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Cao Y. Lack of basic rationale in epithelial-mesenchymal transition and its related concepts. Cell Biosci 2024; 14:104. [PMID: 39164745 PMCID: PMC11334496 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-024-01282-w] [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: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is defined as a cellular process during which epithelial cells acquire mesenchymal phenotypes and behavior following the downregulation of epithelial features. EMT and its reversed process, the mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET), and the special form of EMT, the endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), have been considered as mainstream concepts and general rules driving developmental and pathological processes, particularly cancer. However, discrepancies and disputes over EMT and EMT research have also grown over time. EMT is defined as transition between two cellular states, but it is unanimously agreed by EMT researchers that (1) neither the epithelial and mesenchymal states nor their regulatory networks have been clearly defined, (2) no EMT markers or factors can represent universally epithelial and mesenchymal states, and thus (3) EMT cannot be assessed on the basis of one or a few EMT markers. In contrast to definition and proposed roles of EMT, loss of epithelial feature does not cause mesenchymal phenotype, and EMT does not contribute to embryonic mesenchyme and neural crest formation, the key developmental events from which the EMT concept was derived. EMT and MET, represented by change in cell shapes or adhesiveness, or symbolized by EMT factors, are biased interpretation of the overall change in cellular property and regulatory networks during development and cancer progression. Moreover, EMT and MET are consequences rather than driving factors of developmental and pathological processes. The true meaning of EMT in some developmental and pathological processes, such as fibrosis, needs re-evaluation. EMT is believed to endow malignant features, such as migration, stemness, etc., to cancer cells. However, the core property of cancer (tumorigenic) cells is neural stemness, and the core EMT factors are components of the regulatory networks of neural stemness. Thus, EMT in cancer progression is misattribution of the roles of neural stemness to the unknown mesenchymal state. Similarly, neural crest EMT is misattribution of intrinsic property of neural crest cells to the unknown mesenchymal state. Lack of basic rationale in EMT and related concepts urges re-evaluation of their significance as general rules for understanding developmental and pathological processes, and re-evaluation of their significance in scientific research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Cao
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animals for Disease Study, Model Animal Research Center, Medical School of Nanjing University, 12 Xuefu Road, Pukou High-Tech Zone, Nanjing, 210061, China.
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Nanjing University, Shenzhen, China.
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Zhan J, Liu S, Meng Y, Yang Q, Wang Z, Zhang S, Ge L, Zhao L, Xu X, Zhao Y, Li X, Wang X. Systematic review of the mechanism and assessment of liver fibrosis in biliary atresia. Pediatr Surg Int 2024; 40:205. [PMID: 39033225 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-024-05778-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study systematically reviewed our team's research on the mechanism and assessment of liver fibrosis in BA, summarized our experience, and discussed the future development direction. METHODS In this study, Pubmed and Wanfang databases were searched to collect the literature published by our team on the mechanisms of liver fibrosis in BA and the assessment of liver fibrosis in BA, and the above research results were systematically reviewed. RESULTS A total of 58 articles were retrieved. Among the included articles, 25 articles related to the mechanism of liver fibrosis in BA, and five articles evaluated liver fibrosis in BA. This article introduces the key pathways and molecules of liver fibrosis in BA and proposes a new grading system for liver fibrosis in BA. CONCLUSIONS The new BA liver fibrosis grading method is expected to assess children's conditions, guide treatment, and improve prognosis more accurately. In addition, we believe that the TGF-β1 signaling pathway is the most important in the study of liver fibrosis in BA, and at the same time, the study of EMT occurrence in BA should also be deepened to resolve the controversy on this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianghua Zhan
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China.
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China.
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China.
| | - Shaowen Liu
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yu Meng
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qianhui Yang
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhiru Wang
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shujian Zhang
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Liang Ge
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Li Zhao
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaodan Xu
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yilin Zhao
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xin Li
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xueting Wang
- Tianjin Children's Hospital ("Children's Hospital, Tianjin University"), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
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3
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Sinha S, Hassan N, Schwartz RE. Organelle stress and alterations in interorganelle crosstalk during liver fibrosis. Hepatology 2024; 79:482-501. [PMID: 36626634 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The synchronous functioning and quality control of organelles ensure cell survival and function and are essential for maintaining homeostasis. Prolonged exposure to stressors (viruses, bacteria, parasitic infections, alcohol, drugs) or genetic mutations often disrupt the functional integrity of organelles which plays a critical role in the initiation and progression of several diseases including chronic liver diseases. One of the most important pathologic consequences of chronic liver diseases is liver fibrosis, characterized by tissue scarring due to the progressive accumulation of extracellular matrix components. Left untreated, fibrosis may advance to life-threatening complications such as cirrhosis, hepatic decompensation, and HCC, which collectively accounts for ∼1 million deaths per year worldwide. Owing to the lack of treatment options that can regress or reverse cirrhosis, liver transplantation is currently the only available treatment for end-stage liver disease. However, the limited supply of usable donor organs, adverse effects of lifelong immunosuppressive regimes, and financial considerations pose major challenges and limit its application. Hence, effective therapeutic strategies are urgently needed. An improved understanding of the organelle-level regulation of fibrosis can help devise effective antifibrotic therapies focused on reducing organelle stress, limiting organelle damage, improving interorganelle crosstalk, and restoring organelle homeostasis; and could be a potential clinical option to avoid transplantation. This review provides a timely update on the recent findings and mechanisms covering organelle-specific dysfunctions in liver fibrosis, highlights how correction of organelle functions opens new treatment avenues and discusses the potential challenges to clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saloni Sinha
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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4
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Wan S, Liu X, Sun R, Liu H, Jiang J, Wu B. Activated hepatic stellate cell-derived Bmp-1 induces liver fibrosis via mediating hepatocyte epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:41. [PMID: 38216590 PMCID: PMC10786946 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06437-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a reparative response to injury that arises from various etiologies, characterized by activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Periostin, a secreted matricellular protein, has been reported to participate in tissue development and regeneration. However, its involvement in liver fibrosis remains unknown. This study investigated the roles and mechanisms of Periostin in phenotypic transition of HSCs and relevant abnormal cellular crosstalk during liver fibrosis. The fate of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) during liver fibrogenesis was investigated using single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing profiles, which revealed a significant proliferation of activated HSCs (aHSCs) in fibrotic livers of both humans and mice. αSMA-TK mice were used to demonstrate that depletion of proliferative aHSCs attenuates liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride and 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine. Through integrating data from single-cell and bulk sequencing, Periostin was identified as a distinctive hallmark of proliferative aHSC subpopulation. Elevated levels of Periostin were detected in fibrotic livers of both humans and mice, primarily within aHSCs. However, hepatic Periostin levels were decreased along with depletion of proliferative aHSCs. Deficiency of Periostin led to reduced liver fibrosis and suppressed hepatocyte epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Periostin-overexpressing HSCs, exhibiting a proliferative aHSC phenotype, release bone morphogenetic protein-1 (Bmp-1), which activates EGFR signaling, inducing hepatocyte EMT and contributing to liver fibrosis. In conclusion, Periostin in aHSCs drives their acquisition of a proliferative phenotype and the release of Bmp-1. Proliferative aHSC subpopulation-derived Bmp-1 induces hepatocyte EMT via EGFR signaling, promoting liver fibrogenesis. Bmp-1 and Periostin should be potential therapeutic targets for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sizhe Wan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xianzhi Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ruonan Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huiling Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, China.
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Yüregir Y, Kaçaroğlu D, Yaylacı S. Regulation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Mechanism and Targeted Therapeutic Approaches. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1450:93-102. [PMID: 37452258 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2023_781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary liver malignancy that accounts for the majority of liver cancer cases, with multiple risk factors including chronic hepatitis B and C infections, alcohol abuse, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Despite advancements in diagnosis and treatment, the survival rate of patients with advanced HCC remains low, creating an urgent need for new therapeutic targets and strategies.One biological process crucial to HCC progression is the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT is a process that enables epithelial cells to acquire mesenchymal properties, including motility and invasiveness, by losing their cell-cell adhesion. Various signaling pathways, including TGF-β, Wnt/β-catenin, and Notch, have been implicated in regulating EMT in HCC.To inhibit EMT, targeted therapeutic approaches have been developed, and preclinical studies suggest that the inhibition of the TGF-β, Wnt/β-catenin, and Notch signaling pathways is promising. TGF-β receptor inhibitors, Wnt/β-catenin pathway inhibitors, and gamma-secretase inhibitors have shown efficacy in preclinical studies by inhibiting EMT and reducing tumor growth in HCC models. However, further clinical studies are necessary to determine their effectiveness in human patients.In addition to these approaches, further research is needed to identify other novel therapeutic targets and develop new treatment strategies for HCC. This review emphasizes the critical role of EMT in HCC progression and highlights the potential of targeting the TGF-β, Wnt/β-catenin, and Notch signaling pathways to inhibit EMT and reduce tumor growth in HCC. Future studies and clinical trials are necessary to validate these therapeutic strategies and develop effective treatments for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yelda Yüregir
- Molecular Biology and Genetics Department, İhsan Doğramacı Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Demet Kaçaroğlu
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical Biology Department, Lokman Hekim University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Seher Yaylacı
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical Biology Department, Lokman Hekim University, Ankara, Turkey.
