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Zheng L, Mei W, Zhou J, Wei X, Huang Z, Lin X, Zhang L, Liu W, Wu Q, Li J, Yan Y. Fluorofenidone attenuates renal fibrosis by inhibiting lysosomal cathepsin‑mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Exp Ther Med 2024; 27:142. [PMID: 38476910 PMCID: PMC10928820 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2024.12430] [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: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Currently, no antifibrotic drug in clinical use can effectively treat renal fibrosis. Fluorofenidone (AKFPD), a novel pyridone agent, significantly reduces renal fibrosis by inhibiting the activation of the NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome; however, the underlying mechanism of this inhibition is not fully understood. The present study aimed to reveal the molecular mechanism underlying the suppression of NLRP3 inflammasome activation by AKFPD. It investigated the effect of AKFPD on NLRP3 activation and lysosomal cathepsins in a unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) rat model, and hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-treated HK-2 cells and murine peritoneal-derived macrophages (PDMs) stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and ATP. The results confirmed that AKFPD suppressed renal interstitial fibrosis and inflammation by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation in UUO rat kidney tissues. In addition, AKFPD reduced the production of activated caspase-1 and maturation of IL-1β by suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome activation in H/R-treated HK-2 cells and murine PDMs stimulated with LPS and ATP. AKFPD also decreased the activities of cathepsins B, L and S both in vivo and in vitro. Notably, AKFPD downregulated cathepsin B expression and NLRP3 colocalization in the cytoplasm after lysosomal disruptions. Overall, the results suggested that AKFPD attenuates renal fibrosis by inhibiting lysosomal cathepsin-mediated activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linfeng Zheng
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Wenjuan Mei
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Jing Zhou
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Xin Wei
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Zhijuan Huang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Xiaozhen Lin
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Qian Wu
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Jinhong Li
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Yan Yan
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
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Peng X, Yang H, Tao L, Xiao J, Zeng Y, Shen Y, Yu X, Zhu F, Qin J. Fluorofenidone alleviates liver fibrosis by inhibiting hepatic stellate cell autophagy via the TGF-β1/Smad pathway: implications for liver cancer. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16060. [PMID: 37790613 PMCID: PMC10542821 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16060] [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: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Liver fibrosis is a key stage in the progression of various chronic liver diseases to cirrhosis and liver cancer, but at present, there is no effective treatment. This study investigated the therapeutic effect of the new antifibrotic drug fluorofenidone (AKF-PD) on liver fibrosis and its related mechanism, providing implications for liver cancer. Materials and Methods The effects of AKF-PD on hepatic stellate cell (HSC) autophagy and extracellular matrix (ECM) expression were assessed in a carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced rat liver fibrosis model. In vitro, HSC-T6 cells were transfected with Smad2 and Smad3 overexpression plasmids and treated with AKF-PD. The viability and number of autophagosomes in HSC-T6 cells were examined. The protein expression levels of Beclin-1, LC3 and P62 were examined by Western blotting. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database was used for comprehensively analyzing the prognostic values of SMAD2 and SMAD3 in liver cancer. The correlation between SMAD2, SMAD3, and autophagy-related scores in liver cancer was explored. The drug prediction of autophagy-related scores in liver cancer was explored. Results AKF-PD attenuated liver injury and ECM deposition in the CCl4-induced liver fibrosis model. In vitro, the viability and number of autophagosomes in HSCs were reduced significantly by AKF-PD treatment. Meanwhile, the protein expression of FN, α-SMA, collagen III, Beclin-1 and LC3 was increased, and P62 was reduced by the overexpression of Smad2 and Smad3; however, AKF-PD reversed these effects. SMAD2 and SMAD3 were hazardous factors in liver cancer. SMAD2 and SMAD3 correlated with autophagy-related scores in liver cancer. Autophagy-related scores could predict drug response in liver cancer. Conclusions AKF-PD alleviates liver fibrosis by inhibiting HSC autophagy via the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1/Smadpathway. Our study provided some implications about how liver fibrosis was connected with liver cancer by SMAD2/SMAD3 and autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiongqun Peng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
| | - Huixiang Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lijian Tao
- Department of Nephropathy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jingni Xiao
- Department of Nephrology, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
| | - Ya Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
| | - Yueming Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
| | - Xueke Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
| | - Fei Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
| | - Jiao Qin
- Department of Nephrology, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
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Cao X, Liang Y, Liu R, Zao X, Zhang J, Chen G, Liu R, Chen H, He Y, Zhang J, Ye Y. Uncovering the Pharmacological Mechanisms of Gexia-Zhuyu Formula (GXZY) in Treating Liver Cirrhosis by an Integrative Pharmacology Strategy. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:793888. [PMID: 35330838 PMCID: PMC8940433 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.793888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis (LC) is a fibrotic lesion of liver tissue caused by the repeated progression of chronic hepatitis. The traditional Chinese medicine Gexia-Zhuyu formula (GXZY) has a therapeutic effect on LC. However, its pharmacological mechanisms on LC remain elucidated. Here, we used the network pharmacology approach to explore the action mechanisms of GXZY on LC. The compounds of GXZY were from the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology (TCMSP) database, and their potential targets were from SwissTargetPrediction and STITCH databases. The disease targets of LC came from GeneCards, DisGeNET, NCBI gene, and OMIM databases. Then we constructed the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network to obtain the key target genes. And the gene ontology (GO), pathway enrichment, and expression analysis of the key genes were also performed. Subsequently, the potential action mechanisms of GXZY on LC predicted by the network pharmacology analyses were experimentally validated in LC rats and LX2 cells. A total of 150 components in GXZY were obtained, among which 111 were chosen as key compounds. The PPI network included 525 targets, and the key targets were obtained by network topological parameters analysis, whereas the predicted key genes of GXZY on LC were AR, JUN, MYC, CASP3, MMP9, GAPDH, and RELA. Furthermore, these key genes were related to pathways in cancer, hepatitis B, TNF signaling pathway, and MAPK signaling pathway. The in vitro and in vivo experiments validated that GXZY inhibited the process of LC mainly via the regulation of cells proliferation and migration through reducing the expression of MMP9. In conclusion, through the combination of network pharmacology and experimental verification, this study offered more insight molecular mechanisms of GXZY on LC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Cao
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Institute of Liver Diseases, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yijun Liang
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ruijia Liu
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaobin Zao
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaying Zhang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Guang Chen
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Institute of Liver Diseases, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ruijie Liu
- Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hening Chen
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yannan He
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaxin Zhang
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Institute of Liver Diseases, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yong'an Ye
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Institute of Liver Diseases, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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Tu S, Jiang Y, Cheng H, Yuan X, He Y, Peng Y, Peng X, Peng Z, Tao L, Yang H. Fluorofenidone protects liver against inflammation and fibrosis by blocking the activation of NF-κB pathway. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21497. [PMID: 34152015 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202002402r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Despite the increasing understanding of the pathophysiology of hepatic fibrosis, the therapies to combat it remain inadequate. Fluorofenidone (AKF-PD) is a novel pyridone agent able to ameliorate hepatic fibrosis in an experimental hepatic fibrosis model induced by dimethylnitrosamine. However, the underlying mechanism remains to be further elucidated. In light of the critical role of the NF-κB pathway in inflammation and hepatic fibrosis, together with the preliminary finding that AKF-PD decreases the release of proinflammatory cytokines in the endotoxemia and unilateral ureteral occlusion model, the aim of this study was to explore whether AKF-PD exerts an antifibrotic effect in hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting inflammation and suppressing the activation of the NF-κB pathway in vivo and in vitro. To test this possibility, the effect of AKF-PD on hepatic fibrosis models induced by both carbon tetrachloride (CCL4 ) and porcine serum (PS) was investigated. Our results showed that AKF-PD treatment ameliorated hepatic injury and fibrosis in both models. Furthermore, the administration of AKF-PD induced a robust anti-inflammatory reaction revealed by the downregulation of the proinflammatory cytokines as well as the suppression of the infiltration of inflammatory cells in the fibrotic liver. The analysis of the mechanism of action demonstrated that the attenuation of the production of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines mediated by AKF-PD in vivo and in vitro were accompanied by the suppression in the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway. In conclusion, AKF-PD might be considered as an antifibrotic agent attenuating hepatic inflammation and fibrosis potentially through the suppression of the NF-κB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sha Tu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Organ Fibrosis, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Yanzhi Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Haihua Cheng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Xiangning Yuan
