1
|
Karnawat K, Parthasarathy R, Sakhrie M, Karthik H, Krishna KV, Balachander GM. Building in vitro models for mechanistic understanding of liver regeneration in chronic liver diseases. J Mater Chem B 2024. [PMID: 38973693 DOI: 10.1039/d4tb00738g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
The liver has excellent regeneration potential and attains complete functional recovery from partial hepatectomy. The regenerative mechanisms malfunction in chronic liver diseases (CLDs), which fuels disease progression. CLDs account for 2 million deaths per year worldwide. Pathophysiological studies with clinical correlation have shown evidence of deviation of normal regenerative mechanisms and its contribution to fueling fibrosis and disease progression. However, we lack realistic in vitro models that can allow experimental manipulation for mechanistic understanding of liver regeneration in CLDs and testing of candidate drugs. In this review, we aim to provide the framework for building appropriate organotypic models for dissecting regenerative responses in CLDs, with the focus on non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). By drawing parallels with development and hepatectomy, we explain the selection of critical components such as cells, signaling, and, substrate-driven biophysical cues to build an appropriate CLD model. We highlight the organoid-based organotypic models available for NASH disease modeling, including organ-on-a-chip and 3D bioprinted models. With the focus on bioprinting as a fabrication method, we prescribe building in vitro CLD models and testing schemes for exploring the regenerative responses in the bioprinted model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khushi Karnawat
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
| | - Rithika Parthasarathy
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
| | - Mesevilhou Sakhrie
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
| | - Harikeshav Karthik
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
| | - Konatala Vibhuvan Krishna
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
| | - Gowri Manohari Balachander
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mohammadpour-Asl S, Roshan-Milani B, Roshan-Milani S, Saboory E, Ghobadian B, Chodari L. Endoplasmic reticulum stress PERK-ATF4-CHOP pathway is involved in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in type 1 diabetic rats: The rescue effect of treatment exercise and insulin-like growth factor I. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27225. [PMID: 38468961 PMCID: PMC10926145 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27225] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress (ERS) is a key factor in the development of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in diabetes. The current study aimed to examine the effects of exercise and IGF-I on ERS markers in liver tissue. Rats were divided into five groups (n = 8 per group), including control (CON), diabetes (DIA), diabetes + exercise (DIA + EX), diabetes + IGF-I (DIA + IGF-I), and diabetes + exercise + IGF-I (DIA + EX + IGF-I). Type 1 diabetes was induced by an I.P. injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg). After 30 days of treatment with exercise or IGF-I alone or in combination, liver tissue was assessed for caspase 12, 8, and CHOP protein levels, and expression of ERS markers (ATF-6, PERK, IRE-1A) and lipid metabolism-involved genes (FAS, FXR, SREBP-1c) by western immunoblotting. In addition, for the evaluation of histopathological changes in the liver, Hematoxylin - Eosin and Masson's Trichrome staining were done. Compared to the control group, diabetes significantly caused liver fibrosis, induced ERS, increased caspase 12 and 8 levels in the liver, and changed expression levels of genes associated with lipid metabolism, including FAS, FXR, and SREBP-1c. Treatment with either exercise or IGF-I reduced fibrosis levels suppressed ER stress markers and apoptosis, and improved expression of genes associated with lipid metabolism. In addition, simultaneous treatment with exercise and IGF-I showed a synergistic effect compared to DIA + E and DIA + IGF-I. The results suggest that IGF-1 and exercise reduced liver fibrosis possibly by reducing ERS, creating adaptive ER stress status, and improving protein folding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shadi Mohammadpour-Asl
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | | | - Shiva Roshan-Milani
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Ehsan Saboory
- Department of Addiction Studies, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Bijan Ghobadian
- Zanjan Metabolic Diseases Research Center, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Leila Chodari
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jiachen Z, Paul Kwong Hang T, Kenneth Kak Yuen W, Vincent Chi Hang L. Pathological role of methionine in the initiation and progression of biliary atresia. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1263836. [PMID: 37772039 PMCID: PMC10522914 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1263836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Methionine (Met) is an essential amino acid, and its excessive dietary intake and/or its metabolism disturbance could lead to accumulation/depletion of hepatic Met and some of the key intermediates of these pathways, which would interfere normal liver function and would be associated with liver diseases. Biliary atresia (BA) is a life-threatening disease characterized by inflammatory fibrosclerosing changes of the intrahepatic and extrahepatic biliary systems and is the primary cause of obstructive neonatal cholestasis with a rapid course of liver failure. However, its pathogenesis remains unknown. Previous studies reported elevated Met level in patients with obstructive cholestasis, suggesting a potential link between Met and BA. This paper reviews the Met metabolism in normal conditions and its dysregulation under abnormal conditions, the possible causes of hypermethioninemia, and its connection to BA pathogenesis: Abnormal hepatic level of Met could lead to a perturbation of redox homeostasis and mitochondrial functions of hepatocytes, enhancement of viral infectivity, and dysregulation of innate and adaptative immune cells in response to infection/damage of the liver contributing to the initiation/progression of BA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Jiachen
- Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tam Paul Kwong Hang
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Wong Kenneth Kak Yuen
- Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Surgery, University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lui Vincent Chi Hang
- Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Dr. Li Dak-Sum Research Centre, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
YAMATE J. Stem cell pathology: histogenesis of malignant fibrous histiocytoma and characterization of myofibroblasts appearing in fibrotic lesions. J Vet Med Sci 2023; 85:895-906. [PMID: 37460298 PMCID: PMC10539815 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.23-0225] [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: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The concept of "stem cell pathology" is to establish the role of the stem cells by exploring their contribution to lesion development. The somatic stem cells are present in the body. Malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH; recently named "undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma") includes pluripotential undifferentiated mesenchymal stem cells as a cell element. An antibody (A3) generated by using rat MFH cells as the antigen labels somatic stem cells such as bone marrow stem cells and immature endothelial cells and pericytes, as well as immature epithelial cells in epithelialization. By using A3 and other antibodies recognizing somatic stem cells, it is considered that myofibroblasts appearing in rat fibrotic lesions are developed partly from immature hepatic stellate cells in hepatic fibrosis, immature pancreatic stellate cells in pancreatic fibrosis, pericytes/endothelial cells in neovascularization in injured tissues, as well as via the epithelial-mesenchymal transition. These progenitors may be in the stem cell lineage. In this review, the author introduces the histogenesis of MFH and the characteristics of myofibroblasts appearing in fibrosis, based mainly on the author's studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jyoji YAMATE
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
He YH, Pan JX, Xu LM, Gu T, Chen YW. Ductular reaction in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: When Macbeth is perverted. World J Hepatol 2023; 15:725-740. [PMID: 37397935 PMCID: PMC10308290 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v15.i6.725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or metabolic (dysfunction)-associated fatty liver disease is the leading cause of chronic liver diseases defined as a disease spectrum comprising hepatic steatosis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatic carcinoma. NASH, characterized by hepatocyte injury, steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis, is associated with NAFLD prognosis. Ductular reaction (DR) is a common compensatory reaction associated with liver injury, which involves the hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs), hepatic stellate cells, myofibroblasts, inflammatory cells (such as macrophages), and their secreted substances. Recently, several studies have shown that the extent of DR parallels the stage of NASH and fibrosis. This review summarizes previous research on the correlation between DR and NASH, the potential interplay mechanism driving HPC differentiation, and NASH progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang-Huan He
- Department of Gastroenterology and Department of Geriatrics, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Jia-Xing Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Lei-Ming Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, School of Medicine, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Ting Gu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Yuan-Wen Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Department of Geriatrics, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Oliveria decumbens Extract Exhibits Hepatoprotective Effects Against Bile Duct Ligation-Induced Liver Injury in Rats by Reducing Oxidative Stress. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2023. [DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon-131160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Background: Cholestasis is described as a disease in which bile flow from the liver is reduced or stopped, and due to its oxidative effects, irreversible consequences may occur. Due to the remarkable antioxidant properties of Oliveria decumbens (OD) and the contribution of oxidants to the progression of bile duct ligation (BDL)-induced cholestasis, Objectives: This research aimed to examine how the OD ethanolic extract affected liver damage and oxidant-antioxidant balance markers in BDL-induced cholestasis. Methods: Forty male Wistar rats weighing 200 - 250 g were used. Cholestasis was induced using the BDL approach. The rats were categorized into four groups: Group 1, sham control (SC); group 2, cholestatic; group 3, SC + OD; and group 4, cholestatic + OD. A dose of OD ethanolic extract was administered orally (500 mg/kg/day) to rats for seven days. Seven days following surgery, the rats’ blood samples were collected; after sacrifice, a part of the liver tissue was isolated. A histopathological examination was performed, while the rest was stored at -70°C in liquid nitrogen. Heparin-containing tubes were used to gather blood samples. In plasma and hepatic tissue, biochemical tests, histopathological evaluations, and oxidative stress markers staining levels were performed. Results: Our findings showed that OD could effectively reduce liver injury by reducing the activity of liver function enzymes (AST and ALP). At the same time, it did not affect total bilirubin and protein. Bile duct ligation-induced hepatic markers of protein oxidation (PCO) and reactive nitrogen species (NO) were significantly decreased by OD, and it also promoted liver antioxidant capacity by enhancing superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities. Moreover, OD treatment prevented liver bile duct proliferative changes in histopathologic analysis. Conclusions: Our study confirmed that OD exerts substantial hepatoprotective activities against BDL-induced cholestasis by improving liver damage markers and regulating oxidative stress. It may be a beneficial therapeutic agent for managing cholestasis. Bioassay-guided isolation and identification of bioactive OD secondary metabolites can further direct the discovery of potential natural-based drug candidates.
