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Shakour N, Karami S, Iranshahi M, Butler AE, Sahebkar A. Antifibrotic effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors: A comprehensive review. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2024; 18:102934. [PMID: 38154403 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2023.102934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Scar tissue accumulation in organs is the underlying cause of many fibrotic diseases. Due to the extensive array of organs affected, the long-term nature of fibrotic processes and the large number of people who suffer from the negative impact of these diseases, they constitute a serious health problem for modern medicine and a huge economic burden on society. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) are a relatively new class of anti-diabetic pharmaceuticals that offer additional benefits over and above their glucose-lowering properties; these medications modulate a variety of diseases, including fibrosis. Herein, we have collated and analyzed all available research on SGLT2is and their effects on organ fibrosis, together with providing a proposed explanation as to the underlying mechanisms. METHODS PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and Scopus were searched spanning the period from 2012 until April 2023 to find relevant articles describing the antifibrotic effects of SGLT2is. RESULTS The majority of reports have shown that SGLT2is are protective against lung, liver, heart and kidney fibrosis as well as arterial stiffness. According to the results of clinical trials and animal studies, many SGLT2 inhibitors are promising candidates for the treatment of fibrosis. Recent studies have demonstrated that SGLT2is affect an array of cellular processes, including hypoxia, inflammation, oxidative stress, the renin-angiotensin system and metabolic activities, all of which have been linked to fibrosis. CONCLUSION Extensive evidence indicates that SGLT2is are promising treatments for fibrosis, demonstrating protective effects in various organs and influencing key cellular processes linked to fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Shakour
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Shima Karami
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Iranshahi
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alexandra E Butler
- Research Department, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Adliya, Bahrain
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Dong Y, Wang X, Xu L, Li X, Dai H, Mao X, Chu Y, Yuan X, Liu H. Development of a Chimeric Protein BiPPB-mIFNγ-tTβRII for Improving the Anti-Fibrotic Activity in Vivo by Targeting Fibrotic Liver and Dual Inhibiting the TGF-β1/Smad Signaling Pathway. Protein J 2023; 42:753-765. [PMID: 37690089 DOI: 10.1007/s10930-023-10147-z] [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] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Excessive production of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) in activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) promotes liver fibrosis by activating the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway. Thus, specifically inhibiting the pro-fibrotic activity of TGF-β1 in aHSCs is an ideal strategy for treating liver fibrosis. Overexpression of platelet-derived growth factor β receptor (PDGFβR) has been demonstrated on the surface of aHSCs relative to normal cells in liver fibrosis. Interferon-gamma peptidomimetic (mIFNγ) and truncated TGF-β receptor type II (tTβRII) inhibit the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway by different mechanisms. In this study, we designed a chimeric protein by the conjugation of (1) mIFNγ and tTβRII coupled via plasma protease-cleavable linker sequences (FNPKTP) to (2) PDGFβR-recognizing peptide (BiPPB), namely BiPPB-mIFNγ-tTβRII. This novel protein BiPPB-mIFNγ-tTβRII was effectively prepared using Escherichia coli expression system. The active components BiPPB-mIFNγ and tTβRII were slowly released from BiPPB-mIFNγ-tTβRII by hydrolysis using the plasma protease thrombin in vitro. Moreover, BiPPB-mIFNγ-tTβRII highly targeted to fibrotic liver tissues, markedly ameliorated liver morphology and fibrotic responses in chronic liver fibrosis mice by both inhibiting the phosphorylation of Smad2/3 and inducing the expression of Smad7. Meanwhile, BiPPB-mIFNγ-tTβRII markedly reduced the deposition of collagen fibrils and expression of fibrosis-related proteins in acute liver fibrosis mice. Furthermore, BiPPB-mIFNγ-tTβRII showed a good safety performance in both liver fibrosis mice. Taken together, BiPPB-mIFNγ-tTβRII improved the in vivo anti-liver fibrotic activity due to its high fibrotic liver-targeting potential and the dual inhibition of the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway, which may be a potential candidate for targeting therapy on liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Dong
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory for Anti-fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, 157011, Mudanjiang, PR China
| | - Xiaohua Wang
- Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Mudanjiang Medical University, 157011, Mudanjiang, PR China
| | - Liming Xu
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory for Anti-fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, 157011, Mudanjiang, PR China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Hongqi Hospital Affiliated to Mudanjiang Medical University, 157011, Mudanjiang, PR China
| | - Haibing Dai
- Department of Biology, Mudanjiang Medical University, 157011, Mudanjiang, PR China
| | - Xu Mao
- Department of Pharmacology, Mudanjiang Medical University, 157011, Mudanjiang, PR China
| | - Yanhui Chu
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory for Anti-fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, 157011, Mudanjiang, PR China
| | - Xiaohuan Yuan
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory for Anti-fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, 157011, Mudanjiang, PR China.
| | - Haifeng Liu
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory for Anti-fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, 157011, Mudanjiang, PR China.
- Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Mudanjiang Medical University, 157011, Mudanjiang, PR China.
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Rostami M, Aghaei M, Ghanadian M, Hashemnia M, Moezzi ND, Mohammadalipour A. Evaluation of the flavonol-rich fraction of Rosa damascena in an animal model of liver fibrosis by targeting the expression of fibrotic cytokines, antioxidant/oxidant ratio and collagen cross-linking. Life Sci 2023; 333:122143. [PMID: 37797686 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The flavonoid-rich fraction of Rosa damascena (FRFRD) contains antioxidant and active compounds. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the role of FRFRD, rich in quercetin and kaempferol, in liver fibrosis induced by CCl4. MATERIALS AND METHODS The FRFRD fraction was separated and standardized by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) based on the levels of quercetin and kaempferol. Liver fibrosis was induced over CCl4 over 12 weeks in 30 male Wistar rats, and three concentrations of FRFRD were administered to them during the last four weeks. Subsequently, after evaluation of liver serum markers and fibrotic parameters, the relative expression of transforming growth factor-beta-1 (TGF-β1), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and lysyl oxidase homolog 2 (Loxl2) genes were assessed, along with the measurement of lysyl oxidase activity and oxidative markers. RESULTS Fibrotic markers demonstrated progressive recovery of liver damage in the treated group compared to the non-treatment group (p < 0.01). These results were accompanied by a significant decrease in the expression of TGF-β1, PDGF, and Loxl2 genes, as well as, a reduction in lysyl oxidase activity (p < 0.001). The antioxidant effects of the treatment were observed through a significant decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and an increase in catalase enzyme (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity in the treatment group compared to the fibrotic group (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION The flavonoid-rich fraction of Rosa damascena ameliorates liver damage by affecting collagen cross-linking and lowering oxidative and inflammatory levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Rostami
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Aghaei
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mustafa Ghanadian
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Isfahan Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hashemnia
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Nasrin Deilami Moezzi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Adel Mohammadalipour
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
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Luangmonkong T, Parichatikanond W, Olinga P. Targeting collagen homeostasis for the treatment of liver fibrosis: Opportunities and challenges. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 215:115740. [PMID: 37567319 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is an excessive production, aberrant deposition, and deficit degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM). Patients with unresolved fibrosis ultimately undergo end-stage liver diseases. To date, the effective and safe strategy to cease fibrosis progression remains an unmet clinical need. Since collagens are the most abundant ECM protein which play an essential role in fibrogenesis, the suitable regulation of collagen homeostasis could be an effective strategy for the treatment of liver fibrosis. Therefore, this review provides a brief overview on the dysregulation of ECM homeostasis, focusing on collagens, in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. Most importantly, promising therapeutic mechanisms related to biosynthesis, deposition and extracellular interactions, and degradation of collagens, together with preclinical and clinical antifibrotic evidence of drugs affecting each target are orderly criticized. In addition, challenges for targeting collagen homeostasis in the treatment of liver fibrosis are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theerut Luangmonkong
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Thailand; Centre of Biopharmaceutical Science for Healthy Ageing (BSHA), Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Warisara Parichatikanond
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Thailand; Centre of Biopharmaceutical Science for Healthy Ageing (BSHA), Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Peter Olinga
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
