1
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Fortibui MM, Park C, Kim NY, Kim TH, Lee MH. Dual-Emissive Detection of ATP and Hypochlorite Ions for Monitoring Inflammation-Driven Liver Injury In Vitro and In Vivo. Anal Chem 2024; 96:9408-9415. [PMID: 38804776 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c00270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species play a pivotal role in liver disease, contributing to severe liver damage and chronic inflammation. In liver injury driven by inflammation, adenosine-5'-triphosphate (ATP) and hypochlorite ion (ClO-) emerge as novel biomarkers, reflecting mitochondrial dysfunction and amplified oxidative stress, respectively. However, the dynamic fluctuations of ATP and ClO- in hepatocytes and mouse livers remain unclear, and multidetection techniques for these biomarkers are yet to be developed. This study presents RATP-NClO, a dual-channel fluorescent bioprobe capable of synchronously detecting ATP and ClO- ions. RATP-NClO exhibits excellent selectivity and sensitivity for ATP and ClO- ions, demonstrating a dual-channel fluorescence response in a murine hepatocyte cell line. Upon intravenous administration, RATP-NClO reveals synchronized ATP depletion and ClO- amplification in the livers of mice with experimental metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). Through a comprehensive analysis of the principal mechanism of the developed bioprobe and the verification of its reliable detection ability in both in vitro and in vivo settings, we propose it as a unique tool for monitoring changes in intracellular ATP and ClO- level. These findings underscore its potential for practical image-based monitoring and functional phenotyping of MASH pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chaewon Park
- Drug Information Research Institute, College of Pharmacy, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Na Yoon Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Tae Hyun Kim
- Drug Information Research Institute, College of Pharmacy, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Min Hee Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea
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2
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Li Y, Chen L, Sottas C, Raul MC, Patel ND, Bijja JR, Ahmed SK, Kapelanski-Lamoureux A, Lazaris A, Metrakos P, Zambidis A, Chopra S, Li M, Sugahara G, Saito T, Papadopoulos V. The mitochondrial TSPO ligand Atriol mitigates metabolic-associated steatohepatitis by downregulating CXCL1. Metabolism 2024:155942. [PMID: 38871077 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2024.155942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The mitochondrial translocator protein (TSPO, 18 kDa) is pivotal in binding cholesterol and facilitating its transfer from the outer to the inner mitochondrial membrane. Atriol is a TSPO ligand disrupting cholesterol binding by targeting the cholesterol-recognition amino acid consensus domain. Prior research has shown that TSPO deficiency improved metabolic-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). We hypothesized that Atriol may have the potential to alleviate MASH. METHODS AND RESULTS In vitro cell culture studies revealed that Atriol treatment effectively mitigated MASH by restoring mitochondrial function, inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway, and reducing hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. SD male rats were fed a GAN diet for 10 months to induce MASH. During the final two weeks of feeding, rats received intraperitoneal Atriol administration daily. Atriol treatment significantly ameliorated MASH by reducing lipid accumulation, diminishing hepatic lobular inflammation and fibrosis, decreasing cell death, and inhibiting excessive bile acid synthesis. Moreover, Atriol restored mitochondrial function in primary hepatocytes isolated from MASH rats. In search of the mechanism(s) governing these effects, we found that Atriol downregulated the proinflammatory chemokine CXCL1 through the NF-κB signaling pathway or via myeloperoxidase (MPO) in HSCs and Kupffer cells. Additionally, in vitro, studies further suggested that CXCL1 treatment induced dysfunctional mitochondria, inflammation, HSCs activation, and macrophage migration, whereas Atriol countered these effects. Finally, the mitigating effects of Atriol on MASH were reproduced by pharmacological inhibition of NF-κB or MPO and neutralization of CXCL1. CONCLUSION Atriol ameliorates MASH both in vitro and in vivo, demonstrating its potential therapeutic benefits in managing MASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchang Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
| | - Liting Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
| | - Chantal Sottas
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
| | - Mahima Chandrakant Raul
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
| | - Nrupa Dinesh Patel
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
| | - Janaki Ramulu Bijja
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
| | - S Kaleem Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
| | - Audrey Kapelanski-Lamoureux
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0C7, Canada; Cancer Research Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada.
| | - Anthoula Lazaris
- Cancer Research Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada.
| | - Peter Metrakos
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0C7, Canada; Cancer Research Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada; Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1A4, Canada.
| | - Alexander Zambidis
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
| | - Shefali Chopra
- Department of Pathology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA.
| | - Meng Li
- USC Libraries Bioinformatic Services of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA.
| | - Go Sugahara
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA; Research & Development Department, PhoenixBio, Co., Ltd, Higashi-Hiroshima City 739-0046, Hiroshima, Japan.
| | - Takeshi Saito
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA; University of Southern California Research Center for Liver Diseases, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA.
| | - Vassilios Papadopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
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3
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Owumi S, Agbarogi H, Oluwawibe BJ, Otunla MT, Anifowose MM, Arunsi UO. Modulation of the Nrf-2 and HO-1 signalling axis is associated with Betaine's abatement of fluoride-induced hepatorenal toxicities in rats. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03133-4. [PMID: 38713257 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03133-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Sodium fluoride (NaF) ingestion has several detrimental effects in humans and rodents. NaF mechanisms of toxicity include perturbation of intracellular redox homeostasis and apoptosis. Betaine (BET) is a modified amino acid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties. This study investigates BET's effect on NaF-induced hepatorenal toxicities in rats. Experimental rats (n = 30) were randomly assigned to groups (n = 6) and treated by gavage for 28 days. Group I (2 mL of distilled water), Group II (NaF: 9 mg/kg) alone, Group III: (BET: 100 mg/kg), Group IV: (NaF: 9 mg/kg and BET 1: 50 mg/kg), and Group V: (NaF: 9 mg/kg and BET 2: 100 mg/kg). Our findings revealed significantly (p < 0.05) increased hepatic transaminase activities alongside creatinine and urea levels following NaF-alone treatment in addition to increased oxidative status, lipid peroxidation, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, decreased superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione-s-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione, and total sulfhydryl groups. The reduced levels of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 and the activities of heme oxygenase-1, thioredoxin, and thioredoxin reductase in NaF-alone treated rats equally compromised cellular molecular responses to oxidative stress. Also, NaF increased (p < 0.05) hepatorenal inflammatory biomarkers-nitric oxide, interleukin-10, myeloperoxidase, and xanthine oxidase. Furthermore, caspase-3 and caspase-9 were increased (p < 0.05) in rats treated with NaF alone. Contrastingly, BET was observed to alleviate the harmful effects of NaF. Treatment with BET mitigated NaF-induced oxido-inflammatory responses and apoptosis in the experimental rat's hepatorenal system. The study demonstrates the potential of BET to abate NaF-induced hepatorenal toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomon Owumi
- ChangeLab-changing lives; Room New Building 302, Cancer Research and Molecular Biology Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, 200005, Oyo State, Nigeria.
| | - Harieme Agbarogi
- ChangeLab-changing lives; Room New Building 302, Cancer Research and Molecular Biology Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, 200005, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Bayode J Oluwawibe
- ChangeLab-changing lives; Room New Building 302, Cancer Research and Molecular Biology Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, 200005, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Moses T Otunla
- ChangeLab-changing lives; Room New Building 302, Cancer Research and Molecular Biology Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, 200005, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Mayowa M Anifowose
- School of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0400, USA
| | - Uche O Arunsi
- School of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0400, USA
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4
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Miao Z, Wang W, Miao Z, Cao Q, Xu S. Role of Selenoprotein W in participating in the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Redox Biol 2024; 71:103114. [PMID: 38460355 PMCID: PMC10943047 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103114] [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: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disease worldwide. Numerous evidence has demonstrated that metabolic reprogramming serves as a hallmark associated with an elevated risk of NAFLD progression. Selenoprotein W (SelW) is an extensively expressed hepatic selenoprotein that plays a crucial role in antioxidant function. Here, we first demonstrated that SelW is a significantly distinct factor in the liver tissue of NAFLD patients through the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Additionally, loss of SelW alleviated hepatic steatosis induced by a high-fat diet (HFD), and was accompanied by the regulation of metabolic and inflammatory pathways as verified by transcriptomic analysis. Moreover, co-immunoprecipitation (CO-IP), liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS), laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) and molecular docking analysis were subsequently implemented to identify Pyruvate Kinase M2 (PKM2) as a potential interacting protein of SelW. Meanwhile, SelW modulated PKM2 translocation into the nucleus to trigger transactivation of the HIF-1α, in further mediating mitochondrial apoptosis, eventually resulting in mitochondrial damage, ROS excessive production and mtDNA leakage. Additionally, mito-ROS accumulation induced the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis, thereby facilitating extracellular leakage of mtDNA. The escaped mtDNA then evokes the cGAS-STING signaling pathway in macrophage, thus inducing a shift in macrophage phenotype. Together, our results suggest SelW promotes hepatocyte apoptosis and pyroptosis by regulating metabolic reprogramming to activate cGAS/STING signaling of macrophages, thereby exacerbating the progression of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiruo Miao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology & College of Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 310000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiying Miao
- College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiyuan Cao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Shiwen Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China.
