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Hassan HA, Nageeb MM, Mohammed HO, Samy W, Fawzy A, Afifi R, Abbas NAT. Dapagliflozin dampens liver fibrosis induced by common bile duct ligation in rats associated with the augmentation of the hepatic Sirt1/AMPK/PGC1α/FoxO1 axis. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2024; 489:116991. [PMID: 38871090 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2024.116991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is considered an epidemic health problem due to different insults that lead to death. Dapagliflozin (DAPA), a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, is one of the newer anti-diabetic drugs used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). DAPA exerted beneficial effects in many human and rat models due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic activities. AIM Due to previously reported capabilities related to DAPA, we designed this study to clarify the beneficial role of DAPA in liver fibrosis triggered by common bile duct ligation (CBL) in male rats. METHODS For 14 or 28 days after CBL procedures, DAPA was administered to the rats orally at a dose of 10 mg/kg once daily. The effects of DAPA were evaluated by assaying liver enzymes, hepatic oxidant/antioxidant parameters, serum levels of tumor necrotic factor alpha (TNF-α), and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). In addition, we measured the hepatic expression of fibrosis regulator-related genes along with evaluating liver histological changes. KEY FINDINGS DAPA successfully decreased hepatic enzymes and malondialdehyde levels, increased superoxide dismutase activity, elevated catalase levels, decreased serum levels of TNF-α, elevated serum levels of AMPK, decreased liver hydroxyproline content, upregulated Sirt1/PGC1α/FoxO1 liver gene expressions, down-regulated fibronectin-1 (Fn-1), collagen-1 genes in liver tissues, and improved the damaged liver tissues. Deteriorated biochemical parameters and histological liver insults associated with CBL were more pronounced after 28 days, but DAPA administration for 14 and 28 days showed significant improvement in most parameters and reflected positively in the histological structures of the liver. SIGNIFICANCE The significance of this study lies in the observation that DAPA mitigated CBL-induced liver fibrosis in rats, most likely due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic effects. These results suggest that DAPA's beneficial impact on liver fibrosis might be attributed to its interaction with the Sirt1/AMPK/PGC1α/FoxO1 pathway, indicating a potential mechanistic action for future exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba A Hassan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mutah University, P.O. Box 7, Al-Karak 61710, Jordan
| | - Mahitab M Nageeb
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt.
| | - Heba Osama Mohammed
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Walaa Samy
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 45519, Egypt
| | - Amal Fawzy
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 45519, Egypt
| | | | - Noha A T Abbas
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
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Miguel V, Alcalde-Estévez E, Sirera B, Rodríguez-Pascual F, Lamas S. Metabolism and bioenergetics in the pathophysiology of organ fibrosis. Free Radic Biol Med 2024; 222:85-105. [PMID: 38838921 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2024.06.001] [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] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis is the tissue scarring characterized by excess deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, mainly collagens. A fibrotic response can take place in any tissue of the body and is the result of an imbalanced reaction to inflammation and wound healing. Metabolism has emerged as a major driver of fibrotic diseases. While glycolytic shifts appear to be a key metabolic switch in activated stromal ECM-producing cells, several other cell types such as immune cells, whose functions are intricately connected to their metabolic characteristics, form a complex network of pro-fibrotic cellular crosstalk. This review purports to clarify shared and particular cellular responses and mechanisms across organs and etiologies. We discuss the impact of the cell-type specific metabolic reprogramming in fibrotic diseases in both experimental and human pathology settings, providing a rationale for new therapeutic interventions based on metabolism-targeted antifibrotic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verónica Miguel
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (CNIC), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Elena Alcalde-Estévez
- Program of Physiological and Pathological Processes, Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa" (CBMSO) (CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain; Department of Systems Biology, Facultad de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Belén Sirera
- Program of Physiological and Pathological Processes, Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa" (CBMSO) (CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Rodríguez-Pascual
- Program of Physiological and Pathological Processes, Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa" (CBMSO) (CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Santiago Lamas
- Program of Physiological and Pathological Processes, Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa" (CBMSO) (CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain.
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Guo JT, Li HY, Cheng C, Shi JX, Ruan HN, Li J, Liu CM. Lead-induced liver fibrosis and inflammation in mice by the AMPK/MAPKs/NF-κB and STAT3/TGF-β1/Smad2/3 pathways: the role of Isochlorogenic acid a. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2024; 13:tfae072. [PMID: 38737339 PMCID: PMC11081073 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfae072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is a nonessential heavy metal, which can cause many health problems. Isochlorogenic acid A (ICAA), a phenolic acid present in tea, fruits, vegetables, coffee, plant-based food products, and various medicinal plants, exerts multiple effects, including anti-oxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic functions. Thus, the purpose of our study was to determine if ICAA could prevent Pb-induced hepatotoxicity in ICR mice. An evaluation was performed on oxidative stress, inflammation and fibrosis, and related signaling. The results indicate that ICAA attenuates Pb-induced abnormal liver function. ICAA reduced liver fibrosis, inflammation and oxidative stress caused by Pb. ICAA abated Pb-induced fibrosis and decreased inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). ICAA abrogated reductions in activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Masson staining revealed that ICAA reduced collagen fiber deposition in Pb-induced fibrotic livers. Western blot and immunohistochemistry analyses showed ICAA increased phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK) expression. ICAA also reduced the expression of collagen I, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK), phosphorylated c-jun N-terminal kinase (p-JNK), p-p38, phosphorylated signal transducer and phosphorylated activator of transcription 3 (p-STAT3), transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), and p-Smad2/3 in livers of mice. Overall, ICAA ameliorates Pb-induced hepatitis and fibrosis by inhibiting the AMPK/MAPKs/NF-κB and STAT3/TGF-β1/Smad2/3 pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Tao Guo
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, No. 101, Shanghai Road, Tongshan New Area, 221116, Xuzhou City, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Han-Yu Li
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, No. 101, Shanghai Road, Tongshan New Area, 221116, Xuzhou City, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Chao Cheng
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, No. 101, Shanghai Road, Tongshan New Area, 221116, Xuzhou City, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Jia-Xue Shi
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, No. 101, Shanghai Road, Tongshan New Area, 221116, Xuzhou City, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Hai-Nan Ruan
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, No. 101, Shanghai Road, Tongshan New Area, 221116, Xuzhou City, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Jun Li
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, No. 101, Shanghai Road, Tongshan New Area, 221116, Xuzhou City, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Chan-Min Liu
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, No. 101, Shanghai Road, Tongshan New Area, 221116, Xuzhou City, Jiangsu Province, PR China
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Yang C, Rubin L, Yu X, Lazarovici P, Zheng W. Preclinical evidence using synthetic compounds and natural products indicates that AMPK represents a potential pharmacological target for the therapy of pulmonary diseases. Med Res Rev 2024; 44:1326-1369. [PMID: 38229486 DOI: 10.1002/med.22014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a highly conserved eukaryotic enzyme discovered as a key regulator of cellular energy homeostasis, with anti-inflammation, antioxidative stress, anticancer, and antifibrosis beneficial effects. AMPK is dysregulated in human pulmonary diseases such as acute lung injury, nonsmall cell lung cancer, pulmonary fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and asthma. This review provides an overview of the beneficial role of natural, synthetic, and Chinese traditional medicines AMPK modulators in pulmonary diseases, and highlights the role of the AMPK signaling pathway in the lung, emphasizing the importance of finding lead compounds and drugs that can target and modulate AMPK to treat the lung diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Yang
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Limor Rubin
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Xiyong Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Philip Lazarovici
- School of Pharmacy Institute for Drug Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Wenhua Zheng
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
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Xu X, Fang Y, Nowsheen S, Li YX, Lou Z, Deng M. Regulation of AMPK activation by extracellular matrix stiffness in pancreatic cancer. Genes Dis 2024; 11:101035. [PMID: 38292173 PMCID: PMC10825306 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) sits at a central node in the regulation of energy metabolism and tumor progression. AMPK is best known to sense high cellular ADP or AMP levels, which indicate the depletion of energy stores. Previous studies have shown that the low expression of phosphorylated AMPK is associated with a poor prognosis of pancreatic cancer. In this study, we report that AMPK is also highly sensitive to extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness. We found that AMPK is activated in cells when cultured under low ECM stiffness conditions and is functionally required for the metabolic switch induced by ECM stiffness. This regulation of AMPK requires the Hippo kinases but not LKB1/CaMKKβ. Hippo kinases directly phosphorylate AMPKα at Thr172 to activate AMPK at low ECM stiffness. Furthermore, we found AMPK activity is inhibited in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) with high ECM stiffness and is associated with a poor survival outcome. The activation of Hippo kinases by ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 in combination with the mitochondrial inhibitor metformin synergistically activates AMPK and dramatically inhibits PDAC growth. Together, these findings establish a novel model for AMPK regulation by the mechanical properties of ECMs and provide a rationale for simultaneously targeting the ECM stiffness-Hippo kinases-AMPK signaling and low glucose-LKB1-AMPK signaling pathways as an effective therapeutic strategy against PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Department of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Yuan Fang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Somaira Nowsheen
- Department of Dermatology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Ye-Xiong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Department of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Zhenkun Lou
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Min Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Department of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
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Salminen A. AMPK signaling inhibits the differentiation of myofibroblasts: impact on age-related tissue fibrosis and degeneration. Biogerontology 2024; 25:83-106. [PMID: 37917219 PMCID: PMC10794430 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-023-10072-9] [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: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Disruption of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and an accumulation of fibrotic lesions within tissues are two of the distinctive hallmarks of the aging process. Tissue fibroblasts are mesenchymal cells which display an impressive plasticity in the regulation of ECM integrity and thus on tissue homeostasis. Single-cell transcriptome studies have revealed that tissue fibroblasts exhibit a remarkable heterogeneity with aging and in age-related diseases. Excessive stress and inflammatory insults induce the differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts which are fusiform contractile cells and abundantly secrete the components of the ECM and proteolytic enzymes as well as many inflammatory mediators. Detrimental stresses can also induce the transdifferentiation of certain mesenchymal and myeloid cells into myofibroblasts. Interestingly, many age-related stresses, such as oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stresses, ECM stiffness, inflammatory mediators, telomere shortening, and several alarmins from damaged cells are potent inducers of myofibroblast differentiation. Intriguingly, there is convincing evidence that the signaling pathways stimulated by the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) are potent inhibitors of myofibroblast differentiation and accordingly AMPK signaling reduces fibrotic lesions within tissues, e.g., in age-related cardiac and pulmonary fibrosis. AMPK signaling is not only an important regulator of energy metabolism but it is also able to control cell fate determination and many functions of the immune system. It is known that AMPK signaling can delay the aging process via an integrated signaling network. AMPK signaling inhibits myofibroblast differentiation, e.g., by suppressing signaling through the TGF-β, NF-κB, STAT3, and YAP/TAZ pathways. It seems that AMPK signaling can alleviate age-related tissue fibrosis and degeneration by inhibiting the differentiation of myofibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antero Salminen
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, 70211, Kuopio, Finland.
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Wei W, Li T, Chen J, Fan Z, Gao F, Yu Z, Jiang Y. SIRT3/6: an amazing challenge and opportunity in the fight against fibrosis and aging. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:69. [PMID: 38294557 PMCID: PMC10830597 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-05093-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a typical aging-related pathological process involving almost all organs, including the heart, kidney, liver, lung, and skin. Fibrogenesis is a highly orchestrated process defined by sequences of cellular response and molecular signals mechanisms underlying the disease. In pathophysiologic conditions associated with organ fibrosis, a variety of injurious stimuli such as metabolic disorders, epigenetic changes, and aging may induce the progression of fibrosis. Sirtuins protein is a kind of deacetylase which can regulate cell metabolism and participate in a variety of cell physiological functions. In this review, we outline our current understanding of common principles of fibrogenic mechanisms and the functional role of SIRT3/6 in aging-related fibrosis. In addition, sequences of novel protective strategies have been identified directly or indirectly according to these mechanisms. Here, we highlight the role and biological function of SIRT3/6 focus on aging fibrosis, as well as their inhibitors and activators as novel preventative or therapeutic interventions for aging-related tissue fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxin Wei
- School of Queen Mary, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, China
| | - Tian Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
| | - Jinlong Chen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nangchang University, 999 Xuefu Rd, Nanchang, 330031, China
| | - Zhen Fan
- The Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, 712000, China.
| | - Feng Gao
- Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, 712046, China
| | - Zhibiao Yu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nangchang University, 999 Xuefu Rd, Nanchang, 330031, China
| | - Yihao Jiang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nangchang University, 999 Xuefu Rd, Nanchang, 330031, China.
