1
|
Ye L, Huang J, Liang X, Guo W, Sun X, Shao C, He Y, Zhang J. Jiawei Taohe Chengqi Decoction attenuates CCl 4 induced hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting HSCs activation via TGF-β1/CUGBP1 and IFN-γ/Smad7 pathway. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 133:155916. [PMID: 39094440 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155916] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is an essential stage in the progression of different chronic liver conditions to cirrhosis and even hepatocellular carcinoma. The activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) plays a crucial role in the progression of HF. IFN- γ/Smad7 pathway can inhibit HSCs activation, while TGF-β1/CUGBP1 pathway can inhibit IFN-γ/Smad7 pathway transduction and promote HSCs activation. Thus, inhibiting the TGF-β1/CUGBP1 pathway and activating the IFN-γ/Smad7 pathway reverses HSCs activation and inhibits HF. Jiawei Taohe Chengqi Decoction (JTCD) was derived from the Taohe Chengqi Tang in the ancient Chinese medical text titled "Treatise on Febrile Diseases". We found several anti-HF components in JTCD including ginsenoside Rb1 and others, but the specific mechanism of anti-HF in JTCD is not clear. PURPOSE To elucidate the specific mechanism by which JTCD reverses HF by inhibiting the activation of HSCs, and to establish a scientific foundation for treating HF with Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). METHODS We constructed a CCl4-induced mice HF model in vivo and activated human hepatic stellate cell line (LX-2) with TGF-β1 in vitro, after which they were treated with JTCD and the corresponding inhibitors. We examined the expression of pivotal molecules in the two pathways mentioned above by immunofluorescence staining, Western blotting and RT-PCR. RESULTS JTCD attenuated liver injury and reduced serum ALT and AST levels in mice. In addition, JTCD attenuated CCl4-induced HF by decreasing the expression of α-SMA, COL1A1 and other markers of HSCs activation in mice liver tissue. Moreover, JTCD effectively suppressed the levels of TGF-β1, p-Smad3, p-p38MAPK, p-ATF2, and CUGBP1 in vivo and in vitro and upregulated the levels of IFN-γ, p-STAT1, and Smad7. Mechanically, after using the inhibitors of both pathways in vitro, we found that JTCD inhibited the activation of HSCs by restoring the balance of the TGF-β1/CUGBP1 and IFN-γ/Smad7 pathways. CONCLUSION We demonstrated that JTCD inhibited HSCs activation and reversed HF by inhibiting the TGF-β1/CUGBP1 signalling pathway and upregulating the IFN-γ/Smad7 signalling pathway. Moreover, we have identified specific links where JTCD interferes with both pathways to inhibit HSCs activation. JTCD is an effective candidate for the clinical treatment of HF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linmao Ye
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Jiaxin Huang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Xiaofan Liang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Wenqin Guo
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Xiguang Sun
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Chang Shao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Yi He
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Junjie Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Agoulnik IU, Kaftanovskaya EM, Myhr C, Bathgate RAD, Kocan M, Peng Y, Lindsay RM, DiStefano PS, Agoulnik AI. Engineering a long acting, non-biased relaxin agonist using Protein-in-Protein technology. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 227:116401. [PMID: 38945278 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116401] [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: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
The peptide hormone relaxin plays a critical role in tissue remodeling in a variety of tissues through activation of its cognate receptor, RXFP1. Relaxin's ability to modify extracellular matrices has provided a strong rationale for treating fibrosis in a variety of tissues. Treatment with recombinant relaxin peptides in clinical studies of heart failure has not yet proven useful, likely due to the short half-life of infused peptide. To circumvent this particular pharmacokinetic pitfall we have used a Protein-in-Protein (PiP) antibody technology described previously, to insert a single-chain human relaxin construct into the complementarity-determining region (CDR) of an immunoglobulin G (IgG) backbone, creating a relaxin molecule with a half-life of ∼4-5 days in mice. Relaxin-PiP biologics displaced Europium-labeled human relaxin in RXFP1-expressing cells and demonstrated full agonist activity on both human and mouse RXFP1 receptors. Relaxin-PiPs did not show signal transduction bias, as they activated cAMP in THP-1 cells, and cGMP and pERK signaling in primary human cardiac fibroblasts. In an induced carbon tetrachloride mouse model of liver fibrosis one relaxin-PiP, R2-PiP, caused reduction of liver lesions, ameliorated collagen accumulation in the liver with the corresponding reduction of Collagen1a1 gene expression, and increased cell proliferation in hepatic parenchyma. These relaxin biologics represent a novel approach to the design of a long-acting RXFP1 agonist to probe the clinical utility of relaxin/RXFP1 signaling to treat a variety of human fibrotic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina U Agoulnik
