepatocytes, hepatic stellate cells, endothelial cells and inflammatory cells. The healthy liver is mitotically quiescent, but following toxic damage or resection the cells can rapidly enter the cell cycle to restore liver mass and function. During this process of regeneration, epithelial and non-parenchymal cells respond in a tightly coordinated fashion. Recent studies have described the interaction between inflammatory cells and a number of other cell types in the liver. In particular, macrophages can support biliary regeneration, contribute to fibrosis remodelling by repressing hepatic stellate cell activation and improve liver regeneration by scavenging dead or dying cells in situ. In this Review, we describe the mechanisms of tissue repair following damage, highlighting the close relationship between inflammation and liver regeneration, and discuss how recent findings can help design novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Campana
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Hannah Esser
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Meritxell Huch
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
| | - Stuart Forbes
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
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22
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He L, Pu W, Liu X, Zhang Z, Han M, Li Y, Huang X, Han X, Li Y, Liu K, Shi M, Lai L, Sun R, Wang QD, Ji Y, Tchorz JS, Zhou B. Proliferation tracing reveals regional hepatocyte generation in liver homeostasis and repair. Science 2021; 371:371/6532/eabc4346. [PMID: 33632818 DOI: 10.1126/science.abc4346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Organ homeostasis is orchestrated by time- and spatially restricted cell proliferation. Studies identifying cells with superior proliferative capacities often rely on the lineage tracing of a subset of cell populations, which introduces a potential selective bias. In this work, we developed a genetic system [proliferation tracer (ProTracer)] by incorporating dual recombinases to seamlessly record the proliferation events of entire cell populations over time in multiple organs. In the mouse liver, ProTracer revealed more hepatocyte proliferation in distinct zones during liver homeostasis, injury repair, and regrowth. Clonal analysis showed that most of the hepatocytes labeled by ProTracer had undergone cell division. By genetically recording proliferation events of entire cell populations, ProTracer enables the unbiased detection of specific cellular compartments with enhanced regenerative capacities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingjuan He
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjuan Pu
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiuxiu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenqian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Maoying Han
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiuzhen Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ximeng Han
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Kuo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengyang Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Liang Lai
- Shanghai Model Organisms Center, Inc., Shanghai, China
| | - Ruilin Sun
- Shanghai Model Organisms Center, Inc., Shanghai, China
| | - Qing-Dong Wang
- Bioscience Cardiovascular, Research and Early Development, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism (CVRM), BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Yong Ji
- The Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jan S Tchorz
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Bin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China. .,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.,School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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23
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Matsumori T, Kodama Y, Takai A, Shiokawa M, Nishikawa Y, Matsumoto T, Takeda H, Marui S, Okada H, Hirano T, Kuwada T, Sogabe Y, Kakiuchi N, Tomono T, Mima A, Morita T, Ueda T, Tsuda M, Yamauchi Y, Kuriyama K, Sakuma Y, Ota Y, Maruno T, Uza N, Marusawa H, Kageyama R, Chiba T, Seno H. Hes1 Is Essential in Proliferating Ductal Cell-Mediated Development of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma. Cancer Res 2020; 80:5305-5316. [PMID: 33067264 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-20-1161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is frequently driven by aberrant KRAS activation and develops in the liver with chronic inflammation. Although the Notch signaling pathway is critically involved in ICC development, detailed mechanisms of Notch-driven ICC development are still unknown. Here, we use mice whose Notch signaling is genetically engineered to show that the Notch signaling pathway, specifically the Notch/Hes1 axis, plays an essential role in expanding ductular cells in the liver with chronic inflammation or oncogenic Kras activation. Activation of Notch1 enhanced the development of proliferating ductal cells (PDC) in injured livers, while depletion of Hes1 led to suppression. In correlation with PDC expansion, ICC development was also regulated by the Notch/Hes1 axis and suppressed by Hes1 depletion. Lineage-tracing experiments using EpcamcreERT2 mice further confirmed that Hes1 plays a critical role in the induction of PDC and that ICC could originate from PDC. Analysis of human ICC specimens showed PDC in nonneoplastic background tissues, confirming HES1 expression in both PDC and ICC tumor cells. Our findings provide novel direct experimental evidence that Hes1 plays an essential role in the development of ICC via PDC. SIGNIFICANCE: This study contributes to the identification of the cells of origin that initiate ICC and suggests that HES1 may represent a therapeutic target in ICC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoaki Matsumori
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuzo Kodama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan. .,Department of Gastroenterology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Takai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masahiro Shiokawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Nishikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tomonori Matsumoto
- Oregon Stem Cell Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Haruhiko Takeda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Saiko Marui
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Okada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tomonori Hirano
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kuwada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuko Sogabe
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Kakiuchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Teruko Tomono
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Atsushi Mima
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Morita
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tatsuki Ueda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Motoyuki Tsuda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuki Yamauchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Katsutoshi Kuriyama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yojiro Sakuma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuji Ota
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takahisa Maruno
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Norimitsu Uza
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Marusawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Japanese Red Cross Hospital Osaka, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ryoichiro Kageyama
- Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Shogoin-Kawahara, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Chiba
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.,Kansai Electric Power Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Seno
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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24
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Pek NMQ, Liu KJ, Nichane M, Ang LT. Controversies Surrounding the Origin of Hepatocytes in Adult Livers and the in Vitro Generation or Propagation of Hepatocytes. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 11:273-290. [PMID: 32992051 PMCID: PMC7695885 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2020.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial cells in the liver (known as hepatocytes) are high-performance engines of myriad metabolic functions and versatile responders to liver injury. As hepatocytes metabolize amino acids, alcohol, drugs, and other substrates, they produce and are exposed to a milieu of toxins and harmful byproducts that can damage themselves. In the healthy liver, hepatocytes generally divide slowly. However, after liver injury, hepatocytes can ramp up proliferation to regenerate the liver. Yet, on extensive injury, regeneration falters, and liver failure ensues. It is therefore critical to understand the mechanisms underlying liver regeneration and, in particular, which liver cells are mobilized during liver maintenance and repair. Controversies continue to surround the very existence of hepatic stem cells and, if they exist, their spatial location, multipotency, degree of contribution to regeneration, ploidy, and susceptibility to tumorigenesis. This review discusses these controversies. Finally, we highlight how insights into hepatocyte regeneration and biology in vivo can inform in vitro studies to propagate primary hepatocytes with liver regeneration-associated signals and to generate hepatocytes de novo from pluripotent stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lay Teng Ang
- Correspondence Address correspondence to: Lay Teng Ang, PhD, Stanford Institute for Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Stanford-UC Berkeley Siebel Stem Cell Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305.
