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Luo L, Zhang W, You S, Cui X, Tu H, Yi Q, Wu J, Liu O. The role of epithelial cells in fibrosis: Mechanisms and treatment. Pharmacol Res 2024; 202:107144. [PMID: 38484858 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a pathological process that affects multiple organs and is considered one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in multiple diseases, resulting in an enormous disease burden. Current studies have focused on fibroblasts and myofibroblasts, which directly lead to imbalance in generation and degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM). In recent years, an increasing number of studies have focused on the role of epithelial cells in fibrosis. In some cases, epithelial cells are first exposed to external physicochemical stimuli that may directly drive collagen accumulation in the mesenchyme. In other cases, the source of stimulation is mainly immune cells and some cytokines, and epithelial cells are similarly altered in the process. In this review, we will focus on the multiple dynamic alterations involved in epithelial cells after injury and during fibrogenesis, discuss the association among them, and summarize some therapies targeting changed epithelial cells. Especially, epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the key central step, which is closely linked to other biological behaviors. Meanwhile, we think studies on disruption of epithelial barrier, epithelial cell death and altered basal stem cell populations and stemness in fibrosis are not appreciated. We believe that therapies targeted epithelial cells can prevent the progress of fibrosis, but not reverse it. The epithelial cell targeting therapies will provide a wonderful preventive and delaying action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liuyi Luo
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital & Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Academician Workstation for Oral-maxilofacial and Regenerative Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Oral Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Siyao You
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital & Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Academician Workstation for Oral-maxilofacial and Regenerative Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xinyan Cui
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital & Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Academician Workstation for Oral-maxilofacial and Regenerative Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hua Tu
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital & Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Academician Workstation for Oral-maxilofacial and Regenerative Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qiao Yi
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital & Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Academician Workstation for Oral-maxilofacial and Regenerative Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jianjun Wu
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital & Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Academician Workstation for Oral-maxilofacial and Regenerative Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Ousheng Liu
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital & Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Academician Workstation for Oral-maxilofacial and Regenerative Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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2
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Hadpech S, Thongboonkerd V. Epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity in kidney fibrosis. Genesis 2024; 62:e23529. [PMID: 37345818 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.23529] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an important biological process contributing to kidney fibrosis and chronic kidney disease. This process is characterized by decreased epithelial phenotypes/markers and increased mesenchymal phenotypes/markers. Tubular epithelial cells (TECs) are commonly susceptible to EMT by various stimuli, for example, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), cellular communication network factor 2, angiotensin-II, fibroblast growth factor-2, oncostatin M, matrix metalloproteinase-2, tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA), plasmin, interleukin-1β, and reactive oxygen species. Similarly, glomerular podocytes can undergo EMT via these stimuli and by high glucose condition in diabetic kidney disease. EMT of TECs and podocytes leads to tubulointerstitial fibrosis and glomerulosclerosis, respectively. Signaling pathways involved in EMT-mediated kidney fibrosis are diverse and complex. TGF-β1/Smad and Wnt/β-catenin pathways are the major venues triggering EMT in TECs and podocytes. These two pathways thus serve as the major therapeutic targets against EMT-mediated kidney fibrosis. To date, a number of EMT inhibitors have been identified and characterized. As expected, the majority of these EMT inhibitors affect TGF-β1/Smad and Wnt/β-catenin pathways. In addition to kidney fibrosis, these EMT-targeted antifibrotic inhibitors are expected to be effective for treatment against fibrosis in other organs/tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudarat Hadpech
- Medical Proteomics Unit, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Visith Thongboonkerd
- Medical Proteomics Unit, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Xiang Y, Yuan Z, Deng Q, Xie L, Yu D, Shi J. Potential therapeutic medicines for renal fibrosis: Small-molecule compounds and natural products. Bioorg Chem 2024; 143:106999. [PMID: 38035515 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Renal fibrosis is the pathological change process of chronic kidney disease deteriorating continuously. When the renal organ is stimulated by external stimuli, it will trigger the damage and phenotypic changes of some intrinsic cells in the kidney. When the body's autoimmune regulation or external treatment is not prompted enough to restore the organ, the pathological process is gradually aggravating, inducing a large amount of intracellular collagen deposition, which leads to the appearance of fibrosis and scarring. The renal parenchyma (including glomeruli and tubules) begins to harden, making it difficult to repair the kidney lesions. In the process of gradual changes in the kidney tissue, the kidney units are severely damaged and the kidney function shows a progressive decline, eventually resulting in the clinical manifestation of end-stage renal failure, namely uremia. This review provides a brief description of the diagnosis, pathogenesis, and potential therapeutic inhibitors of renal fibrosis. Since renal fibrosis has not yet had a clear therapeutic target and related drugs, some potential targets and relevant inhibitors are discussed, especially pharmacological effects and interactions with targets. Some existing natural products have potential efficacy for renal fibrosis, which is also roughly summarized, hoping that this article would have reference significance for the treatment of renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Xiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Zhuo Yuan
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Qichuan Deng
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Linshen Xie
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Dongke Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China.
