1
|
Ma X, Zhang Y, Wu F, Liu X, Zhang W. Mendelian randomisation highlights type 1 diabetes as a causal determinant of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Diabetol Metab Syndr 2024; 16:90. [PMID: 38659065 PMCID: PMC11044474 DOI: 10.1186/s13098-024-01331-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is unclear whether type 1 diabetes (T1D) causes idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), despite observational research linking the two conditions. Therefore, our study aimed to examine the causal link between T1D and the likelihood of IPF by employing the Mendelian randomization (MR) technique of two-sample Mendelian randomization. METHODS Using data from two genome-wide association studies (GWAS) with European ancestry, we performed a two-sample MR analysis. These studies involved 18,856 individuals (6,683 cases and 12,173 controls) for T1D and 198,014 individuals (10,028 cases and 196,986 controls) for IPF. We utilized inverse-variance weighted (IVW) analysis as our main approach to determine the association between the risk of IPF and T1D. To evaluate multidirectionality, the MR-Egger regression test was utilized, whereas heterogeneity was assessed using Cochran's Q test. Additionally, a leave-one-out analysis was performed to assess the reliability of the results. RESULTS 38 SNPs linked to T1D were employed as instrumental variables (IVs). Multiple MR methods yielded consistent results, and the MR analysis reveals a significant and positive causal impact of T1D on IPF (MR-IVW, odds ratio [OR] = 1.128, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.034-1.230; P = 0.006). The limitations of the study include the lack of data from non-European groups and the inability to rule out the possibility of small links. Larger MR experiments are necessary to investigate minute impacts. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study provide evidence that T1D contributes to the onset and advancement of IPF. This finding may provide important insights into the cause of IPF and possible treatments in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinlai Ma
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.42, West Culture Road, Lixia District, 250011, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Fan Wu
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xue Liu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.42, West Culture Road, Lixia District, 250011, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.42, West Culture Road, Lixia District, 250011, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Pydyn N, Ferenc A, Trzos K, Pospiech E, Wilamowski M, Mucha O, Major P, Kadluczka J, Rodrigues PM, Banales JM, Herranz JM, Avila MA, Hutsch T, Malczak P, Radkowiak D, Budzynski A, Jura J, Kotlinowski J. MCPIP1 Inhibits Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation in Autocrine and Paracrine Manners, Preventing Liver Fibrosis. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 17:887-906. [PMID: 38311169 PMCID: PMC11026697 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2024.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatic fibrosis is characterized by enhanced deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM), which results from the wound healing response to chronic, repeated injury of any etiology. Upon injury, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activate and secrete ECM proteins, forming scar tissue, which leads to liver dysfunction. Monocyte-chemoattractant protein-induced protein 1 (MCPIP1) possesses anti-inflammatory activity, and its overexpression reduces liver injury in septic mice. In addition, mice with liver-specific deletion of Zc3h12a develop features of primary biliary cholangitis. In this study, we investigated the role of MCPIP1 in liver fibrosis and HSC activation. METHODS We analyzed MCPIP1 levels in patients' fibrotic livers and hepatic cells isolated from fibrotic murine livers. In vitro experiments were conducted on primary HSCs, cholangiocytes, hepatocytes, and LX-2 cells with MCPIP1 overexpression or silencing. RESULTS MCPIP1 levels are induced in patients' fibrotic livers compared with their nonfibrotic counterparts. Murine models of fibrosis revealed that its level is increased in HSCs and hepatocytes. Moreover, hepatocytes with Mcpip1 deletion trigger HSC activation via the release of connective tissue growth factor. Overexpression of MCPIP1 in LX-2 cells inhibits their activation through the regulation of TGFB1 expression, and this phenotype is reversed upon MCPIP1 silencing. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated that MCPIP1 is induced in human fibrotic livers and regulates the activation of HSCs in both autocrine and paracrine manners. Our results indicate that MCPIP1 could have a potential role in the development of liver fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Pydyn
- Jagiellonian University, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Department of General Biochemistry, Krakow, Poland.
| | - Anna Ferenc
- Jagiellonian University, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Department of General Biochemistry, Krakow, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Trzos
- Jagiellonian University, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Department of General Biochemistry, Krakow, Poland; Jagiellonian University, Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Ewelina Pospiech
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Mateusz Wilamowski
- Jagiellonian University, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Department of General Biochemistry, Krakow, Poland
| | - Olga Mucha
- Jagiellonian University, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Department of General Biochemistry, Krakow, Poland
| | - Piotr Major
- Jagiellonian University Medical College, 2nd Department of General Surgery, Krakow, Poland
| | - Justyna Kadluczka
- Jagiellonian University, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Department of General Biochemistry, Krakow, Poland; Jagiellonian University, Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Pedro M Rodrigues
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute-Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), San Sebastian, Spain; National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, "Instituto de Salud Carlos III"), San Sebastian-Donostia, Spain; IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Jesus M Banales
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute-Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), San Sebastian, Spain; National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, "Instituto de Salud Carlos III"), San Sebastian-Donostia, Spain; IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, School of Sciences, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Jose M Herranz
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain; Hepatology Program, Liver Unit, Instituto de Investigación de Navarra (IdisNA), Clínica Universidad de Navarra and Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Matias A Avila
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain; Hepatology Program, Liver Unit, Instituto de Investigación de Navarra (IdisNA), Clínica Universidad de Navarra and Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Tomasz Hutsch
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Warsaw, Poland; Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory ALAB Bioscience, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Malczak
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Dorota Radkowiak
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Andrzej Budzynski
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Jolanta Jura
- Jagiellonian University, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Department of General Biochemistry, Krakow, Poland
| | - Jerzy Kotlinowski
- Jagiellonian University, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Department of General Biochemistry, Krakow, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kogiso T, Takayanagi K, Ishizuka T, Otsuka M, Inai K, Ogasawara Y, Horiuchi K, Taniai M, Tokushige K. Serum level of full-length connective tissue growth factor reflects liver fibrosis stage in patients with Fontan-associated liver disease. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296375. [PMID: 38166061 PMCID: PMC10760884 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic liver disease leads to liver fibrosis, and an accurate diagnosis of the fibrosis stage is crucial for medical management. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is produced by endothelial cells and platelets and plays a central role in inducing fibrosis in various organs. In the present study, we tested the validity of measuring the serum levels of two types of CTGF to estimate the biopsy-confirmed liver fibrosis stage. METHODS We used two detection antibodies targeting the N- and C-terminal of CTGF to measure the serum levels of two forms of CTGF consisting of its full length and its N-terminal fragment. We analyzed the level of CTGF (via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) and the liver fibrosis stage in 38 patients with Fontan-associated liver disease (FALD) (26 cases of which were diagnosed pathologically). Correlations were determined by multivariate analysis and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. The 65 patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) were included as a disease control group for examination. RESULTS Full-length CTGF was significantly inversely correlated with liver fibrosis in patients with FALD. Although the platelet count was also associated with the liver fibrosis stage, full-length CTGF was more closely correlated with the fibrosis stage. Furthermore, the level of full-length CTGF was inversely associated with high central venous pressure. Conversely, the serum level of CTGF was not correlated with the fibrosis stage in NAFLD. CONCLUSION The serum level of full-length CTGF may be useful for estimating the liver fibrosis stage in patients with FALD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomomi Kogiso
- Institute of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kayo Takayanagi
- Division of Transplant Immunology, Central Clinical Laboratories, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Ishizuka
- Division of Transplant Immunology, Central Clinical Laboratories, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Motoyuki Otsuka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Kei Inai
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology and Adult Congenital Cardiology, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuri Ogasawara
- Institute of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kentaro Horiuchi
- Institute of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Makiko Taniai
- Institute of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katsutoshi Tokushige
- Institute of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Seleem AA, Hussein BH. Effects of silver nanoparticles prepared by aqueous extract of Ferula communis on the developing mouse embryo after maternal exposure. Toxicol Ind Health 2023; 39:712-734. [PMID: 37871157 DOI: 10.1177/07482337231209094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from aqueous silver nitrate has been achieved using an extract of Ferula communis leaf as a capping, reducing, and stabilizing agent. The formation and stability of the green synthesized silver nanoparticles in the colloidal solution were monitored by absorption measurements. Silver nanoparticles were characterized by different analyses such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and FT-IR spectroscopy. The average particle size of silver nanoparticles was determined by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses. In this experiment, pregnant female mice were divided into four groups (G); G1 was the control and received phosphate-buffered saline, G2 received orally aqueous extract of F. communis leaf, G3 received orally AgNPs chemically prepared by NaBH4, and G4 received orally AgNPs prepared by aqueous extract of F. communis leaf. The diameter of AgNPs was 20 nm. AgNPs exhibited good catalytic reduction ability toward methyl orange in the presence of sodium borohydride with a rate constant of 2.95 x 10-4 s-1. The results revealed the occurrence of resorbed embryos in G2, G3, and G4 with different percentages. The livers of mothers and embryos at E14.5 in G2, G3, and G4 showed different levels of histopathological alteration and increase in GFAP and CTGF expressions compared with the control group. The study concluded that the oral administration of small-sized AgNPs (20 nm) prepared by Ferula extract had less toxicity than those prepared by the chemical method.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amin A Seleem
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science and Arts, Al Ula, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Belal Hm Hussein
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science and Arts, Al Ula, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Miao Y, Yang Y, Li X, Meng L, Mao J, Zhang J, Gao J, Yang C, Gu X, Zhou H, Zhang Y. Imrecoxib attenuates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20914. [PMID: 38027732 PMCID: PMC10663740 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20914] [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: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is an incurable chronic progressive disease with a low survival rate and ineffective therapeutic options. We examined the effects of imrecoxib, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, on experimental pulmonary fibrosis. The mouse IPF model was established by intratracheal instillation of bleomycin. From Day 0 to Day 13, the mice were orally administered imrecoxib (100 mg/kg) and pirfenidone (200 mg/kg) daily, and from Day 7 to Day 13, the mice were orally administered pirfenidone and imrecoxib daily. The tissues were dissected on the 14th day. Mouse body weight was measured, and histopathological examination and hydroxyproline content analysis confirmed that the administration of imrecoxib exerted a similar effect to pirfenidone. Compared with bleomycin-induced mice, imrecoxib-treated mice showed significantly reduced inflammatory factor expression (IL-1 and TNF-α) and inflammatory cell numbers (macrophages, lymphocytes, and neutrophils) in BALF (bronchoalveolar lavage fluid). Our experiment tested the ability of imrecoxib to inhibit the signal pathway involved in gene expression induced by TGF-β1 in the NIH-3T3 cell line in vitro. Western blotting showed that imrecoxib (20 μM and 40 μM) inhibited the expression of fibronectin, type I collagen and CTGF. In addition, imrecoxib reduced the levels of p-ERK1/2. The changes in the expression of related proteins in mouse lung tissue were similar to those in cells. In summary, our findings suggested that the administration of imrecoxib prevented and treated murine IPF by inhibiting inflammation and the TGF-β1-ERK1/2 signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, China
| | - Yue Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, China
| | - Xiaohe Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, China
| | - Lingxin Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, China
| | - Jiahe Mao
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, China
| | - Jianwei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, China
| | - Jingjing Gao
- Tianjin Jikun Technology Co., Ltd. Tianjin, 301700, China
| | - Cheng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, China
| | - Xiaoting Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, China
| | - Honggang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, China
| | - Yanping Zhang
- The Second Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Huang D, Liang J, Yang J, Yang C, Wang X, Dai T, Steinberg T, Li C, Wang F. Current Status of Tissue Regenerative Engineering for the Treatment of Uterine Infertility. TISSUE ENGINEERING. PART B, REVIEWS 2023; 29:558-573. [PMID: 37335062 DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2022.0226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
With the recent developments in tissue engineering, scientists have attempted to establish seed cells from different sources, create cell sheets through various technologies, implant them on scaffolds with various spatial structures, or load scaffolds with cytokines. These research results are very optimistic, bringing hope to the treatment of patients with uterine infertility. In this article, we reviewed articles related to the treatment of uterine infertility from the aspects of experimental treatment strategy, seed cells, scaffold application, and repair criteria so as to provide a basis for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Di Huang
- Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Junhui Liang
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Jie Yang
- The Affiliated Taian City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Taian, China
| | - Chunrun Yang
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Ultrasonography, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Tianyu Dai
- Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Thorsten Steinberg
- Division of Oral Biotechnology, Center for Dental Medicine, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Changzhong Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Liu R, Zhu M, Chen J, Gai J, Huang J, Zhou Y, Wan Y, Tu C. Identification and Characterization of a Novel Nanobody Against Human CTGF to Reveal Its Antifibrotic Effect in an in vitro Model of Liver Fibrosis. Int J Nanomedicine 2023; 18:5407-5422. [PMID: 37753068 PMCID: PMC10519214 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s428430] [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: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background No agents are currently available for the treatment or reversal of liver fibrosis. Novel antifibrotic therapies for chronic liver diseases are thus urgently needed. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) has been shown to contributes profoundly to liver fibrogenesis, which makes CTGF as a promising target for developing antifibrotic agents. Methods In this study, we identified a novel nanobody (Nb) against human CTGF (anti-CTGF Nb) by phage display using an immunized camel, which showed high affinity and specificity in vitro. LX-2 cells, the immortalized human hepatic stellate cells, were induced by transforming growth factor beta1 (TGFβ1) as an in vitro model of liver fibrosis to verify the antifibrotic activity of the anti-CTGF Nb. Results Our data demonstrated that anti-CTGF Nb effectively alleviated TGFβ1-induced LX-2 cell proliferation, activation, and migration, and promoted the apoptosis of activated LX-2 cells in response to TGFβ1. Moreover, the anti-CTGF Nb remarkably reduced the levels of TGFβ1, Smad2, and Smad3 expression in LX-2 stellate cells stimulated by TGFβ1. Conclusion Taken together, we successfully identified a novel Nb against human CTGF, which exhibited antifibrotic effects in vitro by regulating the biological functions of human stellate cells LX-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rong Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Zhu
