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Wawrose RA, Oyekan AA, Tang YM, Chen SR, Chen J, Couch BK, Wang D, Alexander PG, Sowa GA, Vo NV, Lee JY. MicroRNA-29a: a novel target for non-operative management of symptomatic lumbar spinal stenosis. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2024; 33:892-899. [PMID: 37046075 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-023-07671-y] [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: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is the most common reason for spinal surgery in patients over the age of 65, and there are few effective non-surgical treatments. Therefore, the development of novel treatment or preventative modalities to decrease overall cost and morbidity associated with LSS is an urgent matter. The cause of LSS is multifactorial; however, a significant contributor is ligamentum flavum hypertrophy (LFH) which causes mechanical compression of the cauda equina or nerve roots. We assessed the role of a novel target, microRNA-29a (miR-29a), in LFH and investigated the potential for using miR-29a as a therapeutic means to combat LSS. METHODS Ligamentum flavum (LF) tissue was collected from patients undergoing decompressive surgery for LSS and assessed for levels of miR-29a and pro-fibrotic protein expression. LF cell cultures were then transfected with either miR-29a over-expressor (agonist) or inhibitor (antagonist). The effects of over-expression and under-expression of miR-29a on expression of pro-fibrotic proteins was assessed. RESULTS We demonstrated that LF at stenotic levels had a loss of miR-29a expression. This was associated with greater LF tissue thickness and higher mRNA levels of collagen I and III. We also demonstrated that miR29-a plays a direct role in the regulation of collagen gene expression in ligamentum flavum. Specifically, agents that increase miR-29a may attenuate LFH, while those that decrease miR-29a promote fibrosis and LFH. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that miR-29a may potentially be used to treat LFH and provides groundwork to initiate the development of a therapeutic product for LSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Wawrose
- Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1643 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
- Pittsburgh Ortho Spine Research (POSR) Group, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Anthony A Oyekan
- Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1643 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
- Pittsburgh Ortho Spine Research (POSR) Group, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yunting Melissa Tang
- Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1643 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
- Pittsburgh Ortho Spine Research (POSR) Group, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Stephen R Chen
- Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1643 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
- Pittsburgh Ortho Spine Research (POSR) Group, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joseph Chen
- Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1643 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
- Pittsburgh Ortho Spine Research (POSR) Group, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Brandon K Couch
- Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1643 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
- Pittsburgh Ortho Spine Research (POSR) Group, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Dong Wang
- Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1643 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
- Pittsburgh Ortho Spine Research (POSR) Group, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Peter G Alexander
- Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1643 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
- Pittsburgh Ortho Spine Research (POSR) Group, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Gwendolyn A Sowa
- Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1643 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
- Pittsburgh Ortho Spine Research (POSR) Group, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Nam V Vo
- Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1643 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
- Pittsburgh Ortho Spine Research (POSR) Group, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joon Y Lee
- Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1643 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.
- Pittsburgh Ortho Spine Research (POSR) Group, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Hu Y, Lang Z, Li X, Lin L, Li Y, Zhang R, Zheng J, Yu Z. Ginsenoside Rg3 promotes hepatic stellate cell ferroptosis by epigenetically regulating ACSL4 to suppress liver fibrosis progression. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 124:155289. [PMID: 38176269 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155289] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ginsenoside Rg3 (G-Rg3), extracted from Panax notoginseng, possesses hepatoprotective properties. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation is responsible for liver fibrosis. Recent studies have reported the suppressive effects of G-Rg3 on HSC activation and proliferation. Ferroptosis is a novel iron regulated cell death. ACSL4, a key indicator of ferroptosis, is commonly methylated in various diseases. PURPOSE However, the role of ACSL4 methylation-mediated HSC ferroptosis in G-Rg3 inhibition of hepatic fibrosis needs to be explored. METHODS Effects of G-Rg3 on inhibiting fibrosis were evaluated in vivo and in vitro. The impact of G-Rg3 on HSC ferroptosis was assessed in vitro. Furthermore, the expression of ACSL4, ACSL4 methylation and microRNA-6945-3p (miR-6945-3p) levels were determined. RESULTS G-Rg3 significantly alleviated CCl4-induced liver fibrosis, accompanied by collagen downregulation. In vitro, G-Rg3 contributed to HSC inactivation, leading to decreased collagen production. G-Rg3 induced HSC ferroptosis, characterized by increased iron accumulation, depletion of glutathione, malondialdehyde levels, and generation of lipid reactive oxygen species. Moreover, G-Rg3 promoted ACSL4 demethylation and restored its expression. Notably, DNMT3B counteracted the effect of G-Rg3-mediated inhibition of ACSL4 methylation and was targeted by miR-6945-3p. Further investigations revealed that G-Rg3 suppressed ACSL4 methylation through miR-6945-3p-mediated DNMT3B inhibition. Consistent with this, miR-6945-3p inhibition reversed G-Rg3-induced ACSL4 expression and HSC ferroptosis. CONCLUSION G-Rg3 inhibits ACSL4 methylation by miR-6945-3p-mediated DNMT3B inhibition, thereby promoting HSC ferroptosis and mitigating liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhang Hu
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, PR China; Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo 315300, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Zhichao Lang
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Xinmiao Li
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Lifan Lin
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Yifei Li
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Rongrong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Jianjian Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, PR China.
| | - Zhengping Yu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, PR China.
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Du Y, Zhu S, Zeng H, Wang Z, Huang Y, Zhou Y, Zhang W, Zhu J, Yang C. Research Progress on the Effect of Autophagy and Exosomes on Liver Fibrosis. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 19:785-797. [PMID: 37102476 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x18666230427112930] [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: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Chronic liver disease is a known risk factor for the development of liver cancer, and the development of microRNA (miRNA) liver therapies has been hampered by the difficulty of delivering miRNA to damaged tissues. In recent years, numerous studies have shown that hepatic stellate cell (HSC) autophagy and exosomes play an important role in maintaining liver homeostasis and ameliorating liver fibrosis. In addition, the interaction between HSC autophagy and exosomes also affects the progression of liver fibrosis. In this paper, we review the research progress of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-EVs) loaded with specific miRNA and autophagy, and their related signaling pathways in liver fibrosis, which will provide a more reliable basis for the use of MSC-EVs for therapeutic delivery of miRNAs targeting the chronic liver disease.
