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Boretto C, Muzio G, Autelli R. PPARγ antagonism as a new tool for preventing or overcoming endocrine resistance in luminal A breast cancers. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 180:117461. [PMID: 39326102 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117461] [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: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This research investigates the role of PPARγ in the complex molecular events underlying the acquisition of resistance to tamoxifen (Tam) in luminal A breast cancer (BC) cells. Furthermore, it focuses on evaluating the possibility of repurposing Imatinib mesylate, an FDA-approved anticancer agent recently recognized also as a PPARγ antagonist, for the personalized therapy of endocrine-resistant BC with increased PPARγ expression. METHODS Differential gene expression between parental and Tam-resistant MCF7 cells was assessed by RNA-seq followed by bioinformatics analysis and validation by RT-qPCR. PPARγ was downregulated by esiRNAs or inhibited by the antagonist GW9662. Cell viability and proliferation were measured by MTT and colony formation assays. Spheroids were prepared from parental and Tam-resistant MCF7 cells. Other luminal A BC cell lines resistant to Tam were generated. RESULTS In MCF7-TamR cells, PPARγ and several of its target genes were significantly upregulated. Increased PPARγ expression was due to the modulation of its positive/negative transcriptional regulators. Downregulating PPARγ with esiRNAs or GW9662 effectively killed parental and Tam-resistant cells and spheroids. Imatinib revealed to be as effective as GW9662 in restoring Tam susceptibility of these cells. PPARγ overexpression was also observed in the newly-selected Tam-resistant luminal A BC cells, in which GW9662 and Imatinib restored their susceptibility to Tam. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrate that the overexpression of PPARγ is a frequent occurrence during acquisition of Tam resistance in luminal A BC cells, and that PPARγ antagonism represents an alternative therapeutic approach for the personalized treatment of BC showing dysregulation of this nuclear receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Boretto
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Raffaello 30, Turin 10125, Italy
| | - Giuliana Muzio
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Raffaello 30, Turin 10125, Italy
| | - Riccardo Autelli
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Raffaello 30, Turin 10125, Italy.
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Lan T, Li P, Zhang SJ, Liu SY, Zeng XX, Chai F, Tong YH, Mao ZJ, Wang SW. Paeoniflorin promotes PPARγ expression to suppress HSCs activation by inhibiting EZH2-mediated histone H3K27 trimethylation. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 128:155477. [PMID: 38489890 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The alleviating effect of paeoniflorin (Pae) on liver fibrosis has been established; however, the molecular mechanism and specific target(s) underlying this effect remain elusive. PURPOSE This study was to investigate the molecular mechanism underlying the regulatory effect of Pae on hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation in liver fibrosis, with a specific focus on the role of Pae in modulating histone methylation modifications. METHODS The therapeutic effect of Pae was evaluated by establishing in vivo and in vitro models of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced mice and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1)-induced LX-2 cells, respectively. Molecular docking, surface plasmon resonance (SPR), chromatin immunoprecipitation-quantitative real time PCR (ChIP-qPCR) and other molecular biological methods were used to clarify the molecular mechanism of Pae regulating HSCs activation. RESULTS Our study found that Pae inhibited HSCs activation and histone trimethylation modification in liver of CCl4-induced mice and LX-2 cells. We demonstrated that the inhibitory effect of Pae on the activation of HSCs was dependent on peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) expression and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2). Mechanistically, Pae directly binded to EZH2 to effectively suppress its enzymatic activity. This attenuation leaded to the suppression of histone H3K27 trimethylation in the PPARγ promoter region, which induced upregulation of PPARγ expression. CONCLUSION This investigative not only sheds new light on the precise targets that underlie the remission of hepatic fibrogenesis induced by Pae but also emphasizes the critical significance of EZH2-mediated H3K27 trimethylation in driving the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Lan
- Laboratory Animal Resources Center, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, No. 100 Minjiang Road, Quzhou 324000, China; Panvascular Diseases Research Center, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou 324000, China.
| | - Ping Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Si-Jia Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Shi-Yu Liu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Xi-Xi Zeng
- Panvascular Diseases Research Center, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou 324000, China
| | - Fang Chai
- Department of Orthopedics, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Yu-Hua Tong
- Panvascular Diseases Research Center, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou 324000, China; Department of Ophthalmology, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou 324000, China
| | - Zhu-Jun Mao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, China; Department of Ophthalmology, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou 324000, China.
| | - Si-Wei Wang
- Laboratory Animal Resources Center, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, No. 100 Minjiang Road, Quzhou 324000, China; Panvascular Diseases Research Center, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou 324000, China.
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López CAM, Freiberger RN, Sviercz FA, Jarmoluk P, Cevallos C, Quarleri J, Delpino MV. HIV and gp120-induced lipid droplets loss in hepatic stellate cells contribute to profibrotic profile. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167084. [PMID: 38368823 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins, primarily collagen, in response to liver injury caused by chronic liver diseases. HIV infection accelerates the progression of liver fibrosis in patients co-infected with HCV or HBV compared to those who are only mono-infected. The early event in the progression of liver fibrosis involves the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which entails the loss of lipid droplets (LD) to fuel the production of extracellular matrix components crucial for liver tissue healing. Thus, we are examining the mechanism by which HIV stimulates the progression of liver fibrosis. HIV-R5 tropic infection was unable to induce the expression of TGF-β, collagen deposition, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and cellular proliferation. However, this infection induced the secretion of the profibrogenic cytokine IL-6 and the loss of LD. This process involved the participation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α and an increase in lysosomal acid lipase (LAL), along with the involvement of Microtubule-associated protein 1 A/1B-light chain 3 (LC3), strongly suggesting that LD loss could occur through acid lipolysis. These phenomena were mimicked by the gp120 protein from the R5 tropic strain of HIV. Preincubation of HSCs with the CCR5 receptor antagonist, TAK-779, blocked gp120 activity. Additionally, experiments performed with pseudotyped-HIV revealed that HIV replication could also contribute to LD loss. These results demonstrate that the cross-talk between HSCs and HIV involves a series of interactions that help explain some of the mechanisms involved in the exacerbation of liver damage observed in co-infected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinthya Alicia Marcela López
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rosa Nicole Freiberger
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Franco Agustín Sviercz
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Patricio Jarmoluk
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cintia Cevallos
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jorge Quarleri
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Victoria Delpino
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Yu Q, Koda S, Xu N, Li J, Wang JL, Liu M, Liu JX, Zhang Y, Yang HM, Zhang BB, Li XY, Li XC, Tang RX, Zheng KY, Yan C. CsHscB Derived from a Liver Fluke Clonorchis sinensis Ameliorates Cholestatic Hepatic Fibrosis in a Mouse Model of Sclerosing Cholangitis. Curr Mol Med 2024; 24:505-515. [PMID: 37076961 DOI: 10.2174/1566524023666230418111949] [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: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease characterized by inflammatory fibrosis usually involving the whole biliary tree. However, there are very limited treatment options to treat this disease. Our previous study found a lipid-protein rCsHscB from a liver fluke - Clonorchis sinensis, which had full capacities of immune regulation. Therefore, we investigated the role of rCsHscB in a mouse model of sclerosing cholangitis induced by xenobiotic 3,5- diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC) to explore whether this protein had potential therapeutic value for PSC. METHODS Mice were fed 0.1% DDC for 4 weeks and treated with CsHscB (30 μg/mouse, intraperitoneal injection, once every 3 days); the control group was given an equal amount of PBS or CsHscB under normal diet conditions. All the mice were sacrificed at 4 weeks for the evaluation of biliary proliferation, fibrosis, and inflammation. RESULTS rCsHscB treatment attenuated DDC-induced liver congestion and enlargement and significantly decreased the upregulation of serum AST and ALT levels. The administration of rCsHscB to DDC-fed mice significantly decreased cholangiocyte proliferation and pro-inflammatory cytokine production compared to mice fed with DDC alone. Also, rCsHscB treatment showed a decreased expression of α-SMA in the liver and other markers of liver fibrosis (Masson staining, Hydroxyproline content, and collagen deposit). More interestingly, DDC-fed mice treated with rCsHscB showed a significant up-regulation of PPAR-γ expression, which was similar to control mice, indicating the involvement of PPAR-γ signaling in the protective action of rCsHscB. CONCLUSION Overall, our data show that rCsHscB attenuates the progression of cholestatic fibrosis induced by DDC and supports the potential for manipulating the parasite-derived molecule to treat certain immune-mediated disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Yu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Basic Medical Science Education, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
| | - Stephane Koda
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Xu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian-Ling Wang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
| | - Man Liu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
| | - Ji-Xin Liu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui-Min Yang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
| | - Bei-Bei Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Basic Medical Science Education, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang-Yang Li
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Basic Medical Science Education, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Cui Li
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Basic Medical Science Education, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
| | - Ren-Xian Tang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Basic Medical Science Education, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
| | - Kui-Yang Zheng
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Basic Medical Science Education, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Yan
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Basic Medical Science Education, Xuzhou Medical University, No. 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, People's Republic of China
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Borrello MT, Mann D. Chronic liver diseases: From development to novel pharmacological therapies: IUPHAR Review 37. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:2880-2897. [PMID: 35393658 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases comprise a broad spectrum of burdensome diseases that still lack effective pharmacological therapies. Our research group focuses on fibrosis, which is a major precursor of liver cirrhosis. Fibrosis consists in a progressive disturbance of liver sinusoidal architecture characterised by connective tissue deposition as a reparative response to tissue injury. Multifactorial events and several types of cells participate in fibrosis initiation and progression, and the process still needs to be completely understood. The development of experimental models of liver fibrosis alongside the identification of critical factors progressing fibrosis to cirrhosis will facilitate the development of more effective therapeutic approaches for such condition. This review provides an overlook of the main process leading to hepatic fibrosis and therapeutic approaches that have emerged from a deep knowledge of the molecular regulation of fibrogenesis in the liver. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Translational Advances in Fibrosis as a Therapeutic Target. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v180.22/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Borrello
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Derek Mann
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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6
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Jiang J, van Ertvelde J, Ertaylan G, Peeters R, Jennen D, de Kok TM, Vinken M. Unraveling the mechanisms underlying drug-induced cholestatic liver injury: identifying key genes using machine learning techniques on human in vitro data sets. Arch Toxicol 2023; 97:2969-2981. [PMID: 37603094 PMCID: PMC10504391 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-023-03583-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Drug-induced intrahepatic cholestasis (DIC) is a main type of hepatic toxicity that is challenging to predict in early drug development stages. Preclinical animal studies often fail to detect DIC in humans. In vitro toxicogenomics assays using human liver cells have become a practical approach to predict human-relevant DIC. The present study was set up to identify transcriptomic signatures of DIC by applying machine learning algorithms to the Open TG-GATEs database. A total of nine DIC compounds and nine non-DIC compounds were selected, and supervised classification algorithms were applied to develop prediction models using differentially expressed features. Feature selection techniques identified 13 genes that achieved optimal prediction performance using logistic regression combined with a sequential backward selection method. The internal validation of the best-performing model showed accuracy of 0.958, sensitivity of 0.941, specificity of 0.978, and F1-score of 0.956. Applying the model to an external validation set resulted in an average prediction accuracy of 0.71. The identified genes were mechanistically linked to the adverse outcome pathway network of DIC, providing insights into cellular and molecular processes during response to chemical toxicity. Our findings provide valuable insights into toxicological responses and enhance the predictive accuracy of DIC prediction, thereby advancing the application of transcriptome profiling in designing new approach methodologies for hazard identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Jiang
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato‑Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Jonas van Ertvelde
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato‑Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gökhan Ertaylan
- Vlaamse Instelling voor Technologisch Onderzoek (VITO) NV, Health, Boeretang 200, 2400, Mol, Belgium
| | - Ralf Peeters
- Maastricht Centre for Systems Biology (MaCSBio), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Advanced Computing Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Danyel Jennen
- Department of Toxicogenomics, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Theo M de Kok
- Maastricht Centre for Systems Biology (MaCSBio), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Toxicogenomics, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato‑Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.