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Shanghai, 201318, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaojiao Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200434, People's Republic of China
| | - Junwei Gai
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Shanghai, 201318, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Huang
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Shanghai, 201318, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingqun Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, People's Republic of China
| | - Yakun Wan
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Shanghai, 201318, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuantao Tu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201508, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Yuan Y, Lv X, Wu Y, Weng Y, Dai F, Ding H, Chen R, Zheng B, Zhao W, Tong Q, Ding J, Lou D, Lai Y, Chu X, Zhao L, Lu S, Kong Q. Mining host candidate regulators of schistosomiasis-induced liver fibrosis in response to artesunate therapy through transcriptomics approach. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011626. [PMID: 37773953 PMCID: PMC10566724 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Artesunate (ART) has been reported to have an antifibrotic effect in various organs. The underlying mechanism has not been systematically elucidated. We aimed to clarify the effect of ART on liver fibrosis induced by Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum) in an experimentally infected rodent model and the potential underlying mechanisms. METHODS The effect of ART on hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) was assessed using CCK-8 and Annexin V-FITC/PI staining assays. The experimental model of liver fibrosis was established in the Mongolian gerbil model infected with S. japonicum cercariae and then treated with 20 mg/kg or 40 mg/kg ART. The hydroxyproline (Hyp) content, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activities in liver tissue were measured and histopathological changes of liver tissues were observed. Whole-transcriptome RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) of the liver tissues was performed. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using bioinformatic analysis and verified by quantitative PCR (qPCR) and western blot assay. RESULTS ART significantly inhibited the proliferation and induce the apoptosis of HSCs in a dose-dependent manner. In vivo, Hyp content decreased significantly in the ART-H group compared to the model (MOD) group and GPX activity was significantly higher in the ART-H group than in the MOD group. Besides, ART treatment significantly reduced collagen production (p <0.05). A total of 158 DEGs and 44 differentially expressed miRNAs related to ART-induced anti-schistosomiasis liver fibrosis were identified. The qPCR and western blot results of selected DEGs were consistent with the sequencing results. These DEGs were implicated in key pathways such as immune and inflammatory response, integrin-mediated signaling and toll-like receptor signaling pathways. CONCLUSION ART is effective against liver fibrosis using Mongolian gerbil model induced by S. japonicum infection. We identified host candidate regulators of schistosomiasis-induced liver fibrosis in response to ART through transcriptomics approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yajie Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Biomarkers and In Vitro Diagnosis Translation of Zhejiang province, School of Laboratory Medicine and Bioengineering, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinyue Lv
- Key Laboratory of Biomarkers and In Vitro Diagnosis Translation of Zhejiang province, School of Laboratory Medicine and Bioengineering, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yahan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Biomarkers and In Vitro Diagnosis Translation of Zhejiang province, School of Laboratory Medicine and Bioengineering, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Youhong Weng
- Key Laboratory of Biomarkers and In Vitro Diagnosis Translation of Zhejiang province, School of Laboratory Medicine and Bioengineering, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fangwei Dai
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Experimental Animal and Safety Evaluation, Hangzhou Medical College, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haojie Ding
- School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Key Laboratory of Bio-tech Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, Engineering Research Center of Novel Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Riping Chen
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Medical College, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bin Zheng
- School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Key Laboratory of Bio-tech Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, Engineering Research Center of Novel Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenxia Zhao
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Medical College, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qunbo Tong
- School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Key Laboratory of Bio-tech Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, Engineering Research Center of Novel Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianzu Ding
- School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Key Laboratory of Bio-tech Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, Engineering Research Center of Novel Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Di Lou
- School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Key Laboratory of Bio-tech Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, Engineering Research Center of Novel Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yunru Lai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lishui Second People’s Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui, China
| | - Xiaofeng Chu
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Experimental Animal and Safety Evaluation, Hangzhou Medical College, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Longyou Zhao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lishui Second People’s Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui, China
| | - Shaohong Lu
- School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Key Laboratory of Bio-tech Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, Engineering Research Center of Novel Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qingming Kong
- Key Laboratory of Biomarkers and In Vitro Diagnosis Translation of Zhejiang province, School of Laboratory Medicine and Bioengineering, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Key Laboratory of Bio-tech Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, Engineering Research Center of Novel Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Li X, Chen R, Kemper S, Brigstock DR. Production, Exacerbating Effect, and EV-Mediated Transcription of Hepatic CCN2 in NASH: Implications for Diagnosis and Therapy of NASH Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12823. [PMID: 37629004 PMCID: PMC10454308 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is characterized by steatosis, hepatocyte ballooning, and inflammation and may progress to include increasingly severe fibrosis, which portends more serious disease and is predictive of patient mortality. Diagnostic and therapeutic options for NASH fibrosis are limited, and the underlying fibrogenic pathways are under-explored. Cell communication network factor 2 (CCN2) is a well-characterized pro-fibrotic molecule, but its production in and contribution to NASH fibrosis requires further study. Hepatic CCN2 expression was significantly induced in NASH patients with F3-F4 fibrosis and was positively correlated with hepatic Col1A1, Col1A2, Col3A1, or αSMA expression. When wild-type (WT) or transgenic (TG) Swiss mice expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) under the control of the CCN2 promoter were fed up to 7 weeks with control or choline-deficient, amino-acid-defined diet with high (60%) fat (CDAA-HF), the resulting NASH-like hepatic pathology included a profound increase in CCN2 or EGFP immunoreactivity in activated hepatic stellate cells (HSC) and in fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells of the vasculature, with little or no induction of CCN2 in other liver cell types. In the context of CDAA-HF diet-induced NASH, Balb/c TG mice expressing human CCN2 under the control of the albumin promoter exhibited exacerbated deposition of interstitial hepatic collagen and activated HSC compared to WT mice. In vitro, palmitic acid-treated hepatocytes produced extracellular vesicles (EVs) that induced CCN2, Col1A1, and αSMA in HSC. Hepatic CCN2 may aid the assessment of NASH fibrosis severity and, together with pro-fibrogenic EVs, is a therapeutic target for reducing NASH fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinlei Li
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, The Research Institute, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA; (R.C.); (S.K.); (D.R.B.)
| | - Ruju Chen
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, The Research Institute, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA; (R.C.); (S.K.); (D.R.B.)
| | - Sherri Kemper
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, The Research Institute, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA; (R.C.); (S.K.); (D.R.B.)
| | - David R. Brigstock
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, The Research Institute, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA; (R.C.); (S.K.); (D.R.B.)
- Department of Surgery, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43212, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Barkin JM, Jin-Smith B, Torok K, Pi L. Significance of CCNs in liver regeneration. J Cell Commun Signal 2023:10.1007/s12079-023-00762-x. [PMID: 37202628 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-023-00762-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver has an inherent regenerative capacity via hepatocyte proliferation after mild-to-modest damage. When hepatocytes exhaust their replicative ability during chronic or severe liver damage, liver progenitor cells (LPC), also termed oval cells (OC) in rodents, are activated in the form of ductular reaction (DR) as an alternative pathway. LPC is often intimately associated with hepatic stellate cells (HSC) activation to promote liver fibrosis. The Cyr61/CTGF/Nov (CCN) protein family consists of six extracellular signaling modulators (CCN1-CCN6) with affinity to a repertoire of receptors, growth factors, and extracellular matrix proteins. Through these interactions, CCN proteins organize microenvironments and modulate cell signalings in a diverse variety of physiopathological processes. In particular, their binding to subtypes of integrin (αvβ5, αvβ3, α6β1, αvβ6, etc.) influences the motility and mobility of macrophages, hepatocytes, HSC, and LPC/OC during liver injury. This paper summarizes the current understanding of the significance of CCN genes in liver regeneration in relation to hepatocyte-driven or LPC/OC-mediated pathways. Publicly available datasets were also searched to compare dynamic levels of CCNs in developing and regenerating livers. These insights not only add to our understanding of the regenerative capability of the liver but also provide potential targets for the pharmacological management of liver repair in the clinical setting. Ccns in liver regeneration Restoring damaged or lost tissues requires robust cell growth and dynamic matrix remodeling. Ccns are matricellular proteins highly capable of influencing cell state and matrix production. Current studies have identified Ccns as active players in liver regeneration. Cell types, modes of action, and mechanisms of Ccn induction may vary depending on liver injuries. Hepatocyte proliferation is a default pathway for liver regeneration following mild-to-modest damages, working in parallel with the transient activation of stromal cells, such as macrophages and hepatic stellate cells (HSC). Liver progenitor cells (LPC), also termed oval cells (OC) in rodents, are activated in the form of ductular reaction (DR) and are associated with sustained fibrosis when hepatocytes lose their proliferative ability in severe or chronic liver damage. Ccns may facilitate both hepatocyte regeneration and LPC/OC repair via various mediators (growth factors, matrix proteins, integrins, etc.) for cell-specific and context-dependent functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua M Barkin
- Department of Pathology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Brady Jin-Smith
- Department of Pathology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Kendle Torok
- Department of Pathology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Liya Pi
- Department of Pathology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA.
- Department of Pathology, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Ave, New Orleans, LA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
You H, Wang X, Ma L, Zhang F, Zhang H, Wang Y, Pan X, Zheng K, Kong F, Tang R. Insights into the impact of hepatitis B virus on hepatic stellate cell activation. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:70. [PMID: 37041599 PMCID: PMC10088164 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01091-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
During chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, hepatic fibrosis is a serious pathological condition caused by virus-induced liver damage. The activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is a central event in the occurrence and progression of liver fibrosis. Although accumulating evidence has shown that HBV directly stimulates HSC activation, whether the virus infects and replicates in HSCs remains controversial. Inflammation is one of the obvious characteristics of chronic HBV infection, and it has been demonstrated that persistent inflammation has a predominant role in triggering and maintaining liver fibrosis. In particular, the regulation of HSC activation by HBV-related hepatocytes via various inflammatory modulators, including TGF-β and CTGF, in a paracrine manner has been reported. In addition to these inflammation-related molecules, several inflammatory cells are essential for the progression of HBV-associated liver fibrosis. Monocytes, macrophages, Th17 cells, NK cells, as well as NKT cells, participate in the modulation of HBV-related liver fibrosis by interacting with HSCs. This review summarizes current findings on the effects of HBV and the relevant molecular mechanisms involved in HSC activation. Because HSC activation is essential for liver fibrosis, targeting HSCs is an attractive therapeutic strategy to prevent and reverse hepatic fibrosis induced by HBV infection. Video abstract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongjuan You
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xing Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lihong Ma
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fulong Zhang
- Imaging Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Taian, China
| | - Huanyang Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuxin Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiucheng Pan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Kuiyang Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Basic Medical Sciences Education, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fanyun Kong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Renxian Tang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Basic Medical Sciences Education, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Pi L, Sun C, Jn-Simon N, Basha S, Thomas H, Figueroa V, Zarrinpar A, Cao Q, Petersen B. CCN2/CTGF promotes liver fibrosis through crosstalk with the Slit2/Robo signaling. J Cell Commun Signal 2023; 17:137-150. [PMID: 36469291 PMCID: PMC10030765 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-022-00713-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the common outcome of many chronic liver diseases, resulting from altered cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions that promote hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and excessive matrix production. This study aimed to investigate functions of cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2)/Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), an extracellular signaling modulator of the CYR61/CTGF/Nov (CCN) family, in liver fibrosis. Tamoxifen-inducible conditional knockouts in mice and hepatocyte-specific deletion of this gene in rats were generated using the Cre-lox system. These animals were subjected to peri-central hepatocyte damage caused by carbon tetrachloride. Potential crosstalk of this molecule with a new profibrotic pathway mediated by the Slit2 ligand and Roundabout (Robo) receptors was also examined. We found that Ccn2/Ctgf was highly upregulated in periportal hepatocytes during carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatocyte damage, liver fibrosis and cirrhosis in mice and rats. Overexpression of this molecule was observed in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) that were surrounded with fibrotic cords. Deletion of the Ccn2/Ctgf gene significantly reduced expression of fibrosis-related genes including Slit2, a smooth muscle actin (SMA) and Collagen type I during carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis in mice and rats. In addition, Ccn2/Ctgf and its truncated mutant carrying the first three domains were able to interact with the 7th -9th epidermal growth factor (EGF) repeats and the C-terminal cysteine knot (CT) motif of Slit2 protein in cultured HSC and fibrotic murine livers. Ectopic expression of Ccn2/Ctgf protein upregulated Slit2, promoted HSC activation, and potentiated fibrotic responses following chronic intoxication by carbon tetrachloride. Moreover, Ccn2/Ctgf and Slit2 synergistically enhanced activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and AKT in primary HSC, whereas soluble Robo1-Fc chimera protein could inhibit these activities. These observations demonstrate conserved cross-species functions of Ccn2/Ctgf protein in rodent livers. This protein can be induced in hepatocytes and contribute to liver fibrosis. Its novel connection with the Slit2/Robo signaling may have therapeutic implications against fibrosis in chronic liver disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liya Pi
- Department of Pathology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA.
