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Cao M, Ke D, Zhou H. The role and molecular mechanism of CTHRC1 in fibrosis. Life Sci 2024; 350:122745. [PMID: 38834096 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122745] [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: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis, a pathological state characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix components, is primarily driven by the overactivation of fibroblasts. This condition becomes particularly pronounced under chronic inflammatory conditions. Fibrosis can occur in several tissues throughout the body. Among the notable discoveries in the study of fibrosis is the role of Collagen Triple Helix Repeat Containing-1 (CTHRC1), a protein that has emerged as a critical regulator in the fibrotic process. CTHRC1 is rapidly expressed on the outer membrane of fibroblasts and intimal smooth muscle cells following vascular injury, such as that induced by balloon angioplasty. This expression denotes the organism efforts to repair and restructure compromised tissue, signifying a critical component of the tissue repair mechanism in reaction to fibrosis. It plays a pivotal role in promoting cell migration and aiding tissue repair post-injury, contributing significantly to various pathophysiological processes including revascularization, bone formation, developmental morphological changes, inflammatory arthritis, and the progression of cancer. Significantly, researchers have observed marked expression of CTHRC1 across a variety of fibrotic conditions, closely associating it with the progression of the disease. Intervention with CTHRC1 can affect the occurrence and progression of fibrosis. This review aims to comprehensively explore the role and underlying mechanisms of CTHRC1 in fibrotic diseases, highlighting its potential as a key target for therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhen Cao
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Da Ke
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Heng Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China.
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Li S, Han B, Li J, Lv Z, Jiang H, Liu Y, Yang X, Lu J, Zhang Z. Resveratrol Alleviates Liver Fibrosis Induced by Long-Term Inorganic Mercury Exposure through Activating the Sirt1/ PGC-1α Signaling Pathway. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024. [PMID: 38959496 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c02349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Liver disease has become an important risk factor for global health. Resveratrol (Res) is a natural polyphenol which is widely found in foods and has a variety of biological activities. This study investigated the role of the microbiota-gut-liver axis in the Res relieving the liver fibrosis induced by inorganic mercury exposure. Twenty-eight mice were divided into four groups (n = 7) and treated with mercuric chloride and/or Res for 24 weeks, respectively. The results showed that Res mitigated the ileum injury induced by inorganic mercury and restrained LPS and alcohol entering the body circulation. Network pharmacological and molecular analyses showed that Res alleviated oxidative stress, metabolism disorders, inflammation, and hepatic stellate cell activation in the liver. In conclusion, Res alleviates liver fibrosis induced by inorganic mercury via activating the Sirt1/PGC-1α signaling pathway and regulating the microbial-gut-liver axis, particularly, increasing the relative enrichment of Bifidobacterium in the intestinal tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Biqi Han
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Jiayi Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Zhanjun Lv
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Huijie Jiang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Yunfeng Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Xu Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Jingjing Lu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
- National Experimental Teaching Demonstration Center of Animal Medicine Foundation, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing 163319, China
| | - Zhigang Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin 150030, China
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Liu X, Liu M, Wu H, Tang W, Yang W, Chan TTH, Zhang L, Chen S, Xiong Z, Liang J, Wai-Yiu Si-Tou W, Shu T, Li J, Cao J, Zhong C, Sun H, Kwong TT, Leung HHW, Wong J, Bo-San Lai P, To KF, Xiang T, Jao-Yiu Sung J, Chan SL, Zhou J, Sze-Lok Cheng A. PPP1R15A-expressing monocytic MDSCs promote immunosuppressive liver microenvironment in fibrosis-associated hepatocellular carcinoma. JHEP Rep 2024; 6:101087. [PMID: 38882672 PMCID: PMC11179254 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2024.101087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Recent studies demonstrated the importance of fibrosis in promoting an immunosuppressive liver microenvironment and thereby aggressive hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) growth and resistance to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), particularly via monocyte-to-monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cell (M-MDSC) differentiation triggered by hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). We thus aimed to identify druggable targets in these immunosuppressive myeloid cells for HCC therapy. Methods M-MDSC signature genes were identified by integrated transcriptomic analysis of a human HSC-monocyte culture system and tumor-surrounding fibrotic livers of patients with HCC. Mechanistic and functional studies were conducted using in vitro-generated and patient-derived M-MDSCs. The therapeutic efficacy of a M-MDSC targeting approach was determined in fibrosis-associated HCC mouse models. Results We uncovered over-expression of protein phosphatase 1 regulatory subunit 15A (PPP1R15A), a myeloid cell-enriched endoplasmic reticulum stress modulator, in human M-MDSCs that correlated with poor prognosis and ICB non-responsiveness in patients with HCC. Blocking TGF-β signaling reduced PPP1R15A expression in HSC-induced M-MDSCs, whereas treatment of monocytes by TGF-β upregulated PPP1R15A, which in turn promoted ARG1 and S100A8/9 expression in M-MDSCs and reduced T-cell proliferation. Consistently, lentiviral-mediated knockdown of Ppp1r15a in vivo significantly reduced ARG1+S100A8/9+ M-MDSCs in fibrotic liver, leading to elevated intratumoral IFN-γ+GZMB+CD8+ T cells and enhanced anti-tumor efficacy of ICB. Notably, pharmacological inhibition of PPP1R15A by Sephin1 reduced the immunosuppressive potential but increased the maturation status of fibrotic HCC patient-derived M-MDSCs. Conclusions PPP1R15A+ M-MDSC cells are involved in immunosuppression in HCC development and represent a novel potential target for therapies. Impact and implications Our cross-species analysis has identified PPP1R15A as a therapeutic target governing the anti-T-cell activities of fibrosis-associated M-MDSCs (monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells). The results from the preclinical models show that specific inhibition of PPP1R15A can break the immunosuppressive barrier to restrict hepatocellular carcinoma growth and enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade. PPP1R15A may also function as a prognostic and/or predictive biomarker in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Liu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory for the Mechanism and Intervention of Cancer Metastasis, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Man Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haoran Wu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wenshu Tang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Weiqin Yang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Thomas T H Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lingyun Zhang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shufen Chen
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhewen Xiong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jianxin Liang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Willis Wai-Yiu Si-Tou
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ting Shu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jingqing Li
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jianquan Cao
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chengpeng Zhong
- Department of Liver Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hanyong Sun
- Department of Liver Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tsz Tung Kwong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Sir YK Pao Centre for Cancer, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Howard H W Leung
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - John Wong
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Paul Bo-San Lai
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ka-Fai To
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tingxiu Xiang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory for the Mechanism and Intervention of Cancer Metastasis, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Joseph Jao-Yiu Sung
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
- State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Stephen Lam Chan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Sir YK Pao Centre for Cancer, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jingying Zhou
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Alfred Sze-Lok Cheng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Alimullah M, Shuvo AUH, Jahan I, Ismail IN, Islam SM, Sultana M, Saad MR, Raihan S, Khan F, Alam MA, Subhan N. Evaluation of the modulating effect of epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor cetuximab in carbon-tetrachloride induce hepatic fibrosis in rats. Biochem Biophys Rep 2024; 38:101689. [PMID: 38560050 PMCID: PMC10979143 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2024.101689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis, developed in almost all chronic liver injuries. Epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR) have been thought to contribute to cirrhosis and liver fibrosis. Therefore, using a rat model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrogenesis, we investigated the preventive effects of cetuximab, an inhibitor of the EGF receptor (EGFR). Ameliorative effects of cetuximab were examined in rats, brought on by biweekly doses of 50 mg/kg of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). There were a total of 24 male Long Evans rats split up into four distinct groups such as control, CCl4, control+cetuximab and CCl4+cetuximab. After two weeks of treatment with cetuximab (100 μg/kg), samples of tissue and blood were taken after all the rats had been sacrificed. Plasma samples were examined for the biochemical indicators of inflammation and oxidative stress. Histological staining on liver sections was performed for morphologic pathologies, and related genes expressions analysis were done with RT-PCR in liver tissue. The findings showed that cetuximab could raise the levels of glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) and considerably lower the levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO). Sirius red staining and hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) displayed that cetuximab therapy reduced the inflammatory cells infiltration and enhanced fibrotic lesions. In the meantime, cetuximab therapy also dramatically reduces the expression of genes linked to inflammation in the liver tissue, including NF-кB, iNOS, IL-6, TNF-α, and TGF-β. To sum up, the anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, and antioxidant properties of cetuximab confer curative efficacy against liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirza Alimullah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North South University, Bangladesh
| | | | - Ishrat Jahan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North South University, Bangladesh
| | | | - S.M. Mufidul Islam
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North South University, Bangladesh
| | - Mahnaj Sultana
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North South University, Bangladesh
| | | | - Sabbir Raihan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North South University, Bangladesh
| | - Ferdous Khan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North South University, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Ashraful Alam
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North South University, Bangladesh
| | - Nusrat Subhan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North South University, Bangladesh
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Wang B, Yang L, Yuan X, Zhang Y. Roles and therapeutic targeting of dendritic cells in liver fibrosis. J Drug Target 2024; 32:647-654. [PMID: 38682473 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2024.2347365] [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: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a common pathological condition marked by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins, resulting in irreversible cirrhosis and cancer. Dendritic cells (DCs) act as the crucial component of hepatic immunity and are believed to affect fibrosis by regulating the proliferation and differentiation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), a key mediator of fibrogenesis, and by interplaying with immune cells in the liver. This review concisely describes the process of fibrogenesis, and the phenotypic and functional characteristics of DCs in the liver. Besides, it focuses on the interaction between DCs and HSCs, T cells, and natural killer (NK) cells, as well as the dual roles of DCs in liver fibrosis, for the sake of exploring the potential of targeting DCs as a therapeutic strategy for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingyu Wang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, P.R. China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, P.R. China
| | - Liuxin Yang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, P.R. China
| | - Xingxing Yuan
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, P.R. China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, P.R. China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, P.R. China
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Li J, Xiang Y, Han J, Gao Y, Wang R, Dong Z, Chen H, Gao R, Liu C, Teng GJ, Qi X. Retinopathy as a predictive indicator for significant hepatic fibrosis according to T2DM status: A cross-sectional study based on the national health and nutrition examination survey data. Ann Hepatol 2024; 29:101478. [PMID: 38354949 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2024.101478] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), a prevalent metabolic disorder, often coexists with a range of complications, with retinopathy being particularly common. Recent studies have shed light on a potential connection between diabetic retinopathy (DR) and hepatic fibrosis, indicating a possible shared pathophysiological foundation in T2DM. This study investigates the correlation between retinopathy and hepatic fibrosis among individuals with T2DM, as well as evaluates the diagnostic value of DR for significant hepatic fibrosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Our cross-sectional analysis incorporated 5413 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005-2008. The Fibrosis-4 score (FIB-4) classified hepatic fibrosis into different grades (F0-F4), with significant hepatic fibrosis marked as F2 or higher. Retinopathy severity was determined using retinal imaging and categorized into four levels. The analysis of variance or Chi-square tests facilitated group comparisons. Additionally, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis appraised the predictive accuracy of retinopathy for significant hepatic fibrosis in the T2DM population. RESULTS Among 5413 participants, the mean age was 59.56 ± 12.41, with 50.2% male. And 20.6% were diagnosed with T2DM. Hepatic fibrosis grading was positively associated with retinopathy severity (OR [odds ratio]: 1.521, 95%CI [confidence interval]: 1.152-2.008, P = 0.003) across the entire population. The association was amplified in the T2DM population according to Pearson's analysis results. The ROC curve demonstrated retinopathy's diagnostic capacity for significant hepatic fibrosis in the T2DM population (AUC [area under curve] = 0.72, 95%CI: 0.651-0.793, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Retinopathy could serve as an independent predictor of significant hepatic fibrosis in T2DM population. Ophthalmologists are advised to closely monitor T2DM patients with retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinze Li
- Institute for AI in Medicine, School of Artificial Intelligence, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing 210044, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yi Xiang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi Province, China; Center of Portal Hypertension, Department of Radiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nurturing Center of Jiangsu Province for State Laboratory of AI Imaging & Interventional Radiology (Southeast University), Nanjing 210044, Jiangsu Province, China; Basic Medicine Research and Innovation Center of Ministry of Education, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu Province, China; State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, Nanjing 210044, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jiahao Han
- Center of Portal Hypertension, Department of Radiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nurturing Center of Jiangsu Province for State Laboratory of AI Imaging & Interventional Radiology (Southeast University), Nanjing 210044, Jiangsu Province, China; Basic Medicine Research and Innovation Center of Ministry of Education, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu Province, China; State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, Nanjing 210044, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Youfang Gao
- Department of Infectious Disease, The People's Hospital of Bozhou, Bozhou 236800, Anhui Province, China
| | - Ruiying Wang
- Basic Medicine Research and Innovation Center of Ministry of Education, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu Province, China; The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, Gansu Province, China; The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Zihe Dong
- Basic Medicine Research and Innovation Center of Ministry of Education, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu Province, China; The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, Gansu Province, China; The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Huihui Chen
- Basic Medicine Research and Innovation Center of Ministry of Education, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu Province, China; State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, Nanjing 210044, Jiangsu Province, China; Department of Ultrasound, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ruixia Gao
- Basic Medicine Research and Innovation Center of Ministry of Education, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu Province, China; State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, Nanjing 210044, Jiangsu Province, China; Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Chuan Liu
- Center of Portal Hypertension, Department of Radiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nurturing Center of Jiangsu Province for State Laboratory of AI Imaging & Interventional Radiology (Southeast University), Nanjing 210044, Jiangsu Province, China; Basic Medicine Research and Innovation Center of Ministry of Education, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu Province, China; State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, Nanjing 210044, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Gao-Jun Teng
- Center of Interventional Radiology and Vascular Surgery, Department of Radiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiaolong Qi