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Kim YS, Hurley EH, Park Y, Ko S. Treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis combined with inflammatory bowel disease. Intest Res 2023; 21:420-432. [PMID: 37519211 PMCID: PMC10626010 DOI: 10.5217/ir.2023.00039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a progressive cholestatic, inflammatory, and fibrotic disease that is strongly associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). PSC-IBD represents a unique disease entity and patients with this disease have an increased risk of malignancy development, such as colorectal cancer and cholangiocarcinoma. The pathogenesis of PSC-IBD involves genetic and environmental factors such as gut dysbiosis and bile acids alteration. However, despite the advancement of disease characteristics, no effective medical therapy has proven to have a significant impact on the prognosis of PSC. The treatment options for patients with PSC-IBD do not differ from those for patients with PSC alone. Potential candidate drugs have been developed based on the pathogenesis of PSC-IBD, such as those that target modulation of bile acids, inflammation, fibrosis, and gut dysbiosis. In this review, we summarize the current medical treatments for PSC-IBD and the status of new emerging therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- You Sun Kim
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Edward H. Hurley
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yoojeong Park
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sungjin Ko
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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8
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McVicker BL, Simpson RL, Hamel FG, Bennett RG. Reduction in Obesity-Related Hepatic Fibrosis by SR1664. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1287. [PMID: 37886997 PMCID: PMC10604321 DOI: 10.3390/biology12101287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is a transcription factor with adipogenic, insulin-sensitizing, and antifibrotic properties. Strong PPARγ activators, such as the thiazolidinediones, can induce unwanted effects such as edema, weight gain, and bone loss, and therefore selective modulators of PPARγ are in development. We previously reported that one selective PPARγ modulator, SR1664, reduced toxin-induced hepatic fibrosis and the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the main collagen-producing liver cell in fibrosis. In this study, we used a high fat and high carbohydrate (HFHC) model of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis to determine the effect of SR1664. Mice were placed on a standard chow or HFHC diet for 16 weeks, with SR1664 or control treatment for the final 4 weeks. SR1664 did not alter weight gain or fasting insulin or glucose levels. The size of lipid droplets in the HFHC group was reduced by SR1664, but there was no effect on total liver triglyceride levels. The degree of fibrosis was significantly reduced by SR1664 in mice on the HFHC diet, and this was accompanied by a decrease in activated HSC. In summary, SR1664 improved insulin sensitivity and reduced fibrosis in the HFHC diet, suggesting selective PPARγ modulation is effective in obesity-related liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benita L. McVicker
- Research Service, Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.)
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Pharmacology & Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Ronda L. Simpson
- Research Service, Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.)
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Pharmacology & Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Frederick G. Hamel
- Research Service, Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.)
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Robert G. Bennett
- Research Service, Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.)
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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9
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Lee WH, Najjar SM, Kahn CR, Hinds TD. Hepatic insulin receptor: new views on the mechanisms of liver disease. Metabolism 2023; 145:155607. [PMID: 37271372 PMCID: PMC10330768 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2023.155607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Over 65 % of people with obesity display the metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), which can manifest as steatohepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer. The development and progression of MAFLD involve hepatic insulin resistance and reduced insulin clearance. This review discusses the relationships between altered insulin signaling, hepatic insulin resistance, and reduced insulin clearance in the development of MAFLD and how this provides the impetus for exploring the use of insulin sensitizers to curb this disease. The review also explores the role of the insulin receptor in hepatocytes and hepatic stellate cells and how it signals in metabolic and end-stage liver diseases. Finally, we discuss new research findings that indicate that advanced hepatic diseases may be an insulin-sensitive state in the liver and deliberate whether insulin sensitizers should be used to manage late-stage liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang-Hsin Lee
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Sonia M Najjar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and the Diabetes Institute, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - C Ronald Kahn
- Section of Integrative Physiology and Metabolism, Joslin Diabetes Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Terry D Hinds
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA; Barnstable Brown Diabetes Center, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA; Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.
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10
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Balog S, Fujiwara R, Pan SQ, El-Baradie KB, Choi HY, Sinha S, Yang Q, Asahina K, Chen Y, Li M, Salomon M, Ng SWK, Tsukamoto H. Emergence of highly profibrotic and proinflammatory Lrat+Fbln2+ HSC subpopulation in alcoholic hepatitis. Hepatology 2023; 78:212-224. [PMID: 36181700 PMCID: PMC10977045 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Relative roles of HSCs and portal fibroblasts in alcoholic hepatitis (AH) are unknown. We aimed to identify subpopulations of collagen type 1 alpha 1 (Col1a1)-expressing cells in a mouse AH model by single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and filtering the cells with the HSC (lecithin retinol acyltransferase [Lrat]) and portal fibroblast (Thy-1 cell surface antigen [Thy1] and fibulin 2 [Fbln2]) markers and vitamin A (VitA) storage. APPROACH AND RESULTS Col1a1-green fluorescent protein (GFP) mice underwent AH, CCl 4 , and bile duct ligation (BDL) procedures to have comparable F1-F2 liver fibrosis. Col1a1-expressing cells were sorted via FACS by VitA autofluorescence and GFP for single-cell RNA sequencing. In AH, approximately 80% of Lrat+Thy1-Fbln2- activated HSCs were VitA-depleted (vs. ~13% in BDL and CCl 4 ). Supervised clustering identified a subset co-expressing Lrat and Fbln2 (Lrat+Fbln2+), which expanded 44-fold, 17-fold, and 1.3-fold in AH, BDL, and CCl 4 . Lrat+Fbln2+ cells had 3-15-times inductions of profibrotic, myofibroblastic, and immunoregulatory genes versus Lrat+Fbln2- cells, but 2-4-times repressed HSC-selective genes. AH activated HSCs had up-regulated inflammatory (chemokine [C-X-C motif] ligand 2 [Cxcl2], chemokine [C-C motif] ligand 2), antimicrobial (Il-33, Zc3h12a), and antigen presentation (H2-Q6, H2-T23) genes versus BDL and CCl 4 . Computational deconvolution of AH versus normal human bulk-liver RNA-sequencing data supported an expansion of LRAT+FBLN2+ cells in AH; AH patient liver immunohistochemistry showed FBLN2 staining along fibrotic septa enriched with LRAT+ cells; and in situ hybridization confirmed co-expression of FBLN2 with CXCL2 and/or human leukocyte antigen E in patient AH. Finally, HSC tracing in Lrat-Cre;Rosa26mTmG mice detected GFP+FBLN2+ cells in AH. CONCLUSION A highly profibrotic, inflammatory, and immunoregulatory Lrat+Fbln2+ subpopulation emerges from HSCs in AH and may contribute to the inflammatory and immunoreactive nature of AH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Balog
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Reika Fujiwara
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Stephanie Q. Pan
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Khairat B. El-Baradie
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Hye Yeon Choi
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sonal Sinha
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Qihong Yang
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Kinji Asahina
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Central Research Laboratory, Shiga University of Medical Sciences, Seta Tsukinowa-cho Otsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Yibu Chen
- USC Libraries Bioinformatic Services of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Meng Li
- USC Libraries Bioinformatic Services of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Matthew Salomon
- Department Medicine, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Stanley W.-K. Ng
- Division of Computational Biomedicine, Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Hidekazu Tsukamoto
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA
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11
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Pei Q, Yi Q, Tang L. Liver Fibrosis Resolution: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutic Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119671. [PMID: 37298621 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is a critical system for metabolism in human beings, which plays an essential role in an abundance of physiological processes and is vulnerable to endogenous or exogenous injuries. After the damage to the liver, a type of aberrant wound healing response known as liver fibrosis may happen, which can result in an excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) and then cause cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), seriously endangering human health and causing a great economic burden. However, few effective anti-fibrotic medications are clinically available to treat liver fibrosis. The most efficient approach to liver fibrosis prevention and treatment currently is to eliminate its causes, but this approach's efficiency is too slow, or some causes cannot be fully eliminated, which causes liver fibrosis to worsen. In cases of advanced fibrosis, the only available treatment is liver transplantation. Therefore, new treatments or therapeutic agents need to be explored to stop the further development of early liver fibrosis or to reverse the fibrosis process to achieve liver fibrosis resolution. Understanding the mechanisms that lead to the development of liver fibrosis is necessary to find new therapeutic targets and drugs. The complex process of liver fibrosis is regulated by a variety of cells and cytokines, among which hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the essential cells, and their continued activation will lead to further progression of liver fibrosis. It has been found that inhibiting HSC activation, or inducing apoptosis, and inactivating activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) can reverse fibrosis and thus achieve liver fibrosis regression. Hence, this review will concentrate on how HSCs become activated during liver fibrosis, including intercellular interactions and related signaling pathways, as well as targeting HSCs or liver fibrosis signaling pathways to achieve the resolution of liver fibrosis. Finally, new therapeutic compounds targeting liver fibrosis are summarized to provide more options for the therapy of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiying Pei
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Qian Yi
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Liling Tang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
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12
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Fan Y, Xu F, Wang R, He J. Lysine 222 in PPAR γ1 functions as the key site of MuRF2-mediated ubiquitination modification. Sci Rep 2023; 13:1999. [PMID: 36737649 PMCID: PMC9898238 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-28905-5] [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: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR γ) plays key roles in the development, physiology, reproduction, and homeostasis of organisms. Its expression and activity are regulated by various posttranslational modifications. We previously reported that E3 ubiquitin ligase muscle ring finger protein 2 (MuRF2) inhibits cardiac PPAR γ1 protein level and activity, eventually protects heart from diabetic cardiomyopathy; furthermore, by GST-pulldown assay, we found that MuRF2 modifies PPAR γ1 via poly-ubiquitination and accelerates PPAR γ1 proteasomal degradation. However, the key ubiquitination site on PPAR γ that MuRF2 targets for remains unclear. In the present study, we demonstrate that lysine site 222 is the receptor of MuRF2-mediated PPAR γ1 ubiquitination modification, using prediction of computational models, immunoprecipitation, ubiquitination assays, cycloheximide chasing assay and RT-qPCR. Our findings elucidated the underlying details of MuRF2 prevents heart from diabetic cardiomyopathy through the PPAR γ1 regulatory pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yucheng Fan
- Department of Pathology, The First People's Hospital of Shizuishan, Affiliated to Ningxia Medical University, Shizuishan, China
| | - Fangjing Xu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Rui Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences , Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Jun He
- Department of Cardiovascular Internal Medicine, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China.
