1
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Yi X, Xie Y, Gerber DA. Pancreas patch grafting to treat type 1 diabetes. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 686:149200. [PMID: 37926045 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.149200] [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: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Stem/progenitor cell therapy is a promising treatment option for patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) a disease characterized by autoimmune destruction of pancreatic β cells. Actively injecting cells into an organ is one option for cell delivery, but in the pancreas, this contributes to acute inflammation and pancreatitis. We employed a patch grafting approach to transplant biliary tree stem cells/progenitor cells (BTSC) onto the surface of the pancreas in diabetic mice. The cells engraft and differentiate into β-like cells reversing hyperglycemia during a four-month period of observation. In addition, C-peptide and insulin gradually increase in blood circulation without detectable adverse effects during this period. Moreover, the patch graft transplant promoted the proliferation and differentiation of pancreatic β-like cells with co-expression of the β cell biomarker. CONCLUSION: BTSC transplantation can effectively attenuate T1D over a four-month period that is vital important for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianwen Yi
- Department of Surgery, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Youmei Xie
- Department of Surgery, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - David A Gerber
- Department of Surgery, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
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2
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Nagy N, Kaber G, Sunkari VG, Marshall PL, Hargil A, Kuipers HF, Ishak HD, Bogdani M, Hull RL, Grandoch M, Fischer JW, McLaughlin TL, Wight TN, Bollyky PL. Inhibition of hyaluronan synthesis prevents β-cell loss in obesity-associated type 2 diabetes. Matrix Biol 2023; 123:34-47. [PMID: 37783236 PMCID: PMC10841470 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.09.003] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic β-cell dysfunction and death are central to the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes (T2D). We identified a novel role for the inflammatory extracellular matrix polymer hyaluronan (HA) in this pathophysiology. Low concentrations of HA were present in healthy pancreatic islets. However, HA substantially accumulated in cadaveric islets of T2D patients and islets of the db/db mouse model of T2D in response to hyperglycemia. Treatment with 4-methylumbelliferone (4-MU), an inhibitor of HA synthesis, or the deletion of the main HA receptor CD44, preserved glycemic control and insulin concentrations in db/db mice despite ongoing weight gain, indicating a critical role for this pathway in T2D pathogenesis. 4-MU treatment and the deletion of CD44 likewise preserved glycemic control in other settings of β-cell injury including streptozotocin treatment and islet transplantation. Mechanistically, we found that 4-MU increased the expression of the apoptosis inhibitor survivin, a downstream transcriptional target of CD44 dependent on HA/CD44 signaling, on β-cells such that caspase 3 activation did not result in β-cell apoptosis. These data indicated a role for HA accumulation in diabetes pathogenesis and suggested that it may be a viable target to ameliorate β-cell loss in T2D. These data are particularly exciting, because 4-MU is already an approved drug (also known as hymecromone), which could accelerate translation of these findings to clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Nagy
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Beckman Center B241A, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Gernot Kaber
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Beckman Center B241A, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Vivekananda G Sunkari
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Beckman Center B241A, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Payton L Marshall
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Beckman Center B241A, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Aviv Hargil
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Beckman Center B241A, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Hedwich F Kuipers
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Beckman Center B241A, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Heather D Ishak
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Beckman Center B241A, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | | | - Rebecca L Hull
- Department of Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, VA Puget Sound Health Care System and University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Maria Grandoch
- Institut für Pharmakologie und Klinische Pharmakologie, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jens W Fischer
- Institut für Pharmakologie und Klinische Pharmakologie, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Tracey L McLaughlin
- Department of Medicine, Medicine - Endocrinology, Endocrine Clinic, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Paul L Bollyky
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Beckman Center B241A, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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3
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Song Y, Lu Z, Shu W, Xiang Z, Wang Z, Wei X, Xu X. Arouse potential stemness: Intrinsic and acquired stem cell therapeutic strategies for advanced liver diseases. CELL INSIGHT 2023; 2:100115. [PMID: 37719773 PMCID: PMC10502372 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellin.2023.100115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Liver diseases are a major health issue, and prolonged liver injury always progresses. Advanced liver disorders impair liver regeneration. Millions of patients die yearly worldwide, even with the available treatments of liver transplantation and artificial liver support system. With its abundant cell resources and significant differentiative potential, stem cell therapy is a viable treatment for various disorders and offers hope to patients waiting for orthotopic liver transplantation. Considering such plight, stem cell therapeutic strategies deliver hope to the patients. Moreover, we conclude intrinsic and acquired perspectives based on stem cell sources. The properties and therapeutic uses of these stem cells' specific types or sources were then reviewed. Owing to the recent investigations of the above cells, a safe and effective therapy will emerge for advanced liver diseases soon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yisu Song
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery Affiliated Hangzhou First People’s Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Zhengyang Lu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery Affiliated Hangzhou First People’s Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310006, China
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, PR China
| | - Wenzhi Shu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery Affiliated Hangzhou First People’s Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Ze Xiang
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhengxin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Xuyong Wei
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery Affiliated Hangzhou First People’s Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310006, China
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
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4
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Cardinale V, Lanthier N, Baptista PM, Carpino G, Carnevale G, Orlando G, Angelico R, Manzia TM, Schuppan D, Pinzani M, Alvaro D, Ciccocioppo R, Uygun BE. Cell transplantation-based regenerative medicine in liver diseases. Stem Cell Reports 2023; 18:1555-1572. [PMID: 37557073 PMCID: PMC10444572 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2023.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
This review aims to evaluate the current preclinical state of liver bioengineering, the clinical context for liver cell therapies, the cell sources, the delivery routes, and the results of clinical trials for end-stage liver disease. Different clinical settings, such as inborn errors of metabolism, acute liver failure, chronic liver disease, liver cirrhosis, and acute-on-chronic liver failure, as well as multiple cellular sources were analyzed; namely, hepatocytes, hepatic progenitor cells, biliary tree stem/progenitor cells, mesenchymal stromal cells, and macrophages. The highly heterogeneous clinical scenario of liver disease and the availability of multiple cellular sources endowed with different biological properties make this a multidisciplinary translational research challenge. Data on each individual liver disease and more accurate endpoints are urgently needed, together with a characterization of the regenerative pathways leading to potential therapeutic benefit. Here, we critically review these topics and identify related research needs and perspectives in preclinical and clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Cardinale
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Nicolas Lanthier
- Service d'Hépato-gastroentérologie, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Laboratory of Hepatogastroenterology, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pedro M Baptista
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en el Área Temática de Enfermedades Hepáticas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain; Fundación ARAID, Zaragoza, Spain; Department of Biomedical and Aerospace Engineering, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Guido Carpino
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Carnevale
- Department of Surgery, Medicine, Dentistry, and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncology, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Orlando
- Section of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, USA
| | - Roberta Angelico
- Hepatobiliary Surgery and Transplant Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Tommaso Maria Manzia
- Hepatobiliary Surgery and Transplant Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Detlef Schuppan
- Institute of Translational Immunology, Research Center for Immune Therapy, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany; Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Massimo Pinzani
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Domenico Alvaro
- Department of Translation and Precision Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rachele Ciccocioppo