| | - Jianyou Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China.
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Nady ME, Abd El-Raouf OM, El-Sayed ESM. Linagliptin Mitigates TGF-β1 Mediated Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Tacrolimus-Induced Renal Interstitial Fibrosis via Smad/ERK/P38 and HIF-1α/LOXL2 Signaling Pathways. Biol Pharm Bull 2024; 47:1008-1020. [PMID: 38797693 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b23-00737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, a novel anti-diabetic medication family, are renoprotective in diabetes, but a comparable benefit in chronic non-diabetic kidney diseases is still under investigation. This study aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of linagliptin's (Lina) protective role in a rat model of chronic kidney injury caused by tacrolimus (TAC) independent of blood glucose levels. Thirty-two adult male Sprague Dawley rats were equally randomized into four groups and treated daily for 28 d as follows: The control group; received olive oil (1 mL/kg/d, subcutaneously), group 2; received Lina (5 mg/kg/d, orally), group 3; received TAC (1.5 mg/kg/d, subcutaneously), group 4; received TAC plus Lina concomitantly in doses as the same previous groups. Blood and urine samples were collected to investigate renal function indices and tubular injury markers. Additionally, signaling molecules, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and fibrotic-related proteins in kidney tissue were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blot analysis, immunohistochemical and histological examinations. Tacrolimus markedly induced renal injury and fibrosis as indicated by renal dysfunction, histological damage, and deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. It also increased transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), Smad4, p-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2/ERK1/2, and p-P38/P38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) protein levels. These alterations were markedly attenuated by the Lina administration. Moreover, Lina significantly inhibited EMT, evidenced by inhibiting Vimentin and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and elevating E-cadherin. Furthermore, Lina diminished hypoxia-related protein levels with a subsequent reduction in Snail and Twist expressions. We concluded that Lina may protect against TAC-induced interstitial fibrosis by modulating TGF-β1 mediated EMT via Smad-dependent and independent signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed E Nady
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University
| | - Ola M Abd El-Raouf
- Pharmacology Department, Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA), formerly known as National Organization for Drug Control and Research (NODCAR)
| | - El-Sayed M El-Sayed
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University
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Mboni-Johnston IM, Kouidrat NMZ, Hirsch C, Weber AG, Meißner A, Adjaye J, Schupp N. Sensitivity of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells and Thereof Differentiated Kidney Proximal Tubular Cells towards Selected Nephrotoxins. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:81. [PMID: 38203251 PMCID: PMC10779191 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Proximal tubular epithelial cells (PTEC) are constantly exposed to potentially toxic metabolites and xenobiotics. The regenerative potential of the kidney enables the replacement of damaged cells either via the differentiation of stem cells or the re-acquisition of proliferative properties of the PTEC. Nevertheless, it is known that renal function declines, suggesting that the deteriorated cells are not replaced by fully functional cells. To understand the possible causes of this loss of kidney cell function, it is crucial to understand the role of toxins during the regeneration process. Therefore, we investigated the sensitivity and function of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC), hiPSC differentiating, and hiPSC differentiated into proximal tubular epithelial-like cells (PTELC) to known nephrotoxins. hiPSC were differentiated into PTELC, which exhibited similar morphology to PTEC, expressed prototypical PTEC markers, and were able to undergo albumin endocytosis. When treated with two nephrotoxins, hiPSC and differentiating hiPSC were more sensitive to cisplatin than differentiated PTELC, whereas all stages were equally sensitive to cyclosporin A. Both toxins also had an inhibitory effect on albumin uptake. Our results suggest a high sensitivity of differentiating cells towards toxins, which could have an unfavorable effect on regenerative processes. To study this, our model of hiPSC differentiating into PTELC appears suitable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac Musong Mboni-Johnston
- Institute of Toxicology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, University of Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (I.M.M.-J.); (N.M.Z.K.); (C.H.); (A.M.)