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13
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Ali Mondal S, Sathiaseelan R, Mann SN, Kamal M, Luo W, Saccon TD, Isola JVV, Peelor FF, Li T, Freeman WM, Miller BF, Stout MB. 17α-estradiol, a lifespan-extending compound, attenuates liver fibrosis by modulating collagen turnover rates in male mice. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2023; 324:E120-E134. [PMID: 36516471 PMCID: PMC9902223 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00256.2022] [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: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen signaling is protective against chronic liver diseases, although men and a subset of women are contraindicated for chronic treatment with 17β-estradiol (17β-E2) or combination hormone replacement therapies. We sought to determine if 17α-estradiol (17α-E2), a naturally occurring diastereomer of 17β-E2, could attenuate liver fibrosis. We evaluated the effects of 17α-E2 treatment on collagen synthesis and degradation rates using tracer-based labeling approaches in male mice subjected to carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis. We also assessed the effects of 17α-E2 on markers of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation, collagen cross-linking, collagen degradation, and liver macrophage content and polarity. We found that 17α-E2 significantly reduced collagen synthesis rates and increased collagen degradation rates, which was mirrored by declines in transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and lysyl oxidase-like 2 (LOXL2) protein content in liver. These improvements were associated with increased matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) activity and suppressed stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase 1 (SCD1) protein levels, the latter of which has been linked to the resolution of liver fibrosis. We also found that 17α-E2 increased liver fetuin-A protein, a strong inhibitor of TGF-β1 signaling, and reduced proinflammatory macrophage activation and cytokines expression in the liver. We conclude that 17α-E2 reduces fibrotic burden by suppressing HSC activation and enhancing collagen degradation mechanisms. Future studies will be needed to determine if 17α-E2 acts directly in hepatocytes, HSCs, and/or immune cells to elicit these benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samim Ali Mondal
- Aging and Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Roshini Sathiaseelan
- Aging and Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Shivani N Mann
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Maria Kamal
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Wenyi Luo
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Tatiana D Saccon
- Aging and Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - José V V Isola
- Aging and Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Frederick F Peelor
- Aging and Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Tiangang Li
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Willard M Freeman
- Genes & Human Disease Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Benjamin F Miller
- Aging and Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Michael B Stout
- Aging and Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
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14
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Ezhilarasan D, Najimi M. Intercellular communication among liver cells in the perisinusoidal space of the injured liver: Pathophysiology and therapeutic directions. J Cell Physiol 2023; 238:70-81. [PMID: 36409708 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30915] [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: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) in the perisinusoidal space are surrounded by hepatocytes, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, Kupffer cells, and other resident immune cells. In the normal liver, HSCs communicate with these cells to maintain normal liver functions. However, after chronic liver injury, injured hepatocytes release several proinflammatory mediators, reactive oxygen species, and damage-associated molecular patterns into the perisinusoidal space. Consequently, such alteration activates quiescent HSCs to acquire a myofibroblast-like phenotype and express high amounts of transforming growth factor-β1, angiopoietins, vascular endothelial growth factors, interleukins 6 and 8, fibril forming collagens, laminin, and E-cadherin. These phenotypic and functional transdifferentiation lead to hepatic fibrosis with a typical abnormal extracellular matrix synthesis and disorganization of the perisinusoidal space of the injured liver. Those changes provide a favorable environment that regulates tumor cell proliferation, migration, adhesion, and survival in the perisinusoidal space. Such tumor cells by releasing transforming growth factor-β1 and other cytokines, will, in turn, activate and deeply interact with HSCs via a bidirectional loop. Furthermore, hepatocellular carcinoma-derived mediators convert HSCs and macrophages into protumorigenic cell populations. Thus, the perisinusoidal space serves as a critical hub for activating HSCs and their interactions with other cell types, which cause a variety of liver diseases such as hepatic inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and their complications, such as portal hypertension and hepatocellular carcinoma. Therefore, targeting the crosstalk between activated HSCs and tumor cells/immune cells in the tumor microenvironment may also support a promising therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, Molecular Medicine and Toxicology Lab, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mustapha Najimi
- Laboratory of Pediatric Hepatology and Cell Therapy, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research (IREC), UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium
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15
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The Role of PPARs in Breast Cancer. Cells 2022; 12:cells12010130. [PMID: 36611922 PMCID: PMC9818187 DOI: 10.3390/cells12010130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a malignant tumor with high morbidity and lethality. Its pathogenesis is related to the abnormal expression of many genes. The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are a class of ligand-dependent transcription factors in the nuclear receptor superfamily. They can regulate the transcription of a large number of target genes, which are involved in life activities such as cell proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, and apoptosis, and regulate physiological processes such as glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, inflammation, and wound healing. Further, the changes in its expression are associated with various diseases, including breast cancer. The experimental reports related to "PPAR" and "breast cancer" were retrieved from PubMed since the discovery of PPARs and summarized in this paper. This review (1) analyzed the roles and potential molecular mechanisms of non-coordinated and ligand-activated subtypes of PPARs in breast cancer progression; (2) discussed the correlations between PPARs and estrogen receptors (ERs) as the nuclear receptor superfamily; and (3) investigated the interaction between PPARs and key regulators in several signaling pathways. As a result, this paper identifies PPARs as targets for breast cancer prevention and treatment in order to provide more evidence for the synthesis of new drugs targeting PPARs or the search for new drug combination treatments.
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16
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Guo X, Zheng B, Wang J, Zhao T, Zheng Y. Exploring the mechanism of action of Chinese medicine in regulating liver fibrosis based on the alteration of glucose metabolic pathways. Phytother Res 2022. [PMID: 36433866 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, metabolic reprogramming in liver fibrosis has become a research hotspot in the field of liver fibrosis at home and abroad. Liver fibrosis is a pathological change caused by chronic liver injury from a variety of causes. Liver fibrosis is a common pathological feature of many chronic liver diseases such as chronic hepatitis B, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, and autoimmune hepatitis, as well as the pathogenesis of the disease. The development of chronic liver disease into cirrhosis must go through the pathological process of liver fibrosis, in which hepatic stellate cells (HSC) play an important role. Following liver injury, HSC are activated and transdifferentiated into scar-forming myofibroblasts, which drive the trauma healing response and which rely on the deposition of collagen-rich extracellular matrix to maintain tissue integrity. This reaction will continue without strict control, which will lead to excessive accumulation of matrix and liver fibrosis. The mechanisms and clinical studies of liver fibrosis have been the focus of research in liver diseases. In recent years, several studies have revealed the mechanism of HSC metabolic reprogramming and the impact of this process on liver fibrosis, in which glucose metabolic reprogramming plays an important role in the activation of HSC, and it mainly meets the energy demand of HSC activation by upregulating glycolysis. Glycolysis is the process by which one molecule of glucose is broken down into two molecules of pyruvate and produces energy and lactate under anaerobic conditions. Various factors have been found to be involved in regulating the glycolytic process of HSC, including glucose transport, intracellular processing of glucose, exosome secretion, and lactate production, etc. Inhibition of the glycolytic process of HSC can be an effective strategy against liver fibrosis. Currently, the combined action of multiple targets and links of Chinese medicine such as turmeric, comfrey, rhubarb and scutellaria baicalensis against the mechanism of liver fibrosis can effectively improve or even reverse liver fibrosis. This paper summarizes that turmeric extract curcumin, comfrey extract comfreyin, rhubarb, Subtle yang yu yin granules, Scutellaria baicalensis extract oroxylin A and cardamom extract cardamomin affect liver fibrosis by regulating gluconeogenic reprogramming. Therefore, studying the mechanism of action of TCM in regulating liver fibrosis through reprogramming of glucose metabolism is promising to explore new methods and approaches for Chinese Medicine modernization research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinhua Guo
- Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Bowen Zheng
- Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Jiahui Wang
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Chinese Medicine Science Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Tiejian Zhao
- Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Yang Zheng
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Chinese Medicine Science Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
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17
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Ding Y, Tao C, Chen Q, Chen L, Hu X, Li M, Wang S, Jiang F. Cynarin inhibits PDGF-BB-induced proliferation and activation in hepatic stellate cells through PPARγ. OPEN CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1515/chem-2022-0192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Cynarin, a caffeoylquinic acid compound that was mainly extracted from Cynara scolymus L., displays various activities such as antioxidant, antibacterial, choleretic, and hepatoprotective functions. However, the target of cynarin and the mechanism of its hepatoprotective effect are still unclear. To find cynarin’s target, we performed molecular docking analysis, fluorescence-based ligand-binding assay, and reporter gene system assay. Our results indicated that cynarin was a partial agonist of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ). Further studies showed that cynarin significantly inhibited platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB-induced proliferation and activation of rat CFSC-8G hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Our results also revealed that cynarin inhibited PDGF-BB-induced extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK) and v-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog (AKT) phosphorylation in HSCs. In addition, this inhibition effect was PPARγ dependent since the knockdown of PPARγ significantly attenuated the effects of cynarin on PDGF-BB-induced p-ERK, p-AKT, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expressions. Therefore, this study suggests that cynarin is a promising antifibrotic lead compound that inhibits the activation of HSCs, and it works by targeting PPARγ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Ding
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Forest Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Southwest Forestry University , Kunming 650224 , China
| | - Congcong Tao
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Forest Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Southwest Forestry University , Kunming 650224 , China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University , Xiamen 361102 , China
| | - Qian Chen
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University , Xiamen 361102 , China
| | - Lulu Chen
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University , Xiamen 361102 , China
| | - Xianwen Hu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University , Xiamen 361102 , China
| | - Mingyu Li
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University , Xiamen 361102 , China
| | - Shicong Wang
- Fujian Pien Tze Huang Enterprise Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Research and Development, Zhangzhou Pien Tze Huang Pharmaceutical, Co., Ltd. , Zhangzhou 363000 , China
| | - Fuquan Jiang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University , Xiamen 361102 , China
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18
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Leodori G, Pellicano C, Basile V, Colalillo A, Navarini L, Gigante A, Gulli F, Marino M, Basile U, Rosato E. Serum Adiponectin, a Novel Biomarker Correlates with Skin Thickness in Systemic Sclerosis. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12101737. [PMID: 36294874 PMCID: PMC9604668 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12101737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim was to evaluate the longitudinal association between basal serum adiponectin and repeated measurements of skin thickness during 12 months of follow-up in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients. We enrolled SSc patients with disease duration > 2 years in a prospective observational study. Skin thickness was measured at baseline and after 12 months of follow-up with modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS). Baseline serum adiponectin was determined using a commercial ELISA kit. We enrolled 66 female SSc patients (median age 54 years, IQR 42−62 years). The median disease duration was 12 (IQR 8−16) years and median baseline serum adiponectin was 9.8 (IQR 5.6−15.6) mcg/mL. The median mRSS was 10 (IQR 6−18) at baseline and 12 (IQR 7−18) at follow-up. A significant correlation was observed between baseline serum adiponectin and disease duration (r = 0.264, p < 0.05), age (r = 0.515, p < 0.0001), baseline mRSS (r = −0.303, p < 0.05), and mRSS at follow-up (r = −0.322, p < 0.001). In multiple regression analysis, only mRSS at follow-up showed an inverse correlation with baseline serum adiponectin (β = −0.132, p < 0.01). The reduction in serum adiponectin levels is correlated with skin thickness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Leodori
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Pellicano
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Valerio Basile
- Clinical Pathology Unit and Cancer Biobank, Department of Research and Advanced Technologies, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Amalia Colalillo
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Navarini
- Unit of Allergology, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonietta Gigante
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Gulli
- Clinical Biochemistry Laboratory, IRCCS “Bambino Gesù” Children’s Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Mariapaola Marino
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Section of General Pathology, “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (U.B.)
