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Rainu SK, Singh N. 3D microscaffolds with triple-marker sensitive nanoprobes for studying fatty liver disease in vitro. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:10048-10063. [PMID: 38712552 DOI: 10.1039/d4nr00434e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a heterogeneous condition that encompasses a wide range of liver diseases that progresses from simple hepatic steatosis to the life-threatening state of cirrhosis. However, due to the heterogeneity of this disease, comprehensive analysis of several physicochemical and biological factors that drive its progression is necessary. Therefore, an in vitro platform is required that would enable real-time monitoring of these changes to better understand the progression of these diseases. The earliest stage of NAFLD, i.e. hepatic steatosis, is characterised by triglyceride accumulation in the form of lipid vacuoles in the cytosol of hepatocytes. This fatty acid accumulation is usually accompanied by hepatic inflammation, leading to tissue acidification and dysregulated expression of certain proteases such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Taking cues from the biological parameters of the disease, we report here a 3D in vitro GelMA/alginate microscaffold platform encapsulating a triple-marker (pH, MMP-3 and MMP-9) sensitive fluorescent nanoprobe for monitoring, and hence, distinguishing the fatty liver disease (hepatic steatosis) from healthy livers on the basis of pH change and MMP expression. The nanoprobe consists of a carbon nanoparticle (CNP) core, which exhibits intrinsic pH-dependent fluorescence properties, decorated either with an MMP-3 (NpMMP3) or MMP-9 (NpMMP9) sensitive peptide substrate. These peptide substrates are flanked with a fluorophore-quencher pair that separates on enzymatic cleavage, resulting in fluorescence emission. The cocktail of these nanoprobes generated multiple fluorescence signals corresponding to slightly acidic pH (blue) and overexpression of MMP-3 (green) and MMP-9 (red) enzymes in a 3D in vitro fatty liver model, whereas no/negligible fluorescence signals were observed in a healthy liver model. Moreover, this platform enabled us to mimic fatty liver disease in a more realistic manner. Therefore, this 3D in vitro platform encapsulating triple-marker sensitive fluorescent nanoprobes would facilitate the monitoring of the changes in pH and MMP expression, thereby enabling us to distinguish a healthy liver from a diseased liver and to study liver disease stages on the basis of these markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simran Kaur Rainu
- Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India.
| | - Neetu Singh
- Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India.
- Biomedical Engineering Unit, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi 110029, India
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Liu J, Li Y, Li F, Zhang X, Wang Y, Zhou J. Landscape of extrachromosomal circular DNAs, transcriptome, and proteome analysis reveals insights into alcoholic liver cirrhosis. Gene 2024; 927:148599. [PMID: 38782221 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148599] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Alcoholic liver cirrhosis (ALC) is a result of excessive and chronic alcohol consumption. Because alchol can cause DNA damage, extrachromosomal circular DNA (eccDNA) was investigated in ALC liver due to it can be a result of DNA damage. Considering eccDNA has ability to lead to genomic instability as an enhancer of gene transcription, we utilized Circle-Seq to identify differences in eccDNA profiles and gene expression patterns in liver samples obtained from ALC patients (n = 3) and healthy controls (n = 3) to investigate the role of eccDNA in the development of ALC. The abundance of eccDNA in ALC (mean = 13,349) were higher than the healthy control (mean = 11,557) without significant difference (pvalue = 0.6530). We observed 1,032 eccDNA containing genes showed higher expression in ALC patients compared to healthy controls (p < 0.05, log2FC > 1). Notably, we discovered seven genes that exhibited a significant positive correlation between eccDNA abundance and gene expression levels. These genes include A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 2 (ADAMTS2), Voltage-dependent L-type calcium channel subunit alpha-1C (CACNA1C), Protein TANC1 (TANC1), Integrin alpha-2 (ITGA2), EH domain-containing protein 4 (EHD4), Phosphofurin acidic cluster sorting protein 1 (PACS1), and Neuron navigator 2 (NAV2). Through mass spectrometry proteomics, ITGA2 were found to have significantly higher abbudance in ALC. Integrins are a family of proteins plays key roles in the fibrosis development of liver. Thus, our study opens a new perspective for liver fibrosis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Liu
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shi jia Zhuang 050051, China; Department of Infectious Diseases, Baoding No.1 Central Hospital, Baoding, Hebei 071000, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shi jia Zhuang 050051, China
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Baoding No.1 Central Hospital, Baoding, Hebei 071000, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Tuberculosis, The Fifth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050021, China
| | - Yadong Wang
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shi jia Zhuang 050051, China
| | - Junying Zhou
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shi jia Zhuang 050051, China.
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Klaus T, Hieber C, Bros M, Grabbe S. Integrins in Health and Disease-Suitable Targets for Treatment? Cells 2024; 13:212. [PMID: 38334604 PMCID: PMC10854705 DOI: 10.3390/cells13030212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Integrin receptors are heterodimeric surface receptors that play multiple roles regarding cell-cell communication, signaling, and migration. The four members of the β2 integrin subfamily are composed of an alternative α (CD11a-d) subunit, which determines the specific receptor properties, and a constant β (CD18) subunit. This review aims to present insight into the multiple immunological roles of integrin receptors, with a focus on β2 integrins that are specifically expressed by leukocytes. The pathophysiological role of β2 integrins is confirmed by the drastic phenotype of patients suffering from leukocyte adhesion deficiencies, most often resulting in severe recurrent infections and, at the same time, a predisposition for autoimmune diseases. So far, studies on the role of β2 integrins in vivo employed mice with a constitutive knockout of all β2 integrins or either family member, respectively, which complicated the differentiation between the direct and indirect effects of β2 integrin deficiency for distinct cell types. The recent generation and characterization of transgenic mice with a cell-type-specific knockdown of β2 integrins by our group has enabled the dissection of cell-specific roles of β2 integrins. Further, integrin receptors have been recognized as target receptors for the treatment of inflammatory diseases as well as tumor therapy. However, whereas both agonistic and antagonistic agents yielded beneficial effects in animal models, the success of clinical trials was limited in most cases and was associated with unwanted side effects. This unfavorable outcome is most probably related to the systemic effects of the used compounds on all leukocytes, thereby emphasizing the need to develop formulations that target distinct types of leukocytes to modulate β2 integrin activity for therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Stephan Grabbe
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Langenbeckstraße 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (T.K.); (C.H.); (M.B.)
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Yadav P, Singh SK, Rajput S, Allawadhi P, Khurana A, Weiskirchen R, Navik U. Therapeutic potential of stem cells in regeneration of liver in chronic liver diseases: Current perspectives and future challenges. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 253:108563. [PMID: 38013053 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108563] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The deposition of extracellular matrix and hyperplasia of connective tissue characterizes chronic liver disease called hepatic fibrosis. Progression of hepatic fibrosis may lead to hepatocellular carcinoma. At this stage, only liver transplantation is a viable option. However, the number of possible liver donors is less than the number of patients needing transplantation. Consequently, alternative cell therapies based on non-stem cells (e.g., fibroblasts, chondrocytes, keratinocytes, and hepatocytes) therapy may be able to postpone hepatic disease, but they are often ineffective. Thus, novel stem cell-based therapeutics might be potentially important cutting-edge approaches for treating liver diseases and reducing patient' suffering. Several signaling pathways provide targets for stem cell interventions. These include pathways such as TGF-β, STAT3/BCL-2, NADPH oxidase, Raf/MEK/ERK, Notch, and Wnt/β-catenin. Moreover, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) stimulate interleukin (IL)-10, which inhibits T-cells and converts M1 macrophages into M2 macrophages, producing an anti-inflammatory environment. Furthermore, it inhibits the action of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and reduces the activity of TNF-α and interferon cytokines by enhancing IL-4 synthesis. Consequently, the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory capabilities of MSCs make them an attractive therapeutic approach. Importantly, MSCs can inhibit the activation of hepatic stellate cells, causing their apoptosis and subsequent promotion of hepatocyte proliferation, thereby replacing dead hepatocytes and reducing liver fibrosis. This review discusses the multidimensional therapeutic role of stem cells as cell-based therapeutics in liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poonam Yadav
- Department of Pharmacology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab 151401, India
| | - Sumeet Kumar Singh
- Department of Pharmacology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab 151401, India
| | - Sonu Rajput
- Department of Pharmacology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab 151401, India
| | - Prince Allawadhi
- Department of Pharmacy, Vaish Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (VIPER), Pandit Bhagwat Dayal Sharma University of Health Sciences (Pt. B. D. S. UHS), Rohtak, Haryana 124001, India
| | - Amit Khurana
- Department of Pharmacology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab 151401, India; Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, D-52074 Aachen, Germany.