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5
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Sedik AA, Elgohary R, Khalifa E, Khalil WKB, I Shafey H, B Shalaby M, S O Gouida M, M Tag Y. Lauric acid attenuates hepato-metabolic complications and molecular alterations in high-fat diet-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in rats. Toxicol Mech Methods 2024; 34:454-467. [PMID: 38166588 DOI: 10.1080/15376516.2023.2301344] [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: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has emerged as a major chronic liver illness characterized by increase of lipid content in the liver. This study investigated the role of lauric acid to treat NAFLD in male adult Sprague Dawley rats. In this study, to induce NAFLD in the rats, a high-fat diet (HFD) was administered for eight consecutive weeks. Lauric acid groups received lauric acid (250 and 500 mg/kg; orally), concurrently with HFD for eight consecutive weeks. Lauric acid could ameliorate the serum levels of TG, TC, ALT, AST, blood glucose, and insulin. Moreover, lauric acid significantly elevated the levels of SOD, GSH, catalase, and IL-10. Additionally, it lowered the hepatic levels of MDA, ROS, MPO, 4-HNE, interleukin (IL)-1β, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α). Furthermore, lauric acid significantly up-regulated the hepatic expression of IRS1, AMPK, PI3K, and SIRT1 genes. In parallel, lauric acid could improve the histopathological picture of the liver and reduce the liver apoptosis via decreasing the expression of annexin V (Anx V). Finally, our data proposed that lauric acid could be an effective candidate for the NAFLD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed A Sedik
- Pharmacology Department, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rania Elgohary
- Narcotics, Ergogenics and Poisons Department, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Eman Khalifa
- Oral Biology Department, Faculty of Oral and Dental Medicine, Delta University for Science and Technology, Mansoura, Egypt
| | | | - Heba I Shafey
- Cell Biology Department, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mohamed B Shalaby
- Toxicology Research Department, Research Institute of Medical Entomology (RIME), General Organisation of Teaching Hospitals and Institutes (GOTHI), Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mona S O Gouida
- Genetics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Children Hospital, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Yasmin M Tag
- Oral Biology Department, Faculty of Oral and Dental Medicine, Delta University for Science and Technology, Mansoura, Egypt
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6
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Chen ZF, Zhang L, Fei SK. Role of lactic acid and lactylation in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. WORLD CHINESE JOURNAL OF DIGESTOLOGY 2024; 32:243-247. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v32.i4.243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
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7
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Alghamdi W, Mosli M, Alqahtani SA. Gut microbiota in MAFLD: therapeutic and diagnostic implications. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2024; 15:20420188241242937. [PMID: 38628492 PMCID: PMC11020731 DOI: 10.1177/20420188241242937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, is becoming a significant contributor to chronic liver disease globally, surpassing other etiologies, such as viral hepatitis. Prevention and early treatment strategies to curb its growing prevalence are urgently required. Recent evidence suggests that targeting the gut microbiota may help treat and alleviate disease progression in patients with MAFLD. This review aims to explore the complex relationship between MAFLD and the gut microbiota in relation to disease pathogenesis. Additionally, it delves into the therapeutic strategies targeting the gut microbiota, such as diet, exercise, antibiotics, probiotics, synbiotics, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, and fecal microbiota transplantation, and discusses novel biomarkers, such as microbiota-derived testing and liquid biopsy, for their diagnostic and staging potential. Overall, the review emphasizes the urgent need for preventive and therapeutic strategies to address the devastating consequences of MAFLD at both individual and societal levels and recognizes that further exploration of the gut microbiota may open avenues for managing MAFLD effectively in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waleed Alghamdi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmoud Mosli
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A. Alqahtani
- Organ Transplant Center of Excellence, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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8
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Meyer M, Schwärzler J, Jukic A, Tilg H. Innate Immunity and MASLD. Biomolecules 2024; 14:476. [PMID: 38672492 PMCID: PMC11048298 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has emerged as the most common liver disease worldwide in recent years. MASLD commonly presents as simple hepatic steatosis, but ~25% of patients develop liver inflammation, progressive fibrosis, liver cirrhosis and related hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver inflammation and the degree of fibrosis are key determinants of the prognosis. The pathophysiology of liver inflammation is incompletely understood and involves diverse factors and specifically innate and adaptive immune responses. More specifically, diverse mediators of innate immunity such as proinflammatory cytokines, adipokines, inflammasomes and various cell types like mononuclear cells, macrophages and natural killer cells are involved in directing the inflammatory process in MASLD. The activation of innate immunity is driven by various factors including excess lipids and lipotoxicity, insulin resistance and molecular patterns derived from gut commensals. Targeting pathways of innate immunity might therefore appear as an attractive therapeutic strategy in the future management of MASLD and possibly its complications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Herbert Tilg
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Medical University Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (M.M.); (A.J.)
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9
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Mladenić K, Lenartić M, Marinović S, Polić B, Wensveen FM. The "Domino effect" in MASLD: The inflammatory cascade of steatohepatitis. Eur J Immunol 2024; 54:e2149641. [PMID: 38314819 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202149641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is an increasingly common complication of obesity, affecting over a quarter of the global adult population. A key event in the pathophysiology of MASLD is the development of metabolic-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), which greatly increases the chances of developing cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The underlying cause of MASH is multifactorial, but accumulating evidence indicates that the inflammatory process in the hepatic microenvironment typically follows a pattern that can be roughly divided into three stages: (1) Detection of hepatocyte stress by tissue-resident immune cells including γδ T cells and CD4-CD8- double-negative T cells, followed by their secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators, most notably IL-17A. (2) Recruitment of pro-inflammatory cells, mostly of the myeloid lineage, and initiation of inflammation through secretion of effector-type cytokines such as TNF, TGF-β, and IL-1β. (3) Escalation of the inflammatory response by recruitment of lymphocytes including Th17, CD8 T, and B cells leading to chronic inflammation, hepatic stellate cell activation, and fibrosis. Here we will discuss these three stages and how they are consecutively linked like falling domino tiles to the pathophysiology of MASH. Moreover, we will highlight the clinical potential of inflammation as a biomarker and therapeutic target for the treatment of MASLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlo Mladenić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Maja Lenartić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Sonja Marinović
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory for Personalized Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Bojan Polić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Felix M Wensveen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
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10
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Li G, Park HJ, Suh JH, Choi HS. 7-Ketocholesterol plays a key role in cholesterol-induced hepatitis via macrophage and neutrophil infiltration. J Nutr Biochem 2024; 125:109552. [PMID: 38134972 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2023.109552] [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: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
This study sought to explore the role of 7-ketocholesterol (7-KC) in liver damage caused by high cholesterol intake and its potential pathological mechanism in mice. Our in vivo findings indicated that mice fed a high-cholesterol diet had elevated serum levels of 7-KC, accompanied by liver injury and inflammation, similar to human nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Furthermore, the high-cholesterol diet induced neutrophil infiltration, which played a critical role in liver damage through myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Upon stimulation with 7-KC, macrophages exhibited increased expression of C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 1 (CXCL1) and CXCL2, as well as ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) and ABCG1. Hepatocytes, on the other hand, exhibited increased expression of CXCL2 and ABCG1. The infiltration of neutrophils in the liver was primarily caused by CXCL1 and CXCL2, resulting in hepatocyte cell death due to elevated MPO activity. Our data also revealed that the activation of macrophages by 7-KC via ABCA1 or ABCG1 was not associated with lipid accumulation. Collectively, these findings suggest that high cholesterol-induced hepatitis in mice involves, at least partially, the recruitment of neutrophils to the liver by 7-KC-activated macrophages. This is mediated by increased expression of CXCL1 and CXCL2 through ABCA1 or ABCG1, which act as 7-KC efflux transporters. Additionally, hepatocytes contribute to this process by increased expression of CXCL2 through ABCG1. Therefore, our findings suggest that 7-KC may play a role in high cholesterol-induced hepatitis in mice by activating macrophages and hepatocytes, ultimately leading to neutrophil infiltration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoen Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Ulsan, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Hyun-Jung Park
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Ulsan, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Jae-Hee Suh
- Department of Pathology, Ulsan University Hospital, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Hye-Seon Choi
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Ulsan, Ulsan, Korea.
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11
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Parola M, Pinzani M. Liver fibrosis in NAFLD/NASH: from pathophysiology towards diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Mol Aspects Med 2024; 95:101231. [PMID: 38056058 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2023.101231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis, as an excess deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, results from chronic liver injury as well as persistent activation of inflammatory response and of fibrogenesis. Liver fibrosis is a major determinant for chronic liver disease (CLD) progression and in the last two decades our understanding on the major molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the fibrogenic progression of CLD has dramatically improved, boosting pre-clinical studies and clinical trials designed to find novel therapeutic approaches. From these studies several critical concepts have emerged, starting to reveal the complexity of the pro-fibrotic microenvironment which involves very complex, dynamic and interrelated interactions between different hepatic and extrahepatic cell populations. This review will offer first a recapitulation of established and novel pathophysiological basic principles and concepts by intentionally focus the attention on NAFLD/NASH, a metabolic-related form of CLD with a high impact on the general population and emerging as a leading cause of CLD worldwide. NAFLD/NASH-related pro-inflammatory and profibrogenic mechanisms will be analysed as well as novel information on cells, mediators and signalling pathways which have taken advantage from novel methodological approaches and techniques (single cell genomics, imaging mass cytometry, novel in vitro two- and three-dimensional models, etc.). We will next offer an overview on recent advancement in diagnostic and prognostic tools, including serum biomarkers and polygenic scores, to support the analysis of liver biopsies. Finally, this review will provide an analysis of current and emerging therapies for the treatment of NAFLD/NASH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Parola
- Dept. Clinical and Biological Sciences, Unit of Experimental Medicine and Clinical Pathology, University of Torino, Corso Raffaello 30, 10125, Torino, Italy.
| | - Massimo Pinzani
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine - Royal Free Hospital, London, NW32PF, United Kingdom.