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine, A.O.U.I. Policlinico G.B. Rossi & University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
| | - Basak E Uygun
- Center for Engineering in Medicine and Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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5
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Zhang W, Cui Y, Du Y, Yang Y, Fang T, Lu F, Kong W, Xiao C, Shi J, Reid LM, He Z. Liver cell therapies: cellular sources and grafting strategies. Front Med 2023; 17:432-457. [PMID: 37402953 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-023-1002-1] [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: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
The liver has a complex cellular composition and a remarkable regenerative capacity. The primary cell types in the liver are two parenchymal cell populations, hepatocytes and cholangiocytes, that perform most of the functions of the liver and that are helped through interactions with non-parenchymal cell types comprising stellate cells, endothelia and various hemopoietic cell populations. The regulation of the cells in the liver is mediated by an insoluble complex of proteins and carbohydrates, the extracellular matrix, working synergistically with soluble paracrine and systemic signals. In recent years, with the rapid development of genetic sequencing technologies, research on the liver's cellular composition and its regulatory mechanisms during various conditions has been extensively explored. Meanwhile breakthroughs in strategies for cell transplantation are enabling a future in which there can be a rescue of patients with end-stage liver diseases, offering potential solutions to the chronic shortage of livers and alternatives to liver transplantation. This review will focus on the cellular mechanisms of liver homeostasis and how to select ideal sources of cells to be transplanted to achieve liver regeneration and repair. Recent advances are summarized for promoting the treatment of end-stage liver diseases by forms of cell transplantation that now include grafting strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wencheng Zhang
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Ji'an Hospital, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200123, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Stem Cells Translational Medicine, Shanghai, 200335, China
- Shanghai Institute of Stem Cell Research and Clinical Translation, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Yangyang Cui
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Ji'an Hospital, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200123, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Stem Cells Translational Medicine, Shanghai, 200335, China
- Shanghai Institute of Stem Cell Research and Clinical Translation, Shanghai, 200120, China
- Postgraduate Training Base of Shanghai East Hospital, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, 121001, China
| | - Yuan Du
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Ji'an Hospital, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200123, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Yong Yang
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Ji'an Hospital, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200123, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Ting Fang
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Ji'an Hospital, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200123, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Stem Cells Translational Medicine, Shanghai, 200335, China
- Shanghai Institute of Stem Cell Research and Clinical Translation, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Fengfeng Lu
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Ji'an Hospital, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200123, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Stem Cells Translational Medicine, Shanghai, 200335, China
- Shanghai Institute of Stem Cell Research and Clinical Translation, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Weixia Kong
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Canjun Xiao
- Department of General Surgery, Ji'an Hospital, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Ji'an, 343006, China
| | - Jun Shi
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
- Department of General Surgery, Ji'an Hospital, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Ji'an, 343006, China
| | - Lola M Reid
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology and Program in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, UNC School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Zhiying He
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Ji'an Hospital, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200123, China.
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Stem Cells Translational Medicine, Shanghai, 200335, China.
- Shanghai Institute of Stem Cell Research and Clinical Translation, Shanghai, 200120, China.
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6
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Hu XH, Chen L, Wu H, Tang YB, Zheng QM, Wei XY, Wei Q, Huang Q, Chen J, Xu X. Cell therapy in end-stage liver disease: replace and remodel. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:141. [PMID: 37231461 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03370-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver disease is prevalent worldwide. When it reaches the end stage, mortality rises to 50% or more. Although liver transplantation has emerged as the most efficient treatment for end-stage liver disease, its application has been limited by the scarcity of donor livers. The lack of acceptable donor organs implies that patients are at high risk while waiting for suitable livers. In this scenario, cell therapy has emerged as a promising treatment approach. Most of the time, transplanted cells can replace host hepatocytes and remodel the hepatic microenvironment. For instance, hepatocytes derived from donor livers or stem cells colonize and proliferate in the liver, can replace host hepatocytes, and restore liver function. Other cellular therapy candidates, such as macrophages and mesenchymal stem cells, can remodel the hepatic microenvironment, thereby repairing the damaged liver. In recent years, cell therapy has transitioned from animal research to early human studies. In this review, we will discuss cell therapy in end-stage liver disease treatment, especially focusing on various cell types utilized for cell transplantation, and elucidate the processes involved. Furthermore, we will also summarize the practical obstacles of cell therapy and offer potential solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Hao Hu
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Lan Chen
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Hao Wu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yang-Bo Tang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qiu-Min Zheng
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Xu-Yong Wei
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Qiang Wei
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Qi Huang
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China.
| | - Xiao Xu
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China.
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7
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Nagy N, Kaber G, Sunkari VG, Marshall PL, Hargil A, Kuipers HF, Ishak HD, Bogdani M, Hull RL, Grandoch M, Fischer JW, McLaughlin TL, Wight TN, Bollyky PL. Inhibition of hyaluronan synthesis prevents β-cell loss in obesity-associated type 2 diabetes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.28.530522. [PMID: 36909502 PMCID: PMC10002695 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.28.530522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic β-cell dysfunction and death are central to the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes (T2D). We have identified a novel role for the inflammatory extracellular matrix polymer hyaluronan (HA) in this pathophysiology. Low levels of HA are present in healthy pancreatic islets. However, HA substantially accumulates in cadaveric islets of human T2D and islets of the db/db mouse model of T2D in response to hyperglycemia. Treatment with 4-methylumbelliferone (4-MU), an inhibitor of HA synthesis, or the deletion of the major HA receptor CD44, preserve glycemic control and insulin levels in db/db mice despite ongoing weight gain, indicating a critical role for this pathway in T2D pathogenesis. 4-MU treatment and the deletion of CD44 likewise preserve glycemic control in other settings of β-cell injury including streptozotocin treatment and islet transplantation. Mechanistically, we find that 4-MU increases the expression of the apoptosis inhibitor survivin, a downstream transcriptional target of CD44 dependent on HA/CD44 signaling, on β-cells such that caspase 3 activation does not result in β-cell apoptosis. These data indicate a role for HA accumulation in diabetes pathogenesis and suggest that it may be a viable target to ameliorate β-cell loss in T2D. These data are particularly exciting, because 4-MU is already an approved drug (also known as hymecromone), which could accelerate translation of these findings to clinical studies.
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8
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Yun C, Kim SH, Jung YS. Current Research Trends in the Application of In Vitro Three-Dimensional Models of Liver Cells. Pharmaceutics 2022; 15:pharmaceutics15010054. [PMID: 36678683 PMCID: PMC9866911 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver produces and stores various nutrients that are necessary for the body and serves as a chemical plant, metabolizing carbohydrates, fats, hormones, vitamins, and minerals. It is also a vital organ for detoxifying drugs and exogenous harmful substances. Culturing liver cells in vitro under three-dimensional (3D) conditions is considered a primary mechanism for liver tissue engineering. The 3D cell culture system is designed to allow cells to interact in an artificially created environment and has the advantage of mimicking the physiological characteristics of cells in vivo. This system facilitates contact between the cells and the extracellular matrix. Several technically different approaches have been proposed, including bioreactors, chips, and plate-based systems in fluid or static media composed of chemically diverse materials. Compared to conventional two-dimensional monolayer culture in vitro models, the ability to predict the function of the tissues, including the drug metabolism and chemical toxicity, has been enhanced by developing three-dimensional liver culture models. This review discussed the methodology of 3D cell cultures and summarized the advantages of an in vitro liver platform using 3D culture technology.
