1
|
Gongye X, Xia P, Ma T, Chai Y, Chen Z, Zhu Y, Qu C, Liu J, Guo WW, Zhang M, Liu Y, Tian M, Yuan Y. Liver Extracellular Vesicles and Particles Enriched β-Sitosterol Effectively Promote Liver Regeneration in Mice. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:8117-8137. [PMID: 39139504 PMCID: PMC11319097 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s465346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The liver's regenerative capacity allows it to repair itself after injury. Extracellular vesicles and particles (EVPs) in the liver's interstitial space are crucial for signal transduction, metabolism, and immune regulation. Understanding the role and mechanism of liver-derived EVPs in regeneration is significant, particularly after partial hepatectomy, where the mechanisms remain unclear. Methods A 70% hepatectomy model was established in mice, and EVPs were isolated and characterized using electron microscopy, nanocharacterization, and Western blot analysis. Combined metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses revealed β-sitosterol enrichment in EVPs and activation of the Hedgehog signaling pathway during regeneration. The role of β-sitosterol in EVPs on the Hedgehog pathway and its targets were identified using qRT-PCR, Western blot analysis. The regulation of carnitine synthesis by this pathway was determined using a dual luciferase assay. The effect of a β-sitosterol diet on liver regeneration was verified in mice. Results After 70% hepatectomy, the liver successfully regenerated without liver failure or death. At 24 hours post-surgery, tissue staining showed transient regeneration-associated steatosis (TRAS), with increased Ki67 positivity at 48 hours. EVPs displayed a spherical lipid bilayer structure with particle sizes of 70-130 nm. CD9, CD63, and CD81 in liver-derived EVPs were confirmed. Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses showed EVPs supplementation significantly promoted carnitine synthesis and fatty acid oxidation. Tissue staining confirmed accelerated TRAS resolution and enhanced liver regeneration with EVP supplementation. Mass spectrometry identified β-sitosterol in EVPs, which binds to Smo protein, activating the Hedgehog pathway. This led to the nuclear transport of Gli3, stimulating Setd5 transcription and inducing carnitine synthesis, thereby accelerating fatty acid oxidation. Mice with increased β-sitosterol intake showed faster TRAS resolution and liver regeneration compared to controls. Conclusion Liver-derived EVPs promote regeneration after partial hepatectomy. β-sitosterol from EVPs accelerates fatty acid oxidation and promotes liver regeneration by activating Hedgehog signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangdong Gongye
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Peng Xia
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tianyin Ma
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yibo Chai
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhang Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yimin Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chengming Qu
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wing Wa Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Minghe Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yingyi Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ming Tian
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yufeng Yuan
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
- Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences of Wuhan University, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Du J, Zhang Y, Chen J, Jin L, Pan L, Lei P, Lin S. Phenethyl isothiocyanate inhibits the carcinogenic properties of hepatocellular carcinoma Huh7.5.1 cells by activating MAPK/PI3K-Akt/p53 signaling pathways. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17532. [PMID: 38873643 PMCID: PMC11172670 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an aggressive malignancy with limited effective treatment options. Phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) is a bioactive substance present primarily in the cruciferous vegetables. PEITC has exhibited anti-cancer properties in various cancers, including lung, bile duct, and prostate cancers. It has been demonstrated that PEITC can inhibit the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of SK-Hep1 cells, while effectively inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in HepG2 cells. However, knowledge of its anti-carcinogenic effects on Huh7.5.1 cells and its underlying mechanism remains elusive. In the present study, we aim to evaluate the anti-carcinogenic effects of PEITC on human HCC Huh7.5.1 cells. Methods MTT assay and colony formation assay was performed to investigate the anti-proliferative effects of PEITC against Huh7.5.1 cells. The pro-apoptosis effects of PEITC were determined by Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining assay by flow cytometry (FCM), mitochondrial transmembrane potential (MMP) measurement, and Caspase-3 activity detection. A DAPI staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay was conducted to estimate the DNA damage in Huh7.5.1 cells induced by PEITC. Cell cycle progression was determined by FCM. Transwell invasion assay and wound healing migration assay were performed to investigate the impact of PEITC on the migration and invasion of Huh7.5.1 cells. In addition, transcriptome sequencing and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were used to explore the potential molecular mechanisms of the inhibitory effects of PEITC on HCC. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis was performed to verify the transcriptome data. Results MTT assay showed that treatment of Huh7.5.1 cells with PEITC resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in viability, and colony formation assay further confirmed its anti-proliferative effect. Furthermore, we found that PEITC could induce mitochondrial-related apoptotic responses, including a decrease of mitochondrial transmembrane potential, activation of Caspase-3 activity, and generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species. It was also observed that PEITC caused DNA damage and cell cycle arrest in the S-phase in Huh7.5.1 cells. In addition, the inhibitory effect of PEITC on the migration and invasion ability of Huh7.5.1 cells was assessed. Transcriptome sequencing analysis further suggested that PEITC could activate the typical MAPK, PI3K-Akt, and p53 signaling pathways, revealing the potential mechanism of PEITC in inhibiting the carcinogenic properties of Huh7.5.1 cells. Conclusion PEITC exhibits anti-carcinogenic activities against human HCC Huh7.5.1 cells by activating MAPK/PI3K-Akt/p53 signaling pathways. Our results suggest that PEITC may be useful for the anti-HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Du
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuting Zhang
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiajia Chen
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Libo Jin
- Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liying Pan
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Pengyu Lei
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Sue Lin
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhang M, Zhang S, Guo W, He Y. Novel molecular hepatocellular carcinoma subtypes and RiskScore utilizing apoptosis-related genes. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3913. [PMID: 38365931 PMCID: PMC10873508 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54673-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of global cancer-related deaths. Despite immunotherapy offering hope for patients with HCC, only some respond to it. However, it remains unclear how to pre-screen eligible patients. Our study aimed to address this issue. In this study, we identified 13 prognostic genes through univariate Cox regression analysis of 87 apoptosis-related genes. Subsequently, these 13 genes were analyzed using ConsensusClusterPlus, and patients were categorized into three molecular types: C1, C2, and C3. A prognostic model and RiskScore were constructed using Lasso regression analysis of 132 significant genes identified between C1 and C3. We utilized quantitative polymerase chain reaction to confirm the model's transcript level in Huh7 and THLE2 cell lines. Both molecular subtypes and RiskScores effectively predicted patients benefiting from immunotherapy. Cox regression analysis revealed RiskScore as the most significant prognosis factor, suggesting its clinical application potential and providing a foundation for future experimental research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Menggang Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
- Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shuijun Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
- Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenzhi Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
- Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
- Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou, China.
- Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Yuting He
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
- Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
- Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou, China.
- Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Duan Y, Zhang H, Tan T, Ye W, Yin K, Yu Y, Kang M, Yang J, Liao R. The immune response of hepatocellular carcinoma after locoregional and systemic therapies: The available combination option for immunotherapy. Biosci Trends 2024; 17:427-444. [PMID: 37981319 DOI: 10.5582/bst.2023.01275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is associated with a highly heterogeneous immune environment that produces an immune response to various locoregional treatments (LRTs), which in turn affects the effectiveness of immunotherapy. Although LRTs still dominate HCC therapies, 50-60% of patients will ultimately be treated with systemic therapies and might receive those treatments for the rest of their life. TACE, SIRT, and thermal ablation can dramatically increase the immunosuppressive state of HCC, a condition that can be addressed by combination with immunotherapy to restore the activity of lymphocytes and the secretion of cellular immune factors. Immune treatment with locoregional and systemic treatments has dramatically changed the management of HCC. In this review, we examine the research on the changes in the immune microenvironment after locoregional or systemic treatment. We also summarize the regulation of various immune cells and immune factors in the tumor microenvironment and discuss the different infiltration degrees of immune cells and factors on the prognosis of HCC to better compare the efficacy between different treatment methods from the perspective of the tumor microenvironment. This information can be used to help develop treatment options for the upcoming new era of HCC treatment in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Duan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tao Tan
- Chongqing Health Statistics Information Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Wentao Ye
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Kunli Yin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yanxi Yu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Meiqing Kang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jian Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Rui Liao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Esparza-Baquer A, Labiano I, Sharif O, Agirre-Lizaso A, Oakley F, Rodrigues PM, Zhuravleva E, O'Rourke CJ, Hijona E, Jimenez-Agüero R, Riaño I, Landa A, La Casta A, Zaki MYW, Munoz-Garrido P, Azkargorta M, Elortza F, Vogel A, Schabbauer G, Aspichueta P, Andersen JB, Knapp S, Mann DA, Bujanda L, Banales JM, Perugorria MJ. TREM-2 defends the liver against hepatocellular carcinoma through multifactorial protective mechanisms. Gut 2021; 70:1345-1361. [PMID: 32907830 PMCID: PMC8223629 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2019-319227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent and aggressive cancer usually arising on a background of chronic liver injury involving inflammatory and hepatic regenerative processes. The triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM-2) is predominantly expressed in hepatic non-parenchymal cells and inhibits Toll-like receptor signalling, protecting the liver from various hepatotoxic injuries, yet its role in liver cancer is poorly defined. Here, we investigated the impact of TREM-2 on liver regeneration and hepatocarcinogenesis. DESIGN TREM-2 expression was analysed in liver tissues of two independent cohorts of patients with HCC and compared with control liver samples. Experimental HCC and liver regeneration models in wild type and Trem-2-/- mice, and in vitro studies with hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and HCC spheroids were conducted. RESULTS TREM-2 expression was upregulated in human HCC tissue, in mouse models of liver regeneration and HCC. Trem-2-/- mice developed more liver tumours irrespective of size after diethylnitrosamine (DEN) administration, displayed exacerbated liver damage, inflammation, oxidative stress and hepatocyte proliferation. Administering an antioxidant diet blocked DEN-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in both genotypes. Similarly, Trem-2-/- animals developed more and larger tumours in fibrosis-associated HCC models. Trem-2-/- livers showed increased hepatocyte proliferation and inflammation after partial hepatectomy. Conditioned media from human HSCs overexpressing TREM-2 inhibited human HCC spheroid growth in vitro through attenuated Wnt ligand secretion. CONCLUSION TREM-2 plays a protective role in hepatocarcinogenesis via different pleiotropic effects, suggesting that TREM-2 agonism should be investigated as it might beneficially impact HCC pathogenesis in a multifactorial manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aitor Esparza-Baquer
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Ibone Labiano
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Omar Sharif
- Institute for Vascular Biology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Arginine Metabolism in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Multiple Sclerosis, Vienna, Austria
| | - Aloña Agirre-Lizaso
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Fiona Oakley
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Pedro M Rodrigues
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ekaterina Zhuravleva
- Department of Health and Medical Sciences, Biotech Research & Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Colm J O'Rourke
- Department of Health and Medical Sciences, Biotech Research & Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Elizabeth Hijona
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Raul Jimenez-Agüero
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Ioana Riaño
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Ana Landa
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Adelaida La Casta
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Marco Y W Zaki
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minya, Egypt
| | - Patricia Munoz-Garrido
- Department of Health and Medical Sciences, Biotech Research & Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mikel Azkargorta
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Proteomics Platform, CIC bioGUNE, ProteoRed-ISCIII, Bizkaia Science and Technology Park, Derio, Spain
| | - Felix Elortza
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Proteomics Platform, CIC bioGUNE, ProteoRed-ISCIII, Bizkaia Science and Technology Park, Derio, Spain
| | - Andrea Vogel
- Institute for Vascular Biology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Arginine Metabolism in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Multiple Sclerosis, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gernot Schabbauer
- Institute for Vascular Biology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Arginine Metabolism in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Multiple Sclerosis, Vienna, Austria
| | - Patricia Aspichueta
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Lejona, Spain
| | - Jesper B Andersen
- Department of Health and Medical Sciences, Biotech Research & Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sylvia Knapp
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Medicine I, Laboratory of Infection Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Derek A Mann
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Luis Bujanda
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Lejona, Spain
| | - Jesus Maria Banales
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Maria Jesus Perugorria
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Lejona, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Granito A, Muratori L, Lalanne C, Quarneti C, Ferri S, Guidi M, Lenzi M, Muratori P. Hepatocellular carcinoma in viral and autoimmune liver diseases: Role of CD4+ CD25+ Foxp3+ regulatory T cells in the immune microenvironment. World J Gastroenterol 2021; 27:2994-3009. [PMID: 34168403 PMCID: PMC8192285 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v27.i22.2994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
More than 90% of cases of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) occurs in patients with cirrhosis, of which hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus are the leading causes, while the tumor less frequently arises in autoimmune liver diseases. Advances in understanding tumor immunity have led to a major shift in the treatment of HCC, with the emergence of immunotherapy where therapeutic agents are used to target immune cells rather than cancer cells. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are the most abundant suppressive cells in the tumor microenvironment and their presence has been correlated with tumor progression, invasiveness, as well as metastasis. Tregs are characterized by the expression of the transcription factor Foxp3 and various mechanisms ranging from cell-to-cell contact to secretion of inhibitory molecules have been implicated in their function. Notably, Tregs amply express checkpoint molecules such as cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 and programmed cell-death 1 receptor and therefore represent a direct target of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) immunotherapy. Taking into consideration the critical role of Tregs in maintenance of immune homeostasis as well as avoidance of autoimmunity, it is plausible that targeting of Tregs by ICI immunotherapy results in the development of immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Since the use of ICI becomes common in oncology, with an increasing number of new ICI currently under clinical trials for cancer treatment, the occurrence of irAEs is expected to dramatically rise. Herein, we review the current literature focusing on the role of Tregs in HCC evolution taking into account their opposite etiological function in viral and autoimmune chronic liver disease, and we discuss their involvement in irAEs due to the new immunotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Granito