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Organ Fibrosis, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Ying He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Yu Peng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Xiongqun Peng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changsha Central Hospital, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Zhangzhe Peng
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Organ Fibrosis, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China.,Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Lijian Tao
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Organ Fibrosis, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China.,Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Huixiang Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Organ Fibrosis, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
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Liao X, Jiang Y, Dai Q, Yu Y, Zhang Y, Hu G, Meng J, Xie Y, Peng Z, Tao L. Fluorofenidone attenuates renal fibrosis by inhibiting the mtROS-NLRP3 pathway in a murine model of folic acid nephropathy. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2021; 534:694-701. [PMID: 33220928 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Fluorofenidone (AKF-PD) is a novel pyridone agent that reduces the deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) in various models of renal fibrosis. However, there are no reports on the effect of AKF-PD in preventing fibrosis in the folic acid nephropathy model. Besides, the mechanisms of action of AKF-PD in preventing renal fibrosis are not fully understood. In the study, we observed that AKF-PD reduced folate-induced kidney injury, ameliorated the deterioration of renal function, and suppressed the deposition of ECM by decreasing the expression of collagen I, collagen III, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), fibronectin (FN), and alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) in the folic acid nephropathy model. Additionally, AKF-PD suppressed the activation of the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome to reduce the production of caspase-1 and IL-1β, and alleviated mitochondrial oxidative damage by promoting mitochondrial energy metabolism and reducing the expression of NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4). The results of in vitro experiments demonstrated that AKF-PD suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation in activated peritoneal-derived macrophages (PDMs) and renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs). AKF-PD increased the intracellular ATP content and decreased the expression of NOX4, while preventing the excessive production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) in activated PDMs. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that AKF-PD inhibited renal fibrosis by suppressing the mtROS-NLRP3 pathway in the folic acid nephropathy model. These findings provide new evidence in support of the clinical use of AKF-PD in the treatment of diseases related to renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Liao
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha Hunan, China
| | - Yupeng Jiang
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha Hunan, China
| | - Qin Dai
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha Hunan, China
| | - Yue Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha Hunan, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha Hunan, China
| | - Gaoyun Hu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Jie Meng
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, China
| | - Yanyun Xie
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha Hunan, China
| | - Zhangzhe Peng
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha Hunan, China.
| | - Lijian Tao
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha Hunan, China.
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Jiang Y, Quan J, Chen Y, Liao X, Dai Q, Lu R, Yu Y, Hu G, Li Q, Meng J, Xie Y, Peng Z, Tao L. Fluorofenidone protects against acute kidney injury. FASEB J 2019; 33:14325-14336. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.201901468rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- YuPeng Jiang
- Department of Nephrology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiao Quan
- Department of Nutriology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yang Chen
- Department of Nephrology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaohua Liao
- Department of Nephrology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qin Dai
- Department of Nephrology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Rong Lu
- Department of Nephrology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yue Yu
- Department of Nephrology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Gaoyun Hu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Xiangya Hospital, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qianbin Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Xiangya Hospital, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jie Meng
- Department of Respirology, Xiangya Hospital, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yanyun Xie
- Department of Nephrology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhangzhe Peng
- Department of Nephrology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lijian Tao
- Department of Nephrology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
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7
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Chen H, Gan Q, Yang C, Peng X, Qin J, Qiu S, Jiang Y, Tu S, He Y, Li S, Yang H, Tao L, Peng Y. A novel role of glutathione S-transferase A3 in inhibiting hepatic stellate cell activation and rat hepatic fibrosis. J Transl Med 2019; 17:280. [PMID: 31443720 PMCID: PMC6706941 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-019-2027-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims Glutathione S-transferase A3 (GSTA3) is known as an antioxidative protease, however, the crucial role of GSTA3 in liver fibrosis remains unclear. As a recently we developed water-soluble pyridone agent with antifibrotic features, fluorofenidone (AKF-PD) can attenuate liver fibrosis, present studies were designed to explore the role of GSTA3 in liver fibrosis and its modulation by AKF-PD in vivo and in vitro. Methods Rats liver fibrosis models were induced by dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) or carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). The two activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) lines, rat CFSC-2G and human LX2 were treated with AKF-PD respectively. The lipid peroxidation byproduct malondialdehyde (MDA) in rat serum was determined by ELISA. The accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was measured by dichlorodihydrofluorescein fluorescence analysis. The expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), fibronectin (FN), and phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase1/2 (ERK1/2), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β) were detected by western blotting (WB). Results GSTA3 was substantially reduced in the experimental fibrotic livers and transdifferentiated HSCs. AKF-PD alleviated rat hepatic fibrosis and potently inhibited HSCs activation correlated with restoring GSTA3. Moreover, GSTA3 overexpression prevented HSCs activation and fibrogenesis, while GSTA3 knockdown enhanced HSCs activation and fibrogenesis resulted from increasing accumulation of ROS and subsequent amplified MAPK signaling and GSK-3β phosphorylation. Conclusions We demonstrated firstly that GSTA3 inhibited HSCs activation and liver fibrosis through suppression of the MAPK and GSK-3β signaling pathways. GSTA3 may represent a promising target for potential therapeutic intervention in liver fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haihua Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Qixin Gan
- Department of Radiology, Zhuzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhuzhou, 412000, China
| | - Congying Yang
- Department of Endoscopic Medical Center, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, 283 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Xiongqun Peng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changsha Central Hospital, 161 South Shaoshan Road, Changsha, 410004, China
| | - Jiao Qin
- Department of Nephropathy, Changsha Central Hospital, 161 South Shaoshan Road, Changsha, 410004, China
| | - Sisi Qiu
- Department of Ultrasonography, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 138 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Yanzhi Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Sha Tu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Ying He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Shenglan Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Huixiang Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Lijian Tao
- Department of Nephropathy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Yu Peng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
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Identification of a 3,3-difluorinated tetrahydropyridinol compound as a novel antitumor agent for hepatocellular carcinoma acting via cell cycle arrest through disturbing CDK7-mediated phosphorylation of Cdc2. Invest New Drugs 2019; 38:287-298. [PMID: 31076964 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-019-00792-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Tetrahydropyridinol derivatives were recently reported to exhibit good biological activities, and the incorporation of fluorine into organic molecules may have profound effects on their physical and biological properties. Therefore, we investigated the anticancer activities of six fluorinated tetrahydropyridinol derivatives that we synthesized previously. We found that only one compound, 3,3-difluoro-2,2-dimethyl-1,6-diphenyl-5-tosyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridin-4-ol, showed significant antiproliferative activity on human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 and HMCCLM3 cells (the IC50 values were 21.25 and 29.07 μM, respectively). We also found that this compound mediated cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase at 30-40 μM. Western blot analysis demonstrated that the cell cycle arrest induced by this compound in HepG2 and HMCCLM3 cells was associated with a significant decrease in Cdc2 and cyclin B1, which led to the accumulation of the phosphorylated-Tyr15 (inactive) form of Cdc2 and low expression of M phase-promoting factor (cyclin B1/Cdc2). Moreover, cells treated with this compound exhibited decreased expression of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK)-activating kinase (CDK7/cyclin H). This compound also induced cell apoptosis via activation of caspase-3. A xenograft model in nude mice demonstrated anti-liver cancer activity and the mechanism of action of this compound. These findings indicated that the anticancer effect of this compound was partially due to G0/G1 cell cycle arrest via inhibition of CDK7-mediated expression of Cdc2, and this compound may be a promising anticancer candidate for further investigation.