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9
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Di Matteo S, Di Meo C, Carpino G, Zoratto N, Cardinale V, Nevi L, Overi D, Costantini D, Pinto C, Montanari E, Marzioni M, Maroni L, Benedetti A, Viola M, Coviello T, Matricardi P, Gaudio E, Alvaro D. Therapeutic effects of dexamethasone-loaded hyaluronan nanogels in the experimental cholestasis. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2022; 12:1959-1973. [PMID: 35226290 PMCID: PMC9242918 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-022-01132-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
A major function of the intrahepatic biliary epithelium is bicarbonate excretion in bile. Recent reports indicate that budesonide, a corticosteroid with high receptor affinity and hepatic first pass clearance, increases the efficacy of ursodeoxycholic acid, a choleretic agent, in primary biliary cholangitis patients. We have previously reported that bile ducts isolated from rats treated with dexamethasone or budesonide showed an enhanced activity of the Na+/H+ exchanger isoform 1 (NHE1) and Cl-/HCO3- exchanger protein 2 (AE2) . Increasing the delivery of steroids to the liver may result in three beneficial effects: increase in the choleresis, treatment of the autoimmune or inflammatory liver injury and reduction of steroids' systemic harmful effects. In this study, the steroid dexamethasone was loaded into nanohydrogels (or nanogels, NHs), in order to investigate corticosteroid-induced increased activities of transport processes driving bicarbonate excretion in the biliary epithelium (NHE-1 isoform) and to evaluate the effects of dexamethasone-loaded NHs (NHs/dex) on liver injury induced by experimental cholestatis. Our results showed that NHs and NHs/dex do not reduce cell viability in vitro in human cholangiocyte cell lines. Primary and immortalized human cholangiocytes treated with NHs/dex show an increase in the functional marker expression of NHE1 cholangiocytes compared to control groups. A mouse model of cholangiopathy treated with NHs/dex shows a reduction in markers of hepatocellular injury compared to control groups (NHs, dex, or sham group). In conclusion, we believe that the NHs/dex formulation is a suitable candidate to be investigated in preclinical models of cholangiopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Di Matteo
- Department of Immunology, Bambino Gesù Childrens Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Di Meo
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Guido Carpino
- Department of Movement, Division of Health Sciences, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicole Zoratto
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Cardinale
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Nevi
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Diletta Overi
- Department of Anatomical, Forensic, Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Costantini
- Department of Precision and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Pinto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Elita Montanari
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Marzioni
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Luca Maroni
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Antonio Benedetti
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Marco Viola
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Tommasina Coviello
- Department of Movement, Division of Health Sciences, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico, Rome, Italy
| | - Pietro Matricardi
- Department of Movement, Division of Health Sciences, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico, Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenio Gaudio
- Department of Anatomical, Forensic, Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Alvaro
- Department of Precision and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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10
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Giancotti A, D'Ambrosio V, Corno S, Pajno C, Carpino G, Amato G, Vena F, Mondo A, Spiniello L, Monti M, Muzii L, Bosco D, Gaudio E, Alvaro D, Cardinale V. Current protocols and clinical efficacy of human fetal liver cell therapy in patients with liver disease: A literature review. Cytotherapy 2022; 24:376-384. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2021.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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11
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Zhao X, Li Q, Guo Z, Li Z. Constructing a cell microenvironment with biomaterial scaffolds for stem cell therapy. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:583. [PMID: 34809719 PMCID: PMC8607654 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02650-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cell therapy is widely recognized as a promising strategy for exerting therapeutic effects after injury in degenerative diseases. However, limitations such as low cell retention and survival rates after transplantation exist in clinical applications. In recent years, emerging biomaterials that provide a supportable cellular microenvironment for transplanted cells have optimized the therapeutic efficacy of stem cells in injured tissues or organs. Advances in the engineered microenvironment are revolutionizing our understanding of stem cell-based therapies by co-transplanting with synthetic and tissue-derived biomaterials, which offer a scaffold for stem cells and propose an unprecedented opportunity to further employ significant influences in tissue repair and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotong Zhao
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, Xinxiang Medical University, 601 Jinsui Road, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China.,Department of Cardiology, Zhengzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qiong Li
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, Xinxiang Medical University, 601 Jinsui Road, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
| | - Zhikun Guo
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, Xinxiang Medical University, 601 Jinsui Road, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China. .,Department of Cardiology, Zhengzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Zongjin Li
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, Xinxiang Medical University, 601 Jinsui Road, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China. .,Nankai University School of Medicine, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin, 300071, China.
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12
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Cell-Based Regeneration and Treatment of Liver Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910276. [PMID: 34638617 PMCID: PMC8508969 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver, in combination with a functional biliary system, is responsible for maintaining a great number of vital body functions. However, acute and chronic liver diseases may lead to irreversible liver damage and, ultimately, liver failure. At the moment, the best curative option for patients suffering from end-stage liver disease is liver transplantation. However, the number of donor livers required by far surpasses the supply, leading to a significant organ shortage. Cellular therapies play an increasing role in the restoration of organ function and can be integrated into organ transplantation protocols. Different types and sources of stem cells are considered for this purpose, but highly specific immune cells are also the focus of attention when developing individualized therapies. In-depth knowledge of the underlying mechanisms governing cell differentiation and engraftment is crucial for clinical implementation. Additionally, novel technologies such as ex vivo machine perfusion and recent developments in tissue engineering may hold promising potential for the implementation of cell-based therapies to restore proper organ function.
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13
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Cell Therapy and Bioengineering in Experimental Liver Regenerative Medicine: In Vivo Injury Models and Grafting Strategies. CURRENT TRANSPLANTATION REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40472-021-00325-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of Review
To describe experimental liver injury models used in regenerative medicine, cell therapy strategies to repopulate damaged livers and the efficacy of liver bioengineering.
Recent Findings
Several animal models have been developed to study different liver conditions. Multiple strategies and modified protocols of cell delivery have been also reported. Furthermore, using bioengineered liver scaffolds has shown promising results that could help in generating a highly functional cell delivery system and/or a whole transplantable liver.
Summary
To optimize the most effective strategies for liver cell therapy, further studies are required to compare among the performed strategies in the literature and/or innovate a novel modifying technique to overcome the potential limitations. Coating of cells with polymers, decellularized scaffolds, or microbeads could be the most appropriate solution to improve cellular efficacy. Besides, overcoming the problems of liver bioengineering may offer a radical treatment for end-stage liver diseases.
