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Wei X, Luo D, Li H, Li Y, Cen S, Huang M, Jiang X, Zhong G, Zeng W. The roles and potential mechanisms of plant polysaccharides in liver diseases: a review. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1400958. [PMID: 38966560 PMCID: PMC11222613 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1400958] [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: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Plant polysaccharides (PP) demonstrate a diverse array of biological and pharmacological properties. This comprehensive review aims to compile and present the multifaceted roles and underlying mechanisms of plant polysaccharides in various liver diseases. These diseases include non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), alcoholic liver disease (ALD), fibrosis, drug-induced liver injury (DILI), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aims to elucidate the intricate mechanisms and therapeutic potential of plant polysaccharides, shedding light on their significance and potential applications in the management and potential prevention of these liver conditions. An exhaustive literature search was conducted for this study, utilizing prominent databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and CNKI. The search criteria focused on the formula "(plant polysaccharides liver disease) NOT (review)" was employed to ensure the inclusion of original research articles up to the year 2023. Relevant literature was extracted and analyzed from these databases. Plant polysaccharides exhibit promising pharmacological properties, particularly in the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism and their anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. The ongoing progress of studies on the molecular mechanisms associated with polysaccharides will offer novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of chronic liver diseases (CLDs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianzhi Wei
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Guangzhou, China
| | - Daimin Luo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haonan Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yagang Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shizhuo Cen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xianxing Jiang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guoping Zhong
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiwei Zeng
- Shenzhen Longgang Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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2
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Eissa AM, Hassanin MH, Ibrahim IAAEH. Hepatic β-arrestins: potential roles in liver health and disease. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:10399-10407. [PMID: 37843713 PMCID: PMC10676313 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08898-0] [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: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Β-arrestins are intracellular scaffolding proteins that have multifaceted roles in different types of disorders. In this review article, we gave a summary about the discovery, characterization and classification of these proteins and their intracellular functions. Moreover, this review article focused on the hepatic expression of β-arrestins and their hepatocellular distribution and function in each liver cell type. Also, we showed that β-arrestins are key regulators of distinct types of hepatic disorders. On the other hand, we addressed some important points that have never been studied before regarding the role of β-arrestins in certain types of hepatic disorders which needs more research efforts to cover.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Islam A A E H Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt.
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3
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Agten A, Blázquez-Moreno A, Crabbe M, Tuefferd M, Goehlmann H, Geys H, Peng CY, Claes J, Neyens T, Faes C. Measures of spatial heterogeneity in the liver tissue micro-environment as predictive factors for fibrosis score. Comput Biol Med 2023; 165:107382. [PMID: 37634463 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2023.107382] [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: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
The organization and interaction between hepatocytes and other hepatic non-parenchymal cells plays a pivotal role in maintaining normal liver function and structure. Although spatial heterogeneity within the tumor micro-environment has been proven to be a fundamental feature in cancer progression, the role of liver tissue topology and micro-environmental factors in the context of liver damage in chronic infection has not been widely studied yet. We obtained images from 110 core needle biopsies from a cohort of chronic hepatitis B patients with different fibrosis stages according to METAVIR score. The tissue sections were immunofluorescently stained and imaged to determine the locations of CD45 positive immune cells and HBsAg-negative and HBsAg-positive hepatocytes within the tissue. We applied several descriptive techniques adopted from ecology, including Getis-Ord, the Shannon Index and the Morisita-Horn Index, to quantify the extent to which immune cells and different types of liver cells co-localize in the tissue biopsies. Additionally, we modeled the spatial distribution of the different cell types using a joint log-Gaussian Cox process and proposed several features to quantify spatial heterogeneity. We then related these measures to the patient fibrosis stage by using a linear discriminant analysis approach. Our analysis revealed that the co-localization of HBsAg-negative hepatocytes with immune cells and the co-localization of HBsAg-positive hepatocytes with immune cells are equally important factors for explaining the METAVIR score in chronic hepatitis B patients. Moreover, we found that if we allow for an error of 1 on the METAVIR score, we are able to reach an accuracy of around 80%. With this study we demonstrate how methods adopted from ecology and applied to the liver tissue micro-environment can be used to quantify heterogeneity and how these approaches can be valuable in biomarker analyses for liver topology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annelies Agten
- Data Science Institute, UHasselt - Hasselt University, Agoralaan 1, BE 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium.
| | - Alfonso Blázquez-Moreno
- Discovery Statistics, Global Development, Janssen Research and Development, Turnhoutseweg 30, 2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - Marjolein Crabbe
- Discovery Statistics, Global Development, Janssen Research and Development, Turnhoutseweg 30, 2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - Marianne Tuefferd
- Translational Biomarkers, Infectious Diseases, Janssen Research and Development, Turnhoutseweg 30, 2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - Hinrich Goehlmann
- Translational Biomarkers, Infectious Diseases, Janssen Research and Development, Turnhoutseweg 30, 2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - Helena Geys
- Discovery Statistics, Global Development, Janssen Research and Development, Turnhoutseweg 30, 2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | | | - Jari Claes
- Data Science Institute, UHasselt - Hasselt University, Agoralaan 1, BE 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Thomas Neyens
- Data Science Institute, UHasselt - Hasselt University, Agoralaan 1, BE 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium; L-BioStat, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Christel Faes
- Data Science Institute, UHasselt - Hasselt University, Agoralaan 1, BE 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
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Hassan GS, Flores Molina M, Shoukry NH. The multifaceted role of macrophages during acute liver injury. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1237042. [PMID: 37736102 PMCID: PMC10510203 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1237042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is situated at the interface of the gut and circulation where it acts as a filter for blood-borne and gut-derived microbes and biological molecules, promoting tolerance of non-invasive antigens while driving immune responses against pathogenic ones. Liver resident immune cells such as Kupffer cells (KCs), a subset of macrophages, maintain homeostasis under physiological conditions. However, upon liver injury, these cells and others recruited from circulation participate in the response to injury and the repair of tissue damage. Such response is thus spatially and temporally regulated and implicates interconnected cells of immune and non-immune nature. This review will describe the hepatic immune environment during acute liver injury and the subsequent wound healing process. In its early stages, the wound healing immune response involves a necroinflammatory process characterized by partial depletion of resident KCs and lymphocytes and a significant infiltration of myeloid cells including monocyte-derived macrophages (MoMFs) complemented by a wave of pro-inflammatory mediators. The subsequent repair stage includes restoring KCs, initiating angiogenesis, renewing extracellular matrix and enhancing proliferation/activation of resident parenchymal and mesenchymal cells. This review will focus on the multifaceted role of hepatic macrophages, including KCs and MoMFs, and their spatial distribution and roles during acute liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghada S. Hassan
- Centre de Recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Manuel Flores Molina
- Centre de Recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
- Département de microbiologie, infectiologie et immunologie, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Naglaa H. Shoukry
- Centre de Recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
- Département de médecine, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
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Shalaby N, Samocha-Bonet D, Kaakoush NO, Danta M. The Role of the Gastrointestinal Microbiome in Liver Disease. Pathogens 2023; 12:1087. [PMID: 37764895 PMCID: PMC10536540 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12091087] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver disease is a major global health problem leading to approximately two million deaths a year. This is the consequence of a number of aetiologies, including alcohol-related, metabolic-related, viral infection, cholestatic and immune disease, leading to fibrosis and, eventually, cirrhosis. No specific registered antifibrotic therapies exist to reverse liver injury, so current treatment aims at managing the underlying factors to mitigate the development of liver disease. There are bidirectional feedback loops between the liver and the rest of the gastrointestinal tract via the portal venous and biliary systems, which are mediated by microbial metabolites, specifically short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and secondary bile acids. The interaction between the liver and the gastrointestinal microbiome has the potential to provide a novel therapeutic modality to mitigate the progression of liver disease and its complications. This review will outline our understanding of hepatic fibrosis, liver disease, and its connection to the microbiome, which may identify potential therapeutic targets or strategies to mitigate liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Shalaby
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, St Vincent’s Healthcare Campus, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Dorit Samocha-Bonet
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, St Vincent’s Healthcare Campus, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- Clinical Insulin Resistance Group, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Nadeem O. Kaakoush
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW 2033, Australia
| | - Mark Danta
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, St Vincent’s Healthcare Campus, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, St Vincent’s Hospital, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
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Wang Q, Long Z, Zhu F, Li H, Xiang Z, Liang H, Wu Y, Dai X, Zhu Z. Integrated analysis of lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-mRNA in the proliferative phase of liver regeneration in mice with liver fibrosis. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:417. [PMID: 37488484 PMCID: PMC10364436 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09478-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-coding RNAs play important roles in liver regeneration; however, their functions and mechanisms of action in the regeneration of fibrotic liver have not been elucidated. We aimed to clarify the expression patterns and regulatory functions of lncRNAs, circRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs in the proliferative phase of fibrotic liver regeneration. METHODS Based on a mouse model of liver fibrosis with 70% hepatectomy, whole-transcriptome profiling was performed using high-throughput sequencing on samples collected at 0, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h after hepatectomy. Hub genes were selected by weighted gene co-expression network analysis and subjected to enrichment analysis. Integrated analysis was performed to reveal the interactions of differentially expressed (DE) lncRNAs, circRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs, and to construct lncRNA-mRNA cis- and trans-regulatory networks and lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA regulatory networks. Real-Time quantitative PCR was used to validate part of the ceRNA network. RESULTS A total of 1,329 lncRNAs, 48 circRNAs, 167 miRNAs, and 6,458 mRNAs were differentially expressed, including 812 hub genes. Based on these DE RNAs, we examined several mechanisms of ncRNA regulatory networks, including lncRNA cis and trans interactions, circRNA parental genes, and ceRNA pathways. We constructed a cis-regulatory core network consisting of 64 lncRNA-mRNA pairs (53 DE lncRNAs and 58 hub genes), a trans-regulatory core network consisting of 103 lncRNA-mRNA pairs (18 DE lncRNAs and 85 hub genes), a lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA core regulatory network (20 DE lncRNAs, 12 DE miRNAs, and 33 mRNAs), and a circRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA core regulatory network (5 DE circRNAs, 5 DE miRNAs, and 39 mRNAs). CONCLUSIONS These results reveal the expression patterns of lncRNAs, circRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs in the proliferative phase of fibrotic liver regeneration, as well as core regulatory networks of mRNAs and non-coding RNAs underlying liver regeneration. The findings provide insights into molecular mechanisms that may be useful in developing new therapeutic approaches to ameliorate diseases that are characterized by liver fibrosis, which would be beneficial for the prevention of liver failure and treatment of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Zhangtao Long
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Fengfeng Zhu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Huajian Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Zhiqiang Xiang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Hao Liang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Yachen Wu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Xiaoming Dai
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China.
| | - Zhu Zhu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China.
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Education and Training, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China.
