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Kounatidis D, Tentolouris N, Vallianou NG, Mourouzis I, Karampela I, Stratigou T, Rebelos E, Kouveletsou M, Stamatopoulos V, Tsaroucha E, Dalamaga M. The Pleiotropic Effects of Lipid-Modifying Interventions: Exploring Traditional and Emerging Hypolipidemic Therapies. Metabolites 2024; 14:388. [PMID: 39057711 PMCID: PMC11278853 DOI: 10.3390/metabo14070388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 07/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease poses a significant global health issue, with dyslipidemia standing out as a major risk factor. In recent decades, lipid-lowering therapies have evolved significantly, with statins emerging as the cornerstone treatment. These interventions play a crucial role in both primary and secondary prevention by effectively reducing cardiovascular risk through lipid profile enhancements. Beyond their primary lipid-lowering effects, extensive research indicates that these therapies exhibit pleiotropic actions, offering additional health benefits. These include anti-inflammatory properties, improvements in vascular health and glucose metabolism, and potential implications in cancer management. While statins and ezetimibe have been extensively studied, newer lipid-lowering agents also demonstrate similar pleiotropic effects, even in the absence of direct cardiovascular benefits. This narrative review explores the diverse pleiotropic properties of lipid-modifying therapies, emphasizing their non-lipid effects that contribute to reducing cardiovascular burden and exploring emerging benefits for non-cardiovascular conditions. Mechanistic insights into these actions are discussed alongside their potential therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitris Kounatidis
- Diabetes Center, First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (N.T.); (E.R.); (M.K.)
| | - Nikolaos Tentolouris
- Diabetes Center, First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (N.T.); (E.R.); (M.K.)
| | - Natalia G. Vallianou
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Sismanogleio General Hospital, 15126 Athens, Greece;
| | - Iordanis Mourouzis
- Department of Pharmacology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Irene Karampela
- Second Department of Critical Care, Attikon General University Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece;
| | - Theodora Stratigou
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Evangelismos General Hospital, 10676 Athens, Greece;
| | - Eleni Rebelos
- Diabetes Center, First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (N.T.); (E.R.); (M.K.)
| | - Marina Kouveletsou
- Diabetes Center, First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (N.T.); (E.R.); (M.K.)
| | | | - Eleni Tsaroucha
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Sismanogleio General Hospital, 15126 Athens, Greece;
| | - Maria Dalamaga
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
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Chang CC, Huang HC, Hsu SJ, Pun CK, Chuang CL, Hou MC, Lee FY. Ezetimibe treatment reduces oxidized low-density lipoprotein in biliary cirrhotic rats. J Chin Med Assoc 2024; 87:463-470. [PMID: 38380910 DOI: 10.1097/jcma.0000000000001075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In liver cirrhosis, chronic inflammation is associated with an increase in oxidative stress, and subsequently an increase in the concentration of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL). Ezetimibe is a lipid-lowering agent with anti-inflammation and anti-oxidative stress activities. This study aimed to investigate the effect of ezetimibe treatment on ox-LDL in cirrhotic rats. METHODS Biliary cirrhosis was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats with common bile duct ligation (BDL). Sham-operated rats served as surgical controls. Ezetimibe (10 mg/kg/d) or vehicle was administered in the sham-operated or BDL rats for 4 weeks, after which hemodynamic parameters, biochemistry data, and oxidative stress were evaluated. Plasma and intrahepatic ox-LDL levels were also examined, and hepatic proteins were analyzed to explore the mechanism of ezetimibe treatment. RESULTS The BDL rats had typical features of cirrhosis including jaundice, impaired liver function, hyperlipidemia, and elevated ox-LDL levels compared to the sham-operated rats. Ezetimibe treatment did not affect hemodynamics, liver biochemistry, or plasma lipid levels. However, it significantly reduced oxidative stress, plasma levels of ox-LDL, and tumor necrosis factor α. In addition, ezetimibe upregulated the hepatic protein expression of an ox-LDL scavenger (lectin-like ox-LDL rececptor-1), which resulted in reductions in intrahepatic ox-LDL and fat accumulation in the BDL rats. Nevertheless, ezetimibe treatment did not ameliorate hepatic inflammation or liver fibrosis. CONCLUSION Ezetimibe reduced plasma and intrahepatic ox-LDL levels in the cirrhotic rats. Furthermore, it ameliorated intrahepatic fat accumulation and oxidative stress. However, ezetimibe did not alleviate hepatic fibrosis or inflammation in the biliary cirrhotic rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Chih Chang
- Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Division of Holistic and Multidisciplinary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Hui-Chun Huang
- Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Shao-Jung Hsu
- Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chon-Kit Pun
- Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chiao-Lin Chuang
- Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Ming-Chih Hou
- Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Fa-Yauh Lee
- Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
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3
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Kong L, He Q, Ma D, Shi W, Xin Q, Jiang C, Wu J. Ezetimibe inhibits the migration and invasion of triple-negative breast cancer cells by targeting TGFβ2 and EMT. FEBS Open Bio 2024; 14:831-842. [PMID: 38531630 PMCID: PMC11073500 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The important role of cholesterol in tumor metastasis has been widely studied in recent years. Ezetimibe is currently the only selective cholesterol uptake inhibitor on the market. Here, we explored the effect of ezetimibe on breast cancer metastasis by studying its impact on breast cancer cell migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Differential gene expression analysis and validation were also carried out to compare ezetimibe-treated and untreated breast cancer cells. Finally, breast cancer cells overexpressing TGFβ2 were constructed, and the effect of TGFβ2 on the migration and invasion of ezetimibe-treated breast cancer cells was examined. Our results show that ezetimibe treatment of breast cancer cells inhibited cell migration, invasion, and EMT, and it significantly suppressed the expression of TGFβ2. Overexpression of TGFβ2 reversed the inhibitory effect of ezetimibe on the migration and invasion of breast cancer cells. Taken together, our results suggest that ezetimibe might be a potential candidate for the treatment of breast cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingkai Kong
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong LaboratoryChina
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityChina
| | - Qinyu He
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityChina
| | - Ding Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityChina
| | - Weiwei Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityChina
| | - Qilei Xin
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong LaboratoryChina
| | - Chunping Jiang
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong LaboratoryChina
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityChina
| | - Junhua Wu
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong LaboratoryChina
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityChina
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4
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Jiang W, Jin WL, Xu AM. Cholesterol metabolism in tumor microenvironment: cancer hallmarks and therapeutic opportunities. Int J Biol Sci 2024; 20:2044-2071. [PMID: 38617549 PMCID: PMC11008265 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.92274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol is crucial for cell survival and growth, and dysregulation of cholesterol homeostasis has been linked to the development of cancer. The tumor microenvironment (TME) facilitates tumor cell survival and growth, and crosstalk between cholesterol metabolism and the TME contributes to tumorigenesis and tumor progression. Targeting cholesterol metabolism has demonstrated significant antitumor effects in preclinical and clinical studies. In this review, we discuss the regulatory mechanisms of cholesterol homeostasis and the impact of its dysregulation on the hallmarks of cancer. We also describe how cholesterol metabolism reprograms the TME across seven specialized microenvironments. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of targeting cholesterol metabolism as a therapeutic strategy for tumors. This approach not only exerts antitumor effects in monotherapy and combination therapy but also mitigates the adverse effects associated with conventional tumor therapy. Finally, we outline the unresolved questions and suggest potential avenues for future investigations on cholesterol metabolism in relation to cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, P. R. China
| | - Wei-Lin Jin
- Institute of Cancer Neuroscience, Medical Frontier Innovation Research Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, P. R. China
| | - A-Man Xu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, P. R. China
- Anhui Public Health Clinical Center, Hefei 230022, P. R. China
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5
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Alizadehasl A, Alavi MS, Boudagh S, Alavi MS, Mohebi S, Aliabadi L, Akbarian M, Ahmadi P, Mannarino MR, Sahebkar A. Lipid-lowering drugs and cancer: an updated perspective. Pharmacol Rep 2024; 76:1-24. [PMID: 38015371 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-023-00553-6] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Statins and non-statin medications used for the management of dyslipidemia have been shown to possess antitumor properties. Since the use of these drugs has steadily increased over the past decades, more knowledge is required about their relationship with cancer. Lipid-lowering agents are heterogeneous compounds; therefore, it remains to be revealed whether anticancer potential is a class effect or related to them all. Here, we reviewed the literature on the influence of lipid-lowering medications on various types of cancer during development or metastasis. We also elaborated on the underlying mechanisms associated with the anticancer effects of antihyperlipidemic agents by linking the reported in vivo and in vitro studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azin Alizadehasl
- Cardio-Oncology Research Center, Rajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Echocardiography Research CenterRajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Sadat Alavi
- Echocardiography Research CenterRajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shabnam Boudagh
- Echocardiography Research CenterRajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohaddeseh Sadat Alavi
- Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Somaye Mohebi
- Echocardiography Research CenterRajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Aliabadi
- Echocardiography Research CenterRajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Akbarian
- Echocardiography Research CenterRajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parisa Ahmadi
- Echocardiography Research CenterRajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Wang Y, Fleishman JS, Li T, Li Y, Ren Z, Chen J, Ding M. Pharmacological therapy of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease-driven hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1336216. [PMID: 38313077 PMCID: PMC10834746 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1336216] [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: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
