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Cheng Z, Chen Y, Schnabl B, Chu H, Yang L. Bile acid and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis: Molecular insights and therapeutic targets. J Adv Res 2024; 59:173-187. [PMID: 37356804 PMCID: PMC11081971 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2023.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has been the second most common cause of liver transplantation in the United States. To date, NASH pathogenesis has not been fully elucidated but is multifactorial, involving insulin resistance, obesity, metabolic disorders, diet, dysbiosis, and gene polymorphism. An effective and approved therapy for NASH has also not been established. Bile acid is long known to have physiological detergent function in emulsifying and absorbing lipids and lipid-soluble molecules within the intestinal lumen. With more and more in-depth understandings of bile acid, it has been deemed to be a pivotal signaling molecule, which is capable of regulating lipid and glucose metabolism, liver inflammation, and fibrosis. In recent years, a plethora of studies have delineated that disrupted bile acid homeostasis is intimately correlated with NASH disease severity. AIMS The review aims to clarify the role of bile acid in hepatic lipid and glucose metabolism, liver inflammation, as well as liver fibrosis, and discusses the safety and efficacy of some pharmacological agents targeting bile acid and its associated pathways for NASH. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW Bile acid has a salutary effect on hepatic metabolic disorders, which can ameliorate liver fat accumulation and insulin resistance mainly through activating Takeda G-protein coupled receptor 5 and farnesoid X receptor. Moreover, bile acid also exerts anti-inflammation and anti-fibrosis properties. Furthermore, bile acid has great potential in nonalcoholic liver disease stratification and treatment of NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zilu Cheng
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430022, China
| | - Yixiong Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430022, China
| | - Bernd Schnabl
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Huikuan Chu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430022, China.
| | - Ling Yang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430022, China.
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Peng Y, Li Z, Zhang Z, Chen Y, Wang R, Xu N, Cao Y, Jiang C, Chen Z, Lin H. Bromocriptine protects perilesional spinal cord neurons from lipotoxicity after spinal cord injury. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1142-1149. [PMID: 37862220 PMCID: PMC10749608 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.385308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed that lipid droplets accumulate in neurons after brain injury and evoke lipotoxicity, damaging the neurons. However, how lipids are metabolized by spinal cord neurons after spinal cord injury remains unclear. Herein, we investigated lipid metabolism by spinal cord neurons after spinal cord injury and identified lipid-lowering compounds to treat spinal cord injury. We found that lipid droplets accumulated in perilesional spinal cord neurons after spinal cord injury in mice. Lipid droplet accumulation could be induced by myelin debris in HT22 cells. Myelin debris degradation by phospholipase led to massive free fatty acid production, which increased lipid droplet synthesis, β-oxidation, and oxidative phosphorylation. Excessive oxidative phosphorylation increased reactive oxygen species generation, which led to increased lipid peroxidation and HT22 cell apoptosis. Bromocriptine was identified as a lipid-lowering compound that inhibited phosphorylation of cytosolic phospholipase A2 by reducing the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 in the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway, thereby inhibiting myelin debris degradation by cytosolic phospholipase A2 and alleviating lipid droplet accumulation in myelin debris-treated HT22 cells. Motor function, lipid droplet accumulation in spinal cord neurons and neuronal survival were all improved in bromocriptine-treated mice after spinal cord injury. The results suggest that bromocriptine can protect neurons from lipotoxic damage after spinal cord injury via the extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2-cytosolic phospholipase A2 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Peng
- Trauma Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhuoxuan Li
- Trauma Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiyang Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yinglun Chen
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shanghai Geriatric Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Renyuan Wang
- Trauma Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Nixi Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanwu Cao
- Department of Orthopedics, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chang Jiang
- Department of Orthopedics, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zixian Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haodong Lin
- Trauma Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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3
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Zeng X, Jiang J, Liu S, Hu Q, Hu S, Zeng J, Ma X, Zhang X. Bidirectional effects of geniposide in liver injury: Preclinical evidence construction based on meta-analysis. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 319:117061. [PMID: 37598771 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Gardenia jasminoides J.Ellis is widely used to treat liver diseases in traditional Chinese medicine. Geniposide, a major active constituent of Gardenia jasminoides J.Ellis, exerts therapeutic effects against liver injury, however, it also induces hepatotoxicity. AIM OF THE STUDY This meta-analysis was designed to determine the mechanisms of both the hepatoprotective and hepatotoxic effects of geniposide. MATERIALS AND METHODS The articles analysed in this meta-analysis were primarily obtained from five databases. The 10-item SYRCLE risk-of-bias tool was used to evaluate the quality of the included articles. STATA (version 15.1) was used to evaluate the total effect or toxicity sizes. In addition, three-dimensional (3D) dose/time-effect and mechanistic analyses were performed to assess the therapeutic and toxic effects of geniposide. RESULTS A total of 25 studies involving 479 animals were included. Meta-analysis revealed that geniposide not only significantly (P < 0.001) increased liver injury indices including ALT and AST levels but also improved liver function by decreasing the levels of ALT, AST and inflammatory factors in animal models of liver injury. The 3D dose/time-effect analysis revealed that geniposide administered at a dose of 20-150 mg/kg for 5-28 days effectively protected the liver without inducing toxicity. Mechanistically, geniposide exerts protective or toxic effects by regulating the TNF-α/NF-κB pathway to control oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. CONCLUSION Geniposide exhibits dual pharmacological activity in liver injury. It exerts potent hepatoprotective effects when administered at a dose of 20-150 mg/kg for 5-28 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Jiajie Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China.
