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Oorloff M, Hruby A, Averbukh M, Alcala A, Dutta N, Torres TC, Moaddeli D, Vega M, Kim J, Bong A, Coakley AJ, Hicks D, Wang J, Wang T, Hoang S, Tharp KM, Garcia G, Higuchi-Sanabria R. Mechanical stress through growth on stiffer substrates impacts animal health and longevity in C. elegans. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.11.589121. [PMID: 38645203 PMCID: PMC11030433 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.11.589121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Mechanical stress is a measure of internal resistance exhibited by a body or material when external forces, such as compression, tension, bending, etc. are applied. The study of mechanical stress on health and aging is a continuously growing field, as major changes to the extracellular matrix and cell-to-cell adhesions can result in dramatic changes to tissue stiffness during aging and diseased conditions. For example, during normal aging, many tissues including the ovaries, skin, blood vessels, and heart exhibit increased stiffness, which can result in a significant reduction in function of that organ. As such, numerous model systems have recently emerged to study the impact of mechanical and physical stress on cell and tissue health, including cell-culture conditions with matrigels and other surfaces that alter substrate stiffness and ex vivo tissue models that can apply stress directly to organs like muscle or tendons. Here, we sought to develop a novel method in an in vivo, model organism setting to study the impact of mechanical stress on aging, by increasing substrate stiffness in solid agar medium of C. elegans . To our surprise, we found shockingly limited impact of growth of C. elegans on stiffer substrates, including limited effects on cellular health, gene expression, organismal health, stress resilience, and longevity. Overall, our studies reveal that altering substrate stiffness of growth medium for C. elegans have only mild impact on animal health and longevity; however, these impacts were not nominal and open up important considerations for C. elegans biologists in standardizing agar medium choice for experimental assays.
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Ye L, Ziesch A, Schneider JS, Ofner A, Nieß H, Denk G, Hohenester S, Mayr D, Mahajan UM, Munker S, Khaled NB, Wimmer R, Gerbes AL, Mayerle J, He Y, Geier A, Toni END, Zhang C, Reiter FP. The inhibition of YAP Signaling Prevents Chronic Biliary Fibrosis in the Abcb4 -/- Model by Modulation of Hepatic Stellate Cell and Bile Duct Epithelium Cell Pathophysiology. Aging Dis 2024; 15:338-356. [PMID: 37307826 PMCID: PMC10796084 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) represents a chronic liver disease characterized by poor prognosis and lacking causal treatment options. Yes-associated protein (YAP) functions as a critical mediator of fibrogenesis; however, its therapeutic potential in chronic biliary diseases such as PSC remains unestablished. The objective of this study is to elucidate the possible significance of YAP inhibition in biliary fibrosis by examining the pathophysiology of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) and biliary epithelial cells (BEC). Human liver tissue samples from PSC patients were analyzed to assess the expression of YAP/connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) relative to non-fibrotic control samples. The pathophysiological relevance of YAP/CTGF in HSC and BEC was investigated in primary human HSC (phHSC), LX-2, H69, and TFK-1 cell lines through siRNA or pharmacological inhibition utilizing verteporfin (VP) and metformin (MF). The Abcb4-/- mouse model was employed to evaluate the protective effects of pharmacological YAP inhibition. Hanging droplet and 3D matrigel culture techniques were utilized to investigate YAP expression and activation status of phHSC under various physical conditions. YAP/CTGF upregulation was observed in PSC patients. Silencing YAP/CTGF led to inhibition of phHSC activation and reduced contractility of LX-2 cells, as well as suppression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in H69 cells and proliferation of TFK-1 cells. Pharmacological inhibition of YAP mitigated chronic liver fibrosis in vivo and diminished ductular reaction and EMT. YAP expression in phHSC was effectively modulated by altering extracellular stiffness, highlighting YAP's role as a mechanotransducer. In conclusion, YAP regulates the activation of HSC and EMT in BEC, thereby functioning as a checkpoint of fibrogenesis in chronic cholestasis. Both VP and MF demonstrate effectiveness as YAP inhibitors, capable of inhibiting biliary fibrosis. These findings suggest that VP and MF warrant further investigation as potential therapeutic options for the treatment of PSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangtao Ye
- Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China.
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany.
| | - Andreas Ziesch
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany.
| | | | - Andrea Ofner
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany.
| | - Hanno Nieß
- Biobank of the Department of General, Visceral and Transplantion Surgery, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany.
| | - Gerald Denk
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany.
| | - Simon Hohenester
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany.
| | - Doris Mayr
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Germany.
| | - Ujjwal M. Mahajan
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany.
| | - Stefan Munker
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany.
| | - Najib Ben Khaled
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany.
| | - Ralf Wimmer
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany.
| | | | - Julia Mayerle
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany.
| | - Yulong He
- Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Andreas Geier
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
| | - Enrico N. De Toni
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany.
| | - Changhua Zhang
- Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Florian P. Reiter
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany.
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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3
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Seino K, Nakano T, Tanaka T, Hozumi Y, Topham MK, Goto K, Iseki K. Ablation of DGKα facilitates α-smooth muscle actin expression via the Smad and PKCδ signaling pathways during the acute phase of CCl 4 -induced hepatic injury. FEBS Open Bio 2024; 14:300-308. [PMID: 38105414 PMCID: PMC10839370 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Expression of α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) is constitutive in vascular smooth muscle cells, but is induced in nonmuscle cells such as hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). HSCs play important roles in both physiological homeostasis and pathological response. HSC activation is characterized by αSMA expression, which is regulated by the TGFβ-induced Smad pathway. Recently, protein kinase C (PKC) was identified to regulate αSMA expression. Diacylglycerol kinase (DGK) metabolizes a second-messenger DG, thereby controlling components of DG-mediated signaling, such as PKC. In the present study we aimed to investigate the putative role of DGKα in αSMA expression. Use of a cellular model indicated that the DGK inhibitor R59949 promotes αSMA expression and PKCδ phosphorylation. It also facilitates Smad2 phosphorylation after 30 min of TGFβ stimulation. Furthermore, immunocytochemical analysis revealed that DGK inhibitor pretreatment without TGFβ stimulation engenders αSMA expression in a granular pattern, whereas DGK inhibitor pretreatment plus TGFβ stimulation significantly induces αSMA incorporation in stress fibers. Through animal model experiments, we observed that DGKα-knockout mice exhibit increased expression of αSMA in the liver after 48 h of carbon tetrachloride injection, together with enhanced phosphorylation levels of Smad2 and PKCδ. Together, these findings suggest that DGKα negatively regulates αSMA expression by acting on the Smad and PKCδ signaling pathways, which differentially regulate stress fiber incorporation and protein expression of αSMA, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Seino
- Department of Anatomy and Cell BiologyYamagata University School of MedicineJapan
| | - Tomoyuki Nakano
- Department of Anatomy and Cell BiologyYamagata University School of MedicineJapan
| | - Toshiaki Tanaka
- Department of Anatomy and Cell BiologyYamagata University School of MedicineJapan
| | - Yasukazu Hozumi
- Department of Cell Biology and MorphologyAkita University Graduate School of MedicineJapan
| | | | - Kaoru Goto
- Department of Anatomy and Cell BiologyYamagata University School of MedicineJapan
| | - Ken Iseki
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, School of MedicineFukushima Medical UniversityFukushimaJapan