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
- Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Luigi Muratori
- Division of Internal Medicine and Immunorheumatology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Claudine Lalanne
- Division of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Chiara Quarneti
- Division of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Silvia Ferri
- Division of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Marcello Guidi
- Division of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Marco Lenzi
- Division of Internal Medicine and Immunorheumatology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Paolo Muratori
- Division of Internal Medicine, Morgagni-Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì 47100, Italy
- Department of Science for the Quality of Life, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lee HY, Hong IS. Targeting Liver Cancer Stem Cells: An Alternative Therapeutic Approach for Liver Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102746. [PMID: 32987767 PMCID: PMC7598600 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The first report of cancer stem cell (CSC) from Bruce et al. has demonstrated the relatively rare population of stem-like cells in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The discovery of leukemic CSCs prompted further identification of CSCs in multiple types of solid tumor. Recently, extensive research has attempted to identity CSCs in multiple types of solid tumors in the brain, colon, head and neck, liver, and lung. Based on these studies, we hypothesize that the initiation and progression of most malignant tumors rely largely on the CSC population. Recent studies indicated that stem cell-related markers or signaling pathways, such as aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), CD133, epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM), Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and Notch signaling, contribute to the initiation and progression of various liver cancer types. Importantly, CSCs are markedly resistant to conventional therapeutic approaches and current targeted therapeutics. Therefore, it is believed that selectively targeting specific markers and/or signaling pathways of hepatic CSCs is an effective therapeutic strategy for treating chemotherapy-resistant liver cancer. Here, we provide an overview of the current knowledge on the hepatic CSC hypothesis and discuss the specific surface markers and critical signaling pathways involved in the development and maintenance of hepatic CSC subpopulations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hwa-Yong Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Jungwon University, 85 Goesan-eup, Munmu-ro, Goesan-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do 367700, Korea;
| | - In-Sun Hong
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Korea
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 406840, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-32-899-6315; Fax: +82-32-899-6350
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Baimas-George M, Watson M, Sulzer J, Salibi P, Murphy KJ, Levi D, Martinie JB, Vrochides D, Baker EH, Ocuin L, Iannitti DA. Pathologic response translates to improved patient survival after locoregional treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma: the importance of minimally invasive microwave ablation. Surg Endosc 2020; 35:3122-3130. [PMID: 32588344 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-020-07747-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatectomy or transplantation can serve as curative treatment for early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Unfortunately, as progression remains a reality, locoregional therapies (LRT) for curative or bridging intent have become common. Efficacy on viability, outcomes, and accuracy of imaging should be defined to guide treatment. METHODS Patients with HCC who underwent minimally invasive (MIS) microwave ablation (MWA), transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), or both (MIS-MWA-TACE) prior to hepatectomy or transplantation were identified. Tumor response and preoperative computed tomography (CT) accuracy were assessed and compared to pathology. Clinical and oncologic outcomes were compared between MIS-MWA, TACE, and MIS-MWA-TACE. RESULTS Ninety-one patients, with tumors from all stages of the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging, were identified who underwent LRT prior to resection or transplant. Fourteen patients underwent MIS-MWA, 46 underwent TACE, and 31 underwent both neoadjuvantly. TACE population was older; otherwise, there were no differences in demographics. Fifty-seven percent of MIS-MWA patients had no viable tumor on pathology whereas only 13% of TACE patients and 29% of MIS-MWA-TACE patients had complete destruction (p = 0.004). The amount of remaining viable tumor in the explant was also significantly different between groups (MIS-MWA: 17.2%, TACE: 48.7%, MIS-MWA-TACE: 18.6%; p ≤ 0.0001). Compared with TACE, the MIS-MWA and MIS-MWA-TACE groups had significantly improved overall survival (MIS-MWA: 99.94 months, TACE: 75.35 months, MIS-MWA-TACE: 140 months; p = 0.017). This survival remained significant with stratification by tumor size. CT accuracy was found to be 50% sensitive and 86% specific for MIS-MWA. For TACE, CT had an 82% sensitivity and 33% specificity and for MIS-MWA-TACE, there was a 42% sensitivity and 78% specificity. CONCLUSION The impact of locoregional treatments on tumor viability is distinct and superior with MIS-MWA alone and MIS-MWA-TACE offering significant advantage over TACE alone. The extent of this effect may be implicated in the improved overall survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Baimas-George
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Michael Watson
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Jesse Sulzer
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Patrick Salibi
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Keith J Murphy
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - David Levi
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - John B Martinie
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Dionisios Vrochides
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Erin H Baker
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Lee Ocuin
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - David A Iannitti
- Division of Hepatopancreaticobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, 1025 Morehead Medical Drive, Suite 600, Charlotte, NC, 28204, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Jeng KS, Lu SJ, Wang CH, Chang CF. Liver Fibrosis and Inflammation under the Control of ERK2. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113796. [PMID: 32471201 PMCID: PMC7312875 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver injury could lead the formation of liver fibrosis, eventually some would develop to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), one of the leading malignancies worldwide. The aim of the study is to dissect the role of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2 (ERK2) signaling in liver fibrosis and inflammation. The choline-deficient, ethionine-supplemented (CDE) diet could lead to fatty livers and generate oval cells, activate hepatocyte stellate cell (HSC) and recruit immune cells as the liver fibrosis model mice. WT and ERK2 deficient (ERK2−/−) mice were compared in terms of liver weight/body weight, liver function, liver fibrosis markers and the differential gene expression in hepatotoxicity. ERK2−/− mice display the less degree of liver fibrosis when compared to WT mice. The protein level of alpha smooth muscle (α-SMA) was reduced and several hepatocellular carcinoma-related genes such as MMP9, FoxM1 were down-regulated. In addition, the cell proliferation and the percentages of activated T cells were reduced in ERK2−/− mice upon liver injury. Therefore, ERK2 plays an important role in regulating liver cirrhosis and inflammation.