In light of a global rise in the number of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), now known as metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), has become the leading cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), with the annual occurrence of MASLD-driven HCC expected to increase by 45%-130% by 2030. Although MASLD has become a serious major public health threat globally, the exact molecular mechanisms mediating MASLD-driven HCC remain an open problem, necessitating future investigation. Meanwhile, emerging studies are focusing on the utility of bioactive compounds to halt the progression of MASLD to MASLD-driven HCC. In this review, we first briefly review the recent progress of the possible mechanisms of pathogenesis and progression for MASLD-driven HCC. We then discuss the application of bioactive compounds to mitigate MASLD-driven HCC through different modulatory mechanisms encompassing anti-inflammatory, lipid metabolic, and gut microbial pathways, providing valuable information for future treatment and prevention of MASLD-driven HCC. Nonetheless, clinical research exploring the effectiveness of herbal medicines in the treatment of MASLD-driven HCC is still warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumin Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Aerospace Center Hospital, Peking University Aerospace School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Joshua S Fleishman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, United States
| | - Tongda Li
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Geriatric Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yulin Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Aerospace Center Hospital, Peking University Aerospace School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhao Ren
- Department of Pharmacy, Aerospace Center Hospital, Peking University Aerospace School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jichao Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Aerospace Center Hospital, Peking University Aerospace School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Mingchao Ding
- Department of Peripheral Vascular Intervention, Aerospace Center Hospital, Peking University Aerospace School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing, China
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7
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He Q, Kong L, Shi W, Ma D, Liu K, Yang S, Xin Q, Jiang C, Wu J. Ezetimibe inhibits triple-negative breast cancer proliferation and promotes cell cycle arrest by targeting the PDGFR/AKT pathway. Heliyon 2023; 9:e21343. [PMID: 38027998 PMCID: PMC10651468 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol levels were strongly associated with tumor progression and metastasis. Targeted cholesterol metabolism has broad prospects in tumor treatment. Ezetimibe, the only FDA-approved inhibitor of cholesterol absorption, has been reported to be able to inhibit angiogenesis in liver cancer. However, the efficacy and specific mechanisms of Ezetimibe in the treatment of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)have not been reported. Our research shows Ezetimibe inhibits TNBC cell proliferation and blocks the cell cycle in the G1 phase. Mechanistically, Ezetimibe inhibits the activation of PDGFRβ/AKT pathway, thereby promoting cell cycle arrest and inhibiting cell proliferation. By overexpressing PDGFRβ in TNBC cells, we found that PDGFRβ significantly reduced the inhibitory effect of Ezetimibe on TNBC cell proliferation and the cell cycle. Similarly, SC79, an AKT agonist, can reduce the proliferation inhibitory and cycle-blocking effects of Ezetimibe on TNBC cells. Furthermore, the AKT inhibitor MK2206 enhanced the inhibitory effect of Ezetimibe on the cell cycle and proliferation ability of TNBC cells overexpressing PDGFRβ. In xenograft tumor models, we also found that Ezetimibe inhibited TNBC growth, an effect that can be blocked by overexpression of PDGFR or activation of AKT. In summary, we have demonstrated that EZ inhibits the PDGFR/AKT pathway, thereby halting TNBC cycle progression and tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinyu He
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093 China
| | - Lingkai Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093 China
| | - Weiwei Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093 China
| | - Ding Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093 China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Kua Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093 China
| | - Shuwei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093 China
| | - Qilei Xin
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Shounuo City Light West Block, Qingdao Road 3716#, Huaiyin District, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Chunping Jiang
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Shounuo City Light West Block, Qingdao Road 3716#, Huaiyin District, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093 China
| | - Junhua Wu
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Shounuo City Light West Block, Qingdao Road 3716#, Huaiyin District, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093 China
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8
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Xiao MY, Li FF, Xie P, Qi YS, Xie JB, Pei WJ, Luo HT, Guo M, Gu YL, Piao XL. Gypenosides suppress hepatocellular carcinoma cells by blocking cholesterol biosynthesis through inhibition of MVA pathway enzyme HMGCS1. Chem Biol Interact 2023; 383:110674. [PMID: 37604220 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2023.110674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors with high morbidity and mortality. Targeting abnormal cholesterol metabolism is a potential therapeutic direction. Therefore, more natural drugs targeting cholesterol in HCC need to be developed. Gypenosides (Gyp), the major constituent of Gynostemma pentaphyllum, has been demonstrated to have pharmacological properties on anti-cancer, anti-obesity, and hepatoprotective. We investigated whether Gyp, isolated and purified by our lab, could inhibit HCC progression by inhibiting cholesterol synthesis. The present research showed that Gyp inhibited proliferation and migration, and induced apoptosis in Huh-7 and Hep3B cells. Metabolomics, transcriptomics, and target prediction all suggested that lipid metabolism and cholesterol biosynthesis were the mechanisms of Gyp. Gyp could limit the production of cholesterol and target HMGCS1, the cholesterol synthesis-related protein. Downregulation of HMGCS1 could suppress the progression and abnormal cholesterol metabolism of HCC. In terms of mechanism, Gyp suppressed mevalonate (MVA) pathway mediated cholesterol synthesis by inhibiting HMGCS1 transcription factor SREBP2. And the high expression of HMGCS1 in HCC human specimens was correlated with poor clinical prognosis. The data suggested that Gyp could be a promising cholesterol-lowering drug for the prevention and treatment of HCC. And targeting SREBP2-HMGCS1 axis in MVA pathway might be an effective HCC therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man-Yu Xiao
- School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Fang-Fang Li
- School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Peng Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yan-Shuang Qi
- School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Jin-Bo Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Wen-Jing Pei
- School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Hao-Tian Luo
- School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Mei Guo
- School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yu-Long Gu
- School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Xiang-Lan Piao
- School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China.
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9
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Qusairy Z, Gangloff A, Leung SOA. Dysregulation of Cholesterol Homeostasis in Ovarian Cancer. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:8386-8400. [PMID: 37754524 PMCID: PMC10527727 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30090609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol plays an essential role in maintaining the rigidity of cell membranes and signal transduction. Various investigations confirmed empirically that the dysregulation of cholesterol homeostasis positively correlates with tumor progression. More specifically, recent studies suggested the distinct role of cholesterol in ovarian cancer cell proliferation, metastasis and chemoresistance. In this review, we summarize the current findings that suggest the contribution of cholesterol homeostasis dysregulation to ovarian cancer progression and resistance to anti-cancer agents. We also discuss the therapeutic implications of cholesterol-lowering drugs in ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahraa Qusairy
- Cancer Research Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Anne Gangloff
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Québec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada;
- Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Shuk On Annie Leung
- Cancer Research Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
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10
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Lee-Rueckert M, Canyelles M, Tondo M, Rotllan N, Kovanen PT, Llorente-Cortes V, Escolà-Gil JC. Obesity-induced changes in cancer cells and their microenvironment: Mechanisms and therapeutic perspectives to manage dysregulated lipid metabolism. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 93:36-51. [PMID: 37156344 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Obesity has been closely related to cancer progression, recurrence, metastasis, and treatment resistance. We aim to review recent progress in the knowledge on the obese macroenvironment and the generated adipose tumor microenvironment (TME) inducing lipid metabolic dysregulation and their influence on carcinogenic processes. Visceral white adipose tissue expansion during obesity exerts systemic or macroenvironmental effects on tumor initiation, growth, and invasion by promoting inflammation, hyperinsulinemia, growth-factor release, and dyslipidemia. The dynamic relationship between cancer and stromal cells of the obese adipose TME is critical for cancer cell survival and proliferation as well. Experimental evidence shows that secreted paracrine signals from cancer cells can induce lipolysis in cancer-associated adipocytes, causing them to release free fatty acids and acquire a fibroblast-like phenotype. Such adipocyte delipidation and phenotypic change is accompanied by an increased secretion of cytokines by cancer-associated adipocytes and tumor-associated macrophages in the TME. Mechanistically, the availability of adipose TME free fatty acids and tumorigenic cytokines concomitant with the activation of angiogenic processes creates an environment that favors a shift in the cancer cells toward an aggressive phenotype associated with increased invasiveness. We conclude that restoring the aberrant metabolic alterations in the host macroenvironment and in adipose TME of obese subjects would be a therapeutic option to prevent cancer development. Several dietary, lipid-based, and oral antidiabetic pharmacological therapies could potentially prevent tumorigenic processes associated with the dysregulated lipid metabolism closely linked to obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marina Canyelles
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques (IIB) Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain; CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Mireia Tondo
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques (IIB) Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain; CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Noemi Rotllan
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques (IIB) Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain; CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Vicenta Llorente-Cortes
- Wihuri Research Institute, Helsinki, Finland; Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB)-Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain; CIBERCV, Institute of Health Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Joan Carles Escolà-Gil
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques (IIB) Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain; CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain.
