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G. de Castro C, G. del Hierro A, H-Vázquez J, Cuesta-Sancho S, Bernardo D. State-of-the-art cytometry in the search of novel biomarkers in digestive cancers. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1407580. [PMID: 38868532 PMCID: PMC11167087 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1407580] [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: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite that colorectal and liver cancer are among the most prevalent tumours in the world, the identification of non-invasive biomarkers to aid on their diagnose and subsequent prognosis is a current unmet need that would diminish both their incidence and mortality rates. In this context, conventional flow cytometry has been widely used in the screening of biomarkers with clinical utility in other malignant processes like leukaemia or lymphoma. Therefore, in this review, we will focus on how advanced cytometry panels covering over 40 parameters can be applied on the study of the immune system from patients with colorectal and hepatocellular carcinoma and how that can be used on the search of novel biomarkers to aid or diagnose, prognosis, and even predict clinical response to different treatments. In addition, these multiparametric and unbiased approaches can also provide novel insights into the specific immunopathogenic mechanisms governing these malignant diseases, hence potentially unravelling novel targets to perform immunotherapy or identify novel mechanisms, rendering the development of novel treatments. As a consequence, computational cytometry approaches are an emerging methodology for the early detection and predicting therapies for gastrointestinal cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina G. de Castro
- Mucosal Immunology Lab, Institute of Biomedicine and Molecular Genetics (IBGM), University of Valladolid and Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Valladolid, Spain
| | - Alejandro G. del Hierro
- Mucosal Immunology Lab, Institute of Biomedicine and Molecular Genetics (IBGM), University of Valladolid and Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Valladolid, Spain
| | - Juan H-Vázquez
- Mucosal Immunology Lab, Institute of Biomedicine and Molecular Genetics (IBGM), University of Valladolid and Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Valladolid, Spain
| | - Sara Cuesta-Sancho
- Mucosal Immunology Lab, Institute of Biomedicine and Molecular Genetics (IBGM), University of Valladolid and Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Valladolid, Spain
| | - David Bernardo
- Mucosal Immunology Lab, Institute of Biomedicine and Molecular Genetics (IBGM), University of Valladolid and Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Valladolid, Spain
- Centro de Investigaciones Biomedicas en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
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2
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Sakata T, Yoshio S, Yamazoe T, Mori T, Kakazu E, Aoki Y, Aoyanagi N, Okamoto T, Ito T, Toyoda H, Kawaguchi T, Ono Y, Takahashi Y, Taketomi A, Kanto T. Immunoglobulin-like transcript 2 as an impaired anti-tumor cytotoxicity marker of natural killer cells in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1389411. [PMID: 38638429 PMCID: PMC11024250 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1389411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Natural killer (NK) cells play a pivotal role in immune surveillance in the liver. We aimed to identify potential targets for NK cell-mediated immune intervention by revealing the functional molecules on NK cells in HCC patients. Methods To evaluate the impact of aging on NK cell phenotypes, we examined NK cells from healthy volunteers (HVs) of various ages. Because ILT2 expression on CD56dim NK cells increased with increasing age, we enrolled age-matched HCC patients and HVs. We determined the NK cell phenotypes in blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and intrahepatic lymphocytes (IHLs) from cancerous and non-cancerous tissues. We evaluated cytotoxicity and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) of NK cells in vitro. Results ILT2-positive CD56dim NK cells in PBMCs were increased in HCC patients compared with HVs. In HCC patients, ILT2-positive CD56dim NK cells were increased in cancerous IHLs compared with non-cancerous IHLs and PBMCs. We examined the impact of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) on ILT2 expression in co-cultures of HCC cells and NK cells. The enhanced expression of ILT2 on CD56dim NK cells from HCC patients was inhibited by masking antibodies against MIF and CXCR4. ILT2-positive CD56dim NK cells exhibited lower capacities for cytotoxicity and ADCC than ILT2-negative cells, which were partially restored by ILT2 blockade. Conclusions In HCC patients, ILT2 is a signature molecule for cancerous CD56dim NK cells with impaired cytolytic capacity. The MIF-CXCR4 interaction is associated with ILT2 induction on CD56dim NK cells and ILT2 serves as a target for functional NK cell restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshihiro Sakata
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Chiba, Japan
- Department of Gastoenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Sachiyo Yoshio
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Taiji Yamazoe
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Taizo Mori
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Eiji Kakazu
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yoshihiko Aoki
- Kohnodai Hospital, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Nobuyoshi Aoyanagi
- Kohnodai Hospital, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Toru Okamoto
- Department of Microbiology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takanori Ito
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Aichi, Japan
| | - Hidenori Toyoda
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Gifu, Japan
| | - Takumi Kawaguchi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Ono
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yu Takahashi