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Hwang JH, Lim M, Han G, Park H, Kim YB, Park J, Jun SY, Lee J, Cho JW. Segmentation algorithm can be used for detecting hepatic fibrosis in SD rat. Lab Anim Res 2023; 39:16. [PMID: 37381051 DOI: 10.1186/s42826-023-00167-2] [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: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver fibrosis is an early stage of liver cirrhosis. As a reversible lesion before cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer, it has been a target for drug discovery. Many antifibrotic candidates have shown promising results in experimental animal models; however, due to adverse clinical reactions, most antifibrotic agents are still preclinical. Therefore, rodent models have been used to examine the histopathological differences between the control and treatment groups to evaluate the efficacy of anti-fibrotic agents in non-clinical research. In addition, with improvements in digital image analysis incorporating artificial intelligence (AI), a few researchers have developed an automated quantification of fibrosis. However, the performance of multiple deep learning algorithms for the optimal quantification of hepatic fibrosis has not been evaluated. Here, we investigated three different localization algorithms, mask R-CNN, DeepLabV3+, and SSD, to detect hepatic fibrosis. RESULTS 5750 images with 7503 annotations were trained using the three algorithms, and the model performance was evaluated in large-scale images and compared to the training images. The results showed that the precision values were comparable among the algorithms. However, there was a gap in the recall, leading to a difference in model accuracy. The mask R-CNN outperformed the recall value (0.93) and showed the closest prediction results to the annotation for detecting hepatic fibrosis among the algorithms. DeepLabV3+ also showed good performance; however, it had limitations in the misprediction of hepatic fibrosis as inflammatory cells and connective tissue. The trained SSD showed the lowest performance and was limited in predicting hepatic fibrosis compared to the other algorithms because of its low recall value (0.75). CONCLUSIONS We suggest it would be a more useful tool to apply segmentation algorithms in implementing AI algorithms to predict hepatic fibrosis in non-clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Hee Hwang
- Toxicologic Pathology Research Group, Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, 34114, Korea
| | - Minyoung Lim
- Toxicologic Pathology Research Group, Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, 34114, Korea
| | - Gyeongjin Han
- Toxicologic Pathology Research Group, Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, 34114, Korea
| | - Heejin Park
- Toxicologic Pathology Research Group, Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, 34114, Korea
| | - Yong-Bum Kim
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, 34114, Korea
| | - Jinseok Park
- Research and Development Team, LAC Inc., 07807, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang-Yeop Jun
- Research and Development Team, LAC Inc., 07807, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jaeku Lee
- Research and Development Team, LAC Inc., 07807, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae-Woo Cho
- Toxicologic Pathology Research Group, Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, 34114, Korea.
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Çapan İ, Hawash M, Jaradat N, Sert Y, Servi R, Koca İ. Design, synthesis, molecular docking and biological evaluation of new carbazole derivatives as anticancer, and antioxidant agents. BMC Chem 2023; 17:60. [PMID: 37328860 DOI: 10.1186/s13065-023-00961-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The carbazole skeleton is an important structural motif occurring naturally or synthesized chemically and has antihistaminic, antioxidant, antitumor, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to design and synthesize a novel series of carbazole derivatives and evaluate their antiproliferative and antioxidant activities. METHODS The synthesized compounds were characterized utilizing HRMS, 1H-, and 13CAPT-NMR, and assessed for their anticancer, antifibrotic, and antioxidant effects utilizing reference biomedical procedures. In addition, the AutoDock Vina application was used to perform in-silico docking computations. RESULTS A series of carbazole derivatives were synthesized and characterized in the current study. Compounds 10 and 11 were found to have a stronger antiproliferative effect than compounds 2-5 against HepG2, HeLa, and MCF7 cancer cell lines with IC50 values of 7.68, 10.09, and 6.44 µM, respectively. Moreover, compound 9 showed potent antiproliferative activity against HeLa cancer cell lines with an IC50 value of 7.59 µM. However, except for compound 5, all of the synthesized compounds showed moderate antiproliferative activities against CaCo-2 with IC50 values in the range of 43.7-187.23 µM. All of these values were compared with the positive control anticancer drug 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU). In addition, compound 9 showed the most potent anti-fibrotic compound, and the cellular viability of LX-2 was found 57.96% at 1 µM concentration in comparison with the positive control 5-FU. Moreover, 4 and 9 compounds showed potent antioxidant activities with IC50 values of 1.05 ± 0.77 and 5.15 ± 1.01 µM, respectively. CONCLUSION Most of the synthesized carbazole derivatives showed promising antiproliferative, antioxidant, and antifibrotic biological effects, and further in-vivo investigations are needed to approve or disapprove these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- İrfan Çapan
- Department of Material and Material Processing Technologies, Gazi University, Technical Sciences Vocational College, 06560, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Mohammed Hawash
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, 00970, Nablus, Palestine.
| | - Nidal Jaradat
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, 00970, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Yusuf Sert
- Yozgat Bozok University, Sorgun Vocational School, Yozgat, Turkey
| | - Refik Servi
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey
| | - İrfan Koca
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Art & Sciences, Yozgat Bozok University, Yozgat, Turkey
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Xing Y, Zhong W, Peng D, Han Z, Zeng H, Wang Y, Feng L, Huang J, Xu L, Chen M, Zhou D, Jiang K, Deng X, Zhou H, Tong G. Chinese Herbal Formula Ruangan Granule Enhances the Efficacy of Entecavir to Reverse Advanced Liver Fibrosis/Early Cirrhosis in Patients with Chronic HBV Infection: A Multicenter, Randomized Clinical Trial. Pharmacol Res 2023; 190:106737. [PMID: 36940891 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nucleotide analogs treatment can reverse liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B (CHB). However, it has limited effect on fibrosis resolution in patients with CHB, particularly in preventing progression to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Ruangan granule (RG), a Chinese herbal formula, has proven to produce a therapeutic effect against liver fibrosis in animal experiment. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the effect of our Chinese herbal formula (RG) combined with entecavir (ETV) to reverse advanced liver fibrosis/early cirrhosis from CHB. METHODS A total of 240 CHB patients with histologically confirmed advanced liver fibrosis/early cirrhosis from 12 centers were randomly and blindly allocated to consume either ETV (0.5mg/day) plus RG (2 times/day) or control (ETV) for 48 weeks (wk) treatment. Changes in histopathology, serology and imageology were observed. Liver fibrosis reversion, defined as a reduction in the Knodell HAI score by ≥2 points and Ishak score by ≥1 grade, was assessed. RESULTS The rate of fibrosis regression and inflammation remission after 48 wk of treatment in histopathology was significantly higher in the ETV + RG group (38.73% vs. 23.94%, P=0.031). The ultrasonic semiquantitative scores decreased by ≥2 points and were 41 (28.87%) and 15 (21.13%) in the ETV+RG and ETV groups, respectively (P=0.026). The ETV+RG group had a significantly lower Fibrosis-4 score (FIB-4) index (P=0.028). There was a significant difference between the ETV+RG and ETV groups in the liver function normalization rate (P <0.01). Moreover, ETV plus RG combination treatment further reduced the risk of HCC in median 55-month follow-up (P <0.01). CONCLUSIONS This study illustrates that the Chinese herbal formula RG with ETV can improve advanced liver fibrosis/early cirrhosis regression in patients with CHB, further reducing the risk of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Xing
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Weichao Zhong
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Deti Peng
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhiyi Han
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Hua Zeng
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yanqing Wang
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Lian Feng
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jinzhen Huang
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Linyi Xu
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Mingtai Chen
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Daqiao Zhou
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Kaiping Jiang
- Department of Hepatology, Foshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xin Deng
- The First Department of Hepatology, The Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Hua Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Guangdong Tong
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China.
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Scialpi R, Arrè V, Giannelli G, Dituri F. Laminin-332 γ2 Monomeric Chain Promotes Adhesion and Migration of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15020373. [PMID: 36672323 PMCID: PMC9857196 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15020373] [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: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular matrix (ECM) has a well-recognized impact on the progression of solid tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Laminin 332 (Ln332) is a ECM molecule of epithelial basal lamina, composed of three polypeptide chains (α3, β3, and γ2), that is usually poorly expressed in the normal liver but is detected at high levels in HCC. This macromolecule was shown to promote the proliferation, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and drug resistance of HCC cells. The monomeric γ2 chain is up-regulated and localized preferentially at the invasive edge of metastatic intrahepatic HCC nodules, suggesting its potential involvement in the acquisition of invasive properties of HCC cells. HCC cells were tested in in vitro adhesion, scattering, and transwell migration assays in response to fibronectin and the Ln332 and Ln332 γ2 chains, and the activation status of major signaling pathways involved was evaluated. Here, we show that the Ln332 γ2 chain promotes HCC the cell adhesion, migration, and scattering of HCC cells that express the Ln332 receptor α3β1 integrin, proving to be a causal factor of the EMT program achievement. Moreover, we found that efficient HCC cell adhesion and migration on γ2 require the activation of the small cytosolic GTPase Rac1 and ERKs signaling. These data suggest that the γ2 chain, independently from the full-length Ln332, can contribute to the pro-invasive potential of aggressive HCC cell subpopulations.
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Promising hepatoprotective effects of lycopene in different liver diseases. Life Sci 2022; 310:121131. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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12
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Kulle A, Thanabalasuriar A, Cohen TS, Szydlowska M. Resident macrophages of the lung and liver: The guardians of our tissues. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1029085. [PMID: 36532044 PMCID: PMC9750759 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1029085] [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: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Resident macrophages play a unique role in the maintenance of tissue function. As phagocytes, they are an essential first line defenders against pathogens and much of the initial characterization of these cells was focused on their interaction with viral and bacterial pathogens. However, these cells are increasingly recognized as contributing to more than just host defense. Through cytokine production, receptor engagement and gap junction communication resident macrophages tune tissue inflammatory tone, influence adaptive immune cell phenotype and regulate tissue structure and function. This review highlights resident macrophages in the liver and lung as they hold unique roles in the maintenance of the interface between the circulatory system and the external environment. As such, we detail the developmental origin of these cells, their contribution to host defense and the array of tools these cells use to regulate tissue homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia Kulle
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Taylor S. Cohen
- Late Stage Development, Vaccines and Immune Therapies (V&I), BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, MD, United States
| | - Marta Szydlowska
- Bacteriology and Vaccine Discovery, Research and Early Development, Vaccines and Immune Therapies (V&I), BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, MD, United States,*Correspondence: Marta Szydlowska,
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13
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Sebastiani G, Patel K, Ratziu V, Feld JJ, Neuschwander-Tetri BA, Pinzani M, Petta S, Berzigotti A, Metrakos P, Shoukry N, Brunt EM, Tang A, Cobbold JF, Ekoe JM, Seto K, Ghali P, Chevalier S, Anstee QM, Watson H, Bajaj H, Stone J, Swain MG, Ramji A. Current considerations for clinical management and care of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Insights from the 1st International Workshop of the Canadian NASH Network (CanNASH). CANADIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2022; 5:61-90. [PMID: 35990786 PMCID: PMC9231423 DOI: 10.3138/canlivj-2021-0030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 08/30/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects approximately 8 million Canadians. NAFLD refers to a disease spectrum ranging from bland steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Nearly 25% of patients with NAFLD develop NASH, which can progress to liver cirrhosis and related end-stage complications. Type 2 diabetes and obesity represent the main risk factors for the disease. The Canadian NASH Network is a national collaborative organization of health care professionals and researchers with a primary interest in enhancing understanding, care, education, and research around NAFLD, with a vision of best practices for this disease state. At the 1st International Workshop of the CanNASH network in April 2021, a joint event with the single topic conference of the Canadian Association for the Study of the Liver (CASL), clinicians, epidemiologists, basic scientists, and community members came together to share their work under the theme of NASH. This symposium also marked the initiation of collaborations between Canadian and other key opinion leaders in the field representative of international liver associations. The main objective is to develop a policy framework that outlines specific targets, suggested activities, and evidence-based best practices to guide provincial, territorial, and federal organizations in developing multidisciplinary models of care and strategies to address this epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Sebastiani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Victoria Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Keyur Patel