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Ha KB, Lee ES, Park NW, Jo SH, Shim S, Kim DK, Ahn CM, Chung CH. Beneficial Effects of a Curcumin Derivative and Transforming Growth Factor-β Receptor I Inhibitor Combination on Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis. Diabetes Metab J 2023; 47:500-513. [PMID: 37096379 PMCID: PMC10404525 DOI: 10.4093/dmj.2022.0110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGRUOUND Curcumin 2005-8 (Cur5-8), a derivative of curcumin, improves fatty liver disease via AMP-activated protein kinase activation and autophagy regulation. EW-7197 (vactosertib) is a small molecule inhibitor of transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) receptor I and may scavenge reactive oxygen species and ameliorate fibrosis through the SMAD2/3 canonical pathway. This study aimed to determine whether co-administering these two drugs having different mechanisms is beneficial. METHODS Hepatocellular fibrosis was induced in mouse hepatocytes (alpha mouse liver 12 [AML12]) and human hepatic stellate cells (LX-2) using TGF-β (2 ng/mL). The cells were then treated with Cur5-8 (1 μM), EW-7197 (0.5 μM), or both. In animal experiments were also conducted during which, methionine-choline deficient diet, Cur5-8 (100 mg/kg), and EW-7197 (20 mg/kg) were administered orally to 8-week-old C57BL/6J mice for 6 weeks. RESULTS TGF-β-induced cell morphological changes were improved by EW-7197, and lipid accumulation was restored on the administration of EW-7197 in combination with Cur5-8. In a nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)-induced mouse model, 6 weeks of EW-7197 and Cur5-8 co-administration alleviated liver fibrosis and improved the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) activity score. CONCLUSION Co-administering Cur5-8 and EW-7197 to NASH-induced mice and fibrotic hepatocytes reduced liver fibrosis and steatohepatitis while maintaining the advantages of both drugs. This is the first study to show the effect of the drug combination against NASH and NAFLD. Similar effects in other animal models will confirm its potential as a new therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Bong Ha
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Research Institute of Metabolism and Inflammation, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Eun Soo Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Research Institute of Metabolism and Inflammation, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Na Won Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Research Institute of Metabolism and Inflammation, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Su Ho Jo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Research Institute of Metabolism and Inflammation, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Soyeon Shim
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dae-Kee Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chan Mug Ahn
- Department of Basic Science, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Choon Hee Chung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Research Institute of Metabolism and Inflammation, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
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Bansal R, Poelstra K. Hepatic Stellate Cell Targeting Using Peptide-Modified Biologicals. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2669:269-284. [PMID: 37247067 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3207-9_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Liver diseases are a leading cause of death worldwide and are rising exponentially due to increasing prevalence of metabolic disorders. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are recognized as a key therapeutic target in liver diseases as these cells, upon activation during liver damage and ongoing liver inflammation, secrete excessive amounts of extracellular matrix that leads to liver tissue scarring (fibrosis) responsible for liver dysfunction (end-stage liver disease) and desmoplasia in hepatocellular carcinoma. Targeting of HSCs to reverse fibrosis progression has been realized by several experts in the field, including us. We have developed strategies to target activated HSCs by utilizing the receptors overexpressed on the surface of activated HSCs. One well-known receptor is platelet derived growth factor receptor-beta (PDGFR-β). Using PDGFR-β recognizing peptides (cyclic PPB or bicyclic PPB), we can deliver biologicals, e.g., interferon gamma (IFNγ) or IFNγ activity domain (mimetic IFNγ), to the activated HSCs that can inhibit their activation and reverse liver fibrosis. In this chapter, we provide the detailed methods and the principles involved in the synthesis of these targeted (mimetic) IFNγ constructs. These methods can be adapted for synthesizing constructs for targeted/cell-specific delivery of peptides/proteins, drugs, and imaging agents useful for various applications including diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory and fibrotic diseases and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruchi Bansal
- Translational Liver Research, Department of Medical Cell BioPhysics, Technical Medical Centre, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands.
| | - Klaas Poelstra
- Department of Nanomedicine and Drug Targeting, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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Gomari MM, Abkhiz S, Pour TG, Lotfi E, Rostami N, Monfared FN, Ghobari B, Mosavi M, Alipour B, Dokholyan NV. Peptidomimetics in cancer targeting. Mol Med 2022; 28:146. [PMID: 36476230 PMCID: PMC9730693 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-022-00577-3] [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: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The low efficiency of treatment strategies is one of the main obstacles to developing cancer inhibitors. Up to now, various classes of therapeutics have been developed to inhibit cancer progression. Peptides due to their small size and easy production compared to proteins are highly regarded in designing cancer vaccines and oncogenic pathway inhibitors. Although peptides seem to be a suitable therapeutic option, their short lifespan, instability, and low binding affinity for their target have not been widely applicable against malignant tumors. Given the peptides' disadvantages, a new class of agents called peptidomimetic has been introduced. With advances in physical chemistry and biochemistry, as well as increased knowledge about biomolecule structures, it is now possible to chemically modify peptides to develop efficient peptidomimetics. In recent years, numerous studies have been performed to the evaluation of the effectiveness of peptidomimetics in inhibiting metastasis, angiogenesis, and cancerous cell growth. Here, we offer a comprehensive review of designed peptidomimetics to diagnose and treat cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mahmoudi Gomari
- grid.411746.10000 0004 4911 7066Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shadi Abkhiz
- grid.411746.10000 0004 4911 7066Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Taha Ghantab Pour
- grid.411746.10000 0004 4911 7066Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Lotfi
- grid.411746.10000 0004 4911 7066Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Neda Rostami
- grid.411425.70000 0004 0417 7516Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Arak University, Arak, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Nafe Monfared
- grid.411705.60000 0001 0166 0922Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Babak Ghobari
- grid.412831.d0000 0001 1172 3536Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mona Mosavi
- grid.411746.10000 0004 4911 7066Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behruz Alipour
- grid.411705.60000 0001 0166 0922Medical Biotechnology Department, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nikolay V. Dokholyan
- grid.240473.60000 0004 0543 9901Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA USA ,grid.240473.60000 0004 0543 9901Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA USA
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8
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Ding Y, Tao C, Chen Q, Chen L, Hu X, Li M, Wang S, Jiang F. Cynarin inhibits PDGF-BB-induced proliferation and activation in hepatic stellate cells through PPARγ. OPEN CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1515/chem-2022-0192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Cynarin, a caffeoylquinic acid compound that was mainly extracted from Cynara scolymus L., displays various activities such as antioxidant, antibacterial, choleretic, and hepatoprotective functions. However, the target of cynarin and the mechanism of its hepatoprotective effect are still unclear. To find cynarin’s target, we performed molecular docking analysis, fluorescence-based ligand-binding assay, and reporter gene system assay. Our results indicated that cynarin was a partial agonist of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ). Further studies showed that cynarin significantly inhibited platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB-induced proliferation and activation of rat CFSC-8G hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Our results also revealed that cynarin inhibited PDGF-BB-induced extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK) and v-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog (AKT) phosphorylation in HSCs. In addition, this inhibition effect was PPARγ dependent since the knockdown of PPARγ significantly attenuated the effects of cynarin on PDGF-BB-induced p-ERK, p-AKT, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expressions. Therefore, this study suggests that cynarin is a promising antifibrotic lead compound that inhibits the activation of HSCs, and it works by targeting PPARγ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Ding
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Forest Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Southwest Forestry University , Kunming 650224 , China
| | - Congcong Tao
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Forest Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Southwest Forestry University , Kunming 650224 , China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University , Xiamen 361102 , China
| | - Qian Chen
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University , Xiamen 361102 , China
| | - Lulu Chen
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University , Xiamen 361102 , China
| | - Xianwen Hu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University , Xiamen 361102 , China
| | - Mingyu Li
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University , Xiamen 361102 , China
| | - Shicong Wang
- Fujian Pien Tze Huang Enterprise Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Research and Development, Zhangzhou Pien Tze Huang Pharmaceutical, Co., Ltd. , Zhangzhou 363000 , China
| | - Fuquan Jiang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University , Xiamen 361102 , China
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Interplays of liver fibrosis-associated microRNAs: Molecular mechanisms and implications in diagnosis and therapy. Genes Dis 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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10
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Fibrotic Scar in CNS Injuries: From the Cellular Origins of Fibroblasts to the Molecular Processes of Fibrotic Scar Formation. Cells 2022; 11:cells11152371. [PMID: 35954214 PMCID: PMC9367779 DOI: 10.3390/cells11152371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) trauma activates a persistent repair response that leads to fibrotic scar formation within the lesion. This scarring is similar to other organ fibrosis in many ways; however, the unique features of the CNS differentiate it from other organs. In this review, we discuss fibrotic scar formation in CNS trauma, including the cellular origins of fibroblasts, the mechanism of fibrotic scar formation following an injury, as well as the implication of the fibrotic scar in CNS tissue remodeling and regeneration. While discussing the shared features of CNS fibrotic scar and fibrosis outside the CNS, we highlight their differences and discuss therapeutic targets that may enhance regeneration in the CNS.