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Wu W, Li Y, Wu X, Liang J, You W, He X, Feng Q, Li T, Jia X. Carnosic acid nanocluster-based framework combined with PD-1 inhibitors impeded tumorigenesis and enhanced immunotherapy in hepatocellular carcinoma. Funct Integr Genomics 2024; 24:5. [PMID: 38182693 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-024-01286-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Clinically, the immune checkpoint inhibitor anti-PD-1 antibody has shown a certain effect in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which is limited to a small number of patients with HCC. This study aims to reveal whether carnosic acid nanocluster-based framework (CA-NBF) has a sensitization effect on anti-PD-1 antibody in the treatment of HCC at the cellular and animal levels. MHCC97H cells were treated with CA-NBF, anti-PD-1 and their combination. The effects of CA-NBF and anti-PD-1 on cell proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, invasion, and migration were evaluated by MTT assay, flow cytometry, and scratch test. The effects of CA-NBF and anti-PD-1 on Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in MHCC97H cells were detected. A BALB/C nude mouse model of hepatocellular carcinoma was established, and the tumor growth was observed at different time points. The expression of cytotoxic T lymphocyte and helper T lymphocyte markers CD8 and CD4 in tumor tissues was detected by immunohistochemistry. Western blotting was used to detect the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway proteins (Wnt-3a, β-catenin, and GSK-3β) level in tumor tissues after CA-NBF and anti-PD-1 treatment. CA-NBF activity was significantly higher than CA, which could prominently reduce the proliferation, migration and invasion of MHCC97H cells and enhance apoptosis by inactivating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. CA-NBF combined with anti-PD-1 antibody further enhanced cell proliferation, migration, invasion and pro-apoptosis but had no significant effect on Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. CA-NBF in vivo improved the tumor response to PD1 immune checkpoint blockade in HCC, manifested by reducing tumor size and weight, promoting CD4 and CD8 expression. CA-NBF combined with anti-PD-1 have stronger immunomodulatory and anticancer effects without increasing biological toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhua Wu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, Xi'wu Road,, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Yaping Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, Xi'wu Road,, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaokang Wu
- Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - Junrong Liang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China
| | - Weiming You
- National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnosis and Biotherapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
- Department of Tumor and Immunology in Precision Medical Institute, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Port, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xinyuan He
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, Xi'wu Road,, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qinhui Feng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ting Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, Xi'wu Road,, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaoli Jia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, Xi'wu Road,, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China.
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Zhang J, Brown R, Hogan MV, Wang JHC. Mitigating Scar Tissue Formation in Tendon Injuries: Targeting HMGB1, AMPK Activation, and Myofibroblast Migration All at Once. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1739. [PMID: 38139865 PMCID: PMC10748062 DOI: 10.3390/ph16121739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Tendon injuries, while prevalent, present significant challenges regarding their structural and functional restoration. Utilizing alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)-Ai9-scleraxis (Scx)-green fluorescent protein (GFP) transgenic mice, which exhibit both Scx (a tendon cell marker) and α-SMA (a myofibroblast marker), we explored the effects of metformin (Met) on tendon healing, repair, and its mechanisms of action. Our findings revealed that intraperitoneal (IP) injections of Met, administered before or after injury, as well as both, effectively prevented the release of HMGB1 into the tendon matrix and reduced circulating levels of HMGB1. Additionally, Met treatment increased and activated AMPK and suppressed TGF-β1 levels within the healing tendon. Tendon healing was also improved by blocking the migration of α-SMA+ myofibroblasts, reducing the prevalence of disorganized collagen fibers and collagen type III. It also enhanced the presence of collagen type I. These outcomes highlight Met's anti-fibrotic properties in acutely injured tendons and suggest its potential for repurposing as a therapeutic agent to minimize scar tissue formation in tendon injuries, which could have profound implications in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianying Zhang
- MechanoBiology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, E-1640 BST, 200 Lothrop Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (J.Z.); (R.B.); (M.V.H.)
| | - Roshawn Brown
- MechanoBiology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, E-1640 BST, 200 Lothrop Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (J.Z.); (R.B.); (M.V.H.)
| | - MaCalus V. Hogan
- MechanoBiology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, E-1640 BST, 200 Lothrop Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (J.Z.); (R.B.); (M.V.H.)
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - James H-C. Wang
- MechanoBiology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, E-1640 BST, 200 Lothrop Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (J.Z.); (R.B.); (M.V.H.)
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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Qiuling L, Qilin Y, Cheng Y, Minping Z, Kangning W, Enhua X. The application of a novel platform of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging in a bioenvironmental toxic carbon tetrachloride-induced mouse model of liver fibrosis. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 238:117130. [PMID: 37709246 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
The use of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to distinguish complex histopathological changes in liver fibrosis has not yet been systematically established. The purpose of this study is to gauge the efficacy of a cutting-edge MRI platform for evaluating ecotoxicologically hazardous carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced liver fibrosis, while also scrutinizing the relationship between MRI and its histopathological features. Thirty-six mice were randomly divided into 6 groups, each with 6 mice. Control mice received an intraperitoneal injection of olive oil, while the experimental mice received different doses of intraperitoneal injection of CCl4. Both sets underwent this process twice per week over a duration of 5 weeks. MRI measurements encompassed T1WI, T2WI, T1 mapping, T2 mapping, T2* mapping. Liver fibrosis and inflammation were assessed and classified using Metavir and activity scoring systems. CCl4 successfully induced liver fibrosis in mice, showing an increasing extent of liver fibrosis and liver function damage with the increasing dosage of CCl4. Compared with the control group, T1, ΔT1, and T2 in the experimental group were considerably elevated (P < 0.05) than those in the control group. Spearman's correlation showed that the correlation of Native T1 and △T1 with fibrosis (r = 0.712, 0.678) was better than with inflammation (r = 0.688, 0.536). T2 correlation with inflammation (r = 0.803) was superior to fibrosis (r = 0.568). ROC analysis showed that the AUC of Native T1 was highest (0.906), followed by ΔT1 (0.852), while the AUC increased to 0.945 when all relevant MRI parameters were combined. T1 is the most potent MRI parameter for evaluating CCl4-induced liver fibrosis, followed by ΔT1. Meanwhile, T2 may not be suitable for evaluating liver fibrosis but is more suitable for evaluating liver inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liao Qiuling
- Department of Radiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, 410011, China
| | - Yu Qilin
- Department of Radiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, 410011, China
| | - Yu Cheng
- Department of Radiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, 410011, China
| | - Zhang Minping
- Department of Radiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, 410011, China
| | - Wang Kangning
- Department of Urology Surgery, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, 410008, China.
| | - Xiao Enhua
- Department of Radiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, 410011, China.
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Dvorácskó S, Herrerias A, Oliverio A, Bhattacharjee P, Pommerolle L, Liu Z, Feng D, Lee YS, Hassan SA, Godlewski G, Cinar R, Iyer MR. Cannabinoformins: Designing Biguanide-Embedded, Orally Available, Peripherally Selective Cannabinoid-1 Receptor Antagonists for Metabolic Syndrome Disorders. J Med Chem 2023; 66:11985-12004. [PMID: 37611316 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
We have designed orally bioavailable, non-brain-penetrant antagonists of the cannabinoid-1 receptor (CB1R) with a built-in biguanide sensor to mimic 5'-adenosine monophosphate kinase (AMPK) activation for treating obesity-associated co-morbidities. A series of 3,4-diarylpyrazolines bearing rational pharmacophoric pendants designed to limit brain penetration were synthesized and evaluated in CB1R ligand binding assays and recombinant AMPK assays. The compounds displayed high CB1R binding affinity and potent CB1R antagonist activities and acted as AMPK activators. Select compounds showed good oral exposure, with compounds 36, 38-S, and 39-S showing <5% brain penetrance, attesting to peripheral restriction. In vivo studies of 38-S revealed decreased food intake and body weight reduction in diet-induced obese mice as well as oral in vivo efficacy of 38-S in ameliorating glucose tolerance and insulin resistance. The designed "cannabinoformin" four-arm CB1R antagonists could serve as potential leads for treatment of metabolic syndrome disorders with negligible neuropsychiatric side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Szabolcs Dvorácskó
- Section on Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 5625 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
- Section on Fibrotic Disorders, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 5625 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - Alexa Herrerias
- Laboratory of Physiologic Studies, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 5625 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - Anna Oliverio
- Laboratory of Physiologic Studies, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 5625 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - Pinaki Bhattacharjee
- Section on Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 5625 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - Lenny Pommerolle
- Section on Fibrotic Disorders, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 5625 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - Ziyi Liu
- Section on Fibrotic Disorders, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 5625 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
- Laboratory of Physiologic Studies, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 5625 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - Dechun Feng
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, NIAAA, NIH, 5625 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - Yong-Sok Lee
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biosciences Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Sergio A Hassan
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biosciences Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Grzegorz Godlewski
- Laboratory of Physiologic Studies, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 5625 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - Resat Cinar
- Section on Fibrotic Disorders, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 5625 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - Malliga R Iyer
- Section on Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 5625 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
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12
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Ma W, Fu Y, Zhu S, Xia D, Zhai S, Xiao D, Zhu Y, Dione M, Ben L, Yang L, Wang W. Ochratoxin A induces abnormal tryptophan metabolism in the intestine and liver to activate AMPK signaling pathway. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2023; 14:125. [PMID: 37684661 PMCID: PMC10486098 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-023-00912-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin widely present in raw food and feed materials and is mainly produced by Aspergillus ochraceus and Penicillium verrucosum. Our previous study showed that OTA principally induces liver inflammation by causing intestinal flora disorder, especially Bacteroides plebeius (B. plebeius) overgrowth. However, whether OTA or B. plebeius alteration leads to abnormal tryptophan-related metabolism in the intestine and liver is largely unknown. This study aimed to elucidate the metabolic changes in the intestine and liver induced by OTA and the tryptophan-related metabolic pathway in the liver. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 30 healthy 1-day-old male Cherry Valley ducks were randomly divided into 2 groups. The control group was given 0.1 mol/L NaHCO3 solution, and the OTA group was given 235 μg/kg body weight OTA for 14 consecutive days. Tryptophan metabolites were determined by intestinal chyme metabolomics and liver tryptophan-targeted metabolomics. AMPK-related signaling pathway factors were analyzed by Western blotting and mRNA expression. RESULTS Metabolomic analysis of the intestinal chyme showed that OTA treatment resulted in a decrease in intestinal nicotinuric acid levels, the downstream product of tryptophan metabolism, which were significantly negatively correlated with B. plebeius abundance. In contrast, OTA induced a significant increase in indole-3-acetamide levels, which were positively correlated with B. plebeius abundance. Simultaneously, OTA decreased the levels of ATP, NAD+ and dipeptidase in the liver. Liver tryptophan metabolomics analysis showed that OTA inhibited the kynurenine metabolic pathway and reduced the levels of kynurenine, anthranilic acid and nicotinic acid. Moreover, OTA increased the phosphorylation of AMPK protein and decreased the phosphorylation of mTOR protein. CONCLUSION OTA decreased the level of nicotinuric acid in the intestinal tract, which was negatively correlated with B. plebeius abundance. The abnormal metabolism of tryptophan led to a deficiency of NAD+ and ATP in the liver, which in turn activated the AMPK signaling pathway. Our results provide new insights into the toxic mechanism of OTA, and tryptophan metabolism might be a target for prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqing Ma
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Regulation, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642 China