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11
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Gilgenkrantz H, Paradis V, Lotersztajn S. Cell metabolism-based therapy for liver fibrosis, repair, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatology 2023:01515467-990000000-00454. [PMID: 37212145 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Progression of chronic liver injury to fibrosis, abnormal liver regeneration, and HCC is driven by a dysregulated dialog between epithelial cells and their microenvironment, in particular immune, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells. There is currently no antifibrogenic therapy, and drug treatment of HCC is limited to tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immunotherapy targeting the tumor microenvironment. Metabolic reprogramming of epithelial and nonparenchymal cells is critical at each stage of disease progression, suggesting that targeting specific metabolic pathways could constitute an interesting therapeutic approach. In this review, we discuss how modulating intrinsic metabolism of key effector liver cells might disrupt the pathogenic sequence from chronic liver injury to fibrosis/cirrhosis, regeneration, and HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hélène Gilgenkrantz
- Paris-Cité University, INSERM, Center for Research on Inflammation, Paris, France
| | - Valérie Paradis
- Paris-Cité University, INSERM, Center for Research on Inflammation, Paris, France
- Pathology Department, Beaujon Hospital APHP, Paris-Cité University, Clichy, France
| | - Sophie Lotersztajn
- Paris-Cité University, INSERM, Center for Research on Inflammation, Paris, France
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12
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Statin can reduce the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma among patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 35:353-358. [PMID: 36719824 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000002517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Currently, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the main cause of chronic liver disease and liver-related mortality worldwide. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a fatal complication in patients with NAFLD. However, whether statins can reduce the risk of HCC in patients with NAFLD remains controversial. We aimed to determine the relationship between statin use and HCC occurrence among patients with NAFLD. We independently retrieved related studies from PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrial.gov (from 1 January 2000 to 27 February 2022). The main outcome was the development of HCC. A fixed-effects model was used to merge odds ratio (OR) in the meta-analysis. Five studies involving 684 363 patients were included. The results of the meta-analysis suggested a significantly lower risk of HCC among statin users with NAFLD [OR = 0.59; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.39-0.89; I2 = 87.90%]. Additionally, a lower risk of HCC was observed among patients with NAFLD aged less than 65 years (OR = 0.59; 95% CI, 0.46-0.77; I2 = 20.50%). Statins can reduce the risk of HCC in patients aged less than 65 years with NAFLD.
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13
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Diao P, Wang Y, Jia F, Wang X, Hu X, Kimura T, Sato Y, Moriya K, Koike K, Nakayama J, Tanaka N. Dietary Fat Composition Affects Hepatic Angiogenesis and Lymphangiogenesis in Hepatitis C Virus Core Gene Transgenic Mice. Liver Cancer 2023; 12:57-71. [PMID: 36872924 PMCID: PMC9982341 DOI: 10.1159/000525546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Previous research has demonstrated that an isocaloric diet rich in trans-fatty acid (TFA), saturated fatty acid (SFA), and cholesterol (Chol) promoted steatosis-derived hepatic tumorigenesis in hepatitis C virus core gene transgenic (HCVcpTg) mice in different manners. Growth factor signaling and ensuing angiogenesis/lymphangiogenesis are key factors in hepatic tumorigenesis that have become recent therapeutic targets for hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the influence of dietary fat composition on these factors remains unclear. This study investigated whether the type of dietary fat would have a specific impact on hepatic angiogenesis/lymphangiogenesis in HCVcpTg mice. Methods Male HCVcpTg mice were treated with a control diet, an isocaloric diet containing 1.5% cholesterol (Chol diet), or a diet replacing soybean oil with hydrogenated coconut oil (SFA diet) for a period of 15 months or with shortening (TFA diet) for 5 months. The degree of angiogenesis/lymphangiogenesis and the expression of growth factors, including fibroblast growth factor (FGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), were evaluated in non-tumorous liver tissues using quantitative mRNA measurement, immunoblot analysis, and immunohistochemistry. Results Long-term feeding of SFA and TFA diets to HCVcpTg mice increased the expressions of vascular endothelial cell indicators, such as CD31 and TEK receptor tyrosine kinase, in addition to lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor 1, indicating that angiogenesis/lymphangiogenesis were upregulated only by these fatty acid-enriched diets. This promoting effect correlated with elevated VEGF-C and FGF receptor 2 and 3 levels in the liver. c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) 1α, both key regulators of VEGF-C expression, were enhanced in the SFA- and TFA-rich diet groups as well. The Chol diet significantly increased the expressions of such growth factors as FGF2 and PDGF subunit B, without any detectable impact on angiogenesis/lymphangiogenesis. Conclusion This study revealed that diets rich in SFA and TFA, but not Chol, might stimulate hepatic angiogenesis/lymphangiogenesis mainly through the JNK-HIF1α-VEGF-C axis. Our observations indicate the importance of dietary fat species for preventing hepatic tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Diao
- Department of Metabolic Regulation, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Yaping Wang
- Department of Metabolic Regulation, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan.,Department of Basic Nursing, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Fangping Jia
- Department of Metabolic Regulation, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan.,State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Drug Clinical Research and Evaluation, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojing Wang
- Department of Metabolic Regulation, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterology, Lishui Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Lishui, China
| | - Xiao Hu
- Department of Metabolic Regulation, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan.,Department of Pathophysiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Takefumi Kimura
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Yoshiko Sato
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Kyoji Moriya
- Department of Infection Control and Prevention, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Koike
- Department of Gastroenterology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jun Nakayama
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Naoki Tanaka
- Department of Global Medical Research Promotion, Shinshu University Graduate School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan.,International Relations Office, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan.,Research Center for Social Systems, Shinshu University, Matsumoto, Japan
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14
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Research progress on the role of cholesterol in hepatocellular carcinoma. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 938:175410. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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15
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Shen H, Yu H, Li QY, Wei YT, Fu J, Dong H, Cao D, Guo LN, Chen L, Yang Y, Xu Y, Wu MC, Wang HY, Chen Y. Hepatocyte-derived VEGFA accelerates the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease to hepatocellular carcinoma via activating hepatic stellate cells. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2022; 43:2917-2928. [PMID: 35508720 PMCID: PMC9622738 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-022-00907-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is emerging as an epidemic risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The progression of NAFLD to HCC is closely associated with paracrine communication among hepatic cells. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) plays a key role in NAFLD and HCC; however, the cellular communication of VEGFA in the pathological transition from NAFLD to HCC remains unclear. Here, we found that VEGFA elevation was considerably distributed in hepatocytes of clinical and murine NAFLD-HCC specimens. Notably, progression from NAFLD to HCC was attenuated in hepatocyte-specific deletion of Vegfa (VegfaΔhep) mice. Mechanistically, VEGFA activated human hepatic stellate cell (HSC) LX2 into a fibrogenic phenotype via VEGF-VEGFR signaling in fatty acid medium, and HSC activation was largely attenuated in VegfaΔhep mice during NAFLD-HCC progression. Additionally, a positive correlation between VEGFA and hepatic fibrosis was observed in the NAFLD-HCC cohort, but not in the HBV-HCC cohort. Moreover, LX2 cells could be activated by conditioned medium from NAFLD-derived organoids, but not from HBV livers, whereas this activation was blocked by a VEGFA antibody. In summary, our findings reveal that hepatocyte-derived VEGFA contributes to NAFLD-HCC development by activating HSCs and highlight the potential of precisely targeting hepatocytic VEGFA as a promising therapeutic strategy for NAFLD-HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Shen
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Han Yu
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Qian-Yu Li
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Ya-Ting Wei
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
- Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Jing Fu
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Hui Dong
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Dan Cao
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Lin-Na Guo
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Lei Chen
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Yuan Yang
- Third Department of Hepatic Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Ying Xu
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Meng-Chao Wu
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Hong-Yang Wang
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
- Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China.