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Grants
- 2021A1515011580, 2021B1515140012, 2023A1515010083, 2022A1515011696 Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province
- 20211800905342, 20221800905572 Dongguan Science and Technology of Social Development Program
- 20211216 Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Guangdong Province
- A2020096, B2021330 Medical Scientific Research Foundation of Guangdong Province
- k202005 Research and Development Fund of Dongguan People's Hospital
- pdjh2021b0224 Special Funds for the Cultivation of Guangdong College Students' Scientific and Technological Innovation (Climbing Program Special Funds)
- 2020ZZDS002, 2020ZYDS005, 2021ZZDS006, 2021ZCDS003, ZYDS003 Guangdong Medical University Students' Innovation Experiment Program
- GDMU2020010, GDMU2020078, GDMU2021003, GDMU2021049 Guangdong Medical University Students' Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program
- 202110571010, S202110571078, 202210571008, S202210571075 Provincial and National College Students' Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program
- 4SG23033G Guangdong Medical University-Southern Medical University Twinning Research Team Project
- GDMUZ2020009 Scientific Research Fund of Guangdong Medical University
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Affiliation(s)
- Yikuan Du
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523059, China
| | - Silin Zhu
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Haojie Zeng
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Zhenjie Wang
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Yixing Huang
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Yuqi Zhou
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Weichui Zhang
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Jinfeng Zhu
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Chun Yang
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
- The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523716, China
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Paneru BD, Hill DA. The role of extracellular vesicle-derived miRNAs in adipose tissue function and metabolic health. IMMUNOMETABOLISM (COBHAM, SURREY) 2023; 5:e00027. [PMID: 37501663 PMCID: PMC10371064 DOI: 10.1097/in9.0000000000000027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanometer size lipid particles that are released from virtually every cell type. Recent studies have shown that miRNAs carried by EVs play important roles in intercellular and interorgan communication. In the context of obesity and insulin resistance, EV-derived miRNAs functionally bridge major metabolic organs, including the adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, liver, and pancreas, to regulate insulin secretion and signaling. As a result, many of these EV-derived miRNAs have been proposed as potential disease biomarkers and/or therapeutic agents. However, the field's knowledge of EV miRNA-mediated regulation of mammalian metabolism is still in its infancy. Here, we review the evidence indicating that EV-derived miRNAs provide cell-to-cell and organ-to-organ communication to support metabolic health, highlight the potential medical relevance of these discoveries, and discuss the most important knowledge gaps and future directions for this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bam D. Paneru
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - David A. Hill
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute for Immunology, and Institute for Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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5
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Alavifard H, Mazhari S, Meyfour A, Tokhanbigli S, Ghavami S, Zali MR, Aghdaei HA, Hatami B, Baghaei K. Imatinib suppresses activation of hepatic stellate cells by targeting STAT3/IL-6 pathway through miR-124. Cell Biol Int 2023; 47:969-980. [PMID: 36655489 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The activation of hepatic stellate cells is the primary function of facilitating liver fibrosis. Interfering with the coordinators of different signaling pathways in activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) could be a potential approach in ameliorating liver fibrosis. Regarding the illustrated anti-fibrotic effect of imatinib in liver fibrosis, we investigated the imatinib's potential role in inhibiting HSC activation through miR-124 and its interference with the STAT3/hepatic leukemia factor (HLF)/IL-6 circuit. The anti-fibrotic effect of imatinib was investigated in the LX-2 cell line and carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 )-induced Sprague-Dawley rat. The expression of IL-6, STAT3, HLF, miR-124, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were quantified by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and the protein level of α-SMA and STAT3 was measured by western blot analysis both in vitro and in vivo. The LX-2 cells were subjected to immunocytochemistry (ICC) for α-SMA expression. After administering imatinib in the liver fibrosis model, histopathological examinations were done, and hepatic function serum markers were checked. Imatinib administration alleviated mentioned liver fibrosis markers. The expression of miR-124 was downregulated, while IL-6/HLF/STAT3 circuit agents were upregulated in vitro and in vivo. Notably, imatinib intervention decreased the expression of IL-6, STAT3, and HLF. Elevated expression of miR-124 suppressed the expression of STAT3 and further inhibited HSCs activation. Our results demonstrated that imatinib not only ameliorated hepatic fibrosis through tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) activity but also interfered with the miR-124 and STAT3/HLF/IL-6 pathway. Considering the important role of miR-124 in regulating liver fibrosis and HSCs activation, imatinib may exert its anti-fibrotic activity through miR-124.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helia Alavifard
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Research Center for Liver Disease, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sogol Mazhari
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Anna Meyfour
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samaneh Tokhanbigli
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeid Ghavami
- Research Institute in Oncology and Hematology, Cancer Care Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.,Autophagy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Faculty of Medicine, Katowice School of Technology, Katowice, Poland
| | - Mohammad Reza Zali
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Asadzadeh Aghdaei
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behzad Hatami
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kaveh Baghaei
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Sarangi R, Mishra S, Das S, Mishra A. Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and MicroRNAs: A Weighty Consideration. BIOMEDICAL AND BIOTECHNOLOGY RESEARCH JOURNAL (BBRJ) 2023. [DOI: 10.4103/bbrj.bbrj_319_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
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7
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Chioccioli M, Roy S, Newell R, Pestano L, Dickinson B, Rigby K, Herazo-Maya J, Jenkins G, Ian S, Saini G, Johnson SR, Braybrooke R, Yu G, Sauler M, Ahangari F, Ding S, DeIuliis J, Aurelien N, Montgomery RL, Kaminski N. A lung targeted miR-29 mimic as a therapy for pulmonary fibrosis. EBioMedicine 2022; 85:104304. [PMID: 36265417 PMCID: PMC9587275 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.104304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND MicroRNAs are non-coding RNAs that negatively regulate gene networks. Previously, we reported that systemically delivered miR-29 mimic MRG-201 reduced fibrosis in animal models, supporting the consideration of miR-29-based therapies for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). METHODS We generated MRG-229, a next-generation miR-29 mimic based on MRG-201 with improved chemical stability due to additional sugar modifications and conjugation with the internalization moiety BiPPB (PDGFbetaR-specific bicyclic peptide)1. We investigated the anti-fibrotic efficacy of MRG-229 on TGF-β1 treated human lung fibroblasts (NHLFs), human precision cut lung slices (hPCLS), and in vivo bleomycin studies; toxicology was assessed in two animal models, rats, and non-human primates. Finally, we examined miR-29b levels in a cohort of 46 and 213 patients with IPF diagnosis recruited from Yale and Nottingham Universities (Profile Cohort), respectively. FINDINGS The peptide-conjugated MRG-229 mimic decreased expression of pro-fibrotic genes and reduced collagen production in each model. In bleomycin-treated mice, the peptide-conjugated MRG-229 mimic downregulated profibrotic gene programs at doses more than ten-fold lower than the original compound. In rats and non-human primates, the peptide-conjugated MRG-229 mimic was well tolerated at clinically relevant doses with no adverse findings observed. In human peripheral blood from IPF patients decreased miR-29 concentrations were associated with increased mortality in two cohorts potentially identified as a target population for treatment. INTERPRETATION Collectively, our results provide support for the development of the peptide-conjugated MRG-229 mimic as a potential therapy in humans with IPF. FUNDING This work was supported by NIH NHLBI grants UH3HL123886, R01HL127349, R01HL141852, U01HL145567.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Chioccioli
- Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Gisli Jenkins
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Steward Ian
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | | | | | - Guying Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Regulation, College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, CN, China
| | - Maor Sauler
- Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Farida Ahangari
- Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Shuizi Ding
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Joseph DeIuliis
- Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | | | - Naftali Kaminski
- Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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8
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TGF-β1/Smad3 upregulates UCA1 to promote liver fibrosis through DKK1 and miR18a. J Mol Med (Berl) 2022; 100:1465-1478. [PMID: 36001113 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-022-02248-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
TGF-β1 is the strongest cytokine known to promote liver fibrosis. It has been previously demonstrated that the activation of TGF-β1 initiates a temporary collagen accumulation program, which is important for wound repair in several organs. Furthermore, temporary extracellular matrix enhancement often leads to progressive fibrosis, which is accountable for cases of severe morbidity and mortality worldwide. However, its action mechanism has not been fully explored. It was previously reported that UCA1 could promote its occurrence and development in various tumors. Importantly, it was reported that TGF-β1 could activate the expression of UCA1 in liver cancer, gastric cancer, and breast cancer. However, the role of UCA1 in organ fibrosis, including liver fibrosis, remains unreported. The present study reported for the first time that TGF-β1/Smad3 could promote liver fibrosis by upregulating UCA1, which further affected DKK1 and collagen, such as COL1A1, COL1A2, and COL3A1. Meanwhile, UCA1 could competitively bind with miR18a to stabilize Smad3 to constitute a positive feedback pathway, which played a significant role in the promotion of liver fibrosis. Altogether, the present study provides a theoretical basis for devising promising treatment strategies for liver fibrosis. KEY MESSAGES : UCA1 was found to promote the progression of liver fibrosis in vitro. UCA1 is regulated by TGF-β1 and promotes liver fibrosis through the canonical Smad pathway. UCA1 can competitively bind with miR18a, promote liver fibrosis by stabilizing Smad3, and form a UCA1-miR18a/Smad3 positive feedback. UCA1 binds EZH2 to inhibit the DKK1 expression and promote liver fibrosis.
