1
|
Xie H, Yang N, Yu C, Lu L. Uremic toxins mediate kidney diseases: the role of aryl hydrocarbon receptor. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2024; 29:38. [PMID: 38491448 PMCID: PMC10943832 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-024-00550-4] [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: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) was originally identified as an environmental sensor that responds to pollutants. Subsequent research has revealed that AhR recognizes multiple exogenous and endogenous molecules, including uremic toxins retained in the body due to the decline in renal function. Therefore, AhR is also considered to be a uremic toxin receptor. As a ligand-activated transcriptional factor, the activation of AhR is involved in cell differentiation and senescence, lipid metabolism and fibrogenesis. The accumulation of uremic toxins in the body is hazardous to all tissues and organs. The identification of the endogenous uremic toxin receptor opens the door to investigating the precise role and molecular mechanism of tissue and organ damage induced by uremic toxins. This review focuses on summarizing recent findings on the role of AhR activation induced by uremic toxins in chronic kidney disease, diabetic nephropathy and acute kidney injury. Furthermore, potential clinical approaches to mitigate the effects of uremic toxins are explored herein, such as enhancing uremic toxin clearance through dialysis, reducing uremic toxin production through dietary interventions or microbial manipulation, and manipulating metabolic pathways induced by uremic toxins through controlling AhR signaling. This information may also shed light on the mechanism of uremic toxin-induced injury to other organs, and provide insights into clinical approaches to manipulate the accumulated uremic toxins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Xie
- Department of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 389 Xincun Road, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Ninghao Yang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, 138 Yixueyuan Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Chen Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 389 Xincun Road, Shanghai, 200065, China.
| | - Limin Lu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, 138 Yixueyuan Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ren N, Wang WF, Zou L, Zhao YL, Miao H, Zhao YY. The nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway is a master regulator of renal fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1335094. [PMID: 38293668 PMCID: PMC10824958 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1335094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Renal fibrosis is increasingly recognized as a global public health problem. Acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) both result in renal fibrosis. Oxidative stress and inflammation play central roles in progressive renal fibrosis. Oxidative stress and inflammation are closely linked and form a vicious cycle in which oxidative stress induces inflammation through various molecular mechanisms. Ample evidence has indicated that a hyperactive nuclear factor kappa B (NF-ƙB) signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in renal fibrosis. Hyperactive NF-ƙB causes the activation and recruitment of immune cells. Inflammation, in turn, triggers oxidative stress through the production of reactive oxygen species and nitrogen species by activating leukocytes and resident cells. These events mediate organ injury through apoptosis, necrosis, and fibrosis. Therefore, developing a strategy to target the NF-ƙB signaling pathway is important for the effective treatment of renal fibrosis. This Review summarizes the effect of the NF-ƙB signaling pathway on renal fibrosis in the context of AKI and CKD (immunoglobulin A nephropathy, membranous nephropathy, diabetic nephropathy, hypertensive nephropathy, and kidney transplantation). Therapies targeting the NF-ƙB signaling pathway, including natural products, are also discussed. In addition, NF-ƙB-dependent non-coding RNAs are involved in renal inflammation and fibrosis and are crucial targets in the development of effective treatments for kidney disease. This Review provides a clear pathophysiological rationale and specific concept-driven therapeutic strategy for the treatment of renal fibrosis by targeting the NF-ƙB signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Na Ren
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wen-Feng Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Liang Zou
- School of Food and Bioengineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yan-Long Zhao
- Dialysis Department of Nephrology Hospital, Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hua Miao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Miao H, Wang YN, Su W, Zou L, Zhuang SG, Yu XY, Liu F, Zhao YY. Sirtuin 6 protects against podocyte injury by blocking the renin-angiotensin system by inhibiting the Wnt1/β-catenin pathway. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:137-149. [PMID: 37640899 PMCID: PMC10770168 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-023-01148-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Sirtuins (Sirts) are a family of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide-dependent protein deacetylases that share diverse cellular functions. Increasing evidence shows that Sirts play a critical role in podocyte injury, which is a major determinant of proteinuria-associated renal disease. Membranous nephropathy (MN) is a typical glomerular disease in which podocyte damage mediates proteinuria development. In this study we investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulatory roles of Sirt in podocyte injury in MN patients, rats with cationic bovine serum albumin (CBSA)-induced MN and zymosan activation serum (ZAS)-stimulated podocytes. Compared with healthy controls, MN patients showed significant reduction in intrarenal Sirt1 and Sirt6 protein expression. In CBSA-induced MN rats, significant reduction in intrarenal Sirt1, Sirt3 and Sirt6 protein expression was observed. However, only significant decrease in Sirt6 protein expression was found in ZAS-stimulated podocytes. MN patients showed significantly upregulated protein expression of Wnt1 and β-catenin and renin-angiotensin system (RAS) components in glomeruli. CBSA-induced MN rats exhibited significantly upregulated protein expression of intrarenal Wnt1 and β-catenin and their downstream gene products as well as RAS components. Similar results were observed in ZAS-stimulated podocytes. In ZAS-stimulated podocytes, treatment with a specific Sirt6 activator UBCS039 preserved the protein expression of podocin, nephrin and podocalyxin, accompanied by significant inhibition of the protein expression of β-catenin and its downstream gene products, including Snail1 and Twist; treatment with a β-catenin inhibitor ICG-001 significantly preserved the expression of podocyte-specific proteins and inhibited the upregulation of downstream β-catenin gene products accompanied by significant suppression of the protein expression of RAS components. Thus, we demonstrate that Sirt6 ameliorates podocyte injury by blocking RAS signalling via the Wnt1/β-catenin pathway. Sirt6 is a specific therapeutic target for the treatment of podocyte damage-associated renal disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hua Miao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Yan-Ni Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Wei Su
- Department of Nephrology, Baoji Central Hospital, Baoji, 721008, China
| | - Liang Zou
- School of Food and Bioengineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610106, China
| | - Shou-Gang Zhuang
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital and Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Xiao-Yong Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Xi'an, 710003, China.
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Urology, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Luo D, Chen S, Wang X, Wang Y, Khoso PA, Xu S, Li S. Unraveling the mechanism of quercetin alleviating perfluorooctane sulfonate-induced apoptosis in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) hepatocytes: AMPK/mTOR-mediated mitophagy. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 265:106769. [PMID: 37980849 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2023.106769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to persistent new organic pollutants in the environment often leads to high mortality and causes serious economic losses to the aquaculture industry. Currently, perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is persistent and bio-accumulative in the environment, causing potential risks to aquatic ecosystems, but its toxicity mechanism to aquatic organisms is still unclear. As a natural flavonoid compound, quercetin (QU) has many biological activities such as anti-oxidation, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptosis and immune regulation. Whether it can be used as a candidate medicine to alleviate PFOS toxicity needs to be further explored. Therefore, in this study, we treated (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) grass carp hepatocytes (L8824) with PFOS (200 μM) and/or QU (60 μM) for 24 h. The results showed that PFOS significantly increased the release of LDH and active oxygen (ROS) in L8824 cells, and led to the decrease of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and ATP content, the increase of mitochondrial ROS, the disorder of mitochondrial dynamics, and the initiation of Bcl-2/Bax-mediated apoptosis. Surprisingly, QU can alleviate the above PFOS-induced grass carp hepatocyte toxicity. In addition, in order to further explore the protective mechanism of QU, we used the molecular docking to predict the binding site between QU and AMPK, and found that there was a high binding capacity between QU and AMPK. In addition, we used Compound C (CC) and 3-Methyladenine (3-MA) to intervene. The results showed that CC and 3-MA intervention aggravated mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis factor expression in the QU+PFOS group. These data indicate that PFOS induces oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis. The regulation of AMPK/mTOR mediated mitophagy by QU may be a new therapeutic strategy to alleviate the hepatotoxicity of PFOS grass carp. This study provides theoretical basis and reference for exploring the toxic mechanism and biological toxic effects of PFOS, and provides a scheme for improving the economic benefits of aquaculture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongliu Luo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Shasha Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Xixi Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Yixuan Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Pervez Ahmed Khoso
- Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Sakrand, Pakistan
| | - Shiwen Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Shu Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Visintin L, García Nicolás M, Vangeenderhuysen P, Goessens T, Alladio E, Pomian B, Vanhaecke L, De Saeger S, De Boevre M. Unraveling biomarkers of exposure for tenuazonic acid through urinary metabolomics. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 182:114183. [PMID: 37951345 PMCID: PMC10733712 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.114183] [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: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023]
Abstract
Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by fungi such as Aspergillus, Alternaria, and Penicillium, affecting nearly 80% of global food crops. Tenuazonic acid (TeA) is the major mycotoxin produced by Alternaria alternata, a prevalent pathogen affecting plants, fruits, and vegetables. TeA is notably prevalent in European diets, however, TeA biomarkers of exposure and metabolites remain unknown. This research aims to bridge this knowledge-gap by gaining insights about human TeA exposure and metabolization. Nine subjects were divided into two groups. The first group received a single bolus of TeA at the Threshold of Toxicological Concern (TTC) to investigate the presence of TeA urinary biomarkers, while the second group served as a control. Sixty-nine urinary samples were prepared and analyzed using UPLC-Xevo TQ-XS for TeA quantification and UPLC-Orbitrap Exploris for polar metabolome acquisition. TeA was rapidly excreted during the first 13 h and the fraction extracted was 0.39 ± 0.22. The polar metabolome compounds effectively discriminating the two groups were filtered using Orthogonal Partial Least Squares-Discriminant Analysis and subsequently annotated (n = 122) at confidence level 4. Finally, the urinary metabolome was compared to in silico predicted TeA metabolites. Nine metabolites, including oxidized, N-alkylated, desaturated, glucuronidated, and sulfonated forms of TeA were detected.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lia Visintin
- Centre of Excellence in Mycotoxicology and Public Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - María García Nicolás
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Regional Campus of International Excellence Campus Mare Nostrum, University of Murcia, E-30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Pablo Vangeenderhuysen
- Laboratory of Integrative Metabolomics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Tess Goessens
- Centre of Excellence in Mycotoxicology and Public Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Eugenio Alladio
- Regional Anti-doping and Toxicological Centre, 10043, Orbassano, Italy; Department of Chemistry, University of Torino, 10125, Torino, Italy
| | - Beata Pomian
- Laboratory of Integrative Metabolomics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Lynn Vanhaecke
- Laboratory of Integrative Metabolomics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9820, Merelbeke, Belgium; Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University, BT9 5DL, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah De Saeger
- Centre of Excellence in Mycotoxicology and Public Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Faculty of Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein Campus, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Marthe De Boevre
- Centre of Excellence in Mycotoxicology and Public Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hui Y, Zhao J, Yu Z, Wang Y, Qin Y, Zhang Y, Xing Y, Han M, Wang A, Guo S, Yuan J, Zhao Y, Ning X, Sun S. The Role of Tryptophan Metabolism in the Occurrence and Progression of Acute and Chronic Kidney Diseases. Mol Nutr Food Res 2023; 67:e2300218. [PMID: 37691068 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.202300218] [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: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are common kidney diseases in clinics with high morbidity and mortality, but their pathogenesis is intricate. Tryptophan (Trp) is a fundamental amino acid for humans, and its metabolism produces various bioactive substances involved in the pathophysiology of AKI and CKD. Metabolomic studies manifest that Trp metabolites like kynurenine (KYN), 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), and indoxyl sulfate (IS) increase in AKI or CKD and act as biomarkers that facilitate the early identification of diseases. Meanwhile, KYN and IS act as ligands to exacerbate kidney damage by activating aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signal transduction. The reduction of renal function can cause the accumulation of Trp metabolites which in turn accelerate the progression of AKI or CKD. Besides, gut dysbiosis induces the expansion of Enterobacteriaceae family to produce excessive IS, which cannot be excreted due to the deterioration of renal function. The application of Trp metabolism as a target in AKI and CKD will also be elaborated. Thus, this study aims to elucidate Trp metabolism in the development of AKI and CKD, and explores the relative treatment strategies by targeting Trp from the perspective of metabolomics to provide a reference for their diagnosis and prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yueqing Hui
- Department of Nephrology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Jin Zhao
- Department of Nephrology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Zixian Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Yuwei Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
- Department of Postgraduate Student, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710021, China
| | - Yunlong Qin
- Department of Nephrology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