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vlad Ratziu
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Jordan J Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Massimo Pinzani
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine - Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Salvatore Petta
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, PROMISE, Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Annalisa Berzigotti
- Hepatology, University Clinic for Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital of Bern, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Peter Metrakos
- Cancer Research Program, McGill University Health Centre Research Institute, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Naglaa Shoukry
- Centre de Recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | | | - An Tang
- Department of Radiology, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Québec, Canada
| | - Jeremy F Cobbold
- Department of Gastroenterology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Jean-Marie Ekoe
- Montreal Institute for Clinical Research, Division of Endocrinology and Department of Nutrition, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Karen Seto
- Canadian Liver Foundation, Markham, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter Ghali
- University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | | | - Quentin M Anstee
- Translational & Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Harpreet Bajaj
- LMC Diabetes and Endocrinology, Brampton, Ontario, Canada
| | - James Stone
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mark G Swain
- Calgary Liver Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Alnoor Ramji
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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14
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Friedman SL, Pinzani M. Hepatic fibrosis 2022: Unmet needs and a blueprint for the future. Hepatology 2022; 75:473-488. [PMID: 34923653 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 90.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Steady progress over four decades toward understanding the pathogenesis and clinical consequences of hepatic fibrosis has led to the expectation of effective antifibrotic drugs, yet none has been approved. Thus, an assessment of the field is timely, to clarify priorities and accelerate progress. Here, we highlight the successes to date but, more importantly, identify gaps and unmet needs, both experimentally and clinically. These include the need to better define cell-cell interactions and etiology-specific elements of fibrogenesis and their link to disease-specific drivers of portal hypertension. Success in treating viral hepatitis has revealed the remarkable capacity of the liver to degrade scar in reversing fibrosis, yet we know little of the mechanisms underlying this response. Thus, there is an exigent need to clarify the cellular and molecular mechanisms of fibrosis regression in order for therapeutics to mimic the liver's endogenous capacity. Better refined and more predictive in vitro and animal models will hasten drug development. From a clinical perspective, current diagnostics are improving but not always biologically plausible or sufficiently accurate to supplant biopsy. More urgently, digital pathology methods that leverage machine learning and artificial intelligence must be validated in order to capture more prognostic information from liver biopsies and better quantify the response to therapies. For more refined treatment of NASH, orthogonal approaches that integrate genetic, clinical, and pathological data sets may yield treatments for specific subphenotypes of the disease. Collectively, these and other advances will strengthen and streamline clinical trials and better link histologic responses to clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott L Friedman
- Division of Liver DiseasesIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Massimo Pinzani
- Institute for Liver and Digestive HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
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15
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Tan Z, Sun H, Xue T, Gan C, Liu H, Xie Y, Yao Y, Ye T. Liver Fibrosis: Therapeutic Targets and Advances in Drug Therapy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:730176. [PMID: 34621747 PMCID: PMC8490799 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.730176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is an abnormal wound repair response caused by a variety of chronic liver injuries, which is characterized by over-deposition of diffuse extracellular matrix (ECM) and anomalous hyperplasia of connective tissue, and it may further develop into liver cirrhosis, liver failure or liver cancer. To date, chronic liver diseases accompanied with liver fibrosis have caused significant morbidity and mortality in the world with increasing tendency. Although early liver fibrosis has been reported to be reversible, the detailed mechanism of reversing liver fibrosis is still unclear and there is lack of an effective treatment for liver fibrosis. Thus, it is still a top priority for the research and development of anti-fibrosis drugs. In recent years, many strategies have emerged as crucial means to inhibit the occurrence and development of liver fibrosis including anti-inflammation and liver protection, inhibition of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation and proliferation, reduction of ECM overproduction and acceleration of ECM degradation. Moreover, gene therapy has been proved to be a promising anti-fibrosis method. Here, we provide an overview of the relevant targets and drugs under development. We aim to classify and summarize their potential roles in treatment of liver fibrosis, and discuss the challenges and development of anti-fibrosis drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zui Tan
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongbao Sun
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Taixiong Xue
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Cailing Gan
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongyao Liu
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuting Xie
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuqin Yao
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tinghong Ye
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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16
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Naji KM, Al-Khatib BY, Al-Haj NS, D'souza MR. Hepatoprotective activity of melittin on isoniazid- and rifampicin-induced liver injuries in male albino rats. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol 2021; 22:39. [PMID: 34217369 PMCID: PMC8254969 DOI: 10.1186/s40360-021-00507-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The present study investigated the ameliorative effect of melittin, a major polypeptide in the venom of honeybee (Apis mellifera), on isoniazid-(INH) and rifampicin-(RIF) induced hepatotoxicity in male albino rats. Method Thirty rats (140-200 g) were divided into five groups (n = 6): normal control (NC) received normal saline orally (NaCl, 0.9%; toxic (T) group received INH + RIF (each rat received 100 mg/kg, p.o.); melittin (Mel15, Mel30) groups (each rat received 15 or 30 μg/kg s.c); and normal recovery (NR) group received INH + RIF (each rat received 100 mg/kg, p.o.). Blood and liver samples were collected for biochemical, hematological and histopathological studies respectively. Results The administration of melittin was found to prevent the antitubercular drug-induced alterations in the diagnostic markers; reduced glutathione (GSH), direct bilirubin (DB), total bilirubin (TB), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and total serum protein (TSP). Besides, hematological alterations were significantly high in Mel groups when compared to the toxic group. The NR group exhibited lower levels of DB, TB, ALP, LDH and TSP. In addition, treatment with melittin offered protection in the NR group with respect to MDA levels. Conclusion Evidence from this study suggests that melittin is beneficial for the prevention of acute hepatic failure in antitubercular drug-induced hepatoxicity and could be used as a potential therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid Mohammed Naji
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen. .,Department of Chemical Ecology/Biological Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78464, Konstanz, Germany.
| | | | - Nora Saif Al-Haj
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Myrene R D'souza
- Department of Biochemistry, Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, India
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MicroRNA-34a Promotes EMT and Liver Fibrosis in Primary Biliary Cholangitis by Regulating TGF- β1/smad Pathway. J Immunol Res 2021; 2021:6890423. [PMID: 33977112 PMCID: PMC8087466 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6890423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune cholestatic liver disease. We found microRNA-34a (miR-34a), as the downstream gene of p53, was overexpressed in some of fibrogenic diseases. In this study, we sought to explore whether miR-34a plays a role in the fibrosis of PBC. Methods The peripheral blood of PBC patients and controls was collected to analyze the level of miR-34a. Human intrahepatic biliary epithelial cells (HIBEC) were cultured. The expression of miR-34a was regulated by miR-34a mimics and inhibitor. The biomarkers of epithelium-mesenchymal transition (EMT), fibrogenesis, inflammation, and transforming growth factor- (TGF-) β1/smad pathway were analyzed. Results We found that miR-34a was overexpressed in the peripheral blood in PBC patients. In vitro, overexpressed miR-34a increased the EMT and fibrogenesis activity of HIBEC. Transforming growth factor-beta type 1 receptor (TβR1), TGF-β1, and p-smad2/3 were upregulated by miR-34a. Inflammatory factors such as IL-6 and IL-17 were also upregulated. Finally, we showed that miR-34a promoted EMT and liver fibrosis in PBC by targeting the TGF-β1/smad pathway antagonist transforming growth factor-beta-induced factor homeobox 2 (TGIF2). Conclusions Our findings show that miR-34a plays an important role in the EMT and fibrosis of PBC through the TGF-β1/smad pathway by targeting TGIF2. This study suggests that miR-34a may be a new marker of fibrogenesis in PBC. Inhibition of miR-34a may be a promising strategy in treating PBC and improving the prognosis of the disease.
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18
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Wilson SE. TGF beta -1, -2 and -3 in the modulation of fibrosis in the cornea and other organs. Exp Eye Res 2021; 207:108594. [PMID: 33894227 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The TGF beta-1, -2 and -3 isoforms are transcribed from different genes but bind to the same receptors and signal through the same canonical and non-canonical signal transduction pathways. There are numerous regulatory mechanisms controlling the action of each isoform that include the organ-specific cells producing latent TGF beta growth factors, multiple effectors that activate the isoforms, ECM-associated SLRPs and basement membrane components that modulate the activity and localization of the isoforms, other interactive cytokine-growth factor receptor systems, such as PDGF and CTGF, TGF beta receptor expression on target cells, including myofibroblast precursors, receptor binding competition, positive and negative signal transduction effectors, and transcription and translational regulatory mechanisms. While there has long been the view that TGF beta-1and TGF beta-2 are pro-fibrotic, while TGF beta-3 is anti-fibrotic, this review suggests that view is too simplistic, at least in adult tissues, since TGF beta-3 shares far more similarities in its modulation of fibrotic gene expression with TGF beta-1 and TGF beta-2, than it does differences, and often the differences are subtle. Rather, TGF beta-3 should be seen as a fibro-modulatory partner to the other two isoforms that modulates a nuanced and better controlled response to injury. The complex interplay between the three isoforms and numerous interactive proteins, in the context of the cellular milieu, controls regenerative non-fibrotic vs. fibrotic healing in a response to injury in a particular organ, as well as the resolution of fibrosis, when that occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven E Wilson
- The Cole Eye Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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19
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Apigenin Alleviates Liver Fibrosis by Inhibiting Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Autophagy via TGF- β1/Smad3 and p38/PPAR α Pathways. PPAR Res 2021; 2021:6651839. [PMID: 33574836 PMCID: PMC7861947 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6651839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study is to confirm the hepatocellular protective functions of apigenin and the molecular mechanism on liver fibrosis in mice. Methods Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and bile duct ligature (BDL) mouse fibrosis models were used to investigate the effects of apigenin on liver fibrosis. Sixty-six male C57 mice were randomly divided into eight groups, including the vehicle group, CCl4 group, CCl4+L-apigenin (20 mg/kg) group, CCl4+H-apigenin (40 mg/kg) group, sham group, BDL group, BDL+L-apigenin(20 mg/kg) group, and BDL+H-apigenin(40 mg/kg) group. Serum liver enzymes (ALT and AST), proteins associated with autophagy, and indicators linked with the TGF-β1/Smad3 and p38/PPARα pathways were detected using qRT-PCR, immunohistochemical staining, and western blotting. Results Our findings confirmed that apigenin could decrease the levels of ALT and AST, suppress the generation of ECM, inhibit the activation of HSCs, regulate the balance of MMP2 and TIMP1, reduce the expression of autophagy-linked protein, and restrain the TGF-β1/Smad3 and p38/PPARα pathways. Conclusion Apigenin could alleviate liver fibrosis by inhibiting hepatic stellate cell activation and autophagy via TGF-β1/Smad3 and p38/PPARα pathways.