| | - Yao Chen
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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16
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Probiotics suppress nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and carcinogenesis progression in hepatocyte-specific PTEN knockout mice. Sci Rep 2022; 12:16206. [PMID: 36171333 PMCID: PMC9519992 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-20296-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a hepatic characteristic of metabolic syndrome, received significant attention in clinical settings. The multiple-hit theory is one of the proposed mechanisms of NAFLD, and gut dysbiosis is considered a hit. Thus, controlling gut microbiota is a potential target in the management of NAFLD, and probiotics can be used as a treatment agent for NAFLD. The current study aimed to investigate the efficacy of probiotics against nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in a hepatocyte-specific PTEN knockout mouse model that mimics the characteristics of human NAFLD. Probiotics were administered to male knockout mice for 8 or 40 weeks. Next, we assessed hepatic inflammation, fibrosis, carcinogenesis, and oxidative stress. Probiotics were found to reduce serum transaminase levels, NAFLD activity score, and the gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, they decreased liver fibrosis grade, which was examined via Sirius red staining, gene expression of fibrotic markers, and hydroxyproline. Furthermore, probiotics suppressed the number of liver tumors, particular in HCC. Probiotics reduced oxidative stresses, including glutathione levels, and anti-oxidative stress marker, which may be an underlying mechanism for their beneficial effects. In conclusion, probiotics treatment had beneficial effects against NAFLD and carcinogenesis in hepatocyte-specific PTEN knockout mice.
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17
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Duan Y, Gong K, Xu S, Zhang F, Meng X, Han J. Regulation of cholesterol homeostasis in health and diseases: from mechanisms to targeted therapeutics. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:265. [PMID: 35918332 PMCID: PMC9344793 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01125-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Disturbed cholesterol homeostasis plays critical roles in the development of multiple diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases (CVD), neurodegenerative diseases and cancers, particularly the CVD in which the accumulation of lipids (mainly the cholesteryl esters) within macrophage/foam cells underneath the endothelial layer drives the formation of atherosclerotic lesions eventually. More and more studies have shown that lowering cholesterol level, especially low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level, protects cardiovascular system and prevents cardiovascular events effectively. Maintaining cholesterol homeostasis is determined by cholesterol biosynthesis, uptake, efflux, transport, storage, utilization, and/or excretion. All the processes should be precisely controlled by the multiple regulatory pathways. Based on the regulation of cholesterol homeostasis, many interventions have been developed to lower cholesterol by inhibiting cholesterol biosynthesis and uptake or enhancing cholesterol utilization and excretion. Herein, we summarize the historical review and research events, the current understandings of the molecular pathways playing key roles in regulating cholesterol homeostasis, and the cholesterol-lowering interventions in clinics or in preclinical studies as well as new cholesterol-lowering targets and their clinical advances. More importantly, we review and discuss the benefits of those interventions for the treatment of multiple diseases including atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, osteoporosis and virus infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajun Duan
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
| | - Ke Gong
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
| | - Suowen Xu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
| | - Xianshe Meng
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
| | - Jihong Han
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China. .,College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China.
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18
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Gu J, Zhu N, Li HF, Zhang CJ, Gong YZ, Liao DF, Qin L. Ezetimibe and Cancer: Is There a Connection? Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:831657. [PMID: 35924044 PMCID: PMC9340271 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.831657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The high level of serum cholesterol caused by the excessive absorption of cholesterol can lead to hypercholesteremia, thus promoting the occurrence and development of cancer. Ezetimibe is a drug that reduces cholesterol absorption and has been widely used for the treatment of patients with high circulating cholesterol levels for many years. Mechanistically, ezetimibe works by binding to NPC1L1, which is a key mediator of cholesterol absorption. Accumulating data from preclinical models have shown that ezetimibe alone could inhibit the development and progression of cancer through a variety of mechanisms, including anti-angiogenesis, stem cell suppression, anti-inflammation, immune enhancement and anti-proliferation. In the past decade, there has been heated discussion on whether ezetimibe combined with statins will increase the risk of cancer. At present, more and more evidence shows that ezetimibe does not increase the risk of cancers, which supports the role of ezetimibe in anti-cancer. In this review, we discussed the latest progress in the anti-cancer properties of ezetimibe and elucidated its underlying molecular mechanisms. Finally, we highlighted the potential of ezetimibe as a therapeutic agent in future cancer treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Gu
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Regulation With Chinese Medicine and its Application, HunanUniversity of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Neng Zhu
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Hong-Fang Li
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Regulation With Chinese Medicine and its Application, HunanUniversity of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Chan-Juan Zhang
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Regulation With Chinese Medicine and its Application, HunanUniversity of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Yong-Zhen Gong
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Regulation With Chinese Medicine and its Application, HunanUniversity of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Duan-Fang Liao
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Regulation With Chinese Medicine and its Application, HunanUniversity of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Li Qin
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Regulation With Chinese Medicine and its Application, HunanUniversity of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Institutional Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology and Translational Medicine in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
- Hunan Province Engineering Research Center of Bioactive Substance Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Li Qin,
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19
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Tapdıgova R, Bayrak G, Yılmaz BC, Aytan H. Antilipidemic ezetimibe induces regression of endometriotic explants in a rat model of endometriosis with its anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic effects. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2022; 395:673-680. [PMID: 35294604 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-022-02226-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
To assess the potential therapeutic role of antilipidemic ezetimibe on endometriosis in an experimental rat model. A standard experimental endometriosis model was created with 18 Whistar-Albino rats, and after 1 month, the sizes of the endometriotic explants were measured. The rats were randomized as study and control groups. A total of 1 mg/kg/day ezetimibe and 1 ml/kg/day saline were administered orally to the study and control groups respectively for 28 days. At the end of 28 days, the explants were measured again, excised, and sent for histopathologic assessment for expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and number of mast cells. At the end of the study period, the size of the endometriotic explants decreased significantly in the study group; but not in the control group (from 145.3 ± 120.5 to 89.8 ± 60.1 vs 174.72 ± 88.3 to 87.65 ± 27.1 cm3 respectively); however, the amount of post- and pretreatment differences in explant sizes was similar in the groups. The median TNF-α and VEGF levels were significantly lower in the ezetimibe group when compared to the control group (4 [3-4] vs 2 [1-3], p 0.029; 4 [3-4] vs 2 [2-3], p 0.002; respectively). And numbers of mast cells in all uterine layers were also lower in the ezetimibe group. Ezetimibe decreased the size of the endometriotic explants with its anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic properties. This agent alone or with combination of other agents may have a potential role in the treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raziyya Tapdıgova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Gülsen Bayrak
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Banu Coşkun Yılmaz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Hakan Aytan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey.
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20
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Statins Reduce Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease and End-Stage Renal Disease: A 17-Year Longitudinal Study. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030825. [PMID: 35159093 PMCID: PMC8834435 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Statins are medicines used to treat patients with high lipid levels (hyperlipidemia). Studies have reported that patients undergoing statin therapy are at reduced risk of developing liver cancer. In this study, we compared the risk of developing liver cancer among hyperlipidemic patients with and without statin therapy in three patient groups classified by renal function: normal renal function (NRF) group, chronic kidney disease (CKD) not requiring dialysis, and dialysis-dependent end stage of real disease (ESRD). Our results showed that the risk of developing liver cancer increased progressively from NRF group to CKD and ESRD groups, but was lower for patients receiving statins treatment than non-treated patients. We also found that the statin therapy effectiveness was better in patients taking hydrophilic statins than in those taking lipophilic statins, and in patients taking statin-ezetimibe combination than in those taking statin alone, particularly in the NRF group. Ezetimibe is also an effective option of treating hyperlipidemia. Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common cancer in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients in Taiwan. Whether statin therapy associated with the HCC risk in hyperlipidemic patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and ESRD is unclear. Using population-based insurance claim data from Taiwan, we identified from hyperlipidemic patients taking statins or not (677,364 versus 867,707) in 1999–2015. Among them, three pairs of propensity score matched statin and non-statin cohorts were established by renal function: 413,867 pairs with normal renal function (NRF), 46,851 pairs with CKD and 6372 pairs with ESRD. Incidence rates of HCC were compared, by the end of 2016, between statin and non-statin cohorts, between hydrophilic statins (HS) and lipophilic statins (LS) users, and between statin-ezetimibe combination therapy (SECT) and statin monotherapy (SM) users. The HCC incidence increased progressively from NRF to CKD and ESRD groups, was lower in the statin cohort than in the non-statin cohort, with the differences of incidence per 10,000 person-years increased from (7.77 vs. 21.4) in NRF group to (15.8 vs. 37.1) in CKD group to (19.1 vs. 47.8) in ESRD group. The incidence increased with age, but the Cox method estimated hazard ratios showed a greater statin effectiveness in older patients. Among statin users, the HCC incidence was lower in HS users than in LS users, and lower in SECT users than in SM users, but the difference was significant only in the NRF group. Hyperlipidemic patients with CKD and ESRD receiving statins are at reduced HCC risks; the treatment effectiveness is superior for HS users than for LS users, and for SECT users than for SM users, but not significant.
