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Pan M, Cai C, Li W, Cao T, Liu Y, Yang L, Xie Q, Zhang X. Ebselen improves lipid metabolism by activating PI3K/Akt and inhibiting TLR4/JNK signaling pathway to alleviate nonalcoholic fatty liver. Cytokine 2024; 181:156671. [PMID: 38943739 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2024.156671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a metabolic disease associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Due to its complex pathogenesis, there are still limitations in the knowledge of the disease. To date, no drug has been approved to treat NAFLD. This study aims to explore the role and mechanism of Ebselen (EbSe) in NAFLD. A high-fat diet-induced mouse model of NAFLD was employed to investigate EbSe function in NAFLD mice by EbSe gavage and to regularly monitor the mouse body weight. HE and oil red O staining were performed, respectively, to detect the pathological damage and lipid accumulation in mouse liver tissues. The biochemical and ELISA kits were employed to measure the levels of ALT, AST, TG, TC, LDL-C, HDL-C and pro-inflammatory cytokines within mouse serum or liver tissue. The expression of key proteins of PPARα, fatty acid β oxidation-related protein, PI3K/Akt and TLR4/JNK signaling pathway was detected by western blot. EbSe significantly downregulated body weight, liver weight and liver lipid accumulation in NAFLD mice and downregulated ALT, AST, TG, TC, LDL-C and increased HDL-C serum levels. EbSe upregulated the expression levels of PPARα and fatty acid β oxidation-associated proteins CPT1α, ACOX1, UCP2 and PGC1α. EbSe promoted Akt and PI3K phosphorylation, and inhibited TLR4 expression and JNK phosphorylation. EbSe can upregulate PPARα to promote fatty acid β-oxidation and improve hepatic lipid metabolism. Meanwhile, EbSe also activated PI3K/Akt and inhibited TLR4/JNK signaling pathway. EbSe is predicted to be an effective therapeutic drug for treating NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meimin Pan
- Department of the Center for Clinical Trail Research, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha 410005, Hunan, China
| | - Chunlin Cai
- Department of Healthcare Associated Infection Control, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha 410005, Hunan, China
| | - Wenjuan Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha 410005, Hunan, China
| | - Tianran Cao
- Department of the Center for Clinical Trail Research, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha 410005, Hunan, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of the Center for Clinical Trail Research, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha 410005, Hunan, China
| | - Lihui Yang
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha 410005, Hunan, China
| | - Qing Xie
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha 410005, Hunan, China
| | - Xuehong Zhang
- Department of the Center for Clinical Trail Research, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha 410005, Hunan, China.
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Chen H, Yan S, Xiang Q, Liang J, Deng X, He W, Cheng Y, Yang L. Network analysis and experimental verification of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge-Reynoutria japonica Houtt. drug pair in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. BMC Complement Med Ther 2024; 24:305. [PMID: 39143459 PMCID: PMC11325759 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-024-04600-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT There are currently no approved specific clinical drugs for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge-Reynoutria japonica Houtt. drug pair (SRDP) has been widely used in the treatment of chronic liver diseases. However, the mechanism of SRDP treating NAFLD remains unclear. OBJECTIVE Based on network analysis and in vitro experimental verification, we investigated the effect of SRDP on lipid deposition and explored its possible mechanism for the treatment of NAFLD. METHODS The TCMSP platform was used to screen the active metabolites of SRDP and corresponding targets. The GeneCards and OMIM databases were used to screen the NAFLD targets. The drug-disease intersecting targets were extracted to obtain the potential targets. Then the protein-protein interaction (PPI) and drug-active metabolites-target-disease network map was constructed. The DAVID database was performed to GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis for the intersecting targets. The core active metabolite and signaling pathway were verified by in vitro experiments. RESULTS Network analysis predicted 59 active metabolites and 89 targets of SRDP for the treatment of NAFLD. 112 signaling pathways were enriched for KEGG pathways, including PI3K-AKT signaling pathway,etc. It was confirmed that luteolin, the core active metabolite of SRDP, effectively reduced fat accumulation and intracellular triglyceride content in HepG2 fatty liver cell model. Luteolin could inhibit mTOR pathway by inhibiting PI3K-AKT signaling pathway phosphorylation, thereby activating autophagy to alleviate NAFLD. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The results of this study validate and predict the possible role of various active metabolites of SRDP in the treatment of NAFLD through multiple targets and signaling pathways. The core active metabolite of SRDP, luteolin can alleviate NAFLD by acting on the PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling pathway to induce autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huafeng Chen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde, Foshan), Foshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Shengzhe Yan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qianru Xiang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiamin Liang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xuejian Deng
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wanqin He
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanzhen Cheng
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Li Yang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
- Department of Nutrition, the Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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3
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Mohammadhasani K, Vahedi Fard M, Mottaghi Moghaddam Shahri A, Khorasanchi Z. Polyphenols improve non-alcoholic fatty liver disease via gut microbiota: A comprehensive review. Food Sci Nutr 2024; 12:5341-5356. [PMID: 39139973 PMCID: PMC11317728 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.4178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Polyphenols, natural micronutrients derived from plants, are valued for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The escalating global prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) underscores its status as a chronic progressive liver condition. Furthermore, the dysregulation of gut microbiota (GM) is implicated in the onset and progression of NAFLD through the actions of metabolites such as bile acids (BAs), lipopolysaccharide (LPS), choline, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Additionally, GM may influence the integrity of the intestinal barrier. This review aims to evaluate the potential effects of polyphenols on GM and intestinal barrier function, and their subsequent impact on NAFLD. We searched through a wide range of databases, such as Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus to gather information for our non-systematic review of English literature. GM functions and composition can be regulated by polyphenols such as chlorogenic acid, curcumin, green tea catechins, naringenin, quercetin, resveratrol, and sulforaphane. Regulating GM composition improves NAFLD by alleviating inflammation, liver fat accumulation, and liver enzymes. Furthermore, it improves serum lipid profile and gut barrier integrity. All of these components affect NAFLD through the metabolites of GM, including SCFAs, choline, LPS, and BAs. Current evidence indicates that chlorogenic acid, resveratrol, quercetin, and curcumin can modulate GM, improving intestinal barrier integrity and positively impacting NAFLD. More studies are necessary to evaluate the safety and efficacy of naringenin, sulforaphane, and catechin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimia Mohammadhasani