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9
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Roles of microRNAs in Hepatitis C Virus Replication and Pathogenesis. Viruses 2022; 14:v14081776. [PMID: 36016398 PMCID: PMC9413378 DOI: 10.3390/v14081776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with the development of chronic liver diseases, e.g., fibrosis, cirrhosis, even hepatocellular carcinoma, and/or extra-hepatic diseases such as diabetes. As an obligatory intracellular pathogen, HCV absolutely relies on host cells to propagate and is able to modulate host cellular factors in favor of its replication. Indeed, lots of cellular factors, including microRNAs (miRNAs), have been identified to be dysregulated during HCV infection. MiRNAs are small noncoding RNAs that regulate protein synthesis of their targeting mRNAs at the post-transcriptional level, usually by suppressing their target gene expression. The miRNAs dysregulated during HCV infection could directly or indirectly modulate HCV replication and/or induce liver diseases. Regulatory mechanisms of various miRNAs in HCV replication and pathogenesis have been characterized. Some dysregulated miRNAs have been considered as the biomarkers for the detection of HCV infection and/or HCV-related diseases. In this review, we intend to briefly summarize the identified miRNAs functioning at HCV replication and pathogenesis, focusing on the recent developments.
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10
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Ma J, Zhao Q, Chen M, Wang W, He B, Jiang Y, Li Y. microRNA-122 inhibits hepatic stellate cell proliferation and activation in vitro and represses carbon tetrachloride-induced liver cirrhosis in mice. Ann Hepatol 2022; 27:100700. [PMID: 35338010 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2022.100700] [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: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine the roles of microRNA (miR)-122 in the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and liver cirrhosis. METHODS Rat primary HSCs were incubated with transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), during which miR-122 and EphB2 expression was measured. miR-122 mimic and/or pcDNA3.1 EphB2 was transfected into TGF-β-induced HSCs. A mouse model of liver cirrhosis was established via an intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), followed by the injection of miR-122 agomir. Levels of serum alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were measured. Fibronectin (FN), alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), Collagen I, miR-122, and EphB2 expression was evaluated in liver tissues and HSCs. Cell proliferation was measured using CCK-8 assay. Interactions between miR-122 and EphB2 were assessed using dual luciferase reporter assay. RESULTS miR-122 (0.15-fold) was downregulated and EphB2 (mRNA: 5.06-fold; protein: 2.35-fold) was upregulated after TGF-β induction of HSCs. Overexpressed miR-122 decreased proliferation and EphB2 (mRNA: 0.46-fold; protein: 0.62-fold), FN (mRNA: 0.45-fold; protein: 0.64-fold), α-SMA (mRNA: 0.48-fold; protein: 0.51-fold), and Collagen I (mRNA: 0.44-fold; protein: 0.51-fold) expression in HSCs, which was abrogated by EphB2 upregulation. miR-122 expression was reduced by 0.21-fold and serum ALT and AST levels were enhanced in mice following 8-week CCl4 induction along with increased expression of FN, α-SMA, and Collagen I in liver tissues, which was blocked by miR-122 overexpression. Moreover, EphB2 was a target gene of miR-122. CONCLUSION miR-122 curtails HSC proliferation and activation by targeting EphB2 and suppresses liver cirrhosis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ma
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| | - Qiqian Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| | - Mengxuan Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| | - Weihang Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| | - Bo He
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| | - Yongfang Jiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China.
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11
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Nazarnezhad MA, Barazesh M, Kavousipour S, Mohammadi S, Eftekhar E, Jalili S. The Computational Analysis of Single Nucleotide Associated with MicroRNA Affecting Hepatitis B Infection. Microrna 2022; 11:139-162. [PMID: 35579134 DOI: 10.2174/2211536611666220509103724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have a pivotal role in Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection and its complications by targeting the cellular transcription factors required for gene expression or directly binding to HBV transcripts. Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) in miRNA genes affect their expression and the regulation of target genes, clinical course, diagnosis, and therapeutic interventions of HBV infection. METHODS Computational assessment and cataloging of miRNA gene polymorphisms targeting mRNA transcripts straightly or indirectly through the regulation of hepatitis B infection by annotating the functional impact of SNPs on mRNA-miRNA and miRNA-RBS (miRNA binding sites) interaction were screened by applying various universally available datasets such as the miRNA SNP3.0 software. RESULTS 2987 SNPs were detected in 139 miRNAs affecting hepatitis B infection. Among them, 313 SNPs were predicted to have a significant role in the progression of hepatitis B infection. The computational analysis also revealed that 45 out of the 313 SNPs were located in the seed region and were more important than others. Has-miR-139-3p had the largest number of SNPs in the seed region (n=6). On the other hand, proteoglycans in cancer, adherens junction, lysine degradation, NFkappa B signaling cascade, ECM-receptor binding, viral carcinogenesis, fatty acid metabolism, TGF-beta signaling pathway, p53 signaling pathway, immune evasion related pathways, and fatty acid biosynthesis were the most important pathways affected by these 139 miRNAs. CONCLUSION The results revealed 45 SNPs in the seed region of 25 miRNAs as the catalog in miRNA genes that regulated the hepatitis B infection. The results also showed the most important pathways regulated by these miRNAs that can be targeted for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirza Ali Nazarnezhad
- Infectious and Tropical Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Mahdi Barazesh
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Paramedical Sciences, Gerash University of Medical Sciences, Gerash, Iran
| | - Soudabeh Kavousipour
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas 7919915519, Iran
| | - Shiva Mohammadi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Eftekhar
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas 7919915519, Iran
| | - Sajad Jalili
- Department of Orthopedics, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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12
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Hatmal MM, Al-Hatamleh MAI, Olaimat AN, Alshaer W, Hasan H, Albakri KA, Alkhafaji E, Issa NN, Al-Holy MA, Abderrahman SM, Abdallah AM, Mohamud R. Immunomodulatory Properties of Human Breast Milk: MicroRNA Contents and Potential Epigenetic Effects. Biomedicines 2022; 10:1219. [PMID: 35740242 PMCID: PMC9219990 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Infants who are exclusively breastfed in the first six months of age receive adequate nutrients, achieving optimal immune protection and growth. In addition to the known nutritional components of human breast milk (HBM), i.e., water, carbohydrates, fats and proteins, it is also a rich source of microRNAs, which impact epigenetic mechanisms. This comprehensive work presents an up-to-date overview of the immunomodulatory constituents of HBM, highlighting its content of circulating microRNAs. The epigenetic effects of HBM are discussed, especially those regulated by miRNAs. HBM contains more than 1400 microRNAs. The majority of these microRNAs originate from the lactating gland and are based on the remodeling of cells in the gland during breastfeeding. These miRNAs can affect epigenetic patterns by several mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modifications and RNA regulation, which could ultimately result in alterations in gene expressions. Therefore, the unique microRNA profile of HBM, including exosomal microRNAs, is implicated in the regulation of the genes responsible for a variety of immunological and physiological functions, such as FTO, INS, IGF1, NRF2, GLUT1 and FOXP3 genes. Hence, studying the HBM miRNA composition is important for improving the nutritional approaches for pregnancy and infant's early life and preventing diseases that could occur in the future. Interestingly, the composition of miRNAs in HBM is affected by multiple factors, including diet, environmental and genetic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ma’mon M. Hatmal
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, Zarqa 13133, Jordan;
| | - Mohammad A. I. Al-Hatamleh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kota Bharu 16150, Malaysia;
| | - Amin N. Olaimat
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, Zarqa 13133, Jordan; (A.N.O.); (M.A.A.-H.)