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25
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Konishi T, Schuster RM, Goetzman HS, Caldwell CC, Lentsch AB. Fibrotic liver has prompt recovery after ischemia-reperfusion injury. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2020; 318:G390-G400. [PMID: 31961717 PMCID: PMC7099490 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00137.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) is a major complication of liver resection, trauma, and liver transplantation; however, liver repair after I/R in diseased liver has not been studied. The present study sought to determine the manner in which the fibrotic liver repairs itself after I/R. Liver fibrosis was established in mice by CCl4 administration for 6 wk, and then liver I/R was performed to investigate liver injury and subsequent liver repair in fibrotic and control livers. After I/R, fibrotic liver had more injury compared with nonfibrotic, control liver; however, fibrotic liver showed rapid resolution of liver necrosis and reconstruction of liver parenchyma. Marked accumulation of hepatic stellate cells and macrophages were observed specifically in the fibrotic septa in early reparative phase. Fibrotic liver had higher numbers of hepatic stellate cells, macrophages, and hepatic progenitor cells during liver recovery after I/R than did control liver, but hepatocyte proliferation was unchanged. Fibrotic liver also had significantly greater number of phagocytic macrophages than control liver. Clodronate liposome injection into fibrotic mice after I/R caused decreased macrophage accumulation and delay of liver recovery. Conversely, CSF1-Fc injection into normal mice after I/R resulted in increased macrophage accumulation and concomitant decrease in necrotic tissue during liver recovery. In conclusion, fibrotic liver clears necrotic areas and restores normal parenchyma faster than normal liver after I/R. This beneficial response appears to be directly related to the increased numbers of nonparenchymal cells, particularly phagocytic macrophages, in the fibrotic liver.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study is the first to reveal how diseased liver recovers after ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Although it was not completely unexpected that fibrotic liver had increased hepatic injury after I/R, a novel finding was that fibrotic liver had accelerated recovery and repair compared with normal liver. Enhanced repair after I/R in fibrotic liver was associated with increased expansion of phagocytic macrophages, hepatic stellate cells, and progenitor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takanori Konishi
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Rebecca M Schuster
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Holly S Goetzman
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Charles C Caldwell
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Alex B Lentsch
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
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26
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Ko S, Russell JO, Molina LM, Monga SP. Liver Progenitors and Adult Cell Plasticity in Hepatic Injury and Repair: Knowns and Unknowns. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PATHOLOGY 2020; 15:23-50. [PMID: 31399003 PMCID: PMC7212705 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pathmechdis-012419-032824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The liver is a complex organ performing numerous vital physiological functions. For that reason, it possesses immense regenerative potential. The capacity for repair is largely attributable to the ability of its differentiated epithelial cells, hepatocytes and biliary epithelial cells, to proliferate after injury. However, in cases of extreme acute injury or prolonged chronic insult, the liver may fail to regenerate or do so suboptimally. This often results in life-threatening end-stage liver disease for which liver transplantation is the only effective treatment. In many forms of liver injury, bipotent liver progenitor cells are theorized to be activated as an additional tier of liver repair. However, the existence, origin, fate, activation, and contribution to regeneration of liver progenitor cells is hotly debated, especially since hepatocytes and biliary epithelial cells themselves may serve as facultative stem cells for one another during severe liver injury. Here, we discuss the evidence both supporting and refuting the existence of liver progenitor cells in a variety of experimental models. We also debate the validity of developing therapies harnessing the capabilities of these cells as potential treatments for patients with severe and chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungjin Ko
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA;
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
| | - Jacquelyn O Russell
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA;
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
| | - Laura M Molina
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA;
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
| | - Satdarshan P Monga
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA;
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
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27
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Akbari S, Arslan N, Senturk S, Erdal E. Next-Generation Liver Medicine Using Organoid Models. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:345. [PMID: 31921856 PMCID: PMC6933000 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
"Liver medicine" refers to all diagnostic and treatment strategies of diseases and conditions that cause liver failure directly or indirectly. Despite significant advances in the field of liver medicine in recent years, improved tools are needed to efficiently define the pathophysiology of liver diseases and provide effective therapeutic options to patients. Recently, organoid technology has been established as the state-of-the-art cell culture tool for studying human biology in health and disease. In general, organoids are simplified three-dimensional (3D) mini-organ structures that can be grown in a 3D matrix where the structural and functional aspects of real organs are efficiently recapitulated. The generation of organoids is facilitated by exogenous factors that regulate multiple signaling pathways and promote the self-renewal, proliferation, and differentiation of the cells to promote spontaneous self-organization and tissue-specific organogenesis. Newly established protocols suggest that liver-specific organoids can be derived from either pluripotent stem cells or liver-specific stem/progenitor cells. Today, robust and long-term cultures of organoids with the closest physiology to in vivo liver, in terms of cellular composition and function, open a new era in studying and understanding the disease pathology as well as high-throughput drug screening. Of note, these next-generation cell culture systems have immense potential to be further improved by genome editing and bioengineering technologies to foster the development of patient-specific therapeutic options for clinical applications. Here, we will discuss recent advances and challenges in the generation of human liver organoids and highlight emerging concepts for their potential applications in liver medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nur Arslan
- İzmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, İzmir, Turkey.,Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Serif Senturk
- İzmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, İzmir, Turkey.,Department of Genome Sciences and Molecular Biotechnology, İzmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Esra Erdal
- İzmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, İzmir, Turkey.,Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, İzmir, Turkey
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28
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Sun T, Pikiolek M, Orsini V, Bergling S, Holwerda S, Morelli L, Hoppe PS, Planas-Paz L, Yang Y, Ruffner H, Bouwmeester T, Lohmann F, Terracciano LM, Roma G, Cong F, Tchorz JS. AXIN2 + Pericentral Hepatocytes Have Limited Contributions to Liver Homeostasis and Regeneration. Cell Stem Cell 2019; 26:97-107.e6. [PMID: 31866224 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2019.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Revised: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The existence of specialized liver stem cell populations, including AXIN2+ pericentral hepatocytes, that safeguard homeostasis and repair has been controversial. Here, using AXIN2 lineage tracing in BAC-transgenic mice, we confirm the regenerative potential of intestinal stem cells (ISCs) but find limited roles for pericentral hepatocytes in liver parenchyma homeostasis. Liver regrowth following partial hepatectomy is enabled by proliferation of hepatocytes throughout the liver, rather than by a pericentral population. Periportal hepatocyte injury triggers local repair as well as auxiliary proliferation in all liver zones. DTA-mediated ablation of AXIN2+ pericentral hepatocytes transiently disrupts this zone, which is reestablished by conversion of pericentral vein-juxtaposed glutamine synthetase (GS)- hepatocytes into GS+ hepatocytes and by compensatory proliferation of hepatocytes across liver zones. These findings show hepatocytes throughout the liver can upregulate AXIN2 and LGR5 after injury and contribute to liver regeneration on demand, without zonal dominance by a putative pericentral stem cell population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianliang Sun
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Monika Pikiolek
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Vanessa Orsini
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sebastian Bergling
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sjoerd Holwerda
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lapo Morelli
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Philipp S Hoppe
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lara Planas-Paz
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Yi Yang
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Heinz Ruffner
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tewis Bouwmeester
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Felix Lohmann
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Guglielmo Roma
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Feng Cong
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jan S Tchorz
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland.