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6
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Jung YR, Yim JH, Lee YJ, Lee SB, Heo SY, Bae SG, Kim KT, Kwon YS, Park SJ, Park JK, Kim TH. Decreased SMP30 Expression Is Related With EMT in the Kidneys of Two Siberian Tigers With CKD. In Vivo 2024; 38:226-234. [PMID: 38148068 PMCID: PMC10756483 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.13429] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most common causes of mortality in wild non-domestic felidae. The molecular mechanism regulating renal fibrosis in nephropathy is not fully understood especially in the felidae. This study aimed to elucidate senescence marker protein 30 (SMP30) expression patterns and its relationship with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) by immunostaining in two necropsied Siberian tigers (Panthera tigris altaica) with CKD. MATERIALS AND METHODS Two kidney samples from male Siberian tigers were fixed and tissue sections were stained for histopathological assay. RESULTS In CKD, renal tubular epithelial cells lost their tubular structures surrounded by severe interstitial fibrosis and were detached from the basement membrane. These damaged cells resembled the morphology of mesenchymal cells and showed much lower SMP30 expression compared with intact tubular epithelial cells. These cells also expressed vimentin, which is specifically expressed by mesenchymal cells, and through double staining, it was observed that vimentin was expressed in the tubular epithelial cells where SMP30 was not expressed. In addition, double-positive expression of pan-cytokeratin (pan-CK) and vimentin was found in damaged epithelial cells with mesenchymal features. CONCLUSION We demonstrated possible evidence to understand the role of SMP30 as a new pivotal factor and the possibility of decreased SMP30 as a potential indicator of EMT at the end stage of CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Rang Jung
- Kyungpook National University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Daegu, Republic of Korea
- Daegu Health College, Department of Companion Animal Health Management, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Hyuk Yim
- Kyungpook National University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Jin Lee
- Kyungpook National University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Sae-Bom Lee
- Baekdudaegan National Arboretum, Siberian Tiger Conservation Center, Bonghwa, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Yong Heo
- Baekdudaegan National Arboretum, Siberian Tiger Conservation Center, Bonghwa, Republic of Korea
| | - Seul-Gi Bae
- Kyungpook National University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoo-Tae Kim
- Kyungpook National University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Sam Kwon
- Kyungpook National University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Joon Park
- Kyungpook National University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Kyu Park
- Kyungpook National University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Daegu, Republic of Korea;
| | - Tae-Hwan Kim
- Kyungpook National University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Daegu, Republic of Korea;
- Baekdudaegan National Arboretum, Siberian Tiger Conservation Center, Bonghwa, Republic of Korea
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7
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Zheng Q, Li M, Chen L, Zhang C, Zhao Y, Liu G, Yang F, Zhan J. Potential therapeutic target of EGF on bile duct ligation model and biliary atresia children. Pediatr Res 2023; 94:1297-1307. [PMID: 37138025 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-023-02592-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pathogenesis of liver fibrosis in biliary atresia (BA) is unclear. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) plays a vital role in liver fibrosis. This study aims to investigate the expression of EGF and the mechanisms of its pro-fibrotic effects in BA. METHODS EGF levels in serum and liver samples of BA and non-BA children were detected. Marker proteins of EGF signaling and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in liver sections were evaluated. Effects of EGF on intrahepatic cells and the underlying mechanisms were explored in vitro. Bile duct ligation (BDL) mice with/without EGF antibody injection were used to verify the effects of EGF on liver fibrosis. RESULTS Serum levels and liver expression of EGF elevated in BA. Phosphorylated EGF receptor (p-EGFR) and extracellular regulated kinase 1/2 (p-ERK1/2) increased. In addition, EMT and proliferation of biliary epithelial cells were present in BA liver. In vitro, EGF induced EMT and proliferation of HIBEpic cells and promoted IL-8 expression in L-02 cells by phosphorylating ERK1/2. And EGF activated LX-2 cells. Furthermore, EGF antibody injection reduced p-ERK1/2 levels and alleviated liver fibrosis in BDL mice. CONCLUSION EGF is overexpressed in BA. It aggravates liver fibrosis through EGF/EGFR-ERK1/2 pathway, which may be a therapeutic target for BA. IMPACT The exact pathogenesis of liver fibrosis in BA is unknown, severely limiting the advancement of BA treatment strategies. This study revealed that serum and liver tissue levels of EGF were increased in BA, and its expression in liver tissues was correlated with the degree of liver fibrosis. EGF may promote EMT and proliferation of biliary epithelial cells and induce IL-8 overexpression in hepatocytes through EGF/EGFR-ERK1/2 signaling pathway. EGF can also activate HSCs in vitro. The EGF/EGFR-ERK1/2 pathway may be a potential therapeutic target for BA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qipeng Zheng
- Graduate College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Mengdi Li
- Graduate College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Lingzhi Chen
- Graduate College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Cong Zhang
- Graduate College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Yilin Zhao
- Graduate College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Gengxin Liu
- Graduate College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Graduate College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Jianghua Zhan
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, 300134, China.
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Gong Y, Liu Z, Zhang Y, Zhang J, Zheng Y, Wu Z. AGER1 deficiency-triggered ferroptosis drives fibrosis progression in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:178. [PMID: 37280194 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01477-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Hyperglycemia is an independent risk factor for the rapid progression of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) to liver fibrosis with an incompletely defined mechanism. Ferroptosis is a novel form of programmed cell death that has been identified as a pathogenic mechanism in various diseases. However, the role of ferroptosis in the development of liver fibrosis in NASH with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is unclear. Here, we observed the histopathological features of the progression of NASH to liver fibrosis as well as hepatocyte epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in a mouse model of NASH with T2DM and high-glucose-cultured steatotic human normal liver (LO2) cells. The distinctive features of ferroptosis, including iron overload, decreased antioxidant capacity, the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, and elevated lipid peroxidation products, were confirmed in vivo and in vitro. Liver fibrosis and hepatocyte EMT were markedly alleviated after treatment with the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1. Furthermore, a decrease in the gene and protein levels of AGE receptor 1 (AGER1) was detected in the transition from NASH to liver fibrosis. Overexpression of AGER1 dramatically reversed hepatocyte EMT in high-glucose-cultured steatotic LO2 cells, whereas the knockdown of AGER1 had the opposite effect. The mechanisms underlying the phenotype appear to be associated with the inhibitory effects of AGER1 on ferroptosis, which is dependent on the regulation of sirtuin 4. Finally, in vivo adeno-associated virus-mediated AGER1 overexpression effectively relieved liver fibrosis in a murine model. Collectively, these findings suggest that ferroptosis participates in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis in NASH with T2DM by promoting hepatocyte EMT. AGER1 could reverse hepatocyte EMT to ameliorate liver fibrosis by inhibiting ferroptosis. The results also suggest that AGER1 may be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of liver fibrosis in patients with NASH with T2DM. Chronic hyperglycemia is associated with increased advanced glycation end products, resulting in the downregulation of AGER1. AGER1 deficiency downregulates Sirt4, which disturbs key regulators of ferroptosis (TFR-1, FTH, GPX4, and SLC7A11). These lead to increased iron uptake, decreasing the antioxidative capacity and enhanced lipid ROS production, ultimately leading to ferroptosis, which further promotes hepatocyte epithelial-mesenchymal transition and fibrosis progression in NASH with T2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihui Gong
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Chu Hsien-I Memorial Hospital and Tianjin Institute of Endocrinology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Zijun Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Chu Hsien-I Memorial Hospital and Tianjin Institute of Endocrinology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Chu Hsien-I Memorial Hospital and Tianjin Institute of Endocrinology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Chu Hsien-I Memorial Hospital and Tianjin Institute of Endocrinology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300134, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Yin Zheng
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China.
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China.
| | - Zhongming Wu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Chu Hsien-I Memorial Hospital and Tianjin Institute of Endocrinology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300134, China.
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300134, China.
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China.
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China.
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9
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Gromowski T, Lukacs-Kornek V, Cisowski J. Current view of liver cancer cell-of-origin and proposed mechanisms precluding its proper determination. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:3. [PMID: 36609378 PMCID: PMC9824961 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02843-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma are devastating primary liver cancers with increasing prevalence in many parts of the world. Despite intense investigation, many aspects of their biology are still largely obscure. For example, numerous studies have tackled the question of the cell-of-origin of primary liver cancers using different experimental approaches; they have not, however, provided a clear and undisputed answer. Here, we will review the evidence from animal models supporting the role of all major types of liver epithelial cells: hepatocytes, cholangiocytes, and their common progenitor as liver cancer cell-of-origin. Moreover, we will also propose mechanisms that promote liver cancer cell plasticity (dedifferentiation, transdifferentiation, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition) which may contribute to misinterpretation of the results and which make the issue of liver cancer cell-of-origin particularly complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Gromowski
- grid.5522.00000 0001 2162 9631Department of General Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Veronika Lukacs-Kornek
- grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Institute of Experimental Immunology, University Hospital of the Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jaroslaw Cisowski
- Department of General Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland.