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21
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Tzanaki I, Agouridis AP, Kostapanos MS. Is there a role of lipid-lowering therapies in the management of fatty liver disease? World J Hepatol 2022; 14:119-139. [PMID: 35126843 PMCID: PMC8790403 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v14.i1.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherogenic dyslipidemia is characterized by increased triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations. It is highly prevalent in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and contributes to the increased cardiovascular risk associated with this condition. Alongside insulin resistance it plays an important pathogenetic role in NAFLD/non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) development and progression. It has been shown that cholesterol-lowering reduces cardiovascular risk more in NAFLD vs non-NAFLD high-risk individuals. This evidence highlights the importance of effective lipid modulation in NAFLD. In this narrative review the effects of the most commonly used lipid-lowering therapies on liver outcomes alongside their therapeutic implications in NAFLD/NASH are critically discussed. Preclinical and clinical evidence suggests that statins reduce hepatic steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis in patients with NAFLD/NASH. Most data are derived from observational and small prospective clinical studies using changes in liver enzyme activities, steatosis/fibrosis scores, and imaging evidence of steatosis as surrogates. Also, relevant histologic benefits were noted in small biopsy studies. Atorvastatin and rosuvastatin showed greater benefits, whereas data for other statins are scarce and sometimes conflicting. Similar studies to those of statins showed efficacy of ezetimibe against hepatic steatosis. However, no significant anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic actions of ezetimibe have been shown. Preclinical studies showed that fibrates through peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)α activation may have a role in NAFLD prevention and management. Nevertheless, no relevant benefits have been noted in human studies. Species-related differences in PPARα expression and its activation responsiveness may help explain this discrepancy. Omega-3 fatty acids reduced hepatic steatosis in numerous heterogeneous studies, but their benefits on hepatic inflammation and fibrosis have not been established. Promising preliminary data for the highly purified eicosapentaenoic acid require further confirmation. Observational studies suggest that proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin9 inhibitors may also have a role in the management of NAFLD, though this needs to be established by future prospective studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismini Tzanaki
- School of Medicine, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus
| | - Aris P Agouridis
- School of Medicine, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus
| | - Michael S Kostapanos
- General Medicine, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals, Cambridge CB20QQ, United Kingdom
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22
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Zhou F, Sun X. Cholesterol Metabolism: A Double-Edged Sword in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:762828. [PMID: 34869352 PMCID: PMC8635701 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.762828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. The rising incidence of metabolic syndrome and its hepatic manifestation, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), have emerged as the fastest-growing cause of HCC in recent years. Cholesterol, a major lipid component of the cell membrane and lipoprotein particles, is primarily produced and metabolized by the liver. Numerous studies have revealed an increased cholesterol biosynthesis and uptake, reduced cholesterol exportation and excretion in HCC, which all contribute to lipotoxicity, inflammation, and fibrosis, known HCC risk factors. In contrast, some clinical studies have shown that higher cholesterol is associated with a reduced risk of HCC. These contradictory observations imply that the relationship between cholesterol and HCC is far more complex than initially anticipated. Understanding the role of cholesterol and deciphering the underlying molecular events in HCC development is highly relevant to developing new therapies. Here, we discuss the current understanding of cholesterol metabolism in the pathogenesis of NAFLD-associated HCC, and the underlying mechanisms, including the roles of cholesterol in the disruption of normal function of specific cell types and signaling transduction. We also review the clinical progression in evaluating the association of cholesterol with HCC. The therapeutic effects of lowering cholesterol will also be summarized. We also interpret reasons for the contradictory observations from different preclinical and human studies of the roles of cholesterol in HCC, aiming to provide a critical assessment of the potential of cholesterol as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangli Zhou
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoli Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, Mays Cancer Center, Transplant Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
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23
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Kumar N, Mandal CC. Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs on Akt Signaling for Prevention of Tumorigenesis. Front Genet 2021; 12:724149. [PMID: 34603386 PMCID: PMC8483559 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.724149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol has been reported to be accumulated in cancer cells. The metabolic dysregulation of the cholesterol is associated with tumor development and progression. The cholesterol-lowering drugs have been found to be involved in the prevention and treatment of various cancers. Akt, a serine/threonine kinase, can modulate the role of several downstream proteins involved in cell proliferation, migration, invasion, metabolism, and apoptosis. Since its involvement in several signaling pathways, its dysregulation is commonly reported in several cancers. Thus, targeting Akt could be an effective approach for cancer prevention and therapy. Cholesterol-lowering drugs have been found to affect the expression of Akt, and its activation in the cancer cells and thus have shown anticancer activity in different type of cancers. These drugs act on various signaling pathways such as PTEN/Akt, PI3k/Akt, Akt/NF-κB, Akt/FOXO1, Akt/mTOR, etc., which will be discussed in this article. This review article will discuss the significance of cholesterol in cancer cells, cholesterol-lowering drugs, the role of Akt in cancer cells, and the effects of cholesterol-lowering drugs on Akt in the prevention of therapy resistance and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navneet Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, India
| | - Chandi C Mandal
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, India
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24
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Orlandi P, Solini A, Banchi M, Brunetto MR, Cioni D, Ghiadoni L, Bocci G. Antiangiogenic Drugs in NASH: Evidence of a Possible New Therapeutic Approach. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14100995. [PMID: 34681219 PMCID: PMC8539163 DOI: 10.3390/ph14100995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is the most common liver disorder worldwide, and its progressive form non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a growing cause of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Lifestyle changes, which are capable of improving the prognosis, are hard to achieve, whereas a pharmacologic therapy able to combine efficacy and safety is still lacking. Looking at the pathophysiology of various liver diseases, such as NASH, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and HCC, the process of angiogenesis is a key mechanism influencing the disease progression. The relationship between the worsening of chronic liver disease and angiogenesis may suggest a possible use of drugs with antiangiogenic activity as a tool to stop or slow the progression of the disorder. In this review, we highlight the available preclinical data supporting a role of known antiangiogenic drugs (e.g., sorafenib), or phytotherapeutic compounds with multiple mechanism of actions, including also antiangiogenic activities (e.g., berberine), in the treatment of NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Orlandi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.O.); (M.B.); (M.R.B.); (L.G.)
| | - Anna Solini
- Dipartimento di Patologia Chirurgica, Medica, Molecolare e dell’Area Critica, Università di Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.S.); (D.C.)
| | - Marta Banchi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.O.); (M.B.); (M.R.B.); (L.G.)
| | - Maurizia Rossana Brunetto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.O.); (M.B.); (M.R.B.); (L.G.)
| | - Dania Cioni
- Dipartimento di Patologia Chirurgica, Medica, Molecolare e dell’Area Critica, Università di Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.S.); (D.C.)
| | - Lorenzo Ghiadoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.O.); (M.B.); (M.R.B.); (L.G.)