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29
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Meta-Analysis of Human and Mouse Biliary Epithelial Cell Gene Profiles. Cells 2019; 8:cells8101117. [PMID: 31547151 PMCID: PMC6829476 DOI: 10.3390/cells8101117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic liver diseases are frequently accompanied with activation of biliary epithelial cells (BECs) that can differentiate into hepatocytes and cholangiocytes, providing an endogenous back-up system. Functional studies on BECs often rely on isolations of an BEC cell population from healthy and/or injured livers. However, a consensus on the characterization of these cells has not yet been reached. The aim of this study was to compare the publicly available transcriptome profiles of human and mouse BECs and to establish gene signatures that can identify quiescent and activated human and mouse BECs. METHODS We used publicly available transcriptome data sets of human and mouse BECs, compared their profiles and analyzed co-expressed genes and pathways. By merging both human and mouse BEC-enriched genes, we obtained a quiescent and activation gene signature and tested them on BEC-like cells and different liver diseases using gene set enrichment analysis. In addition, we identified several genes from both gene signatures to identify BECs in a scRNA sequencing data set. RESULTS Comparison of mouse BEC transcriptome data sets showed that the isolation method and array platform strongly influences their general profile, still most populations are highly enriched in most genes currently associated with BECs. Pathway analysis on human and mouse BECs revealed the KRAS signaling as a new potential pathway in BEC activation. We established a quiescent and activated BEC gene signature that can be used to identify BEC-like cells and detect BEC enrichment in alcoholic hepatitis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and peribiliary sclerotic livers. Finally, we identified a gene set that can distinguish BECs from other liver cells in mouse and human scRNAseq data. CONCLUSIONS Through a meta-analysis of human and mouse BEC gene profiles we identified new potential pathways in BEC activation and created unique gene signatures for quiescent and activated BECs. These signatures and pathways will help in the further characterization of this progenitor cell type in mouse and human liver development and disease.
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30
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Kitade M, Kaji K, Nishimura N, Seki K, Nakanishi K, Tsuji Y, Sato S, Saikawa S, Takaya H, Kawaratani H, Namisaki T, Moriya K, Mitoro A, Yoshiji H. Blocking development of liver fibrosis augments hepatic progenitor cell-derived liver regeneration in a mouse chronic liver injury model. Hepatol Res 2019; 49:1034-1045. [PMID: 30989766 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM The roles of hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) in regeneration of a diseased liver are unclear. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) contribute to liver fibrosis but are also a component of the HPC niche. Hepatic progenitor cells expand along with HSC activation and liver fibrosis. However, little is known about the interplay of liver fibrosis and HPC-mediated liver regeneration. This study aimed to investigate HSCs and HPCs in liver regeneration. METHODS Liver injury in mice was induced with 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine, and HPC expansion and fibrosis were assessed. An angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker (ARB) was administered to assess its effect on fibrosis and regeneration. RESULTS Treatment with ARB attenuated fibrosis and expansion of α-smooth muscle actin-positive activated HSCs as indicated by increased liver weight and Ki-67-positive hepatocytes. Immunohistochemical staining suggested that HPC differentiation was shifted toward hepatocytes (HCs) when ARB treatment decreased HPC encapsulation by HSCs and extracellular matrix. Conditioned medium produced by culturing the human HSC LX-2 line strongly augmented differentiation to biliary epithelial cells (BECs) but inhibited that to HCs. Activated HSCs expressed Jagged1, a NOTCH ligand, which plays a central role in differentiation of HPCs toward BECs. CONCLUSIONS Hepatic stellate cells, the HPC niche cells, control differentiation of HPCs, directing them toward BECs rather than HCs in a diseased liver model. Antifibrosis treatment with an ARB preferentially redirects HPC differentiation toward HCs by blocking the NOTCH pathway in the HPC niche, resulting in more efficient HPC-mediated liver regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuteru Kitade
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Kosuke Kaji
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Norihisa Nishimura
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Kenichiro Seki
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Keisuke Nakanishi
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Yuki Tsuji
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Shinya Sato
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Soichiro Saikawa
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Takaya
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Hideto Kawaratani
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Tadashi Namisaki
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Kei Moriya
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Akira Mitoro
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Yoshiji
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
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31
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Planas-Paz L, Sun T, Pikiolek M, Cochran NR, Bergling S, Orsini V, Yang Z, Sigoillot F, Jetzer J, Syed M, Neri M, Schuierer S, Morelli L, Hoppe PS, Schwarzer W, Cobos CM, Alford JL, Zhang L, Cuttat R, Waldt A, Carballido-Perrig N, Nigsch F, Kinzel B, Nicholson TB, Yang Y, Mao X, Terracciano LM, Russ C, Reece-Hoyes JS, Gubser Keller C, Sailer AW, Bouwmeester T, Greenbaum LE, Lugus JJ, Cong F, McAllister G, Hoffman GR, Roma G, Tchorz JS. YAP, but Not RSPO-LGR4/5, Signaling in Biliary Epithelial Cells Promotes a Ductular Reaction in Response to Liver Injury. Cell Stem Cell 2019; 25:39-53.e10. [PMID: 31080135 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2019.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Biliary epithelial cells (BECs) form bile ducts in the liver and are facultative liver stem cells that establish a ductular reaction (DR) to support liver regeneration following injury. Liver damage induces periportal LGR5+ putative liver stem cells that can form BEC-like organoids, suggesting that RSPO-LGR4/5-mediated WNT/β-catenin activity is important for a DR. We addressed the roles of this and other signaling pathways in a DR by performing a focused CRISPR-based loss-of-function screen in BEC-like organoids, followed by in vivo validation and single-cell RNA sequencing. We found that BECs lack and do not require LGR4/5-mediated WNT/β-catenin signaling during a DR, whereas YAP and mTORC1 signaling are required for this process. Upregulation of AXIN2 and LGR5 is required in hepatocytes to enable their regenerative capacity in response to injury. Together, these data highlight heterogeneity within the BEC pool, delineate signaling pathways involved in a DR, and clarify the identity and roles of injury-induced periportal LGR5+ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Planas-Paz
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tianliang Sun
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Monika Pikiolek
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nadire R Cochran
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Sebastian Bergling
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Vanessa Orsini
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Zinger Yang
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Frederic Sigoillot
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jasna Jetzer
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Maryam Syed
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marilisa Neri
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sven Schuierer
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lapo Morelli
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Philipp S Hoppe
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Wibke Schwarzer
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Carlos M Cobos
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland; Hospital Aleman, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - John L Alford
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Le Zhang
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Rachel Cuttat
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Annick Waldt
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Florian Nigsch
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Bernd Kinzel
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Thomas B Nicholson
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Yi Yang
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Xiaohong Mao
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Carsten Russ
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - John S Reece-Hoyes
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Andreas W Sailer
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tewis Bouwmeester
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Linda E Greenbaum
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, East Hanover, NJ, USA
| | - Jesse J Lugus
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Feng Cong
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Gregory McAllister
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Gregory R Hoffman
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Guglielmo Roma
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jan S Tchorz
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland.