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akinobu Taketomi
- Department of Gastoenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Kanto
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Chiba, Japan
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3
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Frankowski R, Kobierecki M, Wittczak A, Różycka-Kosmalska M, Pietras T, Sipowicz K, Kosmalski M. Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, and Metabolic Repercussions: The Vicious Cycle and Its Interplay with Inflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119677. [PMID: 37298632 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of metabolic-related disorders, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2), has been increasing. Therefore, developing improved methods for the prevention, treatment, and detection of these two conditions is also necessary. In this study, our primary focus was on examining the role of chronic inflammation as a potential link in the pathogenesis of these diseases and their interconnections. A comprehensive search of the PubMed database using keywords such as "non-alcoholic fatty liver disease", "type 2 diabetes mellitus", "chronic inflammation", "pathogenesis", and "progression" yielded 177 relevant papers for our analysis. The findings of our study revealed intricate relationships between the pathogenesis of NAFLD and DM2, emphasizing the crucial role of inflammatory processes. These connections involve various molecular functions, including altered signaling pathways, patterns of gene methylation, the expression of related peptides, and up- and downregulation of several genes. Our study is a foundational platform for future research into the intricate relationship between NAFLD and DM2, allowing for a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms and the potential for introducing new treatment standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafał Frankowski
- Students' Research Club, Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lodz, 90-153 Lodz, Poland
| | - Mateusz Kobierecki
- Students' Research Club, Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lodz, 90-153 Lodz, Poland
| | - Andrzej Wittczak
- Students' Research Club, Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lodz, 90-153 Lodz, Poland
| | | | - Tadeusz Pietras
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lodz, 90-153 Lodz, Poland
| | - Kasper Sipowicz
- Department of Interdisciplinary Disability Studies, The Maria Grzegorzewska University in Warsaw, 02-353 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marcin Kosmalski
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lodz, 90-153 Lodz, Poland
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4
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Yang M, Vanderwert E, Kimchi ET, Staveley-O'Carroll KF, Li G. The Important Roles of Natural Killer Cells in Liver Fibrosis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11051391. [PMID: 37239062 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11051391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis accompanies the development of various chronic liver diseases and promotes their progression. It is characterized by the abnormal accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins (ECM) and impaired ECM degradation. Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the major cellular source of ECM-producing myofibroblasts. If liver fibrosis is uncontrolled, it may lead to cirrhosis and even liver cancer, primarily hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Natural killer (NK) cells are a key component of innate immunity and have miscellaneous roles in liver health and disease. Accumulating evidence shows that NK cells play dual roles in the development and progression of liver fibrosis, including profibrotic and anti-fibrotic functions. Regulating NK cells can suppress the activation of HSCs and improve their cytotoxicity against activated HSCs or myofibroblasts to reverse liver fibrosis. Cells such as regulatory T cells (Tregs) and molecules such as prostaglandin E receptor 3 (EP3) can regulate the cytotoxic function of NK cells. In addition, treatments such as alcohol dehydrogenase 3 (ADH3) inhibitors, microRNAs, natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D) activators, and natural products can enhance NK cell function to inhibit liver fibrosis. In this review, we summarized the cellular and molecular factors that affect the interaction of NK cells with HSCs, as well as the treatments that regulate NK cell function against liver fibrosis. Despite a lot of information about NK cells and their interaction with HSCs, our current knowledge is still insufficient to explain the complex crosstalk between these cells and hepatocytes, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, Kupffer cells, B cells, and T cells, as well as thrombocytes, regarding the development and progression of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Yang
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- NextGen Precision Health Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Harry S. Truman Memorial VA Hospital, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Ethan Vanderwert
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- NextGen Precision Health Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Eric T Kimchi
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- NextGen Precision Health Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Harry S. Truman Memorial VA Hospital, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Kevin F Staveley-O'Carroll
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- NextGen Precision Health Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Harry S. Truman Memorial VA Hospital, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Guangfu Li
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- NextGen Precision Health Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Harry S. Truman Memorial VA Hospital, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
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5