| | - Chunbao Sun
- Department of Pathology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Natacha Jn-Simon
- Department of Pathology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | | | - Haven Thomas
- Department of Pathology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | | | | | - Qi Cao
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Bryon Petersen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Expression and Function of BMP and Activin Membrane-Bound Inhibitor (BAMBI) in Chronic Liver Diseases and Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043473. [PMID: 36834884 PMCID: PMC9964332 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BAMBI (bone morphogenetic protein and activin membrane-bound inhibitor) is a transmembrane pseudoreceptor structurally related to transforming growth factor (TGF)-β type 1 receptors (TGF-β1Rs). BAMBI lacks a kinase domain and functions as a TGF-β1R antagonist. Essential processes such as cell differentiation and proliferation are regulated by TGF-β1R signaling. TGF-β is the best-studied ligand of TGF-βRs and has an eminent role in inflammation and fibrogenesis. Liver fibrosis is the end stage of almost all chronic liver diseases, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and at the moment, there is no effective anti-fibrotic therapy available. Hepatic BAMBI is downregulated in rodent models of liver injury and in the fibrotic liver of patients, suggesting that low BAMBI has a role in liver fibrosis. Experimental evidence convincingly demonstrated that BAMBI overexpression is able to protect against liver fibrosis. Chronic liver diseases have a high risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and BAMBI was shown to exert tumor-promoting as well as tumor-protective functions. This review article aims to summarize relevant studies on hepatic BAMBI expression and its role in chronic liver diseases and HCC.
Collapse
|
14
|
Trampuž SR, van Riet S, Nordling Å, Ingelman-Sundberg M. The Role of CTGF in Liver Fibrosis Induced in 3D Human Liver Spheroids. Cells 2023; 12:cells12020302. [PMID: 36672237 PMCID: PMC9857203 DOI: 10.3390/cells12020302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is involved in the regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) production. Elevated levels of CTGF can be found in plasma from patients with liver fibrosis and in experimental animal models of liver fibrosis, but the exact role of CTGF in, e.g., diet-induced human liver fibrosis is not entirely known. To address this question, we utilized a 3D human liver co-culture spheroid model composed of hepatocytes and non-parenchymal cells, in which fibrosis is induced by TGF-β1, CTGF or free fatty acids (FFA). Treatment of the spheroids with TGF-β1 or FFA increased COL1A1 deposition as well as the expression of TGF-β1 and CTGF. Recombinant CTGF, as well as angiotensin II, caused increased expression and/or production of CTGF, TGF-β1, COL1A1, LOX, and IL-6. In addition, silencing of CTGF reduced both TGF-β1- and FFA-induced COL1A1 deposition. Furthermore, we found that IL-6 induced CTGF, COL1A1 and TGF-β1 production, suggesting that IL-6 is a mediator in the pathway of CTGF-induced fibrosis. Taken together, our data indicate a specific role for CTGF and CTGF downstream signaling pathways for the development of liver inflammation and fibrosis in the human 3D liver spheroid model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Redenšek Trampuž
- Section of Pharmacogenetics, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov trg 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sander van Riet
- Section of Pharmacogenetics, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Åsa Nordling
- Section of Pharmacogenetics, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Magnus Ingelman-Sundberg
- Section of Pharmacogenetics, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
He H, Xu B, Ge P, Gao Y, Wei M, Li T, Zhang R, Li B, Cao H, Zhang K. The effects of taraxasterol on liver fibrosis revealed by RNA sequencing. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 114:109481. [PMID: 36470119 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Effective treatment of liver fibrosis remains a challenging medical problem. Taraxasterol (TAR) has anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and hepatoprotective effects. Studies have shown that TAR has good biological activity against liver injury induced by various factors. However, the anti-fibrotic effect of TAR and its mechanism are never clarified. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of TAR in liver fibrosis and to reveal its possible mechanism by RNA sequencing. Our results suggested that TAR attenuated CCl4-induced hepatocyte necrosis, inflammatory infiltration and ECM deposition. TAR inhibited the levels of ALT, AST, ALP, γ-GT, LN, HA, PC III and IV-C in serum and TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β and MDA in liver. In addition, TAR increased the activities of SOD and GSH-Px in liver. RNA sequencing analysis of liver tissues revealed that CCl4 and TAR significantly altered 4,155 genes and 2,675 genes, respectively. TAR reversed changes in ECM-related genes. More specifically, TAR mediated the expression of genes related to the activation of the Hippo pathway, while inhibiting the expression of genes related to the activation of HIF-1α, TGF-β/Smad, and Wnt pathways. In the validation experiments, the qRT-PCR results showed that the expression levels of Yap1, Tead3, Hif1α, Vegfa, Tgfβ1, Want3a, and Ctnnb1 mRNA were consistent with the RNA sequencing results. The Western blot results showed that TAR inhibited the levels of TGF-β1 and p-Smad2. In addition, the results in vitro were consistent with those in vivo. Therefore, we concluded that TAR improved CCl4-induced liver fibrosis by regulating Hippo, HIF-1α, TGF-β/Smad and Wnt pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan He
- Pharmacology Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence of Disease, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China
| | - Baoling Xu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541104, China
| | - Pengfei Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541104, China
| | - Ya Gao
- Pharmacology Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence of Disease, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China
| | - Min Wei
- Pharmacology Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence of Disease, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China
| | - Ting Li
- Pharmacology Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence of Disease, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China
| | - Ruobing Zhang
- Pharmacology Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence of Disease, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China
| | - Bo Li
- Pharmacology Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence of Disease, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China
| | - Houkang Cao
- Pharmacology Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence of Disease, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China
| | - Kefeng Zhang
- Pharmacology Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence of Disease, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Yuan Z, Wang J, Zhang H, Chai Y, Xu Y, Miao Y, Yuan Z, Zhang L, Jiang Z, Yu Q. Glycocholic acid aggravates liver fibrosis by promoting the up-regulation of connective tissue growth factor in hepatocytes. Cell Signal 2023; 101:110508. [PMID: 36341984 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2022.110508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The precise role of bile acid in the progression of liver fibrosis has yet to be elucidated. In this study, common bile duct ligation was used as an in vivo mouse model for the evaluation of bile acids that promote liver connective tissue growth factor expression. MAIN METHODS Primary rat and mice hepatocytes, as well as primary rat hepatic stellate and HepaRG cells were evaluated as in vitro models for promoting the expression of connective tissue growth factor by bile acids. KEY FINDINGS Compared with taurochenodeoxycholic acid, glycochenodeoxycholic acid, and taurocholic acid, glycocholic acid (GCA) most strongly promoted the secretion of connective tissue growth factor in mouse primary hepatocytes, rat primary hepatocytes and HepaRGs. GCA did not directly promote the activation of hepatic stellate cells. The administration of GCA in mice with ligated bile ducts promotes the progression of liver fibrosis, which may promote the yes-associated protein of hepatocytes into the nucleus, resulting in the hepatocytes secreting more connective tissue growth factor for hepatic stellate cell activation. In conclusion, our data showed that GCA can induce the expression of connective tissue growth factor in hepatocytes by promoting the nuclear translocation of yes-associated protein, thereby activating hepatic stellate cells. SIGNIFICANCE Our findings help to elucidate the contribution of GCA to the progression of hepatic fibrosis in cholestatic disease and aid the clinical monitoring of cholestatic liver fibrosis development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zihang Yuan
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jie Wang
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Haoran Zhang
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yuanyuan Chai
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yunxia Xu
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yingying Miao
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ziqiao Yuan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Luyong Zhang
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Center for Drug Research and Development, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Zhenzhou Jiang
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Qinwei Yu
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Wang M, Chen M, Guo R, Ding Y, Zhang H, He Y. The improvement of sulforaphane in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and related complications: A review. Trends Food Sci Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2022.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
|
18
|
Increased Levels of Phosphorylated ERK Induce CTGF Expression in Autophagy-Deficient Mouse Hepatocytes. Cells 2022; 11:cells11172704. [PMID: 36078110 PMCID: PMC9454551 DOI: 10.3390/cells11172704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy performs essential cell functions in the liver through an intracellular lysosomal degradation process. Several studies have reported that autophagy deficiency can lead to liver injury, including hepatic fibrosis; however, the mechanisms underlying the relationship between autophagy deficiency and liver pathology are unclear. In this study, we examined the expression levels of fibrosis-associated genes in hepatocyte-specific ATG7-deficient mice. The expression levels of the connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and phosphorylated ERK (phospho-ERK) proteins were increased significantly in primary hepatocytes isolated from hepatocyte-specific ATG7-deficient mice compared to those isolated from control mice. In addition, the inhibition of autophagy in cultured mammalian hepatic AML12 and LX2 cells increased CTGF and phospho-ERK protein levels without altering CTGF mRNA expression. In addition, the autophagy deficiency-mediated enhancement of CTGF expression was attenuated when ERK was inhibited. Overall, these results suggest that the inhibition of autophagy in hepatocytes increases phospho-ERK expression, which in turn increases the expression of CTGF, a biomarker of fibrosis.