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Elena M Kaftanovskaya
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Courtney Myhr
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Ross A D Bathgate
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia; Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Martina Kocan
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Yingjie Peng
- Scripps Research, 10550 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037 USA
| | - Ronald M Lindsay
- Zebra Biologics, Inc., 1041 Old Marlboro Road, Concord, MA 01742 USA
| | - Peter S DiStefano
- Zebra Biologics, Inc., 1041 Old Marlboro Road, Concord, MA 01742 USA.
| | - Alexander I Agoulnik
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Devasia AG, Shanmugham M, Ramasamy A, Bellanger S, Parry LJ, Leo CH. Therapeutic potential of relaxin or relaxin mimetics in managing cardiovascular complications of diabetes. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 229:116507. [PMID: 39182735 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease with an escalating global prevalence. Despite the abundance and relative efficacies of current therapeutic approaches, they primarily focus on attaining the intended glycaemic targets, but patients ultimately still suffer from various diabetes-associated complications such as retinopathy, nephropathy, cardiomyopathy, and atherosclerosis. There is a need to explore innovative and effective diabetic treatment strategies that not only address the condition itself but also combat its complications. One promising option is the reproductive hormone relaxin, an endogenous ligand of the RXFP1 receptor. Relaxin is known to exert beneficial actions on the cardiovascular system through its vasoprotective, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects. Nevertheless, the native relaxin peptide exhibits a short biological half-life, limiting its therapeutic potential. Recently, several relaxin mimetics and innovative delivery technologies have been developed to extend its biological half-life and efficacy. The current review provides a comprehensive landscape of the cardiovascular effects of relaxin, focusing on its potential therapeutic applications in managing complications associated with diabetes. The latest advancements in the development of relaxin mimetics and delivery methods for the treatment of cardiometabolic disorders are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arun George Devasia
- Science, Math & Technology, Singapore University of Technology & Design, Singapore 487372, Singapore; Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS), Agency for Science Technology and Research (A*STAR), 60 Biopolis Street, Genome, Singapore 138672, Singapore
| | - Meyammai Shanmugham
- Science, Math & Technology, Singapore University of Technology & Design, Singapore 487372, Singapore; A*STAR Skin Research Labs (A*SRL), Skin Research Institute of Singapore (SRIS), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove, #06-06 Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore
| | - Adaikalavan Ramasamy
- Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS), Agency for Science Technology and Research (A*STAR), 60 Biopolis Street, Genome, Singapore 138672, Singapore
| | - Sophie Bellanger
- A*STAR Skin Research Labs (A*SRL), Skin Research Institute of Singapore (SRIS), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove, #06-06 Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore
| | - Laura J Parry
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Chen Huei Leo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design & Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117576, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yang H, Niu S, Guo M, Xue Y. Applications of 3D organoids in toxicological studies: a comprehensive analysis based on bibliometrics and advances in toxicological mechanisms. Arch Toxicol 2024; 98:2309-2330. [PMID: 38806717 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03777-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
A mechanism exploration is an important part of toxicological studies. However, traditional cell and animal models can no longer meet the current needs for in-depth studies of toxicological mechanisms. The three-dimensional (3D) organoid derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESC) or induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) is an ideal experimental model for the study of toxicological effects and mechanisms, which further recapitulates the human tissue microenvironment and provides a reliable method for studying complex cell-cell interactions. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the state of the 3D organoid technology in toxicological studies, including a bibliometric analysis of the existing literature and an exploration of the latest advances in toxicological mechanisms. The use of 3D organoids in toxicology research is growing rapidly, with applications in disease modeling, organ-on-chips, and drug toxicity screening being emphasized, but academic communications among countries/regions, institutions, and research scholars need to be further strengthened. Attempts to study the toxicological mechanisms of exogenous chemicals such as heavy metals, nanoparticles, drugs and organic pollutants are also increasing. It can be expected that 3D organoids can be better applied to the safety evaluation of exogenous chemicals by establishing a standardized methodology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haitao Yang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Shuyan Niu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Menghao Guo