- Department of Nutrition, Food Sciences and Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Social Determinants of Health Research CenterGonabad University of Medical SciencesGonabadIran
| | - Mohammad Vahedi Fard
- Department of Nutrition, Food Sciences and Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Social Determinants of Health Research CenterGonabad University of Medical SciencesGonabadIran
| | - Ali Mottaghi Moghaddam Shahri
- International UNESCO Center for Health‐Related Basic Sciences and Human NutritionMashhad University of Medical SciencesMashhadIran
| | - Zahra Khorasanchi
- Department of Nutrition, School of MedicineMashhad University of Medical SciencesMashhadIran
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4
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Dong L, Dong C, Yu Y, Jiao X, Zhang X, Zhang X, Li Z. Transcriptomic analysis of Paraoxonase 1 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma and its potential impact on tumor immunity. Clin Transl Oncol 2024:10.1007/s12094-024-03598-y. [PMID: 39031295 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-024-03598-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is characterized by a complex pathogenesis that confers aggressive malignancy, leading to a lack of dependable biomarkers for predicting invasion and metastasis, which results in poor prognoses in patients with HCC. Glycogen storage disease (GSD) is an uncommon metabolic disorder marked by hepatomegaly and liver fibrosis. Notably, hepatic adenomas in GSD patients present a heightened risk of malignancy compared to those in individuals without the disorder. In this investigation, PON1 emerged as a potential pivotal gene for HCC through bioinformatics analysis. METHODS Transcriptomic profiling data of liver cancer were collected and integrated from TCGA and GEO databases. Bioinformatics analysis was conducted to identify mutated mRNAs associated with GSD, and the PON1 gene was selected as a key gene. Patients were grouped based on the expression levels of PON1, and differences in clinical characteristics, biological pathways, immune infiltration, and expression of immune checkpoints were compared. RESULTS The expression levels of the PON1 gene showed significant differences between the high-expression group and the low-expression group in HCC patients. Further analysis indicated that the PON1 gene at different expression levels might influence the clinical manifestations, biological processes, immune infiltration, and expression of immune checkpoints in HCC. Additionally, immunohistochemistry (IHC) results revealed high expression of PON1 in normal tissues and low expression in HCC tissues. These findings provide important clues and future research directions for the early diagnosis, prognosis, immunotherapy, and potential molecular interactions of HCC. CONCLUSION Our investigation underscores the noteworthy prognostic significance of PON1 in HCC, suggesting its potential pivotal role in modulating tumor progression and immune cell infiltration. These findings establish PON1 as a novel tumor biomarker with significant implications for the prognosis, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy of patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linhuan Dong
- Department of General surgery, Affiliated Renhe Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang, 443000, China
| | - Changjun Dong
- Department of General surgery, Affiliated Renhe Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang, 443000, China
| | - Yunlin Yu
- Department of General surgery, Affiliated Renhe Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang, 443000, China
| | - Xin Jiao
- Department of General surgery, Affiliated Renhe Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang, 443000, China
| | - Xiangwei Zhang
- Department of General surgery, Affiliated Renhe Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang, 443000, China
| | - Xianlin Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, 443002, China.
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of General surgery, Affiliated Renhe Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang, 443000, China.
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5
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Fang H, Wang X, Wang Z, Ma X, Zhang L, Yang L. Modulation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in the ovine liver and duodenum during early pregnancy. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2024; 89:106870. [PMID: 38954983 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2024.106870] [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: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
The liver and intestine play a critical role in nutrient absorption, storage, and metabolism. The aim of this study was to evaluate expression pattern of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mammalian target of the rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway that included PI3K, AKT1, mTOR, FoxO1, SREBP-1, PPARα, PTEN and FXR in the maternal liver and duodenum. Ovine livers and duodenums were sampled at day 16 of the estrous cycle, and at days 13, 16 and 25 of gestation, and RT-qPCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry analysis were used to detect mRNA and protein expression. The results showed that expression of PI3K, AKT1, p-mTOR, FoxO1, SREBP-1 and PTEN upregulated in the maternal liver, and PPARα upregulated in the duodenum. However, expression of FoxO1, SREBP-1 and PTEN in the duodenum downregulated during early pregnancy. In addition, expression levels of SREBP-1, PTEN and PPARα in the maternal liver, and PI3K in the duodenum peaked at day 13 of pregnancy. In addition, expression levels of PI3K, p-mTOR and FoxO1 in the liver, and AKT1 and p-mTOR in the duodenum peaked at day 16 of pregnancy. Nevertheless, expression levels of FXR both in the maternal liver duodenum downregulated at days 13 and 16 of pregnancy. In conclusion, early pregnancy regulated expression pattern of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in the ovine liver and duodenum in a pregnancy stage-specific and tissue-specific manner, which may be necessary for the adaptations in maternal hepatic nutrient metabolism and intestinal nutrient absorption early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxu Fang
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, No. 19 Taiji Road, Handan 056038, PR China
| | - Xinxin Wang
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, No. 19 Taiji Road, Handan 056038, PR China
| | - Zhongyue Wang
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, No. 19 Taiji Road, Handan 056038, PR China
| | - Xiaoxin Ma
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, No. 19 Taiji Road, Handan 056038, PR China
| | - Leying Zhang
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, No. 19 Taiji Road, Handan 056038, PR China
| | - Ling Yang
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, No. 19 Taiji Road, Handan 056038, PR China.
