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Guo Z, Yao Z, Huang B, Wu D, Li Y, Chen X, Lu Y, Wang L, Lv W. MAFLD-related hepatocellular carcinoma: Exploring the potent combination of immunotherapy and molecular targeted therapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 140:112821. [PMID: 39088919 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common cause of cancer-related mortality and morbidity globally, and with the prevalence of metabolic-related diseases, the incidence of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) related hepatocellular carcinoma (MAFLD-HCC) continues to rise with the limited efficacy of conventional treatments, which has created a major challenge for HCC surveillance. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and molecularly targeted drugs offer new hope for advanced MAFLD-HCC, but the evidence for the use of both types of therapy in this type of tumour is still insufficient. Theoretically, the combination of immunotherapy, which awakens the body's anti-tumour immunity, and targeted therapies, which directly block key molecular events driving malignant progression in HCC, is expected to produce synergistic effects. In this review, we will discuss the progress of immunotherapy and molecular targeted therapy in MAFLD-HCC and look forward to the opportunities and challenges of the combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziwei Guo
- Department of Infection, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Ziang Yao
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Peking University People 's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Bohao Huang
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100105, China
| | - Dongjie Wu
- Department of Infection, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Yanbo Li
- Department of Infection, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Xiaohan Chen
- Department of Hematology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Yanping Lu
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Bao'an Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen 518100, China.
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Infection, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China.
| | - Wenliang Lv
- Department of Infection, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China.
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2
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Xue X, Li Y, Yao Y, Zhang S, Peng C, Li Y. A comprehensive review of miR-21 in liver disease: Big impact of little things. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 134:112116. [PMID: 38696909 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of non-coding RNA with 20-24 nucleotides, are defined as the powerful regulators for gene expression. miR-21 is a multifunctional miRNA enriched in the circulatory system and multiple organs, which not only serves as a non-invasive biomarker in disease diagnosis, but also participates in many cellular activities. In various chronic liver diseases, the increase of miR-21 affects glycolipid metabolism, viral infection, inflammatory and immune cell activation, hepatic stellate cells activation and tissue fibrosis, and autophagy. Moreover, miR-21 is also a liaison in the deterioration of chronic liver disease to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and it impacts on cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, immune escape, and epithelial-mesenchymal transformation by regulating target genes expression in different signaling pathways. In current research on miRNA therapy, some natural products can exert the hepatoprotective effects depending on the inhibition of miR-21 expression. In addition, miR-21-based therapeutic also play a role in regulating intracellular miR-21 levels and enhancing the efficacy of chemotherapy drugs. Herein, we systemically summarized the recent progress of miR-21 on biosynthesis, biomarker function, molecular mechanism and miRNA therapy in chronic liver disease and HCC, and looked forward to outputting some information to enable it from bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyan Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Yanzhi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Yuxin Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Shenglin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
| | - Yunxia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
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3
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Lai CY, Yeh KY, Lin CY, Hsieh YW, Lai HH, Chen JR, Hsu CC, Her GM. RETRACTED: Lai et al. MicroRNA-21 Plays Multiple Oncometabolic Roles in the Process of NAFLD-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma via PI3K/AKT, TGF-β, and STAT3 Signaling. Cancers 2021, 13, 940. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1597. [PMID: 38672694 PMCID: PMC11049415 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The Cancers Editorial Office retracts the article, "MicroRNA-21 Plays Multiple Oncometabolic Roles in the Process of NAFLD-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma via PI3K/AKT, TGF-β, and STAT3 Signaling" [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Yu Lai
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung 202, Taiwan
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Kun-Yun Yeh
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung 204, Taiwan
| | - Chiu-Ya Lin
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung 202, Taiwan
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Yang-Wen Hsieh
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung 202, Taiwan
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Hung Lai
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Jim-Ray Chen
- Department of Pathology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung 204, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chun Hsu
- Department of Radiology, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Taichung Branch, Taichung 427, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan
| | - Guor Mour Her
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
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4
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Xu J, Zhao Y, Chen Z, Wei L. Clinical Application of Different Liquid Biopsy Components in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Pers Med 2024; 14:420. [PMID: 38673047 PMCID: PMC11051574 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14040420] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form of primary liver cancer, usually occurring in the background of chronic liver disease. HCC lethality rate is in the third highest place in the world. Patients with HCC have concealed early symptoms and possess a high-level of heterogeneity. Once diagnosed, most of the tumors are in advanced stages and have a poor prognosis. The sensitivity and specificity of existing detection modalities and protocols are suboptimal. HCC calls for more sophisticated and individualized therapeutic regimens. Liquid biopsy is non-invasive, repeatable, unaffected by location, and can be monitored dynamically. It has emerged as a useable aid in achieving precision malignant tumor treatment. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs), circulating nucleic acids, exosomes and tumor-educated platelets are the commonest components of a liquid biopsy. It possesses the theoretical ability to conquer the high heterogeneity and the difficulty of early detection for HCC patients. In this review, we summarize the common enrichment techniques and the clinical applications in HCC for different liquid biopsy components. Tumor recurrence after HCC-related liver transplantation is more insidious and difficult to treat. The clinical use of liquid biopsy in HCC-related liver transplantation is also summarized in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lai Wei
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education; NHC Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430030, China; (J.X.); (Y.Z.); (Z.C.)
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5
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Dawood RM, Salum GM, Abd El-Meguid M, Fotouh BES. Molecular Insights of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Pathogenesis. J Interferon Cytokine Res 2024; 44:111-123. [PMID: 38301145 DOI: 10.1089/jir.2023.0162] [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] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is now the most prevalent chronic liver disease. Many hepatic abnormalities are associated with NAFLD such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, progressive fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver failure. Moreover, the pathogenesis of NAFLD has numerous etiologies and can be explained due to the existence of several of stimulus that act simultaneously on genetically susceptible patients. These stimuli include obesity, diabetes, and insulin resistance. In addition, identifying the role of gut microbiota on NAFLD progression has been illustrated. In this review, we clarified the several factors that lead to the development of NAFLD and identify those who are most at risk of developing liver end-stage disease. Highlighting the noninvasive diagnostic NAFLD markers could be helpful in the disease prevention and treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reham Mohammed Dawood
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Biotechnology Research Institute, National Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ghada Maher Salum
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Biotechnology Research Institute, National Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mai Abd El-Meguid
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Biotechnology Research Institute, National Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Basma El-Sayed Fotouh
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Biotechnology Research Institute, National Research Center, Giza, Egypt
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6
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Moeinafshar A, Nouri M, Shokrollahi N, Masrour M, Behnam A, Tehrani Fateh S, Sadeghi H, Miryounesi M, Ghasemi MR. Non-coding RNAs as potential therapeutic targets for receptor tyrosine kinase signaling in solid tumors: current status and future directions. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:26. [PMID: 38200584 PMCID: PMC10782702 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03203-2] [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: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This review article presents an in-depth analysis of the current state of research on receptor tyrosine kinase regulatory non-coding RNAs (RTK-RNAs) in solid tumors. RTK-RNAs belong to a class of non-coding RNAs (nc-RNAs) responsible for regulating the expression and activity of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), which play a critical role in cancer development and progression. The article explores the molecular mechanisms through which RTK-RNAs modulate RTK signaling pathways and highlights recent advancements in the field. This include the identification of potential new RTK-RNAs and development of therapeutic strategies targeting RTK-RNAs. While the review discusses promising results from a variety of studies, encompassing in vitro, in vivo, and clinical investigations, it is important to acknowledge the challenges and limitations associated with targeting RTK-RNAs for therapeutic applications. Further studies involving various cancer cell lines, animal models, and ultimately, patients are necessary to validate the efficacy of targeting RTK-RNAs. The specificity of ncRNAs in targeting cellular pathways grants them tremendous potential, but careful consideration is required to minimize off-target effects, the article additionally discusses the potential clinical applications of RTK-RNAs as biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. In essence, by providing a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of RTK-RNAs in solid tumors, this review emphasizes their potential as therapeutic targets for cancer while acknowledging the associated challenges and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aysan Moeinafshar
- Center for Comprehensive Genetic Services, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Shokrollahi
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Masrour
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Center for Orthopedic Trans-Disciplinary Applied Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirmohammad Behnam
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sahand Tehrani Fateh
- Center for Comprehensive Genetic Services, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Sadeghi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Miryounesi
- Center for Comprehensive Genetic Services, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Reza Ghasemi
- Center for Comprehensive Genetic Services, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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7
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Al-Hawary SIS, Ruzibakieva M, Gupta R, Malviya J, Toama MA, Hjazi A, Alkhayyat MRR, Alsaab HO, Hadi A, Alwaily ER. Detailed role of microRNA-mediated regulation of PI3K/AKT axis in human tumors. Cell Biochem Funct 2024; 42:e3904. [PMID: 38102946 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3904] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
The regulation of signal transmission and biological processes, such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, metabolism, migration, and angiogenesis are greatly influenced by the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Highly conserved endogenous non-protein-coding RNAs known as microRNAs (miRNAs) have the ability to regulate gene expression by inhibiting mRNA translation or mRNA degradation. MiRNAs serve key role in PI3K/AKT pathway as upstream or downstream target, and aberrant activation of this pathway contributes to the development of cancers. A growing body of research shows that miRNAs can control the PI3K/AKT pathway to control the biological processes within cells. The expression of genes linked to cancers can be controlled by the miRNA/PI3K/AKT axis, which in turn controls the development of cancer. There is also a strong correlation between the expression of miRNAs linked to the PI3K/AKT pathway and numerous clinical traits. Moreover, PI3K/AKT pathway-associated miRNAs are potential biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, therapy, and prognostic evaluation. The role and clinical applications of the PI3K/AKT pathway and miRNA/PI3K/AKT axis in the emergence of cancers are reviewed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Malika Ruzibakieva
