1
|
Lu Y, Xu X, Wu J, Ji L, Huang H, Chen M. Association between neutrophil-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and liver fibrosis in the US population: a nationally representative cross-sectional study using NHANES data from 2017 to 2020. BMC Gastroenterol 2024; 24:300. [PMID: 39237899 PMCID: PMC11378436 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-024-03394-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The neutrophil-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (NHR) has emerged as a promising biomarker for assessing inflammation and lipid dysregulation. Increasing evidence indicates that these metabolic disturbances play a crucial role in the development of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD). This study aims to investigate the association between NHR, MASLD, and liver fibrosis. METHODS This cross-sectional study analyzed data from the 2017-2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Weighted multivariate logistic regression models were used to investigate the association between NHR and both MASLD and liver fibrosis. Smoothed curve fitting and threshold effect analysis were performed to detect potential nonlinear relationships. Subgroup analyses were conducted to assess the consistency of these associations across different groups. RESULTS The study involved 4,761 participants. We observed a significant positive association between NHR and MASLD (OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.09-1.31). However, there was no significant association between NHR and liver fibrosis (OR = 1.01; 95% CI: 0.94-1.09). The analysis of smoothed curve fitting and threshold effect revealed an inverted U-shaped relationship between NHR and MASLD, with a turning point at 5.63. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate a positive correlation between elevated NHR levels and MASLD prevalence. However, we did not observe a significant association between NHR and liver fibrosis prevalence. Further prospective research is needed to validate these findings in a longitudinal setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yangni Lu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Wuming Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xianli Xu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Wuming Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jianlin Wu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Wuming Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Lei Ji
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Wuming Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Huiya Huang
- Department of General Medicine, Wuming Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Maowei Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Wuming Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Heredia-Torres TG, Alvarado-Martínez V, Rincón-Sánchez AR, Lozano-Sepúlveda SA, Galán-Huerta KA, Arellanos-Soto D, Rivas-Estilla AM. Hepatitis C virus NS5A and core protein induce fibrosis-related genes regulation on Huh7 cells through activation of LX2 cells. Ann Hepatol 2024; 29:101517. [PMID: 38852781 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2024.101517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Liver fibrosis remains a complication derived from a chronic Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection even when it is resolved, and no liver antifibrotic drug has been approved. Molecular mechanisms on hepatocytes and activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a central role in liver fibrogenesis. To elucidate molecular mechanisms, it is important to analyze pathway regulation during HSC activation and HCV infection. MATERIALS AND METHODS We evaluate the fibrosis-associated molecular mechanisms during a co-culture of human HSCs (LX2), with human hepatocytes (Huh7) that express HCV NS5A or Core protein. We evaluated LX2 activation induced by HCV NS5A or Core expression in Huh7 cells during co-culture. We determined a fibrosis-associated gene expression profile in Huh7 that expresses NS5A or Core proteins during the co-culture with LX2. RESULTS We observed that NS5A induced 8.3-, 6.7- and 4-fold changes and that Core induced 6.5-, 1.8-, and 6.2-fold changes in the collagen1, TGFβ1, and timp1 gene expression, respectively, in LX2 co-cultured with transfected Huh7. In addition, NS5A induced the expression of 30 genes while Core induced 41 genes and reduced the expression of 30 genes related to fibrosis in Huh7 cells during the co-culture with LX2, compared to control. The molecular pathways enriched from the gene expression profile were involved in TGFB signaling and the organization of extracellular matrix. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated that HCV NS5A and Core protein expression regulate LX2 activation. NS5A and Core-induced LX2 activation, in turn, regulates diverse fibrosis-related gene expression at different levels in Huh7, which can be further analyzed as potential antifibrotic targets during HCV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tania G Heredia-Torres
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, CIIViM, School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Veronica Alvarado-Martínez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, CIIViM, School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Ana R Rincón-Sánchez
- IBMMTG, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Sonia A Lozano-Sepúlveda
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, CIIViM, School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Kame A Galán-Huerta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, CIIViM, School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Daniel Arellanos-Soto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, CIIViM, School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Ana M Rivas-Estilla
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, CIIViM, School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jantaravinid J, Tirawanchai N, Ampawong S, Kengkoom K, Somkasetrin A, Nakhonsri V, Aramwit P. Transcriptomic screening of novel targets of sericin in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5455. [PMID: 38443583 PMCID: PMC10914811 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56179-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: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Sericin, a natural protein derived from Bombyx mori, is known to ameliorate liver tissue damage; however, its molecular mechanism remains unclear. Herein, we aimed to identify the possible novel targets of sericin in hepatocytes and related cellular pathways. RNA sequencing analysis indicated that a low dose of sericin resulted in 18 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) being upregulated and 68 DEGs being downregulated, while 61 DEGs were upregulated and 265 DEGs were downregulated in response to a high dose of sericin (FDR ≤ 0.05, fold change > 1.50). Functional analysis revealed that a low dose of sericin regulated pathways associated with the complement and coagulation cascade, metallothionine, and histone demethylate (HDMs), whereas a high dose of sericin was associated with pathways involved in lipid metabolism, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling and autophagy. The gene network analysis highlighted twelve genes, A2M, SERPINA5, MT2A, MT1G, MT1E, ARID5B, POU2F1, APOB, TRAF6, HSPA8, FGFR1, and OGT, as novel targets of sericin. Network analysis of transcription factor activity revealed that sericin affects NFE2L2, TFAP2C, STAT1, GATA3, CREB1 and CEBPA. Additionally, the protective effects of sericin depended on the counterregulation of APOB, POU2F1, OGT, TRAF6, and HSPA5. These findings suggest that sericin exerts hepatoprotective effects through diverse pathways at different doses, providing novel potential targets for the treatment of liver diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiraporn Jantaravinid