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Peng Y, Li L, Zhang X, Xie M, Yang C, Tu S, Shen H, Hu G, Tao L, Yang H. Fluorofenidone affects hepatic stellate cell activation in hepatic fibrosis by targeting the TGF-β1/Smad and MAPK signaling pathways. Exp Ther Med 2019; 18:41-48. [PMID: 31258636 PMCID: PMC6566051 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2019.7548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present research was to study the therapeutic impacts of fluorofenidone (AKF-PD) on pig serum (PS)-induced liver fibrosis in rats and the complex molecular mechanisms of its effects on hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Wistar rats were randomly divided into normal control, PS and PS/AKF-PD treatment groups. The activated human HSC LX-2 cell line was also treated with AKF-PD. The expression of collagen I and III, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) was determined by immunohistochemical staining and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Western blotting and/or RT-qPCR analyses were used to determine the expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, α-SMA, collagen I, mothers against decapentaplegic homolog (Smad)-3, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). AKF-PD attenuated the degree of hepatic fibrosis and liver injury in vivo, which was associated with the downregulation of collagen I and III, and α-SMA at the mRNA and protein levels. In vitro, AKF-PD treatment significantly reduced the TGF-β1-induced activation of HSCs, as determined by the reduction in collagen I and α-SMA protein expression. The TGF-β1-induced upregulation of the phosphorylation of Smad 3, ERK1/2, p38 and JNK was attenuated by AKF-PD treatment. These findings suggested that AKF-PD attenuated the progression of hepatic fibrosis by suppressing HSCs activation via the TGF-β1/Smad and MAPK signaling pathways, and therefore that AKF-PD may be suitable for use as a novel therapeutic agent against liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Peng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First People's Hospital of Changde City, Changde, Hunan 415000, P.R. China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of General Practice, The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222000, P.R. China
| | - Mingyan Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First People's Hospital of Changde City, Changde, Hunan 415000, P.R. China
| | - Congying Yang
- Department of Endoscopy Center, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, Hunan 410000, P.R. China
| | - Sha Tu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Hong Shen
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410000, P.R. China
| | - Gaoyun Hu
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410000, P.R. China
| | - Lijian Tao
- Department of Nephropathy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Huixiang Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
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10
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Qin
- Department of Nephropathy, Changsha Central Hospital, Changsha, Hunan 410000, China
| | - Zhang-Zhe Peng
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Nephropathy, Changsha Central Hospital, Changsha, Hunan 410000, China
| | - Rui Wen
- Department of Nephropathy, Changsha Central Hospital, Changsha, Hunan 410000, China
| | - Li-Jian Tao
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
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11
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Chen Y, Wang N, Yuan Q, Qin J, Hu G, Li Q, Tao L, Xie Y, Peng Z. The Protective Effect of Fluorofenidone against Cyclosporine A-Induced Nephrotoxicity. Kidney Blood Press Res 2019; 44:656-668. [PMID: 31387101 DOI: 10.1159/000500924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Cyclosporine A (CsA) is an immunosuppressant drug that is used during organ transplants. However, its utility is limited by its nephrotoxic potential. This study aimed to investigate whether fluorofenidone (AKF-PD) could provide protection against CsA-induced nephrotoxicity. METHODS Eighty-five male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 5 groups: drug solvent, CsA, CsA with AKF-PD (250, 500 mg/kg/day), and CsA with pirfenidone (PFD, 250 mg/kg/day). Tubulointerstitial injury index, extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, expression of type I and IV collagen, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), Fas ligand (FASL), cleaved-caspase-3, cleaved-poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP)-1, and the number of transferase-mediated nick end-labeling (TUNEL)-positive renal tubule cells were determined. In addition, levels of TGF-β1, FASL, cleaved-caspase-3, cleaved-PARP-1, and number of annexin V-positive cells were determined in rat proximal tubular epithelial cells (NRK-52E) treated with CsA (20 μmol/L), AKF-PD (400 μg/mL), PFD (400 μg/mL), and GW788388 (5 μmol/L). RESULTS AKF-PD (250, 500 mg/kg/day) significantly reduced tubulointerstitial injury, ECM deposition, expression of type I and IV collagen, TGF-β1, PDGF, FASL, cleaved-caspase-3, cleaved-PARP-1, and number of TUNEL-positive renal tubule cells in the CsA-treated kidneys. In addition, AKF-PD (400 μg/mL) significantly decreased TGF-β1, FASL, cleaved-caspase-3, and PARP-1 expression in NRK-52E cells and further reduced the number of annexin V-positive cells. CONCLUSION AKF-PD protect kidney from fibrosis and apoptosis in CsA-induced kidney injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Chen
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Nasui Wang
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Qiongjing Yuan
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiao Qin
- Department of Nephrology, Changsha Central Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Gaoyun Hu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Xiangya School of Pharmacy, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qianbin Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Xiangya School of Pharmacy, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lijian Tao
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yanyun Xie
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhangzhe Peng
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China,
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12
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Huang M, Zhang J, Xu H, Ding T, Tang D, Yuan Q, Tao L, Ye Z. The TGFβ-ERK pathway contributes to Notch3 upregulation in the renal tubular epithelial cells of patients with obstructive nephropathy. Cell Signal 2018; 51:139-151. [PMID: 30081092 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2018.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2018] [Revised: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Renal interstitial fibrosis is a common renal injury resulted from a variety of chronic kidney conditions and an array of factors. We report here that Notch3 is a potential contributor. In comparison to 6 healthy individuals, a robust elevation of Notch3 expression was observed in the renal tubular epithelial cells of 18 patients with obstructive nephropathy. In a rat unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) model which mimics the human disease, Notch3 upregulation closely followed the course of renal injury, renal fibrosis, TGFβ expression, and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression, suggesting a role of Notch3 in promoting tubulointerstitial fibrosis. This possibility was supported by the observation that TGFβ, the major renal fibrogenic cytokine, stimulated Notch3 expression in human proximal tubule epithelial HK-2 cells. TGFβ enhanced the activation of ERK, p38, but not JNK MAP kinases in HK-2 cells. While inhibition of p38 activation using SB203580 did not affect TGFβ-induced Notch3 expression, inhibition of ERK activation with a MEK1 inhibitor PD98059 dramatically reduced the event. Furthermore, enforced ERK activation through overexpression of the constitutively active MEK1 mutant MEK1Q56P upregulated Notch3 expression in HK-2 cells, and PD98059 reduced ERK activation and Notch3 expression in HK-2 cells expressing MEK1Q56P. Collectively, we provide the first clinical evidence for Notch3 upregulation in patients with obstructive nephropathy; the upregulation is likely mediated through the TGFβ-ERK pathway. This study suggests that Notch3 upregulation contributes to renal injury caused by obstructive nephropathy, which could be prevented or delayed through ERK inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Huang
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China; Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Hui Xu
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China.