- Cell Therapy Department, Institute of Immunology and Human Genomics, Uzbekistan Academy of Science, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
| | - Reena Gupta
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Jitendra Malviya
- Department of Life Sciences and Biological Sciences, IES University, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Mariam Alaa Toama
- College of Pharmacy, National University of Science and Technology, Dhi Qar, Iraq
| | - Ahmed Hjazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Murtadha Raad Radhi Alkhayyat
- Department of Islamic Studies, College of Art, The Islamic University of Najaf, Najaf, Iraq
- Department of Islamic Studies, College of Art, The Islamic University of Babylon, Babylon, Iraq
- Department of Islamic Studies, College of Art, The Islamic University of Al Diwaniyah, Diwaniyah, Iraq
| | - Hashem O Alsaab
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Hadi
- Department of Medical Laboratories Techniques, Imam Ja'afar Al-Sadiq University, Al-Muthanna, Iraq
| | - Enas R Alwaily
- Microbiology Research Group, Al-Ayen University, Thi-Qar, Iraq
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8
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Su Y, Lu Y, An H, Liu J, Ye F, Shen J, Ni Z, Huang B, Lin J. MicroRNA-204-5p Inhibits Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Targeting the Regulator of G Protein Signaling 20. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2023; 6:1817-1828. [PMID: 38093845 PMCID: PMC10714421 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.3c00114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Although the oncogenic roles of regulator of G protein signaling 20 (RGS20) and its upstream microRNAs (miRNAs) have been reported, their involvement in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unexplored. We utilized the starBase, miRDB, TargetScan, and mirDIP databases, along with a dual-luciferase reporter assay and cDNA chip analysis to identify miRNAs targeting RGS20. miR-204-5p was selected for further experiments to confirm its direct targeting and downregulation of the RGS20 expression. To study the miR-204-5p/RGS20 axis in HCC, RGS20 and miR-204-5p were increased in PLC/PRF/5/Hep3B cells, and the viability, hyperplasia, apoptosis, cell cycle, and invasion/migration of the cells were assessed. RGS20 exhibited optimism, while miR-204-5p exhibited pessimism in tumors. miR-204-5p directly targeted RGS20 and downregulated its expression, whereas high RGS20 expression indicated a poor prognosis. Transfection of miR-204-5p inhibited the hyperplasia, migration, and invasion of HCC cells, but promoted apoptosis and influenced the levels of cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), cyclin E1, B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), Bax, and cleaved caspase-3/8. These effects were reversed by overexpression of RGS20. We recognized miR-204-5p as an upstream regulator targeting RGS20, thereby inhibiting HCC progression by downregulating RGS20 expression. RGS20 may prove to be a potential target for HCC treatment, and miR-204-5p might seem like to be a potential miRNA in gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanqing Su
- Department
of Pharmacy, Xiamen Children’s Hospital, Xiamen, Fujian 361006, China
- Academy
of Integrative Medicine of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese
Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Yao Lu
- Academy
of Integrative Medicine of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese
Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
- Hebei
Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, China
| | - Honglin An
- Academy
of Integrative Medicine of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese
Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Jinhong Liu
- Academy
of Integrative Medicine of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese
Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
- Fujian
Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
- Key
Laboratory of Integrative Medicine of Fujian Province University, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Feimin Ye
- Academy
of Integrative Medicine of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese
Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Jiayu Shen
- Academy
of Integrative Medicine of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese
Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Zhuona Ni
- Academy
of Integrative Medicine of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese
Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Bin Huang
- Academy
of Integrative Medicine of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese
Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
- Fujian
Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
- Key
Laboratory of Integrative Medicine of Fujian Province University, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Jiumao Lin
- Academy
of Integrative Medicine of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese
Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
- Fujian
Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
- Key
Laboratory of Integrative Medicine of Fujian Province University, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
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9
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Takahashi Y, Dungubat E, Kusano H, Fukusato T. Pathology and Pathogenesis of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease-Associated Hepatic Tumors. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2761. [PMID: 37893134 PMCID: PMC10604511 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the livers of patients without a history of alcohol abuse. It is classified as either simple steatosis (nonalcoholic fatty liver) or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can progress to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recently, it was suggested that the terms "metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)" and "metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH)" should replace the terms "nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)" and "nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)", respectively, with small changes in the definitions. MASLD, a hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome, is rapidly increasing in incidence globally, and is becoming an increasingly important cause of HCC. Steatohepatitic HCC, a histological variant of HCC, is characterized by its morphological features resembling non-neoplastic steatohepatitis and is closely associated with underlying steatohepatitis and metabolic syndrome. Variations in genes including patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing protein 3 (PNPLA3), transmembrane 6 superfamily 2 (TM6SF2), and membrane-bound O-acyltransferase domain-containing protein 7 (MBOAT7) are associated with the natural history of MASLD, including HCC development. The mechanisms of HCC development in MASLD have not been fully elucidated; however, various factors, including lipotoxicity, inflammation, reactive oxygen species, insulin resistance, and alterations in the gut bacterial flora, are important in the pathogenesis of MASLD-associated HCC. Obesity and MASLD are also recognized as risk factors for hepatocellular adenomas, and recent meta-analyses have shown an association between MASLD and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. In this review, we outline the pathology and pathogenesis of MASLD-associated liver tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihisa Takahashi
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, Narita 286-8686, Japan; (E.D.); (H.K.)
| | - Erdenetsogt Dungubat
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, Narita 286-8686, Japan; (E.D.); (H.K.)
- Department of Pathology, School of Biomedicine, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar 14210, Mongolia
| | - Hiroyuki Kusano
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, Narita 286-8686, Japan; (E.D.); (H.K.)
| | - Toshio Fukusato
- General Medical Education and Research Center, Teikyo University, Tokyo 173-8605, Japan;
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10
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Rodrigues PM, Afonso MB, Simão AL, Islam T, Gaspar MM, O'Rourke CJ, Lewinska M, Andersen JB, Arretxe E, Alonso C, Santos-Laso Á, Izquierdo-Sanchez L, Jimenez-Agüero R, Eizaguirre E, Bujanda L, Pareja MJ, Prip-Buus C, Banales JM, Rodrigues CMP, Castro RE. miR-21-5p promotes NASH-related hepatocarcinogenesis. Liver Int 2023; 43:2256-2274. [PMID: 37534739 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The mechanisms governing the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) towards steatohepatitis (NASH) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain elusive. Here, we evaluated the role of hsa-miRNA-21-5p in NASH-related hepatocarcinogenesis. METHODS Hepatic hsa-miR-21-5p expression was evaluated in two cohorts of patients with biopsy-proven NAFLD (n = 199) or HCC (n = 366 HCC and n = 11 NAFLD-HCC). Serum/liver metabolomic profiles were correlated with hsa-miR-21-5p in NAFLD obese patients. Wild-type (WT) and Mir21 KO mice were fed a choline-deficient, amino acid-defined (CDAA) diet for 32 and 66 weeks to induce NASH and NASH-HCC, respectively. RESULTS In obese individuals, hsa-miR-21-5p expression increased with NAFLD severity and associated with a hepatic lipotoxic profile. CDAA-fed WT mice displayed increased hepatic mmu-miR-21-5p levels and progressively developed NASH and fibrosis, with livers presenting macroscopically discernible pre-neoplastic nodules, hyperplastic foci and deregulated cancer-related pathways. Mir21 KO mice exhibited peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) activation, augmented mitochondrial activity, reduced liver injury and NAS below the threshold for NASH diagnosis, with the pro-inflammatory/fibrogenic milieu reversing to baseline levels. In parallel, Mir21 KO mice displayed reduced number of pre-neoplastic nodules, hepatocyte proliferation and activation of oncogenic signalling, being protected from NASH-associated carcinogenesis. The hsa-miRNA-21-5p/PPARα pathway was similarly deregulated in patients with HCC- or NASH-related HCC, correlating with HCC markers and worse prognosis. CONCLUSIONS Hsa-miR-21-5p is a key inducer of whole-spectrum NAFLD progression, from simple steatosis to NASH and NASH-associated carcinogenesis. The inhibition of hsa-miR-21-5p, leading to a pro-metabolic profile, might constitute an appealing therapeutic approach to ameliorate NASH and prevent progression towards HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro M Rodrigues
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), San Sebastian, Spain
- Centre for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Marta B Afonso
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - André L Simão
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Tawhidul Islam
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria M Gaspar
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Colm J O'Rourke
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, Department of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Monika Lewinska
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, Department of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jesper B Andersen
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, Department of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Álvaro Santos-Laso
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Laura Izquierdo-Sanchez
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Raúl Jimenez-Agüero
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Emma Eizaguirre
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Luis Bujanda
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), San Sebastian, Spain
- Centre for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Carina Prip-Buus
- Université Paris Descartes UMR-S1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Jesus M Banales
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), San Sebastian, Spain
- Centre for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, School of Sciences, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Cecília M P Rodrigues
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rui E Castro
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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11
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Morishita A, Oura K, Tadokoro T, Fujita K, Tani J, Kobara H, Ono M, Himoto T, Masaki T. MicroRNAs and Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14482. [PMID: 37833930 PMCID: PMC10572537 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a clinicopathologic syndrome caused by fat deposition in hepatocytes. Patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), an advanced form of NAFLD with severe fibrosis, are at high risk for liver-related complications, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the mechanism of progression from simple fat deposition to NASH is complex, and previous reports have linked NAFLD to gut microbiota, bile acids, immunity, adipokines, oxidative stress, and genetic or epigenetic factors. NASH-related liver injury involves multiple cell types, and intercellular signaling is thought to be mediated by extracellular vesicles. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, noncoding RNAs that play important roles as post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression and have been implicated in the pathogenesis of various diseases. Recently, many reports have implicated microRNAs in the pathogenesis of NALFD/NASH, suggesting that exosomal miRNAs are potential non-invasive and sensitive biomarkers and that the microRNAs involved in the mechanism of the progression of NASH may be potential therapeutic target molecules. We are interested in which miRNAs are involved in the pathogenesis of NASH and which are potential target molecules for therapy. We summarize targeted miRNAs associated with the etiology and progression of NASH and discuss each miRNA in terms of its pathophysiology, potential therapeutic applications, and efficacy as a NASH biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tomoko Tadokoro
- Department of Gastroenterology and Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kita-gun 761-0793, Japan; (A.M.); (K.O.); (K.F.); (J.T.); (H.K.); (M.O.); (T.H.); (T.M.)