Collapse
|
19
|
Liu X, Chen W, Shao W, Jiang Y, Cao Z, He W, Wu M, Chen Z, Ma J, Chen Y, Yu P, Zhang Y, Wang J. Liver fibrosis scores and atrial fibrillation incidence in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. ESC Heart Fail 2022; 9:3985-3994. [PMID: 35996808 PMCID: PMC9773713 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.14087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)-related advanced liver fibrosis (Stage 3 or 4) was reported to be linked to worse prognosis in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). This study aims to assess the relationship between liver fibrosis scores and new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) incidence in patients with HFpEF in the Treatment of Preserved Cardiac Function Heart Failure with an Aldosterone Antagonist (TOPCAT) trial. METHODS AND RESULTS Baseline liver fibrosis levels, assessed by NAFLD fibrosis score (NFS) or Fibrosis-4 index (FIB-4), with AF incidence were expressed as hazard ratios (HRs) using the Cox proportional hazard model. The risk for advanced fibrosis was estimated to be 21.5% (447/2072) as assessed by FIB-4 (>3.25) and 4.2% (88/2072) as assessed by NFS (>0.676) in HFpEF patients without baseline AF. After a median follow-up of 3.11 years, 106 new-onset AF cases occurred. In multivariate analysis, elevated NFS [NFS = -1.455-0.676: HR 2.44, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.27-4.68; NFS > 0.676: HR 3.36, 95% CI 1.27-6.80; per 1 unit increase: HR 1.15, 95% CI 1.01-1.32], not FIB-4 (FIB-4 = 1.45-3.25: HR 1.02, 95% CI 0.67-1.55; FIB-4 > 3.25: HR 1.69, 95% CI 0.76-3.79; per 1 unit increase: HR 1.13, 95% CI 0.93-1.37), was associated with increased AF incidence. The NFS (C-index 0.662), not FIB-4 (C-index 0.531), had a moderate predictive ability in predicting incident AF. CONCLUSIONS Among patients with HFpEF, the risk of advanced liver fibrosis is associated with an increased incidence of new-onset AF and may be a novel predictor for new-onset AF. Additional studies are needed to confirm our results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Liu
- Department of CardiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina,Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Arrhythmia and ElectrophysiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina,Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular Mechanism and Translation in Major Cardiovascular DiseaseSun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina
| | - Wenya Chen
- Department of CardiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina,Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Arrhythmia and ElectrophysiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina
| | - Wen Shao
- Department of EndocrineThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
| | - Yuan Jiang
- Department of CardiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina,Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Arrhythmia and ElectrophysiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina
| | - Zhengyu Cao
- Department of CardiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina,Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Arrhythmia and ElectrophysiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina
| | - Wanbing He
- Department of CardiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina,Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Arrhythmia and ElectrophysiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina
| | - Maoxiong Wu
- Department of CardiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina,Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Arrhythmia and ElectrophysiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina
| | - Zhiteng Chen
- Department of CardiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina,Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Arrhythmia and ElectrophysiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina
| | - Jianyong Ma
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems PhysiologyUniversity of Cincinnati College of MedicineCincinnatiOhioUSA
| | - Yangxin Chen
- Department of CardiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina,Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Arrhythmia and ElectrophysiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina
| | - Peng Yu
- Department of EndocrineThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
| | - Yuling Zhang
- Department of CardiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina,Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Arrhythmia and ElectrophysiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina,Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular Mechanism and Translation in Major Cardiovascular DiseaseSun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina
| | - Jingfeng Wang
- Department of CardiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina,Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Arrhythmia and ElectrophysiologySun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina,Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular Mechanism and Translation in Major Cardiovascular DiseaseSun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Connective Tissue Growth Factor in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Breaking the Bridge. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116064. [PMID: 35682743 PMCID: PMC9181498 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
CTGF is upregulated in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), characterized by the deposition of a pathological extracellular matrix (ECM). Additionally, many omics studies confirmed that aberrant cellular senescence-associated mitochondria dysfunction and metabolic reprogramming had been identified in different IPF lung cells (alveolar epithelial cells, alveolar endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and macrophages). Here, we reviewed the role of the CTGF in IPF lung cells to mediate anomalous senescence-related metabolic mechanisms that support the fibrotic environment in IPF.
Collapse
|
21
|
Yamazaki K, Igarashi-Takeuchi H, Numabe Y. Hepatocyte growth factor exhibits anti-fibrotic effects in an in vitro model of nifedipine-induced gingival overgrowth. J Oral Sci 2022; 64:99-104. [PMID: 34980825 DOI: 10.2334/josnusd.21-0419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to establish an in vitro model of nifedipine-induced gingival overgrowth and characterize the anti-fibrotic effect of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) using this model. METHODS Human gingival fibroblasts were cultured-treated with 0.1, 1, or 10 µg/mL nifedipine or 10 ng/mL IL-1β + 0.1, 1, or 10 µg/mL nifedipine (0.1N, 1N, 10N, IL + 0.1N, IL + 1N, IL + 10N). Cell proliferation and levels of type I collagen, TGF-β1, CCN2/CTGF, and α-SMA were measured 48 h after the simultaneous addition of 10 and 50 ng/mL HGF (10 and 50HGF) along with IL-1β and nifedipine. Type I collagen was measured after administration of anti-HGF neutralizing antibody. RESULTS Significant increases in type I collagen, TGF-β1, and CCN2/CTGF were observed after treatment in the 1N and IL + 0.1N groups. Levels of type I collagen and CCN2/CTGF differed significantly between the IL + 0.1N group and the IL + 0.1N + 50HGF group. Production of type I collagen increased significantly following addition of anti-HGF antibody. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated the establishment of an in vitro model of nifedipine-induced gingival overgrowth by showing increased collagen levels. Experiments using this model suggested that HGF exerts anti-fibrotic effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kei Yamazaki
- Department of Periodontology, School of Life Dentistry at Tokyo, The Nippon Dental University
| | - Hiroko Igarashi-Takeuchi
- Department of Periodontology, School of Life Dentistry at Tokyo, The Nippon Dental University.,Core Research Facilities for Basic Science, Research Center for Medical Science, The Jikei University School of Medicine
| | - Yukihiro Numabe
- Department of Periodontology, School of Life Dentistry at Tokyo, The Nippon Dental University
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Rohm TV, Meier DT, Olefsky JM, Donath MY. Inflammation in obesity, diabetes, and related disorders. Immunity 2022; 55:31-55. [PMID: 35021057 PMCID: PMC8773457 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2021.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 484] [Impact Index Per Article: 242.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Obesity leads to chronic, systemic inflammation and can lead to insulin resistance (IR), β-cell dysfunction, and ultimately type 2 diabetes (T2D). This chronic inflammatory state contributes to long-term complications of diabetes, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), retinopathy, cardiovascular disease, and nephropathy, and may underlie the association of type 2 diabetes with other conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome, gout, and rheumatoid arthritis. Here, we review the current understanding of the mechanisms underlying inflammation in obesity, T2D, and related disorders. We discuss how chronic tissue inflammation results in IR, impaired insulin secretion, glucose intolerance, and T2D and review the effect of inflammation on diabetic complications and on the relationship between T2D and other pathologies. In this context, we discuss current therapeutic options for the treatment of metabolic disease, advances in the clinic and the potential of immune-modulatory approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Theresa V. Rohm
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Daniel T. Meier
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, CH-4031 Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Biomedicine (DBM), University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, CH-4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jerrold M. Olefsky
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Marc Y. Donath
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, CH-4031 Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Biomedicine (DBM), University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, CH-4031 Basel, Switzerland.,Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Yano H, Hamanaka R, Zhang JJ, Yano M, Hida M, Matsuo N, Yoshioka H. MicroRNA-26 regulates the expression of CTGF after exposure to ionizing radiation. RADIATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL BIOPHYSICS 2021; 60:411-419. [PMID: 33959794 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-021-00915-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Radiation-induced fibrosis (RIF) is a serious complication that occurs after irradiation and which is caused by the deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins such as collagen. However, the underlying mechanisms, including the expression of the cytokines, that promote the RIF process, are not yet fully understood. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have recently been suggested to act as post-transcriptional repressors for many genes; however, their role in the process of RIF remains to be elucidated. Our previous study showed that ionizing radiation increased the type I collagen expression through the activation of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, while miR-29 repressed this increase. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms by which the expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), a downstream mediator of TGF-β, is controlled by miRNAs post-transcriptionally after exposure to ionizing radiation. The expression of CTGF in NIH-3T3 cells and mouse embryonic fibroblasts was increased by ionizing radiation. However, this increase was suppressed with a specific inhibitor of TGF-β receptor. Among the predictable miRNAs that target the CTGF gene, the expression of miR-26a was downregulated after exposure to ionizing radiation and this regulation was negatively mediated by TGF-β signaling. miR-26a negatively regulated the CTGF expression at the post-transcriptional level; however, ionizing radiation suppressed this negative regulation. In addition, the overexpression of miR-26a inhibited the expression of CTGF and type I collagen after irradiation. In conclusion, miR-26a modulates the expression of CTGF via TGF-β signaling in irradiated fibroblasts. The results suggest the potential application of miR-26a in the treatment of RIF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Yano
- Research Promotion Institute, Oita University, 1-1 Idaigaoka Hasama-machi, Yufu, Oita, 879-5593, Japan.
| | - Ryoji Hamanaka
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Oita, Japan
- Department of Human Sciences, Oita University of Nursing and Human Sciences, Oita, Japan
| | - Juan Juan Zhang
- Department of Matrix Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Oita, Japan
| | - Mami Yano
- Department of Matrix Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Oita, Japan
| | - Mariko Hida
- Department of Matrix Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Oita, Japan
| | - Noritaka Matsuo
- Department of Matrix Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Oita, Japan
| | - Hidekatsu Yoshioka
- Department of Matrix Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Oita, Japan
- Department of Clinical Examination, Shinbeppu Hospital, Beppu, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Tamura T, Kodama T, Sato K, Murai K, Yoshioka T, Shigekawa M, Yamada R, Hikita H, Sakamori R, Akita H, Eguchi H, Johnson RL, Yokoi H, Mukoyama M, Tatsumi T, Takehara T. Dysregulation of PI3K and Hippo signaling pathways synergistically induces chronic pancreatitis via CTGF upregulation. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:143414. [PMID: 34032634 DOI: 10.1172/jci143414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of PI3K and Hippo signaling in chronic pancreatitis (CP) pathogenesis is unclear. Therefore, we assessed the involvement of these pathways in CP by examining the PI3K and Hippo signaling components PTEN and SAV1, respectively. We observed significant decreases in pancreatic PTEN and SAV1 levels in 2 murine CP models: repeated cerulein injection and pancreatic ductal ligation. Additionally, pancreas-specific deletion of Pten and Sav1 (DKO) induced CP in mice. Pancreatic connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) was markedly upregulated in both CP models and DKO mice, and pancreatic CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-α (CEBPA) expression was downregulated in the CP models. Interestingly, in pancreatic acinar cells (PACs), CEBPA knockdown reduced PTEN and SAV1 and increased CTGF levels in vitro. Furthermore, CEBPA knockdown in PACs induced acinar-to-ductal metaplasia and activation of cocultured macrophages and pancreatic stellate cells. These results were mitigated by CTGF inhibition. CP in DKO mice was also ameliorated by Ctgf gene deletion, and cerulein-induced CP was alleviated by antibody-mediated CTGF neutralization. Finally, we observed significantly decreased PTEN, SAV1, and CEBPA and increased CTGF levels in human CP tissues compared with nonpancreatitis tissues. Taken together, our results indicate that dysregulation of PI3K and Hippo signaling induces CP via CTGF upregulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ryoko Yamada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and
| | | | | | - Hirofumi Akita
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Eguchi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Randy L Johnson
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Hideki Yokoi
- Department of Nephrology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masashi Mukoyama
- Department of Nephrology, Kumamoto University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto, Japan
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Voutilainen SH, Kosola SK, Lohi J, Jahnukainen T, Pakarinen MP, Jalanko H. Expression of fibrosis-related genes in liver allografts: Association with histology and long-term outcome after pediatric liver transplantation. Clin Transplant 2021; 35:e14373. [PMID: 34043847 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.14373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unexplained graft fibrosis and inflammation are common after pediatric liver transplantation (LT). OBJECTIVE We investigated the graft expression of fibrogenic genes and correlated the findings with transplant histopathology and outcome. METHODS Liver biopsies from 29 recipients were obtained at a median of 13.1 (IQR: 5.0-18.4) years after pediatric LT. Control samples were from six liver-healthy subjects. Hepatic expression of 40 fibrosis-related genes was correlated to histological findings: normal histology, fibrosis with no inflammation, and fibrosis with inflammation. Liver function was evaluated after a subsequent follow-up of 9.0 years (IQR: 8.0-9.4). RESULTS Patients with fibrosis and no inflammation had significantly increased gene expression of profibrotic TGF-β3 (1.17 vs. 1.02 p = .005), CTGF (1.64 vs. 0.66 p = .014), PDGF-α (1.79 vs. 0.98 p = .049), PDGF -β (0.99 vs. 0.76 p = .006), integrin-subunit-β1 (1.19 vs. 1.02 p = .045), α-SMA (1.12 vs. 0.58 p = .013), type I collagen (0.82 vs. 0.53 p = .005) and antifibrotic decorin (1.15 vs. 0.99 p = .045) compared to patients with normal histology. mRNA expression of VEGF A (0.84 vs. 1.06 p = .049) was lower. Only a few of the studied genes were upregulated in patients with both fibrosis and inflammation. The gene expression levels showed no association with later graft outcome. CONCLUSIONS Altered hepatic expression of fibrosis-related genes is associated with graft fibrosis without concurrent inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silja H Voutilainen
- Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Transplantation Surgery, Pediatric Liver and Gut Research Group, New Children's Hospital, Helsinki University, Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Silja K Kosola
- Pediatric Research Center, New Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital, and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jouko Lohi
- Department of Pathology, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Timo Jahnukainen
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology and Transplantation, New Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mikko P Pakarinen
- Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Transplantation Surgery, Pediatric Liver and Gut Research Group, New Children's Hospital, Helsinki University, Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hannu Jalanko
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology and Transplantation, New Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Reungoat E, Grigorov B, Zoulim F, Pécheur EI. Molecular Crosstalk between the Hepatitis C Virus and the Extracellular Matrix in Liver Fibrogenesis and Early Carcinogenesis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13092270. [PMID: 34065048 PMCID: PMC8125929 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In the era of direct-acting antivirals against the hepatitis C virus (HCV), curing chronic hepatitis C has become a reality. However, while replicating chronically, HCV creates a peculiar state of inflammation and oxidative stress in the infected liver, which fuels DNA damage at the onset of HCV-induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This cancer, the second leading cause of death by cancer, remains of bad prognosis when diagnosed. This review aims to decipher how HCV durably alters elements of the extracellular matrix that compose the liver microenvironment, directly through its viral proteins or indirectly through the induction of cytokine secretion, thereby leading to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and, ultimately, HCC. Abstract Chronic infection by the hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of liver diseases, predisposing to fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver fibrosis is characterized by an overly abundant accumulation of components of the hepatic extracellular matrix, such as collagen and elastin, with consequences on the properties of this microenvironment and cancer initiation and growth. This review will provide an update on mechanistic concepts of HCV-related liver fibrosis/cirrhosis and early stages of carcinogenesis, with a dissection of the molecular details of the crosstalk during disease progression between hepatocytes, the extracellular matrix, and hepatic stellate cells.
