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Cheng YH, Huang CW, Lien HT, Hsiao YY, Weng PL, Chang YC, Cheng JH, Lan KC. A Preliminary Investigation of the Roles of Endometrial Cells in Endometriosis Development via In Vitro and In Vivo Analyses. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3873. [PMID: 38612685 PMCID: PMC11011664 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073873] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a complex gynecological disease that affects more than 10% of women in their reproductive years. While surgery can provide temporary relief from women's pain, symptoms often return in as many as 75% of cases within two years. Previous literature has contributed to theories about the development of endometriosis; however, the exact pathogenesis and etiology remain elusive. We conducted a preliminary investigation into the influence of primary endometrial cells (ECs) on the development and progression of endometriosis. In vitro studies, they were involved in inducing Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in rat-isolated primary endometrial cells, which resulted in increased nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mRNA gene expression (quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis, qPCR) and protein expression (western blot analysis). Additionally, in vivo studies utilized autogenic and allogeneic transplantations (rat to rat) to investigate endometriosis-like lesion cyst size, body weight, protein levels (immunohistochemistry), and mRNA gene expression. These studies demonstrated that estrogen upregulates the gene and protein regulation of cytoskeletal (CK)-18, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), VEGF, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, particularly in the peritoneum. These findings may influence cell proliferation, angiogenesis, fibrosis, and inflammation markers. Consequently, this could exacerbate the occurrence and progression of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Hua Cheng
- Department of Medical Research and Development, Jen-Ai Hospital, Taichung 412, Taiwan;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
| | - Ching-Wei Huang
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Jen-Ai Hospital, Taichung 412, Taiwan;
| | - Hao-Ting Lien
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University College, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Yang Hsiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University College, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ling Weng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
| | - Yung-Chiao Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
| | - Jai-Hong Cheng
- Center for Shockwave Medicine and Tissue Engineering, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan;
- Medical Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Department of Leisure and Sports Management, Cheng Shiu University, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Chung Lan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jen-Ai Hospital, Taichung 412, Taiwan
- Center for Menopause and Reproductive Medicine Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
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Hao M, Yao Z, Zhao M, Chen Z, Wang P, Sang X, Yang Q, Wang K, Han X, Cao G. Active ingredients screening and pharmacological mechanism research of curcumae rhizoma-sparganii rhizoma herb pair ameliorates liver fibrosis based on network pharmacology. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 305:116111. [PMID: 36592822 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.116111] [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: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Curcumae Rhizoma-Sparganii Rhizoma (CR-SR) is a classic herbal pair to promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis in ancient China. However, the molecular mechanism is still unclear. AIM OF STUDY To screen out the anti-liver fibrosis active ingredients in CR-SR. Moreover, preliminary exploration the molecular mechanism of CR-SR to ameliorates liver fibrosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this research, plant taxonomy has been confirmed in the "The Plant List" database (www.theplantlist.org). The chemical components of CR-SR were analysed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q/TOF-MS). "Component-Target-Pathway-Disease" network of CR-SR components were built by network pharmacology. Then, the interaction between primary components and predicted protein targets based on network pharmacology were validated by molecular docking. The pharmacological actions of CR-SR were verified by blood biochemical indexes, histopathologic examination of CCL4 induced rats' model. The core protein targets were verified by Western blot. The effects of screened active components by molecular autodocking were verified by HSC-T6 cell experiment. RESULTS The result shows that 57 chemical constituents in CR-SR herbal pair were identified by UPLC-Q/TOF-MS, in which, 27 compounds were closely connected with liver fibrosis related protein targets. 55 protein targets screened out by "component-target-pathway-disease network" maybe the underlying targets for CR-SR to cure liver fibrosis. Moreover, the 55 protein targets are mainly related to RNA transcription, apoptosis, and signal transduction. The molecular autodocking predicted that ten components can bond well with PTGS2 and RELA protein targets. The blood biochemical indexes, histopathologic examination of CCL4 induced rats experiment showed that CR-SR has well intervention effect of liver fibrosis. The Western blot analysis indicated that CR-SR could significantly inhibit RELA, PTGS2, IL-6, SRC, and AKT1 protein expression to exert the anti-fibrosis effect. The HSC-T6 cell experiment indicated that both formononetin (FNT) and curdione could significantly inhibit the activation of HSC and reduce the expression of PTGS2, and p-AKT1 which was accordance with the molecular autodocking results. CONCLUSION This study proved the molecular mechanism of CR-SR multi-component and multi-target anti-liver fibrosis effect through mass spectrometry, network pharmacology, and western blotting technology. The research provides a theoretical evidence for the development and utilization of CR-SR herbal pair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Hao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 311402, China.
| | - Zhouhui Yao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 311402, China.
| | - Mengting Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 311402, China.
| | - Ziyan Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 311402, China.
| | - Pingping Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 311402, China.
| | - Xianan Sang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 311402, China.
| | - Qiao Yang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 311402, China.
| | - Kuilong Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 311402, China.
| | - Xin Han
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 311402, China.
| | - Gang Cao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 311402, China.
