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Yang S, Cao SJ, Li CY, Zhang Q, Zhang BL, Qiu F, Kang N. Berberine directly targets AKR1B10 protein to modulate lipid and glucose metabolism disorders in NAFLD. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 332:118354. [PMID: 38762210 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Berberine (BBR) is the main active component from Coptidis rhizome, a well-known Chinese herbal medicine used for metabolic diseases, especially diabetes for thousands of years. BBR has been reported to cure various metabolic disorders, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, the direct proteomic targets and underlying molecular mechanism of BBR against NAFLD remain less understood. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the direct target and corresponding molecular mechanism of BBR on NAFLD is the aim of the current study. MATERIALS AND METHODS High-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice and oleic acid (OA) stimulated HepG2 cells were utilized to verify the beneficial impacts of BBR on glycolipid metabolism profiles. The click chemistry in proteomics, DARTS, CETSA, SPR and fluorescence co-localization analysis were conducted to identify the targets of BBR for NAFLD. RNA-seq and shRNA/siRNA were used to investigate the downstream pathways of the target. RESULTS BBR improved hepatic steatosis, ameliorated insulin resistance, and reduced TG levels in the NAFLD models. Importantly, Aldo-keto reductase 1B10 (AKR1B10) was first proved as the target of BBR for NAFLD. The gene expression of AKR1B10 increased significantly in the NAFLD patients' liver tissue. We further demonstrated that HFD and OA increased AKR1B10 expression in the C57BL/6 mice's liver and HepG2 cells, respectively, whereas BBR decreased the expression and activities of AKR1B10. Moreover, the knockdown of AKR1B10 by applying shRNA/siRNA profoundly impacted the beneficial effects on the pathogenesis of NAFLD by BBR. Meanwhile, the changes in various proteins (ACC1, CPT-1, GLUT2, etc.) are responsible for hepatic lipogenesis, fatty acid oxidation, glucose uptake, etc. by BBR were reversed by the knockdown of AKR1B10. Additionally, RNA-seq was used to identify the downstream pathway of AKR1B10 by examining the gene expression of liver tissues from HFD-fed mice. Our findings revealed that BBR markedly increased the protein levels of PPARα while downregulating the expression of PPARγ. However, various proteins of PPAR signaling pathways remained unaffected post the knockdown of AKR1B10. CONCLUSIONS BBR alleviated NAFLD via mediating PPAR signaling pathways through targeting AKR1B10. This study proved that AKR1B10 is a novel target of BBR for NAFLD treatment and helps to find new targets for the treatment of NAFLD by using active natural compounds isolated from traditional herbal medicines as the probe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sa Yang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China; State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Shi-Jie Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Cong-Yu Li
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China; State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Bo-Li Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Feng Qiu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China; State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Substance of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China.
| | - Ning Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China; School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China.