| | - Nazih Mohamed Zakari Kouidrat
- Institute of Toxicology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, University of Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (I.M.M.-J.); (N.M.Z.K.); (C.H.); (A.M.)
| | - Cornelia Hirsch
- Institute of Toxicology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, University of Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (I.M.M.-J.); (N.M.Z.K.); (C.H.); (A.M.)
| | - Andreas Georg Weber
- Institute of Toxicology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, University of Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (I.M.M.-J.); (N.M.Z.K.); (C.H.); (A.M.)
| | - Alexander Meißner
- Institute of Toxicology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, University of Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (I.M.M.-J.); (N.M.Z.K.); (C.H.); (A.M.)
| | - James Adjaye
- Institute for Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, University of Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany;
- Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Diseases in Children (ZCR), EGA Institute for Women’s Health, University College London (UCL), 20 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1DZ, UK
| | - Nicole Schupp
- Institute of Toxicology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, University of Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (I.M.M.-J.); (N.M.Z.K.); (C.H.); (A.M.)
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Trotta MC, Herman H, Ciceu A, Mladin B, Rosu M, Lepre CC, Russo M, Bácskay I, Fenyvesi F, Marfella R, Hermenean A, Balta C, D’Amico M. Chrysin-based supramolecular cyclodextrin-calixarene drug delivery system: a novel approach for attenuating cardiac fibrosis in chronic diabetes. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1332212. [PMID: 38169923 PMCID: PMC10759242 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1332212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Cardiac fibrosis is strongly induced by diabetic conditions. Both chrysin (CHR) and calixarene OTX008, a specific inhibitor of galectin 1 (Gal-1), seem able to reduce transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)/SMAD pro-fibrotic pathways, but their use is limited to their low solubility. Therefore, we formulated a dual-action supramolecular system, combining CHR with sulfobutylated β-cyclodextrin (SBECD) and OTX008 (SBECD + OTX + CHR). Here we aimed to test the anti-fibrotic effects of SBECD + OTX + CHR in hyperglycemic H9c2 cardiomyocytes and in a mouse model of chronic diabetes. Methods: H9c2 cardiomyocytes were exposed to normal (NG, 5.5 mM) or high glucose (HG, 33 mM) for 48 h, then treated with SBECD + OTX + CHR (containing OTX008 0.75-1.25-2.5 µM) or the single compounds for 6 days. TGF-β/SMAD pathways, Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases (MAPKs) and Gal-1 levels were assayed by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISAs) or Real-Time Quantitative Reverse Transcription Polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Adult CD1 male mice received a single intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of streptozotocin (STZ) at a dosage of 102 mg/kg body weight. From the second week of diabetes, mice received 2 times/week the following i.p. treatments: OTX (5 mg/kg)-SBECD; OTX (5 mg/kg)-SBECD-CHR, SBECD-CHR, SBECD. After a 22-week period of diabetes, mice were euthanized and cardiac tissue used for tissue staining, ELISA, qRT-PCR aimed to analyse TGF-β/SMAD, extracellular matrix (ECM) components and Gal-1. Results: In H9c2 cells exposed to HG, SBECD + OTX + CHR significantly ameliorated the damaged morphology and reduced TGF-β1, its receptors (TGFβR1 and TGFβR2), SMAD2/4, MAPKs and Gal-1. Accordingly, these markers were reduced also in cardiac tissue from chronic diabetes, in which an amelioration of cardiac remodeling and ECM was evident. In both settings, SBECD + OTX + CHR was the most effective treatment compared to the other ones. Conclusion: The CHR-based supramolecular SBECD-calixarene drug delivery system, by enhancing the solubility and the bioavailability of both CHR and calixarene OTX008, and by combining their effects, showed a strong anti-fibrotic activity in rat cardiomyocytes and in cardiac tissue from mice with chronic diabetes. Also an improved cardiac tissue remodeling was evident. Therefore, new drug delivery system, which could be considered as a novel putative therapeutic strategy for the treatment of diabetes-induced cardiac fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Consiglia Trotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Hildegard Herman
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Alina Ciceu
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Bianca Mladin
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Marcel Rosu
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Caterina Claudia Lepre
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
- PhD Course in Translational Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Marina Russo
- PhD Course in National Interest in Public Administration and Innovation for Disability and Social Inclusion, Department of Mental, Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
- School of Pharmacology and Clinical Toxicology, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Ildikó Bácskay
- Department of Molecular and Nanopharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Institute of Healthcare Industry, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ferenc Fenyvesi
- Department of Molecular and Nanopharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Raffaele Marfella
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Anca Hermenean
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
- Department of Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Cornel Balta
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Michele D’Amico
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