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12
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Săsăran MO, Muntean C, Lupu A, Lupu VV. Neutrophils: tissue and circulating signatures of pediatric non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 11:1336033. [PMID: 38239291 PMCID: PMC10794720 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1336033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The recent rise in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) among children and adolescents led to a thorough investigation of the peculiarities of the cellular infiltrate which characterize the disease at young ages. This review aims to highlight the key involvement of neutrophils in the pathogenesis of pediatric NAFLD and the potential biomarker role of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in the same pediatric disorder. Neutrophils, which are first responders to inflammation, constitute an abundant component of an infiltrate which is particularly disposed within the portal area of children with NAFLD. The involvement of neutrophils in triggering liver fibrosis has been related amongst others to reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, to the stimulation of hepatic stellate cells, and to their synthesis of neutrophil elastase. As immune imbalance characterizes NAFLD, potentially emerging non-invasive biomarkers such as NLR have been proposed for the detection and prognosis of NAFLD. In adults, several studies asserted the role of NLR in the prediction of advancing liver fibrosis and mortality in subjects with NAFLD. In children, data is scarce with contradicting findings, as some studies failed to identify significant shifting in NLR values in children with NAFLD when compared with obese controls without liver impairment. However, NLR seems to significantly increase in children with obesity and different degrees of NAFLD when compared to healthy counterparts and their changes seem to be reversible with weight loss. Still, paucity of pediatric studies calls for future research addressing the role of NLR in predicting NAFLD development and progression in children with obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Oana Săsăran
- Department of Pediatrics 3, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Targu Mures, Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Carmen Muntean
- Department of Pediatrics 1, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Targu Mures, Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Ancuța Lupu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Gr. T. Popa Iași, Iași, Romania
| | - Vasile Valeriu Lupu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Gr. T. Popa Iași, Iași, Romania
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Sun W, Fang Y, Zhou B, Mao G, Cheng J, Zhang X, Liu Y, Chen H. The association of systemic inflammatory biomarkers with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a large population-based cross-sectional study. Prev Med Rep 2024; 37:102536. [PMID: 38186662 PMCID: PMC10767190 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102536] [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: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and the two blood inflammatory markers including the systemic immune-inflammation (SII) index, and the system inflammation response index (SIRI). Methods The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data between the year of 2017-2018 was used for this cross-sectional study. In order to analyze the association of SII index, and SIRI and risk of NAFLD, we used multivariable logistic regression models, restricted cubic spline (RCS) plot, and subgroup analysis to analyze the data. Results In total, there were 1,199 individuals who participated in the survey. As shown by the RCS plot, SII index, and SIRI were linked with NAFLD risk in a U-shaped pattern. With regard to known confounding variables, when comparing the lowest quartile, the odds ratio with 95 % confidence interval for prevalence of NAFLD across the quartiles of SII index and SIRI were (0.89 (0.57, 1.41), 0.56 (0.35, 0.89) and 1.01 (0.64, 1.59)), and (0.77 (0.48, 1.23), 0.79 (0.50, 1.24) and 0.94 (0.60, 1.47)), respectively. Additionally, SII index, and SIRI and NAFLD risk also were U-curve correlated among the participants in age ≥60 years, female, without hypertension, and BMI of ≥30 kg/m2. Conclusions There was a U-shaped association of SII index and SIRI with prevalence of NAFLD, indicating that SII index and SIRI should be monitored dynamically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wu Sun
- Department of Pathology, Yijishan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241000, China
| | - Yan Fang
- Department of Pathology, Yijishan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241000, China
| | - Bing Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Yijishan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241000, China
| | - Guoliang Mao
- Department of Pathology, Yijishan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241000, China
| | - Jiao Cheng
- Department of Pathology, Yijishan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241000, China
| | - Xinxin Zhang
- Department of Criminal Science and Technology, Shandong Police College, Jinan, Shandong 250014, China
| | - Yinhua Liu
- Department of Pathology, Yijishan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241000, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241002, China
- Postdoctoral Research Station of Clinical Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
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Burmeister Y, Weyer K, Dörre A, Seilheimer B. The Multicomponent Medicinal Product Hepar Compositum Reduces Hepatic Inflammation and Fibrosis in a Streptozotocin- and High-Fat Diet-Induced Model of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease/Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3216. [PMID: 38137437 PMCID: PMC10740479 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)-formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)-is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. Since there is currently no approved pharmacotherapy for MASLD, there is an urgent unmet need for efficacious therapeutics for this disease. Hepar compositum (HC-24) is a multicomponent medicinal product that consists of 24 natural ingredients. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties in an obesity-associated MASLD mouse model, but its potential to reduce MASLD-associated fibrosis had not been explored before this study. Here, we investigated the hepatic anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic potential of HC-24 in a streptozotocin (STZ)- and high-fat diet (HFD)-induced model of MASLD. Mice received a single injection of low-dose STZ at 2 days of age, followed by HFD feeding from 4 to 9 weeks of age. Mice were treated every second day with HC-24 or daily with the positive control telmisartan from 6 to 9 weeks of age. A non-diseased control group was included as a healthy reference. An explorative small-scale pilot study demonstrated that HC-24 improved liver histology, resulting in a lower NAFLD activity score and reduced liver fibrosis. A subsequent full study confirmed these effects and showed that HC-24 reduced hepatic inflammation, specifically reducing T helper cell and neutrophil influx, and decreased hepatic fibrosis (with qualitatively reduced collagen type I and type III immunopositivity) in the absence of an effect on body and liver weight, blood glucose or liver steatosis. These results show that HC-24 has hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic properties in an STZ- and HFD-induced model of MASLD/MASH, suggesting that this multicomponent medicine has therapeutic potential for MASLD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kathrin Weyer
- Heel GmbH, 76532 Baden-Baden, Germany; (Y.B.); (B.S.)
| | - Achim Dörre
- Independent Researcher, 14641 Nauen, Germany;
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15
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Zhao E, Cheng Y, Yu C, Li H, Fan X. The systemic immune-inflammation index was non-linear associated with all-cause mortality in individuals with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Ann Med 2023; 55:2197652. [PMID: 37052341 PMCID: PMC10115001 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2023.2197652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), a novel inflammatory indicator based on platelets, neutrophils and lymphocytes, has been shown to be associated with prognostic value in several solid tumors. However, its prognostic value in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has not been reported yet. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of SII in individuals with NAFLD. METHODS Data was collected from the 2005 to 2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nhanes/index.htm), and vital status was derived from the National Death Index (NDI) up to 31 December 2015. NAFLD was diagnosed based on Hepatic Steatosis Index (HSI). Multivariate Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier survival curves were performed to measure the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Our study investigated the relationship between SII and all-cause mortality by using two-part linear regression models with penalized splines, as well as Cox models with penalized splines. RESULTS A total of 10,787 NAFLD participants (44.14% men) aged ≥20 years old were enrolled. There were 776 deaths from all causes after a mean follow-up period of 5.6 years. According to the full adjusted Cox regression analysis, the low log2-SII group (quartile 1) and the highest log2-SII group (quartile 4) were significantly associated with increased mortality from all causes (aHR =1.86; 95% CI: 1.47-2.37; p < 0.0001). After controlling for confounders, an increase in log2-SII was associated with an increased all-cause mortality risk of 41% for every unit raised (aHR = 1.41; 95% CI: 1.26-1.57; p < 0.0001). After adjusting for multiple potential confounders, the association between log2-SII and all-cause mortality was nonlinear, and the threshold value was 8.8. There was no association between an increase of one unit in log2-SII and all-cause mortality below the threshold (aHR = 0.90, 95% CI: 0.71-1.15, p = 0.419). However, a higher log2-SII was associated with a higher risk of death from any cause when it exceeded the threshold (aHR = 1. 73, 95% CI: 1.49-2.02, p < 0.001). Based on a study of US NAFLD patients, it was found that the baseline log2-SII is associated with all-cause mortality. Elevated SII is associated with poor survival among NAFLD patients.KEY MESSAGESUsing a large nationally representative survey of individuals among US adults, the study demonstrated that log2-SII was J-shaped and associated with all-cause death among individuals with NAFLD.Spline analyses demonstrated that the association between log2-SII and all-cause mortality was non-linear after adjusting for multiple potential confounders, and the threshold value was 8.8.Higher log2-SII associated with poor survival in NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enfa Zhao
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yiping Cheng
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, China
| | - Chunxiao Yu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, China
| | - Huijie Li
- Department of Statistics and Medical Records Management, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiude Fan
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, China
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16
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Zhang W, Lang R. Macrophage metabolism in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1257596. [PMID: 37868954 PMCID: PMC10586316 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1257596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its inflammatory and often progressive subtype nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), have emerged as significant contributors to hepatic morbidity worldwide. The pathophysiology of NAFLD/NASH is multifaceted, variable, and remains incompletely understood. The pivotal role of liver-resident and recruited macrophages in the pathogenesis of NAFLD and NASH is widely acknowledged as a crucial factor in innate immunity. The remarkable plasticity of macrophages enables them to assume diverse activation and polarization states, dictated by their immunometabolism microenvironment and functional requirements. Recent studies in the field of immunometabolism have elucidated that alterations in the metabolic profile of macrophages can profoundly influence their activation state and functionality, thereby influencing various pathological processes. This review primarily focuses on elucidating the polarization and activation states of macrophages, highlighting the correlation between their metabolic characteristics and the transition from pro-inflammatory to anti-inflammatory phenotypes. Additionally, we explore the potential of targeting macrophage metabolism as a promising therapeutic approach for the management of NAFLD/NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ren Lang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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17
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Arvanitakis K, Papadakos SP, Lekakis V, Koufakis T, Lempesis IG, Papantoniou E, Kalopitas G, Georgakopoulou VE, Stergiou IE, Theocharis S, Germanidis G. Meeting at the Crossroad between Obesity and Hepatic Carcinogenesis: Unique Pathophysiological Pathways Raise Expectations for Innovative Therapeutic Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14704. [PMID: 37834153 PMCID: PMC10572430 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The escalating global prevalence of obesity and its intricate association with the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) pose a substantial challenge to public health. Obesity, acknowledged as a pervasive epidemic, is linked to an array of chronic diseases, including HCC, catalyzing the need for a comprehensive understanding of its molecular underpinnings. Notably, HCC has emerged as a leading malignancy with rising incidence and mortality. The transition from viral etiologies to the prominence of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD)-related HCC underscores the urgent need to explore the intricate molecular pathways linking obesity and hepatic carcinogenesis. This review delves into the interwoven landscape of molecular carcinogenesis in the context of obesity-driven HCC while also navigating using the current therapeutic strategies and future prospects for combating obesity-related HCC. We underscore the pivotal role of obesity as a risk factor and propose an integrated approach encompassing lifestyle interventions, pharmacotherapy, and the exploration of emerging targeted therapies. As the obesity-HCC nexus continues to challenge healthcare systems globally, a comprehensive understanding of the intricate molecular mechanisms and innovative therapeutic strategies is imperative to alleviate the rising burden of this dual menace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Arvanitakis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (E.P.); (G.K.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stavros P. Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (S.T.)
| | - Vasileios Lekakis
- Department of Gastroenterology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laiko General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Theocharis Koufakis
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism and Diabetes Centre, First Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Ioannis G. Lempesis
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK;
| | - Eleni Papantoniou
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (E.P.); (G.K.)
| | - Georgios Kalopitas
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (E.P.); (G.K.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Ioanna E. Stergiou
- Pathophysiology Department, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (S.T.)