| | - Umberto Basile
- Department of Laboratory and Infectious Disease Sciences, “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (U.B.)
| | - Edoardo Rosato
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
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19
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Kamm DR, McCommis KS. Hepatic stellate cells in physiology and pathology. J Physiol 2022; 600:1825-1837. [PMID: 35307840 PMCID: PMC9012702 DOI: 10.1113/jp281061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) comprise a minor cell population in the liver but serve numerous critical functions in the normal liver and in response to injury. HSCs are primarily known for their activation upon liver injury and for producing the collagen-rich extracellular matrix in liver fibrosis. In the absence of liver injury, HSCs reside in a quiescent state, in which their main function appears to be the storage of retinoids or vitamin A-containing metabolites. Less appreciated functions of HSCs include amplifying the hepatic inflammatory response and expressing growth factors that are critical for liver development and both the initiation and termination of liver regeneration. Recent single-cell RNA sequencing studies have corroborated earlier studies indictaing that HSC activation involves a diverse array of phenotypic alterations and identified unique HSC populations. This review serves to highlight these many functions of HSCs, and to briefly describe the recent genetic tools that will help to thoroughly investigate the role of HSCs in hepatic physiology and pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dakota R. Kamm
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Saint Louis University School of Medicine St. Louis MO
| | - Kyle S. McCommis
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Saint Louis University School of Medicine St. Louis MO
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20
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Feng Z, Xiang J, Liu H, Li J, Xu X, Sun G, Zheng R, Zhang S, Liu J, Yang S, Xu Q, Wen X, Yuan H, Sun H, Dai L. Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Triazolone Derivatives as Potent PPARα/δ Dual Agonists for the Treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis. J Med Chem 2022; 65:2571-2592. [PMID: 35060744 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c02002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activator receptors α/δ (PPARα/δ) are regarded as potential therapeutic targets for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). However, PPARα/δ dual agonist GFT-505 exhibited poor anti-NASH effects in a phase III clinical trial, probably due to its weak PPARα/δ agonistic activity and poor metabolic stability. Other reported PPARα/δ dual agonists either exhibited limited potency or had unbalanced PPARα/δ agonistic activity. Herein, we report a series of novel triazolone derivatives as PPARα/δ dual agonists. Among them, compound H11 exhibited potent and well-balanced PPARα/δ agonistic activity (PPARα EC50 = 7.0 nM; PPARδ EC50 = 8.4 nM) and a high selectivity over PPARγ (PPARγ EC50 = 1316.1 nM) in PPAR transactivation assays. The crystal structure of PPARδ in complex with H11 revealed a unique PPARδ-agonist interaction. H11, which had excellent PK properties and a good safety profile, showed potent in vivo anti-NASH effects in preclinical models. Together, H11 holds a great promise for treating NASH or other inflammatory and fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqi Feng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jiehao Xiang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jiaxin Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiangrui Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Gang Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Runan Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Shangran Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Junlong Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Shanlin Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Qinglong Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiaoan Wen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Haoliang Yuan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Hongbin Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- State Key Laboratory for the Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, School of Chemistry and Pharmacy of Guangxi Normal University, Guilin 541004, China
| | - Liang Dai
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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Di Pasqua LG, Cagna M, Berardo C, Vairetti M, Ferrigno A. Detailed Molecular Mechanisms Involved in Drug-Induced Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis: An Update. Biomedicines 2022; 10:194. [PMID: 35052872 PMCID: PMC8774221 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10010194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are some of the biggest public health challenges due to their spread and increasing incidence around the world. NAFLD is characterized by intrahepatic lipid deposition, accompanied by dyslipidemia, hypertension, and insulin resistance, leading to more serious complications. Among the various causes, drug administration for the treatment of numerous kinds of diseases, such as antiarrhythmic and antihypertensive drugs, promotes the onset and progression of steatosis, causing drug-induced hepatic steatosis (DIHS). Here, we reviewed in detail the major classes of drugs that cause DIHS and the specific molecular mechanisms involved in these processes. Eight classes of drugs, among the most used for the treatment of common pathologies, were considered. The most diffused mechanism whereby drugs can induce NAFLD/NASH is interfering with mitochondrial activity, inhibiting fatty acid oxidation, but other pathways involved in lipid homeostasis are also affected. PubMed research was performed to obtain significant papers published up to November 2021. The key words included the class of drugs, or the specific compound, combined with steatosis, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, fibrosis, fatty liver and hepatic lipid deposition. Additional information was found in the citations listed in other papers, when they were not displayed in the original search.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Giuseppina Di Pasqua
- Unit of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Marta Cagna
- Unit of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Clarissa Berardo
- Unit of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Mariapia Vairetti
- Unit of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Andrea Ferrigno
- Unit of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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22
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The Effects of Freshwater Clam ( Corbicula fluminea) Extract on Activated Hepatic Stellate Cells. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:6065168. [PMID: 34804181 PMCID: PMC8604581 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6065168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background The extract of freshwater clams has been used to protect the body against liver diseases in traditional folk medicine. This study aims at investigating the effects of freshwater clam extract on activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs), which are critical contributors to liver fibrosis. Methods The aHSCs used in this study were derived from hepatic stellate cells that were isolated and purified from the livers of male Wistar rats and then transformed into the activated phenotype by culturing on uncoated plastic dishes. Freshwater clam extract (CE) was collected after the outflow from the live freshwater clams in a water bath at 100°C for 60 min. The effects of CE on aHSCs were analyzed by MTT assay, flow cytometry, Oil Red O (ORO) staining, western blot, and real-time RT-PCR. Results The results indicated that CE suppressed the proliferation of aHSCs through G0/G1 cell cycle arrest by downregulating cyclin D1 and upregulating p27. The expression levels of a-SMA, collagen I, TGF-β, and TNF-α were inhibited in the CE-treated aHSCs. In addition, the CE treatment increased the lipid contents in aHSCs by promoting PPARγ expression. Furthermore, CE modulated the expression of ECM-related genes, i.e., by upregulating MMP-9 and downregulating TIMP-II. Conclusions These data revealed that CE could induce the deactivation of aHSCs. We therefore suggest that CE has potential as an adjuvant therapeutic agent against hepatic fibrosis.
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Carson JP, Robinson MW, Ramm GA, Gobert GN. RNA sequencing of LX-2 cells treated with TGF-β1 identifies genes associated with hepatic stellate cell activation. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:7677-7688. [PMID: 34648138 PMCID: PMC8604886 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06774-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are liver-resident myofibroblast precursors responsible for the production of collagen and maintenance of the hepatic extracellular matrix (ECM). As such, they are generally associated with fibrotic liver diseases. HSCs become “activated” in response to tissue damage or pathogen invasion, a process most commonly driven by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). Despite this, the full extent of TGF-β1 signalling in these cells is poorly understood. Clarifying the range and diversity of this signalling will further improve our understanding of the process of HSC activation. Methods and results RNA sequencing was used to quantitate the transcriptomic changes induced in LX-2 cells, an activated human HSC line, following TGF-b1 treatment. In total, 5,258 genes were found to be significantly differentially expressed with a false discovery rate cut-off of < 0.1. The topmost deregulated of these genes included those with no currently characterised role in either HSC activation or fibrotic processes, including CIITA and SERPINB2. In silico analysis revealed the prominent signalling pathways downstream of TGF-β1 in LX-2 cells. Conclusions In this study, we describe the genes and signalling pathways significantly deregulated in LX-2 cells following TGF-β1 treatment. We identified several highly deregulated genes with no currently characterised role in HSC activation, which may represent novel mediators of fibrotic responses in HSCs or the liver macroenvironment. This work may be of use in the identification of new markers of liver fibrosis and could provide insight into prospective genes or pathways that might be targeted for the amelioration of fibrotic liver disease in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack P. Carson
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, BT9 5DL Belfast, UK
| | - Mark W. Robinson
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, BT9 5DL Belfast, UK
| | - Grant A. Ramm
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Locked Bag 2000, QLD 4029 Brisbane, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Level 6, Oral Health Centre (Building), Herston Road, 4006 Herston, QLD Australia
| | - Geoffrey N. Gobert
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, BT9 5DL Belfast, UK
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Amirinejad A, Totmaj AS, Mardali F, Hekmatdoost A, Emamat H, Safa M, Shidfar F. Administration of hydro-alcoholic extract of spinach improves oxidative stress and inflammation in high-fat diet-induced NAFLD rats. BMC Complement Med Ther 2021; 21:221. [PMID: 34479550 PMCID: PMC8418034 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-021-03396-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of hydro-alcoholic extract of spinach (HES) on hepatic and serum measurements of NAFLD in a rat model. Methods In the prevention phase, 18 Sprague–Dawley rats were fed a high-fat diet, a high-fat diet plus 400 mg/kg HES, or a chow diet for seven weeks. For the treatment phase, after the induction of NAFLD, they were fed a high-fat diet, a high-fat diet plus 400 mg/kg HES, a chow diet, or a chow diet plus 400 mg/kg HES for four weeks (n = 6). Results Administration of HES combined with high-fat diet in rats was associated with decreased food intake (P < 0.01), weight loss (P = 0.01), and increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) (P = 0.02) enzyme activity in the liver, at the end of the prevention phase. hs-CRP (P < 0.05), PTX-3 (P < 0.05), and TNF-α (P < 0.05) gene expression in the liver were decreased and PPAR-γ (P < 0.05) gene expression in the liver was increased by spinach intake, both in the prevention and treatment phases. Furthermore, administration of spinach in the treatment phase increased serum TAC (P = 0.03) and hepatic GPX (P = 0.01) enzyme activity. Conclusion Taking into account the potential beneficial effects of HES on prevention and treatment of NAFLD in the present study, to confirm these findings, we propose that further clinical trials be conducted on human subjects with NAFLD. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-021-03396-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Amirinejad
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran
| | - Ali Saneei Totmaj
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Mardali
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran
| | - Azita Hekmatdoost
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology, Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hadi Emamat
- Student Research Committee, Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Safa
- Department of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, School of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzad Shidfar
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran.