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10
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Zhang XL, Zhang XY, Ge XQ, Liu MX. Mangiferin prevents hepatocyte epithelial-mesenchymal transition in liver fibrosis via targeting HSP27-mediated JAK2/STAT3 and TGF-β1/Smad pathway. Phytother Res 2022; 36:4167-4182. [PMID: 35778992 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocytes has been confirmed to undergo EMT and can be converted into myofibroblasts during hepatic fibrogenesis. However, the mechanism of hepatocyte EMT regulation in hepatic fibrosis, particularly through HSP27 (human homologue of rodent HSP25), remains unclear. Mangiferin (MAN), a compound extracted from Mangifera indica L, has been reported to attenuate liver injury. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms underlying HSP27 inhibition and the anti-fibrotic effect of MAN in liver fibrosis. Our results revealed that the expression of HSP27 was remarkably increased in the liver tissues of patients with liver cirrhosis and CCl4 -induced fibrotic rats. However, HSP27 shRNA treatment significantly alleviated fibrosis. Furthermore, MAN was found to inhibit CCl4 - and TGF-β1-induced liver fibrosis and reduced hepatocyte EMT. More importantly, MAN decreased HSP27 expression to suppress the JAK2/STAT3 pathway, and subsequently blocked TGF-β1/Smad signaling, which were consistent with its protection against CCl4 -induced EMT and liver fibrosis. Together, these results suggest that HSP27 may play a crucial role in hepatocyte EMT and liver fibrosis by activating JAK2/STAT3 signaling and TGF-β1/Smad pathway. The suppression of HSP27 expression by MAN may be a novel strategy for attenuating the hepatocyte EMT in liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Ling Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, PR China.,State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xiao-Yan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, PR China
| | - Xiao-Qun Ge
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, PR China
| | - Ming-Xuan Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, PR China.,State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, PR China
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11
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Wilson SE. Fibrosis Is a Basement Membrane-Related Disease in the Cornea: Injury and Defective Regeneration of Basement Membranes May Underlie Fibrosis in Other Organs. Cells 2022; 11:309. [PMID: 35053425 PMCID: PMC8774201 DOI: 10.3390/cells11020309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Every organ develops fibrosis that compromises functions in response to infections, injuries, or diseases. The cornea is a relatively simple, avascular organ that offers an exceptional model to better understand the pathophysiology of the fibrosis response. Injury and defective regeneration of the epithelial basement membrane (EBM) or the endothelial Descemet's basement membrane (DBM) triggers the development of myofibroblasts from resident corneal fibroblasts and bone marrow-derived blood borne fibrocytes due to the increased entry of TGF beta-1/-2 into the stroma from the epithelium and tears or residual corneal endothelium and aqueous humor. The myofibroblasts, and disordered extracellular matrix these cells produce, persist until the source of injury is removed, the EBM and/or DBM are regenerated, or replaced surgically, resulting in decreased stromal TGF beta requisite for myofibroblast survival. A similar BM injury-related pathophysiology can underly the development of fibrosis in other organs such as skin and lung. The normal liver does not contain traditional BMs but develops sinusoidal endothelial BMs in many fibrotic diseases and models. However, normal hepatic stellate cells produce collagen type IV and perlecan that can modulate TGF beta localization and cognate receptor binding in the space of Dissé. BM-related fibrosis is deserving of more investigation in all organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven E Wilson
- Cole Eye Institute, I-32, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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12
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Feng S, Tong H, Gao JH, Tang SH, Yang WJ, Wang GM, Zhou HY, Wen SL. Anti-inflammation treatment for protection of hepatocytes and amelioration of hepatic fibrosis in rats. Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:1213. [PMID: 34584558 PMCID: PMC8422404 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammation is considered as an important pathophysiologic mechanism of hepatic cirrhosis, which induces hepatocyte injury and activates hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), thus resulting in hepatic fibrosis. Previous studies have reported that cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor can effectively treat liver fibrosis, while somatostatin (SST) analogues inhibit the activation of HSCs. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of a COX-2 inhibitor, celecoxib, combined with a SST analogue, octreotide, for protection of hepatocytes and prevention of fibrosis in a rat model of hepatic fibrosis. Therefore, a hepatic fibrosis rat model was established following peritoneal injection of thioacetamide (TAA), and the rats were then treated with a combination of celecoxib and octreotide (TAA + C). Immunohistochemistry and western blotting assays were used to assess the expression levels of proteins associated with inflammation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), proliferation, apoptosis and autophagy. H&E staining, transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were used to evaluate the destruction of hepatocytes. Masson's Trichrome and Sirius Red were used to measure the degree of liver fibrosis. The results demonstrated that, compared with those of the control group, the degree of liver fibrosis and the expression of the intrahepatic inflammation factors were aggravated in the TAA group. Furthermore, the apoptosis rate, EMT and autophagy of hepatocytes were also increased in the TAA group. However, treatment with TAA + C restored the aforementioned increased levels compared with the TAA group. In conclusion, treatment of rats with the combination of celecoxib and octreotide could attenuate the progress of hepatic fibrosis via protection of hepatocytes by reducing apoptosis, EMT and autophagy in hepatocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi Feng
- Key Laboratory of Brain Science Research and Transformation in Tropical Environment of Hainan Province, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan 571199, P.R. China
| | - Huan Tong
- Division of Peptides Related with Human Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Jin-Hang Gao
- Division of Peptides Related with Human Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Shi-Hang Tang
- Division of Peptides Related with Human Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Juan Yang
- Division of Peptides Related with Human Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Gui-Ming Wang
- Department of Human Anatomy, West China School of Basic Medical Science and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Ying Zhou
- Department of Human Anatomy, West China School of Basic Medical Science and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Shi-Lei Wen
- Key Laboratory of Brain Science Research and Transformation in Tropical Environment of Hainan Province, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan 571199, P.R. China
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13
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Weng T, Yan D, Shi D, Zhu M, Liu Y, Wu Z, Tang T, Zhu L, Zhang H, Yao H, Li L. The MSP-RON pathway regulates liver fibrosis through transforming growth factor beta-dependent epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Liver Int 2021; 41:1956-1968. [PMID: 33786995 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver fibrosis is pathologically important in the liver cirrhosis progression. The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is crucial for organ fibrosis. Macrophage-stimulating protein (MSP) and its receptor tyrosine kinase, RON, promote cellular EMT. However, their role in liver fibrosis is unclear. Here, we clarify the biological profile, potential mechanisms and therapeutic targets of the MSP-RON pathway in liver fibrosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Macrophage-stimulating protein expression and its correlation with clinicopathological characteristics of cirrhosis were evaluated in 57 clinical cases and a control group. The effect of MSP-RON pathway in liver fibrosis was determined in vitro and in vivo. The therapeutic effects of MSP or RON inhibition on liver fibrosis were evaluated in a mouse liver fibrosis model. RESULTS Macrophage-stimulating protein is upregulated in liver cirrhosis, which was associated with poor patient prognosis. The MSP-RON pathway promoted hepatocytes EMT. MSP-RON-induced EMT depends on the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) pathway and is regulated by TGF-β inhibitors. In animal models, an MSP blocking antibody and a small molecule inhibitor of RON, BMS-777607, both inhibited liver fibrosis progression. CONCLUSION Our study revealed that MSP is an important biomarker in liver cirrhosis progression and can be used to prognose patients. The MSP-RON pathway promotes the EMT of hepatocytes and the progress of fibrosis via a TGF-β related pathway. Consequently, we identified a new treatment strategy for liver cirrhosis through targeted inhibition of MSP/RON. This research increases the understanding of EMT-modulated liver fibrosis and provides new insights into biomarkers and therapeutic targets of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianhao Weng
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dong Yan
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Danrong Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Miaojin Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yizhi Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhigang Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Taoming Tang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Linwei Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hangping Yao
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lanjuan Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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14
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Ruan B, Duan JL, Xu H, Tao KS, Han H, Dou GR, Wang L. Capillarized Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells Undergo Partial Endothelial-Mesenchymal Transition to Actively Deposit Sinusoidal ECM in Liver Fibrosis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:671081. [PMID: 34277612 PMCID: PMC8285099 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.671081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue-specific endothelial cells are more than simply a barrier lining capillaries and are proved to be capable of remarkable plasticity to become active collagen matrix-producing myofibroblasts (MFs) in solid organs with fibrosis. Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) also participate in the development of hepatic fibrosis, but the exact roles and underlying mechanism have been poorly understood in addition to capillarization. In this study, we demonstrate, by using single-cell RNA sequencing, lineage tracing, and colocalization analysis, that fibrotic LSECs undergo partial endothelial mesenchymal transition (EndMT) with a subset of LSECs acquiring an MF-like phenotype. These phenotypic changes make LSECs substantial producers of extracellular matrix (ECM) preferentially deposited in liver sinusoids but not septal/portal scars as demonstrated by immunofluorescence in animal models and patients with fibrosis/cirrhosis, likely due to their limited migration. Bioinformatic analysis verifies that LSECs undergo successive phenotypic transitions from capillarization to mesenchymal-like cells in liver fibrosis. Furthermore, blockade of LSEC capillarization by using YC-1, a selective eNOS-sGC activator, effectively attenuates liver damage and fibrogenesis as well as mesenchymal features of LSECs, suggesting that capillarization of LSECs might be upstream to their mesenchymal transition during fibrosis. In conclusion, we report that capillarized LSECs undergo a partial EndMT characterized by increased ECM production without activating cell mobility, leading to perisinusoidal ECM deposition that aggravate liver function and fibrogenesis. Targeting this transitional process may be of great value for antifibrotic treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bai Ruan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi-Jing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.,State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Aviation Medicine, Center of Clinical Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Juan-Li Duan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi-Jing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi-Jing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Kai-Shan Tao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi-Jing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hua Han