Collapse
|
7
|
Shakerinasab N, Azizi M, Mansourian M, Sadeghi H, Salaminia S, Abbasi R, Shahaboddin ME, Doustimotlagh AH. Empagliflozin Exhibits Hepatoprotective Effects Against Bile Duct Ligation-induced Liver Injury in Rats: A Combined Molecular Docking Approach to In Vivo Studies. Curr Pharm Des 2022; 28:3313-3323. [PMID: 36305136 DOI: 10.2174/1381612829666221027112239] [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: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cholestatic liver damage is a chronic disease caused by dysfunction of the hepaticbiliary system. Oxidative stress and inflammation are essential factors in the pathogenesis of cholestasis. Thus, the current study was designed to examine the effect of empagliflozin on bile duct ligation-induced liver damage in rats. METHODS This study was done on male Wistar rats, which were randomly assigned to the four experimental groups: sham control (SC), bile duct ligation (BDL), SC plus empagliflozin (SC+EMPA) (receiving 10 mg of EMPA orally for 7 days), BDL plus empagliflozin 10 mg/kg (BDL+ EMPA). At the end of the study, the rats were sacrificed, and serum and tissue samples were collected to analyze biochemical parameters, biomarkers of oxidative stress, inflammatory markers, and histopathological changes. The molecular docking technique was performed to elucidate the interaction of EMPA and Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD1). RESULTS The results showed that BDL elevated the serum activity of ALT, AST, ALP, and levels of TBIL and TPro. BDL also intensifies the oxidative stress state in rats, which was confirmed by augmenting lipid peroxidation (MDA), protein oxidation (PCO), and altering antioxidant defense parameters through decreased SOD, catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) levels. Furthermore, the histopathological changes in the liver demonstrated the aggravation of inflammation and oxidative stress. In contrast, treatment with EMPA has shown anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects by reducing TNF-α and IL-6 pro-inflammatory marker proteins, restoring the antioxidant status (increased SOD and GPX), reducing ALT, AST, ALP, TBIL levels, and protein oxidation, and improving the histopathological alterations through reducing bile duct proliferation, fibrosis, focal and portal inflammation. According to the attained findings, the SOD1 activity can be regulated by the EMPA. Our documentation presents direct evidence at the molecular level related to the ability of EMPA to exert its antioxidant performance through certain measures in a particular molecular route. CONCLUSION The results showed EMPA to have hepatic protective effects in rats against cholestatic liver injury, an effect mediated by its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nasrin Shakerinasab
- Department of Biochemistry, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Mahdokht Azizi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Mahboubeh Mansourian
- Department of Pharmacology, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Hossein Sadeghi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Shirvan Salaminia
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Yasuj University of Medical Science, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Reza Abbasi
- Department of Pediatrics, Yasuj University of Medical Science, Yasuj, Iran
| | | | - Amir Hossein Doustimotlagh
- Department of Pharmacology, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran.,Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gharbia S, Nazarie SR, Dinescu S, Balta C, Herman H, Peteu VE, Gherghiceanu M, Hermenean A, Costache M. Adipose-Derived Stem Cells (ADSCs) Supplemented with Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) Attenuate Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Liver Fibrosis by Inhibiting the TGF-β/Smad Signaling Pathway in Chemical-Induced Liver Fibrosis Associated with Diabetes. Cells 2022; 11:3338. [PMID: 36359733 PMCID: PMC9653841 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis can develop on the background of hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus. However, xenobiotic-related factors may accelerate diabetes-associated liver fibrosis. In this study, we aimed to assess the antfibrotic effect of ADSC and HGF therapy and to establish the cellular and molecular mechanisms through in vitro and in vivo experiments. In vitro, TGF-β1-activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were cocultured with ADSCs or HGF, and the expression of several fibrosis markers was investigated. The antifibrotic effect of the ADSCs, HGF, and ADSCs supplemented with HGF was further assessed in vivo on diabetic mice with liver fibrosis experimentally induced. In vitro results showed the inhibition of HSC proliferation and decrease in fibrogenesis markers. Coadministration of ADSCs and HGF on diabetic mice with liver fibrosis enhanced antifibrotic effects confirmed by the downregulation of Col I, α-SMA, TGF-β1, and Smad2, while Smad7 was upregulated. Moreover, stem cell therapy supplemented with HGF considerably attenuated inflammation and microvesicular steatosis, decreased collagen deposits, and alleviated liver fibrosis. In conclusion, the HGF-based ADSC therapy might be of interest for the treatment of liver fibrosis in diabetic patients, consecutive aggression exerts by different environmental factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sami Gharbia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 050663 Bucharest, Romania
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, “Vasile Goldis” Western University of Arad, 310025 Arad, Romania
| | - Simona-Rebeca Nazarie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 050663 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sorina Dinescu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 050663 Bucharest, Romania
- The Research Institute of the University of Bucharest (ICUB), University of Bucharest, 050663 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cornel Balta
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, “Vasile Goldis” Western University of Arad, 310025 Arad, Romania
| | - Hildegard Herman
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, “Vasile Goldis” Western University of Arad, 310025 Arad, Romania
| | | | - Mihaela Gherghiceanu
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anca Hermenean
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, “Vasile Goldis” Western University of Arad, 310025 Arad, Romania
- Department of Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, 310414 Arad, Romania
| | - Marieta Costache
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 050663 Bucharest, Romania
- The Research Institute of the University of Bucharest (ICUB), University of Bucharest, 050663 Bucharest, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ramani K, Mavila N, Abeynayake A, Tomasi ML, Wang J, Matsuda M, Seki E. Targeting A-kinase anchoring protein 12 phosphorylation in hepatic stellate cells regulates liver injury and fibrosis in mouse models. eLife 2022; 11:e78430. [PMID: 36193675 PMCID: PMC9531947 DOI: 10.7554/elife.78430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Trans-differentiation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) to activated state potentiates liver fibrosis through release of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, distorting the liver architecture. Since limited antifibrotics are available, pharmacological intervention targeting activated HSCs may be considered for therapy. A-kinase anchoring protein 12 (AKAP12) is a scaffolding protein that directs protein kinases A/C (PKA/PKC) and cyclins to specific locations spatiotemporally controlling their biological effects. It has been shown that AKAP12's scaffolding functions are altered by phosphorylation. In previously published work, observed an association between AKAP12 phosphorylation and HSC activation. In this work, we demonstrate that AKAP12's scaffolding activity toward the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-resident collagen chaperone, heat-shock protein 47 (HSP47) is strongly inhibited by AKAP12's site-specific phosphorylation in activated HSCs. CRISPR-directed gene editing of AKAP12's phospho-sites restores its scaffolding toward HSP47, inhibiting HSP47's collagen maturation functions, and HSC activation. AKAP12 phospho-editing dramatically inhibits fibrosis, ER stress response, HSC inflammatory signaling, and liver injury in mice. Our overall findings suggest a pro-fibrogenic role of AKAP12 phosphorylation that may be targeted for therapeutic intervention in liver fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Komal Ramani
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesUnited States
- Applied Cell Biology Division, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesUnited States
| | - Nirmala Mavila
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesUnited States
- Applied Cell Biology Division, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesUnited States
| | - Aushinie Abeynayake
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesUnited States
| | - Maria Lauda Tomasi
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesUnited States
- Applied Cell Biology Division, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesUnited States
| | - Jiaohong Wang
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesUnited States
| | - Michitaka Matsuda
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesUnited States
| | - Eki Seki
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesUnited States
- Applied Cell Biology Division, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Gao J, Wu L, Zhao Y, Hong Q, Feng Z, Chen X. Cxcl10 deficiency attenuates renal interstitial fibrosis through regulating epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Exp Cell Res 2022; 410:112965. [PMID: 34896075 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2021.112965] [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: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
IFN-γ-inducible protein 10 (IP-10, CXCL10) has been widely demonstrated to be involved in multiple kidney pathological processes. However, the role of CXCL10 in renal fibrosis remains unclear. In this study, Cxcl10-deficient (Cxcl10-/-) mice were used to generate the unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) model. The level of renal fibrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration was examined in vivo and the effects of CXCL10 on EMT process of HK-2 cells was investigated in vitro. We observed that the injury degree of renal tissue and the collagen deposition levels were lighter and the expression of α-SMA, collagen I and fibronectin was significantly reduced in Cxcl10-/- mice, while the expression of E-cadherin was increased. However, interstitial F4/80-positive macrophages and CD4-positive T lymphocytes were unaffected by knockout of Cxcl10. Furthermore, IFN-γ or CXCL10 stimulation could obviously promote the expression of α-SMA, collagen I, fibronectin and reduce the expression of E-cadherin in HK-2 cells, which could be inhibited by transfection of Cxcl10-siRNA. Our findings suggested Cxcl10 knockout could reduce renal dysfunction and inhibit renal fibrosis through regulating EMT process of renal tubular epithelial cells in murine UUO model. These results may provide a novel insight into the mechanism and a potential therapy target of renal fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Gao
- Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Fuxing Road 28, Beijing, 100853, China; Department of Nephrology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jingwu Road 324, Jinan, 250021, China
| | - Lingling Wu
- Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Fuxing Road 28, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Yinghua Zhao
- Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Fuxing Road 28, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Quan Hong
- Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Fuxing Road 28, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Zhe Feng
- Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Fuxing Road 28, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Xiangmei Chen
- Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Fuxing Road 28, Beijing, 100853, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Chai Y, Liu Z, Du Y, Wang L, Lu J, Zhang Q, Han W, Wang T, Yu Y, Sun L, Ou L. Hydroxyapatite reinforced inorganic-organic hybrid nanocomposite as high-performance adsorbents for bilirubin removal in vitro and in pig models. Bioact Mater 2021; 6:4772-4785. [PMID: 34095628 PMCID: PMC8144535 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2021.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Highly efficient removal of bilirubin from whole blood directly by hemoperfusion for liver failure therapy remains a challenge in the clinical field due to the low adsorption capacity, poor mechanical strength and low biocompatibility of adsorbents. In this work, a new class of nanocomposite adsorbents was constructed through an inorganic-organic co-crosslinked nanocomposite network between vinyltriethoxysilane (VTES)-functionalized hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (V-Hap) and non-ionic styrene-divinylbenzene (PS-DVB) resins (PS-DVB/V-Hap) using suspension polymerization. Notably, our adsorbent demonstrated substantially improved mechanical performance compared to the pure polymer, with the hardness and modulus increasing by nearly 3 and 2.5 times, respectively. Moreover, due to the development of a mesoporous structure, the prepared PS-DVB/V-Hap3 exhibited an ideal adsorption capacity of 40.27 mg g-1. More importantly, the obtained adsorbent beads showed outstanding blood compatibility and biocompatibility. Furthermore, in vivo extracorporeal hemoperfusion verified the efficacy and biosafety of the adsorbent for directly removing bilirubin from whole blood in pig models, and this material could potentially prevent liver damage and improve clinical outcomes. Taken together, the results suggest that PS-DVB/V-Hap3 beads can be used in commercial adsorption columns to threat hyperbilirubinemia patients through hemoperfusion, thus replacing the existing techniques where plasma separation is initially required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yamin Chai
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Zhuang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Yunzheng Du
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Lichun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Jinyan Lu
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Wenyan Han
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Tingting Wang
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Yameng Yu
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Lisha Sun
- General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Lailiang Ou
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Jiang H, Li Y, Sheng Q, Dou X. Relationship between Hepatitis B virus infection and platelet production and dysfunction. Platelets 2021; 33:212-218. [PMID: 34806523 DOI: 10.1080/09537104.2021.2002836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a kind of hepatotropic DNA virus. The main target organ is liver, except for liver, HBV has been found in a variety of extrahepatic tissues, such as kidney, thyroid, pancreas, bone marrow, etc. HBV can cause severe complications by invading these tissues. Among them, pancytopenia is one of the common complications, especially thrombocytopenia that causes life-threatening bleeding. However, the mechanism of thrombocytopenia is unclear and the treatment is extremely difficult. It has been confirmed that HBV has a close relationship with platelets. HBV can directly infect bone marrow, inhibit platelet production, and accelerate platelet destruction by activating monocyte-macrophage system and immune system. While platelets act as a double-edged sword to HBV. On one hand, the activated platelets can degranulate and release inflammatory mediators to help clear the viruses. Furthermore, platelets can provide anti-fibrotic molecules to improve liver functions and reduce hepatic fibrosis. On the other hand, platelets can also cause negative effects. The infected platelets collect HBV-specific CD8+ T cells and nonspecific inflammatory cells into liver parenchyma, inducing chronic inflammation, liver fibrosis and hepatic carcinoma. This article explores the interaction between HBV infection and platelets, providing a theoretical basis for clinical treatment of thrombocytopenia and severe hemorrhage caused by HBV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huinan Jiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, China Medical University of Shengjing Hospital, Shenyang, China.,Liaoning Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis, China Medical University of Shengjing Hospital, Shenyang, China
| | - Yanwei Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, China Medical University of Shengjing Hospital, Shenyang, China.,Liaoning Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis, China Medical University of Shengjing Hospital, Shenyang, China
| | - Qiuju Sheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, China Medical University of Shengjing Hospital, Shenyang, China.,Liaoning Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis, China Medical University of Shengjing Hospital, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiaoguang Dou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, China Medical University of Shengjing Hospital, Shenyang, China.,Liaoning Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis, China Medical University of Shengjing Hospital, Shenyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bouhlel M, Sahnoun M, Zouari N, Brini F, Saibi W. The metabolic and biochemical mapping of Agave americana leave juice encode their prospective biotechnological uses. Process Biochem 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.procbio.2021.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