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Martinez-Lopez S, Angel-Gomis E, Sanchez-Ardid E, Pastor-Campos A, Picó J, Gomez-Hurtado I. The 3Rs in Experimental Liver Disease. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2357. [PMID: 37508134 PMCID: PMC10376896 DOI: 10.3390/ani13142357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with cirrhosis present multiple physiological and immunological alterations that play a very important role in the development of clinically relevant secondary complications to the disease. Experimentation in animal models is essential to understand the pathogenesis of human diseases and, considering the high prevalence of liver disease worldwide, to understand the pathophysiology of disease progression and the molecular pathways involved, due to the complexity of the liver as an organ and its relationship with the rest of the organism. However, today there is a growing awareness about the sensitivity and suffering of animals, causing opposition to animal research among a minority in society and some scientists, but also about the attention to the welfare of laboratory animals since this has been built into regulations in most nations that conduct animal research. In 1959, Russell and Burch published the book "The Principles of Humane Experimental Technique", proposing that in those experiments where animals were necessary, everything possible should be done to try to replace them with non-sentient alternatives, to reduce to a minimum their number, and to refine experiments that are essential so that they caused the least amount of pain and distress. In this review, a comprehensive summary of the most widely used techniques to replace, reduce, and refine in experimental liver research is offered, to assess the advantages and weaknesses of available experimental liver disease models for researchers who are planning to perform animal studies in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Martinez-Lopez
- Instituto ISABIAL, Hospital General Universitario Dr. Balmis, 03010 Alicante, Spain
- Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Universidad Miguel Hernández, 03550 Sant Joan, Spain
| | - Enrique Angel-Gomis
- Instituto ISABIAL, Hospital General Universitario Dr. Balmis, 03010 Alicante, Spain
- Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Universidad Miguel Hernández, 03550 Sant Joan, Spain
| | - Elisabet Sanchez-Ardid
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
- Servicio de Patología Digestiva, Institut de Recerca IIB-Sant Pau, Hospital de Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alberto Pastor-Campos
- Oficina de Investigación Responsable, Universidad Miguel Hernández, 03202 Elche, Spain
| | - Joanna Picó
- Instituto ISABIAL, Hospital General Universitario Dr. Balmis, 03010 Alicante, Spain
| | - Isabel Gomez-Hurtado
- Instituto ISABIAL, Hospital General Universitario Dr. Balmis, 03010 Alicante, Spain
- Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Universidad Miguel Hernández, 03550 Sant Joan, Spain
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
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Zhao Y, Wang H, He T, Ma B, Chen G, Tzeng C. Knockdown of Yap attenuates TAA-induced hepatic fibrosis by interaction with hedgehog signals. J Cell Commun Signal 2023:10.1007/s12079-023-00775-6. [PMID: 37338798 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-023-00775-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is an aberrant wound healing response to tissue injury characterized by excessive extracellular matrix deposition and loss of normal liver architecture. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation is regards to be the major process in liver fibrogenesis which is dynamic and reversible. Both Hippo signaling core factor Yap and Hedgehog (Hh) signaling promote HSCs transdifferentiation thereby regulating the repair process of liver injury. However, the molecular function of YAP and the regulation between Yap and Hh during fibrogenesis remain uncertain. In this study, the essential roles of Yap in liver fibrosis were investigated. Yap was detected to be increased in liver fibrotic tissue by the thioacetamide (TAA)-induced zebrafish embryonic and adult models. Inhibition of Yap by both embryonic morpholino interference and adult's inhibitor treatment was proved to alleviate TAA-induced liver lesions by and histology and gene expression examination. Transcriptomic analysis and gene expression detection showed that Yap and Hh signaling pathway have a cross talking upon TAA-induced liver fibrosis. In addition, TAA induction promoted the nuclear colocalization of YAP and Hh signaling factor GLI2α. This study demonstrates that Yap and Hh play synergistic protective roles in liver fibrotic response and provides new theoretical insight concerning the mechanisms of fibrosis progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, China.
| | - Huiling Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, China
| | - Tianhua He
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, China
| | - Bo Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, China
| | - Guoguang Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, China
| | - Chimeng Tzeng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, China.
- Translational Medicine Research Center-Key Laboratory for Cancer T-Cell Theragnostic and Clinical Translation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
- Xiamen Chang Gung Hospital Medical Research Center, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
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Fu X, Chang J, Jiao D, Zhu M, Ma Y. SLIT3 knockdown inhibited TGF-β-induced hepatic stellate cells activation by down-regulating YAP signal. Mol Cell Toxicol 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s13273-023-00336-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Objective
Liver fibrosis is a chronic liver disease caused by a variety of pathophysiological. However, there are no effective treatments to combat it. HSCs are a major source of fibrotic cells and exploring the mechanisms of HSC activation may provide new strategies for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
Objectives
To explore the role and underlying mechanism of SLIT3 in HSCs fibrosis.
Results
GSE163211 dataset analysis identified aberrant expression of SLIT3 in NASH F1-F4 tissues and SLIT3 expression level was positively correlated with fibrosis-related proteins. In vitro experiments showed that TGF-β induced upregulation of SLIT3 in LX-2 cells. Knockdown of SLIT3 significantly inhibited TGF-β-induced α-SMA, COL1A2, and COL1A1 expression, inhibited excessive cell proliferation and migration, and suppressed YAP activity.
Conclusion
Collectively, our findings suggest that SLIT3 deficiency alleviates TGF-β-induced HSCs activation by inhibiting YAP activity.
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Yang Z, Liu Y, Cheng Q, Chen T. Targeting super enhancers for liver disease: a review. PeerJ 2023; 11:e14780. [PMID: 36726725 PMCID: PMC9885865 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Super enhancers (SEs) refer to the ultralong regions of a gene accompanied by multiple transcription factors and cofactors and strongly drive the expression of cell-type-related genes. Recent studies have demonstrated that SEs play crucial roles in regulating gene expression related to cell cycle progression and transcription. Aberrant activation of SEs is closely related to the occurrence and development of liver disease. Liver disease, especially liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), constitutes a major class of diseases that seriously endanger human health. Currently, therapeutic strategies targeting SEs can dramatically prevent disease progression and improve the prognosis of animal models. The associated new approaches to the treatment of related liver disease are relatively new and need systematic elaboration. Objectives In this review, we elaborate on the features of SEs and discuss their function in liver disease. Additionally, we review their application prospects in clinical practice in the future. The article would be of interest to hepatologists, molecular biologists, clinicians, and all those concerned with targeted therapy and prognosis of liver disease. Methodology We searched three bibliographic databases (Web of Science Core Collection, Embase, PubMed) from 01/1981 to 06/2022 for peer-reviewed scientific publications focused on (1) gene treatment of liver disease; (2) current status of SE research; and (3) targeting SEs for liver disease. We included English language original studies only. Results The number of published studies considering the role of enhancers in liver disease is considerable. Since SEs were just defined in 2013, the corresponding data on SEs are scarce: approximately 50 papers found in bibliographic databases on the correlation between enhancers (or SEs) and liver disease. Remarkably, half of these papers were published in the past three years, indicating the growing interest of the scientific community in this issue. Studies have shown that treatments targeting components of SEs can improve outcomes in liver disease in animal and clinical trials. Conclusions The treatment of liver disease is facing a bottleneck, and new treatments are needed. Therapeutic regimens targeting SEs have an important role in the treatment of liver disease. However, given the off-target effect of gene therapy and the lack of clinical trials, the available experimental data are still fragmented and controversial.