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, D-52074 Aachen, Germany.
| | - Umashanker Navik
- Department of Pharmacology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab 151401, India; Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, D-52074 Aachen, Germany.
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Wang R, Gao Y. Long non-coding RNA growth arrest-specific 5 inhibits liver fibrogenesis in biliary atresia by interacting with microRNA-222 and repressing IGF1/AKT signaling. Transl Pediatr 2023; 12:2107-2120. [PMID: 38197105 PMCID: PMC10772835 DOI: 10.21037/tp-23-424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Long non-coding RNA growth arrest-specific 5 (lncRNA GAS5) has been shown to inhibit liver fibrosis through serving as a competing endogenous RNA for microRNA-222 (miR-222). Progressive liver fibrosis is a typical characteristic of biliary atresia (BA). However, the role of GAS5/miR-222 and its underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown in BA. Methods The expression of GAS5 was determined in the liver and primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) of BA patients. Then, the effects of GAS5 on the activation and proliferation of HSCs were evaluated. Furthermore, the interaction between GAS5 and miR-222 was investigated by a luciferase gene report assay. Next, the effects of IGF1/AKT signaling were determined to clarify the downstream mechanism of GAS5. Finally, GAS5 administration was performed to explore its role in an experimental BA mouse model. Results GAS5 expression was decreased in liver tissues and HSCs of BA patients, and was inversely correlated with liver fibrosis in BA. Up-regulation of GAS5 in LX-2 cells significantly reduced smooth muscle α-actin (α-SMA) and collagen 1a1 (COL1A1) expression, inhibited cell proliferation and clone formation ability, induced S phase increase, and promoted cell apoptosis. Moreover, GAS5 was negatively regulated by miR-222, which promoted HSCs activation and proliferation, and was positively correlated with liver fibrosis in BA. Additionally, the expressions of IGF1, p-PI3K, and p-AKT were decreased when LX-2 cells over-expressed GAS5, whereas knockdown of IGF1 or AKT significantly decreased α-SMA and COL1A1 expression, suppressed cell proliferation, and enhanced cell apoptosis in LX-2 cells. Furthermore, GAS5 administration significantly increased apoptosis and reduced liver fibrosis, α-SMA and COL1A1 expressions in liver tissues of BA mice. Conclusions GAS5 inhibited liver fibrosis in BA by interacting with miR-222 and regulating IGF1/AKT signaling, which may be a therapeutic target to alleviate liver fibrosis in BA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoyi Wang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Xi'an, China
| | - Ya Gao
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Xi'an, China
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Abdel-Latif GA, Al-Kashef AS, Nooman MU, Khattab AENA, Gebril SM, Elmongy NF, Abbas SS. The mechanistic interplay between Nrf-2, NF-κB/MAPK, caspase-dependent apoptosis, and autophagy in the hepatoprotective effects of Sophorolipids produced by microbial conversion of banana peels using Saccharomyces cerevisiae against doxorubicin-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 182:114119. [PMID: 37944788 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.114119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Doxorubicin (DOX) is a well-known chemotherapeutic agent which causes serious adverse effects due to multiple organ damage, including cardiotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and hepatotoxicity. The mechanism of DOX-induced organ toxicity might be attributed to oxidative stress (OS) and, consequently, activation of inflammatory signaling pathways, apoptosis, and blockage of autophagy. Sophorolipids (SLs) as a glycolipid type of biosurfactants, are natural products that have unique properties and a wide range of applications attributed to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. AIMS Production of low-cost SLs from Saccharomyces cerevisiae grown on banana peels and investigating their possible protective effects against DOX-induced hepatotoxicity. MAIN METHODS The yeast was locally isolated and molecularly identified, then the yielded SLs were characterized by FTIR, 1H NMR and LC-MS/MS spectra. Posteriorly, thirty-two male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups; control (oral saline), SLs (200 mg/kg, p.o), DOX (10 mg/kg; i.p.), and SL + DOX (200 mg/kg p.o.,10 mg/kg; i.p., respectively). Liver function tests (LFTs), oxidative stress, inflammatory, apoptosis as well as autophagy markers were investigated. KEY FINDINGS SLs were produced with a yield of 49.04% and treatment with SLs improved LFTs, enhanced Nrf2 and suppressed NF-κB, IL-6, IL-1β, p38, caspase 3 and Bax/Bcl2 ratio in addition to promotion of autophagy when compared to DOX group. SIGNIFICANCE Our results revealed a novel promising protective effect of SLs against DOX-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghada A Abdel-Latif
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Misr International University (MIU), Cairo, Egypt; Translational and Clinical Research Unit, Faculty of Pharmacy, Misr International University (MIU), Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Amr S Al-Kashef
- Biochemistry Department, Biotechnology Research Institute, National Research Centre (NRC), Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed U Nooman
- Biochemistry Department, Biotechnology Research Institute, National Research Centre (NRC), Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Abd El-Nasser A Khattab
- Genetics & Cytology Department, Biotechnology Research Institute, National Research Centre (NRC), Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Sahar M Gebril
- Histology and Cell Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt.
| | - Noura F Elmongy
- Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Damietta, Egypt.
| | - Samah S Abbas
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Misr International University (MIU), Cairo, Egypt; Translational and Clinical Research Unit, Faculty of Pharmacy, Misr International University (MIU), Cairo, Egypt.
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Sabir U, Gu HM, Zhang DW. Extracellular matrix turnover: phytochemicals target and modulate the dual role of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in liver fibrosis. Phytother Res 2023; 37:4932-4962. [PMID: 37461256 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular matrix (ECM) resolution by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) is a well-documented mechanism. MMPs play a dual and complex role in modulating ECM degradation at different stages of liver fibrosis, depending on the timing and levels of their expression. Increased MMP-1 combats disease progression by cleaving the fibrillar ECM. Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) increase expression of MMP-2, -9, and -13 in different chemicals-induced animal models, which may alleviate or worsen disease progression based on animal models and the stage of liver fibrosis. In the early stage, elevated expression of certain MMPs may damage surrounding tissue and activate HSCs, promoting fibrosis progression. At the later stage, downregulation of MMPs can facilitate ECM accumulation and disease progression. A number of phytochemicals modulate MMP activity and ECM turnover, alleviating disease progression. However, the effects of phytochemicals on the expression of different MMPs are variable and may depend on the disease models and stage, and the dosage, timing and duration of phytochemicals used in each study. Here, we review the most recent advances in the role of MMPs in the effects of phytochemicals on liver fibrogenesis, which indicates that further studies are warranted to confirm and define the potential clinical efficacy of these phytochemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Usman Sabir
- Department of Pediatrics and Group on the Molecular and Cell Biology of Lipids, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Hong-Mei Gu
- Department of Pediatrics and Group on the Molecular and Cell Biology of Lipids, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Da-Wei Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics and Group on the Molecular and Cell Biology of Lipids, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Gao J, Bao M, Xing Y, Ding Y, Han T, Wen E, Liu J, Yue S, Wang R, Wang L, Liu J, Zhao S, Huang J, Liu E, Bai L. Mediator subunit MED1 deficiency prevents carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2023; 325:G418-G428. [PMID: 37668531 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00076.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Mediator subunit mediator 1 (MED1) mediates ligand-dependent binding of the mediator coactivator complex to various nuclear receptors and plays a critical role in embryonic development, lipid and glucose metabolism, liver regeneration, and tumorigenesis. However, the precise role of MED1 in the development of liver fibrosis has been unclear. Here, we showed that MED1 expression was increased in livers from nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) patients and mice and positively correlated with transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling and profibrotic factors. Upon treatment with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), hepatic fibrosis was much less in liver-specific MED1 deletion (MED1ΔLiv) mice than in MED1fl/fl littermates. TGF-β/Smad2/3 signaling pathway was inhibited, and gene expression of fibrotic markers, including α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen type 1 α 1 (Col1a1), matrix metalloproteinase-2 (Mmp2), and metallopeptidase inhibitor 1 (Timp1) were decreased in livers of MED1ΔLiv mice with CCl4 injection. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that the differentially expressed genes in livers of CCl4-administered MED1ΔLiv mice were enriched in the pathway of oxidoreductase activity, followed by robustly reduced oxidoreductase activity-related genes, such as Gm4756, Txnrd3, and Etfbkmt. More importantly, we found that the reduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in MED1 knockdown hepatocytes blocked the activation of TGF-β/Smad2/3 pathway and the expression of fibrotic genes in LX2 cells. These results indicate that MED1 is a positive regulator for hepatic fibrogenesis, and MED1 may be considered as a potential therapeutic target for the regression of liver fibrosis.NEW & NOTEWORTHY In this study, we present the first evidence that liver mediator 1 (MED1) deficiency attenuated carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic fibrosis in mouse. The underlying mechanism is that MED1 deficiency reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in hepatocytes, thus restricts the activation of TGF-β/Smad2/3 signaling pathway and fibrogenic genes expression in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). These data suggest that MED1 is an essential regulator for hepatic fibrogenesis, and MED1 may be considered as a potential therapeutic target for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Gao
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Cardiometabolic Innovation Center, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- School of Biological Science Technology and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, People's Republic of China
| | - Miaoye Bao