| | - Guido Bocci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.O.); (M.B.); (M.R.B.); (L.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0502218756
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25
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Zhou D, Luan J, Huang C, Li J. Tumor-Associated Macrophages in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Friend or Foe? Gut Liver 2021; 15:500-516. [PMID: 33087588 PMCID: PMC8283292 DOI: 10.5009/gnl20223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide, and it has diverse etiologies with multiple mechanisms. The diagnosis of HCC typically occurs at advanced stages when there are limited therapeutic options. Hepatocarcinogenesis is considered a multistep process, and hepatic macrophages play a critical role in the inflammatory process leading to HCC. Emerging evidence has shown that tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are crucial components defining the HCC immune microenvironment and represent an appealing option for disrupting the formation and development of HCC. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the polarization and function of TAMs in the pathogenesis of HCC, as well as the mechanisms underlying TAM-related anti-HCC therapies. Eventually, novel insights into these important aspects of TAMs and their roles in the HCC microenvironment might lead to promising TAM-focused therapeutic strategies for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dexi Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, China.,Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wuhu, China.,School of Pharmacy, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Jiajie Luan
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, China.,Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wuhu, China.,School of Pharmacy, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jun Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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26
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Conde de la Rosa L, Garcia-Ruiz C, Vallejo C, Baulies A, Nuñez S, Monte MJ, Marin JJG, Baila-Rueda L, Cenarro A, Civeira F, Fuster J, Garcia-Valdecasas JC, Ferrer J, Karin M, Ribas V, Fernandez-Checa JC. STARD1 promotes NASH-driven HCC by sustaining the generation of bile acids through the alternative mitochondrial pathway. J Hepatol 2021; 74:1429-1441. [PMID: 33515644 PMCID: PMC8573791 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.01.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Besides their physiological role in bile formation and fat digestion, bile acids (BAs) synthesised from cholesterol in hepatocytes act as signalling molecules that modulate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Trafficking of cholesterol to mitochondria through steroidogenic acute regulatory protein 1 (STARD1) is the rate-limiting step in the alternative pathway of BA generation, the physiological relevance of which is not well understood. Moreover, the specific contribution of the STARD1-dependent BA synthesis pathway to HCC has not been previously explored. METHODS STARD1 expression was analyzed in a cohort of human non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)-derived HCC specimens. Experimental NASH-driven HCC models included MUP-uPA mice fed a high-fat high-cholesterol (HFHC) diet and diethylnitrosamine (DEN) treatment in wild-type (WT) mice fed a HFHC diet. Molecular species of BAs and oxysterols were analyzed by mass spectrometry. Effects of NASH-derived BA profiles were investigated in tumour-initiated stem-like cells (TICs) and primary mouse hepatocytes (PMHs). RESULTS Patients with NASH-associated HCC exhibited increased hepatic expression of STARD1 and an enhanced BA pool. Using NASH-driven HCC models, STARD1 overexpression in WT mice increased liver tumour multiplicity, whereas hepatocyte-specific STARD1 deletion (Stard1ΔHep) in WT or MUP-uPA mice reduced tumour burden. These findings mirrored the levels of unconjugated primary BAs, β-muricholic acid and cholic acid, and their tauroconjugates in STARD1-overexpressing and Stard1ΔHep mice. Incubation of TICs or PMHs with a mix of BAs mimicking this profile stimulated expression of genes involved in pluripotency, stemness and inflammation. CONCLUSIONS The study reveals a previously unrecognised role of STARD1 in HCC pathogenesis, wherein it promotes the synthesis of primary BAs through the mitochondrial pathway, the products of which act in TICs to stimulate self-renewal, stemness and inflammation. LAY SUMMARY Effective therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is limited because of our incomplete understanding of its pathogenesis. The contribution of the alternative pathway of bile acid (BA) synthesis to HCC development is unknown. We uncover a key role for steroidogenic acute regulatory protein 1 (STARD1) in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis-driven HCC, wherein it stimulates the generation of BAs in the mitochondrial acidic pathway, the products of which stimulate hepatocyte pluripotency and self-renewal, as well as inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Conde de la Rosa
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain; Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic I Provincial de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Garcia-Ruiz
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain; Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic I Provincial de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain; Center for ALPD, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Carmen Vallejo
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain; Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic I Provincial de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Anna Baulies
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain; Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic I Provincial de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Susana Nuñez
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain; Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic I Provincial de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria J Monte
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain; Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM), Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Jose J G Marin
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain; Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM), Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Lucia Baila-Rueda
- Instituto Investigación Sanitaria Aragón, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain; CIBERCV, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Cenarro
- Instituto Investigación Sanitaria Aragón, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain; CIBERCV, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Civeira
- Instituto Investigación Sanitaria Aragón, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain; CIBERCV, Madrid, Spain
| | - Josep Fuster
- HepatoBilioPancreatic Surgery and Liver and Pancreatic Transplantation Unit, Department of Surgery, ICMDiM, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan C Garcia-Valdecasas
- HepatoBilioPancreatic Surgery and Liver and Pancreatic Transplantation Unit, Department of Surgery, ICMDiM, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joana Ferrer
- HepatoBilioPancreatic Surgery and Liver and Pancreatic Transplantation Unit, Department of Surgery, ICMDiM, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Michael Karin
- Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Signal Transduction, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Vicent Ribas
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain; Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic I Provincial de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Jose C Fernandez-Checa
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain; Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic I Provincial de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain; Center for ALPD, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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27
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Role of Angiogenesis in the Pathogenesis of NAFLD. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10071338. [PMID: 33804956 PMCID: PMC8037441 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10071338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the leading cause of chronic liver disease, exposing to the risk of liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Angio-genesis is a complex process leading to the development of new vessels from pre-existing vessels. Angiogenesis is triggered by hypoxia and inflammation and is driven by the action of proangiogenic cytokines, mainly vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In this review, we focus on liver angiogenesis associated with NAFLD and analyze the evidence of liver angiogenesis in animal models of NAFLD and in NAFLD patients. We also report the data explaining the role of angiogenesis in the progression of NAFLD and discuss the potential of targeting angiogenesis, notably VEGF, to treat NAFLD.
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28
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Silva A, Pereira SS, Monteiro MP, Araújo A, Faria G. Effect of Metabolic Syndrome and Individual Components on Colon Cancer Characteristics and Prognosis. Front Oncol 2021; 11:631257. [PMID: 33747952 PMCID: PMC7970759 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.631257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MS) is recognized as a risk factor for colon cancer (CC). However, whether the cluster of metabolic changes that define MS also influence CC prognosis remains unclear. Thus, our aim was to investigate whether the presence of MS or any of the MS individual components could provide prognostic information on tumor phenotype and survival outcomes. Clinical and pathological data from patients with CC (n = 300) who underwent surgical resection at a single tertiary hospital were retrospectively collected to evaluate presence of MS components and diagnostic criteria, CC phenotype and disease outcomes. Patients were allocated into two groups according to the presence or absence of MS (n = 85 MS vs n = 83 non-MS). The overall prevalence of MS individual components was 82.7% for increased waist-circumference (WC), 61.3% for high blood pressure (BP), 48.8% for low HDL-cholesterol, 39.9% for high fasting glucose, and 33.9% for hypertriglyceridemia. Patients in the MS group presented smaller tumors (p = 0.006) with lower T-stage (p = 0.002). High BP (p = 0.029) and hypertriglyceridemia (p = 0.044) were associated with a smaller tumor size, while low-HDL (p = 0.008) was associated with lower T-stage. After propensity score matching using age, tumor size and staging as covariates high-BP (p = 0.020) and WC (p = 0.003) were found to influence disease-free survival, but not overall survival. In conclusion, despite MS being an established risk factor for CC, our data does not support the hypothesis that MS components have a negative impact on disease extension or prognosis. Nevertheless, a protective role of BP and lipid lowering drugs cannot be excluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Silva
- Pharmacy Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,School of Health, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Polytechnic of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia S Pereira
- Endocrine, Cardiovascular & Metabolic Research, Unit for Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research (UMIB) of Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana P Monteiro
- Endocrine, Cardiovascular & Metabolic Research, Unit for Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research (UMIB) of Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Centre for Obesity Research, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - António Araújo
- Unit of Oncobiology Research, Unit for Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research (UMIB) of Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Medical Oncology Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Gil Faria
- iGo Department, CINTESIS-Center for Research in Health Technologies and Information Systems, Porto, Portugal.,General Surgery, Hospital de Pedro Hispano - Unidade Local de Saúde de Matosinhos, Senhora da Hora, Portugal.,Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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29
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Oxidized High-Density Lipoprotein Shows a Stepwise Increase as Fibrosis Progresses in Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10020239. [PMID: 33557304 PMCID: PMC7914565 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10020239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) show dyslipidemia and a high risk for coronary heart disease (CHD). However, conventional atherosclerotic lipids are found at low levels in NAFLD patients with advanced fibrosis, in whom the risk for CHD is extremely high. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the levels of oxidized high-density lipoprotein (oxHDL), an emerging atherosclerotic biomarker, in patients with NAFLD. A total of 32 non-NAFLD subjects and 106 patients with NAFLD were enrolled. The fibrosis grades were stratified using non-invasive methods, including the Fibrosis-4 index and NAFLD fibrosis score. Total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol levels were significantly low in patients with advanced liver fibrosis. In contrast, oxHDL levels were high in NAFLD patients and showed a stepwise increase as fibrosis progressed. These oxHDL levels were independent of the HDL cholesterol levels, and statin use did not influence the oxHDL levels. Obese patients showed no increase in oxHDL levels, whereas patients with a low handgrip strength showed high oxHDL levels in NAFLD with advanced fibrosis. In conclusion, oxHDL is a potential biomarker for assessing the status of patients with NAFLD, including CHD and metabolic/nutritional disturbance, and particular cases with advanced liver fibrosis.
