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Guo H, Hu Z, Yang X, Yuan Z, Wang M, Chen C, Xie L, Gao Y, Li W, Bai Y, Lin C. Smad4 regulates TGF-β1-mediated hedgehog activation to promote epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in pancreatic cancer cells by suppressing Gli1 activity. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:1189-1200. [PMID: 38525105 PMCID: PMC10957521 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is an aggressive and metastatic gastrointestinal tumor with a poor prognosis. Persistent activation of the TGF-β/Smad signaling induces PC cell (PCC) invasion and infiltration via epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Hedgehog signaling is a crucial pathway for the development of PC via the transcription factors Gli1/2/3. This study aimed to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms of action of hedgehog activation in TGF-β1-triggered EMT in PCCs (PANC-1 and BxPc-3). In addition, overexpression and shRNA techniques were used to evaluate the role of Smad4 in TGF-β1-treated PCCs. Our data showed that TGF-β1 promoted PCC invasion and infiltration via Smad2/3-dependent EMT. Hedgehog-Gli signaling axis in PCCs was activated upon TGF-β1 stimulation. Inhibition of hedgehog with cyclopamine effectively antagonized TGF-β1-induced EMT, thereby suggesting that the hedgehog signaling may act as a downstream cascade signaling of TGF-β1. As a key protein that assists the nuclear translocation of Smad2/3, Smad4 was highly expressed in PANC-1 cells, but not in BxPc-3 cells. Conversely, Gli1 expression was low in PANC-1 cells, but high in BxPc-3 cells. Furthermore, knockdown of Smad4 in PANC-1 cells by shRNA inhibited TGF-β1-mediated EMT and collagen deposition. Overexpression of Smad4 did not affect TGF-β1-mediated EMT due to the lack of significant increase in nuclear expression of Smad4. Importantly, Gli1 activity was upregulated by Smad4 knockdown in PANC-1 cells and downregulated by Smad4 overexpression in BxPc-3 cells, indicating that Gli1 may be a negative target protein downstream of Smad4. Thus, Smad4 regulates TGF-β1-mediated hedgehog activation to promote EMT in PCCs by suppressing Gli1 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hangcheng Guo
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Intelligent Cancer Biomarker Discovery and Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
- Sichuan Mianyang 404 Hospital, Mianyang 621000, China
| | - Zujian Hu
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Intelligent Cancer Biomarker Discovery and Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Xuejia Yang
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Intelligent Cancer Biomarker Discovery and Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Ziwei Yuan
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Intelligent Cancer Biomarker Discovery and Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Mengsi Wang
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Intelligent Cancer Biomarker Discovery and Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Chaoyue Chen
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Intelligent Cancer Biomarker Discovery and Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Lili Xie
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Intelligent Cancer Biomarker Discovery and Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Yuanyuan Gao
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Intelligent Cancer Biomarker Discovery and Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Wangjian Li
- Department of Urology, The Central Hospital Affiliated to Shaoxing University, Shaoxing 312030, China
| | - Yongheng Bai
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Intelligent Cancer Biomarker Discovery and Translation, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
- National Key Clinical Specialty (General Surgery), The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Chunjing Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
- Medicine and Health Care Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
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Liu X, Wang X, Xu L, Fan J, Yuan Q, Zhang F, Liu J, Qiu X, Li Y, Xia C, Liu H. Targeting delivery of a novel TGF-β type I receptor-mimicking peptide to activated hepatic stellate cells for liver fibrosis therapy via inhibiting the TGF-β1/Smad and p38 MAPK signaling pathways. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 977:176708. [PMID: 38843945 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Excessive transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) secreted by activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) aggravates liver fibrosis via over-activation of TGF-β1-mediated signaling pathways in a TGF-β type I receptor (TβRI) dependent manner. TβRI with the C-terminal valine truncated (RIPΔ), as a novel TβRI-mimicking peptide, is an appealing anti-fibrotic candidate by competitive binding of TGF-β1 to block TGF-β1 signal transduction. Platelet-derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFβR) is highly expressed on the surface of aHSCs in liver fibrosis. Herein, we designed a novel RIPΔ variant Z-RIPΔ (PDGFβR-specific affibody ZPDGFβR fused to the N-terminus of RIPΔ) for liver fibrosis therapy, and expect to improve the anti-liver fibrosis efficacy by specifically inhibiting the TGF-β1 activity in aHSCs. Target peptide Z-RIPΔ was prepared in Escherichia coli by SUMO fusion system. Moreover, Z-RIPΔ specifically bound to TGF-β1-activated aHSCs, inhibited cell proliferation and migration, and reduced the expression of fibrosis markers (α-SMA and FN) and TGF-β1 pathway-related effectors (p-Smad2/3 and p-p38) in vitro. Furthermore, Z-RIPΔ specifically targeted the fibrotic liver, alleviated the liver histopathology, mitigated the fibrosis responses, and blocked TGF-β1-mediated Smad and p38 MAPK cascades. More importantly, Z-RIPΔ exhibited a higher fibrotic liver-targeting capacity and stronger anti-fibrotic effects than its parent RIPΔ. Besides, Z-RIPΔ showed no obvious toxicity effects in treating both an in vitro cell model and an in vivo mouse model of liver fibrosis. In conclusion, Z-RIPΔ represents a promising targeted candidate for liver fibrosis therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Liu
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory for Anti-fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, 157011, PR China
| | - Xiaohua Wang
- Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, 157011, PR China; Department of Cell Biology, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, 157011, PR China
| | - Liming Xu
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory for Anti-fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, 157011, PR China
| | - Junjie Fan
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory for Anti-fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, 157011, PR China
| | - Qi Yuan
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory for Anti-fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, 157011, PR China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory for Anti-fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, 157011, PR China
| | - Jieting Liu
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory for Anti-fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, 157011, PR China
| | - Xiaowen Qiu
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory for Anti-fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, 157011, PR China
| | - Yanqiu Li
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory for Anti-fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, 157011, PR China
| | - Caiyun Xia
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory for Anti-fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, 157011, PR China
| | - Haifeng Liu
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory for Anti-fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, 157011, PR China; Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, 157011, PR China.
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3
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Ko IG, Hwang L, Jin JJ, Kim SH, Kim CJ, Choi YH, Kim HY, Yoo JM, Kim SJ. Pirfenidone improves voiding function by suppressing bladder fibrosis in underactive bladder rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 977:176721. [PMID: 38851561 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176721] [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: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Underactive bladder (UAB), characterized by a complex set of symptoms with few treatment options, can significantly reduce the quality of life of affected people. UAB is characterized by hyperplasia and fibrosis of the bladder wall as well as decreased bladder compliance. Pirfenidone is a powerful anti-fibrotic agent that inhibits the progression of fibrosis in people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. In the current study, we evaluated the efficacy of pirfenidone in the treatment of bladder fibrosis in a UAB rat model. UAB was induced by crushing damage to nerve bundles in the major pelvic ganglion. Forty-two days after surgery, 1 mL distilled water containing pirfenidone (100, 300, or 500 mg/kg) was orally administered once every 2 days for a total of 10 times for 20 days to the rats in the pirfenidone-treated groups. Crushing damage to the nerve bundles caused voiding dysfunction, resulting in increased bladder weight and the level of fibrous related factors in the bladder, leading to UAB symptoms. Pirfenidone treatment improved urinary function, increased bladder weight and suppressed the expression of fibrosis factors. The results of this experiment suggest that pirfenidone can be used to ameliorate difficult-to-treat urological conditions such as bladder fibrosis. Therefore, pirfenidone treatment can be considered an option to improve voiding function in patient with incurable UAB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Il-Gyu Ko
- Research Support Center, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Deagu, 42601, South Korea
| | - Lakkyong Hwang
- Team of Efficacy Evaluation, Orient Genia Inc, Seongnam-si, 13201, South Korea; Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, South Korea
| | - Jun-Jang Jin
- Team of Efficacy Evaluation, Orient Genia Inc, Seongnam-si, 13201, South Korea; Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, South Korea
| | - Sang-Hoon Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Rutgers, The Stat University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Chang-Ju Kim
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, South Korea
| | - Young Hyo Choi
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Suwon-si, South Korea
| | - Hee Youn Kim
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Suwon-si, South Korea
| | - Je Mo Yoo
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Suwon-si, South Korea
| | - Su Jin Kim
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Suwon-si, South Korea.
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Fu X, Xiao P, Luo X, Guo N. Transcription factor YY1 accelerates hepatic fibrosis development by activating NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis. Histol Histopathol 2024; 39:1079-1087. [PMID: 38264929 DOI: 10.14670/hh-18-703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is the basis of multiple liver diseases and may eventually develop into hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation is a driving factor of hepatic fibrogenesis. In the liver microenvironment, liver cells and others play a crucial role in HSC activation. The liver tissues of CCl4-induced rats show excessive fibrosis, inflammation, and cell apoptosis. Yin Yang 1 (YY1) was highly expressed in hepatic fibrosis rats and TGF-β1-treated liver cells. In animal experiments, YY1 knockdown effectively attenuated CCl4-induced liver injury and pyroptosis-related IL-1β and IL-18 expression. In cellular experiments, NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis was activated by TGF-β1 treatment, while YY1 knockdown significantly inhibited the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, pyroptosis, and the secretion of IL-1β and IL-18. In addition, our data showed that TGF-β1-treated liver cell conditional medium markedly induced HSC activation, which was rescued by YY1 knockdown in liver cells. YY1 overexpression in liver cells contributed to the activation of TGF-β1-treated liver cell conditional medium in HSCs, however, this effect of YY1 was attenuated by NLRP3 inhibition. Overall, YY1 overexpression in liver cells contributed to HSC activation by facilitating IL-1β and IL-18 production via activating NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis, thus aggravating hepatic fibrogenesis. Our data indicate that YY1 may be a novel target for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis and associated liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Fu
- General Medicine Department, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, PR China
| | - Ping Xiao
- General Medicine Department, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, PR China
| | - Xin Luo
- General Medicine Department, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, PR China
| | - Ninghong Guo
- Clinical Trial Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, PR China.
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5
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Zhan J, Liu S, Meng Y, Yang Q, Wang Z, Zhang S, Ge L, Zhao L, Xu X, Zhao Y, Li X, Wang X. Systematic review of the mechanism and assessment of liver fibrosis in biliary atresia. Pediatr Surg Int 2024; 40:205. [PMID: 39033225 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-024-05778-x] [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] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study systematically reviewed our team's research on the mechanism and assessment of liver fibrosis in BA, summarized our experience, and discussed the future development direction. METHODS In this study, Pubmed and Wanfang databases were searched to collect the literature published by our team on the mechanisms of liver fibrosis in BA and the assessment of liver fibrosis in BA, and the above research results were systematically reviewed. RESULTS A total of 58 articles were retrieved. Among the included articles, 25 articles related to the mechanism of liver fibrosis in BA, and five articles evaluated liver fibrosis in BA. This article introduces the key pathways and molecules of liver fibrosis in BA and proposes a new grading system for liver fibrosis in BA. CONCLUSIONS The new BA liver fibrosis grading method is expected to assess children's conditions, guide treatment, and improve prognosis more accurately. In addition, we believe that the TGF-β1 signaling pathway is the most important in the study of liver fibrosis in BA, and at the same time, the study of EMT occurrence in BA should also be deepened to resolve the controversy on this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianghua Zhan
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China.
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China.
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China.