| | - Simiao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Qichao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Sihan Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China.
| | - Jinhao Zeng
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China.
| | - Xiao Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Xiaomei Zhang
- Institute of Medicinal Chemistry of Chinese Medicine, Chongqing Academy of Chinese Materia Medica, Chongqing, 400065, China.
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Marchianò S, Biagioli M, Bordoni M, Morretta E, Di Giorgio C, Vellecco V, Roselli R, Bellini R, Massa C, Cari L, Urbani G, Ricci P, Monti MC, Giordano A, Brancaleone V, Bucci M, Zampella A, Distrutti E, Cieri E, Cirino G, Fiorucci S. Defective Bile Acid Signaling Promotes Vascular Dysfunction, Supporting a Role for G-Protein Bile Acid Receptor 1/Farnesoid X Receptor Agonism and Statins in the Treatment of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e031241. [PMID: 37996988 PMCID: PMC10727350 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.031241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease are at increased risk to develop atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. FXR and GPBAR1 are 2 bile acid-activated receptors exploited in the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: whether dual GPBAR1/FXR agonists synergize with statins in the treatment of the liver and cardiovascular components of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is unknown. METHODS AND RESULTS Investigations of human aortic samples obtained from patients who underwent surgery for aortic aneurysms and Gpbar1-/-, Fxr-/-, and dual Gpbar1-/-Fxr-/- mice demonstrated that GPBAR1 and FXR are expressed in the aortic wall and regulate endothelial cell/macrophage interactions. The expression of GPBAR1 in the human endothelium correlated with the expression of inflammatory biomarkers. Mice lacking Fxr and Gpbar1-/-/Fxr-/- display hypotension and aortic inflammation, along with altered intestinal permeability that deteriorates with age, and severe dysbiosis, along with dysregulated bile acid synthesis. Vasomotor activities of aortic rings were altered by Gpbar1 and Fxr gene ablation. In apolipoprotein E-/- and wild-type mice, BAR502, a dual GPBAR1/FXR agonist, alone or in combination with atorvastatin, reduced cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein plasma levels, mitigated the development of liver steatosis and aortic plaque formation, and shifted the polarization of circulating leukocytes toward an anti-inflammatory phenotype. BAR502/atorvastatin reversed intestinal dysbiosis and dysregulated bile acid synthesis, promoting a shift of bile acid pool composition toward FXR antagonists and GPBAR1 agonists. CONCLUSIONS FXR and GPBAR1 maintain intestinal, liver, and cardiovascular homeostasis, and their therapeutic targeting with a dual GPBAR1/FXR ligand and atorvastatin holds potential in the treatment of liver and cardiovascular components of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Marchianò
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Michele Biagioli
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Martina Bordoni
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Elva Morretta
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of SalernoSalernoItaly
| | | | | | | | - Rachele Bellini
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Carmen Massa
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Luigi Cari
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Ginevra Urbani
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Patrizia Ricci
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | | | | | | | | | - Angela Zampella
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of Naples Federico IINaplesItaly
| | | | - Enrico Cieri
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Giuseppe Cirino
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of Naples Federico IINaplesItaly
| | - Stefano Fiorucci
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
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Ding C, Wang Z, Dou X, Yang Q, Ning Y, Kao S, Sang X, Hao M, Wang K, Peng M, Zhang S, Han X, Cao G. Farnesoid X receptor: From Structure to Function and Its Pharmacology in Liver Fibrosis. Aging Dis 2023:AD.2023.0830. [PMID: 37815898 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a ligand-activated transcription factor, plays a crucial role in regulating bile acid metabolism within the enterohepatic circulation. Beyond its involvement in metabolic disorders and immune imbalances affecting various tissues, FXR is implicated in microbiota modulation, gut- to-brain communication, and liver disease. The liver, as a pivotal metabolic and detoxification organ, is susceptible to damage from factors such as alcohol, viruses, drugs, and high-fat diets. Chronic or recurrent liver injury can culminate in liver fibrosis, which, if left untreated, may progress to cirrhosis and even liver cancer, posing significant health risks. However, therapeutic options for liver fibrosis remain limited in terms of FDA- approved drugs. Recent insights into the structure of FXR, coupled with animal and clinical investigations, have shed light on its potential pharmacological role in hepatic fibrosis. Progress has been achieved in both fundamental research and clinical applications. This review critically examines recent advancements in FXR research, highlighting challenges and potential mechanisms underlying its role in liver fibrosis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Ding
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- Jinhua Institute, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Jinhua, China
| | - Zeping Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinyue Dou