- Center of Excellence in Bioactive Resources for Innovative Clinical Applications, Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, 254 Phayathai Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Napatara Tirawanchai
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2, Wanglang Road, Bangkoknoi, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Sumate Ampawong
- Department of Tropical Pathology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6, Ratchawithi Road, Ratchathewi, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Kanchana Kengkoom
- Research and Academic Support Office, National Laboratory Animal Center, Mahidol University, 999, Salaya, Puttamonthon, Nakorn Pathom, 73170, Thailand
| | - Anchaleekorn Somkasetrin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2, Wanglang Road, Bangkoknoi, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Vorthunju Nakhonsri
- National Biobank of Thailand (NBT), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), 144 Innovation Cluster 2 Building (INC) Tower A, Thailand Science Park, Khlong Nueng, Khlong Luang District, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Pornanong Aramwit
- Center of Excellence in Bioactive Resources for Innovative Clinical Applications, Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, 254 Phayathai Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
- The Academy of Science, The Royal Society of Thailand, Dusit, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ganguin AA, Skorup I, Streb S, Othman A, Luciani P. Formation and Investigation of Cell-Derived Nanovesicles as Potential Therapeutics against Chronic Liver Disease. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300811. [PMID: 37669775 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300811] [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: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
A new therapeutic approach using cell-derived nanovesicles (cdNVs) is offered here to overcome the lack of effective treatments for liver fibrosis, a reversible chronic liver disease. To achieve this goal the formation and purification of cdNVs from untreated, quiescent-like, or activated LX-2 cells, an immortalized human hepatic stellate cell (HSC) line with key features of transdifferentiated HSCs are established. Analysis of the genotype and phenotype of naïve and transdifferentiated LX-2 cells activated through transforming growth factor beta 1, following treatment with cdNVs, reveals a concentration-dependent fibrosis regression. The beneficial fibrosis-resolving effects of cdNVs are linked to their biomolecular corona. Liposomes generated using lipids extracted from cdNVs exhibit a reduced antifibrotic response in perpetuated LX-2 cells and show a reduced cellular uptake. However, incubation with soluble factors collected during purification results in a new corona, thereby restoring fibrosis regression activity. Overall, cdNVs display encouraging therapeutic properties, making them a promising candidate for the development of liver fibrosis resolving therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aymar Abel Ganguin
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, 3012, Switzerland
| | - Ivo Skorup
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, 3012, Switzerland
| | - Sebastian Streb
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich (FGCZ), University of Zurich/ETH Zurich, Zurich, 8057, Switzerland
| | - Alaa Othman
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich (FGCZ), University of Zurich/ETH Zurich, Zurich, 8057, Switzerland
| | - Paola Luciani
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, 3012, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Skorup I, Valentino G, Aleandri S, Gelli R, Ganguin AA, Felli E, Selicean SE, Marxer RA, Teworte S, Lucić A, Gracia-Sancho J, Berzigotti A, Ridi F, Luciani P. Polyenylphosphatidylcholine as bioactive excipient in tablets for the treatment of liver fibrosis. Int J Pharm 2023; 646:123473. [PMID: 37788730 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a condition characterized by the accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) arising from the myofibroblastic transdifferentiation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) occurring as the natural response to liver damage. To date, no pharmacological treatments have been specifically approved for liver fibrosis. We recently reported a beneficial effect of polyenylphosphatidylcholines (PPCs)-rich formulations in reverting fibrogenic features of HSCs. However, unsaturated phospholipids' properties pose a constant challenge to the development of tablets as preferred patient-centric dosage form. Profiting from the advantageous physical properties of the PPCs-rich Soluthin® S 80 M, we developed a tablet formulation incorporating 70% w/w of this bioactive lipid. Tablets were characterized via X-ray powder diffraction, thermogravimetry, and Raman confocal imaging, and passed the major compendial requirements. To mimic physiological absorption after oral intake, phospholipids extracted from tablets were reconstituted as protein-free chylomicron (PFC)-like emulsions and tested on the fibrogenic human HSC line LX-2 and on primary cirrhotic rat hepatic stellate cells (PRHSC). Lipids extracted from tablets and reconstituted in buffer or as PFC-like emulsions exerted the same antifibrotic effect on both activated LX-2 and PRHSCs as observed with plain S 80 M liposomes, showing that the manufacturing process did not interfere with the bioactivity of PPCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ivo Skorup
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Gina Valentino
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Simone Aleandri
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Rita Gelli
- Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff" and CSGI, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Aymar Abel Ganguin
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Eric Felli
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Department for BioMedical Research, Hepatology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sonia Emilia Selicean
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Department for BioMedical Research, Hepatology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Rosanne Angela Marxer
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Teworte
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ana Lucić
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jordi Gracia-Sancho
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Department for BioMedical Research, Hepatology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, CIBEREHD, IDIBAPS Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Annalisa Berzigotti