- Center of Portal Hypertension, Department of Radiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nurturing Center of Jiangsu Province for State Laboratory of AI Imaging & Interventional Radiology (Southeast University), Nanjing 210044, Jiangsu Province, China; Basic Medicine Research and Innovation Center of Ministry of Education, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu Province, China; State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, Nanjing 210044, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Chen S, Zhuang D, Jia Q, Guo B, Hu G. Advances in Noninvasive Molecular Imaging Probes for Liver Fibrosis Diagnosis. Biomater Res 2024; 28:0042. [PMID: 38952717 PMCID: PMC11214848 DOI: 10.34133/bmr.0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a wound-healing response to chronic liver injury, which may lead to cirrhosis and cancer. Early-stage fibrosis is reversible, and it is difficult to precisely diagnose with conventional imaging modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, single-photon emission computed tomography, and ultrasound imaging. In contrast, probe-assisted molecular imaging offers a promising noninvasive approach to visualize early fibrosis changes in vivo, thus facilitating early diagnosis and staging liver fibrosis, and even monitoring of the treatment response. Here, the most recent progress in molecular imaging technologies for liver fibrosis is updated. We start by illustrating pathogenesis for liver fibrosis, which includes capillarization of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, cellular and molecular processes involved in inflammation and fibrogenesis, as well as processes of collagen synthesis, oxidation, and cross-linking. Furthermore, the biological targets used in molecular imaging of liver fibrosis are summarized, which are composed of receptors on hepatic stellate cells, macrophages, and even liver collagen. Notably, the focus is on insights into the advances in imaging modalities developed for liver fibrosis diagnosis and the update in the corresponding contrast agents. In addition, challenges and opportunities for future research and clinical translation of the molecular imaging modalities and the contrast agents are pointed out. We hope that this review would serve as a guide for scientists and students who are interested in liver fibrosis imaging and treatment, and as well expedite the translation of molecular imaging technologies from bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaofang Chen
- Department of Radiology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College,
Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, Guangdong, China
| | - Danping Zhuang
- Department of Radiology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College,
Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, Guangdong, China
| | - Qingyun Jia
- Department of Radiology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College,
Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, Guangdong, China
| | - Bing Guo
- School of Science, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Flexible Printed Electronics Technology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Carbon Materials Research and Comprehensive Application,
Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Genwen Hu
- Department of Radiology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College,
Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, Guangdong, China
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8
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Cools L, Dastjerd MK, Smout A, Merens V, Yang Y, Reynaert H, Messaoudi N, Smet VD, Kumar M, Verhulst S, Verfaillie C, van Grunsven LA. Human iPSC-derived liver co-culture spheroids to model liver fibrosis. Biofabrication 2024; 16:035032. [PMID: 38865994 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ad5766] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
The lack of adequate humanin vitromodels that recapitulate the cellular composition and response of the human liver to injury hampers the development of anti-fibrotic drugs. The goal of this study was to develop a human spheroid culture model to study liver fibrosis by using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived liver cells. iPSCs were independently differentiated towards hepatoblasts (iHepatoblasts), hepatic stellate cells (iHSCs), endothelial cells (iECs) and macrophages (iMΦ), before assembly into free floating spheroids by culturing cells in 96-well U-bottom plates and orbital shaking for up to 21 days to allow further maturation. Through transcriptome analysis, we show further maturation of iECs and iMΦ, the differentiation of the iHepatoblasts towards hepatocyte-like cells (iHeps) and the inactivation of the iHSCs by the end of the 3D culture. Moreover, these cultures display a similar expression of cell-specific marker genes (CYP3A4, PDGFRβ, CD31andCD68) and sensitivity to hepatotoxicity as spheroids made using freshly isolated primary human liver cells. Furthermore, we show the functionality of the iHeps and the iHSCs by mimicking liver fibrosis through iHep-induced iHSC activation, using acetaminophen. In conclusion, we have established a reproducible human iPSC-derived liver culture model that can be used to mimic fibrosisin vitroas a replacement of primary human liver derived 3D models. The model can be used to investigate pathways involved in fibrosis development and to identify new targets for chronic liver disease therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cools
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mina Kazemzadeh Dastjerd
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ayla Smout
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Vincent Merens
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yuwei Yang
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hendrik Reynaert
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nouredin Messaoudi
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Vincent De Smet
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Stem Cell Institute Leuven, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Stefaan Verhulst
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Catherine Verfaillie
- Stem Cell Institute Leuven, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Leo A van Grunsven
- Liver Cell Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
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Xiang F, Zhang Z, Li Y, Li M, Xie J, Sun M, Peng Q, Lin L. Research progress in the treatment of schistosomiasis with traditional Chinese medicine. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 333:118501. [PMID: 38944361 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Schistosomiasis, caused by infection with organisms of the Schistoma genus, is a parasitic and infectious disease that poses a significant risk to human health. Schistosomiasis has been a widespread issue in China for at least 2000 years. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a rich history of treating this disease, and the significant theoretical and practical knowledge attained therein may be useful in modern practice. AIM OF THE STUDY To comprehensively review TCM for the treatment of schistosomiasis, summarize the molecular basis, mechanism of action, active ingredients and formulas of TCM, and clarify the value of TCM for expanding drug options for the clinical treatment of schistosomiasis. MATERIALS AND METHODS In PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and CNKI databases, "Schistosomiasis", "Schistosoma mansoni", "Schistosoma japonicum", "Liver fibrosis" and "Granuloma" were used as the key words. Information related to in vivo animal studies and clinical studies of TCM for the treatment of schistosomiasis in the past 25 years was retrieved, and the inclusion criteria focused on medicinal plants that had a history of use in China. RESULTS In this study, we collected and organized a large amount of literature on the treatment of schistosomiasis by TCM. TCM exerts therapeutic effects through antischistosomal and immunomodulatory effects, suppresses HSC activation and proliferation, reduces ECM deposition, and inhibits oxidative stress and other activities. The treatment of schistosomiasis by TCM has a unique advantage, especially for the treatment of schistosomal liver fibrosis, and the treatment of schistosomiasis with TCM in combination with praziquantel is superior to monotherapy. CONCLUSION Schistosomiasis remains a global public health problem, and TCM has made significant progress in the prevention and treatment of schistosomiasis and is a potential source of drugs for the treatment of schistosomiasis. However, research on drug screening and the mechanism of action of TCM for the treatment of schistosomiasis is lacking, and further studies and research are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Xiang
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No.300 Xueshi Road, Changsha, 410208, China.
| | - Zhimin Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No.300 Xueshi Road, Changsha, 410208, China.
| | - Yamei Li
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No.300 Xueshi Road, Changsha, 410208, China.
| | - Minjie Li
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No.300 Xueshi Road, Changsha, 410208, China.
| | - Jingchen Xie
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No.300 Xueshi Road, Changsha, 410208, China.
| | - Miao Sun
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No.300 Xueshi Road, Changsha, 410208, China.
| | - Qinghua Peng
- Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No.300 Xueshi Road, Changsha, 410208, China.
| | - Limei Lin
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No.300 Xueshi Road, Changsha, 410208, China.
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10
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Giarratana AO, Prendergast CM, Salvatore MM, Capaccione KM. TGF-β signaling: critical nexus of fibrogenesis and cancer. J Transl Med 2024; 22:594. [PMID: 38926762 PMCID: PMC11201862 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05411-4] [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: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway is a vital regulator of cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix production. It functions through canonical SMAD-mediated processes and noncanonical pathways involving MAPK cascades, PI3K/AKT, Rho-like GTPases, and NF-κB signaling. This intricate signaling system is finely tuned by interactions between canonical and noncanonical pathways and plays key roles in both physiologic and pathologic conditions including tissue homeostasis, fibrosis, and cancer progression. TGF-β signaling is known to have paradoxical actions. Under normal physiologic conditions, TGF-β signaling promotes cell quiescence and apoptosis, acting as a tumor suppressor. In contrast, in pathological states such as inflammation and cancer, it triggers processes that facilitate cancer progression and tissue remodeling, thus promoting tumor development and fibrosis. Here, we detail the role that TGF-β plays in cancer and fibrosis and highlight the potential for future theranostics targeting this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna O Giarratana
- Northwell Health - Peconic Bay Medical Center, 1 Heroes Way, Riverhead, NY, 11901, USA.
| | | | - Mary M Salvatore
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, 11032, USA
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11
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Chen ZY, Panga MJ, Zhang X, Qiao S, Chen S, Appiah C, Zhao Y. Estrogen alleviates liver fibrosis and restores metabolic homeostasis in ovariectomy-induced liver injury and carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4) exposure. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 978:176774. [PMID: 38936452 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176774] [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: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
AIM Given estrogen's recognized regulatory influence on diverse metabolic and immune functions, this study sought to explore its potential impact on fibrosis and elucidate the underlying metabolic regulations. METHODS Female mice underwent ovary removal surgery, followed by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) administration to induce liver injury. Biochemical index analysis and histopathological examination were then conducted. The expression levels of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and collagen type 1 alpha 1 chain (COL1A1) were assessed using western blotting to further elucidate the extent of liver injury. Finally, metabolite extraction and metabolomic analysis were performed to evaluate metabolic changes. RESULTS Ovary removal exacerbated CCl4-induced liver damage, while estrogen supplementation provided protection against hepatic changes resulting from OVX. Furthermore, estrogen mitigated liver injury induced by CCl4 treatment in vivo. Estrogen supplementation significantly restored liver damage induced by OVX and CCl4. Comparative analysis revealed significant alterations in pathways including aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism, lysine degradation, and taurine and hypotaurine metabolism in estrogen treatment. CONCLUSION Estrogen supplementation alleviates liver injury induced by OVX and CCl4, highlighting its protective effects against fibrosis and associated metabolic alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi Yi Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, China
| | - Mogellah John Panga
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, China
| | - Xiangrui Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, China
| | - Shuai Qiao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, China
| | - Shitian Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, China
| | - Clara Appiah
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, China
| | - Ye Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, China.
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12
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Xu G, Ma T, Zhou C, Zhao F, Peng K, Li B. Combination of Pirfenidone and Andrographolide Ameliorates Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Liver Fibrosis by Mediating TGF- β/Smad Signaling Pathway. Anal Cell Pathol (Amst) 2024; 2024:2751280. [PMID: 38946862 PMCID: PMC11213636 DOI: 10.1155/2024/2751280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Biliary atresia (BA) is a devastating congenital disease characterized by inflammation and progressive liver fibrosis. Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrosis. Our study aimed to investigate the pharmacological effect and potential mechanism of pirfenidone (PFD) and andrographolide (AGP) separately and together on liver fibrosis of BA. Materials and Methods The bile ducts of male C57BL/6J mice were ligated or had the sham operation. The in vivo effects of PFD and/or AGP on liver fibrosis of BA were evaluated. Human hepatic stellate cells (LX-2) were also treated with PFD and/or AGP in vitro. Results PFD and/or AGP ameliorates liver fibrosis and inflammation in the mice model of BA, as evidenced by significant downregulated in the accumulation of collagen fibers, hepatic fibrosis markers (α-SMA, collagen I, and collagen IV), and inflammatory markers (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α). Moreover, compared with monotherapy, these changes are more obvious in the combined treatment of PFD and AGP. Consistent with animal experiments, hepatic fibrosis markers (α-SMA, collagen I, and CTGF) and inflammatory markers (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) were significantly decreased in activated LX-2 cells after PFD and/or AGP treatment. In addition, PFD and/or AGP inhibited the activation of HSCs by blocking the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway, and the combined treatment of PFD and AGP synergistically inhibited the phosphorylation of Smad2 and Smad3. Conclusion The combined application of PFD and AGP exerted superior inhibitive effects on HSC activation and liver fibrosis by mediating the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway as compared to monotherapy. Therefore, the combination of PFD and AGP may be a promising treatment strategy for liver fibrosis in BA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang Xu
- Department of Neonatal SurgeryHunan Children's Hospital, Changsha 410007, China
| | - Tidong Ma
- Department of Neonatal SurgeryHunan Children's Hospital, Changsha 410007, China
| | - Chonggao Zhou
- Department of Neonatal SurgeryHunan Children's Hospital, Changsha 410007, China
| | - Fan Zhao
- Department of Neonatal SurgeryHunan Children's Hospital, Changsha 410007, China
| | - Kun Peng
- Department of Neonatal SurgeryHunan Children's Hospital, Changsha 410007, China
| | - Bixiang Li
- Department of Neonatal SurgeryHunan Children's Hospital, Changsha 410007, China
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Ji P, Li Y, Wang Z, Jia S, Jiang X, Chen H, Wang Q. Advances in precision gene editing for liver fibrosis: From technology to therapeutic applications. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 177:117003. [PMID: 38908207 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117003] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024] Open
Abstract
This review presents a comprehensive exploration of gene editing technologies and their potential applications in the treatment of liver fibrosis, a condition often leading to serious complications such as liver cancer. Through an in-depth review of current literature and critical analysis, the study delves into the intricate signaling pathways underlying liver fibrosis development and examines the promising role of gene editing in alleviating this disease burden. Gene editing technologies offer precise, efficient, and reproducible tools for manipulating genetic material, holding significant promise for basic research and clinical practice. The manuscript highlights the challenges and potential risks associated with gene editing technology. By synthesizing existing knowledge and exploring future perspectives, this study aims to provide valuable insights into the potential of precision gene editing to combat liver fibrosis and its associated complications, ultimately contributing to advances in liver fibrosis research and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Ji
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310000, PR China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of International Medicine, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, PR China
| | - Zihan Wang
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China
| | - Siyu Jia
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China
| | - Xinyi Jiang
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China
| | - Hui Chen
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China
| | - Qun Wang
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 225300, PR China.
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Radosavljevic T, Vukicevic D, Djuretić J, Gopcevic K, Labudovic Borovic M, Stankovic S, Samardzic J, Radosavljevic M, Vucevic D, Jakovljevic V. The Role of Macrophage Inhibitory Factor in TAA-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Mice: Modulatory Effects of Betaine. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1337. [PMID: 38927544 PMCID: PMC11201963 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12061337] [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: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Macrophage inhibitory factor (MIF) is a multipotent cytokine, involved in the inflammatory response to infections or injuries. This study investigates the role of MIF in liver fibrosis and the modulating effect of betaine on MIF in thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrosis. The wild-type and knockout MIF-/- C57BL/6 mice were divided into the following groups: control; Bet group, which received betaine; MIF-/-; MIF-/-+Bet; TAA group, which received TAA; TAA+Bet; MIF-/-+TAA; and MIF-/-+TAA+Bet group. After eight weeks of treatment, liver tissue was collected for further analysis. The results revealed that TAA-treated MIF-deficient mice had elevated levels of hepatic TGF-β1 and PDGF-BB, as well as MMP-2, MMP-9, and TIMP-1 compared to TAA-treated wild-type mice. However, the administration of betaine to TAA-treated MIF-deficient mice reduced hepatic TGF-β1 and PDGF-BB levels and also the relative activities of MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIMP-1, albeit less effectively than in TAA-treated mice without MIF deficiency. Furthermore, the antifibrogenic effect of MIF was demonstrated by an increase in MMP2/TIMP1 and MMP9/TIMP1 ratios. The changes in the hepatic levels of fibrogenic factors were confirmed by a histological examination of liver tissue. Overall, the dual nature of MIF highlights its involvement in the progression of liver fibrosis. Its prooxidant and proinflammatory effects may exacerbate tissue damage and inflammation initially, but its antifibrogenic activity suggests a potential protective role against fibrosis development. The study showed that betaine modulates the antifibrogenic effects of MIF in TAA-induced liver fibrosis, by decreasing TGF-β1, PDGF-BB, MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1, and the deposition of ECM (Coll1 and Coll3) in the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatjana Radosavljevic
- Institute of Pathophysiology “Ljubodrag Buba Mihailović”, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Dusan Vukicevic
- Uniklinik Mannheim, Theodor-Kutyer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany;
| | - Jasmina Djuretić
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Kristina Gopcevic
- Institute of Chemistry in Medicine “Prof. Dr. Petar Matavulj”, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Milica Labudovic Borovic
- Institute of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Sanja Stankovic
- Centre for Medical Biochemistry, University Clinical Centre of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Svetozara Markovica 69, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia;
| | - Janko Samardzic
- Institute of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (J.S.); (M.R.)
| | - Milica Radosavljevic
- Institute of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (J.S.); (M.R.)