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6
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Verhoeven A, van Ertvelde J, Boeckmans J, Gatzios A, Jover R, Lindeman B, Lopez-Soop G, Rodrigues RM, Rapisarda A, Sanz-Serrano J, Stinckens M, Sepehri S, Teunis M, Vinken M, Jiang J, Vanhaecke T. A quantitative weight-of-evidence method for confidence assessment of adverse outcome pathway networks: A case study on chemical-induced liver steatosis. Toxicology 2024; 505:153814. [PMID: 38677583 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2024.153814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
The field of chemical toxicity testing is undergoing a transition to overcome the limitations of in vivo experiments. This evolution involves implementing innovative non-animal approaches to improve predictability and provide a more precise understanding of toxicity mechanisms. Adverse outcome pathway (AOP) networks are pivotal in organizing existing mechanistic knowledge related to toxicological processes. However, these AOP networks are dynamic and require regular updates to incorporate the latest data. Regulatory challenges also persist due to concerns about the reliability of the information they offer. This study introduces a generic Weight-of-Evidence (WoE) scoring method, aligned with the tailored Bradford-Hill criteria, to quantitatively assess the confidence levels in key event relationships (KERs) within AOP networks. We use the previously published AOP network on chemical-induced liver steatosis, a prevalent form of human liver injury, as a case study. Initially, the existing AOP network is optimized with the latest scientific information extracted from PubMed using the free SysRev platform for artificial intelligence (AI)-based abstract inclusion and standardized data collection. The resulting optimized AOP network, constructed using Cytoscape, visually represents confidence levels through node size (key event, KE) and edge thickness (KERs). Additionally, a Shiny application is developed to facilitate user interaction with the dataset, promoting future updates. Our analysis of 173 research papers yielded 100 unique KEs and 221 KERs among which 72 KEs and 170 KERs, respectively, have not been previously documented in the prior AOP network or AOP-wiki. Notably, modifications in de novo lipogenesis, fatty acid uptake and mitochondrial beta-oxidation, leading to lipid accumulation and liver steatosis, garnered the highest KER confidence scores. In conclusion, our study delivers a generic methodology for developing and assessing AOP networks. The quantitative WoE scoring method facilitates in determining the level of support for KERs within the optimized AOP network, offering valuable insights into its utility in both scientific research and regulatory contexts. KERs supported by robust evidence represent promising candidates for inclusion in an in vitro test battery for reliably predicting chemical-induced liver steatosis within regulatory frameworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anouk Verhoeven
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jonas van Ertvelde
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Joost Boeckmans
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alexandra Gatzios
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ramiro Jover
- Joint Research Unit in Experimental Hepatology, University of Valencia, Health Research Institute Hospital La Fe & CIBER of Hepatic and Digestive Diseases, Valencia, Spain
| | - Birgitte Lindeman
- Department of Chemical Toxicology, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Graciela Lopez-Soop
- Department of Chemical Toxicology, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Robim M Rodrigues
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Anna Rapisarda
- Joint Research Unit in Experimental Hepatology, University of Valencia, Health Research Institute Hospital La Fe & CIBER of Hepatic and Digestive Diseases, Valencia, Spain
| | - Julen Sanz-Serrano
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marth Stinckens
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sara Sepehri
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marc Teunis
- Innovative Testing in Life Sciences and Chemistry, University of Applied Sciences Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jian Jiang
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Tamara Vanhaecke
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
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Ashiqueali SA, Schneider A, Zhu X, Juszczyk E, Mansoor MAM, Zhu Y, Fang Y, Zanini BM, Garcia DN, Hayslip N, Medina D, McFadden S, Stockwell R, Yuan R, Bartke A, Zasloff M, Siddiqi S, Masternak MM. Early life interventions metformin and trodusquemine metabolically reprogram the developing mouse liver through transcriptomic alterations. Aging Cell 2024:e14227. [PMID: 38798180 DOI: 10.1111/acel.14227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated the remarkable potential of early life intervention strategies at influencing the course of postnatal development, thereby offering exciting possibilities for enhancing longevity and improving overall health. Metformin (MF), an FDA-approved medication for type II diabetes mellitus, has recently gained attention for its promising anti-aging properties, acting as a calorie restriction mimetic, and delaying precocious puberty. Additionally, trodusquemine (MSI-1436), an investigational drug, has been shown to combat obesity and metabolic disorders by inhibiting the enzyme protein tyrosine phosphatase 1b (Ptp1b), consequently reducing hepatic lipogenesis and counteracting insulin and leptin resistance. In this study, we aimed to further explore the effects of these compounds on young, developing mice to uncover biomolecular signatures that are central to liver metabolic processes. We found that MSI-1436 more potently alters mRNA and miRNA expression in the liver compared with MF, with bioinformatic analysis suggesting that cohorts of differentially expressed miRNAs inhibit the action of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (Pi3k), protein kinase B (Akt), and mammalian target of rapamycin (Mtor) to regulate the downstream processes of de novo lipogenesis, fatty acid oxidation, very-low-density lipoprotein transport, and cholesterol biosynthesis and efflux. In summary, our study demonstrates that administering these compounds during the postnatal window metabolically reprograms the liver through induction of potent epigenetic changes in the transcriptome, potentially forestalling the onset of age-related diseases and enhancing longevity. Future studies are necessary to determine the impacts on lifespan and overall quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Ashiqueali
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Augusto Schneider
- Faculdade de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Xiang Zhu
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Ewelina Juszczyk
- Research & Development Center, Celon Pharma S.A., Kazun Nowy, Poland
| | - Mishfak A M Mansoor
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Yun Zhu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Yimin Fang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Bianka M Zanini
- Faculdade de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Driele N Garcia
- Faculdade de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Natalie Hayslip
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - David Medina
- Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Samuel McFadden
- Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Robert Stockwell
- Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Rong Yuan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Andrzej Bartke
- Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Michael Zasloff
- MedStar Georgetown Transplant Institute, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Shadab Siddiqi
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Michal M Masternak
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, USA
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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8
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De Bock T, Brussaard C, François S, François K, Seynaeve L, Jansen A, Wissing KM, Janssens P. Prevalence of Liver Steatosis in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex Patients: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2888. [PMID: 38792433 PMCID: PMC11122077 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13102888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic disease caused by pathogenetic variants in either the TSC1 or TSC2 genes. Consequently, the mechanistic target of the rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) pathway, a regulator of cell growth, metabolism, and survival, becomes inappropriately activated, leading to the development of benign tumors in multiple organs. The role of mTORC1 in lipid metabolism and liver steatosis in TSC patients has not been well-studied, and clinical data on liver involvement in this population are scarce. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, cross-sectional study to compare liver steatosis in TSC patients with age-, sex-, BMI-, and diabetes status-matched controls. Participants with a definite diagnosis of TSC were recruited from the TSC clinic at UZ Brussel. Liver steatosis was quantified using the fat signal fraction from in-phase and out-of-phase MRI, with a threshold of ≥5% defining the presence of steatosis. We also evaluated the prevalence of liver angiomyolipomata in the TSC group and analyzed risk factors for both liver steatosis and angiomyolipomata. Results: The study included 59 TSC patients and 59 matched controls. The mean fat signal fraction was 4.0% in the TSC group and 3.9% in the controls, showing no significant difference (two-tailed Wilcoxon signed ranks test, p = 0.950). Liver steatosis was observed in 15.3% of TSC patients compared to 23.7% of the controls, which was not statistically significant (two-tailed McNemar test, p = 0.267). Liver angiomyolipomata were identified in 13.6% of the TSC cohort. Conclusions: Our study, describing in detail the liver phenotype of TSC patients, did not reveal a significant difference in the prevalence of MRI-assessed liver steatosis in a large cohort of TSC patients compared to a closely matched control group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaïs De Bock
- Department of Nephrology and Arterial Hypertension, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (T.D.B.); (K.F.); (K.M.W.)
| | - Carola Brussaard
- Department of Radiology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Silke François
- Department of Gastroenterology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Karlien François
- Department of Nephrology and Arterial Hypertension, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (T.D.B.); (K.F.); (K.M.W.)
| | - Laura Seynaeve
- Department of Neurology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Anna Jansen
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Antwerpen (UZA), 2650 Antwerpen, Belgium;
| | - Karl Martin Wissing
- Department of Nephrology and Arterial Hypertension, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (T.D.B.); (K.F.); (K.M.W.)
| | - Peter Janssens
- Department of Nephrology and Arterial Hypertension, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (T.D.B.); (K.F.); (K.M.W.)