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Hassanein EHM, Ibrahim IM, Abd-Alhameed EK, Sharawi ZW, Jaber FA, Althagafy HS. Nrf2/HO-1 as a therapeutic target in renal fibrosis. Life Sci 2023; 334:122209. [PMID: 37890696 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases and affects between 10 and 14 % of the world's population. The World Health Organization estimates that by 2040, the disease will be fifth in prevalence. End-stage CKD is characterized by renal fibrosis, which can eventually lead to kidney failure and death. Renal fibrosis develops due to multiple injuries and involves oxidative stress and inflammation. In the human body, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) plays an important role in the expression of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective genes, which prevents oxidative stress and inflammation damage. Heme oxygenase (HO-1) is an inducible homolog influenced by heme products and after exposure to cellular stress inducers such as oxidants, inflammatory chemokines/cytokines, and tissue damage as an outcome or downstream of Nrf2 activation. HO-1 is known for its antioxidative properties, which play an important role in regulating oxidative stress. In renal diseases-induced tissue fibrosis and xenobiotics-induced renal fibrosis, Nrf2/HO-1 has been targeted with promising results. This review summarizes these studies and highlights the interesting bioactive compounds that may assist in attenuating renal fibrosis mediated by HO-1 activation. In conclusion, Nrf2/HO-1 signal activation could have a renoprotective effect strategy against CKD caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, and consequent renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emad H M Hassanein
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt.
| | - Islam M Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Esraa K Abd-Alhameed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Zeina W Sharawi
- Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Sciences, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatima A Jaber
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Jeddah, P.O. Box 80327, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hanan S Althagafy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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8
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Wang L, Wang X, Li G, Zhou S, Wang R, Long Q, Wang M, Li L, Huang H, Ba Y. Emodin ameliorates renal injury and fibrosis via regulating the miR-490-3p/HMGA2 axis. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1042093. [PMID: 36937888 PMCID: PMC10020706 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1042093] [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: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Renal fibrosis is a major pathological feature of chronic kidney disease (CKD). While emodin is reported to elicit anti-fibrotic effects on renal injury, little is known about its effects on microRNA (miRNA)-modulated mechanisms in renal fibrosis. In this study, we established a unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) model and a transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-induced normal rat renal tubular epithelial cell line (NRK-52E) model to investigate the protective effects of emodin on renal fibrosis and its miRNA/target gene mechanisms. Dual-luciferase assay was performed to confirm the direct binding of miRNA and target genes in HEK293 cells. Results showed that oral administration of emodin significantly ameliorated the loss of body weight and the increase in physicochemical parameters, including serum uric acid, creatinine, and urea nitrogen in UUO mice. Inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-α, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and interleukin (IL)-1β, but not IL-6, were down-regulated by emodin administration. Emodin decreased the expression levels of TGF-β1 and fibrotic-related proteins, including alpha-smooth muscle actin, Collagen IV, and Fibronectin, and increased the expression of E-cadherin. Furthermore, miR-490-3p was decreased in UUO mice and negatively correlated with increased expression of high migration protein A2 (HMGA2). We further confirmed HMGA2 was the target of miR-490-3p. Transfection of miR-490-3p mimics decreased, while transfection of miR-490-3p inhibitors increased fibrotic-related proteins and HMGA2 expression levels in TGF-β1-induced NRK-52E cells. Furthermore, transfection of miR-490-3p mimics enhanced the anti-fibrotic effects of emodin, while transfection of miR-490-3p inhibitors abolished the protective effects of emodin. Thus, as a novel target of emodin that prevents renal fibrosis in the HMGA2-dependent signaling pathway, miR-490-3p has potential implications in CKD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liulin Wang
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Tranditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Provincial Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Xuerui Wang
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Basic Research With Traditional Chinese Medicine on Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Gang Li
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Tranditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Provincial Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Shanshan Zhou
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Tranditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Provincial Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Tranditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Provincial Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Qi Long
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Tranditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Provincial Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Min Wang
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Tranditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Provincial Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Liang Li
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Tranditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Provincial Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Hai Huang
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Tranditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Provincial Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuanming Ba
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Tranditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Provincial Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Yuanming Ba,