| | - Danijela Vucevic
- Institute of Pathophysiology “Ljubodrag Buba Mihailović”, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Vladimir Jakovljevic
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Svetozara Markovica 69, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia;
- Center of Excellence for the Study of Redox Balance in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders, University of Kragujevac, Svetozara Markovica 69, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia
- Department of Human Pathology, First Moscow State Medical University I.M. Sechenov, Trubetskaya Street 8, Str. 2, 119991 Moscow, Russia
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Feng X, Liu H, Sheng Y, Li J, Guo J, Song W, Li S, Liu Z, Zhou H, Wu N, Wang R, Chu J, Han X, Hu B, Qi Y. Yinchen gongying decoction mitigates CCl 4-induced chronic liver injury and fibrosis in mice implicated in inhibition of the FoxO1/TGF-β1/ Smad2/3 and YAP signaling pathways. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 327:117975. [PMID: 38432576 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Liver fibrosis (LF) is a common reversible consequence of chronic liver damage with limited therapeutic options. Yinchen Gongying decoction (YGD) composed of two homologous plants: (Artemisia capillaris Thunb, Taraxacum monochlamydeum Hand.-Mazz.), has a traditionally application as a medicinal diet for acute icteric hepatitis. However, its impact on LF and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aims to assess the impact of YGD on a carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced liver fibrosis and elucidate its possible mechanisms. The study seeks to establish an experimental foundation for YGD as a candidate drug for hepatic fibrosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS LC-MS/MS identified 11 blood-entry components in YGD, and network pharmacology predicted their involvement in the FoxO signaling pathway, insulin resistance, and PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. Using a CCl4-induced LF mouse model, YGD's protective effects were evaluated in comparison to a positive control and a normal group. The underlying mechanisms were explored through the assessments of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation, fibrotic signaling, and inflammation. RESULTS YGD treatment significantly improved liver function, enhanced liver morphology, and reduced liver collagen deposition in CCl4-induced LF mice. Mechanistically, YGD inhibited HSC activation, elevated MMPs/TIMP1 ratios, suppressed the FoxO1/TGF-β1/Smad2/3 and YAP pathways, and exhibited anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Notably, YGD improved the insulin signaling pathway. CONCLUSION YGD mitigates LF in mice by modulating fibrotic and inflammatory pathways, enhancing antioxidant responses, and specifically inhibiting FoxO1/TGF-β1/Smad2/3 and YAP signal pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Feng
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Hengxu Liu
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Yifei Sheng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Jiaqi Li
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Jiyuan Guo
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Wenxuan Song
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Sha Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Zixuan Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Haoyu Zhou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Naijun Wu
- Department of Endocrinology, North China University of Science and Technology Affiliated Hospital, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Rui Wang
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Jinxiu Chu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China; Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Xiaolei Han
- Qian 'an Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Baofeng Hu
- Qian 'an Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Yajuan Qi
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China; School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China; Tangshan Key Laboratory of Basic Research in Medicine Development, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China; Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China; Department of Endocrinology, North China University of Science and Technology Affiliated Hospital, Tangshan 063210, China.
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Wang F, Gan J, Li R, Yang R, Mao X, Liu S, Chen Y, Duan Z, Li J. Naringin from Ganshuang granule inhibits inflammatory to relieve liver fibrosis through TGF-β-Smad signaling pathway. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304185. [PMID: 38857261 PMCID: PMC11164354 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study aims to investigate the specific protective effects and underlying mechanisms of Ganshuang granule (GSG) on dimethylnitrosamine (DMN)-induced hepatic fibrosis in rat models. METHODS Hepatic fibrosis was experimentally evoked in rats by DMN administration, and varying dosages of GSG were employed as an intervention. Hepatocellular damage was assessed by measuring serum levels of aminotransferase and bilirubin, accompanied by histopathological examinations of hepatic tissue. The hepatic concentrations of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) were quantitated via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) within hepatic tissue was evaluated using immunohistochemical techniques. The levels of hepatic interferon-γ (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and a spectrum of interleukins (IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10) were quantified by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Additionally, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were cultured in vitro and exposed to TNF-α in the presence of naringin, a principal component of GSG. The gene expression levels of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) and matrix metallopeptidase-1 (MMP-1) in these cells were also quantified by qRT-PCR. Proliferative activity of HSCs was evaluated by the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. Finally, alterations in Smad protein expression were analyzed through Western blotting. RESULTS Administration of GSG in rats with fibrosis resulted in reduced levels of serum aminotransferases and bilirubin, along with alleviation of histopathological liver injury. Furthermore, the fibrosis rats treated with GSG exhibited significant downregulation of hepatic TGF-β1, PDGF, and TNF-α levels. Additionally, GSG treatment led to increased mRNA levels of IFN-γ, IL-2, and IL-4, as well as decreased expression of α-SMA in the liver. Furthermore, treatment with naringin, a pivotal extract of GSG, resulted in elevated expression of MMP-1 and decreased levels of TIMP-1 in TNF-α-stimulated HSCs when compared to the control group. Additionally, naringin administration led to a reduction in Smad expression within the HSCs. CONCLUSION GSG has the potential to mitigate fibrosis induced by DMN in rat models through the regulation of inflammatory and fibrosis factors. Notably, naringin, the primary extract of GSG, may exert a pivotal role in modulating the TGF-β-Smad signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuchun Wang
- Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Gan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baiyin Pingchuan District People’s Hospital, Baiyin, Gansu, China
| | - Rui Yang
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Xiaorong Mao
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongping Duan
- Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Junfeng Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Infectious Disease Research Laboratory, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
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Erdenebileg S, Kim M, Nam Y, Cha KH, Le TT, Jung SH, Nho CW. Artemisia argyi ethanol extract ameliorates nonalcoholic steatohepatitis-induced liver fibrosis by modulating gut microbiota and hepatic signaling. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 333:118415. [PMID: 38848971 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Artemisia argyi (AA), a herbal medicine traditionally used in Asian countries, to treat inflammatory conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, arthritis, allergic asthma and colitis. However, the mechanism of action of this plant with regard to hepatitis and other liver-related diseases is still unclear. AIM This study aimed to investigate the effects of AA ethanol extract on NASH-related fibrosis and gut microbiota in a choline-deficient, L-amino acid-defined, high-fat diet (CDAHFD)-induced mouse model. METHODS Male C57BL/6J mice were fed CDAHFD, with or without AA ethanol extract treatment. Biochemical markers, lipid profiles, hepatic mRNA expression levels of key genes, and the fibrosis area were assessed. In vitro, TGF-β-stimulated human hepatic stellate LX-2 cells and mouse primary hepatic stellate cells (mHSCs) were used to elucidate the effects of AA ethanol extract on fibrosis and steatosis. 16S rRNA sequencing, QIIME2, and PICRUST2 were employed to analyze gut microbial diversity, composition, and functional pathways. RESULTS Treatment with the AA ethanol extract improved plasma and liver lipid profiles, modulated hepatic mRNA expression levels of antioxidant, lipolytic, and fibrosis-related genes, and significantly reduced CDAHFD-induced hepatic fibrosis. Gut microbiota analysis revealed a marked decrease in Acetivibrio ethanolgignens abundance upon treatment with the AA ethanol extract, and its functional pathways were significantly correlated with NASH/fibrosis markers. The AA ethanol extract and its active components (jaceosidin, eupatilin, and chlorogenic acid) inhibited fibrosis-related markers in LX-2 and mHSC. CONCLUSION The AA ethanol extract exerted therapeutic effects on CDAHFD-induced liver disease by modulating NASH/fibrosis-related factors and gut microbiota composition. Notably, AA treatment reduced the abundance of the potentially profibrotic bacterium (A. ethanolgignens). These findings suggest that AA is a promising candidate for treating NASH-induced fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saruul Erdenebileg
- Smart Farm Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Gangneung Institute of Natural Products, Gangneung, Gangwon-do, 25451, South Korea; Natural Product Applied Science, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Gangneung, Gangwon-do, 25451, South Korea
| | - Myungsuk Kim
- Natural Product Applied Science, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Gangneung, Gangwon-do, 25451, South Korea; Natural Product Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Gangneung Institute of Natural Products, Gangneung, Gangwon-do, 25451, South Korea; Department of Convergence Medicine, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, Gangwon-do, 26426, South Korea
| | - Yunseong Nam
- Smart Farm Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Gangneung Institute of Natural Products, Gangneung, Gangwon-do, 25451, South Korea; Natural Product Applied Science, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Gangneung, Gangwon-do, 25451, South Korea
| | - Kwang Hyun Cha
- Natural Product Applied Science, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Gangneung, Gangwon-do, 25451, South Korea; Department of Convergence Medicine, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, Gangwon-do, 26426, South Korea; Natural Product Informatics Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Gangneung Institute of Natural Products, Gangneung, Gangwon-do, 25451, South Korea
| | - Tam Thi Le
- Natural Product Applied Science, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Gangneung, Gangwon-do, 25451, South Korea; Natural Product Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Gangneung Institute of Natural Products, Gangneung, Gangwon-do, 25451, South Korea
| | - Sang Hoon Jung
- Natural Product Applied Science, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Gangneung, Gangwon-do, 25451, South Korea; Natural Product Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Gangneung Institute of Natural Products, Gangneung, Gangwon-do, 25451, South Korea
| | - Chu Won Nho
- Smart Farm Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Gangneung Institute of Natural Products, Gangneung, Gangwon-do, 25451, South Korea; Natural Product Applied Science, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Gangneung, Gangwon-do, 25451, South Korea.
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18
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Baky NAA, Fouad LM, Ahmed KA, Alzokaky AA. Mechanistic insight into the hepatoprotective effect of Moringa oleifera Lam leaf extract and telmisartan against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis: plausible roles of TGF-β1/SMAD3/SMAD7 and HDAC2/NF-κB/PPARγ pathways. Drug Chem Toxicol 2024:1-14. [PMID: 38835191 DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2024.2358066] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
The increasing prevalence and limited therapeutic options for liver fibrosis necessitates more medical attention. Our study aims to investigate the potential molecular targets by which Moringa oleifera Lam leaf extract (Mor) and/or telmisartan (Telm) alleviate carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in rats. Liver fibrosis was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats by intraperitoneal injection of 50% CCl4 (1 ml/kg) every 72 hours, for 8 weeks. Intoxicated rats with CCl4 were simultaneously orally administrated Mor (400 mg/kg/day for 8 weeks) and/or Telm (10 mg/kg/day for 8 weeks). Treatment of CCl4-intoxicated rats with Mor/Telm significantly reduced serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities compared to CCl4 intoxicated group (P < 0.001). Additionally, Mor/Telm treatment significantly reduced the level of hepatic inflammatory, profibrotic, and apoptotic markers including; nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), transforming growth factor-βeta1 (TGF-β1), and caspase-3. Interestingly, co-treatment of CCl4-intoxicated rats with Mor/Telm downregulated m-RNA expression of histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) (71.8%), and reduced protein expression of mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 3 (p-SMAD3) (70.6%) compared to untreated animals. Mor/Telm regimen also elevated p-SMAD7 protein expression as well as m-RNA expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) (3.6 and 3.1 fold, respectively p < 0.05) compared to CCl4 intoxicated group. Histopathological picture of the liver tissue intoxicated with CCl4 revealed marked improvement by Mor/Telm co-treatment. Conclusively, this study substantiated the hepatoprotective effect of Mor/Telm regimen against CCl4-induced liver fibrosis through suppression of TGF-β1/SMAD3, and HDAC2/NF-κB signaling pathways and up-regulation of SMAD7 and PPARγ expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayira A Abdel Baky
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Lamiaa M Fouad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Kawkab A Ahmed
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amany A Alzokaky
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Horus University, New Damietta, Egypt
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19
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Caon E, Martins M, Hodgetts H, Blanken L, Vilia MG, Levi A, Thanapirom K, Al-Akkad W, Abu-Hanna J, Baselli G, Hall AR, Luong TV, Taanman JW, Vacca M, Valenti L, Romeo S, Mazza G, Pinzani M, Rombouts K. Exploring the impact of the PNPLA3 I148M variant on primary human hepatic stellate cells using 3D extracellular matrix models. J Hepatol 2024; 80:941-956. [PMID: 38365182 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.01.032] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The PNPLA3 rs738409 C>G (encoding for I148M) variant is a risk locus for the fibrogenic progression of chronic liver diseases, a process driven by hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). We investigated how the PNPLA3 I148M variant affects HSC biology using transcriptomic data and validated findings in 3D-culture models. METHODS RNA sequencing was performed on 2D-cultured primary human HSCs and liver biopsies of individuals with obesity, genotyped for the PNPLA3 I148M variant. Data were validated in wild-type (WT) or PNPLA3 I148M variant-carrying HSCs cultured on 3D extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffolds from human healthy and cirrhotic livers, with/without TGFB1 or cytosporone B (Csn-B) treatment. RESULTS Transcriptomic analyses of liver biopsies and HSCs highlighted shared PNPLA3 I148M-driven dysregulated pathways related to mitochondrial function, antioxidant response, ECM remodelling and TGFB1 signalling. Analogous pathways were dysregulated in WT/PNPLA3-I148M HSCs cultured in 3D liver scaffolds. Mitochondrial dysfunction in PNPLA3-I148M cells was linked to respiratory chain complex IV insufficiency. Antioxidant capacity was lower in PNPLA3-I148M HSCs, while reactive oxygen species secretion was increased in PNPLA3-I148M HSCs and higher in bioengineered cirrhotic vs. healthy scaffolds. TGFB1 signalling followed the same trend. In PNPLA3-I148M cells, expression and activation of the endogenous TGFB1 inhibitor NR4A1 were decreased: treatment with the Csn-B agonist increased total NR4A1 in HSCs cultured in healthy but not in cirrhotic 3D scaffolds. NR4A1 regulation by TGFB1/Csn-B was linked to Akt signalling in PNPLA3-WT HSCs and to Erk signalling in PNPLA3-I148M HSCs. CONCLUSION HSCs carrying the PNPLA3 I148M variant have impaired mitochondrial function, antioxidant responses, and increased TGFB1 signalling, which dampens antifibrotic NR4A1 activity. These features are exacerbated by cirrhotic ECM, highlighting the dual impact of the PNPLA3 I148M variant and the fibrotic microenvironment in progressive chronic liver diseases. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a key role in the fibrogenic process associated with chronic liver disease. The PNPLA3 genetic mutation has been linked with increased risk of fibrogenesis, but its role in HSCs requires further investigation. Here, by using comparative transcriptomics and a novel 3D in vitro model, we demonstrate the impact of the PNPLA3 genetic mutation on primary human HSCs' behaviour, and we show that it affects the cell's mitochondrial function and antioxidant response, as well as the antifibrotic gene NR4A1. Our publicly available transcriptomic data, 3D platform and our findings on NR4A1 could facilitate the discovery of targets to develop more effective treatments for chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Caon
- Regenerative Medicine and Fibrosis Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
| | - Maria Martins
- Regenerative Medicine and Fibrosis Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
| | - Harry Hodgetts
- Regenerative Medicine and Fibrosis Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
| | - Lieke Blanken
- Regenerative Medicine and Fibrosis Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
| | - Maria Giovanna Vilia
- Regenerative Medicine and Fibrosis Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
| | - Ana Levi
- Regenerative Medicine and Fibrosis Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
| | - Kessarin Thanapirom
- Regenerative Medicine and Fibrosis Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
| | - Walid Al-Akkad
- Regenerative Medicine and Fibrosis Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
| | - Jeries Abu-Hanna
- Research Department of Surgical Biotechnology, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - Guido Baselli
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrew R Hall
- Sheila Sherlock Liver Centre, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Department of Cellular Pathology, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Tu Vinh Luong
- Sheila Sherlock Liver Centre, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Department of Cellular Pathology, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jan-Willem Taanman
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London UK
| | - Michele Vacca
- Laboratory of Hepatic Metabolism and NAFLD, Roger Williams Institute of Hepatology, London, UK; Clinica Medica "Frugoni", Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Luca Valenti
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Precision Medicine, Biological Resource Center, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Romeo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Wallenberg Laboratory, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Giuseppe Mazza
- Regenerative Medicine and Fibrosis Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
| | - Massimo Pinzani
- Regenerative Medicine and Fibrosis Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
| | - Krista Rombouts
- Regenerative Medicine and Fibrosis Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, London, UK.
