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Meng L, Lv H, Kong Q, Li S, Jiang N, Yu C, Duan Z, Xiao Y, Liu Y. The combination of paeoniflorin and metformin synergistically inhibits the progression of liver fibrosis in mice. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 981:176917. [PMID: 39154824 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a pathological process that endangers human health, for which effective treatments remain elusive to date. Paeoniflorin (PAE), a pineane-type monoter penoid compound from the traditional Chinese medicine PaeoniaeRubra Radix, and metformin (MET), an oral biguanide hypoglycemic agent, both demonstrate anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects. In current work, we first discovered that the combined treatment of PAE and MET synergistically inhibited the progression of liver fibrosis in two different animal models: therapeutic and preventive. This therapeutic effect is evidenced by a reduction in the expression levels of liver fibrosis markers and an improvement in histopathological characteristics. Mechanistic exploration further revealed that this combination therapy downregulated the expression of TGF-β1 and p-Smad2, while upregulating Smad7 expression in both models. Importantly, we also found that this combinatorial approach significantly reduced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in both models. Our findings suggest an effective combination therapy for liver fibrosis and provide the possibility of therapeutic improvement for patients with liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingjie Meng
- Guizhou Provincial College-based Key Lab for Tumor Prevention and Treatment with Distinctive Medicines, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; Institute of Life Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China
| | - Huijing Lv
- Guizhou Provincial College-based Key Lab for Tumor Prevention and Treatment with Distinctive Medicines, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; Institute of Life Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China
| | - Qinghong Kong
- Guizhou Provincial College-based Key Lab for Tumor Prevention and Treatment with Distinctive Medicines, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; Institute of Life Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China
| | - Sanhua Li
- Guizhou Provincial College-based Key Lab for Tumor Prevention and Treatment with Distinctive Medicines, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; Institute of Life Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China
| | - Nian Jiang
- Guizhou Provincial College-based Key Lab for Tumor Prevention and Treatment with Distinctive Medicines, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; Institute of Life Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China
| | - Changyan Yu
- Guizhou Provincial College-based Key Lab for Tumor Prevention and Treatment with Distinctive Medicines, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; Institute of Life Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China
| | - Zhen Duan
- Topscience Company Limited, Shanghai, 200436, China.
| | - Yi Xiao
- Guizhou Provincial College-based Key Lab for Tumor Prevention and Treatment with Distinctive Medicines, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; Institute of Life Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China.
| | - Yun Liu
- Guizhou Provincial College-based Key Lab for Tumor Prevention and Treatment with Distinctive Medicines, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; Institute of Life Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China; School of Forensic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, 563000, China.
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Zhang WQ, Sun JX, Lan ST, Sun XM, Guo YJ, Wen BC, Chen J, Liu G. Regulation of Fuzheng Huayu capsule on inhibiting the fibrosis-associated hepatocellular carcinogenesis. JOURNAL OF ASIAN NATURAL PRODUCTS RESEARCH 2024; 26:1219-1238. [PMID: 38780602 DOI: 10.1080/10286020.2024.2355132] [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: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
In the current study, bioinformatics analysis of the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) dataset was conducted with the hepatoprotective effect of the Fuzheng Huayu (FZHY) capsule against the diethylnitrosamine-induced HCC progression analyzed. Eight cell clusters were defined and tanshinone IIA, arachidonic acid, and quercetin, compounds of the FZHY capsule, inhibit HCC progression-related fibrosis by regulating the expression of PLAU and IGFBP3. Combined with the ameliorative effect of the FZHY capsule against liver dysfunctions and expression of PLAU and IGFBP3, our study confirmed the effect of the FZHY capsule on inhibiting the fibrosis-associated HCC progression via regulating the expression of PLAU and IGFBP3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Qi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Department of Achievement Transformation, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China
| | - Jia-Xin Sun
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Department of Achievement Transformation, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China
| | - Shu-Ting Lan
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Department of Achievement Transformation, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China
| | - Xiao-Mei Sun
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Department of Achievement Transformation, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China
| | - Yi-Jing Guo
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Department of Achievement Transformation, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China
| | - Bi-Chao Wen
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Department of Achievement Transformation, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Department of Achievement Transformation, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Department of Achievement Transformation, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China
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Li L, Yi Y, Shu X, Li J, Kang H, Chang Y. The Correlation Between Serum Copper and Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in American Adults: an Analysis Based on NHANES 2011 to 2016. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024; 202:4398-4409. [PMID: 38168830 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-04029-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Copper functions as an essential micronutrient influencing diverse metabolic processes in mammals, encompassing oxidative stress responses, lipid metabolism, and participation in enzymatic reactions. However, the impact of serum copper on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains controversial. Our aim was to explore the precise correlation between serum copper and NAFLD in a large-scale population-based study. A total of 1377 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2016 were included in our study. The diagnosis of NAFLD and its progress to advanced liver fibrosis were based on serological indexes. One-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis H test, and Chi-square test were used to access variations between quartiles groups of serum copper. We conducted multivariate-adjusted logistic regression models and subgroup analyses to investigate the association between serum copper and NAFLD, along with several metabolic diseases. Among the 1377 participants, 661 were diagnosed with NAFLD, and 141 of whom were classified into advanced liver fibrosis. Higher serum copper levels (≥ 21.00 μmol/L) were associated with an increased incidence of NAFLD (odds ratio (OR) = 2.07 (1.38-3.10), p < 0.001), as well as advanced liver fibrosis (OR = 2.40 (1.17-5.19), p = 0.025). Moreover, serum copper exhibited a positive correlation with hypertension, overweight, and abdominal obesity, all of which have been identified as risk factors of NAFLD. Additionally, female participants, under the age of 60, and with a higher body mass index (BMI) (> 24.9 kg/m2) emerged as the most vulnerable subgroup concerning the relationship between serum copper and NAFLD. In the U.S. population, a notable association has been identified, linking elevated serum copper to an increased susceptibility for both the onset and progression of NAFLD, along with several metabolic disorders associated with NAFLD. The adverse effects of excess copper warrant attention in the context of public health considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lurao Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhong Nan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Yun Yi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhong Nan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiawen Shu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhong Nan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianghui Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhong Nan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui Kang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhong Nan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Chang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhong Nan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China.
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Wenbo Z, Jianwei H, Hua L, Lei T, Guijuan C, Mengfei T. The potential of flavonoids in hepatic fibrosis: A comprehensive review. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 133:155932. [PMID: 39146877 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155932] [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: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 07/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic fibrosis is a pathophysiological process of extracellular matrix abnormal deposition induced by multiple pathogenic factors. Currently, there is still a lack of effective and non-toxic drugs for treating fibrosis in clinic. Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds synthesized in plants and modern pharmacological studies confirmed flavonoids exhibit potent hepatoprotective effect. PURPOSE Summarize literature to elaborate the mechanism of HF and evaluate the potential of flavonoids in HF, aiming to provide a new perspective for future research. METHODS The literatures about hepatic fibrosis and flavonoids are collected via a series of scientific search engines including Google Scholar, Elsevier, PubMed, CNKI, WanFang, SciFinder and Web of Science database. The key words are "flavonoids", "hepatic fibrosis", "pharmacokinetic", "toxicity", "pathogenesis" "traditional Chinese medicine" and "mechanism" as well as combination application. RESULTS Phytochemical and pharmacological studies revealed that about 86 natural flavonoids extracted from Chinese herbal medicines possess significantly anti-fibrosis effect and the mechanisms maybe through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, inhibiting hepatic stellate cells activation and clearing activated hepatic stellate cells. CONCLUSIONS This review summarizes the flavonoids which are effective in HF and the mechanisms in vivo and in vitro. However, fewer studies are focused on the pharmacokinetics of flavonoids in HF model and most studies are limited to preclinical studies, therefore there is no reliable data from clinical trials for the development of new drugs. Further in-depth research related it can be conducted to improve the bioavailability of flavonoids and serve the development of new drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhu Wenbo
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu College of Nursing, Huaian 223001, China.
| | - Han Jianwei
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao (Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150000, China
| | - Liu Hua
- NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defect for Research and Prevention (Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital), Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Tang Lei
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu College of Nursing, Huaian 223001, China
| | - Chen Guijuan
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu College of Nursing, Huaian 223001, China
| | - Tian Mengfei
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu College of Nursing, Huaian 223001, China
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Sun J, Kim S, Park S, Hwang S, Sheen N, Kim S, Kwon Y, Ryu JS. Exploring novel A 2AAR antagonists: Design, synthesis, and evaluation of 2,6,9-trisubstituted purine derivatives as promising antifibrotic agents. Bioorg Med Chem 2024; 112:117881. [PMID: 39178585 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2024.117881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2024] [Revised: 08/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
A series of 2,6,9-trisubstituted purine derivatives were designed and synthesized with diverse chemical moieties. Through a comprehensive biological evaluation, we identified 4-(6-(methylamino)-2-(phenylethynyl)-9H-purin-9-yl)phenol (6a) as a promising A2AAR antagonist with potent antifibrotic properties. Compound 6a demonstrated significant efficacy in inhibiting CRE promoter activity and in reducing the expression of fibrogenic marker proteins and downstream effectors of A2AAR activation, surpassing the A2AAR antagonist ZM241385 and initial screening hits, 9-benzyl-N-methyl-2-(phenylethynyl)-9H-purin-6-amine (5a) and 9-((benzyloxy)methyl)-N-methyl-2-(phenylethynyl)-9H-purin-6-amine (5j). Further validation revealed that compound 6a effectively inhibited fibrogenic marker proteins induced by A2AAR overexpression or TGF-β1 treatment in hepatic stellate cells, alongside reducing PKA and CREB phosphorylation. These findings suggest that compound 6a exerts its antifibrotic action by modulating the cAMP/PKA/CREB pathway through A2AAR inhibition. Overall, our study provides valuable insights for the development of novel therapeutics that target hepatic fibrosis through A2AAR antagonism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyang Sun
- College of Pharmacy & Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Seojeong Kim
- College of Pharmacy & Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Seojeong Park
- College of Pharmacy & Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Seohui Hwang
- College of Pharmacy & Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Naeun Sheen
- College of Pharmacy & Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Soobin Kim
- College of Pharmacy & Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngjoo Kwon
- College of Pharmacy & Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jae-Sang Ryu
- College of Pharmacy & Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea.
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Men L, Gu Z, Wang E, Li J, Li Z, Li K, Li C, Gong X. Fufang Muji Granules Ameliorate Liver Fibrosis by Reducing Oxidative Stress and Inflammation, Inhibiting Apoptosis, and Modulating Overall Metabolism. Metabolites 2024; 14:446. [PMID: 39195542 DOI: 10.3390/metabo14080446] [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: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Fufang Muji granules (FMGs) are a prominent modern prescription Chinese patent formulation derived from the Muji decoction. Utilized in clinical practice for nearly four decades, FMGs have demonstrated efficacy in treating liver diseases. However, the precise mechanism of action remains unclear. This study investigates the hepatoprotective effects of FMGs against liver fibrosis in rats based on untargeted metabolomics and elucidates their underlying mechanisms. A comprehensive model of liver fibrosis was established with 30% CCl4 (2 mL/kg) injected intraperitoneally, and a fat and sugar diet combined with high temperatures and humidity. Rats were orally administered FMGs (3.12 g/kg/d) once daily for six weeks. FMG administration resulted in improved liver fibrosis and attenuated hepatic oxidative stress and apoptosis. Furthermore, FMGs inhibited hepatic stellate cell activation and modulated transforming growth factor β1/Smad signaling. Additionally, FMG treatment influenced the expression levels of interleukin-6, interleukin-1β, and tumour necrosis factor alpha in the injured liver. Metabolic pathways involving taurine and hypotaurine metabolism, as well as primary bile acid biosynthesis, were identified as mechanisms of action for FMGs. Immunohistochemistry, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and quantitative analysis also revealed that FMGs regulated taurine and hypotaurine metabolism and bile acid metabolism. These findings provide a valuable understanding of the role of FMGs in liver fibrosis management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Men
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Life Science, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioresources Utilization, Ministry of Education, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
| | - Zhihong Gu
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Life Science, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioresources Utilization, Ministry of Education, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
| | - Enhua Wang
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Life Science, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioresources Utilization, Ministry of Education, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
| | - Jiwen Li
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Life Science, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioresources Utilization, Ministry of Education, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
| | - Zhongyu Li
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Life Science, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioresources Utilization, Ministry of Education, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
| | - Keke Li
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Life Science, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioresources Utilization, Ministry of Education, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
| | - Chunbin Li
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Life Science, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioresources Utilization, Ministry of Education, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
| | - Xiaojie Gong
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Life Science, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioresources Utilization, Ministry of Education, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
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Banerjee A, Farci P. Fibrosis and Hepatocarcinogenesis: Role of Gene-Environment Interactions in Liver Disease Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8641. [PMID: 39201329 PMCID: PMC11354981 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25168641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The liver is a complex organ that performs vital functions in the body. Despite its extraordinary regenerative capacity compared to other organs, exposure to chemical, infectious, metabolic and immunologic insults and toxins renders the liver vulnerable to inflammation, degeneration and fibrosis. Abnormal wound healing response mediated by aberrant signaling pathways causes chronic activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM), leading to hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis. Fibrosis plays a key role in liver carcinogenesis. Once thought to be irreversible, recent clinical studies show that hepatic fibrosis can be reversed, even in the advanced stage. Experimental evidence shows that removal of the insult or injury can inactivate HSCs and reduce the inflammatory response, eventually leading to activation of fibrolysis and degradation of ECM. Thus, it is critical to understand the role of gene-environment interactions in the context of liver fibrosis progression and regression in order to identify specific therapeutic targets for optimized treatment to induce fibrosis regression, prevent HCC development and, ultimately, improve the clinical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anindita Banerjee
- Department of Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, ICMR-National Institute of Immunohaematology, Mumbai 400012, Maharashtra, India;
| | - Patrizia Farci
- Hepatic Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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8
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Ji P, Li Y, Wang Z, Jia S, Jiang X, Chen H, Wang Q. Advances in precision gene editing for liver fibrosis: From technology to therapeutic applications. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 177:117003. [PMID: 38908207 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024] Open
Abstract
This review presents a comprehensive exploration of gene editing technologies and their potential applications in the treatment of liver fibrosis, a condition often leading to serious complications such as liver cancer. Through an in-depth review of current literature and critical analysis, the study delves into the intricate signaling pathways underlying liver fibrosis development and examines the promising role of gene editing in alleviating this disease burden. Gene editing technologies offer precise, efficient, and reproducible tools for manipulating genetic material, holding significant promise for basic research and clinical practice. The manuscript highlights the challenges and potential risks associated with gene editing technology. By synthesizing existing knowledge and exploring future perspectives, this study aims to provide valuable insights into the potential of precision gene editing to combat liver fibrosis and its associated complications, ultimately contributing to advances in liver fibrosis research and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Ji
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310000, PR China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of International Medicine, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, PR China
| | - Zihan Wang
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China
| | - Siyu Jia
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China
| | - Xinyi Jiang
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China
| | - Hui Chen
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China
| | - Qun Wang
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China.