14
|
Li L, Lee J, Cho A, Kim JH, Ju W, An JN, Park JH, Zhu SM, Lee J, Yu SS, Lim CS, Kim DK, Kim YS, Yang SH, Lee JP. cMet agonistic antibody prevents acute kidney injury to chronic kidney disease transition by suppressing Smurf1 and activating Smad7. Clin Sci (Lond) 2021; 135:1427-1444. [PMID: 34061176 DOI: 10.1042/cs20210013] [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: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to investigate the role of cMet agonistic antibody (cMet Ab) in preventing kidney fibrosis during acute kidney injury (AKI) to chronic kidney disease (CKD) transition. Additionally, we explored the effect of cMet Ab on TGF-β1/Smad pathway during the pathogenesis of kidney fibrosis. A unilateral ischemia-reperfusion injury (UIRI) mouse model was established to induce AKI-to-CKD transition. Furthermore, we incubated human proximal tubular epithelial cells (hPTECs) under hypoxic conditions as in vitro model of kidney fibrosis. We analyzed the soluble plasma cMet level in patients with AKI requiring dialysis. Patients who did not recover kidney function and progressed to CKD presented a higher increase in the cMet level. The kidneys of mice treated with cMet Ab showed fewer contractions and weighed more than the controls. The mice in the cMet Ab-treated group showed reduced fibrosis and significantly decreased expression of fibronectin and α-smooth muscle actin. cMet Ab treatment decreased inflammatory markers (MCP-1, TNF-α, and IL-1β) expression, reduced Smurf1 and Smad2/3 level, and increased Smad7 expressions. cMet Ab treatment increased cMet expression and reduced the hypoxia-induced increase in collagen-1 and ICAM-1 expression, thereby reducing apoptosis in the in vitro cell model. After cMet Ab treatment, hypoxia-induced expression of Smurf1, Smad2/3, and TGF-β1 was reduced, and suppressed Smad7 was activated. Down-regulation of Smurf1 resulted in suppression of hypoxia-induced fibronectin expression, whereas treatment with cMet Ab showed synergistic effects. cMet Ab can successfully prevent fibrosis response in UIRI models of kidney fibrosis by decreasing inflammatory response and inhibiting the TGF-β1/Smad pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lilin Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Yanbian University Hospital, Yanji, Jilin, China
| | - Jeonghwan Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ara Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Hyuk Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Wonmin Ju
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Nam An
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym Sacred Heart Hospital, Anyang, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Hwan Park
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Shi Mao Zhu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Junghun Lee
- R&D Center of Innovative Medicines, Helixmith Co., Ltd., Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Shin Yu
- R&D Center of Innovative Medicines, Helixmith Co., Ltd., Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chun Soo Lim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Ki Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yon Su Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Hee Yang
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Seoul National University Kidney Research Institute, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Pyo Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Seoul National University Kidney Research Institute, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Moloudi MR, Hassanzadeh K, Abdi M, Zandi F, Rahimi K, Izadpanah E. Hepatoprotective effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of Cichorium intybus in a rat model of obstructive cholestasis. Arab J Gastroenterol 2021; 22:34-39. [PMID: 32928706 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajg.2020.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS Obstructive cholestasis increases the levels of oxidants and inflammatory mediators, leading to liver damage. Previous studies have found that Cichorium intybus possesses anti-inflammatory effects. In the present study, the effects of the hydroalcoholic extract of C. intybus leaves were assessed in a rat model of obstructive cholestasis. MATERIAL AND METHODS Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 6 rats per group): sham-operated, control [bile duct ligation (BDL) + vehicle)] and BDL + extract treatment (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg/day, i.p.) groups. Rats received treatments for 7 consecutive days. On the eighth day, prothrombin time (PT); serum albumin, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase and total and direct bilirubin levels and total antioxidant and paraoxonase activities were measured using colorimetric methods. In addition, tumour necrosis factor-α and nitric oxide (NO) levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS The hydroalcoholic extract of C. intybus significantly decreased PT and the serum levels of AST, ALT, TNF-α and NO compared with the control group (p < 0.05). On the other hand, the serum albumin levels were increased in the extract-treated groups compared with the control group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION The hydroalcoholic extract of C. intybus protects the liver against injury induced by obstructive cholestasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Raman Moloudi
- Liver and Digestive Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Kambiz Hassanzadeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Mohammad Abdi
- Cancer and Immunology Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Farid Zandi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Kaveh Rahimi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Esmael Izadpanah
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Esmaeili Z, Niaz Q, Saffari PM, Dehpour AR, Rezayat SM, Jazaeri F. Evaluation of the effect of heat shock protein 70 targeted drugs on cirrhotic cardiomyopathy in biliary cirrhotic rats. Life Sci 2021; 273:119261. [PMID: 33652036 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Liver cirrhosis leads to cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) and chronotropic incompetence (CI). Heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) regulates cellular apoptosis and autophagy in stress. Teprenone modulates the Hsp70 and protects against cellular injury. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the effect of teprenone on CI in biliary cirrhotic rats. MAIN METHODS Liver cirrhosis was induced in male Wistar rats through bile duct ligation (BDL). The chronotropic responses and QT interval were studied through electrocardiography (ECG) in sham, cirrhotic, and cirrhotic/teprenone (100 mg/kg) pre-treated groups. Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and monocyte chemo-attractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were investigated in serum. The Hsp70, B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), and B-cell lymphoma 2-associated X protein (Bax) expressions were quantified through real-time polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR). KEY FINDINGS The chronotropic responses were decreased significantly in cirrhotic and cirrhotic/teprenone groups. The QT interval and serum BNP, TNF-α, IL-6, ALT, AST, and MCP-1 levels were increased significantly in the cirrhotic and decreased significantly, except BNP, in the cirrhotic/teprenone group. The Hsp70 and Bax expressions increased significantly in cirrhotic and decreased significantly in the cirrhotic/teprenone group while the Bcl-2 decreased significantly in cirrhotic and increased significantly in the cirrhotic/teprenone group. SIGNIFICANCE Teprenone does not relieve the CI and BNP changes in CCM while other indices are treated. Given that CCM is a multifactorial disease and needs to target other genes and proteins concurrent with Hsp70 to relieve CCM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Esmaeili
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Qamar Niaz
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; On leave from the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Bio-Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
| | - Partow Mirzaee Saffari
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad-Reza Dehpour
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mahdi Rezayat
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Farahnaz Jazaeri
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Acun A, Oganesyan R, Uygun K, Yeh H, Yarmush ML, Uygun BE. Liver donor age affects hepatocyte function through age-dependent changes in decellularized liver matrix. Biomaterials 2021; 270:120689. [PMID: 33524812 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.120689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The only treatment available for end stage liver diseases is orthotopic liver transplantation. Although there is a big donor scarcity, many donor livers are discarded as they do not qualify for transplantation. Alternatively, decellularization of discarded livers can potentially render them transplantable upon recellularization and functional testing. The success of this approach will heavily depend on the quality of decellularized scaffolds which might show variability due to factors including age. Here we assessed the age-dependent differences in liver extracellular matrix (ECM) using rat and human livers. We show that the liver matrix has higher collagen and glycosaminoglycan content and a lower growth factor content with age. Importantly, these changes lead to deterioration in primary hepatocyte function potentially due to ECM stiffening and integrin-dependent signal transduction. Overall, we show that ECM changes with age and these changes significantly affect cell function thus donor age should be considered as an important factor for bioengineering liver substitutes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aylin Acun
- Center for Engineering in Medicine and Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ruben Oganesyan
- Center for Engineering in Medicine and Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Korkut Uygun
- Center for Engineering in Medicine and Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Heidi Yeh
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Martin L Yarmush
- Center for Engineering in Medicine and Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Basak E Uygun
- Center for Engineering in Medicine and Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Chen Y, Fan Y, Guo DY, Xu B, Shi XY, Li JT, Duan LF. Study on the relationship between hepatic fibrosis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in intrahepatic cells. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 129:110413. [PMID: 32570119 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a pathophysiological process, which causes excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition resulting from persistent liver damage. Myofibroblasts are the core cells that produce ECM. It is known that epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is not a simple transition of cells from the epithelial to mesenchymal state. Instead, it is a process, in which epithelial cells temporarily lose cell polarity, transform into interstitial cell-like morphology, and acquire migration ability. Hepatocytes, hepatic stellate cells, and bile duct cells are the types of intrahepatic cells found in the liver. They can be transformed into myofibroblasts via EMT and play important roles in the development of hepatic fibrosis through a maze of regulations involving various pathways. The aim of the present study is to explore the relationship between the relevant regulatory factors and the EMT signaling pathways in the various intrahepatic cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Chen
- The Basic Medical College of Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang 712046, China.
| | - Yu Fan
- The Basic Medical College of Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang 712046, China; Shaanxi Province Key Laboratory of Basic and New Herbal Medicament Research, Xianyang 712046, China.
| | - Dong-Yan Guo
- Shaanxi Province Key Laboratory of Basic and New Herbal Medicament Research, Xianyang 712046, China.
| | - Bing Xu
- The Medical Technical College of Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang 712046, China.
| | - Xiao-Yan Shi
- The Basic Medical College of Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang 712046, China.
| | - Jing-Tao Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang 712000, China.
| | - Li-Fang Duan
- The Basic Medical College of Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang 712046, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Hussein KH, Park KM, Yu L, Kwak HH, Woo HM. Decellularized hepatic extracellular matrix hydrogel attenuates hepatic stellate cell activation and liver fibrosis. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2020; 116:111160. [PMID: 32806289 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2020.111160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis results from excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins that distort the hepatic architecture. Progression of liver fibrosis results in cirrhosis and liver failure, and often, liver transplantation is required. The decellularized liver tissue contains different components that mimic the natural hepatic environment. We hypothesized that a decellularized liver hydrogel can be used to replace the necrotic hepatocytes and damaged ECM. Therefore, our aim in this study is to develop a therapy for treating liver fibrosis. Mice livers were decellularized and processed to form a hepatic hydrogel. We evaluated the biocompatibility and bioactivity of the hydrogel. The ability of the hydrogel to enhance the migration of hepatocytes and endothelial cells was investigated. Human hepatic stellate cell line (LX-2) activated by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) was used as in vitro model for fibrogenesis. Then, the hydrogel was injected into the liver parenchyma of mice after the induction of liver fibrosis using thioacetamide. The resulting hydrogel maintained a complex composition, which included glycosaminoglycans, collagen, elastin, and growth factors. Hepatocytes and endothelial cells were shown to migrate toward the hydrogel in vitro. Liver hydrogel improved TGF-β1-induced LX-2 cells activation via blocking the TGF-β1/Smad pathway. The matrix was delivered successfully in vivo and enhanced the reduction of fibrosis and recovery to a nearly normal structure. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that the liver hydrogel can be utilized as an injectable biomaterial for liver tissue engineering in order to reduce the degree of fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kamal H Hussein
- Research Institute for Veterinary Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; Adult Stem Cell Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; Department of Animal Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 71515, Egypt
| | - Kyung-Mee Park
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Lina Yu
- Stem Cell institute, College of Veterinary Medicine & Institute of Veterinary Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Gangwon 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho-Hyun Kwak
- Stem Cell institute, College of Veterinary Medicine & Institute of Veterinary Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Gangwon 24341, Republic of Korea.
| | - Heung-Myong Woo
- Stem Cell institute, College of Veterinary Medicine & Institute of Veterinary Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Gangwon 24341, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Roehlen N, Crouchet E, Baumert TF. Liver Fibrosis: Mechanistic Concepts and Therapeutic Perspectives. Cells 2020; 9:cells9040875. [PMID: 32260126 PMCID: PMC7226751 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 515] [Impact Index Per Article: 128.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 03/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis due to viral or metabolic chronic liver diseases is a major challenge of global health. Correlating with liver disease progression, fibrosis is a key factor for liver disease outcome and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Despite different mechanism of primary liver injury and disease-specific cell responses, the progression of fibrotic liver disease follows shared patterns across the main liver disease etiologies. Scientific discoveries within the last decade have transformed the understanding of the mechanisms of liver fibrosis. Removal or elimination of the causative agent such as control or cure of viral infection has shown that liver fibrosis is reversible. However, reversal often occurs too slowly or too infrequent to avoid life-threatening complications particularly in advanced fibrosis. Thus, there is a huge unmet medical need for anti-fibrotic therapies to prevent liver disease progression and HCC development. However, while many anti-fibrotic candidate agents have shown robust effects in experimental animal models, their anti-fibrotic effects in clinical trials have been limited or absent. Thus, no approved therapy exists for liver fibrosis. In this review we summarize cellular drivers and molecular mechanisms of fibrogenesis in chronic liver diseases and discuss their impact for the development of urgently needed anti-fibrotic therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natascha Roehlen
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (N.R.); (E.C.)
- Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques U1110, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Emilie Crouchet
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (N.R.); (E.C.)
- Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques U1110, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Thomas F. Baumert
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (N.R.); (E.C.)
- Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques U1110, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Pôle Hepato-digestif, Institut Hopitalo-Universitaire, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-366853703
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Intercellular crosstalk of hepatic stellate cells in liver fibrosis: New insights into therapy. Pharmacol Res 2020; 155:104720. [PMID: 32092405 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a dynamic wound-healing process characterized by the net accumulation of extracellular matrix. There is no efficient antifibrotic therapy other than liver transplantation to date. Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the major cellular source of matrix-producing myofibroblasts, playing a central role in the initiation and progression of liver fibrosis. Paracrine signals from resident and inflammatory cells such as hepatocytes, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, hepatic macrophages, natural killer/natural killer T cells, biliary epithelial cells, hepatic progenitor cells, and platelets can directly or indirectly regulate HSC differentiation and activation. Intercellular crosstalk between HSCs and those "responded" cells has been a critical event involved in HSC activation and fibrogenesis. This review summarizes recent advancement regarding intercellular communication between HSCs and other "responded cells" during liver fibrosis and experimental models of intercellular crosstalk systems, and provides novel ideas for potential antifibrotic therapeutic strategy.
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
Ten percent of cirrhotic patients are known to have a high risk of postoperative complications. Ninety percent of bariatric patients suffer from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and 50% of them may develop non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) which can progress to cirrhosis. The aim of this study was to assess whether the presence of cirrhosis at the time of bariatric surgery is associated with an increased rate and severity of short- and long-term cirrhotic complications.
Methods
A cohort of 110 bariatric patients, between May 2003 and February 2018, who had undergone liver biopsy at the time of bariatric surgery were reassessed for histological outcome and divided into two groups based on the presence (C, n = 26) or absence (NC, n = 84) of cirrhosis. The NC group consisted of NASH (n = 49), NAFLD (n = 24) and non-NAFLD (n = 11) liver histology. Medical notes were retrospectively assessed for patient characteristics, development of 30-day postoperative complications, severity of complications (Clavien-Dindo (CD) classification) and length of stay. The C group was further assessed for long-term cirrhosis-related outcomes.
Results
The C group was older (52 years vs 43 years) and had lower BMI (46 kg/m2 vs 52 kg/m2) and weight (126 kg vs 145 kg) compared to the NC group (p < 0.05). The C group had significantly higher overall complication rate (10/26 vs 14/84, p < 0.05) and severity of complications (CD class ≥ III, 12% vs 7%, p < 0.05) when compared to the NC group. The length of stay was similar between the two groups (5 days vs 4 days). The C group had significant improvement in model end-stage liver disease scores (7 vs 6, p < 0.01) with median follow-up of 4.5 years (range 2–11 years). There were no long-term cirrhosis-related complications or mortality in our studied cohort (0/26).
Conclusion
Bariatric surgery in cirrhotic patients has a higher risk of immediate postoperative complications. Long-term cirrhosis-related complications or mortality was not increased in this small cohort. Preoperative identification of liver cirrhosis may be useful for risk stratification, optimisation and informed consent. Bariatric surgery in well-compensated cirrhotic patients may be used as an aid to improve long-term outcome.
Collapse
|
23
|
Increased Expression of Adherens Junction Components in Mouse Liver following Bile Duct Ligation. Biomolecules 2019; 9:biom9100636. [PMID: 31652629 PMCID: PMC6843439 DOI: 10.3390/biom9100636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Adherens junctions, consisting of cadherins and catenins, are a group of cell-to-cell junctions that mediate mechanistic linkage between neighboring cells. By doing so, adherens junctions ensure direct intercellular contact and play an indispensable role in maintaining tissue architecture. Considering these critical functions, it is not surprising that adherens junctions are frequently involved in disease. In the present study, the effects of bile duct ligation—a surgical procedure to experimentally induce cholestatic and fibrotic liver pathology—on hepatic adherens junctions were investigated in mice. In essence, it was found that liver mRNA and protein levels of E-cadherin, β-catenin and γ-catenin drastically increase following bile duct ligation. These results could suggest a cytoprotective role for hepatic adherens junctions following bile duct ligation.
Collapse
|
24
|
Rajapaksha IG, Gunarathne LS, Asadi K, Cunningham SC, Sharland A, Alexander IE, Angus PW, Herath CB. Liver-Targeted Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 Therapy Inhibits Chronic Biliary Fibrosis in Multiple Drug-Resistant Gene 2-Knockout Mice. Hepatol Commun 2019; 3:1656-1673. [PMID: 31832573 PMCID: PMC6887688 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a large unmet need for effective therapies for cholestatic disorders, including primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), a disease that commonly results in liver failure. Angiotensin (Ang) II of the renin Ang system (RAS) is a potent profibrotic peptide, and Ang converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) of the alternate RAS breaks down Ang II to antifibrotic peptide Ang‐(1‐7). In the present study, we investigated long‐term effects of ACE2 delivered by an adeno‐associated viral vector and short‐term effects of Ang‐(1‐7) peptide in multiple drug‐resistant gene 2‐knockout (Mdr2‐KO) mice. These mice develop progressive biliary fibrosis with pathologic features closely resembling those observed in PSC. A single intraperitoneal injection of ACE2 therapy markedly reduced liver injury (P < 0.05) and biliary fibrosis (P < 0.01) at both established (3‐6 months of age) and advanced (7‐9 months of age) disease compared to control vector‐injected Mdr2‐KO mice. This was accompanied by increased hepatic Ang‐(1‐7) levels (P < 0.05) with concomitant reduction in hepatic Ang II levels (P < 0.05) compared to controls. Moreover, Ang‐(1‐7) peptide infusion improved liver injury (P < 0.05) and biliary fibrosis (P < 0.0001) compared to saline‐infused disease controls. The therapeutic effects of both ACE2 therapy and Ang‐(1‐7) infusion were associated with significant (P < 0.01) reduction in hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and collagen expression. While ACE2 therapy prevented the loss of epithelial characteristics of hepatocytes and/or cholangiocytes in vivo, Ang‐(1‐7) prevented transdifferentiation of human cholangiocytes (H69 cells) into the collagen‐secreting myofibroblastic phenotype in vitro. We showed that an increased ratio of hepatic Ang‐(1‐7) to Ang II levels by ACE2 therapy results in the inhibition of HSC activation and biliary fibrosis. Conclusion: ACE2 therapy has the potential to treat patients with biliary diseases, such as PSC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Indu G Rajapaksha
- Department of Medicine University of Melbourne Austin Health Heidelberg Australia
| | - Lakmie S Gunarathne
- Department of Medicine University of Melbourne Austin Health Heidelberg Australia
| | | | - Sharon C Cunningham
- Children's Medical Research Institute School of Medicine University of Sydney Sydney Australia
| | - Alexandra Sharland
- Central Clinical School School of Medicine University of Sydney Sydney Australia
| | - Ian E Alexander
- Children's Medical Research Institute School of Medicine University of Sydney Sydney Australia
| | - Peter W Angus
- Department of Medicine University of Melbourne Austin Health Heidelberg Australia
| | - Chandana B Herath
- Department of Medicine University of Melbourne Austin Health Heidelberg Australia
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Renoprotective effects of a novel cMet agonistic antibody on kidney fibrosis. Sci Rep 2019; 9:13495. [PMID: 31530851 PMCID: PMC6749055 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-49756-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor, cMet, activate biological pathways necessary for repair and regeneration following kidney injury. Because HGF is a highly unstable molecule in its biologically active form, we asked whether a monoclonal antibody (Ab) that displays full agonist activity at the receptor could protect the kidney from fibrosis. We attempted to determine whether the cMet agonistic Ab might reduce fibrosis, the final common pathway for chronic kidney diseases (CKD). A mouse model of kidney fibrosis disease induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction was introduced and subsequently validated with primary cultured human proximal tubular epithelial cells (PTECs). In kidney biopsy specimens from patients with CKD, cMet immunohistochemistry staining showed a remarkable increase compared with patients with normal renal functions. cMet Ab treatment significantly increased the levels of phospho-cMet and abrogated the protein expression of fibrosis markers such as fibronectin, collagen 1, and αSMA as well as Bax2, which is a marker of apoptosis triggered by recombinant TGF-β1 in PTECs. Remarkably, injections of cMet Ab significantly prevented kidney fibrosis in obstructed kidneys as quantified by Masson trichrome staining. Consistent with these data, cMet Ab treatment decreased the expression of fibrosis markers, such as collagen1 and αSMA, whereas the expression of E-cadherin, which is a cell-cell adhesion molecule, was restored. In conclusion, cMet-mediated signaling may play a considerable role in kidney fibrosis. Additionally, the cMet agonistic Ab may be a valuable substitute for HGF because it is more easily available in a biologically active, stable, and purified form.