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20
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Yuan S, Liu J, Yang L, Zhang X, Zhuang K, He S. Knockdown of circ_0044226 promotes endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated autophagy and apoptosis in hepatic stellate cells via miR-4677-3p/SEC61G axis. J Bioenerg Biomembr 2024; 56:261-271. [PMID: 38421527 DOI: 10.1007/s10863-024-10007-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Downregulation of circ_0044226 has been demonstrated to reduce pulmonary fibrosis, but the role of circ_0044226 in liver fibrosis remains to be explored. In this work, we found that circ_0044226 expression was upregulated during liver fibrosis. Knockdown of circ_0044226 inhibited proliferation, promoted autophagy and apoptosis of hepatic stellate cell LX-2. Bioinformatic analysis and dual luciferase reporter assays confirmed the interaction between circ_0044226, miR-4677-3p and SEC61G. Mechanistically, knockdown of circ_0044226 suppressed SEC61G expression by releasing miR-4677-3p, thereby enhancing endoplasmic reticulum stress. Overexpression of SEC61G or endoplasmic reticulum stress inhibitor 4-phenylbutiric acid partially reversed the effect of knockdown circ_0044226 on LX-2 cell function. In vivo experiments showed that inhibition of circ_0044226 attenuated CCL4-induced liver fibrosis in mice. These imply that circ_0044226 may be a potential target for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Yuan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No.277, Yanta West Road, Yanta District, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xi'an Central Hospital, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiaming Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xi'an Central Hospital, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - Li Yang
- Department of Ultrasonography, Xi'an Children's Hospital, The Affiliated Children's Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710003, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xi'an Central Hospital, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - Kun Zhuang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xi'an Central Hospital, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shuixiang He
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No.277, Yanta West Road, Yanta District, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China.
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Digestive Diseases of Shaanxi Province (Oncology), Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China.
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21
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Huang Z, Sung HK, Yan X, He S, Jin L, Wang Q, Wu X, Hsu HH, Pignalosa A, Crawford K, Sweeney G, Xu A. The adiponectin-derived peptide ALY688 protects against the development of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis. Clin Transl Sci 2024; 17:e13760. [PMID: 38847320 PMCID: PMC11157418 DOI: 10.1111/cts.13760] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is the severe form of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease which has a high potential to progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, yet adequate effective therapies are lacking. Hypoadiponectinemia is causally involved in the pathogenesis of MASH. This study investigated the pharmacological effects of adiponectin replacement therapy with the adiponectin-derived peptide ALY688 (ALY688-SR) in a mouse model of MASH. Human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell-derived hepatocytes were used to test cytotoxicity and signaling of unmodified ALY688 in vitro. High-fat diet with low methionine and no added choline (CDAHF) was used to induce MASH and test the effects of ALY688-SR in vivo. Histological MASH activity score (NAS) and fibrosis score were determined to assess the effect of ALY688-SR. Transcriptional characterization of mice through RNA sequencing was performed to indicate potential molecular mechanisms involved. In cultured hepatocytes, ALY688 efficiently induced adiponectin-like signaling, including the AMP-activated protein kinase and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways, and did not elicit cytotoxicity. Administration of ALY688-SR in mice did not influence body weight but significantly ameliorated CDAHF-induced hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis, therefore effectively preventing the development and progression of MASH. Mechanistically, ALY688-SR treatment markedly induced hepatic expression of genes involved in fatty acid oxidation, whereas it significantly suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic genes as demonstrated by transcriptomic analysis. ALY688-SR may represent an effective approach in MASH treatment. Its mode of action involves inhibition of hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis, possibly via canonical adiponectin-mediated signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Huang
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
- Department of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
- Department of Genetics and Developmental Science, School of Life Sciences and BiotechnologyShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
| | | | - Xingqun Yan
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
- Department of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | - Shiyu He
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
- Department of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | - Leigang Jin
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
- Department of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | - Qin Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
- Department of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | - Xuerui Wu
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
- Department of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | | | | | | | - Gary Sweeney
- Department of BiologyYork UniversityTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Aimin Xu
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
- Department of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
- Department of Pharmacology and PharmacyThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
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22
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Liu D, Wu Z, Gao J, Mei Q, Zhang X, Wang B. CircUTRN24/miR-483-3p/IGF-1 Regulates Autophagy Mediated Liver Fibrosis in Biliary Atresia. Mol Biotechnol 2024; 66:1424-1433. [PMID: 37369954 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00802-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Biliary atresia (BA) is a rare neonatal cholestatic disease that presents with a marked bile duct reaction and rapid fibrotic development. Our earlier research has shown that circUTRN24 is highly elevated in BA, but the exact molecular mechanism is still unknown. This study attempted to investigate whether circUTRN24 induces BA liver fibrosis through regulation of autophagy and to elucidate its molecular mechanism. Using TGF-β-treated hepatic stellate cells (HSC) LX-2, we created a liver fibrosis model. qRT-PCR was used to analyze the expression of circUTRN24, miR-483-3p, and IGF-1. Western blot analysis was used to assess the expression of IGF-1, HSC activation-related proteins, and autophagy-related proteins. The TGF-β-induced LX-2 cell fibrosis model was then supplemented with circUTRN24 siRNA, miR-483-3p mimics, and the autophagy activator Rapamycin, and functional rescue tests were carried out to investigate the role of circUTRN24, miR-483-3p, and autophagy in BA liver fibrosis. Using a luciferase reporter assay, a direct interaction between miR-483-3p and circUTRN24 or IGF-1 was discovered. With the increase of TGF-β treatment concentration, circUTRN24 expression also gradually increased, as did HSC activation and autophagy-related protein. si-circUTRN24 significantly decreased circUTRN24 expression and inhibited HSC activation and autophagy, which was reversed by Rapamycin. Through bioinformatics prediction and validation, we found circUTRN24 might act through miR-483-3p targeting IGF-1 in the autophagy-related mTOR pathway. Furthermore, miR-483-3p mimics significantly increased miR-483-3p expression and inhibited HSC activation and autophagy, which were reversed by Rapamycin. Functional rescue experiments showed that si-circUTRN24 inhibited circUTRN24 and IGF-1 expressions and promoted miR-483-3p expression, while the miR-483-3p inhibitor abolished these effects. These findings imply that circUTRN24/miR-483-3p/IGF-1 axis mediated LX-2 cell fibrosis by regulating autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Lianhua Street, Futian District, Shenzhen, 518038, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhouguang Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Lianhua Street, Futian District, Shenzhen, 518038, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiahui Gao
- Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Lianhua Street, Futian District, Shenzhen, 518038, Guangdong, China
| | - Qianqian Mei
- Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Lianhua Street, Futian District, Shenzhen, 518038, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiyun Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Lianhua Street, Futian District, Shenzhen, 518038, Guangdong, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Lianhua Street, Futian District, Shenzhen, 518038, Guangdong, China.
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23
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Yoladi FB, Palabiyik-Yucelik SS, Bahador Zirh E, Halici Z, Baydar T. Effects of idebenone and coenzyme Q10 on NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1β pathway regulation on ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Drug Chem Toxicol 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38804209 DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2024.2351191] [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: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Chronic and excessive alcohol consumption leads to liver toxicity. There is a need to investigate effective therapeutic strategies to alleviate alcohol-induced liver injury, which remains the leading cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Therefore here, we looked into and evaluated how ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity was affected by coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and its analog, idebenone (IDE), on the NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1 pathway. Hepatotoxicity induced in rats through the oral administration of gradually increasing dosages of ethanol (from 2 to 6 g/kg/day) over 30 days and the effect of CoQ10 (10 or 20 mg/kg) and IDE (50 or 100 mg/kg) were evaluated. Serum hepatotoxicity markers (ALT, AST, GGT, ALP, and TBIL), tissue oxidative stress markers and the mRNA expressions of IL-1β, IL-18, TGF-β, NF-κB, NLRP3, and caspase-1 were evaluated. Masson's trichrome staining was also used to visualize fibrosis in the liver tissue. The results indicated that ethanol exposure led to hepatotoxicity as well as considerable NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1β pathway activation. Moreover, CoQ10 or IDE treatment reduced measured parameters in a dosage-dependent manner. Thus, by inhibiting the NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1 pathway, CoQ10 and IDE can prevent the hepatotoxicity caused by ethanol, although CoQ10 is more effective than IDE. This study will provide insight into new therapeutic avenues that take advantage of the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of CoQ10 and IDE in ethanol-induced liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Betül Yoladi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Turkey
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Saziye Sezin Palabiyik-Yucelik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Turkey
- Clinical Research, Development and Design Application and Research Center, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Turkey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Elham Bahador Zirh
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, TOBB University of Economics and Technology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Zekai Halici
- Clinical Research, Development and Design Application and Research Center, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Turkey
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Terken Baydar
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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24
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Ishiyama S, Hayatsu M, Toriumi T, Tsuda H, Watanabe K, Kasai H, Kishigami S, Mochizuki K, Mikami Y. Assessing the combined impact of fatty liver-induced TGF-β1 and LPS-activated macrophages in fibrosis through a novel 3D serial section methodology. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11404. [PMID: 38762616 PMCID: PMC11102459 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60845-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), caused by fat buildup, can lead to liver inflammation and damage. Elucidation of the spatial distribution of fibrotic tissue in the fatty liver in NASH can be immensely useful to understand its pathogenesis. Thus, we developed a novel serial section-3D (SS3D) technique that combines high-resolution image acquisition with 3D construction software, which enabled highly detailed analysis of the mouse liver and extraction and quantification of stained tissues. Moreover, we studied the underexplored mechanism of fibrosis progression in the fatty liver in NASH by subjecting the mice to a high-fat diet (HFD), followed by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration. The HFD/LPS (+) group showed extensive fibrosis compared with control; additionally, the area of these fibrotic regions in the HFD/LPS (+) group was almost double that of control using our SS3D technique. LPS administration led to an increase in Tnfα and Il1β mRNA expression and the number of macrophages in the liver. On the other hand, transforming growth factor-β1 (Tgfβ1) mRNA increased in HFD group compared to that of control group without LPS-administration. In addition, COL1A1 levels increased in hepatic stellate cell (HSC)-like XL-2 cells when treated with recombinant TGF-β1, which attenuated with recombinant latency-associated protein (rLAP). This attenuation was rescued with LPS-activated macrophages. Therefore, we demonstrated that fatty liver produced "latent-form" of TGF-β1, which activated by macrophages via inflammatory cytokines such as TNFα and IL1β, resulting in activation of HSCs leading to the production of COL1A1. Moreover, we established the effectiveness of our SS3D technique in creating 3D images of fibrotic tissue, which can be used to study other diseases as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiori Ishiyama
- Department of Integrated Applied Life Science, Integrated Graduate School of Medicine, Engineering, and Agricultural Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Manabu Hayatsu
- Division of Microscopic Anatomy, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Taku Toriumi
- Department of Anatomy, The Nippon Dental University School of Life Dentistry at Niigata, Niigata, Japan
| | - Hiromasa Tsuda
- Department of Biochemistry, Nihon University School of Dentistry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keisuke Watanabe
- Division of Gross Anatomy and Morphogenesis, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Hirotake Kasai
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Graduate Faculty of Interdisciplinary Research, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kishigami
- Department of Integrated Applied Life Science, Integrated Graduate School of Medicine, Engineering, and Agricultural Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
- Center for Advanced Assisted Reproductive Technologies, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Kazuki Mochizuki
- Department of Integrated Applied Life Science, Integrated Graduate School of Medicine, Engineering, and Agricultural Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan.
| | - Yoshikazu Mikami
- Division of Microscopic Anatomy, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan.
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25
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Samuvel DJ, Lemasters JJ, Chou CJ, Zhong Z. LP340, a novel histone deacetylase inhibitor, decreases liver injury and fibrosis in mice: role of oxidative stress and microRNA-23a. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1386238. [PMID: 38828459 PMCID: PMC11140137 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1386238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Effective therapy for liver fibrosis is lacking. Here, we examined whether LP340, the lead candidate of a new-generation of hydrazide-based HDAC1,2,3 inhibitors (HDACi), decreases liver fibrosis. Liver fibrosis was induced by CCl4 treatment and bile duct ligation (BDL) in mice. At 6 weeks after CCl4, serum alanine aminotransferase increased, and necrotic cell death and leukocyte infiltration occurred in the liver. Tumor necrosis factor-α and myeloperoxidase markedly increased, indicating inflammation. After 6 weeks, α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) and collagen-1 expression increased by 80% and 575%, respectively, indicating hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and fibrogenesis. Fibrosis detected by trichrome and Sirius-red staining occurred primarily in pericentral regions with some bridging fibrosis in liver sections. 4-Hydroxynonenal adducts (indicator of oxidative stress), profibrotic cytokine transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ), and TGFβ downstream signaling molecules phospho-Smad2/3 also markedly increased. LP340 attenuated indices of liver injury, inflammation, and fibrosis markedly. Moreover, Ski-related novel protein-N (SnoN), an endogenous inhibitor of TGFβ signaling, decreased, whereas SnoN expression suppressor microRNA-23a (miR23a) increased markedly. LP340 (0.05 mg/kg, ig., daily during the last 2 weeks of CCl4 treatment) decreased 4-hydroxynonenal adducts and miR23a production, blunted SnoN decreases, and inhibited the TGFβ/Smad signaling. By contrast, LP340 had no effect on matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression. LP340 increased histone-3 acetylation but not tubulin acetylation, indicating that LP340 inhibited Class-I but not Class-II HDAC in vivo. After BDL, focal necrosis, inflammation, ductular reactions, and portal and bridging fibrosis occurred at 2 weeks, and αSMA and collagen-1 expression increased by 256% and 560%, respectively. LP340 attenuated liver injury, ductular reactions, inflammation, and liver fibrosis. LP340 also decreased 4-hydroxynonenal adducts and miR23a production, prevented SnoN decreases, and inhibited the TGFβ/Smad signaling after BDL. In vitro, LP340 inhibited immortal human hepatic stellate cells (hTERT-HSC) activation in culture (αSMA and collagen-1 expression) as well as miR23a production, demonstrating its direct inhibitory effects on HSC. In conclusions, LP340 is a promising therapy for both portal and pericentral liver fibrosis, and it works by inhibiting oxidative stress and decreasing miR23a.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devadoss J. Samuvel
- Departments of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - John J. Lemasters
- Departments of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, Charleston, SC, United States
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - C. James Chou
- Departments of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, Charleston, SC, United States
- Lydex Pharmaceuticals, Mount Pleasant, SC, United States
| | - Zhi Zhong
- Departments of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, Charleston, SC, United States
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26
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Mihajlovic M, De Boever S, Tabernilla A, Callewaert E, Sanz-Serrano J, Verhoeven A, Maerten A, Rosseel Z, De Waele E, Vinken M. Investigation of parenteral nutrition-induced hepatotoxicity using human liver spheroid co-cultures. Arch Toxicol 2024:10.1007/s00204-024-03773-8. [PMID: 38740588 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03773-8] [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: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Parenteral nutrition (PN) is typically administered to individuals with gastrointestinal dysfunction, a contraindication for enteral feeding, and a need for nutritional therapy. When PN is the only energy source in patients, it is defined as total parenteral nutrition (TPN). TPN is a life-saving approach for different patient populations, both in infants and adults. However, despite numerous benefits, TPN can cause adverse effects, including metabolic disorders and liver injury. TPN-associated liver injury, known as intestinal failure-associated liver disease (IFALD), represents a significant problem affecting up to 90% of individuals receiving TPN. IFALD pathogenesis is complex, depending on the TPN components as well as on the patient's medical conditions. Despite numerous animal studies and clinical observations, the molecular mechanisms driving IFALD remain largely unknown. The present study was set up to elucidate the mechanisms underlying IFALD. For this purpose, human liver spheroid co-cultures were treated with a TPN mixture, followed by RNA sequencing analysis. Subsequently, following exposure to TPN and its single nutritional components, several key events of liver injury, including mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum stress, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and lipid accumulation (steatosis), were studied using various techniques. It was found that prolonged exposure to TPN substantially changes the transcriptome profile of liver spheroids and affects multiple metabolic and signaling pathways contributing to liver injury. Moreover, TPN and its main components, especially lipid emulsion, induce changes in all key events measured and trigger steatosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milos Mihajlovic
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sybren De Boever
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Andrés Tabernilla
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ellen Callewaert
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Julen Sanz-Serrano
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Anouk Verhoeven
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Amy Maerten
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Zenzi Rosseel
- Department of Pharmacy, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Elisabeth De Waele
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.