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Legaz I, Bolarín JM, Navarro E, Campillo JA, Moya R, Pérez-Cárceles MD, Luna A, Osuna E, Miras M, Muro M, Minguela A, Alvarez López R. KIR2DL2/S2 and KIR2DS5 in alcoholic cirrhotic patients undergoing liver transplantation. Arch Med Sci 2021; 17:764-774. [PMID: 34025847 PMCID: PMC8130473 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2019.84410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The molecular mechanisms underlying alcoholic liver fibrosis and cirrhosis are not completely understood. Hepatic fibrosis involves the interplay of diverse cells and factors, including hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), Kupffer, NK cells, and T-lymphocyte subsets. Killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) are membrane receptors involved in mediation between NK and activated HSCs, regulating NK cell function through their interaction with HLA-I molecules. The aim of this study was to analyse the genetic association between KIR genes and the susceptibility to or protection from alcoholic cirrhosis (AC) in a cohort of male AC patients undergoing liver transplantation (LT) with and without concomitant viral infections. MATERIAL AND METHODS KIR genotyping was performed in nuclear DNA extracted from 281 AC patients and compared with 319 male controls. RESULTS Significant differences between total AC patients and healthy controls were only found in the case of KIR2DL2 and KIR2DS5. KIR2DL2 was significantly underrepresented in non-viral AC patients (52.6% vs. 63.3%; p = 0.015), while patients heterozygous for KIR2DL2 were also underrepresented in the non-viral AC group compared with controls (p = 0.034). KIR2DS5 was overrepresented in this group compared with healthy controls (p = 0.002). All these observations were only evident in AC patients older than 54 years old. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest a contrary effect of KIR2DL2 and KIR2DS5 in AC patients older than 54 years, in whom the presence of KIR2DL2 appears to be protective against AC, whereas the presence of KIR2DS5 seems to promote the fibrotic process, particularly in patients with no associated viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Legaz
- Department of Legal and Forensic Medicine, Biomedical Research Institute (IMIB), Regional Campus of International Excellence “Campus Mare Nostrum”, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Research Institute on Ageing, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Jose Miguel Bolarín
- Department of Legal and Forensic Medicine, Biomedical Research Institute (IMIB), Regional Campus of International Excellence “Campus Mare Nostrum”, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Elena Navarro
- Digestive Medicine Service, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca (HCUVA), Murcia, Spain
| | - Jose Antonio Campillo
- Immunology Service, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB) and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de enfermedades hepáticas y digestivas (CIBERehd), Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca (HCUVA), Murcia, Spain
| | - Rosa Moya
- Immunology Service, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB) and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de enfermedades hepáticas y digestivas (CIBERehd), Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca (HCUVA), Murcia, Spain
| | - María Dolores Pérez-Cárceles
- Department of Legal and Forensic Medicine, Biomedical Research Institute (IMIB), Regional Campus of International Excellence “Campus Mare Nostrum”, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Research Institute on Ageing, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Aurelio Luna
- Department of Legal and Forensic Medicine, Biomedical Research Institute (IMIB), Regional Campus of International Excellence “Campus Mare Nostrum”, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Eduardo Osuna
- Department of Legal and Forensic Medicine, Biomedical Research Institute (IMIB), Regional Campus of International Excellence “Campus Mare Nostrum”, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Research Institute on Ageing, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Manuel Miras
- Digestive Medicine Service, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca (HCUVA), Murcia, Spain
| | - Manuel Muro
- Immunology Service, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB) and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de enfermedades hepáticas y digestivas (CIBERehd), Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca (HCUVA), Murcia, Spain
| | - Alfredo Minguela
- Immunology Service, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB) and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de enfermedades hepáticas y digestivas (CIBERehd), Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca (HCUVA), Murcia, Spain
| | - Rocio Alvarez López
- Immunology Service, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB) and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de enfermedades hepáticas y digestivas (CIBERehd), Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca (HCUVA), Murcia, Spain
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Zeweil MM, Sadek KM, Elsadek MF, Mahmoud SF, Ahmed BM, Khafaga AF. Sidr honey abrogates the oxidative stress and downregulates the hyaluronic acid concentration and gene expression of TGF-β1 and COL1a1 in rat model of thioacetamide-induced hepatic fibrosis. Anim Sci J 2020; 91:e13434. [PMID: 32696560 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a major health concern, which might progress to cirrhosis. To date, treatment trials rely mainly on the removal of the causative factor. The current study investigated the potential ameliorative role of sidr honey on thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrosis in rats. Forty-eight Wistar albino rats were equally allocated into four groups: control; sidr honey (5g/kg body weight (BW), orally); TAA (200 mg/kg BW, IP three times weekly/15 weeks); and sidr honey plus TAA at the same dose and administration rout. Rats co-treated with sidr honey plus TAA revealed significant reduction in hepatic malondialdehyde, hyaluronic acid (HA), alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma glutamyl transferase, direct bilirubin, and hepatic mRNA expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and collagen type I alpha 1 chain (COL1a1) compared to TAA-exposed rats. In addition, the hepatoprotective potential of sidr honey was indicated via improvement of histopathologic picture of hepatocytes and upregulation of total antioxidant capacity, reduced glutathione, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, total protein, and albumin compared to TAA-treated rats. In conclusion, daily administration of sidr honey (5 g/kg BW) is a promising natural antioxidant and fibrosuppressive agent that could ameliorate liver fibrosis via downregulation of fibrosis genes including TGF-β1 and COL1a1 and HA and via enhancement of antioxidant system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed M Zeweil
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, Egypt
| | - Kadry M Sadek
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, Egypt
| | - Mohamed F Elsadek
- Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Faculty of Home Economics, Helwan University, Helwan, Egypt
| | - Sahar F Mahmoud
- Department of Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, Egypt
| | - Badreldin M Ahmed
- Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asmaa F Khafaga
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Edfina, Egypt
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22
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Tang N, Rao S, Ying Y, Huang Y. New insights into BMP9 signaling in organ fibrosis. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 882:173291. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Colangelo MT, Galli C, Guizzardi S. The effects of polydeoxyribonucleotide on wound healing and tissue regeneration: a systematic review of the literature. Regen Med 2020; 15:1801-1821. [PMID: 32757710 DOI: 10.2217/rme-2019-0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: The present study evaluated the effects of polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) on tissue regeneration, paying special attention to the molecular mechanisms that underlie its tissue remodeling actions to better identify its effective therapeutic potential in wound healing. Materials & methods: Strategic searches were conducted through MEDLINE/PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, from their earliest available dates to March 2020. The studies were included with the following eligibility criteria: studies evaluating tissue regeneration, and being an in vitro, in vivo and clinical study. Results: Out of more than 90 articles, 34 fulfilled the eligibility criteria. All data obtained proved the ability of PDRN in promoting a physiological tissue repair through salvage pathway and adenosine A2A receptor activation. Conclusion: Up to date PDRN has proved promising results in term of wound regeneration, healing time and absence of side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria T Colangelo
- Department of Medicine & Surgery, Histology & Embryology Lab, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Carlo Galli
- Department of Medicine & Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Stefano Guizzardi
- Department of Medicine & Surgery, Histology & Embryology Lab, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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24
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Wang Z, Yang X, Kai J, Wang F, Wang Z, Shao J, Tan S, Chen A, Zhang F, Wang S, Zhang Z, Zheng S. HIF-1α-upregulated lncRNA-H19 regulates lipid droplet metabolism through the AMPKα pathway in hepatic stellate cells. Life Sci 2020; 255:117818. [PMID: 32445757 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.117818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is a central event in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis and is characterized by the disappearance of lipid droplets. Although the exogenous supplementation of lipid droplet content can effectively reverse the activation of HSCs, the underlying molecular mechanisms are largely unknown. In our current study, we sought to investigate the role of lncRNA-H19 in the process of lipid droplets disappearance and to further examine the underlying molecular mechanisms. We found that the lncRNA-H19 level was increased in CCl4-induced fibrotic liver, which activated HSCs. Further research showed that hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) significantly increased lncRNA-H19 expression by binding to the lncRNA-H19 promoter at two hypoxia response element (HRE) sites located at 492-499 and 515-522 bp. Importantly, lncRNA-H19 knockdown markedly inhibited HSC activation and alleviated liver fibrosis, indicating that lncRNA-H19 may be a potential target for anti-fibrosis therapeutic approaches. Moreover, lncRNA-H19 knockdown could reverse the lipid droplet phenotype of activated HSCs, inhibiting the phosphorylated AMPKα-mediated lipid oxidation signaling pathway. The AMPK agonist AICAR promoted AMPKα phosphorylation and abrogated lipid droplets restoration in HSCs transfected with the lncRNA-H19 knockdown plasmid. Experimental molecular analysis showed that lncRNA-H19 triggered AMPKα to interact with LKB1 and resulted in AMPKα phosphorylation, which accelerating lipid droplets degradation and lipid oxidation. Taken together, our results highlighted the role of lncRNA-H19 in the metabolism of lipid droplets in HSCs, and revealed a new molecular target for alleviating liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimin Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Xiang Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jun Kai
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Feixia Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zhenyi Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jiangjuan Shao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Shanzhong Tan
- Nanjing Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Anping Chen
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, MO 63104, USA
| | - Feng Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Shijun Wang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250035, China
| | - Zili Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Shizhong Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
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Sun HJ, Wu ZY, Nie XW, Wang XY, Bian JS. Implications of hydrogen sulfide in liver pathophysiology: Mechanistic insights and therapeutic potential. J Adv Res 2020; 27:127-135. [PMID: 33318872 PMCID: PMC7728580 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2020.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Over the last several decades, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been found to exert multiple physiological functions in mammal systems. The endogenous production of H2S is primarily mediated by cystathione β-synthase (CBS), cystathione γ-lyase (CSE), and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST). These enzymes are widely expressed in the liver tissues and regulate hepatic functions by acting on various molecular targets. Aim of Review In the present review, we will highlight the recent advancements in the cellular events triggered by H2S under liver diseases. The therapeutic effects of H2S donors on hepatic diseases will also be discussed. Key Scientific Concepts of Review As a critical regulator of liver functions, H2S is critically involved in the etiology of various liver disorders, such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), hepatic fibrosis, hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury, and liver cancer. Targeting H2S-producing enzymes may be a promising strategy for managing hepatic disorders.
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Key Words
- 3-MP, 3-mercaptopyruvate
- 3-MST, 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase
- AGTR1, angiotensin II type 1 receptor
- AMPK, AMP-activated protein kinase
- Akt, protein kinase B
- CAT, cysteine aminotransferase
- CBS, cystathione β-synthase
- CO, carbon monoxide
- COX-2, cyclooxygenase-2
- CSE, cystathione γ-lyase
- CX3CR1, chemokine CX3C motif receptor 1
- Cancer
- DAO, D-amino acid oxidase
- DATS, Diallyl trisulfide
- EGFR, epidermal growth factor receptor
- ERK, extracellular regulated protein kinases
- FAS, fatty acid synthase
- Fibrosis
- H2S, hydrogen sulfide
- HFD, high fat diet
- HO-1, heme oxygenase 1
- Hydrogen sulfide
- IR, ischemia/reperfusion
- Liver disease
- MMP-2, matrix metalloproteinase 2
- NADH, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide
- NADPH, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate
- NAFLD, non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases
- NASH, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
- NF-κB, nuclear factor-kappa B
- NaHS, sodium hydrosulfide
- Nrf2, nuclear factor erythroid2-related factor 2
- PI3K, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase
- PLP, pyridoxal 5′-phosphate
- PPG, propargylglycine
- PTEN, phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten
- SAC, S-allyl-cysteine
- SPRC, S-propargyl-cysteine
- STAT3, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3
- Steatosis
- VLDL, very low density lipoprotein
- mTOR, mammalian target of rapamycin
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Jian Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Zhi-Yuan Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Xiao-Wei Nie
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Xin-Yu Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University (Shenzhen Second People's Hospital), Shenzhen 518037, China
| | - Jin-Song Bian
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117597, Singapore.,National University of Singapore Research Institute, Suzhou 215000, China
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Aspirin alleviates hepatic fibrosis by suppressing hepatic stellate cells activation via the TLR4/NF-κB pathway. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:6058-6066. [PMID: 32283542 PMCID: PMC7185140 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis arises from a sustained wound-healing response to chronic liver injury. Because the occurrence and development of hepatic fibrosis is always associated with chronic inflammation, controlling inflammation within the liver may be an effective means of controlling the development and progression of hepatic fibrosis. Aspirin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to relieve both inflammatory symptoms and pain. The results of our study showed that aspirin significantly attenuated hepatic inflammation and fibrosis. Aspirin effectively inhibited the activation and proliferation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which led to downregulation of inflammatory factors, including IL-6 and TNF-α in those cells. Aspirin also downregulated expression of Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) on HSCs, as well as its downstream mediators, MyD88 and NF-κB. The results of our study demonstrate aspirin's potential to inhibit the development of hepatic fibrosis and the molecular mechanism by which it acts. They suggest aspirin may be an effective therapeutic agent for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis.