| | - Georgios Germanidis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (E.P.); (G.K.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
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Petagine L, Zariwala MG, Patel VB. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Immunological mechanisms and current treatments. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:4831-4850. [PMID: 37701135 PMCID: PMC10494768 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i32.4831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) causes significant global disease burden and is a leading cause of mortality. NAFLD induces a myriad of aberrant changes in hepatocytes at both the cellular and molecular level. Although the disease spectrum of NAFLD is widely recognised, the precise triggers for disease progression are still to be fully elucidated. Furthermore, the propagation to cirrhosis is poorly understood. Whilst some progress in terms of treatment options have been explored, an incomplete understanding of the hepatic cellular and molecular alterations limits their clinical utility. We have therefore reviewed some of the key pathways responsible for the pathogenesis of NAFLD such as innate and adaptative immunity, lipotoxicity and fibrogenesis, and highlighted current trials and treatment options for NAFLD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Petagine
- Centre for Nutraceuticals, School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, London W1W6UW, United Kingdom
| | - Mohammed Gulrez Zariwala
- Centre for Nutraceuticals, School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, London W1W6UW, United Kingdom
| | - Vinood B Patel
- Centre for Nutraceuticals, School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, London W1W6UW, United Kingdom
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19
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Brown ZJ, Ruff SM, Pawlik TM. The effect of liver disease on hepatic microenvironment and implications for immune therapy. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1225821. [PMID: 37608898 PMCID: PMC10441240 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1225821] [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: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. HCC often occurs in the setting of chronic liver disease or cirrhosis. Recent evidence has highlighted the importance of the immune microenvironment in the development and progression of HCC, as well as its role in the potential response to therapy. Liver disease such as viral hepatitis, alcohol induced liver disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a major risk factor for the development of HCC and has been demonstrated to alter the immune microenvironment. Alterations in the immune microenvironment may markedly influence the response to different therapeutic strategies. As such, research has focused on understanding the complex relationship among tumor cells, immune cells, and the surrounding liver parenchyma to treat HCC more effectively. We herein review the immune microenvironment, as well as the relative effect of liver disease on the immune microenvironment. In addition, we review how changes in the immune microenvironment can lead to therapeutic resistance, as well as highlight future strategies aimed at developing the next-generation of therapies for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary J. Brown
- Department of Surgery, New York University Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, United States
| | - Samantha M. Ruff
- James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Timothy M. Pawlik
- James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
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20
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Sahin B, Acikel Elmas M, Bingol Ozakpinar O, Arbak S. The Effects of Apocynin on Monosodium Glutamate Induced Liver Damage of Rats. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17327. [PMID: 37449146 PMCID: PMC10336448 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is found in refined foods. Apocynin (APO) is a selective NADPH oxidase (NOX) inhibitor. The aim of this experimental study was to investigate possible effects of MSG and the curative effects of APO in rats. Twenty-eight male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups (Normal control, APO, MSG and MSG + APO, n:7 for each group). The MSG and MSG + APO groups received 120 mg/kg MSG solution orally for 28 consecutive days. The APO and MSG + APO groups received 25 mg/kg APO solution orally for 5 days until the end of the experiment. At the end of the experiment, all rats were sacrificed and liver tissue and blood samples were taken for histological, ultrastructural, and biochemical analyses. In the MSG group, vacuolization and loss in glycogen content in the hepatocytes, leukocyte infiltration and fibrosis in the liver parenchyme and portal triads, were observed. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP (TUNEL)-positivity and NADPH oxidase (NOX)-2-positivity were higher in the MSG group compared with the other experimental groups. The concentrations of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin, malondialdehyde (MDA), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were higher, whereas albumin, glutathione (GSH), and superoxide (SOD) levels were lower in the MSG group. All these data has been reversed in MSG + APO group. The histological and biochemical criteria indicated the prominent ameliorating effect of APO on MSG -induced liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Begum Sahin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Merve Acikel Elmas
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Serap Arbak
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
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Mohagheghzadeh A, Badr P, Mohagheghzadeh A, Hemmati S. Hypericum perforatum L. and the Underlying Molecular Mechanisms for Its Choleretic, Cholagogue, and Regenerative Properties. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:887. [PMID: 37375834 PMCID: PMC10300974 DOI: 10.3390/ph16060887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Any defects in bile formation, secretion, or flow may give rise to cholestasis, liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. As the pathogenesis of hepatic disorders is multifactorial, targeting parallel pathways potentially increases the outcome of therapy. Hypericum perforatum has been famed for its anti-depressive effects. However, according to traditional Persian medicine, it helps with jaundice and acts as a choleretic medication. Here, we will discuss the underlying molecular mechanisms of Hypericum for its use in hepatobiliary disorders. Differentially expressed genes retrieved from microarray data analysis upon treatment with safe doses of Hypericum extract and intersection with the genes involved in cholestasis are identified. Target genes are located mainly at the endomembrane system with integrin-binding ability. Activation of α5β1 integrins, as osmo-sensors in the liver, activates a non-receptor tyrosine kinase, c-SRC, which leads to the insertion of bile acid transporters into the canalicular membrane to trigger choleresis. Hypericum upregulates CDK6 that controls cell proliferation, compensating for the bile acid damage to hepatocytes. It induces ICAM1 to stimulate liver regeneration and regulates nischarin, a hepatoprotective receptor. The extract targets the expression of conserved oligomeric Golgi (COG) and facilitates the movement of bile acids toward the canalicular membrane via Golgi-derived vesicles. In addition, Hypericum induces SCP2, an intracellular cholesterol transporter, to maintain cholesterol homeostasis. We have also provided a comprehensive view of the target genes affected by Hypericum's main metabolites, such as hypericin, hyperforin, quercitrin, isoquercitrin, quercetin, kaempferol, rutin, and p-coumaric acid to enlighten a new scope in the management of chronic liver disorders. Altogether, standard trials using Hypericum as a neo-adjuvant or second-line therapy in ursodeoxycholic-acid-non-responder patients define the future trajectories of cholestasis treatment with this product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ala Mohagheghzadeh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71468-64685, Iran;
| | - Parmis Badr
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71468-64685, Iran; (P.B.); (A.M.)
| | - Abdolali Mohagheghzadeh
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71468-64685, Iran; (P.B.); (A.M.)
- Department of Phytopharmaceuticals (Traditional Pharmacy), School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71468-64685, Iran
| | - Shiva Hemmati
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71468-64685, Iran;
- Biotechnology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71468-64685, Iran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UCSI University, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
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22
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Li D, Janmey PA, Wells RG. Local fat content determines global and local stiffness in livers with simple steatosis. FASEB Bioadv 2023; 5:251-261. [PMID: 37287868 PMCID: PMC10242205 DOI: 10.1096/fba.2022-00134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Fat accumulation during liver steatosis precedes inflammation and fibrosis in fatty liver diseases, and is associated with disease progression. Despite a large body of evidence that liver mechanics play a major role in liver disease progression, the effect of fat accumulation by itself on liver mechanics remains unclear. Thus, we conducted ex vivo studies of liver mechanics in rodent models of simple steatosis to isolate and examine the mechanical effects of intrahepatic fat accumulation, and found that fat accumulation softens the liver. Using a novel adaptation of microindentation to permit association of local mechanics with microarchitectural features, we found evidence that the softening of fatty liver results from local softening of fatty regions rather than uniform softening of the liver. These results suggest that fat accumulation itself exerts a softening effect on liver tissue. This, along with the localized heterogeneity of softening within the liver, has implications in what mechanical mechanisms are involved in the progression of liver steatosis to more severe pathologies and disease. Finally, the ability to examine and associate local mechanics with microarchitectural features is potentially applicable to the study of the role of heterogeneous mechanical microenvironments in both other liver pathologies and other organ systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Li
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- NSF Science and Technology Center for Engineering MechanoBiologyUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Paul A. Janmey
- NSF Science and Technology Center for Engineering MechanoBiologyUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- Institute for Medicine and EngineeringUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of PhysiologyUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Rebecca G. Wells
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- NSF Science and Technology Center for Engineering MechanoBiologyUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
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23
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Abstract
The understanding of the mechanisms of liver fibrosis has been dominated by models in which chronic hepatocellular injury is the initiating step as is seen with viral infections. The increased prevalence of the metabolic syndrome, and the increases in liver fibrosis due to metabolic syndrome driven non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), has made it a priority to understand how this type of liver fibrosis is similar to, and different from, pure hepatocellular injury driven liver fibrosis. Both types of liver fibrosis have the transformation of the hepatic stellate cell (HSC) into a myofibroblast as a key step. In metabolic syndrome, there is little evidence that metabolite changes such as high levels of glucose and free fatty acids are directly inducing HSC transdifferentiation, however, metabolite changes may lead to reductions in immunomodulatory and hepatoprotective molecules such as lipoxins, resolvins and Interleukin (IL)-22. Cells of the innate immune system are known to be important intermediaries between hepatocellular damage and HSC transdifferentiation, primarily by producing cytokines such as transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and platelet derived growth factor (PDGF). Resident and infiltrating macrophages are the dominant innate immune cells, but others (dendritic cells, neutrophils, natural killer T cells and mucosal-associated invariant T cells) also have important roles in inducing and resolving liver fibrosis. CD8+ and CD4+ T cells of the adaptive immune system have been identified to have greater profibrotic roles than previously realised by inducing hepatocyte death (auto-aggressive CD8+T) cells and cytokines producing (TH17 producing CD4+T) cells. Finally, the cellular networks present in NASH fibrosis are being identified and suggest that once fibrosis has developed cell-to-cell communication is dominated by myofibroblasts autocrine signalling followed by communication with cholangiocytes and endothelial cells, with myofibroblast-hepatocyte, and myofibroblast-macrophage signalling having minor roles. Such information is essential to the development of antifibrotic strategies for different stages of fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wajahat Mehal
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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24
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Maraga E, Safadi R, Amer J, Higazi AAR, Fanne RA. Alleviation of Hepatic Steatosis by Alpha-Defensin Is Associated with Enhanced Lipolysis. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:medicina59050983. [PMID: 37241215 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59050983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The neutrophilic peptide, alpha-defensin, is considered an evolving risk factor intimately linked with lipid mobilization. It was previously linked to augmented liver fibrosis. Here, we assess a potential association between alpha-defensin and fatty liver. Materials and Methods: A cohort of transgenic C57BL/6JDef+/+ male mice that overexpress the human neutrophil-derived alpha-defensin in their polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) were assessed for liver steatosis and fibrosis development. Wild type (C57BL/6JDef.Wt) and transgenic (C57BL/6JDef+/+) mice were maintained on a standard rodent chow diet for 8.5 months. At the termination of the experiment, systemic metabolic indices and hepatic immunological cell profiling were assessed. Results: The Def+/+ transgenic mice exhibited lower body and liver weights, lower serum fasting glucose and cholesterol, and significantly lower liver fat content. These results were associated with impaired liver lymphocytes count and function (lower CD8, NK cells, and killing marker CD107a). The metabolic cage demonstrated dominant fat utilization with a comparable food intake in the Def+/+ mice. Conclusions: Chronic physiological expression of alpha-defensin induces favorable blood metabolic profile, increased systemic lipolysis, and decreased hepatic fat accumulation. Further studies are needed to characterize the defensin net liver effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emad Maraga
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Hadassah Hebrew University Hospital, Jerusalem IL-91120, Israel
| | - Rifaat Safadi
- Liver Unit, Hadassah Hebrew University Hospital, Jerusalem IL-91120, Israel
| | - Johnny Amer
- Liver Unit, Hadassah Hebrew University Hospital, Jerusalem IL-91120, Israel
| | - Abd Al-Roof Higazi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Hadassah Hebrew University Hospital, Jerusalem IL-91120, Israel
| | - Rami Abu Fanne
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Hadassah Hebrew University Hospital, Jerusalem IL-91120, Israel
- Department of Cardiology, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel
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25
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Wu J, Zhang C, He T, Zhang S, Wang Y, Xie Z, Xu W, Ding C, Shuai Y, Hao H, Cao L. Polyunsaturated fatty acids drive neutrophil extracellular trap formation in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 945:175618. [PMID: 36841284 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome. Non-resolving inflammation, triggered by sustained accumulation of lipids, is an important driving force of NASH. Thus, unveiling metabolic immune regulation could help better understand the pathology and intervention of NASH. In this study, we found the recruitment of neutrophils is an early inflammatory event in NASH mice, following the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). NET is an initiating factor which exacerbates inflammatory responses in macrophages. Inhibition of NETs using DNase I significantly alleviated inflammation in NASH mice. We further carried out a metabolomic study to identify possible metabolic triggers of NETs, and linoleic acid (LA) metabolic pathway was the most altered pathway. We re-analyzed published clinical data and validated that LA metabolism was highly correlated with NASH. Consistently, both LA and γ-linolenic acid (GLA) were active in triggering NETs formation by oxidative burst. Furthermore, we identified silybin, a hepatoprotective agent, as a potent NETosis inhibitor, which effectively blocked NETs formation both in vitro and in vivo. Together, this study not only provide new insights into metabolism-immune causal link in NASH progression, but also demonstrate silybin as an important inhibitor of NETs and its therapeutical potential in treating NETosis-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetic, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetic, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tianyu He
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetic, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shule Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetic, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetic, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ziqing Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetic, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wanfeng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetic, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chujie Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetic, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yubing Shuai
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetic, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Haiping Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetic, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Lijuan Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetic, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.