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12
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Wang JG, Jin XF, Huang YM, Xu ZF, Huang SJ, Zhu Y, Ai L, Hang T. TCF21 rs2327429 and TCF21 rs12190287 are associated with colorectal cancer in a Chinese population. Biomark Med 2023; 17:693-699. [PMID: 38197316 DOI: 10.2217/bmm-2022-0750] [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] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Aims: TCF21 is considered a tumor suppressor gene. This work was designed to explore the associations between TCF21 polymorphisms and colorectal cancer (CRC) susceptibility. Methods: A case-control study was designed with 421 patients with CRC and 469 non-CRC controls. Six tagging single-nucleotide polymorphisms (rs2327429 T>C, rs2327430 T>C, rs2327433 A>G, rs12190287 C>G, rs7766238 G>A and rs4896011 T>A) were genotyped by ligase detection reaction of PCR. Results: TCF21 rs2327429 and rs12190287 polymorphisms were associated with CRC susceptibility in a Chinese Han population. Conclusion: rs2327429 and rs12190287 polymorphisms may be predictive of CRC susceptibility in Chinese Han populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Guo Wang
- Jiaxing Women & Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, 314000, China
| | - Xia-Fang Jin
- Jiaxing Women & Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, 314000, China
| | - Yi-Min Huang
- Jiaxing Women & Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, 314000, China
| | - Zheng-Fen Xu
- Jiaxing Women & Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, 314000, China
| | - Shou-Ju Huang
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Yingjie Zhu
- Joint Training Base of Jiaxing College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Jiaxing, 314000, China
| | - Ling Ai
- Jiaxing Women & Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, 314000, China
| | - Tian Hang
- Jiaxing Women & Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, 314000, China
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13
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Ashrafizadeh M, Mohan CD, Rangappa S, Zarrabi A, Hushmandi K, Kumar AP, Sethi G, Rangappa KS. Noncoding RNAs as regulators of STAT3 pathway in gastrointestinal cancers: Roles in cancer progression and therapeutic response. Med Res Rev 2023; 43:1263-1321. [PMID: 36951271 DOI: 10.1002/med.21950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) tumors (cancers of the esophagus, gastric, liver, pancreas, colon, and rectum) contribute to a large number of deaths worldwide. STAT3 is an oncogenic transcription factor that promotes the transcription of genes associated with proliferation, antiapoptosis, survival, and metastasis. STAT3 is overactivated in many human malignancies including GI tumors which accelerates tumor progression, metastasis, and drug resistance. Research in recent years demonstrated that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a major role in the regulation of many signaling pathways including the STAT3 pathway. The major types of endogenous ncRNAs that are being extensively studied in oncology are microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, and circular RNAs. These ncRNAs can either be tumor-promoters or tumor-suppressors and each one of them imparts their activity via different mechanisms. The STAT3 pathway is also tightly modulated by ncRNAs. In this article, we have elaborated on the tumor-promoting role of STAT3 signaling in GI tumors. Subsequently, we have comprehensively discussed the oncogenic as well as tumor suppressor functions and mechanism of action of ncRNAs that are known to modulate STAT3 signaling in GI cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Department of General Surgery and Institute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chakrabhavi D Mohan
- Department of Studies in Molecular Biology, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, India
| | - Shobith Rangappa
- Adichunchanagiri Institute for Molecular Medicine, Adichunchanagiri University, Nagamangala Taluk, India
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, Istanbul, Sariyer, Turkey
| | - Kiavash Hushmandi
- Division of Epidemiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alan Prem Kumar
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gautam Sethi
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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14
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Chang C, Li H, Zhang R. Zebrafish facilitate non-alcoholic fatty liver disease research: Tools, models and applications. Liver Int 2023; 43:1385-1398. [PMID: 37122203 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become an increasingly epidemic metabolic disease worldwide. NAFLD can gradually deteriorate from simple liver steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis to liver cirrhosis and/or hepatocellular carcinoma. Zebrafish are vertebrate animal models that are genetically and metabolically conserved with mammals and have unique advantages such as high fecundity, rapid development ex utero and optical transparency. These features have rendered zebrafish an emerging model system for liver diseases and metabolic diseases favoured by many researchers in recent years. In the present review, we summarize a series of tools for zebrafish NAFLD research and the models established through different dietary feeding, hepatotoxic chemical treatments and genetic manipulations via transgenic or genome editing technologies. We also discuss how zebrafish models facilitate NAFLD studies by providing novel insights into NAFLD pathogenesis, toxicology research, and drug evaluation and discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Chang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Huicong Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ruilin Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, China
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15
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Koustas E, Trifylli EM, Sarantis P, Papadopoulos N, Papanikolopoulos K, Aloizos G, Damaskos C, Garmpis N, Garmpi A, Matthaios D, Karamouzis MV. An Insight into the Arising Role of MicroRNAs in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Future Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087168. [PMID: 37108330 PMCID: PMC10138911 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) constitutes a frequent highly malignant form of primary liver cancer and is the third cause of death attributable to malignancy. Despite the improvement in the therapeutic strategies with the exploration of novel pharmacological agents, the survival rate for HCC is still low. Shedding light on the multiplex genetic and epigenetic background of HCC, such as on the emerging role of microRNAs, is considered quite promising for the diagnosis and the prediction of this malignancy, as well as for combatting drug resistance. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) constitute small noncoding RNA sequences, which play a key role in the regulation of several signaling and metabolic pathways, as well as of pivotal cellular functions such as autophagy, apoptosis, and cell proliferation. It is also demonstrated that miRNAs are significantly implicated in carcinogenesis, either acting as tumor suppressors or oncomiRs, while aberrations in their expression levels are closely associated with tumor growth and progression, as well as with local invasion and metastatic dissemination. The arising role of miRNAs in HCC is in the spotlight of the current scientific research, aiming at the development of novel therapeutic perspectives. In this review, we will shed light on the emerging role of miRNAs in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelos Koustas
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, M. Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece
- First Department of Internal Medicine, 417 Army Equity Fund Hospital, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni-Myrto Trifylli
- First Department of Internal Medicine, 417 Army Equity Fund Hospital, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Sarantis
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, M. Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Papadopoulos
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, 401 General Army Hospital of Athens, 11525 Athens, Greece
| | | | - Georgios Aloizos
- First Department of Internal Medicine, 417 Army Equity Fund Hospital, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Christos Damaskos
- 'N.S. Christeas' Laboratory of Experimental Surgery and Surgical Research, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Renal Transplantation Unit, 'Laiko' General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Garmpis
- Second Department of Propaedeutic Surgery, 'Laiko' General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Anna Garmpi
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | | | - Michalis V Karamouzis
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, M. Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece
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16
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Sun Y, Shen Y, Liang X, Zheng H, Zhang Y. MicroRNAs as Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Narrative Review. Clin Ther 2023; 45:234-247. [PMID: 36841739 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2023.02.001] [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: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease in the world. However, biomarkers for NAFLD diagnosis and liver-specific drugs for treatment are lacking. This article reviews the possibility of circulating miRNAs in the diagnosis and treatment of NAFLD diseases and focuses on several well-studied miRNAs to provide preclinical data for subsequent related studies. METHODS Related articles were identified through searches of the PubMed database for literature published from 2010 to December 2022. Search terms included NAFLD, microRNA, biomarker, diagnosis, and therapy. FINDINGS Current research data indicate that some key circulating miRNAs may be used as diagnostic biomarkers of NAFLD and the combination of several miRNAs improves diagnostic performance. In addition, some preclinical trials using cell and mouse models provide a basis for some miRNAs as potential therapeutic targets. IMPLICATIONS Current evidence suggests that circulating miRNAs are potential noninvasive biomarkers for clinical diagnosis of NAFLD, which needs to be validated in more heterogeneous and larger cohorts. In addition, several miRNAs regulate multiple downstream pathways related to the pathophysiology of NAFLD in a cell- and tissue-specific manner, making them attractive drug therapeutic targets for NAFLD. However, more preclinical and clinical trials are needed for these miRNAs to become therapeutic targets of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tianjin Children's Hospital/Tianjin University Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, 300134 Tianjin, China.