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27
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Paik KY, Kim KH, Park JH, Lee JI, Kim OH, Hong HE, Seo H, Choi HJ, Ahn J, Lee TY, Kim SJ. A novel antifibrotic strategy utilizing conditioned media obtained from miR-150-transfected adipose-derived stem cells: validation of an animal model of liver fibrosis. Exp Mol Med 2020; 52:438-449. [PMID: 32152450 PMCID: PMC7156430 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-020-0393-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The limitations of stem cells have led researchers to investigate the secretome, which is the secretory materials in stem cells, since the principal mechanism of action of stem cells is mediated by the secretome. In this study, we determined the antifibrotic potential of the secretome released from miR-150-transfected adipose-derived stromal cells (ASCs). The secretome released from ASCs that were transfected with antifibrotic miR-150 was obtained (referred to as the miR-150 secretome). To validate the antifibrotic effects of the miR-150 secretome, we generated in vitro and in vivo models of liver fibrosis by treating human hepatic stellate cells (LX2 cells) with thioacetamide (TAA) and subcutaneous injection of TAA into mice, respectively. In the in vitro model, more significant reductions in the expression of fibrosis-related markers, such as TGFβ, Col1A1, and α-SMA, were observed by using the miR-150 secretome than the control secretome, specifically in TAA-treated LX2 cells. In the in vivo model, infusion of the miR-150 secretome into mice with liver fibrosis abrogated the increase in serum levels of systemic inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6 and TNF-α, and induced increased expression of antifibrotic, proliferation, and antioxidant activity markers in the liver. Our in vitro and in vivo experiments indicate that the miR-150 secretome is superior to the naive secretome in terms of ameliorating liver fibrosis, minimizing systemic inflammatory responses, and promoting antioxidant enzyme expression. Therefore, we conclude that miR-150 transfection into ASCs has the potential to induce the release of secretory materials with enhanced antifibrotic, proliferative, and antioxidant properties. A mixture of molecules produced by genetically modified stem cells could help repair the damage associated with liver fibrosis. Fat-derived adipose stem cells (ASCs) secrete proteins and nucleic acids that can facilitate tissue regeneration, but the natural mixture of molecules secreted (the ‘secretome’) is insufficient to reverse advanced fibrosis. Researchers led by Say-June Kim of the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea, have boosted the potency of this cell-derived treatment by engineering ASCs to produce an RNA called miR-150. This RNA inhibits biological processes that drive fibrosis. Experiments in cultured cells and a mouse model of fibrosis confirmed that miR-150 consistently improved the ASC secretome’s capacity to control liver fibrosis and minimize systemic inflammatory responses. This approach could thus offer a safe strategy for promoting tissue regeneration and preventing liver failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwang Yeol Paik
- Department of Surgery, Yeouido St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kee-Hwan Kim
- Department of Surgery, Uijeongbu St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Catholic Central Laboratory of Surgery, Institute of Biomedical Industry, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Hyun Park
- Department of Surgery, Eunpeong St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Im Lee
- Department of Surgery, Uijeongbu St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ok-Hee Kim
- Catholic Central Laboratory of Surgery, Institute of Biomedical Industry, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Surgery, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ha-Eun Hong
- Department of Surgery, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Haeyeon Seo
- Department of Surgery, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Joong Choi
- Department of Surgery, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Joseph Ahn
- Department of Surgery, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Yun Lee
- Department of Surgery, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Say-June Kim
- Catholic Central Laboratory of Surgery, Institute of Biomedical Industry, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Surgery, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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28
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Suwa K, Yamaguchi T, Yoshida K, Murata M, Ichimura M, Tsuneyama K, Seki T, Okazaki K. Smad Phospho-Isoforms for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk Assessment in Patients with Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12020286. [PMID: 31991602 PMCID: PMC7073158 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12020286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) sometimes occurs in mildly fibrotic livers, while HCC incidence in NASH-related cirrhosis is lower than and less predictable than in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related cirrhosis. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling in hepatocytic nuclei is implicated in fibrosis and carcinogenesis. TGF-βtype I receptor (TβRI) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) differentially phosphorylate the mediator Smad3, resulting in 2 distinct phospho-isoforms: C-terminally phosphorylated Smad3 (pSmad3C) and linker-phosphorylated Smad3 (pSmad3L). In mature hepatocytes, oncogenic signaling via the JNK/pSmad3L pathway antagonizes signaling via the tumor-suppressive TβRI/pSmad3C pathway. We immunohistochemically examined domain-specific Smad3 phosphorylation in liver biopsy specimens from 30 NASH patients representing different fibrotic stages and 20 chronically infected hepatitis C patients as controls, correlating Smad3 phosphorylation with clinical course. HCC occurred during follow-up in 11 of 12 NASH patients with abundant pSmad3L and limited pSmad3C but in only 2 of 18 with limited pSmad3L. In contrast, HCC developed in 12 of 15 NASH patients with limited pSmad3C but only 1 of 15 with abundant pSmad3C. Two of fourteen NASH patients with mild fibrosis developed HCC, their hepatocytic nuclei showed abundant pSmad3L and limited pSmad3C. Five of sixteen patients with severe fibrosis did not develop HCC, their hepatocytic nuclei showed limited pSmad3L and abundant pSmad3C. Smad phospho-isoforms may represent important biomarkers predicting HCC in NASH and potential therapeutic targets for preventing NASH-related HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanehiko Suwa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan; (K.S.); (K.Y.); (M.M.); (T.S.); (K.O.)
| | - Takashi Yamaguchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan; (K.S.); (K.Y.); (M.M.); (T.S.); (K.O.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-72-804-0101; Fax: +81-72-804-2524
| | - Katsunori Yoshida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan; (K.S.); (K.Y.); (M.M.); (T.S.); (K.O.)
| | - Miki Murata
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan; (K.S.); (K.Y.); (M.M.); (T.S.); (K.O.)
| | - Mayuko Ichimura
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School. 3-18-15 Kuramoto, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (M.I.); (K.T.)
| | - Koichi Tsuneyama
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School. 3-18-15 Kuramoto, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (M.I.); (K.T.)
| | - Toshihito Seki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan; (K.S.); (K.Y.); (M.M.); (T.S.); (K.O.)
| | - Kazuichi Okazaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan; (K.S.); (K.Y.); (M.M.); (T.S.); (K.O.)
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Cho Y, Park MJ, Kim K, Park JY, Kim J, Kim W, Yoon JH. Tumor-Stroma Crosstalk Enhances REG3A Expressions that Drive the Progression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21020472. [PMID: 31940813 PMCID: PMC7013972 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21020472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Crosstalk between tumors and their microenvironment plays a crucial role in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, there is little existing information about the key signaling molecule that modulates tumor-stroma crosstalk. METHODS Complementary DNA (cDNA) microarray analysis was performed to identify the key molecule in tumor-stroma crosstalk. Subcutaneous xenograft in vivo murine model, immunoblotting, immunofluorescence, and real-time polymerase chain reaction using HCC cells and tissues were performed. RESULTS The key molecule, regenerating gene protein-3A (REG3A), was most significantly enhanced when coculturing HCC cells and activated human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) (+8.2 log) compared with monoculturing HCC cells using cDNA microarray analysis. Downregulation of REG3A using small interfering RNA significantly decreased the proliferation of HSC-cocultured HCC cells in vitro and in vivo, and enhanced deoxycholic acid-induced HCC cell apoptosis. Crosstalk-induced REG3A upregulation was modulated by platelet-derived growth factor ββ (PDGF-ββ) in p42/44-dependent manner. REG3A mRNA levels in human HCC tissues were upregulated 1.8-fold compared with non-tumor tissues and positively correlated with PDGF-ββ levels. CONCLUSIONS REG3A/p42/44 pathway/PDGF-ββ signaling plays a significant role in hepatocarcinogenesis via tumor-stroma crosstalk. Targeting REG3A is a potential novel therapeutic target for the management of HCCs by inhibiting crosstalk between HCC cells and HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seoul 06135, Korea; (M.J.P.); (K.K.); (J.K.); (W.K.)
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Korea;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-3468-3281; Fax: +82-2-558-1119
| | - Min Ji Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seoul 06135, Korea; (M.J.P.); (K.K.); (J.K.); (W.K.)
| | - Koeun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seoul 06135, Korea; (M.J.P.); (K.K.); (J.K.); (W.K.)
| | - Jae-Young Park
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, KyungHee University Medical Center, Seoul 02447, Korea;
| | - Jihye Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seoul 06135, Korea; (M.J.P.); (K.K.); (J.K.); (W.K.)
| | - Wonjin Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seoul 06135, Korea; (M.J.P.); (K.K.); (J.K.); (W.K.)
| | - Jung-Hwan Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Korea;
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Petzold G, Hofer J, Ellenrieder V, Neesse A, Kunsch S. Liver Stiffness Measured by 2-Dimensional Shear Wave Elastography: Prospective Evaluation of Healthy Volunteers and Patients With Liver Cirrhosis. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2019; 38:1769-1777. [PMID: 30536601 DOI: 10.1002/jum.14866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to establish normal values for liver stiffness measurement, performed by 2-dimensional shear wave elastography (LOGIQ E9; GE Healthcare, Wauwatosa, WI), in healthy volunteers, patients with nonhepatic morbidities, and patients with histologically confirmed liver cirrhosis. METHODS A total of 175 participants were included between July 2016 and February 2018. Three cohorts were analyzed: healthy volunteers (n = 68), patients with healthy livers but nonhepatic morbidities (n = 57), and patients with liver cirrhosis (n = 50). Liver stiffness measurement was performed by 2 observers with different levels of experience to determine interobserver agreement. RESULTS Of the 175 participants included, 91 were male, and the mean age ± SD was 44.4 ± 19.4 years. The success rate for 175 liver stiffness measurements was 95.4%. The number of unsuccessful measurements was significantly higher in the liver cirrhosis cohort (P = .04). The interobserver agreement was excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient, 0.87). Liver stiffness in the healthy-liver patient cohort (4.93 ± 0.83 kPa) was not significantly different from that in the healthy-volunteer cohort (5.19 ± 1.03 kPa; P = .13). Apart from male sex in the healthy-volunteer cohort, age, body mass index, mild steatosis, and nonhepatic morbidities had no significant impact on liver stiffness. Liver stiffness values in participants without liver disease (healthy volunteers and healthy-liver patients; n = 125) ranged from 3.62 to 7.02 kPa (2.5th-97.5th percentiles). Notably, there was no overlap of liver stiffness measurements between the patients without liver disease and the cirrhosis cohort (13.29 ± 3.27 kPa [7.76-19.49 kPa]). CONCLUSIONS Liver stiffness values in healthy individuals vary widely and are not dependent on age, body mass index, or specific nonhepatic comorbidities. Liver stiffness values within the normal range can noninvasively rule out cirrhosis, as liver stiffness is significantly higher in cirrhotic patients (P < .001). Two-dimensional shear wave elastography has excellent interobserver agreement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Golo Petzold
- Department Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Oncology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Johannes Hofer
- Department Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Oncology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Volker Ellenrieder
- Department Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Oncology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Albrecht Neesse
- Department Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Oncology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Steffen Kunsch
- Department Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Oncology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
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Petzold G, Porsche M, Ellenrieder V, Kunsch S, Neesse A. Impact of Food Intake on Liver Stiffness Determined by 2-D Shear Wave Elastography: Prospective Interventional Study in 100 Healthy Patients. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2019; 45:402-410. [PMID: 30396598 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2018.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The aim was to evaluate the influence of food intake on liver stiffness measurement (LSM), performed with 2-D shear wave elastography (Logiq E9, GE Medical Systems, Wauwatosa, WI, USA). One hundred healthy volunteers were prospectively enrolled. Mean age was 25.8 (19-55) y, and mean body mass index was 22.43 (17.3-30.8) kg/m². Patients fasted for at least 3 h and subsequently ingested a liquid meal of 800 kcal. Liver stiffness and portal vein velocity were measured before and after food intake. Food intake resulted in significantly higher LSM values compared with baseline LSM (5.74 ± 0.94 kPa vs. 4.80 ± 0.94 kPa, p < 0.001). On multiple linear regression analysis, body mass index was significantly positively correlated with the LSM increase after food intake (p = 0.01). No correlation between the increase in LSM and the increase in post-prandial portal vein velocity was observed (r = 0.09). In summary, food intake has a significant influence on LSM. There is an 11% risk of misclassifying non-fasting, healthy patients as having significant fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Golo Petzold
- Department Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Oncology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Melissa Porsche
- Department Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Oncology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Volker Ellenrieder
- Department Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Oncology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Steffen Kunsch
- Department Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Oncology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Albrecht Neesse
- Department Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Oncology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany.