Collapse
|
10
|
Li Y, Li HM, Li ZC, Yang M, Xie RF, Ye ZH, Gao X, Zhou X. Ingredients, Anti-Liver Cancer Effects and the Possible Mechanism of DWYG Formula Based on Network Prediction. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:4213-4227. [PMID: 32523357 PMCID: PMC7237122 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s238901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis virus infection plays a critical role in liver cancer initiation and development; so the purpose of this study was to investigate the anti-liver cancer effects of DiWuYangGan (DWYG) which was effective for hepatitis. Methods Network predictions were performed. Next, several tests, including HPLC, Caco-2 absorption models, MMT, protein chip, Western blotting and H22-tumor-bearing mouse, were carried out to investigate the effects and possible mechanism of DWYG. Results Network results showed DWYG might be involved in some processes such as STAT cascade. Some target genes may correspondingly participate in these procedures, such as IL-6, CASP3, AKT1, PPAR, and TP53. Diseases associated with DWYG formula may be liver cancer and hepatitis. Potential active compounds might be CUR and ISO. Chemical analysis results showed that ingredients in the formula, including DEO, SCHB, SOLA, SOLB, SCHA, LIQ, ISO, POT, and CHL, could be determined, indicating that DWYG samples for the following experiments were controllable and consistent. Caco-2 absorption of ingredients in DWYG, including DEO, SCHB, SOLA, SOLB, and LIQ, worked very well. In vitro experiment results showed that DWYG could inhibit the growth of cell lines and its effective ingredients might be SCHB, SOLB, SINA, SINB, SOLB, CUR, DEM, BIS, and GER. Further protein results showed that DWYG could upregulate the expressions of some proteins, including ERK1/2, AKT Ser473, BAD Ser112, PRAS40, Thr246, P38, Gsk-3β, and Ser9. In vivo experiment results showed that DWYG could shrink tumor size, recover ALT and AST, and decrease IL-6 levels. Their possible mechanism might be through the JAK/STAT3 pathway. Conclusion Besides the known pharmacological function of anti-hepatitis, DWYG extract expressed anti-liver cancer effects and the results were consistent partly with network predictions. ![]()
Point your SmartPhone at the code above. If you have a QR code reader the video abstract will appear. Or use: https://youtu.be/bDMyKJpiig0
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yao Li
- Pharmacy, Longhua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Han-Min Li
- Hepatology, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430061, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Cheng Li
- Surgery, Shanghai Pu Dong Hospital, Shanghai 201300, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming Yang
- Pharmacy, Longhua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui-Fang Xie
- Pharmacy, Longhua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi Hua Ye
- Hepatology, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430061, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang Gao
- Hepatology, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430061, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Zhou
- Pharmacy, Longhua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wang M, Ye Q, Mao D, Li H. Research Progress in Liver-Regenerating Microenvironment and DNA Methylation in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: The Role of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Med Sci Monit 2020; 26:e920310. [PMID: 32144233 PMCID: PMC7077739 DOI: 10.12659/msm.920310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The development, progression, recurrence, and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are closely associated with an abnormal liver-regenerating microenvironment (LRM). Therefore, preventing and reversing an abnormal LRM is a potential therapeutic strategy against HCC. Studies are increasingly focusing on the impact of regeneration, fibrosis, angiogenesis, inflammation, immunomodulation, and hepatic stem cells on HCC development and progression. As a key epigenetic mechanism, DNA methylation is extensively involved in regulating physiological and pathological pathways. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the role of DNA methylation in the fibrotic, angiogenic, inflammatory/immune, and stem cell microenvironments of HCC, and discuss new advances in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) on influencing the abnormal LRM, so as to gain new insights into alleviating the abnormal LRM via regulating DNA methylation by TCM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minggang Wang
- Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China (mainland)
| | - Qianling Ye
- Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, China (mainland)
| | - Dewen Mao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, China (mainland)
| | - Hanmin Li
- Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China (mainland)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Jeng KS, Chang CF, Lin SS. Sonic Hedgehog Signaling in Organogenesis, Tumors, and Tumor Microenvironments. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030758. [PMID: 31979397 PMCID: PMC7037908 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
During mammalian embryonic development, primary cilia transduce and regulate several signaling pathways. Among the various pathways, Sonic hedgehog (SHH) is one of the most significant. SHH signaling remains quiescent in adult mammalian tissues. However, in multiple adult tissues, it becomes active during differentiation, proliferation, and maintenance. Moreover, aberrant activation of SHH signaling occurs in cancers of the skin, brain, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, stomach, colon, breast, lung, prostate, and hematological malignancies. Recent studies have shown that the tumor microenvironment or stroma could affect tumor development and metastasis. One hypothesis has been proposed, claiming that the pancreatic epithelia secretes SHH that is essential in establishing and regulating the pancreatic tumor microenvironment in promoting cancer progression. The SHH signaling pathway is also activated in the cancer stem cells (CSC) of several neoplasms. The self-renewal of CSC is regulated by the SHH/Smoothened receptor (SMO)/Glioma-associated oncogene homolog I (GLI) signaling pathway. Combined use of SHH signaling inhibitors and chemotherapy/radiation therapy/immunotherapy is therefore key in targeting CSCs.
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhang F, Wang F, Liang B, Li Z, Shao J, Zhang Z, Wang S, Zheng S. Liver regeneration in traditional Chinese medicine: advances and challenges. Regen Med Res 2020; 8:1. [PMID: 31939733 PMCID: PMC6961567 DOI: 10.1051/rmr/190003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver diseases pose a serious problem for national health care system all over the world. Liver regeneration has profound impacts on the occurrence and development of various liver diseases, and it remains an extensively studied topic. Although current knowledge has suggested two major mechanisms for liver regeneration, including compensatory hyperplasia of hepatocytes and stem or progenitor cell-mediated regeneration, the complexity of this physiopathological process determines that its effective regulation cannot be achieved by single-target or single-component approaches. Alternatively, using traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to regulate liver regeneration is an important strategy for prevention and treatment of liver disorder and the related diseases. From the perspectives of TCM, liver regeneration can be caused by the disrupted balance between hepatic damage and regenerative capacity, and the "marrow"-based approaches have important therapeutic implications for liver regeneration. These two points have been massively supported by a number of basic studies and clinical observations during recent decades. TCM has the advantages of overall dynamic fine-tuning and early adjustment, and has exhibited enormous therapeutic benefits for various liver diseases. Here, we review the recent advances in the understanding of liver regeneration in TCM system in the hope of facilitating the application of TCM for liver diseases via regulation of liver regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhang
-
Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing 210023 PR China
-
Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Material of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing 210023 PR China
-
State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base for TCM Quality and Efficacy, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing 210023 PR 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 PR China
| | - Baoyu Liang
-
Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing 210023 PR China
| | - Zhanghao Li
-
Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing 210023 PR China
| | - Jiangjuan Shao
-
Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Material of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing 210023 PR China
-
State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base for TCM Quality and Efficacy, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing 210023 PR 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 PR China
-
Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Material of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing 210023 PR China
-
State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base for TCM Quality and Efficacy, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing 210023 PR China
| | - Shijun Wang
-
Shandong Co-innovation Center of TCM Formula, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Jinan 250355 PR 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 PR China
-
Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Material of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing 210023 PR China
-
State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base for TCM Quality and Efficacy, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing 210023 PR China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chang M, Wu M, Li H. Antitumor activities of novel glycyrrhetinic acid-modified curcumin-loaded cationic liposomes in vitro and in H22 tumor-bearing mice. Drug Deliv 2019; 25:1984-1995. [PMID: 30499350 PMCID: PMC6282420 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2018.1526227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
At present, the chemotherapy of advanced inoperable liver cancer is limited with serious side effects. Curcumin possesses multiple cancer preventive activities and low safety concerns. However, its poor solubility and instability in water pose significant pharmacological barriers to its clinical application. In this study, we presented a novel delivery system – the glycyrrhetinic acid modified curcumin-loaded cationic liposomes (GAMCLCL) and investigated its antitumor activities on HepG2 cells in vitro and in H22 tumor-bearing mice. The experimental results demonstrated that GAMCLCL was a cationic liposome and could be Intravenous administration. Compared to free curcumin, GAMCLCL exhibited stronger antitumor activities in vitro and in vivo. The antitumor results of GAMCLCL after intravenous administration were very similar to those after intratumoral administration. The main activities of GAMCLCL and curcumin included inhibition of HepG2 cell proliferation, inhibition of tumor growth, reduction of tumor microvascular density, down-regulation of the expression of VEGF protein, and up-regulation of the expression of Caspases3 protein in H22 tumor tissues. Furthermore, GAMCLCL improved the parameters of WBC, RBC, ALT, CRE, LDH of H22 tumor-bearing mice. Curcumin is a nontoxic natural compound with definite antitumor activities, its antitumor effects can be enhanced by preparation of GAMCLCL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingxiang Chang
- a First clinical medical school , Hubei University of Chinese Medicine , Wuhan , P.R. China.,b Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Wuhan , P.R. China.,c Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Wuhan , P.R.China
| | - Meimei Wu
- b Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Wuhan , P.R. China.,c Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Wuhan , P.R.China
| | - Hanmin Li
- b Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Wuhan , P.R. China.,c Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Wuhan , P.R.China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
High Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Development in Fibrotic Liver: Role of the Hippo-YAP/TAZ Signaling Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20030581. [PMID: 30700007 PMCID: PMC6387126 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20030581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death globally, accounting for approximately 800,000 deaths annually. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer, making up about 80% of cases. Liver fibrosis and its end-stage disease, cirrhosis, are major risk factors for HCC. A fibrotic liver typically shows persistent hepatocyte death and compensatory regeneration, chronic inflammation, and an increase in reactive oxygen species, which collaboratively create a tumor-promoting microenvironment via inducing genetic alterations and chromosomal instability, and activating various oncogenic molecular signaling pathways. In this article, we review recent advances in fields of liver fibrosis and carcinogenesis, and consider several molecular signaling pathways that promote hepato-carcinogenesis under the microenvironment of liver fibrosis. In particular, we pay attention to emerging roles of the Hippo-YAP/TAZ signaling pathway in stromal activation, hepatic fibrosis, and liver cancer.