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Zhang W, Conway SJ, Liu Y, Snider P, Chen H, Gao H, Liu Y, Isidan K, Lopez KJ, Campana G, Li P, Ekser B, Francis H, Shou W, Kubal C. Heterogeneity of Hepatic Stellate Cells in Fibrogenesis of the Liver: Insights from Single-Cell Transcriptomic Analysis in Liver Injury. Cells 2021; 10:cells10082129. [PMID: 34440898 PMCID: PMC8391930 DOI: 10.3390/cells10082129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims: Liver fibrosis is a pathological healing process resulting from hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and the generation of myofibroblasts from activated HSCs. The precise underlying mechanisms of liver fibrogenesis are still largely vague due to lack of understanding the functional heterogeneity of activated HSCs during liver injury. Approach and Results: In this study, to define the mechanism of HSC activation, we performed the transcriptomic analysis at single-cell resolution (scRNA-seq) on HSCs in mice treated with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). By employing LRAT-Cre:Rosa26mT/mG mice, we were able to isolate an activated GFP-positive HSC lineage derived cell population by fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACS). A total of 8 HSC subpopulations were identified based on an unsupervised analysis. Each HSC cluster displayed a unique transcriptomic profile, despite all clusters expressing common mouse HSC marker genes. We demonstrated that one of the HSC subpopulations expressed high levels of mitosis regulatory genes, velocity, and monocle analysis indicated that these HSCs are at transitioning and proliferating phases at the beginning of HSCs activation and will eventually give rise to several other HSC subtypes. We also demonstrated cell clusters representing HSC-derived mature myofibroblast populations that express myofibroblasts hallmark genes with unique contractile properties. Most importantly, we found a novel HSC cluster that is likely to be critical in liver regeneration, immune reaction, and vascular remodeling, in which the unique profiles of genes such as Rgs5, Angptl6, and Meg3 are highly expressed. Lastly, we demonstrated that the heterogeneity of HSCs in the injured mouse livers is closely similar to that of cirrhotic human livers. Conclusions: Collectively, our scRNA-seq data provided insight into the landscape of activated HSC populations and the dynamic transitional pathway from HSC to myofibroblasts in response to liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjun Zhang
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Simon J Conway
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Paige Snider
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Hanying Chen
- Genome Editing Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Hongyu Gao
- The Center for Medical Genomics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Yunlong Liu
- The Center for Medical Genomics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Kadir Isidan
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Kevin J Lopez
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Gonzalo Campana
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Ping Li
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Burcin Ekser
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Heather Francis
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Weinian Shou
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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Königshofer P, Brusilovskaya K, Petrenko O, Hofer BS, Schwabl P, Trauner M, Reiberger T. Nuclear Receptors in Liver Fibrosis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1867:166235. [PMID: 34339839 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear receptors are ligand-activated transcription factors that regulate gene expression of a variety of key molecular signals involved in liver fibrosis. The primary cellular driver of liver fibrogenesis are activated hepatic stellate cells. Different NRs regulate the hepatic expression of pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrogenic cytokines that promote the transformation of hepatic stellate cells into fibrogenic myofibroblasts. Importantly, nuclear receptors regulate gene expression circuits that promote hepatic fibrogenesis and/or allow liver fibrosis regression. In this review, we highlight the direct and indirect influence of nuclear receptors on liver fibrosis, with a focus on hepatic stellate cells, and discuss potential therapeutic effects of nuclear receptor modulation in regard to anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory effects. Further research on nuclear receptors-related signaling may lead to the clinical development of effective anti-fibrotic therapies for patients with liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Königshofer
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Vienna Experimental Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab (HEPEX), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Christian Doppler Lab for Portal Hypertension and Liver Fibrosis, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ksenia Brusilovskaya
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Vienna Experimental Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab (HEPEX), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Christian Doppler Lab for Portal Hypertension and Liver Fibrosis, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Oleksandr Petrenko
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Vienna Experimental Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab (HEPEX), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Christian Doppler Lab for Portal Hypertension and Liver Fibrosis, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rare and Undiagnosed Diseases, Vienna, Austria; CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Benedikt Silvester Hofer
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Vienna Experimental Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab (HEPEX), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Christian Doppler Lab for Portal Hypertension and Liver Fibrosis, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Philipp Schwabl
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Vienna Experimental Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab (HEPEX), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Christian Doppler Lab for Portal Hypertension and Liver Fibrosis, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Reiberger
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Vienna Experimental Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab (HEPEX), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Christian Doppler Lab for Portal Hypertension and Liver Fibrosis, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rare and Undiagnosed Diseases, Vienna, Austria; CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria.
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27
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Wang B, Wu Z, Li W, Liu G, Tang Y. Insights into the molecular mechanisms of Huangqi decoction on liver fibrosis via computational systems pharmacology approaches. Chin Med 2021; 16:59. [PMID: 34301291 PMCID: PMC8306236 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-021-00473-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The traditional Chinese medicine Huangqi decoction (HQD) consists of Radix Astragali and Radix Glycyrrhizae in a ratio of 6: 1, which has been used for the treatment of liver fibrosis. In this study, we tried to elucidate its action of mechanism (MoA) via a combination of metabolomics data, network pharmacology and molecular docking methods. METHODS Firstly, we collected prototype components and metabolic products after administration of HQD from a publication. With known and predicted targets, compound-target interactions were obtained. Then, the global compound-liver fibrosis target bipartite network and the HQD-liver fibrosis protein-protein interaction network were constructed, separately. KEGG pathway analysis was applied to further understand the mechanisms related to the target proteins of HQD. Additionally, molecular docking simulation was performed to determine the binding efficiency of compounds with targets. Finally, considering the concentrations of prototype compounds and metabolites of HQD, the critical compound-liver fibrosis target bipartite network was constructed. RESULTS 68 compounds including 17 prototype components and 51 metabolic products were collected. 540 compound-target interactions were obtained between the 68 compounds and 95 targets. Combining network analysis, molecular docking and concentration of compounds, our final results demonstrated that eight compounds (three prototype compounds and five metabolites) and eight targets (CDK1, MMP9, PPARD, PPARG, PTGS2, SERPINE1, TP53, and HIF1A) might contribute to the effects of HQD on liver fibrosis. These interactions would maintain the balance of ECM, reduce liver damage, inhibit hepatocyte apoptosis, and alleviate liver inflammation through five signaling pathways including p53, PPAR, HIF-1, IL-17, and TNF signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS This study provides a new way to understand the MoA of HQD on liver fibrosis by considering the concentrations of components and metabolites, which might be a model for investigation of MoA of other Chinese herbs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biting Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Zengrui Wu
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Weihua Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Guixia Liu
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Yun Tang
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China.
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Thibaut R, Gage MC, Pineda-Torra I, Chabrier G, Venteclef N, Alzaid F. Liver macrophages and inflammation in physiology and physiopathology of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. FEBS J 2021; 289:3024-3057. [PMID: 33860630 PMCID: PMC9290065 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome, being a common comorbidity of type 2 diabetes and with important links to inflammation and insulin resistance. NAFLD represents a spectrum of liver conditions ranging from steatosis in the form of ectopic lipid storage, to inflammation and fibrosis in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Macrophages that populate the liver play important roles in maintaining liver homeostasis under normal physiology and in promoting inflammation and mediating fibrosis in the progression of NAFLD toward to NASH. Liver macrophages are a heterogenous group of innate immune cells, originating from the yolk sac or from circulating monocytes, that are required to maintain immune tolerance while being exposed portal and pancreatic blood flow rich in nutrients and hormones. Yet, liver macrophages retain a limited capacity to raise the alarm in response to danger signals. We now know that macrophages in the liver play both inflammatory and noninflammatory roles throughout the progression of NAFLD. Macrophage responses are mediated first at the level of cell surface receptors that integrate environmental stimuli, signals are transduced through multiple levels of regulation in the cell, and specific transcriptional programmes dictate effector functions. These effector functions play paramount roles in determining the course of disease in NAFLD and even more so in the progression towards NASH. The current review covers recent reports in the physiological and pathophysiological roles of liver macrophages in NAFLD. We emphasise the responses of liver macrophages to insulin resistance and the transcriptional machinery that dictates liver macrophage function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronan Thibaut
- Cordeliers Research Centre, INSERM, IMMEDIAB Laboratory, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, France
| | - Matthew C Gage
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, UK
| | - Inès Pineda-Torra
- Department of Medicine, Centre for Cardiometabolic and Vascular Science, University College London, UK
| | - Gwladys Chabrier
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, UK
| | - Nicolas Venteclef
- Cordeliers Research Centre, INSERM, IMMEDIAB Laboratory, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, France
| | - Fawaz Alzaid
- Cordeliers Research Centre, INSERM, IMMEDIAB Laboratory, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, France
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29
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Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Inactivation in NASH-Fibrosis-Roles as Putative Treatment Targets? Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9040365. [PMID: 33807461 PMCID: PMC8066583 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9040365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is the primary predictor of mortality in patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). In this process, the activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) constitute the principal cells responsible for the deposition of a fibrous extracellular matrix, thereby driving the hepatic scarring. HSC activation, migration, and proliferation are controlled by a complex signaling network involving growth factors, lipotoxicity, inflammation, and cellular stress. Conversely, the clearance of activated HSCs is a prerequisite for the resolution of the extracellular fibrosis. Hence, pathways regulating the fate of the HSCs may represent attractive therapeutic targets for the treatment and prevention of NASH-associated hepatic fibrosis. However, the development of anti-fibrotic drugs for NASH patients has not yet resulted in clinically approved therapeutics, underscoring the complex biology and challenges involved when targeting the intricate cellular signaling mechanisms. This narrative review investigated the mechanisms of activation and inactivation of HSCs with a focus on NASH-associated hepatic fibrosis. Presenting an updated overview, this review highlights key cellular pathways with potential value for the development of future treatment modalities.