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26
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Zhang Z, Wang S, Zhu Z, Nie B. Identification of potential feature genes in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease using bioinformatics analysis and machine learning strategies. Comput Biol Med 2023; 157:106724. [PMID: 36898287 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2023.106724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and NAFLD-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has continuously increased in recent years. Machine learning is an effective method for screening the feature genes of a disease for prediction, prevention and personalized treatment. Here, we used the "limma" package and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to screen 219 NAFLD-related genes and found that they were mainly enriched in inflammation-related pathways. Four feature genes (AXUD1, FOSB, GADD45B, and SOCS2) were screened by LASSO regression and support vector machine-recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE) machine learning algorithms. Therefore, a clinical diagnostic model with an area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.994 was constructed, which was superior to other indicators of NAFLD. Significant correlations existed between feature genes expression and steatohepatitis histology or clinical variables. These findings were also validated in external datasets and a mouse model. Finally, we found that feature genes expression was significantly decreased in NAFLD-associated HCC and that SOCS2 may be a prognostic biomarker. Our findings may provide new insights into the diagnosis, prevention and treatment targets of NAFLD and NAFLD-associated HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510630, China
| | - Shihao Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510630, China
| | - Zhengwen Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510630, China
| | - Biao Nie
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510630, China.
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27
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Human Neutrophil α-Defensins 1–3 Are Upregulated in the Microenvironment of Fibrotic Liver. Medicina (B Aires) 2023; 59:medicina59030496. [PMID: 36984497 PMCID: PMC10058849 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59030496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Neutrophil infiltration is an established signature of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Steatohepatitis (NASH). The most abundant neutrophilic peptide, alpha-defensin, is considered a new evolving risk factor in the inflammatory milieu, intimately involved in lipid mobilization. Our objective is to assess for potential association between alpha-defensin immunostains and NAFLD severity. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively investigated the liver biopsies of NAFLD/NASH patients, obtained at Hillel Yaffe Medical center between the years 2012 and 2016. Patients’ characteristics were recorded, including relevant blood tests at the time of biopsy. Each biopsy was semi-quantitatively scored using NAFLD Activity Score (NAS) and NASH fibrosis stage. The biopsies were immunostained for alpha-defensin. The precipitation of alpha-defensin was correlated to NAS and fibrosis. Results: A total of 80 biopsies were evaluated: male ratio 53.2%, mean age 44.9 ± 13.2 years, 54 had fibrosis grades 0–2, and 26 were grade 3–4. Conventional metabolic risk factors were more frequent in the high-grade fibrosis group. Immunostaining for alpha-defensin disclosed higher intensity (a.u.) in grade 3–4 fibrosis relative to grades 0–2, 25% vs. 6.5%, p < 0.05, respectively. Moreover, alpha-defensin staining was nicely co-localized with fibrosis. Conclusions: In our group of NASH/NAFLD patients, higher metabolic risk profile was associated with higher fibrosis grade. Immunostaining for alpha-defensin showed patchy intense staining concordant with high fibrosis, nicely co-localized with histological fibrosis. Whether alpha-defensin is a profibrotic risk factor or merely risk marker for fibrosis must be clarified in future studies.
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28
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Overview of Cellular and Soluble Mediators in Systemic Inflammation Associated with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032313. [PMID: 36768637 PMCID: PMC9916753 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is currently the most prevalent chronic liver disease in Western countries, affecting approximately 25% of the adult population. This condition encompasses a spectrum of liver diseases characterized by abnormal accumulation of fat in liver tissue (non-alcoholic fatty liver, NAFL) that can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), characterized by the presence of liver inflammation and damage. The latter form often coexists with liver fibrosis which, in turn, may progress to a state of cirrhosis and, potentially, hepatocarcinoma, both irreversible processes that often lead to the patient's death and/or the need for liver transplantation. Along with the high associated economic burden, the high mortality rate among NAFLD patients raises interest, not only in the search for novel therapeutic approaches, but also in early diagnosis and prevention to reduce the incidence of NAFLD-related complications. In this line, an exhaustive characterization of the immune status of patients with NAFLD is mandatory. Herein, we attempted to gather and compare the current and relevant scientific evidence on this matter, mainly on human reports. We addressed the current knowledge related to circulating cellular and soluble mediators, particularly platelets, different leukocyte subsets and relevant inflammatory soluble mediators.
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29
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Gribble GW. Naturally Occurring Organohalogen Compounds-A Comprehensive Review. PROGRESS IN THE CHEMISTRY OF ORGANIC NATURAL PRODUCTS 2023; 121:1-546. [PMID: 37488466 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-26629-4_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
The present volume is the third in a trilogy that documents naturally occurring organohalogen compounds, bringing the total number-from fewer than 25 in 1968-to approximately 8000 compounds to date. Nearly all of these natural products contain chlorine or bromine, with a few containing iodine and, fewer still, fluorine. Produced by ubiquitous marine (algae, sponges, corals, bryozoa, nudibranchs, fungi, bacteria) and terrestrial organisms (plants, fungi, bacteria, insects, higher animals) and universal abiotic processes (volcanos, forest fires, geothermal events), organohalogens pervade the global ecosystem. Newly identified extraterrestrial sources are also documented. In addition to chemical structures, biological activity, biohalogenation, biodegradation, natural function, and future outlook are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gordon W Gribble
- Department of Chemistry, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA.
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30
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Fatty Liver Disease-Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic: Similar but Different. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232416226. [PMID: 36555867 PMCID: PMC9783455 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416226] [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: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In alcohol-induced liver disease (ALD) and in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), there are abnormal accumulations of fat in the liver. This phenomenon may be related to excessive alcohol consumption, as well as the combination of alcohol consumption and medications. There is an evolution from simple steatosis to steatohepatitis, fibrosis and cirrhosis leading to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Hepatic pathology is very similar regarding non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and ALD. Initially, there is lipid accumulation in parenchyma and progression to lobular inflammation. The morphological changes in the liver mitochondria, perivenular and perisinusoidal fibrosis, and hepatocellular ballooning, apoptosis and necrosis and accumulation of fibrosis may lead to the development of cirrhosis and HCC. Medical history of ethanol consumption, laboratory markers of chronic ethanol intake, AST/ALT ratio on the one hand and features of the metabolic syndrome on the other hand, may help in estimating the contribution of alcohol intake and the metabolic syndrome, respectively, to liver steatosis.
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31
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The Tumor Microenvironment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Untying an Intricate Immunological Network. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246151. [PMID: 36551635 PMCID: PMC9776867 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
HCC, the most prevalent form of primary liver cancer, is prototypically an inflammation-driven cancer developing after years of inflammatory insults. Consequently, the hepatic microenvironment is a site of complex immunological activities. Moreover, the tolerogenic nature of the liver can act as a barrier to anti-tumor immunity, fostering cancer progression and resistance to immunotherapies based on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICB). In addition to being a site of primary carcinogenesis, many cancer types have high tropism for the liver, and patients diagnosed with liver metastasis have a dismal prognosis. Therefore, understanding the immunological networks characterizing the tumor microenvironment (TME) of HCC will deepen our understanding of liver immunity, and it will underpin the dominant mechanisms controlling both spontaneous and therapy-induced anti-tumor immune responses. Herein, we discuss the contributions of the cellular and molecular components of the liver immune contexture during HCC onset and progression by underscoring how the balance between antagonistic immune responses can recast the properties of the TME and the response to ICB.
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32
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Li Y, Zhang H, Tu F, Cao J, Hou X, Chen Y, Yan J. Effects of resveratrol and its derivative pterostilbene on hepatic injury and immunological stress of weaned piglets challenged with lipopolysaccharide. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:skac339. [PMID: 36242589 PMCID: PMC9733527 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study was to investigate the protective effects of resveratrol (RSV) and its 3,5-dimethylether derivative pterostilbene (PT) against liver injury and immunological stress of weaned piglets upon lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. Seventy-two weaned piglets were divided into the following groups: control group, LPS-challenged group, and LPS-challenged groups pretreated with either RSV or PT for 14 d (n = 6 pens, three pigs per pen). At the end of the feeding trial, piglets were intraperitoneally injected with either LPS or an equivalent amount of sterile saline. After 6 h of sterile saline or LPS injection, plasma and liver samples were collected. LPS stimulation caused massive apoptosis, activated inflammatory responses, and incited severe oxidative stress in the piglet livers while also promoting the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) p65 (P < 0.001) and the protein expression of Nod-like receptor pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3; P = 0.001) and cleaved caspase 1 (P < 0.001). PT was more effective than RSV in alleviating LPS-induced hepatic damage by decreasing the apoptotic rate of liver cells (P = 0.045), inhibiting the transcriptional expression of interleukin 1 beta (P < 0.001) and interleukin 6 (P = 0.008), and reducing myeloperoxidase activity (P = 0.010). The LPS-induced increase in hepatic lipid peroxidation accumulation was also reversed by PT (P = 0.024). Importantly, inhibiting protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) activity in a hepatocellular model largely blocked the ability of PT to prevent tumor necrosis factor alpha-induced increases in NF-κB p65 protein phosphorylation (P = 0.043) and its nuclear translocation (P = 0.029). In summary, PT is a promising agent that may alleviate liver injury and immunological stress of weaned piglets via the PP2A/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Li
- Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210014, China
- Key Laboratory for Crop and Animal Integrated Farming of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210014, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Feng Tu
- Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210014, China
| | - Jing Cao
- Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210014, China
| | - Xiang Hou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food Quality and Safety—State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Ministry of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210014, China
| | - Yanan Chen
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Junshu Yan
- Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210014, China
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33
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Han HT, Jin WL, Li X. Mesenchymal stem cells-based therapy in liver diseases. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2022; 3:23. [PMID: 35895169 PMCID: PMC9326420 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-022-00088-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple immune cells and their products in the liver together form a complex and unique immune microenvironment, and preclinical models have demonstrated the importance of imbalances in the hepatic immune microenvironment in liver inflammatory diseases and immunocompromised liver diseases. Various immunotherapies have been attempted to modulate the hepatic immune microenvironment for the purpose of treating liver diseases. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have a comprehensive and plastic immunomodulatory capacity. On the one hand, they have been tried for the treatment of inflammatory liver diseases because of their excellent immunosuppressive capacity; On the other hand, MSCs have immune-enhancing properties in immunocompromised settings and can be modified into cellular carriers for targeted transport of immune enhancers by genetic modification, physical and chemical loading, and thus they are also used in the treatment of immunocompromised liver diseases such as chronic viral infections and hepatocellular carcinoma. In this review, we discuss the immunological basis and recent strategies of MSCs for the treatment of the aforementioned liver diseases. Specifically, we update the immune microenvironment of the liver and summarize the distinct mechanisms of immune microenvironment imbalance in inflammatory diseases and immunocompromised liver diseases, and how MSCs can fully exploit their immunotherapeutic role in liver diseases with both immune imbalance patterns.