| | - Yongming Shen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tianjin Children's Hospital/Tianjin University Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, 300134 Tianjin, China
| | - Xiurui Liang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, China
| | - Huilin Zheng
- School of Biological & Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yitong Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tianjin Children's Hospital/Tianjin University Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, 300134 Tianjin, China
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17
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Eldosoky MA, Hammad R, Elmadbouly AA, Aglan RB, Abdel-Hamid SG, Alboraie M, Hassan DA, Shaheen MA, Rushdi A, Ahmed RM, Abdelbadea A, Abdelmageed NA, Elshafei A, Ali E, Abo-Elkheir OI, Zaky S, Hamdy NM, Lambert C. Diagnostic Significance of hsa-miR-21-5p, hsa-miR-192-5p, hsa-miR-155-5p, hsa-miR-199a-5p Panel and Ratios in Hepatocellular Carcinoma on Top of Liver Cirrhosis in HCV-Infected Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043157. [PMID: 36834570 PMCID: PMC9962339 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) diagnosis is challenging. Moreover, for patients with alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)-negative HCC, this challenge is augmented. MicroRNAs (miRs) profiles may serve as potential HCC molecular markers. We aimed to assess plasma homo sapiens-(hsa)-miR-21-5p, hsa-miR-155-5p, hsa-miR-192-5p, and hsa-miR-199a-5p-expression levels as a panel of biomarkers for HCC in chronic hepatitis C virus (CHCV) patients with liver cirrhosis (LC), especially AFP-negative HCC cases, as a step toward non-protein coding (nc) RNA precision medicine. SUBJECTS AND METHODS 79 patients enrolled with CHCV infection with LC, subclassified into an LC group without HCC (n = 40) and LC with HCC (n = 39). Real-time quantitative PCR was used to measure plasma hsa-miR-21-5p, hsa-miR-155-5p, hsa-miR-192-5p, and hsa-miR-199a-5p. RESULTS Plasma hsa-miR-21-5p and hsa-miR-155-5p demonstrated significant upregulation, while hsa-miR-199a-5p demonstrated significant downregulation in the HCC group (n = 39) when compared to the LC group (n = 40). hsa-miR-21-5p expression was positively correlated with serum AFP, insulin, and insulin resistance (r = 0.5, p < 0.001, r = 0.334, p = 0.01, and r = 0.303, p = 0.02, respectively). According to the ROC curves, for differentiating HCC from LC, combining AFP with each of hsa-miR-21-5p, hsa-miR-155-5p, and miR199a-5p improved the diagnostic sensitivity to 87%, 82%, and 84%, respectively, vs. 69% for AFP alone, with acceptable specificities of 77.5%, 77.5%, and 80%, respectively, and AUC = 0.89, 0.85, and 0.90, respectively vs. 0.85 for AFP alone. hsa-miR-21-5p/hsa-miR-199a-5p and hsa-miR-155-5p/hsa-miR-199a-5p ratios discriminated HCC from LC at AUC = 0.76 and 0.71, respectively, with sensitivities = 94% and 92% and specificities = 48% and 53%, respectively. Upregulation of plasma hsa-miR-21-5p was considered as an independent risk factor for HCC development [OR = 1.198(1.063-1.329), p = 0.002]. CONCLUSIONS Combining each of hsa-miR-21-5p, hsa-miR-155-5p, and hsa-miR-199a-5p with AFP made it possible to identify HCC development in the LC patients' cohort with higher sensitivity than using AFP alone. hsa-miR-21-5p/hsa-miR-199a-5p and hsa-miR-155-5p/hsa-miR-199a-5p ratios are potential HCC molecular markers for AFP-negative HCC patients. hsa-miR-21-5p was linked, clinically and via in silico proof, to insulin metabolism, inflammation, dyslipidemia, and tumorigenesis in the HCC patients' group as well as for an upregulated independent risk factor for the emergence of HCC from LC in the CHCV patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona A. Eldosoky
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City 11884, Egypt
| | - Reham Hammad
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City 11884, Egypt
| | - Asmaa A. Elmadbouly
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City 11884, Egypt
| | - Reda Badr Aglan
- Hepatology and Gastroenterology Department, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shibin El-Kom 32514, Egypt
| | | | - Mohamed Alboraie
- Department of Internal Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
| | - Donia Ahmed Hassan
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City 11884, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A. Shaheen
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
| | - Areej Rushdi
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
| | - Reem M. Ahmed
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
| | - Alzahra Abdelbadea
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
| | - Neamat A. Abdelmageed
- Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Infectious Diseases Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Elshafei
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
| | - Elham Ali
- Molecular Biology, Zoology and Entomology Department, Faculty of Science (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
| | - Omaima I. Abo-Elkheir
- Community Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
| | - Samy Zaky
- Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Infectious Diseases Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
| | - Nadia M. Hamdy
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt
- Correspondence:
| | - Claude Lambert
- Cytometry Unit, Immunology Laboratory, Saint-Etienne University Hospital, 42100 Saint-Etienne, France
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18
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Zeng H, Zhou H, Lin J, Pang Q, Chen S, Lin S, Xue C, Shen Z. Palindrome-Embedded Hairpin Structure and Its Target-Catalyzed Padlock Cyclization for Label-Free MicroRNA-Initiated Rolling Circle Amplification. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:2253-2261. [PMID: 36687024 PMCID: PMC9850459 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c06532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Highly sensitive detection of microRNAs (miRNAs) is of great significance in early diagnosis of cancers. Here, we develop a palindrome-embedded hairpin structure and its target-catalyzed padlock cyclization for rolling circle amplification, named PHP-RCA for simplicity, which can be applied in label-free ultrasensitive detection of miRNA. PHP-RCA is a facile system that consists of only an oligonucleotide probe with a palindrome-embedded hairpin structure (PHP). The two ends of PHP were extended as overhangs and designed with the complementary sequences of the target. Hence, the phosphorylated PHP can be cyclized by T4 DNA ligase in the presence of the target that serves as the ligation template. This ligation has formed a palindrome-embedded dumbbell-shaped probe (PDP) that allows phi29 polymerase to perform a typical target-primed RCA on PDP by taking miRNA as a primer, resulting in the production of a lengthy tandem repeat. Benefits from the palindromic sequences and hairpin-shaped structure in padlock double-stranded structures can be infinitely produced during the RCA reaction and provide numerous binding sites for SYBR Green I, a double-stranded dye, achieving a sharp response signal for label-free target detection. We have demonstrated that the proposed system exhibits a good linear range from 0.1 fM to 5 nM with a low detection limit of 0.1 fM, and the non-target miRNA can be clearly distinguished. The advantages of high efficiency, label-free signaling, and the use of only one oligonucleotide component make the PHP-RCA suitable for ultrasensitive, economic, and convenient detection of target miRNAs. This simple and powerful system is expected to provide a promising platform for tumor diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaiwen Zeng
- Yuhuan
People’s Hospital, Taizhou Zhejiang Province, Taizhou 317600, PR China
| | - Hongyin Zhou
- Key
Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang
Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Department of Cell
Biology and Medical Genetics, College of Laboratory Medicine and Life
Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, PR China
| | - Junliang Lin
- Yuhuan
People’s Hospital, Taizhou Zhejiang Province, Taizhou 317600, PR China
| | - Qi Pang
- Yuhuan
People’s Hospital, Taizhou Zhejiang Province, Taizhou 317600, PR China
| | - Siqiang Chen
- Yuhuan
People’s Hospital, Taizhou Zhejiang Province, Taizhou 317600, PR China
| | - Shaoqi Lin
- Yuhuan
People’s Hospital, Taizhou Zhejiang Province, Taizhou 317600, PR China
| | - Chang Xue
- Key
Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang
Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Department of Cell
Biology and Medical Genetics, College of Laboratory Medicine and Life
Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, PR China
| | - Zhifa Shen
- Key
Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang
Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Department of Cell
Biology and Medical Genetics, College of Laboratory Medicine and Life
Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, PR China
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19
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Role of microRNA in Endocrine Disruptor-Induced Immunomodulation of Metabolic Health. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12111034. [DOI: 10.3390/metabo12111034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of poor metabolic health is growing exponentially worldwide. This condition is associated with complex comorbidities that lead to a compromised quality of life. One of the contributing factors recently gaining attention is exposure to environmental chemicals, such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Considerable evidence suggests that EDCs can alter the endocrine system through immunomodulation. More concerning, EDC exposure during the fetal development stage has prominent adverse effects later in life, which may pass on to subsequent generations. Although the mechanism of action for this phenomenon is mostly unexplored, recent reports implicate that non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs (miRs), may play a vital role in this scenario. MiRs are significant contributors in post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Studies demonstrating the immunomodulation of EDCs via miRs in metabolic health or towards the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) Hypothesis are still deficient. The aim of the current review was to focus on studies that demonstrate the impact of EDCs primarily on innate immunity and the potential role of miRs in metabolic health.