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14
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Cell therapy for advanced liver diseases: Repair or rebuild. J Hepatol 2021; 74:185-199. [PMID: 32976865 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Advanced liver disease presents a significant worldwide health and economic burden and accounts for 3.5% of global mortality. When liver disease progresses to organ failure the only effective treatment is liver transplantation, which necessitates lifelong immunosuppression and carries associated risks. Furthermore, the shortage of suitable donor organs means patients may die waiting for a suitable transplant organ. Cell therapies have made their way from animal studies to a small number of early clinical trials. Herein, we review the current state of cell therapies for liver disease and the mechanisms underpinning their actions (to repair liver tissue or rebuild functional parenchyma). We also discuss cellular therapies that are on the clinical horizon and challenges that must be overcome before routine clinical use is a possibility.
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15
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Lorenzo N, Sabina DM, Guido C, Ilaria Grazia Z, Samira S, Valeria A, Daniele C, Diletta O, Antonella G, Marco M, Daniela B, Valerio DP, Andrea O, Agostino Maria DR, Fabio M, Maria Consiglia B, Jessica F, Sara M, Gian Luca G, Pierluigi Benedetti P, Paquale Bartomeo B, Felice G, Vincenzo C, Pietro I, Giuseppina C, Eugenio G, Domenico A. DCLK1, a Putative Stem Cell Marker in Human Cholangiocarcinoma. Hepatology 2021; 73:144-159. [PMID: 32978808 PMCID: PMC8243252 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a very aggressive cancer showing the presence of high cancer stem cells (CSCs). Doublecortin-like kinase1 (DCLK1) has been demonstrated as a CSC marker in different gastroenterological solid tumors. Our aim was to evaluate in vitro the expression and the biological function of DCLK1 in intrahepatic CCA (iCCA) and perihilar CCA (pCCA). APPROACH AND RESULTS Specimens surgically resected of human CCA were enzymatically digested, submitted to immunosorting for specific CSC markers (LGR5 [leucine-rich repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor], CD [clusters of differentiation] 90, EpCAM [epithelial cell adhesion molecule], CD133, and CD13), and primary cell cultures were prepared. DCLK1 expression was analyzed in CCA cell cultures by real-time quantitative PCR, western blot, and immunofluorescence. Functional studies have been performed by evaluating the effects of selective DCLK1 inhibitor (LRRK2-IN-1) on cell proliferation (MTS [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium] assay, cell population doubling time), apoptosis, and colony formation capacity. DCLK1 was investigated in situ by immunohistochemistry and real-time quantitative PCR. DCLK1 serum concentration was analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. We describe DCLK1 in CCA with an increased gene and protein DCLK1 expression in pCCALGR5+ and in iCCACD133+ cells compared with unsorted cells. LRRK2-IN-1 showed an anti-proliferative effect in a dose-dependent manner. LRRK2-IN-1 markedly impaired cell proliferation, induced apoptosis, and decreased colony formation capacity and colony size in both iCCA and pCCA compared with the untreated cells. In situ analysis confirmed that DCLK1 is present only in tumors, and not in healthy tissue. Interestingly, DCLK1 was detected in the human serum samples of patients with iCCA (high), pCCA (high), HCC (low), and cirrhosis (low), but it was almost undetectable in healthy controls. CONCLUSIONS DCLK1 characterizes a specific CSC subpopulation of iCCACD133+ and pCCALGR5+ , and its inhibition exerts anti-neoplastic effects in primary CCA cell cultures. Human DCLK1 serum might represent a serum biomarker for the early CCA diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nevi Lorenzo
- Department of BiosciencesUniversity of MilanMilanItaly,Department of Translational and Precision MedicineSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Di Matteo Sabina
- Department of Translational and Precision MedicineSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly,Department of ImmunologyBambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCSRomeItaly
| | - Carpino Guido
- Department of MovementHuman and Health SciencesUniversity of Rome “Foro Italico”RomeItaly
| | | | - Safarikia Samira
- Department of Translational and Precision MedicineSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Ambrosino Valeria
- Department of Translational and Precision MedicineSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Costantini Daniele
- Department of Translational and Precision MedicineSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Overi Diletta
- Department of AnatomicalHistological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics SciencesSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Giancotti Antonella
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urologic SciencesUmberto I HospitalSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Monti Marco
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urologic SciencesUmberto I HospitalSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Bosco Daniela
- Department of Pathological Anatomy and CytodiagnosticSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - De Peppo Valerio
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery IRCCSRegina Elena National Cancer InstituteRomeItaly
| | - Oddi Andrea
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery IRCCSRegina Elena National Cancer InstituteRomeItaly
| | - De Rose Agostino Maria
- Surgery, Hepatobiliary UnitCatholic University of the Sacred Heart School of Medicine and SurgeryRomeItaly
| | - Melandro Fabio
- Department of General Surgery and Organ TransplantationSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | | | - Faccioli Jessica
- Department of Medico‐Surgical Sciences and BiotechnologiesSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Massironi Sara
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver DiseasesDepartment of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milan‐BicoccaMonzaItaly,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE‐LIVER)San Gerardo HospitalMonzaItaly
| | - Grazi Gian Luca
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery IRCCSRegina Elena National Cancer InstituteRomeItaly
| | - Panici Pierluigi Benedetti
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urologic SciencesUmberto I HospitalSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | | | - Giuliante Felice
- Surgery, Hepatobiliary UnitCatholic University of the Sacred Heart School of Medicine and SurgeryRomeItaly
| | - Cardinale Vincenzo
- Department of Medico‐Surgical Sciences and BiotechnologiesSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Invernizzi Pietro
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver DiseasesDepartment of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milan‐BicoccaMonzaItaly,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE‐LIVER)San Gerardo HospitalMonzaItaly
| | | | - Gaudio Eugenio
- Department of AnatomicalHistological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics SciencesSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Alvaro Domenico
- Department of Translational and Precision MedicineSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
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16
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Abstract
Following injury, the liver's epithelial cells regenerate efficiently with rapid proliferation of hepatocytes and biliary cells. However, when proliferation of resident epithelial cells is impaired, alternative regeneration mechanisms can occur. Intricate lineage-tracing strategies and experimental models of regenerative stress have revealed a degree of plasticity between hepatocytes and biliary cells. New technologies such as single-cell omics, in combination with functional studies, will be instrumental to uncover the remaining unknowns in the field. In this review, we evaluate the experimental and clinical evidence for epithelial plasticity in the liver and how this influences the development of therapeutic strategies for chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria L Gadd
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Edinburgh BioQuarter, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Niya Aleksieva
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Edinburgh BioQuarter, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Stuart J Forbes
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Edinburgh BioQuarter, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK.