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yuying Xue
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Nourmahnad A, Javad Shariyate M, Khak M, Grinstaff MW, Nazarian A, Rodriguez EK. Relaxin as a treatment for musculoskeletal fibrosis: What we know and future directions. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 225:116273. [PMID: 38729446 PMCID: PMC11179965 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Fibrotic changes in musculoskeletal diseases arise from the abnormal buildup of fibrotic tissue around the joints, leading to limited mobility, compromised joint function, and diminished quality of life. Relaxin (RLX) attenuates fibrosis by accelerating collagen degradation and inhibiting excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) production. Further, RLX disrupts myofibroblast activation by modulating the TGF-β/Smads signaling pathways, which reduces connective tissue fibrosis. However, the mechanisms and effects of RLX in musculoskeletal pathologies are emerging as increasing research focuses on relaxin's impact on skin, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, joint capsules, connective tissues, and muscles. This review delineates the actions of relaxin within the musculoskeletal system and the challenges to its clinical application. Relaxin shows significant potential in both in vivo and in vitro studies for broadly managing musculoskeletal fibrosis; however, challenges such as short biological half-life and sex-specific responses may pose hurdles for clinical use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohammad Javad Shariyate
- Musculoskeletal Translational Innovation Initiative, Carl J. Shapiro Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mohammad Khak
- Musculoskeletal Translational Innovation Initiative, Carl J. Shapiro Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Ara Nazarian
- Musculoskeletal Translational Innovation Initiative, Carl J. Shapiro Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yerevan State Medical University, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Edward K Rodriguez
- Musculoskeletal Translational Innovation Initiative, Carl J. Shapiro Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kose H, Sivrikaya A, Menevse E. Maternal Fed Zinc-Deficient Diet: Effects on Relaxin Family Peptides and Oxidant System in the Testis and Liver Tissue of Male Offspring. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024:10.1007/s12011-024-04113-8. [PMID: 38407794 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-024-04113-8] [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: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Today, the studies are limited on roles of insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3), insulin-like peptide 7 (INSL7), and relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1) which are synthesized by the testis. It is aimed to investigate the levels of the sex hormone as testosterone and the family of insulin-like proteins (relaxin family peptides), which are important in the puberty transition, in the testicular and liver tissues of male offspring born to female rats fed a zinc-deficient diet during the pregnancy, and in the changes in lipid peroxidation markers. The study was performed on 40 male offspring. In Group I: Control group, both male offspring and mothers were fed with standard rat chow. In Group II: Zinc deficient diet, both male offspring and mothers were fed a zinc-deficient diet (2.8 mg/kg zinc). In Group III: Normal diet, male offspring fed standard rat chow for 45 days (66th day) after being separated from their mothers with a maternal zinc-deficient diet. In Group IV: Zinc-supplemented diet, offspring fed with zinc supplemented (5 mg/kg/day intraperitoneal zinc sulfate, i.p.) in addition to standard rat chow after being separated from their mothers with maternal zinc deficiency until the termination of the study (66th day). Our study suggests that zinc-supplemented diets play an important role in the changes in INSL3, INSL7, RXFP1, and testosterone levels during spermatogenesis. INSL7, INSL3, and RXFP1 levels were higher in zinc-supplemented group than the zinc-deficient diet group. Liver levels of INSL3, INSL7, and MDA were significantly different in zinc-deficiency diet group than zinc-supplemented group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hamiyet Kose
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Selcuk University, Konya, Turkey
| | - Abdullah Sivrikaya
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Selcuk University, Konya, Turkey
| | - Esma Menevse