| | - Yang Fu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Regulation, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642 China
| | - Shanshan Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Regulation, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642 China
| | - Daiyang Xia
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai, 519082 China
| | - Shuangshuang Zhai
- College of Animal Science, YangtzeUniversity, Jingzhou, 434025 China
| | - Deqin Xiao
- College of Mathematics and Informatics, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642 China
| | - Yongwen Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Regulation, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642 China
| | | | - Lukuyu Ben
- Int Livestock Res Inst, Nairobi, 00100 Kenya
| | - Lin Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Regulation, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642 China
| | - Wence Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Regulation, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642 China
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13
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Wang W, Zhang Y, Jiang Y, Wang Y, Zhu J, Wang C, Han X, Wang J. Exploration of potential mechanism of Rougan formula against hepatic fibrosis by network analysis and experimental assessment. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 304:115960. [PMID: 36565772 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Rougan Formula (RG) has long been clinically applied to treat hepatic fibrosis in patients with different chronic liver diseases. However, the core active substances and the potential pharmacological mechanisms of RG remain unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY The purpose of this study is to explore bioactive components, key targets, and potential mechanisms of RG by performing network pharmacological analyses and experimental model validation. MATERIALS AND METHODS All chemical components in RG extract were identified using ultraperformance liquid chromatography-quadrupole/time-of-flight tandem mass technology. The candidate components and drug targets of RG, as well as disease-related genes, were extracted from TCMSP and GeneCards databases. The potential pathways related to genes were predicted by Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses. The core bioactive components, key targets, and signaling pathways were ultimately obtained by analyzing protein-protein interaction (PPI) and component-target-pathway (C-T-P) networks. Subsequently, the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of RG on hepatic fibrosis were experimentally validated in transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1)-induced hepatic stellate cell activation model and CCL4-induced hepatic fibrosis mouse model. RESULTS A total of 52 components in RG extract were obtained, and 22 of them were selected as the core bioactive components. Five hundred and thirty-nine overlapped targets were determined by matching drug targets with disease-related targets. The results of PPI and C-T-P network analyses revealed 100 key targets and 19 signaling pathways associated with RG efficacy. In vitro and in vivo studies further verified that RG exerted a significant anti-hepatic fibrotic effect by suppressing the activation of hepatic stellate cells by downregulating the TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS These results may provide some evidence for further clinical research and development of RG formula as an effective and safe drug for hepatic fibrosis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyi Wang
- Department of Liver Disease, Shanghai Yueyang Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China; Department of Liver Disease, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Liver Disease, Shanghai Yueyang Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yue Jiang
- Engineering Research Center of Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yujie Wang
- Department of Liver Disease, Shanghai Yueyang Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Junfeng Zhu
- Department of Liver Disease, Shanghai Yueyang Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Chunli Wang
- Engineering Research Center of Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xianghui Han
- Institute of Chinese Traditional Surgery, Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jianyi Wang
- Department of Liver Disease, Shanghai Yueyang Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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14
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Stress-Induced Premature Senescence Related to Oxidative Stress in the Developmental Programming of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in a Rat Model of Intrauterine Growth Restriction. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11091695. [PMID: 36139771 PMCID: PMC9495674 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11091695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) refers to cardiometabolic risk factors, such as visceral obesity, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia/insulin resistance, arterial hypertension and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Individuals born after intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) are particularly at risk of developing metabolic/hepatic disorders later in life. Oxidative stress and cellular senescence have been associated with MetS and are observed in infants born following IUGR. However, whether these mechanisms could be particularly associated with the development of NAFLD in these individuals is still unknown. IUGR was induced in rats by a maternal low-protein diet during gestation versus. a control (CTRL) diet. In six-month-old offspring, we observed an increased visceral fat mass, glucose intolerance, and hepatic alterations (increased transaminase levels, triglyceride and neutral lipid deposit) in male rats with induced IUGR compared with the CTRL males; no differences were found in females. In IUGR male livers, we identified some markers of stress-induced premature senescence (SIPS) (lipofuscin deposit, increased protein expression of p21WAF, p16INK4a and Acp53, but decreased pRb/Rb ratio, foxo-1 and sirtuin-1 protein and mRNA expression) associated with oxidative stress (higher superoxide anion levels, DNA damages, decreased Cu/Zn SOD, increased catalase protein expression, increased nfe2 and decreased keap1 mRNA expression). Impaired lipogenesis pathways (decreased pAMPK/AMPK ratio, increased pAKT/AKT ratio, SREBP1 and PPARγ protein expression) were also observed in IUGR male livers. At birth, no differences were observed in liver histology, markers of SIPS and oxidative stress between CTRL and IUGR males. These data demonstrate that the livers of IUGR males at adulthood display SIPS and impaired liver structure and function related to oxidative stress and allow the identification of specific therapeutic strategies to limit or prevent adverse consequences of IUGR, particularly metabolic and hepatic disorders.
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15
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Fang C, Pan J, Qu N, Lei Y, Han J, Zhang J, Han D. The AMPK pathway in fatty liver disease. Front Physiol 2022; 13:970292. [PMID: 36203933 PMCID: PMC9531345 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.970292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipid metabolism disorders are the primary causes for the occurrence and progression of various liver diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) caused by a high-fat diet and ethanol. AMPK signaling pathway plays an important role in ameliorating lipid metabolism disorders. Progressive research has clarified that AMPK signal axes are involved in the prevention and reduction of liver injury. Upregulation of AMK can alleviate FLD in mice induced by alcohol or insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and obesity, and most natural AMPK agonists can regulate lipid metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress in hepatocytes, consequently regulating FLD in mice. In NAFLD and AFLD, increasing the activity of AMPK can inhibit the synthesis of fatty acids and cholesterol by down-regulating the expression of adipogenesis gene (FAS, SREBP-1c, ACC and HMGCR); Simultaneously, by increasing the expression of fatty acid oxidation and lipid decomposition genes (CPT1, PGC1, and HSL, ATGL) involved in fatty acid oxidation and lipid decomposition, the body’s natural lipid balance can be maintained. At present, some AMPK activators are thought to be beneficial during therapeutic treatment. Therefore, activation of AMPK signaling pathway is a potential therapeutic target for disorders of the liver. We summarized the most recent research on the role of the AMPK pathway in FLD in this review. Simultaneously, we performed a detailed description of each signaling axis of the AMPK pathway, as well as a discussion of its mechanism of action and therapeutic significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunqiu Fang
- College of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchunn, China
| | - Jianheng Pan
- College of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchunn, China
| | - Ning Qu
- College of Traditional Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Yuting Lei
- College of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchunn, China
| | - Jiajun Han
- College of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchunn, China
| | - Jingzhou Zhang
- College of Traditional Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Dong Han
- College of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchunn, China
- *Correspondence: Dong Han,
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16
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Guzman S, Dragan M, Kwon H, de Oliveira V, Rao S, Bhatt V, Kalemba KM, Shah A, Rustgi VK, Wang H, Bech PR, Abbara A, Izzi-Engbeaya C, Manousou P, Guo JY, Guo GL, Radovick S, Dhillo WS, Wondisford FE, Babwah AV, Bhattacharya M. Targeting hepatic kisspeptin receptor ameliorates nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in a mouse model. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:145889. [PMID: 35349482 PMCID: PMC9106350 DOI: 10.1172/jci145889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the most common liver disease, has become a silent worldwide pandemic. The incidence of NAFLD correlates with the rise in obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. A hallmark featureof NAFLD is excessive hepatic fat accumulation or steatosis, due to dysregulated hepatic fat metabolism, which can progress to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis, and cirrhosis. Currently, there are no approved pharmacotherapies to treat this disease. Here, we have found that activation of the kisspeptin 1 receptor (KISS1R) signaling pathway has therapeutic effects in NAFLD. Using high-fat diet-fed mice, we demonstrated that a deletion of hepatic Kiss1r exacerbated hepatic steatosis. In contrast, enhanced stimulation of KISS1R protected against steatosis in wild-type C57BL/6J mice and decreased fibrosis using a diet-induced mouse model of NASH. Mechanistically, we found that hepatic KISS1R signaling activates the master energy regulator, AMPK, to thereby decrease lipogenesis and progression to NASH. In patients with NAFLD and in high-fat diet-fed mice, hepatic KISS1/KISS1R expression and plasma kisspeptin levels were elevated, suggesting a compensatory mechanism to reduce triglyceride synthesis. These findings establish KISS1R as a therapeutic target to treat NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephania Guzman
- Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, and,Rutgers Center for Lipid Research, New Jersey Institute for Food, Nutrition, and Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Hyokjoon Kwon
- Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, and
| | | | - Shivani Rao
- Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, and
| | - Vrushank Bhatt
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Ankit Shah
- Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, and
| | - Vinod K. Rustgi
- Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, and
| | - He Wang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Paul R. Bech
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine and
| | - Ali Abbara
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine and
| | | | - Pinelopi Manousou
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jessie Y. Guo
- Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, and,Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Grace L. Guo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, and
| | - Sally Radovick
- Department of Pediatrics, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | | | | | - Andy V. Babwah
- Department of Pediatrics, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.,Child Health Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Moshmi Bhattacharya
- Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, and,Rutgers Center for Lipid Research, New Jersey Institute for Food, Nutrition, and Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.,Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.,Child Health Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
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17
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Li JJ, Jiang HC, Wang A, Bu FT, Jia PC, Zhu S, Zhu L, Huang C, Li J. Hesperetin derivative-16 attenuates CCl 4-induced inflammation and liver fibrosis by activating AMPK/SIRT3 pathway. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 915:174530. [PMID: 34902361 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis, a chronic inflammatory healing reaction, progresses to hepatocirrhosis without effective intervention. Hesperetin derivative (HD-16), a monomer compound derived from hesperitin, exerts anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects against a spectrum of liver diseases. However, the anti-fibrotic potential of HD-16 in liver fibrosis and its underlying mechanism have not yet been elucidated. In this study, we investigated the anti-fibrotic effect of HD-16 on mouse liver fibrosis induced by CCl4 and on LX-2 cells (human immortalized HSCs) stimulated by TGF-β1, in vivo and in vitro. HD-16 exerted an anti-fibrotic effect via regulation of the AMPK/SIRT3 pathway. Pharmacodynamic results showed that HD-16 alleviated the degree of injury and inflammation in CCl4-induced mouse liver fibrosis. Consistently, HD-16 also effectively inhibited the expression of α-SMA, Col1α1, Col3α1, and TIMP-1 in TGF-β1-activated LX-2 cells. Mechanistically, HD-16 promoted SIRT3 expression and activity in fibrotic liver and activated LX-2 cells. Furthermore, SIRT3 depletion attenuated the anti-fibrotic effects of HD-16. Intriguingly, HD-16 increased AMPK phosphorylation, whereas inhibition of SIRT3 expression did not affect AMPK phosphorylation. In contrast, AMPK silencing suppressed SIRT3 expression, suggesting that SIRT3 is a downstream target of AMPK in liver fibrosis. Overall, HD-16 attenuated CCl4-induced liver inflammation and fibrosis by activating the AMPK/SIRT3 pathway, and HD-16 may be a potential anti-fibrotic compound in the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan-Juan Li
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - He-Chun Jiang
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China; The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC Anhui Provincial Hospital, China
| | - Ao Wang
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Fang-Tian Bu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Peng-Cheng Jia