- Department of Nephrology, 980th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistical Support Force (Bethune International Peace Hospital), Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050082, China
| | - Yumeng Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
- Department of Postgraduate Student, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710021, China
| | - Yan Xing
- Department of Nephrology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Mei Han
- Department of Nephrology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
- Department of Postgraduate Student, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710021, China
| | - Anjing Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
- Department of Postgraduate Student, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710021, China
| | - Shuxian Guo
- Department of Nephrology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Jinguo Yuan
- Department of Nephrology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Yueru Zhao
- School of Clinical Medicine, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, China
| | - Xiaoxuan Ning
- Department of Geriatric, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Shiren Sun
- Department of Nephrology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ren LL, Miao H, Wang YN, Liu F, Li P, Zhao YY. TGF-β as A Master Regulator of Aging-Associated Tissue Fibrosis. Aging Dis 2023; 14:1633-1650. [PMID: 37196129 PMCID: PMC10529747 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is the abnormal accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins such as collagen and fibronectin. Aging, injury, infections, and inflammation can cause different types of tissue fibrosis. Numerous clinical investigations have shown a correlation between the degree of liver and pulmonary fibrosis in patients and telomere length and mitochondrial DNA content, both of which are signs of aging. Aging involves the gradual loss of tissue function over time, which results in the loss of homeostasis and, ultimately, an organism's fitness. A major feature of aging is the accumulation of senescent cells. Senescent cells abnormally and continuously accumulate in the late stages of life, contributing to age-related fibrosis and tissue deterioration, among other aging characteristics. Furthermore, aging generates chronic inflammation, which results in fibrosis and decreases organ function. This finding suggests that fibrosis and aging are closely related. The transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily plays a crucial role in the physiological and pathological processes of aging, immune regulation, atherosclerosis, and tissue fibrosis. In this review, the functions of TGF-β in normal organs, aging, and fibrotic tissues is discussed: TGF-β signalling is altered with age and is an indicator of pathology associated with tissue fibrosis. In addition, this review discusses the potential targeting of noncoding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li-Li Ren
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Hua Miao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Yan-Ni Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Urology, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Ping Li
- Beijing Key Lab for Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases, Institute of Clinical Medical Science, Department of Nephrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wang YN, Miao H, Yu XY, Guo Y, Su W, Liu F, Cao G, Zhao YY. Oxidative stress and inflammation are mediated via aryl hydrocarbon receptor signalling in idiopathic membranous nephropathy. Free Radic Biol Med 2023; 207:89-106. [PMID: 37451370 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2023.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy (MN) patients are diagnosed by the presence of phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) before they progress to renal failure. However, the subepithelium-like immunocomplex deposit-mediated downstream molecular pathways are poorly understood. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), NF-ƙB and Nrf2 pathways play central roles in the pathogenesis and progression of chronic kidney disease. However, their mutual effects on MN require further examination. Thus, we investigated the effect of AHR signalling on the NF-ƙB and Nrf2 pathways in IMN patients, cationic bovine serum albumin (CBSA)-injected rats and zymosan activation serum (ZAS)-treated podocytes. IMN patients show significantly decreased serum total protein and albumin levels, increased urine protein levels and intrarenal IgG4 and PLA2R protein expression in glomeruli compared with controls. IMN patients exhibited increased mRNA expression of intrarenal AHR and its target genes, including CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP1B1 and COX-2. This increase was accompanied by significantly upregulated protein expression of CD3, NF-ƙB p65 and COX-2 and significantly downregulated Nrf2 and HO-1 expression. Similarly, CBSA-induced rats showed severe proteinuria and activated intrarenal AHR signalling. This was accompanied by significantly upregulated protein expression of intrarenal p-IκBα, NF-κB p65 and its gene products, including COX-2, MCP-1, iNOS, 12-LOX, p47phox and p67phox, and significantly downregulated protein expression of Nrf2 and its gene products, including HO-1, catalase, GCLC, GCLM, MnSOD and NQO1. These results were further verified in ZAS-induced podocytes. Treatment with the AHR antagonist CH223191 and AHRsiRNA significantly preserved podocyte-specific protein expression and improved the NF-ƙB and Nrf2 pathways in ZAS-induced podocytes. In contrast, similar results were obtained in ZAS-induced podocytes treated with the NF-ƙB inhibitor BAY 11-7082 and NF-κBp65 siRNA. However, neither method had a significant effect on AHR signalling. Collectively, these results indicate that the NF-ƙB pathway is a downstream target of AHR signalling. Our findings suggest that blocking AHR signalling inhibits oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby improving proteinuria and renal injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ni Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China
| | - Hua Miao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China
| | - Xiao-Yong Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, No. 2 Xihuamen, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710003, China
| | - Yan Guo
- Department of Public Health and Sciences, University of Miami, 1120 NW 14th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Wei Su
- Department of Nephrology, Baoji Central Hospital, No. 8 Jiangtan Road, Baoji, Shaanxi, 721008, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Urology, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 17 South of Panjiayuan, Beijing, 100021, China.
| | - Gang Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China.
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ma SX, Li XJ, Duan TT, Pei M, Zou L, Yu XY, Zhao YY. Moshen granule ameliorates membranous nephropathy by regulating NF-ƙB/Nrf2 pathways via aryl hydrocarbon receptor signalling. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20019. [PMID: 37809643 PMCID: PMC10559749 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20019] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Considerable achievements were realized in illuminating underlying pathological mechanisms of patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN). Although IMN patients are well diagnosed before they reach renal failure, no currently available drug intervention is effective in halting IMN progression. In this study, we assess Moshen granule (MSG) effect on IMN patients and cationic bovine serum albumin (CBSA)-induced rats. Increasing studies has indicated that activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) was related to oxidative stress and inflammation. We further determine MSG effect on AHR, nuclear factor ƙB (NF-ƙB) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in the CBSA-induced rats. MSG markedly reduces proteinuria and improves kidney function in both IMN patients and rats induced by CBSA. MSG markedly inhibits increased mRNA expressions of intrarenal AHR and its four downstream target genes including CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP1B1 and COX-2 compared with untreated CBSA-induced rats. This is accompanied by markedly downregulated protein expressions of p-IƙBα and NF-ƙB p65 and its downstream gene products including MCP-1, COX-2, 12-LOX, iNOS, p47phox and p67phox, while markedly preserves protein expressions of Nrf2 and its downstream gene products including catalase, HO-1, GCLM, GCLC, MnSOD and NQO1 in the kidney tissues. These data suggests MSG blunts podocyte damage through inhibiting activation of NF-ƙB/Nrf2 pathway via AHR signaling. This finding may provide a promising therapy for treatment of IMN through oxidative stress and inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Xing Ma
- Department of Nephrology, Baoji Central Hospital, Baoji, Shaanxi 721008, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Li
- Department of Nephrology, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510315, China
| | - Ting-Ting Duan
- Guangdong Nephrotic Drug Engineering Technology Research Center, Institute of Consun Co. for Chinese Medicine in Kidney Diseases, Guangdong Consun Pharmaceutical Group, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510530, China
| | - Ming Pei
- Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 300073, China
| | - Liang Zou
- School of Food and Bioengineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610106, China
| | - Xiao-Yong Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710003, China
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- School of Food and Bioengineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610106, China
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Qu Z, Wang B, Jin Y, Xiao Q, Zhao Y, Zhao D, Yang L. Shenkang protects renal function in diabetic rats by preserving nephrin expression. BMC Complement Med Ther 2023; 23:244. [PMID: 37460931 PMCID: PMC10353195 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-04078-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Shenkang injection has been used clinically to lower creatinine levels. This study explored the mechanism of Shenkang injection on protecting kidney function from hyperglycemia-mediated damage. METHODS This study utilized a STreptoZotocin (STZ)-induced rat model of diabetes. In total, 60 rats were randomized into either the control group (n = 15) injected with vehicle or treatment group (n = 45) injected with STZ to induce hyperglycemia. Eight weeks after diabetes onset, diabetic rats were further randomized to receive different treatments for 4 consecutive weeks, including vehicle (diabetic nephropathy group, n = 15), Shenkang (n = 15), or Valsartan (n = 15). At 12 weeks, a series of urine and blood measures were examined and damage to the kidney tissue was examined using histology. Expression of nephrin and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) were characterized using immunohistochemistry and Western blot. RESULTS Compared to the control group, rats in the diabetic nephropathy group showed significant kidney damage demonstrated by high kidneyindex, high levels of urinary albumin, albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR), blood urea nitrogen as well as histological evidence. Shenkang injection significantly improved kidney function in the diabetic rats by decreasing kidney index, ACR, and serum creatinine. Shenkang treatment also mitigated kidney damage, improved nephrin expression, and decreased TGF-β1 expression in the kidneys. CONCLUSIONS Shenkang treatment protected renal function in diabetic rats by increasing nephrin expression, which protects diabetic rats from hyperglycemia-mediated kidney damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhihui Qu
- Department of Nephrology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, No.3302, Jilin Road, Changchun City, Jilin Province, P.R. China
| | - Biyao Wang
- Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, 26 Bedford Way, London, WC1H 0AP, UK
| | - Yingli Jin
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, P.R. China
| | - Qingfei Xiao
- Department of Nephrology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, No.3302, Jilin Road, Changchun City, Jilin Province, P.R. China
| | - Ying Zhao
- Department of Nephrology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, No.3302, Jilin Road, Changchun City, Jilin Province, P.R. China
| | - Danning Zhao
- Department of Medical Informatics, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, P.R. China
| | - Liming Yang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, No.3302, Jilin Road, Changchun City, Jilin Province, P.R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wang YN, Miao H, Hua MR, Yang JZ, Pei M, Yu HX, Wei LJ, Zou L, Zhang YM, Cao G, Zhao YY. Moshen granule ameliorates membranous nephropathy by blocking intrarenal renin-angiotensin system signalling via the Wnt1/β-catenin pathway. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 114:154763. [PMID: 37001295 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Membranous nephropathy (MN) is one of the cardinal causes of nephrotic syndrome in adults, but an adequate treatment regimen is lacking. PURPOSE We assessed the effect of Moshen granule (MSG) on patients with MN and cationic bovine serum albumin (CBSA)-induced rats. We further identified the bioactive components of MSG and revealed the underlying molecular mechanism of its renoprotective effects. METHODS We determined the effect of MSG on patients with MN and CBSA-induced rats and its components on podocyte injury in zymosan-activated serum (ZAS)-elicited podocytes and revealed their regulatory mechanism on the Wnt/β-catenin/renin-angiotensin system (RAS) signalling axis. RESULTS MSG treatment improved renal function and reduced proteinuria in MN patients and significantly reduced proteinuria and preserved the protein expression of podocin, nephrin, podocalyxin and synaptopodin in CBSA-induced MN rats. Mechanistically, MSG treatment significantly inhibited the protein expression of angiotensinogen, angiotensin converting enzyme and angiotensin II type 1 receptor, which was accompanied by inhibition of the protein expression of Wnt1 and β-catenin and its downstream gene products, including Snail1, Twist, matrix metalloproteinase-7, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 and fibroblast-specific protein 1, in CBSA-induced MN rats. We further identified 81 compounds, including astragaloside IV (AGS), calycosin, barleriside A and geniposidic acid, that preserve the podocyte-specific protein expression in ZAS-induced podocytes. Among these four compounds, AGS exhibited the strongest inhibitory effects on podocyte protein expression. AGS treatment significantly inhibited the protein expression of RAS components and Wnt1 and β-catenin and its downstream gene products in ZAS-induced podocytes. In contrast, the inhibitory effect of AGS on podocyte-specific proteins, β-catenin downstream gene products and RAS components was partially abolished in ZAS-induced podocytes treated with ICG-001 and β-catenin siRNA. CONCLUSION This study first demonstrates that AGS mitigates podocyte injury by inhibiting the activation of RAS signalling via the Wnt1/β-catenin pathway by both pharmacological and genetic methods. Therefore, AGS might be considered a new β-catenin inhibitor that inhibits the Wnt1/β-catenin pathway to retard MN in patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ni Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Hua Miao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Meng-Ru Hua
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Jun-Zheng Yang
- Guangdong Nephrotic Drug Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangdong Consun Pharmaceutical Group, Institute of Consun Co. for Chinese Medicine in Kidney Diseases, No. 71 Dongpeng avenue, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510530, China
| | - Ming Pei
- Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 88 Changling Road, Tianjin 300073, China
| | - Hang-Xing Yu
- Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 88 Changling Road, Tianjin 300073, China
| | - Li-Juan Wei
- Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 88 Changling Road, Tianjin 300073, China
| | - Liang Zou
- School of Food and Bioengineering, Chengdu University, No. 2025 Chengluo Avenue, Chengdu, Sichuan 610106, China
| | - Ya-Mei Zhang
- Key disciplines of clinical pharmacy, Clinical Genetics Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital & Clinical Medical College of Chengdu University, No. 82 The Second Section of North 2nd Ring Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610081, China
| | - Gang Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China.