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Nokkeaw A, Thamjamrassri P, Tangkijvanich P, Ariyachet C. Regulatory Functions and Mechanisms of Circular RNAs in Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Liver Fibrosis. Cells 2023; 12:cells12030378. [PMID: 36766720 PMCID: PMC9913196 DOI: 10.3390/cells12030378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver injury induces the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) into myofibroblasts, which produce excessive amounts of extracellular matrix (ECM), resulting in tissue fibrosis. If the injury persists, these fibrous scars could be permanent and disrupt liver architecture and function. Currently, effective anti-fibrotic therapies are lacking; hence, understanding molecular mechanisms that control HSC activation could hold a key to the development of new treatments. Recently, emerging studies have revealed roles of circular RNAs (circRNAs), a class of non-coding RNAs that was initially assumed to be the result of splicing errors, as new regulators in HSC activation. These circRNAs can modulate the activity of microRNAs (miRNAs) and their interacting protein partners involved in regulating fibrogenic signaling cascades. In this review, we will summarize the current knowledge of this class of non-coding RNAs for their molecular function in HSC activation and liver fibrosis progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archittapon Nokkeaw
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Hepatitis and Liver Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Medical Biochemistry Program, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Pannathon Thamjamrassri
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Hepatitis and Liver Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Medical Biochemistry Program, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Pisit Tangkijvanich
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Hepatitis and Liver Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Correspondence: (P.T.); (C.A.)
| | - Chaiyaboot Ariyachet
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Hepatitis and Liver Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Correspondence: (P.T.); (C.A.)
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Kitsugi K, Noritake H, Matsumoto M, Hanaoka T, Umemura M, Yamashita M, Takatori S, Ito J, Ohta K, Chida T, Ulmasov B, Neuschwander-Tetri BA, Suda T, Kawata K. Arg-Gly-Asp-binding integrins activate hepatic stellate cells via the hippo signaling pathway. Cell Signal 2022; 99:110437. [PMID: 35970425 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2022.110437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Liver fibrosis characterizes advanced chronic liver disease, and persistent activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is the primary cause of excessive hepatic fibrogenesis. CWHM12, an analog of the arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) amino acid sequence found in specific integrins, improves liver fibrosis; however, the detailed mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to clarify the cell signaling mechanisms of CWHM12 in activated HSCs. METHODS Immortalized human HSC lines, LX-2 and TWNT-1, were used to evaluate the effects of CWHM12 on intracellular signaling via the disruption of RGD-binding integrins. RESULTS CWHM12 strongly promoted phosphorylation and inhibited the nuclear accumulation of Yes-associated protein (YAP), which is a critical effector of the Hippo signaling pathway, leading to the inhibition of proliferation, suppression of viability, promotion of apoptosis, and induction of cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase in activated HSCs. Further investigations revealed that inhibition of TGF-β was involved in the consequences of CWHM12. Moreover, CWHM12 suppressed focal adhesion kinase (FAK) phosphorylation; consequently, Src, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1, and serine-threonine kinase phosphorylation led to the translocation of YAP. These favorable effects of CWHM12 on activated HSCs were reversed by inhibiting FAK. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that pharmacological inhibition of RGD-binding integrins suppresses activated HSCs by blocking the Hippo signaling pathway, a cellular response which may be valuable in the treatment of hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kensuke Kitsugi
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Hidenao Noritake
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan.
| | - Moe Matsumoto
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Tomohiko Hanaoka
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Masahiro Umemura
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Maho Yamashita
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Shingo Takatori
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Jun Ito
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Ohta
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Takeshi Chida
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Barbara Ulmasov
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Brent A Neuschwander-Tetri
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Takafumi Suda
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Kazuhito Kawata
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan
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10
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Paul S, Xie S, Yao X, Dey A. Transcriptional Regulation of the Hippo Pathway: Current Understanding and Insights from Single-Cell Technologies. Cells 2022; 11:cells11142225. [PMID: 35883668 PMCID: PMC9317057 DOI: 10.3390/cells11142225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hippo pathway regulates tissue homeostasis in normal development and drives oncogenic processes. In this review, we extensively discuss how YAP/TAZ/TEAD cooperate with other master transcription factors and epigenetic cofactors to orchestrate a broad spectrum of transcriptional responses. Even though these responses are often context- and lineage-specific, we do not have a good understanding of how such precise and specific transcriptional control is achieved—whether they are driven by differences in TEAD paralogs, or recruitment of cofactors to tissue-specific enhancers. We believe that emerging single-cell technologies would enable a granular understanding of how the Hippo pathway influences cell fate and drives oncogenic processes, ultimately allowing us to design better pharmacological agents against TEADs and identify robust pharmacodynamics markers of Hippo pathway inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayantanee Paul
- Department of Discovery Oncology, Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (S.P.); (S.X.)
| | - Shiqi Xie
- Department of Discovery Oncology, Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (S.P.); (S.X.)
| | - Xiaosai Yao
- Department of Oncology Bioinformatics, Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
- Correspondence: (X.Y.); (A.D.)
| | - Anwesha Dey
- Department of Discovery Oncology, Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (S.P.); (S.X.)
- Correspondence: (X.Y.); (A.D.)
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11
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Huang Z, Khalifa MO, Li P, Huang Y, Gu W, Li TS. Angiotensin receptor blocker alleviates liver fibrosis by altering the mechanotransduction properties of hepatic stellate cells. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2022; 322:G446-G456. [PMID: 35138187 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00238.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Angiotensin receptor blockers have been reported to be beneficial to liver fibrosis, but the relevant molecular and cellular mechanisms remain unclear. We herein investigated whether low-dose angiotensin receptor blocker alleviated liver fibrosis through mechanotransduction regulation. Hydrostatic pressure-induced liver fibrosis model was established in mice by ligating partially the inferior vena cava, and then randomly received a very low dose of losartan (0.5 mg/kg) or placebo treatment for 8 weeks. We found that losartan administration interfered the expression of several mechanotransductive molecules, and effectively alleviated liver fibrosis. Using a commercial device, we further confirmed that ex vivo loading of hepatic stellate cells to 50 mmHg hydrostatic pressure for 24 h significantly upregulated RhoA, ROCK, AT1R, and p-MLC2, which was effectively attenuated by adding 10 nM losartan in medium. Our in vivo and ex vivo experimental data suggest that low-dose angiotensin receptor blockers may alleviate hydrostatic pressure-induced liver fibrosis by altering the mechanotransduction properties of hepatic stellate cells.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our ex vivo and in vivo experiments clearly indicated that low-dose losartan alleviated liver fibrosis, likely by modulating the mechanotransduction properties of HSCs. Uncovering the biomechanical signaling pathway of ARB treatment on liver fibrosis will be helpful to develop novel molecular targeting therapy for liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zisheng Huang
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan.,Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Mahmoud Osman Khalifa
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan.,Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Peilin Li
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Huang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Weili Gu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Tao-Sheng Li
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan.,Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
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12
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Yeh CF, Chou C, Yang KC. Mechanotransduction in fibrosis: Mechanisms and treatment targets. CURRENT TOPICS IN MEMBRANES 2021; 87:279-314. [PMID: 34696888 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctm.2021.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
To perceive and integrate the environmental cues, cells and tissues sense and interpret various physical forces like shear, tensile, and compression stress. Mechanotransduction involves the sensing and translation of mechanical forces into biochemical and mechanical signals to guide cell fate and achieve tissue homeostasis. Disruption of this mechanical homeostasis by tissue injury elicits multiple cellular responses leading to pathological matrix deposition and tissue stiffening, and consequent evolution toward pro-inflammatory/pro-fibrotic phenotypes, leading to tissue/organ fibrosis. This review focuses on the molecular mechanisms linking mechanotransduction to fibrosis and uncovers the potential therapeutic targets to halt or resolve fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Fan Yeh
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department and Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Caroline Chou
- Department and Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Kai-Chien Yang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department and Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Research Center for Developmental Biology & Regenerative Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.