| | - Shaowen Liu
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yu Meng
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qianhui Yang
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhiru Wang
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shujian Zhang
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Liang Ge
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Li Zhao
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaodan Xu
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yilin Zhao
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xin Li
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xueting Wang
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
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Xing D, Xia G, Tang X, Zhuang Z, Shan J, Fang X, Qiu L, Zha X, Chen XL. A Multifunctional Nanocomposite Hydrogel Delivery System Based on Dual-Loaded Liposomes for Scarless Wound Healing. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2401619. [PMID: 39011810 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202401619] [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: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Increased inflammatory responses and oxidative stress at the wound site following skin trauma impair healing. Furthermore, skin scarring places fibroblasts under severe mechanical stress and aggravates pathological fibrosis. A novel liposomal composite hydrogel is engineered for wound microenvironment remodeling, incorporating dual-loaded liposomes into gelatin methacrylate to create a nanocomposite hydrogel. Notably, tetrahydrocurcumin (THC) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) are encapsulated in the hydrophobic and hydrophilic layers of liposomes, respectively. The composite hydrogel maintains porous nanoarchitecture, demonstrating sustainable THC and HGF release and enhanced mechanical properties and biocompatibility. This system effectively promotes cell proliferation and angiogenesis and attenuates apoptosis. It decreases the expression of the inflammatory factors by inhibiting the high-mobility group box /receptor for advanced glycation end product/NF-κB (HMGB1/RAGE/NF-κB)pathway and increases macrophage polarization from M1 to M2 in vitro, effectively controlling inflammatory responses. It exhibits remarkable antioxidant properties by scavenging excess reactive oxygen species and free radicals. Most importantly, it effectively prevents scar formation by restraining the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)/Smads pathway that downregulates associated fibrotic factors. It demonstrates strong therapeutic effects against inflammation and fibrosis in a rat skin wound model with biosafety, advancing the development of innovative hydrogel-based therapeutic delivery strategies for clinical scarless wound therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danlei Xing
- Department of Burns, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, P. R. China
| | - Guoqing Xia
- Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, 230022, P. R. China
| | - Xudong Tang
- Department of Burns, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, P. R. China
| | - Zhiwei Zhuang
- Department of Burns, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, P. R. China
| | - Jie Shan
- Department of Burns, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, P. R. China
| | - Xiao Fang
- Department of Burns, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, P. R. China
| | - Le Qiu
- Department of Burns, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, P. R. China
| | - Xiaojun Zha
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, P. R. China
| | - Xu-Lin Chen
- Department of Burns, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, P. R. China
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7
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Song YM, Ge JY, Ding M, Zheng YW. Key factor screening in mouse NASH model using single-cell sequencing combined with machine learning. Heliyon 2024; 10:e33597. [PMID: 39040415 PMCID: PMC11260934 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e33597] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Aims To identify and analyze genes closely related to the progression of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) by employing a combination of single-cell RNA sequencing and machine-learning algorithms. Main methods Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis was performed to find the cell population with the most significant differences between the Chow and NASH groups. This approach was used to validate the developmental trajectory of this cell population and investigate changes in cellular communication and important signaling pathways among these cells. Subsequently, high dimensional Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (hdWGCNA) was used to find the key modules in NASH. Machine learning analyses were performed to further identify core genes. Deep learning techniques were applied to elucidate the correlation between core genes and immune cells. The accuracy of this correlation was further confirmed using deep learning techniques, specifically Convolutional Neural Networks. Key findings By comparing scRNA-seq data between the Chow and NASH groups, we have observed a notable distinction existing in the Kupffer cell population. Signaling interactions between hepatic macrophages and other cells were significantly heightened in the NASH group. Through subsequent analysis of macrophage subtypes and key modules, we identified 150 genes tightly associated with NASH. Finally, we highlighted the 16 most significant core genes using multiple iterations of machine learning. Furthermore, we pointed out the close relationship between core genes and immune cells. Significances Using scRNA-seq analysis and machine learning, we can distinguish NASH-related genes from large genetic datasets, providing theoretical support in finding potential targets for the development of novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Mu Song
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, and South China Institute of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Pharmacy and Food Engineering, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian-Yun Ge
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, and South China Institute of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Pharmacy and Food Engineering, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, Guangdong, China
| | - Min Ding
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, and South China Institute of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Pharmacy and Food Engineering, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Regenerative Medicine, and Department of Dermatology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yun-Wen Zheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, and South China Institute of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, School of Pharmacy and Food Engineering, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Regenerative Medicine, and Department of Dermatology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Medical and Life Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo Univ of Science, Noda, Chiba, Japan
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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8
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Li G, Lu J, Wang C, Chang X, Qu Z, Zhang W, Zhuang C, Miao Z, Xu W. Discovery of Sophoridine α-Aryl Propionamide Derivative ZM600 as a Novel Antihepatic Fibrosis Agent. J Med Chem 2024; 67:11389-11400. [PMID: 38938102 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c01010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation is a key event in the development of liver fibrosis, and blockage of the activation of HSCs has been shown to alleviate liver fibrosis. Sophoridine, a bioactive alkaloid found in many Chinese herbs, exhibits a broad spectrum of pharmacological effects, but its activities are not strong. In this study, a series of structurally modified derivatives of sophoridine were designed and synthesized. Among them, sophoridine α-aryl propionamide derivative ZM600 displayed a significant inhibitory effect on the activation of HSCs. The in vivo experiment demonstrated that ZM600 markedly ameliorated carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and bile duct ligation (BDL)-induced liver fibrosis with a significant improvement of extracellular matrix deposition. Mechanism investigations revealed that ZM600 specifically inhibited the activation of NF-κB, PI-3K/AKT, and TGF-β/Smads signaling pathways. These results suggest that ZM600 has a protective effect on liver fibrosis, which provides a new candidate for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoqing Li
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, P. R. China
| | - Juanni Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, P. R. China
| | - Chuanhao Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, P. R. China
| | - Xuliang Chang
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, P. R. China
| | - Zhuo Qu
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, P. R. China
| | - Wannian Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, P. R. China
| | - Chunlin Zhuang
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
| | - Zhenyuan Miao
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
| | - Weiheng Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
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9
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Giarratana AO, Prendergast CM, Salvatore MM, Capaccione KM. TGF-β signaling: critical nexus of fibrogenesis and cancer. J Transl Med 2024; 22:594. [PMID: 38926762 PMCID: PMC11201862 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05411-4] [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: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway is a vital regulator of cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix production. It functions through canonical SMAD-mediated processes and noncanonical pathways involving MAPK cascades, PI3K/AKT, Rho-like GTPases, and NF-κB signaling. This intricate signaling system is finely tuned by interactions between canonical and noncanonical pathways and plays key roles in both physiologic and pathologic conditions including tissue homeostasis, fibrosis, and cancer progression. TGF-β signaling is known to have paradoxical actions. Under normal physiologic conditions, TGF-β signaling promotes cell quiescence and apoptosis, acting as a tumor suppressor. In contrast, in pathological states such as inflammation and cancer, it triggers processes that facilitate cancer progression and tissue remodeling, thus promoting tumor development and fibrosis. Here, we detail the role that TGF-β plays in cancer and fibrosis and highlight the potential for future theranostics targeting this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna O Giarratana
- Northwell Health - Peconic Bay Medical Center, 1 Heroes Way, Riverhead, NY, 11901, USA.
| | | | - Mary M Salvatore
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, 11032, USA
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10
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Ogata FT, Verma S, Coulson-Thomas VJ, Gesteira TF. TGF-β-Based Therapies for Treating Ocular Surface Disorders. Cells 2024; 13:1105. [PMID: 38994958 PMCID: PMC11240592 DOI: 10.3390/cells13131105] [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: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The cornea is continuously exposed to injuries, ranging from minor scratches to deep traumas. An effective healing mechanism is crucial for the cornea to restore its structure and function following major and minor insults. Transforming Growth Factor-Beta (TGF-β), a versatile signaling molecule that coordinates various cell responses, has a central role in corneal wound healing. Upon corneal injury, TGF-β is rapidly released into the extracellular environment, triggering cell migration and proliferation, the differentiation of keratocytes into myofibroblasts, and the initiation of the repair process. TGF-β-mediated processes are essential for wound closure; however, excessive levels of TGF-β can lead to fibrosis and scarring, causing impaired vision. Three primary isoforms of TGF-β exist-TGF-β1, TGF-β2, and TGF-β3. Although TGF-β isoforms share many structural and functional similarities, they present distinct roles in corneal regeneration, which adds an additional layer of complexity to understand the role of TGF-β in corneal wound healing. Further, aberrant TGF-β activity has been linked to various corneal pathologies, such as scarring and Peter's Anomaly. Thus, understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which TGF-β1-3 regulate corneal wound healing will enable the development of potential therapeutic interventions targeting the key molecule in this process. Herein, we summarize the multifaceted roles of TGF-β in corneal wound healing, dissecting its mechanisms of action and interactions with other molecules, and outline its role in corneal pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando T Ogata
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Sudhir Verma
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA
- Deen Dayal Upadhyaya College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110078, India
| | | | - Tarsis F Gesteira
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA
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11
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Cui F, Shen S, Ma X, Fan D. Light-Operated Transient Unilateral Adhesive Hydrogel for Comprehensive Prevention of Postoperative Adhesions. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2403626. [PMID: 38924679 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202403626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Dislocation of anti-adhesion materials, non-specific tissue adhesion, and the induction of secondary fibrinolysis disorders are the main challenges faced by postoperative anti-adhesion materials. Herein, a self-leveling transient unilateral adhesive hydrogel is custom-designed to conquer these challenges with a theoretically calculated and dual-step tailored gellan gum (GG) as the sole agent. First, the maximum gelation temperature of GG is lowered from 42-25 °C through controlled perturbation of intra- and inter-molecular hydrogen bonds, which is achieved by employing the methacrylic anhydride as a "hydrogen bond's perturbator" to form methacrylate GG (MeGG). Second, the "self-leveling" injectability and wound shape adaptably are endowed by the formation of borate-diol complexed MeGG (BMeGG). Finally, the transient unilateral tissue-adhesive hydrogel (BMeGG-H) barrier is prepared through photo-controlled cross-linking of reactive alkenyl groups. This degradable hydrogel demonstrates favorable rheological properties, light-controlled unilateral adhesion properties, biocompatibility, anti-fibrin adhesion, and anti-cell adhesion properties in vitro. Comprehensive regulation of the fibrinolysis balance toward non-adhesion is conformed in a rat model after intra-abdominal surgery via anti-autoinflammatory response, intestinal wall integrity repair, and Tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) balance adjustment. Notably, the 14th day anti-adhesion effective rate is 100%, indicating its significant potential in clinical applications for postoperative anti-adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Furong Cui
- Engineering Research Center of Western Resource Innovation Medicine Green Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials and Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
- Biotech. & Biomed. Research Institute, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Shihong Shen
- Engineering Research Center of Western Resource Innovation Medicine Green Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials and Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
- Biotech. & Biomed. Research Institute, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Xiaoxuan Ma
- Engineering Research Center of Western Resource Innovation Medicine Green Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials and Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
- Biotech. & Biomed. Research Institute, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Daidi Fan
- Engineering Research Center of Western Resource Innovation Medicine Green Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials and Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
- Biotech. & Biomed. Research Institute, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
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12
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Xin S, Liu X, He C, Gao H, Wang B, Hua R, Gao L, Shang H, Sun F, Xu J. Inflammation accelerating intestinal fibrosis: from mechanism to clinic. Eur J Med Res 2024; 29:335. [PMID: 38890719 PMCID: PMC11184829 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-024-01932-2] [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: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Intestinal fibrosis is a prevalent complication of IBD that that can frequently be triggered by prolonged inflammation. Fibrosis in the gut can cause a number of issues, which continue as an ongoing challenge to healthcare systems worldwide. The primary causes of intestinal fibrosis are soluble molecules, G protein-coupled receptors, epithelial-to-mesenchymal or endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and the gut microbiota. Fresh perspectives coming from in vivo and in vitro experimental models demonstrate that fibrogenic pathways might be different, at least to some extent, independent of the ones that influence inflammation. Understanding the distinctive procedures of intestinal fibrogenesis should provide a realistic foundation for targeting and blocking specific fibrogenic pathways, estimating the risk of fibrotic consequences, detecting early fibrotic alterations, and eventually allowing therapy development. Here, we first summarize the inflammatory and non-inflammatory components of fibrosis, and then we elaborate on the underlying mechanism associated with multiple cytokines in fibrosis, providing the framework for future clinical practice. Following that, we discuss the relationship between modernization and disease, as well as the shortcomings of current studies. We outline fibrosis diagnosis and therapy, as well as our recommendations for the future treatment of intestinal fibrosis. We anticipate that the global review will provides a wealth of fresh knowledge and suggestions for future fibrosis clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuzi Xin
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Xiaohui Liu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Chengwei He
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Han Gao
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Aerospace Clinical Medical College, Aerospace Central Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Boya Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Renal Cancer and Melanoma, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Rongxuan Hua
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Lei Gao
- Department of Intelligent Medical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Hongwei Shang
- Experimental Center for Morphological Research Platform, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Fangling Sun
- Department of Laboratory Animal Research, Xuan Wu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China.
| | - Jingdong Xu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China.
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13
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Qiu T, Hou K, Zhang J, Wang N, Yao X, Yang G, Jiang L, Dong J, Miao M, Bai J, Sun X. Sodium arsenite induces hepatic stellate cells activation by m 6A modification of TGF-β1 during liver fibrosis. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 278:116435. [PMID: 38714084 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116435] [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: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
The compound known as Sodium arsenite (NaAsO2), which is a prevalent type of inorganic arsenic found in the environment, has been strongly associated with liver fibrosis (LF), a key characteristic of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which has been demonstrated in our previous study. Our previous research has shown that exposure to NaAsO2 triggers the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), a crucial event in the development of LF. However, the molecular mechanism is still unknown. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is the most crucial post-transcriptional modification in liver disease. Nevertheless, the precise function of m6A alteration in triggering HSCs and initiating LF caused by NaAsO2 remains unknown. Here, we found that NaAsO2 induced LF and HSCs activation through TGF-β/Smad signaling, which could be reversed by TGF-β1 knockdown. Furthermore, NaAsO2 treatment enhanced the m6A modification level both in vivo and in vitro. Significantly, NaAsO2 promoted the specific interaction of METTL14 and IGF2BP2 with TGF-β1 and enhanced the TGF-β1 mRNA stability. Notably, NaAsO2-induced TGF-β/Smad pathway and HSC-t6 cells activation might be avoided by limiting METTL14/IGF2BP2-mediated m6A modification. Our findings showed that the NaAsO2-induced activation of HSCs and LF is made possible by the METTL14/IGF2BP2-mediated m6A methylation of TGF-β1, which may open up new therapeutic options for LF brought on by environmental hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianming Qiu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Kun Hou
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Jingyuan Zhang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Ningning Wang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian 116044, China; The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 222 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116011, China
| | - Xiaofeng Yao
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Guang Yang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Liping Jiang
- Preventive Medicine Laboratory, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Jikun Dong
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 222 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116011, China
| | - Menglong Miao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 222 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116011, China
| | - Jie Bai
- Preventive Medicine Laboratory, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian 116044, China.
| | - Xiance Sun
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian 116044, China; Global Health Research Center, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian 116044, China.