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32
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Tsuchiya A, Lu WY. Liver stem cells: Plasticity of the liver epithelium. World J Gastroenterol 2019; 25:1037-1049. [PMID: 30862993 PMCID: PMC6406190 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v25.i9.1037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver has a high regenerative capacity after acute liver injury, but this is often impaired during chronic liver injury. The existence of a dedicated liver stem cell population that acts as a source of regeneration during chronic liver injury has been controversial. Recent advances in transgenic models and cellular reprogramming have provided new insights into the plasticity of the liver epithelium and directions for the development of future therapies. This article will highlight recent findings about the cellular source of regeneration during liver injury and the advances in promoting liver regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsunori Tsuchiya
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate school of medical and dental sciences, Niigata University, Chuo-ku, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Wei-Yu Lu
- Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, the University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
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33
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Russell JO, Lu W, Okabe H, Abrams M, Oertel M, Poddar M, Singh S, Forbes SJ, Monga SP. Hepatocyte-Specific β-Catenin Deletion During Severe Liver Injury Provokes Cholangiocytes to Differentiate Into Hepatocytes. Hepatology 2019; 69:742-759. [PMID: 30215850 PMCID: PMC6351199 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Liver regeneration after injury is normally mediated by proliferation of hepatocytes, although recent studies have suggested biliary epithelial cells (BECs) can differentiate into hepatocytes during severe liver injury when hepatocyte proliferation is impaired. We investigated the effect of hepatocyte-specific β-catenin deletion in recovery from severe liver injury and BEC-to-hepatocyte differentiation. To induce liver injury, we administered choline-deficient, ethionine-supplemented (CDE) diet to three different mouse models, the first being mice with deletion of β-catenin in both BECs and hepatocytes (Albumin-Cre; Ctnnb1flox/flox mice). In our second model, we performed hepatocyte lineage tracing by injecting Ctnnb1flox/flox ; Rosa-stopflox/flox -EYFP mice with the adeno-associated virus serotype 8 encoding Cre recombinase under the control of the thyroid binding globulin promoter, a virus that infects only hepatocytes. Finally, we performed BEC lineage tracing via Krt19-CreERT ; Rosa-stopflox/flox -tdTomato mice. To observe BEC-to-hepatocyte differentiation, mice were allowed to recover on normal diet following CDE diet-induced liver injury. Livers were collected from all mice and analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. We show that mice with lack of β-catenin in hepatocytes placed on the CDE diet develop severe liver injury with impaired hepatocyte proliferation, creating a stimulus for BECs to differentiate into hepatocytes. In particular, we use both hepatocyte and BEC lineage tracing to show that BECs differentiate into hepatocytes, which go on to repopulate the liver during long-term recovery. Conclusion: β-catenin is important for liver regeneration after CDE diet-induced liver injury, and BEC-derived hepatocytes can permanently incorporate into the liver parenchyma to mediate liver regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacquelyn O. Russell
- Department of PathologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research CenterUniversity of Pittsburgh and University of Pittsburgh Medical CenterPittsburghPA
| | - Wei‐Yu Lu
- MRC Centre for Regenerative MedicineUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
- Centre for Liver ResearchUniversity of BirminghamBirminghamUK
| | - Hirohisa Okabe
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and University of Pittsburgh Medical CenterPittsburghPA
- Department of Gastroenterological SurgeryKumamoto UniversityKumamotoJapan
| | | | - Michael Oertel
- Department of PathologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research CenterUniversity of Pittsburgh and University of Pittsburgh Medical CenterPittsburghPA
| | - Minakshi Poddar
- Department of PathologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research CenterUniversity of Pittsburgh and University of Pittsburgh Medical CenterPittsburghPA
| | - Sucha Singh
- Department of PathologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research CenterUniversity of Pittsburgh and University of Pittsburgh Medical CenterPittsburghPA
| | - Stuart J. Forbes
- MRC Centre for Regenerative MedicineUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Satdarshan P. Monga
- Department of PathologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research CenterUniversity of Pittsburgh and University of Pittsburgh Medical CenterPittsburghPA
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and University of Pittsburgh Medical CenterPittsburghPA
- Department of Gastroenterological SurgeryKumamoto UniversityKumamotoJapan
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34
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Jiang Y, Feng D, Ma X, Fan S, Gao Y, Fu K, Wang Y, Sun J, Yao X, Liu C, Zhang H, Xu L, Liu A, Gonzalez FJ, Yang Y, Gao B, Huang M, Bi H. Pregnane X Receptor Regulates Liver Size and Liver Cell Fate by Yes-Associated Protein Activation in Mice. Hepatology 2019; 69:343-358. [PMID: 30048004 PMCID: PMC6324985 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Activation of pregnane X receptor (PXR), a nuclear receptor that controls xenobiotic and endobiotic metabolism, is known to induce liver enlargement, but the molecular signals and cell types responding to PXR-induced hepatomegaly remain unknown. In this study, the effect of PXR activation on liver enlargement and cell change was evaluated in several strains of genetically modified mice and animal models. Lineage labeling using AAV-Tbg-Cre-treated Rosa26EYFP mice or Sox9-CreERT , Rosa26EYFP mice was performed and Pxr-null mice or AAV Yap short hairpin RNA (shRNA)-treated mice were used to confirm the role of PXR or yes-associated protein (YAP). Treatment with selective PXR activators induced liver enlargement and accelerated regeneration in wild-type (WT) and PXR-humanized mice, but not in Pxr-null mice, by increase of cell size, induction of a regenerative hybrid hepatocyte (HybHP) reprogramming, and promotion of hepatocyte and HybHP proliferation. Mechanistically, PXR interacted with YAP and PXR activation induced nuclear translocation of YAP. Blockade of YAP abolished PXR-induced liver enlargement in mice. Conclusion: These findings revealed a function of PXR in enlarging liver size and changing liver cell fate by activation of the YAP signaling pathway. These results have implications for understanding the physiological functions of PXR and suggest the potential for manipulation of liver size and liver cell fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dechun Feng
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Xiaochao Ma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Shicheng Fan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yue Gao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kaili Fu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiahong Sun
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinpeng Yao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Conghui Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huizhen Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Leqian Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Aiming Liu
- Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Frank J. Gonzalez
- Laboratory of Metabolism, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Yingzi Yang
- Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bin Gao
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Min Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huichang Bi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Correspondence to: Hui-chang Bi, Ph.D., School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 132# Waihuandong Road, Guangzhou University City, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China, Phone: +86-20-39943470, Fax: +86-20-39943000,
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35