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Zhou B, Zhang Y, Dang X, Li B, Wang H, Gong S, Li S, Meng F, Xing J, Li T, He L, Zou P, Wan Y. Up-regulation of the human-specific CHRFAM7A gene protects against renal fibrosis in mice with obstructive nephropathy. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 27:52-65. [PMID: 36479618 PMCID: PMC9806291 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Renal fibrosis is a major factor in the progression of chronic kidney diseases. Obstructive nephropathy is a common cause of renal fibrosis, which is also accompanied by inflammation. To explore the effect of human-specific CHRFAM7A expression, an inflammation-related gene, on renal fibrosis during obstructive nephropathy, we studied CHRFAM7A transgenic mice and wild type mice that underwent unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) injury. Transgenic overexpression of CHRFAM7A gene inhibited UUO-induced renal fibrosis, which was demonstrated by decreased fibrotic gene expression and collagen deposition. Furthermore, kidneys from transgenic mice had reduced TGF-β1 and Smad2/3 expression following UUO compared with those from wild type mice with UUO. In addition, the overexpression of CHRFAM7A decreased release of inflammatory cytokines in the kidneys of UUO-injured mice. In vitro, the overexpression of CHRFAM7A inhibited TGF-β1-induced increase in expression of fibrosis-related genes in human renal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2 cells). Additionally, up-regulated expression of CHRFAM7A in HK-2 cells decreased TGF-β1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and inhibited activation f TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signalling pathways. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that overexpression of the human-specific CHRFAM7A gene can reduce UUO-induced renal fibrosis by inhibiting TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signalling pathway to reduce inflammatory reactions and EMT of renal tubular epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingru Zhou
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical ScienceSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Yudian Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical ScienceSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Xitong Dang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Research, The Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of EducationSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Bowen Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical ScienceSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical ScienceSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Shu Gong
- Science and Technology DivisionSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Siwen Li
- Department of Health Toxicology, Xiangya School of Public HealthCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Fanyin Meng
- Indiana Center for Liver Research, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of MedicineIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA,Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical CenterIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Juan Xing
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical ScienceSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Tian Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical ScienceSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Longfei He
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical ScienceSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Ping Zou
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical ScienceSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Ying Wan
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical ScienceSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
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10
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Zeng P, Liu YC, Wang XM, Ye CY, Sun YW, Su HF, Qiu SW, Li YN, Wang Y, Wang YC, Ma J, Li M, Tian Q. Targets and mechanisms of Alpinia oxyphylla Miquel fruits in treating neurodegenerative dementia. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:1013891. [PMID: 36533181 PMCID: PMC9749063 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.1013891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The dried and ripe fruits of Alpinia oxyphylla and ripe fruits of Alpinia oxyphylla Miquel (AO) have the effects of tonifying kidney-essence and nourishing intelligence and thus have been widely used in treating dementia. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a typical form of neurodegenerative dementia with kidney-essence deficiency in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). So far, there is a lack of systematic studies on the biological basis of tonifying kidney-essence and nourishing intelligence and the corresponding phytochemicals. In this study, we investigated the targets of AO in tonifying kidney-essence and nourishing intelligence based on the key pathophysiological processes of neurodegenerative dementia. According to ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry data and Lipinski's rule of five, 49 bioactive phytochemicals from AO were identified, and 26 of them were found to target 168 key molecules in the treatment of neurodegenerative dementia. Nine phytochemicals of AO were shown to target acetylcholinesterase (ACHE), and 19 phytochemicals were shown to target butyrylcholinesterase (BCHE). A database of neurodegenerative dementia with kidney-essence deficiency involving 731 genes was constructed. Furthermore, yakuchinone B, 5-hydroxy-1,7-bis (4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl) heptan-3-one (5-HYD), oxyhylladiketone, oxyphyllacinol, butyl-β-D-fructopyranoside, dibutyl phthalate, chrysin, yakuchinone A, rhamnetin, and rhamnocitrin were identified as the key phytochemicals from AO that regulate the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative dementia in a multitargeted manner. The approach of studying the pharmacological mechanism underlying the effects of medicinal plants and the biological basis of TCM syndrome may be helpful in studying the translation of TCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry, School of Basic Medicine of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Yuan-Cheng Liu