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Cardiometabolic Innovation Center, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanming Xing
- Cardiometabolic Innovation Center, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiming Ding
- Cardiometabolic Innovation Center, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Tuo Han
- Cardiometabolic Innovation Center, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Ergang Wen
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Cardiometabolic Innovation Center, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Cardiometabolic Innovation Center, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Shaoyun Yue
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Rong Wang
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Cardiometabolic Innovation Center, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Wang
- School of Biological Science Technology and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, People's Republic of China
| | - Junhui Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Sihai Zhao
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Cardiometabolic Innovation Center, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiansheng Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States
| | - Enqi Liu
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Cardiometabolic Innovation Center, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Bai
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Cardiometabolic Innovation Center, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
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McVicker BL, Simpson RL, Hamel FG, Bennett RG. Reduction in Obesity-Related Hepatic Fibrosis by SR1664. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1287. [PMID: 37886997 PMCID: PMC10604321 DOI: 10.3390/biology12101287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is a transcription factor with adipogenic, insulin-sensitizing, and antifibrotic properties. Strong PPARγ activators, such as the thiazolidinediones, can induce unwanted effects such as edema, weight gain, and bone loss, and therefore selective modulators of PPARγ are in development. We previously reported that one selective PPARγ modulator, SR1664, reduced toxin-induced hepatic fibrosis and the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the main collagen-producing liver cell in fibrosis. In this study, we used a high fat and high carbohydrate (HFHC) model of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis to determine the effect of SR1664. Mice were placed on a standard chow or HFHC diet for 16 weeks, with SR1664 or control treatment for the final 4 weeks. SR1664 did not alter weight gain or fasting insulin or glucose levels. The size of lipid droplets in the HFHC group was reduced by SR1664, but there was no effect on total liver triglyceride levels. The degree of fibrosis was significantly reduced by SR1664 in mice on the HFHC diet, and this was accompanied by a decrease in activated HSC. In summary, SR1664 improved insulin sensitivity and reduced fibrosis in the HFHC diet, suggesting selective PPARγ modulation is effective in obesity-related liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benita L. McVicker
- Research Service, Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.)
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Pharmacology & Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Ronda L. Simpson
- Research Service, Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.)
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Pharmacology & Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Frederick G. Hamel
- Research Service, Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.)
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Robert G. Bennett
- Research Service, Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.)
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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Jain I, Brougham-Cook A, Underhill GH. Effect of distinct ECM microenvironments on the genome-wide chromatin accessibility and gene expression responses of hepatic stellate cells. Acta Biomater 2023; 167:278-292. [PMID: 37343907 PMCID: PMC10527607 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are one of the primary drivers of liver fibrosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Although HSC activation in liver disease is associated with changes in extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and remodeling, it remains unclear how ECM regulates the phenotypic state transitions of HSCs. Using high-throughput cellular microarrays, coupled with genome-wide ATAC and RNA sequencing within engineered ECM microenvironments, we investigated the effect of ECM and substrate stiffness on chromatin accessibility and resulting gene expression in activated primary human HSCs. Cell microarrays demonstrated the cooperative effects of stiffness and ECM composition on H3K4 and H3K9 methylation/acetylation. ATAC sequencing revealed higher chromatin accessibility in HSCs on 1kPa compared to 25kPa substrates for all ECM conditions. Gene set enrichment analysis using RNA sequencing data of HSCs in defined ECM microenvironments demonstrated higher enrichment of NAFLD and fibrosis-related genes in pre-activated HSCs on 1kPa relative to 25kPa. Overall, these findings are indicative of a microenvironmental adaptation response in HSCs, and the acquisition of a persistent activation state. Combined ATAC/RNA sequencing analyses enabled identification of candidate regulatory factors, including HSD11B1 and CEBPb. siRNA-mediated knockdown of HSD11b1 and CEBPb demonstrated microenvironmental controlled reduction in fibrogenic markers in HSCs. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are one of the primary drivers of liver fibrosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Although HSC activation in liver disease is associated with changes in extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and remodeling, it remains unclear how ECM regulates the phenotypic state transitions of HSCs. Using high-throughput cellular microarrays, coupled with genome-wide ATAC and RNA sequencing within engineered ECM microenvironments, we investigated the effect of ECM and substrate stiffness on chromatin accessibility and resulting gene expression in activated primary human HSCs. Overall, these findings were indicative of a microenvironmental adaptation response in HSCs, and the acquisition of a persistent activation state. Combined ATAC/RNA sequencing analyses enabled identification of candidate regulatory factors, including HSD11B1 and CEBPb. siRNA-mediated knockdown of HSD11b1 and CEBPb demonstrated microenvironmental controlled reduction in fibrogenic markers in HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishita Jain
- University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Urbana, USA
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Kim J, Lee C, Noh SG, Kim S, Chung HY, Lee H, Moon JO. Integrative Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Upregulated Apoptotic Signaling in Wound-Healing Pathway in Rat Liver Fibrosis Models. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1588. [PMID: 37627582 PMCID: PMC10451232 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12081588] [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: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis, defined by the aberrant accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins in liver tissue due to chronic inflammation, represents a pressing global health issue. In this study, we investigated the transcriptomic signatures of three independent liver fibrosis models induced by bile duct ligation, carbon tetrachloride, and dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) to unravel the pathological mechanisms underlying hepatic fibrosis. We observed significant changes in gene expression linked to key characteristics of liver fibrosis, with a distinctive correlation to the burn-wound-healing pathway. Building on these transcriptomic insights, we further probed the p53 signaling pathways within the DMN-induced rat liver fibrosis model, utilizing western blot analysis. We observed a pronounced elevation in p53 protein levels and heightened ratios of BAX/BCL2, cleaved/pro-CASPASE-3, and cleaved/full length-PARP in the livers of DMN-exposed rats. Furthermore, we discovered that orally administering oligonol-a polyphenol, derived from lychee, with anti-oxidative properties-effectively countered the overexpressions of pivotal apoptotic genes within these fibrotic models. In conclusion, our findings offer an in-depth understanding of the molecular alterations contributing to liver fibrosis, spotlighting the essential role of the apoptosis pathway tied to the burn-wound-healing process. Most importantly, our research proposes that regulating this pathway, specifically the balance of apoptosis, could serve as a potential therapeutic approach for treating liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihyun Kim
- BIT Convergence-Based Innovative Drug Development Targeting Mate-Inflammation, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea;
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea; (C.L.); (S.G.N.); (S.K.); (H.Y.C.)
| | - Changyong Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea; (C.L.); (S.G.N.); (S.K.); (H.Y.C.)
| | - Sang Gyun Noh
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea; (C.L.); (S.G.N.); (S.K.); (H.Y.C.)
| | - Seungwoo Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea; (C.L.); (S.G.N.); (S.K.); (H.Y.C.)
| | - Hae Young Chung
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea; (C.L.); (S.G.N.); (S.K.); (H.Y.C.)
| | - Haeseung Lee
- BIT Convergence-Based Innovative Drug Development Targeting Mate-Inflammation, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea;
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea; (C.L.); (S.G.N.); (S.K.); (H.Y.C.)
| | - Jeon-Ok Moon
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea; (C.L.); (S.G.N.); (S.K.); (H.Y.C.)
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Tipirneni-Sajja A, Brasher S, Shrestha U, Johnson H, Morin C, Satapathy SK. Quantitative MRI of diffuse liver diseases: techniques and tissue-mimicking phantoms. MAGMA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 36:529-551. [PMID: 36515810 DOI: 10.1007/s10334-022-01053-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques are emerging as non-invasive alternatives to biopsy for assessment of diffuse liver diseases of iron overload, steatosis and fibrosis. For testing and validating the accuracy of these techniques, phantoms are often used as stand-ins to human tissue to mimic diffuse liver pathologies. However, currently, there is no standardization in the preparation of MRI-based liver phantoms for mimicking iron overload, steatosis, fibrosis or a combination of these pathologies as various sizes and types of materials are used to mimic the same liver disease. Liver phantoms that mimic specific MR features of diffuse liver diseases observed in vivo are important for testing and calibrating new MRI techniques and for evaluating signal models to accurately quantify these features. In this study, we review the liver morphology associated with these diffuse diseases, discuss the quantitative MR techniques for assessing these liver pathologies, and comprehensively examine published liver phantom studies and discuss their benefits and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaryani Tipirneni-Sajja
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA.