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17
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Safarikia S, Carpino G, Overi D, Cardinale V, Venere R, Franchitto A, Onori P, Alvaro D, Gaudio E. Distinct EpCAM-Positive Stem Cell Niches Are Engaged in Chronic and Neoplastic Liver Diseases. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:479. [PMID: 32984373 PMCID: PMC7492539 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.00479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In normal human livers, EpCAMpos cells are mostly restricted in two distinct niches, which are (i) the bile ductules and (ii) the mucous glands present inside the wall of large intrahepatic bile ducts (the so-called peribiliary glands). These EpCAMpos cell niches have been proven to harbor stem/progenitor cells with great importance in liver and biliary tree regeneration and in the pathophysiology of human diseases. The EpCAMpos progenitor cells within bile ductules are engaged in driving regenerative processes in chronic diseases affecting hepatocytes or interlobular bile ducts. The EpCAMpos population within peribiliary glands is activated when regenerative needs are finalized to repair large intra- or extra-hepatic bile ducts affected by chronic pathologies, including primary sclerosing cholangitis and ischemia-induced cholangiopathies after orthotopic liver transplantation. Finally, the presence of distinct EpCAMpos cell populations may explain the histological and molecular heterogeneity characterizing cholangiocarcinoma, based on the concept of multiple candidate cells of origin. This review aimed to describe the precise anatomical distribution of EpCAMpos populations within the liver and the biliary tree and to discuss their contribution in the pathophysiology of human liver diseases, as well as their potential role in regenerative medicine of the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samira Safarikia
- Department of Precision and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Guido Carpino
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico," Rome, Italy
| | - Diletta Overi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Cardinale
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Rosanna Venere
- Department of Precision and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Franchitto
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Onori
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Alvaro
- Department of Precision and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenio Gaudio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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18
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Carpino G, Nevi L, Overi D, Cardinale V, Lu WY, Di Matteo S, Safarikia S, Berloco PB, Venere R, Onori P, Franchitto A, Forbes SJ, Alvaro D, Gaudio E. Peribiliary Gland Niche Participates in Biliary Tree Regeneration in Mouse and in Human Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis. Hepatology 2020; 71:972-989. [PMID: 31330051 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Mechanisms underlying the repair of extrahepatic biliary tree (EHBT) after injury have been scarcely explored. The aims of this study were to evaluate, by using a lineage tracing approach, the contribution of peribiliary gland (PBG) niche in the regeneration of EHBT after damage and to evaluate, in vivo and in vitro, the signaling pathways involved. APPROACH AND RESULTS Bile duct injury was induced by the administration of 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC) diet for 14 days to Krt19Cre TdTomatoLSL mice. Human biliary tree stem/progenitor cells (BTSC) within PBGs were isolated from EHBT obtained from liver donors. Hepatic duct samples (n = 10) were obtained from patients affected by primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Samples were analyzed by histology, immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and polymerase chain reaction. DDC administration causes hyperplasia of PBGs and periductal fibrosis in EHBT. A PBG cell population (Cytokeratin19- /SOX9+ ) is involved in the renewal of surface epithelium in injured EHBT. The Wnt signaling pathway triggers human BTSC proliferation in vitro and influences PBG hyperplasia in vivo in the DDC-mediated mouse biliary injury model. The Notch signaling pathway activation induces BTSC differentiation in vitro toward mature cholangiocytes and is associated with PBG activation in the DDC model. In human PSC, inflammatory and stromal cells trigger PBG activation through the up-regulation of the Wnt and Notch signaling pathways. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated the involvement of PBG cells in regenerating the injured biliary epithelium and identified the signaling pathways driving BTSC activation. These results could have relevant implications on the pathophysiology and treatment of cholangiopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Carpino
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico,", Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Nevi
- Department of Precision and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Diletta Overi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Cardinale
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Wei-Yu Lu
- Medical Research Council Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Sabina Di Matteo
- Department of Precision and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Samira Safarikia
- Department of Precision and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Rosanna Venere
- Department of Precision and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Onori
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Franchitto
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Stuart J Forbes
- Medical Research Council Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Domenico Alvaro
- Department of Precision and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenio Gaudio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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19
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Messina A, Luce E, Hussein M, Dubart-Kupperschmitt A. Pluripotent-Stem-Cell-Derived Hepatic Cells: Hepatocytes and Organoids for Liver Therapy and Regeneration. Cells 2020; 9:cells9020420. [PMID: 32059501 PMCID: PMC7072243 DOI: 10.3390/cells9020420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver is a very complex organ that ensures numerous functions; it is thus susceptible to multiple types of damage and dysfunction. Since 1983, orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) has been considered the only medical solution available to patients when most of their liver function is lost. Unfortunately, the number of patients waiting for OLT is worryingly increasing, and extracorporeal liver support devices are not yet able to counteract the problem. In this review, the current and expected methodologies in liver regeneration are briefly analyzed. In particular, human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) as a source of hepatic cells for liver therapy and regeneration are discussed. Principles of hPSC differentiation into hepatocytes are explored, along with the current limitations that have led to the development of 3D culture systems and organoid production. Expected applications of these organoids are discussed with particular attention paid to bio artificial liver (BAL) devices and liver bio-fabrication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonietta Messina
- INSERM unité mixte de recherche (UMR_S) 1193, F-94800 Villejuif, France; (A.M.)
- UMR_S 1193, Université Paris-Sud/Paris-Saclay, F-94800 Villejuif, France
- Département Hospitalo-Universitaire (DHU) Hépatinov, F-94800 Villejuif, France
| | - Eléanor Luce
- INSERM unité mixte de recherche (UMR_S) 1193, F-94800 Villejuif, France; (A.M.)
- UMR_S 1193, Université Paris-Sud/Paris-Saclay, F-94800 Villejuif, France
- Département Hospitalo-Universitaire (DHU) Hépatinov, F-94800 Villejuif, France
| | - Marwa Hussein
- INSERM unité mixte de recherche (UMR_S) 1193, F-94800 Villejuif, France; (A.M.)
- UMR_S 1193, Université Paris-Sud/Paris-Saclay, F-94800 Villejuif, France
- Département Hospitalo-Universitaire (DHU) Hépatinov, F-94800 Villejuif, France
| | - Anne Dubart-Kupperschmitt
- INSERM unité mixte de recherche (UMR_S) 1193, F-94800 Villejuif, France; (A.M.)
- UMR_S 1193, Université Paris-Sud/Paris-Saclay, F-94800 Villejuif, France
- Département Hospitalo-Universitaire (DHU) Hépatinov, F-94800 Villejuif, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-145595138
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20
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Nevi L, Costantini D, Safarikia S, Di Matteo S, Melandro F, Berloco PB, Cardinale V. Cholest-4,6-Dien-3-One Promote Epithelial-To-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) in Biliary Tree Stem/Progenitor Cell Cultures In Vitro. Cells 2019; 8:cells8111443. [PMID: 31731674 PMCID: PMC6912632 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Human biliary tree stem/progenitor cells (hBTSCs), reside in peribiliary glands, are mainly stimulated by primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and cholangiocarcinoma. In these pathologies, hBTSCs displayed epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), senescence characteristics, and impaired differentiation. Here, we investigated the effects of cholest-4,6-dien-3-one, an oxysterol involved in cholangiopathies, on hBTSCs biology. hBTSCs were isolated from donor organs, cultured in self-renewal control conditions, differentiated in mature cholangiocytes by specifically tailored medium, or exposed for 10 days to concentration of cholest-4,6-dien-3-one (0.14 mM). Viability, proliferation, senescence, EMT genes expression, telomerase activity, interleukin 6 (IL6) secretion, differentiation capacity, and HDAC6 gene expression were analyzed. Although the effect of cholest-4,6-dien-3-one was not detected on hBTSCs viability, we found a significant increase in cell proliferation, senescence, and IL6 secretion. Interestingly, cholest-4.6-dien-3-one impaired differentiation in mature cholangiocytes and, simultaneously, induced the EMT markers, significantly reduced the telomerase activity, and induced HDAC6 gene expression. Moreover, cholest-4,6-dien-3-one enhanced bone morphogenic protein 4 (Bmp-4) and sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathways in hBTSCs. The same pathways activated by human recombinant proteins induced the expression of EMT markers in hBTSCs. In conclusion, we demonstrated that chronic exposition of cholest-4,6-dien-3-one induced cell proliferation, EMT markers, and senescence in hBTSC, and also impaired the differentiation in mature cholangiocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Nevi
- Department of Translation and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (S.S.); (S.D.M.)