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Department for BioMedical Research, Hepatology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Francesca Ridi
- Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff" and CSGI, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Paola Luciani
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zhang X, Wan Z, Lin M, Li Y, Wu X, Jiang J, Lin S, Chi X. Immunoglobulin A and complement C4 are involved in the progression of liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 122:110604. [PMID: 37451022 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110604] [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: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the relationship between immunoglobulin A (IgA), complement C4, and liver fibrosis (L.F.) progression (LFP) in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). METHODS This is a retrospective cohort study of CHB patients who received liver biopsies. Relevant data, including demographics, clinical serum markers, and immunological results obtained during liver biopsies, were collected and analyzed to assess and verify the relationship between IgA, C4, and LFP. RESULTS This study included 1,938 CHB patients, of whom 132 received two liver biopsies (group 1). Thirty (22.7%) of these patients were diagnosed with LFP (increase in L.F. stage (Scheuer score F ≥ 1)). IgA (C-IgA) and C4 (C-C4) change values between the first and second biopsies were independent risk factors for LFP. IgA levels increased, and C4 levels decreased during the second liver puncture. The remaining 1,806 patients received one liver puncture (group 2). They were divided into the following subgroups: A (F ≤ 1), B (1 < F ≤ 3), and C (F > 3) to verify whether the same trend was observed by cross-sectional study. IgA levels were highest, and C4 levels were lowest in group C (IgA: C > B > A, p < 0.05; C4: C < B < A, p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study suggest that serum IgA and C4 levels are independent risk factors for LFP that could serve as future targets for L.F. management and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiujuan Zhang
- The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 510120, Guangzhou, PR China; Department of Hepatology Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 510120, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Zemin Wan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 510120, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Ming Lin
- Department of Hepatology Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 510120, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yingxian Li
- Department of Medical Education, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 510120, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Xiaoju Wu
- Department of Hepatology Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 510120, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Junmin Jiang
- Department of Hepatology Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 510120, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Shanshan Lin
- Department of Hepatology Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 510120, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Xiaoling Chi
- Department of Hepatology Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 510120, Guangzhou, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Henry Z, Meadows V, Guo GL. FXR and NASH: an avenue for tissue-specific regulation. Hepatol Commun 2023; 7:e0127. [PMID: 37058105 PMCID: PMC10109454 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
NASH is within the spectrum of NAFLD, a liver condition encompassing liver steatosis, inflammation, hepatocyte injury, and fibrosis. The prevalence of NASH-induced cirrhosis is rapidly rising and has become the leading indicator for liver transplantation in the US. There is no Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved pharmacological intervention for NASH. The farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is essential in regulating bile acid homeostasis, and dysregulation of bile acids has been implicated in the pathogenesis of NASH. As a result, modulators of FXR that show desirable effects in mitigating key characteristics of NASH have been developed as promising therapeutic approaches. However, global FXR activation causes adverse effects such as cholesterol homeostasis imbalance and pruritus. The development of targeted FXR modulation is necessary for ideal NASH therapeutics, but information regarding tissue-specific and cell-specific FXR functionality is limited. In this review, we highlight FXR activation in the regulation of bile acid homeostasis and NASH development, examine the current literature on tissue-specific regulation of nuclear receptors, and speculate on how FXR regulation will be beneficial in the treatment of NASH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zakiyah Henry
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Vik Meadows
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Grace L. Guo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, New Jersey, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Identification of Liver Fibrosis-Related MicroRNAs in Human Primary Hepatic Stellate Cells Using High-Throughput Sequencing. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13122201. [PMID: 36553468 PMCID: PMC9778123 DOI: 10.3390/genes13122201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) participate in hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation, which drives liver fibrosis initiation and progression. We aimed to identify novel hepatic fibrosis targets using miRNA sequencing (miRNA-seq) of human primary HSCs. Surgically resected liver tissues were used to extract HSCs. Based on next-generation sequencing, miRNA-seq was performed on four pairs of HSCs before and after in vitro culture. Additionally, we compared our data with open access miRNA-seq data derived from fourteen cirrhotic and nine healthy liver tissues. Selected miRNAs associated with fibrosis were verified by quantitative real-time PCR. Target mRNAs of differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs were predicted to construct co-expression networks. We identified 230 DEmiRNAs (118 upregulated and 112 downregulated) upon HSC activation. Of the 17 miRNAs with the most significant differences in expression, liver disease-related miRNAs included miR-758-3p, miR-493-5p, miR-409-3p, miR-31-5p, miR-1268a, and miR-381-3p, which might play roles in hepatic fibrosis. Moreover, let-7g-5p, miR-107, miR-122-5p, miR-127-3p, miR-139-5p, miR-148a-3p, miR-194-5p, miR-215-5p, miR-26a-5p, miR-340-5p, miR-451a, and miR-99a-5p were common between our data and the publicly available sequencing data. A co-expression network comprising 1891 matched miRNA-mRNA pairs representing 138 DEmiRNAs and 1414 DEmRNAs was constructed. MiR-1268a and miR-665, possessing the richest target DEmRNAs, may be vital in HSC activation. The targeted genes were involved in collagen metabolism, extracellular matrix structural constituent, cytoskeletal protein binding, and cell adhesion. The miRNAs we identified may provide a basis and reference for the selection of diagnostic and therapeutic targets for hepatic fibrosis.