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China; Key disciplines of clinical pharmacy, Clinical Genetics Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital & Clinical Medical College of Chengdu University, No. 82 The Second Section of North 2nd Ring Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610081, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Fan X, Jiao G, Pang T, Wen T, He Z, Han J, Zhang F, Chen W. Ameliorative effects of mangiferin derivative TPX on insulin resistance via PI3K/AKT and AMPK signaling pathways in human HepG2 and HL-7702 hepatocytes. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 114:154740. [PMID: 36965373 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a multifaceted metabolic disorder, insulin resistance is accompanied by the preceding onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperinsulinemia, metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and other metabolic syndromes. Currently, the number of existing drugs and mechanism-based strategies is limited to alleviate insulin resistance in clinics. As a natural polyphenol product derivative, 1,3,6,7-tetrapropylene acyloxy-ketone (TPX) showed a significant hypoglycemic effect in our previous studies. However, whether TPX could improve hepatic insulin sensitivity was unknown. PURPOSE To explore whether insulin sensitivity can be improved by the treatment with TPX and further investigate its mechanism(s) of activity. METHODS To mimic hyperglycemia and insulin resistance in vitro, human HepG2 and HL-7702 hepatocytes were exposed to high glucose. Cellular glucose uptake, glucose consumption, glycogen synthesis, and glucose production were quantified after TPX treatment. The effects of TPX on AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation, glucose metabolism, and insulin signal transduction were evaluated by western blotting and network pharmacology analysis. The eGFP-membrane of glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) lentivirus transfected cells were constructed to investigate the effects of TPX on GLUT4 mobilization. Reactive oxygen species activity in high glucose-induced insulin-resistant cells was measured by DCFH-DA to show oxidative stress. RESULTS Treatment with TPX improved glycogen synthesis and inhibited gluconeogenesis by regulating GSK3β, G6Pase, and PEPCK. Furthermore, high glucose-induced inhibition of glucose consumption, glucose uptake, and GLUT4-mediated membrane translocation were reverted by TPX. Accordingly, mechanistic investigations revealed that TPX interacted with AMPK protein and activated the phosphorylation of AKT, thereby improving energy homeostasis and further ameliorating hepatic insulin resistance. Network pharmacology analysis and molecular docking further confirmed AMPK as an active target of TPX. Concordantly, the pharmacological activity of TPX was reversed by the AMPK inhibitor compound C when hepatocytes were exposed to high glucose stimulation. CONCLUSION In summary, our study confirmed TPX contributions to insulin resistance improvements by targeting AMPK and PI3K/AKT to restore the insulin signaling pathway, which may be an important potential treatment strategy for insulin-resistance-related diseases, including MAFLD and diabetes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangcheng Fan
- Department of Pharmacy, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai 200003, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Metabolite Research, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Guangyang Jiao
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Tao Pang
- Department of Pharmacy, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Tao Wen
- Department of Pharmacy, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai 200003, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Metabolite Research, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Zhiqing He
- Department of Cardiology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Jun Han
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai 200003, China.
| | - Feng Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai 200003, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Metabolite Research, Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Wansheng Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai 200003, China; Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Metabolite Research, Shanghai 200433, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wang YN, Zhang ZH, Liu HJ, Guo ZY, Zou L, Zhang YM, Zhao YY. Integrative phosphatidylcholine metabolism through phospholipase A 2 in rats with chronic kidney disease. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2023; 44:393-405. [PMID: 35922553 PMCID: PMC9889763 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-022-00947-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation in lipid metabolism is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and also the important risk factors for high morbidity and mortality. Although lipid abnormalities were identified in CKD, integral metabolic pathways for specific individual lipid species remain to be clarified. We conducted ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-high-definition mass spectrometry-based lipidomics and identified plasma lipid species and therapeutic effects of Rheum officinale in CKD rats. Adenine-induced CKD rats were administered Rheum officinale. Urine, blood and kidney tissues were collected for analyses. We showed that exogenous adenine consumption led to declining kidney function in rats. Compared with control rats, a panel of differential plasma lipid species in CKD rats was identified in both positive and negative ion modes. Among the 50 lipid species, phosphatidylcholine (PC), lysophosphatidylcholine (LysoPC) and lysophosphatidic acid (LysoPA) accounted for the largest number of identified metabolites. We revealed that six PCs had integral metabolic pathways, in which PC was hydrolysed into LysoPC, and then converted to LysoPA, which was associated with increased cytosolic phospholipase A2 protein expression in CKD rats. The lower levels of six PCs and their corresponding metabolites could discriminate CKD rats from control rats. Receiver operating characteristic curves showed that each individual lipid species had high values of area under curve, sensitivity and specificity. Administration of Rheum officinale significantly improved impaired kidney function and aberrant PC metabolism in CKD rats. Taken together, this study demonstrates that CKD leads to PC metabolism disorders and that the dysregulation of PC metabolism is involved in CKD pathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ni Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, China
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Zhi-Hao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Hong-Jiao Liu
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Zhi-Yuan Guo
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Liang Zou
- School of Food and Bioengineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610106, China
| | - Ya-Mei Zhang
- Clinical Genetics Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital & Clinical Medical College of Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610081, China
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China.
- Clinical Genetics Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital & Clinical Medical College of Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610081, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Ren LL, Li XJ, Duan TT, Li ZH, Yang JZ, Zhang YM, Zou L, Miao H, Zhao YY. Transforming growth factor-β signaling: From tissue fibrosis to therapeutic opportunities. Chem Biol Interact 2023; 369:110289. [PMID: 36455676 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2022.110289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis refers to the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix components in the processes of wound repair or tissue regeneration after tissue damage. Fibrosis occurs in various organs such as lung, heart, liver, and kidney tissues, resulting in the failure of organ structural integrity and its functional impairment. It has long been thought to be relentlessly progressive and irreversible process, but both preclinical models and clinical trials in multiorgans have shown that fibrosis is a highly dynamic process. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) is a superfamily of related growth factors. Many studies have described that activation of profibrotic TGF-β signaling promotes infiltration and/or proliferation of preexisting fibroblasts, generation of myofibroblasts, extracellular matrix deposition, and inhibition of collagenolysis, which leads to fibrosis in the pathological milieu. This review describes the effect of TGF-β signaling in fibrotic-associate lung, heart, liver, and kidney tissues, followed by a detailed discussion of canonical and non-canonical TGF-β signaling pathway. In addition, this review also discusses therapeutic options by using natural products and chemical agents, for targeting tissue fibrosis via modulating TGF-β signaling to provide a more specific concept-driven therapy strategy for multiorgan fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li-Li Ren
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Li
- Department of Nephrology, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, 13 Shiliugang Street, Guangzhou, 510315, China
| | - Ting-Ting Duan
- Guangdong Nephrotic Drug Engineering Technology Research Center, Institute of Consun Co. for Chinese Medicine in Kidney Diseases, Guangdong Consun Pharmaceutical Group, Guangzhou, 510530, China
| | - Zheng-Hai Li
- Guangdong Nephrotic Drug Engineering Technology Research Center, Institute of Consun Co. for Chinese Medicine in Kidney Diseases, Guangdong Consun Pharmaceutical Group, Guangzhou, 510530, China
| | - Jun-Zheng Yang
- Guangdong Nephrotic Drug Engineering Technology Research Center, Institute of Consun Co. for Chinese Medicine in Kidney Diseases, Guangdong Consun Pharmaceutical Group, Guangzhou, 510530, China
| | - Ya-Mei Zhang
- Key Disciplines of Clinical Pharmacy, Clinical Genetics Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital & Clinical Medical College of Chengdu University, No. 82 the Second Section of North 2nd Ring Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610081, China
| | - Liang Zou
- School of Food and Bioengineering, Chengdu University, No. 2025 Chengluo Avenue, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610106, China
| | - Hua Miao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China.
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China; Key Disciplines of Clinical Pharmacy, Clinical Genetics Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital & Clinical Medical College of Chengdu University, No. 82 the Second Section of North 2nd Ring Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610081, China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Chen C, Sun S, Zhao J, Wu Q, He W, Sun W. Yishen-Qingli-Huoxue formula attenuates renal fibrosis by inhibiting indoxyl sulfate via AhR/snai1 signaling. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 108:154546. [PMID: 36410103 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is challenging to reverse and its treatment options are limited. Yishen-Qingli-Huoxue Formula (YQHF) is an effective treatment Chinese formula for CKD, as verified by clinical randomized controlled trial. However, the correlative YQHF therapeutic mechanisms are still unknown. PURPOSE The current study aimed to investigate the potential anti-renal fibrosis effects of YQHF as well as the underlying mechanism. METHODS After affirming the curative effects of YQHF on adenine-induced CKD rats, Masson staining, immunohistochemistry, and ELISA were used to assess the effects of YQHF on renal fibrosis. Subsequently, metabolomics and transcriptomics analyses were conducted to clarify the potential mechanisms. Furthermore, high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS), molecular docking analysis and in vitro experiments were used to verify final mechanism of anti-fibrosis. RESULTS Our results demonstrated that YQHF could improve renal morphology, decrease blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (Scr), and increase body weight gain of model rats. Masson staining, immunohistochemistry of collagen I, fibronectin (FN), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), vimentin and E-cadherin showed that YQHF delayed CKD progression by alleviating renal fibrosis, and the expression of fibrotic factors smoc2 and cdh11 were obviously suppressed by YQHF. Metabolomic and transcriptomic measures discovered that indoxyl sulfate might be a crucial factor inducing renal fibrosis, and the antagonistic effect of YQHF on renal fibrosis may be exerted via AhR/snai1 signaling. Subsequently, western blot and immunohistochemical experiments revealed YQHF indeed inhibited AhR/snai1 signaling in adenine-induced renal fibrosis of CKD rat, which confirmed previous results. In addition, molecular docking and in vitro experiments further supported this conclusion, in which astilbin, the main compound identified YQHF, was certified to exert a significant effect on AhR. CONCLUSION Our findings showed that YQHF can effectively treat CKD by antagonizing renal fibrosis, the potential mechanisms were relating with the regulation on AhR/snai1 signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chong Chen
- Department of Nephrology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; No.1 Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Sifan Sun
- Department of Nephrology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Department of Nephrology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Qijing Wu
- The Affiliated Huaian No.1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huaian, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiming He
- Department of Nephrology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Nephrology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chang YT, Chung MC, Chang CH, Chiu KH, Shieh JJ, Wu MJ. Anti-EMT and anti-fibrosis effects of protocatechuic aldehyde in renal proximal tubular cells and the unilateral ureteral obstruction animal model. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2022; 60:1198-1206. [PMID: 35758295 PMCID: PMC9477482 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2022.2088809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Protocatechuic aldehyde (PCA) is a natural product that has various benefits for fibrosis. OBJECTIVE This study evaluated the effects of PCA on renal fibrosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was induced by 20 ng/mL transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), followed by treatment with 1 and 5 μM PCA, in the rat renal proximal tubular cell line NRK-52E. Cell viability, protein expression, and scratch wound-healing assays were conducted. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats underwent unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) surgery for renal fibrosis indication and were treated with 50 and 100 mg/kg PCA for 14 days. RESULTS The IC50 of PCA was appropriately 13.75 ± 1.91 μM in NRK-52E cells, and no significant difference at concentrations less than 5 μM. PCA ameliorated TGF-β1-induced EMT, such as enhanced E-cadherin and decreased vimentin. Fibrotic markers collagen IV and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) increased in TGF-β1-induced NRK-52E. Moreover, PCA reduced TGF-β1-induced migration in the wound-healing assay. Analysis of rat kidneys indicated that PCA reduced UUO-induced hydronephrosis (control: 15.11 ± 1.00%; UUO: 39.89 ± 1.91%; UUO + PCA50: 18.37 ± 1.61%; UUO + PCA100: 17.67 ± 1.39%). Protein level demonstrated that PCA not only decreased vimentin expression and enhanced E-cadherin expression, but inhibited UUO-induced collagen IV and α-SMA upregulation, indicating that it could mitigate EMT in a rat model of UUO-induced renal fibrosis. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS This study suggested that PCA decreases TGF-β1-induced fibrosis and EMT in vitro and in vivo. These findings demonstrate pharmacological effects of PCA and might be a potential strategy for the prevention of organ fibrosis in clinics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Teng Chang
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Mu-Chi Chung
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Rong Hsing Research Center for Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Hao Chang
- Department of Medical Research, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Hsun Chiu
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jeng-Jer Shieh
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Rong Hsing Research Center for Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Ju Wu
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Rong Hsing Research Center for Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Cao G, Miao H, Wang YN, Chen DQ, Wu XQ, Chen L, Guo Y, Zou L, Vaziri ND, Li P, Zhao YY. Intrarenal 1-methoxypyrene, an aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist, mediates progressive tubulointerstitial fibrosis in mice. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2022; 43:2929-2945. [PMID: 35577910 PMCID: PMC9622813 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-022-00914-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that endogenous metabolites act via aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signalling pathway in tubulointerstitial fibrosis (TIF) pathogenesis. However, the mechanisms underlying endogenous metabolite-mediated AhR activation are poorly characterised. In this study, we conducted untargeted metabolomics analysis to identify the significantly altered intrarenal metabolites in a mouse model of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). We found that the levels of the metabolite 1-methoxypyrene (MP) and the mRNA expression of AhR and its target genes CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP1B1 and COX-2 were progressively increased in the obstructed kidney at Weeks 1, 2 and 3. Furthermore, these changes were positively correlated with progressive TIF in UUO mice. In NRK-52E, RAW 264.7 and NRK-49F cells, MP dose-dependently upregulated the mRNA expression of AhR and its four target genes and the protein expression of nuclear AhR, accompanied by the upregulated protein expression of collagen I, α-SMA and fibronectin, as well as downregulated E-cadherin expression. Consistently, oral administration of MP in mice progressively enhanced AhR activity and upregulated profibrotic protein expression in the kidneys; these effects were partially inhibited by AhR knockdown in MP-treated mice and cell lines. In addition, we screened and identified erythro-guaiacylglycerol-β-ferulic acid ether (GFA), which was isolated from Semen plantaginis, as a new AhR antagonist. GFA significantly attenuated TIF in MP-treated NRK-52E cells and mice by partially antagonising AhR activity. Our results suggest that MP activates AhR signalling, thus mediating TIF through epithelial-mesenchymal transition and macrophage-myofibroblast transition. MP is a crucial metabolite that contributes to TIF via AhR signalling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gang Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