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9
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Gonzalez-Sanchez E, Vaquero J, Caballero-Diaz D, Grzelak J, Fusté NP, Bertran E, Amengual J, Garcia-Saez J, Martín-Mur B, Gut M, Esteve-Codina A, Alay A, Coulouarn C, Calero-Perez S, Valdecantos P, Valverde AM, Sánchez A, Herrera B, Fabregat I. The hepatocyte epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway regulates the cellular interactome within the liver fibrotic niche. J Pathol 2024; 263:482-495. [PMID: 38872438 DOI: 10.1002/path.6299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the consequence of chronic liver injury in the presence of an inflammatory component. Although the main executors of this activation are known, the mechanisms that lead to the inflammatory process that mediates the production of pro-fibrotic factors are not well characterized. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling in hepatocytes is essential for the regenerative processes of the liver; however, its potential role in regulating the fibrotic niche is not yet clear. Our group generated a mouse model that expresses an inactive truncated form of the EGFR specifically in hepatocytes (ΔEGFR mice). Here, we have analyzed the response of WT and ΔEGFR mice to chronic treatment with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), which induces a pro-inflammatory and fibrotic process in the liver. The results indicated that the hallmarks of liver fibrosis were attenuated in CCl4-treated ΔEGFR mice when compared with CCl4-treated WT mice, coinciding with a faster resolution of the fibrotic process and ameliorated damage. The absence of EGFR activity in hepatocytes induced changes in the pattern of immune cells in the liver, with a notable increase in the population of M2 macrophages, more related to fibrosis resolution, as well as in the population of lymphocytes related to eradication of the damage. Transcriptome analysis of hepatocytes, and secretome studies of extracellular media from in vitro experiments, allowed us to elucidate the specific molecular mechanisms regulated by EGFR that mediate hepatocyte production of both pro-fibrotic and pro-inflammatory mediators; these have consequences for the deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, as well as for the immune microenvironment. Overall, our study uncovered novel mechanistic insights regarding EGFR kinase-dependent actions in hepatocytes that reveal its key role in chronic liver damage. © 2024 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Grants
- EHDG1703 CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases
- CERCA Programme/Generalitat de Catalunya
- CIVP20A6593 Fundacion Ramon Areces
- PID2019-108651RJ-I00 Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Spain
- PID2021-122551OB-100 Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Spain
- PID-2021-122766OB-100 Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Spain
- RTC2019-007125-1 Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Spain
- RTI2018-094052-B-100 Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Spain
- RTI2018-094079-B-100 Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Spain
- RTI2018-099098-B-100 Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Spain
- RYC2021-034121-I Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Spain
- European Regional Development Fund
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III
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Affiliation(s)
- Ester Gonzalez-Sanchez
- Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in CIBER in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Javier Vaquero
- Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in CIBER in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación del Cancer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cancer, CSIC-Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Daniel Caballero-Diaz
- Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in CIBER in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jan Grzelak
- Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Noel P Fusté
- Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esther Bertran
- Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in CIBER in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Josep Amengual
- Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in CIBER in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Garcia-Saez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Martín-Mur
- CNAG-CRG, Centre for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Gut
- CNAG-CRG, Centre for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Esteve-Codina
- CNAG-CRG, Centre for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ania Alay
- Unit of Bioinformatics for Precision Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Preclinical and Experimental Research in Thoracic Tumors (PReTT), Oncobell Program, IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Cedric Coulouarn
- Inserm, Univ Rennes, OSS (Oncogenesis, Stress, Signaling) UMR_S 1242, Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Eugène Marquis, Rennes, France
| | - Silvia Calero-Perez
- Biomedical Research Institute Sols-Morreale, Spanish National Research Council and Autonomous University of Madrid (IIBM, CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM); ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Valdecantos
- Biomedical Research Institute Sols-Morreale, Spanish National Research Council and Autonomous University of Madrid (IIBM, CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM); ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Angela M Valverde
- Biomedical Research Institute Sols-Morreale, Spanish National Research Council and Autonomous University of Madrid (IIBM, CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM); ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Aránzazu Sánchez
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in CIBER in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Blanca Herrera
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in CIBER in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Fabregat
- Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in CIBER in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
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10
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Hou LS, Zhai XP, Zhang YW, Xing JH, Li C, Zhou SY, Zhu XH, Zhang BL. Targeted inhibition of autophagy in hepatic stellate cells by hydroxychloroquine: An effective therapeutic approach for the treatment of liver fibrosis. Liver Int 2024; 44:1937-1951. [PMID: 38606676 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Liver fibrosis is a wound-healing reaction which is the main cause of chronic liver diseases worldwide. The activated hepatic stellate cell (aHSC) is the main driving factor in the development of liver fibrosis. Inhibiting autophagy of aHSC can prevent the progression of liver fibrosis, but inhibiting autophagy of other liver cells has opposite effects. Hence, targeted inhibition of autophagy in aHSC is quite necessary for the treatment of liver fibrosis, which prompts us to explore the targeted delivery system of small molecule autophagy inhibitor hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) that can target aHSC and alleviate the liver fibrosis. METHODS The delivery system of HCQ@retinol-liposome nanoparticles (HCQ@ROL-LNPs) targeting aHSC was constructed by the film dispersion and pH-gradient method. TGF-β-induced HSC activation and thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrosis mice model were established, and the targeting ability and therapeutic effect of HCQ@ROL-LNPs in liver fibrosis were studied subsequently in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS HCQ@ROL-LNPs have good homogeneity and stability. They inhibited the autophagy of aHSC selectively by HCQ and reduced the deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) and the damage to other liver cells. Compared with the free HCQ and HCQ@LNPs, HCQ@ROL-LNPs had good targeting ability, showing enhanced therapeutic effect and low toxicity to other organs. CONCLUSION Construction of HCQ@ROL-LNPs delivery system lays a theoretical and experimental foundation for the treatment of liver fibrosis and promotes the development of clinical therapeutic drugs for liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Shuang Hou
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiao-Pei Zhai
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yao-Wen Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jie-Hua Xing
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Chen Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Si-Yuan Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiao-Hong Zhu
- Department of Drug Quality Management, Shannxi Institute for Food and Drug Control, Xi'an, China
| | - Bang-Le Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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11
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Klapwijk JC, Del Rio Espinola A, Libertini S, Collin P, Fellows MD, Jobling S, Lynch AM, Martus H, Vickers C, Zeller A, Biasco L, Brugman MH, Bushmann FD, Cathomen T, Ertl HCJ, Gabriel R, Gao G, Jadlowsky JK, Kimber I, Lanz TA, Levine BL, Micklethwaite KP, Onodera M, Pizzurro DM, Reed S, Rothe M, Sabatino DE, Salk JJ, Schambach A, Themis M, Yuan J. Improving the Assessment of Risk Factors Relevant to Potential Carcinogenicity of Gene Therapies: A Consensus Article. Hum Gene Ther 2024; 35:527-542. [PMID: 39049734 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2024.033] [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: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Regulators and industry are actively seeking improvements and alternatives to current models and approaches to evaluate potential carcinogenicity of gene therapies (GTs). A meeting of invited experts was organized by NC3Rs/UKEMS (London, March 2023) to discuss this topic. This article describes the consensus reached among delegates on the definition of vector genotoxicity, sources of uncertainty, suitable toxicological endpoints for genotoxic assessment of GTs, and future research needs. The collected recommendations should inform the further development of regulatory guidelines for the nonclinical toxicological assessment of GT products.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Philippe Collin
- Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Mick D Fellows
- Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Susan Jobling
- TestaVec Ltd, Maidenhead, United Kingdom
- Division of Biosciences, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Catherine Vickers
- National Centre for the Replacement Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andreas Zeller
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., pRED, Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Luca Biasco
- UCL Zayed Centre for Research (ZCR), London, United Kingdom
| | - Martijn H Brugman
- Cell and Gene Therapy, GSK Medicine Research Centre, Stevenage, United Kingdom
| | - Frederic D Bushmann
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Toni Cathomen
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine and Gene Therapy, Medical Center- University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hildegrund C J Ertl
- Ertl Laboratory, Vaccine & Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Guangping Gao
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, UMass Chan Medical School, University of Massachusetts, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Julie K Jadlowsky
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ian Kimber
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas A Lanz
- Drug Safety Research & Development, Pfizer, Inc., Groton, Connecticut, USA
| | - Bruce L Levine
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kenneth P Micklethwaite
- Department of Haematology, Blood Transplant and Cell Therapies Program, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- NSW Health Pathology Blood Transplant and Cell Therapies Laboratory - ICPMR Westmead, Sydney, Australia
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Masafumi Onodera
- Gene & Cell Therapy Promotion Center, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Simon Reed
- Division of Cancer and Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Rothe
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Denise E Sabatino
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jesse J Salk
- Department of Medicine, Divisions of Hematology and Medical Oncology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
- TwinStrand Biosciences Inc., Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Axel Schambach
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael Themis
- TestaVec Ltd, Maidenhead, United Kingdom
- Division of Biosciences, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jing Yuan
- Kymera Therapeutics, Watertown, Massachusetts, USA
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12
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Tagliaferro M, Marino M, Basile V, Pocino K, Rapaccini GL, Ciasca G, Basile U, Carnazzo V. New Biomarkers in Liver Fibrosis: A Pass through the Quicksand? J Pers Med 2024; 14:798. [PMID: 39201990 PMCID: PMC11355846 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14080798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases (CLD) stem from various causes and lead to a gradual progression that ultimately may result in fibrosis and eventually cirrhosis. This process is typically prolonged and asymptomatic, characterized by the complex interplay among various cell types, signaling pathways, extracellular matrix components, and immune responses. With the prevalence of CLD increasing, diagnoses are often delayed, which leads to poor prognoses and in some cases, the need for liver transplants. Consequently, there is an urgent need for the development of novel, non-invasive methods for the diagnosis and monitoring of CLD. In this context, serum biomarkers-safer, repeatable, and more acceptable alternatives to tissue biopsies-are attracting significant research interest, although their clinical implementation is not yet widespread. This review summarizes the latest advancements in serum biomarkers for detecting hepatic fibrogenesis and advocates for concerted efforts to consolidate current knowledge, thereby providing patients with early, effective, and accessible diagnoses that facilitate personalized therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Tagliaferro
- Dipartimento di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale Santa Maria Goretti, A.U.S.L. Latina, 04100 Latina, Italy; (M.T.); (V.C.)
| | - Mariapaola Marino
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.L.R.)
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Valerio Basile
- Clinical Pathology Unit and Cancer Biobank, Department of Research and Advanced Technologies, I.R.C.C.S. Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy;
| | - Krizia Pocino
- Clinical Pathology Unit, San Pietro Fatebenefratelli Hospital, 00189 Rome, Italy;
| | - Gian Ludovico Rapaccini
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.L.R.)
| | - Gabriele Ciasca
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Sezione di Fisica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Umberto Basile
- Dipartimento di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale Santa Maria Goretti, A.U.S.L. Latina, 04100 Latina, Italy; (M.T.); (V.C.)
| | - Valeria Carnazzo
- Dipartimento di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale Santa Maria Goretti, A.U.S.L. Latina, 04100 Latina, Italy; (M.T.); (V.C.)