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13
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Passi M, Zahler S. Mechano-Signaling Aspects of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Cancer 2021; 12:6411-6421. [PMID: 34659531 PMCID: PMC8489129 DOI: 10.7150/jca.60102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
HCC is one of the leading causes of cancer related death worldwide and comprises about 90% of the cases of primary liver cancer. It is generally accompanied by chronic liver fibrosis characterised by deposition of collagen fibres, which, in turn, causes enhanced stiffness of the liver tissue. Changes of tissue stiffness give rise to alterations of signalling pathways that are associated to mechanical properties of the cells and the extracellular matrix, and that can be subsumed as "mechano-signaling pathways", like, e.g., the YAP/TAZ pathway, or the SRF pathway. Stiffness of the liver tissue modulates mechanical regulation of many genes involved in HCC progression. However, mechano-signaling is still rather underrepresented in our concepts of cancer in comparison to "classical" biochemical signalling pathways. This review aims to give an overview of various stiffness induced mechano-biological aspects of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehak Passi
- Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Butenandtstr. 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Zahler
- Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Butenandtstr. 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany
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14
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Jung H, Chen J, Hu X, Sun H, Wu SY, Chiang CM, Kemper B, Chen LF, Kemper JK. BRD4 inhibition and FXR activation, individually beneficial in cholestasis, are antagonistic in combination. JCI Insight 2020; 6:141640. [PMID: 33290278 PMCID: PMC7821603 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.141640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of farnesoid X receptor (FXR) by obeticholic acid (OCA) reduces hepatic inflammation and fibrosis in patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), a life-threatening cholestatic liver failure. Inhibition of bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) also has antiinflammatory, antifibrotic effects in mice. We determined the role of BRD4 in FXR function in bile acid (BA) regulation and examined whether the known beneficial effects of OCA are enhanced by inhibiting BRD4 in cholestatic mice. Liver-specific downregulation of BRD4 disrupted BA homeostasis in mice, and FXR-mediated regulation of BA-related genes, including small heterodimer partner and cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase, was BRD4 dependent. In cholestatic mice, JQ1 or OCA treatment ameliorated hepatotoxicity, inflammation, and fibrosis, but surprisingly, was antagonistic in combination. Mechanistically, OCA increased binding of FXR, and the corepressor silencing mediator of retinoid and thyroid hormone receptor (SMRT) decreased NF-κB binding at inflammatory genes and repressed the genes in a BRD4-dependent manner. In patients with PBC, hepatic expression of FXR and BRD4 was significantly reduced. In conclusion, BRD4 is a potentially novel cofactor of FXR for maintaining BA homeostasis and hepatoprotection. Although BRD4 promotes hepatic inflammation and fibrosis in cholestasis, paradoxically, BRD4 is required for the antiinflammatory, antifibrotic actions of OCA-activated FXR. Cotreatment with OCA and JQ1, individually beneficial, may be antagonistic in treatment of liver disease patients with inflammation and fibrosis complications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jinjing Chen
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology and
| | - Xiangming Hu
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Hao Sun
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology and
| | - Shwu-Yuan Wu
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Biochemistry, and Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Cheng-Ming Chiang
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Biochemistry, and Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Byron Kemper
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology and
| | - Lin-Feng Chen
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA.,Carl R. Woese Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
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15
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Miao H, Wu XQ, Zhang DD, Wang YN, Guo Y, Li P, Xiong Q, Zhao YY. Deciphering the cellular mechanisms underlying fibrosis-associated diseases and therapeutic avenues. Pharmacol Res 2020; 163:105316. [PMID: 33248198 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix components, which results in disruption of tissue architecture and loss of organ function. Fibrosis leads to high morbidity and mortality worldwide, mainly due to the lack of effective therapeutic strategies against fibrosis. It is generally accepted that fibrosis occurs during an aberrant wound healing process and shares a common pathogenesis across different organs such as the heart, liver, kidney, and lung. A better understanding of the fibrosis-related cellular and molecular mechanisms will be helpful for development of targeted drug therapies. Extensive studies revealed that numerous mediators contributed to fibrogenesis, suggesting that targeting these mediators may be an effective therapeutic strategy for antifibrosis. In this review, we describe a number of mediators involved in tissue fibrosis, including aryl hydrocarbon receptor, Yes-associated protein, cannabinoid receptors, angiopoietin-like protein 2, high mobility group box 1, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor-1, SH2 domain-containing phosphatase-2, and long non-coding RNAs, with the goal that drugs targeting these important mediators might exhibit a beneficial effect on antifibrosis. In addition, these mediators show profibrotic effects on multiple tissues, suggesting that targeting these mediators will exert antifibrotic effects on different organs. Furthermore, we present a variety of compounds that exhibit therapeutic effects against fibrosis. This review suggests therapeutic avenues for targeting organ fibrosis and concurrently identifies challenges and opportunities for designing new therapeutic strategies against fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Miao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Xia-Qing Wu
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Dan-Dan Zhang
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Yan-Ni Wang
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Yan Guo
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, 1700 Lomas Blvd NE, Albuquerque, 87131, USA
| | - Ping Li
- Beijing Key Lab for Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases, Institute of Clinical Medical Science, Department of Nephrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Qingping Xiong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Regional Resource Exploitation and Medicinal Research, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huai'an, 223003, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China.