| | - Hua Miao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Yan-Ni Wang
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Dan-Qian Chen
- Beijing Key Lab for Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases, Institute of Clinical Medical Science, Department of Nephrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, No. 2 Yinghua East Road, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Xia-Qing Wu
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Lin Chen
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Yan Guo
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, 1700 Lomas Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Liang Zou
- School of Food and Bioengineering, Chengdu University, No. 2025 Chengluo Avenue, Chengdu, 610106, China
| | - Nosratola D Vaziri
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, 1001 Health Sciences Rd, Irvine, CA, 92897, USA
| | - Ping Li
- Beijing Key Lab for Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases, Institute of Clinical Medical Science, Department of Nephrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, No. 2 Yinghua East Road, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Miao H, Zhang Y, Yu X, Zou L, Zhao Y. Membranous nephropathy: Systems biology-based novel mechanism and traditional Chinese medicine therapy. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:969930. [PMID: 36176440 PMCID: PMC9513429 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.969930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy (MN) is a renal-limited non-inflammatory autoimmune disease in the glomerulus, which is the second or third main cause of end-stage kidney diseases in patients with primary glomerulonephritis. Substantial achievements have increased our understanding of the aetiology and pathogenesis of murine and human MN. The identification of nephritogenic autoantibodies against neutral endopeptidase, phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) and thrombospondin type-1 domain-containing 7A (THSD7A) antigens provide more specific concept-driven intervention strategies for treatments by specific B cell-targeting monoclonal antibodies to inhibit antibody production and antibody-antigen immune complex deposition. Furthermore, additional antibody specificities for antigens have been discovered, but their pathogenic effects are uncertain. Although anti-PLA2R and anti-THSD7A antibodies as a diagnostic marker is widely used in MN patients, many questions including autoimmune response development, antigenic epitopes, and podocyte damage signalling pathways remain unresolved. This review describes the current available evidence regarding both established and novel molecular mechanisms based on systems biology approaches (gut microbiota, long non-coding RNAs, metabolite biomarkers and DNA methylation) in MN, with an emphasis on clinical findings. This review further summarizes the applications of traditional Chinese medicines such as Tripterygium wilfordii and Astragalus membranaceus for MN treatment. Lastly, this review considers how the identification of novel antibodies/antigens and unresolved questions and future challenges reveal the pathogenesis of MN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hua Miao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yamei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Genetics & Key Disciplines of Clinical Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medical College of Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoyong Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoyong Yu, ; Liang Zou, ; Yingyong Zhao,
| | - Liang Zou
- School of Food and Bioengineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoyong Yu, ; Liang Zou, ; Yingyong Zhao,
| | - Yingyong Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Genetics & Key Disciplines of Clinical Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medical College of Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoyong Yu, ; Liang Zou, ; Yingyong Zhao,
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Wang YN, Liu HJ, Ren LL, Suo P, Zou L, Zhang YM, Yu XY, Zhao YY. Shenkang injection improves chronic kidney disease by inhibiting multiple renin-angiotensin system genes by blocking the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:964370. [PMID: 36059935 PMCID: PMC9432462 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.964370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major worldwide public health problem. The increase in the number of patients with CKD and end-stage kidney disease requesting renal dialysis or transplantation will progress to epidemic proportions in the next several decades. Although blocking the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has been used as a first-line standard therapy in patients with hypertension and CKD, patients still progress towards end-stage kidney disease, which might be closely associated with compensatory renin expression subsequent to RAS blockade through a homeostatic mechanism. The Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway is the master upstream regulator that controls multiple intrarenal RAS genes. As Wnt/β-catenin regulates multiple RAS genes, we inferred that this pathway might also be implicated in blood pressure control. Therefore, discovering new medications to synchronously target multiple RAS genes is necessary and essential for the effective treatment of patients with CKD. We hypothesized that Shenkang injection (SKI), which is widely used to treat CKD patients, might ameliorate CKD by inhibiting the activation of multiple RAS genes via the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway. To test this hypothesis, we used adenine-induced CKD rats and angiotensin II (AngII)-induced HK-2 and NRK-49F cells. Treatment with SKI inhibited renal function decline, hypertension and renal fibrosis. Mechanistically, SKI abrogated the increased protein expression of multiple RAS elements, including angiotensin-converting enzyme and angiotensin II type 1 receptor, as well as Wnt1, β-catenin and downstream target genes, including Snail1, Twist, matrix metalloproteinase-7, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 and fibroblast-specific protein 1, in adenine-induced rats, which was verified in AngII-induced HK-2 and NRK-49F cells. Similarly, our results further indicated that treatment with rhein isolated from SKI attenuated renal function decline and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and repressed RAS activation and the hyperactive Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway in both adenine-induced rats and AngII-induced HK-2 and NRK-49F cells. This study first revealed that SKI repressed epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition by synchronously targeting multiple RAS elements by blocking the hyperactive Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ni Wang
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hong-Jiao Liu
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Li-Li Ren
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ping Suo
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Liang Zou
- Key Disciplines Team of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Food and Bioengineering, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ya-Mei Zhang
- Clinical Genetics Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medical College of Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiao-Yong Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
- *Correspondence: Xiao-Yong Yu, ; Ying-Yong Zhao,
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
- Clinical Genetics Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medical College of Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- *Correspondence: Xiao-Yong Yu, ; Ying-Yong Zhao,
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Zhou Z, Qiao Y, Zhao Y, Chen X, Li J, Zhang H, Lan Q, Yang B. Natural products: potential drugs for the treatment of renal fibrosis. Chin Med 2022; 17:98. [PMID: 35978370 PMCID: PMC9386947 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-022-00646-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
With the increasing prevalence and mortality, chronic kidney disease (CKD) has become a world public health problem. As the primary pathological manifestation in CKD, renal fibrosis is often used as a critical target for the treatment of CKD and inhibits the progression of CKD to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). As a potential drug, natural products have been confirmed to have the potential as a routine or supplementary therapy for chronic kidney disease, which may target renal fibrosis and act through various pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidation of natural products. This article briefly introduces the pathological mechanism of renal fibrosis and systematically summarizes the latest research on the treatment of renal fibrosis with natural products of Chinese herbal medicines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zijun Zhou
- Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Department of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Yanheng Qiao
- Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yanru Zhao
- Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Hanqing Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Department of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Qiumei Lan
- Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Department of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Lai Q, Liu FM, Rao WL, Yuan GY, Fan ZY, Zhang L, Fu F, Kou JP, Yu BY, Li F. Aminoacylase-1 plays a key role in myocardial fibrosis and the therapeutic effects of 20(S)-ginsenoside Rg3 in mouse heart failure. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2022; 43:2003-2015. [PMID: 34916608 PMCID: PMC9343399 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-021-00830-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously found that the levels of metabolite N-acetylglutamine were significantly increased in urine samples of patients with heart failure (HF) and in coronary artery ligation (CAL)-induced HF mice, whereas the expression of its specific metabolic-degrading enzyme aminoacylase-1 (ACY1) was markedly decreased. In the current study, we investigated the role of ACY1 in the pathogenesis of HF and the therapeutic effects of 20(S)-ginsenoside Rg3 in HF experimental models in vivo and in vitro. HF was induced in mice by CAL. The mice were administered Rg3 (7.5, 15, 30 mg · kg-1· d-1, i.g.), or positive drug metoprolol (Met, 5.14 mg · kg-1· d-1, i.g.), or ACY1 inhibitor mono-tert-butyl malonate (MTBM, 5 mg · kg-1 · d-1, i.p.) for 14 days. We showed that administration of MTBM significantly exacerbated CAL-induced myocardial injury, aggravated cardiac dysfunction, and pathological damages, and promoted myocardial fibrosis in CAL mice. In Ang II-induced mouse cardiac fibroblasts (MCFs) model, overexpression of ACY1 suppressed the expression of COL3A1 and COL1A via inhibiting TGF-β1/Smad3 pathway, whereas ACY1-siRNA promoted the cardiac fibrosis responses. We showed that a high dose of Rg3 (30 mg · kg-1· d-1) significantly decreased the content of N-acetylglutamine, increased the expression of ACY1, and inhibited TGF-β1/Smad3 pathway in CAL mice; Rg3 (25 μM) exerted similar effects in Ang II-treated MCFs. Meanwhile, Rg3 treatment ameliorated cardiac function and pathological features, and it also attenuated myocardial fibrosis in vivo and in vitro. In Ang II-treated MCFs, the effects of Rg3 on collagen deposition and TGF-β1/Smad3 pathway were slightly enhanced by overexpression of ACY1, whereas ACY1 siRNA partially weakened the beneficial effects of Rg3, suggesting that Rg3 might suppress myocardial fibrosis through ACY1. Our study demonstrates that N-acetylglutamine may be a potential biomarker of HF and its specific metabolic-degrading enzyme ACY1 could be a potential therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of myocardial fibrosis during the development of HF. Rg3 attenuates myocardial fibrosis to ameliorate HF through increasing ACY1 expression and inhibiting TGF-β1/Smad3 pathway, which provides some references for further development of anti-fibrotic drugs for HF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Lai
- grid.254147.10000 0000 9776 7793Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, Research Center for Traceability and Standardization of TCMs, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198 China
| | - Fu-ming Liu
- grid.410745.30000 0004 1765 1045Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Wang-lin Rao
- grid.254147.10000 0000 9776 7793Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, Research Center for Traceability and Standardization of TCMs, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198 China
| | - Guang-ying Yuan
- grid.254147.10000 0000 9776 7793Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, Research Center for Traceability and Standardization of TCMs, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198 China
| | - Zhao-yang Fan
- grid.254147.10000 0000 9776 7793Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, Research Center for Traceability and Standardization of TCMs, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198 China
| | - Lu Zhang
- grid.254147.10000 0000 9776 7793Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, Research Center for Traceability and Standardization of TCMs, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198 China
| | - Fei Fu
- grid.254147.10000 0000 9776 7793Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, Research Center for Traceability and Standardization of TCMs, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198 China
| | - Jun-ping Kou
- grid.254147.10000 0000 9776 7793Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, Research Center for Traceability and Standardization of TCMs, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198 China
| | - Bo-yang Yu
- grid.254147.10000 0000 9776 7793Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, Research Center for Traceability and Standardization of TCMs, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198 China
| | - Fang Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, Research Center for Traceability and Standardization of TCMs, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a worldwide public health issue and has ultimately progressed to an end-stage renal disease that requires life-long dialysis or renal transplantation. However, the underlying molecular mechanism of these pathological development and progression remains to be fully understood. The human gut microbiota is made up of approximately 100 trillion microbial cells including anaerobic and aerobic species. In recent years, more and more evidence has indicated a clear association between dysbiosis of gut microbiota and CKD including immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy, diabetic kidney disease, membranous nephropathy, chronic renal failure and end-stage renal disease. The current review describes gut microbial dysbiosis and metabolites in patients with CKD thus helping to understand human disease. Treatment with prebiotics, probiotics and natural products can attenuate CKD through improving dysbiosis of gut microbiota, indicating a novel intervention strategy in patients with CKD. This review also discusses therapeutic options, such as prebiotics, probiotics and natural products, for targeting dysbiosis of gut microbiota in patients to provide more specific concept-driven therapy strategy for CKD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Yong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, Shaanxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Yang CE, Wang YN, Hua MR, Miao H, Zhao YY, Cao G. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor: From pathogenesis to therapeutic targets in aging-related tissue fibrosis. Ageing Res Rev 2022; 79:101662. [PMID: 35688331 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Aging promotes chronic inflammation, which contributes to fibrosis and decreases organ function. Fibrosis, the excessive synthesis and deposition of extracellular matrix components, is the main cause of most chronic diseases including aging-related organ failure. Organ fibrosis in the heart, liver, and kidneys is the final manifestation of many chronic diseases. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a cytoplasmic receptor and highly conserved transcription factor that is activated by a variety of small-molecule ligands to affect a wide array of tissue homeostasis functions. In recent years, mounting evidence has revealed that AHR plays an important role in multi-organ fibrosis initiation, progression, and therapy. In this review, we summarise the relationship between AHR and the pathogenesis of aging-related tissue fibrosis, and further discuss how AHR modulates tissue fibrosis by regulating transforming growth factor-β signalling, immune response, and mitochondrial function, which may offer novel targets for the prevention and treatment of this condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang-E Yang
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China
| | - Yan-Ni Wang
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China
| | - Meng-Ru Hua
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China
| | - Hua Miao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China.