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13
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Kong Y, Wang Y, Yang Q, Ye S. Immunotherapy and liver cancer research trends and the 100 most cited articles: A bibliometric analysis. Technol Health Care 2024:THC241111. [PMID: 39093101 DOI: 10.3233/thc-241111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bibliometric analysis of liver cancer research, particularly in immunotherapy, reveals crucial insights. The US leads in liver cancer mortality but ranks fifth globally. OBJECTIVE Scopus database analysis identified 2,349 papers, with the top 100 ranging from 127 to 4,959 citations. Notably, "Microenvironmental Regulation of Tumours Progression and Metastasis" in the Journal of Nature Medicine garnered the highest citations. METHODS Journals like the Journal of Hepatology, Hepatology, and Nature Reports Clinical Oncology contributed significantly. Understanding molecular mechanisms and prognostic indicators is paramount for advancing combination therapies. RESULTS For better patient outcomes, research trends in liver cancer immunotherapy point to improved treatment protocols, knowledge of the tumor microenvironment, combining therapies, predicting disease course, international cooperation, sophisticated surgical techniques, early detection, oncolytic virotherapy, and patient-centered care. CONCLUSIONS This research underscores immunotherapy's pivotal role and encourages further exploration, offering valuable insights into liver cancer treatment trends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Kong
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory, Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Research Center, Diagnosis and Treatment Technology for Hepatocellular Carcinoma of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Clinical Medicine Innovation Center, Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yizhi Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory, Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Research Center, Diagnosis and Treatment Technology for Hepatocellular Carcinoma of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Clinical Medicine Innovation Center, Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qifan Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory, Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Research Center, Diagnosis and Treatment Technology for Hepatocellular Carcinoma of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Clinical Medicine Innovation Center, Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Song Ye
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory, Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Research Center, Diagnosis and Treatment Technology for Hepatocellular Carcinoma of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Clinical Medicine Innovation Center, Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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14
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Akkız H, Gieseler RK, Canbay A. Liver Fibrosis: From Basic Science towards Clinical Progress, Focusing on the Central Role of Hepatic Stellate Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7873. [PMID: 39063116 PMCID: PMC11277292 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The burden of chronic liver disease is globally increasing at an alarming rate. Chronic liver injury leads to liver inflammation and fibrosis (LF) as critical determinants of long-term outcomes such as cirrhosis, liver cancer, and mortality. LF is a wound-healing process characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins due to the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). In the healthy liver, quiescent HSCs metabolize and store retinoids. Upon fibrogenic activation, quiescent HSCs transdifferentiate into myofibroblasts; lose their vitamin A; upregulate α-smooth muscle actin; and produce proinflammatory soluble mediators, collagens, and inhibitors of ECM degradation. Activated HSCs are the main effector cells during hepatic fibrogenesis. In addition, the accumulation and activation of profibrogenic macrophages in response to hepatocyte death play a critical role in the initiation of HSC activation and survival. The main source of myofibroblasts is resident HSCs. Activated HSCs migrate to the site of active fibrogenesis to initiate the formation of a fibrous scar. Single-cell technologies revealed that quiescent HSCs are highly homogenous, while activated HSCs/myofibroblasts are much more heterogeneous. The complex process of inflammation results from the response of various hepatic cells to hepatocellular death and inflammatory signals related to intrahepatic injury pathways or extrahepatic mediators. Inflammatory processes modulate fibrogenesis by activating HSCs and, in turn, drive immune mechanisms via cytokines and chemokines. Increasing evidence also suggests that cellular stress responses contribute to fibrogenesis. Recent data demonstrated that LF can revert even at advanced stages of cirrhosis if the underlying cause is eliminated, which inhibits the inflammatory and profibrogenic cells. However, despite numerous clinical studies on plausible drug candidates, an approved antifibrotic therapy still remains elusive. This state-of-the-art review presents cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in hepatic fibrogenesis and its resolution, as well as comprehensively discusses the drivers linking liver injury to chronic liver inflammation and LF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hikmet Akkız
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Bahçeşehir, Beşiktaş, Istanbul 34353, Turkey
| | - Robert K. Gieseler
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus, Ruhr University Bochum, In der Schornau 23–25, 44892 Bochum, Germany; (R.K.G.); (A.C.)
| | - Ali Canbay
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus, Ruhr University Bochum, In der Schornau 23–25, 44892 Bochum, Germany; (R.K.G.); (A.C.)
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15
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Wang X, Meng F, Mao J. Progress of natural sesquiterpenoids in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1445222. [PMID: 39081717 PMCID: PMC11286475 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1445222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the common malignant tumors of digestive tract, which seriously threatens the life of patients due to its high incidence rate, strong invasion, metastasis, and prognosis. At present, the main methods for preventing and treating HCC include medication, surgery, and intervention, but patients frequently encounter with specific adverse reactions or side effects. Many Traditional Chinese medicine can improve liver function, reduce liver cancer recurrence and have unique advantages in the treatment of HCC because of their acting mode of multi-target, multi-pathway, multi-component, and multi-level. Sesquiterpenoids, a class of natural products which are widely present in nature and exhibit good anti-tumor activity, and many of them possess good potential for the treatment of HCC. This article reviewed the anti-tumor activities, natural resources, pharmacological mechanism of natural sesquiterpenoids against HCC, providing the theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of HCC and a comprehensive understanding of their potential for development of new clinical drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Wang
- Department of Medical Technology, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing, China
| | - Fancheng Meng
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jingxin Mao
- Department of Medical Technology, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing, China
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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16
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Argenziano ME, Kim MN, Montori M, Di Bucchianico A, Balducci D, Ahn SH, Svegliati Baroni G. Epidemiology, pathophysiology and clinical aspects of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in MAFLD patients. Hepatol Int 2024:10.1007/s12072-024-10692-4. [PMID: 39012579 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-024-10692-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is undergoing a transformative shift, with metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) emerging as a dominant etiology. Diagnostic criteria for MAFLD involve hepatic steatosis and metabolic dysregulation. Globally, MAFLD prevalence stands at 38.77%, significantly linked to the escalating rates of obesity. Epidemiological data indicate a dynamic shift in the major etiologies of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), transitioning from viral to metabolic liver diseases. Besides the degree of liver fibrosis, several modifiable lifestyle risk factors, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, alcohol use, smoking, and HBV, HCV infection contribute to the pathogenesis of HCC. Moreover gut microbiota and genetic variants may contribute to HCC development.The pathophysiological link between MAFLD and HCC involves metabolic dysregulation, impairing glucose and lipid metabolism, inflammation and oxidative stress. Silent presentation poses challenges in early MAFLD-HCC diagnosis. Imaging, biopsy, and AI-assisted techniques aid diagnosis, while HCC surveillance in non-cirrhotic MAFLD patients remains debated.ITA.LI.CA. group proposes a survival-based algorithm for treatment based on Barcelona clinic liver cancer (BCLC) algorithm. Liver resection, transplantation, ablation, and locoregional therapies are applied based on the disease stage. Systemic treatments is promising, with initial immunotherapy results indicating a less favorable response in MAFLD-related HCC.Adopting lifestyle interventions and chemopreventive measures with medications, including aspirin, metformin, and statins, constitute promising approaches for the primary prevention of HCC.Prognosis is influenced by multiple factors, with MAFLD-HCC associated with prolonged survival. Emerging diagnostic biomarkers and epigenomic markers, show promising results for early HCC detection in the MAFLD population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Eva Argenziano
- Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Emergency Digestive Endoscopy, Università Politecnica Delle Marche, 60126,, Ancona, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mi Na Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50 Yonsei-Ro, Seodaemun-Gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Yonsei Liver Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Michele Montori
- Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Emergency Digestive Endoscopy, Università Politecnica Delle Marche, 60126,, Ancona, Italy
| | - Alessandro Di Bucchianico
- Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Emergency Digestive Endoscopy, Università Politecnica Delle Marche, 60126,, Ancona, Italy
| | - Daniele Balducci
- Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Emergency Digestive Endoscopy, Università Politecnica Delle Marche, 60126,, Ancona, Italy
| | - Sang Hoon Ahn
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50 Yonsei-Ro, Seodaemun-Gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
- Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Yonsei Liver Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Gianluca Svegliati Baroni
- Liver Disease and Transplant Unit, Obesity Center, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Delle Marche, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
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17
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Wu S, Li J, Zhan Y. H3K18 lactylation accelerates liver fibrosis progression through facilitating SOX9 transcription. Exp Cell Res 2024; 440:114135. [PMID: 38901791 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2024.114135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a significant health concern globally due to its association with severe liver conditions like cirrhosis and liver cancer. Histone lactylation has been implicated in the progression of hepatic fibrosis, but its specific role in liver fibrosis, particularly regarding H3K18 lactylation, remained unclear. To investigate this, we established in vivo and in vitro models of liver fibrosis using carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) injection in rats and stimulation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) with TGF-β1, respectively. We found that histone lactylation, particularly H3K18 lactylation, was upregulated in both CCl4-induced rats and TGF-β1-activated HSCs, indicating its potential involvement in liver fibrosis. Further experiments revealed that lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) knockdown inhibited H3K18 lactylation and had a beneficial effect on liver fibrosis by suppressing HSC proliferation, migration, and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. This suggests that H3K18 lactylation promotes liver fibrosis progression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that H3K18 lactylation facilitated the transcription of SOX9, a transcription factor associated with fibrosis. Importantly, overexpression of SOX9 counteracted the effects of LDHA silencing on activated HSCs, indicating that SOX9 is downstream of H3K18 lactylation in promoting liver fibrosis. In summary, this study uncovers a novel mechanism by which H3K18 lactylation contributes to liver fibrosis by activating SOX9 transcription. This finding opens avenues for exploring new therapeutic strategies for hepatic fibrosis targeting histone lactylation pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shujun Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi province 030001, China.
| | - Jianhong Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi province 030001, China
| | - Yanfei Zhan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi province 030001, China
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18
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Wei Y, Li J, Zhu B, Hu Q, Lan M, Zhou J, Luo J, Zhu W, Lai Y, Long E, Zhou L. Metagenomic comparison of intestinal microbiota between normal and liver fibrotic rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta). Sci Rep 2024; 14:15677. [PMID: 38977718 PMCID: PMC11231266 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64397-7] [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: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is an important pathological process in chronic liver disease and cirrhosis. Recent studies have found a close association between intestinal microbiota and the development of liver fibrosis. To determine whether there are differences in the intestinal microbiota between rhesus macaques with liver fibrosis (MG) and normal rhesus macaques (MN), fecal samples were collected from 8 male MG and 12 male MN. The biological composition of the intestinal microbiota was then detected using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The results revealed statistically significant differences in ASVs and Chao1 in the alpha-diversity and the beta-diversity of intestinal microbiota between MG and MN. Both groups shared Prevotella and Lactobacillus as common dominant microbiota. However, beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus were significantly less abundant in MG (P = 0.02). Predictive functional analysis using PICRUSt2 gene prediction revealed that MG exhibited a higher relative abundance of functions related to substance transport and metabolic pathways. This study may provide insight into further exploration of the mechanisms by which intestinal microbiota affect liver fibrosis and its potential future use in treating liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuankui Wei
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Junhui Li
- Departmemt of Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Baoqiang Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, 363 Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qi Hu
- Institute of Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ming Lan
- Departmemt of Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jia Zhou
- Departmemt of Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jianbo Luo
- Departmemt of Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wanlong Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second People's Hospital of Panzhihua, Panzhihua, Sichuan, China
| | - Yong Lai
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Enwu Long
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.
- Departmemt of Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
| | - Liang Zhou
- Departmemt of Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
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Buakaew W, Krobthong S, Yingchutrakul Y, Potup P, Thongsri Y, Daowtak K, Ferrante A, Usuwanthim K. Investigating the Antifibrotic Effects of β-Citronellol on a TGF-β1-Stimulated LX-2 Hepatic Stellate Cell Model. Biomolecules 2024; 14:800. [PMID: 39062514 PMCID: PMC11274813 DOI: 10.3390/biom14070800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis, a consequence of chronic liver damage or inflammation, is characterized by the excessive buildup of extracellular matrix components. This progressive condition significantly raises the risk of severe liver diseases like cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The lack of approved therapeutics underscores the urgent need for novel anti-fibrotic drugs. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), key players in fibrogenesis, are promising targets for drug discovery. This study investigated the anti-fibrotic potential of Citrus hystrix DC. (KL) and its bioactive compound, β-citronellol (β-CIT), in a human HSC cell line (LX-2). Cells exposed to TGF-β1 to induce fibrogenesis were co-treated with crude KL extract and β-CIT. Gene expression was analyzed by real-time qRT-PCR to assess fibrosis-associated genes (ACTA2, COL1A1, TIMP1, SMAD2). The release of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) was measured by ELISA. Proteomic analysis and molecular docking identified potential signaling proteins and modeled protein-ligand interactions. The results showed that both crude KL extract and β-CIT suppressed HSC activation genes and MMP-9 levels. The MAPK signaling pathway emerged as a potential target of β-CIT. This study demonstrates the ability of KL extract and β-CIT to inhibit HSC activation during TGF-β1-induced fibrogenesis, suggesting a promising role of β-CIT in anti-hepatic fibrosis therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Watunyoo Buakaew
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok 10110, Thailand;
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology Research Unit (CMIRU), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand; (P.P.); (Y.T.); (K.D.)
| | - Sucheewin Krobthong
- Center of Excellence in Natural Products Chemistry (CENP), Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand;
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand;
| | - Yodying Yingchutrakul
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand;
| | - Pachuen Potup
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology Research Unit (CMIRU), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand; (P.P.); (Y.T.); (K.D.)
| | - Yordhathai Thongsri
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology Research Unit (CMIRU), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand; (P.P.); (Y.T.); (K.D.)
| | - Krai Daowtak
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology Research Unit (CMIRU), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand; (P.P.); (Y.T.); (K.D.)
| | - Antonio Ferrante
- Department of Immunopathology, South Australia (SA) Pathology, Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5006, Australia;
- The Adelaide Medical School, The School of Biological Science and the Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Kanchana Usuwanthim
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology Research Unit (CMIRU), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand; (P.P.); (Y.T.); (K.D.)