Collapse
|
9
|
Booijink R, Salgado‐Polo F, Jamieson C, Perrakis A, Bansal R. A type IV Autotaxin inhibitor ameliorates acute liver injury and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. EMBO Mol Med 2022; 14:e16333. [PMID: 35833384 PMCID: PMC9449594 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202216333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) signaling axis is an important but rather underexplored pathway in liver disease. LPA is predominantly produced by Autotaxin (ATX) that has gained significant attention with an impressive number of ATX inhibitors (type I-IV) reported. Here, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of a (yet unexplored) type IV inhibitor, Cpd17, in liver injury. We first confirmed the involvement of the ATX-LPA signaling axis in human and murine diseased livers. Then, we evaluated the effects of Cpd17, in comparison with the classic type I inhibitor PF8380, in vitro, where Cpd17 showed higher efficacy. Thereafter, we characterized the mechanism-of-action of both inhibitors and found that Cpd17 was more potent in inhibiting RhoA-mediated cytoskeletal remodeling, and phosphorylation of MAPK/ERK and AKT/PKB. Finally, the therapeutic potential of Cpd17 was investigated in CCl4 -induced acute liver injury and diet-induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, demonstrating an excellent potential of Cpd17 in reducing liver injury in both disease models in vivo. We conclude that ATX inhibition, by type IV inhibitor in particular, has an excellent potential for clinical application in liver diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richell Booijink
- Translational Liver Research, Department of Medical Cell BioPhysics, Faculty of Science and TechnologyUniversity of TwenteEnschedeThe Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Division of BiochemistryNetherlands Cancer InstituteAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Fernando Salgado‐Polo
- Oncode Institute, Division of BiochemistryNetherlands Cancer InstituteAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Craig Jamieson
- Department of Pure and Applied ChemistryUniversity of StrathclydeGlasgowUK
| | - Anastassis Perrakis
- Oncode Institute, Division of BiochemistryNetherlands Cancer InstituteAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Ruchi Bansal
- Translational Liver Research, Department of Medical Cell BioPhysics, Faculty of Science and TechnologyUniversity of TwenteEnschedeThe Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kim WR, Park EG, Lee HE, Park SJ, Huh JW, Kim JN, Kim HS. Hsa-miR-422a Originated from Short Interspersed Nuclear Element Increases ARID5B Expression by Collaborating with NF-E2. Mol Cells 2022; 45:465-478. [PMID: 35444070 PMCID: PMC9260135 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2022.2158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs that regulate the expression of target messenger RNA (mRNA) complementary to the 3' untranslated region (UTR) at the post-transcriptional level. Hsa-miR-422a, which is commonly known as miRNA derived from transposable element (MDTE), was derived from short interspersed nuclear element (SINE). Through expression analysis, hsa-miR-422a was found to be highly expressed in both the small intestine and liver of crab-eating monkey. AT-Rich Interaction Domain 5 B (ARID5B) was selected as the target gene of hsa-miR-422a, which has two binding sites in both the exon and 3'UTR of ARID5B. To identify the interaction between hsa-miR-422a and ARID5B, a dual luciferase assay was conducted in HepG2 cell line. The luciferase activity of cells treated with the hsa-miR-422a mimic was upregulated and inversely downregulated when both the hsa-miR-422a mimic and inhibitor were administered. Nuclear factor erythroid-2 (NF-E2) was selected as the core transcription factor (TF) via feed forward loop analysis. The luciferase expression was downregulated when both the hsa-miR-422a mimic and siRNA of NF-E2 were treated, compared to the treatment of the hsa-miR-422a mimic alone. The present study suggests that hsa-miR-422a derived from SINE could bind to the exon region as well as the 3'UTR of ARID5B. Additionally, hsa-miR-422a was found to share binding sites in ARID5Bwith several TFs, including NF-E2. The hsa-miR-422a might thus interact with TF to regulate the expression of ARID5B, as demonstrated experimentally. Altogether, hsa-miR-422a acts as a super enhancer miRNA of ARID5Bby collaborating with TF and NF-E2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Woo Ryung Kim