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Selcuk University, Konya, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Li Y, Ma L, Xiong Y, Shi J, Zhang F, Chai Q, Hu G, Liu Y. Delivering Relaxin Plasmid by Polymeric Metformin Lipid Nanoparticles for Liver Fibrosis Treatment. Curr Drug Deliv 2024; 21:431-437. [PMID: 37032506 DOI: 10.2174/1567201820666230407135026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver fibrosis usually progresses to liver cirrhosis and even results in hepatocellular carcinoma, which accounts for one million deaths annually worldwide. To date, anti-liver fibrosis drugs for clinical treatment have not yet been approved. Nowadays, as a natural regulator, Relaxin (RLX) has received increased attention because the expression of RLX could deactivate the activation of hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) and resolve liver fibrosis. However, its application in treatment is limited due to the short half-life in circulation and low accumulation within the target organ. METHODS To address these problems, a kind of polymeric metformin (PolyMet)-loaded relaxin plasmid (pRLX) core-membrane lipid nanoparticle (PolyMet-pRLX-LNPs, PRLNP) was prepared. Here, PolyMet was used as a carrier to replace the traditional polymer polyethylene diene (PEI), which is of higher toxicity, to prolong the circulation time of pRLX in vivo. Then, the antifibrotic ability of PRLNP to overcome liver fibrosis was carried out in C57BL/6 mice. It is worth mentioning that this is the first time to investigate the potential of PRLNP in carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis. RESULTS The results showed that PRLNP effectively downregulated fibrosis-related biomarkers such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Meanwhile, histopathological examinations also showed low collagen accumulation, revealing that PRLNP could histologically and functionally alleviate liver fibrosis. In addition, no significant difference in serum biochemical value between the PRLNP and the normal group, suggesting the safety profile of PRLNP. CONCLUSION This research proposed a novel non-toxic treatment method for liver fibrosis with a nanosystem to effectively treat liver fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lisha Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yang Xiong
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jingbin Shi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Feifeng Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qian Chai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Gengshan Hu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yun Liu
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Dwivedi NV, Datta S, El-Kersh K, Sadikot RT, Ganti AK, Batra SK, Jain M. GPCRs and fibroblast heterogeneity in fibroblast-associated diseases. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23101. [PMID: 37486603 PMCID: PMC10916681 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202301091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest and most diverse class of signaling receptors. GPCRs regulate many functions in the human body and have earned the title of "most targeted receptors". About one-third of the commercially available drugs for various diseases target the GPCRs. Fibroblasts lay the architectural skeleton of the body, and play a key role in supporting the growth, maintenance, and repair of almost all tissues by responding to the cellular cues via diverse and intricate GPCR signaling pathways. This review discusses the dynamic architecture of the GPCRs and their intertwined signaling in pathological conditions such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, cardiac fibrosis, pancreatic fibrosis, hepatic fibrosis, and cancer as opposed to the GPCR signaling of fibroblasts in physiological conditions. Understanding the dynamics of GPCR signaling in fibroblasts with disease progression can help in the recognition of the complex interplay of different GPCR subtypes in fibroblast-mediated diseases. This review highlights the importance of designing and adaptation of next-generation strategies such as GPCR-omics, focused target identification, polypharmacology, and effective personalized medicine approaches to achieve better therapeutic outcomes for fibrosis and fibrosis associated malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nidhi V Dwivedi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Souvik Datta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Karim El-Kersh
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Ruxana T Sadikot
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- VA Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System
| | - Apar K. Ganti
- VA Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System
- Division of Oncology and Hematology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Maneesh Jain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Fu K, Li Y, Dai S, Li Y. Exploration of the Molecular Basis of Forsythia Fruit in the Prevention and Treatment of Cholestatic Liver Injury through Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking. Nutrients 2023; 15:2065. [PMID: 37432229 DOI: 10.3390/nu15092065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Forsythia fruit, edible fruit of Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl, which has been found to be effective in treating cholestasis. However, its key component for alleviating cholestasis has not been determined. In this study, four representative active ingredients in forsythia fruit were selected. Through network pharmacology and molecular docking technology, we tried to find the key component for its treatment of cholestasis. Furthermore, the model of cholestasis in mice was established to verify the protective effect of the key component on