- Correspondence: (L.N.); (V.C.); Tel.: +39-3392335294 (L.N.); +39-3495601492 (V.C.)
| | - Daniele Costantini
- Department of Translation and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (S.S.); (S.D.M.)
| | - Samira Safarikia
- Department of Translation and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (S.S.); (S.D.M.)
| | - Sabina Di Matteo
- Department of Translation and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (S.S.); (S.D.M.)
| | - Fabio Melandro
- Department of General Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Sapienza University of Rome, 0016 Rome, Italy; (F.M.); (P.B.B.)
| | - Pasquale Bartolomeo Berloco
- Department of General Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Sapienza University of Rome, 0016 Rome, Italy; (F.M.); (P.B.B.)
| | - Vincenzo Cardinale
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Polo Pontino, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy
- Correspondence: (L.N.); (V.C.); Tel.: +39-3392335294 (L.N.); +39-3495601492 (V.C.)
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21
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Functions and the Emerging Role of the Foetal Liver into Regenerative Medicine. Cells 2019; 8:cells8080914. [PMID: 31426422 PMCID: PMC6721721 DOI: 10.3390/cells8080914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
During foetal life, the liver plays the important roles of connection and transient hematopoietic function. Foetal liver cells develop in an environment called a hematopoietic stem cell niche composed of several cell types, where stem cells can proliferate and give rise to mature blood cells. Embryologically, at about the third week of gestation, the liver appears, and it grows rapidly from the fifth to 10th week under WNT/β-Catenin signaling pathway stimulation, which induces hepatic progenitor cells proliferation and differentiation into hepatocytes. Development of new strategies and identification of new cell sources should represent the main aim in liver regenerative medicine and cell therapy. Cells isolated from organs with endodermal origin, like the liver, bile ducts, and pancreas, could be preferable cell sources. Furthermore, stem cells isolated from these organs could be more susceptible to differentiate into mature liver cells after transplantation with respect to stem cells isolated from organs or tissues with a different embryological origin. The foetal liver possesses unique features given the co-existence of cells having endodermal and mesenchymal origin, and it could be highly available source candidate for regenerative medicine in both the liver and pancreas. Taking into account these advantages, the foetal liver can be the highest potential and available cell source for cell therapy regarding liver diseases and diabetes.
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Abstract
Stem cell therapy is a promising alternative approach to the treatment of a number of incurable degenerative diseases. However, low cell retention and survival after transplantation limit the therapeutic efficacy of stem cells for clinical translational applications. The utilization of biomaterials has been progressively successful in controlling the fate of transplanted cells by imitating the cellular microenvironment for optimal tissue repair and regeneration. This review mainly focuses on the engineered microenvironments with synthetic biomaterials in modification of stem cell behaviors. Moreover, the possible advancements in translational therapy by using biomaterials with stem cells are prospected and the challenges of the current restriction in clinical applications are highlighted.
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Hyaluronan-Based Grafting Strategies for Liver Stem Cell Therapy and Tracking Methods. Stem Cells Int 2019; 2019:3620546. [PMID: 31354838 PMCID: PMC6636496 DOI: 10.1155/2019/3620546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell adhesion is essential for survival, it plays important roles in physiological cell functions, and it is an innovative target in regenerative medicine. Among the molecular interactions and the pathways triggered during cell adhesion, the binding of cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44), a cell-surface glycoprotein involved in cell-cell interactions, to hyaluronic acid (HA), a major component of the extracellular matrix, is a crucial step. Cell therapy has emerged as a promising treatment for advanced liver diseases; however, so far, it has led to low cell engraftment and limited cell repopulation of the target tissue. Currently, different strategies are under investigation to improve cell grafting in the liver, including the use of organic and inorganic biomatrices that mimic the microenvironment of the extracellular matrix. Hyaluronans, major components of stem cell niches, are attractive candidates for coating stem cells since they improve viability, proliferation, and engraftment in damaged livers. In this review, we will discuss the new strategies that have been adopted to improve cell grafting and track cells after transplantation.
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Costantini D, Overi D, Casadei L, Cardinale V, Nevi L, Carpino G, Di Matteo S, Safarikia S, Valerio M, Melandro F, Bizzarri M, Manetti C, Berloco PB, Gaudio E, Alvaro D. Simulated microgravity promotes the formation of tridimensional cultures and stimulates pluripotency and a glycolytic metabolism in human hepatic and biliary tree stem/progenitor cells. Sci Rep 2019; 9:5559. [PMID: 30944365 PMCID: PMC6447605 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-41908-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Many pivotal biological cell processes are affected by gravity. The aim of our study was to evaluate biological and functional effects, differentiation potential and exo-metabolome profile of simulated microgravity (SMG) on human hepatic cell line (HepG2) and human biliary tree stem/progenitor cells (hBTSCs). Both hBTSCs and HepG2 were cultured in a weightless and protected environment SGM produced by the Rotary Cell Culture System (Synthecon) and control condition in normal gravity (NG). Self-replication and differentiation toward mature cells were determined by culturing hBTSCs in Kubota’s Medium (KM) and in hormonally defined medium (HDM) tailored for hepatocyte differentiation. The effects on the expression and cell exo-metabolome profiles of SMG versus NG cultures were analyzed. SMG promotes tridimensional (3D) cultures of hBTSCs and HepG2. Significative increase of stemness gene expression (p < 0.05) has been observed in hBTSCs cultured in SMG when compared to NG condition. At the same time, the expression of hepatocyte lineage markers in hBTSCs differentiated by HDM was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in SMG compared to NG, demonstrating an impaired capability of hBTSCs to differentiate in vitro toward mature hepatocytes when cultured in SMG condition. Furthermore, in HepG2 cells the SMG caused a lower (p < 0.05 vs controls) transcription of CYP3A4, a marker of late-stage (i.e. Zone 3) hepatocytes. Exo-metabolome NMR-analysis showed that both cell cultures consumed a higher amount of glucose and lower glutamate in SMG respect to NG (p < 0.05). Moreover, hBTSCs media cultures resulted richer of released fermentation (lactate, acetate) and ketogenesis products (B-hydroxybutyrate) in SGM (p < 0.05) than NG. While, HepG2 cells showed higher consumption of amino acids and release of ketoacids (3-Methyl-2-oxovalerate, 2-oxo-4-methyl-valerate) and formiate with respect to normogravity condition (p < 0.05). Based on our results, SMG could be helpful for developing hBTSCs-derived liver devices. In conclusion, SMG favored the formation of hBTSCs and HepG2 3D cultures and the maintenance of stemness contrasting cell differentiation; these effects being associated with stimulation of glycolytic metabolism. Interestingly, the impact of SMG on stem cell biology should be taken into consideration for workers involved in space medicine programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Costantini
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Diletta Overi
- Division of Human Anatomy, Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Casadei
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Cardinale