| | - Ting Ding
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Damu Tang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Canada; The Hamilton Center for Kidney Research, St. Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Qiongjing Yuan
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Lijian Tao
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China; State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics of China, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Zunlong Ye
- 1717 Class, ChangJun High School of Changsha, Changsha, Hunan 410002, China
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13
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Zheng L, Zhang J, Yuan X, Tang J, Qiu S, Peng Z, Yuan Q, Xie Y, Mei W, Tang Y, Meng J, Hu G, Tao L. Fluorofenidone attenuates interleukin-1β production by interacting with NLRP3 inflammasome in unilateral ureteral obstruction. Nephrology (Carlton) 2018; 23:573-584. [PMID: 28437591 DOI: 10.1111/nep.13062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2017] [Revised: 04/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Linfeng Zheng
- Department of Nephrology Medicine, Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha Hunan China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Nephrology Medicine, Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha Hunan China
| | - Xiangning Yuan
- Department of Nephrology Medicine, Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha Hunan China
| | - Juan Tang
- Department of Nephrology Medicine, Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha Hunan China
| | - Sisi Qiu
- Department of Gastroenterology Medicine, Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha Hunan China
| | - Zhangzhe Peng
- Department of Nephrology Medicine, Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha Hunan China
| | - Qiongjing Yuan
- Department of Nephrology Medicine, Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha Hunan China
| | - Yanyun Xie
- Department of Nephrology Medicine, Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha Hunan China
| | - Wenjuan Mei
- Department of Nephrology Medicine; First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University; Nanchang Jiangxi China
| | - Yiting Tang
- Department of Nephrology Medicine, Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha Hunan China
| | - Jie Meng
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha Hunan China
| | - Gaoyun Hu
- Department of Medical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Central South University; Changsha Hunan China
| | - Lijian Tao
- Department of Nephrology Medicine, Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha Hunan China
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14
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Hall CL, Wells AR, Leung KP. Pirfenidone reduces profibrotic responses in human dermal myofibroblasts, in vitro. J Transl Med 2018; 98:640-655. [PMID: 29497173 DOI: 10.1038/s41374-017-0014-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2017] [Revised: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Pirfenidone (PFD) is a synthetic small molecule inhibitor with demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic properties in vitro and in vivo. The exact mechanism(s) of PFD action remain unclear, due in part to the broad effects of this drug on the complex processes involved in inflammation and fibrosis. While PFD is FDA-approved for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, the efficacy of this compound for the treatment of dermal fibrosis has not yet been fully characterized. Dermal fibrosis is the pathological formation of excess fibrous connective tissue of the skin, usually the result of traumatic cutaneous injury. Fibroproliferative scarring, caused by delayed wound healing and prolonged inflammation, remains a major clinical concern with considerable morbidity. Despite efforts to identify a therapeutic that targets the fibrotic pathways involved in wound healing to mitigate scar formation, no satisfactory dermal antifibrotic has yet been identified. We aim to better elucidate the antifibrotic mechanism(s) of PFD activity using an in vitro model of dermal fibrosis. Briefly, cultured human dermal fibroblasts were stimulated with TGF-β1 to induce differentiation into profibrotic myofibroblast cells. A dose-dependent reduction in cellular proliferation and migration was observed in TGF-β1-stimulated cells when treated with PFD. We observed a clear inhibition in the development of essential myofibroblast mechanoregulatory machinery, including contractile F-actin stress fibers containing α-SMA and large super-mature focal adhesions. PFD treatment significantly reduced protein levels of major ECM components type I and type III collagen. PFD targeted the p38 MAPK signaling pathway and mitigated profibrotic gene expression profiles. This in vitro data promotes PFD as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of dermal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline L Hall
- Dental and Craniofacial Trauma and Tissue Regeneration Directorate, United States Army Institute of Surgical Research, 3698 Chambers Pass, Building 3610, Joint Base San Antonio/Fort Sam Houston, TX, 78234, USA
| | - Adrienne R Wells
- Dental and Craniofacial Trauma and Tissue Regeneration Directorate, United States Army Institute of Surgical Research, 3698 Chambers Pass, Building 3610, Joint Base San Antonio/Fort Sam Houston, TX, 78234, USA
| | - Kai P Leung
- Dental and Craniofacial Trauma and Tissue Regeneration Directorate, United States Army Institute of Surgical Research, 3698 Chambers Pass, Building 3610, Joint Base San Antonio/Fort Sam Houston, TX, 78234, USA.
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15
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Senoo T, Sasaki R, Akazawa Y, Ichikawa T, Miuma S, Miyaaki H, Taura N, Nakao K. Geranylgeranylacetone attenuates fibrogenic activity and induces apoptosis in cultured human hepatic stellate cells and reduces liver fibrosis in carbon tetrachloride-treated mice. BMC Gastroenterol 2018; 18:34. [PMID: 29486718 PMCID: PMC5830074 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-018-0761-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Geranylgeranylacetone (GGA), an anti-ulcer drug widely used in Japan, has attracted interest because of its various therapeutic effects. Therefore, we investigated the effects of GGA on human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) in vitro and in a mouse model of liver fibrosis. Methods LX2, an immortalized human HSC line, was cultured and treated with GGA at concentrations up to 0.5 mM. After GGA treatment, changes in cellular morphology, apoptosis, and fibrosis-related gene expression were assessed. Male C57BL/6 J mouse model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis was treated with GGA. Liver fibrosis was evaluated using Sirius red staining and immunohistochemistry for α-smooth muscle actin (SMA). Results GGA decreased the density of LX2 and primary human hepatic stellate cells but not that of HepG2 cells (a human hepatoma cell line), which was employed as control. In addition, GGA decreased the expression of fibrogenic genes and increased that of C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP). It also induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and increased apoptosis. CHOP knockdown, however, failed to suppress the GGA-induced decrease in LX2 cell density, suggesting the involvement of additional molecules in ER stress–associated apoptosis. Expression of death receptor 5, mitogen-activated protein kinase, heat shock protein 70, and Akt, all of which affect the activity of stellate cells, was unchanged in relation to LX2 cell fibrogenic activity. In the mouse model of liver fibrosis, GGA decreased the extent of Sirius red staining and SMA expression. Conclusions GGA attenuated fibrogenic activity and induced apoptosis in cultured human HSCs, and suppressed liver fibrosis in mice, suggesting its potential as an agent for treating liver fibrosis. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12876-018-0761-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takemasa Senoo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan. .,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Hospital, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan.