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Han Q, Wang M, Dong X, Wei F, Luo Y, Sun X. Non-coding RNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma: Insights into regulatory mechanisms, clinical significance, and therapeutic potential. Front Immunol 2022; 13:985815. [PMID: 36300115 PMCID: PMC9590653 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.985815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a complex and heterogeneous malignancy with high incidence and poor prognosis. In addition, owing to the lack of diagnostic and prognostic markers, current multimodal treatment options fail to achieve satisfactory outcomes. Tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), angiogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, metastasis, metabolism, and drug resistance are important factors influencing tumor development and therapy. The intercellular communication of these important processes is mediated by a variety of bioactive molecules to regulate pathophysiological processes in recipient cells. Among these bioactive molecules, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), account for a large part of the human transcriptome, and their dysregulation affects the progression of HCC. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the potential regulatory mechanisms of ncRNAs in HCC, summarize novel biomarkers from somatic fluids (plasma/serum/urine), and explore the potential of some small-molecule modulators as drugs. Thus, through this review, we aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of the regulatory mechanisms, early diagnosis, prognosis, and precise treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Han
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Mengchen Wang
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xi Dong
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Wei
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Luo
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yun Luo, ; Xiaobo Sun,
| | - Xiaobo Sun
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yun Luo, ; Xiaobo Sun,
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Noncoding RNAs Associated with PPARs in Etiology of MAFLD as a Novel Approach for Therapeutics Targets. PPAR Res 2022; 2022:6161694. [PMID: 36164476 PMCID: PMC9509273 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6161694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a complex disease that results from the accumulation of fat in the liver. MAFLD is directly associated with obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. PPARγ ligands, including pioglitazone, are also used in the management of this disease. Noncoding RNAs play a critical role in various diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and liver diseases including MAFLD. However, there is no adequate knowledge about the translation of using these ncRNAs to the clinics, particularly in MAFLD conditions. The aim of this study was to identify ncRNAs in the etiology of MAFLD as a novel approach to the therapeutic targets. Methods. We collected human and mouse MAFLD gene expression datasets available in GEO. We performed pathway enrichment analysis of total mRNAs based on KEGG repository data to screen the most potential pathways in the liver of MAFLD human subjects and mice model, and analyzed pathway interconnections via ClueGO. Finally, we screened disease causality of the MAFLD ncRNAs, which were associated with PPARs, and then discussed the role of revealed ncRNAs in PPAR signaling and MAFLD. Results. We found 127 ncRNAs in MAFLD which 25 out of them were strongly validated before for regulation of PPARs. With a polypharmacology approach, we screened 51 ncRNAs which were causal to a subset of diseases related to MAFLD. Conclusion. This study revealed a subset of ncRNAs that could help in more clear and guided designation of preclinical and clinical studies to verify the therapeutic application of the revealed ncRNAs by manipulating the PPARs molecular mechanism in MAFLD.
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22
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Peng H, Zhu E, Zhang Y. Advances of cancer-associated fibroblasts in liver cancer. Biomark Res 2022; 10:59. [PMID: 35971182 PMCID: PMC9380339 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-022-00406-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide, it is ranked sixth in incidence and fourth in mortality. According to the distinct origin of malignant tumor cells, liver cancer is mainly divided into hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). Since most cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, the prognosis of liver cancer is poor. Tumor growth depends on the dynamic interaction of various cellular components in the tumor microenvironment (TME). As the most abundant components of tumor stroma, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have been involved in the progression of liver cancer. The interplay between CAFs and tumor cells, immune cells, or vascular endothelial cells in the TME through direct cell-to-cell contact or indirect paracrine interaction, affects the initiation and development of tumors. Additionally, CAFs are not a homogeneous cell population in liver cancer. Recently, single-cell sequencing technology has been used to help better understand the diversity of CAFs in liver cancer. In this review, we mainly update the knowledge of CAFs both in HCC and CCA, including their cell origins, chemoresistance, tumor stemness induction, tumor immune microenvironment formation, and the role of tumor cells on CAFs. Understanding the context-dependent role of different CAFs subsets provides new strategies for precise liver cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Peng
- Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Erwei Zhu
- The Second People's Hospital of Lianyungang (The Oncology Hospital of Lianyungang), Lianyungang, 222006, China
| | - Yewei Zhang
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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Hu H, Zhang T, Wu Y, Deng M, Deng H, Yang X. Cross-regulation between microRNAs and key proteins of signaling pathways in hepatocellular carcinoma. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 16:753-765. [PMID: 35833844 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2022.2101994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a subtype of primary liver cancer and a major cause of death. Although miRNA plays an important role in hepatocellular carcinoma, the specific regulatory network remains unclear. Therefore, this paper comprehensively describes the miRNA-related signaling pathways in HCC and the possible interactions among different signaling pathways. The aim is to lay the foundation for the discovery of new molecular targets and multi-target therapy. AREAS COVERED Based on miRNA, HCC, and signaling pathways, the literature was searched on Web of Science and PubMed. Then, common targets between different signaling pathways were found from KEGG database, and possible cross-regulation mechanisms were further studied. In this review, we elaborated from two aspects, respectively, laying a foundation for studying the regulatory mechanism and potential targets of miRNA in HCC. EXPERT OPINION Non-coding RNAs have become notable molecules in cancer research in recent years, and many types of targeted drugs have emerged. From the outset, molecular targets and signal pathways are interlinked, which suggests that signal pathways and regulatory networks should be concerned in basic research, which also provides a strong direction for future mechanism research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haihong Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Taolan Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China.,The First Affiliated Hospital, Pharmacy Department, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Yiwen Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Meina Deng
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Huiling Deng
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaoyan Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China.,The Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
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Fan Y, Dong W, Wang Y, Zhu S, Chai R, Xu Z, Zhang X, Yan Y, Yang L, Bian Y. Glycyrrhetinic acid regulates impaired macrophage autophagic flux in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Front Immunol 2022; 13:959495. [PMID: 35967372 PMCID: PMC9365971 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.959495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophages are involved in hepatocyte steatosis and necroinflammation and play an important role in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Impaired autophagy function (decreased autophagy or blocked autophagic flow) leads to cell damage and death and promotes NAFLD progression. The experimental and clinical research of glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) in the treatment of NAFLD has gradually attracted attention with clear pharmacological activities such as immune regulation, antiviral, antitumor, antioxidant, liver protection, and anti-inflammatory. However, the effects of GA on the STAT3-HIF-1α pathway and autophagy in macrophages are still unclear, and its mechanism of action in the treatment of NAFLD remains to be further elucidated. We constructed a NAFLD mouse model through a high-fat and high-sugar diet to investigate the therapeutic effects of GA. The results showed that GA reduced weight, improved the pathological changes and hepatic lipid deposition of liver, and abnormally elevated the levels of serum biochemical (AST, ALT, TG, T-CHO, LDL-C, and HDL-C) and inflammatory indexes (IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, MCP-1, and TNF-α) in NAFLD mice. Further examination revealed that GA ameliorates excessive hepatic macrophage infiltration and hepatocyte apoptosis. The results of the cell experiments further elaborated that GA modulated the PA-induced macrophage STAT3-HIF-1α pathway and ameliorated impaired autophagic flux (blockade of autophagosome–lysosome fusion) and overactivation of inflammation. Excessive hepatocyte apoptosis caused by the uncontrolled release of inflammatory cytokines was also suppressed by GA.ConclusionThis study demonstrated that GA could regulate the STAT3-HIF-1α pathway of macrophages, ameliorate the impaired autophagy flux, and reduce the excessive production of inflammatory cytokines to improve the excessive apoptosis of liver cells, thus playing a therapeutic role on NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yadong Fan
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenjin Dong
- Department of Science and Education, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, China
| | - Ying Wang
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Shan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Component Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Rundong Chai
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhe Xu
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- The Reproductive Center, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yiqi Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Component Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Long Yang
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- *Correspondence: Long Yang, ; Yuhong bian,
| | - Yuhong Bian
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- *Correspondence: Long Yang, ; Yuhong bian,