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Polo Pontino, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Nevi
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Guido Carpino
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - Sabina Di Matteo
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Samira Safarikia
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Fabio Melandro
- Department of General Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mariano Bizzarri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Cesare Manetti
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Eugenio Gaudio
- Division of Human Anatomy, Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Alvaro
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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The FXR agonist obeticholic acid inhibits the cancerogenic potential of human cholangiocarcinoma. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0210077. [PMID: 30677052 PMCID: PMC6345424 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0210077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is an aggressive cancer with high resistance to chemotherapeutics. CCA is enriched in cancer stem cells, which correlate with aggressiveness and prognosis. FXR, a member of the metabolic nuclear receptor family, is markedly down-regulated in human CCA. Our aim was to evaluate, in primary cultures of human intrahepatic CCA (iCCA), the effects of the FXR agonist obeticholic acid (OCA), a semisynthetic bile acid derivative, on their cancerogenic potential. Primary human iCCA cell cultures were prepared from surgical specimens of mucinous or mixed iCCA subtypes. Increasing concentrations (0-2.5 μM) of OCA were added to culture media and, after 3-10 days, effects on proliferation (MTS assay, cell population doubling time), apoptosis (annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide), cell migration and invasion (wound healing response and Matrigel invasion assay), and cancerogenic potential (spheroid formation, clonogenic assay, colony formation capacity) were evaluated. Results: FXR gene expression was downregulated (RT-qPCR) in iCCA cells vs normal human biliary tree stem cells (p < 0.05) and in mucinous iCCA vs mixed iCCA cells (p < 0.05) but was upregulated by addition of OCA. OCA significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited proliferation of both mucinous and mixed iCCA cells, starting at a concentration as low as 0.05 μM. Also, CDCA (but not UDCA) inhibited cell proliferation, although to a much lower extent than OCA, consistent with its different affinity for FXR. OCA significantly induced apoptosis of both iCCA subtypes and decreased their in vitro cancerogenic potential, as evaluated by impairment of colony and spheroid formation capacity and delayed wound healing and Matrigel invasion. In general, these effects were more evident in mixed than mucinous iCCA cells. When tested together with Gemcitabine and Cisplatin, OCA potentiated the anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects of these chemotherapeutics, but mainly in mixed iCCA cells. OCA abolished the capacity of both mucinous and mixed iCCA cells to form colonies when administered together with Gemcitabine and Cisplatin. In subcutaneous xenografts of mixed iCCA cells, OCA alone or combined with Gemcitabine or Cisplatin markedly reduced the tumor size after 5 weeks of treatment by inducing necrosis of tumor mass and inhibiting cell proliferation. In conclusion, FXR is down-regulated in iCCA cells, and its activation by OCA results in anti-cancerogenic effects against mucinous and mixed iCCA cells, both in vitro and in vivo. The effects of OCA predominated in mixed iCCA cells, consistent with the lower aggressiveness and the higher FXR expression in this CCA subtype. These results, showing the FXR-mediated capacity of OCA to inhibit cholangiocarcinogenesis, represent the basis for testing OCA in clinical trials of CCA patients.
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26
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Overi D, Carpino G, Cardinale V, Franchitto A, Safarikia S, Onori P, Alvaro D, Gaudio E. Contribution of Resident Stem Cells to Liver and Biliary Tree Regeneration in Human Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19102917. [PMID: 30257529 PMCID: PMC6213374 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19102917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Revised: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Two distinct stem/progenitor cell populations of biliary origin have been identified in the adult liver and biliary tree. Hepatic Stem/progenitor Cells (HpSCs) are bipotent progenitor cells located within the canals of Hering and can be differentiated into mature hepatocytes and cholangiocytes; Biliary Tree Stem/progenitor Cells (BTSCs) are multipotent stem cells located within the peribiliary glands of large intrahepatic and extrahepatic bile ducts and able to differentiate into hepatic and pancreatic lineages. HpSCs and BTSCs are endowed in a specialized niche constituted by supporting cells and extracellular matrix compounds. The actual contribution of these stem cell niches to liver and biliary tree homeostatic regeneration is marginal; this is due to the high replicative capabilities and plasticity of mature parenchymal cells (i.e., hepatocytes and cholangiocytes). However, the study of human liver and biliary diseases disclosed how these stem cell niches are involved in the regenerative response after extensive and/or chronic injuries, with the activation of specific signaling pathways. The present review summarizes the contribution of stem/progenitor cell niches in human liver diseases, underlining mechanisms of activation and clinical implications, including fibrogenesis and disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diletta Overi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Borelli 50, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Guido Carpino
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Piazza Lauro de Bosis 6, 00135 Rome, Italy.
| | - Vincenzo Cardinale
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Corso della Repubblica 79, 04100 Latina, Italy.
| | - Antonio Franchitto
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Borelli 50, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Samira Safarikia
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 151, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Paolo Onori
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Borelli 50, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Domenico Alvaro
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 151, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Eugenio Gaudio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Borelli 50, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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27
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Proceedings of the signature series event of the international society for cellular therapy: "Advancements in cellular therapies and regenerative medicine in digestive diseases," London, United Kingdom, May 3, 2017. Cytotherapy 2018; 20:461-476. [PMID: 29398624 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2017.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
A summary of the First Signature Series Event, "Advancements in Cellular Therapies and Regenerative Medicine for Digestive Diseases," held on May 3, 2017, in London, United Kingdom, is presented. Twelve speakers from three continents covered major topics in the areas of cellular therapy and regenerative medicine applied to liver and gastrointestinal medicine as well as to diabetes mellitus. Highlights from their presentations, together with an overview of the global impact of digestive diseases and a proposal for a shared online collection and data-monitoring platform tool, are included in this proceedings. Although growing evidence demonstrate the feasibility and safety of exploiting cell-based technologies for the treatment of digestive diseases, regulatory and methodological obstacles will need to be overcome before the successful implementation in the clinic of these novel attractive therapeutic strategies.