| | - Ryu Sasaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan.,Department of Clinical Oncology Unit of Translational Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan
| | - Yuko Akazawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan
| | - Tatsuki Ichikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterology, Nagasaki Harbor Medical Center, 6-39 Shinchi, Nagasaki, 850-8555, Japan
| | - Satoshi Miuma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan
| | - Hisamitsu Miyaaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan
| | - Naota Taura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Nakao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan
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16
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Deng ZH, Meng J, Tang J, Hu GY, Tao LJ. Fluorofenidone Inhibits the Proliferation of Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells. J Cancer 2017; 8:1917-1926. [PMID: 28819390 PMCID: PMC5556656 DOI: 10.7150/jca.18040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2016] [Accepted: 04/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Lung carcinoma is the leading cause of malignant tumor related mortality in China in recent decades, and the development of new and effective therapies for patients with advanced lung carcinoma is needed. We recently found that fluorofenidone (FD), a newly developed pyridine compound, reduced the activation of Stat3 (Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) in fibroblasts. Stat3 plays a crucial role in the development of lung cancer and may represent a new therapeutic target. In this study, we examined the effect of FD on human lung adenocarcinoma cells in vivo and in vitro. Methods: The effect of FD on the growth of lung cancer cells was measured with a CCK-8 assay, colony formation assay and xenograft tumor model. A flow cytometry analysis was performed to study cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were used to observe the expression of Stat3. Changes in the expression of RNA induced by FD were assessed using gene chip and real-time RT-PCR assays. Results: In vitro, FD inhibited the growth of lung adenocarcinoma A549 and SPC-A1 cells in a dose-dependent manner. After treatment with FD, the A549 and SPC-A1 cells were arrested in the G1 phase, and apoptosis was induced. In vivo, this compound significantly inhibited the growth of tumors that were subcutaneously implanted in mice. Moreover, FD decreased Stat3 activity in lung cancer cells and xenograft tumor tissue, and microarray chip results showed that FD altered the gene expression profile of lung cancer cells. Specifically, NUPR1, which plays a significant role in cancer development, was down-regulated by FD in lung cancer cells. Conclusion: Our study supports the clinical evaluation of FD as a potential lung adenocarcinoma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Hao Deng
- Department of pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.,Department of pathology, School of basic medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410078, China
| | - Jie Meng
- Department of pulmonary Medicine, XiangYa Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Juan Tang
- Department of Nephropathy, XiangYa Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Gao-Yun Hu
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha Hunan 410013, China
| | - Li-Jian Tao
- Department of Nephropathy, XiangYa Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics of China, Changsha, Hunan 410078, China
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17
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Guo X, Yang Y, Liu L, Liu X, Xu J, Wu K, Yu M. Pirfenidone Induces G1 Arrest in Human Tenon's Fibroblasts In Vitro Involving AKT and MAPK Signaling Pathways. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2017; 33:366-374. [PMID: 28537766 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2016.0107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the underlying mechanism by which pirfenidone blocks the transition from the G1 to S phase in primary human Tenon's fibroblasts. METHODS Primary human Tenon's fibroblasts were characterized by immunocytofluorescence staining with vimentin, fibroblast surface protein, and cytokeratin. After treating Tenon's fibroblasts with pirfenidone under proliferation conditions (10% fetal bovine serum), cell proliferation was measured using a WST-1 assay. Progression through the cell cycle was analyzed by flow cytometry. The expression of CDK2, CDK6, cyclinD1, cyclinD3, and cyclinE and the phosphorylation of AKT, ERK1/2/MAPK, JNK/MAPK, and p38 MAPK were estimated using western blot analysis. RESULTS Under proliferative conditions, pirfenidone inhibited Tenon's fibroblasts proliferation and arrested the cell cycle at the G1 phase; decreased the phosphorylation of AKT, GSK3β, ERK1/2/MAPK, and JNK/MAPK; increased the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK; and inhibited CDK2, CDK6, cyclin D1, cyclin D3, and cyclin E in a dose-dependent manner. Inhibitors of AKT (LY294002), ERK1/2 (U0126), and JNK (SP600125) arrested the G1/S transition, similar to the effect of pirfenidone. The p38 inhibitor (SB202190) decreased the G1-blocking effect of pirfenidone. The expression of CDK2, CDK6, cyclin D1, and cyclin D3 were inhibited by LY294002, U0126, and SP600125. SB202190 attenuated the pirfenidone-induced reduction of CDK2, CDK6, cyclin D1, cyclin D3, and cyclin E. CONCLUSIONS Pirfenidone inhibited HTFs proliferation and induced G1 arrest by downregulating CDKs and cyclins involving the AKT/GSK3β and MAPK signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiujuan Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou, China
| | - Yangfan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou, China
| | - Liling Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiangang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou, China
| | - Kaili Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou, China
| | - Minbin Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou, China
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Chen Q, Chen L, Kong D, Shao J, Wu L, Zheng S. Dihydroartemisinin alleviates bile duct ligation-induced liver fibrosis and hepatic stellate cell activation by interfering with the PDGF-βR/ERK signaling pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2016; 34:250-258. [PMID: 27038258 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2016.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2016] [Revised: 03/10/2016] [Accepted: 03/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis represents a frequent event following chronic insult to trigger wound healing responses in the liver. Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which is a pivotal event during liver fibrogenesis, is accompanied by enhanced expressions of a series of marker proteins and pro-fibrogenic signaling molecules. Artemisinin, a powerful antimalarial medicine, is extracted from the Chinese herb Artemisia annua L., and can inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA), the major active metabolite of artemisinin, is able to attenuate lung injury and fibrosis. However, the effect of DHA on liver fibrosis remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of DHA on bile duct ligation-induced injury and fibrosis in rats. DHA improved the liver histological architecture and attenuated collagen deposition in the fibrotic rat liver. Experiments in vitro showed that DHA inhibited the proliferation of HSCs and arrested the cell cycle at the S checkpoint by altering several cell-cycle regulatory proteins. Moreover, DHA reduced the protein expressions of a-SMA, α1 (I) collagen and fibronectin, being associated with interference of the platelet-derived growth factor β receptor (PDGF-βR)-mediated ERK pathway. These data collectively revealed that DHA relieved liver fibrosis possibly by targeting HSCs via the PDGF-βR/ERK pathway. DHA may be a therapeutic antifibrotic agent for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Lianyun Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Desong Kong
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu Province, China; Department of Science, Technology and Education, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210001, China
| | - Jiangjuan Shao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Li Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Shizhong Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu Province, China; National First-Class Key Discipline for Traditional Chinese Medicine of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Material Medical, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
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19
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Saito Y, Azuma A, Matsuda K, Kamio K, Abe S, Gemma A. Pirfenidone exerts a suppressive effect on CCL18 expression in U937-derived macrophages partly by inhibiting STAT6 phosphorylation. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2016; 38:464-471. [PMID: 27788604 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2016.1247852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT CC chemokine ligand 18 (CCL18) is suggested to play a role in the development of pulmonary fibrosis. Macrophages are thought to be the main source of CCL18, and the effect of pirfenidone, an anti-fibrotic agent for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, on the expression of CCL18 in macrophages warrants investigation. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of pirfenidone on the expression of CCL18 in macrophages. MATERIALS AND METHODS U937 cells were differentiated into macrophages by phorbol myristate acetate and then stimulated with recombinant IL-4 to induce the production of CCL18. The cells were treated with pirfenidone, and the mRNA and protein levels for CCL18 were measured by a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. The effects of pirfenidone on the IL-4 receptor (IL-4R) expression and STAT6 activation were investigated and on the JAK kinase activity were measured using the Z'-LYTE™ kinase assay. RESULTS Pirfenidone significantly suppressed the expression of CCL18 when the cells were treated with concentrations of 50-250 μg/mL. Pirfenidone did not affect the expression of the IL-4R components. The selective STAT6 inhibitor AS1517499 suppressed CCL18 expression. Both AS1517499 and pirfenidone suppressed STAT6 phosphorylation (p < .05), although the effect of pirfenidone was less marked than that of AS1517499. The Z'-LYTE™ kinase assay showed a reduction in the activities of JAK1, JAK3 and TYK2 by pirfenidone. CONCLUSION Pirfenidone suppresses CCL18 expression in macrophages and this effect is thought to be attributed partly to the inhibition of STAT6 phosphorylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinobu Saito
- a Department of Pulmonary Medicine and Oncology , Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School , Tokyo , Japan
| | - Arata Azuma
- a Department of Pulmonary Medicine and Oncology , Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School , Tokyo , Japan
| | - Kuniko Matsuda
- a Department of Pulmonary Medicine and Oncology , Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School , Tokyo , Japan
| | - Koichiro Kamio
- a Department of Pulmonary Medicine and Oncology , Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School , Tokyo , Japan
| | - Shinji Abe
- a Department of Pulmonary Medicine and Oncology , Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School , Tokyo , Japan
| | - Akihiko Gemma
- a Department of Pulmonary Medicine and Oncology , Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School , Tokyo , Japan