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.
| | - Sarah Brasher
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Utsav Shrestha
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Hayden Johnson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Cara Morin
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Sanjaya K Satapathy
- Northwell Health Center for Liver Diseases and Transplantation, Northshore University Hospital/Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA
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13
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Mackinnon AC, Tonev D, Jacoby B, Pinzani M, Slack RJ. Galectin-3: therapeutic targeting in liver disease. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:779-791. [PMID: 37705214 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2258280] [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: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The rising incidence of liver diseases is a worldwide healthcare concern. However, the therapeutic options to manage chronic inflammation and fibrosis, the processes at the basis of morbidity and mortality of liver diseases, are very limited. Galectin 3 (Gal-3) is a protein implicated in fibrosis in multiple organs. Several Gal-3 inhibitors are currently in clinical development. AREAS COVERED This review describes our current understanding of the role of Gal-3 in chronic liver diseases, with special emphasis on fibrosis. Also, we review therapeutic advances based on Gal-3 inhibition, describing drug properties and their current status in clinical research. EXPERT OPINION Currently, the known effects of Gal-3 point to a direct activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome leading to its activation in liver macrophages and activated macrophages play a key role in tissue fibrogenesis. However, more research is needed to elucidate the role of Gal-3 in the different activation pathways, dissecting the intracellular and extracellular mechanisms of Gal-3, and its role in pathogenesis. Gal-3 could be a target for early therapy of numerous hepatic diseases and, given the lack of therapeutic options for liver fibrosis, there is a strong pharmacologic potential for Gal-3-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dimitar Tonev
- Galecto Biotech AB, Cobis Science Park, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Brian Jacoby
- Galecto Biotech AB, Cobis Science Park, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Massimo Pinzani
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Robert J Slack
- Galecto Biotech AB, Cobis Science Park, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Chen P, Wang R, Liu F, Li S, Gu Y, Wang L, Yuan Y. Schizandrin C regulates lipid metabolism and inflammation in liver fibrosis by NF-κB and p38/ERK MAPK signaling pathways. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1092151. [PMID: 37288106 PMCID: PMC10242051 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1092151] [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: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is considered a sustained wound healing response and metabolic syndrome, and its therapy is of great significance for chronic liver disease. Schizandrin C, as one lignan from hepatic protectant Schisandra chinensis, can depress the oxidative effect and lipid peroxidation, and protect against liver injury. In this study, C57BL/6J mice were used to estimate a liver fibrosis model by CCl4, and Schizandrin C exerted an anti-hepatic fibrosis effect, as evidenced by decreased alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and total bilirubin activities in serum, lower hydroxyproline content, recuperative structure and less collagen accumulation in the liver. In addition, Schizandrin C reduced the expressions of alpha-smooth muscle actin and type Ι collagen in the liver. In vitro experiments also revealed that Schizandrin C attenuated hepatic stellate cell activation in both LX-2 and HSC-T6 cells. Furthermore, lipidomics and quantitative real-time PCR analysis revealed that Schizandrin C regulated the lipid profile and related metabolic enzymes in the liver. In addition, the mRNA levels of inflammation factors were downregulated by Schizandrin C treatment, accompanied by lower protein levels of IκB-Kinase-β, nuclear factor kappa-B p65, and phospho-nuclear factor kappa-B p65. Finally, Schizandrin C inhibited the phosphorylation of p38 MAP kinase and extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase, which were activated in the CCl4 fibrotic liver. Taken together, Schizandrin C can regulate lipid metabolism and inflammation to ameliorate liver fibrosis by nuclear factor kappa-B and p38/ERK MAPK signaling pathways. These findings supported Schizandrin C as a potential drug for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panpan Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Rong Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fangbin Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shengnan Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanqiu Gu
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongfang Yuan
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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15
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Zhao YQ, Deng XW, Xu GQ, Lin J, Lu HZ, Chen J. Mechanical homeostasis imbalance in hepatic stellate cells activation and hepatic fibrosis. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1183808. [PMID: 37152902 PMCID: PMC10157180 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1183808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver disease or repeated damage to hepatocytes can give rise to hepatic fibrosis. Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is a pathological process of excessive sedimentation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins such as collagens, glycoproteins, and proteoglycans (PGs) in the hepatic parenchyma. Changes in the composition of the ECM lead to the stiffness of the matrix that destroys its inherent mechanical homeostasis, and a mechanical homeostasis imbalance activates hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) into myofibroblasts, which can overproliferate and secrete large amounts of ECM proteins. Excessive ECM proteins are gradually deposited in the Disse gap, and matrix regeneration fails, which further leads to changes in ECM components and an increase in stiffness, forming a vicious cycle. These processes promote the occurrence and development of hepatic fibrosis. In this review, the dynamic process of ECM remodeling of HF and the activation of HSCs into mechanotransduction signaling pathways for myofibroblasts to participate in HF are discussed. These mechanotransduction signaling pathways may have potential therapeutic targets for repairing or reversing fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Quan Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Xi-Wen Deng
- Graduate School of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Guo-Qi Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Jie Lin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Hua-Ze Lu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
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Oh HR, Ko MK, Son D, Ki YW, Kim SI, Lee SY, Kang KW, Cheon GJ, Hwang DW, Youn H. Activated Natural Killer Cell Inoculation Alleviates Fibrotic Liver Pathology in a Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Cirrhosis Mouse Model. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041090. [PMID: 37189708 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a detrimental role in liver fibrosis progression. Natural killer (NK) cells are known to selectively recognize abnormal or transformed cells via their receptor activation and induce target cell apoptosis and, therefore, can be used as a potential therapeutic strategy for liver cirrhosis. In this study, we examined the therapeutic effects of NK cells in the carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver cirrhosis mouse model. NK cells were isolated from the mouse spleen and expanded in the cytokine-stimulated culture medium. Natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D)-positive NK cells were significantly increased after a week of expansion in culture. The intravenous injection of NK cells significantly alleviated liver cirrhosis by reducing collagen deposition, HSC marker activation, and macrophage infiltration. For in vivo imaging, NK cells were isolated from codon-optimized luciferase-expressing transgenic mice. Luciferase-expressing NK cells were expanded, activated and administrated to the mouse model to track them. Bioluminescence images showed increased accumulation of the intravenously inoculated NK cells in the cirrhotic liver of the recipient mouse. In addition, we conducted QuantSeq 3' mRNA sequencing-based transcriptomic analysis. From the transcriptomic analysis, 33 downregulated genes in the extracellular matrix (ECM) and 41 downregulated genes involved in the inflammatory response were observed in the NK cell-treated cirrhotic liver tissues from the 1532 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). This result indicated that the repetitive administration of NK cells alleviated the pathology of liver fibrosis in the CCl4-induced liver cirrhosis mouse model via anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Taken together, our research demonstrated that NK cells could have therapeutic effects in a CCl4-induced liver cirrhosis mouse model. In particular, it was elucidated that extracellular matrix genes and inflammatory response genes, which were mainly affected after NK cell treatment, could be potential targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho Rim Oh
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Kyung Ko
- Research & Development Center, THERABEST, Co., Ltd., Seoul 06656, Republic of Korea
| | - Daehee Son
- Research & Development Center, THERABEST, Co., Ltd., Seoul 06656, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Wook Ki
- Research & Development Center, THERABEST, Co., Ltd., Seoul 06656, Republic of Korea
| | - Shin-Il Kim
- Research & Development Center, THERABEST, Co., Ltd., Seoul 06656, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Yong Lee
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Imaging Center, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Keon Wook Kang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi Jeong Cheon
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Do Won Hwang
- Research & Development Center, THERABEST, Co., Ltd., Seoul 06656, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyewon Youn
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Imaging Center, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
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Lv C, Li Y, Ou L, Zhou J, Peng F, Wu D. Metabonomic analysis of the anti-hepatic fibrosis effect of Ganlong capsules. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1122118. [PMID: 37033612 PMCID: PMC10076698 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1122118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Context: Hepatic fibrosis is a progressive condition, often attributed to metabolic disorders, which may promote cirrhosis and liver cancer. Ganlong capsules derived from Periplaneta Americana have been shown to have a therapeutic effect on liver fibrosis but little is known about the molecular mechanisms involved. Objective: To investigate the metabolic modulations produced by Ganlong capsules in liver fibrosis. Methods: A carbon tetrachloride- (CCl4) treated rat model of liver fibrosis was constructed and Ganlong capsules administered. Levels of serum liver enzymes and pathological changes to the liver were evaluated. Non-targeted metabolomics of liver, serum and urine were used to investigate metabolic regulatory mechanisms. Results: Ganlong capsules reduced serum levels of liver enzymes and improved pathological changes in the rat model of fibrosis. Non-targeted metabolomics showed that Ganlong capsules ameliorated pathways of glycerophospholipid, linoleic acid, pyrimidine, glycine, butyric acid, valine, serine, threonine and arachidonic acid metabolism and biosynthesis of leucine and isoleucine. Such pathways influence the development of CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. Conclusion: Ganlong capsules had an anti-fibrotic hepatoprotective effect and regulated lipid, butyric acid, amino acid and arachidonic acid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- ChangLing Lv