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9
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Sun H, Chang Z, Li H, Tang Y, Liu Y, Qiao L, Feng G, Huang R, Han D, Yin DT. Multi-omics analysis-based macrophage differentiation-associated papillary thyroid cancer patient classifier. Transl Oncol 2024; 43:101889. [PMID: 38382228 PMCID: PMC10900934 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.101889] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The reclassification of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma (PTC) is an area of research that warrants attention. The connection between thyroid cancer, inflammation, and immune responses necessitates considering the mechanisms of differential prognosis of thyroid tumors from an immunological perspective. Given the high adaptability of macrophages to environmental stimuli, focusing on the differentiation characteristics of macrophages might offer a novel approach to address the issues related to PTC subtyping. METHODS Single-cell RNA sequencing data of medullary cells infiltrated by papillary thyroid carcinoma obtained from public databases was subjected to dimensionality reduction clustering analysis. The RunUMAP and FindAllMarkers functions were utilized to identify the gene expression matrix of different clusters. Cell differentiation trajectory analysis was conducted using the Monocle R package. A complex regulatory network for the classification of Immune status and Macrophage differentiation-associated Papillary Thyroid Cancer Classification (IMPTCC) was constructed through quantitative multi-omics analysis. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining was utilized for pathological histology validation. RESULTS Through the integration of single-cell RNA and bulk sequencing data combined with multi-omics analysis, we identified crucial transcription factors, immune cells/immune functions, and signaling pathways. Based on this, regulatory networks for three IMPTCC clusters were established. CONCLUSION Based on the co-expression network analysis results, we identified three subtypes of IMPTCC: Immune-Suppressive Macrophage differentiation-associated Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Classification (ISMPTCC), Immune-Neutral Macrophage differentiation-associated Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Classification (INMPTCC), and Immune-Activated Macrophage differentiation-associated Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Classification (IAMPTCC). Each subtype exhibits distinct metabolic, immune, and regulatory characteristics corresponding to different states of macrophage differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanlin Sun
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, PR China
| | - Zhengyan Chang
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Hongqiang Li
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, PR China
| | - Yifeng Tang
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, PR China
| | - Yihao Liu
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, PR China
| | - Lixue Qiao
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, PR China
| | - Guicheng Feng
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, PR China
| | - Runzhi Huang
- Department of Burn Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, PR China.
| | - Dongyan Han
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.
| | - De-Tao Yin
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Multidisciplinary Diagnosis and Treatment of Thyroid Cancer of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, PR China; Key Medicine Laboratory of Thyroid Cancer of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, PR China.
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10
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Senavirathna T, Shafaei A, Lareu R, Balmer L. Unlocking the Therapeutic Potential of Ellagic Acid for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:485. [PMID: 38671932 PMCID: PMC11047720 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13040485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity is in epidemic proportions in many parts of the world, contributing to increasing rates of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD represents a range of conditions from the initial stage of fatty liver to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can progress to severe fibrosis, through to hepatocellular carcinoma. There currently exists no treatment for the long-term management of NAFLD/NASH, however, dietary interventions have been investigated for the treatment of NASH, including several polyphenolic compounds. Ellagic acid is one such polyphenolic compound. Nutraceutical food abundant in ellagic acid undergoes initial hydrolysis to free ellagic acid within the stomach and small intestine. The proposed mechanism of action of ellagic acid extends beyond its initial therapeutic potential, as it is further broken down by the gut microbiome into urolithin. Both ellagic acid and urolithin have been found to alleviate oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis, which are associated with NAFLD/NASH. While progress has been made in understanding the pharmacological and biological activity of ellagic acid and its involvement in NAFLD/NASH, it has yet to be fully elucidated. Thus, the aim of this review is to summarise the currently available literature elucidating the therapeutic potential of ellagic acid and its microbial-derived metabolite urolithin in NAFLD/NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tharani Senavirathna
- Centre for Precision Health, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA 6027, Australia;
| | - Armaghan Shafaei
- Centre for Integrative Metabolomics and Computational Biology, School of Science, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA 6027, Australia;
| | - Ricky Lareu
- Curtin Medical School and Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6845, Australia
| | - Lois Balmer
- Centre for Precision Health, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA 6027, Australia;
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11
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Torigoe S, Lowman DW, Sugiki T, Williams DL, Yamasaki S. Self-recognition through Dectin-1 exacerbates liver inflammation. Genes Cells 2024; 29:316-327. [PMID: 38385597 PMCID: PMC11000461 DOI: 10.1111/gtc.13106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Dectin-1 is a well-characterized C-type lectin receptor involved in anti-fungal immunity through the recognition of polysaccharides; however, molecular mechanisms and outcomes initiated through self-recognition have not been fully understood. Here, we purified a water-soluble fraction from mouse liver that acts as a Dectin-1 agonist. To address the physiological relevance of this recognition, we utilized sterile liver inflammation models. The CCl4-induced hepatitis model showed that Dectin-1 deficiency led to reduced inflammation through decreased inflammatory cell infiltration and lower pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. Moreover, in a NASH model induced by streptozotocin and a high-fat diet, hepatic inflammation and fibrosis were ameliorated in Dectin-1-deficient mice. The Dectin-1 agonist activity was increased in the water-soluble fraction from NASH mice, suggesting a potential pathogenic cycle between Dectin-1 activation and hepatitis progression. In vivo administration of the fraction into mice induced hepatic inflammation. These results highlight a role of self-recognition through Dectin-1 that triggers hepatic innate immune responses and contributes to the exacerbation of inflammation in pathogenic settings. Thus, the blockade of this axis may provide a therapeutic option for liver inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shota Torigoe
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Mycobacteriology, Leprosy Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