Collapse
|
27
|
Growth Factors Assessed during Kasai Procedure in Liver and Serum Are Not Predictive for the Postoperative Liver Deterioration in Infants with Biliary Atresia. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10091978. [PMID: 34062967 PMCID: PMC8124311 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10091978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Biliary atresia (BA) is a neonatal cholangiopathy characterized by progressive destruction of the biliary system resulting in liver cirrhosis. Residual bile drainage can temporarily be achieved through Kasai portoenterostomy (KPE) and some children show long-term survival with their native liver. However, most children eventually require liver transplantation (LTX). As several growth factors (GF) and chemokines have been shown to promote fibrogenesis in the liver, we assessed whether GF are predictive for the course of disease. Material and Methods: Liver and sera samples were collected from 49 infants with BA during KPE. Levels of 13 different GF were measured by multiplex immunoassay. Patient outcomes were stratified into favorable (bilirubin < 20 µmol/L at 2-year follow-up) and unfavorable (LTX). GF levels were compared between groups by a t-test, correlation coefficients were calculated, and principal component analyses performed. Results: Twenty-two patients showed a favorable and 27 an unfavorable disease course. No relation of GF and outcome could be established. In both groups, high levels of SDF-1alpha/CXCL12 (1473.0 ± 497.5 pg/mL), FGF2 (301.2 ± 207.8 pg/mL), and VEGF-a (209.0 ± 146.4 pg/mL) levels were measured within the liver, followed (in descending order) by PDGF-bb, LIF, GM-CSF, BDNF, VEGF-d, beta-NGF, IL-7, SCF, PIGF-1, and EGF. Serum marker levels showed much higher mean variation compared to hepatic values and no correlation to the protein microenvironment in the liver. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates high amounts of GF in livers from infants with BA at KPE, but no correlation to the outcome or serum values could be established. Our data suggest that local or systemic GF levels are unsuitable for prediction of the disease course. Collectively, we conclude that in BA the degree of proliferative activity caused by GF is a dismissible factor for the further course of disease.
Collapse
|
28
|
Jan AT, Rahman S, Badierah R, Lee EJ, Mattar EH, Redwan EM, Choi I. Expedition into Exosome Biology: A Perspective of Progress from Discovery to Therapeutic Development. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:1157. [PMID: 33800282 PMCID: PMC7962655 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are membrane-enclosed distinct cellular entities of endocytic origin that shuttle proteins and RNA molecules intercellularly for communication purposes. Their surface is embossed by a huge variety of proteins, some of which are used as diagnostic markers. Exosomes are being explored for potential drug delivery, although their therapeutic utilities are impeded by gaps in knowledge regarding their formation and function under physiological condition and by lack of methods capable of shedding light on intraluminal vesicle release at the target site. Nonetheless, exosomes offer a promising means of developing systems that enable the specific delivery of therapeutics in diseases like cancer. This review summarizes information on donor cell types, cargoes, cargo loading, routes of administration, and the engineering of exosomal surfaces for specific peptides that increase target specificity and as such, therapeutic delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arif Tasleem Jan
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Rajouri 185234, India;
| | - Safikur Rahman
- Department of Botany, MS College, BR Ambedkar Bihar University, Muzaffarpur, Bihar 842001, India;
| | - Raied Badierah
- Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, and Laboratory University Hospital, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (R.B.); (E.H.M.)
| | - Eun Ju Lee
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Research Institute of Cell Culture, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Korea;
| | - Ehab H. Mattar
- Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, and Laboratory University Hospital, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (R.B.); (E.H.M.)
| | - Elrashdy M. Redwan
- Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, and Laboratory University Hospital, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (R.B.); (E.H.M.)
| | - Inho Choi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Research Institute of Cell Culture, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Korea;
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Yang DJ, Shi JH, Xia ZP, Guo WZ, Ahmed MS, Zhang SJ. Hepatic connective tissue growth factor expression and regulation differ between non-steatotic and non-alcoholic steatotic livers from brain-dead donor. Sci Rep 2021; 11:3857. [PMID: 33594198 PMCID: PMC7886893 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83516-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Accurate evaluation of liver steatosis is required from brain-dead donors (BDDs) with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Our purposes were to investigate expression and regulation of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) expression in livers from human and rat after brain death, and further evaluate its potential application. NAFLD and brain death models were established in rats. LX2 cells were cultured under hypoxia/reoxygenation. CTGF protein and mRNA levels were measured in liver samples from BDDs of human and rat by immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. YAP-regulated CTGF expression was investigated in LX2 cells via YAP small interfering RNA and Verteporfin treatment. Blood CTGF level from BDDs was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. After brain death, CTGF, transforming growth factor-β and YAP were overexpressed in non-alcoholic steatotic liver, whereas CTGF was downregulated in non-steatotic liver. Time-series analysis revealed that CTGF and YAP expression was comparable, as confirmed by inhibited YAP expression in LX2 cells. CTGF level and NAFLD activity were linearly correlated. CTGF expression and regulation differ between non-steatosis and nonalcoholic steatosis livers from BDDs. CTGF may be an important factor to evaluate graft quality from BDDs with NAFLD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Jing Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for HPB Diseases and Organ Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ji-Hua Shi
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for HPB Diseases and Organ Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zong-Ping Xia
- Translational Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wen-Zhi Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for HPB Diseases and Organ Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Mohammed Shakil Ahmed
- Institute for Surgical Research, Department of Cardiology and Center for Heart Failure Research, Oslo University Hospital-Rikshospitalet and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Shui-Jun Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for HPB Diseases and Organ Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Dillinger AE, Kuespert S, Froemel F, Tamm ER, Fuchshofer R. CCN2/CTGF promotor activity in the developing and adult mouse eye. Cell Tissue Res 2021; 384:625-641. [PMID: 33512643 PMCID: PMC8211604 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03332-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
CCN2/CTGF is a matricellular protein that is known to enhance transforming growth factor-β signaling and to induce a myofibroblast-like phenotype in a variety of cell types. Here, we investigated Ccn2/Ctgf promotor activity during development and in the adult mouse eye, using CTGFLacZ/+ mice in which the β-galactosidase reporter gene LacZ had been inserted into the open reading frame of Ccn2/Ctgf. Promotor activity was assessed by staining for β-galactosidase activity and by immunolabeling using antibodies against β-galactosidase. Co-immunostaining using antibodies against glutamine synthetase, glial fibrillary acidic protein, choline acetyltransferase, and CD31 was applied to identify specific cell types. Ccn2/Ctgf promotor activity was intense in neural crest-derived cells differentiating to corneal stroma and endothelium, and to the stroma of choroid, iris, ciliary body, and the trabecular meshwork during development. In the adult eye, a persistent and very strong promotor activity was present in the trabecular meshwork outflow pathways. In addition, endothelial cells of Schlemm’s canal, and of retinal and choroidal vessels, retinal astrocytes, Müller glia, and starburst amacrine cells were stained. Very strong promoter activity was seen in the astrocytes of the glial lamina at the optic nerve head. We conclude that CCN2/CTGF signaling is involved in the processes that govern neural crest morphogenesis during ocular development. In the adult eye, CCN2/CTGF likely plays an important role for the trabecular meshwork outflow pathways and the glial lamina of the optic nerve head.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea E Dillinger
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sabrina Kuespert
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Franziska Froemel
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Ernst R Tamm
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Rudolf Fuchshofer
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, 93053, Regensburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abnormal expression of connective tissue growth factor and its correlation with fibrogenesis in adenomyosis. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 42:651-660. [PMID: 33431336 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) expression relate to adenomyotic fibrosis and determine the correlation between fibrosis with adenomyosis-associated dysmenorrhoea? DESIGN Protein and mRNA expression of CTGF was detected by Western blots and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction in the endometrium of the control group and the eutopic and ectopic endometrium of the adenomyosis group. Collagen fibres and type I collagen in the myometrium were detected by immunohistochemistry and Masson's trichrome staining, and the correlations of CTGF protein and mRNA levels with the degree of fibrosis were analysed. Furthermore, the relationship between the severity of dysmenorrhoea and the degree of fibrosis was determined, and the correlation between uterus size and the degree of fibrosis was also analysed. RESULTS Levels of CTGF mRNA and protein were significantly higher in patients with adenomyosis than in controls, and CTGF mRNA and protein expression in adenomyosis was positively correlated with fibrosis severity (r = 0.57, P < 0.001 and r = 0.39, P = 0.012), which correlated positively with dysmenorrhoea and uterus size (r = 0.42 and r = 0.6, P < 0.002). CONCLUSIONS Increased CTGF may contribute to the occurrence and fibrogenic progression of adenomyosis and may play an important role in dysmenorrhoea. The present study may provide ideas for treating adenomyosis-associated dysmenorrhoea.
Collapse
|
32
|
Li H, Yang T, Fei Z. miR‑26a‑5p alleviates lipopolysaccharide‑induced acute lung injury by targeting the connective tissue growth factor. Mol Med Rep 2020; 23:5. [PMID: 33179083 PMCID: PMC7673325 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.11643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the regulatory functions of microRNA (miR)‑26a‑5p on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‑induced acute lung injury (ALI) and its molecular mechanisms. The role of miR‑26a‑5p on an ALI mouse model was evaluated by examining the histological changes, wet/dry (W/D) ratio, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) expression levels in lung tissues and the survival of ALI mice. Moreover, the protein concentration and the number of neutrophils and lymphocytes in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was analyzed. To explore the effect of miR‑26a‑5p on inflammatory responses and apoptosis, the expression levels of tumour necrosis factor‑α (TNF‑α), interleukin (IL)‑1β and IL‑6 and apoptosis were measured by ELISA, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‑mediated dUTP nick end labelling staining and flow cytometry in BALF, A549 cells and lung tissues. B‑cell lymphoma‑2 (Bcl‑2), Bax and cleaved caspase‑3 in lung tissues were measured by western blotting and reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) was predicted as a direct target of miR‑26a‑5p using dual luciferase reporter assay. The present study sought to determine whether CTGF overexpression reversed the effect of miR‑26a‑5p on apoptosis and inflammatory responses in LPS‑induced A549 cells. The data revealed that miR‑26a‑5p overexpression ameliorated LPS‑induced ALI, which was implicated by fewer histopathological changes, W/D ratio, apoptosis in lung tissues and the survival of ALI mice. Moreover, miR‑26a‑5p overexpression alleviated LPS‑induced inflammatory responses in ALI mice via the reduction of total protein, neutrophil and lymphocyte counts and the expression levels of TNF‑α, IL‑1β, IL‑6, MDA and MPO activity in BALF. Similarly, miR‑26a‑5p overexpression decreased apoptosis and the expression of TNF‑α, IL‑1β and IL‑6 in LPS‑induced A549 cells. CTGF was a direct target of miR‑26a‑5p. CTGF overexpression reversed the effect of miR‑26a‑5p on cell apoptosis and inflammatory responses in LPS‑induced A549 cells. The present study demonstrated that miR‑26a‑5p could attenuate lung inflammation and apoptosis in LPS‑induced ALI by targeting CTGF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Li
- Department of Child Healthcare, Zibo Women & Children Hospital, Zibo, Shandong 255000, P.R. China
| | - Tingting Yang
- Department of Child Healthcare, Zibo Women & Children Hospital, Zibo, Shandong 255000, P.R. China
| | - Zhaoxia Fei
- General Internal Medicine, Qingdao Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Qingdao Hiser Hospital), Qingdao, Shandong 266033, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Chen Z, Zhang N, Chu HY, Yu Y, Zhang ZK, Zhang G, Zhang BT. Connective Tissue Growth Factor: From Molecular Understandings to Drug Discovery. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:593269. [PMID: 33195264 PMCID: PMC7658337 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.593269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a key signaling and regulatory molecule involved in different biological processes, such as cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and wound healing, as well as multiple pathologies, such as tumor development and tissue fibrosis. Although the underlying mechanisms of CTGF remain incompletely understood, a commonly accepted theory is that the interactions between different protein domains in CTGF and other various regulatory proteins and ligands contribute to its variety of functions. Here, we highlight the structure of each domain of CTGF and its biology functions in physiological conditions. We further summarized main diseases that are deeply influenced by CTGF domains and the potential targets of these diseases. Finally, we address the advantages and disadvantages of current drugs targeting CTGF and provide the perspective for the drug discovery of the next generation of CTGF inhibitors based on aptamers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zihao Chen
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hang Yin Chu
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yuanyuan Yu
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zong-Kang Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ge Zhang
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Bao-Ting Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Chemerin-156 is the Active Isoform in Human Hepatic Stellate Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21207555. [PMID: 33066326 PMCID: PMC7589075 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The chemokine chemerin exists as C-terminally processed isoforms whose biological functions are mostly unknown. A highly active human chemerin variant (huChem-157) was protective in experimental hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) models. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are central mediators of hepatic fibrogenesis and carcinogenesis and express the chemerin receptors chemokine-like receptor 1 (CMKLR1) and G protein-coupled receptor 1 (GPR1). Here we aimed to analyse the effect of chemerin isoforms on the viability, proliferation and secretome of the human HSC cell line LX-2. Therefore, huChem-157, 156 and 155 were over-expressed in LX-2 cells, which have low endogenous chemerin levels. HuChem-157 produced in LX-2 cells activated CMKLR1 and GPR1, and huChem-156 modestly induced GPR1 signaling. HuChem-155 is an inactive chemerin variant. Chemerin isoforms had no effect on cell viability and proliferation. Cellular expression of the fibrotic proteins galectin-3 and alpha-smooth muscle actin was not regulated by any chemerin isoform. HuChem-156 increased IL-6, IL-8 and galectin-3 in cell media. HuChem-157 was ineffective, and accordingly, did not enhance levels of these proteins in media of primary human hepatic stellate cells when added exogenously. These analyses provide evidence that huChem-156 is the biologic active chemerin variant in hepatic stellate cells and acts as a pro-inflammatory factor.