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Elmorsy EA, Saber S, Kira AY, Alghasham A, Abdel-Hamed MR, Amer MM, Mohamed EA, AlSalloom A. A, Alkhamiss AS, Hamad RS, Abdel-Reheim MA, Ellethy AT, Elsisi HA, Alsharidah M, Elghandour SR, Elnawawy T, Abdelhady R. Hedgehog signaling is a promising target for the treatment of hepatic fibrogenesis: a new management strategy using itraconazole-loaded nanoparticles. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1377980. [PMID: 38808257 PMCID: PMC11130383 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1377980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a disease with a great global health and economic burden. Existing data highlights itraconazole (ITRCZ) as a potentially effective anti-fibrotic therapy. However, ITRCZ effect is hindered by several limitations, such as poor solubility and bioavailability. This study aimed to formulate and optimize chitosan nanoparticles (Cht NPs) loaded with ITRCZ as a new strategy for managing liver fibrosis. ITRCZ-Cht NPs were optimized utilizing a developed 22 full factorial design. The optimized formula (F3) underwent comprehensive in vitro and in vivo characterization. In vitro assessments revealed that F3 exhibited an entrapment efficiency of 89.65% ± 0.57%, a 169.6 ± 1.77 nm particle size, and a zeta potential of +15.93 ± 0.21 mV. Furthermore, in vitro release studies indicated that the release of ITRCZ from F3 adhered closely to the first-order model, demonstrating a significant enhancement (p-value < 0.05) in cumulative release compared to plain ITRCZ suspension. This formula increased primary hepatocyte survival and decreased LDH activity in vitro. The in vivo evaluation of F3 in a rat model of liver fibrosis revealed improved liver function and structure. ITRCZ-Cht NPs displayed potent antifibrotic effects as revealed by the downregulation of TGF-β, PDGF-BB, and TIMP-1 as well as decreased hydroxyproline content and α-SMA immunoexpression. Anti-inflammatory potential was evident by reduced TNF-α and p65 nuclear translocation. These effects were likely ascribed to the modulation of Hedgehog components SMO, GLI1, and GLI2. These findings theorize ITRCZ-Cht NPs as a promising formulation for treating liver fibrosis. However, further investigations are deemed necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsayed A. Elmorsy
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Sameh Saber
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Y. Kira
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa, Egypt
| | - Abdullah Alghasham
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed R. Abdel-Hamed
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Maha M. Amer
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Enas A. Mohamed
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - A AlSalloom A.
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah S. Alkhamiss
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rabab S. Hamad
- Biological Sciences Department, College of Science, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia
- Central Laboratory, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mustafa Ahmed Abdel-Reheim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Shaqra University, Shaqra, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
| | - Abousree T. Ellethy
- Department of Oral and Medical Basic Sciences, Biochemistry Division, College of Dentistry, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hossam A. Elsisi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Mansour Alsharidah
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sahar R. Elghandour
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tayseer Elnawawy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Egyptian Drug Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rasha Abdelhady
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt
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28
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Wu Z, Wang B, Chen S, Zuo T, Zhang W, Cheng Z, Fu J, Gong J. Hsa_circ_0009096/miR-370-3p modulates hepatic stellate cell proliferation and fibrosis during biliary atresia pathogenesis. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17356. [PMID: 38766485 PMCID: PMC11100479 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17356] [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: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and hepatic fibrosis mediated biliary atresia (BA) development, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the roles of circRNA hsa_circ_0009096 in the regulation of HSC proliferation and hepatic fibrosis. Methods A cellular hepatic fibrosis model was established by treating LX-2 cells with transforming growth factor β (TGF-β1). RNaseR and actinomycin D assays were performed to detect hsa_circ_0009096 stability. Expression of hsa_circ_0009096, miR-370-3p, and target genes was detected using reverse transcription-qPCR. Direct binding of hsa_circ_0009096 to miR-370-3p was validated using dual luciferase reporter assay. Cell cycle progression and apoptosis of LX-2 cells were assessed using flow cytometry. The alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen 1A1 (COL1A1), and TGF beta receptor 2 (TGFBR2) protein levels in LX-2 cells were analyzed using immunocytochemistry and western blotting. Results Hsa_circ_0009096 exhibited more resistance to RNase R and actinomycinD digestion than UTRN mRNA. Hsa_circ_0009096 expression increased significantly in LX-2 cells treated with TGF-β1, accompanied by elevated α-SMA and COL1A1 expression. Hsa_circ_0009096 siRNAs effectively promoted miR-370-3p and suppressed TGFBR2 expression in LX-2 cells, mediated by direct association of hsa_circ_0009096 with miR-370-3p. Hsa_circ_0009096 siRNA interfered with the cell cycle progression, promoted apoptosis, and reduced α-SMA and COL1A1 expression in LX-2 cells treated with TGF-β1. MiR-370-3p inhibitors mitigated the alterations in cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and α-SMA, COL1A1, and TGFBR2 expression in LX-2 cells caused by hsa_circ_0009096 siRNA. In conclusion, hsa_circ_0009096 promoted HSC proliferation and hepatic fibrosis during BA pathogenesis by accelerating TGFBR2 expression by sponging miR-370-3p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhouguang Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Siqi Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Taoyan Zuo
- Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wenjie Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhen Cheng
- Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jingru Fu
- Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiafeng Gong
- Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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29
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Sokal-Dembowska A, Jarmakiewicz-Czaja S, Ferenc K, Filip R. Can Nutraceuticals Support the Treatment of MASLD/MASH, and thus Affect the Process of Liver Fibrosis? Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5238. [PMID: 38791276 PMCID: PMC11120776 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Currently, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) are considered to be the main causes of fibrosis. In turn, fibrosis may lead to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma or advanced cirrhosis, i.e., potentially life-threatening conditions. It is likely that therapy aimed at reducing the risk of developing hepatic steatosis and inflammation could be helpful in minimizing the threat/probability of organ fibrosis. In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to the influence of nutraceuticals in the prevention and treatment of liver diseases. Therefore, the aim of this review was to describe the precise role of selected ingredients such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, omega-3 fatty acids, and curcumin. It is likely that the use of these ingredients in the treatment of patients with MASLD/MASH, along with behavioral and pharmacological therapy, may have a beneficial effect on combating inflammation, reducing oxidative stress, and thereby preventing liver damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aneta Sokal-Dembowska
- Institute of Health Sciences, Medical College, Rzeszow University, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland
| | | | - Katarzyna Ferenc
- Institute of Medicine, Medical College, Rzeszow University, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Rafał Filip
- Institute of Medicine, Medical College, Rzeszow University, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland
- Department of Gastroenterology with IBD Unit, Clinical Hospital No. 2, 35-301 Rzeszow, Poland
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30
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Pu TY, Chuang KC, Tung MC, Yen CC, Chen YH, Cidem A, Ko CH, Chen W, Chen CM. Lactoferrin as a therapeutic agent for attenuating hepatic stellate cell activation in thioacetamide-induced liver fibrosis. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 174:116490. [PMID: 38554526 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a chronic liver disease caused by prolonged liver injuries. Excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix replaces the damaged hepatocytes, leading to fibrous scar formation and fibrosis induction. Lactoferrin (LF) is a glycoprotein with a conserved, monomeric signal polypeptide chain, exhibiting diverse physiological functions, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antitumoral activities. Previous study has shown LF's protective role against chemically-induced liver fibrosis in rats. However, the mechanisms of LF in liver fibrosis are still unclear. In this study, we investigated LF's mechanisms in thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrosis in rats and TGF-β1-treated HSC-T6 cells. Using ultrasonic imaging, H&E, Masson's, and Sirius Red staining, we demonstrated LF's ability to improve liver tissue damage and fibrosis induced by TAA. LF reduced the levels of ALT, AST, and hydroxyproline in TAA-treated liver tissues, while increasing catalase levels. Additionally, LF treatment decreased mRNA expression of inflammatory factors such as Il-1β and Icam-1, as well as fibrogenic factors including α-Sma, Collagen I, and Ctgf in TAA-treated liver tissues. Furthermore, LF reduced TAA-induced ROS production and cell death in FL83B cells, and decreased α-SMA, Collagen I, and p-Smad2/3 productions in TGF-β1-treated HSC-T6 cells. Our study highlights LF's ability to ameliorate TAA-induced hepatocyte damage, oxidative stress, and liver fibrosis in rats, potentially through its inhibitory effect on HSC activation. These findings suggest LF's potential as a therapeutic agent for protecting against liver injuries and fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Yu Pu
- Department of Life Sciences, and Doctorial Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Kai-Cheng Chuang
- Department of Life Sciences, and Doctorial Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Min-Che Tung
- Department of Life Sciences, and Doctorial Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; Department of Surgery, Tungs' Taichung Metro Harbor Hospital, Taichung 435, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Ching Yen
- Department of Life Sciences, and Doctorial Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, and College of Health Care, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hsuan Chen
- Department of Life Sciences, and Doctorial Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Abdulkadir Cidem
- Department of Life Sciences, and Doctorial Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Erzurum Technical University, Erzurum 25250, Turkey
| | - Chu-Hsun Ko
- Department of Life Sciences, and Doctorial Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Wei Chen
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Chuan-Mu Chen
- Department of Life Sciences, and Doctorial Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; The iEGG and Animal Biotechnology Center, and Rong Hsing Research Center for Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan.
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31
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Zhao YN, Liu ZD, Yan T, Xu TX, Jin TY, Jiang YS, Zuo W, Lee KY, Huang LJ, Wang Y. Macrophage-specific FGFR1 deletion alleviates high-fat-diet-induced liver inflammation by inhibiting the MAPKs/TNF pathways. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:988-1001. [PMID: 38279043 PMCID: PMC11053141 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-024-01226-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common metabolic disease that is substantially associated with obesity-induced chronic inflammation. Macrophage activation and macrophage-medicated inflammation play crucial roles in the development and progression of NAFLD. Furthermore, fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) has been shown to be essentially involved in macrophage activation. This study investigated the role of FGFR1 in the NAFLD pathogenesis and indicated that a high-fat diet (HFD) increased p-FGFR1 levels in the mouse liver, which is associated with increased macrophage infiltration. In addition, macrophage-specific FGFR1 knockout or administration of FGFR1 inhibitor markedly protected the liver from HFD-induced lipid accumulation, fibrosis, and inflammatory responses. The mechanistic study showed that macrophage-specific FGFR1 knockout alleviated HFD-induced liver inflammation by suppressing the activation of MAPKs and TNF signaling pathways and reduced fat deposition in hepatocytes, thereby inhibiting the activation of hepatic stellate cells. In conclusion, the results of this research revealed that FGFR1 could protect the liver of HFD-fed mice by inhibiting MAPKs/TNF-mediated inflammatory responses in macrophages. Therefore, FGFR1 can be employed as a target to prevent the development and progression of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ni Zhao
- Joint Research Center on Medicine, The Affiliated Xiangshan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, 315700, China
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Drug Development, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Zhou-di Liu
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Tao Yan
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Ting-Xin Xu
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Tian-Yang Jin
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Yong-Sheng Jiang
- Joint Research Center on Medicine, The Affiliated Xiangshan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, 315700, China
| | - Wei Zuo
- Joint Research Center on Medicine, The Affiliated Xiangshan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, 315700, China
| | - Kwang Youl Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Drug Development, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea.
| | - Li-Jiang Huang
- Joint Research Center on Medicine, The Affiliated Xiangshan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, 315700, China.
| | - Yi Wang
- Joint Research Center on Medicine, The Affiliated Xiangshan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, 315700, China.
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China.