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Gu S, Wang J, Yu S, Zhang S, Gao T, Yan D, Xie R, Gu M, Yu M, Zhang Z, Lou Z, Ding X, Chen Y, Li C. Berberine ameliorates nonalcoholic fatty liver disease-induced bone loss by inhibiting ferroptosis. Bone 2024; 185:117114. [PMID: 38723878 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2024.117114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) may contribute to osteoporosis. Berberine is a traditional Chinese medicine and was recently shown to be beneficial in NAFLD. However, little is known about its impact on bone loss induced by NAFLD. AIM We aimed to explore the role of berberine in bone loss and determine its underlying mechanisms in NAFLD. METHODS C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat high-fructose high-glucose diet (HFFGD) for 16 weeks to establish a NAFLD mouse model. The mice were administered berberine (300 mg/kg/d) by gavage, and fatty liver levels and bone loss indicators were tested. RESULTS Berberine significantly improved HFFGD-induced weight gain, hepatic lipid accumulation and increases in serum liver enzymes, thereby alleviating NAFLD. Berberine increased trabecular number (Tb. N), trabecular thickness (Tb. Th), bone volume to tissue volume ratio (BV/TV), and decreased trabecular separation (Tb. Sp) and restored bone loss in NAFLD. Mechanistically, berberine significantly inhibited ferroptosis and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2), and transferrin (TF) levels and increased ferritin heavy chain (FTH) levels in the femurs of HFFGD-fed mice. Moreover, berberine also activated the solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11)/glutathione (GSH)/glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) signaling pathway. CONCLUSION Berberine significantly ameliorates bone loss induced by NAFLD by activating the SLC7A11/GSH/GPX4 signaling pathway and inhibiting ferroptosis. Therefore, berberine may serve as a therapeutic agent for NAFLD-induced bone loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaobo Gu
- Department of Orthopedics, Ningbo No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo 315010, China
| | - Junzhuo Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University,Ningbo 315010, China
| | - Siyi Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University,Ningbo 315010, China
| | - Shunyao Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Ting Gao
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University,Ningbo 315010, China
| | - Deyi Yan
- Department of Orthopedics, Ningbo No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo 315010, China
| | - Runxiang Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University,Ningbo 315010, China
| | - Mengli Gu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University,Ningbo 315010, China
| | - Mengli Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu 322000, China
| | - Zongkai Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Ningbo No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo 315010, China
| | - Zhongze Lou
- Central Laboratory of the Medical Research Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315010, China; Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315010, China
| | - Xiaoyun Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University,Ningbo 315010, China.
| | - Yi Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China.
| | - Chunxiao Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University,Ningbo 315010, China.
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Du J, Zhu Y, Yang X, Geng X, Xu Y, Zhang M, Zhang M. Berberine attenuates obesity-induced insulin resistance by inhibiting miR-27a secretion. Diabet Med 2024; 41:e15319. [PMID: 38711201 DOI: 10.1111/dme.15319] [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] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Berberine (BBR) is an alkaloid found in plants. It has neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering activity. However, the efficacy of treatment with BBR and the mechanisms through which it acts need further study. AIMS This study investigated the therapeutic effects and the mechanism of action of BBR on obesity-induced insulin resistance in peripheral tissues. METHODS High-fat-fed C57BL/6J mice and low-fat-fed C57BL/6J mice with miR-27a overexpression were given BBR intervention (100 mg/kg, po), and the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and insulin tolerance test (ITT) were performed. Palmitic acid-stimulated hypertrophic adipocyte models were treated with BBR (10 μM). Related indicators and protein expression levels were examined. RESULTS The AUCs of the OGTT and the ITT in the BBR intervention group were reduced significantly (p < 0.01) (p < 0.05), and the serum biochemical parameters, including FBG, TC, TG and LDL-C were significantly reduced after BBR intervention. In the in vitro experiments, the triglyceride level and volume of lipid droplets decreased significantly after BBR intervention (p < 0.01) (p < 0.05). Likewise, BBR ameliorates skeletal muscle and pancreas insulin signalling pathways in vivo and in vitro. DISCUSSION The results showed that BBR significantly ameliorated insulin resistance, reduced body weight and percent body fat and improved serum biochemical parameters in mice. Likewise, BBR reduced triglyceride level and lipid droplet volume in hypertrophic adipocytes, BBR improved obesity effectively. Meanwhile, BBR ameliorated the histomorphology of the pancreas, and skeletal muscle and pancreas insulin related signalling pathways of islets in in vitro and in vivo experiments. The results further demonstrated that BBR inhibited miR-27a levels in serum from obese mice and supernatant of hypertrophic adipocytes. miR-27a overexpression in low-fat fed mice indicated that miR-27a caused insulin resistance, and BBR intervention significantly improved the miR-27a induced insulin resistance status. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates the important role of BBR in obesity-induced peripheral insulin resistance and suggest that the mechanism of its effect may be inhibition of miR-27a secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junda Du