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiao Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Ning
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shi Kao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xianan Sang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Min Hao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kuilong Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mengyun Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuosheng Zhang
- College of Chinese Materia Medica and Food Engineering, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, China
| | - Xin Han
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- Jinhua Institute, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Jinhua, China
| | - Gang Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- Jinhua Institute, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Jinhua, China
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6
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Fiorucci S, Sepe V, Biagioli M, Fiorillo B, Rapacciuolo P, Distrutti E, Zampella A. Development of bile acid activated receptors hybrid molecules for the treatment of inflammatory and metabolic disorders. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 216:115776. [PMID: 37659739 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
The farnesoid-x-receptor (FXR) and the G protein bile acid activated receptor (GPBAR)1 are two bile acid activated receptors highly expressed in entero-hepatic, immune, adipose and cardiovascular tissues. FXR and GPBAR1 are clinically validated targets in the treatment of metabolic disorders and FXR agonists are currently trialled in patients with non-alcoholic steato-hepatitis (NASH). Results of these trials, however, have raised concerns over safety and efficacy of selective FXR ligands suggesting that the development of novel agent designed to impact on multiple targets might have utility in the treatment of complex, multigenic, disorders. Harnessing on FXR and GPBAR1 agonists, several novel hybrid molecules have been developed, including dual FXR and GPBAR1 agonists and antagonists, while exploiting the flexibility of FXR agonists toward other nuclear receptors, dual FXR and peroxisome proliferators-activated receptors (PPARs) and liver-X-receptors (LXRs) and Pregnane-X-receptor (PXR) agonists have been reported. In addition, modifications of FXR agonists has led to the discovery of dual FXR agonists and fatty acid binding protein (FABP)1 and Leukotriene B4 hydrolase (LTB4H) inhibitors. The GPBAR1 binding site has also proven flexible to accommodate hybrid molecules functioning as GPBAR1 agonist and cysteinyl leukotriene receptor (CYSLTR)1 antagonists, as well as dual GPBAR1 agonists and retinoid-related orphan receptor (ROR)γt antagonists, dual GPBAR1 agonist and LXR antagonists and dual GPBAR1 agonists endowed with inhibitory activity on dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4). In this review we have revised the current landscape of FXR and GPBAR1 based hybrid agents focusing on their utility in the treatment of metabolic associated liver disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Fiorucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy.
| | - Valentina Sepe
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Michele Biagioli
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Bianca Fiorillo
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Pasquale Rapacciuolo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Via D. Montesano, 49, Naples I-80131, Italy
| | | | - Angela Zampella
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Via D. Montesano, 49, Naples I-80131, Italy
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7
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Combinatorial therapy with BAR502 and UDCA resets FXR and GPBAR1 signaling and reverses liver histopathology in a model of NASH. Sci Rep 2023; 13:1602. [PMID: 36709356 PMCID: PMC9884292 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-28647-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatosis (NAFLD) and steatohepatitis (NASH) are two highly prevalent human disorders for which therapy remains suboptimal. Bile acids are signaling molecules acting on two main receptors the Farnesoid-x-receptor (FXR) and G protein coupled receptor GPB AR1. Clinical trials have shown that FXR agonism might result in side effects along with lack of efficacy in restoring liver histopathology. For these reasons a multi-targets therapy combined FXR agonists with agent targeting additional molecular mechanisms might have improved efficacy over selective FXR agonists. In the present study we have compared the effects of BAR502, a dual FXR/GPBAR1 ligand) alone or in combination with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) in a model of NAFLD/NASH induced by feeding mice with a Western diet for 10 weeks. The results demonstrated that while BAR502 and UDCA partially protected against liver damage caused by Western diet, the combination of the two, reversed the pro-atherogenic lipid profile and completely reversed the histopathology damage, attenuating liver steatosis, ballooning, inflammation and fibrosis. Additionally, while both agents increased insulin sensitivity and bile acid signaling, the combination of the two, modulated up top 85 genes in comparison of mice feed a Western diet, strongly reducing expression of inflammatory markers such as chemokines and cytokines. Additionally, the combination of the two agents redirected the bile acid metabolism toward bile acid species that are GPBAR1 agonist while reduced liver bile acid content and increased fecal excretion. Together, these data, highlight the potential role for a combinatorial therapy based on BAR502 and UDCA in treating of NAFLD.