- Management Department of Biosafety, Laboratory Animal and Pathogen Bank, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Douglas W. Lowman
- Department of Surgery, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Toshihiko Sugiki
- Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - David L. Williams
- Department of Surgery, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Sho Yamasaki
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Molecular Immunology, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Center for Infectious Disease Education and Research (CiDER), Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Division of Molecular Immunology, Medical Mycology Research Center, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Division of Molecular Design, Research Center for Systems Immunology, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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12
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Tarantino G, Citro V. What are the common downstream molecular events between alcoholic and nonalcoholic fatty liver? Lipids Health Dis 2024; 23:41. [PMID: 38331795 PMCID: PMC10851522 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-024-02031-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fat storage, also called hepatic steatosis, is increasingly common and represents a very frequent diagnosis in the medical field. Excess fat is not without consequences. In fact, hepatic steatosis contributes to the progression toward liver fibrosis. There are two main types of fatty liver disease, alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Although AFLD and NAFLD are similar in their initial morphological features, both conditions involve the same evolutive forms. Moreover, there are various common mechanisms underlying both diseases, including alcoholic liver disease and NAFLD, which are commonalities. In this Review, the authors explore similar downstream signaling events involved in the onset and progression of the two entities but not completely different entities, predominantly focusing on the gut microbiome. Downstream molecular events, such as the roles of sirtuins, cytokeratins, adipokines and others, should be considered. Finally, to complete the feature, some new tendencies in the therapeutic approach are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vincenzo Citro
- Department of General Medicine, Umberto I Hospital, Nocera Inferiore, SA, 84014, Italy
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13
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Li H, Pan T, Gao L, Ding R, Yu Y, Ma M, Wang Y, Jin S, Chen Y, Ding C, Xu L. Chemokine receptor CCR1 regulates macrophage activation through mTORC1 signaling in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Metabolism 2024; 151:155758. [PMID: 38070823 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2023.155758] [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: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Chemokine (CC motif) receptor 1 (CCR1) promotes liver fibrosis in mice. However, its effects on nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) remain unclear. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the role of CCR1 in the progression of NASH. METHODS Human serum and liver tissues were obtained from patients with NASH and controls. Systemic (Ccr1-/-) and liver macrophage-knockout Ccr1 (Ccr1LKD) mice were fed a high-cholesterol and high-fat (CL) diet for 12 weeks or a methionine/choline-deficient (MCD) diet for 4 weeks. BX471 was used to pharmacologically inhibit CCR1 in CL-fed mice. RESULTS CCR1 was significantly upregulated in liver samples from patients with NASH and in animal models of dietary-induced NASH. In the livers of mice fed a CL diet for 12 weeks, the CCR1 protein colocalized with F4/80+ macrophages rather than with hepatic stellate cells. Compared to their wild-type littermates, Ccr1-/- mice fed with the CL or MCD diet showed inhibition of NASH-associated hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis. Mechanistically, Ccr1 deficiency suppressed macrophage infiltration and activation by attenuating the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling. Similar results were observed in Ccr1LKD mice administered the CL diet. Moreover, CCR1 inhibition by BX471 effectively suppressed NASH progression in CL-fed mice. CONCLUSIONS Ccr1 deficiency mitigated macrophage activity by inhibiting mTORC1 signaling, thereby preventing the development of NASH. Notably, the CCR1 inhibitor BX471 protected against NASH. These findings would help in developing novel strategies for the treatment of NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoran Li
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tongtong Pan
- Hepatology Diagnosis and Treatment Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University & Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Diseases, Wenzhou 325035, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lingjia Gao
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, Zhejiang, China
| | - Rongxiu Ding
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yanwen Yu
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mengchen Ma
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yajiao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shengnan Jin
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yongping Chen
- Hepatology Diagnosis and Treatment Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University & Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Diseases, Wenzhou 325035, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Chunming Ding
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Liang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, Zhejiang, China.
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14
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Bu KB, Kim M, Shin MK, Lee SH, Sung JS. Regulation of Benzo[a]pyrene-Induced Hepatic Lipid Accumulation through CYP1B1-Induced mTOR-Mediated Lipophagy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1324. [PMID: 38279324 PMCID: PMC10816991 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is caused by lipid accumulation within the liver. The pathogenesis underlying its development is poorly understood. Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon and a group 1 carcinogen. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor activation by B[a]P induces cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes, contributing to hepatic lipid accumulation. However, the molecular mechanism through which the B[a]P-mediated induction of CYP enzymes causes hepatic lipid accumulation is unknown. This research was conducted to elucidate the role of CYP1B1 in regulating B[a]P-induced lipid accumulation within hepatocytes. B[a]P increased hepatic lipid accumulation, which was mitigated by CYP1B1 knockdown. An increase in the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) by B[a]P was specifically reduced by CYP1B1 knockdown. The reduction of mTOR increased the expression of autophagic flux-related genes and promoted phagolysosome formation. Both the expression and translocation of TFE3, a central regulator of lipophagy, were induced, along with the expression of lipophagy-related genes. Conversely, enhanced mTOR activity reduced TFE3 expression and translocation, which reduced the expression of lipophagy-related genes, diminished phagolysosome production, and increased lipid accumulation. Our results indicate that B[a]P-induced hepatic lipid accumulation is caused by CYP1B1-induced mTOR and the reduction of lipophagy, thereby introducing novel targets and mechanisms to provide insights for understanding B[a]P-induced MASLD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jung-Suk Sung
- Department of Life Science, Dongguk University-Seoul, Goyang 10326, Republic of Korea; (K.-B.B.); (M.K.); (M.K.S.); (S.-H.L.)