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Song C, He L, Zhang J, Ma H, Yuan X, Hu G, Tao L, Zhang J, Meng J. Fluorofenidone attenuates pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis via inhibiting the activation of NALP3 inflammasome and IL-1β/IL-1R1/MyD88/NF-κB pathway. J Cell Mol Med 2016; 20:2064-2077. [PMID: 27306439 PMCID: PMC5082399 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)‐1β plays an important role in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The production of IL‐1β is dependent upon caspase‐1‐containing multiprotein complexes called inflammasomes and IL‐1R1/MyD88/NF‐κB pathway. In this study, we explored whether a potential anti‐fibrotic agent fluorofenidone (FD) exerts its anti‐inflammatory and anti‐fibrotic effects through suppressing activation of NACHT, LRR and PYD domains‐containing protein 3 (NALP3) inflammasome and the IL‐1β/IL‐1R1/MyD88/NF‐κB pathway in vivo and in vitro. Male C57BL/6J mice were intratracheally injected with Bleomycin (BLM) or saline. Fluorofenidone was administered throughout the course of the experiment. Lung tissue sections were stained with haemotoxylin and eosin and Masson's trichrome. Cytokines were measured by ELISA, and α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), fibronectin, collagen I, caspase‐1, IL‐1R1, MyD88 were measured by Western blot and/or RT‐PCR. The human actue monocytic leukaemia cell line (THP‐1) were incubated with monosodium urate (MSU), with or without FD pre‐treatment. The expression of caspase‐1, IL‐1β, NALP3, apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein containing (ASC) and pro‐caspase‐1 were measured by Western blot, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was detected using the Flow Cytometry, and the interaction of NALP3 inflammasome‐associated molecules were measured by Co‐immunoprecipitation. RLE‐6TN (rat lung epithelial‐T‐antigen negative) cells were incubated with IL‐1β, with or without FD pre‐treatment. The expression of nuclear protein p65 was measured by Western blot. Results showed that FD markedly reduced the expressions of IL‐1β, IL‐6, monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 (MCP‐1), myeloperoxidase (MPO), α‐SMA, fibronectin, collagen I, caspase‐1, IL‐1R1 and MyD88 in mice lung tissues. And FD inhibited MSU‐induced the accumulation of ROS, blocked the interaction of NALP3 inflammasome‐associated molecules, decreased the level of caspase‐1 and IL‐1β in THP‐1 cells. Besides, FD inhibited IL‐1β‐induced the expression of nuclear protein p65. This study demonstrated that FD, attenuates BLM‐induced pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis in mice via inhibiting the activation of NALP3 inflammasome and the IL‐1β/IL‐1R1/MyD88/ NF‐κB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Song
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Respiratory Medicine, Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lujuan He
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Nephrology Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hong Ma
- Department of Nephrology Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiangning Yuan
- Department of Nephrology Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Gaoyun Hu
- Pharmaceutical School, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lijian Tao
- Department of Nephrology Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Microbial Infection & Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jie Meng
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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Wu YH, Li XW, Li WQ, Li XH, Li YJ, Hu GY, Liu ZQ, Li D. Fluorofenidone attenuates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis by inhibiting eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3a (eIF3a) in rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2016; 773:42-50. [PMID: 26821114 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2016.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Revised: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Fluorofenidone is a novel derivative of l-mimosine. It has remarkable anti-fibrotic properties. In this study, we established that fluorofenidone ameliorates pulmonary fibrosis (PF) both in vivo and in vitro by specifically inhibiting the expression of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3a (eIF3a). eIF3a plays an important role in the development and progression of PF. An animal model of PF was induced by intratracheal instillation of bleomycin (5mg/kg) in rats. Rats were orally administered with fluorofenidone (250, 500 mg/kg/d·[i.g.]) and pirfenidone (500 mg/kg/d·[i.g.]) for 28 days. Primary pulmonary fibroblasts were cultured to determine the effect of fluorofenidone on TGF-β1-induced (5 ng/ml) proliferation and differentiation of fibroblasts. The expression/level of eIF3a, TGF-β1, α-SMA, collagen I, and collagen III were analyzed by ELISA, real-time PCR, and western blot. The cell proliferation rate was determined by MTS assay. The results indicate that fluorofenidone significantly improves the pathological changes in lung tissues and reduces the deposition of collagen by inhibiting eIF3a in rats with bleomycin-induced PF. Moreover, in a culture of pulmonary fibroblasts, fluorofenidone decreased the up-regulation of TGF-β1-induced eIF3a by inhibiting the proliferation of cells and reducing the expression of α-SMA, collagen I, and collagen III. These findings suggest that eIF3a is a new and special target of fluorofenidone, which could be potentially used in the development of a drug that treats PF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue-Han Wu
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xian-Wei Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui Province, China
| | - Wen-Qun Li
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiao-Hui Li
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yuan-Jian Li
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Gao-Yun Hu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhao-Qian Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Dai Li
- National Institution of Drug Clinical Trial, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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Qin J, Mei WJ, Xie YY, Huang L, Yuan QJ, Hu GY, Tao LJ, Peng ZZ. Fluorofenidone attenuates oxidative stress and renal fibrosis in obstructive nephropathy via blocking NOX2 (gp91phox) expression and inhibiting ERK/MAPK signaling pathway. Kidney Blood Press Res 2016; 40:89-99. [PMID: 26029782 DOI: 10.1159/000368485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS We evaluated the therapeutic effects of fluorofenidone (AKF-PD), a novel pyridone agent, targeting oxidative stress and fibrosis in obstructive nephropathy. METHODS AKF-PD was used to treat renal interstitial fibrosis in unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) obstructive nephropathy in rats. The expression of NOX2 (gp91phox), fibronectin and extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) were detected by western blot. A level of Malondialdehyde (MDA), an oxidative stress marker, was measured by ELISA. In addition, ROS and the expressions of NOX2, collagen I (a1), fibronectin and p-ERK were measured in angiotensin (Ang) II-stimulated rat proximal tubular epithelial cells (NRK-52E) in culture. RESULTS In NRK-52E cells, AKF-PD reduced AngII induced expressions of ROS, NOX2, fibronectin, collagen I (a1) and p-ERK. In UUO kidney cortex, AKF-PD attenuated the degree of renal interstitial fibrosis, which was associated with reduced the expressions of collagen I (a1) and fibronectin. Furthermore, AKF-PD downregulated the expressions of NOX2, MDA and p-ERK. CONCLUSION AKF-PD treatment inhibits the progression of renal interstitial fibrosis by suppressing oxidative stress and ERK/MAPK signaling pathway.
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Weiskirchen R. Hepatoprotective and Anti-fibrotic Agents: It's Time to Take the Next Step. Front Pharmacol 2016; 6:303. [PMID: 26779021 PMCID: PMC4703795 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2015.00303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2015] [Accepted: 12/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis cause strong human suffering and necessitate a monetary burden worldwide. Therefore, there is an urgent need for the development of therapies. Pre-clinical animal models are indispensable in the drug discovery and development of new anti-fibrotic compounds and are immensely valuable for understanding and proofing the mode of their proposed action. In fibrosis research, inbreed mice and rats are by far the most used species for testing drug efficacy. During the last decades, several hundred or even a thousand different drugs that reproducibly evolve beneficial effects on liver health in respective disease models were identified. However, there are only a few compounds (e.g., GR-MD-02, GM-CT-01) that were translated from bench to bedside. In contrast, the large number of drugs successfully tested in animal studies is repeatedly tested over and over engender findings with similar or identical outcome. This circumstance undermines the 3R (Replacement, Refinement, Reduction) principle of Russell and Burch that was introduced to minimize the suffering of laboratory animals. This ethical framework, however, represents the basis of the new animal welfare regulations in the member states of the European Union. Consequently, the legal authorities in the different countries are halted to foreclose testing of drugs in animals that were successfully tested before. This review provides a synopsis on anti-fibrotic compounds that were tested in classical rodent models. Their mode of action, potential sources and the observed beneficial effects on liver health are discussed. This review attempts to provide a reference compilation for all those involved in the testing of drugs or in the design of new clinical trials targeting hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy, and Clinical Chemistry, RWTH University Hospital Aachen Aachen, Germany
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Mei W, Peng Z, Lu M, Liu C, Deng Z, Xiao Y, Liu J, He Y, Yuan Q, Yuan X, Tang D, Yang H, Tao L. Peroxiredoxin 1 inhibits the oxidative stress induced apoptosis in renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Nephrology (Carlton) 2015; 20:832-42. [PMID: 25989822 DOI: 10.1111/nep.12515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/15/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Mei
- Division of Nephrology; Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha China
| | - Zhangzhe Peng
- Division of Nephrology; Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha China
| | - Miaomiao Lu
- Division of Nephrology; Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha China
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Division of Nephrology; Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha China
| | - Zhenghao Deng
- Division of Pathology; Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha China
| | - Yun Xiao
- Division of Nephrology; Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha China
| | - Jishi Liu
- Division of Nephrology; The Third Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha China
| | - Ying He
- Division of Gastroenterology; Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha China
| | - Qiongjing Yuan
- Division of Nephrology; Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha China
| | - Xiangning Yuan
- Division of Nephrology; Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha China
| | - Damu Tang
- Division of Nephrology; Department of Medicine; McMaster University; Hamilton Ontario Canada
| | - Huixiang Yang
- Division of Gastroenterology; Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha China
| | - Lijian Tao
- Division of Nephrology; Xiangya Hospital; Central South University; Changsha China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics of China; Central South University; Changsha China
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Fluorofenidone attenuates TGF-β1-induced lung fibroblast activation via restoring the expression of caveolin-1. Shock 2015; 43:201-7. [PMID: 25394239 DOI: 10.1097/shk.0000000000000273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Caveolin-1 plays an important role in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. We previously showed that fluorofenidone (FD), a novel pyridine agent, can attenuate bleomycin-induced experimental pulmonary fibrosis and restore the production of caveolin-1. In this study, we explore mainly whether caveolin-1 plays a critical role in the anti-pulmonary fibrosis effects of FD in vitro. The normal human lung fibroblasts (NHLFs) were cultured with transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and then were treated with FD. Subsequently, NHLFs transfected with cav-1-siRNA were treated with TGF-β1 and/or FD. The expressions of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), fibronectin, collagen I, caveolin-1, phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK), phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinase (p-JNK), and phosphorylated P38 were measured by Western blot and/or real-time polymerase chain reaction. Fluorofenidone attenuated TGF-β1-induced expressions of α-SMA, fibronectin, and collagen I; inhibited phosphorylation of ERK, JNK, and P38; and restored caveolin-1 protein expression but cannot increase caveolin-1 mRNA level in vitro. After caveolin-1 was silenced, FD could not downregulate TGF-β1-induced expressions of α-SMA, fibronectin, and collagen I or phosphorylation of ERK, JNK, and P38. These studies demonstrate that FD, a potential antifibrotic agent, may attenuate TGF-β1-induced activation of NHLFs by restoring the expression of caveolin-1.