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Manco R, Leclercq IA, Clerbaux LA. Liver Regeneration: Different Sub-Populations of Parenchymal Cells at Play Choreographed by an Injury-Specific Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E4115. [PMID: 30567401 PMCID: PMC6321497 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19124115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver regeneration is crucial for the maintenance of liver functional mass during homeostasis and diseases. In a disease context-dependent manner, liver regeneration is contributed to by hepatocytes or progenitor cells. As long as they are replicatively competent, hepatocytes are the main cell type responsible for supporting liver size homeostasisand regeneration. The concept that all hepatocytes within the lobule have the same proliferative capacity but are differentially recruited according to the localization of the wound, or whether a yet to be defined sub-population of hepatocytes supports regeneration is still debated. In a chronically or severely injured liver, hepatocytes may enter a state of replicative senescence. In such conditions, small biliary cells activate and expand, a process called ductular reaction (DR). Work in the last few decades has demonstrated that DR cells can differentiate into hepatocytes and thereby contribute to parenchymal reconstitution. In this study we will review the molecular mechanisms supporting these two processes to determine potential targets that would be amenable for therapeutic manipulation to enhance liver regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Manco
- Laboratory of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Isabelle A Leclercq
- Laboratory of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Laure-Alix Clerbaux
- Laboratory of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium.
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36
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Miura Y, Matsui S, Miyata N, Harada K, Kikkawa Y, Ohmuraya M, Araki K, Tsurusaki S, Okochi H, Goda N, Miyajima A, Tanaka M. Differential expression of Lutheran/BCAM regulates biliary tissue remodeling in ductular reaction during liver regeneration. eLife 2018; 7:36572. [PMID: 30059007 PMCID: PMC6107333 DOI: 10.7554/elife.36572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Under chronic or severe liver injury, liver progenitor cells (LPCs) of biliary origin are known to expand and contribute to the regeneration of hepatocytes and cholangiocytes. This regeneration process is called ductular reaction (DR), which is accompanied by dynamic remodeling of biliary tissue. Although the DR shows apparently distinct mode of biliary extension depending on the type of liver injury, the key regulatory mechanism remains poorly understood. Here, we show that Lutheran (Lu)/Basal cell adhesion molecule (BCAM) regulates the morphogenesis of DR depending on liver disease models. Lu+ and Lu- biliary cells isolated from injured liver exhibit opposite phenotypes in cell motility and duct formation capacities in vitro. By overexpression of Lu, Lu- biliary cells acquire the phenotype of Lu+ biliary cells. Lu-deficient mice showed severe defects in DR. Our findings reveal a critical role of Lu in the control of phenotypic heterogeneity of DR in distinct liver disease models. Bile is a green to yellow liquid that the body uses to break down and digest fatty molecules. The substance is produced by the liver, and then it is collected and transported to the small bowel by a series of tubes known as the bile duct. When the liver is damaged, the ‘biliary’ cells that line the duct orchestrate the repair of the organ. In fact, the duct often reorganizes itself differently depending on the type of disease the liver is experiencing. For example, the biliary cells can form thin tube-like structures that deeply invade liver tissues, or they can grow into several robust pipes near the existing bile duct. However, it remains largely unknown which protein – or proteins – drive these different types of remodeling. Miura et al. find that, in mice, the biliary cells which invade an injured liver have a large amount of a protein called Lutheran at their surface, but that the cells that form robust ducts do not. This protein helps a cell attach to its surroundings. In addition, the biliary cells can adopt different types of repairing behaviors depending on the amount of Lutheran in their environment. Further experiments show that it is difficult for genetically modified mice without the protein to reshape their bile duct after liver injury. Finally, Miura et al. also detect Lutheran in the remodeling livers of patients with liver disease. Taken together, these results suggest that Lutheran plays an important role in tailoring the repairing roles of the biliary cells to a particular disease. The next step would be to clarify how different liver conditions coordinate the amount of Lutheran in biliary cells to create the right type of remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasushi Miura
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Life Science and Medical Bioscience, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Matsui
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Laboratory of Cell Growth and Differentiation, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoko Miyata
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenichi Harada
- Department of Human Pathology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Yamato Kikkawa
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaki Ohmuraya
- Department of Genetics, Hyogo College of Medicine, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Kimi Araki
- Institute of Resource Development and Analysis, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Shinya Tsurusaki
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Laboratory of Stem Cell Regulation, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Okochi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobuhito Goda
- Department of Life Science and Medical Bioscience, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Miyajima
- Laboratory of Cell Growth and Differentiation, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Minoru Tanaka
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Laboratory of Stem Cell Regulation, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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37
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Ilic Z, Mondal TK, Guest I, Crawford DR, Sell S. Participation of liver stem cells in cholangiocarcinogenesis after aflatoxin B1 exposure of glutathione S-transferase A3 knockout mice. Tumour Biol 2018; 40:1010428318777344. [DOI: 10.1177/1010428318777344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aflatoxin B1, arguably the most potent human carcinogen, induces liver cancer in humans, rats, trout, ducks, and so on, but adult mice are totally resistant. This resistance is because of a detoxifying enzyme, mouse glutathione S-transferase A3, which binds to and inactivates aflatoxin B1 epoxide, preventing the epoxide from binding to DNA and causing mutations. Glutathione S-transferase A3 or its analog has not been detected in any of the sensitive species, including humans. The generation of a glutathione S-transferase A3 knockout (represented as KO or -/-) mice has allowed us to study the induction of liver cancer in mice by aflatoxin B1. In contrast to the induction of hepatocellular carcinomas in other species, aflatoxin B1 induces cholangiocarcinomas in GSTA3-/- mice. In other species and in knockout mice, the induction of liver cancer is preceded by extensive proliferation of small oval cells, providing additional evidence that oval cells are bipolar stem cells and may give rise to either hepatocellular carcinoma or cholangiocarcinoma depending on the nature of the hepatocarcinogen and the species of animal. The recent development of mouse oval cell lines in our laboratory from aflatoxin B1-treated GSTA3-/- mice should provide a new venue for study of the properties and potential of putative mouse liver stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoran Ilic
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Tapan K Mondal
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Ian Guest
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, USA
| | | | - Stewart Sell
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, USA
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38