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Effect of Chronic Western Diets on Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver of Male Mice Modifying the PPAR-γ Pathway via miR-27b-5p Regulation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041822. [PMID: 33673073 PMCID: PMC7917964 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Western diets contribute to metabolic diseases. However, the effects of various diets and epigenetic mechanisms are mostly unknown. Here, six week-old C57BL/6J male and female mice were fed with a low-fat diet (LFD), high-fat diet (HFD), and high-fat high-fructose diet (HFD-HF) for 20 weeks. We determined that HFD-HF or HFD mice experienced significant metabolic dysregulation compared to the LFD. HFD-HF and HFD-fed male mice showed significantly increased body weight, liver size, and fasting glucose levels with downregulated PPARγ, SCD1, and FAS protein expression. In contrast, female mice were less affected by HFD and HFD-HF. As miR-27b contains a seed sequence in PPARγ, it was discovered that these changes are accompanied by male-specific upregulation of miR-27b-5p, which is even more pronounced in the HFD-HF group (p < 0.01 vs. LFD) compared to the HFD group (p < 0.05 vs. LFD). Other miR-27 subtypes were increased but not significantly. HFD-HF showed insignificant changes in fibrosis markers when compared to LFD. Interestingly, fat ballooning in hepatocytes was increased in HFD-fed mice compared to HFD-HF fed mice, however, the HFD-HF liver showed an increase in the number of small cells. Here, we concluded that chronic Western diet-composition administered for 20 weeks may surpass the non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) stage but may be at an intermediate stage between fatty liver and fibrosis via miR-27b-5p-induced PPARγ downregulation.
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Tang Y, Ma N, Luo H, Chen S, Yu F. Downregulated long non-coding RNA LINC01093 in liver fibrosis promotes hepatocyte apoptosis via increasing ubiquitination of SIRT1. J Biochem 2021; 167:525-534. [PMID: 32044992 DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvaa013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The apoptosis of hepatocytes contributes to the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), thus promoting the accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins and aggravating liver fibrosis. Silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) is an anti-fibrotic protein whose downregulation induces hepatocyte apoptosis. This study aims to identify whether SIRT1 is regulated by long non-coding RNA LINC01093 and explore its underlying mechanisms. Liver fibrosis was induced in mice using CCl4, and the differential expressions of several fibrosis-related long noncoding RNAs were detected in liver tissues. The effect of LINC01093 on cell apoptosis and viability of hepatocytes were investigated after LINC01093 overexpression or knockdown using flow cytometry and MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] assay. The anti-fibrotic effect of LINC01093 overexpression was observed in vivo. LncRNA LINC01093 is downregulated in CCl4-induced liver tissues and TGF-β1-stimulated hepatocytes. Downregulated LINC01093 promoted cell apoptosis and inhibited cell viability of hepatocytes. The co-culture between LINC01093-knockdown hepatocytes and HSCs increased the expressions of pro-fibrotic proteins. Downregulated LINC01093 promoted hepatocyte apoptosis via promoting degradation and ubiquitination of SIRT1 under TGF-β1 stimulation. The injection of LINC01093-overexpressing vectors alleviated liver fibrosis in vivo. In liver fibrosis, the downregulated LINC01093 promoted hepatocyte apoptosis, which is mediated by increasing the degradation and ubiquitination of SIRT1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinhe Tang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 205 Wenrui Avenue, Wenzhou 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Naijing Ma
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 205 Wenrui Avenue, Wenzhou 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Luo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 205 Wenrui Avenue, Wenzhou 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Shizuan Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 205 Wenrui Avenue, Wenzhou 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Fuxiang Yu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, 205 Wenrui Avenue, Wenzhou 325000, People's Republic of China
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de Vries E, Bolier R, Goet J, Parés A, Verbeek J, de Vree M, Drenth J, van Erpecum K, van Nieuwkerk K, van der Heide F, Mostafavi N, Helder J, Ponsioen C, Oude Elferink R, van Buuren H, Beuers U. Fibrates for Itch (FITCH) in Fibrosing Cholangiopathies: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Gastroenterology 2021; 160:734-743.e6. [PMID: 33031833 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2020.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Pruritus may seriously impair quality of life in patients with cholestatic diseases such as primary or secondary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC, SSC) and primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). Pharmacologic strategies show limited efficacy and can provoke serious side effects. We hypothesized that bezafibrate, a broad peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) agonist, relieves cholestasis-associated itch by alleviating hepatobiliary injury. The aim of this investigator-initiated FITCH trial (Fibrates for cholestatic ITCH) was to assess effects of bezafibrate on pruritus in patients with PSC, PBC, and SSC. METHODS Patients with moderate to severe pruritus (≥5 of 10 on visual analog scale [VAS]) due to PSC, PBC, or SSC were recruited for this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial between 2016 and 2019. Patients received once-daily bezafibrate (400 mg) or placebo for 21 days. The primary end point was ≥50% reduction of pruritus (VAS; intention-to-treat). RESULTS Of 74 randomized patients, 70 completed the trial (95%; 44 PSC, 24 PBC, 2 SSC). For the primary end point, bezafibrate led in 45% (41% PSC, 55% PBC) and placebo in 11% to ≥50% reduction of severe or moderate pruritus (P = .003). For secondary end points, bezafibrate reduced morning (P = .01 vs placebo) and evening (P = .007) intensity of pruritus (VAS) and improved the validated 5D-Itch questionnaire (P = .002 vs placebo). Bezafibrate also reduced serum alkaline phosphatase (-35%, P = .03 vs placebo) correlating with improved pruritus (VAS, P = .01) suggesting reduced biliary damage. Serum bile acids and autotaxin activity remained unchanged. Serum creatinine levels tended to mildly increase (3% bezafibrate, 5% placebo, P = .14). CONCLUSIONS Bezafibrate is superior to placebo in improving moderate to severe pruritus in patients with PSC and PBC. TRIAL REGISTRATION Netherlands Trial Register, ID: NTR5436 (August 3, 2015), ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT02701166 (March 2, 2016).
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsemieke de Vries
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology and Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology & Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location AMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ruth Bolier
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology and Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology & Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location AMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jorn Goet
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Albert Parés
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Institut d'Investigacion Biomediques August Pi-Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jef Verbeek
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Marleen de Vree
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Joost Drenth
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Karel van Erpecum
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Karin van Nieuwkerk
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Vrije Universiteit Medisch Centrum (VUmc), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Frans van der Heide
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Nahid Mostafavi
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology and Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology & Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location AMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jeltje Helder
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology and Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology & Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location AMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Cyriel Ponsioen
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology and Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology & Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location AMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ronald Oude Elferink
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology and Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology & Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location AMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Henk van Buuren
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ulrich Beuers
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology and Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology & Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location AMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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PPARs in liver physiology. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1867:166097. [PMID: 33524529 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are nuclear receptors and transcriptional modulators with crucial functions in hepatic and whole-body energy homeostasis. Besides their well-documented roles in lipid and glucose metabolism, emerging evidence also implicate PPARs in the control of other processes such as inflammatory responses. Recent technological advances, such as single-cell RNA sequencing, have allowed to unravel an unexpected complexity in the regulation of PPAR expression, activity and downstream signaling. Here we provide an overview of the latest advances in the study of PPARs in liver physiology, with a specific focus on formerly neglected aspects of PPAR regulation, such as tissular zonation, cellular heterogeneity, circadian rhythms, sexual dimorphism and species-specific features.
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34
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Emerging physiological and pathological roles of MeCP2 in non-neurological systems. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 700:108768. [PMID: 33485848 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.108768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Numerous neurological and non-neurological disorders are associated with dysfunction of epigenetic modulators, and methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is one of such proteins. Initially identified as a transcriptional repressor, MeCP2 specifically binds to methylated DNA, and mutations of MeCP2 have been shown to cause Rett syndrome (RTT), a severe neurological disorder. Recently, accumulating evidence suggests that ubiquitously expressed MeCP2 also plays a central role in non-neurological disorders including cardiac dysfunction, liver injury, respiratory disorders, urological dysfunction, adipose tissue metabolism disorders, movement abnormality and inflammatory responses in a DNA methylation dependent or independent manner. Despite significant progresses in our understanding of MeCP2 over the last few decades, there is still a considerable knowledge gap to translate the in vitro and in vivo experimental findings into therapeutic interventions. In this review, we provide a synopsis of the role of MeCP2 in the pathophysiology of non-neurological disorders, MeCP2-based research directions and therapeutic strategies for non-neurological disorders are also discussed.