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32
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Buniatian GH, Schwinghammer U, Tremmel R, Cynis H, Weiss TS, Weiskirchen R, Lauschke VM, Youhanna S, Ramos I, Valcarcel M, Seferyan T, Rahfeld J, Rieckmann V, Klein K, Buadze M, Weber V, Kolak V, Gebhardt R, Friedman SL, Müller UC, Schwab M, Danielyan L. Consequences of Amyloid-β Deficiency for the Liver. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2307734. [PMID: 38430535 PMCID: PMC11095235 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202307734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/04/2024]
Abstract
The hepatic content of amyloid beta (Aβ) decreases drastically in human and rodent cirrhosis highlighting the importance of understanding the consequences of Aβ deficiency in the liver. This is especially relevant in view of recent advances in anti-Aβ therapies for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Here, it is shown that partial hepatic loss of Aβ in transgenic AD mice immunized with Aβ antibody 3D6 and its absence in amyloid precursor protein (APP) knockout mice (APP-KO), as well as in human liver spheroids with APP knockdown upregulates classical hallmarks of fibrosis, smooth muscle alpha-actin, and collagen type I. Aβ absence in APP-KO and deficiency in immunized mice lead to strong activation of transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ), alpha secretases, NOTCH pathway, inflammation, decreased permeability of liver sinusoids, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Inversely, increased systemic and intrahepatic levels of Aβ42 in transgenic AD mice and neprilysin inhibitor LBQ657-treated wild-type mice protect the liver against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced injury. Transcriptomic analysis of CCl4-treated transgenic AD mouse livers uncovers the regulatory effects of Aβ42 on mitochondrial function, lipid metabolism, and its onco-suppressive effects accompanied by reduced synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins. Combined, these data reveal Aβ as an indispensable regulator of cell-cell interactions in healthy liver and a powerful protector against liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayane Hrachia Buniatian
- Department of Clinical PharmacologyUniversity Hospital of TuebingenAuf der Morgenstelle 872076TuebingenGermany
| | - Ute Schwinghammer
- Department of Clinical PharmacologyUniversity Hospital of TuebingenAuf der Morgenstelle 872076TuebingenGermany
| | - Roman Tremmel
- Dr. Margarete Fischer‐Bosch Institute of Clinical PharmacologyAuerbachstr. 11270376StuttgartGermany
- University of Tuebingen72074TuebingenGermany
| | - Holger Cynis
- Department of Drug Design and Target ValidationFraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and ImmunologyWeinbergweg 2206120Halle (Saale)Germany
- Junior Research Group, Immunomodulation in Pathophysiological ProcessesFaculty of MedicineMartin‐Luther‐University Halle‐WittenbergWeinbergweg 2206120Halle (Saale)Germany
| | - Thomas S. Weiss
- Children's University Hospital (KUNO)University Hospital RegensburgFranz‐Josef‐Strauss‐Allee 1193053RegensburgGermany
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular PathobiochemistryExperimental Gene Therapy and Clinical ChemistryRWTH University Hospital AachenPauwelsstr. 3052074AachenGermany
| | - Volker M. Lauschke
- Dr. Margarete Fischer‐Bosch Institute of Clinical PharmacologyAuerbachstr. 11270376StuttgartGermany
- University of Tuebingen72074TuebingenGermany
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology Karolinska InstituteStockholm171 77Sweden
| | - Sonia Youhanna
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology Karolinska InstituteStockholm171 77Sweden
| | - Isbaal Ramos
- Innovative Technologies in Biological Systems SL (INNOPROT)BizkaiaDerio48160Spain
| | - Maria Valcarcel
- Innovative Technologies in Biological Systems SL (INNOPROT)BizkaiaDerio48160Spain
| | - Torgom Seferyan
- H. Buniatian Institute of BiochemistryNational Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia (NAS RA)5/1 Paruir Sevak St.Yerevan0014Armenia
| | - Jens‐Ulrich Rahfeld
- Department of Drug Design and Target ValidationFraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and ImmunologyWeinbergweg 2206120Halle (Saale)Germany
| | - Vera Rieckmann
- Department of Drug Design and Target ValidationFraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and ImmunologyWeinbergweg 2206120Halle (Saale)Germany
| | - Kathrin Klein
- Dr. Margarete Fischer‐Bosch Institute of Clinical PharmacologyAuerbachstr. 11270376StuttgartGermany
- University of Tuebingen72074TuebingenGermany
| | - Marine Buadze
- Department of Clinical PharmacologyUniversity Hospital of TuebingenAuf der Morgenstelle 872076TuebingenGermany
| | - Victoria Weber
- Department of Clinical PharmacologyUniversity Hospital of TuebingenAuf der Morgenstelle 872076TuebingenGermany
| | - Valentina Kolak
- Department of Clinical PharmacologyUniversity Hospital of TuebingenAuf der Morgenstelle 872076TuebingenGermany
| | - Rolf Gebhardt
- Rudolf‐Schönheimer Institute of BiochemistryFaculty of MedicineUniversity of LeipzigJohannisstraße 3004103LeipzigGermany
| | - Scott L. Friedman
- Division of Liver DiseasesIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai1425 Madison AveNew YorkNY10029USA
| | - Ulrike C. Müller
- Institute for Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology IPMBDepartment of Functional GenomicsUniversity of HeidelbergIm Neuenheimer Feld 36469120HeidelbergGermany
| | - Matthias Schwab
- Department of Clinical PharmacologyUniversity Hospital of TuebingenAuf der Morgenstelle 872076TuebingenGermany
- Dr. Margarete Fischer‐Bosch Institute of Clinical PharmacologyAuerbachstr. 11270376StuttgartGermany
- Departments of Biochemistry and Clinical Pharmacologyand Neuroscience LaboratoryYerevan State Medical University2‐ Koryun StYerevan0025Armenia
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image‐guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”University of Tübingen72076TübingenGermany
| | - Lusine Danielyan
- Department of Clinical PharmacologyUniversity Hospital of TuebingenAuf der Morgenstelle 872076TuebingenGermany
- Departments of Biochemistry and Clinical Pharmacologyand Neuroscience LaboratoryYerevan State Medical University2‐ Koryun StYerevan0025Armenia
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Dang HNN, Luong TV, Tran TT, Hoang TA. The correlation between liver fibrosis and the 10-year estimated risk of cardiovascular disease in adults with metabolic-associated fatty liver disease: A cross-sectional study in Vietnam. Health Sci Rep 2024; 7:e2102. [PMID: 38725561 PMCID: PMC11079443 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.2102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) emerged as a novel term replacing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in 2020. While most MAFLD patients are asymptomatic, long-term hepatic fat accumulation may lead to liver fibrosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Nevertheless, the relationship between MAFLD and cardiovascular (CV) risk factors remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the 10-year estimated CVD risk in individuals diagnosed with MAFLD. Methods Between January 2022 and August 2023, this cross-sectional study enrolled 139 MAFLD patients. We employed the systematic coronary risk evaluation 2 (SCORE2) and the systematic coronary risk evaluation 2-older persons (SCORE2-OP) scoring systems to evaluate and categorize the 10-year CV risk. Liver fibrosis was assessed using biochemical parameters (FIB-4, AST/ALT, and APRI), and their correlation with CV risk was examined. Results Most MAFLD patients were categorized as having high or very high CV risk based on the SCORE2 and SCORE2-OP. Liver fibrosis, measured by the FIB-4 score, significantly differed among the various CV risk groups. Moreover, FIB-4 correlated positively with SCORE2 and SCORE2-OP (r = 0.588, p < 0.001), indicating its substantial predictive ability for identifying individuals at very high CV risk (AUC = 0.765, 95% CI: 0.686-0.845, p < 0.001). A FIB-4 score of 1.275 demonstrated 81% sensitivity and 64% specificity in predicting very high CV risk among MAFLD patients. Conclusion Patients with MAFLD predominantly face high or very high CV risks, with elevated liver fibrosis associated with increased 10-year estimated CVD risk. The FIB-4 score exhibits promising predictive value for identifying MAFLD patients at very high risk of CV disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Nguyen Ngoc Dang
- Faculty of MedicineDuy Tan UniversityDa NangVietnam
- Cardiovascular CenterHue Central HospitalHueViet Nam
| | - Thang Viet Luong
- Department of Internal MedicineHue University of Medicine and PharmacyHueVietnam
| | | | - Tien Anh Hoang
- Department of Internal MedicineHue University of Medicine and PharmacyHueVietnam
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Smith-Cortinez N, Heegsma J, Podunavac M, Zakarian A, Cardenas JC, Faber KN. Novel Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptor Inhibitor Antagonizes Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation: A Potential Drug to Treat Liver Fibrosis. Cells 2024; 13:765. [PMID: 38727301 PMCID: PMC11083487 DOI: 10.3390/cells13090765] [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: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis, characterized by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, can progress to cirrhosis and increases the risk of liver cancer. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a pivotal role in fibrosis progression, transitioning from a quiescent to activated state upon liver injury, wherein they proliferate, migrate, and produce ECM. Calcium signaling, involving the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R), regulates HSC activation. This study investigated the efficacy of a novel IP3R inhibitor, desmethylxestospongin B (dmXeB), in preventing HSC activation. Freshly isolated rat HSCs were activated in vitro in the presence of varying dmXeB concentrations. The dmXeB effectively inhibited HSC proliferation, migration, and expression of fibrosis markers without toxicity to the primary rat hepatocytes or human liver organoids. Furthermore, dmXeB preserved the quiescent phenotype of HSCs marked by retained vitamin A storage. Mechanistically, dmXeB suppressed mitochondrial respiration in activated HSCs while enhancing glycolytic activity. Notably, methyl pyruvate, dimethyl α-ketoglutarate, and nucleoside supplementation all individually restored HSC proliferation despite dmXeB treatment. Overall, dmXeB demonstrates promising anti-fibrotic effects by inhibiting HSC activation via IP3R antagonism without adverse effects on other liver cells. These findings highlight dmXeB as a potential therapeutic agent for liver fibrosis treatment, offering a targeted approach to mitigate liver fibrosis progression and its associated complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Smith-Cortinez
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Janette Heegsma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Masa Podunavac
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Oakland, CA 94607, USA
| | - Armen Zakarian
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Oakland, CA 94607, USA
| | - J. César Cardenas
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Oakland, CA 94607, USA
- Center for Integrative Biology, Universidad Mayor, Santiago 7510041, Chile
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA 94945, USA
| | - Klaas Nico Faber
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
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Liu J, MacNaughtan J, Kerbert AJC, Portlock T, Martínez Gonzalez J, Jin Y, Clasen F, Habtesion A, Ji H, Jin Q, Phillips A, De Chiara F, Ingavle G, Jimenez C, Zaccherini G, Husi K, Rodriguez Gandia MA, Cordero P, Soeda J, McConaghy L, Oben J, Church K, Li JV, Wu H, Jalan A, Gines P, Solà E, Eaton S, Morgan C, Kowalski M, Green D, Gander A, Edwards LA, Cox IJ, Cortez-Pinto H, Avery T, Wiest R, Durand F, Caraceni P, Elosua R, Vila J, Pavesi M, Arroyo V, Davies N, Mookerjee RP, Vargas V, Sandeman S, Mehta G, Shoaie S, Marchesi J, Albillos A, Andreola F, Jalan R. Clinical, experimental and pathophysiological effects of Yaq-001: a non-absorbable, gut-restricted adsorbent in models and patients with cirrhosis. Gut 2024:gutjnl-2023-330699. [PMID: 38621924 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2023-330699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Targeting bacterial translocation in cirrhosis is limited to antibiotics with risk of antimicrobial resistance. This study explored the therapeutic potential of a non-absorbable, gut-restricted, engineered carbon bead adsorbent, Yaq-001 in models of cirrhosis and acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) and, its safety and tolerability in a clinical trial in cirrhosis. DESIGN Performance of Yaq-001 was evaluated in vitro. Two-rat models of cirrhosis and ACLF, (4 weeks, bile duct ligation with or without lipopolysaccharide), receiving Yaq-001 for 2 weeks; and two-mouse models of cirrhosis (6-week and 12-week carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)) receiving Yaq-001 for 6 weeks were studied. Organ and immune function, gut permeability, transcriptomics, microbiome composition and metabolomics were analysed. The effect of faecal water on gut permeability from animal models was evaluated on intestinal organoids. A multicentre, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled clinical trial in 28 patients with cirrhosis, administered 4 gr/day Yaq-001 for 3 months was performed. RESULTS Yaq-001 exhibited rapid adsorption kinetics for endotoxin. In vivo, Yaq-001 reduced liver injury, progression of fibrosis, portal hypertension, renal dysfunction and mortality of ACLF animals significantly. Significant impact on severity of endotoxaemia, hyperammonaemia, liver cell death, systemic inflammation and organ transcriptomics with variable modulation of inflammation, cell death and senescence in the liver, kidneys, brain and colon was observed. Yaq-001 reduced gut permeability in the organoids and impacted positively on the microbiome composition and metabolism. Yaq-001 regulated as a device met its primary endpoint of safety and tolerability in the clinical trial. CONCLUSIONS This study provides strong preclinical rationale and safety in patients with cirrhosis to allow clinical translation. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03202498.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinxia Liu
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, London, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jane MacNaughtan
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, London, UK
| | - Annarein J C Kerbert
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, London, UK
| | - Theo Portlock
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Javier Martínez Gonzalez
- Hospital Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, CIBEREHD, Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Spain
- Liver Unit, Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autónoma, CIBERehd, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yi Jin
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Frederick Clasen
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Abeba Habtesion
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, London, UK
| | - Huoyan Ji
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Qin Jin
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Alexandra Phillips
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, London, UK
| | - Francesco De Chiara
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ganesh Ingavle
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Devices, School of Applied Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
- Symbiosis Centre for Stem Cell Research (SCSCR), Symbiosis School of Biological Sciences (SSBS), Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Pune, India
| | - Cesar Jimenez
- Liver Unit, Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autónoma, CIBERehd, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Giacomo Zaccherini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Unit of Semeiotics, Liver and Alcohol-related Diseases, University of Bologna Hospital of Bologna Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Polyclinic, Bologna, Italy
| | - Katherine Husi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Inselspital University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Paul Cordero
- Symbiosis Centre for Stem Cell Research (SCSCR), Symbiosis School of Biological Sciences (SSBS), Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Pune, India
| | - Junpei Soeda
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lynda McConaghy
- Yaqrit Discovery Limited. The Elms Courtyard, Bromesberrow, Ledbury, UK
| | - Jude Oben
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, London, UK
| | - Karen Church
- Yaqrit Discovery Limited. The Elms Courtyard, Bromesberrow, Ledbury, UK
| | - Jia V Li
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Haifeng Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | | | - Pere Gines
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Faculty of Medicine and Health sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elsa Solà
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Faculty of Medicine and Health sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Simon Eaton
- Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Carrie Morgan
- Yaqrit Discovery Limited. The Elms Courtyard, Bromesberrow, Ledbury, UK
| | - Michal Kowalski
- Yaqrit Discovery Limited. The Elms Courtyard, Bromesberrow, Ledbury, UK
| | - Daniel Green
- Yaqrit Discovery Limited. The Elms Courtyard, Bromesberrow, Ledbury, UK
| | - Amir Gander
- Tissue Access for Patient Benefit, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lindsey A Edwards
- Centre for Host Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, Guy's Tower, Guy's Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
- Institute of Liver Studies, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - I Jane Cox
- The Roger Williams Institute of Hepatology, Foundation for Liver Research, London, UK
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Helena Cortez-Pinto
- Clínica Universitária de Gastrenterologia, Laboratório de Nutrição, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Reiner Wiest
- UVCM Gastroenterology, University Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Francois Durand
- Hepatology and Liver Intensive Care, Hospital Beaujon, Clichy, University paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Paolo Caraceni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Unit of Semeiotics, Liver and Alcohol Related Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | - Marco Pavesi
- European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure (EF CLIF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Vicente Arroyo
- European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure (EF CLIF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nathan Davies
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, London, UK
| | - Rajeshwar P Mookerjee
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, London, UK
| | - Victor Vargas
- Liver Unit, Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autónoma, CIBERehd, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Susan Sandeman
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Devices, School of Applied Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - Gautam Mehta
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, London, UK
| | - Saeed Shoaie
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Julian Marchesi
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Agustín Albillos
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hospital Universitario Ramon y Cajal, Universidad de Alcalá, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain
| | - Fausto Andreola
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, London, UK
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, London, UK
- European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure (EF CLIF), Barcelona, Spain
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He W, Chao J, Gu A, Wang D. Evaluation of 6-PPD quinone toxicity on lung of male BALB/c mice by quantitative proteomics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 922:171220. [PMID: 38412880 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine quinone (6-PPDQ), a transformation product of tyre-derived 6-PPD, has been frequently detected in different environments. After 6-PPDQ exposure, we here aimed to examine dynamic lung bioaccumulation, lung injury, and the underlying molecular basis in male BALB/c mice. After single injection at concentration of 4 mg/kg, 6-PPDQ remained in lung up to day 28, and higher level of 6-PPDQ bioaccumulation in lung was observed after repeated injection. Severe inflammation was observed in lung after both single and repeated 6-PPDQ injection as indicated by changes of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-10). Sirius red staining and hydroxyproline content analysis indicated that repeated rather than single 6-PPDQ injection induced fibrosis in lung. Repeated 6-PPDQ injection also severely impaired lung function in mice by influencing chord compliance (Cchord) and enhanced pause (Penh). Proteomes analysis was further carried out to identify molecular targets of 6-PPDQ after repeated injection, which was confirmed by transcriptional expression analysis and immunohistochemistry staining. Alterations in Ripk1, Fadd, Il-6st, and Il-16 expressions were identified to be associated with inflammation induction of lung after repeated 6-PPDQ injection. Alteration in Smad2 expression was identified to be associated with fibrosis formation in lung of 6-PPDQ exposed mice. Therefore, long-term and repeated 6-PPDQ exposure potentially resulted in inflammation and fibrosis in lung by affecting certain molecular signals in mammals. Our results suggested several aspects of lung injury caused by 6-PPDQ and provide the underlying molecular basis. These observations implied the possible risks of long-term 6-PPDQ exposure to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenmiao He
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China; School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jie Chao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Aihua Gu
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Dayong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.