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8
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Marchianò S, Biagioli M, Roselli R, Zampella A, Di Giorgio C, Bordoni M, Bellini R, Urbani G, Morretta E, Monti MC, Distrutti E, Fiorucci S. Beneficial effects of UDCA and norUDCA in a rodent model of steatosis are linked to modulation of GPBAR1/FXR signaling. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2022; 1867:159218. [PMID: 35985473 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2022.159218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatosis (NAFLD) and steatohepatitis (NASH) are two highly prevalent human disorders for which therapy remains suboptimal. Bile acids play an essential role in regulating liver metabolism, and several bile acids-based therapy are currently investigated for their potential therapeutic efficacy in NAFLD/NASH. Bile acids exert their functions, at least in part, by modulating two main receptors the Farnesoid-x-receptor (FXR) and the G protein-coupled receptor, GPBAR1. In the present study we have compared the pharmacological effects of two bile acids, the ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and its derivative norUDCA, in a model of NAFLD/NASH induced by feeding mice with a Western diet for 12 weeks. The results of these studies demonstrated that both UDCA and norUDCA protected against development of steatosis and fibrosis, but did not reduce the hepatocytes ballooning nor the development of a pro-atherogenic lipid profile. Both agents reduced liver lipogenesis and ameliorated insulin sensitivity and adipocytes signaling as shown by increased expression of adiponectin. Mechanistically, UDCA acts as weak GPBAR1 agonist, while norUDCA exerted no effect on both GPBAR1 and FXR. In vivo administration of UDCA resets bile acid synthesis and promotes a shift toward bile acids species that are GPBAR1 agonists, UDCA, TUDCA and hyodeoxycholic acid, and increases GLP1 expression in the ileum. In contrast norUDCA is poorly metabolized exerting a minimal impact on GPBAR1 signaling. Together, these data, highlight the potential role of UDCA and norUDCA in treating of NAFLD, though these beneficial effects are supported by different mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Marchianò
- University of Perugia, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia, Italy
| | - Michele Biagioli
- University of Perugia, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia, Italy
| | - Rosalinda Roselli
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Pharmacy, Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Zampella
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Pharmacy, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Martina Bordoni
- University of Perugia, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia, Italy
| | - Rachele Bellini
- University of Perugia, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia, Italy
| | - Ginevra Urbani
- University of Perugia, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia, Italy
| | - Elva Morretta
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Italy
| | | | | | - Stefano Fiorucci
- University of Perugia, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia, Italy.
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9
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Fiorucci S, Zampella A, Ricci P, Distrutti E, Biagioli M. Immunomodulatory functions of FXR. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 551:111650. [PMID: 35472625 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2022.111650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The Farnesoid-x-receptor (FXR) is a bile acids sensor activated in humans by primary bile acids. FXR is mostly expressed in liver, intestine and adrenal glands but also by cells of innate immunity, including macrophages, liver resident macrophages, the Kupffer cells, natural killer cells and dendritic cells. In normal physiology and clinical disorders, cells of innate immunity mediate communications between liver, intestine and adipose tissues. In addition to FXR, the G protein coupled receptor (GPBAR1), that is mainly activated by secondary bile acids, whose expression largely overlaps FXR, modulates chemical communications from the intestinal microbiota and the host's immune system, integrating epithelial cells and immune cells in the entero-hepatic system, providing a mechanism for development of a tolerogenic state toward the intestinal microbiota. Disruption of FXR results in generalized inflammation and disrupted bile acids metabolism. While FXR agonism in preclinical models provides counter-regulatory signals that attenuate inflammation-driven immune dysfunction in a variety of liver and intestinal disease models, the clinical relevance of these mechanisms in the setting of FXR-related disorders remain poorly defined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Fiorucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy. http://www.gastroenterologia.unipg.it
| | - Angela Zampella
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Pharmacy, Naples, Italy
| | - Patrizia Ricci
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Eleonora Distrutti
- SC di Gastroenterologia ed Epatologia, Azienda Ospedaliera di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Michele Biagioli
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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10
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Guan B, Tong J, Hao H, Yang Z, Chen K, Xu H, Wang A. Bile acid coordinates microbiota homeostasis and systemic immunometabolism in cardiometabolic diseases. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:2129-2149. [PMID: 35646540 PMCID: PMC9136572 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2021.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiometabolic disease (CMD), characterized with metabolic disorder triggered cardiovascular events, is a leading cause of death and disability. Metabolic disorders trigger chronic low-grade inflammation, and actually, a new concept of metaflammation has been proposed to define the state of metabolism connected with immunological adaptations. Amongst the continuously increased list of systemic metabolites in regulation of immune system, bile acids (BAs) represent a distinct class of metabolites implicated in the whole process of CMD development because of its multifaceted roles in shaping systemic immunometabolism. BAs can directly modulate the immune system by either boosting or inhibiting inflammatory responses via diverse mechanisms. Moreover, BAs are key determinants in maintaining the dynamic communication between the host and microbiota. Importantly, BAs via targeting Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and diverse other nuclear receptors play key roles in regulating metabolic homeostasis of lipids, glucose, and amino acids. Moreover, BAs axis per se is susceptible to inflammatory and metabolic intervention, and thereby BAs axis may constitute a reciprocal regulatory loop in metaflammation. We thus propose that BAs axis represents a core coordinator in integrating systemic immunometabolism implicated in the process of CMD. We provide an updated summary and an intensive discussion about how BAs shape both the innate and adaptive immune system, and how BAs axis function as a core coordinator in integrating metabolic disorder to chronic inflammation in conditions of CMD.