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Cast A, Valanejad L, Wright M, Nguyen P, Gupta A, Zhu L, Shin S, Timchenko N. C/EBPα-dependent preneoplastic tumor foci are the origin of hepatocellular carcinoma and aggressive pediatric liver cancer. Hepatology 2018; 67:1857-1871. [PMID: 29159818 PMCID: PMC8221081 DOI: 10.1002/hep.29677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2017] [Revised: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Recent publications show that classic hepatoblastoma (HBL) is the result of failure of hepatic stem cells to differentiate into hepatocytes, while hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is caused by the dedifferentiation of hepatocytes into cancer stem cells. However, the mechanisms of aggressive HBL and the mechanisms that cause dedifferentiation of hepatocytes into cancer stem cells are unknown. We found that, similar to HCC but opposite to classic HBL, aggressive HBL is the result of dedifferentiation of hepatocytes into cancer stem cells. In both cases of liver cancer, the dephosphorylation of tumor suppressor protein CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α (C/EBPα) at Ser193 (Ser190 in human protein) or mutation of Ser193 to Ala results in a modified protein with oncogenic activities. We have investigated liver cancer in a mouse model C/EBPα-S193A, in a large cohort of human HBL samples, and in Pten/p53 double knockout mice and found that these cancers are characterized by elevation of C/EBPα that is dephosphorylated at Ser190/193. We found that dephosphorylated C/EBPα creates preneoplastic foci with cancer stem cells that give rise to HCC and aggressive HBL. C/EBPα-dependent dedifferentiation of hepatocytes into cancer stem cells includes increased proliferation of hepatocytes, followed by generation of multinucleated hepatocytes and subsequent appearance of hepatocytes with delta-like 1 homolog-positive intranuclear inclusions. We further isolated C/EBPα-dependent multinucleated hepatocytes and found that they possess characteristics of tumor-initiating cells, including elevation of stem cell markers. C/EBPα-dependent cancer stem cells are observed in patients with aggressive HBL and in patients with a predisposition for liver cancer. CONCLUSION The earliest steps of adult HCC and aggressive pediatric liver cancer have identical features that include conversion of the tumor suppressor C/EBPα into an oncogenic isoform, which further creates preneoplastic foci where hepatocytes dedifferentiate into cancer cells, giving rise to liver cancer. (Hepatology 2018;67:1857-1871).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Cast
- Department of Surgery, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45229
| | - Leila Valanejad
- Department of Surgery, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45229
| | - Mary Wright
- Department of Surgery, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45229
| | - Phuong Nguyen
- Department of Surgery, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45229
| | - Anita Gupta
- Department of Pathology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45229
| | - Liqin Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Soona Shin
- Department of Surgery, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45229
| | - Nikolai Timchenko
- Department of Surgery, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45229.,Correspondent author, Nikolai Timchenko, PhD, Professor of Pediatric General, and Thoracic Surgery, Director of Liver Tumor Program, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, Phone: 513-636-0129,
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Gilgenkrantz H, Collin de l'Hortet A. Understanding Liver Regeneration: From Mechanisms to Regenerative Medicine. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2018; 188:1316-1327. [PMID: 29673755 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2018.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Revised: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Liver regeneration is a complex and unique process. When two-thirds of a mouse liver is removed, the remaining liver recovers its initial weight in approximately 10 days. The understanding of the mechanisms responsible for liver regeneration may help patients needing large liver resections or transplantation and may be applied to the field of regenerative medicine. All differentiated hepatocytes are capable of self-renewal, but different subpopulations of hepatocytes seem to have distinct proliferative abilities. In the setting of chronic liver diseases, a ductular reaction ensues in which liver progenitor cells (LPCs) proliferate in the periportal region. Although these LPCs have the capacity to differentiate into hepatocytes and biliary cells in vitro, their ability to participate in liver regeneration is far from clear. Their expansion has even been associated with increased fibrosis and poorer prognosis in chronic liver diseases. Controversies also remain on their origin: lineage studies in experimental mouse models of chronic injury have recently suggested that these LPCs originate from hepatocyte dedifferentiation, whereas in other situations, they seem to come from cholangiocytes. This review summarizes data published in the past 5 years in the liver regeneration field, discusses the mechanisms leading to regeneration disruption in chronic liver disorders, and addresses the potential use of novel approaches for regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hélène Gilgenkrantz
- INSERM U1149, Center for Research on Inflammation, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France.
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Fukunaga S, Yamanaka S, Fujimoto T, Tajiri S, Uchiyama T, Matsumoto K, Ito T, Tanabe K, Yokoo T. Optimal route of diphtheria toxin administration to eliminate native nephron progenitor cells in vivo for kidney regeneration. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2018; 496:1176-1182. [PMID: 29408475 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2018.01.166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
To address the lack of organs for transplantation, we previously developed a method for organ regeneration in which nephron progenitor cell (NPC) replacement is performed via the diphtheria toxin receptor (DTR) system. In transgenic mice with NPC-specific expression of DTR, NPCs were eliminated by DT and replaced with NPCs lacking the DTR with the ability to differentiate into nephrons. However, this method has only been verified in vitro. For applications to natural models, such as animal fetuses, it is necessary to determine the optimal administration route and dose of DT. In this study, two DT administration routes (intra-peritoneal and intra-amniotic injection) were evaluated in fetal mice. The fetus was delivered by caesarean section at E18.5, and the fetal mouse kidney and RNA expression were evaluated. Additionally, the effect of the DT dose (25, 5, 0.5, and 0.05 ng/fetus-body) was studied. Intra-amniotic injection of DT led to a reduction in kidney volume, loss of glomeruli, and decreased differentiation marker expression. The intra-peritoneal route was not sufficient for NPC elimination. By establishing that intra-amniotic injection is the optimal administration route for DT, these results will facilitate studies of kidney regeneration in vivo. In addition, this method might be useful for analysis of kidney development at various time points by deleting NPCs during development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shohei Fukunaga
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Internal Medicine, Jikei University School of Medicine, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan
| | - Shuichiro Yamanaka
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Internal Medicine, Jikei University School of Medicine, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan
| | - Toshinari Fujimoto
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Internal Medicine, Jikei University School of Medicine, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan
| | - Susumu Tajiri
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Internal Medicine, Jikei University School of Medicine, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan
| | - Taketo Uchiyama
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Internal Medicine, Jikei University School of Medicine, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan
| | - Kei Matsumoto
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Internal Medicine, Jikei University School of Medicine, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan
| | - Takafumi Ito
- Division of Cardiology and Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shimane University Faculty of Medicine, Izumo, Shimane 693-8501, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Tanabe
- Division of Cardiology and Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shimane University Faculty of Medicine, Izumo, Shimane 693-8501, Japan
| | - Takashi Yokoo
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Internal Medicine, Jikei University School of Medicine, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan.