| | - Walhan Alshaer
- Cell Therapy Center (CTC), The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan;
| | - Hanan Hasan
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan;
| | - Khaled A. Albakri
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, Zarqa 13133, Jordan;
| | - Enas Alkhafaji
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan;
| | - Nada N. Issa
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, Zarqa 13133, Jordan;
| | - Murad A. Al-Holy
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, Zarqa 13133, Jordan; (A.N.O.); (M.A.A.-H.)
| | - Salim M. Abderrahman
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, Zarqa 13133, Jordan;
| | - Atiyeh M. Abdallah
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar;
| | - Rohimah Mohamud
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kota Bharu 16150, Malaysia;
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13
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MiR-29a Curbs Hepatocellular Carcinoma Incidence via Targeting of HIF-1α and ANGPT2. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031636. [PMID: 35163556 PMCID: PMC8835722 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A high-fat diet is responsible for hepatic fat accumulation that sustains chronic liver damage and increases the risks of steatosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). MicroRNA-29a (miR-29a), a key regulator of cellular behaviors, is present in anti-fibrosis and modulator tumorigenesis. However, the increased transparency of the correlation between miR-29a and the progression of human HCC is still further investigated. In this study, we predicted HIF-1α and ANGPT2 as regulators of HCC by the OncoMir cancer database and showed a strong positive correlation with HIF-1α and ANGPT2 gene expression in HCC patients. Mice fed the western diet (WD) while administered CCl4 for 25 weeks induced chronic liver damage and higher HCC incidence than without fed WD mice. HCC section staining revealed signaling upregulation in ki67, severe fibrosis, and steatosis in WD and CCl4 mice and detected Col3a1 gene expressions. HCC tissues significantly attenuated miR-29a but increased in HIF-1α, ANGPT2, Lox, Loxl2, and VEGFA expression. Luciferase activity analysis confirms that miR-29a specific binding 3′UTR of HIF-1α and ANGPT2 to repress expression. In summary, miR-29a control HIF-1α and ANGPT2 signaling in HCC formation. This study insight into a novel molecular pathway by which miR-29a targeting HIF-1α and ANGPT2 counteracts the incidence of HCC development.
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14
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Zhao H, Feng YL, Liu T, Wang JJ, Yu J. MicroRNAs in organ fibrosis: From molecular mechanisms to potential therapeutic targets. Pathol Res Pract 2021; 225:153588. [PMID: 34419718 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2021.153588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis is caused by chronic tissue injury and characterized by the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) that ultimately results in organ failure and death. Owing to lacking of effective treatment against tissue fibrosis, it causes a high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Thus, it is of great importance to find an effective therapy strategy for the treatment of fibrosis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play vital roles in many biological processes by targeting downstream genes. Numerous studies demonstrated that miRNAs served as biomarkers of various diseases, suggesting the potential therapeutic targets for diseases. It was recently reported that miRNAs played an important role in the development of organ fibrosis, which showed a promising prospect against fibrosis by targeting intervention. Here, we summarize the roles of miRNAs in the process of organ fibrosis, including liver, lung, heart and kidney, and highlight miRNAs being novel therapeutic targets for organ fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhao
- Clinical Experimental Center, Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital, No. 777 Xitai Road Xi'an, Shaanxi 710100, China; Xi'an Engineering Technology Research Center for Cardiovascular Active Peptids, No. 777 Xitai Road Xi'an, Shaanxi 710100, China
| | - Ya-Long Feng
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xianyang Normal University, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712000, China
| | - Tian Liu
- Clinical Experimental Center, Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital, No. 777 Xitai Road Xi'an, Shaanxi 710100, China; Xi'an Engineering Technology Research Center for Cardiovascular Active Peptids, No. 777 Xitai Road Xi'an, Shaanxi 710100, China
| | - Jing-Jing Wang
- Weinan Linwei District Maternal and Child Health Family Planning Service Center, No.144 Dongfeng Road Weinan, Shannxi 714000, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Clinical Experimental Center, Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital, No. 777 Xitai Road Xi'an, Shaanxi 710100, China; Xi'an Engineering Technology Research Center for Cardiovascular Active Peptids, No. 777 Xitai Road Xi'an, Shaanxi 710100, China.