cholestasis. Network pharmacology and molecular docking showed that forsythoside A (FTA) is the key component of forsythia fruit in the treatment of cholestasis. In vivo experiments revealed that FTA treatment could alleviate liver injury, dysfunction, and collagen deposition induced by cholestasis in mice. At the same time, FTA treatment inhibited inflammatory factor release and fibrosis-related factor expression. In addition, FTA treatment also reduced MMP-2, TLR4, MYD88, NF-κB p65, and p-NF-κB p65 protein expression. In conclusion, FTA, a key component of forsythia fruit, alleviated liver damage and fibrosis caused by cholestasis via inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB pathway, extracellular matrix accumulation, and inflammatory cytokine expression. The research results could provide a scientific reference for the development of forsythia fruit as a drug or functional food to prevent and treat cholestasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ke Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Yanzhi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Shu Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Yunxia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhu S, Chen X, Chen SY, Wang A, Wu S, Wu YY, Cheng M, Xu JJ, Li XF, Huang C, Li J. Hesperetin derivative decreases CCl 4 -induced hepatic fibrosis by Ptch1-dependent mechanisms. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2022; 36:e23149. [PMID: 35712856 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis (HF), a continuous wound-healing response of the liver to repeated injuries, is characterized by abnormal extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are considered a major cell type for ECM production. However, recent evidence indicates the lack of effective treatments for HF. Hesperetin, a Traditional Chinese Medicine monomer, has been isolated from the fruit peel of Citrusaurantium L. (Rutaceae). Growing evidence suggests the partial function of hesperetin in HF treatment. A hesperetin derivative (HD) was synthesized in our laboratory to increase the bioavailability and the water solubility of hesperetin. In this study, we detected the functions of HD in a mouse model of CCl4 -induced HF and transforming growth factor-β1-stimulated HSC-T6 cells, in vivo and in vitro. HD reduced histological damage and CCl4 -induced HF. Moreover, HD interference was associated with the activation of indicators in HSC-T6 cells, showing that HD is involved in HSCs activation in HF. Mechanistically, the Hedgehog pathway is involved in the HD treatment of HF, and HD may attenuate the aberrant expression of patched1. In conclusion, the studies indicate that HD may function as a potential antifibrotic Traditional Chinese Medicine monomer in HF therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sai Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Xin Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Si-Yu Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Ao Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Sha Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Miao Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Jin-Jin Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Jun Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Samuel CS, Bennett RG. Relaxin as an anti-fibrotic treatment: Perspectives, challenges and future directions. Biochem Pharmacol 2021; 197:114884. [PMID: 34968489 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis refers to the scarring and hardening of tissues, which results from a failed immune system-coordinated wound healing response to chronic organ injury and which manifests from the aberrant accumulation of various extracellular matrix components (ECM), primarily collagen. Despite being a hallmark of prolonged tissue damage and related dysfunction, and commonly associated with high morbidity and mortality, there are currently no effective cures for its regression. An emerging therapy that meets several criteria of an effective anti-fibrotic treatment, is the recombinant drug-based form of the human hormone, relaxin (also referred to as serelaxin, which is bioactive in several other species). This review outlines the broad anti-fibrotic and related organ-protective roles of relaxin, mainly from studies conducted in preclinical models of ageing and fibrotic disease, including its ability to ameliorate several aspects of fibrosis progression and maturation, from immune cell infiltration, pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic cytokine secretion, oxidative stress, organ hypertrophy, cell apoptosis, myofibroblast differentiation and ECM production, to its ability to facilitate established ECM degradation. Studies that have compared and/or combined these therapeutic effects of relaxin with current standard of care medication have also been discussed, along with the main challenges that have hindered the translation of the anti-fibrotic efficacy of relaxin to the clinic. The review then outlines the future directions as to where scientists and several pharmaceutical companies that have recognized the therapeutic potential of relaxin are working towards, to progress its development as a treatment for human patients suffering from various fibrotic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chrishan S Samuel
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia.