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi-Jing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.,State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Guo-Rui Dou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xi-Jing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi-Jing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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15
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Sun YL, Bai T, Zhou L, Zhu RT, Wang WJ, Liang RP, Li J, Zhang CX, Gou JJ. SOD3 deficiency induces liver fibrosis by promoting hepatic stellate cell activation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:4313-4329. [PMID: 33230845 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is suggested to potentially promote HSC activation. Superoxide dismutase 3 (SOD3) is an extracellular antioxidant defense against oxidative damage. Here, we found downregulation of SOD3 in a mouse model of liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 ). SOD3 deficiency induced spontaneous liver injury and fibrosis with increased collagen deposition, and further aggravated CCl4 -induced liver injury in mice. Depletion of SOD3 enhanced HSC activation marked by increased α-smooth muscle actin and subsequent collagen synthesis primarily collagen type I in vivo, and promoted transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-induced HSC activation in vitro. SOD3 deficiency accelerated EMT process in the liver and TGF-β1-induced EMT of AML12 hepatocytes, as evidenced by loss of E-cadherin and gain of N-cadherin and vimentin. Notably, SOD3 expression and its pro-fibrogenic effect were positively associated with sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) expression. SOD3 deficiency inhibited adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling to downregulate SIRT1 expression and thus involving in liver fibrosis. Enforced expression of SIRT1 inhibited SOD3 deficiency-induced HSC activation and EMT, whereas depletion of SIRT1 counteracted the inhibitory effect of SOD3 in vitro. These findings demonstrate that SOD3 deficiency contributes to liver fibrogenesis by promoting HSC activation and EMT process, and suggest a possibility that SOD3 may function through modulating SIRT1 via the AMPK pathway in liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ling Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Tao Bai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Digestive, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Rong-Tao Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wei-Jie Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ruo-Peng Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chi-Xian Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jian-Jun Gou
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
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16
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Acharya P, Chouhan K, Weiskirchen S, Weiskirchen R. Cellular Mechanisms of Liver Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:671640. [PMID: 34025430 PMCID: PMC8134740 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.671640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver is a central organ in the human body, coordinating several key metabolic roles. The structure of the liver which consists of the distinctive arrangement of hepatocytes, hepatic sinusoids, the hepatic artery, portal vein and the central vein, is critical for its function. Due to its unique position in the human body, the liver interacts with components of circulation targeted for the rest of the body and in the process, it is exposed to a vast array of external agents such as dietary metabolites and compounds absorbed through the intestine, including alcohol and drugs, as well as pathogens. Some of these agents may result in injury to the cellular components of liver leading to the activation of the natural wound healing response of the body or fibrogenesis. Long-term injury to liver cells and consistent activation of the fibrogenic response can lead to liver fibrosis such as that seen in chronic alcoholics or clinically obese individuals. Unidentified fibrosis can evolve into more severe consequences over a period of time such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. It is well recognized now that in addition to external agents, genetic predisposition also plays a role in the development of liver fibrosis. An improved understanding of the cellular pathways of fibrosis can illuminate our understanding of this process, and uncover potential therapeutic targets. Here we summarized recent aspects in the understanding of relevant pathways, cellular and molecular drivers of hepatic fibrosis and discuss how this knowledge impact the therapy of respective disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pragyan Acharya
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Komal Chouhan
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sabine Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
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17
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Di Gregorio J, Robuffo I, Spalletta S, Giambuzzi G, De Iuliis V, Toniato E, Martinotti S, Conti P, Flati V. The Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition as a Possible Therapeutic Target in Fibrotic Disorders. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:607483. [PMID: 33409282 PMCID: PMC7779530 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.607483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a chronic and progressive disorder characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, which leads to scarring and loss of function of the affected organ or tissue. Indeed, the fibrotic process affects a variety of organs and tissues, with specific molecular background. However, two common hallmarks are shared: the crucial role of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and the involvement of the inflammation process, that is essential for initiating the fibrotic degeneration. TGF-β in particular but also other cytokines regulate the most common molecular mechanism at the basis of fibrosis, the Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT). EMT has been extensively studied, but not yet fully explored as a possible therapeutic target for fibrosis. A deeper understanding of the crosstalk between fibrosis and EMT may represent an opportunity for the development of a broadly effective anti-fibrotic therapy. Here we report the evidences of the relationship between EMT and multi-organ fibrosis, and the possible therapeutic approaches that may be developed by exploiting this relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacopo Di Gregorio
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Iole Robuffo
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Council, Section of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - Sonia Spalletta
- Department of Clinical Pathology, E. Profili Hospital, Fabriano, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giulia Giambuzzi
- Department of Medical and Oral Sciences and Biotechnologies, University “G. d’Annunzio”, Chieti, Italy
| | - Vincenzo De Iuliis
- Department of Medical and Oral Sciences and Biotechnologies, University “G. d’Annunzio”, Chieti, Italy
| | - Elena Toniato
- Department of Medical and Oral Sciences and Biotechnologies, University “G. d’Annunzio”, Chieti, Italy
| | - Stefano Martinotti
- Department of Medical and Oral Sciences and Biotechnologies, University “G. d’Annunzio”, Chieti, Italy
| | - Pio Conti
- Postgraduate Medical School, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Flati
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
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18
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Kong D, Zhang Z, Chen L, Huang W, Zhang F, Wang L, Wang Y, Cao P, Zheng S. Curcumin blunts epithelial-mesenchymal transition of hepatocytes to alleviate hepatic fibrosis through regulating oxidative stress and autophagy. Redox Biol 2020; 36:101600. [PMID: 32526690 PMCID: PMC7287144 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2020.101600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The massive production and activation of myofibroblasts (MFB) is key to the development of liver fibrosis. In many studies, it has been proven that hepatocytes are an important part of MFB, and can be transformed into MFB through epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) during hepatic fibrogenesis. In our previous study, we confirmed that curcumin inhibited EMT procession and differentiation of hepatocytes into MFB. In addition, in previous studies, it has been shown that autophagy plays an important role in the regulation of cellular EMT procession. In the current study, we showed that curcumin inhibited TGF-β/Smad signaling transmission by activating autophagy, thereby inhibiting EMT. The mechanism of degradative polyubiquitylation of Smad2 and Smad3 is likely through inhibiting tetratricopeptide repeat domain 3 (TTC3) and by inducing ubiquitylation and proteasomal degradation of Smad ubiquitination regulatory factor 2 (SMURF2), which on account of the increase of autophagy in hepatocytes. Curcumin inhibits levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress in hepatocytes by activating PPAR-α, and regulates upstream signaling pathways of autophagy AMPK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR, leading to an increase of the autophagic flow in hepatocytes. In this study, we confirm that curcumin effectively reduced the occurrence of EMT in hepatocytes and inhibited production of the extracellular matrix (ECM) by activating autophagy, which provides a potential novel therapeutic strategy for hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desong Kong
- Chinese Medicine Modernization and Big Data Research Center, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210022, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Zili Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Liping Chen
- Chinese Medicine Modernization and Big Data Research Center, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210022, China
| | - Weifang Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Integral Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Ling Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210022, China
| | - Peng Cao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China.
| | - Shizhong Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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Zhao Y, Wang Z, Zhou J, Feng D, Li Y, Hu Y, Zhang F, Chen Z, Wang G, Ma X, Tian X, Yao J. LncRNA Mical2/miR-203a-3p sponge participates in epithelial-mesenchymal transition by targeting p66Shc in liver fibrosis. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2020; 403:115125. [PMID: 32659284 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2020.115125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is regulated by reactive oxygen species (ROS) in liver fibrosis. p66Shc is a redox enzyme, but its role of EMT is unclear in liver fibrosis. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been implicated as important regulators in numerous physiological and pathological processes and generally acting as a microRNA (miRNA) sponge to regulate gene expression. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the contribution of p66Shc to EMT in liver fibrosis and the regulation of p66Shc by lncRNA sponge. In vivo, p66Shc silencing prevented carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced EMT as evidenced by the upregulation of E-cadherin, downregulation of Vimentin and N-cadherin, and inhibition of oxidative stress and extracellular matrix (ECM) components. Moreover, in vitro, TGF-β1 significantly enhanced ECM components, as well as the development of the EMT phenotype. These effects were abrogated by p66Shc downregulation and aggravated by p66Shc overexpression. Mechanistically, p66Shc contributed to EMT via mediating ROS, as evidenced by p66Shc downregulation inhibiting EMT under exogenous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) stimulation. Furthermore, we found that molecule interacting with CasL2 (Mical2) lncRNA functioned as an endogenous miR-203a-3p sponge to regulate p66Shc expression. Both Mical2 silencing and miR-203a-3p agomiR treatment downregulated p66Shc expression, thus suppressing EMT in vivo and in vitro. Notably, the increased p66Shc and Mical2 levels and decreased miR-203a-3p levels in murine fibrosis were consistent with those in patients with liver fibrosis. In sum, our study reveals that p66Shc is critical for liver fibrosis and that Mical2, miR-203a-3p and p66Shc compose a novel regulatory pathway in liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Zhecheng Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Junjun Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Dongcheng Feng
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Yan Hu
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Zhao Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Guangzhi Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Xiaodong Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Xiaofeng Tian
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, China.
| | - Jihong Yao
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China.