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China.
| | - Gang Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Liu Z, Guan C, Li C, Zhang N, Yang C, Xu L, Zhou B, Zhao L, Luan H, Man X, Xu Y. Tilianin Reduces Apoptosis via the ERK/EGR1/BCL2L1 Pathway in Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Acute Kidney Injury Mice. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:862584. [PMID: 35721209 PMCID: PMC9204490 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.862584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common syndrome impacting about 13.3 million patients per year. Tilianin has been reported to alleviate myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, while its effect on AKI is unknown; thus, this study aimed to explore if tilianin protects I/R-induced AKI and the underlying mechanisms.Methods: The microarray dataset GSE52004 was downloaded from GEO DataSets (Gene Expression Omnibus). Differential expression analysis and gene-set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were performed by R software to identify apoptosis pathway-related genes. Then, RcisTarget was applied to identify the transcription factor (TF) related to apoptosis. The STRING database was used to construct a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network. Cytoscape software visualized PPI networks, and hub TFs were selected via cytoHubba. AutoDock was used for molecular docking of tilianin and hub gene-encoded proteins. The expression levels of hub genes were assayed and visualized by quantitative real-time PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry by establishing I/R-induced AKI mouse models.Results: Bioinformatics analysis showed that 34 genes, including FOS, ATF4, and Gadd45g, were involved in the apoptosis pathway. In total, seven hub TFs might play important roles in tilianin-regulating apoptosis pathways. In in vivo, tilianin improved kidney function and reduced the number of TUNEL-positive renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) after I/R-induced AKI. Tilianin reduced the activation of the ERK pathway and then downregulated the expression of EGR1. This further ameliorated the expression of anti-apoptotic genes such as BCL2L1 and BCL2, reduced pro-apoptotic genes such as BAD, BAX, and caspase-3, and reduced the release of cytochrome c.Conclusion: Tilianin reduced apoptosis after I/R-induced AKI by the ERK/EGR1/BCL2L1 pathway. Our findings provided novel insights for the first time into the protective effect and underlying molecular mechanisms of tilianin on I/R-induced AKI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zengying Liu
- Department of Nephrology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chen Guan
- Department of Nephrology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chenyu Li
- Department of Nephrology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität, LMU München, München, Germany
| | - Ningxin Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chengyu Yang
- Department of Nephrology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lingyu Xu
- Department of Nephrology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Bin Zhou
- Department of Nephrology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Long Zhao
- Department of Nephrology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Hong Luan
- Department of Nephrology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaofei Man
- Department of Nephrology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Nephrology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Yan Xu,
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Wang YN, Feng HY, Nie X, Zhang YM, Zou L, Li X, Yu XY, Zhao YY. Recent Advances in Clinical Diagnosis and Pharmacotherapy Options of Membranous Nephropathy. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:907108. [PMID: 35694252 PMCID: PMC9178124 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.907108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy (MN) is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome among adults, which is the leading glomerular disease that recurs after kidney transplantation. Treatment for MN remained controversial and challenging, partly owing to absence of sensitive and specific biomarkers and effective therapy for prediction and diagnosis of disease activity. MN starts with the formation and deposition of circulating immune complexes on the outer area in the glomerular basement membrane, leading to complement activation. The identification of autoantibodies against the phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) and thrombospondin type-1 domain-containing protein 7A (THSD7A) antigens illuminated a distinct pathophysiological rationale for MN treatments. Nowadays, detection of serum anti-PLA2R antibodies and deposited glomerular PLA2R antigen can be routinely applied to MN. Anti-PLA2R antibodies exhibited much high specificity and sensitivity. Measurement of PLA2R in immune complex deposition allows for the diagnosis of PLA2R-associated MN in patients with renal biopsies. In the review, we critically summarized newer diagnosis biomarkers including PLA2R and THSD7A tests and novel promising therapies by using traditional Chinese medicines such as Astragalus membranaceus, Tripterygium wilfordii, and Astragaloside IV for the treatment of MN patients. We also described unresolved questions and future challenges to reveal the diagnosis and treatments of MN. These unprecedented breakthroughs were quickly translated to clinical diagnosis and management. Considerable advances of detection methods played a critical role in diagnosis and monitoring of treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ni Wang
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
| | - Hao-Yu Feng
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
| | - Xin Nie
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
| | - Ya-Mei Zhang
- Key Disciplines of Clinical Pharmacy, Clinical Genetics Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medical College of Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liang Zou
- School of Food and Bioengineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xia Li
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
- Department of General Practice, Xi’an International Medical Center Hospital, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Xia Li, ; Xiao-Yong Yu, ; Ying-Yong Zhao,
| | - Xiao-Yong Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Xia Li, ; Xiao-Yong Yu, ; Ying-Yong Zhao,
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Xia Li, ; Xiao-Yong Yu, ; Ying-Yong Zhao,
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Tan YQ, Wang YN, Feng HY, Guo ZY, Li X, Nie XL, Zhao YY. Host/microbiota interactions-derived tryptophan metabolites modulate oxidative stress and inflammation via aryl hydrocarbon receptor signaling. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 184:30-41. [PMID: 35367341 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2022.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that induces the expression of a broad range of downstream genes such as cytochromes P450 enzymes and cyclooxygenase-2. Recent research focuses are shifting from AhR activation induced by xenobiotics to its response patterns to physiological ligands that expand our understanding of how endogenous metabolites as ligands to modulate AhR signaling pathway under homeostasis and pathological conditions. With increasing interest in AhR and its endogenous ligands, it would seem advisable to summarize a variety of endogenous ligands especially host/gut microbiota-derived tryptophan metabolites. Mounting evidence has indicated that AhR play a critical role in the regulation of redox homeostasis and immune responses. In this review, we outline the canonical and non-canonical AhR signalling pathway that is mediated by host/gut microbiota-derived tryptophan metabolites. Through several typical endogenous AhR ligands, we investigated the molecular mechanisms of AhR-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in the pathological milieu, including diabetes, diabetic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease. Finally, we summarize and emphasize the limitations and breakthrough of endogenous AhR ligands from host/microbial tryptophan catabolites. This review might provide novel diagnostic and prognostic approach for refractory human diseases and establish new therapeutic strategies for AhR activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue-Qi Tan
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Yan-Ni Wang
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Hao-Yu Feng
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Zhi-Yuan Guo
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Xia Li
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China; Department of General Practice, Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital, Northwest University, No. 777 Xitai Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710100, China.
| | - Xiao-Li Nie
- Department of Nephrology, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, No.13, Shi Liu Gang Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510315, China.