Collapse
|
16
|
Vacante F, Senesi P, Montesano A, Paini S, Luzi L, Terruzzi I. Metformin Counteracts HCC Progression and Metastasis Enhancing KLF6/p21 Expression and Downregulating the IGF Axis. Int J Endocrinol 2019; 2019:7570146. [PMID: 30774659 PMCID: PMC6350585 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7570146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Revised: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the common tumor of the liver. Unfortunately, most HCC seem to be resistant to conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The poor efficacy of antitumor agents is also due, at least in part, to the inefficient drug delivery and metabolism exerted by the steatotic/cirrhotic liver that hosts the tumor. Thus, novel approaches in chemotherapy may be needed to improve the survival rate in patients with HCC. Metformin (METF) has been found to lower HCC risk; however, the mechanisms by which METF performs its anticancer activity are not completely elucidated. Previous studies have showed METF action on growth inhibition in the liver in a dose/time-dependent manner and its antitumor role by targeting multiple pathways. We investigated molecular effects of METF in an in vitro human hepatoma model (HepG2), studying cell cycle regulators, tumorigenesis markers, and insulin-like growth factor (IGF) axis regulation. MATERIALS AND METHODS HepG2 cells were treated with METF (400 μM) for 24, 48, and 72 hours. METF action on cell cycle progression and cellular pathways involved in metabolism regulation was evaluated by gene expression analysis, immunofluorescence, and Western blot assay. RESULTS By assessing HepG2 cell viability, METF significantly decreased growth cell capacity raising KLF6/p21 protein content. Moreover, METF ameliorated the cancer microenvironment reducing cellular lipid drop accumulation and promoting AMPK activity. The overexpression of IGF-II molecule and the IGF-I receptor that plays a main role in HCC progression was counteracted by METF. Furthermore, the protein content of HCC principal tumor markers, CK19 and OPN, linked to the metastasis process was significantly reduced by METF stimulus. CONCLUSION Our data show that METF could suppress HepG2 proliferation, through induction of cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase. In addition, METF effect on the cancer microenvironment and on the IGF axis leads to the development of new METF therapeutic use in HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Vacante
- Metabolism Research Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Milan, Italy
| | - Pamela Senesi
- Metabolism Research Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Montesano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Paini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Livio Luzi
- Metabolism Research Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Ileana Terruzzi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ye Z, Gao X, Zhao B, Li H, Wan M, Wu N, Chang M, Cheng S. Diwu Yanggan capsule inhibits the occurrence and development of liver cancer in the Solt-Farber rat model by regulating the Ras/Raf/Mek/Erk signaling pathway. Am J Transl Res 2018; 10:3797-3805. [PMID: 30662630 PMCID: PMC6291696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This study sought to determine the effect and explore the mechanism of the Chinese medicinal compound preparation Diwu Yanggan (DWYG) capsule on the occurrence and development of liver cancer using the Solt-Farber rat model. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly distributed into a normal group, sham group, DWYG group, sorafenib group, and model group. The DWYG group and sorafenib group were given DWYG capsule and sorafenib tablet, respectively, with induction of the model. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to detect liver pathological changes. The content of nuclear DNA in the liver was detected by Feulgen staining, and the expression of PCNA was detected by immunohistochemical staining. Molecular biology methods were used to detect the expression of liver regeneration-related factors and Ras/Raf/Mek/Erk signaling pathway-related proteins and mRNAs. HE staining showed that compared with those in the model group, the liver pathological changes in the DWYG group were significantly reduced (P < 0.05). The nuclear DNA content in the liver based on Feulgen staining and the expression of PCNA in the DWYG group was lower than that in the model group (P < 0.05). The expression of regeneration-related factors and Ras/Raf/Mek/Erk signaling pathway-related proteins and mRNAs was significantly lower in the DWYG group than in the model group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, DWYG capsules to some degree inhibit the occurrence and development of liver cancer in the Solt-Farber rat model, and the effect is not inferior to that of sorafenib. DWYG capsules likely delay the occurrence and development of liver cancer and improve the liver regeneration microenvironment by regulating the Ras/Raf/Mek/Erk signaling pathway and regeneration-related factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhihua Ye
- National Level-3 Laboratory of Cell Molecular Biology of Traditional Chinese Medicine Research, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430061, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430074, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xiang Gao
- National Level-3 Laboratory of Cell Molecular Biology of Traditional Chinese Medicine Research, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430061, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430074, Hubei Province, China
| | - Binbin Zhao
- Hubei University of Chinese MedicineWuhan 430065, Hubei Province, China
| | - Hanmin Li
- National Level-3 Laboratory of Cell Molecular Biology of Traditional Chinese Medicine Research, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430061, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430074, Hubei Province, China
| | - Ming Wan
- National Level-3 Laboratory of Cell Molecular Biology of Traditional Chinese Medicine Research, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430061, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430074, Hubei Province, China
| | - Na Wu
- Hubei University of Chinese MedicineWuhan 430065, Hubei Province, China
| | - Mingxiang Chang
- Hubei University of Chinese MedicineWuhan 430065, Hubei Province, China
| | - Sisi Cheng
- The Eighth Hospital of WuhanWuhan 430010, Hubei Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Li HM. Liver regeneration microenvironment in liver cancer: Research progress and prospect. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2018; 26:1529-1536. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v26.i26.1529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The proposal of the new concept of liver regeneration microenvironment in liver cancer (LC) contributes to the overall understanding of how LC microenvironment influences the occurrence and development of LC through liver regeneration microenvironment, inflammatory microenvironment, immune microenvironment, and angiogenesis microenvironment, and helps explore more comprehensive and effective preventive and therapeutic measures for LC to improve the capability of LC prevention and cure. On the basis of eliminating hepatocellular carcinoma cells or tissues, the maintenance of normal liver regeneration and improvement of liver regeneration microenvironment in LC is an important strategy for LC prevention and treatment. Improving liver regeneration microenvironment to prevent or reverse the occurrence, development, and metastasis of LC should be an important research direction of LC prevention and treatment research. In recent years, traditional Chinese medicine research and application have made some progress in improving liver regeneration microenvironment to prevent or reverse the occurrence, development, recurrence, and metastasis of LC. However, it remains to be solved on how to accurately reveal the comprehensive network mechanism and how to provide advanced evidence-based medical evidence, which needs further extensive research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Han-Min Li