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20
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Zhao J, Shi J, Shan Y, Yu M, Zhu X, Zhu Y, Liu L, Sheng M. Asiaticoside inhibits TGF-β1-induced mesothelial-mesenchymal transition and oxidative stress via the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in the human peritoneal mesothelial cell line HMrSV5. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2020; 25:33. [PMID: 32514269 PMCID: PMC7257216 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-020-00226-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Peritoneal fibrosis (PF) is a frequent complication caused by peritoneal dialysis (PD). Peritoneal mesothelial cells (PMCs), the first barrier of the peritoneum, play an important role in maintaining structure and function in the peritoneum during PD. Mesothelial-mesenchymal transition (MMT) and oxidative stress of PMCs are two key processes of PF. Purpose To elucidate the efficacy and possible mechanism of asiaticoside inhibition of MMT and ROS generation in TGF-β1-induced PF in human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMCs). Methods MMT and ROS generation of HPMCs were induced by TGF-β1. To explain the anti-MMT and antioxidant role of asiaticoside, varied doses of asiaticoside, oxygen radical scavenger (NAC), TGF-β receptor kinase inhibitor (LY2109761) and Nrf2 inhibitor (ML385) were used separately. Immunoblots were used to detect the expression of signaling associated proteins. DCFH-DA was used to detect the generation of ROS. Transwell migration assay and wound healing assay were used to verify the capacity of asiaticoside to inhibit MMT. Immunofluorescence assay was performed to observe the subcellular translocation of Nrf2 and expression of HO-1. Results Asiaticoside inhibited TGF-β1-induced MMT and suppressed Smad signaling in a dose-dependent manner. Migration and invasion activities of HPMCs were decreased by asiaticoside. Asiaticoside decreased TGF-β1-induced ROS, especially in a high dose (150 μM) for 6 h. Furthermore, ML385 partly abolished the inhibitory effect of asiaticoside on MMT, ROS and p-Smad2/3. Conclusions Asiaticoside inhibited the TGF-β1-induced MMT and ROS via Nrf2 activation, thus protecting the peritoneal membrane and preventing PF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyi Zhao
- Renal Division, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 155 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210029 Jiangsu Province China
| | - Jun Shi
- Renal Division, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 155 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210029 Jiangsu Province China
| | - Yun Shan
- Renal Division, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 155 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210029 Jiangsu Province China
| | - Manshu Yu
- Renal Division, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 155 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210029 Jiangsu Province China
| | - Xiaolin Zhu
- Renal Division, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 155 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210029 Jiangsu Province China
| | - Yilin Zhu
- Renal Division, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 155 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210029 Jiangsu Province China
| | - Li Liu
- Renal Division, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 155 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210029 Jiangsu Province China
| | - Meixiao Sheng
- Renal Division, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 155 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210029 Jiangsu Province China
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21
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Dewidar B, Meyer C, Dooley S, Meindl-Beinker N. TGF-β in Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Liver Fibrogenesis-Updated 2019. Cells 2019; 8:cells8111419. [PMID: 31718044 PMCID: PMC6912224 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 441] [Impact Index Per Article: 88.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is an advanced liver disease condition, which could progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. To date, there is no direct approved antifibrotic therapy, and current treatment is mainly the removal of the causative factor. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β is a master profibrogenic cytokine and a promising target to treat fibrosis. However, TGF-β has broad biological functions and its inhibition induces non-desirable side effects, which override therapeutic benefits. Therefore, understanding the pleiotropic effects of TGF-β and its upstream and downstream regulatory mechanisms will help to design better TGF-β based therapeutics. Here, we summarize recent discoveries and milestones on the TGF-β signaling pathway related to liver fibrosis and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation, emphasizing research of the last five years. This comprises impact of TGF-β on liver fibrogenesis related biological processes, such as senescence, metabolism, reactive oxygen species generation, epigenetics, circadian rhythm, epithelial mesenchymal transition, and endothelial-mesenchymal transition. We also describe the influence of the microenvironment on the response of HSC to TGF-β. Finally, we discuss new approaches to target the TGF-β pathway, name current clinical trials, and explain promises and drawbacks that deserve to be adequately addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bedair Dewidar
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (B.D.); (C.M.); (S.D.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, 31527 Tanta, Egypt
| | - Christoph Meyer
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (B.D.); (C.M.); (S.D.)
| | - Steven Dooley
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (B.D.); (C.M.); (S.D.)
| | - Nadja Meindl-Beinker
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (B.D.); (C.M.); (S.D.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-621-383-4983; Fax: +49-621-383-1467
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22
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Zhou T, Kyritsi K, Wu N, Francis H, Yang Z, Chen L, O'Brien A, Kennedy L, Ceci L, Meadows V, Kusumanchi P, Wu C, Baiocchi L, Skill NJ, Saxena R, Sybenga A, Xie L, Liangpunsakul S, Meng F, Alpini G, Glaser S. Knockdown of vimentin reduces mesenchymal phenotype of cholangiocytes in the Mdr2 -/- mouse model of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). EBioMedicine 2019; 48:130-142. [PMID: 31522982 PMCID: PMC6838376 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2019.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cholangiocytes are the target cells of cholangiopathies including primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Vimentin is an intermediate filament protein that has been found in various types of mesenchymal cells. The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of vimentin in the progression of biliary damage/liver fibrosis and whether there is a mesenchymal phenotype of cholangiocytes in the Mdr2-/- model of PSC. METHODS In vivo studies were performed in 12 wk. Mdr2-/- male mice with or without vimentin Vivo-Morpholino treatment and their corresponding control groups. Liver specimens from human PSC patients, human intrahepatic biliary epithelial cells (HIBEpiC) and human hepatic stellate cell lines (HHSteCs) were used to measure changes in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). FINDINGS There was increased mesenchymal phenotype of cholangiocytes in Mdr2-/- mice, which was reduced by treatment of vimentin Vivo-Morpholino. Concomitant with reduced vimentin expression, there was decreased liver damage, ductular reaction, biliary senescence, liver fibrosis and TGF-β1 secretion in Mdr2-/- mice treated with vimentin Vivo-Morpholino. Human PSC patients and derived cell lines had increased expression of vimentin and other mesenchymal markers compared to healthy controls and HIBEpiC, respectively. In vitro silencing of vimentin in HIBEpiC suppressed TGF-β1-induced EMT and fibrotic reaction. HHSteCs had decreased fibrotic reaction and increased cellular senescence after stimulation with cholangiocyte supernatant with reduced vimentin levels. INTERPRETATION Our study demonstrated that knockdown of vimentin reduces mesenchymal phenotype of cholangiocytes, which leads to decreased biliary senescence and liver fibrosis. Inhibition of vimentin may be a key therapeutic target in the treatment of cholangiopathies including PSC. FUND: National Institutes of Health (NIH) awards, VA Merit awards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianhao Zhou
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX, United States of America
| | - Konstantina Kyritsi
- Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
| | - Nan Wu
- Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
| | - Heather Francis
- Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America; Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
| | - Zhihong Yang
- Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America; Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
| | - Lixian Chen
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX, United States of America
| | - April O'Brien
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX, United States of America
| | - Lindsey Kennedy
- Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
| | - Ludovica Ceci
- Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
| | - Vik Meadows
- Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
| | - Praveen Kusumanchi
- Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America; Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
| | - Chaodong Wu
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, United States of America
| | | | - Nicholas J Skill
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
| | - Romil Saxena
- Department of Pathology, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
| | - Amelia Sybenga
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States of America
| | - Linglin Xie
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, United States of America
| | - Suthat Liangpunsakul
- Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America; Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
| | - Fanyin Meng
- Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America; Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
| | - Gianfranco Alpini
- Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America; Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America.
| | - Shannon Glaser
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX, United States of America.
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23
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Ardalani H, Sengupta S, Harms V, Vickerman V, Thomson JA, Murphy WL. 3-D culture and endothelial cells improve maturity of human pluripotent stem cell-derived hepatocytes. Acta Biomater 2019; 95:371-381. [PMID: 31362140 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2019.07.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived hepatocytes (iHEP) offer an attractive alternative to primary human hepatocytes (PHH) for drug toxicity studies, as PHHs are limited in supply, vary in their metabolic activity between donors, and rapidly lose their functionality in vitro. However, one of the major drawbacks with iHEP cells in drug safety studies is their decreased phenotypic maturity, with lower liver specific enzyme activity compared with that of PHH. Here we evaluated the effects of 3D culture and non-parenchymal cells on the maturation of iHEPs. We describe a serum-free, chemically defined 3D in vitro model using iHEP cells, which is compatible with automation and conventional assay plates. The iHEP cells cultured in this model form polarized aggregates with functional bile canaliculi and strongly increased expression of albumin, urea and genes encoding phase I and II drug metabolism enzymes and bile transporters. Cytochrome P450-mediated metabolism is significantly higher in 3D iHEP aggregates compared to 2D iHEP culture. Furthermore, addition of human liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (sECs) and iPS-derived endothelial cells (iECs) improved mature hepatocyte function and CYP450 enzyme activity. Also, ECs formed endothelial networks within the hepatic 3D cultures, mimicking aspects of an in vivo architecture. Collectively, these results suggest that the iHEP/EC aggregates described here may have the potential to be used for many applications, including as an in vitro model to study liver diseases associated with sinusoidal endothelial cells. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: iPS-derived hepatocytes provide an inexhaustible source of cells for drug screening, toxicology studies and cell-based therapies, but lack mature phenotype of adult primary human hepatocytes (PHH). Herein, we show that 3D culture of iPS-derived hepatocytes and their co-culture with human sinusoidal endothelial cells (sECs) to improve their maturity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamisha Ardalani
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA; Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Victoria Harms
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - James A Thomson
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI, USA; Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA; Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of California-Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - William L Murphy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA; Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA.