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15
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Kroh A, Walter J, Fragoulis A, Möckel D, Lammers T, Kiessling F, Andruszkow J, Preisinger C, Egbert M, Jiao L, Eickhoff RM, Heise D, Berndt N, Cramer T, Neumann UP, Egners A, Ulmer TF. Hepatocellular loss of mTOR aggravates tumor burden in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis-related HCC. Neoplasia 2023; 46:100945. [PMID: 37976569 PMCID: PMC10685311 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2023.100945] [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: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Obesity and associated nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are on the rise globally. NASH became an important driver of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in recent years. Activation of the central metabolic regulator mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin) is frequently observed in HCCs. However, mTOR inhibition failed to improve the outcome of HCC therapies, demonstrating the need for a better understanding of the molecular and functional consequences of mTOR blockade. We established a murine NASH-driven HCC model based on long-term western diet feeding combined with hepatocellular mTOR-inactivation. We evaluated tumor load and whole-body fat percentage via µCT-scans, analyzed metabolic blood parameters and tissue proteome profiles. Additionally, we used a bioinformatic model to access liver and HCC mitochondrial metabolic functions. The tumor burden was massively increased via mTOR-knockout. Several signs argue for extensive metabolic reprogramming of glucose, fatty acid, bile acid and cholesterol metabolism. Kinetic modeling revealed reduced oxygen consumption in KO-tumors. NASH-derived HCC pathogenesis is driven by metabolic disturbances and should be considered separately from those caused by other etiologies. We conclude that mTOR functions as tumor suppressor in hepatocytes especially under long-term western diet feeding. However, some of the detrimental consequences of this diet are attenuated by mTOR blockade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Kroh
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Jeanette Walter
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany; Department of Hematology, Oncology, Hemostaseology, and Stem Cell Transplantation, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Athanassios Fragoulis
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital Aachen, Germany
| | - Diana Möckel
- Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging (ExMI), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Twan Lammers
- Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging (ExMI), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Fabian Kiessling
- Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging (ExMI), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Julia Andruszkow
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Christian Preisinger
- Proteomics Facility, Interdisciplinary Center for Clinical Research (IZKF) Aachen, Medical School, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Maren Egbert
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Long Jiao
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany; Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, PR China
| | - Roman M Eickhoff
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Daniel Heise
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Nikolaus Berndt
- Department of Molecular Toxicology, German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke (DIfE), Nuthetal, Germany; Institute of Computer-assisted Cardiovascular Medicine, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), Berlin, Germany; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Thorsten Cramer
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ulf Peter Neumann
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany; Department of Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Antje Egners
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Tom Florian Ulmer
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany; Department of Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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16
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Chhimwal J, Dhritlahre RK, Anand P, Ruchika, Patial V, Saneja A, Padwad YS. Amorphous solid dispersion augments the bioavailability of phloretin and its therapeutic efficacy via targeting mTOR/SREBP-1c axis in NAFLD mice. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 154:213627. [PMID: 37748276 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213627] [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: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
The escalating incidences of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and associated metabolic disorders are global health concerns. Phloretin (Ph) is a natural phenolic compound, that exhibits a wide array of pharmacological actions including its efficacy towards NAFLD. However, poor solubility and bioavailability of phloretin limits its clinical translation. Here, to address this concern we developed an amorphous solid dispersion of phloretin (Ph-SD) using Soluplus® as a polymer matrix. We further performed solid-state characterization through SEM, P-XRD, FT-IR, and TGA/DSC analysis. Phloretin content, encapsulation efficiency, and dissolution profile of the developed formulation were evaluated through reverse phase HPLC. Finally, the oral bioavailability of Ph-SD and its potential application in the treatment of experimental NAFLD mice was investigated. Results demonstrated that the developed formulation (Ph-PD) augments the dissolution profile and oral bioavailability of the native phloretin (Ph). In NAFLD mice, histopathological studies revealed the preventive effect of Ph-SD on degenerative changes, lipid accumulation, and inflammation in the liver. Ph-SD also improved the serum lipid profile, ALT, and AST levels and lowered the interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α levels in the liver. Further, Ph-SD reduced fibrotic changes in the liver tissues and attenuates NAFLD progression by blocking the mTOR/SREBP-1c pathway. In a nutshell, the results of our study strongly suggest that Ph-SD has the potential to be a therapeutic candidate in the treatment of NAFLD and can be carried forward for further clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Chhimwal
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, Dietetics and Nutrition Technology Division, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur 176061, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India.
| | - Rakesh Kumar Dhritlahre
- Formulation Laboratory, Dietetics and Nutrition Technology Division, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur 176061, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India.
| | - Prince Anand
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, Dietetics and Nutrition Technology Division, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur 176061, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India.
| | - Ruchika
- Formulation Laboratory, Dietetics and Nutrition Technology Division, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur 176061, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India.
| | - Vikram Patial
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, Dietetics and Nutrition Technology Division, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur 176061, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India.
| | - Ankit Saneja
- Formulation Laboratory, Dietetics and Nutrition Technology Division, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur 176061, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India.
| | - Yogendra S Padwad
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, Dietetics and Nutrition Technology Division, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur 176061, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India.
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17
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Arora M, Pavlíková Z, Kučera T, Kozlík P, Šopin T, Vacík T, Ľupták M, Duda M, Slanař O, Kutinová Canová N. Pharmacological effects of mTORC1/C2 inhibitor in a preclinical model of NASH progression. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 167:115447. [PMID: 37683589 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Knowledge of the benefits of mTOR inhibition concerning adipogenesis and inflammation has recently encouraged the investigation of a new generation of mTOR inhibitors for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We investigated whether treatment with a specific mTORC1/C2 inhibitor (Ku-0063794; KU) exerted any beneficial impacts on experimentally-induced NASH in vitro and in vivo. The results indicated that KU decreases palmitic acid-induced lipotoxicity in cultivated primary hepatocytes, thus emerging as a successful candidate for testing in an in vivo NASH dietary model, which adopted the intraperitoneal KU dosing route rather than oral application due to its significantly greater bioavailability in mice. The pharmacodynamics experiments commenced with the feeding of male C57BL/6 mice with a high-fat atherogenic western-type diet (WD) for differing intervals over several weeks aimed at inducing various phases of NASH. In addition to the WD, the mice were treated with KU for 3 weeks or 4 months. Acute and chronic KU treatments were observed to be safe at the given concentrations with no toxicity indications in the mice. KU was found to alleviate NASH-related hepatotoxicity, mitochondrial and oxidative stress, and decrease the liver triglyceride content and TNF-α mRNA in at least one set of in vivo experiments. The KU modulated liver expression of selected metabolic and oxidative stress-related genes depended upon the length and severity of the disease. Although KU failed to completely reverse the histological progression of NASH in the mice, we demonstrated the complexity of mTORC1/C2 signaling regulation and suggest a stratified therapeutic management approach throughout the disease course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahak Arora
- Institute of Pharmacology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Pavlíková
- Institute of Histology and Embryology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic; Department of Anthropology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Kučera
- Institute of Histology and Embryology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Kozlík
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tijana Šopin
- Institute of Biology and Medical Genetics of the First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Vacík
- Institute of Biology and Medical Genetics of the First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Matej Ľupták
- Institute of Pharmacology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Matthias Duda
- Institute of Pharmacology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ondřej Slanař
- Institute of Pharmacology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Nikolina Kutinová Canová
- Institute of Pharmacology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic.