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28
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Lustri AM, Di Matteo S, Fraveto A, Costantini D, Cantafora A, Napoletano C, Bragazzi MC, Giuliante F, De Rose AM, Berloco PB, Grazi GL, Carpino G, Alvaro D. TGF-β signaling is an effective target to impair survival and induce apoptosis of human cholangiocarcinoma cells: A study on human primary cell cultures. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0183932. [PMID: 28873435 PMCID: PMC5584931 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0183932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) and its subtypes (mucin- and mixed-CCA) arise from the neoplastic transformation of cholangiocytes, the epithelial cells lining the biliary tree. CCA has a high mortality rate owing to its aggressiveness, late diagnosis and high resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapeutics. We have demonstrated that CCA is enriched for cancer stem cells which express epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) traits, with these features being associated with aggressiveness and drug resistance. TGF-β signaling is upregulated in CCA and involved in EMT. We have recently established primary cell cultures from human mucin- and mixed-intrahepatic CCA. In human CCA primary cultures with different levels of EMT trait expression, we evaluated the anticancer effects of: (i) CX-4945, a casein kinase-2 (CK2) inhibitor that blocks TGF-β1-induced EMT; and (ii) LY2157299, a TGF-β receptor I kinase inhibitor. We tested primary cell lines expressing EMT trait markers (vimentin, N-cadherin and nuclear catenin) but negative for epithelial markers, and cell lines expressing epithelial markers (CK19-positive) in association with EMT traits. Cell viability was evaluated by MTS assays, apoptosis by Annexin V FITC and cell migration by wound-healing assay. Results: at a dose of 10 μM, CX4945 significantly decreased cell viability of primary human cell cultures from both mucin and mixed CCA, whereas in CK19-positive cell cultures, the effect of CX4945 on cell viability required higher concentrations (>30μM). At the same concentrations, CX4945 also induced apoptosis (3- fold increase vs controls) which correlated with the expression level of CK2 in the different CCA cell lines (mucin- and mixed-CCA). Indeed, no apoptotic effects were observed in CK19-positive cells expressing lower CK2 levels. The effects of CX4945 on viability and apoptosis were associated with an increased number of γ-H2ax (biomarker for DNA double-strand breaks) foci, suggesting the active role of CK2 as a repair mechanism in CCAs. LY2157299 failed to influence cell proliferation or apoptosis but significantly inhibited cell migration. At a 50 μM concentration, in fact, LY2157299 significantly impaired (at 24, 48 and 120 hrs) the wound-healing of primary cell cultures from both mucin-and mixed-CCA. In conclusion, we demonstrated that CX4945 and LY2157299 exert relevant but distinct anticancer effects against human CCA cells, with CX4945 acting on cell viability and apoptosis, and LY2157299 impairing cell migration. These results suggest that targeting the TGF-β signaling with a combination of CX-4945 and LY2157299 could have potential benefits in the treatment of human CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Lustri
- Medico-surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, RM, ROMA, Italy
| | - Sabina Di Matteo
- Medico-surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, RM, ROMA, Italy
| | - Alice Fraveto
- Medico-surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, RM, ROMA, Italy
| | - Daniele Costantini
- Medico-surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, RM, ROMA, Italy
| | - Alfredo Cantafora
- Medico-surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, RM, ROMA, Italy
| | - Chiara Napoletano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Sapienza, Roma, Italy
| | | | - Felice Giuliante
- Catholic University of the Sacred Heart School of Medicine, Roma, Italy
| | | | - Pasquale B. Berloco
- Department of General Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Italy
| | - Gian Luca Grazi
- Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, the Gastroenterology Unit, Roma, Italy
| | - Guido Carpino
- Department of Health Science, University of Rome Foro Italico, Roma, Italy
| | - Domenico Alvaro
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University of Rome, RM, ROMA, Italy
- * E-mail:
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29
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Nevi L, Cardinale V, Carpino G, Costantini D, Di Matteo S, Cantafora A, Melandro F, Brunelli R, Bastianelli C, Aliberti C, Monti M, Bosco D, Berloco PB, Panici PB, Reid L, Gaudio E, Alvaro D. Cryopreservation protocol for human biliary tree stem/progenitors, hepatic and pancreatic precursors. Sci Rep 2017; 7:6080. [PMID: 28729654 PMCID: PMC5519713 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-05858-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Human biliary tree stem/progenitor cells (hBTSCs) are being used for cell therapies of patients with liver cirrhosis. A cryopreservation method was established to optimize sourcing of hBTSCs for these clinical programs and that comprises serum-free Kubota’s Medium (KM) supplemented with 10% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), 15% human serum albumin (HSA) and 0.1% hyaluronans. Cryopreserved versus freshly isolated hBTSCs were similar in vitro with respect to self-replication, stemness traits, and multipotency. They were able to differentiate to functional hepatocytes,cholangiocytes or pancreatic islets, yielding similar levels of secretion of albumin or of glucose-inducible levels of insulin. Cryopreserved versus freshly isolated hBTSCs were equally able to engraft into immunocompromised mice yielding cells with human-specific gene expression and human albumin levels in murine serum that were higher for cryopreserved than for freshly isolated hBTSCs. The successful cryopreservation of hBTSCs facilitates establishment of hBTSCs cell banking offering logistical advantages for clinical programs for treatment of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Nevi
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Cardinale
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Guido Carpino
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Costantini
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabina Di Matteo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alfredo Cantafora
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Melandro
- Department of General Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Brunelli
- Department of Gynaecologic-Obstetric and Urologic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Bastianelli
- Department of Gynaecologic-Obstetric and Urologic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Camilla Aliberti
- Department of Gynaecologic-Obstetric and Urologic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Monti
- Department of Gynaecologic-Obstetric and Urologic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Bosco
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Lola Reid
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology and Program in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, North Carolina, USA
| | - Eugenio Gaudio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Domenico Alvaro
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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Ridola L, Bragazzi MC, Cardinale V, Carpino G, Gaudio E, Alvaro D. Cholangiocytes: Cell transplantation. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2017; 1864:1516-1523. [PMID: 28735098 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2017.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2017] [Revised: 07/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to significant limitations to the access to orthotropic liver transplantation, cell therapies for liver diseases have gained large interest worldwide. SCOPE OF REVIEW To revise current literature dealing with cell therapy for liver diseases. We discussed the advantages and pitfalls of the different cell sources tested so far in clinical trials and the rationale underlying the potential benefits of transplantation of human biliary tree stem cells (hBTSCs). MAJOR CONCLUSIONS Transplantation of adult hepatocytes showed transient benefits but requires immune-suppression that is a major pitfall in patients with advanced liver diseases. Mesenchymal stem cells and hematopoietic stem cells transplanted into patients with liver diseases are not able to replace resident hepatocytes but rather they target autoimmune or inflammatory processes into the liver. Stem cells isolated from fetal or adult liver have been recently proposed as alternative cell sources for advanced liver cirrhosis and metabolic liver disease. We demonstrated the presence of multipotent cells expressing a variety of endodermal stem cell markers in (peri)-biliary glands of bile ducts in fetal or adult human tissues, and in crypts of gallbladder epithelium. In the first cirrhotic patients treated in our center with biliary tree stem cell therapy, we registered no adverse event but significant benefits. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE The biliary tree stem cell could represent the ideal cell source for the cell therapy of liver diseases. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Cholangiocytes in Health and Diseaseedited by Jesus Banales, Marco Marzioni, Nicholas LaRusso and Peter Jansen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Ridola
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Polo Pontino, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - Maria Consiglia Bragazzi
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Polo Pontino, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - Vincenzo Cardinale
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Polo Pontino, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - Guido Carpino
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Italy.
| | - Eugenio Gaudio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Domenico Alvaro
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Division of Gastroenterology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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