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, School of nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yu Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Jilin Province FAW General Hospital, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xuehan Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, School of nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xinru Geng
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, School of nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, School of nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Meishuang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, School of nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, School of nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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Pham HN, Pham L, Sato K. Navigating the liver landscape: upcoming pharmacotherapies for primary sclerosing cholangitis. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2024; 25:895-906. [PMID: 38813599 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2024.2362263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a bile duct disorder characterized by ductular reaction, hepatic inflammation, and liver fibrosis. The pathogenesis of PSC is still undefined, and treatment options for patients are limited. Previous clinical trials evaluated drug candidates targeting various cellular functions and pathways, such as bile acid signaling and absorption, gut bacteria and permeability, and lipid metabolisms. However, most of phase III clinical trials for PSC were disappointing, except vancomycin therapy, and there are still no established medications for PSC with efficacy and safety confirmed by phase IV clinical trials. AREAS COVERED This review summarizes the currently ongoing or completed clinical studies for PSC, which are phase II or further, and discusses therapeutic targets and strategies, limitations, and future directions and possibilities of PSC treatments. A literature search was conducted in PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov utilizing the combination of the searched term 'primary sclerosing cholangitis' with other keywords, such as 'clinical trials,' 'antibiotics,' or drug names. Clinical trials at phase II or further were included for consideration. EXPERT OPINION Only vancomycin demonstrated promising therapeutic effects in the phase III clinical trial. Other drug candidates showed futility or inconsistent results, and the search for novel PSC treatments is still ongoing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoang Nam Pham
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of Hanoi, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Linh Pham
- Department of Science and Mathematics, Texas A&M University - Central Texas, Killeen, TX, USA
| | - Keisaku Sato
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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Cervello M, Augello G, Cocco L, Ratti S, Follo MY, Martelli AM, Cusimano A, Montalto G, McCubrey JA. The potential of the nutraceutical berberine in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma and other liver diseases such as NAFLD and NASH. Adv Biol Regul 2024; 92:101032. [PMID: 38693042 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2024.101032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common cancer which unfortunately has poor outcomes. Common anti-cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and targeted therapy have not increased patient survival significantly. A common treatment for HCC patients is transplantation, however, it has limitations and complications. Novel approaches are necessary to more effectively treat HCC patients. Berberine (BBR) is a nutraceutical derived from various fruits and trees, which has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various diseases such as diabetes and inflammation. More recently, the anti-proliferation effects of BBR have been investigated in the treatment of patients with various cancers, especially colorectal cancer, and in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). In this review, we will focus on studies with BBR in liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melchiorre Cervello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppa Augello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Lucio Cocco
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Ratti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Matilde Y Follo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alberto M Martelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Antonella Cusimano
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Montalto
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy; Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, PROMISE, University of Palermo School of Medicine, Palermo, Italy