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30
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Hong GQ, Cai D, Gong JP, Lai X. Innate immune cells and their interaction with T cells in hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncol Lett 2021; 21:57. [PMID: 33281968 PMCID: PMC7709558 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.12319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant tumor and is associated with necroinflammation driven by various immune cells, such as dendritic cells, macrophages and natural killer cells. Innate immune cells can directly affect HCC or regulate the T-cell responses that mediate HCC. In addition, innate immune cells and T cells are not isolated, which means the interaction between them is important in the HCC microenvironment. Considering the current unsatisfactory efficacy of immunotherapy in patients with HCC, understanding the relationship between innate immune cells and T cells is necessary. In the present review the roles and clinical value of innate immune cells that have been widely reported to be involved in HCC, including dendritic cells, macrophages (including kupffer cells), neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils and innate lymphoid cells and the crosstalk between the innate and adaptive immune responses in the antitumor process have been discussed. The present review will facilitate researchers in understanding the importance of innate immune cells in HCC and lead to innovative immunotherapy approaches for the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Qing Hong
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Thyroid Breast Surgery, Tongnan District People's Hospital, Chongqing 402660, P.R. China
| | - Dong Cai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, P.R. China
| | - Jian-Ping Gong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, P.R. China
| | - Xing Lai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Thyroid Breast Surgery, Tongnan District People's Hospital, Chongqing 402660, P.R. China
- Correspondence to: Dr Xing Lai, Department of Hepatobiliary and Thyroid Breast Surgery, Tongnan District People's Hospital, 271 Datong, Tongnan, Chongqing 402660, P.R. China, E-mail:
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31
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Aparecida Silveira E, Vaseghi G, de Carvalho Santos AS, Kliemann N, Masoudkabir F, Noll M, Mohammadifard N, Sarrafzadegan N, de Oliveira C. Visceral Obesity and Its Shared Role in Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease: A Scoping Review of the Pathophysiology and Pharmacological Treatments. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E9042. [PMID: 33261185 PMCID: PMC7730690 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The association between obesity, cancer and cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been demonstrated in animal and epidemiological studies. However, the specific role of visceral obesity on cancer and CVD remains unclear. Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) is a complex and metabolically active tissue, that can produce different adipokines and hormones, responsible for endocrine-metabolic comorbidities. This review explores the potential mechanisms related to VAT that may also be involved in cancer and CVD. In addition, we discuss the shared pharmacological treatments which may reduce the risk of both diseases. This review highlights that chronic inflammation, molecular aspects, metabolic syndrome, secretion of hormones and adiponectin associated to VAT may have synergistic effects and should be further studied in relation to cancer and CVD. Reductions in abdominal and visceral adiposity improve insulin sensitivity, lipid profile and cytokines, which consequently reduce the risk of CVD and some cancers. Several medications have shown to reduce visceral and/or subcutaneous fat. Further research is needed to investigate the pathophysiological mechanisms by which visceral obesity may cause both cancer and CVD. The role of visceral fat in cancer and CVD is an important area to advance. Public health policies to increase public awareness about VAT's role and ways to manage or prevent it are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Aparecida Silveira
- Department of Epidemiology & Public Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK;
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, Goiás, Brazil; (A.S.d.C.S.); (M.N.)
| | - Golnaz Vaseghi
- Applied Physiology Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 8158388994, Iran;
| | - Annelisa Silva de Carvalho Santos
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, Goiás, Brazil; (A.S.d.C.S.); (M.N.)
- United Faculty of Campinas, Goiânia 74525-020, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Nathalie Kliemann
- Nutritional Epidemiology Group, Nutrition and Metabolism Section, International Agency for Research on Cancer, World Health Organization, 69372 Lyon, France;
| | - Farzad Masoudkabir
- Cardiac Primary Prevention Research Center, Tehran Heart Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1416753955, Iran;
- Department of Cardiology, Tehran Heart Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1411713138, Iran
| | - Matias Noll
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, Goiás, Brazil; (A.S.d.C.S.); (M.N.)
- Instituto Federal Goiano, Ceres 76300-000, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Noushin Mohammadifard
- Hypertension Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 8158388994, Iran;
| | - Nizal Sarrafzadegan
- Isfahan Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 8158388994, Iran
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Cesar de Oliveira
- Department of Epidemiology & Public Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK;
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Abstract
Liver cancer is one of the most common and deadly cancers in the world. In recent years, non-coding RNA has been a hot topic in liver cancer research. piRNAs (PIWI-interacting RNAs) are a new type of small non-coding RNA, which are formed by the PIWI proteins interacting with RNA. The latest research shows that piRNA and PIWI proteins are abnormally expressed in various cancers, including pancreatic, colorectal, breast, etc. piRNA plays an important regulatory role in liver cancer. In this review, we discuss the biological function of piRNAs and new progress in the development of liver cancer, and new targets and ideas for piRNA and PIWI proteins in the diagnosis and treatment of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiamin Xu
- Graduate School of Nursing, Huzhou University, Huzhou, China
| | - Xi Yang
- Department of Oncology, Huzhou Cent Hosp, Affiliated Cent Hops Huzhou University, Huzhou, China
| | - Qing Zhou
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Huzhou Cent Hosp, Affiliated Cent Hops Huzhou University, Huzhou, China
| | - Jing Zhuang
- Graduate School of Nursing, Huzhou University, Huzhou, China
| | - Shuwen Han
- Department of Oncology, Huzhou Cent Hosp, Affiliated Cent Hops Huzhou University, Huzhou, China
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Qin XS, Zhang CL, Huang ZS. Influence of tumor microenvironment on angiogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2020; 28:493-500. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v28.i12.493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is one of the main malignant tumors that endanger human health, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common histological type of this heterogeneous cancer. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a dynamic system composed of tumor cells and tumor-related stroma. HCC can form tumor-related blood vessels through a variety of angiogenesis modes. Previous studies have shown that various components of TME mediate HCC angiogenesis in multiple ways, which brings big challenges to clinical anti-angiogenesis therapy. This article reviews the research progress of HCC angiogenesis model and the role of TME in the regulation of HCC angiogenesis, with an aim to provide a reference for basic and clinical research of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Shan Qin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise 533000, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China,Graduate School of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise 533000, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Cai-Ling Zhang
- Graduate School of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise 533000, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Zan-Song Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise 533000, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China,Guangxi Clinical Research Center for Hepatobiliary Diseases, Baise 533000, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
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Lequoy M, Gigante E, Couty JP, Desbois-Mouthon C. Hepatocellular carcinoma in the context of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH): recent advances in the pathogenic mechanisms. Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2020; 41:/j/hmbci.ahead-of-print/hmbci-2019-0044/hmbci-2019-0044.xml. [PMID: 32112699 DOI: 10.1515/hmbci-2019-0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer. HCC is particularly aggressive and is one of the leading causes of cancer mortality. In recent decades, the epidemiological landscape of HCC has undergone significant changes. While chronic viral hepatitis and excessive alcohol consumption have long been identified as the main risk factors for HCC, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), paralleling the worldwide epidemic of obesity and type 2 diabetes, has become a growing cause of HCC in the US and Europe. Here, we review the recent advances in epidemiological, genetic, epigenetic and pathogenic mechanisms as well as experimental mouse models that have improved the understanding of NASH progression toward HCC. We also discuss the clinical management of patients with NASH-related HCC and possible therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Lequoy
- Service d'Hépato-Gastro-Entérologie, AP-HP, F-75012 Paris, France
- Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, INSERM, Sorbonne Université, F-75012 Paris, France
| | - Elia Gigante
- Service d'Hépato-Gastro-Entérologie, AP-HP, F-75012 Paris, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Couty
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM, Sorbonne Université, USPC, Université Paris Descartes, Université Paris Diderot, F-75006 Paris, France
| | - Christèle Desbois-Mouthon
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM UMR_S1138, 15 rue de l'école de médecine, Sorbonne Université, USPC, Université Paris Descartes, Université Paris Diderot, F-75006 Paris, France