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14
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Sharma S, Gali S, Kundu A, Park JH, Kim JS, Kim HS. Tenovin-1, a Selective SIRT1/2 Inhibitor, Attenuates High-fat Diet-induced Hepatic Fibrosis via Inhibition of HSC Activation in ZDF Rats. Int J Biol Sci 2024; 20:3334-3352. [PMID: 38993557 PMCID: PMC11234213 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.97304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) increases the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) progression to advanced stages, especially upon high-fat diet (HFD). HFD-induced hepatic fibrosis can be marked by oxidative stress, inflammation, and activation of hepatic stellate cells. Sirtuin 1/2 (SIRT1/2), NAD-dependent class III histone deacetylases, are involved in attenuation of fibrosis. In our conducted research, TGF-β1-activated LX-2 cells, free fatty acid (FFA)-treated simultaneous co-culture (SCC) cells, and HFD-induced hepatic fibrosis in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats, a widely used animal model in the study of metabolic syndromes, were used to evaluate the protective effect of Tenovin-1, a SIRT1/2 inhibitor. ZDF rats were divided into chow diet, HFD, and HFD + Tenovin-1 groups. Tenovin-1 reduced hepatic damage, inhibited inflammatory cell infiltration, micro/ macro-vesicular steatosis and prevented collagen deposition HFD-fed rats. Tenovin-1 reduced serum biochemical parameters, triglyceride (TG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels but increased glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase levels. Tenovin-1 mitigated proinflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-1β, TNFα and fibrosis biomarkers in HFD rats, TGF-β1-activated LX-2 and FFA treated SCC cells. Additionally, Tenovin-1 suppressed SIRT1/2 expression and inhibited JNK-1 and STAT3 phosphorylation in HFD rats and FFA-treated SCC cells. In conclusion, Tenovin-1 attenuates hepatic fibrosis by stimulating antioxidants and inhibiting inflammatory cytokines under HFD conditions in diabetic rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Sharma
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066, Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon 26419, Republic of Korea
| | - Sreevarsha Gali
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066, Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon 26419, Republic of Korea
| | - Amit Kundu
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066, Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon 26419, Republic of Korea
- Department of Pharmacology, GITAM School of Pharmacy, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Rushikonda, Visakhapatnam-530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Jae Hyeon Park
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066, Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon 26419, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Sung Kim
- Department of Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Hyung Sik Kim
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066, Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon 26419, Republic of Korea
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15
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Liu KX, Wang ZY, Ying YT, Wei RM, Dong DL, Sun ZJ. The antiprotozoal drug nitazoxanide improves experimental liver fibrosis in mice. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 224:116205. [PMID: 38615918 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116205] [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: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Nitazoxanide is an FDA-approved antiprotozoal drug. Our previous studies find that nitazoxanide and its metabolite tizoxanide affect AMPK, STAT3, and Smad2/3 signals which are involved in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis, therefore, in the present study, we examined the effect of nitazoxanide on experimental liver fibrosis and elucidated the potential mechanisms. The in vivo experiment results showed that oral nitazoxanide (75, 100 mg·kg-1) significantly improved CCl4- and bile duct ligation-induced liver fibrosis in mice. Oral nitazoxanide activated the inhibited AMPK and inhibited the activated STAT3 in liver tissues from liver fibrosis mice. The in vitro experiment results showed that nitazoxanide and its metabolite tizoxanide activated AMPK and inhibited STAT3 signals in LX-2 cells (human hepatic stellate cells). Nitazoxanide and tizoxanide inhibited cell proliferation and collagen I expression and secretion of LX-2 cells. Nitazoxanide and tizoxanide inhibited transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)- and IL-6-induced increases of cell proliferation, collagen I expression and secretion, inhibited TGF-β1- and IL-6-induced STAT3 and Smad2/3 activation in LX-2 cells. In mouse primary hepatic stellate cells, nitazoxanide and tizoxanide also activated AMPK, inhibited STAT3 and Smad2/3 activation, inhibited cell proliferation, collagen I expression and secretion. In conclusion, nitazoxanide inhibits liver fibrosis and the underlying mechanisms involve AMPK activation, and STAT3 and Smad2/3 inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Xin Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zeng-Yang Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ya-Ting Ying
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui-Miao Wei
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - De-Li Dong
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhi-Jie Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
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16
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Takano K, Kaneda M, Aoki Y, Fujita N, Chiba S, Michihara S, Han LK, Takahashi R. The protective effects of Ninjin'yoeito against liver steatosis/fibrosis in a non-alcoholic steatohepatitis model mouse. J Nat Med 2024; 78:514-524. [PMID: 38498120 PMCID: PMC11101552 DOI: 10.1007/s11418-024-01786-2] [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: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a progressive fibrotic form of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Liver fibrosis leads to liver cancer and cirrhosis, and drug therapy for NASH remains lacking. Ninjin'yoeito (NYT) has shown antifibrotic effects in a model of liver fibrosis without steatosis but has not been studied for NASH. Therefore, we evaluated the efficacy of NYT in mice fed a choline-deficient, L-amino acid-defined, high-fat diet (CDAHFD) as a NASH model. Compared with the normal diet group, mice fed CDAHFD showed decreased body weight and increased white adipose tissue, liver weight, and triglyceride content in the liver. Furthermore, a substantial increase in the hepatic concentration of hydroxyproline, expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and transforming growth factor-β was observed in CDAHFD-fed mice. Masson's trichrome and Picro-Sirius red staining revealed a remarkable increase in collagen fiber compared with the normal diet group. Compared with mice that received CDAHFD alone, those supplemented with NYT exhibited reduced hepatic triglyceride and hydroxyproline levels and α-SMA expression. Additionally, compared with the group fed CDAHFD alone, the stained liver tissues of NYT-treated mice exhibited a reduction in Masson's trichrome- and Picro-Sirius red-positive areas. Locomotor activity was significantly reduced in the CDAHFD-fed group compared with the normal diet group. In the NYT-treated group, the CDAHFD-induced decrease in locomotor activity was significantly suppressed. The findings indicate that NYT inhibited fatty and fibrotic changes in the livers of NASH mice and alleviated the decrease in locomotor activity. Therefore, NYT may serve as a novel therapeutic approach for NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyohei Takano
- Kampo Research Laboratory, Pharmaceutical Company, Kracie, Ltd., 3-1 Kanebo-Machi, Takaoka, Toyama, Japan.
| | - Marisa Kaneda
- Kampo Research Laboratory, Pharmaceutical Company, Kracie, Ltd., 3-1 Kanebo-Machi, Takaoka, Toyama, Japan
| | - Yayoi Aoki
- Kampo Research Laboratory, Pharmaceutical Company, Kracie, Ltd., 3-1 Kanebo-Machi, Takaoka, Toyama, Japan
| | - Nina Fujita
- Kampo Research Laboratory, Pharmaceutical Company, Kracie, Ltd., 3-1 Kanebo-Machi, Takaoka, Toyama, Japan
| | - Shigeki Chiba
- Kampo Research Laboratory, Pharmaceutical Company, Kracie, Ltd., 3-1 Kanebo-Machi, Takaoka, Toyama, Japan
| | - Seiwa Michihara
- Kampo Research Laboratory, Pharmaceutical Company, Kracie, Ltd., 3-1 Kanebo-Machi, Takaoka, Toyama, Japan
| | - Li-Kun Han
- Kampo Research Laboratory, Pharmaceutical Company, Kracie, Ltd., 3-1 Kanebo-Machi, Takaoka, Toyama, Japan
| | - Ryuji Takahashi
- Kampo Research Laboratory, Pharmaceutical Company, Kracie, Ltd., 3-1 Kanebo-Machi, Takaoka, Toyama, Japan
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17
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Wang L, Liu K, Deng L, Zhou G, Qian W, Xu K. Exploration of Perturbed Liver Fibrosis-Related Factors and Collagen Type I in Animal Model of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2024; 196:3260-3273. [PMID: 37646888 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-023-04694-5] [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] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
To determine their involvement in the onset of the disease, we investigated the changing levels of liver fibrosis-related proteins, namely, type-I collagen, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and transforming growth factor β1 and β3 (TGF-β1, β3). The four groups of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were involved in the study, namely, (i) normal control group, (ii) high-fat diet group (HFD), (iii) carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) group, and (iv) NAFLD group (animal model) which were chosen at random. The NAFLD model received HFD combined with subcutaneous injection of small doses of CCl4. Histopathological examination confirmed extent of liver fibrosis, while other immunological and molecular methods were used to evaluate expression and distribution of α-SMA, type I collagen TGF-β1 and TGF-β3, at both m-RNA and protein levels. In contrast to the normal control group, the NAFLD group showed moderately elevated expressions of TGF-β1, α-SMA, and type I collagen, which was proportional on temporal scale of NAFLD persistence in the model (P < 0.05). In the early phage of NAFLD, enhancement in the mRNA transcripts and, henceforth, protein expression of TGF-β3 was observed. However, these were found to be downregulated in case of liver fibrosis (P < 0.05). This NAFLD rat model shows the histopathologic changes of human NAFLD and is suitable for the study of NAFLD pathogenesis. These findings suggest that type I collagen and the liver fibrosis-related factors TGF- β1, TGF- β3, and α-SMA may be significant contributors to NAFLD. Although NAFLD model is previously demonstrated by other researchers, our study is novel in terms of exploration of involvement of fibrosis-related factors and in particular aforementioned proteins at the early stage of NAFLD vis-à-vis dynamics of type-I collagen distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyun Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Kahua Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Central Hospital of Qingdao City, Shandong Province, Qing Dao city, 266011, China
| | - Liang Deng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Guanyu Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan, China
| | - Wei Qian
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Keshu Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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18
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Samuvel DJ, Lemasters JJ, Chou CJ, Zhong Z. LP340, a novel histone deacetylase inhibitor, decreases liver injury and fibrosis in mice: role of oxidative stress and microRNA-23a. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1386238. [PMID: 38828459 PMCID: PMC11140137 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1386238] [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: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Effective therapy for liver fibrosis is lacking. Here, we examined whether LP340, the lead candidate of a new-generation of hydrazide-based HDAC1,2,3 inhibitors (HDACi), decreases liver fibrosis. Liver fibrosis was induced by CCl4 treatment and bile duct ligation (BDL) in mice. At 6 weeks after CCl4, serum alanine aminotransferase increased, and necrotic cell death and leukocyte infiltration occurred in the liver. Tumor necrosis factor-α and myeloperoxidase markedly increased, indicating inflammation. After 6 weeks, α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) and collagen-1 expression increased by 80% and 575%, respectively, indicating hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and fibrogenesis. Fibrosis detected by trichrome and Sirius-red staining occurred primarily in pericentral regions with some bridging fibrosis in liver sections. 4-Hydroxynonenal adducts (indicator of oxidative stress), profibrotic cytokine transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ), and TGFβ downstream signaling molecules phospho-Smad2/3 also markedly increased. LP340 attenuated indices of liver injury, inflammation, and fibrosis markedly. Moreover, Ski-related novel protein-N (SnoN), an endogenous inhibitor of TGFβ signaling, decreased, whereas SnoN expression suppressor microRNA-23a (miR23a) increased markedly. LP340 (0.05 mg/kg, ig., daily during the last 2 weeks of CCl4 treatment) decreased 4-hydroxynonenal adducts and miR23a production, blunted SnoN decreases, and inhibited the TGFβ/Smad signaling. By contrast, LP340 had no effect on matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression. LP340 increased histone-3 acetylation but not tubulin acetylation, indicating that LP340 inhibited Class-I but not Class-II HDAC in vivo. After BDL, focal necrosis, inflammation, ductular reactions, and portal and bridging fibrosis occurred at 2 weeks, and αSMA and collagen-1 expression increased by 256% and 560%, respectively. LP340 attenuated liver injury, ductular reactions, inflammation, and liver fibrosis. LP340 also decreased 4-hydroxynonenal adducts and miR23a production, prevented SnoN decreases, and inhibited the TGFβ/Smad signaling after BDL. In vitro, LP340 inhibited immortal human hepatic stellate cells (hTERT-HSC) activation in culture (αSMA and collagen-1 expression) as well as miR23a production, demonstrating its direct inhibitory effects on HSC. In conclusions, LP340 is a promising therapy for both portal and pericentral liver fibrosis, and it works by inhibiting oxidative stress and decreasing miR23a.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devadoss J. Samuvel
- Departments of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - John J. Lemasters
- Departments of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, Charleston, SC, United States
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - C. James Chou
- Departments of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, Charleston, SC, United States
- Lydex Pharmaceuticals, Mount Pleasant, SC, United States
| | - Zhi Zhong
- Departments of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, Charleston, SC, United States
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Elmorsy EA, Saber S, Kira AY, Alghasham A, Abdel-Hamed MR, Amer MM, Mohamed EA, AlSalloom A. A, Alkhamiss AS, Hamad RS, Abdel-Reheim MA, Ellethy AT, Elsisi HA, Alsharidah M, Elghandour SR, Elnawawy T, Abdelhady R. Hedgehog signaling is a promising target for the treatment of hepatic fibrogenesis: a new management strategy using itraconazole-loaded nanoparticles. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1377980. [PMID: 38808257 PMCID: PMC11130383 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1377980] [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: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a disease with a great global health and economic burden. Existing data highlights itraconazole (ITRCZ) as a potentially effective anti-fibrotic therapy. However, ITRCZ effect is hindered by several limitations, such as poor solubility and bioavailability. This study aimed to formulate and optimize chitosan nanoparticles (Cht NPs) loaded with ITRCZ as a new strategy for managing liver fibrosis. ITRCZ-Cht NPs were optimized utilizing a developed 22 full factorial design. The optimized formula (F3) underwent comprehensive in vitro and in vivo characterization. In vitro assessments revealed that F3 exhibited an entrapment efficiency of 89.65% ± 0.57%, a 169.6 ± 1.77 nm particle size, and a zeta potential of +15.93 ± 0.21 mV. Furthermore, in vitro release studies indicated that the release of ITRCZ from F3 adhered closely to the first-order model, demonstrating a significant enhancement (p-value < 0.05) in cumulative release compared to plain ITRCZ suspension. This formula increased primary hepatocyte survival and decreased LDH activity in vitro. The in vivo evaluation of F3 in a rat model of liver fibrosis revealed improved liver function and structure. ITRCZ-Cht NPs displayed potent antifibrotic effects as revealed by the downregulation of TGF-β, PDGF-BB, and TIMP-1 as well as decreased hydroxyproline content and α-SMA immunoexpression. Anti-inflammatory potential was evident by reduced TNF-α and p65 nuclear translocation. These effects were likely ascribed to the modulation of Hedgehog components SMO, GLI1, and GLI2. These findings theorize ITRCZ-Cht NPs as a promising formulation for treating liver fibrosis. However, further investigations are deemed necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsayed A. Elmorsy
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Sameh Saber
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Y. Kira
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa, Egypt
| | - Abdullah Alghasham
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed R. Abdel-Hamed
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Maha M. Amer
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Enas A. Mohamed
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - A AlSalloom A.