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Liu L, Sun Q, Davis F, Mao J, Zhao H, Ma D. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition in organ fibrosis development: current understanding and treatment strategies. BURNS & TRAUMA 2022; 10:tkac011. [PMID: 35402628 PMCID: PMC8990740 DOI: 10.1093/burnst/tkac011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Organ fibrosis is a process in which cellular homeostasis is disrupted and extracellular matrix is excessively deposited. Fibrosis can lead to vital organ failure and there are no effective treatments yet. Although epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) may be one of the key cellular mechanisms, the underlying mechanisms of fibrosis remain largely unknown. EMT is a cell phenotypic process in which epithelial cells lose their cell-to-cell adhesion and polarization, after which they acquire mesenchymal features such as infiltration and migration ability. Upon injurious stimulation in different organs, EMT can be triggered by multiple signaling pathways and is also regulated by epigenetic mechanisms. This narrative review summarizes the current understanding of the underlying mechanisms of EMT in fibrogenesis and discusses potential strategies for attenuating EMT to prevent and/or inhibit fibrosis. Despite better understanding the role of EMT in fibrosis development, targeting EMT and beyond in developing therapeutics to tackle fibrosis is challenging but likely feasible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lexin Liu
- Division of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK.,Department of Nephrology and Urology, Pediatric Urolith Center, The Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, China
| | - Qizhe Sun
- Division of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK
| | - Frank Davis
- Division of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK
| | - Jianhua Mao
- Department of Nephrology, The Children Hospital of Zhejiang University, School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, China
| | - Hailin Zhao
- Division of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK
| | - Daqing Ma
- Division of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Yu XY, Sun Q, Zhang YM, Zou L, Zhao YY. TGF-β/Smad Signaling Pathway in Tubulointerstitial Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:860588. [PMID: 35401211 PMCID: PMC8987592 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.860588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) was a major public health problem worldwide. Renal fibrosis, especially tubulointerstitial fibrosis, is final manifestation of CKD. Many studies have demonstrated that TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway plays a crucial role in renal fibrosis. Therefore, targeted inhibition of TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway can be used as a potential therapeutic measure for tubulointerstitial fibrosis. At present, a variety of targeting TGF-β1 and its downstream Smad proteins have attracted attention. Natural products used as potential therapeutic strategies for tubulointerstitial fibrosis have the characteristics of acting on multiple targets by multiple components and few side effects. With the continuous research and technique development, more and more molecular mechanisms of natural products have been revealed, and there are many natural products that inhibited tubulointerstitial fibrosis via TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. This review summarized the role of TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway in tubulointerstitial fibrosis and natural products against tubulointerstitial fibrosis by targeting TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. Additionally, many challenges and opportunities are presented for inhibiting renal fibrosis in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yong Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Xiao-Yong Yu, ; Liang Zou, ; Ying-Yong Zhao,
| | - Qian Sun
- Department of Nephrology, Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Xi’an, China
| | - Ya-Mei Zhang
- Key Disciplines of Clinical Pharmacy, Clinical Genetics Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medical College of Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liang Zou
- School of Food and Bioengineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Xiao-Yong Yu, ; Liang Zou, ; Ying-Yong Zhao,
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Key Disciplines of Clinical Pharmacy, Clinical Genetics Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medical College of Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Xiao-Yong Yu, ; Liang Zou, ; Ying-Yong Zhao,
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Gong P, Wang P, Pi S, Guo Y, Pei S, Yang W, Chang X, Wang L, Chen F. Proanthocyanidins Protect Against Cadmium-Induced Diabetic Nephropathy Through p38 MAPK and Keap1/Nrf2 Signaling Pathways. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:801048. [PMID: 35046823 PMCID: PMC8762225 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.801048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the most devastating complications of diabetes mellitus. Although cadmium (Cd) exposure might be involved in the pathogenesis of DN, the underlying mechanism is still unclear. In this study, we explored the protective effects and possible mechanism of proanthocyanidins (OPC) from grape seed using a mouse model of Cd-induced DN. The successful establishment of this model was verified by analyzing the physiological and biochemical indices of mice, including their body weight and tissue ratio; levels of blood glucose, creatinine, microalbumin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol; and was based on histopathological examination. Oxidative-antioxidative status, elemental analysis, and key signaling pathway analysis were performed to explore the possible protective mechanism of OPC. The protective effects of OPC and its possible mechanism in preventing the progression of DN were investigated using a multidimensional approach, including its ability in regulating oxidative-antioxidative status (lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione GST, GSH-Px), metal-binding ability (Cd levels in the kidneys and urine and MT content) and mediation of essential elements (Zn, Ca, Cu, and Fe levels in the kidneys), and activation of the p38 MAPK and Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathways. OPC exhibited a significant renoprotective effect, attributed to the metal-chelating ability, anti-oxidative effect, and mediation of oxidative stress-related signaling pathway. These results highlight the potential of OPC in preventing or treating DN in humans and suggest the dietary intake of grapes, which are rich in polyphenols, for the prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus and its complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pin Gong
- College of Food and Biotechnology, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Peipei Wang
- College of Food and Biotechnology, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Sihui Pi
- College of Food and Biotechnology, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Yuxi Guo
- College of Food and Biotechnology, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Shuya Pei
- College of Food and Biotechnology, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Wenjuan Yang
- College of Food and Biotechnology, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiangna Chang
- College of Food and Biotechnology, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Lan Wang
- College of Food and Biotechnology, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Fuxin Chen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xi'an University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Verissimo T, Faivre A, Sgardello S, Naesens M, de Seigneux S, Criton G, Legouis D. Estimated Renal Metabolomics at Reperfusion Predicts One-Year Kidney Graft Function. Metabolites 2022; 12:57. [PMID: 35050179 PMCID: PMC8778290 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12010057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Renal transplantation is the gold-standard procedure for end-stage renal disease patients, improving quality of life and life expectancy. Despite continuous advancement in the management of post-transplant complications, progress is still needed to increase the graft lifespan. Early identification of patients at risk of rapid graft failure is critical to optimize their management and slow the progression of the disease. In 42 kidney grafts undergoing protocol biopsies at reperfusion, we estimated the renal metabolome from RNAseq data. The estimated metabolites' abundance was further used to predict the renal function within the first year of transplantation through a random forest machine learning algorithm. Using repeated K-fold cross-validation we first built and then tuned our model on a training dataset. The optimal model accurately predicted the one-year eGFR, with an out-of-bag root mean square root error (RMSE) that was 11.8 ± 7.2 mL/min/1.73 m2. The performance was similar in the test dataset, with a RMSE of 12.2 ± 3.2 mL/min/1.73 m2. This model outperformed classic statistical models. Reperfusion renal metabolome may be used to predict renal function one year after allograft kidney recipients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Verissimo
- Laboratory of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (T.V.); (A.F.); (S.d.S.)
| | - Anna Faivre
- Laboratory of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (T.V.); (A.F.); (S.d.S.)
| | - Sebastian Sgardello
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland;
| | - Maarten Naesens
- Service of Nephrology, University Hospitals of Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
| | - Sophie de Seigneux
- Laboratory of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (T.V.); (A.F.); (S.d.S.)
- Service of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine Specialties, University Hospital of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Gilles Criton
- Geneva School of Economics and Management, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland;
| | - David Legouis
- Laboratory of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (T.V.); (A.F.); (S.d.S.)
- Division of Intensive Care, Department of Acute Medicine, University hospital of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Yan Z, Wang G, Shi X. Advances in the Progression and Prognosis Biomarkers of Chronic Kidney Disease. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:785375. [PMID: 34992536 PMCID: PMC8724575 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.785375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the increasingly serious public health concerns worldwide; the global burden of CKD is increasingly due to high morbidity and mortality. At present, there are three key problems in the clinical treatment and management of CKD. First, the current diagnostic indicators, such as proteinuria and serum creatinine, are greatly interfered by the physiological conditions of patients, and the changes in the indicator level are not synchronized with renal damage. Second, the established diagnosis of suspected CKD still depends on biopsy, which is not suitable for contraindication patients, is also traumatic, and is not sensitive to early progression. Finally, the prognosis of CKD is affected by many factors; hence, it is ineviatble to develop effective biomarkers to predict CKD prognosis and improve the prognosis through early intervention. Accurate progression monitoring and prognosis improvement of CKD are extremely significant for improving the clinical treatment and management of CKD and reducing the social burden. Therefore, biomarkers reported in recent years, which could play important roles in accurate progression monitoring and prognosis improvement of CKD, were concluded and highlighted in this review article that aims to provide a reference for both the construction of CKD precision therapy system and the pharmaceutical research and development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhonghong Yan
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Guanran Wang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China.,Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Xingyang Shi
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Bao XH, Bao LM, Xiang C, Gerile S, Qiqige S, Xie YL. Metabolic characterization of the badagan constitution in mongolian medicine by ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry/MS. WORLD JOURNAL OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/2311-8571.351507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
|
33
|
Nonylphenol regulates TL1A through the AhR/HDAC2/HNF4α pathway in endothelial cells to promote the angiogenesis of colorectal cancer. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2021; 436:115854. [PMID: 34974051 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2021.115854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most malignant cancers worldwide. Nonylphenol (NP) is an endocrine-disruptor chemical and plays an important role in the development of cancers. However, the effects of NP on CRC remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential mechanisms of NP in the pathogenesis of CRC. METHODS The levels of AhR, TL1A and HDAC2 in CRC tissues and endothelial cells were assessed by RT-qPCR or western blot. CHIP and dual luciferase reporter assays were used to confirm the interaction between AhR and HDAC2, or HNF4α and TL1A. The CCK8, would healing and tube formation assays were conducted to evaluate the proliferation, migration and angiogenesis of HUVECs. Western blot determined HNF4α protein and HNF4α acetylation levels. The secreted TL1A protein was detected by ELISA. The angiogenesis-related factor CD31 was tested by IHC. RESULTS The expression level of AhR was significantly up-regulated in CRC tissues and endothelial cells. Moreover, NP activated the AhR pathway mediated colorectal endothelial cell angiogenesis and proliferation, while TL1A overexpression resisted these effects caused by NP. Besides, NP was found to modulate HNF4α deacetylation through AhR/HDAC2 to inhibit TL1A. Furthermore, in vivo experiments proved that NP regulated CRC growth and angiogenesis via AhR/HDAC2/HNF4α/TL1A axis. CONCLUSION This study revealed that NP promoted CRC growth and angiogenesis through AhR/HDAC2/HNF4α/TL1A pathway and could be a new therapeutic target for CRC treatment.
Collapse
|
34
|
Luo LP, Suo P, Ren LL, Liu HJ, Zhang Y, Zhao YY. Shenkang Injection and Its Three Anthraquinones Ameliorates Renal Fibrosis by Simultaneous Targeting IƙB/NF-ƙB and Keap1/Nrf2 Signaling Pathways. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:800522. [PMID: 35002735 PMCID: PMC8729217 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.800522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress and inflammation are important and critical mediators in the development and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its complications. Shenkang injection (SKI) has been widely used to treat patients with CKD. Although the anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activity was involved in SKI against CKD, its bioactive components and underlying mechanism remain enigmatic. A rat model of adenine-induced chronic renal failure (CRF) is associated with, and largely driven by, oxidative stress and inflammation. Hence, we identified the anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory components of SKI and further revealed their underlying mechanism in the adenine-induced CRF rats. Compared with control rats, the levels of creatinine, urea, uric acid, total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in serum were significantly increased in the adenine-induced CRF rats. However, treatment with SKI and its three anthraquinones including chrysophanol, emodin, and rhein could reverse these aberrant changes. They could significantly inhibit pro-fibrotic protein expressions including collagen I, α-SMA, fibronectin, and vimentin in the kidney tissues of the adenine-induced CRF rats. Of note, SKI and rhein showed the stronger inhibitory effect on these pro-fibrotic protein expressions than chrysophanol and emodin. Furthermore, they could improve dysregulation of IƙB/NF-ƙB and Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathways. Chrysophanol and emodin showed the stronger inhibitory effect on the NF-κB p65 protein expression than SKI and rhein. Rhein showed the strongest inhibitory effect on p65 downstream target gene products including NAD(P)H oxidase subunits (p47phox, p67phox, and gp91phox) and COX-2, MCP-1, iNOS, and 12-LO in the kidney tissues. However, SKI and rhein showed the stronger inhibitory effect on the significantly downregulated anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative protein expression nuclear Nrf2 and its target gene products including HO-1, catalase, GCLC, and NQO1 in the Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway than chrysophanol and emodin. This study first demonstrated that SKI and its major components protected against renal fibrosis by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation via simultaneous targeting IƙB/NF-ƙB and Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathways, which illuminated the potential molecular mechanism of anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects of SKI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liang-Pu Luo
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ping Suo
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
| | - Li-Li Ren
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
| | - Hong-Jiao Liu
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yamei Zhang
- Clinical Genetics Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medical College of Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Coelho NR, Pimpão AB, Correia MJ, Rodrigues TC, Monteiro EC, Morello J, Pereira SA. Pharmacological blockage of the AHR-CYP1A1 axis: a call for in vivo evidence. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 100:215-243. [PMID: 34800164 PMCID: PMC8605459 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-021-02163-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that can be activated by structurally diverse compounds arising from the environment and the microbiota and host metabolism. Expanding evidence has been shown that the modulation of the canonical pathway of AHR occurs during several chronic diseases and that its abrogation might be of clinical interest for metabolic and inflammatory pathological processes. However, most of the evidence on the pharmacological abrogation of the AHR-CYP1A1 axis has been reported in vitro, and therefore, guidance for in vivo studies is needed. In this review, we cover the state-of-the-art of the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of AHR antagonists and CYP1A1 inhibitors in different in vivo rodent (mouse or rat) models of disease. This review will serve as a road map for those researchers embracing this emerging therapeutic area targeting the AHR. Moreover, it is a timely opportunity as the first AHR antagonists have recently entered the clinical stage of drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N R Coelho
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - A B Pimpão
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - M J Correia
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - T C Rodrigues
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - E C Monteiro
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - J Morello
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - S A Pereira
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056, Lisboa, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Linghu T, Liu C, Wang Q, Tian J, Qin X. Discovery of biomarkers for depressed patients and evaluation of Xiaoyaosan efficacy based on liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. J LIQ CHROMATOGR R T 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/10826076.2021.1975294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Linghu
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
- The Institute for Biomedicine and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Caichun Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
- The Institute for Biomedicine and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Qi Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