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20
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Mardi A, Alizadeh M, Abdolalizadeh AS, Baghbanzadeh A, Baradaran B, Aghebaqti-Maleki A, Sandoghchian Shotorbani S, Movloudi M, Aghebati-Maleki L. CTLA-4 silencing could promote anti-tumor effects in hepatocellular. Med Oncol 2024; 41:193. [PMID: 38955918 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02361-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Preclinical and clinical research showed that immune checkpoint blockade provides beneficial effects for many patients with liver cancer. This study aimed to assess the effect of CTLA-4-specific siRNA on the proliferation, cell cycle, migration, and apoptosis of HePG2 cells. Transfection of siRNA was performed by electroporation. The viability of cells was determined through MTT assay. Flow cytometry was performed to investigate the cell cycle and apoptosis rate, and the wound-healing assay was used to determine HepG2 cells migration. The expression levels of CTLA-4, c-Myc, Ki-67, BCL-2, BAX, caspase-9 (CAS9), and MMP-2,9,13 were measured by qRT-PCR. Transfection of specific CTLA-4-siRNA significantly inhibited the expression of the CTLA-4 gene. Also, our results revealed that CTLA-4 silencing diminished the proliferation and migration as well as induced the apoptosis of HePG2 cells. CTLA-4-siRNA transfection induced the cell cycle arrest in G2 phase. Moreover, CTLA-4-siRNA transfection reduced the expression levels of c-Myc, Ki-67, BCL-2, MMP-2,9,13, and elevated the expression levels of BAX and caspase-9. Our results suggest that silencing CTLA-4 through specific siRNA may be a promising strategy for future therapeutic interventions for treating liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Mardi
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahsan Alizadeh
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Tabriz Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Shahabaddin Abdolalizadeh
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Tabriz Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Baghbanzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Aghebaqti-Maleki
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Movloudi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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21
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Ghufran H, Azam M, Mehmood A, Umair M, Baig MT, Tasneem S, Butt H, Riazuddin S. Adipose Tissue and Umbilical Cord Tissue: Potential Sources of Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Liver Fibrosis Treatment. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2024; 14:101364. [PMID: 38449506 PMCID: PMC10912848 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2024.101364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are potential alternatives for liver fibrosis treatment; however, their optimal sources remain uncertain. This study compares the ex-vivo expansion characteristics of MSCs obtained from adipose tissue (AT) and umbilical cord (UC) and assesses their therapeutic potential for liver fibrosis treatment. Methods Since MSCs from early to mid-passage numbers (P2-P6) are preferable for cellular therapy, we investigated the growth kinetics of AT-MSCs and UC-MSCs up to P6 and evaluated their therapeutic effects in a rat model of liver fibrosis induced by diethylnitrosamine. Results Results from the expansion studies demonstrated that both cell types exhibited bona fide characteristics of MSCs, including surface antigens, pluripotent gene expression, and differentiation potential. However, AT-MSCs demonstrated a shorter doubling time (58.2 ± 7.3 vs. 82.3 ± 4.3 h; P < 0.01) and a higher population doubling level (10.1 ± 0.7 vs. 8.2 ± 0.3; P < 0.01) compared to UC-MSCs, resulting in more cellular yield (230 ± 9.0 vs. 175 ± 13.2 million) in less time. Animal studies demonstrated that both MSC types significantly reduced liver fibrosis (P < 0.05 vs. the control group) while also improving liver function and downregulating fibrosis-associated gene expression. Conclusion AT-MSCs and UC-MSCs effectively reduce liver fibrosis. However, adipose cultures display an advantage by yielding a higher number of MSCs in a shorter duration, rendering them a viable choice for scenarios requiring immediate single-dose administration, often encountered in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hafiz Ghufran
- National Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, 87-West Canal Bank Road, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Maryam Azam
- National Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, 87-West Canal Bank Road, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Azra Mehmood
- National Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, 87-West Canal Bank Road, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Umair
- National Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, 87-West Canal Bank Road, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Maria T. Baig
- National Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, 87-West Canal Bank Road, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Saba Tasneem
- National Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, 87-West Canal Bank Road, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Hira Butt
- National Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, 87-West Canal Bank Road, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Sheikh Riazuddin
- Jinnah Burn and Reconstructive Surgery Centre, Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore, Pakistan
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22
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Zhang D, Zhao Y, Zhang G, Lank D, Cooke S, Wang S, Nuotio-Antar A, Tong X, Yin L. Suppression of hepatic ChREBP⍺-CYP2C50 axis-driven fatty acid oxidation sensitizes mice to diet-induced MASLD/MASH. Mol Metab 2024; 85:101957. [PMID: 38740087 PMCID: PMC11145360 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2024.101957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Compromised hepatic fatty acid oxidation (FAO) has been observed in human MASH patients and animal models of MASLD/MASH. It remains poorly understood how and when the hepatic FAO pathway is suppressed during the progression of MASLD towards MASH. Hepatic ChREBP⍺ is a classical lipogenic transcription factor that responds to the intake of dietary sugars. METHODS We examined its role in regulating hepatocyte fatty acid oxidation (FAO) and the impact of hepatic Chrebpa deficiency on sensitivity to diet-induced MASLD/MASH in mice. RESULTS We discovered that hepatocyte ChREBP⍺ is both necessary and sufficient to maintain FAO in a cell-autonomous manner independently of its DNA-binding activity. Supplementation of synthetic PPAR⍺/δ agonist is sufficient to restore FAO in Chrebp-/- primary mouse hepatocytes. Hepatic ChREBP⍺ was decreased in mouse models of diet-induced MAFSLD/MASH and in patients with MASH. Hepatocyte-specific Chrebp⍺ knockout impaired FAO, aggravated liver steatosis and inflammation, leading to early-onset fibrosis in response to diet-induced MASH. Conversely, liver overexpression of ChREBP⍺-WT or its non-lipogenic mutant enhanced FAO, reduced lipid deposition, and alleviated liver injury, inflammation, and fibrosis. RNA-seq analysis identified the CYP450 epoxygenase (CYP2C50) pathway of arachidonic acid metabolism as a novel target of ChREBP⍺. Over-expression of CYP2C50 partially restores hepatic FAO in primary hepatocytes with Chrebp⍺ deficiency and attenuates preexisting MASH in the livers of hepatocyte-specific Chrebp⍺-deleted mice. CONCLUSIONS Our findings support the protective role of hepatocyte ChREBPa against diet-induced MASLD/MASH in mouse models in part via promoting CYP2C50-driven FAO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deqiang Zhang
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, USA; Caswell Diabetes Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, NCRC Building 20-3843, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Yuee Zhao
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, USA; Caswell Diabetes Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, NCRC Building 20-3843, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA; Department of Nephrology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 Renmin Middle Rd, Furong District, Changsha, Hunan Province 410011, PR China
| | - Gary Zhang
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, USA; Caswell Diabetes Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, NCRC Building 20-3843, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Daniel Lank
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, 1340 Jefferson Park Avenue, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Sarah Cooke
- Neurosciences Graduate Program, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44016, USA
| | - Sujuan Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 Renmin Middle Rd, Furong District, Changsha, Hunan Province 410011, PR China
| | - Alli Nuotio-Antar
- Children Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xin Tong
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, USA; Caswell Diabetes Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, NCRC Building 20-3843, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Lei Yin
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, USA; Caswell Diabetes Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, NCRC Building 20-3843, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA.
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23
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Mohammed OA, Youssef ME, Doghish AS, Hamad RS, Abdel-Reheim MA, Alghamdi M, Alamri MMS, Alfaifi J, Adam MIE, Alharthi MH, Alhalafi AH, Bahashwan E, Rezigalla AA, BinAfif DF, Abdel-Ghany S, Attia MA, Elmorsy EA, Al-Noshokaty TM, Fikry H, Saleh LA, Saber S. A novel combination therapy targets sonic hedgehog signaling by the dual inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase and HSP90 in rats with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Eur J Pharm Sci 2024; 198:106792. [PMID: 38714237 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2024.106792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is characterized by liver inflammation, fat accumulation, and collagen deposition. Due to the limited availability of effective treatments, there is a pressing need to develop innovative strategies. Given the complex nature of the disease, employing combination approaches is essential. Hedgehog signaling has been recognized as potentially promoting NASH, and cholesterol can influence this signaling by modifying the conformation of PTCH1 and SMO activity. HSP90 plays a role in the stability of SMO and GLI proteins. We revealed significant positive correlations between Hedgehog signaling proteins (Shh, SMO, GLI1, and GLI2) and both cholesterol and HSP90 levels. Herein, we investigated the novel combination of the cholesterol-lowering agent lovastatin and the HSP90 inhibitor PU-H71 in vitro and in vivo. The combination demonstrated a synergy score of 15.09 and an MSA score of 22.85, as estimated by the ZIP synergy model based on growth inhibition rates in HepG2 cells. In a NASH rat model induced by thioacetamide and a high-fat diet, this combination therapy extended survival, improved liver function and histology, and enhanced antioxidant defense. Additionally, the combination exhibited anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic potential by influencing the levels of TNF-α, TGF-β, TIMP-1, and PDGF-BB. This effect was evident in the suppression of the Col1a1 gene expression and the levels of hydroxyproline and α-SMA. These favorable outcomes may be attributed to the combination's potential to inhibit key Hedgehog signaling molecules. In conclusion, exploring the applicability of this combination contributes to a more comprehensive understanding and improved management of NASH and other fibrotic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osama A Mohammed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt; Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mahmoud E Youssef
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa 11152, Egypt
| | - Ahmed S Doghish
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo, 11829, Egypt; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo 11231, Egypt.
| | - Rabab S Hamad
- Biological Sciences Department, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; Central Laboratory, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza 12411, Egypt.
| | - Mustafa Ahmed Abdel-Reheim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Shaqra University, Shaqra 11961, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef 62521, Egypt.
| | - Mushabab Alghamdi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohannad Mohammad S Alamri
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jaber Alfaifi
- Department of Child Health, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha, 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Masoud I E Adam
- Department of Medical Education and Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muffarah Hamid Alharthi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Hassan Alhalafi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Emad Bahashwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Dermatology, College of medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Assad Ali Rezigalla
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Daad Fuad BinAfif
- Department of Medicine, King Abdullah Medical City, Makkah 24246, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sameh Abdel-Ghany
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt; Department of basic medical sciences, Ibn Sina University for medical sciences, Amman 16197, Jordan
| | - Mohammed A Attia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt; Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 11597, Saudi Arabia
| | - Elsayed A Elmorsy
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Saudi Arabia; Clinical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.
| | - Tohada M Al-Noshokaty
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt
| | - Heba Fikry
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Lobna A Saleh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Collage of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sameh Saber
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa 11152, Egypt
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24
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Radosavljevic T, Vukicevic D, Djuretić J, Gopcevic K, Labudovic Borovic M, Stankovic S, Samardzic J, Radosavljevic M, Vucevic D, Jakovljevic V. The Role of Macrophage Inhibitory Factor in TAA-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Mice: Modulatory Effects of Betaine. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1337. [PMID: 38927544 PMCID: PMC11201963 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12061337] [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: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Macrophage inhibitory factor (MIF) is a multipotent cytokine, involved in the inflammatory response to infections or injuries. This study investigates the role of MIF in liver fibrosis and the modulating effect of betaine on MIF in thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrosis. The wild-type and knockout MIF-/- C57BL/6 mice were divided into the following groups: control; Bet group, which received betaine; MIF-/-; MIF-/-+Bet; TAA group, which received TAA; TAA+Bet; MIF-/-+TAA; and MIF-/-+TAA+Bet group. After eight weeks of treatment, liver tissue was collected for further analysis. The results revealed that TAA-treated MIF-deficient mice had elevated levels of hepatic TGF-β1 and PDGF-BB, as well as MMP-2, MMP-9, and TIMP-1 compared to TAA-treated wild-type mice. However, the administration of betaine to TAA-treated MIF-deficient mice reduced hepatic TGF-β1 and PDGF-BB levels and also the relative activities of MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIMP-1, albeit less effectively than in TAA-treated mice without MIF deficiency. Furthermore, the antifibrogenic effect of MIF was demonstrated by an increase in MMP2/TIMP1 and MMP9/TIMP1 ratios. The changes in the hepatic levels of fibrogenic factors were confirmed by a histological examination of liver tissue. Overall, the dual nature of MIF highlights its involvement in the progression of liver fibrosis. Its prooxidant and proinflammatory effects may exacerbate tissue damage and inflammation initially, but its antifibrogenic activity suggests a potential protective role against fibrosis development. The study showed that betaine modulates the antifibrogenic effects of MIF in TAA-induced liver fibrosis, by decreasing TGF-β1, PDGF-BB, MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1, and the deposition of ECM (Coll1 and Coll3) in the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatjana Radosavljevic
- Institute of Pathophysiology “Ljubodrag Buba Mihailović”, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Dusan Vukicevic
- Uniklinik Mannheim, Theodor-Kutyer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany;
| | - Jasmina Djuretić
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Kristina Gopcevic
- Institute of Chemistry in Medicine “Prof. Dr. Petar Matavulj”, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Milica Labudovic Borovic
- Institute of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Sanja Stankovic
- Centre for Medical Biochemistry, University Clinical Centre of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Svetozara Markovica 69, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia;
| | - Janko Samardzic
- Institute of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (J.S.); (M.R.)
| | - Milica Radosavljevic
- Institute of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (J.S.); (M.R.)