| | - Robert G Bennett
- Research Service, Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-4130, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Ng HH, Soula M, Rivas B, Wilson KJ, Marugan JJ, Agoulnik AI. Anti-apoptotic and Matrix Remodeling Actions of a Small Molecule Agonist of the Human Relaxin Receptor, ML290 in Mice With Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction. Front Physiol 2021; 12:650769. [PMID: 34305630 PMCID: PMC8293094 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.650769] [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: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension, often lead to chronic kidney failure. The peptide hormone relaxin has been shown to have therapeutic effects in various organs. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that ML290, a small molecule agonist of the human relaxin receptor (RXFP1), is able to target the kidney to remodel the extracellular matrix and reduce apoptosis induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). UUO was performed on the left kidney of humanized RXFP1 mice, where the right kidneys served as contralateral controls. Mice were randomly allocated to receive either vehicle or ML290 (30 mg/kg) via daily intraperitoneal injection, and kidneys were collected for apoptosis, RNA, and protein analyses. UUO significantly increased expression of pro-apoptotic markers in both vehicle- and ML290-treated mice when compared to their contralateral control kidneys. Specifically, Bax expression and Erk1/2 activity were upregulated, accompanied by an increase of TUNEL-positive cells in the UUO kidneys. Additionally, UUO induced marked increase in myofibroblast differentiation and aberrant remodeling on the extracellular matrix. ML290 suppressed these processes by promoting a reduction of pro-apoptotic, fibroblastic, and inflammatory markers in the UUO kidneys. Finally, the potent effects of ML290 to remodel the extracellular matrix were demonstrated by its ability to reduce collagen gene expression in the UUO kidneys. Our data indicate that daily administration of ML290 has renal protective effects in the UUO mouse model, specifically through its anti-apoptotic and extracellular matrix remodeling properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hooi Hooi Ng
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Mariluz Soula
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Bryan Rivas
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Kenneth J Wilson
- NIH Chemical Genomics Center, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Juan J Marugan
- NIH Chemical Genomics Center, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Alexander I Agoulnik
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ezhilarasan D. Relaxin in hepatic fibrosis: What is known and where to head? Biochimie 2021; 187:144-151. [PMID: 34102254 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2021.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Relaxin (RLX) is a heterodimeric, polypeptide hormone that has natural anti-fibrotic activity in many organs. During the chronic liver injury, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are phenotypically transformed into myofibroblasts. This process is known as activation of HSCs. Activated HSCs play a central role in hepatic fibrosis. Quiescent HSCs were shown to express low levels of RLX receptors such as RXFP1 and RXFP2. Upon chronic liver injury, HSCs are activated and express high levels of the RLX receptors. ML290, an agonist of RXFP1 has been reported to have antifibrotic effect in vitro as well as in vivo. Serelaxin, a recombinant human RLX-2 treatment has reduced hepatic fibrosis and portal hypertension in experimental models due to its vasodilation properties by inducing intrahepatic nitric oxide level. Serelaxin has also produced a neutral effect when studied against human cirrhosis-related portal hypertension in clinical trials. RLX is a potent collagen synthesis inhibitor and it has extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling properties by promoting matrix metalloproteinases and downregulating expression of metalloproteinases inhibitors. Available reports suggest that RLX could induce ECM remodeling and suppress the profibrogenic transforming growth factor-β signaling and thereby regress hepatic fibrosis. Though RLX has natural antifibrotic activity, its antifibrotic molecular mechanisms especially in hepatic fibrosis condition are not reported. This review exclusively focuses antifibrotic effect of RLX on hepatic fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, The Blue Lab, Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology Division, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600 077, India.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Fallowfield JA, Ramachandran P. A relaxin-based nanotherapy for liver fibrosis. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 16:365-366. [PMID: 33495619 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-020-00832-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan A Fallowfield