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24
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Sato K, Glaser S, Kennedy L, Liangpunsakul S, Meng F, Francis H, Alpini G. Preclinical insights into cholangiopathies: disease modeling and emerging therapeutic targets. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2019; 23:461-472. [PMID: 30990740 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2019.1608950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The common predominant clinical features of cholangiopathies such as primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), and biliary atresia (BA) are biliary damage/senescence and liver fibrosis. Curative therapies are lacking, and liver transplantation is the only option. An understanding of the mechanisms and pathogenesis is needed to develop novel therapies. Previous studies have developed various disease-based research models and have identified candidate therapeutic targets. Areas covered: This review summarizes recent studies performed in preclinical models of cholangiopathies and the current understanding of the pathophysiology representing potential targets for novel therapies. A literature search was conducted in PubMed using the combination of the searched term 'cholangiopathies' with one or two keywords including 'model', 'cholangiocyte', 'animal', or 'fibrosis'. Papers published within five years were obtained. Expert opinion: Access to appropriate research models is a key challenge in cholangiopathy research; establishing more appropriate models for PBC is an important goal. Several preclinical studies have demonstrated promising results and have led to novel therapeutic approaches, especially for PSC. Further studies on the pathophysiology of PBC and BA are necessary to identify candidate targets. Innovative therapeutic approaches such as stem cell transplantation have been introduced, and those therapies could be applied to PSC, PBC, and BA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisaku Sato
- a Indiana Center for Liver Research, Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Medicine , Indiana University School of Medicine , Indianapolis , IN , USA.,b Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center , Indianapolis , IN , USA
| | - Shannon Glaser
- c Department of Medical Physiology , Texas A&M University Collage of Medicine , Temple , TX , USA
| | - Lindsey Kennedy
- a Indiana Center for Liver Research, Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Medicine , Indiana University School of Medicine , Indianapolis , IN , USA.,b Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center , Indianapolis , IN , USA
| | - Suthat Liangpunsakul
- a Indiana Center for Liver Research, Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Medicine , Indiana University School of Medicine , Indianapolis , IN , USA.,b Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center , Indianapolis , IN , USA
| | - Fanyin Meng
- a Indiana Center for Liver Research, Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Medicine , Indiana University School of Medicine , Indianapolis , IN , USA.,b Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center , Indianapolis , IN , USA
| | - Heather Francis
- a Indiana Center for Liver Research, Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Medicine , Indiana University School of Medicine , Indianapolis , IN , USA.,b Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center , Indianapolis , IN , USA
| | - Gianfranco Alpini
- a Indiana Center for Liver Research, Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Medicine , Indiana University School of Medicine , Indianapolis , IN , USA.,b Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center , Indianapolis , IN , USA
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25
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Miao H, Zhang Y, Huang Z, Lu B, Ji L. Lonicera japonica Attenuates Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Mice: Molecular Mechanisms of Action. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2019; 47:351-367. [PMID: 30871359 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x19500174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a worldwide clinical issue that generally causes hepatic cirrhosis. Lonicerae Japonicae Flos (dried flower buds of Lonicera japonica Thunb) is a traditional heat-clearing and detoxifying herbal medicine in China. This study aims to observe the protection of the water extract of Lonicerae Japonicae Flos (FL) from carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in mice. Liver fibrosis was induced in mice by intraperitoneal injection of 2 ml/kg CCl4 twice a week for 4 weeks. FL's attenuation of CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in mice was evidenced by the results of Masson's trichrome and Sirius red staining, liver hydroxyproline content and serum amount of collagen IV. FL reduced hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation and reversed the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in mice treated with CCl4. FL also alleviated liver oxidative stress injury and enhanced the activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) anti-oxidant signaling pathway in mice treated with CCl4. Additionally, the main phenolic acids in FL including chlorogenic acid (CGA) and caffeic acid (CA) both reduced HSCs activation in vitro. In summary, FL attenuates CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in mice by inhibiting HSCs activation, reversing EMT and reducing liver oxidative stress injury via inducing Nrf2 activation. CGA may be the main active compound contributing to the antifibrotic activity of FL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Miao
- 1 The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, P. R. China
| | - Yi Zhang
- 1 The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, P. R. China
| | - Zhenlin Huang
- 1 The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, P. R. China
| | - Bin Lu
- 1 The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, P. R. China
| | - Lili Ji
- 1 The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, P. R. China
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26
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Han SM, Ryu HM, Suh J, Lee KJ, Choi SY, Choi S, Kim YL, Huh JY, Ha H. Network-based integrated analysis of omics data reveal novel players of TGF-β1-induced EMT in human peritoneal mesothelial cells. Sci Rep 2019; 9:1497. [PMID: 30728376 PMCID: PMC6365569 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-37101-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term peritoneal dialysis is associated with progressive fibrosis of the peritoneum. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of mesothelial cells is an important mechanism involved in peritoneal fibrosis, and TGF-β1 is considered central in this process. However, targeting currently known TGF-β1-associated pathways has not proven effective to date. Therefore, there are still gaps in understanding the mechanisms underlying TGF-β1-associated EMT and peritoneal fibrosis. We conducted network-based integrated analysis of transcriptomic and proteomic data to systemically characterize the molecular signature of TGF-β1-stimulated human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMCs). To increase the power of the data, multiple expression datasets of TGF-β1-stimulated human cells were employed, and extended based on a human functional gene network. Dense network sub-modules enriched with differentially expressed genes by TGF-β1 stimulation were prioritized and genes of interest were selected for functional analysis in HPMCs. Through integrated analysis, ECM constituents and oxidative stress-related genes were shown to be the top-ranked genes as expected. Among top-ranked sub-modules, TNFAIP6, ZC3H12A, and NNT were validated in HPMCs to be involved in regulation of E-cadherin, ZO-1, fibronectin, and αSMA expression. The present data shows the validity of network-based integrated analysis in discovery of novel players in TGF-β1-induced EMT in peritoneal mesothelial cells, which may serve as new prognostic markers and therapeutic targets for peritoneal dialysis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Min Han
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Pharmacology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Myung Ryu
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinjoo Suh
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kong-Joo Lee
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soon-Youn Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangdun Choi
- Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Ajou University, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Lim Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Joo Young Huh
- College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hunjoo Ha
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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27
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Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a wound-healing response generated against an insult to the liver that causes liver injury. It has the potential to progress into cirrhosis, and if not prevented, it may lead to liver cancer and liver failure. The activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is the central event underlying liver fibrosis. In addition to HSCs, numerous studies have supported the potential contribution of bone marrow-derived cells and myofibroblasts to liver fibrosis. The liver is a heterogeneous organ; thus, molecular and cellular events that underlie liver fibrogenesis are complex. This review aims to focus on major events that occur during liver fibrogenesis. In addition, important antifibrotic therapeutic approaches and experimental liver fibrosis models will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Merve Aydın
- Mikrogen Genetic Diagnostic Laboratory, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Kamil Can Akçalı
- Department of Biophysics, Ankara University, School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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Antifibrotic Effect of Smad Decoy Oligodeoxynucleotide in a CCl₄-Induced Hepatic Fibrosis Animal Model. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23081991. [PMID: 30103395 PMCID: PMC6222866 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23081991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is the wound-healing process of chronic hepatic disease that leads to the end-stage of hepatocellular carcinoma and demolition of hepatic structures. Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been identified to phenotypic conversion of the epithelium to mesenchymal phenotype that occurred during fibrosis. Smad decoy oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) is a synthetic DNA fragment containing a complementary sequence of Smad transcription factor. Thus, this study evaluated the antifibrotic effects of Smad decoy ODN on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice. As shown in histological results, CCl4 treatment triggered hepatic fibrosis and increased Smad expression. On the contrary, Smad decoy ODN administration suppressed fibrogenesis and EMT process. The expression of Smad signaling and EMT-associated protein was markedly decreased in Smad decoy ODN-treated mice compared with CCl4-injured mice. In conclusion, these data indicate the practicability of Smad decoy ODN administration for preventing hepatic fibrosis and EMT processes.
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29
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Ghosh M, Miller YE, Vandivier RW. Reply to Sohal: Airway Basal Cell Reprogramming and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition: A Potential Key to Understanding Early Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2018; 197:1645-1646. [PMID: 29385351 PMCID: PMC6006406 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201801-0103le] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - York E Miller
- 2 University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Aurora, Colorado and
- 3 Veterans Affairs Eastern Colorado Healthcare System Denver, Colorado
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30
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Zhang Y, Miao H, Yan H, Sheng Y, Ji L. Hepatoprotective effect of Forsythiae Fructus water extract against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis in mice. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2018; 218:27-34. [PMID: 29474900 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2018.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Revised: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The fruit of Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl, named Forsythiae Fructus (Lian-Qiao), is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) used for clearing away heat and toxic material, eliminating the mass and relieving swelling. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aims to observe the attenuation of the water extract of Forsythiae Fructus (FSE) on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis in male C57BL/6 mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS Hepatic fibrosis was induced in male C57BL/6 mice by intraperitoneal injection with 2 ml/kg CCl4 (mixed 1: 3 in olive oil) twice a week for 4 weeks. At the same time, the mice were orally given with FSE (1, 2 g/kg) every day for 4 weeks. Serum biochemical parameters, gene and protein expression related to liver fibrosis were analyzed. The contents of forsythiaside A and forsythin in FSE were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). RESULTS Results of serum alanine/aspartate aminotransferase (ALT/AST) activity and liver histological evaluation both showed the protection of FSE against CCl4-induced liver injury. Further, the anti-fibrotic effects of FSE was evidenced by the results of Masson's trichrome and Sirius red staining, liver hydroxyproline content, and serum amounts of hyaluronic acid, laminin, collagen Ⅳ and type III procollagen (PCIII). FSE also reduced the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) in livers from CCl4-injured mice. Additionally, FSE decreased the increased hepatic expression of fibroblast-specific protein 1 (FSP1) and vimentin induced by CCl4 in mice. CONCLUSIONS FSE attenuates CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in mice by inhibiting hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation, reducing hepatic extracellular matrix (ECM) disposition and reversing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Hui Miao
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Hongyu Yan
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Yuchen Sheng
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Lili Ji
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
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31
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Amicone L, Marchetti A. Microenvironment and tumor cells: two targets for new molecular therapies of hepatocellular carcinoma. Transl Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 3:24. [PMID: 29971255 DOI: 10.21037/tgh.2018.04.05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is one of the most frequent human cancer and is characterized by a high mortality rate. The aggressiveness appears strictly related to the liver pathological background on which cancer develops. Inflammation and the consequent fibro/cirrhosis, derived from chronic injuries of several origins (viral, toxic and metabolic) and observable in almost all oncological patients, represents the most powerful risk factor for HCC and, at the same time, an important obstacle to the efficacy of systemic therapy. Multiple microenvironmental cues, indeed, play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis, evolution and recurrence of HCC as well as in the resistance to standard therapies observed in most of patients. The identification of altered pathways in cancer cells and of microenvironmental changes, strictly connected in pathogenic feedback loop, may permit to plan new therapeutic approaches targeting tumor cells and their permissive microenvironment, simultaneously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Amicone
- Department of Cellular Biotechnologies and Hematology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Marchetti
- Department of Cellular Biotechnologies and Hematology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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32
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Cheung AC, Lorenzo Pisarello MJ, LaRusso NF. Pathobiology of biliary epithelia. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2018; 1864:1220-1231. [PMID: 28716705 PMCID: PMC5777905 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2017.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Revised: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cholangiocytes are epithelial cells that line the intra- and extrahepatic biliary tree. They serve predominantly to mediate the content of luminal biliary fluid, which is controlled via numerous signaling pathways influenced by endogenous (e.g., bile acids, nucleotides, hormones, neurotransmitters) and exogenous (e.g., microbes/microbial products, drugs etc.) molecules. When injured, cholangiocytes undergo apoptosis/lysis, repair and proliferation. They also become senescent, a form of cell cycle arrest, which may prevent propagation of injury and/or malignant transformation. Senescent cholangiocytes can undergo further transformation to a senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), where they begin secreting pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic signals that may contribute to disease initiation and progression. These and other concepts related to cholangiocyte pathobiology will be reviewed herein. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Cholangiocytes in Health and Disease edited by Jesus Banales, Marco Marzioni, Nicholas LaRusso and Peter Jansen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela C Cheung
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic Center for Cell Signaling in Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Maria J Lorenzo Pisarello
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic Center for Cell Signaling in Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Nicholas F LaRusso
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic Center for Cell Signaling in Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States.