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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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Bahmanyar M, Vakil MK, Al-Awsi GRL, Kouhpayeh SA, Mansoori Y, Mansoori B, Moravej A, Mazarzaei A, Ghasemian A. Anticancer traits of chimeric antigen receptors (CARs)-Natural Killer (NK) cells as novel approaches for melanoma treatment. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:1220. [PMID: 36434591 PMCID: PMC9701052 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-10320-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Owing to non-responsiveness of a high number of patients to the common melanoma therapies, seeking novel approaches seem as an unmet requirement. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells were initially employed against recurrent or refractory B cell malignancies. However, advanced stages or pretreated patients have insufficient T cells (lymphopenia) amount for collection and clinical application. Additionally, this process is time-consuming and logistically cumbersome. Another limitation of this approach is toxicity and cytokine release syndrome (CRS) progress and neurotoxicity syndrome (NS). Natural killer (NK) cells are a versatile component of the innate immunity and have several advantages over T cells in the application for therapies such as availability, unique biological features, safety profile, cost effectiveness and higher tissue residence. Additionally, CAR NK cells do not develop Graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) and are independent of host HLA genotype. Notably, the NK cells number and activity is affected in the tumor microenvironment (TME), paving the way for developing novel approaches by enhancing their maturation and functionality. The CAR NK cells short lifespan is a double edge sword declining toxicity and reducing their persistence. Bispecific and Trispecific Killer Cell Engagers (BiKE and Trike, respectively) are emerging and promising immunotherapies for efficient antibody dependent cell cytotoxicity (ADCC). CAR NK cells have some limitations in terms of expanding and transducing NK cells from donors to achieve clinical response. Clinical trials are in scarcity regarding the CAR NK cell-based cancer therapies. The CAR NK cells short life span following irradiation before infusion limits their efficiency inhibiting their in vivo expansion. The CAR NK cells efficacy enhancement in terms of lifespan TME preparation and stability is a goal for melanoma treatment. Combination therapies using CAR NK cells and chemotherapy can also overcome therapy limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Bahmanyar
- grid.411135.30000 0004 0415 3047Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Mohammad Kazem Vakil
- grid.411135.30000 0004 0415 3047Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | | | - Seyed Amin Kouhpayeh
- grid.411135.30000 0004 0415 3047Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Yaser Mansoori
- grid.411135.30000 0004 0415 3047Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Behnam Mansoori
- grid.411135.30000 0004 0415 3047Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Ali Moravej
- grid.411135.30000 0004 0415 3047Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Abdulbaset Mazarzaei
- grid.512728.b0000 0004 5907 6819Department of Immunology, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences, Iranshahr, Iran
| | - Abdolmajid Ghasemian
- grid.411135.30000 0004 0415 3047Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
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7
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Wang A, Li Z, Sun Z, Wang Y, Fu S, Zhang D, Ma X. Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: new insights from bioinformatics. ESC Heart Fail 2022; 10:416-431. [PMID: 36266995 PMCID: PMC9871724 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.14211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are related conditions with an increasing incidence. The mechanism of their relationship remains undefined. Here, we aimed to explore the potential mechanisms, diagnostic markers, and therapeutic options for HFpEF and NAFLD. METHODS AND RESULTS HFpEF and NAFLD datasets were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened for functional annotation. A protein-protein interaction network was constructed based on the STRING database, and hub genes were analysed using GeneMANIA annotation. ImmuCellAI (Immune Cell Abundance Identifier) was employed for analysis of immune infiltration. We also used validation datasets to validate the expression levels of hub genes and the correlation of immune cells. To screen for diagnostic biomarkers, we employed the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator and support vector machine-recursive feature elimination. Drug signature database was used to predict potential therapeutic drugs. Our analyses identified a total of 33 DEGs. Inflammation and immune infiltration played important roles in the development of both diseases. The data showed a close relationship between chemokine signalling pathway, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, calcium signalling pathway, neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, osteoclast differentiation, and cyclic guanosine monophosphate-protein kinase G signalling pathway. We demonstrated that PRF1 (perforin 1) and IL2RB (interleukin-2 receptor subunit beta) proteins were perturbed by the diseases and may be the hub genes. The analysis showed that miR-375 may be a potential diagnostic marker for both diseases. Our drug prediction analysis showed that bosentan, eldecalcitol, ramipril, and probucol could be potential therapeutic options for the diseases. CONCLUSIONS Our findings revealed common pathogenesis, diagnostic markers, and therapeutic agents for HFpEF and NAFLD. There is need for further experimental studies to validate our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anzhu Wang
- Xiyuan HospitalChina Academy of Chinese Medical SciencesBeijingChina,Graduate SchoolChina Academy of Chinese Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Zhendong Li
- Qingdao West Coast New Area People's HospitalQingdaoChina
| | - Zhuo Sun