- College of Pharmacy, Dali University, Dali, China
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Entomological Biopharmaceutical R&D, Dali, China
| | - YinRui Li
- Department Of Pharmacy, Mengzi People’s Hospital, Mengzi, China
| | - Ling Ou
- College of Pharmacy, Dali University, Dali, China
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Entomological Biopharmaceutical R&D, Dali, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- College of Pharmacy, Dali University, Dali, China
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Entomological Biopharmaceutical R&D, Dali, China
| | - Fang Peng
- College of Pharmacy, Dali University, Dali, China
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Entomological Biopharmaceutical R&D, Dali, China
| | - DingYu Wu
- College of Pharmacy, Dali University, Dali, China
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Entomological Biopharmaceutical R&D, Dali, China
- *Correspondence: DingYu Wu,
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18
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Bolori S, Shegefti S, Baghaei K, Yadegar A, Moon KM, Foster LJ, Nasiri MJ, Dabiri H. The Effects of Helicobacter pylori-Derived Outer Membrane Vesicles on Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Liver Fibrosis In Vitro. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 2023:4848643. [PMID: 37090196 PMCID: PMC10116224 DOI: 10.1155/2023/4848643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Helicobacter pylori is a prevalent pathogenic bacterium that resides in the human stomach. Outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) are known as nanosized cargos released by H. pylori, which have been proposed to have a key role in disease progression, pathogenesis, and modulation of the immune system. There are multiple evidences for the role of H. pylori in extragastroduodenal illnesses especially liver-related disorders. However, the precise mechanism of H. pylori extragastroduodenal pathogenesis still remains unclear. In the current study, we aimed to determine the impact of H. pylori-isolated OMVs on hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and expression of liver fibrosis markers. Materials and Methods Five H. pylori clinical strains with different genotype profiles were used. Helicobacter pylori OMVs were isolated using ultracentrifugation and were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis was applied to determine protein components of H. pylori-derived OMVs. Cell viability of LX-2 human hepatic stellate cell line exposed to OMVs was measured by MTT assay. LX-2 cells were treated with OMVs for 24 h. The gene expression of α-SMA, E-cadherin, vimentin, snail, and β-catenin was analyzed using quantitative real-time PCR. The protein expression of α-SMA, as a well-studied profibrotic marker, was evaluated with immunocytochemistry. Results Our results showed that H. pylori strains released round shape nanovesicles ranging from 50 to 500 nm. Totally, 112 various proteins were identified in OMVs by proteomic analysis. The isolated OMVs were negative for both CagA and VacA virulence factors. Treatment of HSCs with H. pylori-derived OMVs significantly increased the expression of fibrosis markers. Conclusions In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that H. pylori-derived OMVs could promote HSC activation and induce the expression of hepatic fibrosis markers. Further research is required to elucidate the definite role of H. pylori-derived OMVs in liver fibrosis and liver-associated disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahin Bolori
- Microbiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saina Shegefti
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kaveh Baghaei
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorder Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Yadegar
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kyung-Mee Moon
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Leonard J. Foster
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mohammad Javad Nasiri
- Microbiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Dabiri
- Microbiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Guvatova ZG, Borisov PV, Alekseev AA, Moskalev AA. Age-Related Changes in Extracellular Matrix. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2022; 87:1535-1551. [PMID: 36717445 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297922120112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular matrix (ECM) is an extracellular tissue structure that, in addition to mechanical support to the cell, is involved in regulation of many cellular processes, including chemical transport, growth, migration, differentiation, and cell senescence. Age-related changes in the structure and composition of the matrix and increase of ECM stiffness with age affect functioning of many tissues and contribute to the development of various pathological conditions. This review considers age-related changes of ECM in various tissues and organs, in particular, effect of ECM changes on aging is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zulfiia G Guvatova
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia.,Russian Clinical Research Center for Gerontology, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Moscow, 129226, Russia
| | - Pavel V Borisov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Alexey A Alekseev
- Russian Clinical Research Center for Gerontology, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Moscow, 129226, Russia
| | - Alexey A Moskalev
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia. .,Russian Clinical Research Center for Gerontology, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Moscow, 129226, Russia
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20
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Gong P, Yin K, Luo X, Gu J, Tan R, Wu Y, Li D. Tandem mass tag-based proteomics analysis reveals the multitarget mechanisms of Phyllanthus emblica against liver fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:989995. [PMID: 36313326 PMCID: PMC9606415 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.989995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Phyllanthus emblica (PE), a traditional multiethnic herbal medicine, is commonly applied to treat liver diseases. Our previous study demonstrated that aqueous extract of PE (AEPE) could alleviate carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in vivo, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are still unclear. The present study was undertaken to clarify the multitarget mechanisms of PE in treating liver fibrosis by proteomics clues. A CCl4-induced liver fibrosis rat model was established. The anti-liver fibrosis effects of chemical fractions from AEPE were evaluated by serum biochemical indicators and pathological staining. Additionally, tandem mass tag (TMT) - based quantitative proteomics technology was used to detect the hepatic differentially expressed proteins (DEPs). The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment, gene ontology (GO) enrichment and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network were used to perform bioinformatics analysis of DEPs. Western blot analysis was used to verify the key potential targets regulated by the effective fraction of AEPE. The low-molecular-weight fraction of AEPE (LWPE) was determined to be the optimal anti-liver fibrosis active fraction, that could significantly improve ALT, AST, HA, Col IV, PCIII, LN, Hyp levels and reduce the pathological fibrotic lesion of liver tissue in model rats. A total of 195 DEPs were screened after LWPE intervention. GO analysis showed that the DEPs were related mostly to extracellular matrix organization, actin binding, and extracellular exosomes. KEGG pathway analysis showed that DEPs are mainly related to ECM-receptor interactions, focal adhesion and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Combined with the GO, KEGG and Western blot results, COL1A2, ITGAV, TLR2, ACE, and PDGFRB may be potential targets for PE treatment of liver fibrosis. In conclusion, LWPE exerts therapeutic effects through multiple pathways and multiple targets regulation in the treatment of liver fibrosis. This study may provide proteomics clues for the continuation of research on liver fibrosis treatment with PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Puyang Gong
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Kehuan Yin
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaomin Luo
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jian Gu
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Jian Gu, ; Yan Wu,
| | - Rui Tan
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Wu
- College of Pharmacy, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Jian Gu, ; Yan Wu,
| | - Dapeng Li
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Khurana A, Navik U, Allawadhi P, Yadav P, Weiskirchen R. Spotlight on liver macrophages for halting liver disease progression and injury. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2022; 26:707-719. [PMID: 36202756 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2022.2133699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Over the past two decades, understanding of hepatic macrophage biology has provided astounding details of their role in the progression and regression of liver diseases. The hepatic macrophages constitute resident macrophages, Kupffer cells, and circulating bone marrow monocyte-derived macrophages, which play a diverse role in liver injury and repair. Imbalance in the macrophage population leads to pathological consequences and is responsible for the initiation and progression of acute and chronic liver injuries. Further, distinct populations of hepatic macrophages and their high heterogeneity make their complex role enigmatic. The unique features of distinct phenotypes of macrophages have provided novel biomarkers for defining the stages of liver diseases. The distinct mechanisms of hepatic macrophages polarization and recruitment have been at the fore front of research. In addition, the secretome of hepatic macrophages and their immune regulation has provided clinically relevant therapeutic targets. AREAS COVERED Herein we have highlighted the current understanding in the area of hepatic macrophages, and their role in the progression of liver injury. EXPERT OPINION It is essential to ascertain the physiological and pathological role of evolutionarily conserved distinct macrophage phenotypes in different liver diseases before viable approaches may see a clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Khurana
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, D-52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Umashanker Navik
- Department of Pharmacology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda - 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Prince Allawadhi
- Department of Pharmacy, Vaish Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (VIPER), Pandit Bhagwat Dayal Sharma University of Health Sciences (Pt. B. D. S. UHS), Rohtak - 124001, Haryana, India
| | - Poonam Yadav
- Department of Pharmacology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda - 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, D-52074, Aachen, Germany
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22