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37
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Dinarvand N, Afarin R, Shakerian E, Bavarsad SS, Mohammadtaghvaei N. The effect of saraglitazar on TGF-β-induced smad3 phosphorylation and expression of genes related to liver fibrosis in LX2 cell line. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:541. [PMID: 38642208 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09443-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Liver fibrosis is a reversible liver injury that occurs as a result of many chronic inflammatory diseases and can lead to cirrhosis, which is irreversible and fatal. So, we studied the anti-fibrotic effects of saroglitazar on LX-2 cell lines, as a dual PPARα/γ agonist. METHODS Cells, after 80% confluence, were treated with TGF-β (2 ng/mL) for 24 h. Then cells were treated with saroglitazar at different doses (2.5, 5, 10 µM) for 24 h. After same incubation, the cells of control group, TGF-β group, and TGF-β + saroglitazar group were harvested for RNA and protein extraction to determine the effects of saroglitazar. RT-PCR and western blot methods were used to express genes related to fibrosis. RESULTS Our results show that the relative expression of α-SMA, collagen1α, N-cadherin, NOX (1, 2, and 4), and phosphorylated Smad3 protein was significantly higher in TGF-β-treated cells compared with the normal group, and E-cadherin expression was decreased in TGF-β-treated cells. After TGF-β-treated cells were exposed to saroglitazar, the expression of these genes was significantly reversed (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our results clearly show the short-term inhibitory role of saroglitazar in the expression of fibrotic factors using the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. These results suggest that saroglitazar can be considered as a suitable therapeutic strategy for fibrotic patients. Although more studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negar Dinarvand
- Hyperlipidemia Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Reza Afarin
- Hyperlipidemia Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Elham Shakerian
- Hyperlipidemia Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | | | - Narges Mohammadtaghvaei
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
- Hyperlipidemia Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
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Sun D, Du X, Cao X, Wu B, Li S, Zhao Y, Liu T, Xu L, Huang H. Neutrophil-Based Bionic Delivery System Breaks Through the Capillary Barrier of Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells and Inhibits the Activation of Hepatic Stellate Cells. Mol Pharm 2024; 21:2043-2057. [PMID: 38471114 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.4c00173] [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: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
The capillarization of hepatic sinusoids resulting from the activation of hepatic stellate cells poses a significant challenge, impeding the effective delivery of therapeutic agents to the Disse space for liver fibrosis treatment. Therefore, overcoming these barriers and achieving efficient drug delivery to activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) are pressing challenge. In this study, we developed a synergistic sequential drug delivery approach utilizing neutrophil membrane hybrid liposome@atorvastatin/amlisentan (NCM@AtAm) and vitamin A-neutrophil membrane hybrid liposome @albumin (VNCM@Bai) nanoparticles (NPs) to breach the capillary barrier for targeted HSC cell delivery. Initially, NCM@AtAm NPs were successfully directed to the site of hepatic fibrosis through neutrophil-mediated inflammatory targeting, resulting in the normalization of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) and restoration of fenestrations under the combined influence of At and Am. Elevated tissue levels of the p-Akt protein and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) indicated the normalization of LSECs following treatment with At and Am. Subsequently, VNCM@Bai NPs traversed the restored LSEC fenestrations to access the Disse space, facilitating the delivery of Bai into aHSCs under vitamin A guidance. Lastly, both in vitro and in vivo results demonstrated the efficacy of Bai in inhibiting HSC cell activation by modulating the PPAR γ/TGF-β1 and STAT1/Smad7 signaling pathways, thereby effectively treating liver fibrosis. Overall, our designed synergistic sequential delivery system effectively overcomes the barrier imposed by LSECs, offering a promising therapeutic strategy for liver fibrosis treatment in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Sun
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Xiao Du
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing Medical Center for Clinical Pharmacy, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Xinyu Cao
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Bingyu Wu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui Province 233030,China
| | - Yongmei Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Tianqing Liu
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Lixing Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Haiqin Huang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
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Wang X, Liu H, Wang Y, Wang P, Yi Y, Lin Y, Li X. Novel protein C6ORF120 promotes liver fibrosis by activating hepatic stellate cells through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024. [PMID: 38523410 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The role of C6ORF120 in promoting CCL4-induced hepatic fibrosis and its possible mechanisms were explored in C6orf120 knockout rats (C6orf120-/-) and LX-2 cells (a type of human hepatic stellate cell line). METHODS In vivo experiments, wild-type and C6orf120-/- rats were used to investigate the function of C6ORF120. In the in vitro experiments, C6ORF120 recombinant protein (rC6ORF120) at a concentration of 200 ng/mL was used to stimulate LX-2 cells. Sirius Red staining, Masson staining, western blotting, polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence were used to explore fibrosis-associated factors. RESULTS C6orf120-/- rats showed mild fibrosis and liver injury in the CCL4-induced liver fibrosis model. Furthermore, RNA-seq revealed that C6orf120-/- rats had less extracellular matrix deposition and activated stellate cells. Consistent with the in vivo, the rC6ORF120 induced LX-2 cell activation. Moreover, mechanistic studies revealed that the p-PI3K/PI3K, p-Akt/Akt, and p-mTOR/mTOR levels were significantly elevated and LY294002 (a PI3K/Akt/mTOR typical pathway inhibitor) reversed the function of C6ORF120 in activating LX-2 cells. CONCLUSION C6ORF120 could activate hepatic stellate cells and promote hepatic fibrosis via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Center of Infectious Disease, Beijing Ditan Hospital; Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuqi Wang
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yunyun Yi
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yingying Lin
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Ren Y, Chen Y, Tang EH, Hu Y, Niu B, Liang H, Xi C, Zhao F, Cao Z. Arbidol attenuates liver fibrosis and activation of hepatic stellate cells by blocking TGF-β1 signaling. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 967:176367. [PMID: 38325795 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases (CLD) impact over 800 million people globally, causing about 2 million deaths annually. Arbidol (ARB), an indole-derivative used to treat influenza virus infection, was extensively used during COVID-19 pandemic in China. In recent years, studies have shown that ARB, compared to other antiviral drugs, exhibits greater liver-protective efficacy, indicating a potential hepatoprotective effect beyond its antiviral activity. However, the mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the impact of ARB on liver injury/fibrosis in bile duct ligated (BDL) mice and its effect on spontaneous and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1)-induced activation of primary cultured hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Oral administration of ARB significantly ameliorated BDL-induced liver injury/fibrosis as reflected by decreased serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), reduced collagen deposition, and diminished mRNA expression of fibrosis markers. ARB notably inhibited spontaneous and TGF-β1-induced activation of primary cultured HSCs. Moreover, ARB also drastically attenuated mRNA expression levels of platelet-derived growth factor receptor (Pdgfr), transforming growth factor-beta receptor (Tgfbr) 1, Tgfbr2, matrix metalloproteinase (Mmp)-2, and Mmp-9 in activated HSCs. We further demonstrate that ARB mitigated Smad2/3 phosphorylation in both TGF-β1 treated HSCs and BDL mice. These data together demonstrate that the therapeutic efficacy of ARB on liver fibrosis is independent of its antiviral activity and likely is achieved by blocking TGF-β1 signaling-mediated HSC activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Younan Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for TCM Evaluation and Translational Development, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Ying Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for TCM Evaluation and Translational Development, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Emily H Tang
- BASIS International School Nanjing, No.18 Lingshan North Road, Qixia District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Yixin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for TCM Evaluation and Translational Development, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China; Animal Experiment Center of China Pharmaceutical University, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Bo Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for TCM Evaluation and Translational Development, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Huaduan Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for TCM Evaluation and Translational Development, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Chuchu Xi
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for TCM Evaluation and Translational Development, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Fang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for TCM Evaluation and Translational Development, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China.
| | - Zhengyu Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for TCM Evaluation and Translational Development, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China.
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Kostadinova R, Ströbel S, Chen L, Fiaschetti-Egli K, Gadient J, Pawlowska A, Petitjean L, Bieri M, Thoma E, Petitjean M. Digital pathology with artificial intelligence analysis provides insight to the efficacy of anti-fibrotic compounds in human 3D MASH model. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5885. [PMID: 38467661 PMCID: PMC10928082 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55438-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is a severe liver disease characterized by lipid accumulation, inflammation and fibrosis. The development of MASH therapies has been hindered by the lack of human translational models and limitations of analysis techniques for fibrosis. The MASH three-dimensional (3D) InSight™ human liver microtissue (hLiMT) model recapitulates pathophysiological features of the disease. We established an algorithm for automated phenotypic quantification of fibrosis of Sirius Red stained histology sections of MASH hLiMTs model using a digital pathology quantitative single-fiber artificial intelligence (AI) FibroNest™ image analysis platform. The FibroNest™ algorithm for MASH hLiMTs was validated using anti-fibrotic reference compounds with different therapeutic modalities-ALK5i and anti-TGF-β antibody. The phenotypic quantification of fibrosis demonstrated that both reference compounds decreased the deposition of fibrillated collagens in alignment with effects on the secretion of pro-collagen type I/III, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 and matrix metalloproteinase-3 and pro-fibrotic gene expression. In contrast, clinical compounds, Firsocostat and Selonsertib, alone and in combination showed strong anti-fibrotic effects on the deposition of collagen fibers, however less pronounced on the secretion of pro-fibrotic biomarkers. In summary, the phenotypic quantification of fibrosis of MASH hLiMTs combined with secretion of pro-fibrotic biomarkers and transcriptomics represents a promising drug discovery tool for assessing anti-fibrotic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simon Ströbel
- InSphero AG, Wagistrasse 27A, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Li Chen
- PharmaNest, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | | | - Jana Gadient
- InSphero AG, Wagistrasse 27A, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Manuela Bieri
- InSphero AG, Wagistrasse 27A, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Eva Thoma
- InSphero AG, Wagistrasse 27A, Schlieren, Switzerland
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Han L, Lin G, Li J, Zhang Q, Ran T, Huang T, Hu R, Feng S, Zou G, Chen S, Zhao X. Network pharmacology and transcriptomic profiling elucidate the therapeutic effects of Ranunculus ternatus Thunb on liver fibrosis via MK3-NF-κB inhibition. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:4759-4777. [PMID: 38461449 PMCID: PMC10968670 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205629] [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] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is critical in the progression of liver fibrosis and is a promising target for anti-hepatic fibrosis drug development. Moreover, effective pharmacological interventions targeting this pathomechanism are scarce. Our study confirms the therapeutic value of β-sitosterol, a major constituent of Ranunculus ternatus Thunb, in hepatic fibrosis and identifies its underlying mechanisms. After treatment with β-sitosterol, CCL4-induced hepatic fibrosis was reversed in mice, while inflammatory and hepatic fibrosis indices were improved. Meanwhile, we explored the molecular mechanism of β-sitosterol treatment for hepatic fibrosis and, based on RNA-seq results, found that the ameliorative effect of β-sitosterol on hepatic fibrosis was associated with the MK3 and NF-κB signalling pathways. MK3, an important kinase in the MAPK pathway, plays a role in transmitting upstream and downstream signals, whereas the NF-κB signalling pathway has been shown to be associated with HSC activation. We verified the interaction between MK3 and IκB in HSC cells using endogenous Co-IP, whereas β-sitosterol reduced the binding of MK3 to IκB and the activation of the NF-κB signalling pathway. Our findings reveal the mechanism of β-sitosterol in the treatment of liver fibrosis, suggesting that β-sitosterol may be a promising drug for the treatment of liver fibrosis and deserves further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Han
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Guoyuan Lin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Jianchao Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Qingxiu Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Tao Ran
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Ruihan Hu
- Department of Cardiology, Guiqian International General Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Shu Feng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Gaoliang Zou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Shaojie Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Xueke Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
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Diwan R, Gaytan SL, Bhatt HN, Pena-Zacarias J, Nurunnabi M. Liver fibrosis pathologies and potentials of RNA based therapeutics modalities. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2024:10.1007/s13346-024-01551-8. [PMID: 38446352 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-024-01551-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis (LF) occurs when the liver tissue responds to injury or inflammation by producing excessive amounts of scar tissue, known as the extracellular matrix. This buildup stiffens the liver tissue, hinders blood flow, and ultimately impairs liver function. Various factors can trigger this process, including bloodborne pathogens, genetic predisposition, alcohol abuse, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. While some existing small-molecule therapies offer limited benefits, there is a pressing need for more effective treatments that can truly cure LF. RNA therapeutics have emerged as a promising approach, as they can potentially downregulate cytokine levels in cells responsible for liver fibrosis. Researchers are actively exploring various RNA-based therapeutics, such as mRNA, siRNA, miRNA, lncRNA, and oligonucleotides, to assess their efficacy in animal models. Furthermore, targeted drug delivery systems hold immense potential in this field. By utilizing lipid nanoparticles, exosomes, nanocomplexes, micelles, and polymeric nanoparticles, researchers aim to deliver therapeutic agents directly to specific biomarkers or cytokines within the fibrotic liver, increasing their effectiveness and reducing side effects. In conclusion, this review highlights the complex nature of liver fibrosis, its underlying causes, and the promising potential of RNA-based therapeutics and targeted delivery systems. Continued research in these areas could lead to the development of more effective and personalized treatment options for LF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rimpy Diwan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79902, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79968, USA
| | - Samantha Lynn Gaytan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79902, USA
- Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, Texas, 79968, USA
| | - Himanshu Narendrakumar Bhatt
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79902, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79968, USA
| | - Jacqueline Pena-Zacarias
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79902, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, Texas, 79968, USA
| | - Md Nurunnabi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79902, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79968, USA.
- Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, Texas, 79968, USA.
- Border Biomedical Research Center, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79968, USA.
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Barreto II, Gonçalves LR, Corrêa AF, Marin-Morales MA, Moraes KCM. Predictive toxicological effects of Artemisia absinthium essential oil on hepatic stellate cells. Toxicol In Vitro 2024; 95:105738. [PMID: 38000518 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2023.105738] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Medicinal plants are important worldwide, considering their properties for treating diseases; however, few studies have evaluated their toxicological potential. Among them, Artemisia absinthium is frequently used to treat liver diseases, because its essential oil has several popular therapeutic properties. Based on this information, in the present study, we investigated molecular connectors of physiological effects of the Artemisia absinthium essential oil on human hepatic stellate cell line, LX-2, to explore the potential toxicity of the plant on liver cells. LX-2 is a cellular model to investigate mechanisms of liver fibrosis; then, to analyze the essential oil effects LX-2 was cultured under different conditions, treated or not with the essential oil at 0.4 μg/μL for 24 h. Next, fluorescence microscopy analyses, gene expression measurements, and biochemical approaches revealed that the essential oil reduced pro-fibrogenic markers; however, disrupt lipid metabolism, and cause cellular stress, by the activation of cellular detoxification and pro-inflammatory processes. In conclusion, the hepatic stellate cells incubated with the essential oil present an antifibrotic potential, supporting its popular use; however, the combined results suggest that the essential oil of Artemisia absinthium should be used with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- I I Barreto
- Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho" - Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Campus Araraquara, Instituto de Química, Araraquara, SP, Brazil; Laboratório de Sinalização Celular e Expressão Gênica, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho" - Campus Rio Claro, Instituto de Biociências, Departamento de Biologia Geral e Aplicada, Rio Claro, SP, Brazil
| | - L R Gonçalves
- Laboratório de Mutagênese Ambiental, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho" - Campus Rio Claro, Instituto de Biociências, Departamento de Biologia Geral e Aplicada, Rio Claro, SP, Brazil
| | - A F Corrêa
- Laboratório de Mutagênese Ambiental, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho" - Campus Rio Claro, Instituto de Biociências, Departamento de Biologia Geral e Aplicada, Rio Claro, SP, Brazil
| | - M A Marin-Morales
- Laboratório de Mutagênese Ambiental, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho" - Campus Rio Claro, Instituto de Biociências, Departamento de Biologia Geral e Aplicada, Rio Claro, SP, Brazil
| | - K C M Moraes
- Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho" - Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Campus Araraquara, Instituto de Química, Araraquara, SP, Brazil; Laboratório de Sinalização Celular e Expressão Gênica, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho" - Campus Rio Claro, Instituto de Biociências, Departamento de Biologia Geral e Aplicada, Rio Claro, SP, Brazil.
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Liu W, Zhang L, Wei X, Xu Y, Fang Q, Qi S, Chen J, Wang C, Wang S, Qin L, Liu P, Wu J. Structural characterization of an inulin neoseries-type fructan from Ophiopogonis Radix and the therapeutic effect on liver fibrosis in vivo. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 327:121659. [PMID: 38171656 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121659] [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: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Ophiopogonis Radix is a well-known Traditional Chinese Medicine and functional food that is rich in polysaccharides and has fructan as a characteristic component. In this study, an inulin neoseries-type fructan designated as OJP-W2 was obtained and characterized from Ophiopogonis Radix, and its potential therapeutic effect on liver fibrosis in vivo were investigated. Structural studies revealed that OJP-W2 had a molecular weight of 5.76 kDa and was composed of glucose and fructose with a molar ratio of 1.00:30.87. Further analysis revealed OJP-W2 has a predominantly lineal (1-2)-linked β-D-fructosyl units linked to the glucose moiety of the sucrose molecule with (2-6)-linked β-D-fructosyl side chains. Pharmacological studies revealed that OJP-W2 exerted a marked hepatoprotective effect against liver fibrosis, the mechanism of action was involved in regulating collagen deposition (α-SMA, COL1A1 and liver Hyp contents) and TGF-β/Smads signaling pathway, alleviating liver inflammation (IL-1β, IL-6, CCL5 and F4/80) and MAPK signaling pathway, and inhibiting hepatic apoptosis (Bax, Bcl-2, ATF4 and Caspase 3). These data provide evidence for expanding Ophiopogonis Radix-acquired fructan types and advancing our understanding of the specific role of inulin neoseries-type fructan in liver fibrosis therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Department of pharmacy, Institude of Liver Diseases, The NATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Linzhang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Department of pharmacy, Institude of Liver Diseases, The NATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China; Basic Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription and Syndrome, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xia Wei
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Department of pharmacy, Institude of Liver Diseases, The NATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China; Basic Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription and Syndrome, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yongbin Xu
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Rood, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Qinqin Fang
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Department of pharmacy, Institude of Liver Diseases, The NATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China; Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Rood, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Shenglan Qi
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Department of pharmacy, Institude of Liver Diseases, The NATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China; Basic Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription and Syndrome, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jiamei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Department of pharmacy, Institude of Liver Diseases, The NATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Changhong Wang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Rood, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Shunchun Wang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Rood, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Luping Qin
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Ping Liu
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Department of pharmacy, Institude of Liver Diseases, The NATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China; Basic Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription and Syndrome, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Jianjun Wu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China.
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Gao J, Zuo B, He Y. Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells as potential drivers of liver fibrosis (Review). Mol Med Rep 2024; 29:40. [PMID: 38240102 PMCID: PMC10828992 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2024.13164] [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: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis due to viral or metabolic chronic liver diseases is a major challenge of global health. It is a critical pre‑stage condition of severe hepatopathy, characterized by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix components and ongoing chronic inflammation. To date, early prevention of liver fibrosis remains challenging. As the most abundant non‑parenchymal hepatic cell population, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are stabilizers that maintain the intrahepatic environment. Notably, LSECs dysfunction appears to be implicated in the progression of liver fibrosis via numerous mechanisms. Following sustained liver injury, they lose their fenestrae (cytoplasmic pores) and change their crosstalk with other cellular interactions in the hepatic blood environment. LSEC‑targeted therapy has shown promising effects on fibrosis resolution, opening up new opportunities for anti‑fibrotic therapy. In light of this, the present study summarized changes in LSECs during liver fibrosis and their interactions with hepatic milieu, as well as possible therapeutic approaches that specially target LSECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqin Gao
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
- Ministry of Education Engineering Center of Hematological Disease, Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, P.R. China
| | - Bin Zuo
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
- Ministry of Education Engineering Center of Hematological Disease, Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, P.R. China
| | - Yang He
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
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Gao C, Hu ZH, Cui ZY, Jiang YC, Dou JY, Li ZX, Lian LH, Nan JX, Wu YL. Angelica dahurica extract and its effective component bergapten alleviated hepatic fibrosis by activating FXR signaling pathway. J Nat Med 2024; 78:427-438. [PMID: 38334900 DOI: 10.1007/s11418-024-01780-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Angelica dahurica (A. dahurica) has a wide range of pharmacological effects, including analgesic, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects. In this study, we investigated the effect of A. dahurica extract (AD) and its effective component bergapten (BG) on hepatic fibrosis and potential mechanisms. Hepatic fibrosis was induced by intraperitoneal injection with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) for 1 week, and mice were administrated with AD or BG by gavage for 1 week before CCl4 injection. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were stimulated by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and cultured with AD, BG, GW4064 (FXR agonist) or Guggulsterone (FXR inhibitor). In CCl4-induced mice, AD significantly decreased serum aminotransferase, reduced excess accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM), inhibited caspase-1 and IL-1β, and increased FXR expressions. In activated HSCs, AD suppressed the expressions of α-SMA, collagen I, and TIMP-1/MMP-13 ratio and inflammatory factors, functioning as FXR agonist. In CCl4-induced mice, BG significantly improved serum transaminase and histopathological changes, reduced ECM excessive deposition, inflammatory response, and activated FXR expression. BG increased FXR expression and inhibited α-SMA and IL-1β expressions in activated HSCs, functioning as GW4064. FXR deficiency significantly attenuated the decreasing effect of BG on α-SMA and IL-1β expressions in LX-2 cells. In conclusion, AD could regulate hepatic fibrosis by regulating ECM excessive deposition and inflammation. Activating FXR signaling by BG might be the potential mechanism of AD against hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Gao
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Zhong-He Hu
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Zhen-Yu Cui
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yu-Chen Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Jia-Yi Dou
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Zhao-Xu Li
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Li-Hua Lian
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Ji-Xing Nan
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China.
| | - Yan-Ling Wu
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain (Yanbian University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Traditional Chinese Korean Medicine Research (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002, Jilin Province, China.
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Damba T, Zhang M, Serna Salas SA, Wu Z, van Goor H, Arenas AF, Muñoz-Ortega MH, Ventura-Juárez J, Buist-Homan M, Moshage H. Inhibition of endogenous hydrogen sulfide production reduces activation of hepatic stellate cells via the induction of cellular senescence. Cell Cycle 2024; 23:629-644. [PMID: 38836592 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2024.2345477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
In chronic liver injury, quiescent hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) transdifferentiate into activated myofibroblast-like cells and produce large amounts of extracellular matrix components, e.g. collagen type 1. Cellular senescence is characterized by irreversible cell-cycle arrest, arrested cell proliferation and the acquisition of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) and reversal of HSCs activation. Previous studies reported that H2S prevents induction of senescence via its antioxidant activity. We hypothesized that inhibition of endogenous H2S production induces cellular senescence and reduces activation of HSCs. Rat HSCs were isolated and culture-activated for 7 days. After activation, HSCs treated with H2S slow-releasing donor GYY4137 and/or DL-propargylglycine (DL-PAG), an inhibitor of the H2S-producing enzyme cystathionine γ-lyase (CTH), as well as the PI3K inhibitor LY294002. In our result, CTH expression was significantly increased in fully activated HSCs compared to quiescent HSCs and was also observed in activated stellate cells in a in vivo model of cirrhosis. Inhibition of CTH reduced proliferation and expression of fibrotic markers Col1a1 and Acta2 in HSCs. Concomitantly, DL-PAG increased the cell-cycle arrest markers Cdkn1a (p21), p53 and the SASP marker Il6. Additionally, the number of β-galactosidase positive senescent HSCs was increased. GYY4137 partially restored the proliferation of senescent HSCs and attenuated the DL-PAG-induced senescent phenotype. Inhibition of PI3K partially reversed the senescence phenotype of HSCs induced by DL-PAG. Inhibition of endogenous H2S production reduces HSCs activation via induction of cellular senescence in a PI3K-Akt dependent manner. Our results show that cell-specific inhibition of H2S could be a novel target for anti-fibrotic therapy via induced cell senescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Turtushikh Damba
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- School of Pharmacy, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Mengfan Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Interventional Radiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Sandra A Serna Salas
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Zongmei Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Harry van Goor
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Aaron Fierro Arenas
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Javier Ventura-Juárez
- Chemistry Department, Basic Sciences Center, Autonomous University of Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes, Mexico
| | - Manon Buist-Homan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Han Moshage
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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49
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Wang W, Li K, Xiao W. The pharmacological role of Ginsenoside Rg3 in liver diseases: A review on molecular mechanisms. J Ginseng Res 2024; 48:129-139. [PMID: 38465219 PMCID: PMC10920009 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2023.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver diseases are a significant global health burden and are among the most common diseases. Ginssennoside Rg3 (Rg3), which is one of the most abundant ginsenosides, has been found to have significant preventive and therapeutic effects against various types of diseases with minimal side effects. Numerous studies have demonstrated the significant preventive and therapeutic effects of Rg3 on various liver diseases such as viral hepatitis, acute liver injury, nonalcoholic liver diseases (NAFLD), liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The underlying molecular mechanism behind these effects is attributed to apoptosis, autophagy, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory activities, and the regulation of multiple signaling pathways. This review provides a comprehensive description of the potential molecular mechanisms of Rg3 in the development of liver diseases. The article focuses on the regulation of apoptosis, oxidative stress, autophagy, inflammation, and other related factors. Additionally, the review discusses combination therapy and liver targeting strategy, which can accelerate the translation of Rg3 from bench to bedside. Overall, this article serves as a valuable reference for researchers and clinicians alike.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhong Wang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Exercise and Metabolic Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- The Key Lab of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Ke Li
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Exercise and Metabolic Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- The Key Lab of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Weihua Xiao
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Exercise and Metabolic Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- The Key Lab of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
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50
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Hong R, Tan Y, Tian X, Huang Z, Wang J, Ni H, Yang J, Bu W, Yang S, Li T, Yu F, Zhong W, Sun T, Wang X, Li D, Liu M, Yang Y, Zhou J. XIAP-mediated degradation of IFT88 disrupts HSC cilia to stimulate HSC activation and liver fibrosis. EMBO Rep 2024; 25:1055-1074. [PMID: 38351372 PMCID: PMC10933415 DOI: 10.1038/s44319-024-00092-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) plays a critical role in liver fibrosis. However, the molecular basis for HSC activation remains poorly understood. Herein, we demonstrate that primary cilia are present on quiescent HSCs but exhibit a significant loss upon HSC activation which correlates with decreased levels of the ciliary protein intraflagellar transport 88 (IFT88). Ift88-knockout mice are more susceptible to chronic carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis. Mechanistic studies show that the X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP) functions as an E3 ubiquitin ligase for IFT88. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), a profibrotic factor, enhances XIAP-mediated ubiquitination of IFT88, promoting its proteasomal degradation. Blocking XIAP-mediated IFT88 degradation ablates TGF-β-induced HSC activation and liver fibrosis. These findings reveal a previously unrecognized role for ciliary homeostasis in regulating HSC activation and identify the XIAP-IFT88 axis as a potential therapeutic target for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renjie Hong
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 300071, Tianjin, China
| | - Yanjie Tan
- Center for Cell Structure and Function, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology in Universities of Shandong, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, 250014, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaoyu Tian
- Center for Cell Structure and Function, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology in Universities of Shandong, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, 250014, Jinan, China
| | - Zhenzhou Huang
- Center for Cell Structure and Function, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology in Universities of Shandong, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, 250014, Jinan, China
| | - Jiaying Wang
- Center for Cell Structure and Function, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology in Universities of Shandong, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, 250014, Jinan, China
| | - Hua Ni
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 300071, Tianjin, China
| | - Jia Yang
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 300071, Tianjin, China
| | - Weiwen Bu
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 300071, Tianjin, China
| | - Song Yang
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 300071, Tianjin, China
| | - Te Li
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 300071, Tianjin, China
| | - Fan Yu
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 300071, Tianjin, China
| | - Weilong Zhong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, 300052, Tianjin, China
| | - Tao Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, 300071, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, 300070, Tianjin, China
| | - Dengwen Li
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 300071, Tianjin, China
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 300071, Tianjin, China
| | - Yunfan Yang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 250012, Jinan, China.
| | - Jun Zhou
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 300071, Tianjin, China.
- Center for Cell Structure and Function, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology in Universities of Shandong, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, 250014, Jinan, China.
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