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry, School of Basic Medicine of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Wang
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry, School of Basic Medicine of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chao-Yuan Ye
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry, School of Basic Medicine of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi-Wen Sun
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry, School of Basic Medicine of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hong-Fei Su
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry, School of Basic Medicine of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuo-Wen Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry, School of Basic Medicine of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ya-Nan Li
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Yao Wang
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan-Chun Wang
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Jun Ma
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Man Li
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry, School of Basic Medicine of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qing Tian
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry, School of Basic Medicine of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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11
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Zhao Y, Li X, Wang F, Huang S, Du H, Li S, Chen J. Network Pharmacology and Experimental Verification Strategies to Illustrate the Mechanism of Jian-Pi-Yi-Shen Formula in Suppressing Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:873023. [PMID: 35656312 PMCID: PMC9152215 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.873023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Jian-Pi-Yi-Shen formula (JPYSF), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been recommended to treat renal fibrosis for decades. Previous studies had shown that JPYSF could inhibit epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), an important regulatory role in renal fibrosis. However, the mechanism of JPYSF action is largely unknown. In this study, network pharmacology and experimental verification were combined to elucidate and identify the potential mechanism of JPYSF against renal fibrosis by suppressing EMT at molecular and pathway levels. Network pharmacology was first performed to explore the mechanism of JPYSF against renal fibrosis targeting EMT, and then a 5/6 nephrectomy (5/6 Nx)-induced rat model of renal fibrosis was selected to verify the predictive results by Masson’s trichrome stains and western blot analysis. Two hundred and thirty-two compounds in JPYSF were selected for the network approach analysis, which identified 137 candidate targets of JPYSF and 4,796 known therapeutic targets of EMT. The results of the Gene Ontology (GO) function enrichment analysis included 2098, 88, and 133 GO terms for biological processes (BPs), molecular functions (MFs), and cell component entries, respectively. The top 10 enrichment items of BP annotations included a response to a steroid hormone, a metal ion, oxygen levels, and so on. Cellular composition (CC) is mainly enriched in membrane raft, membrane microdomain, membrane region, etc. The MF of JPYSF analysis on EMT was predominately involved in proximal promoter sequence-specific DNA binding, protein heterodimerization activity, RNA polymerase II proximal promoter sequence-specific DNA binding, and so on. The involvement signaling pathway of JPYSF in the treatment of renal fibrosis targeting EMT was associated with anti-fibrosis, anti-inflammation, podocyte protection, and metabolism regulation. Furthermore, the in vivo experiments confirmed that JPYSF effectively ameliorated interstitial fibrosis and inhibited the overexpression of α-SMA, Wnt3a, and β-catenin, and increased the expression of E-cadherin by wnt3a/β-catenin signaling pathway in 5/6 Nx-induced renal fibrosis rats. Using an integrative network pharmacology-based approach and experimental verification, the study showed that JPYSF had therapeutic effects on EMT by regulating multi-pathway, among which one proven pathway was the Wnt3a/β-catenin signaling pathway. These findings provide insights into the renoprotective effects of JPYSF against EMT, which could suggest directions for further research of JPYSF in attenuating renal fibrosis by suppressing EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Zhao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Hospital Chinese Medicine Preparation, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiangbin Li
- Shenzhen Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (Longgang), Shenzhen, China
| | - Fochang Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Hospital Chinese Medicine Preparation, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shiying Huang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Hospital Chinese Medicine Preparation, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hanqian Du
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shunmin Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Hospital Chinese Medicine Preparation, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jianping Chen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Hospital Chinese Medicine Preparation, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
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12
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Li D, Li Y, Zeng H, Wu Y. Risk factors for Encapsulating Peritoneal Sclerosis in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis: A meta-analysis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265584. [PMID: 35312717 PMCID: PMC8936465 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose
Encapsulating Peritoneal Sclerosis (EPS) is the most serious complication of long-term peritoneal dialysis (PD), which considerably reduces the patient’s quality of life, leading to patients discontinuing PD. Considering these negative effects, it is necessary to systematically review and determine the risk factors of EPS.