- Institute of Liver Diseases and Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Basic Theory, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Wuhan 430061, Hubei Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lin CW, Chen YS, Lin CC, Lee PH, Lo GH, Hsu CC, Hsieh PM, Koh KW, Chou TC, Dai CY, Huang JF, Chuang WL, Chen YL, Yu ML. Autophagy-related gene LC3 expression in tumor and liver microenvironments significantly predicts recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma after surgical resection. Clin Transl Gastroenterol 2018; 9:166. [PMID: 29961754 PMCID: PMC6026596 DOI: 10.1038/s41424-018-0033-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of autophagy-related markers as the prognostic factor of post-operative hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence remained controversial. METHODS Overall, 535 consecutive HCC patients undergoing curative resection from 2010 to 2014 were followed and classified with early (ER, <2 years) or late recurrence (LR). Autophagy-related markers, LC3, Beclin-1, and p62 expression was immunohistochemically assessed in HCC and adjacent non-tumor (ANT) tissues. RESULTS HCC recurred in 245 patients: 116 with ER and 129 with LR. The cumulative incidence of recurrence at 1, 3, 5, and 7 years was 9.7%, 33.9%, 53.3%, and 66.3%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, HCC recurrence was significantly associated with low LC3 expression in tumor and ANT tissues, HCC tissues only and ANT tissues only (hazard ratio/95% confidence interval: 6.12/2.473-17.53, 4.18/1.285-13.61, and 1.89/1.299-2.757) and macrovascular invasion (1.63/1.043-2.492) and cirrhosis (1.59/1.088-2.326). ER was significantly associated with low LC3 expression in tumor and ANT tissues, HCC tissues only and ANT tissues only (6.54/2.934-15.81, 3.26/1.034-10.27, and 2.09/1.313-3.321) and macrovascular and microvascular invasion (2.65/1.306-5.343 and 2.55/1.177-5.504). LR was significantly associated with low LC3 expression in tumor and ANT tissues, HCC tissues only and ANT tissues only (5.02/1.372-18.83, 3.19/1.13-12.09, and 1.66/1.051-2.620) and cirrhosis (1.66/1.049-2.631). Patients with low and high LC3 expression in tumor and ANT tissues showed a 5-year cumulative recurrence of 94.3% and 41.7%, respectively (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The high LC3 expression in the tumor and liver microenvironments is significantly associated with lower HCC recurrence. Furthermore, tumor characteristics and liver microenvironment were also significantly associated with ER and LR, respectively. TRANSLATIONAL IMPACT The analysis for LC3 expression in both the HCC and ANT tissues could identify patients at risk of HCC recurrence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Wen Lin
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, E-Da Dachang Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Health Examination Center, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yaw-Sen Chen
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Che Lin
- Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Po-Huang Lee
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Gin-Ho Lo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chang Hsu
- Health Examination Center, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Min Hsieh
- Department of Surgery, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Kah Wee Koh
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Health Examination Center, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Ching Chou
- Department of Surgery, National Cheng-Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Yen Dai
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, and Center for Infectious Disease and Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jee-Fu Huang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, and Center for Infectious Disease and Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Long Chuang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, and Center for Infectious Disease and Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yao-Li Chen
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Lung Yu
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, and Center for Infectious Disease and Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
- Center for Intelligent Drug Systems and Smart Bio-devices, College of Biological Science and Technology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsin-Chu, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Li H, Ye Z, Gao X, Zhang L, Yao X, Gu J, Lu D, Wan M, Xiao L, Cai W, Yan X, Zhao B, Wu Y, Zhang J. Diwu Yanggan capsule improving liver histological response for patients with HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B: a randomized controlled clinical trial. Am J Transl Res 2018; 10:1511-1521. [PMID: 29887964 PMCID: PMC5992542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The number of patients with hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB) has shown a significant upward trend in recent years. However, antiviral drugs are not very effective. Regulation of liver regeneration by traditional Chinese medicine is an important way to improve clinical efficacy. This randomized controlled trial assessed the efficacy and safety of DWYG in patients with HBeAg-negative CHB. Overall, 130 subjects were randomized to (A) DWYG 1.2 g three times daily (n = 44), (B) entecavir 0.5 mg/day (n = 43) in combination with DWYG or (C) entecavir 0.5 mg/day (n = 43). The liver histological response rate was assessed as the primary efficacy endpoint. The results showed that the liver histological response rate in the combination treatment group was significantly higher than that in the group with entecavir (71.43% versus 22.22%; P = 0.036) after 48 weeks of treatment. And the pathological progression rate of liver in the group with DWYG was significantly lower than that of the entecavir group during 228 weeks of follow-up (0% versus 60.00%; P = 0.019). No significant adverse events occurred during the study. In conclusion, treating HBeAg-negative CHB with DWYG is safe and effective to improve liver histological response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanmin Li
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430061, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430074, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhihua Ye
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430061, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430074, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xiang Gao
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430061, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430074, Hubei Province, China
| | - Lisheng Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhan 430070, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xin Yao
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430061, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430074, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jianxun Gu
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430061, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430074, Hubei Province, China
| | - Dingbo Lu
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430061, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430074, Hubei Province, China
| | - Ming Wan
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430061, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430074, Hubei Province, China
| | - Lin Xiao
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430061, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430074, Hubei Province, China
| | - Wangxi Cai
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430061, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430074, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xuesheng Yan
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430061, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430074, Hubei Province, China
| | - Binbin Zhao
- Basic Medical College, Hubei University of Chinese MedicineWuhan 430065, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yu Wu
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430061, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430074, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jinrong Zhang
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430061, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineWuhan 430074, Hubei Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Thomas MB, Garrett-Mayer E, Anis M, Anderton K, Bentz T, Edwards A, Brisendine A, Weiss G, Siegel AB, Bendell J, Baron A, Duddalwar V, El-Khoueiry A. A Randomized Phase II Open-Label Multi-Institution Study of the Combination of Bevacizumab and Erlotinib Compared to Sorafenib in the First-Line Treatment of Patients with Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Oncology 2018; 94:329-339. [PMID: 29719302 DOI: 10.1159/000485384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the clinical efficacy and tolerability of the combination of bevacizumab (B) and erlotinib (E) compared to sorafenib (S) as first-line treatment for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS A total of 90 patients with advanced HCC, Child-Pugh class A-B7 cirrhosis, and no prior systemic therapy were randomly assigned (1: 1) to receive either 10 mg/kg B intravenously every 14 days and 150 mg E orally daily (n = 47) (B+E) or 400 mg S orally twice daily (n = 43). The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS). Secondary endpoints included event-free survival (EFS), objective response rate based on Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST 1.1), time to progression, and safety and tolerability. RESULTS The median OS was 8.55 months (95% CI: 7.00-13.9) for patients treated with B+E and 8.55 months (95% CI: 5.69-12.2) for patients receiving S. The hazard ratio (HR) for OS was 0.92 (95% CI: 0.57-1.47). The median EFS was 4.37 months (95% CI: 2.99-7.36) for patients receiving B+E and 2.76 months (95% CI: 1.84-4.80) for patients receiving S. The HR for EFS was 0.67 (95% CI: 0.42-1.07; p = 0.09), favoring B+E over S. When OS was assessed among patients who were Child-Pugh class A, the median OS was 11.4 months (95% CI: 7.5-15.7) for patients treated with B+E (n = 39) and 10.26 months (95% CI: 5.9-13.0) for patients treated with S (n = 38) (HR = 0.88; 95% CI: 0.53-1.46). CONCLUSIONS There was no difference in efficacy between the B+E and S arms, although the safety and tolerability profile tended to favor B+E over S based on competing risk analysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie B Thomas