- Department of Integrated Biological Science, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Eun Gyung Park
- Department of Integrated Biological Science, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Hee-Eun Lee
- National Primate Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Cheongju 28199, Korea
| | - Sang-Je Park
- National Primate Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Cheongju 28199, Korea
| | - Jae-Won Huh
- National Primate Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Cheongju 28199, Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, Korea
| | - Jeong Nam Kim
- Department of Microbiology, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Heui-Soo Kim
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lebeau G, Ah-Pine F, Daniel M, Bedoui Y, Vagner D, Frumence E, Gasque P. Perivascular Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells, an Immune Privileged Niche for Viruses? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23148038. [PMID: 35887383 PMCID: PMC9317325 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23148038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) play a critical role in response to stress such as infection. They initiate the removal of cell debris, exert major immunoregulatory activities, control pathogens, and lead to a remodeling/scarring phase. Thus, host-derived ‘danger’ factors released from damaged/infected cells (called alarmins, e.g., HMGB1, ATP, DNA) as well as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (LPS, single strand RNA) can activate MSCs located in the parenchyma and around vessels to upregulate the expression of growth factors and chemoattractant molecules that influence immune cell recruitment and stem cell mobilization. MSC, in an ultimate contribution to tissue repair, may also directly trans- or de-differentiate into specific cellular phenotypes such as osteoblasts, chondrocytes, lipofibroblasts, myofibroblasts, Schwann cells, and they may somehow recapitulate their neural crest embryonic origin. Failure to terminate such repair processes induces pathological scarring, termed fibrosis, or vascular calcification. Interestingly, many viruses and particularly those associated to chronic infection and inflammation may hijack and polarize MSC’s immune regulatory activities. Several reports argue that MSC may constitute immune privileged sanctuaries for viruses and contributing to long-lasting effects posing infectious challenges, such as viruses rebounding in immunocompromised patients or following regenerative medicine therapies using MSC. We will herein review the capacity of several viruses not only to infect but also to polarize directly or indirectly the functions of MSC (immunoregulation, differentiation potential, and tissue repair) in clinical settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grégorie Lebeau
- Unité de Recherche en Pharmaco-Immunologie (UR-EPI), Université et CHU de La Réunion, 97400 Saint-Denis, France; (G.L.); (F.A.-P.); (M.D.); (Y.B.); (E.F.)
- Laboratoire d’Immunologie Clinique et Expérimentale de la ZOI (LICE-OI), Pôle de Biologie, CHU de La Réunion, 97400 Saint-Denis, France
| | - Franck Ah-Pine
- Unité de Recherche en Pharmaco-Immunologie (UR-EPI), Université et CHU de La Réunion, 97400 Saint-Denis, France; (G.L.); (F.A.-P.); (M.D.); (Y.B.); (E.F.)
- Service Anatomo-Pathologie, CHU de la Réunion, 97400 Saint-Denis, France
| | - Matthieu Daniel
- Unité de Recherche en Pharmaco-Immunologie (UR-EPI), Université et CHU de La Réunion, 97400 Saint-Denis, France; (G.L.); (F.A.-P.); (M.D.); (Y.B.); (E.F.)
- Laboratoire d’Immunologie Clinique et Expérimentale de la ZOI (LICE-OI), Pôle de Biologie, CHU de La Réunion, 97400 Saint-Denis, France
| | - Yosra Bedoui
- Unité de Recherche en Pharmaco-Immunologie (UR-EPI), Université et CHU de La Réunion, 97400 Saint-Denis, France; (G.L.); (F.A.-P.); (M.D.); (Y.B.); (E.F.)
- Laboratoire d’Immunologie Clinique et Expérimentale de la ZOI (LICE-OI), Pôle de Biologie, CHU de La Réunion, 97400 Saint-Denis, France
| | - Damien Vagner
- Service de Médecine Interne, CHU de la Réunion, 97400 Saint-Denis, France;
| | - Etienne Frumence
- Unité de Recherche en Pharmaco-Immunologie (UR-EPI), Université et CHU de La Réunion, 97400 Saint-Denis, France; (G.L.); (F.A.-P.); (M.D.); (Y.B.); (E.F.)
- Laboratoire d’Immunologie Clinique et Expérimentale de la ZOI (LICE-OI), Pôle de Biologie, CHU de La Réunion, 97400 Saint-Denis, France
| | - Philippe Gasque
- Unité de Recherche en Pharmaco-Immunologie (UR-EPI), Université et CHU de La Réunion, 97400 Saint-Denis, France; (G.L.); (F.A.-P.); (M.D.); (Y.B.); (E.F.)