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34
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Sharma N, Shaikh TB, Eedara A, Kuncha M, Sistla R, Andugulapati SB. Dehydrozingerone ameliorates thioacetamide-induced liver fibrosis via inhibition of hepatic stellate cells activation through modulation of the MAPK pathway. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 937:175366. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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35
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Lockhart JS, Sumagin R. Non-Canonical Functions of Myeloperoxidase in Immune Regulation, Tissue Inflammation and Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012250. [PMID: 36293108 PMCID: PMC9603794 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is one of the most abundantly expressed proteins in neutrophils. It serves as a critical component of the antimicrobial defense system, facilitating microbial killing via generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Interestingly, emerging evidence indicates that in addition to the well-recognized canonical antimicrobial function of MPO, it can directly or indirectly impact immune cells and tissue responses in homeostatic and disease states. Here, we highlight the emerging non-canonical functions of MPO, including its impact on neutrophil longevity, activation and trafficking in inflammation, its interactions with other immune cells, and how these interactions shape disease outcomes. We further discuss MPO interactions with barrier forming endothelial and epithelial cells, specialized cells of the central nervous system (CNS) and its involvement in cancer progression. Such diverse function and the MPO association with numerous inflammatory disorders make it an attractive target for therapies aimed at resolving inflammation and limiting inflammation-associated tissue damage. However, while considering MPO inhibition as a potential therapy, one must account for the diverse impact of MPO activity on various cellular compartments both in health and disease.
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36
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Ortiz-López N, Fuenzalida C, Dufeu MS, Pinto-León A, Escobar A, Poniachik J, Roblero JP, Valenzuela-Pérez L, Beltrán CJ. The immune response as a therapeutic target in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Front Immunol 2022; 13:954869. [PMID: 36300120 PMCID: PMC9589255 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.954869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a complex and heterogeneous disorder considered a liver-damaging manifestation of metabolic syndrome. Its prevalence has increased in the last decades due to modern-day lifestyle factors associated with overweight and obesity, making it a relevant public health problem worldwide. The clinical progression of NAFLD is associated with advanced forms of liver injury such as fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). As such, diverse pharmacological strategies have been implemented over the last few years, principally focused on metabolic pathways involved in NAFLD progression. However, a variable response rate has been observed in NAFLD patients, which is explained by the interindividual heterogeneity of susceptibility to liver damage. In this scenario, it is necessary to search for different therapeutic approaches. It is worth noting that chronic low-grade inflammation constitutes a central mechanism in the pathogenesis and progression of NAFLD, associated with abnormal composition of the intestinal microbiota, increased lymphocyte activation in the intestine and immune effector mechanisms in liver. This review aims to discuss the current knowledge about the role of the immune response in NAFLD development. We have focused mainly on the impact of altered gut-liver-microbiota axis communication on immune cell activation in the intestinal mucosa and the role of subsequent lymphocyte homing to the liver in NAFLD development. We further discuss novel clinical trials that addressed the control of the liver and intestinal immune response to complement current NAFLD therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolás Ortiz-López
- Laboratory of Immunogastroenterology, Unit of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Catalina Fuenzalida
- Laboratory of Immunogastroenterology, Unit of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - María Soledad Dufeu
- Laboratory of Immunogastroenterology, Unit of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Araceli Pinto-León
- Laboratory of Immunogastroenterology, Unit of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Jaime Poniachik
- Unit of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Juan Pablo Roblero
- Unit of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Lucía Valenzuela-Pérez
- Laboratory of Immunogastroenterology, Unit of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Caroll J. Beltrán
- Laboratory of Immunogastroenterology, Unit of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Immune mechanisms linking metabolic injury to inflammation and fibrosis in fatty liver disease - novel insights into cellular communication circuits. J Hepatol 2022; 77:1136-1160. [PMID: 35750137 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 74.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most prevalent chronic liver disease and is emerging as the leading cause of cirrhosis, liver transplantation and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). NAFLD is a metabolic disease that is considered the hepatic manifestation of the metabolic syndrome; however, during the evolution of NAFLD from steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), to more advanced stages of NASH with liver fibrosis, the immune system plays an integral role. Triggers for inflammation are rooted in hepatic (lipid overload, lipotoxicity, oxidative stress) and extrahepatic (gut-liver axis, adipose tissue, skeletal muscle) systems, resulting in unique immune-mediated pathomechanisms in NAFLD. In recent years, the implementation of single-cell RNA-sequencing and high dimensional multi-omics (proteogenomics, lipidomics) and spatial transcriptomics have tremendously advanced our understanding of the complex heterogeneity of various liver immune cell subsets in health and disease. In NAFLD, several emerging inflammatory mechanisms have been uncovered, including profound macrophage heterogeneity, auto-aggressive T cells, the role of unconventional T cells and platelet-immune cell interactions, potentially yielding novel therapeutics. In this review, we will highlight the recent discoveries related to inflammation in NAFLD, discuss the role of immune cell subsets during the different stages of the disease (including disease regression) and integrate the multiple systems driving inflammation. We propose a refined concept by which the immune system contributes to all stages of NAFLD and discuss open scientific questions arising from this paradigm shift that need to be unravelled in the coming years. Finally, we discuss novel therapeutic approaches to target the multiple triggers of inflammation, including combination therapy via nuclear receptors (FXR agonists, PPAR agonists).
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Hoogerland JA, Staels B, Dombrowicz D. Immune-metabolic interactions in homeostasis and the progression to NASH. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2022; 33:690-709. [PMID: 35961913 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has increased significantly over the past two decades. NAFLD ranges from simple steatosis (NAFL) to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and predisposes to fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The importance of the immune system in hepatic physiology and in the progression of NAFLD is increasingly recognized. At homeostasis, the liver participates in immune defense against pathogens and in tolerance of gut-derived microbial compounds. Hepatic immune cells also respond to metabolic stimuli and have a role in NAFLD progression to NASH. In this review, we discuss how metabolic perturbations affect immune cell phenotype and function in NAFL and NASH, and then focus on the role of immune cells in liver homeostasis and in the development of NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne A Hoogerland
- Univeristy of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1011-EGID, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Bart Staels
- Univeristy of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1011-EGID, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - David Dombrowicz
- Univeristy of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1011-EGID, F-59000 Lille, France.