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Lv J, Zhang H, Wang L, Gao J, Fan Y. Effects of A94T and P84L Polymorphisms Within theTNF-αGene on Proliferation and Activation of Hepatic Stellate Cells. DNA Cell Biol 2019; 38:162-169. [PMID: 30526018 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2018.4452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Lv
- Department of Pharmacy, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Jiefang Gao
- Department of Pharmacy, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Yueying Fan
- Department of Pharmacy, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
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Yoshida K, Matsuzaki K, Murata M, Yamaguchi T, Suwa K, Okazaki K. Clinico-Pathological Importance of TGF-β/Phospho-Smad Signaling during Human Hepatic Fibrocarcinogenesis. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 10:cancers10060183. [PMID: 29874844 PMCID: PMC6025395 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10060183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 05/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic viral hepatitis is a global public health problem, with approximately 570 million persons chronically infected. Hepatitis B and C viruses increase the risk of morbidity and mortality from liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and extrahepatic complications that develop. Hepatitis virus infection induces transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, which influences microenvironments within the infected liver. TGF-β promotes liver fibrosis by up-regulating extracellular matrix production by hepatic stellate cells. TGF-β is also up-regulated in patients with HCC, in whom it contributes importantly to bringing about a favorable microenvironment for tumor growth. Thus, TGF-β is thought to be a major factor regulating liver fibrosis and carcinogenesis. Since TGF-β carries out regulatory signaling by influencing the phosphorylation of Smads, we have generated several kinds of phospho-specific antibodies to Smad2/3. Using these, we have identified three types of phospohorylated forms: COOH-terminally phosphorylated Smad2/3 (pSmad2C and pSmad3C), linker phosphorylated Smad2/3 (pSmad2L and pSmad3L), and dually phosphorylated Smad3 (pSmad2L/C and pSmad3L/C). TGF-β-mediated pSmad2/3C signaling terminates cell proliferation; on the other hand, cytokine-induced pSmad3L signaling accelerates cell proliferation and promotes fibrogenesis. This review addresses TGF-β/Smad signal transduction in chronic liver injuries and carcinogenic processes. We also discuss the reversibility of Smad signaling after antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsunori Yoshida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan.
| | - Koichi Matsuzaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan.
| | - Miki Murata
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan.
| | - Takashi Yamaguchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan.
| | - Kanehiko Suwa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan.
| | - Kazuichi Okazaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan.
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Cheng Y, Zheng H, Wang B, Xu W, Xu J, Zhu Y. Sorafenib and fluvastatin synergistically alleviate hepatic fibrosis via inhibiting the TGFβ1/Smad3 pathway. Dig Liver Dis 2018; 50:381-388. [PMID: 29373239 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2017.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effective strategies for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis are urgently in need. AIMS To investigate the effect of the co-treatment of sorafenib and fluvastatin on hepatic fibrosis and the underlying mechanisms. METHODS A diethylnitrosamine-induced hepatic fibrosis rat model was used to evaluate the anti-fibrosis effect. Epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) of hepatocytes and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) in response to sorafenib and fluvastatin was explored. A co-treatment effect on TGFβ1 expression was explored in the Kupffer cells of rats. The effect of co-treatment on the regulation of the TGFβ1/Smad3 pathway was investigated in both L02 cells and LX-2 cells. RESULTS Sorafenib and fluvastatin synergistically reduced collagen content, α-SMA expression, lamin level, and hyaluronic acid level in the rat hepatic model. Combination treatment significantly inhibited the expression of mesenchymal markers and promoted the expression of epithelial markers in hepatocytes. Co-treatment statistically suppressed the production of TGFβ1 in Kupffer cells. Suppression of EMT in parallel with alleviated up-regulation of fibronectin and α-SMA expression was observed in TGFβ1-activated LX-2 cells. Mechanistically, sorafenib plus fluvastatin blocked the TGFβ1/Smad3 signaling pathway via inhibiting phosphorylation of TβR II in hepatocytes and HSCs. CONCLUSIONS Sorafenib and fluvastatin synergistically alleviated diethylnitrosamine-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats. Sorafenib plus fluvastatin may be a potential combination treatment for hepatic fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Cheng
- Digestive Department, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hang Zheng
- Department of Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Biao Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - WanFu Xu
- Digestive Department, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiajia Xu
- Digestive Department, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yun Zhu
- Liver Tumor Center, Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology Unit, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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Li P, Li Y, Zhu L, Yang Z, He J, Wang L, Shang Q, Pan H, Wang H, Ma X, Li B, Fan X, Ge S, Jia R, Zhang H. Targeting secreted cytokine BMP9 gates the attenuation of hepatic fibrosis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2018; 1864:709-720. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2017.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2017] [Revised: 12/03/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Lebda MA, Sadek KM, Abouzed TK, Tohamy HG, El-Sayed YS. Melatonin mitigates thioacetamide-induced hepatic fibrosis via antioxidant activity and modulation of proinflammatory cytokines and fibrogenic genes. Life Sci 2017; 192:136-143. [PMID: 29180002 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2017.11.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Revised: 11/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The potential antifibrotic effects of melatonin against induced hepatic fibrosis were explored. MAIN METHODS Rats were allocated into four groups: placebo; thioacetamide (TAA) (200mg/kg bwt, i.p twice weekly for two months); melatonin (5mg/kgbwt, i.p daily for a week before TAA and continued for an additional two months); and melatonin plus TAA. Hepatic fibrotic changes were evaluated biochemically and histopathologically. Hepatic oxidative/antioxidative indices were assessed. The expression of hepatic proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-1β), fibrogenic-related genes (transforming growth factor-1β, collagen I, collagen, III, laminin, and autotaxin) and an antioxidant-related gene (thioredoxin-1) were detected by qRT-PCR. KEY FINDINGS In fibrotic rats, melatonin lowered serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and autotaxin activities, bilirubin, hepatic hydroxyproline and plasma ammonia levels. Melatonin displayed hepatoprotective and antifibrotic potential as indicated by mild hydropic degeneration of some hepatocytes and mild fibroplasia. In addition, TAA induced the depletion of glutathione, glutathione s-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and paraoxonase-1 (PON-1), while inducing the accumulation of malondialdehyde, protein carbonyl (C=O) and nitric oxide (NO), and DNA fragmentation. These effects were restored by melatonin pretreatment. Furthermore, melatonin markedly attenuated the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and fibrogenic genes via the upregulation of thioredoxin-1 mRNA transcripts. SIGNIFICANCE Melatonin exhibits potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and fibrosuppressive activities against TAA-induced hepatic fibrogenesis via the suppression of oxidative stress, DNA damage, proinflammatory cytokines and fibrogenic gene transcripts. In addition, we demonstrate that the antifibrotic activity of melatonin is mediated by the induction of thioredoxin-1 with attenuation of autotaxin expressions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A Lebda
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt.
| | - Kadry M Sadek
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhur University, Egypt
| | - Tarek K Abouzed
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafr Elsheikh University, Egypt
| | - Hossam G Tohamy
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
| | - Yasser S El-Sayed
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhur University, Egypt.
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Pathophysiology of liver fibrosis and the methodological barriers to the development of anti-fibrogenic agents. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2017; 121:3-8. [PMID: 28600202 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2017.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Revised: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis and cirrhosis resulting from long-standing liver damage represents a major health care burden worldwide. To date, there is no anti-fibrogenic agent available, making liver transplantation the only curative treatment for decompensated cirrhotic liver disease. Liver fibrosis can result from different underlying chronic liver disease, such as chronic viral infection, excessive alcohol consumption, fatty liver disease or autoimmune liver diseases. It is becoming increasingly recognised that as a result from different pathogenic mechanisms liver fibrosis must be considered as many different diseases for which individual treatment strategies need to be developed. Moreover, the pathogenic changes of both liver architecture and vascularisation in cirrhotic livers, as well as the lack of "true-to-life" in vitro models have impeded the development of an effective anti-fibrogenic drug. Thus, in order to identify an efficient anti-fibrogenic compound, novel in-vitro models mimicking the interplay between pro-fibrogenic cell populations, immune cells and, importantly, the extracellular matrix need to be developed.
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Catani L, Sollazzo D, Bianchi E, Ciciarello M, Antoniani C, Foscoli L, Caraceni P, Giannone FA, Baldassarre M, Giordano R, Montemurro T, Montelatici E, D'Errico A, Andreone P, Giudice V, Curti A, Manfredini R, Lemoli RM. Molecular and functional characterization of CD133 + stem/progenitor cells infused in patients with end-stage liver disease reveals their interplay with stromal liver cells. Cytotherapy 2017; 19:1447-1461. [PMID: 28917627 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2017.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2016] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Growing evidence supports the therapeutic potential of bone marrow (BM)-derived stem/progenitor cells for end-stage liver disease (ESLD). We recently demonstrated that CD133+ stem/progenitor cell (SPC) reinfusion in patients with ESLD is feasible and safe and improve, albeit transiently, liver function. However, the mechanism(s) through which BM-derived SPCs may improve liver function are not fully elucidated. METHODS Here, we characterized the circulating SPCs compartment of patients with ESLD undergoing CD133+ cell therapy. Next, we set up an in vitro model mimicking SPCs/liver microenvironment interaction by culturing granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF)-mobilized CD133+and LX-2 hepatic stellate cells. RESULTS We found that patients with ESLD show normal basal levels of circulating hematopoietic and endothelial progenitors with impaired clonogenic ability. After G-CSF treatment, patients with ESLD were capable to mobilize significant numbers of functional multipotent SPCs, and interestingly, this was associated with increased levels of selected cytokines potentially facilitating SPC function. Co-culture experiments showed, at the molecular and functional levels, the bi-directional cross-talk between CD133+ SPCs and human hepatic stellate cells LX-2. Human hepatic stellate cells LX-2 showed reduced activation and fibrotic potential. In turn, hepatic stellate cells enhanced the proliferation and survival of CD133+ SPCs as well as their endothelial and hematopoietic function while promoting an anti-inflammatory profile. DISCUSSION We demonstrated that the interaction between CD133+ SPCs from patients with ESLD and hepatic stellate cells induces significant functional changes in both cellular types that may be instrumental for the improvement of liver function in cirrhotic patients undergoing cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Catani
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Institute of Hematology "L. e A. Seràgnoli," University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Daria Sollazzo
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Institute of Hematology "L. e A. Seràgnoli," University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisa Bianchi
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine "Stefano Ferrari," Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Marilena Ciciarello
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Institute of Hematology "L. e A. Seràgnoli," University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara Antoniani
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Institute of Hematology "L. e A. Seràgnoli," University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Licia Foscoli
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Institute of Hematology "L. e A. Seràgnoli," University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Caraceni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Center for Applied Biomedical Research (C.R.B.A.), Azienda Ospedaliero/Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Baldassarre
- Center for Applied Biomedical Research (C.R.B.A.), Azienda Ospedaliero/Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Rosaria Giordano
- Cell Factory, Unit of Cellular Therapy and Cryobiology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Tiziana Montemurro
- Cell Factory, Unit of Cellular Therapy and Cryobiology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Elisa Montelatici
- Cell Factory, Unit of Cellular Therapy and Cryobiology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Antonia D'Errico
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Pietro Andreone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Valeria Giudice
- Immunohematology Service and Blood Bank-Azienda Ospedaliero/Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Antonio Curti
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Institute of Hematology "L. e A. Seràgnoli," University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Rossella Manfredini
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine "Stefano Ferrari," Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto Massimo Lemoli
- Clinic of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine (DiMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
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Bashandy SAE, Alaamer A, Moussa SAA, Omara EA. Role of zinc oxide nanoparticles in alleviating hepatic fibrosis and nephrotoxicity induced by thioacetamide in rats. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2017; 96:337-344. [PMID: 28813612 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2017-0247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The present research studied the influence of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs; 5, 7.5, and 10 mg/kg, i.p.) on the liver and kidney injuries motivated by thioacetamide (TAA; 100 mg/kg, i.p.). Each treatment was carried out 3 times per week for 8 weeks. ZnO-NPs relieved the decrease of hepatic or renal reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) induced by TAA. Moreover, ZnO-NPs lowered tissue malondialdehyde (MDA, an indicator for lipid peroxidation). TAA treatment led to a significant increase in plasma inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-6), liver enzymes (gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and kidney function parameters (creatinine, urea, uric acid). However, these parameters were reduced after treatment with ZnO-NPs. In addition, the hepatic fibrosis markers, hydroxyproline level, and α-smooth muscle actin immunopositive stain were lowered by ZnO-NPs. The protective effect of ZnO-NPs in respect to biochemical changes was also confirmed by histopathological and immunohistochemistry studies in the liver and kidney sections. Our results suggested that ZnO-NPs may attenuate TAA toxicity via suppression of oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir A E Bashandy
- a Department of Pharmacology, Medical Division, National Research Centre, 33 EL Bohouth St. (former EL Tahir St.), Dokki, Giza, Egypt. P.O.12622
| | - Abdulaziz Alaamer
- b Committee of Radiation and Environmental Pollution Protection (CREPP), Department of Physics, College of Science, Al-Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sherif A Abdelmottaleb Moussa
- b Committee of Radiation and Environmental Pollution Protection (CREPP), Department of Physics, College of Science, Al-Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,c Biophysics Group, Biochemistry Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Division, National Research Centre, 33 EL Bohouth St. (former EL Tahir St.), Dokki, Giza, Egypt P.O.12622
| | - Enayat A Omara
- d Department of Pathology, Medical Division, National Research Centre, 33 EL Bohouth St. (former EL Tahir St.), Dokki, Giza, Egypt. P.O.12622
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Pinzani M, Luong TV. Pathogenesis of biliary fibrosis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2017; 1864:1279-1283. [PMID: 28754450 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2017.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Revised: 07/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Chronic cholestatic liver diseases such as primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) are associated with active hepatic fibrogenesis, and, ultimately, to the development of cirrhosis. However, the precise relationship between cholestasis, in its broad meaning, and liver tissue fibrosis is still poorly defined. Fibrogenesis is currently viewed as a dynamic process that appears strictly related to the extent and duration of parenchymal injury. This relationship is clearly evident in the presence of reiterative hepatocellular necrosis due to viral infection or alcohol abuse. It appears that "pure" intralobular intrahepatic cholestasis secondary to biliary secretory failure of the hepatocyte, in absence of hepatocellular damage, lobular inflammation and bile duct damage and/or proliferation, is not associated with marked and/or progressive liver tissue fibrosis. In contrast, marked and progressive liver tissue fibrosis always follows liver diseases characterized by chronic inflammatory bile duct damage as seen in PBC and PSC or chronic mechanical obstruction of the biliary tree. Overall, the fibrogenic process in these clinical conditions appears to be related to a more complex interaction between immune/inflammatory mechanisms, cytokine networks and the derangement of the homeostasis between epithelial and mesenchymal cells. The elucidation of these mechanisms is indeed crucial for the identification of potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Pinzani
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, London NW3 2QG, United Kingdom.