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Schistosoma japonicum protein SjP40 inhibits TGF-β1-induced activation of hepatic stellate cells. Parasitol Res 2015; 114:4251-7. [PMID: 26268567 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4663-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
SjP40 is a major egg antigen of Schistosoma japonicum. In the present study, the authors investigated the effect of SjP40 in vitro on transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)- stimulated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). LX-2, an immortalized human HSC line, was treated with purified recombinant SjP40 (rSjP40) in the presence or absence of TGF-β1. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis were performed to determine messenger ribonucleic acid and protein of fibrogenic genes and TGF-β signaling pathway. The results showed that expression of fibrogenic genes was significantly reduced by rSjP40. Furthermore, rSjP40 also suppressed the TGF-β1-induced upregulation of Smads and ERK proteins. We also found that the effect of rSjP40 on HSCs was similar to SB431542, an inhibitor of type I TGF-β receptor. In conclusion, the data suggest that SjP40 attenuates HSC activation, which might be, at least in part, mediated by inhibiting the TGF-β and ERK signaling pathways.
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Lan T, Kisseleva T, Brenner DA. Deficiency of NOX1 or NOX4 Prevents Liver Inflammation and Fibrosis in Mice through Inhibition of Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation. PLoS One 2015. [PMID: 26222337 PMCID: PMC4519306 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0129743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase (NOX) play a key role in liver injury and fibrosis. Previous studies demonstrated that GKT137831, a dual NOX1/4 inhibitor, attenuated liver fibrosis in mice as well as pro-fibrotic genes in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) as well as hepatocyte apoptosis. The effect of NOX1 and NOX4 deficiency in liver fibrosis is unclear, and has never been directly compared. HSCs are the primary myofibroblasts in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. Therefore, we aimed to determine the role of NOX1 and NOX4 in liver fibrosis, and investigated whether NOX1 and NOX4 signaling mediates liver fibrosis by regulating HSC activation. Mice were treated with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) to induce liver fibrosis. Deficiency of either NOX1 or NOX4 attenuates liver injury, inflammation, and fibrosis after CCl4 compared to wild-type mice. NOX1 or NOX4 deficiency reduced lipid peroxidation and ROS production in mice with liver fibrosis. NOX1 and NOX4 deficiency are approximately equally effective in preventing liver injury in the mice. The NOX1/4 dual inhibitor GKT137831 suppressed ROS production as well as inflammatory and proliferative genes induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), or sonic hedgehog (Shh) in primary mouse HSCs. Furthermore, the mRNAs of proliferative and pro-fibrotic genes were downregulated in NOX1 and NOX4 knock-out activated HSCs (cultured on plastic for 5 days). Finally, NOX1 and NOX4 protein levels were increased in human livers with cirrhosis compared with normal controls. Thus, NOX1 and NOX4 signaling mediates the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis, including the direct activation of HSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Lan
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
- Vascular Biology Research Institute, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tatiana Kisseleva
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - David A. Brenner
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Tang J, Liu CY, Lu MM, Zhang J, Mei WJ, Yang WJ, Xie YY, Huang L, Peng ZZ, Yuan QJ, Liu JS, Hu GY, Tao LJ. Fluorofenidone protects against renal fibrosis by inhibiting STAT3 tyrosine phosphorylation. Mol Cell Biochem 2015; 407:77-87. [PMID: 26033204 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-015-2456-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2014] [Accepted: 05/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Signaling through the Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway, especially JAK2/STAT3, is involved in renal fibrosis. Fluorofenidone (FD), a novel pyridone agent, exerts anti-fibrotic effects in vitro and in vivo. Herein, we sought to investigate whether FD demonstrates its inhibitory function through preventing JAK2/STAT3 pathway. In this study, we examined the effect of FD on activation of rat renal interstitial fibroblasts, glomerular mesangial cells (GMC), and expression of JAK2/STAT3. Moreover, we explored the histological protection effects of FD in UUO rats, db/db mice, and phosphorylation of JAK2/STAT3 cascade. Our studies found that pretreatment with FD resulted in blockade of activation of fibroblast and GMC manifested by fibronectin (FN) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) protein expression and decline of STAT3 tyrosine phosphorylation induced by IL-6 or high glucose. In unilateral ureteral obstruction rats and a murine model of spontaneous type 2 diabetes (db/db mice), treatment with FD blocked the expression of FN and α-SMA, prevented renal fibrosis progression, and attenuated STAT3 activation. However, FD administration did not interfere with JAK2 activation both in vivo and in vitro. In summary, the molecular mechanism by which FD exhibits renoprotective effects appears to involve the inhibition of STAT3 phosphorylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Tang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
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Protective effects of hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA) on alcohol-induced liver injury in rats. J Physiol Biochem 2015; 71:69-78. [PMID: 25626885 DOI: 10.1007/s13105-015-0382-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2014] [Accepted: 01/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA), the main active natural constituent extracted from Carthamus tinctorius L., has been widely used for the treatment of cerebrovascular and cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this study is to explore the effect of HSYA on alcohol-induced liver injury and the underlying mechanism. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were used to establish the liver injury model induced by alcohol. HSYA treatment ameliorated serum biochemical indicators by reducing the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), hyaluronan (HA), laminin (LN), and type III precollagen (III-C) in rats. HSYA efficiently increased the activity and messenger RNA (mRNA) of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in rat liver tissue compared with those of model group, which was obviously reduced by alcohol. HSYA also apparently decreased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in rat liver tissue compared with those of model group, which was obviously enhanced by alcohol. Histological studies demonstrated that HSYA substantially reduced the number of macro- and micro-vesicular steatosis, suppressed hepatic fibrogenesis and shrunk ballooning degeneration areas, ameliorated the severity of liver damage induced by long-term drinking, and finally improved the liver architecture. In addition, immunohistochemistry study indicated that the activation of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) stimulated by alcohol in rat liver tissue was significantly blocked by HSYA. Collectively, these data demonstrated that HSYA can effectively protect the liver of rats from long-term alcohol injury, which relates with the enhanced antioxidant capacity of liver tissues and inhibition of TGF-β1 expression.