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Guo Z, Fan X, Yao J, Tomlinson S, Yuan G, He S. The role of complement in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1017467. [PMID: 36248852 PMCID: PMC9562907 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1017467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become a leading cause of chronic liver diseases globally. NAFLD includes a range of hepatic manifestations, starting with liver steatosis and potentially evolving towards nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, cirrhosis or even hepatocellular carcinoma. Although the pathogenesis of NAFLD is incompletely understood, insulin resistance and lipid metabolism disorder are implicated. The complement system is an essential part of the immune system, but it is also involved in lipid metabolism. In particular, activation of the alternative complement pathway and the production of complement activation products such as C3a, C3adesArg (acylation stimulating protein or ASP) and C5a, are strongly associated with insulin resistance, lipid metabolism disorder, and hepatic inflammation. In this review, we briefly summarize research on the role of the complement system in NAFLD, aiming to provide a basis for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenya Guo
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Immunology and Metabolism for Liver Diseases, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Xiude Fan
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Jianni Yao
- Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Immunology and Metabolism for Liver Diseases, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Stephen Tomlinson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Guandou Yuan
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Immunology and Metabolism for Liver Diseases, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Songqing He
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Immunology and Metabolism for Liver Diseases, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
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Almeida LDS, Teixeira CJ, Campos CV, Casaloti LG, Sodré FS, Capetini VC, Amaral AG, Payolla TB, Pantaleão LC, Anhê GF, Bordin S. Low Birth Weight Intensifies Changes in Markers of Hepatocarcinogenesis Induced by Fructose Consumption in Rats. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12100886. [PMID: 36295788 PMCID: PMC9608855 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12100886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) due to fetal exposure to glucocorticoid excess results in metabolic inflexibility and hepatic steatosis upon nutritional stress during adulthood. We previously demonstrated that rats born to dexamethasone (DEX)-treated mothers developed hepatic steatosis when exposed to 10% fructose solution during adult life. Persistent triacylglyceride (TAG) accumulation in the liver, in turn, is a feature of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which serves as a risk factor for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In the present study, we demonstrate that the combination of IUGR and fructose treatment during adulthood also results in increased hepatic myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, AKT phosphorylation and serum aspartate transaminase. Growth-restricted rats also presented reduced hepatic TRIB3 and GADD45a after fructose treatment. Other markers of cell proliferation, such as Cyclin D, PCNA, Hgf and Hspa4/Hsp70 expression and the number of Ki-67 positive cells, were all increased in the liver of growth- restricted rats treated with fructose. On the other hand, the combination of IUGR and fructose treatment during adult life reduced the levels of IGF-1. In conclusion, our data indicate that after exposure to fructose, adult rats subjected to dexamethasone-induced IUGR display exacerbated molecular changes in markers of NASH and HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena de Souza Almeida
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas, 105 Alexander Flemming St., Campinas 13083-881, SP, Brazil
| | - Caio Jordão Teixeira
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, 1524 Prof. Lineu Prestes Ave., ICB 1, Sao Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Carolina Vieira Campos
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas, 105 Alexander Flemming St., Campinas 13083-881, SP, Brazil
| | - Laís Guadalupe Casaloti
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas, 105 Alexander Flemming St., Campinas 13083-881, SP, Brazil
| | - Frhancielly Shirley Sodré
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, 1524 Prof. Lineu Prestes Ave., ICB 1, Sao Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Vinícius Cooper Capetini
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas, 105 Alexander Flemming St., Campinas 13083-881, SP, Brazil
| | - Andressa Godoy Amaral
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, 1524 Prof. Lineu Prestes Ave., ICB 1, Sao Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Tanyara Baliani Payolla
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, 1524 Prof. Lineu Prestes Ave., ICB 1, Sao Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Lucas Carminatti Pantaleão
- Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science-Metabolic Research Laboratories, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Gabriel Forato Anhê
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas, 105 Alexander Flemming St., Campinas 13083-881, SP, Brazil
| | - Silvana Bordin
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, 1524 Prof. Lineu Prestes Ave., ICB 1, Sao Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil
- Correspondence:
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Abdelnabi MN, Flores Molina M, Soucy G, Quoc-Huy Trinh V, Bédard N, Mazouz S, Jouvet N, Dion J, Tran S, Bilodeau M, Estall JL, Shoukry NH. Sex-Dependent Hepatoprotective Role of IL-22 Receptor Signaling in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease-Related Fibrosis. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 14:1269-1294. [PMID: 35970323 PMCID: PMC9596743 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2022.08.001] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major health problem with complex pathogenesis. Although sex differences in NAFLD pathogenesis have been reported, the mechanisms underlying such differences remain understudied. Interleukin (IL)22 is a pleiotropic cytokine with both protective and/or pathogenic effects during liver injury. IL22 was shown to be hepatoprotective in NAFLD-related liver injury. However, these studies relied primarily on exogenous administration of IL22 and did not examine the sex-dependent effect of IL22. Here, we sought to characterize the role of endogenous IL22-receptor signaling during NAFLD-induced liver injury in males and females. METHODS We used immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, histopathologic assessment, and gene expression analysis to examine IL22 production and characterize the intrahepatic immune landscape in human subjects with NAFLD (n = 20; 11 men and 9 women) and in an in vivo Western high-fat diet-induced NAFLD model in IL22RA knock out mice and their wild-type littermates. RESULTS Examination of publicly available data sets from 2 cohorts with NAFLD showed increased hepatic IL22 gene expression in females compared with males. Furthermore, our immunofluorescence analysis of liver sections from NAFLD subjects (n = 20) showed increased infiltration of IL22-producing cells in females. Similarly, IL22-producing cells were increased in wild-type female mice with NAFLD and the hepatic IL22/IL22 binding protein messenger RNA ratio correlated with expression of anti-apoptosis genes. The lack of endogenous IL22-receptor signaling (IL22RA knockout) led to exacerbated liver damage, inflammation, apoptosis, and liver fibrosis in female, but not male, mice with NAFLD. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest a sex-dependent hepatoprotective antiapoptotic effect of IL22-receptor signaling during NAFLD-related liver injury in females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed N Abdelnabi
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Département de Microbiologie, Infectiologie et Immunologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Manuel Flores Molina
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Département de Microbiologie, Infectiologie et Immunologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Geneviève Soucy
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Département de Département de Pathologie et Biologie Cellulaire, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Vincent Quoc-Huy Trinh
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Département de Département de Pathologie et Biologie Cellulaire, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Nathalie Bédard
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Département de Microbiologie, Infectiologie et Immunologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Sabrina Mazouz
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Département de Microbiologie, Infectiologie et Immunologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Nathalie Jouvet
- Institut de Recherches, Cliniques de Montreal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Jessica Dion
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Département de Microbiologie, Infectiologie et Immunologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Sarah Tran
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Département de Microbiologie, Infectiologie et Immunologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Marc Bilodeau
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Département de Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Jennifer L Estall
- Institut de Recherches, Cliniques de Montreal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Département de Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Naglaa H Shoukry
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Département de Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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Recombinant FGF21 Attenuates Polychlorinated Biphenyl-Induced NAFLD/NASH by Modulating Hepatic Lipocalin-2 Expression. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23168899. [PMID: 36012166 PMCID: PMC9408415 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23168899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Although recent studies have demonstrated that polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) exposure leads to toxicant-associated steatohepatitis, the underlying mechanism of this condition remains unsolved. Male C57Bl/6 mice fed a standard diet (SD) or 60% high fat diet (HFD) were exposed to the nondioxin-like PCB mixture Aroclor1260 or dioxin-like PCB congener PCB126 by intraperitoneal injection for a total of four times for six weeks. We observed hepatic injury, steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis in not only the Aroclor1260-treated mice fed a HFD but the PCB126-treated mice fed either a SD or a HFD. We also observed that both types of PCB exposure induced hepatic iron overload (HIO). Noticeably, the expression of hepatic lipocalin-2 (LCN2) was significantly increased in the PCB-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) models. The knockdown of LCN2 resulted in improvement of PCB-induced lipid and iron accumulation in vitro, suggesting that LCN2 plays a pivotal role in PCB-induced NAFLD/NASH. We observed that recombinant FGF21 improved hepatic steatosis and HIO in the PCB-induced NAFLD/NASH models. Importantly, recombinant FGF21 reduced the PCB-induced overexpression of hepatic LCN2 in vivo and in vitro. Our findings indicate that recombinant FGF21 attenuates PCB-induced NAFLD/NASH by modulating hepatic lipocalin-2 expression. Our data suggest that hepatic LCN2 might represent a suitable therapeutic target for improving PCB-induced NAFLD/NASH accompanying HIO.
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Dalakoura-Karagkouni K, Tiniakou I, Zannis VI, Kardassis D. Using adenovirus-mediated gene transfer to study the effect of myeloperoxidase on plasma lipid levels, HDL structure and functionality in mice expressing human apoA-I forms. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 622:108-114. [PMID: 35843089 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I), the main protein component of High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), is modified in plasma and the arterial wall by various enzymes. Myeloperoxidase (MPO), a leukocyte-derived peroxidase, is highly expressed during inflammation and associates with HDL reducing its functionality and contributing to atherosclerosis. In the present study we sought to explore further the effect of MPO on HDL structure and functionality in vivo using adenovirus-mediated gene transfer of human MPO combined with human apoA-I forms containing substitutions at MPO-sensitive sites or wild type apoA-I. We found that overexpression of MPO in mice significantly increased plasma apoA-I and HDL levels without affecting the expression of genes involved in HDL biogenesis or catabolism in the liver. Overexpression of MPO in the liver reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory genes and increased or did not affect the expression of anti-inflammatory genes suggesting that MPO had no toxic effects in this organ. In the plasma of mice overexpressing MPO, no significant alterations in HDL size or electrophoretic mobility was observed with the exception of mice expressing apoA-I (M148A) which showed enriched pre-β relative to α HDL particles, suggesting that the apoA-I (M148A) mutation may interfere with HDL remodelling. Overexpression of MPO was associated with reduced anti-oxidant capacity of HDL particles in all mice. Interestingly, HDL particles bearing apoA-I (Y192A) showed enhanced ABCA1-dependent cholesterol efflux from macrophages which was not affected by MPO and these mice had reduced levels of LDL-c. These findings provide new insights on the role of specific amino acid residues of apoA-I in HDL structure and function following modification by MPO. This knowledge may facilitate the development of novel therapies based on improved HDL forms for patients with chronic diseases that are characterized by dysfunctional HDL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Dalakoura-Karagkouni
- University of Crete Medical School and Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology of Hellas, Heraklion, 71003, Crete, Greece
| | - Ioanna Tiniakou
- University of Crete Medical School and Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology of Hellas, Heraklion, 71003, Crete, Greece
| | - Vassilis I Zannis
- Section of Molecular Genetics, Whitaker Cardiovascular Institute, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Dimitris Kardassis
- University of Crete Medical School and Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology of Hellas, Heraklion, 71003, Crete, Greece.
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Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) includes a range of hepatic manifestations, starting with liver steatosis and potentially evolving towards non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), cirrhosis or even hepatocellular carcinoma. NAFLD is a major health burden, and its incidence is increasing worldwide. Although it is primarily a disease of disturbed metabolism, NAFLD involves several immune cell-mediated inflammatory processes, particularly when reaching the stage of NASH, at which point inflammation becomes integral to the progression of the disease. The hepatic immune cell landscape is diverse at steady state and it further evolves during NASH with direct consequences for disease severity. In this Review, we discuss current concepts related to the role of immune cells in the onset and progression of NASH. A better understanding of the mechanisms by which immune cells contribute to NASH pathogenesis should aid the design of innovative drugs to target NASH, for which current therapeutic options are limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thierry Huby
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm, UMR-S 1166), Sorbonne Université, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Emmanuel L Gautier
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm, UMR-S 1166), Sorbonne Université, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France.
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Fiorucci S, Zampella A, Ricci P, Distrutti E, Biagioli M. Immunomodulatory functions of FXR. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 551:111650. [PMID: 35472625 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2022.111650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The Farnesoid-x-receptor (FXR) is a bile acids sensor activated in humans by primary bile acids. FXR is mostly expressed in liver, intestine and adrenal glands but also by cells of innate immunity, including macrophages, liver resident macrophages, the Kupffer cells, natural killer cells and dendritic cells. In normal physiology and clinical disorders, cells of innate immunity mediate communications between liver, intestine and adipose tissues. In addition to FXR, the G protein coupled receptor (GPBAR1), that is mainly activated by secondary bile acids, whose expression largely overlaps FXR, modulates chemical communications from the intestinal microbiota and the host's immune system, integrating epithelial cells and immune cells in the entero-hepatic system, providing a mechanism for development of a tolerogenic state toward the intestinal microbiota. Disruption of FXR results in generalized inflammation and disrupted bile acids metabolism. While FXR agonism in preclinical models provides counter-regulatory signals that attenuate inflammation-driven immune dysfunction in a variety of liver and intestinal disease models, the clinical relevance of these mechanisms in the setting of FXR-related disorders remain poorly defined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Fiorucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy. http://www.gastroenterologia.unipg.it
| | - Angela Zampella
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Pharmacy, Naples, Italy
| | - Patrizia Ricci
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Eleonora Distrutti
- SC di Gastroenterologia ed Epatologia, Azienda Ospedaliera di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Michele Biagioli
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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Moayedfard Z, Sani F, Alizadeh A, Bagheri Lankarani K, Zarei M, Azarpira N. The role of the immune system in the pathogenesis of NAFLD and potential therapeutic impacts of mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:242. [PMID: 35672797 PMCID: PMC9175371 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02929-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is characterized by intra-hepatocyte triglyceride accumulation and concomitant involvement of the immune system with subsequent histological changes, tissue damage, and clinical findings. There are various molecular pathways involved in the progression of NAFLD including lipotoxicity, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and the immune response. Both innate and adaptive immune systems are involved in the NAFLD pathogenesis, and crosstalk between the immune cells and liver cells participates in its initiation and progression. Among the various treatments for this disease, new cell based therapies have been proposed. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) (MSC-EVs) are new cell-free vehicles with low immunogenicity, which can suppress detrimental immune responses in inflamed tissues. This review aimed to express the immune system's molecular pathways associated with the initiation and progression of NAFLD. Then, the possible role of MSC-EVs in the treatment of this entity through immune response modulation was discussed. Finally, engineered EVs enhanced by specific therapeutic miRNA were suggested for alleviating the pathological cellular events in liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Moayedfard
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Farnaz Sani
- Hematology and Cell Therapy Department, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aliakbar Alizadeh
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Zarei
- Renal Division, Brigham and Woman's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- John B. Little Center for Radiation Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Negar Azarpira
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Khalili Street, P.O. Box: 7193711351, Shiraz, Iran.