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah S. Alkhamiss
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rabab S. Hamad
- Biological Sciences Department, College of Science, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia
- Central Laboratory, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mustafa Ahmed Abdel-Reheim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Shaqra University, Shaqra, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
| | - Abousree T. Ellethy
- Department of Oral and Medical Basic Sciences, Biochemistry Division, College of Dentistry, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hossam A. Elsisi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Mansour Alsharidah
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sahar R. Elghandour
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tayseer Elnawawy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Egyptian Drug Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rasha Abdelhady
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt
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Braczkowski MJ, Kufel KM, Kulińska J, Czyż DŁ, Dittmann A, Wiertelak M, Młodzik MS, Braczkowski R, Soszyński D. Pleiotropic Action of TGF-Beta in Physiological and Pathological Liver Conditions. Biomedicines 2024; 12:925. [PMID: 38672279 PMCID: PMC11048627 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12040925] [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: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study is to review and analyze the pleiotropic effects of TGF-β in physiological and pathological conditions of the liver, with particular emphasis on its role in immune suppression, wound healing, regulation of cell growth and differentiation, and liver cell apoptosis. A literature review was conducted, including 52 studies, comprising review articles, in vitro and in vivo studies, and meta-analyses. Only studies published in peer-reviewed scientific journals were included in the analysis. TGF-β is a pleiotropic growth factor that is crucial for the liver, both in physiology and pathophysiology. Although its functions are complex and diverse, TGF-β plays a constant role in immune suppression, wound healing, and the regulation of cell growth and differentiation. In concentrations exceeding the norm, it can induce the apoptosis of liver cells. Increased TGF-β levels are observed in many liver diseases, such as fibrosis, inflammation, and steatosis. TGF-β has been shown to play a key role in many physiological and pathological processes of the liver, and its concentration may be a potential diagnostic and prognostic marker in liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Jakub Braczkowski
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Opole, 45040 Opole, Poland;
| | - Klaudia Maria Kufel
- Student Scientific Society of Physiology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Opole, 45040 Opole, Poland; (K.M.K.); (J.K.); (A.D.); (M.W.)
| | - Julia Kulińska
- Student Scientific Society of Physiology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Opole, 45040 Opole, Poland; (K.M.K.); (J.K.); (A.D.); (M.W.)
| | - Daniel Łukasz Czyż
- Student Scientific Society of Physiology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Opole, 45040 Opole, Poland; (K.M.K.); (J.K.); (A.D.); (M.W.)
| | - Aleksander Dittmann
- Student Scientific Society of Physiology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Opole, 45040 Opole, Poland; (K.M.K.); (J.K.); (A.D.); (M.W.)
| | - Michał Wiertelak
- Student Scientific Society of Physiology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Opole, 45040 Opole, Poland; (K.M.K.); (J.K.); (A.D.); (M.W.)
| | - Marcin Sławomir Młodzik
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Opole, 45040 Opole, Poland;
| | | | - Dariusz Soszyński
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Opole, 45040 Opole, Poland;
- Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87100 Torun, Poland
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曹 家, 孙 跃, 丁 鑫, 李 盛, 陈 博, 兰 天. [Arbutin ameliorates liver fibrosis in mice by inhibiting macrophage recruitment and regulating the Akt/NF-κB and Smad signaling pathways]. NAN FANG YI KE DA XUE XUE BAO = JOURNAL OF SOUTHERN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY 2024; 44:652-659. [PMID: 38708497 PMCID: PMC11073939 DOI: 10.12122/j.issn.1673-4254.2024.04.05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the protective effect of arbutin against CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice and explore the underlying mechanisms. METHODS Twenty-four C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into control group, model group, and low- and high-dose arbutin treatment (25 and 50 mg/kg, respectively) groups. Mouse models of liver fibrosis were established by intraperitoneal injection of CCl4, and arbutin was administered daily via gavage for 6 weeks. After the treatments, serum biochemical parameters of the mice were tested, and liver tissues were taken for HE staining, Sirius Red staining and immunohistochemical staining. RT-qPCR was used to detect the mRNA levels of α-SMA, Pdgfb, Col1α1, Timp-1, Ccl2 and Tnf-a, and Western blotting was performed to detect α-SMA protein expression in the liver tissues. In the cell experiment, the effect of arbutin treatment for 24 h on THP-1 and RAW264.7 cell migration and recruitment was examined using Transwell migration assay and DAPI staining; The changes in protein levels of Akt, p65, Smad3, p-Akt, p-p65, p-Smad3 and α-SMA in arbutintreated LX-2 cells were detected with Western blotting. RESULTS Arbutin treatment significantly lowered serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels, alleviated liver tissue damage and collagen deposition, and reduced macrophage infiltration and α-SMA protein expression in the liver of the mouse models (P < 0.05 or 0.001). Arbutin treatment also significantly reduced CCl4-induced elevation of a-SMA, Pdgfb, Col1α1, Timp-1, Ccl2 and Tnf-a mRNA levels in mice (P < 0.05). In the cell experiment, arbutin treatment obviously inhibited migration and recruitment of THP-1 and RAW264.7 cells and lowered the phosphorylation levels of Akt, p65 and Smad3 and the protein expression level of α-SMA in LX-2 cells. CONCLUSION Arbutin ameliorates liver inflammation and fibrosis in mice by inhibiting hepatic stellate cell activation via reducing macrophage recruitment and infiltration and suppressing activation of the Akt/NF-κB and Smad signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- 家樊 曹
- 广东药科大学药学院,广东 广州 510006School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - 跃 孙
- 广东药科大学药学院,广东 广州 510006School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- 广东药科大学中医药研究院,广东 广州 510006Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- 广东药科大学糖脂代谢病教育部重点实验室,广东 广州 510006Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder of the Ministry of Education, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- 广东药科大学广东省代谢性疾病中医药防治重点实验室,广东 广州 510006Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - 鑫 丁
- 广东药科大学药学院,广东 广州 510006School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- 广东药科大学中医药研究院,广东 广州 510006Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- 广东药科大学糖脂代谢病教育部重点实验室,广东 广州 510006Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder of the Ministry of Education, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- 广东药科大学广东省代谢性疾病中医药防治重点实验室,广东 广州 510006Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - 盛文 李
- 广东药科大学药学院,广东 广州 510006School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- 广东药科大学中医药研究院,广东 广州 510006Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- 广东药科大学糖脂代谢病教育部重点实验室,广东 广州 510006Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder of the Ministry of Education, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- 广东药科大学广东省代谢性疾病中医药防治重点实验室,广东 广州 510006Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - 博 陈
- 广东药科大学药学院,广东 广州 510006School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- 广东药科大学中医药研究院,广东 广州 510006Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- 广东药科大学糖脂代谢病教育部重点实验室,广东 广州 510006Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder of the Ministry of Education, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- 广东药科大学广东省代谢性疾病中医药防治重点实验室,广东 广州 510006Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - 天 兰
- 广东药科大学药学院,广东 广州 510006School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- 广东药科大学中医药研究院,广东 广州 510006Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- 广东药科大学糖脂代谢病教育部重点实验室,广东 广州 510006Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder of the Ministry of Education, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- 广东药科大学广东省代谢性疾病中医药防治重点实验室,广东 广州 510006Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
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Yin Y, Yang Y, Zhang Y, Shang Y, Li Q, Yuan J. MiR-132-3p suppresses peritoneal fibrosis induced by peritoneal dialysis via targeting TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling pathway. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301540. [PMID: 38603722 PMCID: PMC11008817 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Peritoneal fibrosis (PF) is the main complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD) and the most common cause of cessation from PD. There is still no effective therapeutic approach to reserve PF. We aimed to investigate the role of miR-132-3p and underlying potential mechanisms in PF. METHODS A total of 18 Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were divided randomly into three groups (n = 6): (i)Control group (ii)PF group (iii)PF+Losartan group; Rats in the PF group and PF+Losartan group received daily intraperitoneal injections of 3 mg/kg chlorhexidine for 14 days, and rats in the PF+Losartan group simultaneously received daily intraperitoneal injections of 2 mg/kg losartan for 14 days. The control group was injected with saline in the same volume. Met-5A cells were treated for 24h with TGF-β1 dissolved in recombinant buffered saline at a concentration of 10 ng/ml, meanwhile, PBS solution as a negative control. The human peritoneal solution was collected for the detection of miR-132-3p. RESULTS In vivo, SD rats were infused with chlorhexidine to establish PF model, and we found that miR-132-3p significantly decreased and the expressions of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and Smad2/3 were up-regulated in PF. In vitro, miR-132-3p mimics suppressed TGF-β1/Smad2/3 activity, whereas miR-132-3p inhibition activated the pathway. In human peritoneal solution, we found that the expression of miR-132-3p decreased in a time-dependent model and its effect became more pronounced with longer PD duration. CONCLUSION MiR-132-3p ameliorated PF by suppressing TGF-β1/Smad2/3 activity, suggesting that miR-132-3p represented a potential therapeutic approach for PF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Yin
- School of Medicine, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
- Department of Nephrology, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Yuqi Yang
- Department of Nephrology, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Yongqiang Zhang
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Yu Shang
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Nephrology, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Jing Yuan
- School of Medicine, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
- Department of Nephrology, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
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Song M, Ma L, Zhu Y, Gao H, Hu R. Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes inhibits fibrosis in human endometrial stromal cells via miR-140-3p/FOXP1/Smad axis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8321. [PMID: 38594471 PMCID: PMC11004014 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59093-5] [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: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometrial fibrosis is the histologic appearance of intrauterine adhesion (IUA). Emerging evidences demonstrated umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (UCMSC-exo) could alleviate endometrial fibrosis. But the specific mechanism is not clear. In this study, we explored the effect of UCMSC-exo on endometrial fibrosis, and investigated the possible role of miR-140-3p/FOXP1/Smad axis in anti-fibrotic properties of UCMSC-exo. UCMSC-exo were isolated and identified. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) was used to induce human endometrial stromal cell (HESC) fibrosis. Dual luciferase assay was performed to verify the relationship between miR-140-3p and FOXP1. The expressions of fibrotic markers, SIP1, and p-Smad2/p-Smad3 in HESCs stimulated with UCMSC-exo were detected by western blot. In addition, the effects of miR-140-3p mimic, miR-140-3p inhibitor and FOXP1 over-expression on endometrial fibrosis were assessed. The isolated UCMSC-exo had a typical cup-shaped morphology and could be internalized into HESCs. The expressions of fibrotic markers were significantly increased by TGF-β, which was reversed by UCMSC-exo. MiR-140-3p in UCMSC-exo ameliorated TGf-β-induced HESCs fibrosis. FOXP1 was identified as the direct target of miR-140-3p, which could inversely regulate miR-140-3p's function on HESCs fibrosis. Furthermore, we demonstrated that miR-140-3p in UCMSC-exo regulated Smad signal pathway to exert the anti-fibrotic effect in HESCs. The anti-fibrotic effect of UCMSC-derived exosomes against HESC fibrosis was at least partially achieved by miR-140-3p/FOXP1/Smad axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengling Song
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University (The First Clinical Medical College of Ningxia Medical University), 804 Shengli Street, Xingqing Square, Yinchuan, 750004, Ningxia, China.
| | - Lijun Ma
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, Ningxia, China
| | - Yongzhao Zhu
- Institute of Medical Sciences, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, Ningxia, China
| | - Huimin Gao
- General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University (the First Clinical Medical College of Ningxia Medical University), Yinchuan, 750004, Ningxia, China
| | - Rong Hu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University (The First Clinical Medical College of Ningxia Medical University), 804 Shengli Street, Xingqing Square, Yinchuan, 750004, Ningxia, China.