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33
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Cargnoni A, Farigu S, Cotti Piccinelli E, Bonassi Signoroni P, Romele P, Vanosi G, Toschi I, Cesari V, Barros Sant'Anna L, Magatti M, Silini AR, Parolini O. Effect of human amniotic epithelial cells on pro-fibrogenic resident hepatic cells in a rat model of liver fibrosis. J Cell Mol Med 2017; 22:1202-1213. [PMID: 29105277 PMCID: PMC5783829 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Myofibroblasts are key fibrogenic cells responsible for excessive extracellular matrix synthesis characterizing the fibrotic lesion. In liver fibrosis, myofibroblasts derive either from activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) and portal fibroblasts (PF), or from the activation of fibroblasts that originate from ductular epithelial cells undergoing epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Ductular cells can also indirectly promote myofibroblast generation by activating TGF-β, the main fibrogenic growth factor, through αvβ6 integrin. In addition, after liver injury, liver sinusoidal cells can lose their ability to maintain HSC quiescence, thus favouring HSC differentiation towards myofibroblasts. The amniotic membrane and epithelial cells (hAEC) derived thereof have been shown to decrease hepatic myofibroblast levels in rodents with liver fibrosis. In this study, in a rat model of liver fibrosis, we investigated the effects of hAEC on resident hepatic cells contributing to myofibroblast generation. Our data show that hAEC reduce myofibroblast numbers with a consequent reduction in fibronectin and collagen deposition. Interestingly, we show that hAEC strongly act on specific myofibroblast precursors. Specifically, hAEC reduce the activation of PF rather than HSC. In addition, hAEC target reactive ductular cells by inhibiting their proliferation and αvβ6 integrin expression, with a consequent decrease in TGF-β activation. Moreover, hAEC counteract the transition of ductular cells towards fibroblasts, while it does not affect injury-induced and fibrosis-promoting sinusoidal alterations. In conclusion, among the emerging therapeutic applications of hAEC in liver diseases, their specific action on PF and ductular cells strongly suggests their application in liver injuries involving the expansion and activation of the portal compartment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Cargnoni
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, Brescia, Italy
| | - Serafina Farigu
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, Brescia, Italy
| | - Ester Cotti Piccinelli
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Pietro Romele
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, Brescia, Italy
| | - Graziella Vanosi
- Dip. Scienze veterinarie per la salute, la produzione animale e la sicurezza alimentare, Università di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Ivan Toschi
- Dip. Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali, Università di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Valentina Cesari
- Dip. Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali, Università di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Luciana Barros Sant'Anna
- Institute of Research and Development, University of Vale do Paraíba (UNIVAP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marta Magatti
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, Brescia, Italy
| | - Antonietta R Silini
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, Brescia, Italy
| | - Ornella Parolini
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, Brescia, Italy.,Istituto di Anatomia Umana e Biologia Cellulare, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
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34
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Ribera J, Pauta M, Melgar-Lesmes P, Córdoba B, Bosch A, Calvo M, Rodrigo-Torres D, Sancho-Bru P, Mira A, Jiménez W, Morales-Ruiz M. A small population of liver endothelial cells undergoes endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in response to chronic liver injury. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2017; 313:G492-G504. [PMID: 28798084 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00428.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2016] [Revised: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Rising evidence points to endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) as a significant source of the mesenchymal cell population in fibrotic diseases. In this context, we hypothesized that liver endothelial cells undergo EndMT during fibrosis progression. Cirrhosis in mice was induced by CCl4 A transgenic mouse expressing a red fluorescent protein reporter under the control of Tie2 promoter (Tie2-tdTomato) was used to trace the acquisition of EndMT. Sinusoidal vascular connectivity was evaluated by intravital microscopy and high-resolution three-dimensional confocal microscopy. A modest but significant fraction of liver endothelial cells from both cirrhotic patients and CCl4-treated Tie2-tdTomato mice acquired an EndMT phenotype characterized by the coexpression of CD31 and α-smooth muscle actin, compared with noncirrhotic livers. Bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP-7) inhibited the acquisition of EndMT induced by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) treatment in cultured primary mouse liver endothelial cells from control mice. EndMT was also reduced significantly in vivo in cirrhotic Tie2-tdTomato mice treated intraperitoneally with BMP-7 compared with untreated mice (1.9 ± 0.2 vs. 3.8 ± 0.3%, respectively; P < 0.05). The decrease of EndMT in cirrhotic livers correlated with a significant decrease in liver fibrosis (P < 0.05) and an improvement in the vascular disorganization rate (P < 0.05). We demonstrated the acquisition of the EndMT phenotype by a subpopulation of endothelial cells from cirrhotic livers in both animal models and patients. BMP-7 treatment decreases the occurrence of the EndMT phenotype and has a positive impact on the severity of disease by reducing fibrosis and sinusoidal vascular disorganization.NEW & NOTEWORTHY A subpopulation of liver endothelial cells from cirrhotic patients and mice with liver fibrosis undergoes endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Liver endothelial cells from healthy mice could transition into a mesenchymal phenotype in culture in response to TGF-β1 treatment. Fibrotic livers treated chronically with BMP-7 showed lower EndMT acquisition, reduced fibrosis, and improved vascular organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Ribera
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Department, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Montse Pauta
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Department, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pedro Melgar-Lesmes
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Department, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bernat Córdoba
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Department, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Bosch
- Advanced Optic Microscopy Unit, School of Medicine, Centres Científics i Tecnològics, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Calvo
- Advanced Optic Microscopy Unit, School of Medicine, Centres Científics i Tecnològics, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Rodrigo-Torres
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain; and
| | - Pau Sancho-Bru
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain; and
| | - Aurea Mira
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Department, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Biomedicine-Biochemistry Unit, School of Medicine University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Wladimiro Jiménez
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Department, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Biomedicine-Biochemistry Unit, School of Medicine University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Morales-Ruiz
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Department, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain; .,Department of Biomedicine-Biochemistry Unit, School of Medicine University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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35
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Kim IH. The Potential Role of Elk-3/Egr-1 Signaling Pathway in the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition during Liver Fibrosis. Gut Liver 2017; 11:11-12. [PMID: 28053299 PMCID: PMC5221856 DOI: 10.5009/gnl16564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- In Hee Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Research Institute of Clinical Medicine, Chonbuk National University Hospital, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
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36
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Li L, Li H, Zhang Z, Zheng J, Shi Y, Liu J, Cao Y, Yuan X, Chu Y. Recombinant truncated TGF‑β receptor II attenuates carbon tetrachloride‑induced epithelial‑mesenchymal transition and liver fibrosis in rats. Mol Med Rep 2017; 17:315-321. [PMID: 29115426 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.7845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a pathological process of chronic liver diseases. In particular, epithelial‑mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a major source of myofibroblast structure in liver fibrosis. The present study investigated the effects of recombinant truncated transforming growth factor‑ß receptor II (rtTGFβRII) on EMT and liver fibrosis in a carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‑induced rat model. A total of 24 rats were randomly separated into three groups: Normal control (NC), model (CCl4) and treatment (CCl4 + rtTGFβRII) groups. Histological methods, including hematoxylin and eosin, Masson's trichrome and Sirius red staining were conducted. The activities of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were measured using an automatic biochemical analyzer. The mRNA expression levels of fibroblast specific protein‑1 (FSP‑1), α‑smooth muscle actin (α‑SMA), fibronectin, collagen I, vimentin and E‑cadherin were detected using reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. The protein levels of fibronectin, collagen I, E‑cadherin, Smad2/3 and phosphorylated (p)‑Smad2/3 were detected using western blot analysis. The expression of α‑SMA, fibronectin, vimentin and E‑cadherin in the liver tissue was detected using immunofluorescence staining. The results demonstrated that in vivo, rtTGFβRII significantly reduced the degree of liver injury, serum ALT and AST activities and liver fibrosis. These factors were associated with reduced expression of FSP‑1, α‑SMA, fibronectin, collagen I, vimentin and p‑Smad2/3, and increased expression of E‑cadherin. The results of the present study suggest that rtTGFβRII may inhibit EMT processes in CCl4‑induced liver fibrosis in rats and alter the expression of epithelial and myofibroblast markers. Therefore, rtTGFβRII may be considered a possible treatment for preventing liver fibrosis via EMT processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luxin Li
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Anti‑Fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang 157011, P.R. China
| | - Hongzhi Li
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Anti‑Fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang 157011, P.R. China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Anti‑Fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang 157011, P.R. China
| | - Junya Zheng
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Anti‑Fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang 157011, P.R. China
| | - Yongping Shi
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Anti‑Fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang 157011, P.R. China
| | - Jieting Liu
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Anti‑Fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang 157011, P.R. China
| | - Yanan Cao
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Anti‑Fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang 157011, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohuan Yuan