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16
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El-Derany MO. Polymorphisms in Interleukin 13 Signaling and Interacting Genes Predict Advanced Fibrosis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Development in Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9040075. [PMID: 32283835 PMCID: PMC7236020 DOI: 10.3390/biology9040075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background: non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) recently headlined hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. This study aims to unveil the role of some unaddressed critical players that might aid in understanding, predicting, and targeting NASH and NASH-HCC. Methods: Serum interleukin 13 (IL-13) levels and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within interleukin (IL)-13 rs20541, IL-13 receptors (IL-13R1) rs2248841, (IL-13R2) rs5946040, signal transducer activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) rs167769, yes-associated protein (YAP1) rs11225163, programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) rs2282055, and programmed death-ligand 2 (PD-L2) rs7854413 genes were analyzed by qRT-PCR. Multiple stepwise regression analysis was performed on a cohort of 134 Egyptian male patients diagnosed with NASH and NASH-HCC. RESULTS: higher serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and higher serum IL-13 levels were directly associated with HCC development in NASH (odds ratio (OR) 19.6 and 1.9 p < 0.01). Reversibly, the presence of the C/C genotype in STAT6 rs167769 and the C allele carrier YAP1 rs11225163 were inversely associated with HCC in NASH patients (OR 0.015 and 0.047 p < 0.01). A predictive model was formulated with 97.5% specificity, 90.9% sensitivity, and 94.8% accuracy. Moreover, higher serum IL-13 levels and the presence of PD-L2 rs7854413 C allele carriers were associated with advanced fibrosis progression in NASH patients (OR 1.432 and 3.797 p < 0.01). Serum levels of IL-13 and C/C genotype in STAT6 rs167769 significantly increased the predictive capacity of serum AFP to predict HCC in F1–F2 and in F3–F4 fibrosis grades NASH patients. Conclusion: association between serum IL-13 and PD-L2 rs7854413 polymorphism successfully predict advanced fibrosis in NASH. However, HCC development in NASH is associated with higher serum AFP, IL-13 levels, and STAT6 rs167769, YAP1 rs11225163 polymorphisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa O El-Derany
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, 11566, Egypt
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17
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Tirella A, Mattei G, La Marca M, Ahluwalia A, Tirelli N. Functionalized Enzyme-Responsive Biomaterials to Model Tissue Stiffening in vitro. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:208. [PMID: 32322576 PMCID: PMC7156543 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanical properties of the cellular microenvironment play a crucial role in modulating cell function, and many pathophysiological processes are accompanied by variations in extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness. Lysyl oxidase (LOx) is one of the enzymes involved in several ECM-stiffening processes. Here, we engineered poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-based hydrogels with controlled mechanical properties in the range typical of soft tissues. These hydrogels were functionalized featuring free primary amines, which allows an additional chemical LOx-responsive behavior with increase in crosslinks and hydrogel elastic modulus, mimicking biological ECM-stiffening mechanisms. Hydrogels with elastic moduli in the range of 0.5-4 kPa were obtained after a first photopolymerization step. The increase in elastic modulus of the functionalized and enzyme-responsive hydrogels was also characterized after the second-step enzymatic reaction, recording an increase in hydrogel stiffness up to 0.5 kPa after incubation with LOx. Finally, hydrogel precursors containing HepG2 (bioinks) were used to form three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models to mimic hepatic tissue and test PEG-based hydrogel biocompatibility. Hepatic functional markers were measured up to 7 days of culture, suggesting further use of such 3D models to study cell mechanobiology and response to dynamic variation of hydrogels stiffness. The results show that the functionalized hydrogels presented in this work match the mechanical properties of soft tissues, allow dynamic variations of hydrogel stiffness, and can be used to mimic changes in the microenvironment properties of soft tissues typical of inflammation and pathological changes at early stages (e.g., fibrosis, cancer).
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Tirella
- BioEngineered Systems Lab, Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- North West Centre of Advanced Drug Delivery (NoWCADD), Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Giorgio Mattei
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Arti Ahluwalia
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Research Centre “E. Piaggio”, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Nicola Tirelli
- North West Centre of Advanced Drug Delivery (NoWCADD), Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Laboratory of Polymers and Biomaterials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
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18
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Haaker MW, Vaandrager AB, Helms JB. Retinoids in health and disease: A role for hepatic stellate cells in affecting retinoid levels. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2020; 1865:158674. [PMID: 32105672 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2020.158674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin A (retinol) is important for normal growth, vision and reproduction. It has a role in the immune response and the development of metabolic syndrome. Most of the retinol present in the body is stored as retinyl esters within lipid droplets in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). In case of liver damage, HSCs release large amounts of stored retinol, which is partially converted to retinoic acid (RA). This surge of RA can mediate the immune response and enhance the regeneration of the liver. If the damage persists activated HSCs change into myofibroblast-like cells producing extracellular matrix, which increases the chance of tumorigenesis to occur. RA has been shown to decrease proliferation and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma. The levels of RA and RA signaling are influenced by the possibility to esterify retinol towards retinyl esters. This suggests a complex regulation between different retinoids, with an important regulatory role for HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya W Haaker
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Arie B Vaandrager
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - J Bernd Helms
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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19
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Wang S, Yu J, Kane MA, Moise AR. Modulation of retinoid signaling: therapeutic opportunities in organ fibrosis and repair. Pharmacol Ther 2019; 205:107415. [PMID: 31629008 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2019.107415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The vitamin A metabolite, retinoic acid, is an important signaling molecule during embryonic development serving critical roles in morphogenesis, organ patterning and skeletal and neural development. Retinoic acid is also important in postnatal life in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis, while retinoid-based therapies have long been used in the treatment of a variety of cancers and skin disorders. As the number of people living with chronic disorders continues to increase, there is great interest in extending the use of retinoid therapies in promoting the maintenance and repair of adult tissues. However, there are still many conflicting results as we struggle to understand the role of retinoic acid in the multitude of processes that contribute to tissue injury and repair. This review will assess our current knowledge of the role retinoic acid signaling in the development of fibroblasts, and their transformation to myofibroblasts, and of the potential use of retinoid therapies in the treatment of organ fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suya Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Jianshi Yu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Maureen A Kane
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
| | - Alexander R Moise
- Medical Sciences Division, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada; Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry, and Biology and Biomolecular Sciences Program, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON, P3E 2C6, Canada.
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20
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Han IB, Thakor DK, Ropper AE, Yu D, Wang L, Kabatas S, Zeng X, Kim SW, Zafonte RD, Teng YD. Physical impacts of PLGA scaffolding on hMSCs: Recovery neurobiology insight for implant design to treat spinal cord injury. Exp Neurol 2019; 320:112980. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2019.112980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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21
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Lee EH, Park KI, Kim KY, Lee JH, Jang EJ, Ku SK, Kim SC, Suk HY, Park JY, Baek SY, Kim YW. Liquiritigenin inhibits hepatic fibrogenesis and TGF-β1/Smad with Hippo/YAP signal. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 62:152780. [PMID: 31121384 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2018.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Revised: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/09/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent reports highlighted the possibility that Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) can act as critical regulators of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation; therefore, it is natural for compounds targeting Hippo/YAP and TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathways to be identified as potential anti-fibrotic candidates. PURPOSE Liquiritigenin (LQ) is an aglycone of liquiritin and has been reported to protect the liver from injury. However, its effects on the Hippo/YAP and TGF-β1/Smad pathways have not been identified to date. METHODS We conducted a series of experiments using CCl4-induced fibrotic mice and cultured LX-2 cells. RESULT LQ significantly inhibited liver fibrosis, as indicated by decreases in regions of hepatic degeneration, inflammatory cell infiltration, and the intensity of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) staining in mice. Moreover, LQ blocked the TGF-β1-induced phosphorylation of Smad 3, and the transcript levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) in LX-2 cells, which is similar with resveratrol and oxyresveratrol (positive controls). Furthermore, LQ increased activation of large tumor suppressor kinase 1 (LATS1) with the induction of YAP phosphorylation, thereby preventing YAP transcriptional activity and suppressing the expression of exacerbated TGF-β1/Smad signaling molecules. CONCLUSION These results clearly show that LQ ameliorated experimental liver fibrosis by acting on the TGF-β1/Smad and Hippo/YAP pathways, indicating that LQ has the potential for effective treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Hye Lee
- Department of Pathology, School of Medical Science, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, South Korea
| | - Kwang-Il Park
- Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daegu 41062, South Korea
| | - Kwang-Youn Kim
- Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daegu 41062, South Korea
| | - Ju-Hee Lee
- College of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Gyeongju 38066, South Korea
| | - Eun Jeong Jang
- College of Oriental Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan 38610, South Korea
| | - Sae Kwang Ku
- College of Oriental Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan 38610, South Korea
| | - Sang Chan Kim
- College of Oriental Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan 38610, South Korea
| | - Ho Young Suk
- Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, South Korea
| | - Ji Young Park
- Department of Pathology, School of Medical Science, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, South Korea
| | - Su Youn Baek
- College of Oriental Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan 38610, South Korea.
| | - Young Woo Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Gyeongju 38066, South Korea; College of Oriental Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan 38610, South Korea.