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Sai Zhu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Lin Zhu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
| | - Jun Li
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
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18
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Gluais‐Dagorn P, Foretz M, Steinberg GR, Batchuluun B, Zawistowska‐Deniziak A, Lambooij JM, Guigas B, Carling D, Monternier P, Moller DE, Bolze S, Hallakou‐Bozec S. Direct AMPK Activation Corrects NASH in Rodents Through Metabolic Effects and Direct Action on Inflammation and Fibrogenesis. Hepatol Commun 2022; 6:101-119. [PMID: 34494384 PMCID: PMC8710801 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
No approved therapies are available for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a central regulator of cell metabolism; its activation has been suggested as a therapeutic approach to NASH. Here we aimed to fully characterize the potential for direct AMPK activation in preclinical models and to determine mechanisms that could contribute to efficacy for this disease. A novel small-molecule direct AMPK activator, PXL770, was used. Enzyme activity was measured with recombinant complexes. De novo lipogenesis (DNL) was quantitated in vivo and in mouse and human primary hepatocytes. Metabolic efficacy was assessed in ob/ob and high-fat diet-fed mice. Liver histology, biochemical measures, and immune cell profiling were assessed in diet-induced NASH mice. Direct effects on inflammation and fibrogenesis were assessed using primary mouse and human hepatic stellate cells, mouse adipose tissue explants, and human immune cells. PXL770 directly activated AMPK in vitro and reduced DNL in primary hepatocytes. In rodent models with metabolic syndrome, PXL770 improved glycemia, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance. In mice with NASH, PXL770 reduced hepatic steatosis, ballooning, inflammation, and fibrogenesis. PXL770 exhibited direct inhibitory effects on pro-inflammatory cytokine production and activation of primary hepatic stellate cells. Conclusion: In rodent models, direct activation of AMPK is sufficient to produce improvements in all core components of NASH and to ameliorate related hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and systemic inflammation. Novel properties of direct AMPK activation were also unveiled: improved insulin resistance and direct suppression of inflammation and fibrogenesis. Given effects also documented in human cells (reduced DNL, suppression of inflammation and stellate cell activation), these studies support the potential for direct AMPK activation to effectively treat patients with NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marc Foretz
- Université de ParisInstitut CochinCNRSINSERMParisFrance
| | - Gregory R. Steinberg
- Centre for Metabolism, Obesity and Diabetes Research and Division of Endocrinology and MetabolismDepartment of MedicineMcMaster UniversityHamiltonONCanada
| | - Battsetseg Batchuluun
- Centre for Metabolism, Obesity and Diabetes Research and Division of Endocrinology and MetabolismDepartment of MedicineMcMaster UniversityHamiltonONCanada
| | | | - Joost M. Lambooij
- Department of ParasitologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenthe Netherlands
| | - Bruno Guigas
- Department of ParasitologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenthe Netherlands
| | - David Carling
- Cellular Stress GroupMedical Research CouncilLondon Institute of Medical SciencesHammersmith HospitalImperial CollegeLondonUnited Kingdom
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19
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Fouqueray P, Bolze S, Dubourg J, Hallakou-Bozec S, Theurey P, Grouin JM, Chevalier C, Gluais-Dagorn P, Moller DE, Cusi K. Pharmacodynamic effects of direct AMP kinase activation in humans with insulin resistance and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A phase 1b study. Cell Rep Med 2021; 2:100474. [PMID: 35028615 PMCID: PMC8714938 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2021.100474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
AMPK is an energy sensor modulating metabolism, inflammation, and a target for metabolic disorders. Metabolic dysfunction results in lower AMPK activity. PXL770 is a direct AMPK activator, inhibiting de novo lipogenesis (DNL) and producing efficacy in preclinical models. We aimed to assess pharmacokinetics, safety, and pharmacodynamics of PXL770 in humans with metabolic syndrome-associated fatty liver disease. In a randomized, double-blind four-week trial, 12 overweight/obese patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and insulin resistance received PXL770 500 mg QD; 4 subjects received matching placebo. Endpoints included pharmacokinetics, hepatic fractional DNL, oral glucose tolerance testing, additional pharmacodynamic parameters, and safety. PK parameters show adequate plasma exposure in NAFLD patients for daily oral dosing. PXL770 decreases DNL—both peak and AUC are reduced versus baseline—and improves glycemic parameters and indices of insulin sensitivity versus baseline. Assessment of specific lipids reveals decrease in diacyglycerols/triacylglycerols. Safety/tolerability are similar to placebo. These results unveil initial human translation of AMPK activation and support this therapeutic strategy for metabolic disorders. AMPK is impaired in metabolic diseases—PXL770 is a direct AMPK activator In humans with NAFLD, PXL770 inhibits hepatic de novo lipogenesis (target engagement) PXL770 also improves glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity PXL770 reduces plasma levels of di- and triglycerides
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Kenneth Cusi
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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Sanjay K, Vishwakarma S, Zope BR, Mane VS, Mohire S, Dhakshinamoorthy S. ATP citrate lyase inhibitor Bempedoic Acid alleviate long term HFD induced NASH through improvement in glycemic control, reduction of hepatic triglycerides & total cholesterol, modulation of inflammatory & fibrotic genes and improvement in NAS score. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PHARMACOLOGY AND DRUG DISCOVERY 2021; 2:100051. [PMID: 34909677 PMCID: PMC8663992 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphar.2021.100051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are chronic liver disorders, the prevalence of which is increasing worldwide. Long term High Fat Diet (HFD) induced NASH animal models closely mimic the characteristics of human NASH and hence used by investigators as a model system for studying the mechanism of action of new drugs. Bempedoic acid (ETC-1002), a ATP citrate lyase (ACLY) inhibitor that lowers the LDL cholesterol was recently approved by US FDA for the treatment of heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) and established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). ACLY is one of the genes modulated in NASH patients and hence we studied the effect of ACLY inhibitor Bempedoic acid in long term HFD induced NASH animal model to understand the pharmacological benefits and the associated mechanism of action of this newly approved drug in NASH. Mice fed with 60% Kcal High Fat Diet for 32 weeks were used for the study and the animals were given Bempedoic acid for 5 weeks at doses of 10 mg kg−1, po, qd, and 30 mg kg−1, po, qd. Bempedoic acid treatment resulted in inhibition of body weight gain and improved the glycemic control. Bempedoic acid treated group showed statistically significant reduction in plasma ALT, AST, hepatic triglycerides (TG) and total cholesterol (TC), along with statistically significant reduction in steatosis score by histological analysis. Hepatic gene expression analysis showed significant reduction in inflammatory and fibrotic genes such as Mcp-1/Ccl2, Timp-1 & Col1α1. Histological analysis showed significant improvement in NAS score. Overall, Bempedoic acid alleviated HFD induced Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis through inhibition of body weight gain, improvement in glycemic control, reduction of hepatic triglycerides & total cholesterol, modulation of inflammatory & fibrotic genes, and improvement in NAS score. Hence, Bempedoic acid can be a potential therapeutic option for metabolic syndrome and NASH. Bempedoic acid alleviated HFD induced Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis in a long term HFD induced NASH animal model. Mechanism of action includes modulation of lipid profile, inflammatory & fibrotic genes and inhibition of body weight gain. Overall improvement in NAS score was observed with Bempedoic acid treatment. Our study shows a promising role for Bempedoic acid in amelioration of metabolic disorders and NASH.
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Mukherjee S, Chakraborty M, Ulmasov B, McCommis K, Zhang J, Carpenter D, Msengi EN, Haubner J, Guo C, Pike DP, Ghoshal S, Ford DA, Neuschwander-Tetri BA, Chakraborty A. Pleiotropic actions of IP6K1 mediate hepatic metabolic dysfunction to promote nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and steatohepatitis. Mol Metab 2021; 54:101364. [PMID: 34757046 PMCID: PMC8609165 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2021.101364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Obesity and insulin resistance greatly increase the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and steatohepatitis (NAFLD/NASH). We have previously discovered that whole-body and adipocyte-specific Ip6k1deletion protects mice from high-fat-diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance due to improved adipocyte thermogenesis and insulin signaling. Here, we aimed to determine the impact of hepatocyte-specific and whole-body Ip6k1 deletion (HKO and Ip6k1-KO or KO) on liver metabolism and NAFLD/NASH. METHODS Body weight and composition; energy expenditure; glycemic profiles; and serum and liver metabolic, inflammatory, fibrotic and toxicity parameters were assessed in mice fed Western and high-fructose diet (HFrD) (WD: 40% kcal fat, 1.25% cholesterol, no added choline and HFrD: 60% kcal fructose). Mitochondrial oxidative capacity was evaluated in isolated hepatocytes. RNA-Seq was performed in liver samples. Livers from human NASH patients were analyzed by immunoblotting and mass spectrometry. RESULTS HKO mice displayed increased hepatocyte mitochondrial oxidative capacity and improved insulin sensitivity but were not resistant to body weight gain. Improved hepatocyte metabolism partially protected HKO mice from NAFLD/NASH. In contrast, enhanced whole-body metabolism and reduced body fat accumulation significantly protected whole-body Ip6k1-KO mice from NAFLD/NASH. Mitochondrial oxidative pathways were upregulated, whereas gluconeogenic and fibrogenic pathways were downregulated in Ip6k1-KO livers. Furthermore, IP6K1 was upregulated in human NASH livers and interacted with the enzyme O-GlcNAcase that reduces protein O-GlcNAcylation. Protein O-GlcNAcylation was found to be reduced in Ip6k1-KO and HKO mouse livers. CONCLUSION Pleiotropic actions of IP6K1 in the liver and other metabolic tissues mediate hepatic metabolic dysfunction and NAFLD/NASH, and thus IP6K1 deletion may be a potential treatment target for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandip Mukherjee
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Molee Chakraborty
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Barbara Ulmasov
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Kyle McCommis
- Department of Biochemistry, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Jinsong Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Danielle Carpenter
- Department of Pathology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Eliwaza Naomi Msengi
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Jake Haubner
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Chun Guo
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Daniel P Pike
- Department of Biochemistry, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Sarbani Ghoshal
- Department of Biological Sc. and Geology, QCC-CUNY, Bayside, NY, USA
| | - David A Ford
- Department of Biochemistry, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Brent A Neuschwander-Tetri
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Anutosh Chakraborty
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA.
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22
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van den Hoek AM, de Jong JCBC, Worms N, van Nieuwkoop A, Voskuilen M, Menke AL, Lek S, Caspers MPM, Verschuren L, Kleemann R. Diet and exercise reduce pre-existing NASH and fibrosis and have additional beneficial effects on the vasculature, adipose tissue and skeletal muscle via organ-crosstalk. Metabolism 2021; 124:154873. [PMID: 34478753 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2021.154873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has become one of the most common liver diseases and is still without approved pharmacotherapy. Lifestyle interventions using exercise and diet change remain the current treatment of choice and even a small weight loss (5-7%) can already have a beneficial effect on NASH. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of exercise and diet interventions remain largely elusive, and it is unclear whether they exert their health effects via similar or different pathways. METHODS Ldlr-/-.Leiden mice received a high fat diet (HFD) for 30 weeks to establish a severe state of NASH/fibrosis with simultaneous atherosclerosis development. Groups of mice were then either left untreated (control group) or were treated for 20 weeks with exercise (running wheel), diet change (switch to a low fat chow diet) or the combination thereof. The liver and distant organs including heart, white adipose tissue (WAT) and muscle were histologically examined. Comprehensive transcriptome analysis of liver, WAT and muscle revealed the organ-specific effects of exercise and diet and defined the underlying pathways. RESULTS Exercise and dietary change significantly reduced body weight, fat mass, adipocyte size and improved myosteatosis and muscle function with additive effects of combination treatment. WAT inflammation was significantly improved by diet change, tended to be reduced with exercise, and combination therapy had no additive effect. Hepatic steatosis and inflammation were almost fully reversed by exercise and diet change, while hepatic fibrosis tended to be improved with exercise and was significantly improved with diet change. Additive effects for the combination therapy were shown for liver steatosis and associated liver lipids, and atherosclerosis, but not for hepatic inflammation and fibrosis. Pathway analysis revealed complementary effects on metabolic pathways and lipid handling processes, thereby substantiating the added value of combined lifestyle treatment. CONCLUSIONS Exercise, diet change and the combination thereof can reverse established NASH/fibrosis in obese Ldlr-/-.Leiden mice. In addition, the lifestyle interventions had beneficial effects on atherosclerosis, WAT inflammation and muscle function. For steatosis and other parameters related to adiposity or lipid metabolism, exercise and dietary change affected more distinct pathways that acted complementary when the interventions were combined resulting in an additive effect for the combination therapy on important endpoints including NASH and atherosclerosis. For inflammation, exercise and diet change shared several underlying pathways resulting in a net similar effect when the interventions were combined.