- The Institute for Biomedicine and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Junsheng Tian
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
- The Institute for Biomedicine and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xuemei Qin
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
- The Institute for Biomedicine and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Miao H, Wu XQ, Wang YN, Chen DQ, Chen L, Vaziri ND, Zhuang S, Guo Y, Su W, Ma SX, Zhang HQ, Shang YQ, Yu XY, Zhao YL, Mao JR, Gao M, Zhang JH, Zhao J, Zhang Y, Zhang L, Zhao YY, Cao G. 1-Hydroxypyrene mediates renal fibrosis through aryl hydrocarbon receptor signalling pathway. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:103-124. [PMID: 34625952 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE In chronic kidney disease (CKD), patients inevitably reach end-stage renal disease and require renal transplant. Evidence suggests that CKD is associated with metabolite disorders. However, the molecular pathways targeted by metabolites remain enigmatic. Here, we describe roles of 1-hydroxypyrene in mediating renal fibrosis. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We analysed 5406 urine and serum samples from patients with Stage 1-5 CKD using metabolomics, and 1-hydroxypyrene was identified and validated using longitudinal and drug intervention cohorts as well as 5/6 nephrectomised and adenine-induced rats. KEY RESULTS We identified correlations between the urine and serum levels of 1-hydroxypyrene and the estimated GFR in patients with CKD onset and progression. Moreover, increased 1-hydroxypyrene levels in serum and kidney tissues correlated with decreased renal function in two rat models. Up-regulated mRNA expression of aryl hydrocarbon receptor and its target genes, including CYP1A1, CYP1A2 and CYP1B1, were observed in patients and rats with progressive CKD. Further we showed up-regulated mRNA expression of aryl hydrocarbon receptor and its three target genes, plus up-regulated nuclear aryl hydrocarbon receptor protein levels in mice and HK-2 cells treated with 1-hydroxypyrene, which caused accumulation of extracellular matrix components. Treatment with aryl hydrocarbon receptor short hairpin RNA or flavonoids inhibited mRNA expression of aryl hydrocarbon receptor and its target genes in 1-hydroxypyrene-induced HK-2 cells and mice. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Metabolite 1-hydroxypyrene was demonstrated to mediate renal fibrosis through activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor signalling pathway. Targeting aryl hydrocarbon receptor may be an alternative therapeutic strategy for CKD progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hua Miao
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xia-Qing Wu
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yan-Ni Wang
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Dan-Qian Chen
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lin Chen
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Nosratola D Vaziri
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Shougang Zhuang
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Rhode Island Hospital and Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Yan Guo
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Wei Su
- Department of Nephrology, Baoji Central Hospital, Baoji, China
| | - Shi-Xing Ma
- Department of Nephrology, Baoji Central Hospital, Baoji, China
| | - Huan-Qiao Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Baoji Central Hospital, Baoji, China
| | - You-Quan Shang
- Department of Nephrology, Baoji Central Hospital, Baoji, China
| | - Xiao-Yong Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Yan-Long Zhao
- Department of Nephrology, Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Jia-Rong Mao
- Department of Nephrology, Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Ming Gao
- Department of Nephrology, Xi'an No. 4 Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Jin-Hua Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Xi'an No. 4 Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Jin Zhao
- Department of Nephrology, Xi'an No. 4 Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Xi'an No. 4 Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Xi'an No. 4 Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Gang Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Li SS, Sun Q, Hua MR, Suo P, Chen JR, Yu XY, Zhao YY. Targeting the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway as a Potential Therapeutic Strategy in Renal Tubulointerstitial Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:719880. [PMID: 34483931 PMCID: PMC8415231 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.719880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays important roles in embryonic development and tissue homeostasis. Wnt signaling is induced, and β-catenin is activated, associated with the development and progression of renal fibrosis. Wnt/β-catenin controls the expression of various downstream mediators such as snail1, twist, matrix metalloproteinase-7, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, transient receptor potential canonical 6, and renin-angiotensin system components in epithelial cells, fibroblast, and macrophages. In addition, Wnt/β-catenin is usually intertwined with other signaling pathways to promote renal interstitial fibrosis. Actually, given the crucial of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in renal fibrogenesis, blocking this signaling may benefit renal interstitial fibrosis. There are several antagonists of Wnt signaling that negatively control Wnt activation, and these include soluble Fzd-related proteins, the family of Dickkopf 1 proteins, Klotho and Wnt inhibitory factor-1. Furthermore, numerous emerging small-molecule β-catenin inhibitors cannot be ignored to prevent and treat renal fibrosis. Moreover, we reviewed the knowledge focusing on anti-fibrotic effects of natural products commonly used in kidney disease by inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Therefore, in this review, we summarize recent advances in the regulation, downstream targets, role, and mechanisms of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in renal fibrosis pathogenesis. We also discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting this pathway to treat renal fibrosis; this may shed new insights into effective treatment strategies to prevent and treat renal fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shan-Shan Li
- Department of Nephrology, Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Xi'an, China.,The First School of Clinical Medicine, Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China
| | - Qian Sun
- Department of Nephrology, Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Xi'an, China.,The First School of Clinical Medicine, Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China
| | - Meng-Ru Hua
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ping Suo
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jia-Rong Chen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao-Yong Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Falconi CA, Junho CVDC, Fogaça-Ruiz F, Vernier ICS, da Cunha RS, Stinghen AEM, Carneiro-Ramos MS. Uremic Toxins: An Alarming Danger Concerning the Cardiovascular System. Front Physiol 2021; 12:686249. [PMID: 34054588 PMCID: PMC8160254 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.686249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The kidneys and heart share functions with the common goal of maintaining homeostasis. When kidney injury occurs, many compounds, the so-called “uremic retention solutes” or “uremic toxins,” accumulate in the circulation targeting other tissues. The accumulation of uremic toxins such as p-cresyl sulfate, indoxyl sulfate and inorganic phosphate leads to a loss of a substantial number of body functions. Although the concept of uremic toxins is dated to the 1960s, the molecular mechanisms capable of leading to renal and cardiovascular injuries are not yet known. Besides, the greatest toxic effects appear to be induced by compounds that are difficult to remove by dialysis. Considering the close relationship between renal and cardiovascular functions, an understanding of the mechanisms involved in the production, clearance and overall impact of uremic toxins is extremely relevant for the understanding of pathologies of the cardiovascular system. Thus, the present study has as main focus to present an extensive review on the impact of uremic toxins in the cardiovascular system, bringing the state of the art on the subject as well as clinical implications related to patient’s therapy affected by chronic kidney disease, which represents high mortality of patients with cardiac comorbidities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Alexandre Falconi
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Immunology, Center of Natural and Human Sciences (CCNH), Federal University of ABC, Santo André, Brazil
| | - Carolina Victoria da Cruz Junho
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Immunology, Center of Natural and Human Sciences (CCNH), Federal University of ABC, Santo André, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Fogaça-Ruiz
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Immunology, Center of Natural and Human Sciences (CCNH), Federal University of ABC, Santo André, Brazil
| | - Imara Caridad Stable Vernier
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Immunology, Center of Natural and Human Sciences (CCNH), Federal University of ABC, Santo André, Brazil
| | - Regiane Stafim da Cunha
- Experimental Nephrology Laboratory, Basic Pathology Department, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | | | - Marcela Sorelli Carneiro-Ramos
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Immunology, Center of Natural and Human Sciences (CCNH), Federal University of ABC, Santo André, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
The Dysregulation of Eicosanoids and Bile Acids Correlates with Impaired Kidney Function and Renal Fibrosis in Chronic Renal Failure. Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11020127. [PMID: 33672315 PMCID: PMC7926759 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11020127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic renal failure (CRF) is an irreversible deterioration of the renal functions that characterized by fluid electrolyte unbalance and metabolic-endocrine dysfunctions. Increasing evidence demonstrated that metabolic disturbances, especially dyslipidemia and profound changes in lipid and lipoprotein metabolism were involved in CRF. Identification of lipids associated with impaired kidney functions may play important roles in the understanding of biochemical mechanism and CRF treatment. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-definition mass spectrometry-based lipidomics was performed to identify important differential lipids in adenine-induced CRF rats and investigate the undergoing anti-fibrotic mechanism of Polyporus umbellatus (PPU) and ergone (ERG). Linear correlation analysis was performed between lipid species intensities and creatinine levels in serum. Adenine-induced rats exhibited declining kidney function and renal fibrosis. Compared with control rats, a panel of lipid species was identified in the serum of CRF rats. Our further study demonstrated that eight lipids, including leukotrienes and bile acids, presented a strong linear correlation with serum creatinine levels. In addition, receiver operating characteristics analysis showed that eight lipids exhibited excellent area under the curve for differentiating CRF from control rats, with high sensitivity and specificity. The aberrant changes of clinical biochemistry data and dysregulation of eight lipids could be significantly improved by the administration of PPU and ergone. In conclusion, CRF might be associated with the disturbance of leukotriene metabolism, bile acid metabolism and lysophospholipid metabolism. The levels of eicosanoids and bile acids could be used for indicating kidney function impairment in CRF. PPU could improve renal functions and either fully or partially reversed the levels of eicosanoids and bile acids.
Collapse
|
41
|
Wang YN, Wu XQ, Zhang DD, Hu HH, Liu JL, Vaziri ND, Guo Y, Zhao YY, Miao H. Polyporus Umbellatus Protects Against Renal Fibrosis by Regulating Intrarenal Fatty Acyl Metabolites. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:633566. [PMID: 33679418 PMCID: PMC7934088 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.633566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Chronic renal failure (CRF) results in significant dyslipidemia and profound changes in lipid metabolism. Polyporus umbellatus (PPU) has been shown to prevent kidney injury and subsequent kidney fibrosis. Methods: Lipidomic analysis was performed to explore the intrarenal profile of lipid metabolites and further investigate the effect of PPU and its main bioactive component, ergone, on disorders of lipid metabolism in rats induced by adenine. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were performed for choosing intrarenal differential lipid species in CRF rats and the intervening effect of n-hexane extract of PPU and ergone on CRF rats. Results: Compared with control group, decreased creatinine clearance rate indicated declining kidney function in CRF group. Based on the lipidomics, we identified 65 lipid species that showed significant differences between CRF and control groups. The levels of 12 lipid species, especially fatty acyl lipids including docosahexaenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid (22n-3), 10,11-Dihydro-12R-hydroxy-leukotriene C4, 3-hydroxydodecanoyl carnitine, eicosapentaenoic acid, hypogeic acid and 3-hydroxypentadecanoic acid had a strong linear correlation with creatinine clearance rate, which indicated these lipid species were associated with impaired renal function. In addition, receiver operating characteristics analysis showed that 12 lipid species had high area under the curve values with high sensitivity and specificity for differentiating CRF group from control group. These changes are related to the perturbation of fatty acyl metabolism. Treatment with PPU and ergone improved the impaired kidney function and mitigated renal fibrosis. Both chemometrics and cluster analyses showed that rats treated by PPU and ergone could be separated from CRF rats by using 12 lipid species. Intriguingly, PPU treatment could restore the levels of 12 lipid species, while treatment with ergone could only reverse the changes of six fatty acids in CRF rats. Conclusion: Altered intrarenal fatty acyl metabolites were implicated in pathogenesis of renal fibrosis. PPU and ergone administration alleviated renal fibrosis and partially improved fatty acyl metabolism. These findings suggest that PPU exerted its renoprotective effect by regulating fatty acyl metabolism as a potential biochemical mechanism. Therefore, these findings indicated that fatty acyl metabolism played an important role in renal fibrosis and could be considered as an effective therapeutic avenue against renal fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ni Wang
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xia-Qing Wu
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Dan-Dan Zhang
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Shaanxi, China
| | - He-He Hu
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jian-Ling Liu
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Nosratola D Vaziri
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Yan Guo
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hua Miao
- Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Shaanxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Liu JR, Miao H, Deng DQ, Vaziri ND, Li P, Zhao YY. Gut microbiota-derived tryptophan metabolism mediates renal fibrosis by aryl hydrocarbon receptor signaling activation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:909-922. [PMID: 32965514 PMCID: PMC11073292 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03645-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The gut microbiota has a crucial effect on regulating the intestinal mucosal immunity and maintaining intestinal homeostasis both in health and in disease state. Many effects are mediated by gut microbiota-derived metabolites and tryptophan, an essential aromatic amino acid, is considered important among many metabolites in the crosstalk between gut microbiota and the host. Kynurenine, serotonin, and indole derivatives are derived from the three major tryptophan metabolism pathways modulated by gut microbiota directly or indirectly. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a cytoplasmic ligand-activated transcription factor involved in multiple cellular processes. Tryptophan metabolites as ligands can activate AHR signaling in various diseases such as inflammation, oxidative stress injury, cancer, aging-related diseases, cardiovascular diseases (CVD), and chronic kidney diseases (CKD). Accumulated uremic toxins in the body fluids of CKD patients activate AHR and affect disease progression. In this review, we will elucidate the relationship between gut microbiota-derived uremic toxins by tryptophan metabolism and AHR activation in CKD and its complications. This review will provide therapeutic avenues for targeting CKD and concurrently present challenges and opportunities for designing new therapeutic strategies against renal fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Ru Liu
- Faculty of Life Science, & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hua Miao
- Faculty of Life Science, & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - De-Qiang Deng
- Department of Nephrology, Urumqi Chinese Medicine Hospital, No. 590 Fridenly South Road, Urumqi, 830000, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Nosratola D Vaziri
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92897, USA
| | - Ping Li
- Beijing Key Lab for Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases, Department of Nephrology, Institute of Clinical Medical Science, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science, & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi, China.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Wang YN, Yang CE, Zhang DD, Chen YY, Yu XY, Zhao YY, Miao H. Long non-coding RNAs: A double-edged sword in aging kidney and renal disease. Chem Biol Interact 2021; 337:109396. [PMID: 33508306 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2021.109396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Aging as one of intrinsic biological processes is a risk factor for many chronic diseases. Kidney disease is a global problem and health care burden worldwide. The diagnosis of kidney disease is currently based on serum creatinine and urea levels. Novel biomarkers may improve diagnostic accuracy, thereby allowing early prevention and treatment. Over the past few years, advances in genome analyses have identified an emerging class of noncoding RNAs that play critical roles in the regulation of gene expression and epigenetic reprogramming. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are pervasively transcribed in the genome and could bind DNA, RNA and protein. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that lncRNAs played an important role in all stages of kidney disease. To date, only some lncRNAs were well identified and characterized, but the complexity of multilevel regulation of transcriptional programs involved in these processes remains undefined. In this review, we summarized the lncRNA expression profiling of large-scale identified lncRNAs on kidney diseases including acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, diabetic nephropathy and kidney transplantation. We further discussed a number of annotated lncRNAs linking with complex etiology of kidney diseases. Finally, several lncRNAs were highlighted as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Targeting lncRNAs may represent a precise therapeutic strategy for progressive renal fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ni Wang
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Chang-E Yang
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Dan-Dan Zhang
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Chen
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Xiao-Yong Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, No. 2 Xihuamen, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710003, China.