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Key Words
- AS, atherosclerosis
- ASBT, apical sodium-dependent bile salt transporter
- BAs, bile acids
- BSEP, bile salt export pump
- BSH, bile salt hydrolases
- Bile acid
- CA, cholic acid
- CAR, constitutive androstane receptor
- CCs, cholesterol crystals
- CDCA, chenodeoxycholic acid
- CMD, cardiometabolic disease
- CVDs, cardiovascular diseases
- CYP7A1, cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase
- CYP8B1, sterol 12α-hydroxylase
- Cardiometabolic diseases
- DAMPs, danger-associated molecular patterns
- DCA, deoxycholic acid
- DCs, dendritic cells
- ERK, extracellular signal-regulated kinase
- FA, fatty acids
- FFAs, free fatty acids
- FGF, fibroblast growth factor
- FMO3, flavin-containing monooxygenase 3
- FXR, farnesoid X receptor
- GLP-1, glucagon-like peptide 1
- HCA, hyocholic acid
- HDL, high-density lipoprotein
- HFD, high fat diet
- HNF, hepatocyte nuclear receptor
- IL, interleukin
- IR, insulin resistance
- JNK, c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase
- LCA, lithocholic acid
- LDL, low-density lipoprotein
- LDLR, low-density lipoprotein receptor
- LPS, lipopolysaccharide
- NAFLD, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- NASH, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
- NF-κB, nuclear factor-κB
- NLRP3, NLR family pyrin domain containing 3
- Nuclear receptors
- OCA, obeticholic acid
- PKA, protein kinase A
- PPARα, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha
- PXR, pregnane X receptor
- RCT, reverses cholesterol transportation
- ROR, retinoid-related orphan receptor
- S1PR2, sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 2
- SCFAs, short-chain fatty acids
- SHP, small heterodimer partner
- Systemic immunometabolism
- TG, triglyceride
- TGR5, takeda G-protein receptor 5
- TLR, toll-like receptor
- TMAO, trimethylamine N-oxide
- Therapeutic opportunities
- UDCA, ursodeoxycholic acid
- VDR, vitamin D receptor
- cAMP, cyclic adenosine monophosphate
- mTOR, mammalian target of rapamycin
- ox-LDL, oxidated low-density lipoprotein
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoyi Guan
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Jinlin Tong
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Haiping Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhixu Yang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Keji Chen
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Anlu Wang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing 100091, China
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11
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Li HY, Peng ZG. Targeting lipophagy as a potential therapeutic strategy for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 197:114933. [PMID: 35093393 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.114933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is becoming an increasingly serious disease worldwide. Unfortunately, no specific drug has been approved to treat NAFLD. Accumulating evidence suggests that lipotoxicity, which is induced by an excess of intracellular triacylglycerols (TAGs), is a potential mechanism underlying the ill-defined progression of NAFLD. Under physiological conditions, a balance is maintained between TAGs and free fatty acids (FFAs) in the liver. TAGs are catabolized to FFAs through neutral lipolysis and/or lipophagy, while FFAs can be anabolized to TAGs through an esterification reaction. However, in the livers of patients with NAFLD, lipophagy appears to fail. Reversing this abnormal state through several lipophagic molecules (mTORC1, AMPK, PLIN, etc.) facilitates NAFLD amelioration; therefore, restoring failed lipophagy may be a highly efficient therapeutic strategy for NAFLD. Here, we outline the lipophagy phases with the relevant important proteins and discuss the roles of lipophagy in the progression of NAFLD. Additionally, the potential candidate drugs with therapeutic value targeting these proteins are discussed to show novel strategies for future treatment of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Ying Li
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Zong-Gen Peng
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China; Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, The National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China.