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15
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Yang YL, Tsai MC, Chang YH, Wang CC, Chu PY, Lin HY, Huang YH. MIR29A Impedes Metastatic Behaviors in Hepatocellular Carcinoma via Targeting LOX, LOXL2, and VEGFA. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22116001. [PMID: 34206143 PMCID: PMC8199573 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22116001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer accounts for the third most deadly type of malignant tumor globally, and approximately 80% of the cases are hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which highly relies on the activity of hypoxia responsive pathways to bolster its metastatic behaviors. MicroRNA-29a (MIR29A) has been shown to exert a hepatoprotective effect on hepatocellular damage and liver fibrosis induced by cholestasis and diet stress, while its clinical and biological role on the activity hypoxia responsive genes including LOX, LOXL2, and VEGFA remains unclear. TCGA datasets were retrieved to confirm the differential expression and prognostic significance of all genes in the HCC and normal tissue. The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset was used to corroborate the differential expression and diagnostic value of MIR29A. The bioinformatic identification were conducted to examine the interaction of MIR29A with LOX, LOXL2, and VEGFA. The suppressive activity of MIR29A on LOX, LOXL2, and VEGF was verified by qPCR, immunoblotting, and luciferase. The effect of overexpression of MIR29A-3p mimics in vitro on apoptosis markers (caspase-9, -3, and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP)); cell viability and wound healing performance were examined using immunoblot and a WST-1 assay and a wound healing assay, respectively. The HCC tissue presented low expression of MIR29A, yet high expression of LOX, LOXL2, and VEGFA as compared to normal control. Serum MIR29A of HCC patients showed decreased levels as compared to that of normal control, with an area under curve (AUC) of 0.751 of a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Low expression of MIR29A and high expression of LOX, LOXL2, and VEGFA indicated poor overall survival (OS). MIR29A-3p was shown to target the 3'UTR of LOX, LOXL2, and VEGFA. Overexpression of MIR29A-3p mimic in HepG2 cells led to downregulated gene and protein expression levels of LOX, LOXL2, and VEGFA, wherein luciferase reporter assay confirmed that MIR29A-3p exerts the inhibitory activity via directly binding to the 3'UTR of LOX and VEGFA. Furthermore, overexpression of MIR29A-3p mimic induced the activity of caspase-9 and -3 and PARP, while it inhibited the cell viability and wound healing performance. Collectively, this study provides novel insight into a clinical-applicable panel consisting of MIR29, LOX, LOXL2, and VEGFA and demonstrates an anti-HCC effect of MIR29A via comprehensively suppressing the expression of LOX, LOXL2, and VEGFA, paving the way to a prospective theragnostic approach for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Ling Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan;
| | - Ming-Chao Tsai
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan;
| | - Yen-Hsiang Chang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan;
- Center for Mitochondrial Research and Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Chen Wang
- Research Assistant Center, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua 500, Taiwan;
| | - Pei-Yi Chu
- Department of Pathology, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua 500, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City 242, Taiwan
- Department of Health Food, Chung Chou University of Science and Technology, Changhua 510, Taiwan
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan 704, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (P.-Y.C.); (H.-Y.L.); (Y.-H.H.); Tel.: +886-9-75611505 (H.-Y.L.)
| | - Hung-Yu Lin
- Research Assistant Center, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua 500, Taiwan;
- Correspondence: (P.-Y.C.); (H.-Y.L.); (Y.-H.H.); Tel.: +886-9-75611505 (H.-Y.L.)
| | - Ying-Hsien Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (P.-Y.C.); (H.-Y.L.); (Y.-H.H.); Tel.: +886-9-75611505 (H.-Y.L.)
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16
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Venosa A, Smith LC, Gow AJ, Zarbl H, Laskin JD, Laskin DL. Macrophage activation in the lung during the progression of nitrogen mustard induced injury is associated with histone modifications and altered miRNA expression. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2021; 423:115569. [PMID: 33971176 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2021.115569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Activated macrophages have been implicated in lung injury and fibrosis induced by the cytotoxic alkylating agent, nitrogen mustard (NM). Herein, we determined if macrophage activation is associated with histone modifications and altered miRNA expression. Treatment of rats with NM (0.125 mg/kg, i.t.) resulted in increases in phosphorylation of H2A.X in lung macrophages at 1 d and 3 d post-exposure. This DNA damage response was accompanied by methylation of histone (H) 3 lysine (K) 4 and acetylation of H3K9, marks of transcriptional activation, and methylation of H3K36 and H3K9, marks associated with transcriptional repression. Increases in histone acetyl transferase and histone deacetylase were also observed in macrophages 1 d and 28 d post-NM exposure. PCR array analysis of miRNAs (miR)s involved in inflammation and fibrosis revealed unique and overlapping expression profiles in macrophages isolated 1, 3, 7, and 28 d post-NM. An IPA Core Analysis of predicted mRNA targets of differentially expressed miRNAs identified significant enrichment of Diseases and Functions related to cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, cell movement, cell adhesion, lipid metabolism, and inflammation 1 d and 28 d post NM. miRNA-mRNA interaction network analysis revealed highly connected miRNAs representing key upstream regulators of mRNAs involved in significantly enriched pathways including miR-34c-5p and miR-27a-3p at 1 d post NM and miR-125b-5p, miR-16-5p, miR-30c-5p, miR-19b-3p and miR-148b-3p at 28 d post NM. Collectively, these data show that NM promotes histone remodeling and alterations in miRNA expression linked to lung macrophage responses during inflammatory injury and fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Venosa
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - L Cody Smith
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Andrew J Gow
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Helmut Zarbl
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, Rutgers University School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Jeffrey D Laskin
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, Rutgers University School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Debra L Laskin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA.
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17
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New Insights into the Role of miR-29a in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Implications in Mechanisms and Theragnostics. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11030219. [PMID: 33803804 PMCID: PMC8003318 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11030219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains one of the most lethal human cancer globally. For advanced HCC, curable plan for advanced HCC is yet to be established, and the prognosis remains poor. The detail mechanisms underlying the progression of HCC tumorigenicity and the corruption of tumor microenvironment (TME) is complex and inconclusive. A growing body of studies demonstrate microRNAs (miRs) are important regulators in the tumorigenicity and TME development. Notably, mounting evidences indicate miR-29a play a crucial role in exerting hepatoprotective effect on various types of stress and involved in the progression of HCC, which elucidates their potential theragnostic implications. In this review, we reviewed the advanced insights into the detail mechanisms by which miR-29a dictates carcinogenesis, epigenetic program, and metabolic adaptation, and implicated in the sponging activity of competitive endogenous RNAs (ceRNA) and the TME components in the scenario of HCC. Furthermore, we highlighted its clinical significance in diagnosis and prognosis, as well as the emerging therapeutics centered on the activation of miR-29a.