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MESH Headings
- Adipose Tissue, White/metabolism
- Adipose Tissue, White/pathology
- Animals
- Atherosclerosis/diet therapy
- Atherosclerosis/genetics
- Atherosclerosis/pathology
- Atherosclerosis/therapy
- Diet, Fat-Restricted
- Diet, High-Fat
- Lipid Metabolism
- Liver/metabolism
- Liver/pathology
- Liver Cirrhosis/diet therapy
- Liver Cirrhosis/pathology
- Liver Cirrhosis/therapy
- Mice
- Mice, Knockout
- Muscle, Skeletal/metabolism
- Muscle, Skeletal/pathology
- Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease/diet therapy
- Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease/genetics
- Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease/pathology
- Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease/therapy
- Physical Conditioning, Animal/physiology
- Receptors, LDL/genetics
- Receptors, LDL/metabolism
- Signal Transduction/physiology
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita M van den Hoek
- Department of Metabolic Health Research, The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - Jelle C B C de Jong
- Department of Metabolic Health Research, The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Leiden, the Netherlands; Human and Animal Physiology, Wageningen University, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Nicole Worms
- Department of Metabolic Health Research, The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Anita van Nieuwkoop
- Department of Metabolic Health Research, The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Marijke Voskuilen
- Department of Metabolic Health Research, The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Aswin L Menke
- Department of Metabolic Health Research, The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Serene Lek
- Clinnovate Health UK Ltd, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Martien P M Caspers
- Department of Microbiology and Systems Biology, The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Zeist, the Netherlands
| | - Lars Verschuren
- Department of Microbiology and Systems Biology, The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Zeist, the Netherlands
| | - Robert Kleemann
- Department of Metabolic Health Research, The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Vascular Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden (LUMC), the Netherlands
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23
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Al-Hashem F, Al Humayed S, Haidara MA, Abdel Latif NS, Al-Ani B. Captopril suppresses hepatic mammalian target of rapamycin cell signaling and biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in thioacetamide-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Arch Physiol Biochem 2021; 127:414-421. [PMID: 31364422 DOI: 10.1080/13813455.2019.1647249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The potential inhibitory effects of captopril, the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, on thioacetamide (TAA)-induced hepatic mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), liver injury enzymes, blood pressure, and biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress have not been investigated before. MATERIALS AND METHODS Rats were either injected with TAA (200 mg/kg; twice a week for 8 weeks) before being sacrificed after 10 weeks (model group) or were pretreated with captopril (150 mg/kg) daily for two weeks prior to TAA injections and continued receiving both agents until the end of the experiment (protective group). RESULTS Captopril significantly (p < .05) inhibited TAA-induced hypertension, liver tissue levels of mTOR, TIMP-1, TNF-α, IL-6, MDA; and blood levels of lipids, ALT, and AST. We further demonstrated a significant (p < .01) positive correlation between mTOR scoring and the levels of inflammatory, oxidative and liver injury biomarkers. CONCLUSIONS Captopril protects against TAA-induced mTOR, liver injury enzymes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahaid Al-Hashem
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Suliman Al Humayed
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed A Haidara
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Physiology, Kasr Al-Aini Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Noha S Abdel Latif
- Medical Pharmacology Department, Kasr Al-Aini Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Bahjat Al-Ani
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
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24
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Sears B, Saha AK. Dietary Control of Inflammation and Resolution. Front Nutr 2021; 8:709435. [PMID: 34447777 PMCID: PMC8382877 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2021.709435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The healing of any injury requires a dynamic balance of initiation and resolution of inflammation. This hypothesis-generating review presents an overview of the various nutrients that can act as signaling agents to modify the metabolic responses essential for the optimal healing of injury-induced inflammation. In this hypothesis-generating review, we describe a defined nutritional program consisting of an integrated interaction of a calorie-restricted anti-inflammatory diet coupled with adequate levels of omega-3 fatty acids and sufficient levels of dietary polyphenols that can be used in clinical trials to treat conditions associated with insulin resistance. Each dietary intervention works in an orchestrated systems-based approach to reduce, resolve, and repair the tissue damage caused by any inflammation-inducing injury. The orchestration of these specific nutrients and their signaling metabolites to facilitate healing is termed the Resolution Response. The final stage of the Resolution Response is the activation of intracellular 5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which is necessary to repair tissue damaged by the initial injury-induced inflammation. The dietary optimization of the Resolution Response can be personalized to the individual by using standard blood markers. Once each of those markers is in their appropriate ranges, activation of intracellular AMPK will be facilitated. Finally, we outline how the resulting activation of AMPK will affect a diverse number of other intercellular signaling systems leading to an extended healthspan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barry Sears
- Inflammation Research Foundation, Peabody, MA, United States
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25
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Ezhilarasan D. Mitochondria: A critical hub for hepatic stellate cells activation during chronic liver diseases. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2021; 20:315-322. [PMID: 33975780 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2021.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Upon liver injury, quiescent hepatic stellate cells (qHSCs), reside in the perisinusoidal space, phenotypically transdifferentiate into myofibroblast-like cells (MFBs). The qHSCs in the normal liver are less fibrogenic, migratory, and also have less proliferative potential. However, activated HSCs (aHSCs) are more fibrogenic and have a high migratory and proliferative MFBs phenotype. HSCs activation is a highly energetic process that needs abundant intracellular energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) for the synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the injured liver to substantiate the injury. DATA SOURCES The articles were collected through PubMed and EMBASE using search terms "mitochondria and hepatic stellate cells", "mitochondria and HSCs", "mitochondria and hepatic fibrosis", "mitochondria and liver diseases", and "mitochondria and chronic liver disease", and relevant publications published before September 31, 2020 were included in this review. RESULTS Mitochondria homeostasis is affected during HSCs activation. Mitochondria in aHSCs are highly energetic and are in a high metabolically active state exhibiting increased activity such as glycolysis and respiration. aHSCs have high glycolytic enzymes expression and glycolytic activity induced by Hedgehog (Hh) signaling from injured hepatocytes. Increased glycolysis and aerobic glycolysis (Warburg effect) end-products in aHSCs consequently activate the ECM-related gene expressions. Increased Hh signaling from injured hepatocytes downregulates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ expression and decreases lipogenesis in aHSCs. Glutaminolysis and tricarboxylic acid cycle liberate ATPs that fuel HSCs to proliferate and produce ECM during their activation. CONCLUSIONS Available studies suggest that mitochondria functions can increase in parallel with HSCs activation. Therefore, mitochondrial modulators should be tested in an elaborate manner to control or prevent the HSCs activation during liver injury to subsequently regress hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, the Blue Lab, Molecular Medicine and Toxicology Division, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai 600077, Tamil Nadu, India.
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26
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Behl T, Gupta A, Sehgal A, Sharma S, Singh S, Sharma N, Diaconu CC, Rahdar A, Hafeez A, Bhatia S, Al-Harrasi A, Bungau S. A spotlight on underlying the mechanism of AMPK in diabetes complications. Inflamm Res 2021; 70:939-957. [PMID: 34319417 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-021-01488-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is one of the centenarian metabolic disorders and is considered as a stellar and leading health issue worldwide. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Diabetes Atlas and National Diabetes Statistics, the number of diabetic patients will increase at an exponential rate from 463 to 700 million by the year 2045. Thus, there is a great need for therapies targeting functions that can help in maintaining the homeostasis of glucose levels and improving insulin sensitivity. 5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation, by various direct and indirect factors, might help to overcome the hurdles (like insulin resistance) associated with the conventional approach. MATERIALS AND RESULTS A thorough review and analysis was conducted using various database including MEDLINE and EMBASE databases, with Google scholar using various keywords. This extensive review concluded that various drugs (plant-based, synthetic indirect/direct activators) are available, showing tremendous potential in maintaining the homeostasis of glucose and lipid metabolism, without causing insulin resistance, and improving insulin sensitivity. Moreover, these drugs have an effect against diabetes and are therapeutically beneficial in the treatment of diabetes-associated complications (neuropathy and nephropathy) via mechanism involving inhibition of nuclear translocation of SMAD4 (SMAD family member) expression and association with peripheral nociceptive neurons mediated by AMPK. CONCLUSION From the available information, it may be concluded that various indirect/direct activators show tremendous potential in maintaining the homeostasis of glucose and lipid metabolism, without resulting in insulin resistance, and may improve insulin sensitivity, as well. Therefore, in a nut shell, it may be concluded that the regulation of APMK functions by various direct/indirect activators may bring promising results. These activators may emerge as a novel therapy in diabetes and its associated complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tapan Behl
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India.