| | - Danijela Vucevic
- Institute of Pathophysiology “Ljubodrag Buba Mihailović”, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Vladimir Jakovljevic
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Svetozara Markovica 69, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia;
- Center of Excellence for the Study of Redox Balance in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders, University of Kragujevac, Svetozara Markovica 69, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia
- Department of Human Pathology, First Moscow State Medical University I.M. Sechenov, Trubetskaya Street 8, Str. 2, 119991 Moscow, Russia
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Min K, Karuppannan SK, Tae G. The impact of matrix stiffness on hepatic cell function, liver fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma-Based on quantitative data. BIOPHYSICS REVIEWS 2024; 5:021306. [PMID: 38846007 PMCID: PMC11151446 DOI: 10.1063/5.0197875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Over the past few decades, extensive research has explored the development of supportive scaffold materials for in vitro hepatic cell culture, to effectively mimic in vivo microenvironments. It is crucial for hepatic disease modeling, drug screening, and therapeutic evaluations, considering the ethical concerns and practical challenges associated with in vivo experiments. This review offers a comprehensive perspective on hepatic cell culture using bioscaffolds by encompassing all stages of hepatic diseases-from a healthy liver to fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)-with a specific focus on matrix stiffness. This review begins by providing physiological and functional overviews of the liver. Subsequently, it explores hepatic cellular behaviors dependent on matrix stiffness from previous reports. For hepatic cell activities, softer matrices showed significant advantages over stiffer ones in terms of cell proliferation, migration, and hepatic functions. Conversely, stiffer matrices induced myofibroblastic activation of hepatic stellate cells, contributing to the further progression of fibrosis. Elevated matrix stiffness also correlates with HCC by increasing proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, metastasis, and drug resistance of HCC cells. In addition, we provide quantitative information on available data to offer valuable perspectives for refining the preparation and development of matrices for hepatic tissue engineering. We also suggest directions for further research on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiyoon Min
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Sathish Kumar Karuppannan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Giyoong Tae
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
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Sun JX, Yang Z, Wu JY, Shi J, Yu HM, Yan ML, Zheng SS, Cheng SQ. A new scoring system for predicting the outcome of hepatocellular carcinoma patients without microvascular invasion-a large-scale multicentre study. HPB (Oxford) 2024; 26:741-752. [PMID: 38472016 DOI: 10.1016/j.hpb.2024.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prognosis of HCC patients without MVI (so called M0) is highly heterogeneous and the need for adjuvant therapy is still controversial. METHODS Patients with HCC with M0 who underwent liver resection (LR) or liver transplantation (LT) as an initial therapy were included. The Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital (EHBH)-M0 score was developed from a retrospective cohort to form the training cohort. The classification which was developed using multivariate cox regression analysis was externally validated. RESULTS The score was developed using the following factors: α-fetoprotein level, tumour diameter, liver cirrhosis, total bilirubin, albumin and aspartate aminotransferase. The score differentiated two groups of M0 patients (≤3, >3 points) with distinct long-term prognoses outcomes (median overall survival (OS), 98.0 vs. 46.0 months; p < 0.001). The predictive accuracy of the score was greater than the other commonly used staging systems for HCC. And for M0 patients with a higher score underwent LR. Adjuvant transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) was effective to prolong OS. CONCLUSIONS The EHBH M0 scoring system was more accurate in predicting the prognosis of HCC patients with M0 after LR or LT. Adjuvant therapy is recommended for HCC patients who have a higher score.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Xian Sun
- Department of Hepatic Surgery VI, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhe Yang
- Shulan (Hangzhou) Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Shuren University Shulan International Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jia-Yi Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, the Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian, China
| | - Jie Shi
- Department of Hepatic Surgery VI, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong-Ming Yu
- Department of Hepatic Surgery VI, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mao-Lin Yan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, the Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian, China
| | - Shu-Sen Zheng
- Shulan (Hangzhou) Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Shuren University Shulan International Medical College, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Shu-Qun Cheng
- Department of Hepatic Surgery VI, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China.
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Chang Z, Peng CH, Chen KJ, Xu GK. Enhancing liver fibrosis diagnosis and treatment assessment: a novel biomechanical markers-based machine learning approach. Phys Med Biol 2024; 69:115046. [PMID: 38749471 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/ad4c4e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Accurate diagnosis and treatment assessment of liver fibrosis face significant challenges, including inherent limitations in current techniques like sampling errors and inter-observer variability. Addressing this, our study introduces a novel machine learning (ML) framework, which integrates light gradient boosting machine and multivariate imputation by chained equations to enhance liver status assessment using biomechanical markers. Building upon our previously established multiscale mechanical characteristics in fibrotic and treated livers, this framework employs Gaussian Bayesian optimization for post-imputation, significantly improving classification performance. Our findings indicate a marked increase in the precision of liver fibrosis diagnosis and provide a novel, quantitative approach for assessing fibrosis treatment. This innovative combination of multiscale biomechanical markers with advanced ML algorithms represents a transformative step in liver disease diagnostics and treatment evaluation, with potential implications for other areas in medical diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Chang
- Laboratory for Multiscale Mechanics and Medical Science, Department of Engineering Mechanics, SVL, School of Aerospace Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen-Hao Peng
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Radiological Science, China Medical University, Taichung 41170, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Kai-Jung Chen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Chin-Yi University of Technology, Taichung 41170, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Guang-Kui Xu
- Laboratory for Multiscale Mechanics and Medical Science, Department of Engineering Mechanics, SVL, School of Aerospace Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, People's Republic of China
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Sokal-Dembowska A, Jarmakiewicz-Czaja S, Ferenc K, Filip R. Can Nutraceuticals Support the Treatment of MASLD/MASH, and thus Affect the Process of Liver Fibrosis? Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5238. [PMID: 38791276 PMCID: PMC11120776 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Currently, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) are considered to be the main causes of fibrosis. In turn, fibrosis may lead to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma or advanced cirrhosis, i.e., potentially life-threatening conditions. It is likely that therapy aimed at reducing the risk of developing hepatic steatosis and inflammation could be helpful in minimizing the threat/probability of organ fibrosis. In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to the influence of nutraceuticals in the prevention and treatment of liver diseases. Therefore, the aim of this review was to describe the precise role of selected ingredients such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, omega-3 fatty acids, and curcumin. It is likely that the use of these ingredients in the treatment of patients with MASLD/MASH, along with behavioral and pharmacological therapy, may have a beneficial effect on combating inflammation, reducing oxidative stress, and thereby preventing liver damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aneta Sokal-Dembowska
- Institute of Health Sciences, Medical College, Rzeszow University, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland
| | | | - Katarzyna Ferenc
- Institute of Medicine, Medical College, Rzeszow University, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Rafał Filip
- Institute of Medicine, Medical College, Rzeszow University, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland
- Department of Gastroenterology with IBD Unit, Clinical Hospital No. 2, 35-301 Rzeszow, Poland
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Wang FR, Peng ML, Zhu QF, Yu LL, Zhang LJ, Xu SY, Wang Q, Li J, He X, Liao SG, Ao JL, Xu GB. Withanolides from the active extract of Physalis angulate and their anti-hepatic fibrosis effects. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 325:117830. [PMID: 38301983 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117830] [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: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Physalis angulata L., a traditional Chinese medicine called "Kuzhi" in China, was used traditionally to treat liver diseases (eg. icterus, hepatitis) as well as malaria, asthma, and rheumatism. AIM OF THE STUDY Our study aimed to investigate the withanolides with anti-hepatic fibrosis effect from P. angulate. MATERIALS AND METHODS Withanolides were obtained from the EtOH extract of P. angulate by bioassay-molecular networking analysis-guided isolation using column chromatography and normal/reversed-phase semipreparative HPLC. The structures of new withanolides were elucidated by combinations of spectroscopic techniques with NMR and ECD calculations. MTT cell viability assay, AO/EB staining method, cell wound healing assay, ELISA and Western blot experiments were employed to evaluate the anti-hepatic fibrosis activity and to uncover related mechanism. Molecular docking analysis and cellular thermal shift assay were used to evaluate and verify the interaction between the active withanolides and their potential targets. RESULTS Eight unreported withanolides, withagulides A-H (1-8), along with twenty-eight known ones were obtained from P. angulate. Withanolides 6, 9, 10, 24, 27, and 29-32 showed marked anti-hepatic fibrosis effect with COL1A1 expression inhibition above 50 %. Physalin F (9), the main component in the active fraction, significantly decreased the TGF β1-stimulated expressions of collagen I and α-SMA in LX-2 cells. Mechanism study revealed that physalin F exerted its anti-hepatic fibrosis effect via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. CONCLUSION This study suggested that withanolides were an important class of natural products with marked anti-hepatic fibrosis effect. The main withanolide physalin F might be a promising candidate for hepatic fibrosis treatment. The work provided experimental foundation for the use of P. angulate to treat hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Rui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Gui-an New District, 550025, Guizhou, China; University Engineering Research Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases by Authentic Medicinal Materials in Guizhou Province, Gui-an New District, 550025, Guizhou, China; Engineering Research Center for the Development and Application of Ethnic Medicine and TCM, Ministry of Education, Guiyang, 550004, Guizhou, China
| | - Mei-Lin Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Gui-an New District, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Qin-Feng Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Gui-an New District, 550025, Guizhou, China; Engineering Research Center for the Development and Application of Ethnic Medicine and TCM, Ministry of Education, Guiyang, 550004, Guizhou, China
| | - Ling-Ling Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Gui-an New District, 550025, Guizhou, China; Engineering Research Center for the Development and Application of Ethnic Medicine and TCM, Ministry of Education, Guiyang, 550004, Guizhou, China
| | - Li-Jie Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Gui-an New District, 550025, Guizhou, China; Engineering Research Center for the Development and Application of Ethnic Medicine and TCM, Ministry of Education, Guiyang, 550004, Guizhou, China
| | - Shi-Ying Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Gui-an New District, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Qian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Gui-an New District, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Gui-an New District, 550025, Guizhou, China; Engineering Research Center for the Development and Application of Ethnic Medicine and TCM, Ministry of Education, Guiyang, 550004, Guizhou, China
| | - Xun He
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Gui-an New District, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Shang-Gao Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Gui-an New District, 550025, Guizhou, China; University Engineering Research Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases by Authentic Medicinal Materials in Guizhou Province, Gui-an New District, 550025, Guizhou, China; Engineering Research Center for the Development and Application of Ethnic Medicine and TCM, Ministry of Education, Guiyang, 550004, Guizhou, China.
| | - Jun-Li Ao
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Gui-an New District, 550025, Guizhou, China; Engineering Research Center for the Development and Application of Ethnic Medicine and TCM, Ministry of Education, Guiyang, 550004, Guizhou, China.
| | - Guo-Bo Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Gui-an New District, 550025, Guizhou, China; University Engineering Research Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases by Authentic Medicinal Materials in Guizhou Province, Gui-an New District, 550025, Guizhou, China; Engineering Research Center for the Development and Application of Ethnic Medicine and TCM, Ministry of Education, Guiyang, 550004, Guizhou, China.
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Zhou HY, Wang BQ, Chen MX, Wang YF, Jiang YF, Ma J. KDM4C represses liver fibrosis by regulating H3K9me3 methylation of ALKBH5 and m6A methylation of snail1 mRNA. J Dig Dis 2024; 25:298-309. [PMID: 38938016 DOI: 10.1111/1751-2980.13291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to disclose the molecular mechanism of snail1 in liver fibrosis. METHODS Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) was used to induce a liver fibrosis model in mice whereby serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were evaluated, and liver pathological alternations were assessed. Rat hepatic stellate cells (HSC-T6) were irritated with transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, followed by assessment of cell viability and migration. The levels of snail1, ALKBH5, and lysine specific demethylase 4C (KDM4C) were quantified by immunohistochemistry, western blot, or reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, in addition to α-smooth muscle actin (SMA), anti-collagen type I α1 (COL1A1), vimentin, and E-cadherin. Photoactivatable ribonucleoside-enhanced crosslinking and immunoprecipitation and RNA stability were evaluated to determine the relationship between ALKBH5 and snail1. Changes in KDM4C-bound ALKBH5 promoter and enrichment of histone H3 lysine 9 trimethylation (H3K9me3) at the ALKBH5 promoter were determined using chromatin immunoprecipitation. RESULTS In fibrosis mice, snail1 was upregulated while ALKBH5 and KDM4C were downregulated. KDM4C overexpression reduced serum ALT and AST levels, liver injury, and α-SMA, COL1A1 and VIMENTIN expressions but increased E-cadherin expression. However, the aforementioned trends were reversed by concurrent overexpression of snail1. In HSC-T6 cells exposed to TGF-β1, ALKBH5 overexpression weakened cell viability and migration, downregulated α-SMA, COL1A1 and VIMENTIN, upregulated E-CADHERIN, and decreased m6A modification of snail1 and its mRNA stability. KDM4C increased ALKBH5 expression by lowering H3K9me3 level, but inhibited HSC-T6 cell activation by regulating the ALKBH5/snail1 axis. CONCLUSION KDM4C decreases H3K9me3 methylation to upregulate ALKBH5 and subsequently inhibits snail1, ultimately impeding liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Ying Zhou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Bing Qing Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Meng Xuan Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yi Fan Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yong Fang Jiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Jing Ma
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
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Jeong EA, Lee MH, Bae AN, Kim J, Park JH, Lee JH. A Comprehensive Analysis of HOXB13 Expression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:716. [PMID: 38792899 PMCID: PMC11123440 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60050716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Background and objectives: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide and is caused by multiple factors. To explore novel targets for HCC treatment, we comprehensively analyzed the expression of HomeoboxB13 (HOXB13) and its role in HCC. Materials and Methods: The clinical significance of HCC was investigated using open gene expression databases, such as TIMER, UALCAN, KM, OSlihc, and LinkedOmics, and immunohistochemistry analysis. We also analyzed cell invasion and migration in HCC cell lines transfected with HOXB13-siRNA and their association with MMP9, E2F1, and MEIS1. Results: HOXB13 expression was higher in fibrolamellar carcinoma than in other histological subtypes. Its expression was associated with lymph node metastasis, histological stage, and tumor grade. It was positively correlated with immune cell infiltration of B cells (R = 0.246), macrophages (R = 0.182), myeloid dendritic cells (R = 0.247), neutrophils (R = 0.117), and CD4+ T cells (R = 0.258) and negatively correlated with immune cell infiltration of CD8+ T cells (R = -0.107). A positive correlation was observed between HOXB13, MMP9 (R = 0.176), E2F1 (R = 0.241), and MEIS1 (R = 0.189) expression (p < 0.001). The expression level of HOXB13 was significantly downregulated in both HepG2 and PLC/PFR/5 cell lines transfected with HOXB13-siRNA compared to that in cells transfected with NC siRNA (p < 0.05). Additionally, HOXB13 significantly affected cell viability and wound healing. Conclusions: HOXB13 overexpression may lead to poor prognosis in patients with HCC. Additional in vivo studies are required to improve our understanding of the biological role and the exact mechanism of action of HOXB13 in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun-A Jeong
- Department of Anatomy, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea; (E.-A.J.); (A.-N.B.); (J.-H.P.)
| | - Moo-Hyun Lee
- Department of Surgery, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea;
| | - An-Na Bae
- Department of Anatomy, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea; (E.-A.J.); (A.-N.B.); (J.-H.P.)
| | - Jongwan Kim
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Dong-Eui Institute of Technology, 54 Yangji-ro, Busan 47230, Republic of Korea;
| | - Jong-Ho Park
- Department of Anatomy, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea; (E.-A.J.); (A.-N.B.); (J.-H.P.)
| | - Jae-Ho Lee
- Department of Anatomy, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea; (E.-A.J.); (A.-N.B.); (J.-H.P.)