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18
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Riaz F, Chen Q, Lu K, Osoro EK, Wu L, Feng L, Zhao R, Yang L, Zhou Y, He Y, Zhu L, Du X, Sadiq M, Yang X, Li D. Inhibition of miR-188-5p alleviates hepatic fibrosis by significantly reducing the activation and proliferation of HSCs through PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:4073-4087. [PMID: 33689215 PMCID: PMC8051718 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Persistent hepatic damage and chronic inflammation in liver activate the quiescent hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and cause hepatic fibrosis (HF). Several microRNAs regulate the activation and proliferation of HSCs, thereby playing a critical role in HF progression. Previous studies have reported that miR‐188‐5p is dysregulated during the process of HF. However, the role of miR‐188‐5p in HF remains unclear. This study investigated the potential role of miR‐188‐5p in HSCs and HF. Firstly, we validated the miR‐188‐5p expression in primary cells isolated from liver of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‐induced mice, TGF‐β1‐induced LX‐2 cells, livers from 6‐month high‐fat diet (HFD)‐induced rat and 4‐month HFD‐induced mice NASH models, and human non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients. Furthermore, we used miR‐188‐5p inhibitors to investigate the therapeutic effects of miR‐188‐5p inhibition in the HFD + CCl4 induced in vivo model and the potential role of miR‐188‐5p in the activation and proliferation of HSCs. This present study reported that miR‐188‐5p expression is significantly increased in the human NAFLD, HSCs isolated from liver of CCl4 induced mice, and in vitro and in vivo models of HF. Mimicking the miR‐188‐5p resulted in the up‐regulation of HSC activation and proliferation by directly targeting the phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN). Moreover, inhibition of miR‐188‐5p reduced the activation and proliferation markers of HSCs through PTEN/AKT pathway. Additionally, in vivo inhibition of miR‐188‐5p suppressed the HF parameters, pro‐fibrotic and pro‐inflammatory genes, and fibrosis. Collectively, our results uncover the pro‐fibrotic role of miR‐188‐5p. Furthermore, we demonstrated that miR‐188‐5p inhibition decreases the severity of HF by reducing the activation and proliferation of HSCs through PTEN/AKT pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farooq Riaz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Kaikai Lu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ezra Kombo Osoro
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Litao Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lina Feng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Rong Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Luyun Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yimeng Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yingli He
- Department of Infectious Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Li Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaojuan Du
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Muhammad Sadiq
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xudong Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Dongmin Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
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19
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Tan Q, Xia D, Ying X. miR-29a in Exosomes from Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Inhibit Fibrosis during Endometrial Repair of Intrauterine Adhesion. Int J Stem Cells 2020; 13:414-423. [PMID: 33250449 PMCID: PMC7691861 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc20049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) is an ideal source of stem cells in the treatment of intrauterine adhesion. Exosomes are a type of membrane vesicle and the diameter is 30∼100 nm. Exosomes can take their contents into the target cells, releasing and exerting their functions. In this study, we intend to study the role of human BMSC-derived exosomes (BMSC-Exo) in promoting endometrial damage repair in the treatment of IUA. Methods We used the magnetic bead affinity method to extract BMSC-Exo and analyzed its biological character. Then we co-cultured the BMSCs-Exo with endometrial cells to detect its effect. We injected BMSCs-Exo into the IUA mouse model. We over-expressed miR-29a in BMSCs-Exo by transient transfection, then used RT-PCR to analyze the expression of the related genes. Results BMSCs-Exo expressed exosome-specific proteins CD9, CD63, and CD81. BMSCs-Exo could bring the contents into the target cells. BMSCs-Exo can promote endometrial repair in vitro or in vivo. BMSCs-Exo overexpressing miR-29a can reduce αSMA, Collagen I, SMAD2, and SMAD3. Conclusions In this study, we successfully isolated BMSCs-Exo and proved its character and biological activity. BMSCs-Exo can promote cell proliferation and cell migration in vitro and can repair damaged endometrium in the IUA model. The presence of miR-29a in BMSCs-Exo may be an important factor in its resistance to fibrosis during endometrial repair of IUA. This study provides new ideas for the treatment of patients with IUA and has important clinical research significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Tan
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, The Affiliated Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, China
| | - Dandan Xia
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, The Affiliated Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Ying
- Department of Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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20
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Scolari FL, Faganello LS, Garbin HI, Piva E Mattos B, Biolo A. A systematic review of microRNAs in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Int J Cardiol 2020; 327:146-154. [PMID: 33212095 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2020.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several microRNAs (miRNA) have been associated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), but studies differ regarding methods employed. In an attempt to understand their role in the disease, we performed a systematic review of studies assessing miRNAs and their association with HCM. METHODS The literature search was based on The Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms "Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy" and "MicroRNA" combined with other synonyms on Embase, Medline and LILACS databases in April 2020. The selected studies and data extraction were independently evaluated. Only human reports with a clear definition of HCM diagnosis were included. RESULTS The search found 68 studies, 13 fulfilled the selection criteria, with a total of 329 patients. Eighty-seven miRNA were differentially expressed in HCM patients, being mir-21, mir-29a and mir-133 the most reported. The miRNA were mainly up-regulated, where mir-29a was up-regulated in 6 studies, followed by mir-133 in 4 and mir-21 in 3. The other miRNAs were mainly up-regulated. Blood samples were evaluated in the majority of patients (86%), but a greater number of miRNAs (79%) were assessed in myocardium. Six studies evaluating the phenotype correlation demonstrated that several miRNAs, mainly mir-1-3p, mir-19b, mir-21, mir-29a, mir-155, and mir-221, were related to either hypertrophy or fibrosis. Mir-29a showed a more consistent phenotypic correlation. CONCLUSION Eighty-seven miRNAs were differentially expressed in HCM patients, the majority in up-regulation. Mir-21, mir-29a and mir-133 were the most reported. Correlation with left ventricular hypertrophy and fibrosis was evaluated in six studies for several miRNAs, nevertheless, mir-29a showed more consistent findings and seems to be a promising biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Luís Scolari
- Division of Cardiology, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil; Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, 2350 Ramiro Barcelos St, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Lucas Simonetto Faganello
- Department of Cardiac Electrophysiology, McGill University Health Centre, 1001 Decarie Boulevard, Montreal, Quebec H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Henrique Iahnke Garbin
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, 2350 Ramiro Barcelos St, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Piva E Mattos
- Division of Cardiology, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil; Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, 2350 Ramiro Barcelos St, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Andreia Biolo
- Division of Cardiology, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil; Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, 2350 Ramiro Barcelos St, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
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21
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Molecular and Functional Roles of MicroRNAs in the Progression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma-A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218362. [PMID: 33171811 PMCID: PMC7664704 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths globally, of which hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the major subtype. Viral hepatitis B and C infections, alcohol abuse, and metabolic disorders are multiple risk factors for liver cirrhosis and HCC development. Although great therapeutic advances have been made in recent decades, the prognosis for HCC patients remains poor due to late diagnosis, chemotherapy failure, and frequent recurrence. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous, non-coding RNAs that regulate various molecular biological phenomena by suppressing the translation of target messenger RNAs (mRNAs). miRNAs, which often become dysregulated in malignancy, control cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and development in HCC by promoting or suppressing tumors. Exploring the detailed mechanisms underlying miRNA-mediated HCC development and progression can likely improve the outcomes of patients with HCC. This review summarizes the molecular and functional roles of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of HCC. Further, it elucidates the utility of miRNAs as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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22