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11
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Martín-Otal C, Lasarte-Cia A, Serrano D, Casares N, Conde E, Navarro F, Sánchez-Moreno I, Gorraiz M, Sarrión P, Calvo A, De Andrea CE, Echeveste J, Vilas A, Rodriguez-Madoz JR, San Miguel J, Prosper F, Hervas-Stubbs S, Lasarte JJ, Lozano T. Targeting the extra domain A of fibronectin for cancer therapy with CAR-T cells. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:jitc-2021-004479. [PMID: 35918123 PMCID: PMC9351345 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-004479] [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] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the main difficulties of adoptive cell therapies with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells in solid tumors is the identification of specific target antigens. The tumor microenvironment can present suitable antigens for CAR design, even though they are not expressed by the tumor cells. We have generated a CAR specific for the splice variant extra domain A (EDA) of fibronectin, which is highly expressed in the tumor stroma of many types of tumors but not in healthy tissues. METHODS EDA expression was explored in RNA-seq data from different human tumor types and by immunohistochemistry in paraffin-embedded tumor biopsies. Murine and human anti-EDA CAR-T cells were prepared using recombinant retro/lentiviruses, respectively. The functionality of EDA CAR-T cells was measured in vitro in response to antigen stimulation. The antitumor activity of EDA CAR-T cells was measured in vivo in C57BL/6 mice challenged with PM299L-EDA hepatocarcinoma cell line, in 129Sv mice-bearing F9 teratocarcinoma and in NSG mice injected with the human hepatocarcinoma cell line PLC. RESULTS EDA CAR-T cells recognized and killed EDA-expressing tumor cell lines in vitro and rejected EDA-expressing tumors in immunocompetent mice. Notably, EDA CAR-T cells showed an antitumor effect in mice injected with EDA-negative tumor cells lines when the tumor stroma or the basement membrane of tumor endothelial cells express EDA. Thus, EDA CAR-T administration delayed tumor growth in immunocompetent 129Sv mice challenged with teratocarcinoma cell line F9. EDA CAR-T treatment exerted an antiangiogenic effect and significantly reduced gene signatures associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition, collagen synthesis, extracellular matrix organization as well as IL-6-STAT5 and KRAS pathways. Importantly, the human version of EDA CAR, that includes the human 41BB and CD3ζ endodomains, exerted strong antitumor activity in NSG mice challenged with the human hepatocarcinoma cell line PLC, which expresses EDA in the tumor stroma and the endothelial vasculature. EDA CAR-T cells exhibited a tropism for EDA-expressing tumor tissue and no toxicity was observed in tumor bearing or in healthy mice. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that targeting the tumor-specific fibronectin splice variant EDA with CAR-T cells is feasible and offers a therapeutic option that is applicable to different types of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia Martín-Otal
- Programa de Inmunología e Inmunoterapia, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Aritz Lasarte-Cia
- Programa de Inmunología e Inmunoterapia, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Diego Serrano
- Programa de Tumores sólidos, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Noelia Casares
- Programa de Inmunología e Inmunoterapia, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Enrique Conde
- Programa de Inmunología e Inmunoterapia, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Flor Navarro
- Programa de Inmunología e Inmunoterapia, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Inés Sánchez-Moreno
- Programa de Inmunología e Inmunoterapia, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Marta Gorraiz
- Programa de Inmunología e Inmunoterapia, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Patricia Sarrión
- Programa de Inmunología e Inmunoterapia, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Alfonso Calvo
- Programa de Tumores sólidos, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Carlos E De Andrea
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Departamento de Patología, Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | - José Echeveste
- Departamento de Patología, Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | - Amaia Vilas
- Programa de Hemato-Oncología, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, CIMA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Juan Roberto Rodriguez-Madoz
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red de Cancer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain,Cancer Center Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Jesús San Miguel
- Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red de Cancer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain,Cancer Center Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Felipe Prosper
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Programa de Hemato-Oncología, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, CIMA, Pamplona, Spain.,Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red de Cancer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain,Cancer Center Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Sandra Hervas-Stubbs
- Programa de Inmunología e Inmunoterapia, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Pamplona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Juan Jose Lasarte
- Departamento de Hematología, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Teresa Lozano
- Departamento de Hematología, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
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12
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The miR-23b/27b/24-1 Cluster Inhibits Hepatic Fibrosis by Inactivating Hepatic Stellate Cells. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 13:1393-1412. [PMID: 35093591 PMCID: PMC8938281 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2022.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatic fibrosis is characterized by hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and transdifferentiation-mediated extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, which both contribute to cirrhosis. However, no antifibrotic regimen is available in the clinic. microRNA-23b/27b/24-1 cluster inhibition of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling during hepatic development prompted us to explore whether this cluster inhibits HSC activation and hepatic fibrosis. METHODS Experimental fibrosis was studied in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-treated C57BL/6 mice. After administration of miR-23b/27b/24-1 lentivirus or vehicle, animals were euthanized for liver histology. In primary rat HSC and HSC-T6, the anti-fibrotic effect of miR-23b/27b/24-1 cluster was furtherly investigated by RNA-sequencing, luciferase reporter assay, western blotting and bioinformatic means. RESULTS In this study, we showed that increasing the miR-23b/27b/24-1 level through intravenous delivery of miR-23b/27b/24-1 lentivirus ameliorated mouse hepatic fibrosis. Mechanistically, the miR-23b/27b/24-1 cluster directly targeted messenger RNAs, which reduced the protein expression of 5 secretory profibrotic genes (TGF-β2, Gremlin1, LOX, Itgα2, and Itgα5) in HSCs. Suppression of the TGF-β signaling pathway by down-regulation of TGF-β2, Itgα2, and Itgα5, and activation of the bone morphogenetic protein signaling pathway by inhibition of Gremlin1, decreased extracellular matrix secretion of HSCs. Furthermore, down-regulation of LOX expression softened the ECM. Moreover, a reduction in tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase 1 expression owing to weakened TGF-β signaling increased ECM degradation. CONCLUSIONS Hepatic overexpression of the miR-23b/27b/24-1 cluster blocked hepatic fibrosis and may be a novel therapeutic regimen for patients with hepatic fibrosis.
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13
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Chen JN, He YD, Liang HT, Cai TT, Chen Q, Zheng KW. Regulation of PDGFR-β gene expression by targeting the G-vacancy bearing G-quadruplex in promoter. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:12634-12643. [PMID: 34850916 PMCID: PMC8682790 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab1154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplex is an essential element in gene transcription that serves as a promising drug target. Guanine-vacancy-bearing G-quadruplex (GVBQ) is a newly identified G-quadruplex that has distinct structural features from the canonical G-quadruplex. Potential GVBQ-forming motifs are widely distributed in gene promoter regions. However, whether GVBQ can form in genomic DNA and be an effective target for manipulating gene expression is unknown. Using photo-crosslinking, dimethyl sulfate footprinting, exonuclease digestion and in vitro transcription, we demonstrated the formation of a GVBQ in the G-rich nuclease hypersensitivity element within the human PDGFR-β gene promoter region in both single-stranded and double-stranded DNA. The formation of GVBQ in dsDNA could be induced by negative supercoiling created by downstream transcription. We also found that the PDGFR-β GVBQ was specifically recognized and stabilized by a new synthetic porphyrin guanine conjugate (mPG). Targeting the PDGFR-β GVBQ in human cancer cells using the mPG could specifically alter PDGFR-β gene expression. Our work illustrates that targeting GVBQ with mPG in human cells can regulate the expression level of a specific gene, thus indicating a novel strategy for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan-Nan Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P.R. China
| | - Yi-de He
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P.R. China.,School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China
| | - Hui-Ting Liang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P.R. China
| | - Ting-Ting Cai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P.R. China
| | - Qi Chen
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P.R. China
| | - Ke-Wei Zheng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P.R. China
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14
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Ali AL, Nailwal NP, Doshi GM. Emerging Role of Interleukins for the Assessment and Treatment of Liver Diseases. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets 2021; 22:371-382. [PMID: 34819013 DOI: 10.2174/1871530321666211124102837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The most common liver diseases are fibrosis, alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty disease, viral hepatitis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. These liver diseases account for approximately 2 million deaths per year worldwide, with cirrhosis accounting for 2.1% of the worldwide burden. The most widely used liver function tests for diagnosis are alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, serum proteins, serum albumin, and serum globulins, whereas antivirals and corticosteroids have been proven to be useful for the treatment of liver diseases. A major disadvantage of these diagnostic measures is the lack of specificity to a particular tissue or cell type, as these enzymes are common to one or more tissues. The major adverse effect of current treatment methods is drug resistance. To overcome these issues, interleukins have been investigated. The balance of these interleukins determines the outcome of an immune response. Interleukins are considered interesting therapeutic targets for the treatment of liver diseases. In this review, we summarize the current state of knowledge regarding interleukins in the diagnosis, treatment, and pathogenesis of different acute and chronic liver diseases. OBJECTIVE To understand the role of interleukins in the assessment and treatment of different types of liver diseases. METHODS A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Science Direct, and NCBI with the following keywords: Interleukins, Acute Liver Failure, Alcoholic Liver Disease, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, Liver Fibrosis, Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Inflammation, Liver injury, Hepatoprotective effect. Clinical trial data on these interleukins have been searched on Clinicaltrials.gov. RESULTS Existing literature and preclinical and clinical trial data demonstrate that interleukins play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of liver diseases. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that IL-1, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, IL-22, IL-35, and IL-37 are involved in the progression and control of various liver conditions via the regulation of cell signaling pathways. However, further investigation on the involvement of these interleukins is necessary for their use as a targeted therapy in liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaliya L Ali
- Department of Pharmacology, SVKM'S Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, Mithibai Campus, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai-400056. India
| | - Namrata P Nailwal
- Department of Pharmacology, SVKM'S Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, Mithibai Campus, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai-400056. India
| | - Gaurav M Doshi
- Department of Pharmacology, SVKM'S Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, Mithibai Campus, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai-400056. India
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15