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA.,Gibbs Cancer Center and Research Institute, Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System, Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA
| | - Elizabeth Garrett-Mayer
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Munazza Anis
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Kate Anderton
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Tricia Bentz
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Andie Edwards
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Alan Brisendine
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Geoffrey Weiss
- Department of Oncology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Abby B Siegel
- New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Johanna Bendell
- GI Oncology Research, Sarah Canon Research Institute, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Ari Baron
- California Pacific Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Vinay Duddalwar
- Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Anthony El-Khoueiry
- Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Seino S, Tsuchiya A, Watanabe Y, Kawata Y, Kojima Y, Ikarashi S, Yanai H, Nakamura K, Kumaki D, Hirano M, Funakoshi K, Aono T, Sakai T, Sakata J, Takamura M, Kawai H, Yamagiwa S, Wakai T, Terai S. Clinical outcome of hepatocellular carcinoma can be predicted by the expression of hepatic progenitor cell markers and serum tumour markers. Oncotarget 2018; 9:21844-21860. [PMID: 29774107 PMCID: PMC5955154 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.25074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The high heterogeneity of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) complicates stratification of HCC patients for treatment. Therefore, it is necessary to establish a comprehensive panel of HCC biomarkers related to tumour behaviour and cancer prognosis. Resected HCCs from 251 patients were stained for hepatic progenitor cell (HPC) markers epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM), neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), delta-like 1 homolog (DLK1), and cytokeratin 19 (CK19). Staining patterns were analysed for their prognostic association with relapse-free survival and overall survival. α-Fetoprotein (AFP), lectin-reactive α-fetoprotein (AFP-L3), and des-γ-carboxy prothrombin (DCP) were assessed as indicators of HPC protein expression. Expression pattern of HPC markers correlated with tumour malignancy indicated by high AFP/AFP-L3 serum levels, more frequent vascular invasion, and poorer tumour differentiation. EpCAM expression, DCP ≥300 mAU/ml, age ≥60, and Child-Pugh score grade B or C were independent prognostic factors of poor outcome and were used in a new scoring system for HCC prognosis after operation. Expression of two or more HPC markers was a significant predictor of poor HCC outcome and serum levels of AFP/AFP-L3 correlated with the expression of HPC proteins. Our study paved the way for further elucidation of the association among HPC markers, serum tumour markers, and HCC clinical outcome for precision medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Seino
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Chuo-Ku, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Atsunori Tsuchiya
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Chuo-Ku, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Yusuke Watanabe
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Chuo-Ku, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Yuzo Kawata
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Chuo-Ku, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Yuichi Kojima
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Chuo-Ku, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Shunzo Ikarashi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Chuo-Ku, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Yanai
- Drug Discovery Laboratories, Chiome Bioscience Inc., 907 Nogawa, Miyamae-Ku, Kawasaki-Shi, Kanagawa 216-0001, Japan
| | - Koji Nakamura
- Drug Discovery Laboratories, Chiome Bioscience Inc., 907 Nogawa, Miyamae-Ku, Kawasaki-Shi, Kanagawa 216-0001, Japan
| | - Daisuke Kumaki
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Niigata Prefectural Central Hospital, Joetsu-Shi, Niigata 943-0147, Japan
| | - Masaaki Hirano
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Niigata Prefectural Central Hospital, Joetsu-Shi, Niigata 943-0147, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Funakoshi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Niigata Prefectural Central Hospital, Joetsu-Shi, Niigata 943-0147, Japan
| | - Takashi Aono
- Division of Surgery, Niigata Prefectural Central Hospital, Joetsu-Shi, Niigata 943-0147, Japan
| | - Takeshi Sakai
- Division of Diagnostic Pathology, Niigata Prefectural Central Hospital, Joetsu-Shi, Niigata 943-0147, Japan
| | - Jun Sakata
- Division of Digestive and General Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Chuo-Ku, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Masaaki Takamura
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Chuo-Ku, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Kawai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Chuo-Ku, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Satoshi Yamagiwa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Chuo-Ku, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Toshifumi Wakai
- Division of Digestive and General Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Chuo-Ku, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Shuji Terai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Chuo-Ku, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Ali MM, H Borai I, Ghanem HM, H Abdel-Halim A, Mousa FM. The prophylactic and therapeutic effects of Momordica charantia methanol extract through controlling different hallmarks of the hepatocarcinogenesis. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 98:491-498. [PMID: 29287196 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.12.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Revised: 12/17/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Inspite of the wide facilities for controlling cancer growth, there are little drugs to inhibit its metastasis or prevent its angiogenesis. Discovering such natural or synthetic multi-targeted agent that might strike different targets is considered as a vital goal for tumor controlling. In a previous study, the chemoprotective effect of methanol extract of Momordicacharantia (MEMC) on albino western rats bearing hepatocarcinogenesis was evaluated. The mechanism by which MEMC exert its anticancer properties was unknown. Therefore, we aimed in this study to investigate the possible role of MEMC as anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenic and anti-metastatic agent to exert its chemoprotective effect. The study was conducted on sixty albino western rats divided into six groups, 10 rats each. Diethylnitrosamine (DENA) was injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight once, 2 weeks later rats were received carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) subcutaneously (3 ml/kg/week) continued for 10 weeks. MEMC was orally produced to rats (40 mg/kg) alone, as well as before, at the same time and after DENA injection. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), caspase-3,-8 (Casp-3,-8), histone deacetylase (HDAC) and matrixmetalloproteinases-2,-9 (MMP-2,-9) were evaluated. MEMC treatment significantly decreased Cox-2, VEGF, HDAC and MMP-2,-9 and increased Casp-3,-8 as compared to DENAgroup,which demonstrated that the anticancer effect of MEMC may be through the inhibition of angiogenesis, proliferation and metastasis and the activation of apoptosis. The improvement in before-treated group was more pronounced than that in after- and simultaneous-treated groups, indicating thatMEMC may act as a prophylactic agent more than being a therapeutic agent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mamdouh M Ali
- Biochemistry Department, Division of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, National Research Centre, Dokki, 12622, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Ibrahim H Borai
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hala M Ghanem
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abeer H Abdel-Halim
- Biochemistry Department, Division of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, National Research Centre, Dokki, 12622, Giza, Egypt
| | - Fatma M Mousa