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Wang S, Yu J, Liu Y, Yu J, Ma Y, Zhou L, Liu X, Liu L, Li W, Niu X. Bletilla striata polysaccharide attenuated the progression of pulmonary fibrosis by inhibiting TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 323:117680. [PMID: 38171465 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117680] [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: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Bletilla striata, a traditional medicinal plant, has been utilized as a folk medicine for many years because of its superior biological activity in China. However, Bletilla striata polysaccharide (BSP) has received less attention, and its specific mechanism for ameliorating pulmonary fibrosis is completely unclear. AIMS OF THE STUDY In this study, we aim to assess BSP on the treatment of PF and explore potential mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS BSP was successfully extracted and purified from Bletilla striata. The mechanisms were assessed in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis model and lung fibroblasts activated by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). Histological analysis, immunofluorescence, Western blot and flow cytometry were used to explore the alterations after BSP intervention. RESULTS The results in vivo showed an anti-PF effect of BSP treatment, which reduced pathogenic damages. Furthermore, TGF-β1-induced abnormal migration and upregulated expression of collagen I (COL1A1), vimentin and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were suppressed by BSP in L929 cells. Moreover, the abnormal proliferation was retarded by inhibiting the cell cycle of G1 to S phase. Immunofluorescence assay showed that BSP activated autophagy and played an antifibrotic role by inhibiting the expression of p62 and phospho-mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR). Last but not least, the suppression of TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway was critical for BSP to perform therapeutic effects in vitro and in vivo. CONCLUSION The possible mechanisms were involved in improving ECM deposition, regulating cell migration and proliferation, and promoting cellular autophagy. Briefly, all of the above revealed that BSP might be a novel therapy for treating pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Jiabao Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Yang Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Jinjin Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Yajing Ma
- School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Lili Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Xinyao Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Lingyi Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Weifeng Li
- School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China.
| | - Xiaofeng Niu
- School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China.
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Min K, Yenilmez B, Kelly M, Echeverria D, Elleby M, Lifshitz LM, Raymond N, Tsagkaraki E, Harney SM, DiMarzio C, Wang H, McHugh N, Bramato B, Morrison B, Rothstein JD, Khvorova A, Czech MP. Lactate transporter MCT1 in hepatic stellate cells promotes fibrotic collagen expression in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. eLife 2024; 12:RP89136. [PMID: 38564479 PMCID: PMC10987092 DOI: 10.7554/elife.89136] [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] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Circulating lactate is a fuel source for liver metabolism but may exacerbate metabolic diseases such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Indeed, haploinsufficiency of lactate transporter monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1) in mice reportedly promotes resistance to hepatic steatosis and inflammation. Here, we used adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors to deliver thyroxin binding globulin (TBG)-Cre or lecithin-retinol acyltransferase (Lrat)-Cre to MCT1fl/fl mice on a choline-deficient, high-fat NASH diet to deplete hepatocyte or stellate cell MCT1, respectively. Stellate cell MCT1KO (AAV-Lrat-Cre) attenuated liver type 1 collagen protein expression and caused a downward trend in trichrome staining. MCT1 depletion in cultured human LX2 stellate cells also diminished collagen 1 protein expression. Tetra-ethylenglycol-cholesterol (Chol)-conjugated siRNAs, which enter all hepatic cell types, and hepatocyte-selective tri-N-acetyl galactosamine (GN)-conjugated siRNAs were then used to evaluate MCT1 function in a genetically obese NASH mouse model. MCT1 silencing by Chol-siRNA decreased liver collagen 1 levels, while hepatocyte-selective MCT1 depletion by AAV-TBG-Cre or by GN-siRNA unexpectedly increased collagen 1 and total fibrosis without effect on triglyceride accumulation. These findings demonstrate that stellate cell lactate transporter MCT1 significantly contributes to liver fibrosis through increased collagen 1 protein expression in vitro and in vivo, while hepatocyte MCT1 appears not to be an attractive therapeutic target for NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyounghee Min
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, United States
| | - Batuhan Yenilmez
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, United States
| | - Mark Kelly
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, United States
| | - Dimas Echeverria
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, United States
| | - Michael Elleby
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, United States
| | - Lawrence M Lifshitz
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, United States
| | - Naideline Raymond
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, United States
| | - Emmanouela Tsagkaraki
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, United States
| | - Shauna M Harney
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, United States
| | - Chloe DiMarzio
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, United States
| | - Hui Wang
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, United States
| | - Nicholas McHugh
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, United States
| | - Brianna Bramato
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, United States
| | - Brett Morrison
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, United States
| | - Jeffery D Rothstein
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, United States
| | - Anastasia Khvorova
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, United States
| | - Michael P Czech
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, United States
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26
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Zhong H, Dong B, Zhu D, Fu Z, Liu J, Jin Y. Sja-let-7 suppresses the development of liver fibrosis via Schistosoma japonicum extracellular vesicles. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1012153. [PMID: 38598555 PMCID: PMC11034668 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a fatal zoonotic parasitic disease that also threatens human health. The main pathological features of schistosomiasis are granulomatous inflammation and subsequent liver fibrosis, which is a complex, chronic, and progressive disease. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from schistosome eggs are broadly involved in host-parasite communication and act as important contributors to schistosome-induced liver fibrosis. However, it remains unclear whether substances secreted by the EVs of Schistosoma japonicum, a long-term parasitic "partner" in the hepatic portal vein of the host, also participate in liver fibrosis. Here, we report that EVs derived from S. japonicum worms attenuated liver fibrosis by delivering sja-let-7 into hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Mechanistically, activation of HSCs was reduced by targeting collagen type I alpha 2 chain (Col1α2) and downregulation of the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway both in vivo and in vitro. Overall, these results contribute to further understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying host-parasite interactions and identified the sja-let-7/Col1α2/TGF-β/Smad axis as a potential target for treatment of schistosomiasis-related liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoran Zhong
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Bowen Dong
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Danlin Zhu
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Zhiqiang Fu
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Jinming Liu
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Yamei Jin
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, P.R. China
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27
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Mladenić K, Lenartić M, Marinović S, Polić B, Wensveen FM. The "Domino effect" in MASLD: The inflammatory cascade of steatohepatitis. Eur J Immunol 2024; 54:e2149641. [PMID: 38314819 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202149641] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is an increasingly common complication of obesity, affecting over a quarter of the global adult population. A key event in the pathophysiology of MASLD is the development of metabolic-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), which greatly increases the chances of developing cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The underlying cause of MASH is multifactorial, but accumulating evidence indicates that the inflammatory process in the hepatic microenvironment typically follows a pattern that can be roughly divided into three stages: (1) Detection of hepatocyte stress by tissue-resident immune cells including γδ T cells and CD4-CD8- double-negative T cells, followed by their secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators, most notably IL-17A. (2) Recruitment of pro-inflammatory cells, mostly of the myeloid lineage, and initiation of inflammation through secretion of effector-type cytokines such as TNF, TGF-β, and IL-1β. (3) Escalation of the inflammatory response by recruitment of lymphocytes including Th17, CD8 T, and B cells leading to chronic inflammation, hepatic stellate cell activation, and fibrosis. Here we will discuss these three stages and how they are consecutively linked like falling domino tiles to the pathophysiology of MASH. Moreover, we will highlight the clinical potential of inflammation as a biomarker and therapeutic target for the treatment of MASLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlo Mladenić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Maja Lenartić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Sonja Marinović
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory for Personalized Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Bojan Polić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Felix M Wensveen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
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28
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Li T, Huang J, Zeng A, Yu N, Long X. Ubiquitin-specific peptidase 11 promotes development of keloid derived fibroblasts by de-ubiquitinating TGF-β receptorII. Burns 2024; 50:641-652. [PMID: 38097445 DOI: 10.1016/j.burns.2023.09.022] [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: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Keloid scars occur as a result of abnormal wound healing caused by trauma or inflammation of the skin. The progression of keloids is dependent on genetic and environmental influences. The incidence is more prevalent in people with darker skin tones (African, Asian and Hispanic origin). Studies have demonstrated that transforming growth factor (TGF) β/Smad signalling has an essential function in keloid as well as that USP11 could modulate the activation of TGFβ/Smad signalling and impact the progression of the fibrotic disease. Nonetheless, the potential mechanisms of USP11 in keloid were still unclear. The authors postulated that USP11 up-regulates and augments the ability of proliferation, invasion, migration and collagen deposition of keloid-derived fibroblasts (KFBs) through deubiquitinating TGF-β receptor II (TβRII). METHODS Fibroblast cells were isolated from keloid scars in vitro. Lentivirus infection was utilized to knockdown and over-express the USP11 in KFBs. Influence of USP11 on proliferation, invasion and migration of KFBs, and expression level of TβRII, Smad2, Smad3, α-SMA, collagen1 and collagen3 were assayed by CCK8, scratching, transwell, Western blot and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The interactions between USP11 and TβRII were examined using ubiquitination assays and co-immunoprecipitation. To further confirm the role of USP11 in keloid growth, we performed animal experiments. RESULTS Results show that down-regulated USP11 markedly suppressed the ability of proliferation, invasion and migration of keloid derived-fibroblasts in vitro and reduce the expression of TβRII, Smad2, Smad3, αSMA, collagen1 and collagen3. In addition, over-expression of USP11 demonstrated the contrary tendency. Ubiquitination experiments and co-immunoprecipitation demonstrated that USP11 was interacting with TβRII and deubiquitinated TβRII. Interferences with USP11 inhibited growth of keloid in vivo. Additionally, we have verified that knockdown of USP11 has no significant effect on normal skin fibroblasts. CONCLUSION USP11 elevates the ability of proliferation, collagen deposition, invasion and migration of keloid-derived fibroblasts by deubiquitinating TβRII.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianhao Li
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jiuzuo Huang
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ang Zeng
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Nanze Yu
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiao Long
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
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29
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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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30
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Palfrey HA, Kumar A, Pathak R, Stone KP, Gettys TW, Murthy SN. Adverse Cardiac Events of Hypercholesterolemia Are Enhanced by Sitagliptin Administration in Sprague Dawley Rats. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4075353. [PMID: 38562676 PMCID: PMC10984018 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4075353/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Background Cardiovascular disease (CVD) affects millions worldwide and is the leading cause of death among non-communicable diseases. Western diets typically comprise of meat and dairy products, both of which are rich in cholesterol (Cho) and methionine (Met), two well-known compounds with atherogenic capabilities. Despite their individual effects, literature on a dietary combination of the two in the context of CVD are limited. An additional interest was to investigate the cardioprotective potential of sitagliptin, an anti-type 2 diabetic drug. Thus, we hypothesized that atherogenic feeding would result in adverse cardiac effects and would attenuate upon sitagliptin administration. Methods Six-week-old adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed either a control (Con), high Met (1.5%), high Cho (2.0%), or high Met (1.5%) + high Cho (2.0%) diet for 35 days. They were orally gavaged with vehicle (water) or sitagliptin (100 mg/kg/d) from day 10 through 35. On day 36, rats were euthanized, and tissues were collected for analysis. Results Histopathological evaluation revealed a reduction in myocardial striations and increased collagen deposition in hypercholesterolemia (HChol), responses that became exacerbated upon sitagliptin administration. Cardiac pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic responses were adversely impacted in similar fashion. The addition of Met to Cho (MC) attenuated all adverse structural and biochemical responses, with or without sitagliptin. Conclusion Adverse cardiac outcomes in HChol were enhanced with sitagliptin administration and such effects were alleviated by Met. Our findings could be significant for understanding the risk-benefit of sitagliptin in type 2 diabetics who are known to consume atherogenic diets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Avinash Kumar
- Southern University and Agricultural and Mechanical College
| | - Rashmi Pathak
- Southern University and Agricultural and Mechanical College
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31
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Diwan R, Gaytan SL, Bhatt HN, Pena-Zacarias J, Nurunnabi M. Liver fibrosis pathologies and potentials of RNA based therapeutics modalities. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2024:10.1007/s13346-024-01551-8. [PMID: 38446352 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-024-01551-8] [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] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis (LF) occurs when the liver tissue responds to injury or inflammation by producing excessive amounts of scar tissue, known as the extracellular matrix. This buildup stiffens the liver tissue, hinders blood flow, and ultimately impairs liver function. Various factors can trigger this process, including bloodborne pathogens, genetic predisposition, alcohol abuse, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. While some existing small-molecule therapies offer limited benefits, there is a pressing need for more effective treatments that can truly cure LF. RNA therapeutics have emerged as a promising approach, as they can potentially downregulate cytokine levels in cells responsible for liver fibrosis. Researchers are actively exploring various RNA-based therapeutics, such as mRNA, siRNA, miRNA, lncRNA, and oligonucleotides, to assess their efficacy in animal models. Furthermore, targeted drug delivery systems hold immense potential in this field. By utilizing lipid nanoparticles, exosomes, nanocomplexes, micelles, and polymeric nanoparticles, researchers aim to deliver therapeutic agents directly to specific biomarkers or cytokines within the fibrotic liver, increasing their effectiveness and reducing side effects. In conclusion, this review highlights the complex nature of liver fibrosis, its underlying causes, and the promising potential of RNA-based therapeutics and targeted delivery systems. Continued research in these areas could lead to the development of more effective and personalized treatment options for LF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rimpy Diwan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79902, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79968, USA
| | - Samantha Lynn Gaytan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79902, USA
- Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, Texas, 79968, USA
| | - Himanshu Narendrakumar Bhatt
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79902, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79968, USA
| | - Jacqueline Pena-Zacarias
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79902, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, Texas, 79968, USA
| | - Md Nurunnabi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79902, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79968, USA.
- Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, Texas, 79968, USA.
- Border Biomedical Research Center, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79968, USA.
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32
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Liu B, Xie X, Yang X, Dou C, Tang H, Liu J. The miR-3074/BMP7 axis regulates TGF-β-caused activation of hepatic stellate cells in vitro and CCl 4-caused murine liver fibrosis in vivo. Hum Cell 2024; 37:435-450. [PMID: 38218754 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-023-01017-y] [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: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Continuously progressive hepatic fibrosis might cause chronic liver diseases, resulting in hepatic failure. The activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) residing in the liver might induce and influence hepatic fibrosis. In the present study, microRNA 3074 (miR-3074) was found increased within transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-activated HSCs and enriched within the TGF-β signaling. In activated HSCs by TGF-β, miR-3074 overexpression aggravated TGF-β-induced fibrotic changes, whereas miR-3074 inhibition exerted opposite effects. miR-3074 directly targeted bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP7) and inhibited BMP7 expression. Under TGF-β induction, overexpressed BMP7 notably attenuated the promotive roles of miR-3074 overexpression in TGF-β-activated HSCs. Within carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-caused liver fibrosis murine model, miR-3074 agomir administration promoted, while LV-BMP7 administration alleviated CCl4-induced fibrotic changes; LV-BMP7 significantly attenuated the effects of miR-3074 agomir. Lastly, mmu-miR-3074 also targeted mouse BMP7 and inhibited mouse BMP7 expression. In conclusion, the miR-3074/BMP7 axis regulates TGF-β-caused activation of HSCs in vitro and CCl4-caused murine liver fibrosis in vivo. BMP7-mediated Smad1/5/8 activation might be involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingjie Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Xia Xie
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Chengyun Dou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Haibo Tang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China.
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Hong W, Xiao T, Lin G, Liu C, Li H, Li Y, Hu H, Wu S, Wang S, Liang Z, Lin T, Liu J, Chen X. Structure-based design and synthesis of anti-fibrotic compounds derived from para-positioned 3,4,5-trisubstituted benzene. Bioorg Chem 2024; 144:107113. [PMID: 38232685 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107113] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is an abnormal wound-healing response to liver injuries. It can lead to liver cirrhosis, and even liver cancer and liver failure. There is a lack of treatment for liver fibrosis and it is of great importance to develop anti-fibrotic drugs. A pivotal event in the process of developing liver fibrosis is the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), in which the nuclear receptor Nur77 plays a crucial role. This study aimed to develop novel anti-fibrotic agents with Nur77 as the drug target by modifying the structure of THPN, a Nur77-binding and anti-melanoma compound. Specifically, a series of para-positioned 3,4,5-trisubstituted benzene ring compounds with long-chain backbone were generated and tested for anti-fibrotic activity. Among these compounds, compound A8 was with the most potent and Nur77-dependent inhibitory activity against TGF-β1-induced activation of HSCs. In a crystal structure analysis, compound A8 bound Nur77 in a peg-in-hole mode as THPN did but adopted a different conformation that could interfere the Nur77 interaction with AKT, which was previous shown to be important for an anti-fibrotic activity. In a cell-based assay, compound A8 indeed impeded the interaction between Nur77 and AKT leading to the stabilization of Nur77 without the activation of AKT. In a mouse model, compound A8 effectively suppressed the activation of AKT signaling pathway and up-regulated the cellular level of Nur77 to attenuate the HSCs activation and ameliorate liver fibrosis with no significant toxic side effects. Collectively, this work demonstrated that Nur77-targeting compound A8 is a promising anti-fibrotic drug candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbin Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, State-province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Targeted Drugs from Natural Products, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Cancer Research Center of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Key Laboratory of Clinical Efficacy and Evidence Studies of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Tianyichen Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, State-province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Targeted Drugs from Natural Products, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Cancer Research Center of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - 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
| | - Changqin Liu
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Clinical Efficacy and Evidence Studies of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Hailong Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yunlong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, State-province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Targeted Drugs from Natural Products, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Cancer Research Center of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Hongyu Hu
- Xingzhi College, Zhejiang Normal University, Lanxi 321004, China
| | - Siqi Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, State-province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Targeted Drugs from Natural Products, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Cancer Research Center of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Songqing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, State-province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Targeted Drugs from Natural Products, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Cancer Research Center of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Zhijian Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, State-province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Targeted Drugs from Natural Products, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Cancer Research Center of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Tianwei Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, State-province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Targeted Drugs from Natural Products, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Cancer Research Center of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
| | - Jie Liu
- 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.
| | - Xueqin Chen
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Clinical Efficacy and Evidence Studies of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
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Jia L, Yang Y, Sun F, Tao H, Lu C, Yang JJ. Mitochondrial quality control in liver fibrosis: Epigenetic hallmarks and therapeutic strategies. Cell Signal 2024; 115:111035. [PMID: 38182067 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2024.111035] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Mitochondrial quality control (MQC) plays a significant role in the progression of liver fibrosis, with key processes such as mitochondrial fission, fusion, mitophagy and biogenesis maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis. To understand the molecular mechanisms underlying epigenetic regulation of mitochondrial quality control in liver fibrosis, with the aim of uncovering novel therapeutic targets for treating, mitigating, and potentially reversing liver fibrosis, in light of the most recent advances in this field. METHODS We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus for published manuscripts using terms "mitochondrial quality control" "mitochondrial fission" "mitochondrial fusion" "mitochondrial biogenesis" "mitophagy" "liver fibrosis" "epigenetic regulation" "DNA methylation" "RNA methylation" "histone modification" and "non-coding RNA". Manuscripts were collated, studied and carried forward for discussion where appropriate. RESULTS Mitochondrial fission, fusion, biogenesis, and mitophagy regulate the homeostasis of mitochondria, and the imbalance of mitochondrial homeostasis can induce liver fibrosis. Epigenetic regulation, including DNA methylation, RNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs, plays a significant role in regulating the processes of mitochondrial homeostasis. CONCLUSION Mitochondrial quality control and epigenetic mechanisms are intricately linked to the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. Understanding these molecular interactions provides insight into potential therapeutic strategies. Further research is necessary to translate these findings into clinical applications, with a focus on developing epigenetic drugs to ameliorate liver fibrosis by modulating MQC and epigenetic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Jia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China; School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Suzhou 215153, China
| | - Feng Sun
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China; School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Hui Tao
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China.
| | - Chao Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui University of Science & Technology, Huainan 232001, China.
| | - Jing-Jing Yang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China.
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Wang Y, Li X, Guan X, Song Z, Liu H, Guan Z, Wang J, Zhu L, Zhang D, Zhao L, Xie P, Wei X, Shang N, Liu Y, Jin Z, Ji Z, Dai G. The Upregulation of Leucine-Rich Repeat Containing 1 Expression Activates Hepatic Stellate Cells and Promotes Liver Fibrosis by Stabilizing Phosphorylated Smad2/3. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2735. [PMID: 38473980 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052735] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis poses a significant global health risk due to its association with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the lack of effective treatments. Thus, the need to discover additional novel therapeutic targets to attenuate liver diseases is urgent. Leucine-rich repeat containing 1 (LRRC1) reportedly promotes HCC development. Previously, we found that LRRC1 was significantly upregulated in rat fibrotic liver according to the transcriptome sequencing data. Herein, in the current work, we aimed to explore the role of LRRC1 in liver fibrosis and the underlying mechanisms involved. LRRC1 expression was positively correlated with liver fibrosis severity and significantly elevated in both human and murine fibrotic liver tissues. LRRC1 knockdown or overexpression inhibited or enhanced the proliferation, migration, and expression of fibrogenic genes in the human hepatic stellate cell line LX-2. More importantly, LRRC1 inhibition in vivo significantly alleviated CCl4-induced liver fibrosis by reducing collagen accumulation and hepatic stellate cells' (HSCs) activation in mice. Mechanistically, LRRC1 promoted HSC activation and liver fibrogenesis by preventing the ubiquitin-mediated degradation of phosphorylated mothers against decapentaplegic homolog (Smad) 2/3 (p-Smad2/3), thereby activating the TGF-β1/Smad pathway. Collectively, these results clarify a novel role for LRRC1 as a regulator of liver fibrosis and indicate that LRRC1 is a promising target for antifibrotic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yake Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Xiaolong Li
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Xiaowen Guan
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Zhe Song
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Huanfei Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Zhenzhen Guan
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Jianwei Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Lina Zhu
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Di Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Liang Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Peitong Xie
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Xiaoyi Wei
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Ning Shang
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Ying Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Zhongzhen Jin
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Zhili Ji
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Guifu Dai
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
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Chen SY, Chen X, Zhu S, Xu JJ, Li XF, Yin NN, Xiao YY, Huang C, Li J. miR-324-3p Suppresses Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Hepatic Fibrosis Via Regulating SMAD4 Signaling Pathway. Mol Biotechnol 2024:10.1007/s12033-024-01078-w. [PMID: 38407690 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-024-01078-w] [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: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
In hepatic fibrosis (HF), hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) form the extracellular matrix (ECM), and the pathological accumulation of ECM in the liver leads to inflammation. Our previous research found that miR-324-3p was down-regulated in culture-activated human HSCs. However, the precise effect of miR-324-3p on HF has not been elucidated. In this study, the HF mouse models were induced through directly injecting carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) into mice; the HF cell models were constructed using TGF-β1-treated LX-2 cells. Next, real-time-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), western blot (WB) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were applied to assess the expression levels of miR-324-3p, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), Vimentin or SMAD4; hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), Masson' s trichrome and Sirius red staining to evaluate the liver injury; luciferase reporter assay to verify the targeting relationship between miR-324-3p and SMAD4; enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to determine the levels of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST); and cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and flow cytometry to evaluate the effects of miR-324-3p on cell proliferation and cycle/apoptosis, respectively. The experimental results showed a reduction in miR-324-3p level in CCl4-induced HF mice as well as transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-activated HSCs. Interestingly, the miR-324-3p level was rescued following the HF recovery process. In HF mice induced by CCl4, miR-324-3p overexpression inhibited liver tissue damage, decreased serum ALT and AST levels, and inhibited fibrosis-related biomarkers (α-SMA, Vimentin) expression, thereby inhibiting HF. Similarly, miR-324-3p overexpression up-regulated α-SMA and Vimentin levels in HF cells, while knockdown of miR-324-3p had the opposite effect. Besides, miR-324-3p played an antifibrotic role through inhibiting the proliferation of hepatocytes. Further experiments confirmed that miR-324-3p targeted and down-regulated SMAD4 expression. SMAD4 was highly expressed in HF cells, and silencing SMAD4 significantly decreased the α-SMA and Vimentin levels in HF cells. Collectively, the miR-324-3p may suppress the activation of HSCs and HF by targeting SMAD4. Therefore, miR-324-3p is identified as a potential and novel therapeutic target for HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Yu Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Hefei BOE Hospital, Intersection of Dongfang Avenue and Wenzhong Road, Hefei, China
| | - Xin Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, 81 Mei Shan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Sai Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, 81 Mei Shan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Jin-Jin Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, 81 Mei Shan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, 81 Mei Shan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Na-Na Yin
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, 81 Mei Shan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Yan-Yan Xiao
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, 81 Mei Shan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, 81 Mei Shan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Jun Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, 81 Mei Shan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
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Chen S, Wang C, Meng Y, Li P, Pan Y, He M, Ni X. Nanofabrications of Erythrocyte Membrane-Coated Telmisartan Delivery System Effective for Radiosensitivity of Tumor Cells in Mice Model. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:1487-1508. [PMID: 38380147 PMCID: PMC10878400 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s441418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Radiation stimulates the secretion of tumor stroma and induces resistance, recurrence, and metastasis of stromal-vascular tumors during radiotherapy. The proliferation and activation of tumor-associated fibroblasts (TAFs) are important reasons for the production of tumor stroma. Telmisartan (Tel) can inhibit the proliferation and activation of TAFs (resting TAFs), which may promote radiosensitization. However, Tel has a poor water solubility. Methods In this study, self-assembled telmisartan nanoparticles (Tel NPs) were prepared by aqueous solvent diffusion method to solve the insoluble problem of Tel and achieve high drug loading of Tel. Then, erythrocyte membrane (ECM) obtained by hypotonic lysis was coated on the surface of Tel NPs (ECM/Tel) for the achievement of in vivo long circulation and tumor targeting. Immunofluorescence staining, western blot and other biological techniques were used to investigate the effect of ECM/Tel on TAFs activation inhibition (resting effect) and mechanisms involved. The multicellular spheroids (MCSs) model and mouse breast cancer cells (4T1) were constructed to investigate the effect of ECM/Tel on reducing stroma secretion, alleviating hypoxia, and the corresponding promoting radiosensitization effect in vitro. A mouse orthotopic 4T1 breast cancer model was constructed to investigate the radiosensitizing effect of ECM/Tel on inhibiting breast cancer growth and lung metastasis of breast cancer. Results ECM/Tel showed good physiological stability and tumor-targeting ability. ECM/Tel could rest TAFs and reduce stroma secretion, alleviate hypoxia, and enhance penetration in tumor microenvironment. In addition, ECM/Tel arrested the cell cycle of 4T1 cells to the radiosensitive G2/M phase. In mouse orthotopic 4T1 breast cancer model, ECM/Tel played a superior role in radiosensitization and significantly inhibited lung metastasis of breast cancer. Conclusion ECM/Tel showed synergistical radiosensitization effect on both the tumor microenvironment and tumor cells, which is a promising radiosensitizer in the radiotherapy of stroma-vascular tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoqing Chen