Collapse
|
26
|
Zmorzyński S, Styk W, Filip AA, Krasowska D. The Significance of NOTCH Pathway in the Development of Fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis. Ann Dermatol 2019; 31:365-371. [PMID: 33911613 PMCID: PMC7992759 DOI: 10.5021/ad.2019.31.4.365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the fibrosis of skin, heart, lung, and kidney as well. Excessive activation of fibroblasts is associated with higher expression of Notch1 and/or Notch3 genes. The constitutive expression of NOTCH genes was described in epithelial cells: epidermal keratinocytes, hair follicle cells and sebaceous glands. The NOTCH signalling pathway may be involved in the development of fibrosis, myofibroblast formation and the process of epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Activation of the NOTCH pathway leads to morphological, phenotypic and functional changes in epithelial cells. Furthermore, inhibition of Notch signalling prevent the development of fibrosis in different models, among them, bleomycin-induced fibrosis and in the Task-1 mause model. Molecular mechanisms, including the role of NOTCH signaling pathway, associated with fibrosis in SSc have not been completely recognized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Szymon Zmorzyński
- Department of Cancer Genetics with Cytogenetic Laboratory, Medical University of Lublin, Poland
| | - Wojciech Styk
- Department of Cancer Genetics with Cytogenetic Laboratory, Medical University of Lublin, Poland
| | - Agata Anna Filip
- Department of Cancer Genetics with Cytogenetic Laboratory, Medical University of Lublin, Poland
| | - Dorota Krasowska
- Chair and Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Paediatric Dermatology, Medical University of Lublin, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Almalé L, García-Álvaro M, Martínez-Palacián A, García-Bravo M, Lazcanoiturburu N, Addante A, Roncero C, Sanz J, de la O López M, Bragado P, Mikulits W, Factor VM, Thorgeirsson SS, Casal JI, Segovia JC, Rial E, Fabregat I, Herrera B, Sánchez A. c-Met Signaling Is Essential for Mouse Adult Liver Progenitor Cells Expansion After Transforming Growth Factor-β-Induced Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Regulates Cell Phenotypic Switch. Stem Cells 2019; 37:1108-1118. [PMID: 31108004 DOI: 10.1002/stem.3038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Adult hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs)/oval cells are bipotential progenitors that participate in liver repair responses upon chronic injury. Recent findings highlight HPCs plasticity and importance of the HPCs niche signals to determine their fate during the regenerative process, favoring either fibrogenesis or damage resolution. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) are among the key signals involved in liver regeneration and as component of HPCs niche regulates HPCs biology. Here, we characterize the TGF-β-triggered epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) response in oval cells, its effects on cell fate in vivo, and the regulatory effect of the HGF/c-Met signaling. Our data show that chronic treatment with TGF-β triggers a partial EMT in oval cells based on coexpression of epithelial and mesenchymal markers. The phenotypic and functional profiling indicates that TGF-β-induced EMT is not associated with stemness but rather represents a step forward along hepatic lineage. This phenotypic transition confers advantageous traits to HPCs including survival, migratory/invasive and metabolic benefit, overall enhancing the regenerative potential of oval cells upon transplantation into a carbon tetrachloride-damaged liver. We further uncover a key contribution of the HGF/c-Met pathway to modulate the TGF-β-mediated EMT response. It allows oval cells expansion after EMT by controlling oxidative stress and apoptosis, likely via Twist regulation, and it counterbalances EMT by maintaining epithelial properties. Our work provides evidence that a coordinated and balanced action of TGF-β and HGF are critical for achievement of the optimal regenerative potential of HPCs, opening new therapeutic perspectives. Stem Cells 2019;37:1108-1118.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Almalé
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - María García-Álvaro
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Adoración Martínez-Palacián
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - María García-Bravo
- Cell Differentiation and Cytometry Unit, Hematopoietic Innovative Therapies Division, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain.,Advanced Therapies Mixed Unit, CIEMAT/IIS Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nerea Lazcanoiturburu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Annalisa Addante
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cesáreo Roncero
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julián Sanz
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - María de la O López
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paloma Bragado
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Wolfgang Mikulits
- Department of Medicine I, Institute of Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Valentina M Factor
- Laboratory of Experimental Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Snorri S Thorgeirsson
- Laboratory of Experimental Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.,Laboratory of Human Carcinogenesis, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - J Ignacio Casal
- Department of Functional Proteomics, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CIB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - José-Carlos Segovia
- Cell Differentiation and Cytometry Unit, Hematopoietic Innovative Therapies Division, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain.,Advanced Therapies Mixed Unit, CIEMAT/IIS Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo Rial
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CIB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Fabregat
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and University of Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.,Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Blanca Herrera
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Aránzazu Sánchez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Pandey A, Dhabade P, Kumarasamy A. Inflammatory Effects of Subacute Exposure of Roundup in Rat Liver and Adipose Tissue. Dose Response 2019; 17:1559325819843380. [PMID: 31205454 PMCID: PMC6537504 DOI: 10.1177/1559325819843380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Roundup is a popular herbicide containing glyphosate as an active ingredient. The formulation of Roundup is speculated to have critical toxic effects, one among which is chronic inflammation. The present study analyzed adverse inflammatory effects in the liver and adipose tissue of rats after a subacute exposure of Roundup. Adult male rats were exposed to various doses of Roundup (0, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100 and 250 mg/kg bodyweight [bw] glyphosate) orally, everyday for 14 days. On day 15, liver and adipose tissues from dosed rats were analyzed for inflammation markers. C-reactive protein in liver, cytokines IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and inflammatory response marker, and prostaglandin–endoperoxide synthase were upregulated in liver and adipose of rats exposed to higher (100 and 250 mg/kg bw/d) doses of Roundup. Cumulatively, our data suggest development of inflammation in lipid and hepatic organs upon exposure to Roundup. Furthermore, liver histological studies showed formation of vacuoles, fibroid tissue, and glycogen depletion in the groups treated with doses of higher Roundup. These observations suggest progression of fatty liver disease in Roundup-treated adult rats. In summary, our data suggest progression of multiorgan inflammation, liver scarring, and dysfunction post short-term exposure of Roundup in adult male rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aparamita Pandey
- Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Prachi Dhabade
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Anand Kumarasamy
- Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Ben Hsouna A, Gargouri M, Dhifi W, Ben Saad R, Sayahi N, Mnif W, Saibi W. Potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Citrus aurantium essential oil against carbon tetrachloride-mediated hepatotoxicity: A biochemical, molecular and histopathological changes in adult rats. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2019; 34:388-400. [PMID: 30578595 DOI: 10.1002/tox.22693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The present study aimed (1) to investigate the chemical composition as well as the anti-inflammatory properties and in vitro antioxidant activity of Citrus aurantium peel essential oil (pEOCa) and (2) to evaluate its potential effect in vivo. The main results showed that the major components of pEOCa are Limonene and Linalool. Additionally, DPPH scavenging ability and β-carotene bleaching inhibition tests confirmed the antioxidant capacity of pEOCa. Our oil reduced the production of NO by LPS-stimulated RAW264,7 macrophages in a concentration-dependent. This inhibition occurred at a transcriptional level. pEOCa in CCl4 treated rats alleviated hepatotoxicity as monitored by the improvement of hepatic oxidative stress biomarkers levels plasma biochemical parameters, and DNA molecule aspect. Furthermore, the mRNA gene expression of Cu-Zn SOD, CAT, and GPx increased under CCl4 + pEOCa exposure to reach the same value to the control. Similarly, antioxidant activities of these three enzymes changed in accordance with the mRNA levels. These results were confirmed by the histological results. It seems obvious that the treatment with pEOCa prevented liver damage induced by CCl4 , thus preventing the harmful effects of free radicals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anis Ben Hsouna
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences of Gafsa, Zarroug, Gafsa, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Plant Improvement, Center of Biotechnology of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Manel Gargouri
- Laboratory of Animal Ecophysiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Sfax, BP, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Wissal Dhifi
- University of Manouba, ISBST, LR17-ES03 Physiopathology, Food and Biomolecules, Biotechpole Sidi Thabet, Ariana, Tunisia
| | - Rania Ben Saad
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Plant Improvement, Center of Biotechnology of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Naima Sayahi
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Plant Improvement, Center of Biotechnology of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Wissem Mnif
- Faculty of Sciences and Arts in Balgarn PO BOX 60 Balgarn - Sabt Al Alaya 61985, University of Bisha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- University of Manouba, ISBST, BVBGR-LR11ES31, Biotechnopole Sidi Thabet, Ariana, Tunisia
| | - Walid Saibi
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Plant Improvement, Center of Biotechnology of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Qiu BF, Zhang GQ, Xu FM, Xu Q, Xu T. Effect of the transdifferentiation of BECs into myofibroblasts on the pathogenesis of secondary cholestatic hepatic fibrosis. Exp Ther Med 2019; 17:2769-2776. [PMID: 30906466 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2019.7234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated the effect of the transdifferentiation of bile duct epithelial cells (BECs) into myofibroblasts on the pathogenesis of secondary cholestatic hepatic fibrosis and examined the underlying mechanisms. A total of 60 male rats with hepatic fibrosis were randomly divided into two groups: A secondary cholestatic hepatic fibrosis model group induced by ligation of the bile duct (BDL) and a sham group, which only underwent segregation of the choledochus. Rats in the BDL group were dynamically observed after week 1, 2, 3 and 4 post-BDL, and the remaining rats were sacrificed after week 5 to determine histological changes and hydroxyproline content. The cellular co-localization of cytokeratin (CK)7/α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) or α-SMA/desmin was detected by immunofluorescence staining and laser confocal microscopy, while the protein expression levels of CK7, α-SMA and desmin were determined by western blot analysis. Sirius red staining was also performed and quantified. The results revealed a significant correlation between the protein expression of CK7 and α-SMA (r=0.9692, P<0.01). Furthermore, a predominant correlation between the number of cells stained for CK7/α-SMA and collagen deposition in liver tissues was identified, while the correlation of cells with co-localized α-SMA and desmin was less pronounced. The transdifferentiation of BECs into myofibroblasts may be a key pathological factor in secondary cholestatic hepatic fibrosis formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bing-Feng Qiu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Zhoushan Hospital, Zhoushan, Zhejiang 316000, P.R. China
| | - Guo-Qiang Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Zhoushan Hospital, Zhoushan, Zhejiang 316000, P.R. China
| | - Fang-Ming Xu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Zhoushan Hospital, Zhoushan, Zhejiang 316000, P.R. China
| | - Qi Xu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Zhoushan Hospital, Zhoushan, Zhejiang 316000, P.R. China
| | - Tang Xu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Zhoushan Hospital, Zhoushan, Zhejiang 316000, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Ashour AS, Guo Y, Hawas AR, Xu G. Ensemble of subspace discriminant classifiers for schistosomal liver fibrosis staging in mice microscopic images. Health Inf Sci Syst 2018; 6:21. [PMID: 30425828 DOI: 10.1007/s13755-018-0059-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is one of the dangerous parasitic diseases that affect the liver tissues leading to liver fibrosis. Such disease has several levels, which indicate the degree of fibrosis severity. To assess the fibrosis level for diagnosis and treatment, the microscopic images of the liver tissues were examined at their different stages. In the present work, an automated staging method is proposed to classify the statistical extracted features from each fibrosis stage using an ensemble classifier, namely the subspace ensemble using linear discriminant learning scheme. The performance of the subspace/discriminant ensemble classifier was compared to other ensemble combinations, namely the boosted/trees ensemble, bagged/trees ensemble, subspace/KNN ensemble, and the RUSBoosted/trees ensemble. The simulation results established the superiority of the proposed subspace/discriminant ensemble with 90% accuracy compared to the other ensemble classifiers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amira S Ashour
- 1Department of Electronics and Electrical Communication Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Yanhui Guo
- 2Department of Computer Science, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL USA
| | - Ahmed Refaat Hawas
- 1Department of Electronics and Electrical Communication Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Guan Xu
- 3Department of Radiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, USA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Sharawy MH, Abdel-Rahman N, Megahed N, El-Awady MS. Paclitaxel alleviates liver fibrosis induced by bile duct ligation in rats: Role of TGF-β1, IL-10 and c-Myc. Life Sci 2018; 211:245-251. [PMID: 30243650 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.09.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2018] [Revised: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a global health issue that causes morbidity and mortality with no currently available treatment. It has been shown that low dose paclitaxel (PTX) can stabilize microtubules and inhibit the profibrotic transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) signaling pathway. In this study the effect of treatment with low dose PTX was examined using a model of cholestatic liver fibrosis. Bile-duct ligation (BDL) was induced in rats for 2 weeks then PTX (0.3 mg/kg/ip) was administered three times a week for 2 weeks. Administration of PTX ameliorated BDL-induced elevation in biomarkers of hepatocellular damage (alanine transaminase; ALT and aspartate transaminase; AST) and obstructive cholestatic injury (total bilirubin and gamma glutamyl transferase; γ-GT). PTX was able to correct the increase in liver weight to body weight ratio and the bile duct proliferation induced by BDL. Additionally, PTX treatment corrected the BDL-induced fibrosis of portal tracts, elevation of hydroxyproline content and increased alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) mRNA and protein expression. This antifibrotic effect of PTX was further examined through its inhibitory effect on TGF-β1 mRNA and protein expression in addition to c-Myc mRNA expression. Furthermore, PTX rectified the BDL-induced decrease in interleukin-10 (IL-10) mRNA and protein expression. In conclusion, this study suggests that PTX at low dose has the potential to treat BDL-induced liver fibrosis in rats possibly through suppression of TGF-β1 and c-Myc and activation of IL-10 pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maha H Sharawy
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| | - Noha Abdel-Rahman
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt.
| | - Nirmeen Megahed
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| | - Mohammed S El-Awady
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Coronary stents with inducible VEGF/HGF-secreting UCB-MSCs reduced restenosis and increased re-endothelialization in a swine model. Exp Mol Med 2018; 50:1-14. [PMID: 30174328 PMCID: PMC6119684 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-018-0143-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerotic plaques within the vasculature may eventually lead to heart failure. Currently, cardiac stenting is the most effective and least invasive approach to treat this disease. However, in-stent restenosis is a complex chronic side effect of stenting treatment. This study used coronary stents coated with stem cells secreting angiogenic growth factors via an inducible genome-editing system to reduce stent restenosis and induce re-endothelialization within the artery. The characteristics of the cells and their adhesion properties on the stents were confirmed, and the stents were transplanted into a swine model to evaluate restenosis and the potential therapeutic use of stents with stem cells. Restenosis was evaluated using optical coherence tomography (OCT), microcomputed tomography (mCT) and angiography, and re-endothelialization was evaluated by immunostaining after cardiac stent treatment. Compared to a bare metal stent (BMS) or a parental umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cell (UCB-MSC)-coated stent, the stents with stem cells capable of the controlled release of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) successfully reduced restenosis within the stent and induced natural re-endothelialization. Furthermore, UCB-MSCs exhibited the ability to differentiate into endothelial cells in Matrigel, and HGF and VEGF improved this differentiation. Our study indicates that stents coated with UCB-MSCs secreting VEGF/HGF reduce the restenosis side effects of cardiac stenting with improved re-endothelialization.