| | - Tu Vinh Luong
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Royal Free Hospital, London NW3 2QG, United Kingdom
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Gu LZ, Sun H, Chen JH. Histone deacetylases 3 deletion restrains PM2.5-induced mice lung injury by regulating NF-κB and TGF-β/Smad2/3 signaling pathways. Biomed Pharmacother 2016; 85:756-762. [PMID: 27919737 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2016.11.094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2016] [Revised: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 11/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute lung injury (ALI) as a serious disease with high mortality has been emphasized as a threat to human health and life. Accumulating studies demonstrated that PM2.5 plays a significant role in metabolic and lung diseases. Histone deacetylases 3 (HDAC3) is an important regulator in control of gene transcription, required in up-regulation of inflammation-related signaling, and has been known as a key hotpot in treating a lot of chronic inflammatory diseases. TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway has been proven to be of significance in fibrosis development. Our results found that PM2.5 induced lung function injury in WT mice with a inflammatory responses through the activation of TGF-β/Smad signaling pathways, resulting in lung injury. Of note, HDAC3-deficient mice after PM2.5 administration further promoted TGF-β/Smad signaling pathways activation. In addition, TLR4, p-NF-κB and p-IκBα indicated that HDAC3 knockout mice have a higher inflammation-related signals expression in lung tissue than WT mice after PM2.5 administration, resulting in pro-inflammatory cytokines releasing. Moreover, in vitro experiment of lung epithelial cells challenged with PM2.5, further indicated that TGF-β/Smad2/3 was involved in fibrosis development, leading to inflammation response. Also, the activation of TLR4/NF-κB could be observed in PM2.5-induced lung epithelial cells, leading to inflammation infiltration. These results indicate a new therapeutic target to protect against lung injury caused by PM2.5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Zhi Gu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Huai'an First People's Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu 223002, China.
| | - Hong Sun
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Huai'an First People's Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu 223002, China
| | - Jian-Hui Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Huai'an Second People's Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu 223002, China
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Azzariti A, Mancarella S, Porcelli L, Quatrale AE, Caligiuri A, Lupo L, Dituri F, Giannelli G. Hepatic stellate cells induce hepatocellular carcinoma cell resistance to sorafenib through the laminin-332/α3 integrin axis recovery of focal adhesion kinase ubiquitination. Hepatology 2016; 64:2103-2117. [PMID: 27639064 DOI: 10.1002/hep.28835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Revised: 08/04/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED In patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) receiving sorafenib, drug resistance is common. HCC develops in a microenvironment enriched with extracellular matrix proteins including laminin (Ln)-332, produced by hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Ln-332 is the ligand of α3β1 and α6β4 integrins, differently expressed on the HCC cell surface, that deliver intracellular pathways. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Ln-332 on sorafenib's effectiveness. HCC cells were challenged with sorafenib in the presence of Ln-332 and of HSC conditioned medium (CM). Sorafenib impaired HCC cell proliferation and induced apoptosis. HSC-CM or Ln-332 inhibited sorafenib's effectiveness in HCC cells expressing both α3β1 and α6β4. Inhibiting α3 but not α6 integrin subunit using blocking antibodies or small interfering RNA abrogated the protection induced by Ln-332 and HSC-CM. Hep3B cells expressing α6β4 but lacking the α3 integrin were insensitive to Ln-332 and HSC-CM protective effects. Hep3B α3-positive, but not wild-type and scramble transfected, cells acquired protection by sorafenib when plated on Ln-332-CM or HSCs. Sorafenib dephosphorylated focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2, whereas Ln-332 and HSC-CM partially restored the pathways. Silencing FAK, but not extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2, abrogated the protection induced by Ln-332 and HSC-CM, suggesting a specific role for FAK. Sorafenib down-regulated total FAK, inducing its proteasomal degradation, while Ln-332 and HSC-CM promoted the escape of FAK from ubiquitination, probably inducing a preferential membrane localization. CONCLUSION This study unveils a novel mechanism of sorafenib resistance depending on the α3β1/Ln-332 axis and requiring FAK ubiquitination, providing new insights into personalizing therapy for patients with HCC. (Hepatology 2016;64:2103-2117).
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Affiliation(s)
- Amalia Azzariti
- National Cancer Institute, Istituto Tumori G. Paolo II, Bari, Italy
| | - Serena Mancarella
- National Institute of Gastroenterology, IRCCS "S. De Bellis", Castellana Grotte Bari, Italy
| | - Letizia Porcelli
- National Cancer Institute, Istituto Tumori G. Paolo II, Bari, Italy
| | | | | | - Luigi Lupo
- University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Dituri
- National Institute of Gastroenterology, IRCCS "S. De Bellis", Castellana Grotte Bari, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Giannelli
- National Institute of Gastroenterology, IRCCS "S. De Bellis", Castellana Grotte Bari, Italy
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Expression of pro-fibrotic and anti-fibrotic molecules in dimethylnitrosamine-induced hepatic fibrosis. Pathol Res Pract 2016; 213:58-65. [PMID: 27894619 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2016.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Revised: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic fibrosis is characterized by a progressive accumulation of fibrillar extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, produced by activated myofibroblasts which are modulated by both profibrotic and antifibrotic factors. OBJECTIVE To evaluate in vivo the expression of pro-fibrotic molecules like avβ6 integrin, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), Smad3, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and mammalian target of Rapamycin (mTOR), as well as anti-fibrotic peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) in an experimental model of chronic hepatitis-associated fibrosis induced by intraperitoneal administration of dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) in mice. METHODS Chronic hepatitis was induced in 12 Smad3 wild-type (WT) and 12 knock-out (KO) mice by intraperitoneal DMN administration. Histological, morphometric and immunohistochemical analyses using α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen types I-III, TGF-β1, Smad3, avβ6 integrin, CTGF, mTOR and PPARγ antibodies were performed. RESULTS The liver of DMN-treated Smad3 WT mice showed a higher degree of hepatic accumulation of connective tissue compared to KO mice. The expression of α-SMA, collagen I-III and CTGF was increased in Smad3 WT compared to KO mice treated with DMN, associated with a concomitant up-regulation of avβ6, TGFβ, Smad3, and mTOR and a reduction in PPARγ expression. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest a possible interaction between pro-fibrotic and anti-fibrotic molecules in the development of hepatic fibrosis.
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Algandaby MM. Antifibrotic effects of crocin on thioacetamide-induced liver fibrosis in mice. Saudi J Biol Sci 2016; 25:747-754. [PMID: 29740240 PMCID: PMC5936872 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2016.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2016] [Revised: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a major health concern that results in significant morbidity and mortality. Up-to-date, there is no standard treatment for fibrosis because of its complex pathogenesis. Crocin is one of the main nutraceuticals isolated from the stigma of Crocus sativus with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The current study aimed at evaluating the potential antifibrotic activity of crocin against thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrosis in mice as well as the underlying mechanism using silymarin as a reference antifibrotic product. Crocin at two doses (25 and 100 mg/kg) significantly ameliorated the rise in serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities, and total bilirubin (TB). Further, the high dose significantly protected against the increase in serum total cholesterol (TC) and triglycerides (TG). These effects were confirmed by light microscopic examinations. Crocin antioxidant activities were confirmed by the observed inhibition of reduced glutathione depletion (GSH), super oxide dismutase (SOD) exhaustion and malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation in liver tissue. The antifibrotic effects of crocin were explored by assessing fibrosis related gene expression. Administration of crocin (100 mg/kg) hampered expression of tumor growth factor-β (TGF-β), α alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and collagen 1-α expression and significantly raised gene expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2). Further, it reduced protein expression of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) as assessed immunohistochemically. These anti-inflammatory effects were confirmed by the observed protein expression of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Thus, it can be concluded that crocin protects against TAA-induced liver fibrosis in mice. This can be ascribed, at least partly, to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mardi M Algandaby
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
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Zhou L, Shang M, Shi M, Zhao L, Lin Z, Chen T, Wu Y, Tang Z, Sun H, Yu J, Huang Y, Yu X. Clonorchis sinensis lysophospholipase inhibits TGF-β1-induced expression of pro-fibrogenic genes through attenuating the activations of Smad3, JNK2, and ERK1/2 in hepatic stellate cell line LX-2. Parasitol Res 2016; 115:643-50. [PMID: 26486942 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4782-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2015] [Accepted: 10/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a wound healing response associated with chronic liver injury. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation is a key event in the development of liver fibrosis. Since helminths have the ability to live for decades in the host by establishing an adaptive relationship in the interplay with its hosts, we hypothesize that whether Clonochis sinensis LysophospholipaseA (CsLysoPLA), a component of excretory/secretory proteins, can attenuate the fibrogenic response by inhibiting activation of LX-2 cells, thereby balancing the pro-fibrotic and anti-fibrotic response during the Clonochis sinensis (C. sinensis) infection. In the present study, LX-2 cells were stimulated with CsLysoPLA in the presence of TGF-β1, and the expressions of collagen type I (COL1A1), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) were decreased. In addition, CsLysoPLA significantly inhibited the proliferation and migration of LX-2 cells stimulated by TGF-β1. Pretreatment of LX-2 cells with CsLysoPLA attenuated the phosphorylation of Smad3 as well as JNK2 and ERK1/2 in response to the stimulation of TGF-β1. For the first time, our results showed an anti-fibrogenic effect of CsLysoPLA by attenuating the response of LX-2 cells to TGF-β1 through inhibiting the activations of Smad3, ERK1/2, and JNK2.