| | - James A McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA.
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Qi X, Zhang Y, Liao Q, Xiao Y, Jiang T, Liu S, Zhou L, Li Y. 7-Hydroxyflavone improves nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by acting on STK24. Phytother Res 2024. [PMID: 38685750 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
The escalating incidence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is closely associated with a high-fat diet, leading to a decline in quality of life and significant health impairment. 7-Hydroxyflavone (7-HY) is a flavonoid known for its anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, and antioxidant effects. This study aims to assess the ameliorative effects of 7-HY on NAFLD induced by a high-fat diet and elucidate underlying mechanisms. Oleic acid/palmitic acid-induced HepG2 cells and C57BL/6 mice on a high-fat diet were utilized as in vitro and in vivo models. In animal experiments, 7-HY was utilized as a dietary supplement. The 15-week in vivo experiment monitored body weight, body fat percentage, glucose tolerance, insulin tolerance, and metabolic indexes. Commercial kits assessed triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol levels in cells, liver tissue, and blood. Discovery Studio identified potential targets of 7-HY, compared with NAFLD-associated targets in the GeneCards database. Results indicated 7-HY mitigated fat accumulation, hepatic steatosis, and oxidative stress induced by a high-fat diet. Furthermore, 7-HY showed potential efficacy in ameliorating abnormal glucose metabolism and promoting energy metabolism. Reverse target finding and molecular docking demonstrated a robust interaction between 7-HY and serine/threonine kinase 24 (STK24). Subsequent experimental results confirmed 7-HY's ability to inhibit TG deposition in HepG2 cells through interaction with STK24. In conclusion, 7-HY demonstrated the capacity to alleviate high-fat diet-induced NAFLD, presenting a novel strategy for the prevention and treatment of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Qi
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Yurou Zhang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Qichao Liao
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Yang Xiao
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Tianyu Jiang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Siqi Liu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Lei Zhou
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Yixing Li
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
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Wang Z, Qiu H, Yang Y, Zhang Y, Mou T, Zhang X, Zhang Y. Huanglian-Hongqu herb pair improves nonalcoholic fatty liver disease via NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway in mice: network pharmacology, molecular docking and experimental validation. Hereditas 2024; 161:12. [PMID: 38566171 PMCID: PMC10988798 DOI: 10.1186/s41065-024-00316-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The Huanglian-Hongqu herb pair (HH) is a carefully crafted traditional Chinese herbal compound designed to address disorders related to glucose and lipid metabolism. Its primary application lies in treating hyperlipidemia and fatty liver conditions. This study explored the potential mechanism of HH in treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) through network pharmacology, molecular docking, and in vivo animal experiments. Ultrahigh performanceliquid chromatography-quadrupole/orbitrapmass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) was employed to identify the chemical composition of HH. Network pharmacology was used to analyze the related signaling pathways affected by HH. Subsequently, the prediction was verified by animal experiment. Finally, we identified 29 components within HH. Network pharmacology unveiled interactions between HH and 153 NAFLD-related targets, highlighting HH's potential to alleviate NAFLD through NF-κB signaling pathway. Molecular docking analyses illuminated the binding interactions between HH components and key regulatory proteins, including NF-κB, NLRP3, ASC, and Caspase-1. In vivo experiments demonstrated that HH alleviated NAFLD by reducing serum and liver lipid levels, improving liver function, and lowering inflammatory cytokine levels in the serum. Moreover, HH administration downregulated mRNA and protein levels of the NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway. In conclusion, our findings demonstrated that HH has potential therapeutic benefits in ameliorating NAFLD by targeting the NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway, facilitating the broader application of HH in the field of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Wang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Health Service, Shanxi Datong University, Datong, China
| | - Hairong Qiu
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Medical School, Hubei Minzu University, Enshi, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Chengdu, China
| | - Yueyu Zhang
- College of Public health, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Taiguo Mou
- College of Public health, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaobo Zhang
- School of Basic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine department, Chinese Medicine Hospital of Chenghua, Chengdu, China.
| | - Yong Zhang
- School of Basic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China.