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22
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Abstract
Biofabrication techniques have enabled the formation of complex models of many biological tissues. We present a framework to contextualize biofabrication techniques within a disease modeling application. Fibrosis is a progressive disease interfering with tissue structure and function, which stems from an aberrant wound healing response. Epithelial injury and clot formation lead to fibroblast invasion and activation, followed by contraction and remodeling of the extracellular matrix. These stages have healthy wound healing variants in addition to the pathogenic analogs that are seen in fibrosis. This review evaluates biofabrication of a variety of phenotypic cell-based fibrosis assays. By recapitulating different contributors to fibrosis, these assays are able to evaluate biochemical pathways and therapeutic candidates for specific stages of fibrosis pathogenesis. Biofabrication of these culture models may enable phenotypic screening for improved understanding of fibrosis biology as well as improved screening of anti-fibrotic therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron Yamanishi
- Wallace H Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory School of Medicine, Atlanta, United States of America
- The Parker H Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, United States of America
| | - Stephen Robinson
- Wallace H Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory School of Medicine, Atlanta, United States of America
- The Parker H Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, United States of America
| | - Shuichi Takayama
- Wallace H Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory School of Medicine, Atlanta, United States of America
- The Parker H Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, United States of America
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23
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Fernández-Colino A, Iop L, Ventura Ferreira MS, Mela P. Fibrosis in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine: treat or trigger? Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2019; 146:17-36. [PMID: 31295523 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2019.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2018] [Revised: 05/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a life-threatening pathological condition resulting from a dysfunctional tissue repair process. There is no efficient treatment and organ transplantation is in many cases the only therapeutic option. Here we review tissue engineering and regenerative medicine (TERM) approaches to address fibrosis in the cardiovascular system, the kidney, the lung and the liver. These strategies have great potential to achieve repair or replacement of diseased organs by cell- and material-based therapies. However, paradoxically, they might also trigger fibrosis. Cases of TERM interventions with adverse outcome are also included in this review. Furthermore, we emphasize the fact that, although organ engineering is still in its infancy, the advances in the field are leading to biomedically relevant in vitro models with tremendous potential for disease recapitulation and development of therapies. These human tissue models might have increased predictive power for human drug responses thereby reducing the need for animal testing.
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Matrix stiffness modulates the activity of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in hepatic stellate cells to perpetuate fibrosis. Sci Rep 2019; 9:7299. [PMID: 31086224 PMCID: PMC6514003 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-43759-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is characterised by a dense and highly cross-linked extracellular matrix (ECM) which promotes progression of diseases such as hepatocellular carcinoma. The fibrotic microenvironment is characterised by an increased stiffness, with rigidity associated with disease progression. External stiffness is known to promote hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation through mechanotransduction, leading to increased secretion of ECM components. HSCs are key effector cells which maintain the composition of the ECM in health and disease, not only by regulating secretion of ECM proteins such as collagen, but also ECM-degrading enzymes called matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors (TIMPs). Uninhibited MMPs degrade ECM proteins to reduce external rigidity. Using fibronectin-coated polyacrylamide gels to alter substrate rigidity without altering ligand density, we show that fibrotic rigidities downregulate MMP-9 expression and secretion, and also upregulate secretion of TIMP-1, though not its expression. Using tissue immunofluorescence studies, we also report that the expression of MMP-9 is significantly decreased in activated HSCs in fibrotic tissues associated with hepatocellular carcinoma. This suggests the presence of a mechanical network that allows HSCs to maintain a fibrotic ECM, with external rigidity providing feedback which affects MMP-9 and TIMP-1 secretion, which may become dysregulated in fibrosis.
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25
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Manmadhan S, Ehmer U. Hippo Signaling in the Liver - A Long and Ever-Expanding Story. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:33. [PMID: 30931304 PMCID: PMC6423448 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The first description of Hippo signaling in mammals a little more than 10 years ago showed a striking phenotype in the liver, linking the role of this signaling pathway to organ size control and carcinogenesis. Even though Hippo signaling has been extensively studied in the liver and other organs over the recent years, many open questions remain in our understanding of its role in hepatic physiology and disease. The functions of Hippo signaling extend well beyond cancer and organ size determination: components of upstream Hippo signaling and the downstream effectors YAP and TAZ are involved in a multitude of cell and non-cell autonomous functions including cell proliferation, survival, development, differentiation, metabolism, and cross-talk with the immune system. Moreover, regulation and biological functions of Hippo signaling are often organ or even cell type specific – making its role even more complex. Here, we give a concise overview of the role of Hippo signaling in the liver with a focus on cell-type specific functions. We outline open questions and future research directions that will help to improve our understanding of this important pathway in liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saumya Manmadhan
- Department of Medicine II, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Ursula Ehmer
- Department of Medicine II, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
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Cortes E, Lachowski D, Rice A, Chronopoulos A, Robinson B, Thorpe S, Lee DA, Possamai LA, Wang H, Pinato DJ, Del Río Hernández AE. Retinoic Acid Receptor-β Is Downregulated in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Cirrhosis and Its Expression Inhibits Myosin-Driven Activation and Durotaxis in Hepatic Stellate Cells. Hepatology 2019; 69:785-802. [PMID: 30055117 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are essential perisinusoidal cells in both healthy and diseased liver. HSCs modulate extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis when quiescent, but in liver fibrosis, HSCs become activated and promote excess deposition of ECM molecules and tissue stiffening via force generation and mechanosensing. In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), activated HSCs infiltrate the stroma and migrate to the tumor core to facilitate paracrine signaling with cancer cells. Because the function of HSCs is known to be modulated by retinoids, we investigated the expression profile of retinoic acid receptor beta (RAR-β) in patients with cirrhosis and HCC, as well as the effects of RAR-β activation in HSCs. We found that RAR-β expression is significantly reduced in cirrhotic and HCC tissues. Using a comprehensive set of biophysical methods combined with cellular and molecular biology, we have elucidated the biomechanical mechanism by which all trans-retinoic acid promotes HSC deactivation via RAR-β-dependent transcriptional downregulation of myosin light chain 2 expression. Furthermore, this also abrogated mechanically driven migration toward stiffer substrates. Conclusion: Targeting mechanotransduction in HSCs at the transcriptional level may offer therapeutic options for a range of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernesto Cortes
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dariusz Lachowski
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alistair Rice
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Antonios Chronopoulos
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin Robinson
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Thorpe
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David A Lee
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lucia A Possamai
- Division of Integrative Systems Medicine and Digestive Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Haiyun Wang
- School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - David J Pinato
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Armando E Del Río Hernández
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Smith SA, Sessions RB, Shoemark DK, Williams C, Ebrahimighaei R, McNeill MC, Crump MP, McKay TR, Harris G, Newby AC, Bond M. Antiproliferative and Antimigratory Effects of a Novel YAP-TEAD Interaction Inhibitor Identified Using in Silico Molecular Docking. J Med Chem 2019; 62:1291-1305. [PMID: 30640473 PMCID: PMC6701825 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b01402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