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Atanasov G, Dino K, Schierle K, Dietel C, Aust G, Pratschke J, Seehofer D, Schmelzle M, Hau HM. Angiogenic inflammation and formation of necrosis in the tumor microenvironment influence patient survival after radical surgery for de novo hepatocellular carcinoma in non-cirrhosis. World J Surg Oncol 2019; 17:217. [PMID: 31830991 PMCID: PMC6909650 DOI: 10.1186/s12957-019-1756-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tumor escape mechanisms mediated in the tumor microenvironment can significantly reduce the capacity of the anti-tumor function of the immune system. TIE2-expressing monocytes (TEMs), related angiopoietins, and tumor necrosis are considered to have a key role in this process. We aimed to investigate the abundance and clinical significance of these biomarkers in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods In this retrospective study, 58 HCC patients received surgery with a curative intent. The abundance of TEMs, angiopoietin-1 and -2 were detected in tumor specimens of the HCC patients (n = 58), and together with the occurrence of histologic tumor necrosis, were associated with established clinicopathological characteristics and survival. Results Patients with HCC characterized by necrosis and TEMs revealed reduced both overall survival and recurrence-free survival (all p < 0.05). Angiopoietins and TEMs were associated with metastatic and recurrent HCC. Furthermore, the formation of histologic tumor necrosis was associated with advanced tumor stage and density of TEMs (all p < 0.05). Conclusions Histologic tumor necrosis, TEMs, and related angiopoietins were associated with multiple HCC parameters and patient survival. The tumor necrosis–TEM–angiopoietin axis may offer a novel diagnostic modality to predict patient outcome after surgery for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgi Atanasov
- Department of Visceral, Transplantation, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany. .,Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte und Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany. .,Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Karoline Dino
- Department of Visceral, Transplantation, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Katrin Schierle
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Corinna Dietel
- Department of Visceral, Transplantation, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Gabriela Aust
- Department of Surgery, Research Laboratories, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Johann Pratschke
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte und Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel Seehofer
- Department of Visceral, Transplantation, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Moritz Schmelzle
- Department of Visceral, Transplantation, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.,Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte und Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hans-Michael Hau
- Department of Visceral, Transplantation, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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Huang ZL, Li W, Chen QF, Wu PH, Shen LJ. Eight key long non-coding RNAs predict hepatitis virus positive hepatocellular carcinoma as prognostic targets. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2019; 11:983-997. [PMID: 31798779 PMCID: PMC6883184 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v11.i11.983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus, together with hepatitis C virus, has been recognized as the leading causes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been suggested in increasing studies to be the potential prognostic factors for HCC. However, the role of combined application of lncRNAs in estimating overall survival (OS) for hepatitis virus positive HCC (VHCC) is uncertain.
AIM To construct an lncRNA signature related to the OS of VHCC patients to enhance the accuracy of prognosis prediction.
METHODS The expression patterns of lncRNAs, as well as related clinical data were collected from 149 VHCC patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. The R package was adopted to obtain the differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs). LncRNAs significantly associated with OS were screened by means of univariate Cox regression analysis, so as to construct a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) model. Subsequently, the constructed lncRNA signature was developed and validated. Afterwards, the prognostic nomogram was established, which combined the as-established lncRNA signature as well as the clinical features. Meanwhile, subgroup analysis stratified by the virus type was also performed. Finally, the above-mentioned lncRNAs were enriched to corresponding pathways according to the markedly co-expressed genes.
RESULTS A total of 1420 DElncRNAs were identified, among which 406 were significant in univariate Cox regression analysis. LASSO regression confirmed 8 out of the 406 lncRNAs, including AC005722.2, AC107959.3, AL353803.1, AL589182.1, AP000844.2, AP002478.1, FLJ36000, and NPSR1-AS1. Then, the prognostic risk score was calculated. Our results displayed a significant association between the risk model and the OS of VHCC [hazard ratio = 1.94, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.61-2.34, log-rank P = 2e-10]. The inference tree suggested that the established lncRNA signature was useful in the risk stratification of VHCC. Furthermore, a nomogram was plotted, and the concordance index of internal validation was 0.763 (95%CI: 0.700-0.826). Moreover, the subgroup analysis regarding etiology confirmed this risk model. In addition, the Wnt signaling pathway, angiogenesis, the p53 pathway, and the PI3 kinase pathway were the remarkably enriched pathways.
CONCLUSION An eight-lncRNA signature has been established to predict the prognosis for VHCC, which contributes to providing a novel foundation for the targeted therapy of VHCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Lin Huang
- Department of Medical Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, Guangdong Province, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Wang Li
- Department of Medical Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, Guangdong Province, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Qi-Feng Chen
- Department of Medical Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, Guangdong Province, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Pei-Hong Wu
- Department of Medical Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, Guangdong Province, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Lu-Jun Shen
- Department of Medical Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, Guangdong Province, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, Guangdong Province, China
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37
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Animal Models of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Prevention. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11111792. [PMID: 31739536 PMCID: PMC6895981 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11111792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a deadly disease and therapeutic efficacy in advanced HCC is limited. Since progression of chronic liver disease to HCC involves a long latency period of a few decades, a significant window of therapeutic opportunities exists for prevention of HCC and improve patient prognosis. Nonetheless, there has been no clinical advancement in instituting HCC chemopreventive strategies. Some of the major challenges are heterogenous genetic aberrations of HCC, significant modulation of tumor microenvironment and incomplete understanding of HCC tumorigenesis. To this end, animal models of HCC are valuable tools to evaluate biology of tumor initiation and progression with specific insight into molecular and genetic mechanisms involved. In this review, we describe various animal models of HCC that facilitate effective ways to study therapeutic prevention strategies that have translational potential to be evaluated in a clinical context.
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Miura K, Ohnishi H, Morimoto N, Minami S, Ishioka M, Watanabe S, Tsukui M, Takaoka Y, Nomoto H, Isoda N, Yamamoto H. Ezetimibe suppresses development of liver tumors by inhibiting angiogenesis in mice fed a high-fat diet. Cancer Sci 2019; 110:771-783. [PMID: 30520543 PMCID: PMC6361611 DOI: 10.1111/cas.13902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a common cause of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, effective therapeutic strategies for preventing and treating NASH‐mediated liver cirrhosis and HCC are lacking. Cholesterol is closely associated with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a key factor that promotes HCC. Recent reports have demonstrated that statins could prevent HCC development. In contrast, we have little information on ezetimibe, an inhibitor of cholesterol absorption, in regards to the prevention of NASH‐related liver cirrhosis and HCC. In the present study, a steatohepatitis‐related HCC model, hepatocyte‐specific phosphatase and tensin homolog (Pten)‐deficient (PtenΔhep) mice were fed a high‐fat (HF) diet with/without ezetimibe. In the standard‐diet group, ezetimibe did not reduce the development of liver tumors in PtenΔhep mice, in which the increase of serum cholesterol levels was mild. Feeding of a HF diet increased serum cholesterol levels markedly and subsequently increased serum levels of VEGF, a crucial component of angiogenesis. The HF diet increased the number of VEGF‐positive cells and vascular endothelial cells in the tumors of PtenΔhep mice. Kupffer cells, macrophages in the liver, increased VEGF expression in response to fat overload. Ezetimibe treatment lowered cholesterol levels and these angiogenetic processes. As a result, ezetimibe also suppressed inflammation, liver fibrosis and tumor growth in PtenΔhep mice on the HF diet. Tumor cells were highly proliferative with HF‐diet feeding, which was inhibited by ezetimibe. In conclusion, ezetimibe suppressed development of liver tumors by inhibiting angiogenesis in PtenΔhep mice with hypercholesterolemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kouichi Miura
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hirohide Ohnishi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Saitama Medical Center, Jichi Medical University, Saitama, Japan.,Japan Organization of Occupational Health and Safety, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Naoki Morimoto
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Shinichiro Minami
- Department of Gastroenterology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | - Mitsuaki Ishioka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | - Shunji Watanabe
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Mamiko Tsukui
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yoshinari Takaoka
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Nomoto
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Norio Isoda
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hironori Yamamoto
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
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