- Laboratoire d’Immunologie Clinique et Expérimentale de la ZOI (LICE-OI), Pôle de Biologie, CHU de La Réunion, 97400 Saint-Denis, France
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Jiang YC, Han X, Dou JY, Yuan MH, Zhou MJ, Cui ZY, Lian LH, Nan JX, Zhang X, Wu YL. Protective role of Siberian onions against toxin-induced liver dysfunction: an insight into health-promoting effects. Food Funct 2022; 13:4678-4690. [PMID: 35377371 DOI: 10.1039/d1fo04404d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Siberian onions (SOs) are delicious wild vegetables. Their taste is most unique, not only like scallions but also like leeks or garlic. They also have a traditional medicinal value for anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, and anti-pyretic analgesia, particularly facilitating hepatoprotective effects. The current study investigates the potential mechanism of SOs against toxin-induced liver dysfunction. BALB/c mice were administrated with SO or silymarin by oral gavage for one week, followed by injecting carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) to induce hepatic fibrosis. The effect of SO against hepatic fibrosis was evaluated by examining the liver tissue for serum transaminase, oxidative stress, extracellular matrix, histological alterations, cytokine levels, and apoptosis. In vitro, HSC-T6 cells were cultured with the supernatant from Raw 264.7 cells stimulated with lipopolysaccharides, followed by SO extracts or Niclosamide (Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) inhibitor) at indicated time periods and doses. SO decreased serum transaminase levels and oxidative stress, and regulated the balance of ECM in CCl4-induced mice, including α-SMA, collagen-I and TIMP-1. SO reduced the release of inflammatory factors and regulated apoptosis-associated proteins, which is related to the inhibition of STAT3 phosphorylation. Moreover, SO reduced the positive expressions of α-SMA and NLRP3 by inhibiting STAT3 phosphorylation in activated HSCs. SO could show health-promoting effects for liver dysfunction by alleviating hepatic fibrogenesis, apoptosis and inflammation in the development of hepatic fibrosis potential depending on the STAT3 signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chen Jiang
- Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine of Jilin Province, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province 133002, China.
| | - Xin Han
- Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine of Jilin Province, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province 133002, China. .,Chinese Medicine Processing Centre, College of pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, China
| | - Jia-Yi Dou
- Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine of Jilin Province, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province 133002, China.
| | - Ming-Hui Yuan
- Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine of Jilin Province, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province 133002, China.
| | - Mei-Jie Zhou
- Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine of Jilin Province, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province 133002, China.
| | - Zhen-Yu Cui
- Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine of Jilin Province, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province 133002, China.
| | - Li-Hua Lian
- Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine of Jilin Province, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province 133002, China.
| | - Ji-Xing Nan
- Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine of Jilin Province, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province 133002, China. .,Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province 133002, China
| | - Xian Zhang
- Agricultural College, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province 133002, China.
| | - Yan-Ling Wu
- Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine of Jilin Province, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province 133002, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ma H, Wang X, Liu X, Wang C, Gao X, Niu J. miR-654-5p Contributes to the Activation and Proliferation of Hepatic Stellate Cells by Targeting RXRα. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:841248. [PMID: 35465330 PMCID: PMC9019757 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.841248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis (LF) is a major disease that threatens human health. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) contribute directly to LF via extracellular matrix (ECM) secretion. Moreover, RXRα is an important nuclear receptor that plays a key regulatory role in HSC activation. Meanwhile, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been identified as significant regulators of LF development. In particular, miR-654-5p is involved in cellular migration and proliferation, and via bioinformatics analysis, has been identified as a potential factor that targets RXRα in humans and in mice. However, the precise relationship between miR-654-5p and RXRα in the context of LF, remains unknown and is the primary focus of the current study. To establish in vitro activated cell model human primary HSCs were cultured in vitro and LX-2 cells were stimulated with recombinant human TGF-β1. mRNA and protein levels of RXRα, miR-654-5p and fibrogenic genes were compared in quiescent and activated HSCs. Moreover, after transfected with miR-654-5p mimics, the expression changes of above related genes in LX-2 cells were estimated. Meanwhile, cell proliferation and apoptosis were detected in miR-654-5p overexpressed LX-2 cells. Simultaneously, the targeted binding between miR-654-5p and RXRα was verified in LX-2 cells. Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced mouse model with liver fibrosis was use to research the role of the miR-654-5p in vitro. Our results show that miR-654-5p expression levels increased in activated human HSCs and TGFβ-treated LX-2 cells. Moreover, miR-654-5p mimics markedly promoted LX-2 cell proliferation while inhibiting their apoptosis. Accordingly, the expression levels of RXRα are decreased in activated HSCs and LX-2 cells. Additionally, dual-luciferase reporter assay results reveal direct targeting of RXRα by miR-654-5p. Similarly, in vivo miR-654-5p overexpression aggravates LF in mice that are intraperitoneally injected with CCl4. Taken together, our findings elucidated a novel molecular mechanism with potential use for treatment of LF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heming Ma