Methods
The PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and China Biology Medicine (CBM) were searched from their inception to January 1st, 2022, and the bibliographies from the citations of relevant articles were manually searched. The ROBINS-I (Risk of Bias in Non-randomized studies of Interventions) tool was used to evaluate the risk of bias of included studies.
Results
Ten studies involving 12595 participants were included in this meta-analysis. The results revealed that a younger age at PD onset (MD = -7.70, 95% CI, -11.53~-3.86), a higher transporter (MD = 0.13, 95% CI, 0.09~0.18), a longer PD duration (SMD = 1.15, 95% CI, 0.68~1.61), a longer peritonitis duration (MD = 12.66, 95% CI, 3.85~21.47), and history of glomerulonephritis (OR = 1.42, 95% CI, 1.02~1.97) were significant risk factors for EPS. However, sex, use of icodextrin, the number of peritonitis episodes, and history of multicystic kidney disease did not affect the risk of EPS.
Conclusions
This review provides a scientific basis for further understanding the etiology of PD-related EPS and improving prevention strategies. More high-quality studies are necessary to validate this paper’s findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dashan Li
- Department of Nephropathy, the First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Department of Nephropathy, the First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Hanxu Zeng
- Department of Nephropathy, the First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yonggui Wu
- Department of Nephropathy, the First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- * E-mail:
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13
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Hsieh YH, Wang WC, Hung TW, Lee CC, Tsai JP. C-C Motif Chemokine Ligand-17 as a Novel Biomarker and Regulator of Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition in Renal Fibrogenesis. Cells 2021; 10:cells10123345. [PMID: 34943853 PMCID: PMC8699042 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
CCL17, a chemotactic cytokine produced by macrophages, is known to promote inflammatory and fibrotic effects in multiple organs, but its role in mediating renal fibrosis is unclear. In our study cohort of 234 chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients and 65 healthy controls, human cytokine array analysis revealed elevated CCL17 expression in CKD that correlated negatively with renal function. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of CCL17 to predict the development of CKD stages 3b–5 was 0.644 (p < 0.001), with the optimal cut-off value of 415.3 ng/mL. In vitro over-expression of CCL17 in HK2 cells had no effect on cell viability, but increased cell motility and the expression of α-SMA, vimentin and collagen I, as shown by western blot analysis. In a unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) mouse model, we observed significantly increased interstitial fibrosis and renal tubule dilatation by Masson’s Trichrome and H&E staining, and markedly increased expression of CCL17, vimentin, collagen I, and α-SMA by IHC stain, qRTPCR, and western blotting. CCL17 induced renal fibrosis by promoting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, resulting in ECM accumulation. CCL17 may be a useful biomarker for predicting the development of advanced CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Hsien Hsieh
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan; (Y.-H.H.); (W.-C.W.)
- Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chien Wang
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan; (Y.-H.H.); (W.-C.W.)
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan;
- Department of Medical Education, Taichung Vererans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan
| | - Tung-Wei Hung
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan;
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
| | - Chu-Che Lee
- Department of Medicine Research, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Chiayi 62247, Taiwan;
| | - Jen-Pi Tsai
- School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Chiayi 62247, Taiwan
- Correspondence:
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