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Meng F, Khoso MH, Kang K, He Q, Cao Y, Jiang X, Xiao W, Li D. FGF21 ameliorates hepatic fibrosis by multiple mechanisms. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:7153-7163. [PMID: 34536190 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06707-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous study reports that fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) could ameliorate hepatic fibrosis, but its mechanisms have not been fully investigated. METHODS AND RESULTS In this study, three models were used to investigate the mechanism by which FGF21 alleviates liver fibrosis. Hepatic fibrosis animal models were respectively induced by CCL4 and dimethylnitrosamine. Our results demonstrated that liver index and liver function were deteriorated in both models. Hematoxylin and eosin and Masson's staining showed that the damaged tissue architectonics were observed in the mice of both models. Treatment with FGF21 significantly ameliorated these changes. ELISA analysis showed that the serum levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were significantly elevated in both models. However, administration of FGF21 significantly reduced these inflammatory cytokines. Real-time PCR and Western blot analysis showed that treatment with FGF21 significantly decreased mRNA and protein expressions of collagenI, α-SMA and TGF-β. Platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) stimulant was used to establish the experimental cell model in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Real-time PCR and Western blot analysis demonstrated that the expression of collagenI and α-SMA were significantly upregulated by this stimulant in model group. Interestingly, our results showed that mRNA and protein expressions of leptin were also significantly induced in PDGF-BB treated HSCs. Administration of FGF21 significantly reduced leptin expression in a dose dependent manner and these effects were reversed in siRNA (against β-klotho) transfected HSCs. Furthermore, the leptin signaling pathways related protein p-ERK/t-ERK, p-STAT3/STAT3 and TGF-β were significantly downregulated by FGF21 treatment in a dose dependent manner. The expressions of SOCS3 and Nrf-2 were enhanced by treatment with FGF21. The underlying mechanism may be that FGF21 regulates leptin-STAT3 axis via Nrf-2 and SOCS3 pathway in activated HSCs. CONCLUSIONS FGF21 ameliorates hepatic fibrosis by multiple mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanrui Meng
- Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Mir Hassan Khoso
- Department of Biochemistry, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Medical University, Larkana, Pakistan
| | - Kai Kang
- Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Qi He
- Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Yukai Cao
- Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | | | - Wei Xiao
- Jiangsu Kanion Pharmaceutical CO. LTD, Jiangsu, Lianyungang, State Key Laboratory of New-Tech for Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutical Process, Jiangsu, 220000, China.
| | - Deshan Li
- Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China.
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16
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Li W, Little N, Park J, Foster CA, Chen J, Lu J. Tumor-Associated Fibroblast-Targeting Nanoparticles for Enhancing Solid Tumor Therapy: Progress and Challenges. Mol Pharm 2021; 18:2889-2905. [PMID: 34260250 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.1c00455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Even though nanoparticle drug delivery systems (nanoDDSs) have improved antitumor efficacy by delivering more drugs to tumor sites compared to free and unencapsulated therapeutics, achieving satisfactory distribution and penetration of nanoDDSs inside solid tumors, especially in stromal fibrous tumors, remains challenging. As one of the most common stromal cells in solid tumors, tumor-associated fibroblasts (TAFs) not only promote tumor growth and metastasis but also reduce the drug delivery efficiency of nanoparticles through the tumor's inherent physical and physiological barriers. Thus, TAFs have been emerging as attractive targets, and TAF-targeting nanotherapeutics have been extensively explored to enhance the tumor delivery efficiency and efficacy of various anticancer agents. The purpose of this Review is to opportunely summarize the underlying mechanisms of TAFs on obstructing nanoparticle-mediated drug delivery into tumors and discuss the current advances of a plethora of nanotherapeutic approaches for effectively targeting TAFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenpan Li
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Nicholas Little
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Jonghan Park
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Cole Alexander Foster
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Jiawei Chen
- Michigan Institute for Clinical & Health Research, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Jianqin Lu
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States.,BIO5 Institute, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States.,NCI-designated University of Arizona Comprehensive Cancer Center, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States.,Southwest Environmental Health Sciences Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
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17
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Razdan A, Main NM, Chiu V, Shackel NA, de Souza P, Bryant K, Scott KF. Targeting the eicosanoid pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:2456-2476. [PMID: 34249410 PMCID: PMC8263695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer has variable incidence worldwide and high mortality. Histologically, the most common subtype of liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Approximately 30-40% of HCC patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage, and at present, there are limited treatment options for such patients. The current first-line therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors, sorafenib or lenvatinib, prolongs survival by a median of about 2.5-3 months after which the disease normally progresses. Additionally, many patients discontinue the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors due to toxicity or may not be suitable candidates due to co-morbidity or frailty. It is, therefore, imperative to identify novel therapeutic targets for advanced HCC patients. Persistent injury to the liver as a result of insults such as hepatitis B or C viral (HBV or HCV) infections, alcohol abuse, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), results in chronic inflammation, which progresses to hepatic fibrosis and later, cirrhosis, provides the conditions for initiation of HCC. One of the key pathways studied for its role in inflammation and carcinogenesis is the eicosanoid pathway. In this review, we briefly outline the eicosanoid pathway, describe the mechanisms by which some pathway members either facilitate or counter the development of liver diseases, with the focus on NAFLD/hepatic fibrosis/cirrhosis, and HCC. We describe the link between the eicosanoid pathway, inflammation and these liver diseases, and identify components of the eicosanoid pathway that may be used as potential therapeutic targets in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anshuli Razdan
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney UniversitySydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical ResearchSydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nathan M Main
- Gastroenterology and Liver Laboratory, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical ResearchSydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Vincent Chiu
- Gastroenterology and Liver Laboratory, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical ResearchSydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicholas A Shackel
- Gastroenterology and Liver Laboratory, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical ResearchSydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Paul de Souza
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney UniversitySydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical ResearchSydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of WollongongWollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Katherine Bryant
- Gastroenterology and Liver Laboratory, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical ResearchSydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kieran F Scott
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney UniversitySydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical ResearchSydney, NSW, Australia
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18
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Ribera J, Vilches C, Sanz V, de Miguel I, Portolés I, Córdoba-Jover B, Prat E, Nunes V, Jiménez W, Quidant R, Morales-Ruiz M. Treatment of Hepatic Fibrosis in Mice Based on Targeted Plasmonic Hyperthermia. ACS NANO 2021; 15:7547-7562. [PMID: 33720693 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c00988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a major health problem with multiple associated complications, which, to date, has no effective treatment. Hepatic stellate cells are the main responsible cells for fibrosis formation; upon their activation, excess accumulation of extracellular matrix and collagen deposits occurs. The mitogen platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and its receptor β (PDGFRβ) play a major role in hepatic stellate cells activation and are, therefore, promising targets for antifibrotic therapies. Gold nanorods hold great potential for diseased liver treatments, since their passive hepatic accumulation enhances active targeting strategies, hence increasing therapeutic efficiency. In addition, gold nanorods have photothermal properties that, combined with specific cell delivery, can be exploited to induce localized near-infrared light-mediated thermal ablation. Here, we demonstrate that gold nanorods coated with anti-PDGFRβ specifically target activated hepatic stellate cells in vivo. Additionally, gold nanorods-PDGFRβ-mediated photothermal therapy decreases fibrosis, hepatic inflammation, and hepatocyte injury in the experimental model of CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Ribera
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Department, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 08008 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Clara Vilches
- Institut de Ciències Fotòniques (ICFO), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08860 Castelldefels, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Vanesa Sanz
- Institut de Ciències Fotòniques (ICFO), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08860 Castelldefels, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ignacio de Miguel
- Institut de Ciències Fotòniques (ICFO), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08860 Castelldefels, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Irene Portolés
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Department, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 08008 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bernat Córdoba-Jover
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Department, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 08008 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esther Prat
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Genes, Disease and Therapy Programme, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), 08908 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Physiology, Health Science and Medicine Faculty, University of Barcelona (UB), 08908 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Virginia Nunes
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Genes, Disease and Therapy Programme, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), 08908 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Physiology, Health Science and Medicine Faculty, University of Barcelona (UB), 08908 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Wladimiro Jiménez
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Department, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 08008 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Biomedicine-Biochemistry Unit, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona (UB), 08008 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Romain Quidant
- Institut de Ciències Fotòniques (ICFO), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08860 Castelldefels, Barcelona, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), 08010 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Morales-Ruiz
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Department, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 08008 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Biomedicine-Biochemistry Unit, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona (UB), 08008 Barcelona, Spain
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19
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Abstract
Since it was first described by the German anatomist and histologist, Joseph Hugo Vincenz Disse, the structure and functions of the space of Disse, a thin perisinusoidal area between the endothelial cells and hepatocytes filled with blood plasma, have acquired great importance in liver disease. The space of Disse is home for the hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the major fibrogenic players in the liver. Quiescent HSCs (qHSCs) store vitamin A, and upon activation they lose their retinol reservoir and become activated. Activated HSCs (aHSCs) are responsible for secretion of extracellular matrix (ECM) into the space of Disse. This early event in hepatic injury is accompanied by loss of the pores—known as fenestrations—of the endothelial cells, triggering loss of balance between the blood flow and the hepatocyte, and underlies the link between fibrosis and organ dysfunction. If the imbalance persists, the expansion of the fibrotic scar followed by the vascularized septae leads to cirrhosis and/or end-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Thus, researchers have been focused on finding therapeutic targets that reduce fibrosis. The space of Disse provides the perfect microenvironment for the stem cells niche in the liver and the interchange of nutrients between cells. In the present review article, we focused on the space of Disse, its components and its leading role in liver disease development.