Collapse
|
34
|
Targeting Endothelial Erk1/2-Akt Axis as a Regeneration Strategy to Bypass Fibrosis during Chronic Liver Injury in Mice. Mol Ther 2018; 26:2779-2797. [PMID: 30266653 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2018.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) have great capacity for liver regeneration, and this capacity can easily switch to profibrotic phenotype, which is still poorly understood. In this study, we elucidated a potential target in LSECs for regenerative treatment that can bypass fibrosis during chronic liver injury. Proregenerative LSECs can be transformed to profibrotic phenotype after 4 weeks of carbon tetrachloride administration or 10 days of bile duct ligation. This phenotypic alternation of LSECs was mediated by extracellular regulated protein kinases 1 and 2 (Erk1/2)-Akt axis switch in LSECs during chronic liver injury; Erk1/2 was normally associated with maintenance of the LSEC proregenerative phenotype, inhibiting hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and promoting tissue repair by enhancing nitric oxide (NO)/reactive oxygen species (ROS) ratio and increasing expression of hepatic growth factor (HGF) and Wingless-type MMTV integration site family member 2 (Wnt2). Alternatively, Akt induced LSEC profibrotic phenotype, which mainly stimulated HSC activation and concomitant senescence by reducing NO/ROS ratio and decreasing HGF/Wnt2 expression. LSEC-targeted adenovirus or drug particle to promote Erk1/2 activity can alleviate liver fibrosis, accelerate fibrosis resolution, and enhance liver regeneration. This study demonstrated that the Erk1/2-Akt axis acted as a switch to regulate the proregenerative and profibrotic phenotypes of LSECs, and targeted therapy promoted liver regeneration while bypassing fibrosis, providing clues for a more effective treatment of liver diseases.
Collapse
|
35
|
Allen J, Zhang J, Quickel MD, Kennett M, Patterson AD, Hankey-Giblin PA. Ron Receptor Signaling Ameliorates Hepatic Fibrosis in a Diet-Induced Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Mouse Model. J Proteome Res 2018; 17:3268-3280. [PMID: 30091925 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.8b00379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is commonly observed in the terminal stages of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and with no specific and effective antifibrotic therapies available, this disease is a major global health burden. The MSP/Ron receptor axis has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties in a number of mouse models, due at least in part, to its ability to limit pro-inflammatory responses in tissue-resident macrophages and hepatocytes. In this study, we established the role of the Ron receptor in steatohepatitis-induced hepatic fibrosis using Ron ligand domain knockout mice on an apolipoprotein E knockout background (DKO). After 18 weeks of high-fat high-cholesterol feeding, loss of Ron activation resulted in exacerbated NASH-associated steatosis which is precedent to hepatocellular injury, inflammation and fibrosis. 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics identified significant changes in serum metabolites that can modulate the intrahepatic lipid pool in hepatic steatosis. Serum from DKO mice had higher concentrations of lipids, VLDL/LDL and pyruvate, whereas glycine levels were reduced. Parallel to the aggravated steatohepatitis, increased accumulation of collagen, inflammatory immune cells and collagen producing-myofibroblasts were seen in the livers of DKO mice. Gene expression profiling revealed that DKO mice exhibited elevated expression of genes encoding Ron receptor ligand MSP, collagens, ECM remodeling proteins and pro-fibrogenic cytokines in the liver. Our results demonstrate the protective effects of Ron receptor activation on NASH-induced hepatic fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joselyn Allen
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences , The Pennsylvania State University , University Park , Pennsylvania United States
| | - Jingtao Zhang
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences , The Pennsylvania State University , University Park , Pennsylvania United States
| | - Michael D Quickel
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences , The Pennsylvania State University , University Park , Pennsylvania United States
| | - Mary Kennett
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences , The Pennsylvania State University , University Park , Pennsylvania United States
| | - Andrew D Patterson
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences , The Pennsylvania State University , University Park , Pennsylvania United States
| | - Pamela A Hankey-Giblin
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences , The Pennsylvania State University , University Park , Pennsylvania United States
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Ebrahimi H, Naderian M, Sohrabpour AA. New Concepts on Reversibility and Targeting of Liver Fibrosis; A Review Article. Middle East J Dig Dis 2018; 10:133-148. [PMID: 30186577 PMCID: PMC6119836 DOI: 10.15171/mejdd.2018.103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, liver fibrosis and its complications are regarded as critical health problems.
With the studies showing the reversible nature of liver fibrogenesis, scientists have focused
on understanding the underlying mechanism of this condition in order to develop new
therapeutic strategies. Although hepatic stellate cells are known as the primary cells
responsible for liver fibrogenesis, studies have shown contributing roles for other cells,
pathways, and molecules in the development of fibrosis depending on the etiology of
liver fibrosis. Hence, interventions could be directed in the proper way for each type of
liver diseases to better address this complication. There are two main approaches in clinical
reversion of liver fibrosis; eliminating the underlying insult and targeting the fibrosis
process, which have variable clinical importance in the treatment of this disease. In this
review, we present recent concepts in molecular pathways of liver fibrosis reversibility
and their clinical implications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hedyeh Ebrahimi
- The Liver, Pancreatic, and Biliary Diseases Research Center, Digestive Disease Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Naderian
- The Liver, Pancreatic, and Biliary Diseases Research Center, Digestive Disease Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Ali Sohrabpour
- Associate Professor, The Liver, Pancreatic, and Biliary Diseases Research Center, Digestive Disease Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Dhanda S, Sunkaria A, Halder A, Sandhir R. Mitochondrial dysfunctions contribute to energy deficits in rodent model of hepatic encephalopathy. Metab Brain Dis 2018; 33:209-223. [PMID: 29138968 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-017-0136-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Perturbations in the cerebral energy metabolism are anticipated to be an important factor by which ammonia may exert its toxic effects on the central nervous system. The present study was designed to investigate the role of impaired mitochondrial functions and cerebral energy metabolism in the development hepatic encephalopathy (HE) induced by of bile duct ligation (BDL). After four weeks of BDL, a significant increase in hepatic hydroxyproline and collagen content was observed which confirmed biliary fibrosis. Brain regions viz. cortex, hippocampus, striatum and cerebellum of BDL rats had impaired activity of mitochondrial respiratory chain enzymes. This was accompanied by increase in mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl levels in the brain. Mitochondrial redox ratio was significantly reduced in the brain of BDL rats. In addition, mitochondria from brain of BDL rats were depolarized and swollen compared to the sham controls. Ultrastructure analysis of mitochondria from cortex and hippocampus of BDL animals revealed aberrant cristae, ruptured membranes and non-dense matrix. Further, a significant decrease was observed in creatine kinase activity, glucose uptake and CO2 production in the brain regions of BDL rats. ATP/ADP ratio, a critical parameter of cellular energy status, was also significantly reduced in brain regions of rats with HE. Overall, the findings clearly demonstrate that BDL induced HE involves mitochondrial respiratory chain dysfunctions, mitochondrial depolarization and swelling that accentuates oxidative stress which in turn leads to compromise in cerebral energy metabolism thereby contributing to the pathophysiology of chronic HE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Dhanda
- Department of Biochemistry, Panjab University, Basic Medical Science Block-II, Sector-25, Chandigarh, 160014, India
| | - Aditya Sunkaria
- Department of Biochemistry, Panjab University, Basic Medical Science Block-II, Sector-25, Chandigarh, 160014, India
| | - Avishek Halder
- Department of Biochemistry, Panjab University, Basic Medical Science Block-II, Sector-25, Chandigarh, 160014, India
| | - Rajat Sandhir
- Department of Biochemistry, Panjab University, Basic Medical Science Block-II, Sector-25, Chandigarh, 160014, India.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Yang YM, Fukui M, Wang Z, Miao F, Karriker MJ, Seki E. Interventional Potential of Recombinant Feline Hepatocyte Growth Factor in a Mouse Model of Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:378. [PMID: 30083132 PMCID: PMC6064873 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims: Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a multifunctional pleiotropic protein involved in tissue regeneration, protection, angiogenesis, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic responses, and tumorigenesis, through binding to its receptor MET. Recombinant HGF protein has been shown to mitigate various liver disease models, such as alcohol-induced liver injury, hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury, and fibrosis. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and anti-lipogenic effects of exogenous administration of feline HGF on a non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) mouse model. Methods: Wild-type C57BL/6 mice were fed a choline-deficient amino acid defined (CDAA) diet for 3 weeks to create the mouse model of NASH, which displays hepatic steatosis, inflammation, injury, and very mild fibrosis. One mg/kg of recombinant feline HGF was administered intravenously daily in the last 7 days of the total 3 weeks of CDAA diet feeding. Then, hepatic steatosis, inflammation, injury, and fibrogenic gene expression was examined. Results: After 3 weeks of a CDAA diet-feeding, the vehicle-treated mice exhibited evident deposition of lipid droplets in hepatocytes, inflammatory cell infiltration, and hepatocyte ballooning along with increased serum ALT levels whereas recombinant HGF-treated mice showed reduced hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and ballooned hepatocytes with a reduction of serum ALT levels. Recombinant HGF administration promoted hepatocyte proliferation. Increased hepatic lipid accumulation was accompanied by elevated expression of lipogenesis genes Fasn and Dgat1 in vehicle-treated mice. In HGF-treated mice, these genes were reduced with a decrease of lipid accumulation in the liver. Consistent with the anti-inflammatory property of HGF, augmented macrophage infiltration and upregulation of chemokines, Cxcl1, Ccl2, and Ccl5 in the CDAA diet fed mice, were suppressed by the addition of the HGF treatment. Finally, we examined the fibrotic response. The vehicle-treated mice had mild fibrosis with upregulation of Col1a1, Acta2, Timp1, Tgfb1, and Serpine1 expression. Recombinant HGF treatment significantly suppressed fibrogenic gene expression and collagen deposition in the liver. Conclusion: Recombinant feline HGF treatment suppressed the progression of NASH in a CDAA diet feeding mouse model.This suggests that recombinant HGF protein has therapeutic potential for NASH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoon Mee Yang
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Masato Fukui
- Veterinary Medical Center–San Diego, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Zhijun Wang
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Fiona Miao
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Margo J. Karriker
- Veterinary Medical Center–San Diego, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Ekihiro Seki
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Ekihiro Seki
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Özerkan D, Özsoy N, Akbulut KG, Güney Ş, Öztürk G. The protective effect of vitamin D against carbon tetrachloride damage to the rat liver. Biotech Histochem 2017; 92:513-523. [PMID: 28910170 DOI: 10.1080/10520295.2017.1361549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the protective effect of vitamin D against liver damage caused by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Twenty-four male rats were divided into four equal groups: G1, untreated controls; G2, administered CCl4; G3, administered both CCl4 and vitamin D for 10 weeks; G4, administered CCl4 for 10 weeks and vitamin D for 12 weeks. At the end of experiment, intracardiac blood samples were taken and liver samples were removed. Hepatic damage due to CCl4 was assessed using biochemistry and histopathology. Glutathione (GSH) levels decreased, while malondialdehyde (MDA) levels increased in liver tissues of G2. Alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl-transaminase (GGT) levels increased, while albumin (ALB) levels decreased. Hepatocyte degeneration, lobular disorder, sinusoid dilation, focal necrotic areas, hyperemia, and glycogen loss were observed. Hepatic fibrosis was observed around portal areas and central veins. Bridging fibrous septa were formed between portal veins. By immunohistochemistry, both matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and desmin reactivity were increased. All aspects of liver damage were at least partially prevented in rats treated with vitamin D. Vitamin D appears to act as an antioxidant and anti-fibrotic to protect the rat liver against damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Özerkan
- a Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture , Kastamonu University , Kastamonu
| | - N Özsoy
- b Department of Biology, Faculty of Science , Ankara University , Ankara
| | - K G Akbulut
- c Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine , Gazi University , Ankara
| | - Ş Güney
- c Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine , Gazi University , Ankara
| | - G Öztürk