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Prakash Ramachandran
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mekky G, Seeds M, Diab AEAA, Shehata AM, Ahmed-Farid OAH, Alzebdeh D, Bishop C, Atala A. The potential toxic effects of magnesium oxide nanoparticles and valproate on liver tissue. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2020; 35:e22676. [PMID: 33315275 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The liver is the main organ responsible for drug and xenobiotic metabolism and detoxification in the body. There are many antiepileptic drugs and nanoparticles that have been reported to cause serious untoward biological responses and hepatotoxicity. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential toxic effect of aspartic acid-coated magnesium oxide nanoparticles (Mg nano) and valproate (valp) using an in vitro three-dimensional (3D) human liver organoid model and an in vivo pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced convulsion model in rats. Here, 3D human liver organoids were treated with valp or valp + Mg nano for 24 h and then incubated with PTZ for an extra 24 h. As the in vivo model, rats were treated with valp, Mg nano, or valp + Mg nano for 4 weeks and then they were treated with PTZ for 24 h. Toxicity in the liver organoids was demonstrated by reduced cell viability, decreased ATP, and increased reactive oxygen species. In the rat convulsion model, results revealed elevated serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels. Both the in vitro and in vivo data demonstrated the potential toxic effects of valp + Mg nano on the liver tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gehad Mekky
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Zagazige, Egypt.,Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Michael Seeds
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Ahmed M Shehata
- Physiology Department, National Organization for Drug Control and Research (NODCAR), Giza, Egypt
| | - Omar A-H Ahmed-Farid
- Physiology Department, National Organization for Drug Control and Research (NODCAR), Giza, Egypt
| | - Dalia Alzebdeh
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Colin Bishop
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
Insulin-like 3 peptide (INSL3) is a member of the insulin-like peptide superfamily and is the only known physiological ligand of relaxin family peptide receptor 2 (RXFP2), a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR). In mammals, INSL3 is primarily produced both in testicular Leydig cells and in ovarian theca cells, but circulating levels of the hormone are much higher in males than in females. The INSL3/RXFP2 system has an essential role in the development of the gubernaculum for the initial transabdominal descent of the testis and in maintaining proper reproductive health in men. Although its function in female physiology has been less well-characterized, it was reported that INSL3 deletion affects antral follicle development during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle and uterus function. Since the discovery of its role in the reproductive system, the study of INSL3/RXFP2 has expanded to others organs, such as skeletal muscle, bone, kidney, thyroid, brain, and eye. This review aims to summarize the various advances in understanding the physiological function of this ligand-receptor pair since its first discovery and elucidate its future therapeutic potential in the management of various diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Esteban-Lopez
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Alexander I Agoulnik
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
- Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Eiden LE, Goosens KA, Jacobson KA, Leggio L, Zhang L. Peptide-Liganded G Protein-Coupled Receptors as Neurotherapeutics. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2020; 3:190-202. [PMID: 32296762 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.0c00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Peptide-liganded G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a growing fraction of GPCR drug targets, concentrated in two of the five major GPCR structural classes. The basic physiology and pharmacology of some within the rhodopsin class, for example, the enkephalin (μ opioid receptor, MOR) and angiotensin (ATR) receptors, and most in class B, all the members of which are peptide receptors, are well-known, whereas others are less so. Furthermore, with the notable exception of opioid peptide receptors, the ability to translate from peptide to "drug-like" (i.e., low-molecular-weight nonpeptide) molecules, with desirable oral absorption, brain penetrance, and serum stability, has met with limited success. Yet, peripheral peptide administration in