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The Hippo pathway is an important
regulator of cell growth, proliferation,
and migration. TEAD transcription factors, which lie at the core of
the Hippo pathway, are essential for regulation of organ growth and
wound repair. Dysregulation of TEAD and its regulatory cofactor Yes-associated
protein (YAP) have been implicated in numerous human cancers and hyperproliferative
pathological processes. Hence, the YAP–TEAD complex is a promising
therapeutic target. Here, we use in silico molecular docking using
Bristol University Docking Engine to screen a library of more than
8 million druglike molecules for novel disrupters of the YAP–TEAD
interaction. We report the identification of a novel compound (CPD3.1)
with the ability to disrupt YAP–TEAD protein–protein
interaction and inhibit TEAD activity, cell proliferation, and cell
migration. The YAP–TEAD complex is a viable drug target, and
CPD3.1 is a lead compound for the development of more potent TEAD
inhibitors for treating cancer and other hyperproliferative pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Smith
- School of Translational Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences , University of Bristol , Research Floor Level 7, Bristol Royal Infirmary , Bristol BS2 8HW , U.K
| | - Richard B Sessions
- School of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences , University of Bristol , Biomedical Sciences Building, University Walk , Bristol BS8 1TD , U.K
| | - Deborah K Shoemark
- School of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences , University of Bristol , Biomedical Sciences Building, University Walk , Bristol BS8 1TD , U.K
| | - Christopher Williams
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Science , University of Bristol , Cantock's Close , Bristol BS8 1TS , U.K
| | - Reza Ebrahimighaei
- School of Translational Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences , University of Bristol , Research Floor Level 7, Bristol Royal Infirmary , Bristol BS2 8HW , U.K
| | - Madeleine C McNeill
- School of Translational Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences , University of Bristol , Research Floor Level 7, Bristol Royal Infirmary , Bristol BS2 8HW , U.K
| | - Matthew P Crump
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Science , University of Bristol , Cantock's Close , Bristol BS8 1TS , U.K
| | - Tristan R McKay
- Centre for Bioscience , Manchester Metropolitan University , John Dalton Building , Manchester M1 5GD , U.K
| | - Gemma Harris
- Research Complex at Harwell , Rutherford Appleton Laboratory , Harwell Campus , Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0FA , U.K
| | - Andrew C Newby
- School of Translational Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences , University of Bristol , Research Floor Level 7, Bristol Royal Infirmary , Bristol BS2 8HW , U.K
| | - Mark Bond
- School of Translational Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences , University of Bristol , Research Floor Level 7, Bristol Royal Infirmary , Bristol BS2 8HW , U.K
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Walraven M, Hinz B. Therapeutic approaches to control tissue repair and fibrosis: Extracellular matrix as a game changer. Matrix Biol 2018; 71-72:205-224. [DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2018.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2017] [Revised: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 02/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Zent J, Guo LW. Signaling Mechanisms of Myofibroblastic Activation: Outside-in and Inside-Out. Cell Physiol Biochem 2018; 49:848-868. [PMID: 30184544 DOI: 10.1159/000493217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Myofibroblasts are central mediators of fibrosis. Typically derived from resident fibroblasts, myofibroblasts represent a heterogeneous population of cells that are principally defined by acquired contractile function and high synthetic ability to produce extracellular matrix (ECM). Current literature sheds new light on the critical role of ECM signaling coupled with mechanotransduction in driving myofibroblastic activation. In particular, transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and extra domain A containing fibronectin (EDA-FN) are thought to be the primary ECM signaling mediators that form and also induce positive feedback loops. The outside-in and inside-out signaling circuits are transmitted and integrated by TGF-β receptors and integrins at the cell membrane, ultimately perpetuating the abundance and activities of TGF-β1 and EDA-FN in the ECM. In this review, we highlight these conceptual advances in understanding myofibroblastic activation, in hope of revealing its therapeutic anti-fibrotic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Zent
- Medical Scientist Training Program, the Ohio State University, Columbus, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Lian-Wang Guo
- Department of Surgery, Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Wexner Medical Center, the Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Qu M, Zhang X, Hu X, Dong M, Pan X, Bian J, Zhou Q. BRD4 inhibitor JQ1 inhibits and reverses mechanical injury-induced corneal scarring. Cell Death Discov 2018; 4:5. [PMID: 30062054 PMCID: PMC6060126 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-018-0066-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal scarring is characterized by the improper deposition of extracellular matrix components and myofibroblast differentiation from keratocytes. The bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) inhibitor JQ1 has been shown to attenuate pathological fibrosis. The present study aimed to explore the potential therapeutic effect of JQ1 on mechanical injury-induced mouse corneal scarring and TGFβ-induced human corneal myofibroblast differentiation and the related mechanism. The corneal scarring and myofibroblast differentiation were evaluated with clinical observation and fibrosis-related gene expression analysis. In mice, subconjunctivally injected JQ1 suppressed the initial development and reversed the established progression of corneal scarring, while having no impairment on the epithelial regenerative capacity. BRD4 inhibition with either JQ1 or small-interfering RNA inhibited the differentiation and promoted the dedifferentiation of human corneal myofibroblasts. Moreover, JQ1 attenuated the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species induced by TGFβ treatment, induced Nrf2 nuclear translocation and activated the expression of Nrf2-ARE downstream antioxidant genes. In conclusion, this study implicates that JQ1 suppresses and reverses corneal scarring through the regulation of BRD4 inhibition and Nrf2-dependant antioxidant induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingli Qu
- 1State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaoping Zhang
- 1State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,2The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong China
| | - Xiaoli Hu
- 1State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Muchen Dong
- 1State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,3School of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Jinan-Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong China
| | - Xiaojing Pan
- 1State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Jiang Bian
- 1State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,3School of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Jinan-Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong China
| | - Qingjun Zhou
- 1State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
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Amicone L, Marchetti A. Microenvironment and tumor cells: two targets for new molecular therapies of hepatocellular carcinoma. Transl Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 3:24. [PMID: 29971255 DOI: 10.21037/tgh.2018.04.05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is one of the most frequent human cancer and is characterized by a high mortality rate. The aggressiveness appears strictly related to the liver pathological background on which cancer develops. Inflammation and the consequent fibro/cirrhosis, derived from chronic injuries of several origins (viral, toxic and metabolic) and observable in almost all oncological patients, represents the most powerful risk factor for HCC and, at the same time, an important obstacle to the efficacy of systemic therapy. Multiple microenvironmental cues, indeed, play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis, evolution and recurrence of HCC as well as in the resistance to standard therapies observed in most of patients. The identification of altered pathways in cancer cells and of microenvironmental changes, strictly connected in pathogenic feedback loop, may permit to plan new therapeutic approaches targeting tumor cells and their permissive microenvironment, simultaneously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Amicone
- Department of Cellular Biotechnologies and Hematology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Marchetti