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Abstract
Hepatocytes perform most of the functions of the liver and are considered terminally differentiated cells. Recently, it has been suggested that hepatocytes might have the potential to transdifferentiate or dedifferentiate under physiological or pathological conditions in vivo. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition of hepatocytes in liver fibrosis has also been proposed. However, these findings have not been fully confirmed. In this study, hepatocytes were genetically labelled for cell fate tracing using lacZ via the tamoxifen-induced CreERT/loxP system. After induction with tamoxifen, alb + cells were permanently marked by lacZ expression, and all progeny lacZ + cells were derived from a single source with no interference. We did not observe transdifferentiation or dedifferentiation of hepatocytes into cholangiocytes or hepatic progenitor cells under conditions of liver homeostasis or following a 2/3 partial hepatectomy. Meanwhile, lacZ/OPN-positive cells were observed in livers of 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine-fed mice, and lacZ/alpha-smooth muscle actin-positive cells were detected in carbon tetrachloride-induced chronic liver injury models. These results suggested that some existing differentiated alb + cells might have the potential of transdifferentiation/dedifferentiation or epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in vivo in some liver injury models, but the proportion of these alb + cells in liver was very low, and their significance and actual function during the pathological process remains to be elucidated.
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Russell JO, Monga SP. Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling in Liver Development, Homeostasis, and Pathobiology. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PATHOLOGY-MECHANISMS OF DISEASE 2017; 13:351-378. [PMID: 29125798 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pathol-020117-044010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 291] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The liver is an organ that performs a multitude of functions, and its health is pertinent and indispensable to survival. Thus, the cellular and molecular machinery driving hepatic functions is of utmost relevance. The Wnt signaling pathway is one such signaling cascade that enables hepatic homeostasis and contributes to unique hepatic attributes such as metabolic zonation and regeneration. The Wnt/β-catenin pathway plays a role in almost every facet of liver biology. Furthermore, its aberrant activation is also a hallmark of various hepatic pathologies. In addition to its signaling function, β-catenin also plays a role at adherens junctions. Wnt/β-catenin signaling also influences the function of many different cell types. Due to this myriad of functions, Wnt/β-catenin signaling is complex, context-dependent, and highly regulated. In this review, we discuss the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, its role in cell-cell adhesion and liver function, and the cell type-specific roles of Wnt/β-catenin signaling as it relates to liver physiology and pathobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacquelyn O Russell
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
| | - Satdarshan P Monga
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA.,Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA.,Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA;
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Flores-Téllez TNJ, Villa-Treviño S, Piña-Vázquez C. Road to stemness in hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2017; 23:6750-6776. [PMID: 29085221 PMCID: PMC5645611 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v23.i37.6750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2017] [Revised: 05/27/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Carcinogenic process has been proposed to relay on the capacity to induce local tissue damage and proliferative repair. Liver has a great regeneration capacity and currently, most studies point towards the dominant role of hepatocytes in regeneration at all levels of liver damage. The most frequent liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Historical findings originally led to the idea that the cell of origin of HCC might be a progenitor cell. However, current linage tracing studies put the progenitor hypothesis of HCC origin into question. In agreement with their dominant role in liver regeneration, mature hepatocytes are emerging as the cell of origin of HCC, although, the specific hepatocyte subpopulation of origin is yet to be determined. The relationship between the cancer cell of origin (CCO) and cancer-propagating cells, known as hepatic cancer stem cell (HCSC) is unknown. It has been challenging to identify the definitive phenotypic marker of HCSC, probably due to the existence of different cancer stem cells (CSC) subpopulations with different functions within HCC. There is a dynamic interconversion among different CSCs, and between CSC and non-CSCs. Because of that, CSC-state is currently defined as a description of a highly adaptable and dynamic intrinsic property of tumor cells, instead of a static subpopulation of a tumor. Altered conditions could trigger the gain of stemness, some of them include: EMT-MET, epigenetics, microenvironment and selective stimulus such as chemotherapy. This CSC heterogeneity and dynamism makes them out reach from therapeutic protocols directed to a single target. A further avenue of research in this line will be to uncover mechanisms that trigger this interconversion of cell populations within tumors and target it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresita NJ Flores-Téllez
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Av. IPN No. 2508 Col. San Pedro Zacatenco CP 07360, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Saúl Villa-Treviño
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Av. IPN No. 2508 Col. San Pedro Zacatenco CP 07360, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Carolina Piña-Vázquez
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Av. IPN No. 2508 Col. San Pedro Zacatenco CP 07360, Ciudad de México, México
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Cholangiocytes act as facultative liver stem cells during impaired hepatocyte regeneration. Nature 2017; 547:350-354. [PMID: 28700576 PMCID: PMC5522613 DOI: 10.1038/nature23015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 372] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Following liver injury, regeneration occurs through self-replication of hepatocytes. In severe liver injury, hepatocyte proliferation is impaired, a feature of human chronic liver disease1,2. It is contested whether other liver cell types can regenerate hepatocytes3–5. Here, we use two independent systems to impair hepatocyte proliferation during liver injury to evaluate the contribution of non-hepatocytes to parenchymal regeneration. Firstly, loss of β1-Integrin in hepatocytes with liver injury triggered a ductular reaction of cholangiocyte origin, and ~25% of hepatocytes being derived from a non-hepatocyte origin. Secondly cholangiocytes were lineage traced with concurrent inhibition of hepatocyte proliferation by β1-Integrin knockdown or p21 over-expression, resulting in the significant emergence of cholangiocyte derived hepatocytes. We describe a model of combined liver injury and inhibition of hepatocyte proliferation that causes physiologically significant levels of regeneration of functional hepatocytes from biliary cells.