Collapse
|
35
|
Ouyang X, You S, Zhang Y, Zhang C, Zhang G, Shao X, He F, Hu L. Transplantation of Human Amnion Epithelial Cells Improves Endometrial Regeneration in Rat Model of Intrauterine Adhesions. Stem Cells Dev 2020; 29:1346-1362. [PMID: 32772798 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2019.0246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) are characterized by the injury of endometrium due to curettage and/or endometritis. The loss of functional endometrium in uterine cavity usually results in hypomenorrhea, amenorrhea, infertility, and/or recurrent pregnancy loss. Recently, stem cell transplantation has been applied to promote the endometrial regeneration. Human amnion epithelial cells (hAECs) have been shown to have stem cell characteristics. In this study, we found that PKH26-labeled hAECs were mainly distributed in the basal layer of endometrium after transplantation, and hAEC transplantation, including uterine injection and tail vein injection, could increase pregnancy rate and the number of embryos in rat model of IUAs. Moreover, hAEC transplantation was demonstrated to increase the endometrial thickness, promote the proliferation of glands and blood vessels, and decrease fibrotic areas in the endometrium. The immunohistochemical and quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis showed the upregulated expression of growth factors, such as basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) after hAEC transplantation; and the downregulated expression of collagen type I alpha 1 (COL1A1), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), all of which are associated with the extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition after hAEC transplantation. The mRNA sequencing indicated that platelet-derived growth factor-C (PDGF-C), thrombospondin-1 (THBS1), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), Wnt5a, and Snai2 were significantly modulated in treatment groups. These results indicate that hAEC transplantation promotes endometrial regeneration and the restoration of fertility in rat model of IUAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolan Ouyang
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shuang You
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yulin Zhang
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chanyu Zhang
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Reproduction and Stem Cell Therapy Research Center of Chongqing, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory for Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Guanghui Zhang
- Chongqing Engineering Technology Research Center of Stem Cell and Neural Regeneration, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Guolian Stem Cell Technology Co. Ltd., Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Shao
- Shanghai iCELL Biotechnology Co. Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Fan He
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Reproduction and Stem Cell Therapy Research Center of Chongqing, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory for Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Lina Hu
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Reproduction and Stem Cell Therapy Research Center of Chongqing, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory for Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Alatas FS, Matsuura T, Pudjiadi AH, Wijaya S, Taguchi T. Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma Agonist Attenuates Liver Fibrosis by Several Fibrogenic Pathways in an Animal Model of Cholestatic Fibrosis. Pediatr Gastroenterol Hepatol Nutr 2020; 23:346-355. [PMID: 32704495 PMCID: PMC7354870 DOI: 10.5223/pghn.2020.23.4.346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) has a key role in hepatic fibrogenesis by virtue of its effect on the hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Although many studies have shown that PPAR-γ agonists inhibit liver fibrosis, the mechanism remains largely unclear, especially regarding the cross-talk between PPAR-γ and other potent fibrogenic factors. METHODS This experimental study involved 25 male Wistar rats. Twenty rats were subjected to bile duct ligation (BDL) to induce liver fibrosis, further divided into an untreated group (BDL; n=10) and a group treated with the PPAR-γ agonist thiazolidinedione (TZD), at 14 days post-operation (BDL+TZD; n=10). The remaining 5 rats had a sham operation (sham; n=5). The effect of PPAR-γ agonist on liver fibrosis was evaluated by histopathology, protein immunohistochemistry, and mRNA expression quantitative polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Histology and immunostaining showed markedly reduced collagen deposition, bile duct proliferation, and HSCs in the BDL+TZD group compared to those in the BDL group (p<0.001). Similarly, significantly lower mRNA expression of collagen α-1(I), matrix metalloproteinase-2, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-B chain, and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) were evident in the BDL+TZD group compared to those in the BDL group (p=0.0002, p<0.035, p<0.0001, and p=0.0123 respectively). Moreover, expression of the transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-β1) was also downregulated in the BDL+TZD group (p=0.0087). CONCLUSION The PPAR-γ agonist inhibits HSC activation in vivo and attenuates liver fibrosis through several fibrogenic pathways. Potent fibrogenic factors such as PDGF, CTGF, and TGF-β1 were downregulated by the PPAR-γ agonist. Targeting PPAR-γ activity may be a potential strategy to control liver fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Safira Alatas
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.,Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Toshiharu Matsuura
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Antonius Hocky Pudjiadi
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Stephanie Wijaya
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Tomoaki Taguchi
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Wu SY, Yang WY, Cheng CC, Hsiao MC, Tsai SL, Lin HK, Lin KH, Yuh CH. Low Molecular Weight Fucoidan Prevents Radiation-Induced Fibrosis and Secondary Tumors in a Zebrafish Model. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12061608. [PMID: 32570707 PMCID: PMC7353073 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12061608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy often causes unwanted side effects such as radiation-induced fibrosis and second malignancies. Fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide extracted from brown seaweed, has many biological effects including anti-inflammation and anti-tumor. In the present study, we investigated the radioprotective effect of Oligo-Fucoidan (OF) using a zebrafish animal model. Adult zebrafish of wild-type and transgenic fish with hepatocellular carcinoma were orally fed with Oligo-Fucoidan before irradiation. Quantitative PCR, Sirius red stain, hematoxylin, and eosin stain were used for molecular and pathological analysis. Whole genomic microarrays were used to discover the global program of gene expression after Oligo-Fucoidan treatment and identified distinct classes of up- and downregulated genes/pathways during this process. Using Oligo-Fucoidan oral gavage in adult wild-type zebrafish, we found Oligo-Fucoidan pretreatment decreased irradiation-induced fibrosis in hepatocyte. Using hepatitis B virus X antigen (HBx), Src and HBx, Src, p53−/+ transgenic zebrafish liver cancer model, we found that Oligo-Fucoidan pretreatment before irradiation could lower the expression of lipogenic factors and enzymes, fibrosis, and cell cycle/proliferation markers, which eventually reduced formation of liver cancer compared to irradiation alone. Gene ontology analysis revealed that Oligo-Fucoidan pretreatment increased the expression of genes involved in oxidoreductase activity in zebrafish irradiation. Oligo-Fucoidan also decreased the expression of genes involved in transferase activity in wild-type fish without irradiation (WT), nuclear outer membrane-endoplasmic reticulum membrane network, and non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) transgenic fish. Rescue of those genes can prevent liver cancer formation. Conclusions: Our results provide evidence for the ability of Oligo-Fucoidan to prevent radiation-induced fibrosis and second malignancies in zebrafish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Szu-Yuan Wu
- Department of Food Nutrition and Health Biotechnology, College of Medical and Health Science, Asia University, Taichung 42354, Taiwan;
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Department of Medicine, Lo-Hsu Medical Foundation, Lotung Poh-Ai Hospital, Yilan 265, Taiwan
- Big Data Center, Lo-Hsu Medical Foundation, Lotung Poh-Ai Hospital, Yilan 265, Taiwan
- Department of Healthcare Administration, College of Medical and Health Science, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan
- School of Dentistry, College of Oral Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Yu Yang
- Institute of Molecular and Genomic Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan; (W.-Y.Y.); (C.-C.C.); (S.-L.T.); (H.-K.L.); (K.-H.L.)
| | - Chun-Chia Cheng
- Institute of Molecular and Genomic Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan; (W.-Y.Y.); (C.-C.C.); (S.-L.T.); (H.-K.L.); (K.-H.L.)
- Radiation Biology Research Center, Institute for Radiological Research, Chang Gung University/Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Chen Hsiao
- Research and Development Center, Hi-Q Marine Biotech International Ltd., Songshan District, Taipei 10561, Taiwan;
| | - Shin-Lin Tsai
- Institute of Molecular and Genomic Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan; (W.-Y.Y.); (C.-C.C.); (S.-L.T.); (H.-K.L.); (K.-H.L.)
| | - Hua-Kuo Lin
- Institute of Molecular and Genomic Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan; (W.-Y.Y.); (C.-C.C.); (S.-L.T.); (H.-K.L.); (K.-H.L.)
| | - Kuan-Hao Lin
- Institute of Molecular and Genomic Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan; (W.-Y.Y.); (C.-C.C.); (S.-L.T.); (H.-K.L.); (K.-H.L.)
| | - Chiou-Hwa Yuh
- Institute of Molecular and Genomic Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan; (W.-Y.Y.); (C.-C.C.); (S.-L.T.); (H.-K.L.); (K.-H.L.)