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Xue W, Zhang J, Zhu Y, Huang W. Identify Functional lncRNAs in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease by Constructing a ceRNA Network. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:22522-22530. [PMID: 35811919 PMCID: PMC9260751 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c01801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Aim: To identify functional long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) by constructing a NAFLD-related lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network (NLMMN) based on the hypothesis that lncRNAs, as competitive endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs), are able to regulate mRNA functions by competitive binding to shared miRNAs. Methods: The "Limma R package" was used to identify differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs (DElncRNAs and DEmRNAs). The "miRcode online tool" was used to predict the potential interactions between DElncRNAs or DEmRNAs using Perl, and "multiMiR R package" was used to predict the potential interactions between DElncRNAs and miRNAs. The NLMMN was viewed by Cytoscape. The DEmRNAs were further analyzed by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. The real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to identify functional lncRNAs in human liver tissue and FFAs-induced fat-overloading HepG2 cells. The role of functional lncRNA was explored in the HepG2 cell line. Results: A total of 336 DElncRNAs (154 upregulated and 182 downregulated, |log 2 (fold change) |>0.655 and P < 0.05) and 399 DEmRNAs (152 upregulated and 247 downregulated, |log 2 (fold change) |>0.608 and P < 0.05) were identified. A total of 142 DElncRNA-miRNA interaction pairs and 643 miRNA-DEmRNA interaction pairs were retained to construct the NLMMN, which contained 19 lncRNAs, 47 miRNAs, and 228 mRNAs. The results of GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were related to an extracellular matrix (ECM). Two upregulated lncRNAs (LINC00240 and RBMS3-AS3) and one downregulated lncRNA (ALG9-IT1) were identified by qRT-PCR in liver tissues. But only LINC00240 was significantly upregulated in fat-overloading HepG2 cells. Overexpression of LINC00240 did not affect lipid accumulation but increased the reactive oxygen species (ROS) content in HepG2 cells. Conclusion: LINC00240, RBMS3-AS3, and ALG9-IT1 might be novel functional lncRNAs that attenuate liver fibrosis in NAFLD by influencing the ECM through the ceRNA network. Among them, LINC00240 might have a key role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xue
- Chongqing
Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Parasitic Diseases, Department
of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated
Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jia Zhang
- Chongqing
Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Parasitic Diseases, Department
of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated
Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yali Zhu
- Chongqing
Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Parasitic Diseases, Department
of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated
Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Wenxiang Huang
- Department
of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital
of Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400016, China
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Abstract
Apoptosis is an evolutionarily conserved sequential process of cell death to maintain a homeostatic balance between cell formation and cell death. It is a vital process for normal eukaryotic development as it contributes to the renewal of cells and tissues. Further, it plays a crucial role in the elimination of unnecessary cells through phagocytosis and prevents undesirable immune responses. Apoptosis is regulated by a complex signaling mechanism, which is driven by interactions among several protein families such as caspases, inhibitors of apoptosis proteins, B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) family proteins, and several other proteases such as perforins and granzyme. The signaling pathway consists of both pro-apoptotic and pro-survival members, which stabilize the selection of cellular survival or death. However, any aberration in this pathway can lead to abnormal cell proliferation, ultimately leading to the development of cancer, autoimmune disorders, etc. This review aims to elaborate on apoptotic signaling pathways and mechanisms, interacting members involved in signaling, and how apoptosis is associated with carcinogenesis, along with insights into targeting apoptosis for disease resolution.
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Allawadhi P, Singh V, Govindaraj K, Khurana I, Sarode LP, Navik U, Banothu AK, Weiskirchen R, Bharani KK, Khurana A. Biomedical applications of polysaccharide nanoparticles for chronic inflammatory disorders: Focus on rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes and organ fibrosis. Carbohydr Polym 2022; 281:118923. [PMID: 35074100 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2021.118923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Polysaccharides are biopolymers distinguished by their complex secondary structures executing various roles in microorganisms, plants, and animals. They are made up of long monomers of similar type or as a combination of other monomeric chains. Polysaccharides are considered superior as compared to other polymers due to their diversity in charge and size, biodegradability, abundance, bio-compatibility, and less toxicity. These natural polymers are widely used in designing of nanoparticles (NPs) which possess wide applications in therapeutics, diagnostics, delivery and protection of bioactive compounds or drugs. The side chain reactive groups of polysaccharides are advantageous for functionalization with nanoparticle-based conjugates or therapeutic agents such as small molecules, proteins, peptides and nucleic acids. Polysaccharide NPs show excellent pharmacokinetic and drug delivery properties, facilitate improved oral absorption, control the release of drugs, increases in vivo retention capability, targeted delivery, and exert synergistic effects. This review updates the usage of polysaccharides based NPs particularly cellulose, chitosan, hyaluronic acid, alginate, dextran, starch, cyclodextrins, pullulan, and their combinations with promising applications in diabetes, organ fibrosis and arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prince Allawadhi
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| | - Vishakha Singh
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| | - Kannan Govindaraj
- Department of Developmental BioEngineering, Technical Medicine Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Isha Khurana
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
| | - Lopmudra P Sarode
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Nagpur 440033, Maharashtra, India
| | - Umashanker Navik
- Department of Pharmacology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Anil Kumar Banothu
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), Rajendranagar, Hyderabad 500030, PVNRTVU, Telangana, India
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, D-52074 Aachen, Germany.
| | - Kala Kumar Bharani
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), Warangal 506166, PVNRTVU, Telangana, India.
| | - Amit Khurana
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), Rajendranagar, Hyderabad 500030, PVNRTVU, Telangana, India; Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, D-52074 Aachen, Germany; Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), Warangal 506166, PVNRTVU, Telangana, India; Centre for Biomedical Engineering (CBME), Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India.
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25
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Allawadhi P, Khurana A, Sayed N, Godugu C, Vohora D. Ameliorative effect of cerium oxide nanoparticles against Freund’s complete adjuvant-induced arthritis. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2022; 17:383-404. [DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2021-0172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To assess the mechanistic effects of cerium oxide nanoparticles (CONPs) on Freund’s complete adjuvant (FCA)-induced rheumatoid arthritis in rats. Methods: CONPs were characterized and evaluated in vitro (RAW 264.7 macrophages) and in vivo (FCA-induced rheumatoid arthritis model). Results: In vitro treatment with CONPs significantly reduced lipopolysaccharide-induced oxidative stress (as evident from dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate staining), diminished mitochondrial stress (as observed with tetraethylbenzimidazolylcarbocyanine iodide staining) and reduced superoxide radicals. In vivo, CONPs exhibited anti-rheumatoid arthritis activity, as evident from results of paw volume, x-ray, clinical scoring, levels of cytokines (IL-17, IL-1β, TNF-α and TGF-β1) and histology. Conclusion: We provide preclinical proof that CONPs may be a novel futuristic nanoparticle-based approach for therapy of rheumatoid arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prince Allawadhi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education & Research (SPER), Jamia Hamdard, Hamdard Nagar, New Delhi, 110062, India
| | - Amit Khurana
- Department of Regulatory Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education & Research (NIPER), Balanagar, Hyderabad, 500037, Telangana State, India
| | - Nilofer Sayed
- Department of Regulatory Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education & Research (NIPER), Balanagar, Hyderabad, 500037, Telangana State, India
| | - Chandraiah Godugu
- Department of Regulatory Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education & Research (NIPER), Balanagar, Hyderabad, 500037, Telangana State, India
| | - Divya Vohora
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education & Research (SPER), Jamia Hamdard, Hamdard Nagar, New Delhi, 110062, India
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26
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Sayed N, Allawadhi P, Khurana A, Singh V, Navik U, Pasumarthi SK, Khurana I, Banothu AK, Weiskirchen R, Bharani KK. Gene therapy: Comprehensive overview and therapeutic applications. Life Sci 2022; 294:120375. [PMID: 35123997 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy is the product of man's quest to eliminate diseases. Gene therapy has three facets namely, gene silencing using siRNA, shRNA and miRNA, gene replacement where the desired gene in the form of plasmids and viral vectors, are directly administered and finally gene editing based therapy where mutations are modified using specific nucleases such as zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs) and clustered regulatory interspaced short tandem repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein (Cas)-associated nucleases. Transfer of gene is either through transformation where under specific conditions the gene is directly taken up by the bacterial cells, transduction where a bacteriophage is used to transfer the genetic material and lastly transfection that involves forceful delivery of gene using either viral or non-viral vectors. The non-viral transfection methods are subdivided into physical, chemical and biological. The physical methods include electroporation, biolistic, microinjection, laser, elevated temperature, ultrasound and hydrodynamic gene transfer. The chemical methods utilize calcium- phosphate, DAE-dextran, liposomes and nanoparticles for transfection. The biological methods are increasingly using viruses for gene transfer, these viruses could either integrate within the genome of the host cell conferring a stable gene expression, whereas few other non-integrating viruses are episomal and their expression is diluted proportional to the cell division. So far, gene therapy has been wielded in a plethora of diseases. However, coherent and innocuous delivery of genes is among the major hurdles in the use of this promising therapy. Hence this review aims to highlight the current options available for gene transfer along with the advantages and limitations of every method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilofer Sayed
- Department of Pharmacy, Pravara Rural Education Society's (P.R.E.S.'s) College of Pharmacy, Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey (SNDT) Women's University, Nashik 400020, Maharashtra, India
| | - Prince Allawadhi
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India
| | - Amit Khurana
- Centre for Biomedical Engineering (CBME), Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India; Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), PVNRTVU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad 500030, Telangana, India; Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), PVNRTVU, Mamnoor, Warangal 506166, Telangana, India; Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, D-52074 Aachen, Germany.