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20
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Hou J, Ji Q, Ji J, Ju S, Xu C, Yong X, Xu X, Muddassir M, Chen X, Xie J, Han X. Co-delivery of siPTPN13 and siNOX4 via (myo)fibroblast-targeting polymeric micelles for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis therapy. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:3244-3261. [PMID: 33537085 PMCID: PMC7847691 DOI: 10.7150/thno.54217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: (Myo)fibroblasts are the ultimate effector cells responsible for the production of collagen within alveolar structures, a core phenomenon in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Although (myo)fibroblast-targeted therapy holds great promise for suppressing the progression of IPF, its development is hindered by the limited drug delivery efficacy to (myo)fibroblasts and the vicious circle of (myo)fibroblast activation and evasion of apoptosis. Methods: Here, a dual small interfering RNA (siRNA)-loaded delivery system of polymeric micelles is developed to suppress the development of pulmonary fibrosis via a two-arm mechanism. The micelles are endowed with (myo)fibroblast-targeting ability by modifying the Fab' fragment of the anti-platelet-derived growth factor receptor-α (PDGFRα) antibody onto their surface. Two different sequences of siRNA targeting protein tyrosine phosphatase-N13 (PTPN13, a promoter of the resistance of (myo)fibroblasts to Fas-induced apoptosis) and NADPH oxidase-4 (NOX4, a key regulator for (myo)fibroblast differentiation and activation) are loaded into micelles to inhibit the formation of fibroblastic foci. Results: We demonstrate that Fab'-conjugated dual siRNA-micelles exhibit higher affinity to (myo)fibroblasts in fibrotic lung tissue. This Fab'-conjugated dual siRNA-micelle can achieve remarkable antifibrotic effects on the formation of fibroblastic foci by, on the one hand, suppressing (myo)fibroblast activation via siRNA-induced knockdown of NOX4 and, on the other hand, sensitizing (myo)fibroblasts to Fas-induced apoptosis by siRNA-mediated PTPN13 silencing. In addition, this (myo)fibroblast-targeting siRNA-loaded micelle did not induce significant damage to major organs, and no histopathological abnormities were observed in murine models. Conclusion: The (myo)fibroblast-targeting dual siRNA-loaded micelles offer a potential strategy with promising prospects in molecular-targeted fibrosis therapy.
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21
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Riaz F, Li D. Non-coding RNA Associated Competitive Endogenous RNA Regulatory Network: Novel Therapeutic Approach in Liver Fibrosis. Curr Gene Ther 2020; 19:305-317. [PMID: 31696817 DOI: 10.2174/1566523219666191107113046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis or scarring is the most common pathological feature caused by chronic liver injury, and is widely considered one of the primary causes of morbidity and mortality. It is primarily characterised by hepatic stellate cells (HSC) activation and excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) protein deposition. Overwhelming evidence suggests that the dysregulation of several noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), mainly long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) contributes to the activation of HSC and progression of liver fibrosis. These ncRNAs not only bind to their target genes for the development and regression of liver fibrosis but also act as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) by sponging with miRNAs to form signaling cascades. Among these signaling cascades, lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA and circRNA-miRNA-mRNA are critical modulators for the initiation, progression, and regression of liver fibrosis. Thus, targeting these interacting ncRNA cascades can serve as a novel and potential therapeutic target for inhibition of HSC activation and prevention and regression of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farooq Riaz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Dongmin Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
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22
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Wang Z, Zhao Y, Zhao H, Zhou J, Feng D, Tang F, Li Y, Lv L, Chen Z, Ma X, Tian X, Yao J. Inhibition of p66Shc Oxidative Signaling via CA-Induced Upregulation of miR-203a-3p Alleviates Liver Fibrosis Progression. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2020; 21:751-763. [PMID: 32781430 PMCID: PMC7417942 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2020.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
We previously found that inhibition of p66Shc confers protection against hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation during liver fibrosis. However, the effect of p66Shc on HSC proliferation, as well as the mechanism by which p66Shc is modulated, remains unknown. Here, we elucidated the effect of p66Shc on HSC proliferation and evaluated microRNA (miRNA)-p66Shc-mediated reactive oxidative species (ROS) generation in liver fibrosis. An in vivo model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in rats and an LX-2 cell model were developed. p66Shc expression was significantly upregulated in rats with CCl4-induced liver fibrosis and in human fibrotic livers. Additionally, p66Shc knockdown in vitro attenuated mitochondrial ROS generation and HSC proliferation. Interestingly, p66Shc promoted HSC proliferation via β-catenin dephosphorylation in vitro. MicroRNA (miR)-203a-3p, which was identified by microarray and bioinformatics analyses, directly inhibited p66Shc translation and attenuated HSC proliferation in vitro. Importantly, p66Shc was found to play an indispensable role in the protective effect of miR-203a-3p. Furthermore, carnosic acid (CA), the major antioxidant compound extracted from rosemary leaves, protected against CCl4-induced liver fibrosis through the miR-203a-3p/p66Shc axis. Collectively, these results suggest that p66Shc, which is directly suppressed by miR-203a-3p, is a key regulator of liver fibrosis. This finding may lead to the development of therapeutic targets for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhecheng Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Huanyu Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Junjun Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Dongcheng Feng
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Fan Tang
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Li Lv
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Zhao Chen
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Xiaodong Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Xiaofeng Tian
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, China.
| | - Jihong Yao
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China.
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23
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Han B, Lv Z, Zhang X, Lv Y, Li S, Wu P, Yang Q, Li J, Qu B, Zhang Z. Deltamethrin induces liver fibrosis in quails via activation of the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 259:113870. [PMID: 31918140 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Deltamethrin (DLM) is an important member of the pyrethroid pesticide family, and its widespread use has led to serious environmental and health problems. Exposure to DLM causes pathological changes in the liver of animals and humans and can lead to liver fibrosis. However, the mechanism of DLM-induced liver fibrosis remains unclear. Therefore, to address its potential molecular mechanisms, we used both in vivo and in vitro methods. Quails were treated in vivo by intragastric administration of different concentrations of DLM (0, 15, 30, or 45 mg kg-1), and the chicken liver cancer cell line LMH was treated in vitro with various doses of DLM (0, 50, 200, or 800 μg mL-1). We found that DLM treatment in vivo induced liver fibrosis in a dose-dependent manner through the promotion of oxidative stress, activation of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and phosphorylation of Smad2/3. Treatment of LMH cells with different concentrations of DLM similarly induced oxidative stress and also decreased cell viability. Collectively, our study demonstrates that DLM-induced liver fibrosis in quails occurs via activation of the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Han
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Zhanjun Lv
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Xiaoya Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Yueying Lv
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Siyu Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Pengfei Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Qingyue Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Jiayi Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Bing Qu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Zhigang Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Harbin, 150030, China.