- d Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine , Istanbul Medeniyet University , Istanbul , Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Wu N, Meng F, Zhou T, Han Y, Kennedy L, Venter J, Francis H, DeMorrow S, Onori P, Invernizzi P, Bernuzzi F, Mancinelli R, Gaudio E, Franchitto A, Glaser S, Alpini G. Prolonged darkness reduces liver fibrosis in a mouse model of primary sclerosing cholangitis by miR-200b down-regulation. FASEB J 2017. [PMID: 28634212 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201700097r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin therapy or prolonged exposure to complete darkness reduces biliary hyperplasia and liver fibrosis in bile-duct-ligated (BDL) rats; however, no information exists in primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Thus, we aimed to determine the therapeutic effects of prolonged dark therapy or melatonin administration on hepatic fibrosis in the multidrug resistance gene 2-knockout (Mdr2-/-) mouse model of PSC. Melatonin levels, biliary mass, liver fibrosis, angiogenesis and miR-200b expression were evaluated in wild-type and Mdr2-/- mice exposed to darkness or melatonin treatment or in male patients with PSC and healthy controls. Mdr2-/- mice were also treated with miR-200b inhibitor or control before evaluating biliary mass, liver fibrosis, and angiogenesis. After overexpression of arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AANAT; the enzyme regulating melatonin synthesis) or inhibition of miR-200b in cholangiocytes and hepatic stellate cells in vitro, we evaluated angiogenesis and fibrosis gene expression. After exposure to darkness or administration of melatonin, Mdr2-/- mice show elevated serum melatonin levels and inhibition of biliary mass, along with reduction of liver fibrosis and angiogenesis. MicroRNA PCR analysis demonstrated that miR-200b expression increased in Mdr2-/- mice and patients with PSC compared with controls and decreased in Mdr2-/- mice subjected to dark exposure or melatonin treatment. Inhibition of miR-200b in Mdr2-/- ablates biliary proliferation, liver fibrosis, and angiogenesis. In vitro, overexpression of AANAT or inhibition of miR-200b in cholangiocytes and hepatic stellate cells decreased the expression of miR-200b, angiogenesis, and fibrosis genes. Dark therapy or targeting melatonin/miR-200b axis may be important in the management of biliary damage and liver fibrosis in cholangiopathies including PSC.-Wu, N., Meng, F., Zhou, T., Han, Y., Kennedy, L., Venter, J., Francis, H., DeMorrow, S., Onori, P., Invernizzi, P., Bernuzzi, F., Mancinelli, R., Gaudio, E., Franchitto, A., Glaser, S., Alpini G. Prolonged darkness reduces liver fibrosis in a mouse model of primary sclerosing cholangitis by miR-200b down-regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nan Wu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Temple, Texas, USA
| | - Fanyin Meng
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Temple, Texas, USA.,Digestive Research Center, Baylor Scott & White Health, Temple, Texas, USA.,Research Service, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, Texas, USA
| | - Tianhao Zhou
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Temple, Texas, USA
| | - Yuyan Han
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Temple, Texas, USA
| | - Lindsey Kennedy
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Temple, Texas, USA
| | - Julie Venter
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Temple, Texas, USA
| | - Heather Francis
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Temple, Texas, USA.,Digestive Research Center, Baylor Scott & White Health, Temple, Texas, USA.,Research Service, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, Texas, USA
| | - Sharon DeMorrow
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Temple, Texas, USA.,Digestive Research Center, Baylor Scott & White Health, Temple, Texas, USA.,Research Service, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, Texas, USA
| | - Paolo Onori
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, and Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Francesca Bernuzzi
- Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Romina Mancinelli
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, and Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenio Gaudio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, and Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Shannon Glaser
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Temple, Texas, USA; .,Digestive Research Center, Baylor Scott & White Health, Temple, Texas, USA.,Research Service, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, Texas, USA
| | - Gianfranco Alpini
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Temple, Texas, USA; .,Digestive Research Center, Baylor Scott & White Health, Temple, Texas, USA.,Research Service, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Dhanda S, Sandhir R. Blood-Brain Barrier Permeability Is Exacerbated in Experimental Model of Hepatic Encephalopathy via MMP-9 Activation and Downregulation of Tight Junction Proteins. Mol Neurobiol 2017; 55:3642-3659. [PMID: 28523565 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-017-0521-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2016] [Accepted: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The present study was designed to investigate the mechanisms involved in blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability in bile duct ligation (BDL) model of chronic hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Four weeks after BDL surgery, a significant increase was observed in serum bilirubin levels. Masson trichrome staining revealed severe hepatic fibrosis in the BDL rats. 99mTc-mebrofenin retention was increased in the liver of BDL rats suggesting impaired hepatobiliary transport. An increase in permeability to sodium fluorescein, Evans blue, and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-dextran along with increase in water and electrolyte content was observed in brain regions of BDL rats suggesting disrupted BBB. Increased brain water content can be attributed to increase in aquaporin-4 mRNA and protein expression in BDL rats. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) mRNA and protein expression was increased in brain regions of BDL rats. Additionally, mRNA and protein expression of tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs) was also increased in different regions of brain. A significant decrease in mRNA expression and protein levels of tight junction proteins, viz., occludin, claudin-5, and zona occluden-1 (ZO-1) was observed in different brain regions of BDL rats. VCAM-1 mRNA and protein expression was also found to be significantly upregulated in different brain regions of BDL animals. The findings from the study suggest that increased BBB permeability in HE involves activation of MMP-9 and loss of tight junction proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Dhanda
- Department of Biochemistry, Basic Medical Science Block-II, Sector-25, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160014, India
| | - Rajat Sandhir
- Department of Biochemistry, Basic Medical Science Block-II, Sector-25, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160014, India.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Kurokawa T, Ohkohchi N. Platelets in liver disease, cancer and regeneration. World J Gastroenterol 2017; 23:3228-3239. [PMID: 28566882 PMCID: PMC5434428 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v23.i18.3228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2016] [Revised: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Although viral hepatitis treatments have evolved over the years, the resultant liver cirrhosis still does not completely heal. Platelets contain proteins required for hemostasis, as well as many growth factors required for organ development, tissue regeneration and repair. Thrombocytopenia, which is frequently observed in patients with chronic liver disease (CLD) and cirrhosis, can manifest from decreased thrombopoietin production and accelerated platelet destruction caused by hypersplenism; however, the relationship between thrombocytopenia and hepatic pathogenesis, as well as the role of platelets in CLD, is poorly understood. In this paper, experimental evidence of platelets improving liver fibrosis and accelerating liver regeneration is summarized and addressed based on studies conducted in our laboratory and current progress reports from other investigators. In addition, we describe our current perspective based on the results of these studies. Platelets improve liver fibrosis by inactivating hepatic stellate cells, which decreases collagen production. The regenerative effect of platelets in the liver involves a direct effect on hepatocytes, a cooperative effect with liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, and a collaborative effect with Kupffer cells. Based on these observations, we ascertained the direct effect of platelet transfusion on improving several indicators of liver function in patients with CLD and liver cirrhosis. However, unlike the results of our previous clinical study, the smaller incremental changes in liver function in patients with CLD who received eltrombopag for 6 mo were due to patient selection from a heterogeneous population. We highlight the current knowledge concerning the role of platelets in CLD and cancer and anticipate a novel application of platelet-based clinical therapies to treat liver disease.
Collapse
|
43
|
Al-Rasheed NM, Attia HA, Mohamad RA, Al-Rasheed NM, Al Fayez M, Al-Amin MA. Date fruits inhibit hepatocyte apoptosis and modulate the expression of hepatocyte growth factor, cytochrome P450 2E1 and heme oxygenase-1 in carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis. Arch Physiol Biochem 2017; 123:78-92. [PMID: 27960551 DOI: 10.1080/13813455.2016.1251945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Date fruits have protective effects against liver fibrosis; however their anti-apoptotic effects have not been investigated. OBJECTIVE To investigate the modulating effects of date fruits on pro- and anti-apoptotic markers, cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in liver fibrosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Liver fibrosis was induced by injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) for eight weeks. Date flesh extract (DFE) and pits extract (DPE) were taken daily concomitant with CCl4. Hepatocyte apoptosis was determined by measuring the expression of Fas, caspase-3, Bax, Bcl2 and hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1). Hepatic levels of HGF and CYP2E1 were determined. RESULTS Treatment with DFE and DPE significantly attenuated the elevated levels of Fas, caspase 3, Bax and CYP2E1 induced by CCl4. In addition, they alleviated the reduction in Bcl2, HGF and HO-1, the cytoprotective and anti-apoptotic factors in liver. Conclusions DFE and DPE treatment can ameliorate liver fibrosis by inhibiting hepatocyte apoptosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nouf M Al-Rasheed
- a Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , College of Pharmacy, King Saud University , Riyadh , Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Hala A Attia
- a Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , College of Pharmacy, King Saud University , Riyadh , Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- b Department of Biochemistry , College of Pharmacy, Mansoura University , Mansoura , Egypt , and
| | - Raeesa A Mohamad
- c Anatomy Department , Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University , Riyadh , Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Nawal M Al-Rasheed
- a Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , College of Pharmacy, King Saud University , Riyadh , Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Musaed Al Fayez
- c Anatomy Department , Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University , Riyadh , Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Maha A Al-Amin
- a Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , College of Pharmacy, King Saud University , Riyadh , Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Zepeda-Morales ASM, Del Toro-Arreola S, García-Benavides L, Bastidas-Ramírez BE, Fafutis-Morris M, Pereira-Suárez AL, Bueno-Topete MR. Liver fibrosis in bile duct-ligated rats correlates with increased hepatic IL-17 and TGF-β2 expression. Ann Hepatol 2017; 15:418-26. [PMID: 27049496 DOI: 10.5604/16652681.1198820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED BACKGROUND AND RATIONALE FOR THE STUDY: IL-17, TGF-β1/2 are cytokines involved in the development of kidney, pulmonary and liver fibrosis. However, their expression kinetics in the pathogenesis of cholestatic liver fibrosis have not yet been fully explored. The aim of the study was to analyze the expression of IL-17, RORγt, NKp46, TGF-β1, and TGF-β2 in the liver of rats with bile duct ligation (BDL). RESULTS Hepatic IL-17A gene expression analyzed by qRT-PCR showed a dramatic increase of 350 and 10 fold, at 8 and 30 days post BDL, respectively. TGFβ1 and TGFβ2 gene expression significantly increased throughout the whole fibrotic process. At the protein level in liver homogenates, IL-17, TGF-β1, and RORγt significantly increased at 8 and 30 days after BDL. Interestingly, a significant increase in the protein levels of TGF-β2 and decrease of NKp46 was observed only 30 days after BDL. Unexpectedly, TGF-β2 exhibited stronger signals than TGF-β1 at the gene expression and protein levels. Histological analysis showed bile duct proliferation and collagen deposition. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that pro-fibrogenic cytokines IL-17, TGF-β1 and, strikingly, TGF-β2 might be important players of liver damage in the pathogenesis of early and advanced experimental cholestatic fibrosis. Th17 cells might represent an important source of IL-17, while NK cell depletion may account for the perpetuation of liver damage in the BDL model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Susana Del Toro-Arreola
- Laboratorio de Inmunología, Departamento de Fisiología. Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud , Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jal., México
| | - Leonel García-Benavides
- Instituto de Terapéutica Experimental y Clínica, Departamento de Fisiología. Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud , Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jal., México
| | - Blanca E Bastidas-Ramírez
- Instituto de Investigación en Enfermedades Crónico-Degenerativas, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica
| | - Mary Fafutis-Morris
- Laboratorio de Inmunología, Departamento de Fisiología. Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud , Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jal., México
| | - Ana L Pereira-Suárez
- Laboratorio de Inmunología, Departamento de Fisiología. Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud , Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jal., México
| | - Miriam R Bueno-Topete
- Instituto de Investigación en Enfermedades Crónico-Degenerativas, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Sakamoto K, Khai NC, Wang Y, Irie R, Takamatsu H, Matsufuji H, Kosai KI. Heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor and hepatocyte growth factor inhibit cholestatic liver injury in mice through different mechanisms. Int J Mol Med 2016; 38:1673-1682. [PMID: 27779646 PMCID: PMC5117744 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2016.2784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 09/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In contrast to hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), the therapeutic potential and pathophysiologic roles of heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HB-EGF) in liver diseases remain relatively unknown. To address the lack of effective pharmacologic treatments for cholestatic liver injuries, as well as to clarify the biologic features of these growth factors, we explored the effects of HB-EGF and HGF in mice with cholestatic liver injury induced by bile duct ligation (BDL). The mice were assessed 3, 5 and/or 14 days after BDL (acute, subacute and/or chronic phases, respectively) and intravenous injection of adenoviral vector expressing LacZ (control), HB-EGF, HGF, or HB-EGF and HGF. HB-EGF, HGF, or a combination of the growth factors exerted potent antioncotic (antinecrotic), antiapoptotic, anticholestatic, and regenerative effects on hepatocytes in vivo, whereas no robust antiapoptotic or regenerative effects were detected in interlobular bile ducts. Based on serum transaminase levels, the acute protective effects of HB-EGF on hepatocytes were greater than those of HGF. On the other hand, liver fibrosis and cholestasis during the chronic phase were more potently inhibited by HGF compared with HB-EGF. Compared with either growth factor alone, combining HB-EGF and HGF produced greater anticholestatic and regenerative effects during the chronic phase. Taken together, these findings suggest that HB-EGF and HGF inhibited BDL-induced cholestatic liver injury, predominantly by exerting acute cytoprotective and chronic antifibrotic effects, respectively; combining the growth factors enhanced the anticholestatic effects and liver regeneration during the chronic phase. Our results contribute to a better understanding of the pathophysiologic roles of HB-EGF and HGF, as well as to the development of novel effective therapies for cholestatic liver injuries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kouichi Sakamoto