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaomei Wang
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xu Liu
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chang Wang
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiuzhu Gao
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xiuzhu Gao, ; Junqi Niu,
| | - Junqi Niu
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xiuzhu Gao, ; Junqi Niu,
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Rahman SR, Roper JA, Grove JI, Aithal GP, Pun KT, Bennett AJ. Integrins as a drug target in liver fibrosis. Liver Int 2022; 42:507-521. [PMID: 35048542 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
As the worldwide prevalence of chronic liver diseases is high and continuing to increase, there is an urgent need for treatment to prevent cirrhosis-related morbidity and mortality. Integrins are heterodimeric cell-surface proteins that are promising targets for therapeutic intervention. αv integrins are central in the development of fibrosis as they activate latent TGFβ, a known profibrogenic cytokine. The αv subunit can form heterodimers with β1, β3, β5, β6 or β8 subunits and one or more of these integrins are central to the development of liver fibrosis, however, their relative importance is not understood. This review summarises the current knowledge of αv integrins and their respective β subunits in different organs, with a focus on liver fibrosis and the emerging preclinical and clinical data with regards to αv integrin inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Syedia R Rahman
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,FRAME Alternatives Laboratory, Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK.,Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, Translational Medical Sciences, Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - James A Roper
- Novel Human Genetics Research Unit, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, UK
| | - Jane I Grove
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, Translational Medical Sciences, Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Guruprasad P Aithal
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, Translational Medical Sciences, Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - K Tao Pun
- Novel Human Genetics Research Unit, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, UK
| | - Andrew J Bennett
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,FRAME Alternatives Laboratory, Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK.,Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, Translational Medical Sciences, Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Wang Q, Wei S, Li L, Bu Q, Zhou H, Su W, Liu Z, Wang M, Lu L. miR-139-5p sponged by LncRNA NEAT1 regulates liver fibrosis via targeting β-catenin/SOX9/TGF-β1 pathway. Cell Death Discov 2021; 7:243. [PMID: 34531378 PMCID: PMC8446030 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-021-00632-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a patho-physiological process which can develop into cirrhosis, and hepatic carcinoma without intervention. Our study extensively investigated the mechanisms of lncRNA NEAT1 and miR-139-5p in regulating liver fibrosis progression. Our results demonstrated that the expression of lncRNA NEAT1 was increased and the expression of miR-139-5p was decreased in fibrotic liver tissues. LncRNA NEAT1 could sponge miR-139-5p and promoted hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation by directly inhibiting the expression of miR-139-5p. The co-localization of lncRNA NEAT1 with miR-139-5p was shown in the cytosols of activated HSCs. miR-139-5p upregulation could suppress the expression of β-catenin. The overexpression of β-catenin promoted HSCs activation. Moreover, we found that β-catenin could interact with SOX9 promoted HSCs activation. Our further studies demonstrated that SOX9 could bind with the TGF-β1 promoter and promoted the transcription activity of TGF-β1. The upregulation of TGF-β1 further promoted HSCs activation. In vivo study also suggested that lncRNA NEAT1 knockdown and miR-139-5p overexpression alleviated murine liver fibrosis. LncRNA NEAT1 exacerbated liver fibrosis by suppressing the expression of miR-139-5p. Collectively, our study suggested that miR-139-5p sponged by lncRNA NEAT1 regulated liver fibrosis via targeting β-catenin/SOX9/TGF-β1 Pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Wang
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Research Unit of Liver Transplantation and Transplant Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing, China
| | - Song Wei
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Research Unit of Liver Transplantation and Transplant Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing, China
| | - Lei Li
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Research Unit of Liver Transplantation and Transplant Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing, China
| | - Qingfa Bu
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Research Unit of Liver Transplantation and Transplant Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing, China
| | - Haoming Zhou
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Research Unit of Liver Transplantation and Transplant Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing, China
| | - Wantong Su
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Research Unit of Liver Transplantation and Transplant Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing, China
| | - Zheng Liu
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Research Unit of Liver Transplantation and Transplant Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing, China
| | - Mingming Wang
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Research Unit of Liver Transplantation and Transplant Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing, China
| | - Ling Lu
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Research Unit of Liver Transplantation and Transplant Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing, China.