| | - Amit Gupta
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Aayush Sehgal
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Sanchay Sharma
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Sukhbir Singh
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Neelam Sharma
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Camelia Cristina Diaconu
- Internal Medicine Department, Clinical Emergency Hospital of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania.,Department 5, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Abbas Rahdar
- Department of Physics, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran
| | - Abdul Hafeez
- Glocal School of Pharmacy, Glocal University, Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Saurabh Bhatia
- Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Haryana, India.,Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa, Oman
| | - Ahmed Al-Harrasi
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa, Oman
| | - Simona Bungau
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Oradea, Romania
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27
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Shekari S, Khonsha F, Rahmati-Yamchi M, Nejabati HR, Mota A. Vanillic Acid and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Focus on AMPK in Adipose and Liver Tissues. Curr Pharm Des 2021; 27:4686-4692. [PMID: 34218773 DOI: 10.2174/1381612827666210701145438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a growing health issue around the world, is defined as the presence of steatosis in the liver without any other detectable byproducts such as alcohol consumption which includes a wide spectrum of pathologies, such as steatohepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. A growing body of evidence indicates that the reduction in the 5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity, which could be activated by the consumption of the drugs, hormones, cytokines, and dietary restriction, is related to some metabolic disorders such as obesity, diabetes, PCOS, and NAFLD. Vanillic acid (VA), as an anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-angiogenic and anti-metastatic factor, has protective effects on the liver as in two animal models of liver damage. It reduces serum levels of transaminases, inflammatory cytokines, and the accumulation of collagen in the liver and prevents liver fibrosis. Besides, it decreases body and adipose tissue weight in a mice model of obesity and, similar to the liver tissue, diminishes adipogenesis through the activation of AMPK. It has been reported that VA can target almost all of the metabolic abnormalities of NAFLD, such as hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and hepatic injury, at least partially through the activation of AMPK. Therefore, in this review, we will discuss the possible and hypothetical roles of VA in NAFLD, with a special focus on AMPK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Shekari
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz. Iran
| | - Fatemeh Khonsha
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz. Iran
| | - Mohammad Rahmati-Yamchi
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz. Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Nejabati
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz. Iran
| | - Ali Mota
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz. Iran
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28
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Huisman TM, Dieterich DT, Friedman SL. Experimental and Investigational Targeted Therapies for the Management of Fibrosis in NASH: An Update. J Exp Pharmacol 2021; 13:329-338. [PMID: 33776490 PMCID: PMC7987269 DOI: 10.2147/jep.s265286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
There have been major advances in the treatment of HBV and HCV with anti-viral treatments, which is reducing the prevalence of fibrosis due to these viruses and obviating the need for anti-fibrotic therapies in these diseases. At the same time, however, the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been increasing, of which a substantial fraction of patients have non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which may progress to cirrhosis. Accordingly, NASH is emerging as the leading indication for liver transplantation in North America and Europe. Progress in uncovering pathogenic determinants of fibrosis in NASH include metabolic dysregulation in hepatocytes that induce inflammation and cytokine secretion leading to cell injury and apoptosis, among others. These pathogenic events converge upon hepatic stellate cells, which are the primary fibrogenic cell in liver, and represent a target of new therapeutic candidates that are currently being evaluated in animal models and clinical trials. This review highlights key experimental and investigational therapies for NASH fibrosis, whose evaluation will be accelerated as new non-invasive markers of fibrosis are established. While no drugs are approved yet for NASH fibrosis, there is growing optimism that new pharmacotherapies are likely to emerge within the next 3 years that will favorably alter the natural history of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsipora M Huisman
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Douglas T Dieterich
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Scott L Friedman
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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29
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Tavakoli-Rouzbehani OM, Maleki V, Shadnoush M, Taheri E, Alizadeh M. A comprehensive insight into potential roles of Nigella sativa on diseases by targeting AMP-activated protein kinase: a review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 28:779-787. [PMID: 33140312 DOI: 10.1007/s40199-020-00376-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Nigella sativa (NS) is a known medicinal herb with numerous therapeutic effects such as antidiabetic, anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer activities. It has been indicated that NS can regulate cellular metabolism by adjusting transduction signaling pathways. Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is one of the main physiological processes, such as energy hemostasis, cellular metabolism, and autophagy regulators. Herb-derived medicines have always been considered as one of the main AMPK activators, and surprisingly recent data has demonstrated that it can be a target for NS and its derivatives. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION The literature search was conducted in PubMed, SCOPUS, Embase, ProQuest, and Google Scholar electronic resources. Published articles up to September 2020 were considered, and those of which investigated Nigella sativa effects on the AMPK pathway after meeting the inclusion criteria were included. RESULTS The search was performed on several online databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Embase, ProQuest, and Google Scholar from inception until January 2020. Among the initial search, 245 studies were found. After removing duplicated data and meeting the inclusion criteria, only 14 studies were selected. They included the effects of NS and its bioactive compounds as anti-hyperglycemic (n = 5), on liver function (n = 4), cancers (n = 3), and on Neuroinflammation and Atherosclerosis (n = 2). Most of the included studies are animals or in-vitro investigations. CONCLUSION In this review, we discuss the latest findings on the molecular mechanism of NS effecting the AMPK signaling pathway. We also focus on the therapeutic effects of NS, including the prevention and treatment of metabolic and pro-inflammatory disease by targeting the AMPK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vahid Maleki
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Mahdi Shadnoush
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition & Food Technology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsaneh Taheri
- Student Research Committee, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Alizadeh
- Nutrition Research Center, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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30
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Petrescu AD, Grant S, Williams E, Frampton G, Reinhart EH, Nguyen A, An S, McMillin M, DeMorrow S. Ghrelin reverses ductular reaction and hepatic fibrosis in a rodent model of cholestasis. Sci Rep 2020; 10:16024. [PMID: 32994489 PMCID: PMC7525536 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72681-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The orexigenic peptide ghrelin (Ghr) stimulates hunger signals in the hypothalamus via growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a). Gastric Ghr is synthetized as a preprohormone which is proteolytically cleaved, and acylated by a membrane-bound acyl transferase (MBOAT). Circulating Ghr is reduced in cholestatic injuries, however Ghr's role in cholestasis is poorly understood. We investigated Ghr's effects on biliary hyperplasia and hepatic fibrosis in Mdr2-knockout (Mdr2KO) mice, a recognized model of cholestasis. Serum, stomach and liver were collected from Mdr2KO and FVBN control mice treated with Ghr, des-octanoyl-ghrelin (DG) or vehicle. Mdr2KO mice had lower expression of Ghr and MBOAT in the stomach, and lower levels of circulating Ghr compared to WT-controls. Treatment of Mdr2KO mice with Ghr improved plasma transaminases, reduced biliary and fibrosis markers. In the liver, GHS-R1a mRNA was expressed predominantly in cholangiocytes. Ghr but not DG, decreased cell proliferation via AMPK activation in cholangiocytes in vitro. AMPK inhibitors prevented Ghr-induced FOXO1 nuclear translocation and negative regulation of cell proliferation. Ghr treatment reduced ductular reaction and hepatic fibrosis in Mdr2KO mice, regulating cholangiocyte proliferation via GHS-R1a, a G-protein coupled receptor which causes increased intracellular Ca2+ and activation of AMPK and FOXO1, maintaining a low rate of cholangiocyte proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca D Petrescu
- Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, 76504, USA
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Stephanie Grant
- Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, 76504, USA
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Elaina Williams
- Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, 76504, USA
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Gabriel Frampton
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78701, USA
| | - Evan H Reinhart
- Department of Internal Medicine, Baylor Scott & White Health, Temple, TX, 76502, USA
| | - Amy Nguyen
- University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Belton, TX, 76513, USA
| | - Suyeon An
- Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, 76504, USA
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Matthew McMillin
- Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, 76504, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78701, USA
| | - Sharon DeMorrow
- Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, 76504, USA.
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78701, USA.
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31
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Hunt NJ, Lockwood GP, Kang SWS, Pulpitel T, Clark X, Mao H, McCourt PAG, Cooney GJ, Wali JA, Le Couteur FH, Le Couteur DG, Cogger VC. The Effects of Metformin on Age-Related Changes in the Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cell. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2020; 75:278-285. [PMID: 31198956 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glz153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related changes in the liver sinusoidal endothelium, particularly the reduction in fenestrations, contribute to insulin resistance in old age. Metformin impacts on the aging process and improves insulin resistance. Therefore, the effects of metformin on the liver sinusoidal endothelium were studied. Metformin increased fenestrations in liver sinusoidal endothelial cells isolated from both young and old mice. Mice administered metformin in the diet for 12 months had increased fenestrations and this was associated with lower insulin levels. The effect of metformin on fenestrations was blocked by inhibitors of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), endothelial nitric oxide synthase, and myosin light chain kinase phosphorylation. Metformin led to increased transgelin expression and structural changes in the actin cytoskeleton but had no effect on lactate production. Metformin also generated fenestration-like structures in SK-Hep1 cells, a liver endothelial cell line, and this was associated with increased ATP, cGMP, and mitochondrial activity. In conclusion, metformin ameliorates age-related changes in the liver sinusoidal endothelial cell via AMPK and endothelial nitric oxide pathways, which might promote insulin sensitivity in the liver, particularly in old age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Hunt
- ANZAC Research Institute, Biogerontology Laboratory, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, New South Wales, Australia.,Aging and Alzheimer's Institute and Centre for Education and Research on Ageing, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, New South Wales, Australia.,Concord Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, New South Wales, Australia.,Charles Perkins Centre, Nutritional Ecology and Physiology Laboratory, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Glen P Lockwood
- ANZAC Research Institute, Biogerontology Laboratory, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, New South Wales, Australia.,Aging and Alzheimer's Institute and Centre for Education and Research on Ageing, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, New South Wales, Australia.,Charles Perkins Centre, Nutritional Ecology and Physiology Laboratory, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sun Woo Sophie Kang
- ANZAC Research Institute, Biogerontology Laboratory, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, New South Wales, Australia.,Aging and Alzheimer's Institute and Centre for Education and Research on Ageing, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, New South Wales, Australia.,Charles Perkins Centre, Nutritional Ecology and Physiology Laboratory, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tamara Pulpitel
- Charles Perkins Centre, Nutritional Ecology and Physiology Laboratory, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ximonie Clark
- Charles Perkins Centre, Nutritional Ecology and Physiology Laboratory, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hong Mao
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Tromsø - The Arctic University of Norway
| | - Peter A G McCourt
- Charles Perkins Centre, Nutritional Ecology and Physiology Laboratory, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Tromsø - The Arctic University of Norway
| | - Gregory J Cooney
- Charles Perkins Centre, Nutritional Ecology and Physiology Laboratory, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jibran A Wali
- Aging and Alzheimer's Institute and Centre for Education and Research on Ageing, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, New South Wales, Australia.,Charles Perkins Centre, Nutritional Ecology and Physiology Laboratory, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Frank H Le Couteur
- ANZAC Research Institute, Biogerontology Laboratory, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David G Le Couteur
- ANZAC Research Institute, Biogerontology Laboratory, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, New South Wales, Australia.,Aging and Alzheimer's Institute and Centre for Education and Research on Ageing, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, New South Wales, Australia.,Concord Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, New South Wales, Australia.,Charles Perkins Centre, Nutritional Ecology and Physiology Laboratory, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Victoria C Cogger
- ANZAC Research Institute, Biogerontology Laboratory, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, New South Wales, Australia.,Aging and Alzheimer's Institute and Centre for Education and Research on Ageing, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, New South Wales, Australia.,Concord Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, New South Wales, Australia.,Charles Perkins Centre, Nutritional Ecology and Physiology Laboratory, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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32
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Zhao P, Saltiel AR. From overnutrition to liver injury: AMP-activated protein kinase in nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:12279-12289. [PMID: 32651233 PMCID: PMC7443502 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.rev120.011356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLDs), especially nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), have become a major cause of liver transplant and liver-associated death. However, the pathogenesis of NASH is still unclear. Currently, there is no FDA-approved medication to treat this devastating disease. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) senses energy status and regulates metabolic processes to maintain homeostasis. The activity of AMPK is regulated by the availability of nutrients, such as carbohydrates, lipids, and amino acids. AMPK activity is increased by nutrient deprivation and inhibited by overnutrition, inflammation, and hypersecretion of certain anabolic hormones, such as insulin, during obesity. The repression of hepatic AMPK activity permits the transition from simple steatosis to hepatocellular death; thus, activation might ameliorate multiple aspects of NASH. Here we review the pathogenesis of NAFLD and the impact of AMPK activity state on hepatic steatosis, inflammation, liver injury, and fibrosis during the transition of NAFL to NASH and liver failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zhao
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Alan R Saltiel
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA.
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33
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Leroy K, Pieters A, Tabernilla A, Cooreman A, Van Campenhout R, Cogliati B, Vinken M. Targeting gap junctional intercellular communication by hepatocarcinogenic compounds. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2020; 23:255-275. [PMID: 32568623 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2020.1781010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Gap junctions in liver, as in other organs, play a critical role in tissue homeostasis. Inherently, these cellular constituents are major targets for systemic toxicity and diseases, including cancer. This review provides an overview of chemicals that compromise liver gap junctions, in particular biological toxins, organic solvents, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, peroxides, metals and phthalates. The focus in this review is placed upon the mechanistic scenarios that underlie these adverse effects. Further, the potential use of gap junctional activity as an in vitro biomarker to identify non-genotoxic hepatocarcinogenic chemicals is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaat Leroy
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alanah Pieters
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels, Belgium
| | - Andrés Tabernilla
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels, Belgium
| | - Axelle Cooreman
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels, Belgium
| | - Raf Van Campenhout
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bruno Cogliati
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Cidade Universitária , São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels, Belgium
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34
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Zeng M, Liu W, Hu Y, Fu N. Sumoylation in liver disease. Clin Chim Acta 2020; 510:347-353. [PMID: 32710938 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2020.07.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Small ubiquitin-like modifiers (SUMO) are highly conserved post-translational modification proteins that are present in eukaryotic cells. They are extensively expressed in diverse tissues, including the heart, liver, kidney, and lungs. SUMOylation, a crucial post-translational modification, exhibits a strong effect on DNA repair, transcriptional regulation, protein stability and cell cycle progression. Increasing evidence has demonstrated that SUMOylation is closely related to the development of liver disease. Therefore, the effects of SUMOylation in liver diseases, such as Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), viral hepatitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), cirrhosis and primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) were reviewed in this study. Specifically, SUMO1 was found to promote the invasion and metastasis of HCC and may promote hypoxia-mediated P65 nuclear transport while accelerating the progression of HCC. In addition, SUMO1-modified centrosomal P4.1-associated protein (CAPA) was observed to be overexpressed in Hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related HCC in response to TNF-α stimulation. Furthermore, SUMOylated CAPA was found to induce HBX-triggered NF-κB activation. Considering the diversity and significance of SUMOylation, targeting of the SUMOylation pathway may serve as an effective approach in the treatment of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Wenhui Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Yang Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China.
| | - Nian Fu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China.