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Li Y, Cen CQ, Liu B, Zhou L, Huang XM, Liu GY. Overexpression of circ PTK2 suppresses the progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease via the miR-200c/SIK2/PI3K/Akt axis. Kaohsiung J Med Sci 2022; 38:869-878. [PMID: 35791807 DOI: 10.1002/kjm2.12568] [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: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Excessive hepatic lipid accumulation is involved in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). A previous study showed that the circular RNA (circRNA) PTK2 was significantly downregulated in NAFLD mice. However, the detailed function of circ PTK2 in NAFLD remains unclear. A high-fat diet (HFD) was used to establish a mouse model of NAFLD, and free fatty acid (FFA) treatment was used to establish an in vitro model of NAFLD. Oil red O staining was used to evaluate lipid accumulation. The pathological changes in mice were observed by HE staining. Western blotting and RT-qPCR were applied to assess protein and mRNA levels, respectively. A dual luciferase reporter assay and RIP were used to explore the relationship among circ PTK2, miR-200c and SIK2. Circ PTK2 and SIK2 were downregulated and miR-200c was upregulated in NAFLD. Upregulation of circ PTK2 reversed lipid accumulation in FFA-treated HepG2 cells. Moreover, circ PTK2 bound to miR-200c, and SIK2 was identified as the direct target of miR-200c. Moreover, the miR-200c inhibitor-induced decrease in lipid accumulation was reversed by SIK2 knockdown. Furthermore, the impact of circ PTK2 overexpression on PI3K/Akt signaling was partially reversed by SIK2 silencing. Circ PTK2 overexpression alleviates NAFLD development via the miR-200c/SIK2/PI3K/Akt axis. Thus, our work might provide new methods for NAFLD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Li
- Department of Emergency, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chao-Qun Cen
- Department of Emergency, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lu Zhou
- Department of Dermatology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiang-Miao Huang
- Department of Emergency, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Geng-Yan Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Huang G, Zhou H, Xiang Q, Zhang J, Hu X, Cheng R, Lan L, Wang Y, Shen Z. Exponential and efficient target-catalyst rolling circle amplification for label-free and ultrasensitive fluorescent detection of miR-21 and p53 gene. Anal Chim Acta 2022; 1221:340132. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2022.340132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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Wang C, Liu J, Yan Y, Tan Y. Role of Exosomes in Chronic Liver Disease Development and Their Potential Clinical Applications. J Immunol Res 2022; 2022:1695802. [PMID: 35571570 PMCID: PMC9106457 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1695802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are vesicular bodies (40-1000 nm) with double-layer membrane structures released by different cell types into extracellular environments, including apoptosis bodies, microvesicles, and exosomes. Exosomes (30-100 nm) are vesicles enclosed by extracellular membrane and contain effective molecules of secretory cells. They are derived from intracellular multivesicular bodies (MVBs) that fuse with the plasma membrane and release their intracellular vesicles by exocytosis. Research has shown that almost all human cells could secrete exosomes, which have a certain relationship with corresponding diseases. In chronic liver diseases, exosomes release a variety of bioactive components into extracellular spaces, mediating intercellular signal transduction and materials transport. Moreover, exosomes play a role in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of various chronic liver diseases as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Previous studies have found that mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-ex) could alleviate acute and chronic liver injury and have the advantages of high biocompatibility and low immunogenicity. In this paper, we briefly summarize the role of exosomes in the pathogenesis of different chronic liver diseases and the latest research progresses of MSC-ex as the clinical therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Wang
- The Third Hospital of Zhenjiang Affiliated Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212005 Jiangsu, China
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013 Jiangsu, China
| | - Jinwen Liu
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013 Jiangsu, China
| | - Yongmin Yan
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013 Jiangsu, China
| | - Youwen Tan
- The Third Hospital of Zhenjiang Affiliated Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212005 Jiangsu, China
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Lin F, Li X, Wang X, Sun H, Wang Z, Wang X. Stanniocalcin 1 promotes metastasis, lipid metabolism and cisplatin chemoresistance via the FOXC2/ITGB6 signaling axis in ovarian cancer. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2022; 41:129. [PMID: 35392966 PMCID: PMC8988421 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02315-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stanniocalcin 1 (STC1) plays an integral role in ovarian cancer (OC). However, the functional role of STC1 in metastasis, lipid metabolism and cisplatin (DDP) chemoresistance in OC is not fully understood. METHODS Single-cell sequencing and IHC analysis were performed to reveal STC1 expression profiles in patient tissues. Metastasis, lipid metabolism and DDP chemoresistance were subsequently assessed. Cell-based in vitro and in vivo assays were subsequently conducted to gain insight into the underlying mechanism of STC1 in OC. RESULTS Single-cell sequencing assays and IHC analysis verified that STC1 expression was significantly enhanced in OC tissues compared with para-carcinoma tissues, and it was further up-regulated in peritoneal metastasis tissues compared with OC tissues. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that STC1 promoted metastasis, lipid metabolism and DDP chemoresistance in OC. Simultaneously, STC1 promoted lipid metabolism by up-regulating lipid-related genes such as UCP1, TOM20 and perilipin1. Mechanistically, STC1 directly bound to integrin β6 (ITGB6) to activate the PI3K signaling pathway. Moreover, STC1 was directly regulated by Forkhead box C2 (FOXC2) in OC. Notably, targeting STC1 and the FOXC2/ITGB6 signaling axis was related to DDP chemoresistance in vitro. CONCLUSIONS Overall, these findings revealed that STC1 promoted metastasis, lipid metabolism and DDP chemoresistance via the FOXC2/ITGB6 signaling axis in OC. Thus, STC1 may be used as a prognostic indicator in patients with metastatic OC. Meanwhile, STC1 could be a therapeutic target in OC patients, especially those who have developed chemoresistance to DDP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feikai Lin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoduan Li
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201204, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinjing Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, People's Republic of China
| | - Huizhen Sun
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziliang Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xipeng Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, People's Republic of China.
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Lai CY, Yeh KY, Lin CY, Hsieh YW, Lai HH, Chen JR, Hsu CC, Her GM. Correction: Lai et al. MicroRNA-21 Plays Multiple Oncometabolic Roles in the Process of NAFLD-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma via PI3K/AKT, TGF-β, and STAT3 Signaling. Cancers 2021, 13, 940. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14020372. [PMID: 35053625 PMCID: PMC8773880 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14020372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Yu Lai
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung 202, Taiwan; (C.-Y.L.); (C.-Y.L.); (Y.-W.H.)
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan;
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Kun-Yun Yeh
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung 204, Taiwan;
| | - Chiu-Ya Lin
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung 202, Taiwan; (C.-Y.L.); (C.-Y.L.); (Y.-W.H.)
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan;
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Yang-Wen Hsieh
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung 202, Taiwan; (C.-Y.L.); (C.-Y.L.); (Y.-W.H.)
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan;
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Hung Lai
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan;
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Jim-Ray Chen
- Department of Pathology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung 204, Taiwan;
| | - Chia-Chun Hsu
- Department of Radiology, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Taichung Branch, Taichung 427, Taiwan;
- School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan
| | - Guor Mour Her
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan;
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +886-2-2826-7000 (ext. 67990)
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Tsai YW, Jeng KS, He MK, Hsieh YW, Lai HH, Lai CY, Huang CC, Chang CF, Huang CT, Her GM. MXD3 Promotes Obesity and the Androgen Receptor Signaling Pathway in Gender-Disparity Hepatocarcinogenesis. Cells 2021; 10:3434. [PMID: 34943942 PMCID: PMC8700344 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is closely linked to metabolic diseases, particularly non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), ultimately leading to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the molecular mechanisms of NASH-associated HCC (NAHCC) remain elusive. To explore the impact of Max dimerization protein 3 (MXD3), a transcription factor that regulates several cellular functions in disorders associated with metabolic diseases, we conditionally expressed Mxd3 proteins using Tet-on mxd3 transgenic zebrafish (MXs) with doxycycline (MXs + Dox) or without doxycycline (MXs - Dox) treatment. Overexpression of global MXD3 (gMX) or hepatic Mxd3 (hMX) was associated with obesity-related NAFLD pathophysiology in gMX + Dox, and liver fibrosis and HCC in hMX + Dox. Oil Red O (ORO)-stained signals were seen in intravascular blood vessels and liver buds of larval gMX + Dox, indicating that Mxd3 functionally promotes lipogenesis. The gMX + Dox-treated young adults exhibited an increase in body weight and visceral fat accumulation. The hMX + Dox-treated young adults showed normal body characteristics but exhibited liver steatosis and NASH-like phenotypes. Subsequently, steatohepatitis, liver fibrosis, and NAHCC were found in 6-month-old gMX + Dox adults compared with gMX - Dox adults at the same stage. Overexpression of Mxd3 also enhanced AR expression accompanied by the increase of AR-signaling pathways resulting in hepatocarcinogenesis in males. Our results demonstrate that global actions of Mxd3 are central to the initiation of obesity in the gMX zebrafish through their effects on adipogenesis and that MXD3 could serve as a therapeutic target for obesity-associated liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Wen Tsai
- Department of Family Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung 204, Taiwan;
- College of Medicine, Chang-Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Shyang Jeng
- Division of General Surgery, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei 220, Taiwan; (K.-S.J.); (C.-F.C.)
| | - Mu-Kuang He
- Taipei First Girls High School, Taipei 100, Taiwan;
| | - Yang-Wen Hsieh
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung 202, Taiwan;
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (H.-H.L.); (C.-Y.L.)
| | - Hsin-Hung Lai
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (H.-H.L.); (C.-Y.L.)
| | - Chi-Yu Lai
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (H.-H.L.); (C.-Y.L.)
| | - Chun-Chieh Huang
- Department of Radiology, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei 220, Taiwan;
| | - Chiung-Fang Chang
- Division of General Surgery, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei 220, Taiwan; (K.-S.J.); (C.-F.C.)
| | - Chung-Tsui Huang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei 220, Taiwan;
| | - Guor Mour Her
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (H.-H.L.); (C.-Y.L.)