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Adetutu A, Adegbola PI, Aborisade AB. Low Dose of Nickel and Benzo [a] Anthracene in Rat-Diet, Induce Apoptosis, Fibrosis, and Initiate Carcinogenesis in Liver via NF-Ƙβ Pathway. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024:10.1007/s12011-024-04177-6. [PMID: 38656682 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-024-04177-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Environmental contaminants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) and heavy metals are major contaminants of food such as fish thus serving as source of exposure to human. This study was designed to evaluate the carcinogenic risk and other risks associated with long-term consumption of environmentally relevant dose of nickel and benzo [a] anthracene in rats. Thirty-six (36) male rats weighing between 80 and 100 g were assigned into 6 groups of 6 animals each; normal, nickel-, and benzo [a] anthracene-exposed groups for 12 and 24 weeks, respectively. Micronucleus and comet analyses were done in the blood, liver, and bone marrow. Liver function, redox, and inflammatory markers (AST, ALT, GGT, SOD, GSH, MDA, protein carbonyl, protein thiol, total protein, IL-10, 1L-1β, TNF-α, TGF-β NF-Ƙβ, and 8-oxodeoxyguansine) were analysed by standard methods. Immuno-histochemical quantification of Bax, Bcl2, and Erk 1/2 as well as mRNA expression of cyclin D1 was done in liver. From the results, weight gain was observed in varying degrees throughout the exposure period. The polychromatic erythrocytes/normochromatic erythrocytes ratio > 0.2 indicates no cytotoxic effects on the bone marrow. Percentage-MnPCE in blood significantly (p < 0.05) increased throughout exposure duration. Percentage tail DNA in blood was significantly (< 0.05) increased at weeks 20 and 24 in the exposed groups and in liver at weeks 12 (16.22 ± 0.47) and 24 (17.00 ± 0.36) of nickel-exposed rats. The aspartate amino transferase (AST):alanine amino transferase (ALT) ratio indicated fatty liver disease in the benzo [a] anthracene (0.90) and acute liver injury in the nickel (> 10 times greater than the upper limits of the reference group) exposed groups during the first 12 weeks. Observation from the histological and cytological data of the liver revealed the presence of inflammation, fibrosis, and high nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio, respectively, in the nickel and benzo [a] anthracene groups. Only benzo [a] anthracene induced liver oxidative stress with significant (p < 0.05) decrease in SOD (0.64 ± 0.02) activity and increase in protein carbonyl (7.60 ± 0.80 × 10-5) and MDA (57.10 ± 6.64) concentration after 24 weeks. Benzo [a] anthracene up-regulated the cyclin D1 expression and significantly (p < 0.05) increased the levels of the cytokines. Nickel and benzo [a] anthracene significantly (p < 0.05) increased the Bax (183.45 ± 6.50 and 199.76 ± 10.04) and Erk 1/2 (108.25 ± 6.41 and 136.74 ± 4.22) levels when compared with the control (37.43 ± 22.22 and 60.37 ± 17.86), respectively. Overall result showed that the toxic effects of nickel and benzo [a] anthracene might involve fibrosis, cirrhosis, apoptosis, and inflammation of the liver. As clearly demonstrated in this study, benzo [a] anthracene after the 24 weeks of exposure stimulates carcinogenic process by suppressing the liver antioxidant capacity, altering apoptotic, cell proliferation, and differentiation pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adewale Adetutu
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
| | - Peter Ifeoluwa Adegbola
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria.
- Department of Biochemistry and Forensic Science, First Technical University, Ibadan, Nigeria.
| | - Abiodun Bukunmi Aborisade
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
- Nigeria Institute of Oceanography and Marine Research, Lagos, Nigeria
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Lin ZR, Bao MY, Xiong HM, Cao D, Bai LP, Zhang W, Chen CY, Jiang ZH, Zhu GY. Boswellianols A-I, Structurally Diverse Diterpenoids from the Oleo-Gum Resin of Boswellia carterii and Their TGF- β Inhibition Activity. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:1074. [PMID: 38674483 PMCID: PMC11054202 DOI: 10.3390/plants13081074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Olibanum, a golden oleo-gum resin from species in the Boswellia genus (Burseraceae family), is a famous traditional herbal medicine widely used around the world. Previous phytochemical studies mainly focused on the non-polar fractions of olibanum. In this study, nine novel diterpenoids, boswellianols A-I (1-9), and three known compounds were isolated from the polar methanolic fraction of the oleo-gum resin of Boswellia carterii. Their structures were determined through comprehensive spectroscopic analysis as well as experimental and calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD) data comparison. Compound 1 is a novel diterpenoid possessing an undescribed prenylmaaliane-type skeleton with a 6/6/3 tricyclic system. Compounds 2-4 were unusual prenylaromadendrane-type diterpenoids, and compounds 5-9 were new highly oxidized cembrane-type diterpenoids. Compounds 1 and 5 showed significant transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) inhibitory activity via inhibiting the TGF-β-induced phosphorylation of Smad3 and the expression of fibronectin and N-cadherin (the biomarker of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition) in a dose-dependent manner in LX-2 human hepatic stellate cells, indicating that compounds 1 and 5 should be potential anti-fibrosis agents. These findings give a new insight into the chemical constituents of the polar fraction of olibanum and their inhibitory activities on the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Rong Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory of Respiratory Infectious Disease, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, China; (Z.-R.L.); (M.-Y.B.); (H.-M.X.); (D.C.); (L.-P.B.); (W.Z.)
| | - Meng-Yu Bao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory of Respiratory Infectious Disease, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, China; (Z.-R.L.); (M.-Y.B.); (H.-M.X.); (D.C.); (L.-P.B.); (W.Z.)
| | - Hao-Ming Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory of Respiratory Infectious Disease, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, China; (Z.-R.L.); (M.-Y.B.); (H.-M.X.); (D.C.); (L.-P.B.); (W.Z.)
| | - Dai Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory of Respiratory Infectious Disease, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, China; (Z.-R.L.); (M.-Y.B.); (H.-M.X.); (D.C.); (L.-P.B.); (W.Z.)
| | - Li-Ping Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory of Respiratory Infectious Disease, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, China; (Z.-R.L.); (M.-Y.B.); (H.-M.X.); (D.C.); (L.-P.B.); (W.Z.)
| | - Wei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory of Respiratory Infectious Disease, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, China; (Z.-R.L.); (M.-Y.B.); (H.-M.X.); (D.C.); (L.-P.B.); (W.Z.)
| | - Cheng-Yu Chen
- Jiaheng Pharmaceutical Technology Co., Ltd., Zhuhai 519000, China;
| | - Zhi-Hong Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory of Respiratory Infectious Disease, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, China; (Z.-R.L.); (M.-Y.B.); (H.-M.X.); (D.C.); (L.-P.B.); (W.Z.)
| | - Guo-Yuan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory of Respiratory Infectious Disease, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, China; (Z.-R.L.); (M.-Y.B.); (H.-M.X.); (D.C.); (L.-P.B.); (W.Z.)
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Sun D, Du X, Cao X, Wu B, Li S, Zhao Y, Liu T, Xu L, Huang H. Neutrophil-Based Bionic Delivery System Breaks Through the Capillary Barrier of Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells and Inhibits the Activation of Hepatic Stellate Cells. Mol Pharm 2024; 21:2043-2057. [PMID: 38471114 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.4c00173] [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: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
The capillarization of hepatic sinusoids resulting from the activation of hepatic stellate cells poses a significant challenge, impeding the effective delivery of therapeutic agents to the Disse space for liver fibrosis treatment. Therefore, overcoming these barriers and achieving efficient drug delivery to activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) are pressing challenge. In this study, we developed a synergistic sequential drug delivery approach utilizing neutrophil membrane hybrid liposome@atorvastatin/amlisentan (NCM@AtAm) and vitamin A-neutrophil membrane hybrid liposome @albumin (VNCM@Bai) nanoparticles (NPs) to breach the capillary barrier for targeted HSC cell delivery. Initially, NCM@AtAm NPs were successfully directed to the site of hepatic fibrosis through neutrophil-mediated inflammatory targeting, resulting in the normalization of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) and restoration of fenestrations under the combined influence of At and Am. Elevated tissue levels of the p-Akt protein and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) indicated the normalization of LSECs following treatment with At and Am. Subsequently, VNCM@Bai NPs traversed the restored LSEC fenestrations to access the Disse space, facilitating the delivery of Bai into aHSCs under vitamin A guidance. Lastly, both in vitro and in vivo results demonstrated the efficacy of Bai in inhibiting HSC cell activation by modulating the PPAR γ/TGF-β1 and STAT1/Smad7 signaling pathways, thereby effectively treating liver fibrosis. Overall, our designed synergistic sequential delivery system effectively overcomes the barrier imposed by LSECs, offering a promising therapeutic strategy for liver fibrosis treatment in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Sun
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Xiao Du
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing Medical Center for Clinical Pharmacy, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Xinyu Cao
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Bingyu Wu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui Province 233030,China
| | - Yongmei Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Tianqing Liu
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Lixing Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Haiqin Huang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
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De Gaetano V, Pallozzi M, Cerrito L, Santopaolo F, Stella L, Gasbarrini A, Ponziani FR. Management of Portal Hypertension in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma on Systemic Treatment: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1388. [PMID: 38611066 PMCID: PMC11011056 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071388] [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: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The management of CSPH in patients undergoing systemic treatment for HCC has emerged as a critical concern due to the absence of reliable diagnostic criteria and uncertainties surrounding therapeutic approaches. This review aims to underscore the primary pathophysiological aspects linking HCC and PH, while also addressing the current and emerging clinical strategies for the management of portal hypertension. A review of studies from January 2003 to June 2023 was conducted using the PubMed database and employing MeSH terms, such as "hepatocellular carcinoma", "immune checkpoint inhibitors", "systemic therapy", "portal hypertension", "variceal bleeding" and "tyrosine kinase inhibitors". Despite promising results of tyrosine kinase inhibitors in animal models for PH and fibrosis, only Sorafenib has demonstrated similar effects in human studies, whereas Lenvatinib appears to promote PH development. The impact of Atezolizumab/Bevacizumab on PH remains uncertain, with an increasing risk of bleeding related to Bevacizumab in patients with prior variceal hemorrhage. Given the absence of specific guidelines, endoscopic surveillance during treatment is advisable, and primary and secondary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding should adhere to the Baveno VII recommendations. Furthermore, in patients with advanced HCC, refinement of diagnostic criteria for CSPH and guidelines for its surveillance are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria De Gaetano
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Maria Pallozzi
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Lucia Cerrito
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Francesco Santopaolo
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Leonardo Stella
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Romana Ponziani
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
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Xiao L, Sunniya H, Li J, Kakar MU, Dai R, Li B. Isolation and purification of polysaccharides from Bupleurum marginatum Wall.ex DC and their anti-liver fibrosis activities. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1342638. [PMID: 38576476 PMCID: PMC10991770 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1342638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Bupleurum marginatum Wall.ex DC [Apiaceae] (BM)is widely grown in southwestern China, and the whole plant is used as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Polysaccharides are main natural products in lots of TCM and have been studied for their effects of reducing oxidative stress, anti-inflammation and immune regulation. Herein, we investigated the extraction techniques of Bupleurum marginatum Wall.ex DC polysaccharides (BMP), the identification of their key components, and their ability to inhibit liver fibrosis in both cellular and animal models. Component identification indicated that monosaccharides in BMP mainly consisted of glucose, galactose, mannose, rhamnose, arabinose, and xylose. In vivo analysis revealed that BMP provided significant protective effects on N-Nitroso dimethylamine (NDMA)-induced liver fibrosis rats through reducing hepatomegaly, reducing tissue inflammation, and reducing collagen deposition. BMP also improved the hepatobiliary system and liver metabolism in accord to reduce the serum levels of ALT, AST, ALP, r-GT, and TBIL. In addition, BMP could reduce the level of inflammation and fibrosis through inhibition of IL-1β and TGF-β1. Cellular studies showed that the BMP could provide therapeutic effects on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cellular fibrosis model, and could reduce the level of inflammation and fibrosis by decreasing the level of TGF-β1, IL-1β, and TNF-α. Our study demonstrated that BMP may provide a new therapy strategy of liver injury and liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Xiao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Separation and Analysis in Biomedicine and Pharmaceuticals, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Hafsa Sunniya
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Separation and Analysis in Biomedicine and Pharmaceuticals, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Jingyi Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Separation and Analysis in Biomedicine and Pharmaceuticals, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Mohib Ullah Kakar
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Separation and Analysis in Biomedicine and Pharmaceuticals, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Rongji Dai
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Separation and Analysis in Biomedicine and Pharmaceuticals, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Separation and Analysis in Biomedicine and Pharmaceuticals, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
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Song M, Wang L, Jiang S, Liang J, Li W, Rao W, Du Q, Liu G, Meng H, Tang L, Li Z, Yang Y, Zhang L, Zhang B. Pathogenic Th17 cell-mediated liver fibrosis contributes to resistance to PD-L1 antibody immunotherapy in hepatocellular carcinoma. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 129:111601. [PMID: 38350354 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms of resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) to targeted therapies and immune checkpoint blockade is critical for the development of new combination therapies and improving patient survival. Here, we found that in HCC, anti-programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1) therapy reduces liver cancer growth, but the tumors eventually become resistant to continued therapy. Experimental analyses shows that the infiltration of pathogenic T helper 17 (pTh17) cells increases in drug-resistant HCC, and pTh17 cells secrete interleukin-17A (IL-17A), which promotes the expression of PD-L1 on the surface of HCC cells and produces resistance to anti-PD-L1 therapy. Anti-IL-17A combined with PD-L1 blockade significantly increased the infiltration of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells expressing high levels of interferon-γ and reduced treatment resistance in HCC. These results support the combination of anti-PD-L1 and anti-IL-17A as a novel strategy to induce effective T cell-mediated anti-tumor immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiying Song
- Department of Immunology, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, PR China
| | - Luoyang Wang
- Department of Immunology, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, PR China
| | - Suli Jiang
- Department of Immunology, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, PR China
| | - Jie Liang
- Department of Immunology, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, PR China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Immunology, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, PR China
| | - Wei Rao
- Division of Hepatology, Liver Disease Center, Organ Transplantation Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, PR China
| | - Qiaochu Du
- Department of Immunology, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, PR China
| | - Guixian Liu
- Department of Immunology, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, PR China
| | - Haining Meng
- School of Emergency Medicine, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, PR China
| | - Lei Tang
- Department of Special Medicine, School of Basic Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, PR China
| | - Zhifei Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, PR China
| | - Yanyan Yang
- Department of Immunology, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, PR China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, PR China
| | - Bei Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, PR China.