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12
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Chi Y, Youn DY, Xiaoli AM, Liu L, Qiu Y, Kurland IJ, Pessin JB, Yang F, Pessin JE. Comparative impact of dietary carbohydrates on the liver transcriptome in two strains of mice. Physiol Genomics 2021; 53:456-472. [PMID: 34643091 PMCID: PMC8616594 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00053.2021] [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: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Excessive long-term consumption of dietary carbohydrates, including glucose, sucrose, or fructose, has been shown to have significant impact on genome-wide gene expression, which likely results from changes in metabolic substrate flux. However, there has been no comprehensive study on the acute effects of individual sugars on the genome-wide gene expression that may reveal the genetic changes altering signaling pathways, subsequent metabolic processes, and ultimately physiological/pathological responses. Considering that gene expressions in response to acute carbohydrate ingestion might be different in nutrient sensitive and insensitive mammals, we conducted comparative studies of genome-wide gene expression by deep mRNA sequencing of the liver in nutrient sensitive C57BL/6J and nutrient insensitive BALB/cJ mice. Furthermore, to determine the temporal responses, we compared livers from mice in the fasted state and following ingestion of standard laboratory mouse chow supplemented with plain drinking water or water containing 20% glucose, sucrose, or fructose. Supplementation with these carbohydrates induced unique extents and temporal changes in gene expressions in a strain specific manner. Fructose and sucrose stimulated gene changes peaked at 3 h postprandial, whereas glucose effects peaked at 12 h and 6 h postprandial in C57BL/6J and BABL/cJ mice, respectively. Network analyses revealed that fructose changed genes were primarily involved in lipid metabolism and were more complex in C57BL/6J than in BALB/cJ mice. These data demonstrate that there are qualitative and antitative differences in the normal physiological responses of the liver between these two strains of mice and C57BL/6J is more sensitive to sugar intake than BALB/cJ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuling Chi
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
- The Fleischer Institute of Diabetes and Metabolism, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Dou Yeon Youn
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
- The Fleischer Institute of Diabetes and Metabolism, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Alus M Xiaoli
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
- The Fleischer Institute of Diabetes and Metabolism, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
- Department of Developmental and Molecular Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
- The Fleischer Institute of Diabetes and Metabolism, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Yunping Qiu
- Einstein Stable Isotope and Metabolomics Core, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Irwin J Kurland
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
- Einstein Stable Isotope and Metabolomics Core, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Jacob B Pessin
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Fajun Yang
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
- The Fleischer Institute of Diabetes and Metabolism, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
- Department of Developmental and Molecular Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Jeffrey E Pessin
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
- The Fleischer Institute of Diabetes and Metabolism, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
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13
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Bile acid activated receptors: Integrating immune and metabolic regulation in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. LIVER RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livres.2021.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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14
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Fiorucci S, Biagioli M, Baldoni M, Ricci P, Sepe V, Zampella A, Distrutti E. The identification of farnesoid X receptor modulators as treatment options for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2021; 16:1193-1208. [PMID: 33849361 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2021.1916465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The farnesoid-x-receptor (FXR) is a ubiquitously expressed nuclear receptor selectively activated by primary bile acids. AREA COVERED FXR is a validated pharmacological target. Herein, the authors review preclinical and clinical data supporting the development of FXR agonists in the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. EXPERT OPINION Development of systemic FXR agonists to treat the metabolic liver disease has been proven challenging because the side effects associated with these agents including increased levels of cholesterol and LDL-c and reduced HDL-c raising concerns over their long-term cardiovascular safety. Additionally, pruritus has emerged as a common, although poorly explained, dose-related side effect with all FXR ligands, but is especially common with OCA. FXR agonists that are currently undergoing phase 2/3 trials are cilofexor, tropifexor, nidufexor and MET409. Some of these agents are currently being developed as combination therapies with other agents including cenicriviroc, a CCR2/CCR5 inhibitor, or firsocostat an acetyl CoA carboxylase inhibitor. Additional investigations are needed to evaluate the beneficial effects of combination of these agents with statins. It is expected that in the coming years, FXR agonists will be developed as a combination therapy to minimize side effects and increase likelihood of success by targeting different metabolic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Fiorucci
- Dipartimento Di Medicina E Chirurgia, Università Di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Michele Biagioli
- Dipartimento Di Medicina E Chirurgia, Università Di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Monia Baldoni
- Dipartimento Di Medicina E Chirurgia, Università Di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Patrizia Ricci
- Dipartimento Di Medicina E Chirurgia, Università Di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Valentina Sepe
- Department of Pharmacy University of Napoli, Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Angela Zampella
- Department of Pharmacy University of Napoli, Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Eleonora Distrutti
- SC Di Gastroenterologia Ed Epatologia, Azienda Ospedaliera Di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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15
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Farnesoid X receptor (FXR): Structures and ligands. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2021; 19:2148-2159. [PMID: 33995909 PMCID: PMC8091178 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2021.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is a bile acid activated nuclear receptor (BAR) and is mainly expressed in the liver and intestine. Upon ligand binding, FXR regulates key genes involved in the metabolic process of bile acid synthesis, transport and reabsorption and is also involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids. Because of its important functions, FXR is considered as a promising drug target for the therapy of bile acid-related liver diseases. With the approval of obeticholic acid (OCA) as the first small molecule to target FXR, many other small molecules are being evaluated in clinical trials. This review summarizes the structures of FXR, especially its ligand binding domain, and the development of small molecules (including agonists and antagonists) targeting FXR.