- Department of Cellular Biotechnologies and Hematology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Du K, Hyun J, Premont RT, Choi SS, Michelotti GA, Swiderska-Syn M, Dalton GD, Thelen E, Rizi BS, Jung Y, Diehl AM. Hedgehog-YAP Signaling Pathway Regulates Glutaminolysis to Control Activation of Hepatic Stellate Cells. Gastroenterology 2018; 154:1465-1479.e13. [PMID: 29305935 PMCID: PMC5880682 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2017.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 204] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Revised: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Cirrhosis results from accumulation of myofibroblasts derived from quiescent hepatic stellate cells (Q-HSCs); it regresses when myofibroblastic HSCs are depleted. Hedgehog signaling promotes transdifferentiation of HSCs by activating Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1 or YAP) and inducing aerobic glycolysis. However, increased aerobic glycolysis alone cannot meet the high metabolic demands of myofibroblastic HSCs. Determining the metabolic processes of these cells could lead to strategies to prevent progressive liver fibrosis, so we investigated whether glutaminolysis (conversion of glutamine to alpha-ketoglutarate) sustains energy metabolism and permits anabolism when Q-HSCs become myofibroblastic, and whether this is controlled by hedgehog signaling to YAP. METHODS Primary HSCs were isolated from C57BL/6 or Smoflox/flox mice; we also performed studies with rat and human myofibroblastic HSCs. We measured changes of glutaminolytic genes during culture-induced primary HSC transdifferentiation. Glutaminolysis was disrupted in cells by glutamine deprivation or pathway inhibitors (bis-2-[5-phenylacetamido-1,2,4-thiadiazol-2-yl] ethyl sulfide, CB-839, epigallocatechin gallate, and aminooxyacetic acid), and effects on mitochondrial respiration, cell growth and migration, and fibrogenesis were measured. Hedgehog signaling to YAP was disrupted in cells by adenovirus expression of Cre-recombinase or by small hairpin RNA knockdown of YAP. Hedgehog and YAP activity were inhibited by incubation of cells with cyclopamine or verteporfin, and effects on glutaminolysis were measured. Acute and chronic liver fibrosis were induced in mice by intraperitoneal injection of CCl4 or methionine choline-deficient diet. Some mice were then given injections of bis-2-[5-phenylacetamido-1,2,4-thiadiazol-2-yl] ethyl sulfide to inhibit glutaminolysis, and myofibroblast accumulation was measured. We also performed messenger RNA and immunohistochemical analyses of percutaneous liver biopsies from healthy human and 4 patients with no fibrosis, 6 patients with mild fibrosis, and 3 patients with severe fibrosis. RESULTS Expression of genes that regulate glutaminolysis increased during transdifferentiation of primary Q-HSCs into myofibroblastic HSCs, and inhibition of glutaminolysis disrupted transdifferentiation. Blocking glutaminolysis in myofibroblastic HSCs suppressed mitochondrial respiration, cell growth and migration, and fibrogenesis; replenishing glutaminolysis metabolites to these cells restored these activities. Knockout of the hedgehog signaling intermediate smoothened or knockdown of YAP inhibited expression of glutaminase, the rate-limiting enzyme in glutaminolysis. Hedgehog and YAP inhibitors blocked glutaminolysis and suppressed myofibroblastic activities in HSCs. In livers of patients and of mice with acute or chronic fibrosis, glutaminolysis was induced in myofibroblastic HSCs. In mice with liver fibrosis, inhibition of glutaminase blocked accumulation of myofibroblasts and fibrosis progression. CONCLUSIONS Glutaminolysis controls accumulation of myofibroblast HSCs in mice and might be a therapeutic target for cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo Du
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jeongeun Hyun
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Richard T. Premont
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Steve S. Choi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Gregory A. Michelotti
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Marzena Swiderska-Syn
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - George D. Dalton
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Eric Thelen
- XF Seahorse, Agilent Technologies, Lexington, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Youngmi Jung
- Department of Integrated Biological Science, Pusan National University, Pusan, South Korea
| | - Anna Mae Diehl
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina.
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Key Anti-Fibrosis Associated Long Noncoding RNAs Identified in Human Hepatic Stellate Cell via Transcriptome Sequencing Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19030675. [PMID: 29495545 PMCID: PMC5877536 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19030675] [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: 12/11/2017] [Revised: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is the main pathological basis for chronic cirrhosis, and activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the primary cells involved in liver fibrosis. Our study analyzed anti-fibrosis long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in activated human HSCs (hHSCs). We performed RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and bioinformatics analysis to determine whether lncRNA expression profile changes between hHSCs activation and quiescence. Eight differentially expressed (DE) lncRNAs and three pairs of co-expression lncRNAs-mRNAs were verified by quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). A total of 34146 DE lncRNAs were identified in this study. Via gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses, we found several DE lncRNAs regulated hHSC activation by participating in DNA bending/packaging complex, growth factor binding and the Hippo signaling pathway (p < 0.05). With lncRNA–mRNA co-expression analysis, three lncRNAs were identified to be associated with connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) and netrin-4 (NTN4). The quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) results of the eight DE lncRNAs and three pairs of co-expression lncRNAs–mRNAs were consistent with the RNA-seq data and previous reports. Several lncRNAs may serve as potential targets to reverse the progression of liver fibrosis. This study provides a first insight into lncRNA expression profile changes associated with activated human HSCs.
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Mazza G, Al-Akkad W, Rombouts K. Engineering in vitro models of hepatofibrogenesis. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2017; 121:147-157. [PMID: 28578016 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2017.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Chronic liver disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide marked by chronic inflammation and fibrosis/scarring, resulting in end-stage liver disease and its complications. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are a dominant contributor to liver fibrosis by producing excessive extracellular matrix (ECM), irrespective of the underlying disease aetiologies, and for many decades research has focused on the development of a number of anti-fibrotic strategies targeting this cell. Despite major improvements in two-dimensional systems (2D) by using a variety of cell culture models of different complexity, an efficient anti-fibrogenic therapy has yet to be developed. The development of well-defined three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models, which mimic ECM structures as found in vivo, have demonstrated the importance of cell-matrix bio-mechanics, the complex interactions between HSCs and hepatocytes and other non-parenchymal cells, and this to improve and promote liver cell-specific functions. Henceforth, refinement of these 3D in vitro models, which reproduce the liver microenvironment, will lead to new objectives and to a possible new era in the search for antifibrogenic compounds.
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35
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de Oliveira da Silva B, Ramos LF, Moraes KCM. Molecular interplays in hepatic stellate cells: apoptosis, senescence, and phenotype reversion as cellular connections that modulate liver fibrosis. Cell Biol Int 2017; 41:946-959. [PMID: 28498509 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.10790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a pathophysiological process correlated with intense repair and cicatrization mechanisms in injured liver, and over the past few years, the characterization of the fine-tuning of molecular interconnections that support the development of liver fibrosis has been investigated. In this cellular process, the hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) support the organ fibrogenesis. The HSCs are found in two distinct morpho-physiological states: quiescent and activated. In normal liver, most HSCs are found in quiescent state, presenting a considerable amount of lipid droplets in the cytoplasm, while in injured liver, the activated phenotype of HSCs is a myofibroblast, that secrete extracellular matrix elements and contribute to the establishment of the fibrotic process. Studies on the molecular mechanisms by which HSCs try to restore their quiescent state have been performed; however, no effective treatment to reverse fibrosis has been so far prescribed. Therefore, the elucidation of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of apoptosis, senescence, and the cell reversion phenotype process from activate to quiescent state will certainly contribute to the development of effective therapies to treat hepatic fibrosis. In this context, this review aimed to address central elements of apoptosis, senescence, and reversal of HSC phenotype in the control of hepatic fibrogenesis, as a guide to future development of therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda de Oliveira da Silva
- Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Núcleo de Pesquisa em Ciências Biológicas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil.,Molecular Biology Laboratory, Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho"-Campus Rio Claro, Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Letícia Ferrreira Ramos
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho"-Campus Rio Claro, Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Karen C M Moraes
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho"-Campus Rio Claro, Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil
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