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24
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Lamichhane S, Lee S. Albumin nanoscience: homing nanotechnology enabling targeted drug delivery and therapy. Arch Pharm Res 2020; 43:118-133. [PMID: 31916145 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-020-01204-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Albumin is a biocompatible, non-immunogenic and versatile drug carrier system. It has been widely used to extend the half-life, enhance stability, provide protection from degradation and allow specific targeting of therapeutic agents to various disease states. Understanding the role of albumin as a drug delivery and distribution system has increased remarkably in the recent years from the development of albumin-binding prodrugs to albumin as a drug carrier system. The extraordinary surface property of albumin makes it possible to bind various endogenous and exogenous molecules. This review succinctly deals with several albumin-drug conjugates and nanoparticles along with their preparation techniques and focuses on surface-modified albumin and targeting of albumin formulation to specific organs and tissues. It also summarizes research efforts on albumin nanoparticles used for delivering drugs to tumor cells and describes their role in permeation through tumor vasculature and in receptor mediated endocytosis, which is also described in this review. The versatility of albumin and ease of preparation makes it a suitable drug carrier system, swhich is the major objective of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shrawani Lamichhane
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, 1095 Dalgubeol-daero, Daegu, 704-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangkil Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, 1095 Dalgubeol-daero, Daegu, 704-701, Republic of Korea.
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25
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PDGFRβ-targeted TRAIL specifically induces apoptosis of activated hepatic stellate cells and ameliorates liver fibrosis. Apoptosis 2020; 25:105-119. [DOI: 10.1007/s10495-019-01583-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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26
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Bigaeva E, Stribos EGD, Mutsaers HAM, Piersma B, Leliveld AM, de Jong IJ, Bank RA, Seelen MA, van Goor H, Wollin L, Olinga P, Boersema M. Inhibition of tyrosine kinase receptor signaling attenuates fibrogenesis in an ex vivo model of human renal fibrosis. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2019; 318:F117-F134. [PMID: 31736352 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00108.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Poor translation from animal studies to human clinical trials is one of the main hurdles in the development of new drugs. Here, we used precision-cut kidney slices (PCKS) as a translational model to study renal fibrosis and to investigate whether inhibition of tyrosine kinase receptors, with the selective inhibitor nintedanib, can halt fibrosis in murine and human PCKS. We used renal tissue of murine and human origins to obtain PCKS. Control slices and slices treated with nintedanib were studied to assess viability, activation of tyrosine kinase receptors, cell proliferation, collagen type I accumulation, and gene and protein regulation. During culture, PCKS spontaneously develop a fibrotic response that resembles in vivo fibrogenesis. Nintedanib blocked culture-induced phosphorylation of platelet-derived growth factor receptor and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor. Furthermore, nintedanib inhibited cell proliferation and reduced collagen type I accumulation and expression of fibrosis-related genes in healthy murine and human PCKS. Modulation of extracellular matrix homeostasis was achieved already at 0.1 μM, whereas high concentrations (1 and 5 μM) elicited possible nonselective effects. In PCKS from human diseased renal tissue, nintedanib showed limited capacity to reverse established fibrosis. In conclusion, nintedanib attenuated the onset of fibrosis in both murine and human PCKS by inhibiting the phosphorylation of tyrosine kinase receptors; however, the reversal of established fibrosis was not achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Bigaeva
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth G D Stribos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Henricus A M Mutsaers
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Bram Piersma
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anna M Leliveld
- Department of Urology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Igle J de Jong
- Department of Urology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ruud A Bank
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marc A Seelen
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Harry van Goor
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Lutz Wollin
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma, Biberach, Germany
| | - Peter Olinga
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Miriam Boersema
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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27
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Yin F, Wang WY, Jiang WH. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells ameliorate liver fibrosis in vitro and in vivo: From biological characteristics to therapeutic mechanisms. World J Stem Cells 2019; 11:548-564. [PMID: 31523373 PMCID: PMC6716089 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v11.i8.548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a wound-healing response to chronic injuries, characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix or scar tissue within the liver; in addition, its formation is associated with multiple cytokines as well as several cell types and a variety of signaling pathways. When liver fibrosis is not well controlled, it can progress to liver cirrhosis, but it is reversible in principle. Thus far, no efficient therapy is available for treatment of liver fibrosis. Although liver transplantation is the preferred strategy, there are many challenges remaining in this approach, such as shortage of donor organs, immunological rejection, and surgical complications. Hence, there is a great need for an alternative therapeutic strategy. Currently, mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy is considered a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of liver fibrosis; advantageously, the characteristics of MSCs are continuous self-renewal, proliferation, multipotent differentiation, and immunomodulatory activities. The human umbilical cord-derived (hUC)-MSCs possess not only the common attributes of MSCs but also more stable biological characteristics, relatively easy accessibility, abundant source, and no ethical issues (e.g., bone marrow being the adult source), making hUC-MSCs a good choice for treatment of liver fibrosis. In this review, we summarize the biological characteristics of hUC-MSCs and their paracrine effects, exerted by secretion of various cytokines, which ultimately promote liver repair through several signaling pathways. Additionally, we discuss the capacity of hUC-MSCs to differentiate into hepatocyte-like cells for compensating the function of existing hepatocytes, which may aid in amelioration of liver fibrosis. Finally, we discuss the current status of the research field and its future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Yin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Basic Medical College of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Wen-Ying Wang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Basic Medical College of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Wen-Hua Jiang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Basic Medical College of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
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28
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Ding H, Wen Z. Overexpression of C‑sis inhibits H2O2‑induced Buffalo rat liver cell apoptosis in vitro and alleviates liver injury in a rat model of fulminant hepatic failure. Int J Mol Med 2018; 42:873-882. [PMID: 29786113 PMCID: PMC6034937 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2018.3684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the role of the C‑sis gene in the apoptosis of hepatocytes in vitro and in the liver function of a rat model of fulminant hepatic failure (FHF). Buffalo rat liver (BRL) cells were treated with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to induce apoptosis and then transfected with a C‑sis overexpression vector. A rat model of FHF was established, and C‑sis was overexpressed. The mRNA and protein expression of C‑sis were examined using reverse transcription‑polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses, respectively. Cell viability was assessed by CCK8, and a TUNEL assay was used to examine cell apoptosis. Flow cytometry was used for cell cycle detection. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used for histological examination. The levels of alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) were also examined in the rats. The results showed that C‑sis was successfully overexpressed in the cells and rat model. Compared with H2O2‑treated BRL cells, the overexpression of C‑sis significantly inhibited cell apoptosis, promoted cell viability, and decreased the expression of cleaved caspase-3. Similar results were observed in the FHF rats treated with the C‑sis overexpression plasmid, compared with those treated with empty plasmids. In addition, in the FHF rats overexpressing C‑sis, histological examination showed that liver injury was alleviated, the levels of ALT and AST were significantly decreased, and mortality rate was significantly decreased, compared with those observed in the rats treated with empty plasmids. In conclusion, the overexpression of C‑sis inhibited the H2O2‑induced apoptosis of BRL cells in vitro, and alleviated liver injury, improved liver function, and decreased mortality rates in rat models of FHF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Zhili Wen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
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29
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Evaluation of antifibrotic effects of coffee and cocoa extracts in rats with thioacetamide-induced fibrosis. Eur Food Res Technol 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s00217-018-3119-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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30
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Ohara M, Ohnishi S, Hosono H, Yamamoto K, Fu Q, Maehara O, Suda G, Sakamoto N. Palmitoylethanolamide Ameliorates Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Rats. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:709. [PMID: 30057547 PMCID: PMC6053486 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Liver fibrosis is a complex inflammatory and fibrogenic process, and the progression of fibrosis leads to cirrhosis. The only therapeutic approaches are the removal of injurious stimuli and liver transplantation. Therefore, the development of anti-fibrotic therapies is desired. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an endogenous fatty acid amide belonging to the N-acylethanolamines family and contained in foods such as egg yolks and peanuts. PEA has therapeutic anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and neuroprotective effects. However, the effects and roles of PEA in liver fibrosis remain unknown. Here we investigated the therapeutic effects of PEA in rats with liver fibrosis. Methods: We conducted in vitro experiments to investigate the effects of PEA on the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs, LX-2). Liver fibrosis was induced by an intraperitoneal injection of 1.5 mL/kg of 50% carbon tetrachloride twice a week for 4 weeks. Beginning at 3 weeks, PEA (20 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected thrice a week for 2 weeks. Then rats were sacrificed and we performed histological and quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction analyses. Results: The expression of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) induced by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 in HSCs was significantly downregulated by PEA. PEA treatment inhibited the TGF-β1-induced phosphorylation of SMAD2 in a dose-dependent manner, and upregulated the expression of SMAD7. The reporter gene assay demonstrated that PEA downregulated the transcriptional activity of the SMAD complex upregulated by TGF-β1. Administration of PEA significantly reduced the fibrotic area, deposition of type I collagen, and activation of HSCs and Kupffer cells in rats with liver fibrosis. Conclusion: Activation of HSCs was significantly decreased by PEA through suppression of the TGF-β1/SMAD signaling pathway. Administration of PEA produced significant improvement in a rat model of liver fibrosis, possibly by inhibiting the activation of HSCs and Kupffer cells. PEA may be a potential new treatment for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masatsugu Ohara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Ohnishi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Hosono
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Koji Yamamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Qingjie Fu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Osamu Maehara
- Department of Pathophysiology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Goki Suda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Naoya Sakamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
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31
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Wang YH, Twu YC, Wang CK, Lin FZ, Lee CY, Liao YJ. Niemann-Pick Type C2 Protein Regulates Free Cholesterol Accumulation and Influences Hepatic Stellate Cell Proliferation and Mitochondrial Respiration Function. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19061678. [PMID: 29874879 PMCID: PMC6032364 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19061678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Revised: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the first step toward the progression to cirrhosis, portal hypertension, and hepatocellular carcinoma. A high-cholesterol diet is associated with liver fibrosis via the accumulation of free cholesterol in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Niemann-Pick type C2 (NPC2) plays an important role in the regulation of intracellular free cholesterol homeostasis via direct binding with free cholesterol. Previously, we reported that NPC2 was downregulated in liver cirrhosis tissues. Loss of NPC2 enhanced the accumulation of free cholesterol in HSCs and made them more susceptible to transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1. In this study, we showed that knockdown of NPC2 resulted in marked increases in platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB)-induced HSC proliferation through enhanced extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), p38, c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK), and protein kinase B (AKT) phosphorylation. In contrast, NPC2 overexpression decreased PDGF-BB-induced cell proliferation by inhibiting p38, JNK, and AKT phosphorylation. Although NPC2 expression did not affect caspase-related apoptosis, the autophagy marker light chain 3β (LC3B) was decreased in NPC2 knockdown, and free cholesterol accumulated in the HSCs. The mitochondrial respiration functions (such as oxygen consumption rate, ATP production, and maximal respiratory capacity) were decreased in NPC2 knockdown, and free cholesterol accumulated in the HSCs, while NPC2-overexpressed cells remained normal. In addition, NPC2 expression did not affect the susceptibility of HSCs to lipopolysaccharides (LPS), and U18666A treatment induced free cholesterol accumulation, which enhanced LPS-induced Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) p65 phosphorylation, interleukin (IL)-1 and IL-6 expression. Our study demonstrated that NPC2-mediated free cholesterol homeostasis controls HSC proliferation and mitochondrial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Hsi Wang
- School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan.