- Biochemistry Department, Division of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, National Research Centre, Dokki, 12622, Giza, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Eun HS, Cho SY, Joo JS, Kang SH, Moon HS, Lee ES, Kim SH, Lee BS. Gene expression of NOX family members and their clinical significance in hepatocellular carcinoma. Sci Rep 2017; 7:11060. [PMID: 28894215 PMCID: PMC5593889 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-11280-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase complex-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) promote chronic liver inflammation and remodeling that can drive hepatocellular carcinoma development. The role of NOX expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been partially investigated; however, the clinical relevance of collective or individual NOX family member expression for HCC survival remains unclear. Here, we obtained NOX mRNA expression data for 377 HCC samples and 21 normal liver controls from the TCGA data portal and performed Kaplan-Meier survival, gene ontology functional enrichment, and gene set enrichment analyses. Although most NOX genes exhibited little change, some were significantly induced in HCC compared to that in normal controls. In addition, HCC survival analyses indicated better overall survival in patients with high NOX4 and DUOX1 expression, whereas patients with high NOX1/2/5 expression showed poor prognoses. Gene-neighbour and gene set enrichment analyses revealed that NOX1/2/5 were strongly correlated with genes associated with cancer cell survival and metastasis, whereas increased NOX4 and DUOX1 expression was associated with genes that inhibit tumour progression. On the basis of these data, NOX family gene expression analysis could be a predictor of survival and identify putative therapeutic targets in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyuk Soo Eun
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 282, Munwha-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Chungnam National University, 266, Munwha-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Yeon Cho
- School of Medicine, Chungnam National University, 266, Munwha-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Seok Joo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 282, Munwha-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Chungnam National University, 266, Munwha-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Hyung Kang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 282, Munwha-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Chungnam National University, 266, Munwha-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Seok Moon
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 282, Munwha-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Chungnam National University, 266, Munwha-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eaum Seok Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 282, Munwha-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Chungnam National University, 266, Munwha-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok Hyun Kim
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 282, Munwha-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Chungnam National University, 266, Munwha-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Seok Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 282, Munwha-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Chungnam National University, 266, Munwha-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Abstract
中医药调控肝再生是防治肝病及其相关病证的重要策略, 已形成的研究热点方兴未艾. 近些年来取得的主要进展至少包括以下几个方面: 调控肝损伤与肝再生失衡提高了中医/中西医结合防治肝病及其相关病证的临床疗效, "髓"为中心治疗靶点的研究进展揭示了中医/中西医结合防治肝病及其相关病证的疗效机制, 整体动态微调早调的作用方式满足了肝再生调控复杂多变的需要, 解决了单靶点调控肝再生疗效有限的关键科学问题, 平衡协调的疗效考核与结局指标的综合判断为中医药调控肝再生的临床推广应用提供了途径和方法.
Collapse
|
26
|
Li HM, Ye ZH. Microenvironment of liver regeneration in liver cancer. Chin J Integr Med 2017; 23:555-560. [PMID: 28523536 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-017-2806-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2014] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence and development of liver cancer are essentially the most serious outcomes of uncontrolled liver regeneration. The progression of liver cancer is inevitably related to the abnormal microenvironment of liver regeneration. The deterioration observed in the microenvironment of liver regeneration is a necessary condition for the occurrence, development and metastasis of cancer. Therefore, the use of a technique to prevent and treat liver cancer via changes in the microenvironment of liver regeneration is a novel strategy. This strategy would be an effective way to delay, prevent or even reverse cancer occurrence, development and metastasis through an improvement in the liver regeneration microenvironment along with the integrated regulation of multiple components, targets, levels, channels and time sequences. In addition, the treatment of "tonifying Shen (Kidney) to regulate liver regeneration and repair by affecting stem cells and their microenvironment" can regulate "the dynamic imbalance between the normal liver regeneration and the abnormal liver regeneration"; this would improve the microenvironment of liver regeneration, which is also a mechanism by which liver cancer may be prevented or treated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Han-Min Li
- Institute of Application Foundation and Institute of Liver Diseases, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430061, China. .,Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430074, China.
| | - Zhi-Hua Ye
- Institute of Application Foundation and Institute of Liver Diseases, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430061, China.,Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430074, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Chen XB, Zheng XB, Cai ZX, Lin XJ, Xu MQ. MicroRNA-203 promotes liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy in cirrhotic rats. J Surg Res 2016; 211:53-63. [PMID: 28501131 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2016.11.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2016] [Revised: 11/06/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver resection or partial hepatectomy (PH) is still the most commonly used therapeutic option for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) at present. However, the impaired regenerative ability induced by the accompanied liver cirrhosis is an important risk factor of posthepatectomy liver failure, and posthepatectomy liver failure is a feared complication that accounts for up to 75% of mortality after extensive liver resection. MicroRNA(miR)-203 is a tumor suppressor of HCC and may act as a positive intermediary in A20-enhanced interleukin (IL-6)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pro-proliferative signals, which may promote liver regeneration after PH. However, its direct pro-proliferative effect on cirrhotic liver after hepatectomy is unknown. MATERIALS AND METHODS Liver cirrhosis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of 50% CCl4-olive oil solution in adult male Wistar rat. Rats with liver cirrhosis received portal vein injection of physiological saline, miR-203 lentivirus, or control empty lentivirus, and then 70% PH was performed under ether anesthesia 7 d later. Liver samples were harvested at 0, 24, 36, and 72 h after 70% PH. Hepatic expressions of cyclin D1 and Ki67 were checked to evaluate the liver regenerative ability. Hepatic expressions of IL-6, suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3), and phospho-STAT3 were also tested to clarify the mechanisms of miR-203 in liver regeneration. RESULTS The regeneration of miR-203 overexpression cirrhotic liver after 70% PH was enhanced and peaked at 24 and 36 h after 70% PH. The cyclin D1-positive liver cells/high-power field (HPF) in miR-203 overexpression liver markedly increased at 24 and 36 h after 70% PH compared with 0-h samples. When comparing with the control groups, cyclin D1-positive liver cells/HPF in miR-203 overexpression liver were also significantly increased at 24 and 36 h after 70% PH. A similar result of the Ki67-positive liver cells/HPF was achieved at 36 h after 70% PH. The hepatic expression of IL-6 showed a rising tendency after 70% PH, and the levels of IL-6 are significantly higher in miR-203 overexpression livers. Hepatic expression of SOCS3 was negatively expressed with hepatic miR-203 expression level, and the reduced expression of SOCS3 facilitated the phosphorylation of STAT3. CONCLUSIONS By targeting SOCS3 and then enhancing proliferating IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway, hepatic overexpression of miR-203 can facilitate the initiation of liver regeneration and enhance the potency of liver regeneration after 70% PH in cirrhotic rat. Together with the tumor suppressive effect on HCC, miR-203 would be an ideal candidate for promoting liver regeneration in HCC patients undergoing liver resection without the risk of tumorigenesis or cancer recurrence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Bo Chen
- Department of Liver Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xiao-Bo Zheng
- Department of Liver Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Zhen-Xing Cai
- Department of Liver Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xian-Jian Lin
- Department of Liver Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Ming-Qing Xu
- Department of Liver Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|