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45
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Ji H, Lu Y, Shi Y. Seeds in the liver. Acta Histochem 2017; 119:349-356. [PMID: 28389020 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2017.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Revised: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The liver is a crucial organ for homeostasis and has a tremendous self-renewal and regenerative capacity. It has long been believed that the self-renewal and repair of the liver within a given physiological condition or its repopulation in chronic liver diseases, when hepatocyte proliferation is impaired, will primarily be conducted by the proliferating duct cells, termed "oval cells" or hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs). In addition, numerous studies have revealed that HPCs are the initial tumor cells of liver cancer under certain micro-environments. However, benefit from the extensive application of lineage tracing strategies using the Cre/LoxP system, researchers have redefined the fate of these bipotential cells, raising obvious controversies regarding the capacity of liver cells to control their own biology and differentiation. Here, we review the relevant articles, focusing on cell-lineage tracing to better understanding seed cells and their distinct fate in the liver.
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Lukacs-Kornek V, Lammert F. The progenitor cell dilemma: Cellular and functional heterogeneity in assistance or escalation of liver injury. J Hepatol 2017; 66:619-630. [PMID: 27826058 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2016.10.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2016] [Revised: 10/18/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Liver progenitor cells (LPCs) are quiescent cells that are activated during liver injury and thought to give rise to hepatocytes and cholangiocytes in order to support liver regeneration and tissue restitution. While hepatocytes are capable of self-renewal, during most chronic injuries the proliferative capacity of hepatocytes is inhibited, thus LPCs provide main source for regeneration. Despite extensive lineage tracing studies, their role and involvement in these processes are often controversial. Additionally, increasing evidence suggests that the LPC compartment consists of heterogeneous cell populations that are actively involved in cellular interactions with myeloid and lymphoid cells during regeneration. On the other hand, LPC expansion has been associated with an increased fibrogenic response, raising concerns about the therapeutic use of these cells. This review aims to summarize the current understanding of the identity, the cellular interactions and the key pathways affecting the biology of LPCs. Understanding the regulatory circuits and the specific role of LPCs is especially important as it could provide novel therapeutic platforms for the treatment of liver inflammation, fibrosis and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Lukacs-Kornek
- Department of Medicine II, Saarland University Medical Center, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany.
| | - Frank Lammert
- Department of Medicine II, Saarland University Medical Center, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
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Shiota G, Itaba N. Progress in stem cell-based therapy for liver disease. Hepatol Res 2017; 47:127-141. [PMID: 27188253 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Revised: 05/03/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Liver transplantation has been accepted as a useful therapeutic approach for patients with end-stage liver disease. However, the mismatch between the great demand for liver transplants and the number of available donor organs underscores the urgent need for alternative therapeutic strategies for patients with acute and chronic liver failure. The rapidly growing knowledge on stem cell biology has opened new avenues toward stem cell-based therapy for liver disease. As stem cells have capacity for high proliferation and multipotent differentiation, the characteristics of stem cells fit the cell therapy. Several types of cells have been investigated as possible sources of liver regeneration: mesenchymal stem cells, hematopoietic stem cells, liver progenitor cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, and bone marrow mononuclear cells. In vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that these cells have great potential as candidates of stem cell therapy. We reviewed the reports on clinical trials of cell therapy for liver disease that have been recently undertaken using mesenchymal stem cells, hematopoietic stem cells, bone marrow mononuclear cells, and liver progenitor cells. These reports have heterogeneity of description of trial design, types of infused cells, patient population, and efficacy of therapies. We addressed these reports from these viewpoints and clarified their significance. We hope that this review article will provide a perspective on the available approaches based on stem cell-based therapy for liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goshi Shiota
- Division of Molecular and Genetic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Tottori University, Yonago, Japan
| | - Noriko Itaba
- Departments of Genetic Medicine and Regenerative Therapeutics, Graduate School of Medicine, Tottori University, Yonago, Japan
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Li XY, Yang X, Zhao QD, Han ZP, Liang L, Pan XR, Zhu JN, Li R, Wu MC, Wei LX. Lipopolysaccharide promotes tumorigenicity of hepatic progenitor cells by promoting proliferation and blocking normal differentiation. Cancer Lett 2017; 386:35-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2016.10.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2016] [Revised: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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A label-retaining but unipotent cell population resides in biliary compartment of mammalian liver. Sci Rep 2017; 7:40322. [PMID: 28084309 PMCID: PMC5234023 DOI: 10.1038/srep40322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cells with slow proliferation kinetics that retain the nuclear label over long time periods-the label-retaining cells (LRCs)-represent multipotent stem cells in a number of adult tissues. Since the identity of liver LRCs (LLRCs) had remained elusive we utilized a genetic approach to reveal LLRCs in normal non-injured livers and characterized their regenerative properties in vivo and in culture. We found that LLRCs were located in biliary vessels and participated in the regeneration of biliary but not hepatocyte injury. In culture experiments the sorted LLRCs displayed an enhanced self-renewal capacity but a unipotent biliary differentiation potential. Transcriptome analysis revealed a unique set of tumorigenesis- and nervous system-related genes upregulated in LLRCs when compared to non-LRC cholangiocytes. We conclude that the LLRCs established during the normal morphogenesis of the liver do not represent a multipotent primitive somatic stem cell population but act as unipotent biliary progenitor cells.
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Kitade M, Kaji K, Yoshiji H. Relationship between hepatic progenitor cell-mediated liver regeneration and non-parenchymal cells. Hepatol Res 2016; 46:1187-1193. [PMID: 26895456 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2016] [Accepted: 02/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) are thought to reside in the canals of Hering and can be activated and contribute to liver regeneration in response to liver injury by proliferating and differentiating towards both hepatocytes and biliary epithelial cells. In this setting, several cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors related to liver inflammation and other liver cells comprising the HPC niche, namely hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), play crucial roles in HPC activation and differentiation. In response to several types of liver injury, tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) is secreted by several inflammatory cells, including monocytes, T lymphocytes, and macrophages, and acts as an initiator of the HPC niche and HSC activation. Following TWEAK-induced activation of the HPC niche, fibroblast growth factor 7 and hepatocyte growth factor released from activated HSC play central roles in maintaining HPC proliferation. In contrast, HGF-MET and Wnt3a-β-catenin signals are the predominant mediators of the hepatocyte differentiation of HPC, whereas epidermal growth factor receptor-NOTCH signaling controls HPC differentiation towards biliary epithelial cells. These signals are maintained exclusively by activated HSC and inflammatory cells surrounding HPC. Together, HSC and inflammatory cells surrounding HPC are responsible for the precise control of HPC proliferation and differentiation fate. In this review, we discuss recent progress in understanding of interactions between HPC and other liver cells in HPC-mediated liver regeneration in the setting of liver inflammation.
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