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Lai CY, Yeh KY, Liu BF, Chang TM, Chang CH, Liao YF, Liu YW, Her GM. MicroRNA-21 Plays Multiple Oncometabolic Roles in Colitis-Associated Carcinoma and Colorectal Cancer via the PI3K/AKT, STAT3, and PDCD4/TNF-α Signaling Pathways in Zebrafish. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5565. [PMID: 34771727 PMCID: PMC8583575 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have a high risk of developing CRC. Inflammatory cytokines are regulated by complex gene networks and regulatory RNAs, especially microRNAs. MicroRNA-21 (miR-21) is amongst the most frequently upregulated microRNAs in inflammatory responses and cancer development. miR-21 has become a target for genetic and pharmacological regulation in various diseases. However, the association between inflammation and tumorigenesis in the gut is largely unknown. Hence, in this study, we generated a zebrafish model (ImiR-21) with inducible overexpression of miR-21 in the intestine. The results demonstrate that miR-21 can induce CRC or colitis-associated cancer (CAC) in ImiR-21 through the PI3K/AKT, PDCD4/TNF-α, and IL-6/STAT3 signaling network. miR-21 activated the PI3K/AKT and NF-κB signaling pathways, leading to initial inflammation; thereafter, miR-21 and TNF-α repressed PDCD4 and its tumor suppression activity. Eventually, active STAT3 stimulated a strong inflammatory response and activated the invasion/metastasis process of tumor cells. Hence, our findings indicate that miR-21 is critical for the development of CRC/CAC via the PI3K/AKT, STAT3, and PDCD4/TNF-α signaling networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Yu Lai
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (C.-Y.L.); (B.-F.L.); (Y.-W.L.)
| | - Kun-Yun Yeh
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang-Chung Memorial Hospital, Keelung 204, Taiwan;
| | - Bi-Feng Liu
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (C.-Y.L.); (B.-F.L.); (Y.-W.L.)
| | - Tzu-Ming Chang
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Cheng Hsin General Hospital, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (T.-M.C.); (C.-H.C.)
| | - Chuan-Hsun Chang
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Cheng Hsin General Hospital, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (T.-M.C.); (C.-H.C.)
- Division of General Surgery, Cheng Hsin General Hospital, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Feng Liao
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, ICOB 238, 128 Sec. 2 Academia Rd., Taipei 11529, Taiwan;
| | - Yi-Wen Liu
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (C.-Y.L.); (B.-F.L.); (Y.-W.L.)
| | - Guor Mour Her
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (C.-Y.L.); (B.-F.L.); (Y.-W.L.)
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Huang PS, Liao CJ, Huang YH, Yeh CT, Chen CY, Tang HC, Chang CC, Lin KH. Functional and Clinical Significance of Dysregulated microRNAs in Liver Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5361. [PMID: 34771525 PMCID: PMC8582514 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the world. This mainly reflects the lack of early diagnosis tools and effective treatment methods. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-transcribed RNAs, some of which play important regulatory roles in liver cancer. Here, we discuss microRNAs with key impacts on liver cancer, such as miR-122, miR-21, miR-214, and miR-199. These microRNAs participate in various physiological regulatory pathways of liver cancer cells, and their modulation can have non-negligible effects in the treatment of liver cancer. We discuss whether these microRNAs can be used for better clinical diagnosis and/or drug development. With the advent of novel technologies, fast, inexpensive, and non-invasive RNA-based biomarker research has become a new mainstream approach. However, the clinical application of microRNA-based markers has been limited by the high sequence similarity among them and the potential for off-target problems. Therefore, researchers particularly value microRNAs that are specific to or have special functions in liver cancer. These include miR-122, which is specifically expressed in the liver, and miR-34, which is necessary for the replication of the hepatitis C virus in liver cancer. Clinical treatment drugs have been developed based on miR-34 and miR-122 (MRX34 and Miravirsen, respectively), but their side effects have not yet been overcome. Future research is needed to address these weaknesses and establish a feasible microRNA-based treatment strategy for liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po-Shuan Huang
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (P.-S.H.); (C.-J.L.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang-Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jung Liao
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (P.-S.H.); (C.-J.L.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang-Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Hui Huang
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (Y.-H.H.); (C.-T.Y.)
| | - Chau-Ting Yeh
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (Y.-H.H.); (C.-T.Y.)
| | - Cheng-Yi Chen
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan;
| | - Hui-Chi Tang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Cheng-Chih Chang
- Department of General Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Chia-yi, Chia-yi 613, Taiwan
| | - Kwang-Huei Lin
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (P.-S.H.); (C.-J.L.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang-Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (Y.-H.H.); (C.-T.Y.)
- Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
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Hsieh YW, Tsai YW, Lai HH, Lai CY, Lin CY, Her GM. Depletion of Alpha-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone Induces Insatiable Appetite and Gains in Energy Reserves and Body Weight in Zebrafish. Biomedicines 2021; 9:941. [PMID: 34440144 PMCID: PMC8392443 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9080941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The functions of anorexigenic neurons secreting proopiomelanocortin (POMC)/alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) of the melanocortin system in the hypothalamus in vertebrates are energy homeostasis, food intake, and body weight regulation. However, the mechanisms remain elusive. This article reports on zebrafish that have been genetically engineered to produce α-MSH mutants, α-MSH-7aa and α-MSH-8aa, selectively lacking 7 and 8 amino acids within the α-MSH region, but retaining most of the other normal melanocortin-signaling (Pomc-derived) peptides. The α-MSH mutants exhibited hyperphagic phenotypes leading to body weight gain, as observed in human patients and mammalian models. The actions of several genes regulating appetite in zebrafish are similar to those in mammals when analyzed using gene expression analysis. These include four selected orexigenic genes: Promelanin-concentrating hormone (pmch), agouti-related protein 2 (agrp2), neuropeptide Y (npy), and hypothalamic hypocretin/orexin (hcrt). We also study five selected anorexigenic genes: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (bdnf), single-minded homolog 1-a (sim1a), corticotropin-releasing hormone b (crhb), thyrotropin-releasing hormone (trh), and prohormone convertase 2 (pcsk2). The orexigenic actions of α-MSH mutants are rescued completely after hindbrain ventricle injection with a synthetic analog of α-MSH and a melanocortin receptor agonist, Melanotan II. We evaluate the adverse effects of MSH depletion on energy balance using the Alamar Blue metabolic rate assay. Our results show that α-MSH is a key regulator of POMC signaling in appetite regulation and energy expenditure, suggesting that it might be a potential therapeutic target for treating human obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang-Wen Hsieh
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung 202, Taiwan; (Y.-W.H.); (C.-Y.L.); (C.-Y.L.)
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan;
| | - Yi-Wen Tsai
- Department of Family Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung 204, Taiwan;
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Hung Lai
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan;
| | - Chi-Yu Lai
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung 202, Taiwan; (Y.-W.H.); (C.-Y.L.); (C.-Y.L.)
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan;
| | - Chiu-Ya Lin
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung 202, Taiwan; (Y.-W.H.); (C.-Y.L.); (C.-Y.L.)
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan;
| | - Guor Mour Her
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan;
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Tadokoro T, Morishita A, Masaki T. Diagnosis and Therapeutic Management of Liver Fibrosis by MicroRNA. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:8139. [PMID: 34360904 PMCID: PMC8347497 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Remarkable progress has been made in the treatment and control of hepatitis B and C viral infections. However, fundamental treatments for diseases in which liver fibrosis is a key factor, such as cirrhosis, alcoholic/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis, are still under development and remain an unmet medical need. To solve this problem, it is essential to elucidate the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis in detail from a molecular and cellular perspective and to develop targeted therapeutic agents based on this information. Recently, microRNAs (miRNAs), functional RNAs of 22 nucleotides, have been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. In addition, extracellular vesicles called "exosomes" have been attracting attention, and research is being conducted to establish noninvasive and extremely sensitive biomarkers using miRNAs in exosomes. In this review, we summarize miRNAs directly involved in liver fibrosis, miRNAs associated with diseases leading to liver fibrosis, and miRNAs related to complications of cirrhosis. We will also discuss the efficacy of each miRNA as a biomarker of liver fibrosis and pathology, and its potential application as a therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Asahiro Morishita
- Department of Gastroenterology and Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan; (T.T.); (T.M.)