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18
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Ding Z, Wei Y, Peng J, Wang S, Chen G, Sun J. The Potential Role of C-Reactive Protein in Metabolic-Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease and Aging. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2711. [PMID: 37893085 PMCID: PMC10603830 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102711] [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: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), recently redefined as metabolic-dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD), is liver-metabolism-associated steatohepatitis caused by nonalcoholic factors. NAFLD/MASLD is currently the most prevalent liver disease in the world, affecting one-fourth of the global population, and its prevalence increases with age. Current treatments are limited; one important reason hindering drug development is the insufficient understanding of the onset and pathogenesis of NAFLD/MASLD. C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation, has been linked to NAFLD and aging in recent studies. As a conserved acute-phase protein, CRP is widely characterized for its host defense functions, but the link between CRP and NAFLD/MASLD remains unclear. Herein, we discuss the currently available evidence for the involvement of CRP in MASLD to identify areas where further research is needed. We hope this review can provide new insights into the development of aging-associated NAFLD biomarkers and suggest that modulation of CRP signaling is a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Ding
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Yuqiu Wei
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Jing Peng
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Siyu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Guixi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Jiazeng Sun
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100190, China
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19
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Kakehashi A, Suzuki S, Wanibuchi H. Recent Insights into the Biomarkers, Molecular Targets and Mechanisms of Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis-Driven Hepatocarcinogenesis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4566. [PMID: 37760534 PMCID: PMC10527326 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15184566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and steatohepatitis (NASH) are chronic hepatic conditions leading to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. According to the recent "multiple-parallel-hits hypothesis", NASH could be caused by abnormal metabolism, accumulation of lipids, mitochondrial dysfunction, and oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stresses and is found in obese and non-obese patients. Recent translational research studies have discovered new proteins and signaling pathways that are involved not only in the development of NAFLD but also in its progression to NASH, cirrhosis, and HCC. Nevertheless, the mechanisms of HCC developing from precancerous lesions have not yet been fully elucidated. Now, it is of particular importance to start research focusing on the discovery of novel molecular pathways that mediate alterations in glucose and lipid metabolism, which leads to the development of liver steatosis. The role of mTOR signaling in NASH progression to HCC has recently attracted attention. The goals of this review are (1) to highlight recent research on novel genetic and protein contributions to NAFLD/NASH; (2) to investigate how recent scientific findings might outline the process that causes NASH-associated HCC; and (3) to explore the reliable biomarkers/targets of NAFLD/NASH-associated hepatocarcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kakehashi
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Osaka Metropolitan University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-4-3 Asahi-machi, Abeno-ku, Osaka 545-8585, Japan; (S.S.); (H.W.)
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20
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Khalifa O, Ouararhni K, Errafii K, Alajez NM, Arredouani A. Targeted MicroRNA Profiling Reveals That Exendin-4 Modulates the Expression of Several MicroRNAs to Reduce Steatosis in HepG2 Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11606. [PMID: 37511368 PMCID: PMC10380891 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Excess hepatic lipid accumulation is the hallmark of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), for which no medication is currently approved. However, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), already approved for treating type 2 diabetes, have lately emerged as possible treatments. Herein we aim to investigate how the GLP-1RA exendin-4 (Ex-4) affects the microRNA (miRNAs) expression profile using an in vitro model of steatosis. Total RNA, including miRNAs, was isolated from control, steatotic, and Ex-4-treated steatotic cells and used for probing a panel of 799 highly curated miRNAs using NanoString technology. Enrichment pathway analysis was used to find the signaling pathways and cellular functions associated with the differentially expressed miRNAs. Our data shows that Ex-4 reversed the expression of a set of miRNAs. Functional enrichment analysis highlighted many relevant signaling pathways and cellular functions enriched in the differentially expressed miRNAs, including hepatic fibrosis, insulin receptor, PPAR, Wnt/β-Catenin, VEGF, and mTOR receptor signaling pathways, fibrosis of the liver, cirrhosis of the liver, proliferation of hepatic stellate cells, diabetes mellitus, glucose metabolism disorder and proliferation of liver cells. Our findings suggest that miRNAs may play essential roles in the processes driving steatosis reduction in response to GLP-1R agonists, which warrants further functional investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olfa Khalifa
- Diabetes Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha P.O. Box 34110, Qatar
| | - Khalid Ouararhni
- Genomics Core Facility, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha P.O. Box 34110, Qatar
| | - Khaoula Errafii
- African Genome Center, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Ben Guerir 43151, Morocco
| | - Nehad M Alajez
- Translational Cancer and Immunity Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha P.O. Box 34110, Qatar
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha P.O. Box 34110, Qatar
| | - Abdelilah Arredouani
- Diabetes Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha P.O. Box 34110, Qatar
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha P.O. Box 34110, Qatar
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21
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Wang R, Liu Z, Fan Z, Zhan H. Lipid metabolism reprogramming of CD8 + T cell and therapeutic implications in cancer. Cancer Lett 2023:216267. [PMID: 37315709 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Effector, memory and exhaustion are three phenotypes of CD8+ T cell. In tumor microenvironment (TME), metabolism dysfunction of the three should take the blame for immune escape. Against background of CD8+ T cell in normal development, multiple determinants in TME, including nutrition competition, PD-1 signals and other cancer- CD8+ T cell interaction, cause metabolism reprograming, including failure in energy metabolism and other abnormal lipid metabolism. Further, incompatibility of different CD8+ T cell metabolism pattern results in unresponsiveness of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB). Therefore, combination of ICB and drugs aiming at abnormal lipid metabolism provides promising direction to improve cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runxian Wang
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Zhenya Liu
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Zhiyao Fan
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Hanxiang Zhan
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China.