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35
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Yu Q, Cheng P, Wu J, Guo C. PPARγ/NF-κB and TGF-β1/Smad pathway are involved in the anti-fibrotic effects of levo-tetrahydropalmatine on liver fibrosis. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:1645-1660. [PMID: 33438347 PMCID: PMC7875896 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a necessary stage in the development of chronic liver diseases to liver cirrhosis. This study aims to investigate the anti‐fibrotic effects of levo‐tetrahydropalmatine (L‐THP) on hepatic fibrosis in mice and cell models and its underlying mechanisms. Two mouse hepatic fibrosis models were generated in male C57 mice by intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) for 2 months and bile duct ligation (BDL) for 14 days. Levo‐tetrahydropalmatine was administered orally at doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg. An activated LX2 cell model induced by TGF‐β1 was also generated. The results showed that levo‐tetrahydropalmatine alleviated liver fibrosis by inhibiting the formation of extracellular matrix (ECM) and regulating the balance between TIMP1 and MMP2 in the two mice liver fibrosis models and cell model. Levo‐tetrahydropalmatine inhibited activation and autophagy of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) by modulating PPARγ/NF‐κB and TGF‐β1/Smad pathway in vivo and in vitro. In conclusion, levo‐tetrahydropalmatine attenuated liver fibrosis by inhibiting ECM deposition and HSCs autophagy via modulation of PPARγ/NF‐κB and TGF‐β1/Smad pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Cheng
- Department of Gerontology, Shanghai Minhang District Central Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianye Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chuanyong Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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36
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Carmona-Hidalgo B, González-Mariscal I, García-Martín A, Prados ME, Ruiz-Pino F, Appendino G, Tena-Sempere M, Muñoz E. Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid markedly alleviates liver fibrosis and inflammation in mice. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 81:153426. [PMID: 33341026 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2020.153426] [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: 06/13/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease in the Western world, and it is closely associated to obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia. Medicinal cannabis and some neutral cannabinoids have been suggested as a potential therapy for liver diseases. HYPOTHESIS Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (Δ9-THCA), the non-psychotropic precursor of Δ9-THC, is one of the most abundant cannabinoids presents in Cannabis Sativa. However, its biological activities have been poorly investigated. Herein, we studied the antifibrotic and antiinflammatory activities of Δ9-THCA in two different animal models of liver injury, providing a rationale for additional studies on the medicinal use of this cannabinoid in the treatment of liver fibrosis and the management of NAFLD. STUDY DESIGN The antifibrotic activity of Δ9-THCA in vitro was investigated in the cell lines LX-2 and NIH-3T3-Col1A2-luc. Non-alcoholic liver fibrosis was induced in mice by CCl4 treatment or, alternatively, by 23-week high fat diet (HFD) feeding. Δ9-THCA was administered daily intraperitoneally during the CCl4 treatment or during the last 3 weeks in HFD-fed mice. METHODS TGFβ-induced profibrotic gene expression was analyzed by luciferase and qPCR assays. Liver fibrosis and inflammation were assessed by immunochemistry and qPCR. Blood glucose, insulin, leptin and triglyceride levels were measured in HFD mice. RESULTS Δ9-THCA inhibited the expression of Tenascin C (TNC) and Col3A1 induced by TGFβ in LX-2 cells and the transcriptional activity of the Col1A2 promoter in fibroblasts. Δ9-THCA significantly attenuated CCl4-induced liver fibrosis and inflammation and reduced T cell and macrophage infiltration. Mice fed HFD for 23 weeks developed severe obesity (DIO), fatty liver and marked liver fibrosis, accompanied by immune cell infiltration. Δ9-THCA, significantly reduced body weight and adiposity, improved glucose tolerance, and drastically attenuated DIO-induced liver fibrosis and immune cell infiltration. CONCLUSIONS Δ9-THCA prevents TGFβ-induced fibrotic markers in vitro and liver inflammation and fibrogenesis in vivo, providing a rationale for additional studies on the medicinal use of this cannabinoid, as well as cannabis preparations containing it, for the treatment of liver fibrosis and the management of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Carmona-Hidalgo
- Emerald Health Biotechnology, Astrónoma Cecilia Payne (ed Centauro) s/n. floor 1. 14014. Córdoba, Spain
| | - Isabel González-Mariscal
- Biomedical Research Institute of Málaga (IBIMA), UGC Endocrinology and Nutrition. Regional Hospital of Málaga, Hospital Civil s/n. 29009. Málaga, Spain
| | - Adela García-Martín
- Emerald Health Biotechnology, Astrónoma Cecilia Payne (ed Centauro) s/n. floor 1. 14014. Córdoba, Spain
| | - María E Prados
- Emerald Health Biotechnology, Astrónoma Cecilia Payne (ed Centauro) s/n. floor 1. 14014. Córdoba, Spain
| | - Francisco Ruiz-Pino
- Maimónides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), Menéndez Pidal s/n. 14004. Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Campus de Rabanales, Ctra. Madrid-Cádiz, Km. 396. 14071. Córdoba, Spain; University Hospital Reina Sofía, Menéndez Pidal s/n. 14004. Córdoba, Spain
| | - Giovanni Appendino
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Largo Donegani, 2. 28100. Novara, Italy
| | - Manuel Tena-Sempere
- Maimónides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), Menéndez Pidal s/n. 14004. Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Campus de Rabanales, Ctra. Madrid-Cádiz, Km. 396. 14071. Córdoba, Spain; University Hospital Reina Sofía, Menéndez Pidal s/n. 14004. Córdoba, Spain; CIBER Pathophysiology of Obesity and Nutrition, Carlos III Health Institute, Menéndez Pidal s/n. 14004. Córdoba, Spain
| | - Eduardo Muñoz
- Maimónides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), Menéndez Pidal s/n. 14004. Córdoba, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Campus de Rabanales, Ctra. Madrid-Cádiz, Km. 396. 14071. Córdoba, Spain; University Hospital Reina Sofía, Menéndez Pidal s/n. 14004. Córdoba, Spain.
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Xiao Y, Kim M, Lazar MA. Nuclear receptors and transcriptional regulation in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Mol Metab 2020; 50:101119. [PMID: 33220489 PMCID: PMC8324695 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2020.101119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a result of a sedentary lifestyle and excess food consumption in modern society, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) characterized by fat accumulation in the liver is becoming a major disease burden. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is an advanced form of NAFLD characterized by inflammation and fibrosis that can lead to hepatocellular carcinoma and liver failure. Nuclear receptors (NRs) are a family of ligand-regulated transcription factors that closely control multiple aspects of metabolism. Their transcriptional activity is modulated by various ligands, including hormones and lipids. NRs serve as potential pharmacological targets for NAFLD/NASH and other metabolic diseases. SCOPE OF REVIEW In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of NRs that have been studied in the context of NAFLD/NASH with a focus on their transcriptional regulation, function in preclinical models, and studies of their clinical utility. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS The transcriptional regulation of NRs is context-dependent. During the dynamic progression of NAFLD/NASH, NRs play diverse roles in multiple organs and different cell types in the liver, which highlights the necessity of targeting NRs in a stage-specific and cell-type-specific manner to enhance the efficacy and safety of treatment methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Xiao
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Mindy Kim
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Mitchell A Lazar
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Hu S, Bae M, Park YK, Lee JY. n-3 PUFAs inhibit TGFβ1-induced profibrogenic gene expression by ameliorating the repression of PPARγ in hepatic stellate cells. J Nutr Biochem 2020; 85:108452. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2020.108452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Capsaicin up-regulates pro-apoptotic activity of thiazolidinediones in glioblastoma cell line. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 132:110741. [PMID: 33038582 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Capsaicin (N-vanillyl-8-methyl-alpha-nonenamide), a spicy, neurotoxic component of hot pepper is a ligand of vanilloid type-I (TRPV1) receptor of anti-cancer potential. However, molecular mechanism of its action is not fully understood. We found that capsaicin stimulated intrinsic and extrinsic pathway of apoptosis in human glioblastoma LN-18 cell line and this phenomenon was not dependent on TRPV1. Activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), a ligand-dependent transcription factor, also induced apoptosis in glioblastoma cells. Although PPARγ ligands (thiazolidinediones - rosiglitazone, pioglitazone) promoted apoptosis in LN-18 cells, capsaicin augmented this effect. We found that capsaicin in a dose dependent manner induced expression of PPARγ in glioblastoma LN-18 cells. These findings suggest that capsaicin-dependent up-regulation of PPARγ represent the mechanism for augmentation of cell death by thiazolidinediones.
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40
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Guo YC, Lu LG. Antihepatic Fibrosis Drugs in Clinical Trials. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2020; 8:304-312. [PMID: 33083254 PMCID: PMC7562798 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2020.00023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is not an independent disease. It refers to the abnormal proliferation of connective tissues in the liver caused by various pathogenic factors. Thus far, liver fibrosis has been considered to be associated with a set of factors, such as viral infection, alcohol abuse, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and autoimmune hepatitis, as well as genetic diseases. To date, clinical therapeutics for liver fibrosis still face challenges, as elimination of potential causes and conventional antifibrotic drugs cannot alleviate fibrosis in most patients. Recently, potential therapeutic targets of liver fibrosis, such as metabolism, inflammation, cell death and the extracellular matrix, have been explored through basic and clinical research. Therefore, it is extremely urgent to review the antihepatic fibrosis therapeutics for treatment of liver fibrosis in current clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue-Cheng Guo
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lun-Gen Lu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Correspondence to: Lun-Gen Lu, Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 650 Songjiang Road, Shanghai 201620, China. Tel: +86-21-63240090, E-mail:
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41
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Zhu X, Jia X, Cheng F, Tian H, Zhou Y. c‐Jun
acts downstream of
PI3K
/
AKT
signaling to mediate the effect of leptin on methionine adenosyltransferase
2B
in hepatic stellate cells
in vitro
and
in vivo. J Pathol 2020; 252:423-432. [DOI: 10.1002/path.5536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofei Zhu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical College Nantong University Nantong PR China
| | - Xin Jia
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical College Nantong University Nantong PR China
| | - Fangyun Cheng
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical College Nantong University Nantong PR China
| | - Haimeng Tian
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical College Nantong University Nantong PR China
| | - Yajun Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical College Nantong University Nantong PR China
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Su S, Tian H, Jia X, Zhu X, Wu J, Zhang Y, Chen Y, Li Z, Zhou Y. Mechanistic insights into the effects of SREBP1c on hepatic stellate cell and liver fibrosis. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:10063-10074. [PMID: 32678475 PMCID: PMC7520338 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15614] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c (SREBP1c) plays key roles in maintenance of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) quiescence. The present researches investigated the mechanisms underlying the effects of SREBP1c on HSCs and liver fibrogenesis by HSC-targeted overexpression of the active SREBP1c using adenovirus in vitro and in vivo. Results demonstrated that SREBP1c exerted inhibitory effects on TAA-induced liver fibrosis. SREBP1c down-regulated TGFβ1 level in liver, reduced the receptors for TGFβ1 and PDGFβ, and interrupted the signalling pathways of Smad3 and Akt1/2/3 but not ERK1/2 in HSCs. SREBP1c also led to the decreases in the protein levels of the bromodomain-containing chromatin-modifying factor bromodomain protein 4, methionine adenosyltransferase 2B (MAT2B) and TIMP1 in HSCs. In vivo activated HSCs did not express cyclin D1 and cyclin E1 but SREBP1c down-regulated both cyclins in vitro. SREBP1c elevated PPARγ and MMP1 protein levels in the model of liver fibrosis. The effect of SREBP1c on MAT2B expression was associated with its binding to MAT2B1 promoter. Taken together, the mechanisms underlying the effects of SREBP1c on HSC activation and liver fibrosis were involved in its influences on TGFβ1 level, the receptors for TGFβ1 and PDGFβ and their downstream signalling, and the molecules for epigenetic regulation of genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengyan Su
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Haimeng Tian
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xin Jia
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xiaofei Zhu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Juanjuan Wu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yali Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yuanyuan Chen
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Ziqiang Li
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yajun Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, China.,Key Laboratory of Microenvironment and Translational Cancer Research, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, China
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Fougerat A, Montagner A, Loiseau N, Guillou H, Wahli W. Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors and Their Novel Ligands as Candidates for the Treatment of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Cells 2020; 9:E1638. [PMID: 32650421 PMCID: PMC7408116 DOI: 10.3390/cells9071638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major health issue worldwide, frequently associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Steatosis is the initial stage of the disease, which is characterized by lipid accumulation in hepatocytes, which can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with inflammation and various levels of fibrosis that further increase the risk of developing cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The pathogenesis of NAFLD is influenced by interactions between genetic and environmental factors and involves several biological processes in multiple organs. No effective therapy is currently available for the treatment of NAFLD. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are nuclear receptors that regulate many functions that are disturbed in NAFLD, including glucose and lipid metabolism, as well as inflammation. Thus, they represent relevant clinical targets for NAFLD. In this review, we describe the determinants and mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of NAFLD, its progression and complications, as well as the current therapeutic strategies that are employed. We also focus on the complementary and distinct roles of PPAR isotypes in many biological processes and on the effects of first-generation PPAR agonists. Finally, we review novel and safe PPAR agonists with improved efficacy and their potential use in the treatment of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Fougerat
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRAE), ToxAlim, UMR1331 Toulouse, France; (A.M.); (N.L.); (H.G.)