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Personalized Cancer Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abstract
Introduction: Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are essential for physiological homeostasis of the liver extracellular matrix (ECM). Excessive transdifferentiation of HSC from a quiescent to an activated phenotype contributes to disrupt this balance and can lead to liver fibrosis. Accumulating evidence has suggested that nuclear receptors (NRs) are involved in the regulation of HSC activation, proliferation, and function. Therefore, these NRs may be therapeutic targets to balance ECM homeostasis and inhibit HSC activation in liver fibrosis.Areas covered: In this review, the authors summarized the recent progress in the understanding of the regulatory role of NRs in HSCs and their potential as drug targets in liver fibrosis.Expert opinion: NRs are still potential therapy targets for inhibiting HSCs activation and liver fibrosis. However, the development of NRs agonists or antagonists to inhibit HSCs requires fully consideration of systemic effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiyun Pu
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongjing Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiao Liu
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuanxin Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
| | - Houfeng Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Qu C, He L, Yao N, Li J, Jiang Y, Li B, Peng S, Hu K, Chen D, Chen G, Huang W, Cao M, Fan J, Yuan Y, Ye W, Hong J. Myofibroblast-Specific Msi2 Knockout Inhibits HCC Progression in a Mouse Model. Hepatology 2021; 74:458-473. [PMID: 33609283 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Myofibroblasts play a pivotal role in the development and progression of HCC. Here, we aimed to explore the role and mechanism of myofibroblast Musashi RNA binding protein 2 (MSI2) in HCC progression. APPROACH AND RESULTS Myofibroblast infiltration and collagen deposition were detected and assessed in the tissues from 117 patients with HCC. Transgenic mice (Msi2ΔCol1a1 ) with floxed Msi2 allele and collagen type I alpha 1 chain (Col1a1)-ligand inducible Cre recombinases (CreER) were constructed to generate a myofibroblast-specific Msi2 knockout model. Mouse HCC cells were orthotopically transplanted into the Msi2ΔCol1a1 or the control mice (Msi2F/F ). We found that the deposition of collagen fibers, the main product of myofibroblasts, predicted a poor prognosis for HCC; meanwhile, we detected high MSI2 expression in the peritumoral infiltrated myofibroblasts. Conditional deletion of Msi2 in myofibroblasts significantly inhibited the growth of orthotopically implanted HCC, reduced both intrahepatic and lung metastasis, and prolonged the overall survival of tumor-bearing mice (P = 0.002). In vitro analysis demonstrated that myofibroblasts promoted cell proliferation, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transformation of HCC cells, whereas Msi2 deletion in myofibroblasts reversed these effects. Mechanically, Msi2 knockout decreased myofibroblast-derived IL-6 and IL-11 secretion by inhibiting the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 pathway, and thus attenuated the cancer stem cell-promoting effect of myofibroblasts. Interestingly, we found that the simultaneous knockout of Msi2 in myofibroblasts and knockdown of Msi2 in HCC cells could not further attenuate the implanted HCC progression. CONCLUSIONS Myofibroblast-specific Msi2 knockout abrogated the tumor-promoting function of myofibroblasts and inhibited HCC progression in mouse models. Targeting myofibroblast MSI2 expression may therefore prove to be a therapeutic strategy for HCC treatment in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Qu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lu He
- Department of Radiotherapy, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Nan Yao
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinying Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuchuan Jiang
- Department of Hepatological Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Binkui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuang Peng
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kunpeng Hu
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dong Chen
- Department of Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guo Chen
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mingrong Cao
- Department of Hepatological Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun Fan
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunfei Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wencai Ye
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian Hong
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.,Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Hepatological Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Zhou J, Lin Y, Kang X, Liu Z, Zhang W, Xu F. microRNA-186 in extracellular vesicles from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells alleviates idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis via interaction with SOX4 and DKK1. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:96. [PMID: 33536061 PMCID: PMC7860043 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-02083-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Previous reports have identified that human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (BMSC-EVs) with their cargo microRNAs (miRNAs) are a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Therefore, we explored whether delivery of microRNA-186 (miR-186), a downregulated miRNA in IPF, by BMSC EVs could interfere with the progression of IPF in a murine model. Methods In a co-culture system, we assessed whether BMSC-EVs modulated the activation of fibroblasts. We established a mouse model of PF to evaluate the in vivo therapeutic effects of BMSC-EVs and determined miR-186 expression in BMSC-EVs by polymerase chain reaction. Using a loss-of-function approach, we examined how miR-186 delivered by BMSC-EVs affected fibroblasts. The putative relationship between miR-186 and SRY-related HMG box transcription factor 4 (SOX4) was tested using luciferase assay. Next, we investigated whether EV-miR-186 affected fibroblast activation and PF by targeting SOX4 and its downstream gene, Dickkopf-1 (DKK1). Results BMSC-EVs suppressed lung fibroblast activation and delayed IPF progression in mice. miR-186 was downregulated in IPF but enriched in the BMSC-EVs. miR-186 delivered by BMSC-EVs could suppress fibroblast activation. Furthermore, miR-186 reduced the expression of SOX4, a target gene of miR-186, and hence suppressed the expression of DKK1. Finally, EV-delivered miR-186 impaired fibroblast activation and alleviated PF via downregulation of SOX4 and DKK1. Conclusion In conclusion, miR-186 delivered by BMSC-EVs suppressed SOX4 and DKK1 expression, thereby blocking fibroblast activation and ameliorating IPF, thus presenting a novel therapeutic target for IPF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 17, Yongwaizheng Street, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Yang Lin
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 17, Yongwaizheng Street, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Xiuhua Kang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 17, Yongwaizheng Street, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Zhicheng Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 17, Yongwaizheng Street, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 17, Yongwaizheng Street, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China.
| | - Fei Xu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 17, Yongwaizheng Street, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|