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China.
| | - Hua Miao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Tao S, Guo F, Ren Q, Liu J, Wei T, Li L, Ma L, Fu P. Activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor by 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole alleviated acute kidney injury by repressing inflammation and apoptosis. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:1035-1047. [PMID: 33280241 PMCID: PMC7812300 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a multifactorial disease of various aetiologies. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that responds to ligands to induce or repress gene expressions, thereby regulating a diverse spectrum of biological or pathophysiologic effects. However, the effect of AhR on AKI remains unknown. A single intraperitoneal injection of 50% glycerol was performed to induce rhabdomyolysis in C57BL/6J mice. The bilateral renal pedicles were occluded for 30 minutes and then removed to stimulate renal I/R injury. 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ), a photo-oxidation product of tryptophan with a high affinity for AhR, was used. The in vitro study was performed on HK-2 cells. Ferrous myoglobin and FICZ was dissolved in the medium in different cell groups. Treatment with AhR agonist FICZ significantly alleviated the elevation of serum creatinine and urea in AKI. AKI modelling-induced renal damage was attenuated by FICZ. AhR mainly expressed in proximal tubular cells and could be activated by FICZ administration. Meanwhile, AKI triggered the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in injured kidneys, while FICZ inhibited their expressions. Furthermore, FICZ effectively reversed cell apoptosis in AKI models. Mechanistically, AKI stimulated the activation of NF-κB and JNK pathways in the kidneys, while FICZ significantly suppressed these corresponding protein expressions. For the in vitro study, FICZ also inhibited inflammation and apoptosis in myoglobin or H/R-stimulated HK-2 cells. In summary, agonism of AhR by FICZ alleviated rhabdomyolysis and I/R-induced AKI. FICZ inhibited inflammation and apoptosis via suppressing NF-κB and JNK pathways in proximal tubular cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sibei Tao
- Division of NephrologyNational Clinical Research Center for GeriatricsKidney Research InstituteWest China Hospital of Sichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Fan Guo
- Division of NephrologyNational Clinical Research Center for GeriatricsKidney Research InstituteWest China Hospital of Sichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Qian Ren
- Division of NephrologyNational Clinical Research Center for GeriatricsKidney Research InstituteWest China Hospital of Sichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Jing Liu
- Division of NephrologyNational Clinical Research Center for GeriatricsKidney Research InstituteWest China Hospital of Sichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Tiantian Wei
- Division of NephrologyNational Clinical Research Center for GeriatricsKidney Research InstituteWest China Hospital of Sichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Lingzhi Li
- Division of NephrologyNational Clinical Research Center for GeriatricsKidney Research InstituteWest China Hospital of Sichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Liang Ma
- Division of NephrologyNational Clinical Research Center for GeriatricsKidney Research InstituteWest China Hospital of Sichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Ping Fu
- Division of NephrologyNational Clinical Research Center for GeriatricsKidney Research InstituteWest China Hospital of Sichuan UniversityChengduChina
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Wang M, Hu HH, Chen YY, Chen L, Wu XQ, Zhao YY. Novel poricoic acids attenuate renal fibrosis through regulating redox signalling and aryl hydrocarbon receptor activation. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 79:153323. [PMID: 32920287 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2020.153323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Renal fibrosis is the final manifestation of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Renal fibrosis is largely driven by oxidative stress and inflammation. PURPOSE The aim of the current study was to identify novel poricoic acids from Poria cocos and investigated their antifibrotic effects and the underlying mechanism. METHODS In this study, we identified six novel poricoic acids from Poria cocos and examined their antifibrotic effect using transforming growth factor-β1- (TGF-β1-) induced cultured human kidney proximal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2) and mice with unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). RESULTS Treatment with six poricoic acids significantly inhibited TGF-β1-induced α-smooth muscle actin expression at both mRNA and protein levels in HK-2 cells. Three compounds with an intact carboxyl group at C-3 position showed a stronger inhibitory effect than that of other three compounds with esterified carboxyl group at the C-3 position. Mechanistically, poricoic acid ZM (PZM) and poricoic acid ZP (PZP) attenuate renal fibrosis through the modulation of redox signalling including the inhibition of proinflammatory nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signalling and its target genes as well as the activation of antioxidative nuclear factor-erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signalling and its downstream target gene in both TGF-β1-induced HK-2 cells and UUO mice. PZM treatment and PZP treatment inhibit the upregulated aryl hydrocarbon receptor and they target the gene expression in UUO mice. Intriguingly, PZM treatment exhibits a stronger inhibitory effect than that of the PZP treatment. Structure-function relationship reveals that the carboxyl group at C-3 position is the most important bioactive function group in secolanostane tetracyclic triterpenoids against renal fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS PZM and PZP attenuated renal fibrosis through the modulation of redox signalling and the aryl hydrocarbon receptor signalling pathway. Our findings will provide several promising leading compounds against renal fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming Wang
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - He-He Hu
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Chen
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lin Chen
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xia-Qing Wu
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an 710069, Shaanxi, China.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Miao H, Wu XQ, Zhang DD, Wang YN, Guo Y, Li P, Xiong Q, Zhao YY. Deciphering the cellular mechanisms underlying fibrosis-associated diseases and therapeutic avenues. Pharmacol Res 2020; 163:105316. [PMID: 33248198 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix components, which results in disruption of tissue architecture and loss of organ function. Fibrosis leads to high morbidity and mortality worldwide, mainly due to the lack of effective therapeutic strategies against fibrosis. It is generally accepted that fibrosis occurs during an aberrant wound healing process and shares a common pathogenesis across different organs such as the heart, liver, kidney, and lung. A better understanding of the fibrosis-related cellular and molecular mechanisms will be helpful for development of targeted drug therapies. Extensive studies revealed that numerous mediators contributed to fibrogenesis, suggesting that targeting these mediators may be an effective therapeutic strategy for antifibrosis. In this review, we describe a number of mediators involved in tissue fibrosis, including aryl hydrocarbon receptor, Yes-associated protein, cannabinoid receptors, angiopoietin-like protein 2, high mobility group box 1, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor-1, SH2 domain-containing phosphatase-2, and long non-coding RNAs, with the goal that drugs targeting these important mediators might exhibit a beneficial effect on antifibrosis. In addition, these mediators show profibrotic effects on multiple tissues, suggesting that targeting these mediators will exert antifibrotic effects on different organs. Furthermore, we present a variety of compounds that exhibit therapeutic effects against fibrosis. This review suggests therapeutic avenues for targeting organ fibrosis and concurrently identifies challenges and opportunities for designing new therapeutic strategies against fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hua Miao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Xia-Qing Wu
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Dan-Dan Zhang
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Yan-Ni Wang
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Yan Guo
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, 1700 Lomas Blvd NE, Albuquerque, 87131, USA
| | - Ping Li
- Beijing Key Lab for Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases, Institute of Clinical Medical Science, Department of Nephrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Qingping Xiong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Regional Resource Exploitation and Medicinal Research, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huai'an, 223003, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Feng Z, Liu W, Jiang HX, Dai H, Gao C, Dong Z, Gao Y, Liu F, Zhang Z, Zhao Q, Zhang L, Liu B. How Does Herbal Medicine Treat Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy? Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:994. [PMID: 32719601 PMCID: PMC7350518 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) has made increasing progress in mechanism and treatment research. Herbal medicine is gradually being accepted as an alternative therapy in treating IMN. However, the intervention mechanism of herbal medicine in the treatment of membranous nephropathy is still unclear. In this review, we summarize some achievements of herb medicine in treating IMN and discuss the research direction of herb in IMN. Finally, we propose the dilemma about the study on the treatment of IMN with herb medicine. We hope that this article can bring some thoughts for clinical and scientific researchers on the treatment of IMN with herb medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhendong Feng
- Department of Nephropathy, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Nephropathy, Beijing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Pinggu Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wenbin Liu
- Department of Nephropathy, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Han Xue Jiang
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Haoran Dai
- Shunyi Branch, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chang Gao
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | | | - Yu Gao
- Department of Nephropathy, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zihan Zhang
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qihan Zhao
- Department of Nephropathy, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Nephropathy, Beijing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Pinggu Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Baoli Liu
- Department of Nephropathy, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Miao H, Cao G, Wu XQ, Chen YY, Chen DQ, Chen L, Vaziri ND, Feng YL, Su W, Gao Y, Zhuang S, Yu XY, Zhang L, Guo Y, Zhao YY. Identification of endogenous 1-aminopyrene as a novel mediator of progressive chronic kidney disease via aryl hydrocarbon receptor activation. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:3415-3435. [PMID: 32219844 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Increasing evidence has indicated that the high risk of cardiovascular disease in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients cannot be sufficiently explained by classic risk factors. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Based on the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator method, we identified significantly altered renal tissue metabolites during progressive CKD in a 5/6 nephrectomized rat model and in CKD patients. KEY RESULTS Six aryl-containing metabolites (ACMs) were significantly increased from Week 1 to Week 20. They were associated with the activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and its target genes including CYP1A1, CYP1A2 and CYP1B1, which were further validated by molecular docking. Our study further demonstrated that AhR signalling could be activated by ACM in patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy, diabetic nephropathy and IgA nephropathy. Most importantly, 1-aminopyrene (AP) showed strong positive and negative correlation with serum creatinine and creatinine clearance, respectively. AP significantly up-regulated the mRNA expressions of AhR and its three target genes in both mice and NRK-52E cells, while this effect was partially weakened in AhR small hairpin RNA-treated mice and NRK-52E cells. Furthermore, dietary flavonoid supplementation ameliorated CKD and renal fibrosis through partially inhibiting the AhR activity via lowering the ACM levels. The antagonistic effect of flavonoids on AhR was deeply influenced by the number and location of hydroxyl and glycosyl groups. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS We uncovered that endogenous AP is a novel mediator of CKD progression via AhR activation; thus, AhR might serve as a promising target for CKD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hua Miao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Gang Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xia-Qing Wu
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Chen
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Dan-Qian Chen
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lin Chen
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Nosratola D Vaziri
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Ya-Long Feng
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wei Su
- Department of Nephrology, Baoji Central Hospital, Baoji, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yi Gao
- Department of Nephrology, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shougang Zhuang
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital and Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Xiao-Yong Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Xi'an No. 4 Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yan Guo
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| |
Collapse
|