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Lin G, Li W, Hong W, Zhu D, Hu H, Fu J, Gao Y, Chen S, Chai D, Zeng JZ. Spinosin inhibits activated hepatic stellate cell to attenuate liver fibrosis by targeting Nur77/ASK1/p38 MAPK signaling pathway. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 966:176270. [PMID: 38096970 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
AIM Liver fibrosis remains a great challenge in the world. Spinosin (SPI), a natural flavonoid-C-glycoside, possesses various pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory and anti-myocardial fibrosis effects. In this study, we investigate whether SPI can be a potential lead for the treatment of liver fibrosis and explore whether the orphan nuclear receptor Nur77, a negative regulator of liver fibrosis development, plays a critical role in SPI's action. METHODS A dual luciferase reporter system of α-SMA was established to evaluate the effect of SPI on hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation in LX2 and HSC-T6 cells. A mouse model of CCl4-induced liver fibrosis was used to test the efficacy of SPI against liver fibrosis. The expression levels of Nur77, inflammatory cytokines and collagen were determined by Western blotting and qPCR. Potential kinase pathways involved were also analyzed. The affinity of Nur77 with SPI was documented by fluorescence titration. RESULTS SPI can strongly suppress TGF-β1-mediated activation of both LX2 and HSC-T6 cells in a dose-dependent manner. SPI increases the expression of Nur77 and reduces TGF-β1-mediated phosphorylation levels of ASK1 and p38 MAPK, which can be reversed by knocking out of Nur77. SPI strongly inhibits collagen deposition (COLA1) and reduces inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IL-1β), which is followed by improved liver function in the CCl4-induced mouse model. SPI can directly bind to R515 and R563 in the Nur77-LBD pocket with a Kd of 2.14 μM. CONCLUSION Spinosin is the major pharmacological active component of Ziziphus jujuba Mill. var. spinosa which has been frequently prescribed in traditional Chinese medicine. We demonstrate here for the first time that spinosin is a new therapeutic lead for treatment of liver fibrosis by targeting Nur77 and blocking the ASK1/p38 MAPK signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Weibin Li
- Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Department of Ultrasonic Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Xizang Minzu University, Xianyang, China
| | - Wenbin Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Desheng Zhu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Jinhua Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, 321000, China
| | - Hongyu Hu
- Xingzhi College, Zhejiang Normal University, Lanxi, 321004, China
| | - Jiqiang Fu
- Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China
| | - Yanfang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Shuaijie Chen
- Cardiovascular Department, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350005, China
| | - Dajun Chai
- Cardiovascular Department, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350005, China
| | - Jin-Zhang Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China.
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Pang X, Gao S, Liu T, Xu FX, Fan C, Zhang JF, Jiang H. Identification of STAT3 as a biomarker for cellular senescence in liver fibrosis: A bioinformatics and experimental validation study. Genomics 2024; 116:110800. [PMID: 38286349 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2024.110800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cellular senescence is associated with a dysregulated inflammatory response, which is an important driver of the development of liver fibrosis (LF). This study aimed to investigate the effect of cellular senescence on LF and identify potential key biomarkers through bioinformatics analysis combined with validation experiments in vivo and in vitro. METHODS The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and GeneCards database were used to download the LF dataset and the aging-related gene set, respectively. Functional enrichment analysis of differential genes was then performed using GO and KEGG. Hub genes were further screened using Cytoscape's cytoHubba. Diagnostic values for hub genes were evaluated with a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Next, CIBERSORTx was used to estimate immune cell types and ratios. Finally, in vivo and in vitro experiments validated the results of the bioinformatics analysis. Moreover, molecular docking was used to simulate drug-gene interactions. RESULTS A total of 44 aging-related differentially expressed genes (AgDEGs) were identified, and enrichment analysis showed that these genes were mainly enriched in inflammatory and immune responses. PPI network analysis identified 6 hub AgDEGs (STAT3, TNF, MMP9, CD44, TGFB1, and TIMP1), and ROC analysis showed that they all have good diagnostic value. Immune infiltration suggested that hub AgDEGs were significantly associated with M1 macrophages or other immune cells. Notably, STAT3 was positively correlated with α-SMA, COL1A1, IL-6 and IL-1β, and was mainly expressed in hepatocytes (HCs). Validation experiments showed that STAT3 expression was upregulated and cellular senescence was increased in LF mice. A co-culture system of HCs and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) further revealed that inhibiting STAT3 reduced HCs senescence and suppressed HSCs activation. In addition, molecular docking revealed that STAT3 was a potential drug therapy target. CONCLUSIONS STAT3 may be involved in HCs senescence and promote HSCs activation, which in turn leads to the development of LF. Our findings suggest that STAT3 could be a potential biomarker for LF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Pang
- Clinical Research Experiment Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, Anhui, China; College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230011, Anhui, China
| | - Shang Gao
- Clinical Research Experiment Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, Anhui, China; College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230011, Anhui, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Clinical Research Experiment Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, Anhui, China; College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230011, Anhui, China
| | - Feng Xia Xu
- Clinical Research Experiment Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, Anhui, China; College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230011, Anhui, China
| | - Chang Fan
- Clinical Research Experiment Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, Anhui, China
| | - Jia Fu Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, Anhui, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Clinical Research Experiment Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, Anhui, China; College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230011, Anhui, China.
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Gay MD, Drda JC, Chen W, Huang Y, Yassin AA, Duka T, Fang H, Shivapurkar N, Smith JP. Implicating the cholecystokinin B receptor in liver stem cell oncogenesis. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2024; 326:G291-G309. [PMID: 38252699 PMCID: PMC11211039 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00208.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fastest-growing cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Chronic inflammation and fibrosis are the greatest risk factors for the development of HCC. Although the cell of origin for HCC is uncertain, many theories believe this cancer may arise from liver progenitor cells or stem cells. Here, we describe the activation of hepatic stem cells that overexpress the cholecystokinin-B receptor (CCK-BR) after liver injury with either a DDC diet (0.1% 3, 5-diethoxy-carbonyl 1,4-dihydrocollidine) or a NASH-inducing CDE diet (choline-deficient ethionine) in murine models. Pharmacologic blockade of the CCK-BR with a receptor antagonist proglumide or knockout of the CCK-BR in genetically engineered mice during the injury diet reduces the expression of hepatic stem cells and prevents the formation of three-dimensional tumorspheres in culture. RNA sequencing of livers from DDC-fed mice treated with proglumide or DDC-fed CCK-BR knockout mice showed downregulation of differentially expressed genes involved in cell proliferation and oncogenesis and upregulation of tumor suppressor genes compared with controls. Inhibition of the CCK-BR decreases hepatic transaminases, fibrosis, cytokine expression, and alters the hepatic immune cell signature rendering the liver microenvironment less oncogenic. Furthermore, proglumide hastened recovery after liver injury by reversing fibrosis and improving markers of synthetic function. Proglumide is an older drug that is orally bioavailable and being repurposed for liver conditions. These findings support a promising therapeutic intervention applicable to patients to prevent the development of HCC and decrease hepatic fibrosis.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This investigation identified a novel pathway involving the activation of hepatic stem cells and liver oncogenesis. Receptor blockade or genetic disruption of the cholecystokinin-B receptor (CCK-BR) signaling pathway decreased the activation and proliferation of hepatic stem cells after liver injury without eliminating the regenerative capacity of healthy hepatocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha D Gay
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
| | - Jack C Drda
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
| | - Wenqiang Chen
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
| | - Yimeng Huang
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
| | - Amal A Yassin
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
| | - Tetyana Duka
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
| | - Hongbin Fang
- Department of Biostatistics, Bioinformatics and Biomathematics, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
| | - Narayan Shivapurkar
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
| | - Jill P Smith
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
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Xu J, Huang S, Yan Q, Jiang J, Hu N, Zhang W, Shi L, Deng M, Tang X, Liao J. Causes of death and nomogram for patients with oncologic hepato-biliary-pancreatic disorders: A large-cohort study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e37187. [PMID: 38394524 PMCID: PMC11309702 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037187] [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: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The improvement of digestive cancer survival results in increased morbidity of noncancerous comorbidities. This study aimed at clarifying causes of death (COD) and predicting overall survival (OS) in patients diagnosed with liver cancer, gallbladder cancer, cholangiocarcinoma, and pancreatic cancer. We used the Surveillance, Epidemic, and End Results database to extract information. Nomograms of multivariate Cox regression was used to predict OS of cancer patients. The models were evaluated using the concordance indexes (C-indexes), the receiver operating characteristic curves and calibration curves. Respectively 58,895, 15,324, 30,708, and 109,995 cases with cancer of liver, gallbladder, bile duct or pancreas were retrieved between 2000 and 2020. Approximately 80% deaths occurred within 1 years after cancer diagnosis. Sequence in noncancerous COD proportion was diverse, while diseases of heart always accounted for a great part. Risks of death from most noncancerous COD were significantly higher than that of the cancer-free population. Nomograms were developed by predictors of interest such as age, therapy and TNM stage. The concordance indexes of nomograms were 0.756, 0.729, 0.763, and 0.760 respectively, well-calibrating to the reality. The 0.5-, 1-, and 2-year areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve were about 0.800, indicating good reliability and accuracy. Noncancerous COD accounted for larger part in gallbladder cancer and cholangiocarcinoma. Noncancerous COD showed an upward trend as follow-up time extended and the majorities were diseases of heart, cerebrovascular disease, chronic liver disease and cirrhosis. The novel OS-nomograms can provide personalized prognosis information with satisfactory accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou, China
| | - Shu Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lianshui County People’ Hospital, Huaian, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lianshui People’ Hospital of Kangda College Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Huaian, China
| | - Qiong Yan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou, China
| | - Jiao Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou, China
| | - Nan Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou, China
| | - Lei Shi
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou, China
| | - Mingming Deng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou, China
| | - Xiaowei Tang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou, China
| | - Jingyuan Liao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou, China
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Pessino G, Scotti C, Maggi M, Immuno-Hub Consortium. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Old and Emerging Therapeutic Targets. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:901. [PMID: 38473265 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050901] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer, predominantly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), globally ranks sixth in incidence and third in cancer-related deaths. HCC risk factors include non-viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, environmental exposures, and genetic factors. No specific genetic alterations are unequivocally linked to HCC tumorigenesis. Current standard therapies include surgical options, systemic chemotherapy, and kinase inhibitors, like sorafenib and regorafenib. Immunotherapy, targeting immune checkpoints, represents a promising avenue. FDA-approved checkpoint inhibitors, such as atezolizumab and pembrolizumab, show efficacy, and combination therapies enhance clinical responses. Despite this, the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a challenge, as the complex tumor ecosystem and the immunosuppressive microenvironment associated with it hamper the efficacy of the available therapeutic approaches. This review explores current and advanced approaches to treat HCC, considering both known and new potential targets, especially derived from proteomic analysis, which is today considered as the most promising approach. Exploring novel strategies, this review discusses antibody drug conjugates (ADCs), chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T), and engineered antibodies. It then reports a systematic analysis of the main ligand/receptor pairs and molecular pathways reported to be overexpressed in tumor cells, highlighting their potential and limitations. Finally, it discusses TGFβ, one of the most promising targets of the HCC microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Pessino
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Claudia Scotti
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Maristella Maggi
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Immuno-Hub Consortium
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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Xie N, Ma R, Wang L, Shu Y, He P, Zhou Y, Xiang Y, Wang Y. Cannabidiol regulates the activation of hepatic stellate cells by modulating the NOX4 and NF-κB pathways. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 186:114517. [PMID: 38382869 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114517] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is an extract of natural cannabinoids that has therapeutic implications for a variety of ailments, such as neurological diseases, cardiomyopathy, and diabetes, due to its strong anti-inflammatory and oxidative stress properties. Our purpose was to reveal the possible underlying mechanisms and effect of CBD on the glucose oxidase (GO)-induced activation of HSC-T6 and LX-2 cells. The results showed that CBD effectively inhibited the proliferation and activation of HSC-T6 and LX-2 cells, and reduced the production of profibrotic factors to different degrees. CBD disrupted the NOX4 signalling pathway in activated HSC-T6 and LX-2 cells, reduced ROS and MDA levels, and increased SOD and GSH levels, thereby stabilizing the oxidative imbalance. CBD significantly inhibited the phosphorylation and degradation of NF-κB and IκBα, and decreased the release of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6. Moreover, CBD and an NF-κB-specific inhibitor (CAPE) effectively inhibited the expression of α-SMA, COL I, TNF-α and IL-1β to promote collagen metabolism and inhibit the inflammatory response. Overall, CBD inhibited HSCs activation through a and the mechanism involving the inhibition of NOX4 and NF-κB-dependent ROS regulation, thereby reducing inflammation and ameliorating oxidative imbalances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Xie
- Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, China; Xindu District People's Hospital, Department of Medical Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Run Ma
- Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, China
| | - Lian Wang
- Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, China
| | - Yuanhui Shu
- Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, China; School of Clinical Laboratory Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, China
| | - Ping He
- Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, China; School of Clinical Laboratory Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, China; School of Clinical Laboratory Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, China
| | - Yining Xiang
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, China
| | - Yuping Wang
- Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, China; School of Clinical Laboratory Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, China.