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Structural Biology, National Tsing-Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan
- Department of Biological Science & Technology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 30010, Taiwan
- Program in Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-37-246-166 (ext. 3538); Fax: +886-37-586-459
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Wang D, Ma Y, Tong X, Zhang Y, Fan H. Diabetes Mellitus Contributes to Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: A Review From Clinical Appearance to Possible Pathogenesis. Front Public Health 2020; 8:196. [PMID: 32582606 PMCID: PMC7285959 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.00196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a systematic metabolic disease characterized by persistent hyperglycemia, which complications often involve multiple organs and systems including vessels, kidneys, retinas, and nervous system. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic, progressive, fibrotic disease with usual interstitial pneumonia patterns. With in-depth research, diabetic related lung injury has been confirmed, and the lung is also considered as one of the targeted organs of diabetes, which mainly manifests as the pulmonary fibrosis. Based on that, this review discusses the association between diabetes mellitus and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis from clinical findings to possible mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongguang Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yao Ma
- The Center of Gerontology and Geriatrics, West China Hospital, West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiang Tong
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yonggang Zhang
- Department of Periodical Press, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hong Fan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Zhou J, Sun X, Yang L, Wang L, Ran G, Wang J, Cao Q, Wu L, Bryant A, Ling C, Pi L. Hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α negatively regulates connective tissue growth factor during liver regeneration. FASEB J 2020; 34:4970-4983. [PMID: 32057145 PMCID: PMC7722640 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201902382r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Liver regeneration after injury requires fine-tune regulation of connective tissue growth factor (Ctgf). It also involves dynamic expression of hepatocyte nuclear factor (Hnf)4α, Yes-associated protein (Yap), and transforming growth factor (Tgf)-β. The upstream inducers of Ctgf, such as Yap, etc, are well-known. However, the negative regulator of Ctgf remains unclear. Here, we investigated the Hnf4α regulation of Ctgf post-various types of liver injury. Both wild-type animals and animals contained siRNA-mediated Hnf4α knockdown and Cre-mediated Ctgf conditional deletion were used. We observed that Ctgf induction was associated with Hnf4α decline, nuclear Yap accumulation, and Tgf-β upregulation during early stage of liver regeneration. The Ctgf promoter contained an Hnf4α binding sequence that overlapped with the cis-regulatory element for Yap and Tgf-β. Ctgf loss attenuated inflammation, hepatocyte proliferation, and collagen synthesis, whereas Hnf4α knockdown enhanced Ctgf induction and liver fibrogenesis. These findings provided a new mechanism about fine-tuned regulation of Ctgf through Hnf4α antagonism of Yap and Tgf-β activities to balance regenerative and fibrotic signals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junmei Zhou
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of FloridaGainesvilleFLUSA
- Institute of Cardiovascular DiseaseKey Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan ProvinceUniversity of South ChinaHengyangChina
| | - Xiaowei Sun
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of FloridaGainesvilleFLUSA
- Institute of PathologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesLanzhou UniversityLanzhouChina
| | - Lu Yang
- Integrative Genomics CoreBeckman Research Institute of the City of HopeDuarteCAUSA
| | - Liqun Wang
- Department of MedicineUniversity of FloridaGainesvilleFLUSA
| | - Gai Ran
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of FloridaGainesvilleFLUSA
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic EngineeringSchool of Life SciencesZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Jinhui Wang
- Integrative Genomics CoreBeckman Research Institute of the City of HopeDuarteCAUSA
| | - Qi Cao
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear MedicineUniversity of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreMDUSA
| | - Lizi Wu
- Department of Microbiology& Molecular GeneticsCollege of MedicineUniversity of FloridaGainesvilleFLUSA
| | - Andrew Bryant
- Department of MedicineUniversity of FloridaGainesvilleFLUSA
| | - Chen Ling
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of FloridaGainesvilleFLUSA
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic EngineeringSchool of Life SciencesZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Liya Pi
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of FloridaGainesvilleFLUSA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Src Inhibition Attenuates Liver Fibrosis by Preventing Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Decreasing Connetive Tissue Growth Factor. Cells 2020; 9:cells9030558. [PMID: 32120837 PMCID: PMC7140470 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The SRC kinase family comprises non-receptor tyrosine kinases that are ubiquitously expressed in all cell types. Although Src is reportedly activated in pulmonary and renal fibrosis, little is known regarding its role in liver fibrosis. This study investigated whether the inhibition of Src protects against liver fibrosis. The expression of Src was upregulated in thioacetamide (TAA)-induced fibrotic mouse liver and cirrhosis of patients, and phospho-Src was upregulated during activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC). In addition, Src inhibition reduced the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) in primary HSCs and suppressed transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)-induced expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in hepatocytes. Src inhibitor Saracatinib also attenuated TAA-induced expression of type I collagen, αSMA, and CTGF in mouse liver tissues. The antifibrotic effect of Src inhibitors was associated with the downregulation of Smad3, but not of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). In addition, Src inhibition increased autophagy flux and protected against liver fibrosis. These results suggest that Src plays an important role in liver fibrosis and that Src inhibitors could be treat liver fibrosis.
Collapse
|
41
|
Advances in pathogenic mechanisms and management of radiation-induced fibrosis. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 121:109560. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
|
42
|
Yu Q, Xiong X, Zhao L, Xu T, Wang Q. Antifibrotic effects of specific siRNA targeting connective tissue growth factor delivered by polyethyleneimine‑functionalized magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles on LX‑2 cells. Mol Med Rep 2019; 21:181-190. [PMID: 31746398 PMCID: PMC6896301 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2019.10834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a possible key determinant of progressive fibrosis. Nanotechnology has been considered as a potential tool for developing novel drug delivery systems for various diseases, including liver fibrosis. The present study aimed to investigate the potential antifibrotic activity of CTGF small interfering RNA (siRNA) mediated by polyethyleneimine (PEI)-functionalized magnetic iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles (NPs) in LX-2 cells. PEI-Fe3O4/siRNA complexes were synthesized to facilitate siRNA delivery and were transfected into LX-2 cells. Laser confocal microscopy was employed to investigate the cell uptake of PEI-Fe3O4/siRNA complexes. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and western blotting were used to verify the effect of gene silencing. The results showed that siRNA-loaded PEI-Fe3O4 exhibited low cytotoxicity. The transfection efficiency of PEI-Fe3O4/siRNA reached 73.8%, and RT-qPCR and western blotting demonstrated effective gene silencing. These results indicated that CTGF siRNA delivered by PEI-Fe3O4 NPs significantly reduces CTGF expression and collagen production in activated LX-2 cells, providing a basis for future in vivo studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qin Yu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Wuhan Blood Center, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoqin Xiong
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Purification and Application of Plant Anticancer Active Ingredients, School of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Hubei University of Education, Wuhan, Hubei 430205, P.R. China
| | - Lei Zhao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Wuhan Blood Center, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, P.R. China
| | - Tingting Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Wuhan Blood Center, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, P.R. China
| | - Qianhua Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Miranda JF, Scarinci LD, Ramos LF, Silva CM, Gonçalves LR, de Morais PF, Malaspina O, Moraes KCM. The modulatory effect of triclosan on the reversion of the activated phenotype of LX-2 hepatic stellate cells. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2019; 34:e22413. [PMID: 31714634 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic diseases leading to fibrosis affect millions of individuals worldwide and are a major public health challenge. Although, there have been many advances in understanding hepatic fibrogenesis, an effective therapy remains elusive. Studies focus primarily on activation of the hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the principal fibrogenic cells in the liver; however, fewer numbers of studies have examined molecular mechanisms that deactivate HSC, controlling the profibrogenic phenotype. In the present study, we evaluated cellular and molecular actions of the chemical triclosan (TCS) in reverting activated HSCs to a quiesced phenotype. We demonstrated that the inhibition of the enzyme fatty acid synthase by TCS in activated HSCs promotes survival of the cells and triggers cellular and molecular changes that promote cellular phenotypic reversion, offering potentially new therapeutic directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juliana F Miranda
- Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Letícia D Scarinci
- Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Letícia F Ramos
- Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Caio M Silva
- Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Letícia R Gonçalves
- Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Priscila F de Morais
- Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Osmar Malaspina
- Instituto de Biociências, Centro de Estudos de Insetos Sociais, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Karen C M Moraes
- Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Pakchotanon R, Ye JY, Cook RJ, Chandran V, Gladman DD. Liver Abnormalities in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis. J Rheumatol 2019; 47:847-853. [PMID: 31615918 DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.181312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to determine the prevalence and incidence, and to identify the factors associated with liver abnormalities in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA). METHODS From a longitudinal cohort study, we identified PsA patients with either elevated serum transaminase or alkaline phosphatase levels or liver disease after the first visit to the PsA clinic (cases). Controls were subjects from the same cohort who never had such abnormalities or liver disease. Cases and controls were matched 1:1 by sex, age at the first clinic visit, and followup duration; variables at the onset of the first appearance of liver test abnormality associated with liver abnormalities were identified using univariate logistic and multivariate logistic regression analyses. RESULTS Among 1061 patients followed in the PsA clinic, 343 had liver abnormalities. Two hundred fifty-six patients who developed liver abnormalities after the first visit were identified as cases, and 718 patients were identified as controls. The prevalence of liver abnormalities was 32% and the incidence was 39/1000 patient-years where there were 256 cases over 6533 total person-years in the PsA cohort. Liver abnormalities were detected after a mean (SD) followup duration of 8.3 ± 7.8 years. The common causes of liver abnormalities were drug-induced hepatitis and fatty liver. Independent factors associated with liver abnormalities were higher body mass index (BMI), daily alcohol intake, higher damaged joint count, elevated C-reactive protein, and use of methotrexate, leflunomide, or tumor necrosis factor inhibitors. CONCLUSION Liver abnormalities are common among patients with PsA and are associated with higher BMI, more severe disease, and certain therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rattapol Pakchotanon
- From the Psoriatic Arthritis Program, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto; Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo; University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Toronto, Toronto; Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Rheumatic Disease Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Phramongkutlao Hospital and College of Medicine, Bangkok, Thailand.,R. Pakchotanon, MD, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, and Rheumatic Disease Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Phramongkutlao Hospital and College of Medicine; J.Y. Ye, Biostatistician, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital; R.J. Cook, PhD, Professor, Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Waterloo; V. Chandran, MBBS, MD, DM, PhD, Assistant Professor, University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Toronto, Co-Director, Psoriatic Arthritis Program, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network; D.D. Gladman, MD, FRCPC, Director, Psoriatic Arthritis Program, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Senior Scientist, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network
| | - Justine Yang Ye
- From the Psoriatic Arthritis Program, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto; Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo; University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Toronto, Toronto; Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Rheumatic Disease Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Phramongkutlao Hospital and College of Medicine, Bangkok, Thailand.,R. Pakchotanon, MD, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, and Rheumatic Disease Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Phramongkutlao Hospital and College of Medicine; J.Y. Ye, Biostatistician, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital; R.J. Cook, PhD, Professor, Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Waterloo; V. Chandran, MBBS, MD, DM, PhD, Assistant Professor, University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Toronto, Co-Director, Psoriatic Arthritis Program, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network; D.D. Gladman, MD, FRCPC, Director, Psoriatic Arthritis Program, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Senior Scientist, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network
| | - Richard J Cook
- From the Psoriatic Arthritis Program, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto; Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo; University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Toronto, Toronto; Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Rheumatic Disease Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Phramongkutlao Hospital and College of Medicine, Bangkok, Thailand.,R. Pakchotanon, MD, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, and Rheumatic Disease Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Phramongkutlao Hospital and College of Medicine; J.Y. Ye, Biostatistician, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital; R.J. Cook, PhD, Professor, Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Waterloo; V. Chandran, MBBS, MD, DM, PhD, Assistant Professor, University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Toronto, Co-Director, Psoriatic Arthritis Program, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network; D.D. Gladman, MD, FRCPC, Director, Psoriatic Arthritis Program, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Senior Scientist, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network
| | - Vinod Chandran
- From the Psoriatic Arthritis Program, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto; Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo; University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Toronto, Toronto; Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Rheumatic Disease Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Phramongkutlao Hospital and College of Medicine, Bangkok, Thailand.,R. Pakchotanon, MD, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, and Rheumatic Disease Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Phramongkutlao Hospital and College of Medicine; J.Y. Ye, Biostatistician, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital; R.J. Cook, PhD, Professor, Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Waterloo; V. Chandran, MBBS, MD, DM, PhD, Assistant Professor, University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Toronto, Co-Director, Psoriatic Arthritis Program, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network; D.D. Gladman, MD, FRCPC, Director, Psoriatic Arthritis Program, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Senior Scientist, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network
| | - Dafna D Gladman