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Zhu H, Xiao X, Shi Y, Wu Y, Huang Y, Li D, Xiong F, He G, Chai Y, Tang H. Inhibition of miRNA-29a regulates intestinal barrier function in diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome by upregulating ZO-1 and CLDN1. Exp Ther Med 2020; 20:155. [PMID: 33093893 PMCID: PMC7571313 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.9284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) is a common chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been identified to be involved in different physiological and pathological processes. In this study, the role of miRNA-29a in the potential mechanism underlying the function of the intestinal mucosal barrier in IBS-D was analyzed. Human intestinal mucosal epithelia from patients with IBS-D (diagnosed as meeting the Rome IV criteria) and healthy volunteers were collected. An IBS-D mouse model was established via induction with trinitro-benzene-sulfonic acid (TNBS), and the mice were injected with miRNA-29a inhibitor. Using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the epithelial ultrastructure of the human intestinal mucosa was examined. Using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis, the expression level of miRNA-29a was assessed. ELISA was used to analyze the activity of D-lactate (D-LA) and diamine oxidase (DAO). Through immunohistochemistry, RT-qPCR and western blotting, the expression of tight junction protein ZO-1 (ZO-1) and claudin-1 (CLDN1) was examined. In the human intestinal mucosal epithelia from patients with IBS-D, miRNA-29a was upregulated, ZO-1 and CLDN1 were downregulated, and the junctional complex (JC) was faint and discontinuous. In the IBS-D mouse model, treatment with miRNA-29a inhibitor downregulated D-LA and DAO activity, and increased the expression of ZO-1 and CLDN1 in the intestinal mucosal epithelium. In conclusion, the present study revealed that miRNA-29a is involved in the pathogenesis of IBS-D, probably by downregulating ZO-1 and CLDN1 expression, suggesting that miRNA-29a is likely to be an important regulator of intestinal barrier function and could be a possible therapeutic target for IBS-D.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Zhu
- Pharmaceutical Department, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R China.,First School of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Xi Xiao
- First School of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Yuying Shi
- First School of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Yingxiu Wu
- First School of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Yusheng Huang
- Lingnan Medical Research Center of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Detang Li
- Pharmaceutical Department, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R China
| | - Fen Xiong
- Pharmaceutical Department, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R China
| | - Guodong He
- First School of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Yuna Chai
- Department of Pharmaceutical, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, P.R. China
| | - Hongmei Tang
- Pharmaceutical Department, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R China
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23
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miR-29a Modulates GSK3β/SIRT1-Linked Mitochondrial Proteostatic Stress to Ameliorate Mouse Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186884. [PMID: 32961796 PMCID: PMC7555728 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNA-29a (miR-29a) has been shown to ameliorate hepatocellular damage, such as in the context of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), steatohepatitis (NASH), and cholestatic injury. However, the mechanism mediating the hepatoprotective effect of miR-29a in diet-induced NASH remains elusive. In the present study, C57BL/6 mice of wild-type (WT) or miR-29a overexpression were fed with methionine–choline sufficient (MCS) or methionine–choline-deficient (MCD) diet for four weeks. The C57BL/6 mice harboring miR-29a overexpression presented reduced plasma AST, hepatic CD36, steatosis, and fibrosis induced by MCD. The TargetScan Release7.2-based bioinformatic analysis, KEGG pathway analysis, and luciferase reporter assay confirmed that miR-29a targets 3′UTR of glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (Gsk3b) mRNA in the HepG2 hepatocyte cell line. Furthermore, miR-29a overexpression in the MCD-fed group resulted in inhibition of Gsk3b mRNA and GSK3β protein levels in the liver. GSK3β was notably expressed jointly with the extent of aggregated protein, which was then identified to be associated with mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt), but not with endoplasmic reticulum UPR (UPRER). Additionally, in silico analysis of protein–protein interaction, in vivo, and in vitro correlation analyses of protein expression demonstrated that GSK3β closely associated with sirtuin 1(SIRT1). Finally, the implication of SIRT1-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis in the perturbation of proteostasis was observed. We herein provide novel insight into a hepatoprotective pathway, whereby miR-29a inhibits GSK3β to repress SIRT1-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis, leading to alleviation of mitochondrial proteostatic stress and UPRmt in the context of NASH. miR-29a, GSK3β, and SIRT1 could thus serve as possible therapeutic targets to improve the treatment of NAFLD/NASH.
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24
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Exogenous Therapeutics of Microrna-29a Attenuates Development of Hepatic Fibrosis in Cholestatic Animal Model through Regulation of Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase p85 Alpha. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21103636. [PMID: 32455716 PMCID: PMC7279217 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have found that microRNA-29a (miR-29a) levels are significantly lower in fibrotic livers, as shown with human liver cirrhosis. Such downregulation influences the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC). Phosphoinositide 3-kinase p85 alpha (PI3KP85α) is implicated in the regulation of proteostasis mitochondrial integrity and unfolded protein response (UPR) and apoptosis in hepatocytes. This study aimed to investigate the potential therapeutic role of miR-29a in a murine bile duct ligation (BDL)-cholestatic injury and liver fibrosis model. Mice were assigned to four groups: sham, BDL, BDL + scramble miRs, and BDL + miR-29a-mimic. Liver fibrosis and inflammation were assessed by histological staining and mRNA/protein expression of representative markers. Exogenous therapeutics of miR-29a in BDL-stressed mice significantly attenuated glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT)/glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (GPT) and liver fibrosis, and caused a significant downregulation in markers related to inflammation (IL-1β), fibrogenesis (TGF-β1, α-SMA, and COL1α1), autophagy (p62 and LC3B II), mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt; C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), heat shock protein 60 (HSP60), and Lon protease-1 (LONP1, a mitochondrial protease), and PI3KP85α within the liver tissue. An in vitro luciferase reporter assay further confirmed that miR-29a mimic directly targets mRNA 3′ untranslated region (UTR) of PI3KP85α to suppress its expression in HepG2 cell line. Our data provide new insights that therapeutic miR-29a improves cholestasis-induced hepatic inflammation and fibrosis and proteotstasis via blocking PI3KP85α, highlighting the potential of miR-29a targeted therapy for liver injury.
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25
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The Emerging Role of MicroRNAs in NAFLD: Highlight of MicroRNA-29a in Modulating Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Beyond. Cells 2020; 9:cells9041041. [PMID: 32331364 PMCID: PMC7226429 DOI: 10.3390/cells9041041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common cause of chronic liver disease and ranges from steatosis to steatohepatitis and to liver fibrosis. Lipotoxicity in hepatocytes, elevated oxidative stress and the activation of proinflammatory mediators of Kupffer cells, and fibrogenic pathways of activated hepatic stellate cells can contribute to the development of NAFLD. MicroRNAs (miRs) play a crucial role in the dysregulated metabolism and inflammatory signaling connected with NAFLD and its progression towards more severe stages. Of note, the protective effect of non-coding miR-29a on liver damage and its versatile action on epigenetic activity, mitochondrial homeostasis and immunomodulation may improve our perception of the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Herein, we review the biological functions of critical miRs in NAFLD, as well as highlight the emerging role of miR-29a in therapeutic application and the recent advances in molecular mechanisms underlying its liver protective effect.