- Department of Biotechnology and Laboratory Science in Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan.
| | - Yuh-Ching Twu
- Department of Biotechnology and Laboratory Science in Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan.
| | - Chung-Kwe Wang
- Department of International Medicine, Taipei City Hospital Ranai Branch, Taipei 106, Taiwan.
| | - Fu-Zhen Lin
- School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan.
| | - Chun-Ya Lee
- School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan.
| | - Yi-Jen Liao
- School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan.
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32
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Poosti F, Bansal R, Yazdani S, Prakash J, Beljaars L, van den Born J, de Borst MH, van Goor H, Hillebrands JL, Poelstra K. Interferon gamma peptidomimetic targeted to interstitial myofibroblasts attenuates renal fibrosis after unilateral ureteral obstruction in mice. Oncotarget 2018; 7:54240-54252. [PMID: 27509062 PMCID: PMC5342338 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.11095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Renal fibrosis cannot be adequately treated since anti-fibrotic treatment is lacking. Interferon-γ is a pro-inflammatory cytokine with anti-fibrotic properties. Clinical use of interferon-γ is hampered due to inflammation-mediated systemic side effects. We used an interferon-γ peptidomimetic (mimγ) lacking the extracellular IFNγReceptor recognition domain, and coupled it to the PDGFβR-recognizing peptide BiPPB. Here we tested the efficacy of mimγ-BiPPB (referred to as “Fibroferon”) targeted to PDGFβR-overexpressing interstitial myofibroblasts to attenuate renal fibrosis without inducing inflammation-mediated side effects in the mouse unilateral ureter obstruction model. Unilateral ureter obstruction induced renal fibrosis characterized by significantly increased α-SMA, TGFβ1, fibronectin, and collagens I and III protein and/or mRNA expression. Fibroferon treatment significantly reduced expression of these fibrotic markers. Compared to full-length IFNγ, anti-fibrotic effects of Fibroferon were more pronounced. Unilateral ureter obstruction-induced lymphangiogenesis was significantly reduced by Fibroferon but not full-length IFNγ. In contrast to full-length IFNγ, Fibroferon did not induce IFNγ-related side-effects as evidenced by preserved low-level brain MHC II expression (similar to vehicle), lowered plasma triglyceride levels, and improved weight gain after unilateral ureter obstruction. In conclusion, compared to full-length IFNγ, the IFNγ-peptidomimetic Fibroferon targeted to PDGFβR-overexpressing myofibroblasts attenuates renal fibrosis in the absence of IFNγ-mediated adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fariba Poosti
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Division of Pathology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Rega Institute, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ruchi Bansal
- Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology, Division of Targeted Therapeutics, MIRA Institute, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Saleh Yazdani
- Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology, Division of Targeted Therapeutics, MIRA Institute, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Jai Prakash
- Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology, Division of Targeted Therapeutics, MIRA Institute, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Leonie Beljaars
- Department of Pharmacokinetics, Toxicology and Targeting, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jacob van den Born
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Martin H de Borst
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Harry van Goor
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Division of Pathology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan-Luuk Hillebrands
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Division of Pathology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Klaas Poelstra
- Department of Pharmacokinetics, Toxicology and Targeting, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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33
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Kanak MA, Shindo Y, SaiKumar P, Naziruddin B. Role of Inflammasomes in the Development of Gastrointestinal Diseases. EXPERIENTIA SUPPLEMENTUM (2012) 2018; 108:235-268. [PMID: 30536174 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-89390-7_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Many diseases of the gastrointestinal tract have been attributed to chronic inflammation, and a few have identified the role of inflammasomes in their pathogenesis. Inflammasomes are a group of protein complexes comprising of several intracellular proteins that link the sensing of microbial products and metabolic stress to the proteolytic activation of the proinflammatory cytokines. Recent studies have implicated activation of several families of NOD-like receptors (NLRs) which are major components of inflammasomes in the development and exacerbation of many diseases of human systems. In this chapter, we discuss the role of inflammasomes in some of the most prevalent diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and highlight potential targets for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mazhar A Kanak
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Yoshitaro Shindo
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, Richmond, VA, USA
| | | | - Bashoo Naziruddin
- Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor Simmons Transplant Institute, Dallas, TX, USA.