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Ghasemi M, Bakhshi B, Khashei R, Soudi S. Mesoporous silica nano-adjuvant triggers pro-inflammatory responses in Caco-2/peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) co-cultures. Nanobiomedicine (Rij) 2022; 9:18495435221088374. [PMID: 35677573 PMCID: PMC9168868 DOI: 10.1177/18495435221088374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity and immune-stimulatory
effect of Mesoporous silica nanoparticle (MSN) Nano-adjuvant on pro-inflammatory
cytokines and pattern recognition receptors (PRR) genes expression in
Caco-2/PBMC co-culture model. MSNs were synthesized and characterized by
scanning electron microscope (SEM), Brunauer Emmett Teller (BET) and Barrett
Joyner Halenda (BJH) techniques. The BET specific surface area of MSNs was
around 947 m2/g and the total pore volume and average pore diameter
were 1.5 cm3/g and 8.01 nm, respectively. At the concentration of
10 µg/mL, MSN showed a low and time-dependent cytotoxicity on Caco-2 cells,
while no cytotoxic effect was observed for 0.1 and 1 µg/mL concentrations after
24, 48 and 72 h. The expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines genes (IL-1, IL-8
and TNF-α) in co-cultures treated with different concentrations of MSN showed a
dose-dependent significant increase up to 17.44, 2.722 and 4.34 folds,
respectively, while the expression augmentation of IL-1 gene was significantly
higher than the others. This indicates slight stimulation of intestinal
inflammation. Different concentrations of MSN significantly increased TLR4 and
NOD2 expression to 4.14 and 2.14 folds, respectively. NOD1 was not affected
significantly. It can be concluded that MSN might increase protective immune
responses against antigens as a vaccine adjuvant candidate. It seems that
stimulation of TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-8 expression in enterocytes probably
transpires through the agonistic activity of MSN for TLRs including TLR4, while
NOD2-associated signaling pathways are also involved. This study provides an
overall picture of MSN as a novel and potent oral adjuvant for mucosal
immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Ghasemi
- Department of Bacteriology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bita Bakhshi
- Department of Bacteriology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Khashei
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sara Soudi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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Xie W, Liu P, Gao F, Gu Y, Xiao Y, Wu P, Chen B, Liu W, Liu Q. Platelet-neutrophil hybrid membrane-coated gelatin nanoparticles for enhanced targeting ability and intelligent release in the treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. NANOMEDICINE : NANOTECHNOLOGY, BIOLOGY, AND MEDICINE 2022; 42:102538. [PMID: 35183762 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2022.102538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is the major form of chronic liver disease in adults; however, there are no approved drugs for NASH. In this study, we designed the PNM-G-PV method, in which gelatin nanoparticles (G) are loaded with pioglitazone and vitamin E (G-PV) and then encapsulated by the surfaces of platelet-neutrophil hybrid membranes (PNM). Inherited from the natural source cells, the PNM show immune evading ability due to the surface marker comprising a number of "do not eat me" signals and has dual inflammatory enrichment capabilities due to specific surface adhesion molecules. By functionalizing the gelatin nanoparticle biomimetic surfaces, PNM-G can enhance the targeting to inflammatory sites and enrich liver tissue. The high expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) at the NASH site enables the gelatin nanoparticles to intelligently respond to degradation and then release vitamin E and pioglitazone for drug treatment. We performed an in vivo analysis of these nanoparticles to monitor changes in triacylglycerol metabolism in liver tissues and assessed the therapeutic efficacy of PNM-G-PV in a NASH rat model. The results showed that PNM-G-PV exhibited better therapeutic efficacy than therapies using G-PV or PV alone. This work explores a new biomedical use of PNM-G-PV and a promising NASH treatment protocol based on a new drug delivery system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xie
- Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nanostructures of Ministry of Education, School of Physics and Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Pengpeng Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Research Center of Digestive Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Fei Gao
- Department of General Surgery, Research Center of Digestive Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Yang Gu
- Department of General Surgery, Research Center of Digestive Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Yushao Xiao
- Department of General Surgery, Research Center of Digestive Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Ping Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Research Center of Digestive Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Baiyang Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Research Center of Digestive Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Wei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nanostructures of Ministry of Education, School of Physics and Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China.
| | - Quanyan Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, PR China.
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Poulsen KL, Cajigas-Du Ross CK, Chaney JK, Nagy LE. Role of the chemokine system in liver fibrosis: a narrative review. DIGESTIVE MEDICINE RESEARCH 2022; 5:30. [PMID: 36339901 PMCID: PMC9632683 DOI: 10.21037/dmr-21-87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Liver fibrosis is a disease with characteristics of an aberrant wound healing response. Fibrosis is commonly the end-stage for chronic liver diseases like alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), metabolic-associated liver disease, viral hepatitis, and hepatic autoimmune disease. Innate immunity contributes to the progression of many diseases through multiple mechanisms including production of pro-inflammatory mediators, leukocyte infiltration and tissue injury. Chemokines and their receptors orchestrate accumulation and activation of immune cells in tissues and are associated with multiple liver diseases; however, much less is known about their potential roles in liver fibrosis. This is a narrative review of current knowledge of the relationship of chemokine biology to liver fibrosis with insights into potential future therapeutic opportunities that can be explored in the future. METHODS A comprehensive literature review was performed searching PubMed for relevant English studies and texts regarding chemokine biology, chronic liver disease and liver fibrosis published between 1993 and 2021. The review was written and constructed to detail the intriguing chemokine biology, the relation of chemokines to tissue injury and resolution, and identify areas of discovery for fibrosis treatment. KEY CONTENT AND FINDINGS Chemokines are implicated in many chronic liver diseases, regardless of etiology. Most of these diseases will progress to fibrosis without appropriate treatment. The contributions of chemokines to liver disease and fibrosis are diverse and include canonical roles of modulating hepatic inflammation as well as directly contributing to fibrosis via activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Limited clinical evidence suggests that targeting chemokines in certain liver diseases might provide a therapeutic benefit to patients with hepatic fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS The chemokine system of ligands and receptors is a complex network of inflammatory signals in nearly all diseases. The specific sources of chemokines and cellular targets lend unique pathophysiological consequences to chronic liver diseases and established fibrosis. Although most chemokines are pro-inflammatory and contribute to tissue injury, others likely aid in the resolution of established fibrosis. To date, very few targeted therapies exist for the chemokine system and liver disease and/or fibrosis, and further study could identify viable treatment options to improve outcomes in patients with end-stage liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle L. Poulsen
- Center for Liver Disease Research, Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Christina K. Cajigas-Du Ross
- Center for Liver Disease Research, Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Jarod K. Chaney
- Department of Anesthesiology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Laura E. Nagy
- Center for Liver Disease Research, Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
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50
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Arelaki S, Koletsa T, Sinakos E, Papadopoulos V, Arvanitakis K, Skendros P, Akriviadis E, Ritis K, Germanidis G, Hytiroglou P. Neutrophil extracellular traps enriched with IL-1β and IL-17A participate in the hepatic inflammatory process of patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Virchows Arch 2022; 481:455-465. [PMID: 35503185 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-022-03330-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are implicated in the pathogenesis of various non-infectious inflammatory and thrombotic diseases. We investigated the presence and possible associations of NETs with various histopathologic parameters in patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We retrospectively assessed 20 liver biopsy specimens from patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), including 17 specimens with NASH, and 14 control specimens. NETs were identified with confocal microscopy as extracellular structures with co-localization of neutrophil elastase (NE) and citrullinated histone-3. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-17A were assessed with the same methodology. Histologic features of NAFLD were semi-quantitatively evaluated, and correlated with presence of NETs, neutrophil density, and platelet density/aggregates (assessed by immunohistochemistry for NE and CD42b, respectively). NETs were identified in 94.1% (16/17) of the NASH biopsy specimens; they were absent from all other NAFLD and control specimens. The presence of NETs was strongly correlated with steatosis (p = 0.003), ballooning degeneration (p < 0.001), lobular inflammation (p < 0.001), portal inflammation (p < 0.001), NAS score (p = 0.001), stage (p = 0.001), and diagnosis of NASH (p < 0.001). NETs were decorated with IL-1β and IL-17A. Platelet aggregates were much larger in NASH specimens, as compared to controls. In conclusion, NETs are implicated in the pathogenesis of NASH. Their associations with inflammation, ballooning degeneration (a hallmark of NASH), and stage emphasize their role in the disease process. In this setting, NETs provide a vehicle for IL-1β and IL-17A. In addition, platelet aggregation in hepatic sinusoids implies a role for thromboinflammation in NASH, and may explain the low peripheral blood platelet counts reported in patients with NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Arelaki
- Department of Pathology, Aristotle University School of Medicine, 54006, Thessaloniki, Greece.,Laboratory of Molecular Hematology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece.,National Center for Tumor Diseases, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Triantafyllia Koletsa
- Department of Pathology, Aristotle University School of Medicine, 54006, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Emmanuil Sinakos
- Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University School of Medicine, "Hippokration" General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Konstantinos Arvanitakis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University School of Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, 54636, Thessaloniki, Greece.,Basic and Translational Research Unit, Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (SUBRE), School of Medicine, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Skendros
- Laboratory of Molecular Hematology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece.,First Department of Internal Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Evangelos Akriviadis
- Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University School of Medicine, "Hippokration" General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Ritis
- Laboratory of Molecular Hematology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece.,First Department of Internal Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Georgios Germanidis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University School of Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, 54636, Thessaloniki, Greece. .,Basic and Translational Research Unit, Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (SUBRE), School of Medicine, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Prodromos Hytiroglou
- Department of Pathology, Aristotle University School of Medicine, 54006, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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