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22
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Petrovic A, Igrec D, Rozac K, Bojanic K, Kuna L, Kolaric TO, Mihaljevic V, Sikora R, Smolic R, Glasnovic M, Wu GY, Smolic M. The Role of GLP1-RAs in Direct Modulation of Lipid Metabolism in Hepatic Tissue as Determined Using In Vitro Models of NAFLD. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:4544-4556. [PMID: 37367037 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45060288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) have been shown to improve glucose and lipid homeostasis, promote weight loss, and reduce cardiovascular risk factors. They are a promising therapeutic option for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the most common liver disease, associated with T2DM, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. GLP-1RAs have been approved for the treatment of T2DM and obesity, but not for NAFLD. Most recent clinical trials have suggested the importance of early pharmacologic intervention with GLP-1RAs in alleviating and limiting NAFLD, as well as highlighting the relative scarcity of in vitro studies on semaglutide, indicating the need for further research. However, extra-hepatic factors contribute to the GLP-1RA results of in vivo studies. Cell culture models of NAFLD can be helpful in eliminating extrahepatic effects on the alleviation of hepatic steatosis, modulation of lipid metabolism pathways, reduction of inflammation, and prevention of the progression of NAFLD to severe hepatic conditions. In this review article, we discuss the role of GLP-1 and GLP-1RA in the treatment of NAFLD using human hepatocyte models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Petrovic
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Faculty of Medicine Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Dunja Igrec
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Karla Rozac
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Kristina Bojanic
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Faculty of Medicine Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Health Center Osijek-Baranja County, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Lucija Kuna
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Tea Omanovic Kolaric
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Faculty of Medicine Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Vjera Mihaljevic
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Faculty of Medicine Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Renata Sikora
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Health Center Osijek-Baranja County, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Robert Smolic
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Marija Glasnovic
- Faculty of Medicine Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - George Y Wu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastrenterology/Hepatology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Martina Smolic
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Faculty of Medicine Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
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23
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Ferrigno A, Cagna M, Bosco O, Trucchi M, Berardo C, Nicoletti F, Vairetti M, Di Pasqua LG. MPEP Attenuates Intrahepatic Fat Accumulation in Obese Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076076. [PMID: 37047048 PMCID: PMC10094379 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The blockade of metabotropic glutamate receptor type 5 (mGluR5) was previously found to reduce fat accumulation in HEPG2 cells. Here, we evaluated the effects of mGluR5 blockade in a mouse model of steatosis. Male ob/ob mice fed a high-fat diet were treated with MPEP or vehicle. After 7 weeks, liver biopsies were collected, and nuclei were isolated from fresh tissue. Lipid droplet area and collagen deposition were evaluated on tissue slices; total lipids, lipid peroxidation, and ROS were evaluated on tissue homogenates; PPARα, SREBP-1, mTOR, and NF-κB were assayed on isolated nuclei by Western Blot. Target genes of the above-mentioned factors were assayed by RT-PCR. Reduced steatosis and hepatocyte ballooning were observed in the MPEP group with respect to the vehicle group. Concomitantly, increased nuclear PPARα and reduced nuclear SREBP-1 levels were observed in the MPEP group. Similar trends were obtained in target genes of PPARα and SREBP-1, Acox1 and Acc1, respectively. MPEP administration also reduced oxidative stress and NF-κB activation, probably via NF-κB inhibition. Levels of common markers of inflammation (Il-6, Il1β and Tnf-α) and oxidative stress (Nrf2) were significantly reduced. mTOR, as well as collagen deposition, were unchanged. Concluding, MPEP, a selective mGluR5 negative allosteric modulator, reduces both fat accumulation and oxidative stress in a 7-week murine model of steatosis. Although underlying mechanisms need to be further investigated, this is the first in vivo study showing the beneficial effects of MPEP in a murine model of steatosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Ferrigno
- Unit of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Interuniversity Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching and Research (Centro 3R), 56122 Pisa, Italy
| | - Marta Cagna
- Unit of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Oriana Bosco
- Unit of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Michelangelo Trucchi
- Unit of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Clarissa Berardo
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science, University of Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Mariapia Vairetti
- Unit of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Laura G Di Pasqua
- Unit of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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24
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Tactics with Prebiotics for the Treatment of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease via the Improvement of Mitophagy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065465. [PMID: 36982539 PMCID: PMC10049478 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitophagy/autophagy plays a protective role in various forms of liver damage, by renovating cellular metabolism linking to sustain liver homeostasis. A characterized pathway for mitophagy is the phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1)/Parkin-dependent signaling pathway. In particular, PINK1-mediated mitophagy could play an indispensable role in improving the metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) which could precede to steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. In addition, the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway might regulate the various characteristics of cellular homeostasis including energy metabolism, cell proliferation, and/or cell protection. Therefore, targeting mitophagy with the alteration of PI3K/AKT/mTOR or PINK1/Parkin-dependent signaling to eliminate impaired mitochondria might be an attractive strategy for the treatment of MAFLD. In particular, the efficacy of prebiotics for the treatment of MAFLD has been suggested to be useful via the modulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR/AMPK pathway. Additionally, several edible phytochemicals could activate mitophagy for the improvement of mitochondrial damages, which could also be a promising option to treat MAFLD with providing liver protection. Here, the potential therapeutics with several phytochemicals has been discussed for the treatment of MAFLD. Tactics with a viewpoint of prospective probiotics might contribute to the development of therapeutic interventions.
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25
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An L, Wirth U, Koch D, Schirren M, Drefs M, Koliogiannis D, Niess H, Andrassy J, Guba M, Bazhin AV, Werner J, Kühn F. Metabolic Role of Autophagy in the Pathogenesis and Development of NAFLD. Metabolites 2023; 13:metabo13010101. [PMID: 36677026 PMCID: PMC9864958 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13010101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a spectrum of liver disease, ranging from simple steatosis to hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Liver fibrosis, which portends a poor prognosis in NAFLD, is characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins resulting from abnormal wound repair response and metabolic disorders. Various metabolic factors play crucial roles in the progression of NAFLD, including abnormal lipid, bile acid, and endotoxin metabolism, leading to chronic inflammation and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. Autophagy is a conserved process within cells that removes unnecessary or dysfunctional components through a lysosome-dependent regulated mechanism. Accumulating evidence has shown the importance of autophagy in NAFLD and its close relation to NAFLD progression. Thus, regulation of autophagy appears to be beneficial in treating NAFLD and could become an important therapeutic target.
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26
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Xu Z, Yu Z, Li S, Tian Z, Yuan J, You F. Exploration of the core gene signatures and mechanisms between NAFLD and sarcopenia through transcriptomic level. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1140804. [PMID: 36967768 PMCID: PMC10033966 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1140804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The increased prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and sarcopenia among the elderly are facing a significant challenge to the world's health systems. Our study aims to identify the coexpressed genes in NAFLD and sarcopenia patients. METHODS We downloaded the transcriptome data of NAFLD tissue from patients, as well as muscle tissues from sarcopenia patients, from the GEO database in order to investigate the shared transcriptional regulation mechanisms between these two diseases. Then, focusing on the genes that were frequently expressed in these diseases, together with GSVA and WGCNA, we utilized a range of analysis methods to identify the main co-expressed genes in both diseases by taking intersections. We investigated these changes after learning that they mostly affected lipid metabolism and oxidative stress injury pathways. RESULTS By analyzing these genes and their interactions with transcription factors and proteins, we were able to identify 8 genes that share common patterns. From these 8 genes, we were possible to forecast potential future medicines. Our research raises the possibility of NAFLD and sarcopenia transcriptome regulatory pathways in aging populations. DISCUSSION In conclusion, a complete transcription pattern mapping was carried out in order to identify the core genes, underlying biological mechanisms, and possible therapeutic targets that regulate aging in NAFLD and sarcopenia patients. It provides novel insights and proof in favor of decreasing the increased prevalence of sarcopenia in the elderly caused by NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziying Xu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Zihui Yu
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Shang Li
- Department of Orthopedics, General Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army of China (PLA), Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Orthopedics, Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
| | - Ziyan Tian
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Yuan
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Yuan, ; Fuping You,
| | - Fuping You
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Yuan, ; Fuping You,
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