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Zhao B, Jin Y, Shi M, Yu L, Li G, Cai W, Lu Z, Wei C. Gut microbial dysbiosis is associated with metabolism and immune factors in liver fibrosis mice. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 258:129052. [PMID: 38161012 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.129052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Gut microbial dysbiosis has always served as a potential factor in the occurrence and development of liver fibrosis. Liver and gut microflora can regulate each other through the gut-liver axis. In this study, the 16S rRNA and RNA-seq were chosen to sequence gut microbiota alteration and liver differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) included-liver fibrosis mice, and analyze the correlations between gut microbiota constituents and DEGs. Results indicated that, CCl4 significantly increased the abundance of Desulfobactera in the phylum level, destroyed gut microbiota balance in the genus levels, especially Enterorhabdus and Desulfovibrio. Through analysis, 1416 genes were found differentially expressed in mice liver tissue in the CCl4 Group, compared with the Control Group; and the DEGs were mainly involved in the lipid metabolic process and immune system process. The correlation analysis revealed that the relative abundance of microbiota phylum (Desulfobactera) and genus (Enterorhabdus and Desulfovibrio) was negatively correlated with the metabolism related genes, while positively correlated with immune-related genes and the genes enriched in PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. To sum up, CCl4 can partially regulate gene expression in metabolism, immune response and the PI3K/Akt pathway, and further maintain the stability of the gut environment in liver fibrosis mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingbing Zhao
- Department of Pathophysiology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Ye Jin
- Department of General Surgery, Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Meixin Shi
- Department of Pathophysiology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Ligen Yu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Guopeng Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Wenjie Cai
- Department of Pathophysiology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Zhaoyang Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Can Wei
- Department of Pathophysiology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China.
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Sheng JY, Meng ZF, Li Q, Yang YS. Recent advances in promising drugs for primary prevention of gastroesophageal variceal bleeding with cirrhotic portal hypertension. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2024; 23:4-13. [PMID: 37580228 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2023.08.003] [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: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastroesophageal variceal bleeding is one of the most severe complications of patients with cirrhosis. Although primary prevention drugs, including non-selective β-blockers, have effectively reduced the incidence of bleeding, their efficacy is limited due to side effects and related contraindications. With recent advances in precision medicine, precise drug treatment provides better treatment efficacy. DATA SOURCES Literature search was conducted in PubMed, MEDLINE and Web of Science for relevant articles published up to May 2022. Information on clinical trials was obtained from https://clinicaltrials.gov/ and http://www.chictr.org.cn/. RESULTS The in-depth understanding of the pathogenesis and advances of portal hypertension has enabled the discovery of multiple molecular targets for promising drugs. According to the site of action, these drugs could be classified into four classes: intrahepatic, extrahepatic, both intrahepatic and extrahepatic targets and others. All these classes of drugs offer advantages over traditional treatments in prevention of gastroesophageal variceal bleeding in patients with cirrhotic portal hypertension. CONCLUSIONS This review classified and summarized the promising drugs, which prevent gastroesophageal variceal bleeding by targeting specific markers of pathogenesis of portal hypertension, demonstrating the significance of using the precision medicine strategy to discover and develop promising drugs for the primary prevention of gastroesophageal variceal bleeding in patients with cirrhotic portal hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Yao Sheng
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China; Jilin Engineering Laboratory for Translational Medicine of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Zi-Fan Meng
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China; Jilin Engineering Laboratory for Translational Medicine of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Qiao Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Yong-Sheng Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China; Jilin Engineering Laboratory for Translational Medicine of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China.
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Chen J, Zhang R, Li F, Lin S, Wang J. Integrated analysis and validation of TRIM23/p53 signaling pathway in hepatic stellate cells ferroptosis and liver fibrosis. Dig Liver Dis 2024; 56:281-290. [PMID: 37495427 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2023.07.010] [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: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tripartite motif containing proteins 23(TRIM23) is identified as an E3 ubiquitin ligase involved in signal transduction, but its role in liver fibrosis remains unknown. AIMS To investigate the effects and mechanisms of TRIM23 on hepatic stellate cells(HSCs) ferroptosis and liver fibrosis. METHODS We utilized the Gene Expression Omibus database to identify differentially expressed genes and downstream pathways. TRIM23 expression was examined in fibrotic liver tissues. The effects of TRIM23 on HSCs ferroptosis were validated through assessing cell viability, lipid peroxidation, and ferroptotic markers using HSC-T6 cell lines and primary rat HSCs. Co-immunoprecipitation assays were conducted to analyze the interactions between TRIM23 and p53. A CCl4-induced liver fibrosis rat model was employed to confirm the in vivo effects. RESULTS TRIM23 expression was positively correlated with the severity of liver fibrosis. Upregulated TRIM23 expression promoted HSCs viability and activation by attenuating ferroptosis. Furthermore, the upregulation of TRIM23 expression significantly enhanced p53 ubiquitination. In contrast, TRIM23 knockdown induced HSCs ferroptosis by regulating p53, leading to the suppression of cell viability and activation. Silencing TRIM23 led to the regression of liver fibrosis induced by CCl4 treatment in vivo. CONCLUSION Our study uncovers a novel mechanism in which TRIM23 inhibits HSCs ferroptosis, promotes cell activation and contributes to liver fibrosis by regulating p53 ubiquitination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, PR China; Evidence-Based Medicine Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Shengli Lin
- Endoscopy Center and Endoscopy Research Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, PR China.
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, PR China.
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Wei W, Li T, Chen J, Fan Z, Gao F, Yu Z, Jiang Y. SIRT3/6: an amazing challenge and opportunity in the fight against fibrosis and aging. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:69. [PMID: 38294557 PMCID: PMC10830597 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-05093-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a typical aging-related pathological process involving almost all organs, including the heart, kidney, liver, lung, and skin. Fibrogenesis is a highly orchestrated process defined by sequences of cellular response and molecular signals mechanisms underlying the disease. In pathophysiologic conditions associated with organ fibrosis, a variety of injurious stimuli such as metabolic disorders, epigenetic changes, and aging may induce the progression of fibrosis. Sirtuins protein is a kind of deacetylase which can regulate cell metabolism and participate in a variety of cell physiological functions. In this review, we outline our current understanding of common principles of fibrogenic mechanisms and the functional role of SIRT3/6 in aging-related fibrosis. In addition, sequences of novel protective strategies have been identified directly or indirectly according to these mechanisms. Here, we highlight the role and biological function of SIRT3/6 focus on aging fibrosis, as well as their inhibitors and activators as novel preventative or therapeutic interventions for aging-related tissue fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxin Wei
- School of Queen Mary, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, China
| | - Tian Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
| | - Jinlong Chen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nangchang University, 999 Xuefu Rd, Nanchang, 330031, China
| | - Zhen Fan
- The Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, 712000, China.
| | - Feng Gao
- Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, 712046, China
| | - Zhibiao Yu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nangchang University, 999 Xuefu Rd, Nanchang, 330031, China
| | - Yihao Jiang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nangchang University, 999 Xuefu Rd, Nanchang, 330031, China.
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Wang S, Ye F, Ren Q, Sun S, Xia W, Wang Z, Guo H, Li H, Zhang S, Lowe S, Chen M, Du Q, Weihong Li. The anti-liver fibrosis effect of Tibetan medicine (Qiwei Tiexie capsule) is related to the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in vivo and in vitro. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 319:117283. [PMID: 37827298 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117283] [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: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Qiwei Tiexie capsule (QWTX) is an improved form of a classical prescription of Tibetan medicine-Qiwei Tiexie pill. It has been employed in the treatment of a variety of chronic liver disorders, including liver fibrosis. Uncertainty still exists regarding the mechanism of QWTX action in liver fibrosis. AIM OF THE STUDY Confirm the anti-liver fibrosis effect of QWTX and reveal its mechanism from the perspective of NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation. MATERIALS AND METHODS In vivo experiment: A rat model of carbon tetrachloride -induced liver fibrosis was constructed. All rats were randomly divided into six groups: a control group, a model group, a group receiving the positive drug (Biejia Ruangan tablet), and three groups receiving QWTX at high, medium, and low doses. The contents of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and total bilirubin (TBil) were detected in serum. Hematoxylin and eosin staining and Masson's staining were used to assess the histomorphological alteration of the liver. The levels of glutathione peroxidase, hydroxyproline, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) in the liver were determined using the corresponding detection kits. Real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunofluorescence, and western blotting were used to determine the expression levels of NLRP3, adaptor protein (ASC), caspase-1, and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). In vitro experiment: Four groups of rat hepatic stellate cell line (HSC-T6) cells were created: the control group, the low-dose QWTX group (0.05 mg/mL), the medium-dose QWTX group (0.1 mg/mL), and the high-dose QWTX group (0.2 mg/mL). Cell viability was assessed using a cell counting kit, and the amounts of collagen type I (Col I) and IL-1β in the cell lysate were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. The mRNA and protein expression of NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, and α-SMA were also estimated. RESULTS QWTX had an inhibitory effect on liver fibrosis and a negative effect on HSC activation, while it improved liver histopathological injury and abnormal liver function and increased hydroxyproline content and glutathione peroxidase activity in vivo. QWTX decreased the expression of α-SMA, NLRP3, caspase-1, ASC, and IL-1β both in vitro and in vivo. CONCLUSIONS Tibetan medicine QWTX had a significant anti-liver fibrosis effect that was related to the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in vivo and in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102401, China; Bei Jing Jing Mei Group General Hospital, Beijing, 102300, China
| | - Fei Ye
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102401, China
| | - Qingjia Ren
- Institute of Tibetan Medicine, University of Tibetan Medicine, Lhasa, 850000, Tibet Autonomous Region, China
| | - Shengnan Sun
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102401, China
| | - Weina Xia
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102401, China
| | - Zhuwei Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102401, China
| | - Haolin Guo
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102401, China
| | - Han Li
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102401, China
| | - Shujing Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102401, China
| | - Scott Lowe
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, Kansas City, MO, 64106, USA
| | - Meng Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102401, China
| | - Qinghong Du
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102401, China; Institute of Tibetan Medicine, University of Tibetan Medicine, Lhasa, 850000, Tibet Autonomous Region, China.
| | - Weihong Li
- School of Nursing, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102401, China.
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Maekawa S, Takano S, Enomoto N. Risk of hepatocellular carcinoma after viral clearance achieved by DAA treatment. J Formos Med Assoc 2024:S0929-6646(24)00048-2. [PMID: 38245398 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2024.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The advent of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy has revolutionized hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment, enabling most HCV-infected patients to achieve a sustained viral response (SVR) easily and safely in a short period. On the other hand, it is gradually being recognized that a significant proportion of patients are still at risk of developing de novo and recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), even after HCV elimination, and therefore, elucidation of the risk of de novo and recurrent HCC, investigation of its molecular basis, and construction of accurate prediction models are emerging as new important clinical topics. In this review, we present recent advances regarding these issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinya Maekawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan.
| | - Shinichi Takano
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Enomoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
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Sartorius K, Sartorius B, Winkler C, Chuturgoon A, Shen TW, Zhao Y, An P. Serum microRNA Profiles and Pathways in Hepatitis B-Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A South African Study. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:975. [PMID: 38256049 PMCID: PMC10815595 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020975] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence and mortality of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Sub-Saharan Africa is projected to increase sharply by 2040 against a backdrop of limited diagnostic and therapeutic options. Two large South African-based case control studies have developed a serum-based miRNome for Hepatitis B-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-HCC), as well as identifying their gene targets and pathways. Using a combination of RNA sequencing, differential analysis and filters including a unique molecular index count (UMI) ≥ 10 and log fold change (LFC) range > 2: <-0.5 (p < 0.05), 91 dysregulated miRNAs were characterized including 30 that were upregulated and 61 were downregulated. KEGG analysis, a literature review and other bioinformatic tools identified the targeted genes and HBV-HCC pathways of the top 10 most dysregulated miRNAs. The results, which are based on differentiating miRNA expression of cases versus controls, also develop a serum-based miRNA diagnostic panel that indicates 95.9% sensitivity, 91.0% specificity and a Youden Index of 0.869. In conclusion, the results develop a comprehensive African HBV-HCC miRNome that potentially can contribute to RNA-based diagnostic and therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt Sartorius
- Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2001, South Africa
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Molecular Sciences, University of Kwazulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa;
- Africa Hepatopancreatobiliary Cancer Consortium (AHPBCC), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Benn Sartorius
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Cheryl Winkler
- Centre for Cancer Research, Basic Research Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick Natifol Laboratory for Cancer Research, National Institute of Health, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
| | - Anil Chuturgoon
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Molecular Sciences, University of Kwazulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa;
| | - Tsai-Wei Shen
- CCR-SF Bioinformatics Group, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
| | - Yongmei Zhao
- CCR-SF Bioinformatics Group, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
| | - Ping An
- Centre for Cancer Research, Basic Research Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick Natifol Laboratory for Cancer Research, National Institute of Health, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
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