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16
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Potenza M, Cavalluzzi MM, Milani G, Lauro G, Carino A, Roselli R, Fiorucci S, Zampella A, Pierri CL, Lentini G, Bifulco G. Inverse Virtual Screening for the rapid re-evaluation of the presumed biological safe profile of natural products. The case of steviol from Stevia rebaudiana glycosides on farnesoid X receptor (FXR). Bioorg Chem 2021; 111:104897. [PMID: 33901797 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.104897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Nonnutritive sweeteners (NNSs) are widely employed as dietary substitutes for classical sugars thanks to their safety profile and low toxicity. In this study, a re-evaluation of the biological effects of steviol (1), the main metabolite from Stevia rebaudiana glycosides, was performed using the Inverse Virtual Screening (IVS) target fishing computational approach. Starting from well-known pharmacological properties of Stevia rebaudiana glycosides, this computational tool was employed for predicting the putative interacting targets of 1 and, afterwards, of its five synthetic ester derivatives 2-6, accounting a large panel of proteins involved in cancer and inflammation events. Applying this methodology, the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) was identified as the putative target partner of 1-6. The predicted ligand-protein interactions were corroborated by transactivation assays, specifically disclosing the agonistic activity of 1 and the antagonistic activities of 2-6 on FXR. The reported results highlight the feasibility of IVS as a fast and potent tool for predicting the interacting targets of query compounds, addressing the re-evaluation of their bioactivity. In light of the obtained results, the presumably safe profile of known compounds, such as the case of steviol (1), is critically discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Potenza
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Maria Maddalena Cavalluzzi
- Department of Pharmacy - Drug Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 4, Bari 70126, Italy
| | - Gualtiero Milani
- Department of Pharmacy - Drug Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 4, Bari 70126, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Lauro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Adriana Carino
- Department of Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, Nuova facoltà di Medicina, Perugia, Italy
| | - Rosalinda Roselli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples, Via Domenico Montesano, 49, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Stefano Fiorucci
- Department of Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, Nuova facoltà di Medicina, Perugia, Italy
| | - Angela Zampella
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples, Via Domenico Montesano, 49, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Ciro Leonardo Pierri
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies, and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 4, Bari 70126, Italy
| | - Giovanni Lentini
- Department of Pharmacy - Drug Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 4, Bari 70126, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bifulco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, Fisciano 84084, Italy.
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17
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Fiorucci S, Distrutti E, Carino A, Zampella A, Biagioli M. Bile acids and their receptors in metabolic disorders. Prog Lipid Res 2021; 82:101094. [PMID: 33636214 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2021.101094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Bile acids are a large family of atypical steroids which exert their functions by binding to a family of ubiquitous cell membrane and nuclear receptors. There are two main bile acid activated receptors, FXR and GPBAR1, that are exclusively activated by bile acids, while other receptors CAR, LXRs, PXR, RORγT, S1PR2and VDR are activated by bile acids in addition to other more selective endogenous ligands. In the intestine, activation of FXR and GPBAR1 promotes the release of FGF15/19 and GLP1 which integrate their signaling with direct effects exerted by theother receptors in target tissues. This network is tuned in a time ordered manner by circadian rhythm and is critical for the regulation of metabolic process including autophagy, fast-to-feed transition, lipid and glucose metabolism, energy balance and immune responses. In the last decade FXR ligands have entered clinical trials but development of systemic FXR agonists has been proven challenging because their side effects including increased levels of cholesterol and Low Density Lipoproteins cholesterol (LDL-c) and reduced High-Density Lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c). In addition, pruritus has emerged as a common, dose related, side effect of FXR ligands. Intestinal-restricted FXR and GPBAR1 agonists and dual FXR/GPBAR1 agonists have been developed. Here we review the last decade in bile acids physiology and pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Fiorucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Distrutti
- SC di Gastroenterologia ed Epatologia, Azienda Ospedaliera di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Adriana Carino
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Angela Zampella
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli, Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Michele Biagioli
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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18
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Zhang C, Wang Z, Feng Q, Chen WD, Wang YD. Farnesoid X receptor: a potential therapeutic target in multiple organs. Histol Histopathol 2021; 35:1403-1414. [PMID: 33393073 DOI: 10.14670/hh-18-301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a member of the nuclear receptor family, is a common receptor found in the intestine and liver, and helps to maintain systemic metabolic homeostasis through regulating bile acid, glucose, lipid metabolism, and energy homeostatsis. In addition, FXR regulates the functions of various organs, such as liver, intestine, kidney, breast, pancreas, cardiovascular system and brain. FXR also plays a key role in regulation of gut-microbiota through mediating the various signaling pathways. Accordingly, FXR has become an attractive therapeutic target in a variety of diseases. This review combines classical and recent research reports to introduce the basic information about FXR and its important roles in various organs of the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, PR China
| | - Zixuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, PR China
| | - Qingqing Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, PR China
| | - Wei-Dong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, PR China.,Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, the People's Hospital of Hebi, School of Medicine, Henan University, Henan, PR China
| | - Yan-Dong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, PR China.