- Qingdao West Coast New Area People's HospitalQingdaoChina
| | - Yifei Wang
- Xiyuan HospitalChina Academy of Chinese Medical SciencesBeijingChina,Beijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Shuangqing Fu
- Xiyuan HospitalChina Academy of Chinese Medical SciencesBeijingChina,Beijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Dawu Zhang
- Xiyuan HospitalChina Academy of Chinese Medical SciencesBeijingChina,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine CardiologyBeijingChina
| | - Xiaochang Ma
- Xiyuan HospitalChina Academy of Chinese Medical SciencesBeijingChina,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine CardiologyBeijingChina
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8
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Zhang F, Zhang Z, Li Y, Sun Y, Zhou X, Chen X, Sun S. Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis Identifies Robust Biomarkers and Its Correlation With Immune Microenvironment in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Front Genet 2022; 13:942153. [PMID: 35910194 PMCID: PMC9330026 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.942153] [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: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a serious threat to human health worldwide. In this study, the aim is to analyze diagnosis biomarkers in NAFLD and its relationship with the immune microenvironment based on bioinformatics analysis. Methods: We downloaded microarray datasets (GSE48452 and GSE63067) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database for screening differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The hub genes were screened by a series of machine learning analyses, such as support vector machine (SVM), least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). It is worth mentioning that we used the gene enrichment analysis to explore the driver pathways of NAFLD occurrence. Subsequently, the aforementioned genes were validated by external datasets (GSE66676). Moreover, the CIBERSORT algorithm was used to estimate the proportion of different types of immune cells. Finally, the Spearman analysis was used to verify the relationship between hub genes and immune cells. Results: Hub genes (CAMK1D, CENPV, and TRHDE) were identified. In addition, we found that the pathogenesis of NAFLD is mainly related to nutrient metabolism and the immune system. In correlation analysis, CENPV expression had a strong negative correlation with resting memory CD4 T cells, and TRHDE expression had a strong positive correlation with naive B cells. Conclusion: CAMK1D, CENPV, and TRHDE play regulatory roles in NAFLD. In particular, CENPV and TRHDE may regulate the immune microenvironment by mediating resting memory CD4 T cells and naive B cells, respectively, and thus influence disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Shibo Sun
- *Correspondence: Xiaoning Chen, ; Shibo Sun,
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9
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Papic N, Samadan L, Vrsaljko N, Radmanic L, Jelicic K, Simicic P, Svoboda P, Lepej SZ, Vince A. Distinct Cytokine Profiles in Severe COVID-19 and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12060795. [PMID: 35743825 PMCID: PMC9225218 DOI: 10.3390/life12060795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is identified as a risk factor for developing severe COVID-19. While NAFLD is associated with chronic low-grade inflammation, mechanisms leading to immune system hyperactivation remain unclear. The aim of this prospective observational study is to analyze cytokine profiles in patients with severe COVID-19 and NAFLD. A total of 94 patients with severe COVID-19 were included. Upon admission, clinical and laboratory data were collected, a liver ultrasound was performed to determine the presence of steatosis, and subsequently, 51 were diagnosed with NAFLD according to the current guidelines. There were no differences in age, sex, comorbidities, and baseline disease severity between the groups. Serum cytokine concentrations were analyzed using a multiplex bead-based assay by flow cytometry. Upon admission, the NAFLD group had higher C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, and fibrinogen. Interleukins-6, -8, and -10 and CXCL10 were significantly higher, while IFN-γ was lower in NAFLD patients. Patients with NAFLD who progressed to critical illness had higher concentrations of IL-6, -8, -10, and IFN-β, and IL-8 and IL-10 appear to be effective prognostic biomarkers associated with time to recovery. In conclusion, NAFLD is associated with distinct cytokine profiles in COVID-19, possibly associated with disease severity and adverse outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neven Papic
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (L.S.); (A.V.)
- Department for Viral Hepatitis, University Hospital for Infectious Diseases, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (N.V.); (K.J.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Lara Samadan
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (L.S.); (A.V.)
| | - Nina Vrsaljko
- Department for Viral Hepatitis, University Hospital for Infectious Diseases, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (N.V.); (K.J.)
| | - Leona Radmanic
- Department for Clinical Immunology and Molecular Diagnostics, University Hospital for Infectious Diseases, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (L.R.); (P.S.); (S.Z.L.)
| | - Karlo Jelicic
- Department for Viral Hepatitis, University Hospital for Infectious Diseases, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (N.V.); (K.J.)
| | - Petra Simicic
- Department for Clinical Immunology and Molecular Diagnostics, University Hospital for Infectious Diseases, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (L.R.); (P.S.); (S.Z.L.)
| | - Petra Svoboda
- Research Department, University Hospital for Infectious Diseases, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Snjezana Zidovec Lepej
- Department for Clinical Immunology and Molecular Diagnostics, University Hospital for Infectious Diseases, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (L.R.); (P.S.); (S.Z.L.)