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Qin J, Cao P, Ding X, Zeng Z, Deng L, Luo L. Machine learning identifies ferroptosis-related gene ANXA2 as potential diagnostic biomarkers for NAFLD. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1303426. [PMID: 38192427 PMCID: PMC10773757 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1303426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a major cause of chronic liver disease, still lacks effective therapeutic targets today. Ferroptosis, a type of cell death characterized by lipid peroxidation, has been linked to NAFLD in certain preclinical trials, yet the exact molecular mechanism remains unclear. Thus, we analyzed the relationship between ferroptosis genes and NAFLD using high-throughput data. Method We utilized a total of 282 samples from five datasets, including two mouse ones, one human one, one single nucleus dataset and one single cell dataset from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), as the data basis of our study. To filter robust treatment targets, we employed four machine learning methods (LASSO, SVM, RF and Boruta). In addition, we used an unsupervised consensus clustering algorithm to establish a typing scheme for NAFLD based on the expression of ferroptosis related genes (FRGs). Our study is also the first to investigate the dynamics of FRGs throughout the disease process by time series analysis. Finally, we validated the relationship between core gene and ferroptosis by in vitro experiments on HepG2 cells. Results We discovered ANXA2 as a central focus in NAFLD and indicated its potential to boost ferroptosis in HepG2 cells. Additionally, based on the results obtained from time series analysis, ANXA2 was observed to significantly define the disease course of NAFLD. Our results demonstrate that implementing a ferroptosis-based staging method may hold promise for the diagnosis and treatment of NAFLD. Conclusion Our findings suggest that ANXA2 may be a useful biomarker for the diagnosis and characterization of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingtong Qin
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Peng Cao
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xuexuan Ding
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Zeyao Zeng
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Liyan Deng
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Lianxiang Luo
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Guangdong Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang, China
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Wang L, Yan Y, Wu L, Peng J. Natural products in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): Novel lead discovery for drug development. Pharmacol Res 2023; 196:106925. [PMID: 37714392 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
With changing lifestyles, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most prevalent liver disease worldwide. A substantial increase in the incidence, mortality, and associated burden of NAFLD-related advanced liver disease is expected. Currently, the initial diagnosis of NAFLD is still based on ultrasound and there is no approved treatment method. Lipid-lowering drugs, vitamin supplementation, and lifestyle improvement treatments are commonly used in clinical practice. However, most lipid-lowering drugs can produce poor patient compliance and specific adverse effects. Therefore, the exploration of bio-diagnostic markers and active lead compounds for the development of innovative drugs is urgently needed. More and more studies have reported the anti-NAFLD effects and mechanisms of natural products (NPs), which have become an important source for new drug development to treat NAFLD due to their high activity and low side effects. At present, berberine and silymarin have been approved by the US FDA to enter clinical phase IV studies, demonstrating the potential of NPs against NAFLD. Studies have found that the regulation of lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and inflammation-related pathways may play important roles in the process. With the continuous updating of technical means and scientific theories, in-depth research on the targets and mechanisms of NPs against NAFLD can provide new possibilities to find bio-diagnostic markers and innovative drugs. As we know, FXR agonists, PPARα agonists, and dual CCR2/5 inhibitors are gradually coming on stage for the treatment of NAFLD. Whether NPs can exert anti-NAFLD effects by regulating these targets or some unknown targets remains to be further studied. Therefore, the study reviewed the potential anti-NAFLD NPs and their targets. Some works on the discovery of new targets and the docking of active lead compounds were also discussed. It is hoped that this review can provide some reference values for the development of non-invasive diagnostic markers and new drugs against NAFLD in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Yonghuan Yan
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Linfang Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Jinyong Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China; College of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, Western 9 Lvshunnan Road, Dalian 116044, China.
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Surma S, Sahebkar A, Banach M. Nutrition, Nutraceuticals and Bioactive Compounds in the Prevention and Fight against Inflammation. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15112629. [PMID: 37299592 DOI: 10.3390/nu15112629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic low-grade systemic inflammation is a key factor involved in the pathogenesis of many diseases and their complications (Figure 1) [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanisław Surma
- Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 18, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
- Polish Lipid Association (PoLA), Sterlinga 27/29/205, 90-212 Lodz, Poland
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948954, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948954, Iran