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Makihara N, Arimura K, Ago T, Tachibana M, Nishimura A, Nakamura K, Matsuo R, Wakisaka Y, Kuroda J, Sugimori H, Kamouchi M, Kitazono T. Involvement of platelet-derived growth factor receptor β in fibrosis through extracellular matrix protein production after ischemic stroke. Exp Neurol 2014; 264:127-34. [PMID: 25510317 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2014.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2014] [Revised: 12/04/2014] [Accepted: 12/07/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is concomitant with repair processes following injuries in the central nervous system (CNS). Pericytes are considered as an origin of fibrosis-forming cells in the CNS. Here, we examined whether platelet-derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFRβ), a well-known indispensable molecule for migration, proliferation, and survival of pericytes, was involved in the production of extracellular matrix proteins, fibronectin and collagen type I, which is crucial for fibrosis after ischemic stroke. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated induction of PDGFRβ expression in vascular cells of peri-infarct areas at 3-7days in a mouse stroke model. The PDGFRβ-expressing cells extended from peri-infarct areas toward the ischemic core after day 7 while expressing fibronectin and collagen type I in the infarct areas. In contrast, desmin and α-smooth muscle actin, markers of pericytes, were only expressed in vascular cells. In PDGFRβ heterozygous knockout mice, the expression of fibronectin and collagen type I was attenuated at both mRNA and protein levels with an enlargement of the infarct volume after ischemic stroke compared with that in wild-type littermates. In cultured brain pericytes, the expression of PDGF-B, PDGFRβ, fibronectin, and collagen type I, but not desmin, was significantly increased by serum depletion (SD). The SD-induced upregulation of fibronectin and collagen type I was suppressed by SU11652, an inhibitor of PDGFRβ, while PDGF-B further increased the SD-induced upregulation. In conclusion, the expression level of PDGFRβ may be a crucial determinant of fibrosis after ischemic stroke. Moreover, PDGFRβ signaling participates in the production of fibronectin and collagen type I after ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriko Makihara
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan
| | - Koichi Arimura
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan; Department of Neurosurgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan
| | - Tetsuro Ago
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan.
| | - Masaki Tachibana
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan
| | - Ataru Nishimura
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan; Department of Neurosurgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan
| | - Kuniyuki Nakamura
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan
| | - Ryu Matsuo
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan; Department of Health Care Administration and Management, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan
| | - Yoshinobu Wakisaka
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan
| | - Junya Kuroda
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Sugimori
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan
| | - Masahiro Kamouchi
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan; Department of Health Care Administration and Management, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan
| | - Takanari Kitazono
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan
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Liu Q, Wang CY, Liu Z, Ma XS, He YH, Chen SS, Bai XY. Hydroxysafflor yellow A suppresses liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride with high-fat diet by regulating PPAR-γ/p38 MAPK signaling. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2014; 52:1085-1093. [PMID: 24618007 DOI: 10.3109/13880209.2013.877491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT One approach to protect against liver fibrosis is the use of herb-derived natural compounds, such as hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA). The antifibrosis effect of HYSA against liver fibrosis has been investigated; however, its mechanisms have not yet been entirely revealed. OBJECTIVES To study the protective effects of HSYA on liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and a high-fat diet (HFD), and to determine the mechanism of action of HSYA. MATERIALS AND METHODS CCl4 and HFD were used to mimic liver fibrosis in rats, and serum biochemical indicators were determined. The antifibrosis effects of HSYA were evaluated and its mechanisms were investigated by histopathological analysis, immunohistochemical staining, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, real-time-PCR, and western blotting. RESULTS HSYA reduced CCl4- and HFD-mediated liver fibrosis and ameliorated serum biochemical indicator, downregulated the expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) (0.31 ± 0.03 protein, 0.59 ± 0.02 mRNA) and transformin growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) (0.81 ± 0.02 protein, 0.58 ± 0.04 mRNA), and upregulated the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) (1.57 ± 0.13 protein, 2.48 ± 0.19 mRNA) and matrix metallopeptidases-2 (MMP-2) (2.31 ± 0.16 protein, 2.79 ± 0.22 mRNA) (p < 0.01, versus model group). These effects were significantly attenuated by PPAR-γ antagonist GW9662 via blocking the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION These data demonstrate a novel role for HSYA in inhibiting CCl4- and HFD-mediated liver fibrosis, and reveal that PPAR-γ and p38 MAPK signaling play pivotal roles in the prevention of liver fibrosis induced by CCl4 and HFD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University , Yantai, Shandong , PR China
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Yang JJ, Tao H, Li J. Hedgehog signaling pathway as key player in liver fibrosis: new insights and perspectives. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2014; 18:1011-21. [PMID: 24935558 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2014.927443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is a pivotal cellular event in liver fibrosis. Therefore, improving our understanding of the molecular pathways that are involved in these processes is essential to generate new therapies for liver fibrosis. Greater knowledge of the role of the hedgehog signaling pathway in liver fibrosis could improve understanding of the liver fibrosis pathogenesis. AREAS COVERED The aim of this review is to describe the present knowledge about the hedgehog signaling pathway, which significantly participates in liver fibrosis and HSC activation, and look ahead on new perspectives of hedgehog signaling pathway research. Moreover, we will discuss the different interactions with hedgehog signaling pathway-regulated liver fibrosis. EXPERT OPINION The hedgehog pathway modulates several important aspects of function, including cell proliferation, activation and differentiation. Targeting the hedgehog pathway can be a promising direction in liver fibrosis treatment. We discuss new perspectives of hedgehog signaling pathway activation in liver fibrosis and HSC fate, including DNA methylation, methyl CpG binding protein 2, microRNA, irradiation and metabolism that influence hedgehog signaling pathway transduction. These findings identify the hedgehog pathway as a potentially important for biomarker development and therapeutic targets in liver fibrosis. Future studies are needed in order to find safer and more effective hedgehog-based drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Jing Yang
- The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Department of Pharmacology , Hefei 230601 , China
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Conte E, Gili E, Fagone E, Fruciano M, Iemmolo M, Vancheri C. Effect of pirfenidone on proliferation, TGF-β-induced myofibroblast differentiation and fibrogenic activity of primary human lung fibroblasts. Eur J Pharm Sci 2014; 58:13-9. [PMID: 24613900 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2014.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 252] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2013] [Revised: 01/28/2014] [Accepted: 02/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Pirfenidone is an orally active small molecule that has been shown to inhibit the progression of fibrosis in animal models and in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Although pirfenidone exhibits well documented antifibrotic and antiinflammatory activities, in vitro and in vivo, its molecular targets and mechanisms of action have not been elucidated. In this study, we investigated the effects of pirfenidone on proliferation, TGF-β-induced differentiation and fibrogenic activity of primary human lung fibroblasts (HLFs). Pirfenidone reduced fibroblast proliferation and attenuated TGF-β-induced α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) and pro-collagen (Col)-I mRNA and protein levels. Importantly, pirfenidone inhibited TGF-β-induced phosphorylation of Smad3, p38, and Akt, key factors in the TGF-β pathway. Together, these results demonstrate that pirfenidone modulates HLF proliferation and TGF-β-mediated differentiation into myofibroblasts by attenuating key TGF-β-induced signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Conte
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Biomedicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Elisa Gili
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Biomedicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Evelina Fagone
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Biomedicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Mary Fruciano
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Biomedicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Iemmolo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Biomedicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Carlo Vancheri
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Biomedicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
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