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Zhang H, Ding R, Chen D. Value of miR-21 levels as potential biomarkers in the early diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma:a meta-analysis. Biomarkers 2021; 26:586-597. [PMID: 34266326 DOI: 10.1080/1354750x.2021.1955976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many studies have reported that miR-21 levels are different between hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients and healthy controls, which could be used as a potential diagnostic biomarker for HCC. However, the diagnostic value of miR-21 for HCC varied greatly in previous studies. Therefore, this meta-analysis aims to provide higher grade evidence to investigate the diagnostic value of miR-21 for HCC. METHODS The databases of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Chinese databases (CNKI and VIP) were searched. The indices of miR-21 in the diagnosis of HCC were pooled using bivariate random-effect models. QUADAS-2 was used to evaluate the quality of included studies. All statistical analyses were performed by STATA (12.0) software. RESULTS Totally, 1589 subjects from 14 publications were included in this study. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratios (PLR), negative likelihood ratios (NLR), and area under the curve (AUC) were 0.83 (0.77-0.88), 0.80 (0.74-0.85), 4.12 (3.04-5.57), 0.21 (0.15-0.30), and 0.88 (0.85-0.91), respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that the AUC was higher in Non-China subgroup, qRT-PCR subgroup, and plasma subgroup than that in China subgroup, ddPCR subgroup, and serum subgroup, respectively. However, the AUC was not significantly different between the healthy control subgroup and chronic hepatitis control subgroup. Significant heterogeneity was found in this meta-analysis, while no evident publication bias was identified. CONCLUSIONS miR-21 is a valuable biomarker for the early diagnosis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiying Zhang
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Rui Ding
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Daojun Chen
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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Zhang C, Yang M. The Emerging Factors and Treatment Options for NAFLD-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13153740. [PMID: 34359642 PMCID: PMC8345138 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease, and it is an increasing factor in the cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The incidence of NAFLD has increased in recent decades, accompanied by an increase in the prevalence of other metabolic diseases, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, current treatment options are limited. Both genetic factors and non-genetic factors impact the initiation and progression of NAFLD-related HCC. The early diagnosis of liver cancer predicts curative treatment and longer survival. Some key molecules play pivotal roles in the initiation and progression of NAFLD-related HCC, which can be targeted to impede HCC development. In this review, we summarize some key factors and important molecules in NAFLD-related HCC development, the latest progress in HCC diagnosis and treatment options, and some current clinical trials for NAFLD treatment. Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer, followed by cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). HCC is the third most common cause of cancer death worldwide, and its incidence is rising, associated with an increased prevalence of obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, current treatment options are limited. Genetic factors and epigenetic factors, influenced by age and environment, significantly impact the initiation and progression of NAFLD-related HCC. In addition, both transcriptional factors and post-transcriptional modification are critically important for the development of HCC in the fatty liver under inflammatory and fibrotic conditions. The early diagnosis of liver cancer predicts curative treatment and longer survival. However, clinical HCC cases are commonly found in a very late stage due to the asymptomatic nature of the early stage of NAFLD-related HCC. The development of diagnostic methods and novel biomarkers, as well as the combined evaluation algorithm and artificial intelligence, support the early and precise diagnosis of NAFLD-related HCC, and timely monitoring during its progression. Treatment options for HCC and NAFLD-related HCC include immunotherapy, CAR T cell therapy, peptide treatment, bariatric surgery, anti-fibrotic treatment, and so on. Overall, the incidence of NAFLD-related HCC is increasing, and a better understanding of the underlying mechanism implicated in the progression of NAFLD-related HCC is essential for improving treatment and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunye Zhang
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA;
| | - Ming Yang
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Correspondence:
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Zhang C, Yang M. Current Options and Future Directions for NAFLD and NASH Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147571. [PMID: 34299189 PMCID: PMC8306701 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide, with a broad spectrum ranging from simple steatosis to advanced stage of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Although there are many undergoing clinical trials for NAFLD treatment, there is no currently approved treatment. NAFLD accounts as a major causing factor for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and its incidence rises accompanying the prevalence of obesity and diabetes. Reprogramming of antidiabetic and anti-obesity medicine is a major treatment option for NAFLD and NASH. Liver inflammation and cellular death, with or without fibrosis account for the progression of NAFLD to NASH. Therefore, molecules and signaling pathways involved in hepatic inflammation, fibrosis, and cell death are critically important targets for the therapy of NAFLD and NASH. In addition, the avoidance of aberrant infiltration of inflammatory cytokines by treating with CCR antagonists also provides a therapeutic option. Currently, there is an increasing number of pre-clinical and clinical trials undergoing to evaluate the effects of antidiabetic and anti-obesity drugs, antibiotics, pan-caspase inhibitors, CCR2/5 antagonists, and others on NAFLD, NASH, and liver fibrosis. Non-invasive serum diagnostic markers are developed for fulfilling the need of diagnostic testing in a large amount of NAFLD cases. Overall, a better understanding of the underlying mechanism of the pathogenesis of NAFLD is helpful to choose an optimized treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunye Zhang
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA;
| | - Ming Yang
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Correspondence:
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Talib WH, Mahmod AI, Kamal A, Rashid HM, Alashqar AMD, Khater S, Jamal D, Waly M. Ketogenic Diet in Cancer Prevention and Therapy: Molecular Targets and Therapeutic Opportunities. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2021; 43:558-589. [PMID: 34287243 PMCID: PMC8928964 DOI: 10.3390/cimb43020042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although cancer is still one of the most significant global challenges facing public health, the world still lacks complementary approaches that would significantly enhance the efficacy of standard anticancer therapies. One of the essential strategies during cancer treatment is following a healthy diet program. The ketogenic diet (KD) has recently emerged as a metabolic therapy in cancer treatment, targeting cancer cell metabolism rather than a conventional dietary approach. The ketogenic diet (KD), a high-fat and very-low-carbohydrate with adequate amounts of protein, has shown antitumor effects by reducing energy supplies to cells. This low energy supply inhibits tumor growth, explaining the ketogenic diet's therapeutic mechanisms in cancer treatment. This review highlights the crucial mechanisms that explain the ketogenic diet's potential antitumor effects, which probably produces an unfavorable metabolic environment for cancer cells and can be used as a promising adjuvant in cancer therapy. Studies discussed in this review provide a solid background for researchers and physicians to design new combination therapies based on KD and conventional therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wamidh H. Talib
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan; (A.I.M.); (A.K.); (H.M.R.); (A.M.D.A.); (S.K.); (D.J.)
| | - Asma Ismail Mahmod
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan; (A.I.M.); (A.K.); (H.M.R.); (A.M.D.A.); (S.K.); (D.J.)
| | - Ayah Kamal
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan; (A.I.M.); (A.K.); (H.M.R.); (A.M.D.A.); (S.K.); (D.J.)
| | - Hasan M. Rashid
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan; (A.I.M.); (A.K.); (H.M.R.); (A.M.D.A.); (S.K.); (D.J.)
| | - Aya M. D. Alashqar
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan; (A.I.M.); (A.K.); (H.M.R.); (A.M.D.A.); (S.K.); (D.J.)
| | - Samar Khater
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan; (A.I.M.); (A.K.); (H.M.R.); (A.M.D.A.); (S.K.); (D.J.)
| | - Duaa Jamal
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan; (A.I.M.); (A.K.); (H.M.R.); (A.M.D.A.); (S.K.); (D.J.)
| | - Mostafa Waly
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Al-Khoud 34-123, Oman;
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Gramantieri L, Giovannini C, Piscaglia F, Fornari F. MicroRNAs as Modulators of Tumor Metabolism, Microenvironment, and Immune Response in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2021; 8:369-385. [PMID: 34012928 PMCID: PMC8126872 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s268292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Molecular heterogeneity and absence of biomarkers helping patient allocation to the best therapeutic option contribute to poor prognosis in advanced stages. MicroRNAs’ (miRNAs) deregulated expression contributes to tumor development and progression and influences drug resistance in HCC. Accordingly, miRNAs have been extensively investigated as both biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The diagnostic and prognostic roles of circulating miRNAs have been ascertained, though with some inconsistencies across studies. From a therapeutic perspective, miRNA-based approaches demonstrated safety profiles and antitumor efficacy in HCC animal models. Nevertheless, caution should be used when transferring preclinical findings to the clinic, due to possible molecular inconsistency between animal models and the heterogeneous patterns of human diseases. A wealth of information is offered by preclinical studies exploring the mechanisms driving miRNAs’ aberrant expression, the molecular cascades triggered by miRNAs and the corresponding phenotypic changes. Ex-vivo analyses confirmed these results, further shedding light on the intricacy of the human disease often overcoming pre-clinical models. This complexity seems to be ascribed to the intrinsic heterogeneity of HCC, to different risk factors driving its development, as well as to changes across stages and previous treatments. Preliminary findings suggest that miRNAs associated with specific risk factors might be more informative in defined patients’ subgroups. The first issue to be considered when trying to envisage a possible translational perspective is the molecular context that often drives different miRNA functions, as clearly evidenced by “dual” miRNAs. Concerning the possible roles of miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets, we will focus on miRNAs’ involvement in metabolic pathways and in the modulation of tumor microenvironment, to support their exploitation in defined contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gramantieri
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Catia Giovannini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Centre for Applied Biomedical Research - CRBA, University of Bologna, St. Orsola Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabio Piscaglia
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Fornari
- Centre for Applied Biomedical Research - CRBA, University of Bologna, St. Orsola Hospital, Bologna, Italy.,Department for Life Quality Studies (QuVi), University of Bologna, Rimini, Italy
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Fang Z, Dou G, Wang L. MicroRNAs in the Pathogenesis of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Int J Biol Sci 2021; 17:1851-1863. [PMID: 33994867 PMCID: PMC8120467 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.59588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), or, more accurately, metabolic associated fatty liver disease, accounts for a large proportion of chronic liver disorders worldwide and is closely associated with other conditions such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. NAFLD ranges from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and can progress to cirrhosis and, eventually, also hepatocellular carcinoma. The morbidity and mortality associated with NAFLD are increasing rapidly year on year. Consequently, there is an urgent need to understand the etiology and pathogenesis of NAFLD and identify effective therapeutic targets. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), important epigenetic factors, have recently been proposed to participate in NAFLD pathogenesis. Here, we review the roles of miRNAs in lipid metabolism, inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis, hepatic stellate cell activation, insulin resistance, and oxidative stress, key factors that contribute to the occurrence and progression of NAFLD. Additionally, we summarize the role of miRNA-enriched extracellular vesicles in NAFLD. These miRNAs may comprise suitable therapeutic targets for the treatment of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Fang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi-Jing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Guorui Dou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xi-Jing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi-Jing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
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