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948954, Iran
| | - Maciej Banach
- Polish Lipid Association (PoLA), Sterlinga 27/29/205, 90-212 Lodz, Poland
- Department of Preventive Cardiology and Lipidology, Medical University of Lodz (MUL), Rzgowska 281/289, 93-338 Lodz, Poland
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Zielona Gora, Zyty 28, 65-417 Zielona Gora, Poland
- Department of Cardiology and Congenital Diseases of Adults, Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital Research Institute (PMMHRI), Rzgowska 281/289, 93-338 Lodz, Poland
- Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 N. Wolfe St, Carnegie 565-G, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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11
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He H, Chai X, Li J, Li C, Wu X, Ye X, Ma H, Li X. LCN2 contributes to the improvement of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis by 8-Cetylberberine. Life Sci 2023; 321:121595. [PMID: 36940908 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121595] [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: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is becoming one of the most common causes of liver transplantation and hepatocellular carcinoma, but no specific drugs are FDA-approved to treat it. 8-cetylberberine (CBBR), which is a long-chain alkane derivative of berberine, exhibits potent pharmacological activities and improves metabolism performance. The aim of this study is to explore the function and mechanism of CBBR against NASH. MATERIALS AND METHODS L02 and HepG2 hepatocytes were treated with the medium containing palmitic acids and oleic acids (PO) and incubated with CBBR for 12 h, then the levels of lipid accumulation were tested by kits or western blots. C57BL/6 J mice were fed with a high-fat diet or a high-fat/high-cholesterol diet. CBBR (15 mg/kg or 30 mg/kg) was orally administered for 8 weeks. Liver weight, steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis were evaluated. Transcriptomic indicated the target of CBBR in NASH. KEY FINDINGS CBBR significantly reduced lipid accumulation, inflammation, liver injury, and fibrosis in NASH mice. CBBR also decreased lipid accumulation and inflammation in PO-induced L02 and HepG2 cells. RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis indicated that CBBR inhibited the pathways and key regulators associated with lipid accumulation, inflammation, and fibrosis in the pathogenesis of NASH. Mechanically, CBBR may prevent NASH via inhibiting LCN2, as proved by the finding that the anti-NASH effect of CBBR was more obvious in PO-stimulated HepG2 cells treated with LCN2 overexpression. SIGNIFICANCE Our work provides an insight into the effectiveness of CBBR in improving metabolic-stress-caused NASH as well as the mechanism by regulating LCN2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan He
- Engineering Research Center of Coptis Development and Utilization, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xue Chai
- School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Juan Li
- Engineering Research Center of Coptis Development and Utilization, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Changsheng Li
- Engineering Research Center of Coptis Development and Utilization, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xinran Wu
- Engineering Research Center of Coptis Development and Utilization, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoli Ye
- School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Hang Ma
- Engineering Research Center of Coptis Development and Utilization, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Xuegang Li
- Engineering Research Center of Coptis Development and Utilization, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.
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12
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Lu R, Liu Y, Hong T. Epidemiological characteristics and management of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in China: A narrative review. Diabetes Obes Metab 2023; 25 Suppl 1:13-26. [PMID: 36775938 DOI: 10.1111/dom.15014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
AIM With industrialization and spread of the westernized lifestyle, the number of people affected by non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)/non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is growing rapidly in China; this has become a major public health concern. To better understand the burden and characteristics of NAFLD/NASH in China, we aim to perform a narrative review of the literature published in this field. MATERIALS AND METHODS We carried out a comprehensive electronic search of five English-language and three Chinese-language databases, to identify studies regarding NAFLD or NASH published from inception to November 30, 2022. Epidemiological studies of NAFLD/NASH in China were particularly noticed and summarized. We also searched the www. CLINICALTRIALS gov and www.chictr.org.cn websites for the registered trials on the treatment of the disease led by Chinese investigators or located in China. RESULTS The increasing rate of NAFLD prevalence in China is strikingly high, reaching more than twice that in western countries. The prevalence of NAFLD is nearly 30% of the general Chinese population, making it the leading cause of chronic liver diseases. The prevalence of NAFLD/NASH varies between provinces/regions, age groups, sexes, and individuals with different metabolic profiles. NAFLD co-exists in many Chinese patients with chronic hepatitis B. Since 2020, more Chinese studies have used the term metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), emphasizing the underlying metabolic disorders that occur concurrently with this disease. Several clinical trials involving lifestyle interventions, antidiabetic drugs, or traditional Chinese medicines, registered by Chinese investigators, have been completed or are ongoing. Moreover, several innovative targeted therapies developed in China are revolutionizing the treatment of NAFLD/NASH. CONCLUSIONS NAFLD has cast a heavy burden on the Chinese healthcare system. Chinese scholars are making efforts to achieve the optimal management of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Lu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ye Liu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tianpei Hong