patients with metabolic disorders is clinically effective, suggesting that "drug-like" molecules for peptide receptor targets may not always be required for disease intervention. Here, we consider recent developments in GPCR structure analysis, intracellular signaling, and genetic analysis of peptide and peptide receptor knockout phenotypes in animal models. These lines of research converge on a better understanding of how peptides facilitate adaptive behaviors in mammals. They suggest pathways to translate this burgeoning information into identified drug targets for neurological and psychiatric illnesses such as obesity, addiction, anxiety disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. Advances centered on the peptide ligands oxytocin, vasopressin, GLP-1, ghrelin, PACAP, NPY, and their GPCRs are considered here. These represent the spectrum of progress across the "virtual pipeline", of peptide receptors associated with many established drugs, those of long-standing interest for which clinical application is still under development, and those just coming into focus through basic research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lee E Eiden
- Section on Molecular Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Ki Ann Goosens
- Icahn School of Medicine, Mt. Sinai Hospital, New York, New York 10029, United States
| | - Kenneth A Jacobson
- Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Lorenzo Leggio
- Section on Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism/National Institute on Drug Abuse, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Limei Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Mexico City 04510, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Chen TY, Li X, Hung CH, Bahudhanapati H, Tan J, Kass DJ, Zhang Y. The relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1): An emerging player in human health and disease. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2020; 8:e1194. [PMID: 32100955 PMCID: PMC7196478 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Relaxin/relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1) signaling is important for both normal physiology and disease. Strong preclinical evidence supports relaxin as a potent antifibrotic molecule. However, relaxin‐based therapy failed in clinical trial in patients with systemic sclerosis. We and others have discovered that aberrant expression of RXFP1 may contribute to the abnormal relaxin/RXFP1 signaling in different diseases. Reduced RXFP1 expression and alternative splicing transcripts with potential functional consequences have been observed in fibrotic tissues. A relative decrease in RXFP1 expression in fibrotic tissues—specifically lung and skin—may explain a potential insensitivity to relaxin. In addition, receptor dimerization also plays important roles in relaxin/RXFP1 signaling. Methods This review describes the tissue specific expression, characteristics of the splicing variants, and homo/heterodimerization of RXFP1 in both normal physiological function and human diseases. We discuss the potential implications of these molecular features for developing therapeutics to restore relaxin/RXFP1 signaling and to harness relaxin's potential antifibrotic effects. Results Relaxin/RXFP1 signaling is important in both normal physiology and in human diseases. Reduced expression of RXFP1 in fibrotic lung and skin tissues surrenders both relaxin/RXFP1 signaling and their responsiveness to exogenous relaxin treatments. Alternative splicing and receptor dimerization are also important in regulating relaxin/RXFP1 signaling. Conclusions Understanding the molecular mechanisms that drive aberrant expression of RXFP1 in disease and the functional roles of alternative splicing and receptor dimerization will provide insight into therapeutic targets that may restore the relaxin responsiveness of fibrotic tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Yun Chen
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine and the Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Institute of Allied Health Sciences, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Xiaoyun Li
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine and the Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ching-Hsia Hung
- Institute of Allied Health Sciences, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Harinath Bahudhanapati
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine and the Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jiangning Tan
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine and the Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Daniel J Kass
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine and the Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yingze Zhang
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine and the Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Human Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|