- Department of Radiotherapy, the Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Medical Physics, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Cheng Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213164, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanyan Meng
- Department of Radiotherapy, the Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Medical Physics, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213164, People’s Republic of China
| | - Pengyin Li
- Department of Radiotherapy, the Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Medical Physics, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213164, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yiwen Pan
- Department of Radiotherapy, the Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Medical Physics, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213164, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mu He
- Department of Radiotherapy, the Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Medical Physics, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xinye Ni
- Department of Radiotherapy, the Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Medical Physics, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
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Wang Y, Chen S, Bao S, Yao L, Wen Z, Xu L, Chen X, Guo S, Pang H, Zhou Y, Zhou P. Deciphering the fibrotic process: mechanism of chronic radiation skin injury fibrosis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1338922. [PMID: 38426100 PMCID: PMC10902513 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1338922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
This review explores the mechanisms of chronic radiation-induced skin injury fibrosis, focusing on the transition from acute radiation damage to a chronic fibrotic state. It reviewed the cellular and molecular responses of the skin to radiation, highlighting the role of myofibroblasts and the significant impact of Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) in promoting fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transformation. The review delves into the epigenetic regulation of fibrotic gene expression, the contribution of extracellular matrix proteins to the fibrotic microenvironment, and the regulation of the immune system in the context of fibrosis. Additionally, it discusses the potential of biomaterials and artificial intelligence in medical research to advance the understanding and treatment of radiation-induced skin fibrosis, suggesting future directions involving bioinformatics and personalized therapeutic strategies to enhance patient quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiren Wang
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Wound Healing Basic Research and Clinical Application Key Laboratory of Luzhou, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Shouying Chen
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Wound Healing Basic Research and Clinical Application Key Laboratory of Luzhou, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Shuilan Bao
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Wound Healing Basic Research and Clinical Application Key Laboratory of Luzhou, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Li Yao
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Wound Healing Basic Research and Clinical Application Key Laboratory of Luzhou, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Zhongjian Wen
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Wound Healing Basic Research and Clinical Application Key Laboratory of Luzhou, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Lixia Xu
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Xiaoman Chen
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Shengmin Guo
- Department of Nursing, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Haowen Pang
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yun Zhou
- School of Medical Information and Engineering, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Ping Zhou
- Wound Healing Basic Research and Clinical Application Key Laboratory of Luzhou, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Department of Radiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
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Liang Q, Pan F, Qiu H, Zhou X, Cai J, Luo R, Xiong Z, Yang H, Zhang L. CLC-3 regulates TGF-β/smad signaling pathway to inhibit the process of fibrosis in hypertrophic scar. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24984. [PMID: 38333829 PMCID: PMC10850413 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To study the role and mechanism of chloride channel-3 (ClC-3) in the formation of hypertrophic scar by constructing ClC-3 interference vectors and examining their effects on human hypertrophic scar fibroblasts (HSFB). Methods Human HSFB and human normal skin fibroblasts (NSFB) were used in this study, and ClC-3 interference vectors were constructed to transfect cells. ClC-3 inhibitors NPPB and Tamoxifen were used to treat cells. Cell migration and the expression of TGF-β/Smad, CollagenⅠ,CollagenⅢ were examined to explore the role of ClC-3 in the formation of hypertrophic scar. Results Compared with the normal skin tissue, the positive expression of ClC-3 and TGF-β in the scar tissue was significantly increased. The relative expression of ClC-3 and TGF-β1 in HSFB cells was higher than that in NSFB cells. Interfering with the expression of CLC-3 can inhibit the migration of HSFB cells and the expression of TGF- β/Smad, CollagenⅠ/Ⅲ. The experiment of HSFB cells treated by CLC-3 inhibitors can also obtain similar results. Conclusion Inhibiting CLC-3 can reduce the formation of hypertrophic scars.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Liang
- Department of Medical Cosmetology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 166 Daxue East Road, Xixiangtang District, Nanning City, Guangxi Province, China
| | - Fuqiang Pan
- Department of Medical Cosmetology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 166 Daxue East Road, Xixiangtang District, Nanning City, Guangxi Province, China
| | - Houhuang Qiu
- Department of Medical Cosmetology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 166 Daxue East Road, Xixiangtang District, Nanning City, Guangxi Province, China
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Medical Cosmetology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 166 Daxue East Road, Xixiangtang District, Nanning City, Guangxi Province, China
| | - Jieyun Cai
- Department of Medical Cosmetology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 166 Daxue East Road, Xixiangtang District, Nanning City, Guangxi Province, China
| | - Ruijin Luo
- Department of Medical Cosmetology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 166 Daxue East Road, Xixiangtang District, Nanning City, Guangxi Province, China
| | - Zenghui Xiong
- Department of Medical Cosmetology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 166 Daxue East Road, Xixiangtang District, Nanning City, Guangxi Province, China
| | - Huawei Yang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 71 Hedi Road, Nanning City, Guangxi Province, China
| | - Liming Zhang
- Department of Medical Cosmetology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 166 Daxue East Road, Xixiangtang District, Nanning City, Guangxi Province, China
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Chen L, Guo W, Mao C, Shen J, Wan M. Liver fibrosis: pathological features, clinical treatment and application of therapeutic nanoagents. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:1446-1466. [PMID: 38265305 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02790b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a reversible damage-repair response, the pathological features of which mainly include damage to hepatocytes, sinusoid capillarization, hepatic stellate cells activation, excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix and inflammatory response. Although some treatments (including drugs and stem cell therapy) for these pathological features have been shown to be effective, more clinical trials are needed to confirm their effectiveness. In recent years, nanomaterials-based therapies have emerged as an innovative and promising alternative to traditional drugs, being explored for the treatment of liver fibrosis diseases. Natural nanomaterials (including extracellular vesicles) and synthetic nanomaterials (including inorganic nanomaterials and organic nanomaterials) are developed to facilitate drug targeting delivery and combination therapy. In this review, the pathological features of liver fibrosis and the current anti-fibrosis drugs in clinical trials are briefly introduced, followed by a detailed introduction of the therapeutic nanoagents for the precise delivery of anti-fibrosis drugs. Finally, the future development trend in this field is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Chen
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Wenyan Guo
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Chun Mao
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Jian Shen
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Mimi Wan
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
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Xin X, Cheng X, Zeng F, Xu Q, Hou L. The Role of TGF-β/SMAD Signaling in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: from Mechanism to Therapy and Prognosis. Int J Biol Sci 2024; 20:1436-1451. [PMID: 38385079 PMCID: PMC10878151 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.89568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide, with high incidence and mortality, accounting for approximately 90% of liver cancer. The development of HCC is a complex process involving the abnormal activation or inactivation of multiple signaling pathways. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/Small mothers against decapentaplegic (SMAD) signaling pathway regulates the development of HCC. TGF-β activates intracellular SMADs protein through membrane receptors, resulting in a series of biological cascades. Accumulating studies have demonstrated that TGF-β/SMAD signaling plays multiple regulatory functions in HCC. However, there is still controversy about the role of TGF-β/SMAD in HCC. Because it involves different pathogenic factors, disease stages, and cell microenvironment, as well as upstream and downstream relationships with other signaling pathways. This review will summary the regulatory mechanism of the TGF-β/SMAD signaling pathway in HCC, involving the regulation of different pathogenic factors, different disease stages, different cell populations, microenvironments, and the interaction with microRNAs. In addition, we also introduced small molecule inhibitors, therapeutic vaccines, and traditional Chinese medicine extracts based on targeting the TGF-β/SMAD signaling pathway, which will provide future research direction for HCC therapy targeting the TGF-β/SMAD signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xin
- The College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiyu Cheng
- The College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, China
| | - Fanxin Zeng
- Department of Clinical Research Center, Dazhou Central Hospital, Dazhou, Sichuan province, China
| | - Qing Xu
- The College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, China
| | - Lingling Hou
- The College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, China
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Eni-Aganga I, Lanaghan ZM, Ismail F, Korolkova O, Goodwin JS, Balasubramaniam M, Dash C, Pandhare J. KLF6 activates Sp1-mediated prolidase transcription during TGF-β 1 signaling. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:105605. [PMID: 38159857 PMCID: PMC10847167 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105605] [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: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Prolidase (PEPD) is the only hydrolase that cleaves the dipeptides containing C-terminal proline or hydroxyproline-the rate-limiting step in collagen biosynthesis. However, the molecular regulation of prolidase expression remains largely unknown. In this study, we have identified overlapping binding sites for the transcription factors Krüppel-like factor 6 (KLF6) and Specificity protein 1 (Sp1) in the PEPD promoter and demonstrate that KLF6/Sp1 transcriptionally regulate prolidase expression. By cloning the PEPD promoter into a luciferase reporter and through site-directed deletion, we pinpointed the minimal sequences required for KLF6 and Sp1-mediated PEPD promoter-driven transcription. Interestingly, Sp1 inhibition abrogated KLF6-mediated PEPD promoter activity, suggesting that Sp1 is required for the basal expression of prolidase. We further studied the regulation of PEPD by KLF6 and Sp1 during transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) signaling, since both KLF6 and Sp1 are key players in TGF-β1 mediated collagen biosynthesis. Mouse and human fibroblasts exposed to TGF-β1 resulted in the induction of PEPD transcription and prolidase expression. Inhibition of TGF-β1 signaling abrogated PEPD promoter-driven transcriptional activity of KLF6 and Sp1. Knock-down of KLF6 as well as Sp1 inhibition also reduced prolidase expression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay supported direct binding of KLF6 and Sp1 to the PEPD promoter and this binding was enriched by TGF-β1 treatment. Finally, immunofluorescence studies showed that KLF6 co-operates with Sp1 in the nucleus to activate prolidase expression and enhance collagen biosynthesis. Collectively, our results identify functional elements of the PEPD promoter for KLF6 and Sp1-mediated transcriptional activation and describe the molecular mechanism of prolidase expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ireti Eni-Aganga
- Center for AIDS Health Disparities Research, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA; School of Graduate Studies, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Physiology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Zeljka Miletic Lanaghan
- Center for AIDS Health Disparities Research, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Farah Ismail
- Center for AIDS Health Disparities Research, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Olga Korolkova
- Center for AIDS Health Disparities Research, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Department of Biochemistry, Cancer Biology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jeffery Shawn Goodwin
- Center for AIDS Health Disparities Research, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Department of Biochemistry, Cancer Biology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Muthukumar Balasubramaniam
- Center for AIDS Health Disparities Research, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Department of Biochemistry, Cancer Biology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Chandravanu Dash
- Center for AIDS Health Disparities Research, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Physiology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Department of Biochemistry, Cancer Biology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
| | - Jui Pandhare
- Center for AIDS Health Disparities Research, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA; School of Graduate Studies, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Physiology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
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Hadpech S, Thongboonkerd V. Epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity in kidney fibrosis. Genesis 2024; 62:e23529. [PMID: 37345818 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.23529] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an important biological process contributing to kidney fibrosis and chronic kidney disease. This process is characterized by decreased epithelial phenotypes/markers and increased mesenchymal phenotypes/markers. Tubular epithelial cells (TECs) are commonly susceptible to EMT by various stimuli, for example, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), cellular communication network factor 2, angiotensin-II, fibroblast growth factor-2, oncostatin M, matrix metalloproteinase-2, tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA), plasmin, interleukin-1β, and reactive oxygen species. Similarly, glomerular podocytes can undergo EMT via these stimuli and by high glucose condition in diabetic kidney disease. EMT of TECs and podocytes leads to tubulointerstitial fibrosis and glomerulosclerosis, respectively. Signaling pathways involved in EMT-mediated kidney fibrosis are diverse and complex. TGF-β1/Smad and Wnt/β-catenin pathways are the major venues triggering EMT in TECs and podocytes. These two pathways thus serve as the major therapeutic targets against EMT-mediated kidney fibrosis. To date, a number of EMT inhibitors have been identified and characterized. As expected, the majority of these EMT inhibitors affect TGF-β1/Smad and Wnt/β-catenin pathways. In addition to kidney fibrosis, these EMT-targeted antifibrotic inhibitors are expected to be effective for treatment against fibrosis in other organs/tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudarat Hadpech
- Medical Proteomics Unit, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Visith Thongboonkerd