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Adriana Vince
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (L.S.); (A.V.)
- Department for Viral Hepatitis, University Hospital for Infectious Diseases, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (N.V.); (K.J.)
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A Low Glycemic Index Mediterranean Diet Combined with Aerobic Physical Activity Rearranges the Gut Microbiota Signature in NAFLD Patients. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14091773. [PMID: 35565740 PMCID: PMC9101735 DOI: 10.3390/nu14091773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease, and its prevalence worldwide is increasing. Several studies support the pathophysiological role of the gut–liver axis, where specific signal pathways are finely tuned by intestinal microbiota both in the onset and progression of NAFLD. In the present study, we investigate the impact of different lifestyle interventions on the gut microbiota composition in 109 NAFLD patients randomly allocated to six lifestyle intervention groups: Low Glycemic Index Mediterranean Diet (LGIMD), aerobic activity program (ATFIS_1), combined activity program (ATFIS_2), LGIMD plus ATFIS_1 or ATFIS2 and Control Diet based on CREA-AN (INRAN). The relative abundances of microbial taxa at all taxonomic levels were explored in all the intervention groups and used to cluster samples based on a statistical approach, relying both on the discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPCs) and on a linear regression model. Our analyses reveal important differences when physical activity and the Mediterranean diet are merged as treatment and allow us to identify the most statistically significant taxa linked with liver protection. These findings agree with the decreased ‘controlled attenuation parameter’ (CAP) detected in the LGIMD-ATFIS_1 group, measured using FibroScan®. In conclusion, our study demonstrates the synergistic effect of lifestyle interventions (diet and/or physical activity programs) on the gut microbiota composition in NAFLD patients.
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11
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Lin SZ, Fan JG. Peripheral immune cells in NAFLD patients: A spyhole to disease progression. EBioMedicine 2021; 75:103768. [PMID: 34929490 PMCID: PMC8693289 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a worldwide leading cause of chronic liver disease, but we still lack ideal non-invasive tools for diagnosis and evaluation of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and related liver fibrosis in NAFLD population. Systemic immune dysregulations such as metabolic inflammation are believed to play central role in the development of NAFLD, signifying the hope of utilizing quantitative and phenotypic changes in peripheral immune cells among NAFLD patients as a diagnostic tool of NASH and fibrosis. In this review, we summarize the known changes in peripheral immune cells from NAFLD/NASH patients and their potential relationship with NAFLD and NASH progression. Potential challenges and possible solutions for further clinical translation are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang-Zhe Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xin Hua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian-Gao Fan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xin Hua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Shanghai, China.
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12
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Ravanbakhsh N, Kohli R. Biomarkers in Fatty Liver Disease-Here is the Skinny. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2021; 11:637-640. [PMID: 34866840 PMCID: PMC8617537 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2021.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Naseem Ravanbakhsh
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, 4650 Sunset Blvd., Mailstop #78, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA
| | - Rohit Kohli
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, 4650 Sunset Blvd., Mailstop #78, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA
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13
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Phenotypic Characterization by Single-Cell Mass Cytometry of Human Intrahepatic and Peripheral NK Cells in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061495. [PMID: 34198593 PMCID: PMC8231799 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Overall response rates of systemic therapies against advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unsatisfactory. Thus, searching for new immunotherapy targets is indispensable. NK cells are crucial effectors and regulators in the tumor microenvironment and a determinant of responsiveness to checkpoint inhibitors. We revealed the landscape of NK cell phenotypes in HCC patients to find potential immunotherapy targets. Using single cell mass cytometry, we analyzed 32 surface markers on CD56dim and CD56bright NK cells, which included Sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-type lectins (Siglecs). We compared peripheral NK cells between HCC patients and healthy volunteers. We also compared NK cells, in terms of their localizations, on an individual patient bases between peripheral and intrahepatic NK cells from cancerous and noncancerous liver tissues. In the HCC patient periphery, CD160+CD56dim NK cells that expressed Siglec-7, NKp46, and NKp30 were reduced, while CD49a+CD56dim NK cells that expressed Siglec-10 were increased. CD160 and CD49a on CD56dim NK cells were significantly correlated to other NK-related markers in HCC patients, which suggested that CD160 and CD49a were signature molecules. CD49a+ CX3CR1+ Siglec-10+ NK cells had accumulated in HCC tissues. Considering further functional analyses, CD160, CD49a, CX3CR1, and Siglec-10 on CD56dim NK cells may be targets for immunotherapies of HCC patients.
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