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26
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Ye L, Yu Y, Zhao Y. Icariin-induced miR-875-5p attenuates epithelial-mesenchymal transition by targeting hedgehog signaling in liver fibrosis. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 35:482-491. [PMID: 31617598 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.14875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic fibrosis is the final endpoint for most chronic liver diseases and remains a significant public health problem worldwide. Icariin, a naturally occurring flavonol glucoside, has been reported to exhibit protective effects on liver injury and alleviate liver fibrosis. However, the underlying detail molecular mechanism is not fully revealed. METHODS Mouse primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and carbon tetrachloride (CCL4 )-induced liver fibrosis model in mice were used as in vitro and in vivo models in this study. The expression levels of miR-875-5p were detected by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR. The validation of the direct target of miR-875-5p was through dual-luciferase reporter assay and western blotting assay. The cell proliferation and cell mobility were determined using MTT assay and Transwell migration assay, respectively. RESULTS We found that icariin inhibited epithelial-mesenchymal transition and collagen protein section of HSCs. Icariin exerted hepatoprotective effects on mice model of CCL4 -induced liver fibrosis. Our further results revealed that miR-875-5p was downregulated in human cirrhosis tissues and activated murine HSCs. Icariin induced miR-875-5p upregulation and subsequently decreased glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1 (GLI1) expression through direct binding to the three prime untranslated region of GLI1 mRNA. CONCLUSION Our study highlighted the potential therapeutic application of icariin for liver fibrosis management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Ye
- First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yaping Yu
- First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yanping Zhao
- First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang, China
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27
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MicroRNA-29a Suppresses CD36 to Ameliorate High Fat Diet-Induced Steatohepatitis and Liver Fibrosis in Mice. Cells 2019; 8:cells8101298. [PMID: 31652636 PMCID: PMC6830328 DOI: 10.3390/cells8101298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNA-29 (miR-29) has been shown to play a critical role in reducing inflammation and fibrosis following liver injury. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) occurs when fat is deposited (steatosis) in the liver due to causes other than excessive alcohol use and is associated with liver fibrosis. In this study, we asked whether miR-29a could reduce experimental high fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity and liver fibrosis in mice. We performed systematical expression analyses of miR-29a transgenic mice (miR-29aTg mice) and wild-type littermates subjected to HFD-induced NAFLD. The results demonstrated that increased miR-29a not only alleviated HFD-induced body weight gain but also subcutaneous, visceral, and intestinal fat accumulation and hepatocellular steatosis in mice. Furthermore, hepatic tissue in the miR-29aTg mice displayed a weak fibrotic matrix concomitant with low fibrotic collagen1α1 expression within the affected tissues compared to the wild-type (WT) mice fed the HFD diet. Increased miR-29a signaling also resulted in the downregulation of expression of the epithelial mesenchymal transition-executing transcription factor snail, mesenchymal markers vimentin, and such pro-inflammation markers as il6 and mcp1 within the liver tissue. Meanwhile, miR-29aTg-HFD mice exhibited significantly lower levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), mitochondrial transcription factor A TFAM, and mitochondria DNA content in the liver than the WT-HFD mice. An in vitro luciferase reporter assay further confirmed that miR-29a mimic transfection reduced fatty acid translocase CD36 expression in HepG2 cells. Conclusion: Our data provide new insights that miR-29a can improve HDF-induced obesity, hepatocellular steatosis, and fibrosis, as well as highlight the role of miR-29a in regulation of NAFLD.
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28
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Yang YL, Kuo HC, Wang FS, Huang YH. MicroRNA-29a Disrupts DNMT3b to Ameliorate Diet-Induced Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E1499. [PMID: 30917489 PMCID: PMC6471363 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20061499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNA-29 (miR-29) has been found to reduce liver inflammation and fibrosis following a liver injury. Meanwhile, DNA methyltransferase has been reported to participate in the development of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The aim of this study is to investigate the miR-29a regulation of methyltransferase signaling and epigenetic program in NASH progression. Methods: miR-29a transgenic mice (miR-29aTg mice) and wild-type littermates were subjected to the methionine-choline-deficient (MCD) diet-induced animal model of NASH. Primary hepatic stellate cells were transfected with a miR-29a mimic and antisense inhibitor. We then analyzed gene expressions with qRT-PCR, immunohistochemical stain, Western blot, and luciferase reporter assay. The results demonstrated that increased miR-29a alleviated the MCD diet-induced body weight loss and steatosis and decreased aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels in mice. Furthermore, hepatic tissue in miR-29aTg mice displayed a weak fibrotic matrix, as shown with Sirius Red staining concomitant with low fibrotic α-SMA expression within affected tissues compared to the wild-type mice fed the MCD diet. Forced miR-29a expression reduced the MCD diet exaggeration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by immunohistochemically staining 8-OHdG. Increased miR-29a signaling also resulted in the downregulation of DNMT3b, TGF-β, IL-6, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), p-SMAD3, PI3K, and L3BII expression within the liver tissue. An in vitro luciferase reporter assay further confirmed that miR-29a mimic transfection reduced DNMT3b expression in primary HSCs. Our data provide new insights that miR-29a improves MCD diet-induced liver inflammation, steatosis and fibrosis, and highlight the potential of miR-29a targeted therapy for treating NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Ling Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan.
| | - Hsing-Chun Kuo
- Department of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Chiayi 600, Taiwan.
- Reseach Fellow, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi 600, Taiwan.
- Research Center for the Industry of Human Ecology and Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 330, Taiwan.
- Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion Research Center, CGUST, Chiayi 600, Taiwan.
| | - Feng-Sheng Wang
- Core Laboratory for Phenomics & Diagnostics, Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan.
| | - Ying-Hsien Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan.
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29
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Huang YH, Kuo HC, Yang YL, Wang FS. MicroRNA-29a is a key regulon that regulates BRD4 and mitigates liver fibrosis in mice by inhibiting hepatic stellate cell activation. Int J Med Sci 2019; 16:212-220. [PMID: 30745801 PMCID: PMC6367521 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.29930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNA-29a is a key regulon that regulates hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and mitigates liver fibrosis. However, the mechanism by which it does so remains largely undefined. The inhibition of bromodomain-4 protein (BRD4) represents a novel therapeutic target in hepatic fibrosis. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the miR-29a regulation of BRD4 signaling in a bile duct-ligation (BDL) animal model with regard to developing cholestatic liver fibrosis. Hepatic tissue in miR-29a transgenic mice (miR-29aTg mice) displayed weak fibrotic matrix, as shown by α-smooth muscle actin staining within affected tissues compared to wild-type mice. miR-29a overexpression reduced the BDL exaggeration of BRD4 and SNAI1 expression. Increased miR-29a signaling caused the downregulation of EZH2, MeCP2, and SNAI1, as well as the upregulation of PPAR-γ expression, in primary HSCs. We further demonstrated that the administration of JQ1, a BRD4 inhibitor, could inhibit BRD4, C-MYC, EZH2, and SNAI1 expression, while both JQ1 and a miR-29a mimic could inhibit the migration and proliferation of HSCs. In short, our research demonstrates that miR-29a negatively regulates HSC activation by inhibiting BRD4 and EZH2 function, thus making it a promising target for the pharmacologic treatment of hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Hsien Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hsing-Chun Kuo
- Department of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Chiayi, Taiwan.,Reseach Fellow, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan.,Research Center for Industry of Human Ecology and Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion Research Center, CGUST, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Ling Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, 833
| | - Feng-Sheng Wang
- Core Laboratory for Phenomics & Diagnostics, Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, 833
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30
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Hou W, Syn WK. Role of Metabolism in Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Fibrogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2018; 6:150. [PMID: 30483502 PMCID: PMC6240744 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2018.00150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) involves the transition from a quiescent to a proliferative, migratory, and fibrogenic phenotype (i.e., myofibroblast), which is characteristic of liver fibrogenesis. Multiple cellular and molecular signals which contribute to HSC activation have been identified. This review specially focuses on the metabolic changes which impact on HSC activation and fibrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Hou
- Tianjin Second People's Hospital and Tianjin Institute of Hepatology, Tianjin, China.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Wing-Kin Syn
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States.,Section of Gastroenterology, Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, SC, United States
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