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
| | - Ngin Cin Khai
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
| | - Yuqing Wang
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
| | - Rie Irie
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
| | - Hideo Takamatsu
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Matsufuji
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichiro Kosai
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Turk O, Badak B, Ates E, Dundar E, Sutken E. The role of growth factors on hepatic damage in rats with obstructive jaundice. SPRINGERPLUS 2016; 5:1274. [PMID: 27540507 PMCID: PMC4975730 DOI: 10.1186/s40064-016-2919-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the affect and the role of growth factors on liver damage. 110 Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into 11 groups: a sham group, a control group, HGF, EGF, IGF, TGF groups of irreversible jaundiced rats and a control group and HGF, EGF, IGF, and TGF groups of reversible jaundiced rats (n = 10). In the irreversible jaundiced groups, the common bile duct was explorated, double ligated, and cut. 150 μg/kg/day HGF, 5 μg/kg/day EGF, 5 μg/kg/day IGF, and 5 μg/kg/day TGF β-1 were injected intraperitoneally after the seventh post-operative day. In the reversible jaundiced group, the common bile duct was ligated and the ligation was resolved on the seventh post-operative day. For 5 days, growth factors were injected at the same dose. Ductal proliferation scores significantly decreased after growth factor administration in the EGF-A and TGF-A groups. Furthermore, ductal proliferation was decreased in the TGF-B group. As a result of this study, HGF was effective in the irreversible jaundiced groups and ineffective in the reversible jaundice groups. EGF was effective in the reversible jaundiced groups and ineffective in the irreversible jaundiced groups. In both the irreversible jaundiced and reversible jaundiced groups, IGF was ineffective, although TGF β-1 was effective. We believe that these results arise from the positive effects of effective doses of growth factor on liver damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ozgur Turk
- Department of General Surgery, Private Esentepe Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Bartu Badak
- Department of General Surgery, Eskisehir Osmangazi University Medical Faculty, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Ersin Ates
- Department of General Surgery, Eskisehir Osmangazi University Medical Faculty, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Emine Dundar
- Department of Pathology, Eskisehir Osmangazi University Medical Faculty, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Emine Sutken
- Department of Biochemistry, Eskisehir Osmangazi University Medical Faculty, Eskisehir, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
SantAnna LB, Hage R, Cardoso MAG, Arisawa EAL, Cruz MM, Parolini O, Cargnoni A, SantAnna N. Antifibrotic Effects of Human Amniotic Membrane Transplantation in Established Biliary Fibrosis Induced in Rats. Cell Transplant 2016; 25:2245-2257. [PMID: 27480080 DOI: 10.3727/096368916x692645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is characterized by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix components in the liver parenchyma that distorts the normal architecture and hepatic function. Progressive fibrosis could end in the advanced stage known as cirrhosis, resulting in the need to resort to liver transplantation. Amniotic membrane (AM) has emerged as an innovative therapeutic approach for chronic liver diseases due to its anti-inflammatory, antiscarring, and wound-healing effects. We have recently shown that AM can be used as a patch on the liver surface at the same time of fibrosis induction, resulting in significantly reduced progression and severity of biliary fibrosis. Here we investigated the effects of human AM on the established rat model of liver fibrosis, induced by the bile duct ligation (BDL). We also explored the effect of AM on the expression of transforming growth factor-1 (TGF-1), the main profibrogenic factor in hepatic fibrosis, and the proinflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Two weeks after BDL, the liver was covered with a fragment of AM or left untreated. Six weeks later, the fibrosis was first assessed by the semiquantitative Knodell and the METAVIR scoring systems and, thereafter, by CellProfiler digital image analysis to quantify the area occupied by collagen deposition, ductular reactions (DRs), activated myofibroblasts, and TGF-1. The hepatic cytokines were determined by ELISA. AM-treated rats showed a significantly lower score compared to the control BDL rats (2.50.9 vs. 3.50.3, respectively; p0.05). The collagen deposition, DRs, number of activated myofibroblasts, and TGF-1 were all reduced to about 50% of levels observed in untreated BDL rats. These findings suggest that AM, when applied as a patch onto the liver surface, is useful for treating well-established cholestatic fibrosis, and the mechanism was partly by means of downregulating the profibrotic factor TGF-1 and IL-6.
Collapse
|
48
|
Kurokawa T, Zheng YW, Ohkohchi N. Novel functions of platelets in the liver. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 31:745-51. [PMID: 26632220 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.13244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2015] [Revised: 10/18/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Platelets contain not only proteins needed for hemostasis but also many growth factors that are required for organ development, tissue regeneration, and repair. Thrombocytopenia, which is frequently observed in patients with chronic liver disease (CLD) and cirrhosis, is due to various causes, such as decreased thrombopoietin production and accelerated platelet destruction caused by hypersplenism; however, the relationship between thrombocytopenia and hepatic pathogenesis and the role of platelets in CLD are poorly understood. Thus, in this paper, the experimental evidence for platelets improving liver fibrosis and accelerating liver regeneration is summarized and addressed based on studies conducted in our laboratory and current progress reports from other investigators. Platelets improve liver fibrosis by inactivating hepatic stellate cells to decrease collagen production. The level of intracellular cAMP is increased by adenosine through its receptors on hepatic stellate cells, thereby resulting in inactivation of these cells. Adenosine is produced by degradation of adenine nucleotides, which are stored in abundance within the dense granules of platelets. The regenerative effect of platelets in the liver consists of three mechanisms: a direct effect on hepatocytes, a cooperative effect with liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, and a collaborative effect with Kupffer cells. Based on these experiments, a clinical trial suggested that the increase in platelets induced by platelet transfusion improved liver function in patients with CLD in a clinical setting.We highlight the current knowledge concerning the role of platelets in CLD and expect to open a novel avenue for application of these clinical therapies to treat liver disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiro Kurokawa
- Department of Surgery, Division of Gastroenterological and Hepatobiliary Surgery, and Organ Transplantation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Yun-Wen Zheng
- Department of Surgery, Division of Gastroenterological and Hepatobiliary Surgery, and Organ Transplantation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Nobuhiro Ohkohchi
- Department of Surgery, Division of Gastroenterological and Hepatobiliary Surgery, and Organ Transplantation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Zhang RZ, Yu JK, Peng J, Wang FH, Liu HY, Lui VCH, Nicholls JM, Tam PKH, Lamb JR, Chen Y, Xia HM. Role of CD56-expressing immature biliary epithelial cells in biliary atresia. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:2545-2557. [PMID: 26937142 PMCID: PMC4768200 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i8.2545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Revised: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 12/21/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To analyze the clinical and pathological parameters and expression of the neural cell adhesion molecule (CD56) in patients with biliary atresia (BA).
METHODS: Established clinical laboratory markers of hepatic function, including enzyme activity, protein synthesis, and bilirubin metabolism, were evaluated in patients with BA and compared with those in patients with choledochal cysts and neonatal hepatitis. Pathological changes in tissue morphology and fibrosis were examined by histological and tissue collagen staining. Immunohistochemical staining for the biliary epithelial cell markers CD56 and CK19 together with the Notch signaling related molecules Notch1 and Notch2 was performed in the context of alterations in the structure of intrahepatic biliary ducts.
RESULTS: Differences in some clinical laboratory parameters among the three diseases examined were observed, but they did not correlate with the pathological classification of fibrosis in BA. Immunohistochemical staining showed the presence of CD56-positive immature bile ducts in most patients (74.5%) with BA but not in patients with choledochal cysts or neonatal hepatitis. The number of CD56-expressing cells correlated with disease severity, with more positive cells present in the later stages of liver damage (81.8% vs 18.2%). Furthermore, bile plugs were mainly found in CD56-positive immature biliary ducts. Notch signaling was a key regulatory pathway in biliary duct formation and played a role in tissue fibrosis. Notch1 was co-expressed in CD56-positive cells, whereas Notch2 was found exclusively in blood vessels in the portal area of patients with BA.
CONCLUSION: The maturation of biliary epithelial cells and the expression of Notch may play a role in the pathogenesis of BA.
Collapse
|
50
|
Wan Y, Garner J, Wu N, Phillip L, Han Y, McDaniel K, Annable T, Zhou T, Francis H, Glaser S, Huang Q, Alpini G, Meng F. Role of stem cells during diabetic liver injury. J Cell Mol Med 2016; 20:195-203. [PMID: 26645107 PMCID: PMC4727564 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 09/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is one of the most severe endocrine metabolic disorders in the world that has serious medical consequences with substantial impacts on the quality of life. Type 2 diabetes is one of the main causes of diabetic liver diseases with the most common being non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Several factors that may explain the mechanisms related to pathological and functional changes of diabetic liver injury include: insulin resistance, oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress. The realization that these factors are important in hepatocyte damage and lack of donor livers has led to studies concentrating on the role of stem cells (SCs) in the prevention and treatment of liver injury. Possible avenues that the application of SCs may improve liver injury include but are not limited to: the ability to differentiate into pancreatic β-cells (insulin producing cells), the contribution for hepatocyte regeneration, regulation of lipogenesis, glucogenesis and anti-inflammatory actions. Once further studies are performed to explore the underlying protective mechanisms of SCs and the advantages and disadvantages of its application, there will be a greater understand of the mechanism and therapeutic potential. In this review, we summarize the findings regarding the role of SCs in diabetic liver diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wan
- Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M University Health Science Center and Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
- Academic Operations, Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Lab for Shock and Microcirculation Research, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jessica Garner
- Department of Internal Medicine, Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M University Health Science Center and Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
- Academic Operations, Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
| | - Nan Wu
- Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M University Health Science Center and Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
| | - Levine Phillip
- Department of Internal Medicine, Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M University Health Science Center and Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
- Academic Operations, Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
| | - Yuyan Han
- Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M University Health Science Center and Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
| | - Kelly McDaniel
- Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M University Health Science Center and Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
- Academic Operations, Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
| | - Tami Annable
- Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, USA
- Academic Operations, Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
| | - Tianhao Zhou
- Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M University Health Science Center and Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
- Academic Operations, Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
| | - Heather Francis
- Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M University Health Science Center and Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
- Academic Operations, Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
| | - Shannon Glaser
- Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M University Health Science Center and Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
| | - Qiaobing Huang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Lab for Shock and Microcirculation Research, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gianfranco Alpini
- Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M University Health Science Center and Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
| | - Fanyin Meng
- Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M University Health Science Center and Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
- Academic Operations, Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, Temple, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|