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
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13
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Xiao Z, Liu M, Yang F, Liu G, Liu J, Zhao W, Ma S, Duan Z. Programmed cell death and lipid metabolism of macrophages in NAFLD. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1118449. [PMID: 36742318 PMCID: PMC9889867 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1118449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has now become the leading chronic liver disease worldwide with lifestyle changes. This may lead to NAFLD becoming the leading cause of end-stage liver disease in the future. To date, there are still no effective therapeutic drugs for NAFLD. An in-depth exploration of the pathogenesis of NAFLD can help to provide a basis for new therapeutic agents or strategies. As the most important immune cells of the liver, macrophages play an important role in the occurrence and development of liver inflammation and are expected to become effective targets for NAFLD treatment. Programmed cell death (PCD) of macrophages plays a regulatory role in phenotypic transformation, and there is also a certain connection between different types of PCD. However, how PCD regulates macrophage polarization has still not been systematically elucidated. Based on the role of lipid metabolic reprogramming in macrophage polarization, PCD may alter the phenotype by regulating lipid metabolism. We reviewed the effects of macrophages on inflammation in NAFLD and changes in their lipid metabolism, as well as the relationship between different types of PCD and lipid metabolism in macrophages. Furthermore, interactions between different types of PCD and potential therapeutic agents targeting of macrophages PCD are also explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhun Xiao
- Department of Digestive Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Minghao Liu
- Department of Digestive Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Fangming Yang
- Department of Digestive Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guangwei Liu
- Department of Digestive Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiangkai Liu
- Department of Digestive Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenxia Zhao
- Department of Digestive Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Suping Ma
- Department of Digestive Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China,*Correspondence: Suping Ma, ; Zhongping Duan,
| | - Zhongping Duan
- Beijing Institute of Hepatology, Beijing Youan Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Suping Ma, ; Zhongping Duan,
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14
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Yuan R, Tan Y, Sun PH, Qin B, Liang Z. Emerging trends and research foci of berberine on tumor from 2002 to 2021: A bibliometric article of the literature from WoSCC. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1122890. [PMID: 36937842 PMCID: PMC10021304 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1122890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Cancer, also known as a malignant tumor, is caused by the activation of oncogenes, which leads to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that results in swelling. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is one of the main causes of death worldwide. The main variables limiting the efficacy of anti-tumor treatments are side effects and drug resistance. The search for natural, safe, low toxicity, and efficient chemical compounds in tumor research is essential. Berberine is a pentacyclic isoquinoline quaternary ammonium alkaloid isolated from Berberis and Coptis that has long been used in clinical settings. Studies in recent years have reported the use of berberine in cancer treatment. In this study, we performed a bibliometric analysis of berberine- and tumor-related research. Materials and methods: Relevant articles from January 1, 2002, to December 31, 2021, were identified from the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) of Clarivate Analytics. Microsoft Excel, CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and an online platform were used for the literary metrology analysis. Results: A total of 1368 publications had unique characteristics. Publications from China were the most common (783 articles), and Y. B. Feng (from China) was the most productive author, with the highest total citations. China Medical University (Taiwan) and Sun Yat-sen University (China) were the two organizations with the largest numbers of publications (36 each). Frontiers in Pharmacology was the most commonly occurring journal (29 articles). The present body of research is focused on the mechanism, molecular docking, and oxidative stress of berberine in tumors. Conclusion: Research on berberine and tumors was thoroughly reviewed using knowledge map and bibliometric methods. The results of this study reveal the dynamic evolution of berberine and tumor research and provide a basis for strategic planning in cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runzhu Yuan
- School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yao Tan
- Shenzhen Aier Eye Hospital, Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ping-Hui Sun
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bo Qin
- Shenzhen Aier Eye Hospital, Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Bo Qin, ; Zhen Liang,
| | - Zhen Liang
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, Shenzhen People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Bo Qin, ; Zhen Liang,
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