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35
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Sundararaman N, Go J, Robinson AE, Mato JM, Lu SC, Van Eyk JE, Venkatraman V. PINE: An Automation Tool to Extract and Visualize Protein-Centric Functional Networks. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MASS SPECTROMETRY 2020; 31:1410-1421. [PMID: 32463229 PMCID: PMC10362945 DOI: 10.1021/jasms.0c00032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Recent surges in mass spectrometry-based proteomics studies demand a concurrent rise in speedy and optimized data processing tools and pipelines. Although several stand-alone bioinformatics tools exist that provide protein-protein interaction (PPI) data, we developed Protein Interaction Network Extractor (PINE) as a fully automated, user-friendly, graphical user interface application for visualization and exploration of global proteome and post-translational modification (PTM) based networks. PINE also supports overlaying differential expression, statistical significance thresholds, and PTM sites on functionally enriched visualization networks to gain insights into proteome-wide regulatory mechanisms and PTM-mediated networks. To illustrate the relevance of the tool, we explore the total proteome and its PTM-associated relationships in two different nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) mouse models to demonstrate different context-specific case studies. The strength of this tool relies in its ability to (1) perform accurate protein identifier mapping to resolve ambiguity, (2) retrieve interaction data from multiple publicly available PPI databases, and (3) assimilate these complex networks into functionally enriched pathways, ontology categories, and terms. Ultimately, PINE can be used as an extremely powerful tool for novel hypothesis generation to understand underlying disease mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niveda Sundararaman
- Advanced Clinical Biosystems Research Institute, The Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, United States
| | - James Go
- Advanced Clinical Biosystems Research Institute, The Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, United States
| | - Aaron E Robinson
- Advanced Clinical Biosystems Research Institute, The Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, United States
| | - José M Mato
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Technology Park of Bizkaia, 48160 Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Shelly C Lu
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, United States
| | - Jennifer E Van Eyk
- Advanced Clinical Biosystems Research Institute, The Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, United States
| | - Vidya Venkatraman
- Advanced Clinical Biosystems Research Institute, The Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, United States
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36
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McCallum ML, Pru CA, Smith AR, Kelp NC, Foretz M, Viollet B, Du M, Pru JK. A functional role for AMPK in female fertility and endometrial regeneration. Reproduction 2020; 156:501-513. [PMID: 30328345 DOI: 10.1530/rep-18-0372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a highly conserved heterotrimeric complex that acts as an intracellular energy sensor. Based on recent observations of AMPK expression in all structures of the female reproductive system, we hypothesized that AMPK is functionally required for maintaining fertility in the female. This hypothesis was tested by conditionally ablating the two catalytic alpha subunits of AMPK, Prkaa1 and Prkaa2, using Pgr-cre mice. After confirming the presence of PRKAA1, PRKAA2 and the active phospho-PRKAA1/2 in the gravid uterus by immunohistochemistry, control (Prkaa1/2 fl/fl ) and double conditional knockout mice (Prkaa1/2 d/d ) were placed into a six-month breeding trial. While the first litter size was comparable between Prkaa1/2 fl/fl and Prkaa1/2 d/d female mice (P = 0.8619), the size of all subsequent litters was dramatically reduced in Prkaa1/2 d/d female mice (P = 0.0015). All Prkaa1/2 d/d female mice experienced premature reproductive senescence or dystocia by the fourth parity. This phenotype manifested despite no difference in estrous cycle length, ovarian histology in young and old nulliparous or multiparous animals, mid-gestation serum progesterone levels or uterine expression of Esr1 or Pgr between Prkaa1/2 fl/fl and Prkaa1/2 d/d female mice suggesting that the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary axis remained unaffected by PRKAA1/2 deficiency. However, an evaluation of uterine histology from multiparous animals identified extensive endometrial fibrosis and disorganized stromal-glandular architecture indicative of endometritis, a condition that causes subfertility or infertility in most mammals. Interestingly, Prkaa1/2 d/d female mice failed to undergo artificial decidualization. Collectively, these findings suggest that AMPK plays an essential role in endometrial regeneration following parturition and tissue remodeling that accompanies decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa L McCallum
- Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Cindy A Pru
- Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Andrea R Smith
- Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Nicole C Kelp
- Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Marc Foretz
- INSERM, U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France.,CNRS, UMR 8104, Paris, France.,Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Benoit Viollet
- INSERM, U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France.,CNRS, UMR 8104, Paris, France.,Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Min Du
- Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - James K Pru
- Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
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37
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Mukherjee S, Haubner J, Chakraborty A. Targeting the Inositol Pyrophosphate Biosynthetic Enzymes in Metabolic Diseases. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25061403. [PMID: 32204420 PMCID: PMC7144392 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25061403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, a family of three inositol hexakisphosphate kinases (IP6Ks) synthesizes the inositol pyrophosphate 5-IP7 from IP6. Genetic deletion of Ip6k1 protects mice from high fat diet induced obesity, insulin resistance and fatty liver. IP6K1 generated 5-IP7 promotes insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells, whereas it reduces insulin signaling in metabolic tissues by inhibiting the protein kinase Akt. Thus, IP6K1 promotes high fat diet induced hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance in mice while its deletion has the opposite effects. IP6K1 also promotes fat accumulation in the adipose tissue by inhibiting the protein kinase AMPK mediated energy expenditure. Genetic deletion of Ip6k3 protects mice from age induced fat accumulation and insulin resistance. Accordingly, the pan IP6K inhibitor TNP [N2-(m-trifluorobenzyl), N6-(p-nitrobenzyl)purine] ameliorates obesity, insulin resistance and fatty liver in diet induced obese mice by improving Akt and AMPK mediated insulin sensitivity and energy expenditure. TNP also protects mice from bone loss, myocardial infarction and ischemia reperfusion injury. Thus, the IP6K pathway is a potential target in obesity and other metabolic diseases. Here, we summarize the studies that established IP6Ks as a potential target in metabolic diseases. Further studies will reveal whether inhibition of this pathway has similar pleiotropic benefits on metabolic health of humans.
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38
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Benvenuto M, Mattera R, Miele MT, Giganti MG, Tresoldi I, Albonici L, Manzari V, Modesti A, Masuelli L, Bei R. Effects of a natural multi-component compound formulation on the growth, morphology and extracellular matrix production of human adult dermal fibroblasts. Exp Ther Med 2019; 18:2639-2647. [PMID: 31572512 PMCID: PMC6755435 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2019.7872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) creates a tissue microenvironment able to regulate cellular signaling. The loss of ECM plasticity is associated with several pathologies, especially those involving chronic inflammation, therefore, the ECM represents a potential therapeutic target for certain conditions. The present study investigated the effects of a natural multi-component compound formulation, Galium-Heel®, on the growth, morphology and ECM production of human dermal fibroblasts (HDF). The effects of the formulation on HDF growth and morphology were assessed by sulforhodamine B assay, trypan blue exclusion staining, FACS and ultrastructural analyses. The effect of the compound on reactive oxygen species production by HDF was performed by dichlorofluorescin diacetate assay. The expression of ECM components, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and signaling molecules was analyzed by western blot analysis. The present results demonstrated that Galium-Heel® did not significantly affect HDF growth, survival, cell cycle or morphology indicating the biocompatibility of the formulation. The formulation demonstrated antioxidant activity. Galium-Heel® was able to modulate ECM by regulating collagens (type I and III) and MMPs-3 and −7 expression. In addition, the formulation was able to regulate molecules involved in TGF-β signalling, including mitogen activated kinase-like protein, GLI family zinc finger 2 and pro-survival proteins such as AKT. The present results demonstrating the effects of a natural multi-component compound on ECM composition, highlighted the possibility of pharmacologically modulating ECM molecules. The recovery and the maintenance of ECM homeostasis might be considered as a potential therapeutic goal to ameliorate pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Benvenuto
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Rosanna Mattera
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Martino Tony Miele
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Gabriella Giganti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Tresoldi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Albonici
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Manzari
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Modesti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Masuelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome 'Sapienza', I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Bei
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
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39
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Gu C, Li T, Jiang S, Yang Z, Lv J, Yi W, Yang Y, Fang M. AMP-activated protein kinase sparks the fire of cardioprotection against myocardial ischemia and cardiac ageing. Ageing Res Rev 2018; 47:168-175. [PMID: 30110651 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2018.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a pivotal regulator of some endogenous defensive molecules in various pathological processes, particularly myocardial ischemia (MI), a high risk of myocardial infarction. Thereby it is of great significance to explore the inherent mechanism between AMPK and myocardial infarction. In this review, we first introduce the structure and role of AMPK in the heart. Next, we introduce the mechanisms of AMPK in the heart; followed by the energy regulation of AMPK in MI. Lastly, the attention will be expanded to some potential directions and further perspectives. The information compiled here will be helpful for further research and drug design in the future before AMPK might be considered as a therapeutic target of MI.
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Liu H, Shi ZH. Dynamic expression of adiponectin signaling pathway molecules in a rat model of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2018; 26:1645-1650. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v26.i28.1645] [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
AIM To detect the dynamic expression of adiponectin signaling pathway molecules in a non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) model.
METHODS Twenty-four male SD rats were randomly divided into four groups: a normal group (N, n = 6) and three model groups (M4, M8, and M12, n = 6 each). The normal group was given an ordinary diet, and the NAFLD model groups were given a high-fat diet. At the end of the fourth week, rats in group M4 were sacrificed. M8 rats were killed at the end of the eighth week, and rats in groups N and M12 were sacrificed at the end of the twelfth weeks. Tissue samples were collected for histopathological examinations. Serum adiponectin was detected by ELISA. The expression of AdipoR2 mRNA and PPARα mRNA was determined by RT-PCR. Protein expression of AdipoR2, PPARα, and phosphorylated AMPK was examined by Western blot.
RESULTS HE staining showed that liver cell swelling was obvious at the end of the twelfth weeks, with a large number of fat vacuoles in the cytoplasm and a small number of necrotic liver cells, which suggested that NAFLD was successfully induced. Compared with the normal group, serum adiponectin in the model group rats gradually decreased from week 4 to weeks 8 and 12. Compared with the normal group, the expression of AdipoR2 mRNA and PPARα mRNA in the liver of the model group rats gradually decreased from week 4 to weeks 8 and 12. Compared with the normal group, the protein expression of adiponectin signaling pathway molecules in the liver of the model group rats gradually decreased from week 4 to weeks 8 and 12. There was a significant difference between each two groups (P < 0.05).