- From the Psoriatic Arthritis Program, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto; Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo; University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Toronto, Toronto; Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Rheumatic Disease Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Phramongkutlao Hospital and College of Medicine, Bangkok, Thailand. .,R. Pakchotanon, MD, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, and Rheumatic Disease Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Phramongkutlao Hospital and College of Medicine; J.Y. Ye, Biostatistician, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital; R.J. Cook, PhD, Professor, Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Waterloo; V. Chandran, MBBS, MD, DM, PhD, Assistant Professor, University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Toronto, Co-Director, Psoriatic Arthritis Program, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network; D.D. Gladman, MD, FRCPC, Director, Psoriatic Arthritis Program, Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Senior Scientist, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Hernández-Aquino E, Quezada-Ramírez MA, Silva-Olivares A, Casas-Grajales S, Ramos-Tovar E, Flores-Beltrán RE, Segovia J, Shibayama M, Muriel P. Naringenin attenuates the progression of liver fibrosis via inactivation of hepatic stellate cells and profibrogenic pathways. Eur J Pharmacol 2019; 865:172730. [PMID: 31618621 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2019.172730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
There is no effective treatment for hepatic fibrosis. Previously, we demonstrated that naringenin possesses the ability to prevent experimental chronic liver damage. Therefore, the objective of this work was to investigate whether naringenin could reverse carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced fibrosis in rats and, if so, to search for the mechanisms involved. CCl4 was given to male Wistar rats (400 mg/kg, three times per week, i. p.) for 12 weeks; naringenin (100 mg/kg twice per day, p. o.) was administered from weeks 9-12 of the CCl4 treatment. Liver damage and oxidative stress markers were measured. Masson's trichrome, hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunohistochemistry were performed. Zymography assays for MMP-9 and MMP-2 were carried out. TGF-β, CTGF, Col-I, MMP-13, NF-κB, IL-1β, IL-10, Smad7, pSmad3 and pJNK protein levels were determined by western blotting. In addition, α-SMA and Smad3 protein and mRNA levels were studied. Naringenin reversed liver damage, biochemical and oxidative stress marker elevation, and fibrosis and restored normal MMP-9 and MMP-2 activity. The flavonoid also preserved NF-κB, IL-1β, IL-10, TGF-β, CTGF, Col-I, MMP-13 and Smad7 protein levels. Moreover, naringenin decreased JNK activation and Smad3 phosphorylation in the linker region. Finally, α-SMA and Smad3 protein and mRNA levels were reduced by naringenin administration. The results of this study demonstrate that naringenin blocks oxidative stress, inflammation and the TGF-β-Smad3 and JNK-Smad3 pathways, thereby carrying out its antifibrotic effects and making it a good candidate to treat human fibrosis, as previously demonstrated in toxicological and clinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marco A Quezada-Ramírez
- Department of Physiology, Biophysics and Neurosciences, Cinvestav-IPN, Apartado Postal 14-740, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Angélica Silva-Olivares
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Cinvestav-IPN, Apartado Postal 14-740, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Sael Casas-Grajales
- Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Apartado Postal 14-740, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Erika Ramos-Tovar
- Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Apartado Postal 14-740, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rosa E Flores-Beltrán
- Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Apartado Postal 14-740, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - José Segovia
- Department of Physiology, Biophysics and Neurosciences, Cinvestav-IPN, Apartado Postal 14-740, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mineko Shibayama
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Cinvestav-IPN, Apartado Postal 14-740, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Pablo Muriel
- Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Apartado Postal 14-740, Mexico City, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Ramzy MM, Abdalla AM, Zenhom NM, Okasha AM, Abdelkafy AE, Saleh RK. Therapeutic effect of liraglutide on expression of CTGF and BMP-7 in induced diabetic nephropathy. J Cell Biochem 2019; 120:17512-17519. [PMID: 31127659 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.29015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Revised: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the critical complications of diabetes mellitus and the main cause of chronic renal dysfunction. The pathogenic mechanism causing the disease remains unclear and there is a lack of effective treatment methods so novel strategies are needed for DN management. The aim of this study, therefore, is to evaluate the effect of liraglutide as glucagon-like peptide-1 analogue and its underlying mechanisms on induced DN in rats MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty rats were divided into control group, diabetic group, and liraglutide-treated group. At the end of experiment, renal CTGF and BMP-7 messeger RNA expression were determined. Blood sugar, serum urea, and creatinine were measured. Also, histopathological changes were studied. RESULTS Liraglutide can improve renal alterations associated with diabetes as it reduced CTGF expression and increased BMP-7 expression. In the same time, it could improve histopathological changes and renal function tests. CONCLUSION These findings influence the beneficial use of liraglutide for the management of DN in patients with diabetes mellitus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maggie M Ramzy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minya, Egypt
| | - Ahlam M Abdalla
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minya, Egypt
| | - Nagwa M Zenhom
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minya, Egypt
| | - Ahmed M Okasha
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minya, Egypt
| | - Aya E Abdelkafy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minya, Egypt
| | - Rabeh K Saleh
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minya, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Zhang Z, Wang J, Chen Y, Suo L, Chen H, Zhu L, Wan G, Han X. Activin a promotes myofibroblast differentiation of endometrial mesenchymal stem cells via STAT3-dependent Smad/CTGF pathway. Cell Commun Signal 2019; 17:45. [PMID: 31101053 PMCID: PMC6525394 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-019-0361-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Endometriosis, characterized by the presence of functional endometrial tissues outside the uterus, is one of the most common gynecological disorders. Endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are crucial for the occurrence and development of endometriosis. Ectopic endometrial MSCs exist in the peritoneal cavity. Thus, the bioactive factors in endometriotic peritoneal fluid may regulate the biological behaviors of endometrial MSCs. Methods In this study, after assessing the concentration of Activin A in peritoneal fluid using ELISA, we isolated and cultured endometrial MSCs and investigated whether Activin A stimulated endometrial MSCs to differentiate into myofibroblasts and clarified the underlying mechanisms by quantitative real-time PCR, Western blot analysis, immunofluorescent staining, RNA interference and Chromatin immunoprecipitation. We also employed the inhibitors of Activin A to explore the possibility of suppressing the development of fibrosis in endometriosis using primary endometrial MSCs cultures and a mouse model of endometriosis. Results Here, we revealed that Activin A significantly elevated in endometriotic peritoneal fluid and activin receptor-like kinase (ALK4), the specific receptor for Activin A, obviously enhanced in ectopic endometrial MSCs compared with eutopic endometrial MSCs from women with or without endometriosis. Next, we found that Activin A drived myofibroblast differentiation of endometrial MSCs, with extremely enhanced expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). CTGF was shown to be required for Activin A-induced expression of ACTA2, COL1A1 and FN1 in endometrial MSCs. CTGF induction by Activin A in endometrial MSCs involved the activation of Smad2/3, as evidenced by the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of Smad2/3 as well as the binding of Smad2/3 to CTGF promoter. Furthermore, Smad/CTGF pathway in endometrial MSCs required activation of STAT3 while independent of PI3K, JNK and p-38 pathways. In addition, we also demonstrated that inhibition of Activin A pathway impeded myofibroblast differentiation of endometrial MSCs and ameliorated fibrosis in endometriosis mice. Conclusions Activin A promotes myofibroblast differentiation of endometrial mesenchymal stem cells via STAT3-dependent Smad/CTGF pathway. The results provided the first evidence that STAT3 acted as a crucial Activin A downstream mediator to regulate CTGF production. Our data may supplement the stem cell theory of endometriosis and provide the experimental basis to treat endometriosis-associated fibrosis by manipulating Activin A signaling. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12964-019-0361-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Zhang
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.,Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China.,Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China
| | - Yabing Chen
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China
| | - Luxuan Suo
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China.,Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China
| | - Huixian Chen
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China.,Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China
| | - Li Zhu
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China.,Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China
| | - Guiping Wan
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China. .,Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China.
| | - Xiaodong Han
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China. .,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Ramos-Tovar E, Buendia-Montaño LD, Galindo-Gómez S, Hernández-Aquino E, Tsutsumi V, Muriel P. Stevia prevents experimental cirrhosis by reducing hepatic myofibroblasts and modulating molecular profibrotic pathways. Hepatol Res 2019; 49:212-223. [PMID: 30338893 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aims of the present study were to investigate the capacity of stevia leaves to prevent experimental cirrhosis induced by chronic administration of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 ) in rats and to explore the action mechanism involved. METHODS Liver cirrhosis was established by CCl4 treatment (400 mg/kg i.p. three times a week for 12 weeks); stevia powder was administered (100 mg/kg by gavage daily) during the CCl4 treatment. Serum markers of liver damage and hydroxyproline were evaluated and histopathological analyses were carried out. The profibrotic pathways were analyzed by western blot and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS We found for the first time that stevia cotreatment prevented the elevation of serum markers of necrosis and cholestasis and the occurrence of liver fibrosis. It is worth noting that stevia downregulated several profibrogenic pathways, including the reduction of hepatic myofibroblasts and decreased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)2 and MMP13 expression, thereby blocking the liberation of transforming growth factor-β from the extracellular matrix. Notably, stevia reduced the phosphorylation of pSmad3L, the most profibrogenic and mitogenic Smad, by inhibiting the activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase and extracellular signal-regulated kinase. Interestingly, Smad7, an important antifibrotic molecule, was upregulated by stevia treatment in cirrhotic rats. These multitarget mechanisms led to the prevention of experimental cirrhosis. CONCLUSIONS Because stevia possesses a reasonable safety profile, our results indicate that it could be useful in the clinical setting to treat chronic liver diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erika Ramos-Tovar
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Laura D Buendia-Montaño
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Silvia Galindo-Gómez
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Cinvestav-IPN, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Erika Hernández-Aquino
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Víctor Tsutsumi
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Cinvestav-IPN, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Pablo Muriel
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Mexico City, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Cheong ML, Lai TH, Wu WB. Connective tissue growth factor mediates transforming growth factor β-induced collagen expression in human endometrial stromal cells. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0210765. [PMID: 30695033 PMCID: PMC6350958 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0210765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 01/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adenomyosis is a medical condition defined by the abnormal presence of endometrial tissue within the myometrium, in which fibrosis occurs with new collagen deposition and myofibroblast differentiation. In this study, the effect of several mediators and growth factors on collagen expression was investigated on human endometrial stromal cells (fibroblasts) derived from adenomyotic endometrium. Experimental approach RT-PCR, Western blot analysis, pharmacological interventions and siRNA interference were applied to primary cultured human endometrial stromal cells (fibroblasts). Immunohistochemistry was used to analyze protein expression in adenomyotic endometrium tissue specimens. Results Of the tested mediators, transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) and its isoforms were effective to induce collagen and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) expression. Collagen and CTGF induction by TGFβ1 could be reduced by the inhibitors targeting DNA transcription, protein translation, and Smad2/3 signaling. Interestingly, TGFβ1 induced Smad2/3 phosphorylation and CTGF mRNA expression, but not collagen mRNA expression, suggesting that TGFβ1 mediates collagen expression through CTGF induction and Smad2/3 activation. In parallel, TGFβ1 and CTGF also induced expression of heat shock protein (HSP) 47, a protein required for the synthesis of several types of collagens. However, only CTGF siRNA knockdown, could compromise TGFβ1-induced collagen expression. Finally, the immunohistochemistry revealed vimentin- and α-SMA-positive staining for (myo)fibroblasts, TGFβ1, collagen, and CTGF in the subepithelial stroma region of human adenomyotic endometria. Conclusion and implications We reveal here that TGFβ1, collagen, and CTGF are expressed in the stroma of adenomyotic endometria and demonstrate that TGFβ1 can induce collagen production in endometrium-derived fibroblasts through cellular Smad2/3-dependent signaling pathway and CTGF expression, suggesting that endometrial TGFβ may take part in the pathogenesis of adenomyosis and ectopic endometrium may participate in uterine adenomyosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Leng Cheong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Hsuan Lai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Bin Wu
- School of Medicine, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Science, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Kerola A, Lohi J, Heikkilä P, Mutanen A, Jalanko H, Pakarinen MP. Divergent expression of liver transforming growth factor superfamily cytokines after successful portoenterostomy in biliary atresia. Surgery 2019; 165:905-911. [PMID: 30686515 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2018.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pathogenesis of progressive liver fibrosis in biliary atresia after successful portoenterostomy remains unclear. We related hepatic expression of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) superfamily cytokines to histologic liver injury after successful portoenterostomy. METHODS Enrolled in our study were 28 patients with biliary atresia who had liver biopsies obtained during and after successful portoenterostomy, which normalized serum bilirubin (<20 µmol/l). Biopsies were evaluated for cholestasis, inflammation, ductal reaction, and fibrosis and were stained immunohistochemically for transforming growth factor beta 1, transforming growth factor beta 2, connective tissue growth factor, and decorin. Respective gene expression (TGFB1, TGFB2, TGFB3, CTGF, DCN) was analyzed at follow-up using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Results were compared with fibrotic and healthy control livers. RESULTS After median follow-up of 3.0 years, histologic cholestasis resolved, whereas fibrosis had progressed only in isolated biliary atresia. Liver protein expression of transforming growth factor beta 1 and connective tissue growth factor (P < .001 for both), but not that of transforming growth factor beta 2 or decorin, decreased after successful portoenterostomy, although expression of all four cytokines remained elevated. In accordance with postportoenterostomy changes in protein expression, follow-up ribonucleic acid expression of TGFB2 and DCN, but not that of TGFB1 and CTGF, was upregulated when compared with the controls. Both protein and gene expression of transforming growth factor beta 1 and protein expression of transforming growth factor beta 2, connective tissue growth factor and decorin correlated with METAVIR fibrosis stage. Syndromic patients (n = 12) showed milder fibrosis and lower transforming growth factor beta 1 expression than patients with isolated biliary atresia. CONCLUSION These findings support a central role of transforming growth factor beta superfamily in mediating continuing liver fibrogenesis after successful portoenterostomy. Transforming growth factor beta pathway cytokines responded divergently to clearance of jaundice, which was reflected by differential progression of fibrosis between syndromic and isolated patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kerola
- Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Transplantation Surgery, Pediatric Liver and Gut Research Group, Children's Hospital, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Finland.
| | - Jouko Lohi
- Pathology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Finland
| | - Päivi Heikkilä
- Pathology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Finland
| | - Annika Mutanen
- Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Transplantation Surgery, Pediatric Liver and Gut Research Group, Children's Hospital, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Finland
| | - Hannu Jalanko
- Pediatric Nephrology and Transplantation, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Finland
| | - Mikko P Pakarinen
- Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Transplantation Surgery, Pediatric Liver and Gut Research Group, Children's Hospital, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Finland
| |
Collapse
|