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Cho Y, Cho EJ, Lee JH, Yu SJ, Kim YJ, Kim CY, Yoon JH. Hypoxia Enhances Tumor-Stroma Crosstalk that Drives the Progression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Dig Dis Sci 2016; 61:2568-77. [PMID: 27074919 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-016-4158-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Crosstalk between tumor cells and their microenvironment plays a crucial role in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Hypoxia, a common feature of advanced HCC, has been shown to modulate the evolution of the tumor microenvironment. In this study, we investigated the effect of hypoxia on tumor-stroma crosstalk in HCC. METHODS Human HCC cell lines (Huh-BAT, SNU-475) were cocultured with an activated human hepatic stellate cell line (HSCs; LX-2) under either normoxic or hypoxic conditions. Cell growth was evaluated with the MTS assay. Apoptotic signaling cascades were assessed by immunoblot analysis. Expression of CD31 and phosphorylated (p-) Akt in HCC tissues was detected by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Coculturing HCC cells with HSCs under hypoxic conditions enhanced their proliferation, migration, and resistance to bile acid (BA)-induced apoptosis compared to coculturing under normoxic conditions. Under hypoxia, of various HSC-derived growth factors, PDGF-BB was the most up-regulated, leading to the activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway in HCC cells. Immunohistochemical study also revealed that p-Akt was highly expressed in hypoxic, hypovascular HCC as compared to hypervascular HCC. Neutralizing antisera to PDGF-BB or a PI3K inhibitor attenuated the proliferation of HCC cells cocultured with HSCs, and sensitized HCC cells to BA-induced apoptosis, especially under hypoxic conditions. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, hypoxic HSC-derived PDGF-BB stimulates the proliferation of HCC cells through activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway, while the inhibition of PDGF-BB or PI3K/Akt pathways enhances apoptotic cell death. Targeting tumor-stroma crosstalk might be a novel therapy in the management of human HCCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Ju Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Hoon Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Jong Yu
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Jun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Chung Yong Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hwan Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
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Al-Rasheed N, Faddah L, Al-Rasheed N, Bassiouni YA, Hasan IH, Mahmoud AM, Mohamad RA, Yacoub HI. Protective Effects of Silymarin, Alone or in Combination with Chlorogenic Acid and/or Melatonin, Against Carbon Tetrachloride-induced Hepatotoxicity. Pharmacogn Mag 2016; 12:S337-45. [PMID: 27563222 PMCID: PMC4971954 DOI: 10.4103/0973-1296.185765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of silymarin (SIL), alone and combined with chlorogenic acid (CA) and/or melatonin (ME), using a rat model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced injury. MATERIALS AND METHODS Hepatotoxicity was induced by a single dose of CCl4 (1 ml/kg, IP). One day after, rats were received SIL (200 mg/kg) alone or in combination with CA (60 mg/kg) and/or ME (20 mg/kg) for 21 days. RESULTS SIL significantly decreased serum alanine aminotransferase, inflammatory cytokines, and vascular endothelial growth factor levels. Histological alterations, fibrogenesis, oxidative DNA damage, inflammatory mediators, and caspase-3 activity were significantly attenuated in SIL treated CCl4-intoxicated rats. On the other hand, cytochrome P450 2E1 activity showed a significant decrease in the liver of CCl4-intoxicated rats, an effect that was reversed following treatment with SIL. All beneficial effects of SIL were markedly potentiated when combined with CA and/or ME. CONCLUSIONS These data indicate that SIL, alone and combined with CA and/or ME, protected the liver against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity via attenuating inflammation, oxidative DNA damage, apoptosis, and fibrotic changes. The significantly intensified hepatoprotective effects of SIL when combined with both CA and ME suggest a possible synergism. These synergistic effects need to be further confirmed using detailed studies. SUMMARY Silymarin, chlorogenic acid and melatonin possess in vivo hepatoprotective activitySilymarin, chlorogenic acid and melatonin attenuate fibrogenesis, oxidative DNA damage, inflammation and apoptosisChlorogenic acid and melatonin enhance the hepatoprotective effect of silymarin. Abbreviations used: SIL: silymarin, CA: chlorogenic acid, ME: melatonin, CCl4: carbon tetrachloride, CYP2E1, cytochrome P450 2E1, ALT: alanine aminotransferase, IL-6: interleukin 6, IFN-γ: interferon gamma, VEGF: vascular endothelial growth factor, TNF-α: tumor necrosis factor alpha, CRP: C-reactive protein, 8-OxodG: 8-Oxo-2'-deoxyguanosine, TGF-B1: transforming growth factor beta 1, HSCs: hepatic stellate cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nouf Al-Rasheed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Laila Faddah
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nawal Al-Rasheed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yieldez A Bassiouni
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Iman H Hasan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayman M Mahmoud
- Department of Zoology, Division of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Raeesa A Mohamad
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hazar I Yacoub
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Screening for and validation of a hepatic fibrosis-related pathway induced by insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-related protein 1. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 28:762-72. [PMID: 27097355 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000000631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our previous studies characterized insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-related protein 1 (IGFBPrP1) as a molecule that promotes hepatic fibrogenesis, but its mechanism has not been fully elucidated. Here, we have investigated the effect of IGFBPrP1 on gene expression in the hepatic fibrosis-related pathway. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sprague-Dawley rats received injections of an adenovirus carrying IGFBPrP1 or EGFP cDNA into their tail veins. In hepatic preparations, hepatic stellate cell activation was determined by α-smooth muscle actin expression and hepatic fibrosis by Sirius red staining and hydroxyproline content analysis. IGFBPrP1-inducible genes of the hepatic fibrosis-related pathway were assessed by PCR array. Expression of IGFBPrP1 and transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) and array results were evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting. RESULTS IGFBPrP1-overexpressing rats showed an increase in α-smooth muscle actin expression and collagen and hydroxyproline content in the liver. The PCR array results indicated that some genes were upregulated and some were downregulated in Ad-IGFBPrP1-infected rats. Among these, Egr1, MAP2K2 (MEK2) and MAPK3 (ERK1) expression increased, whereas PTEN and Hhip mRNA expression decreased. Egr1 protein levels increased and peaked 2 weeks after infection and then decreased gradually. PTEN protein decreased gradually in Ad-IGFBPrP1-infected rats with a concurrent increase in the degree of hepatic fibrosis. TGFβ1 levels increased during hepatic fibrosis development in liver tissues. CONCLUSION Egr1, PTEN, Hhip, MAP2K2 (MEK2) and MAPK3 (ERK1) were identified as candidate genes of the IGFBPrP1-induced hepatic fibrosis-related pathway. IGFBPrP1 promoted hepatic fibrosis mainly by enhancing the TGFβ1 expression that it triggered.
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Chen HA, Chiu CC, Huang CY, Chen LJ, Tsai CC, Hsu TC, Tzang BS. Lactoferrin Increases Antioxidant Activities and Ameliorates Hepatic Fibrosis in Lupus-Prone Mice Fed with a High-Cholesterol Diet. J Med Food 2016; 19:670-7. [PMID: 27332506 DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2015.3634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin (LF) has beneficial effects against various diseases. However, the effects of LF on liver fibrosis in systematic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are unknown. In this study, NZB/W F1 mice were utilized to investigate the effects of LF on SLE. Experiments reveal that LF significantly increases glutathione and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl levels and significantly decreased malondialdehyde levels in both serum and liver in NZB/W F1 mice. LF also lowered matrix metalloproteinase-9 activity and liver inflammatory indices, such as aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase. Notably, significantly decreased expression of fibrotic related molecules, including transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and TGF-β1 receptor, were observed in the livers of NZB/W F1 mice that had been treated with LF. Significantly, suppressed Smad2/3 signaling, α-smooth muscle actin, and collagen deposition were also detected. These findings reveal that LF has beneficial effects on SLE by increasing antioxidant activities and ameliorating liver inflammation and fibrosis, suggesting the therapeutic effectiveness of LF against SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hung-An Chen
- 1 Division of Allergy-Immunology-Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chi-Mei Medical Center , Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Ching Chiu
- 2 Department of Neurology, Chunghua Christian Hospital , Chunghua, Taiwan .,3 Department of Medical Intensive Care Unit, Chunghua Christian Hospital , Chunghua, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Yang Huang
- 4 Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University , Taichung, Taiwan .,5 Graduate Institute of Chinese Medical Science, China Medical University , Taichung, Taiwan .,6 Department of Health and Nutrition Biotechnology, Asia University , Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Li-Jeng Chen
- 7 Institute of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Chou Tsai
- 7 Institute of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tsai-Ching Hsu
- 7 Institute of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan .,Immunology Research Center, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan .,Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Bor-Show Tzang
- 7 Institute of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan .,Immunology Research Center, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan .,9 Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan .,Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
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Nesset CK, Kong XY, Damme M, Schjalm C, Roos N, Løberg EM, Eskild W. Age-dependent development of liver fibrosis in Glmp (gt/gt) mice. FIBROGENESIS & TISSUE REPAIR 2016; 9:5. [PMID: 27141234 PMCID: PMC4852418 DOI: 10.1186/s13069-016-0042-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Mice lacking glycosylated lysosomal membrane protein (Glmpgt/gt mice) have liver fibrosis as the predominant phenotype due to chronic liver injury. The Glmpgt/gt mice grow and reproduce at the same rate as their wild-type siblings. Life expectancy is around 18 months. Methods Wild-type and Glmpgt/gt mice were studied between 1 week and 18 months of age. Livers were analyzed using histological, immunohistochemical, biochemical, and qPCR analyses. Results It was shown that Glmpgt/gt mice were not born with liver injury; however, it appeared shortly after birth as indicated by excess collagen expression, deposition of fibrous collagen in the periportal areas, and increased levels of hydroxyproline in Glmpgt/gt liver. Liver functional tests indicated a chronic, mild liver injury. Markers of inflammation, fibrosis, apoptosis, and modulation of extracellular matrix increased from an early age, peaking around 4 months of age and followed by attenuation of these signals. To compensate for loss of hepatocytes, the oval cell compartment was activated, with the highest activity of the oval cells detected at 3 months of age, suggesting insufficient hepatocyte proliferation in Glmpgt/gt mice around this age. Although constant proliferation of hepatocytes and oval cells maintained adequate hepatic function in Glmpgt/gt mice, it also resulted in a higher frequency of liver tumors in older animals. Conclusions The Glmpgt/gt mouse is proposed as a model for slowly progressing liver fibrosis and possibly as a model for a yet undescribed human lysosomal disorder. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13069-016-0042-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xiang Yi Kong
- Department of Bioscience, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway ; Research Institute for Internal Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway ; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway ; K.G. Jebsen Inflammation Research Centre, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Markus Damme
- Institute of Biochemistry, Christian-Albrechts-Universität Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Norbert Roos
- Department of Bioscience, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Else Marit Løberg
- Department of Pathology, Oslo University Hospital Ullevaal, Oslo, Norway
| | - Winnie Eskild
- Department of Bioscience, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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