| | - Vishakha Singh
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India
| | - Umashanker Navik
- Department of Pharmacology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, Punjab, India
| | | | - Isha Khurana
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
| | - Anil Kumar Banothu
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), PVNRTVU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad 500030, Telangana, India
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, D-52074 Aachen, Germany.
| | - Kala Kumar Bharani
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), PVNRTVU, Mamnoor, Warangal 506166, Telangana, India.
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Atypical Roles of the Chemokine Receptor ACKR3/CXCR7 in Platelet Pathophysiology. Cells 2022; 11:cells11020213. [PMID: 35053329 PMCID: PMC8773869 DOI: 10.3390/cells11020213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The manifold actions of the pro-inflammatory and regenerative chemokine CXCL12/SDF-1α are executed through the canonical GProteinCoupledReceptor CXCR4, and the non-canonical ACKR3/CXCR7. Platelets express CXCR4, ACKR3/CXCR7, and are a vital source of CXCL12/SDF-1α themselves. In recent years, a regulatory impact of the CXCL12-CXCR4-CXCR7 axis on platelet biogenesis, i.e., megakaryopoiesis, thrombotic and thrombo-inflammatory actions have been revealed through experimental and clinical studies. Platelet surface expression of ACKR3/CXCR7 is significantly enhanced following myocardial infarction (MI) in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients, and is also associated with improved functional recovery and prognosis. The therapeutic implications of ACKR3/CXCR7 in myocardial regeneration and improved recovery following an ischemic episode, are well documented. Cardiomyocytes, cardiac-fibroblasts, endothelial lining of the blood vessels perfusing the heart, besides infiltrating platelets and monocytes, all express ACKR3/CXCR7. This review recapitulates ligand induced differential trafficking of platelet CXCR4-ACKR3/CXCR7 affecting their surface availability, and in regulating thrombo-inflammatory platelet functions and survival through CXCR4 or ACKR3/CXCR7. It emphasizes the pro-thrombotic influence of CXCL12/SDF-1α exerted through CXCR4, as opposed to the anti-thrombotic impact of ACKR3/CXCR7. Offering an innovative translational perspective, this review also discusses the advantages and challenges of utilizing ACKR3/CXCR7 as a potential anti-thrombotic strategy in platelet-associated cardiovascular disorders, particularly in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients post-MI.
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Singh V, Khurana A, Allawadhi P, Banothu AK, Bharani KK, Weiskirchen R. Emerging Role of PD-1/PD-L1 Inhibitors in Chronic Liver Diseases. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:790963. [PMID: 35002724 PMCID: PMC8733625 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.790963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/PD-ligand (L)1, the immune checkpoint inhibitors have emerged as a promising strategy for the treatment of various diseases including chronic liver diseases (CLDs) such as hepatitis, liver injury and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The role of PD-1/PD-L1 has been widely inspected in the treatment of viral hepatitis and HCC. PD-1 is known to play a crucial role in inhibiting immunological responses and stimulates self-tolerance by regulating the T-cell activity. Further, it promotes apoptosis of antigen-specific T-cells while preventing apoptosis of Treg cells. PD-L1 is a trans-membrane protein which is recognized as a co-inhibitory factor of immunological responses. Both, PD-1 and PD-L1 function together to downregulate the proliferation of PD-1 positive cells, suppress the expression of cytokines and stimulate apoptosis. Owing to the importance of PD-1/PD-L1 signaling, this review aims to summarize the potential of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors in CLDs along with toxicities associated with them. We have enlisted some of the important roles of PD-1/PD-L1 in CLDs, the clinically approved products and the pipelines of drugs under clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishakha Singh
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee, Roorkee, India
| | - Amit Khurana
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH Aachen University Hospital,Aachen, Germany
- Centre for Biomedical Engineering (CBME), Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, New Delhi, India
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), Hyderabad, India
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), Warangal, India
| | - Prince Allawadhi
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee, Roorkee, India
| | - Anil Kumar Banothu
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), Hyderabad, India
| | - Kala Kumar Bharani
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), Warangal, India
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH Aachen University Hospital,Aachen, Germany
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Caligiuri A, Gentilini A, Pastore M, Gitto S, Marra F. Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Liver Fibrosis Regression. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102759. [PMID: 34685739 PMCID: PMC8534788 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver injury of different etiologies may result in hepatic fibrosis, a scar formation process consisting in altered deposition of extracellular matrix. Progression of fibrosis can lead to impaired liver architecture and function, resulting in cirrhosis and organ failure. Although fibrosis was previous thought to be an irreversible process, recent evidence convincingly demonstrated resolution of fibrosis in different organs when the cause of injury is removed. In the liver, due to its high regenerative ability, the extent of fibrosis regression and reversion to normal architecture is higher than in other tissues, even in advanced disease. The mechanisms of liver fibrosis resolution can be recapitulated in the following main points: removal of injurious factors causing chronic hepatic damage, elimination, or inactivation of myofibroblasts (through various cell fates, including apoptosis, senescence, and reprogramming), inactivation of inflammatory response and induction of anti-inflammatory/restorative pathways, and degradation of extracellular matrix. In this review, we will discuss the major cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the regression of fibrosis/cirrhosis and the potential therapeutic approaches aimed at reversing the fibrogenic process.