| | - Alexandra Montagner
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRAE), ToxAlim, UMR1331 Toulouse, France; (A.M.); (N.L.); (H.G.)
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm), Institute of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases, UMR1048 Toulouse, France
- Institute of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases, University of Toulouse, UMR1048 Toulouse, France
| | - Nicolas Loiseau
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRAE), ToxAlim, UMR1331 Toulouse, France; (A.M.); (N.L.); (H.G.)
| | - Hervé Guillou
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRAE), ToxAlim, UMR1331 Toulouse, France; (A.M.); (N.L.); (H.G.)
| | - Walter Wahli
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRAE), ToxAlim, UMR1331 Toulouse, France; (A.M.); (N.L.); (H.G.)
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Clinical Sciences Building, 11 Mandalay Road, Singapore 308232, Singapore
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Université de Lausanne, Le Génopode, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
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McVicker BL, Hamel FG, Simpson RL, Bennett RG. A Selective PPARγ Modulator Reduces Hepatic Fibrosis. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9070151. [PMID: 32630819 PMCID: PMC7407562 DOI: 10.3390/biology9070151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is the accumulation of excess collagen as a result of chronic liver injury. If left unabated, hepatic fibrosis can lead to the disruption of the liver architecture, portal hypertension, and increased risk of progression to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The thiazolidinedione class of antidiabetic drugs, through their target peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), have protective effects against liver fibrosis, and can inhibit the profibrotic activity of hepatic stellate cells, the major collagen-producing liver cells. However, these drugs have been ineffective in the treatment of established fibrosis, possibly due to side effects such as increased weight and adiposity. Recently, selective PPARγ modulators that lack these side effects have been identified, but their role in treating fibrosis has not been studied. In this study, we tested the effectiveness of one of these selective modulators, SR1664, in the mouse carbon tetrachloride model of established hepatic fibrosis. Treatment with SR1664 reduced the total and type 1 collagen content without increasing body weight. The abundance of activated hepatic stellate cells was also significantly decreased. Finally, SR1664 inhibited the profibrotic phenotype of hepatic stellate cells. In summary, a selective PPARγ modulator was effective in the reduction of established hepatic fibrosis and the activated phenotype of hepatic stellate cells. This may represent a new treatment approach for hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benita L. McVicker
- Research Service, VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.); (R.L.S.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Frederick G. Hamel
- Research Service, VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.); (R.L.S.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Ronda L. Simpson
- Research Service, VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.); (R.L.S.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Robert G. Bennett
- Research Service, VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.); (R.L.S.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
- Correspondence:
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Alatas FS, Matsuura T, Pudjiadi AH, Wijaya S, Taguchi T. Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma Agonist Attenuates Liver Fibrosis by Several Fibrogenic Pathways in an Animal Model of Cholestatic Fibrosis. Pediatr Gastroenterol Hepatol Nutr 2020; 23:346-355. [PMID: 32704495 PMCID: PMC7354870 DOI: 10.5223/pghn.2020.23.4.346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) has a key role in hepatic fibrogenesis by virtue of its effect on the hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Although many studies have shown that PPAR-γ agonists inhibit liver fibrosis, the mechanism remains largely unclear, especially regarding the cross-talk between PPAR-γ and other potent fibrogenic factors. METHODS This experimental study involved 25 male Wistar rats. Twenty rats were subjected to bile duct ligation (BDL) to induce liver fibrosis, further divided into an untreated group (BDL; n=10) and a group treated with the PPAR-γ agonist thiazolidinedione (TZD), at 14 days post-operation (BDL+TZD; n=10). The remaining 5 rats had a sham operation (sham; n=5). The effect of PPAR-γ agonist on liver fibrosis was evaluated by histopathology, protein immunohistochemistry, and mRNA expression quantitative polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Histology and immunostaining showed markedly reduced collagen deposition, bile duct proliferation, and HSCs in the BDL+TZD group compared to those in the BDL group (p<0.001). Similarly, significantly lower mRNA expression of collagen α-1(I), matrix metalloproteinase-2, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-B chain, and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) were evident in the BDL+TZD group compared to those in the BDL group (p=0.0002, p<0.035, p<0.0001, and p=0.0123 respectively). Moreover, expression of the transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-β1) was also downregulated in the BDL+TZD group (p=0.0087). CONCLUSION The PPAR-γ agonist inhibits HSC activation in vivo and attenuates liver fibrosis through several fibrogenic pathways. Potent fibrogenic factors such as PDGF, CTGF, and TGF-β1 were downregulated by the PPAR-γ agonist. Targeting PPAR-γ activity may be a potential strategy to control liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Safira Alatas
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.,Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Toshiharu Matsuura
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Antonius Hocky Pudjiadi
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Stephanie Wijaya
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Tomoaki Taguchi
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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PPARs as Metabolic Regulators in the Liver: Lessons from Liver-Specific PPAR-Null Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21062061. [PMID: 32192216 PMCID: PMC7139552 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21062061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 267] [Impact Index Per Article: 66.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) α, β/δ, and γ modulate lipid homeostasis. PPARα regulates lipid metabolism in the liver, the organ that largely controls whole-body nutrient/energy homeostasis, and its abnormalities may lead to hepatic steatosis, steatohepatitis, steatofibrosis, and liver cancer. PPARβ/δ promotes fatty acid β-oxidation largely in extrahepatic organs, and PPARγ stores triacylglycerol in adipocytes. Investigations using liver-specific PPAR-disrupted mice have revealed major but distinct contributions of the three PPARs in the liver. This review summarizes the findings of liver-specific PPAR-null mice and discusses the role of PPARs in the liver.
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Trivella JP, Martin P, Carrion AF. Novel targeted therapies for the management of liver fibrosis. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2020; 25:59-70. [PMID: 32098512 DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2020.1735350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Juan P. Trivella
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Paul Martin
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Andres F. Carrion
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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48
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Jarman EJ, Boulter L. Targeting the Wnt signaling pathway: the challenge of reducing scarring without affecting repair. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2020; 29:179-190. [DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2020.1718105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Edward J. Jarman
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Luke Boulter
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh, UK
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Zhou J, Liu X, Chen T, Cheng G, Cai S. Preventive effect of ethanol extract from Chinese sumac fruits against tetrachloromethane-induced liver fibrosis in mice. Food Funct 2020; 11:7061-7072. [DOI: 10.1039/d0fo00548g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Chinese sumac (Rhus chinensis Mill.) fruits effectively prevent CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiexin Zhou
- Faculty of Agriculture and Food
- Yunnan Institute of Food Safety
- Kunming University of Science and Technology
- Kunming
- People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaojing Liu
- Faculty of Agriculture and Food
- Yunnan Institute of Food Safety
- Kunming University of Science and Technology
- Kunming
- People's Republic of China
| | - Taiming Chen
- Faculty of Agriculture and Food
- Yunnan Institute of Food Safety
- Kunming University of Science and Technology
- Kunming
- People's Republic of China
| | - Guiguang Cheng
- Faculty of Agriculture and Food
- Yunnan Institute of Food Safety
- Kunming University of Science and Technology
- Kunming
- People's Republic of China
| | - Shengbao Cai
- Faculty of Agriculture and Food
- Yunnan Institute of Food Safety
- Kunming University of Science and Technology
- Kunming
- People's Republic of China
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50
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Emerging therapies in primary sclerosing cholangitis: pathophysiological basis and clinical opportunities. J Gastroenterol 2020; 55:588-614. [PMID: 32222826 PMCID: PMC7242240 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-020-01681-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a progressive liver disease, histologically characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of the bile ducts, and clinically leading to multi-focal biliary strictures and with time cirrhosis and liver failure. Patients bear a significant risk of cholangiocarcinoma and colorectal cancer, and frequently have concomitant inflammatory bowel disease and autoimmune disease manifestations. To date, no medical therapy has proven significant impact on clinical outcomes and most patients ultimately need liver transplantation. Several treatment strategies have failed in the past and whilst prescription of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) prevails, controversy regarding benefits remains. Lack of statistical power, slow and variable disease progression, lack of surrogate biomarkers for disease severity and other challenges in trial design serve as critical obstacles in the development of effective therapy. Advances in our understanding of PSC pathogenesis and biliary physiology over recent years has however led to a surge of clinical trials targeting various mechanistic compartments and currently raising hopes for imminent changes in patient management. Here, in light of pathophysiology, we outline and critically evaluate emerging treatment strategies in PSC, as tested in recent or ongoing phase II and III trials, stratified per a triad of targets of nuclear and membrane receptors regulating bile acid metabolism, immune modulators, and effects on the gut microbiome. Furthermore, we revisit the UDCA trials of the past and critically discuss relevant aspects of clinical trial design, including how the choice of endpoints, alkaline phosphatase in particular, may affect the future path to novel, effective PSC therapeutics.
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