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Anti‑Fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang 157011, P.R. China
| | - Yanhui Chu
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Anti‑Fibrosis Biotherapy, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang 157011, P.R. China
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37
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Wang M, Wang J, Li B, Meng L, Tian Z. Recent advances in mechanism-based chemotherapy drug-siRNA pairs in co-delivery systems for cancer: A review. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2017; 157:297-308. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2017.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2016] [Revised: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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38
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Metformin ameliorates the Phenotype Transition of Peritoneal Mesothelial Cells and Peritoneal Fibrosis via a modulation of Oxidative Stress. Sci Rep 2017; 7:5690. [PMID: 28720775 PMCID: PMC5515908 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-05836-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Phenotype transition of peritoneum is an early mechanism of peritoneal fibrosis. Metformin, 5′-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator, has recently received a new attention due to its preventive effect on organ fibrosis and cancer metastasis by inhibiting epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). We investigated the effect of metformin on EMT of human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMC) and animal model of peritoneal dialysis (PD). TGF-β1-induced EMT in HPMC was ameliorated by metformin. Metformin alleviated NAPDH oxidase- and mitochondria-mediated ROS production with an increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and SOD2 expression. Metformin inhibited the activation of Smad2/3 and MAPK, GSK-3β phosphorylation, nuclear translocalization of β-catenin and Snail in HPMCs. Effect of metformin on TGF-β1-induced EMT was ameliorated by either AMPK inhibitor or AMPK gene silencing. Another AMPK agonist, 5-amino-1-β-D-ribofuranosyl-imidazole-4-carboxamide partially blocked TGF-β1-induced EMT. In animal model of PD, intraperitoneal metformin decreased the peritoneal thickness and EMT with an increase in ratio of reduced to oxidized glutathione and the expression of SOD whereas it decreased the expression of nitrotyrosine and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine. Therefore, a modulation of AMPK in peritoneum can be a novel tool to prevent peritoneal fibrosis by providing a favorable oxidant/anti-oxidant milieu in peritoneal cavity and ameliorating phenotype transition of peritoneal mesothelial cells.
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39
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Horejs CM, St-Pierre JP, Ojala JRM, Steele JAM, da Silva PB, Rynne-Vidal A, Maynard SA, Hansel CS, Rodríguez-Fernández C, Mazo MM, You AYF, Wang AJ, von Erlach T, Tryggvason K, López-Cabrera M, Stevens MM. Preventing tissue fibrosis by local biomaterials interfacing of specific cryptic extracellular matrix information. Nat Commun 2017; 8:15509. [PMID: 28593951 PMCID: PMC5472175 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms15509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) contribute to the breakdown of tissue structures such as the basement membrane, promoting tissue fibrosis. Here we developed an electrospun membrane biofunctionalized with a fragment of the laminin β1-chain to modulate the expression of MMP2 in this context. We demonstrate that interfacing of the β1-fragment with the mesothelium of the peritoneal membrane via a biomaterial abrogates the release of active MMP2 in response to transforming growth factor β1 and rescues tissue integrity ex vivo and in vivo in a mouse model of peritoneal fibrosis. Importantly, our data demonstrate that the membrane inhibits MMP2 expression. Changes in the expression of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related molecules further point towards a contribution of the modulation of EMT. Biomaterial-based presentation of regulatory basement membrane signals directly addresses limitations of current therapeutic approaches by enabling a localized and specific method to counteract MMP2 release applicable to a broad range of therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine-Maria Horejs
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Scheeles väg 2, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
| | - Jean-Philippe St-Pierre
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Juha R M Ojala
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Scheeles väg 2, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
| | - Joseph A M Steele
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Scheeles väg 2, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
| | - Patricia Barros da Silva
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Scheeles väg 2, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
| | - Angela Rynne-Vidal
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Stephanie A Maynard
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Catherine S Hansel
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, Imperial College Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Clara Rodríguez-Fernández
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Manuel M Mazo
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Amanda Y F You
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Alex J Wang
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Thomas von Erlach
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Karl Tryggvason
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Scheeles väg 2, Stockholm 17177, Sweden.,Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-NUS, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Manuel López-Cabrera
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Molly M Stevens
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.,Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Scheeles väg 2, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
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40
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McDaniel K, Huang L, Sato K, Wu N, Annable T, Zhou T, Ramos-Lorenzo S, Wan Y, Huang Q, Francis H, Glaser S, Tsukamoto H, Alpini G, Meng F. The let-7/Lin28 axis regulates activation of hepatic stellate cells in alcoholic liver injury. J Biol Chem 2017; 292:11336-11347. [PMID: 28536261 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.773291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Revised: 05/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The let-7/Lin28 axis is associated with the regulation of key cellular regulatory genes known as microRNAs in various human disorders and cancer development. This study evaluated the role of the let-7/Lin28 axis in regulating a mesenchymal phenotype of hepatic stellate cells in alcoholic liver injury. We identified that ethanol feeding significantly down-regulated several members of the let-7 family in mouse liver, including let-7a and let-7b. Similarly, the treatment of human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) significantly decreased the expressions of let-7a and let-7b. Conversely, overexpression of let-7a and let-7b suppressed the myofibroblastic activation of cultured human HSCs induced by LPS and TGF-β, as evidenced by repressed ACTA2 (α-actin 2), COL1A1 (collagen 1A1), TIMP1 (TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 1), and FN1 (fibronectin 1); this supports the notion that HSC activation is controlled by let-7. A combination of bioinformatics, dual-luciferase reporter assay, and Western blot analysis revealed that Lin28B and high-mobility group AT-hook (HMGA2) were the direct targets of let-7a and let-7b. Furthermore, Lin28B deficiency increased the expression of let-7a/let-7b as well as reduced HSC activation and liver fibrosis in mice with alcoholic liver injury. This feedback regulation of let-7 by Lin28B is verified in hepatic stellate cells isolated by laser capture microdissection from the model. The identification of the let-7/Lin28 axis as an important regulator of HSC activation as well as its upstream modulators and down-stream targets will provide insights into the involvement of altered microRNA expression in contributing to the pathogenesis of alcoholic liver fibrosis and novel therapeutic approaches for human alcoholic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly McDaniel
- From the Division of Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, Texas 76504.,Digestive Disease Research Center, Department of Medicine, Baylor Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M Health Science Center, and Baylor Scott & White Hospital, Temple, Texas 76504.,Research Institute, Baylor Scott & White Health, Temple, Texas 76504
| | - Li Huang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Keisaku Sato
- Digestive Disease Research Center, Department of Medicine, Baylor Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M Health Science Center, and Baylor Scott & White Hospital, Temple, Texas 76504
| | - Nan Wu
- Digestive Disease Research Center, Department of Medicine, Baylor Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M Health Science Center, and Baylor Scott & White Hospital, Temple, Texas 76504
| | - Tami Annable
- Research Institute, Baylor Scott & White Health, Temple, Texas 76504.,Temple Bioscience District, Temple, Texas 76504
| | - Tianhao Zhou
- From the Division of Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, Texas 76504.,Digestive Disease Research Center, Department of Medicine, Baylor Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M Health Science Center, and Baylor Scott & White Hospital, Temple, Texas 76504
| | | | - Ying Wan
- Digestive Disease Research Center, Department of Medicine, Baylor Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M Health Science Center, and Baylor Scott & White Hospital, Temple, Texas 76504.,Research Institute, Baylor Scott & White Health, Temple, Texas 76504.,Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory for Shock and Microcirculation Research of Guangdong Province, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China, and
| | - Qiaobing Huang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory for Shock and Microcirculation Research of Guangdong Province, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China, and
| | - Heather Francis
- From the Division of Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, Texas 76504.,Digestive Disease Research Center, Department of Medicine, Baylor Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M Health Science Center, and Baylor Scott & White Hospital, Temple, Texas 76504.,Research Institute, Baylor Scott & White Health, Temple, Texas 76504
| | - Shannon Glaser
- From the Division of Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, Texas 76504.,Digestive Disease Research Center, Department of Medicine, Baylor Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M Health Science Center, and Baylor Scott & White Hospital, Temple, Texas 76504
| | - Hidekazu Tsukamoto
- Southern California Research Center for Alcoholic Liver and Pancreatic Diseases (ALPD) and Cirrhosis, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California and Department of Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California 90089
| | - Gianfranco Alpini
- From the Division of Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, Texas 76504, .,Digestive Disease Research Center, Department of Medicine, Baylor Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M Health Science Center, and Baylor Scott & White Hospital, Temple, Texas 76504
| | - Fanyin Meng
- From the Division of Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, Texas 76504, .,Digestive Disease Research Center, Department of Medicine, Baylor Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Texas A&M Health Science Center, and Baylor Scott & White Hospital, Temple, Texas 76504.,Research Institute, Baylor Scott & White Health, Temple, Texas 76504
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