CONCLUSION The protein expression of adiponectin signaling pathway molecules decreases gradually in the formation process of NAFLD. The activity decrease of the adiponectin signaling pathway is possibly one of the mechanisms contributing to NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Wuhan First Municipal Hospital, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhao-Hong Shi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Wuhan First Municipal Hospital, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
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41
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Kumar P, Raeman R, Chopyk DM, Smith T, Verma K, Liu Y, Anania FA. Adiponectin inhibits hepatic stellate cell activation by targeting the PTEN/AKT pathway. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2018; 1864:3537-3545. [PMID: 30293572 PMCID: PMC6529190 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2018.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Revised: 08/05/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Adiponectin inhibits hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and subsequent development of liver fibrosis via multiple mechanisms. Phosphatase and tensin homolog deletion 10 (PTEN) plays a crucial role in suppression of HSC activation, but its regulation by adiponectin is not fully understood. Here, we investigated the effect of adiponectin on PTEN in LX-2 cells, a human cell line and examined the underlying molecular mechanisms involved in adiponectin-mediated upregulation of PTEN activity during fibrosis. PTEN expression was found to be significantly reduced in the livers of mice treated with CCl4, whereas its expression was rescued by adiponectin treatment. The DNA methylation proteins DNMT1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B are all highly expressed in activated primary HSCs compared to quiescent HSCs, and thus represent additional regulatory targets during liver fibrogenesis. Expression of DNMT proteins was significantly induced in the presence of fibrotic stimuli; however, only DNMT3B expression was reduced in the presence of adiponectin. Adiponectin-induced suppression of DNMT3B was found to be mediated by enhanced miR-29b expression. Furthermore, PTEN expression was significantly increased by overexpression of miR-29b, whereas its expression was markedly reduced by a miR-29b inhibitor in LX-2 cells. These findings suggest that adiponectin-induced upregulation of miR-29b can suppress DNMT3B transcription in LX-2 cells, thus resulting in reduced methylation of PTEN CpG islands and ultimately suppressing the PI3K/AKT pathway. Together, these data suggest a possible new explanation for the inhibitory effect of adiponectin on HSC activation and liver fibrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep Kumar
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Reben Raeman
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Daniel M Chopyk
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Tekla Smith
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kiran Verma
- Labratory of Biochemical Pharmacology, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Yunshan Liu
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Frank A Anania
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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42
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Jiang S, Li T, Ji T, Yi W, Yang Z, Wang S, Yang Y, Gu C. AMPK: Potential Therapeutic Target for Ischemic Stroke. Am J Cancer Res 2018; 8:4535-4551. [PMID: 30214637 PMCID: PMC6134933 DOI: 10.7150/thno.25674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
5'-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a member of the serine/threonine (Ser/Thr) kinase group, is universally distributed in various cells and organs. It is a significant endogenous defensive molecule that responds to harmful stimuli, such as cerebral ischemia, cerebral hemorrhage, and, neurodegenerative diseases (NDD). Cerebral ischemia, which results from insufficient blood flow or the blockage of blood vessels, is a major cause of ischemic stroke. Ischemic stroke has received increased attention due to its '3H' effects, namely high mortality, high morbidity, and high disability. Numerous studies have revealed that activation of AMPK plays a protective role in the brain, whereas its action in ischemic stroke remains elusive and poorly understood. Based on existing evidence, we introduce the basic structure, upstream regulators, and biological roles of AMPK. Second, we analyze the relationship between AMPK and the neurovascular unit (NVU). Third, the actions of AMPK in different phases of ischemia and current therapeutic methods are discussed. Finally, we evaluate existing controversy and provide a detailed analysis, followed by ethical issues, potential directions, and further prospects of AMPK. The information complied here may aid in clinical and basic research of AMPK, which may be a potent drug candidate for ischemic stroke treatment in the future.
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Grouix B, Sarra-Bournet F, Leduc M, Simard JC, Hince K, Geerts L, Blais A, Gervais L, Laverdure A, Felton A, Richard J, Ouboudinar J, Gagnon W, Leblond FA, Laurin P, Gagnon L. PBI-4050 Reduces Stellate Cell Activation and Liver Fibrosis through Modulation of Intracellular ATP Levels and the Liver Kinase B1/AMP-Activated Protein Kinase/Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Pathway. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2018; 367:71-81. [PMID: 30093459 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.118.250068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality for which there is currently no effective therapy. We previously showed that 2-(3-pentylphenyl)acetic acid (PBI-4050) is a dual G protein-coupled receptor GPR40 agonist/GPR84 antagonist that exerts antifibrotic, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative action. We evaluated PBI-4050 for the treatment of liver fibrosis in vivo and elucidated its mechanism of action on human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). The antifibrotic effect of PBI-4050 was evaluated in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)- and bile duct ligation-induced liver fibrosis rodent models. Treatment with PBI-4050 suppressed CCl4-induced serum aspartate aminotransferase levels, inflammatory marker nitric oxide synthase, epithelial to mesenchymal transition transcription factor Snail, and multiple profibrotic factors. PBI-4050 also decreased GPR84 mRNA expression in CCl4-induced injury, while restoring peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) to the control level. Collagen deposition and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) protein levels were also attenuated by PBI-4050 treatment in the bile duct ligation rat model. Transforming growth factor-β-activated primary HSCs were used to examine the effect of PBI-4050 and its mechanism of action in vitro. PBI-4050 inhibited HSC proliferation by arresting cells in the G0/G1 cycle phase. Subsequent analysis demonstrated that PBI-4050 signals through a reduction of intracellular ATP levels, activation of liver kinase B1 (LKB1) and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and blockade of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), resulting in reduced protein and mRNA levels of α-SMA and connective tissue growth factor and restored PPARγ mRNA expression. Our findings suggest that PBI-4050 may exert antifibrotic activity in the liver through a novel mechanism of action involving modulation of intracellular ATP levels and the LKB1/AMPK/mTOR pathway in stellate cells, and PBI-4050 may be a promising agent for treating liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Martin Leduc
- Prometic BioSciences Inc., Laval, Québec, Canada
| | | | - Kathy Hince
- Prometic BioSciences Inc., Laval, Québec, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lyne Gagnon
- Prometic BioSciences Inc., Laval, Québec, Canada
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44
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PGC-1α sparks the fire of neuroprotection against neurodegenerative disorders. Ageing Res Rev 2018; 44:8-21. [PMID: 29580918 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2018.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Recently, growing evidence has demonstrated that peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ (PPARγ) coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) is a superior transcriptional regulator that acts via controlling the expression of anti-oxidant enzymes and uncoupling proteins and inducing mitochondrial biogenesis, which plays a beneficial part in the central nervous system (CNS). Given the significance of PGC-1α, we summarize the current literature on the molecular mechanisms and roles of PGC-1α in the CNS. Thus, in this review, we first briefly introduce the basic characteristics regarding PGC-1α. We then depict some of its important cerebral functions and discuss upstream modulators, partners, and downstream effectors of the PGC-1α signaling pathway. Finally, we highlight recent progress in research on the involvement of PGC-1α in certain major neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs), including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Collectively, the data presented here may be useful for supporting the future potential of PGC-1α as a therapeutic target.
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45
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Gao J, Ye J, Ying Y, Lin H, Luo Z. Negative regulation of TGF-β by AMPK and implications in the treatment of associated disorders. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2018; 50:523-531. [PMID: 29873702 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmy028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) regulates a large number of biological processes, including proliferation, differentiation, immune response, and development. In addition, TGF-β plays important roles in some pathological processes, for instance, it is upregulated and activated in fibrosis and advanced cancer. Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) acts as a fuel gauge that is activated when cells sense shortage of ATP and increase in AMP or AMP:ATP ratio. Activation of AMPK slows down anabolic processes and stimulates catabolic processes, leading to increased production of ATP. Furthermore, the functions of AMPK have been extended beyond energy homeostasis. In fact, AMPK has been shown to exert a tumor suppressive effect. Recent studies have demonstrated negative impacts of AMPK on TGF-β function. Therefore, in this review, we will discuss the differences in the biological functions of TGF-β and AMPK, and some pathological processes such as fibrosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer metastasis, as well as angiogenesis and heterotopic ossifications where TGF-β and AMPK exert opposite effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Gao
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Tumor Pathogens and Molecular Pathology, Nanchang University Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang 330000, China
- Department of Pathology, Schools of Basic Sciences, Nanchang University Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Jinhui Ye
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Tumor Pathogens and Molecular Pathology, Nanchang University Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Ying Ying
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Tumor Pathogens and Molecular Pathology, Nanchang University Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Hui Lin
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Tumor Pathogens and Molecular Pathology, Nanchang University Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Zhijun Luo
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Tumor Pathogens and Molecular Pathology, Nanchang University Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang 330000, China
- Department of Pathology, Schools of Basic Sciences, Nanchang University Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang 330000, China
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46
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Jiang S, Li T, Yang Z, Hu W, Yang Y. Deciphering the roles of FOXO1 in human neoplasms. Int J Cancer 2018; 143:1560-1568. [PMID: 29473160 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.31338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2017] [Revised: 02/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life SciencesNorthwest University, 229 Taibai North RoadXi'an710069 China
- Department of Aerospace MedicineThe Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West RoadXi'an710032 China
| | - Tian Li
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West RoadXi'an710032 China
| | - Zhi Yang
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West RoadXi'an710032 China
| | - Wei Hu
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West RoadXi'an710032 China
| | - Yang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life SciencesNorthwest University, 229 Taibai North RoadXi'an710069 China
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West RoadXi'an710032 China
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47
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Ma Z, Xin Z, Hu W, Jiang S, Yang Z, Yan X, Li X, Yang Y, Chen F. Forkhead box O proteins: Crucial regulators of cancer EMT. Semin Cancer Biol 2018; 50:21-31. [PMID: 29427645 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2018.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 12/02/2017] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an acknowledged cellular transition process in which epithelial cells acquire mesenchymal-like properties that endow cancer cells with increased migratory and invasive behavior. Forkhead box O (FOXO) proteins have been shown to orchestrate multiple EMT-associated pathways and EMT-related transcription factors (EMT-TFs), thereby modulating the EMT process. The focus of the current review is to evaluate the latest research progress regarding the roles of FOXO proteins in cancer EMT. First, a brief overview of the EMT process in cancer and a general background on the FOXO family are provided. Next, we present the interactions between FOXO proteins and multiple EMT-associated pathways during malignancy development. Finally, we propose several novel potential directions for future research. Collectively, the information compiled herein should serve as a comprehensive repository of information on this topic and should aid in the design of additional studies and the future development of FOXO proteins as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Ma
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an 710069 China; Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, 1 Xinsi Road, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Zhenlong Xin
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health and The Ministry of Education Key Lab of Hazard Assessment and Control in Special Operational Environment, School of Public Health, Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West Road, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Wei Hu
- Department of Immunology, The Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West Road, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Shuai Jiang
- Department of Aerospace Medicine, The Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West Road, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Zhi Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West Road, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Xiaolong Yan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, 1 Xinsi Road, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Xiaofei Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, 1 Xinsi Road, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an 710069 China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West Road, Xi'an 710032, China.
| | - Fulin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an 710069 China.
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48
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Huang J, Zhang D, Lin L, Jiang R, Dai J, Tang L, Yang Y, Ge P, Wang B, Zhang L. Potential roles of AMP-activated protein kinase in liver regeneration in mice with acute liver injury. Mol Med Rep 2018; 17:5390-5395. [PMID: 29393448 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2018.8522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver regeneration post severe liver injury is crucial for the recovery of hepatic structure and function. The energy sensor AMP‑activated protein kinase (AMPK) has a crucial role in the regulation of nutrition metabolism in addition to other energy‑intensive physiological and pathophysiological processes. Cellular proliferation requires intensive energy and nutrition support, therefore the present study investigated whether AMPK is involved in liver regeneration post carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‑induced acute hepatic injury. The experimental data indicated that phosphorylation level of AMPK increased 48 h post‑CCl4 exposure, which was accompanied with upregulation of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and recovery of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level. Pretreatment with the AMPK inhibitor compound C had no obvious effects on ALT elevation in plasma and histological abnormalities in liver 24 h post CCl4 exposure. However, treatment with compound C 24 h post CCl4 exposure significantly suppressed CCl4‑induced AMPK phosphorylation, PCNA expression and ALT recovery. These data suggest that endogenous AMPK was primarily activated at the regeneration stage in mice with CCl4‑induced acute liver injury and may function as a positive regulator in liver regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Huang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P.R. China
| | - Daijuan Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
| | - Ling Lin
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P.R. China
| | - Rong Jiang
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P.R. China
| | - Jie Dai
- Hospital of Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences, Chongqing 402160, P.R. China
| | - Li Tang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P.R. China
| | - Yongqiang Yang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P.R. China
| | - Pu Ge
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P.R. China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P.R. China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P.R. China
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