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Teekamp N, Van Dijk F, Broesder A, Evers M, Zuidema J, Steendam R, Post E, Hillebrands J, Frijlink H, Poelstra K, Beljaars L, Olinga P, Hinrichs W. Polymeric microspheres for the sustained release of a protein-based drug carrier targeting the PDGFβ-receptor in the fibrotic kidney. Int J Pharm 2017; 534:229-236. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2017.09.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Revised: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Li X, Zhu L, Wang B, Yuan M, Zhu R. Drugs and Targets in Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:855. [PMID: 29218009 PMCID: PMC5703866 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis contributes to the development of many diseases and many target molecules are involved in fibrosis. Currently, the majority of fibrosis treatment strategies are limited to specific diseases or organs. However, accumulating evidence demonstrates great similarities among fibroproliferative diseases, and more and more drugs are proved to be effective anti-fibrotic therapies across different diseases and organs. Here we comprehensively review the current knowledge on the pathological mechanisms of fibrosis, and divide factors mediating fibrosis progression into extracellular and intracellular groups. Furthermore, we systematically summarize both single and multiple component drugs that target fibrosis. Future directions of fibrosis drug discovery are also proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lixin Zhu
- Department of Pediatrics, Digestive Diseases and Nutrition Center, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States
- Genome, Environment and Microbiome Community of Excellence, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Beibei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Meifei Yuan
- Center for Drug Discovery, SINO High Goal Chemical Technology Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Ruixin Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
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Beljaars L, Daliri S, Dijkhuizen C, Poelstra K, Gosens R. WNT-5A regulates TGF-β-related activities in liver fibrosis. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2017; 312:G219-G227. [PMID: 28057611 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00160.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2016] [Revised: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 12/31/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
WNT-5A is a secreted growth factor that belongs to the noncanonical members of the Wingless-related MMTV-integration family. Previous studies pointed to a connection between WNT-5A and the fibrogenic factor TGF-β warranting further studies into the functional role of WNT-5A in liver fibrosis. Therefore, we studied WNT-5A expressions in mouse and human fibrotic livers and examined the relation between WNT-5A and various fibrosis-associated growth factors, cytokines, and extracellular matrix proteins. WNT-5A gene and protein expressions were significantly increased in fibrotic mouse and human livers compared with healthy livers. Regression or therapeutic intervention in mice resulted in decreased hepatic WNT-5A levels paralleled by lower collagen levels. Immunohistochemical analysis showed WNT-5A staining in fibrotic septa colocalizing with desmin staining indicating WNT-5A expression in myofibroblasts. In vitro studies confirmed WNT-5A expression in this cell type and showed that TGF-β significantly enhanced WNT-5A expression in contrast to PDGF-BB and proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α. Additionally, TGF-β induces the expression of the WNT receptors FZD2 and FZD8. After silencing of WNT-5A, reduced levels of collagen type I, vimentin, and fibronectin in TGF-β-stimulated myofibroblasts were measured compared with nonsilencing siRNA-treated controls. Interestingly, the antifibrotic cytokine IFNγ suppressed WNT-5A in vitro and in vivo. IFNγ-treated fibrotic mice showed significantly less WNT-5A expression compared with untreated fibrotic mice. In conclusion, WNT-5A paralleled collagen I levels in fibrotic mouse and human livers. WNT-5A expression in myofibroblasts is induced by the profibrotic factor TGF-β and plays an important role in TGF-β-induced regulation of fibrotic matrix proteins, whereas its expression can be reversed upon treatment, both in vitro and in vivo.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study describes the localization and functional role of WNT-5A in human and mouse fibrotic livers. Hepatic WNT-5A expression parallels collagen type I expression. In vivo and in vitro, the myofibroblasts were identified as the key hepatic cells producing WNT-5A. WNT-5A is under control of TGF-β and its activities are primarily profibrotic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonie Beljaars
- Department of Pharmacokinetics, Toxicology and Targeting. Groningen Research Institute for Pharmacy (GRIP), University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands; and
| | - Sara Daliri
- Department of Pharmacokinetics, Toxicology and Targeting. Groningen Research Institute for Pharmacy (GRIP), University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands; and
| | - Christa Dijkhuizen
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen Research Institute for Pharmacy (GRIP), University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Klaas Poelstra
- Department of Pharmacokinetics, Toxicology and Targeting. Groningen Research Institute for Pharmacy (GRIP), University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands; and
| | - Reinoud Gosens
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen Research Institute for Pharmacy (GRIP), University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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37
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Interleukin-33 drives hepatic fibrosis through activation of hepatic stellate cells. Cell Mol Immunol 2017; 15:388-398. [PMID: 28194023 DOI: 10.1038/cmi.2016.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Revised: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 10/15/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a consequence of chronic liver disease, causing morbidity and mortality. Interleukin-33 (IL-33) is a critical mediator of inflammation, which may be involved in the development of liver fibrosis. Here, we investigated the role of IL-33 in human patients and experimental bile-duct ligation (BDL)-induced fibrosis in mice. We report increased hepatic IL-33 expression in the murine BDL model of fibrosis and in surgical samples obtained from patients with liver fibrosis. Liver injury, inflammatory cell infiltration and fibrosis were reduced in the absence of the IL-33/ST2 receptor, and the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) was decreased in ST2-deficient mice. Recombinant IL-33 activated HSCs isolated from C57BL/6 mice, leading to the expression of IL-6, TGF-β, α-SMA and collagen, which was abrogated in the absence of ST2 or by pharmacological inhibition of MAPK signaling. Finally, administration of recombinant IL-33 significantly increased hepatic inflammation in sham-operated BL6 mice but did not enhance BDL-induced hepatic inflammation and fibrosis. In conclusion, BDL-induced liver inflammation and fibrosis are dependent on ST2 signaling in HSCs, and therefore, the IL-33/ST2 pathway may be a potential therapeutic target in human patients with chronic hepatitis and liver fibrosis.
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38
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Zhang CY, Yuan WG, He P, Lei JH, Wang CX. Liver fibrosis and hepatic stellate cells: Etiology, pathological hallmarks and therapeutic targets. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:10512-10522. [PMID: 28082803 PMCID: PMC5192262 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i48.10512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 377] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2016] [Revised: 10/12/2016] [Accepted: 11/15/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a reversible wound-healing process aimed at maintaining organ integrity, and presents as the critical pre-stage of liver cirrhosis, which will eventually progress to hepatocellular carcinoma in the absence of liver transplantation. Fibrosis generally results from chronic hepatic injury caused by various factors, mainly viral infection, schistosomiasis, and alcoholism; however, the exact pathological mechanisms are still unknown. Although numerous drugs have been shown to have antifibrotic activity in vitro and in animal models, none of these drugs have been shown to be efficacious in the clinic. Importantly, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a key role in the initiation, progression, and regression of liver fibrosis by secreting fibrogenic factors that encourage portal fibrocytes, fibroblasts, and bone marrow-derived myofibroblasts to produce collagen and thereby propagate fibrosis. These cells are subject to intricate cross-talk with adjacent cells, resulting in scarring and subsequent liver damage. Thus, an understanding of the molecular mechanisms of liver fibrosis and their relationships with HSCs is essential for the discovery of new therapeutic targets. This comprehensive review outlines the role of HSCs in liver fibrosis and details novel strategies to suppress HSC activity, thereby providing new insights into potential treatments for liver fibrosis.
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39
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Zhang CY, Yuan WG, He P, Lei JH, Wang CX. Liver fibrosis and hepatic stellate cells: Etiology, pathological hallmarks and therapeutic targets. World J Gastroenterol 2016. [PMID: 28082803 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i48.10512.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a reversible wound-healing process aimed at maintaining organ integrity, and presents as the critical pre-stage of liver cirrhosis, which will eventually progress to hepatocellular carcinoma in the absence of liver transplantation. Fibrosis generally results from chronic hepatic injury caused by various factors, mainly viral infection, schistosomiasis, and alcoholism; however, the exact pathological mechanisms are still unknown. Although numerous drugs have been shown to have antifibrotic activity in vitro and in animal models, none of these drugs have been shown to be efficacious in the clinic. Importantly, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a key role in the initiation, progression, and regression of liver fibrosis by secreting fibrogenic factors that encourage portal fibrocytes, fibroblasts, and bone marrow-derived myofibroblasts to produce collagen and thereby propagate fibrosis. These cells are subject to intricate cross-talk with adjacent cells, resulting in scarring and subsequent liver damage. Thus, an understanding of the molecular mechanisms of liver fibrosis and their relationships with HSCs is essential for the discovery of new therapeutic targets. This comprehensive review outlines the role of HSCs in liver fibrosis and details novel strategies to suppress HSC activity, thereby providing new insights into potential treatments for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong-Yang Zhang
- Chong-Yang Zhang, Jia-Hui Lei, Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Wei-Gang Yuan
- Chong-Yang Zhang, Jia-Hui Lei, Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Pei He
- Chong-Yang Zhang, Jia-Hui Lei, Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jia-Hui Lei
- Chong-Yang Zhang, Jia-Hui Lei, Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Chun-Xu Wang
- Chong-Yang Zhang, Jia-Hui Lei, Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
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40
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Fasbender F, Widera A, Hengstler JG, Watzl C. Natural Killer Cells and Liver Fibrosis. Front Immunol 2016; 7:19. [PMID: 26858722 PMCID: PMC4731511 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2015] [Accepted: 01/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the 40 years since the discovery of natural killer (NK) cells, it has been well established that these innate lymphocytes are important for early and effective immune responses against transformed cells and infections with different pathogens. In addition to these classical functions of NK cells, we now know that they are part of a larger family of innate lymphoid cells and that they can even mediate memory-like responses. Additionally, tissue-resident NK cells with distinct phenotypical and functional characteristics have been identified. Here, we focus on the phenotype of different NK cell subpopulations that can be found in the liver and summarize the current knowledge about the functional role of these cells with a special emphasis on liver fibrosis. NK cell cytotoxicity can contribute to liver damage in different forms of liver disease. However, NK cells can limit liver fibrosis by killing hepatic stellate cell-derived myofibroblasts, which play a key role in this pathogenic process. Therefore, liver NK cells need to be tightly regulated in order to balance these beneficial and pathological effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Fasbender
- Department for Immunology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors (IfADo), Technische Universität Dortmund , Dortmund , Germany
| | - Agata Widera
- Department for Toxicology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors (IfADo), Technische Universität Dortmund , Dortmund , Germany
| | - Jan G Hengstler
- Department for Toxicology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors (IfADo), Technische Universität Dortmund , Dortmund , Germany
| | - Carsten Watzl
- Department for Immunology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors (IfADo), Technische Universität Dortmund , Dortmund , Germany
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