- Medical Proteomics Unit, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Kong L, Ma J, Dong L, Zhu C, Zhang J, Li J. Metformin exerts anti-liver fibrosis effect based on the regulation of gut microbiota homeostasis and multi-target synergy. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24610. [PMID: 38288020 PMCID: PMC10823097 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis can progress to cirrhosis if left untreated. Therefore, identifying effective antifibrotic drugs is crucial. This study aimed to investigate the role and potential mechanism of metformin in treating hepatic fibrosis based on the synergistic effect of multiple targets and the "intestine-liver axis" theory. A CCl4-induced liver fibrosis mouse model was established. We measured liver function, liver fibrosis indicators, oxidative stress and inflammation indices. Hematoxylin and eosin and Masson's trichrome staining were used to detect collagen deposition. The expression of apoptotic proteins, TGF-β/Smads and TIMP-1/MMPs was assessed. 16S rRNA and untargeted metabolomics (liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry) were used to assess mouse intestinal flora and metabolites, performing a comprehensive correlation analysis. Metformin improved the general status and liver function and decreased liver collagen deposition in CCl4-induced liver fibrotic mice. Compared with the control group, IL-6, TNF-α and COX-2 serum levels in the liver fibrosis group increased. Although not significantly different, the serum inflammatory marker levels in the metformin group were lower than those in the model group. Metformin decreased serum MDA and increased serum SOD activity, which increased and decreased, respectively, in the model group. Furthermore, metformin inhibited liver cell apoptosis, TGF-β1 expression and TIMP-1, while promoting Smad7 expression, MMP-1 and MMP-2 in fibrotic mice. 16S rRNA analysis indicated that metformin significantly ameliorated the Bacteroides, Helicobacter, Parabacteroides and Parasutterella imbalance. We identified 385 differential metabolites between the metformin and model groups. Prevotella abundance significantly decreased in the metformin group and positively correlated with decreased taurocholic acid levels. Metformin potentially reverses liver fibrosis by inhibiting inflammation, mitigating oxidative stress damage and suppressing hepatocyte apoptosis via intestinal flora metabolite regulation. Metformin also regulates the TGF-β/Smads and TIMP-1/MMPs signalling pathways. This study provides a theoretical basis for the clinical use of metformin in patients with liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianhua Kong
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Juncong Ma
- Department of Emergency. Lian Shui People's Hospital, Huai'an, 223400, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Dong
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chuanlong Zhu
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, The Affiliated Huai'an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an, 223002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
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Chandrasekaran P, Weiskirchen R. The Role of SCAP/SREBP as Central Regulators of Lipid Metabolism in Hepatic Steatosis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1109. [PMID: 38256181 PMCID: PMC10815951 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021109] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is rapidly increasing worldwide at an alarming pace, due to an increase in obesity, sedentary and unhealthy lifestyles, and unbalanced dietary habits. MASLD is a unique, multi-factorial condition with several phases of progression including steatosis, steatohepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Sterol element binding protein 1c (SREBP1c) is the main transcription factor involved in regulating hepatic de novo lipogenesis. This transcription factor is synthesized as an inactive precursor, and its proteolytic maturation is initiated in the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum upon stimulation by insulin. SREBP cleavage activating protein (SCAP) is required as a chaperon protein to escort SREBP from the endoplasmic reticulum and to facilitate the proteolytic release of the N-terminal domain of SREBP into the Golgi. SCAP inhibition prevents activation of SREBP and inhibits the expression of genes involved in triglyceride and fatty acid synthesis, resulting in the inhibition of de novo lipogenesis. In line, previous studies have shown that SCAP inhibition can resolve hepatic steatosis in animal models and intensive research is going on to understand the effects of SCAP in the pathogenesis of human disease. This review focuses on the versatile roles of SCAP/SREBP regulation in de novo lipogenesis and the structure and molecular features of SCAP/SREBP in the progression of hepatic steatosis. In addition, recent studies that attempt to target the SCAP/SREBP axis as a therapeutic option to interfere with MASLD are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) University Hospital Aachen, D-52074 Aachen, Germany
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Chen Y, Wu X, Zhang Y, Chen J. Genetic causal association between frozen shoulder and carpal tunnel syndrome: a two-sample mendelian randomization. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2024; 25:58. [PMID: 38216946 PMCID: PMC10790250 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-024-07186-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Observational studies have suggested an association between frozen shoulder (FS) and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). However, due to challenges in establishing a temporal sequence, the causal relationship between these two conditions remains elusive. This study, based on aggregated data from large-scale population-wide genome-wide association studies (GWAS), investigates the genetic causality between FS and CTS. METHODS Initially, a series of quality control measures were employed to select single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) closely associated with the exposure factors. Two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) was utilized to examine the genetic causality between FS and CTS, employing methods including Inverse-Variance Weighted (IVW), MR-Egger, Weighted Median, Simple Mode, and Weighted Mode approaches. Subsequently, sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the robustness of the MR analysis results. RESULTS IVW analysis results indicate a positive causal relationship between CTS and FS (p < 0.05, OR > 1), while a negative causal relationship between the two conditions was not observed. Heterogeneity tests suggest minimal heterogeneity in our IVW analysis results (p > 0.05). Multivariable MR testing also indicates no pleiotropy in our IVW analysis (p > 0.05), and stepwise exclusion tests demonstrate the reliability and stability of the MR analysis results. Gene Ontology (GO) pathway analysis reveals enrichment of genes regulated by the associated SNPs in the TGFβ-related pathways. CONCLUSION This study provides evidence of the genetic causal association between frozen shoulder and carpal tunnel syndrome and provides new insights into the genetics of fibrotic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaojin Wu
- Department of Ultrasound, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yongxing Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Department of Ultrasound, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China.
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Meng X, Wang D, Zhang H, Kang T, Meng X, Liang S. Portulaca oleracea L. extract relieve mice liver fibrosis by inhibiting TLR-4/NF-κB, Bcl-2/Bax and TGF-β1/Smad2 signalling transduction. Nat Prod Res 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38164691 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2023.2300034] [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: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Portulaca oleracea L. are annual herb, which has various pharmacological effects including hepatoprotective property. However, the effect of Portulaca oleracea L. (POL-1) in mice with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis and its mechanism of action have not been clarified. POL-1 ameliorated the CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in mice, as shown by decreased collagen deposition and the decreased expression of liver fibrosis marker collagen I and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) mRNA. In addition, treatment with POL-1 suppressed the proliferation of activated human hepatic stellate cell line (LX-2). POL-1 inhibited the oxidative stress and inflammation in fibrotic livers of mice. Mechanistically, POL-1 inhibited the CCl4-induced expression of toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κBp65) p65, Bcl2-associated X (Bax), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and drosophila mothers against decapentaplegic 2 (Smad2) proteins, upregulated B-cell lymphoma -2 (Bcl-2) proteins in livers of mice. These findings suggested that POL-1 attenuated liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianqun Meng
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine Identification, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine Identification, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine Identification, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Tingguo Kang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine Identification, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Xiansheng Meng
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine Identification, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Shanshan Liang
- Plant Polysaccharide Research Center, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
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Wei H, Zhang Y, Li T, Zhang S, Yin J, Liu Y, Xing L, Bao J, Li J. Intermittent mild cold stimulation alleviates cold stress-induced pulmonary fibrosis by inhibiting the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway in broilers. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103246. [PMID: 37980728 PMCID: PMC10685030 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.103246] [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: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
To investigate the potential protective effect of intermittent cold stimulation on lung tissues of broilers exposed to acute cold stress (ACS). A total of 384 one-day-old broilers were assigned to 4 experimental groups with 6 replicates of 16 birds each: control (CON) and ACS groups were reared at normal feeding temperature from d 1 to 42; cold treatment groups (CS3+ACS and CS9+ACS) were reared, respectively, at 3°C or 9°C for 5 h on alternate days below the CON group from d 15 to 35. Animals in CS3+ACS, CS9+ACS, and ACS groups were exposed at 10°C for 24 h on d 43. Subsequently, lung tissues were collected to perform histopathological examination and measurement of relevant indexes. The results showed that lung tissues in CS9+ACS and ACS groups exhibited increased inflammatory cell infiltrates and collagen deposition compared to the CON group, while this pathological phenomenon was less pronounced in the CS3+ACS group. Compared to CON group, H2O2 and MDA contents were increased, and the activities of antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD, GPx, T-AOC) were reduced in CS9+ACS and ACS group (P < 0.05); mRNA and protein levels of inhibitor of NF-κB, Smad7, matrix metallopeptidase (MMP)-2, MMP9, and antioxidant-related genes were downregulated, whereas mRNA and protein levels of genes related to NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway-regulated inflammation and TGF-β1/Smad pathway-regulated fibrosis were upregulated in cold-stressed broilers (P < 0.05). mRNA levels of heme oxygenase-1, NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase-1, and MMP9 were increased in CS3+ACS group (P < 0.05). Moreover, the expression of most antioxidant-related genes was increased, and that of inflammation- and fibrosis-related genes was reduced in CS3+ACS group (P < 0.05). Therefore, cold stress caused oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to pulmonary fibrosis in broilers, whereas intermittent mild cold stimulation at 3°C below normal rearing temperature alleviated fibrosis by inhibiting the TGF-β1/Smad pathway modulated by the Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway. This study suggests that intermittent mild cold stimulation can be a potential strategy to reduce ACS-induced lung damage in broilers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haidong Wei
- College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, 150030 Harbin, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, 150030 Harbin, China
| | - Tingting Li
- College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, 150030 Harbin, China
| | - Shijie Zhang
- College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, 150030 Harbin, China
| | - Jingwen Yin
- College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, 150030 Harbin, China
| | - Yuanyuan Liu
- College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, 150030 Harbin, China
| | - Lu Xing
- College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, 150030 Harbin, China
| | - Jun Bao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, 150030 Harbin, China; Key Laboratory of Chicken Genetics and Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 150030 Harbin, China
| | - Jianhong Li
- College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, 150030 Harbin, China; Key Laboratory of Chicken Genetics and Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 150030 Harbin, China.
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Hasanzadeh A, Beiromvand M, Rafiei A, Kazemi M, Bahreini A, Khanahmad H. Expression of Matrix Metalloproteinases in Human Cystic Echinococcosis. Curr Mol Med 2024; 24:244-251. [PMID: 36617714 DOI: 10.2174/1566524023666230106163928] [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: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a zoonotic disease caused by the Echinococcus granulosus senso lato (E. granulosus s.l.) larval stages. Parasitederived products have been shown to regulate host matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), contributing to CE pathogenesis and progressive liver fibrosis in intermediate hosts. The current study aimed to investigate the potential role of MMP1, 7, 8, and 13 in E. granulosus s.l-induced liver fibrosis. METHODS Thirty CE patients with active, transitional, or inactive hydatid cysts were enrolled in this study to determine the inductive effects of E. granulosus on the expression of MMP-1, MMP-7, MMP-8, and MMP-13 in healthy liver tissue and fibrotic liver tissue using qRT-PCR. RESULTS According to the WHO-IWGE classification, patients with functional cysts (CE1 and CE2) had the highest percentage (46.6%). MMP-1, MMP-7, MMP-8, and MMP-13 expression levels were significantly higher in fibrotic liver than in normal liver tissue. MMP-13 and MMP-1 had the highest and lowest expression levels among MMPs. Compared to the normal group, the fold change for MMP-13 in the fibrotic group was greater than 12 and had the highest AUC value (AUC= 0.8283). CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that E. granulosus-derived products might be involved in regulating host MMPs. Thus, MMPs may be considered potential biomarkers for predicting CE prognosis. Because of the non-normal distribution of our patients' CE types, further research, particularly on circulation MMPs, is needed to confirm the potential role of MMPs in CE pathogenesis and to follow up on CE patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azadeh Hasanzadeh
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Molouk Beiromvand
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Abdollah Rafiei
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Kazemi
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Amin Bahreini
- Department of Surgery, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Hossein Khanahmad
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Marzoog BA. Nicotinamide Mononucleotide in the Context of Myocardiocyte Longevity. Curr Aging Sci 2024; 17:103-108. [PMID: 38151845 DOI: 10.2174/0118746098266041231212105020] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Cellular and subcellular metabolic activities are crucial processes involved in the regulation of intracellular homeostasis, including cellular and subcellular signaling pathways. Dysregulation of intracellular regulation mechanisms is catastrophic and cumulates into cell death. To overcome the issue of dysregulation of intracellular regulation mechanisms, the preservation of subcellular and extracellular components is essential to maintain healthy cells with increased longevity. Several physiopathological changes occur during cell ageing, one of which is the dysregulation of intracellular physiology of the oxidative phosphorylation process. Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) remains in the debut of anti-aging therapeutic effect. Aged myocardiocyte characterized by disrupted NMN and or its precursors or signaling pathways. Simultaneously, several other pathophysiological occur that collectively impair intracellular homeostasis. The NMN role in the antiaging effect remains unclear and several hypotheses have been introduced into describing the mechanism and the potential outcomes from NMN exogenous supply. Correction of the impaired intracellular homeostasis includes correction to the NMN metabolism. Additionally, autophagy correction, which is the key element in the regulation of intracellular intoxication, including oxidative stress, unfolding protein response, and other degradation of intracellular metabolites. Several signaling pathways are involved in the regulation mechanism of NMN effects on myocardiocyte health and further longevity. NMN protects myocardiocytes from ischemic injury by reducing anabolism and, increasing catabolism and further passing the myocardiocytes into dormant status. NMN applications include ischemic heart, disease, and failed heart, as well as dilated cardiomyopathies. Cytosolic and mitochondrial NADPH are independently functioning and regulating. Each of these plays a role in the determination of the longevity of the myocardiocytes. NMN has a cornerstone in the functionality of Sirtuins, which are an essential anti-senescent intrinsic molecule. The study aims to assess the role of NMN in the longevity and antisenescent of myocardiocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basheer Abdullah Marzoog
- World-Class Research Center «Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare», I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, 119991, Russia
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