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19
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Fiorucci S, Biagioli M, Sepe V, Zampella A, Distrutti E. Bile acid modulators for the treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2020; 29:623-632. [PMID: 32552182 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2020.1763302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a progressive form of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) for which therapy is suboptimal. The farnesoid-X-receptor (FXR) and the G protein bile acid receptor (GPBAR)1 are two bile acid-activated receptors that exert regulatory effects on lipid, glucose, energy, and immune homeostasis. GPBAR1 and FXR ligands have shown efficacy in reversing steatohepatitis and fibrosis in preclinical models of NASH. AREA COVERED This article evaluates the efficacy and pitfalls of GPBAR1 and FXR-based therapies in the treatment of NASH. While there are no GPBAR1 agonist in clinical development, several FXR ligands have completed phase 2 and phase 3 trials in NASH. EDP305, tropifexor, cilofexor, nidufexor, TERN.101, Px-104, EYP001, MET409. Individual FXR agonists have shown variable efficacy in reversing liver steatohepatitis and fibrosis. Class-related, dose-dependent side effects: pruritus, increased plasma levels of cholesterol and LDLc, and reduction of HDL have been reported. EXPERT OPINION Efficacy of FXR agonists as stand-alone therapy is limited by dose-related side effects. Efficacy of combining an FXR agonist with statins, CCR2, and ACC inhibitors is currently investigated. Identification of patient subsets would allow development of patients tailored therapy using a combination of drugs acting on different molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Fiorucci
- Dipartimento Di Scienze Biomediche E Chirurgiche, Università Di Perugia , Perugia, Italy
| | - Michele Biagioli
- Dipartimento Di Scienze Biomediche E Chirurgiche, Università Di Perugia , Perugia, Italy
| | - Valentina Sepe
- Dipartimento Di Farmacia, Università Di Napoli ' Federico II' , Napoli, Italy
| | - Angela Zampella
- Dipartimento Di Farmacia, Università Di Napoli ' Federico II' , Napoli, Italy
| | - Eleonora Distrutti
- SC Di Gastroenterologia Ed Epatologia, Azienda Ospedaliera Di Perugia , Perugia, Italy
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20
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Wang J, Liu H, Xie G, Cai W, Xu J. Identification of hub genes and key pathways of dietary advanced glycation end products‑induced non‑alcoholic fatty liver disease by bioinformatics analysis and animal experiments. Mol Med Rep 2019; 21:685-694. [PMID: 31974594 PMCID: PMC6947946 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2019.10872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common chronic liver disease. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) negatively affect the liver and accelerate NAFLD progression; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The present study aimed to examine the effect and mechanism of dietary AGEs on the mouse liver using bioinformatics and in vivo experimental approaches. Gene expression datasets associated with NAFLD were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using GEO2R. Functional enrichment analyses were performed using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery and a protein-protein interaction network for the DEGs was constructed using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes database. MCODE, a Cytoscape plugin, was subsequently used to identify the most significant module. The key genes involved were verified in a dietary AGE-induced non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) mouse model using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). The 462 DEGs associated with NAFLD in the two datasets, of which 34 overlapping genes were found in two microarray datasets. Functional analysis demonstrated that the 34 DEGs were enriched in the ‘PPAR signaling pathway’, ‘central carbon metabolism in cancer’, and ‘cell adhesion molecules (CAMs)’. Moreover, four hub genes (cell death-inducing DFFA-like effector a, cell death-inducing DFFA-like effector c, fatty acid-binding protein 4 and perilipin 4) were identified from a protein-protein interaction network and were verified using RT-qPCR in a mouse model of NASH. The results suggested that AGEs and their receptor axis may be involved in NAFLD onset and/or progression. This integrative analysis identified candidate genes and pathways in NAFLD, as well as DEGs and hub genes related to NAFLD progression in silico and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Honghong Liu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Guijiao Xie
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Wei Cai
- Department of Medical Genetics and Cell Biology, Medical College of Nanchang University,
Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Jixiong Xu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
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