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Liu YF, Niu GC, Li CY, Guo JB, Song J, Li H, Zhang XL. Mechanism of Ulcerative Colitis-Aggravated Liver Fibrosis: The Activation of Hepatic Stellate Cells and TLR4 Signaling Through Gut-Liver Axis. Front Physiol 2021; 12:695019. [PMID: 34603071 PMCID: PMC8484790 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.695019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The progression of liver disorders is frequently associated with inflammatory bowel disease through the gut-liver axis. However, no direct evidence showed the mechanisms of ulcerative colitis (UC) in the development of liver fibrosis per se. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of UC on liver fibrosis and its potential mechanism in the experimental model. Methods: Male C57BL/6 mice were allocated into five groups (n = 10 per group) to receive either drinking water (control), 2% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS), olive oil, carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) or DSS + CCl4 for 4 cycles. Blood was collected for biochemical analysis. Colons were excised for the evaluation of colon length and morphological score. Liver, colon, and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) were collected for histopathological staining, expression analysis, and bacterial translocation assay to evaluate the inflammation, fibrosis, the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), and gut barrier function. Results: DSS caused severe colitis in mice treated or treated with CCl4, as evident from the elevation of disease activity index (DAI), histological abnormalities, and increased pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-17A). Histopathological staining revealed that DSS treatment aggravated the CCl4-induced extracellular matrix deposition, liver fibrosis, and inflammation in mice. Additionally, biochemical and expression analysis indicated the DSS treatment caused the increase of hydroxyproline and pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as the abnormal liver function indexes in CCl4-induced mice. Gut barrier function was impaired in DSS- and DSS + CCl4-treated mice, manifesting as the increase in bacterial translocation and lipopolysaccharide level, and the reduction in tight junction proteins (occluding, claudin-1 and ZO-1) expression. Further, the activations of HSCs and TLR4 signaling pathway were observed after DSS + CCl4 treatment, presenting with the increase in expression of α-SMA, vimentin, TGF-β, collagen type I, collagen type II, TIMP-2, TLR4, TRAF6, and NF-κB p65, and a decrease in GFAP and MMP-2 expression. Conclusion: The present study verified that UC aggravated CCl4-induced liver injury, inflammation, and fibrosis in mice through the gut-liver axis. Gut barrier dysfunction in UC leads to bacterial translocation and elevated lipopolysaccharide, which may promote the activation of TLR4 signaling and HSCs in the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Feng Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Dingzhou People's Hospital of Hebei Province, Dingzhou, China
| | - Guo-Chao Niu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Chen-Yang Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jin-Bo Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jia Song
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xiao-Lan Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
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Zhang N, Xue M, Sun T, Yang J, Pei Z, Qin K. Fucoidan as an Autophagy Regulator: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potentials for Cancer and Other Diseases. Nutr Cancer 2021; 74:1568-1579. [PMID: 34477470 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2021.1973045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Fucoidan, a natural polysaccharide with a variety of classical bioactivities mainly sourced from brown algae, has been extensively studied owing to its favorable pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anticoagulant and liver protection. Recently it has been found to play a regulatory role in the processes of autophagy. Autophagy is an important cellular process that effectively protects cells and organisms from stimulating factors such as nutrient deficiency, low cellular ATP levels, metabolic stress, growth factor deprivation and hypoxic conditions. In recent years, many studies have shown that fucoidan can treat human diseases by regulating autophagy process though cell signaling pathways. In this review, we summarize the latest progress in the discovery of natural autophagy regulator of fucoidan for the therapeutic application in cardiac diseases, cancers and liver diseases, aiming to provide the new pharmacological application that fucoidan may treat human diseases by regulating autophagy. Furthermore, we look forward to seeing more diseases that would be treated by autophagy modulator of fucoidan and the discovery of more elaborate autophagy regulation mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zhang
- Basic Medical College, Qingdao University of Medicine, Qingdao, PR China
| | - Meilan Xue
- Basic Medical College, Qingdao University of Medicine, Qingdao, PR China
| | - Ting Sun
- Basic Medical College, Qingdao University of Medicine, Qingdao, PR China
| | - Jia Yang
- Basic Medical College, Qingdao University of Medicine, Qingdao, PR China
| | - Zhongqian Pei
- Basic Medical College, Qingdao University of Medicine, Qingdao, PR China
| | - Kunpeng Qin
- Basic Medical College, Qingdao University of Medicine, Qingdao, PR China
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Kalkal A, Allawadhi P, Pradhan R, Khurana A, Bharani KK, Packirisamy G. Allium sativum derived carbon dots as a potential theranostic agent to combat the COVID-19 crisis. SENSORS INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2:100102. [PMID: 34766058 PMCID: PMC8164516 DOI: 10.1016/j.sintl.2021.100102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is one of the worst pandemics to have hit the humanity. The manifestations are quite varied, ranging from severe lung infections to being asymptomatic. Hence, there is an urgent need to champion new tools to accelerate the end of this pandemic. Compromised immunity is a primary feature of COVID-19. Allium sativum (AS) is an effective dietary supplement known for its immune-modulatory, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antifungal, and anti-viral properties. In this paper, it is hypothesized that carbon dots (CDs) derived from AS (AS-CDs) may possess the potential to downregulate the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and revert the immunological aberrations to normal in case of COVID-19. CDs have already been explored in the world of nanobiomedicine as a promising theranostic candidates for bioimaging and drug/gene delivery. The antifibrotic and antioxidant effects of AS are elaborated, as demonstrated in several studies. It is found that the most active constituent of AS, allicin has a highly potent antioxidant and reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging effect. The antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-viral effects along with their capability of negating inflammatory effects and cytokine storm are discussed. The synthesis of theranostic CDs from AS may provide a novel weapon in the therapeutic armamentarium for the management of COVID-19 infection and, at the same time, could act as a diagnostic agent for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Kalkal
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee- 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Prince Allawadhi
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee- 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Rangadhar Pradhan
- Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee- 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Amit Khurana
- Centre for Biomedical Engineering (CBME), Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110016, India
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, 500030, P. V. Narasimha Rao Telangana Veterinary University (PVNRTVU), Telangana India
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), Warangal, 506166, P. V. Narasimha Rao Telangana Veterinary University (PVNRTVU), Telangana, India
| | - Kala Kumar Bharani
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), Warangal, 506166, P. V. Narasimha Rao Telangana Veterinary University (PVNRTVU), Telangana, India
- Department of Aquatic Animal Health Management, College of Fishery Science, Pebbair, Wanaparthy, 509104, P. V. Narasimha Rao Telangana Veterinary University (PVNRTVU), Telangana, India
| | - Gopinath Packirisamy
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee- 247667, Uttarakhand, India
- Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee- 247667, Uttarakhand, India
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Allawadhi P, Singh V, Khurana I, Rawat PS, Renushe AP, Khurana A, Navik U, Allwadhi S, Kumar Karlapudi S, Banothu AK, Bharani KK. Decorin as a possible strategy for the amelioration of COVID-19. Med Hypotheses 2021; 152:110612. [PMID: 34098463 PMCID: PMC8133800 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2021.110612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Coronavirus pandemic has emerged as an extraordinary healthcare crisis in modern times. The SARS-CoV-2 novel coronavirus has high transmission rate, is more aggressive and virulent in comparison to previously known coronaviruses. It primarily attacks the respiratory system by inducing cytokine storm that causes systemic inflammation and pulmonary fibrosis. Decorin is a pluripotent molecule belonging to a leucine rich proteoglycan group that exerts critical role in extracellular matrix (ECM) assembly and regulates cell growth, adhesion, proliferation, inflammation, and fibrogenesis. Interestingly, decorin has potent anti-inflammatory, cytokine inhibitory, and anti-fibrillogenesis effects which make it a potential drug candidate against the COVID-19 related complications especially in the context of lung fibrosis. Herein, we postulate that owing to its distinctive pharmacological actions and immunomodulatory effect, decorin can be a promising preclinical therapeutic agent for the therapy of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prince Allawadhi
- Department of Pharmacy, Vaish Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (VIPER), Pandit Bhagwat Dayal Sharma University of Health Sciences (Pt. B. D. S. UHS), Rohtak - 124001, Haryana, India
| | - Vishakha Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Isha Khurana
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
| | - Pushkar Singh Rawat
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic and Applied Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Akshata Patangrao Renushe
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), PVNRTVU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad 500030, Telangana, India
| | - Amit Khurana
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), PVNRTVU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad 500030, Telangana, India; Centre for Biomedical Engineering (CBME), Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India; Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), PVNRTVU, Warangal 506166, Telangana, India.
| | - Umashanker Navik
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic and Applied Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Sachin Allwadhi
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University Institute of Engineering and Technology (UIET), Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU), Rohtak 124001, Haryana, India
| | - Satish Kumar Karlapudi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), PVNRTVU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad 500030, Telangana, India
| | - Anil Kumar Banothu
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), PVNRTVU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad 500030, Telangana, India; Department of Aquatic Animal Health Management, College of Fishery Science, PVNRTVU, Pebbair, Wanaparthy 509104, Telangana, India
| | - Kala Kumar Bharani
- Department of Aquatic Animal Health Management, College of Fishery Science, PVNRTVU, Pebbair, Wanaparthy 509104, Telangana, India.
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Acharya P, Chouhan K, Weiskirchen S, Weiskirchen R. Cellular Mechanisms of Liver Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:671640. [PMID: 34025430 PMCID: PMC8134740 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.671640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver is a central organ in the human body, coordinating several key metabolic roles. The structure of the liver which consists of the distinctive arrangement of hepatocytes, hepatic sinusoids, the hepatic artery, portal vein and the central vein, is critical for its function. Due to its unique position in the human body, the liver interacts with components of circulation targeted for the rest of the body and in the process, it is exposed to a vast array of external agents such as dietary metabolites and compounds absorbed through the intestine, including alcohol and drugs, as well as pathogens. Some of these agents may result in injury to the cellular components of liver leading to the activation of the natural wound healing response of the body or fibrogenesis. Long-term injury to liver cells and consistent activation of the fibrogenic response can lead to liver fibrosis such as that seen in chronic alcoholics or clinically obese individuals. Unidentified fibrosis can evolve into more severe consequences over a period of time such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. It is well recognized now that in addition to external agents, genetic predisposition also plays a role in the development of liver fibrosis. An improved understanding of the cellular pathways of fibrosis can illuminate our understanding of this process, and uncover potential therapeutic targets. Here we summarized recent aspects in the understanding of relevant pathways, cellular and molecular drivers of hepatic fibrosis and discuss how this knowledge impact the therapy of respective disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pragyan Acharya
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Komal Chouhan
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sabine Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
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