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Qinggan Huoxue Recipe Protects against Experimental Alcoholic Liver Fibrosis through CXCL16 Inhibition. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2023; 2023:5642713. [PMID: 36636609 PMCID: PMC9831707 DOI: 10.1155/2023/5642713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Background Qinggan Huoxue recipe (QGHXR), a traditional Chinese medicinal formula, has a protective effect against liver fibrosis. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Objective This study investigated the antifibrotic role of QGHXR and its underlying mechanisms. Methods The composition of QGHXR was determined using ultra performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Female C57BL/6J mice were fed either a Lieber-DeCarli liquid diet or pair-fed control diet and intraperitoneally injected with CCl4 for 8 weeks (n = 8). In week 5, the mice were administered 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg QGHXR via oral gavage daily for 4 weeks. Results UPLC-MS result showed that QGHXR contained 45 compounds including salvianolic acid A, scutellarin, baicalin, rutin, and chai saponin D. QGHXR alleviated pathological alterations in the liver. The alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level was reduced to 44.88 ± 4.39 U/L, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) to 76.25 ± 4.17 U/L, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) to 60.75 ± 5.41 U/L, and acetaldehyde to 38.54 ± 1.01 U/L compared with that of the control group (ALT 72.38 ± 5.19 U/L, AST 119.63 ± 9.82 U/L, and ALP 98.63 ± 6.71 U/L and acetaldehyde 64.86 ± 4.70 U/L). QGHXR inhibited lipid overproduction and fibrotic gene expression. The serum concentration of chemokine C-X-C ligand 16 (CXCL16) was reduced to 62.83 ± 6.80 pg/ml compared with that of the control group (130.91 ± 13.72 pg/mL). QGHXR downregulated CXCL16 mRNA and protein expressions. Pharmacological CXCL16 treatment reversed the QGHXR-induced protective effects in ethanol plus CCl4 fed mice. QGHXR reduced CXCL16 levels (91.97 ± 5.86 pg/ml) in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells compared with that of the control group (148.68 ± 8.62 pg/ml) and inhibited toll-like receptor 4 and nuclear factor-kappa B phosphorylation. Conclusions This study demonstrated that QGHXR mitigates experimental alcoholic liver fibrosis by CXCL16 inhibition, and may be considered a potential therapeutic agent for treating liver fibrosis.
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Wang J, Lu Y, Zhang C, Tian S, Xiang H, Ding P, Chen J, Ji G, Wu T. Qinggan Huoxue Recipe attenuates Alcoholic Liver Disease by suppressing PI3K/AKT signaling pathway based on network pharmacology. Int J Med Sci 2023; 20:346-358. [PMID: 36860681 PMCID: PMC9969510 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.80329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Qinggan Huoxue Recipe (QGHXR) is originated from Xiao Chaihu Decotion. Many experimental studies have confirmed that QGHXR can significantly alleviate the symptoms of alcoholic liver disease (ALD), but the detailed mechanism is still unclear. Using traditional Chinese medicine network pharmacology analysis system database and animal experiments, we found that 180 potentially chemical compositions and 618 potential targets were screened from the prescription, which shared 133 signal pathways with ALD. Through animal experiments, it was found that QGHXR could reduce the liver total cholesterol (TC), serum TC, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase of ALD mice, reduce the lipid droplets and inflammatory injury of liver tissue. Meanwhile, it can also increase PTEN, decrease PI3K and AKT mRNA levels. In this study, we obtained the targets and pathways of QGHXR in the treatment of ALD, and preliminatively verified that QGHXR may improve ALD through PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junmin Wang
- Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201199, China.,Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yifei Lu
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Caiyun Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Shuxia Tian
- Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201199, China
| | - Hongjiao Xiang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Peilun Ding
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Junming Chen
- Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201199, China
| | - Guang Ji
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Tao Wu
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
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Li WQ, Liu WH, Qian D, Liu J, Zhou SQ, Zhang L, Peng W, Su L, Zhang H. Traditional Chinese medicine: An important source for discovering candidate agents against hepatic fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:962525. [PMID: 36081936 PMCID: PMC9445813 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.962525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis (HF) refers to the pathophysiological process of connective tissue dysplasia in the liver caused by various pathogenic factors. Nowadays, HF is becoming a severe threat to the health of human being. However, the drugs available for treating HF are limited. Currently, increasing natural agents derived from traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have been found to be beneficial for HF. A systemic literature search was conducted from PubMed, GeenMedical, Sci-Hub, CNKI, Google Scholar and Baidu Scholar, with the keywords of "traditional Chinese medicine," "herbal medicine," "natural agents," "liver diseases," and "hepatic fibrosis." So far, more than 76 natural monomers have been isolated and identified from the TCMs with inhibitory effect on HF, including alkaloids, flavones, quinones, terpenoids, saponins, phenylpropanoids, and polysaccharides, etc. The anti-hepatic fibrosis effects of these compounds include hepatoprotection, inhibition of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) activation, regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis & secretion, regulation of autophagy, and antioxidant & anti-inflammation, etc. Natural compounds and extracts from TCMs are promising agents for the prevention and treatment of HF, and this review would be of great significance to development of novel drugs for treating HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Qing Li
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Hao Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Tenth People’s Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Die Qian
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jia Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Shi-Qiong Zhou
- Hospital of Nursing, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Su
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Liu L, Sun Q, Davis F, Mao J, Zhao H, Ma D. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition in organ fibrosis development: current understanding and treatment strategies. BURNS & TRAUMA 2022; 10:tkac011. [PMID: 35402628 PMCID: PMC8990740 DOI: 10.1093/burnst/tkac011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Organ fibrosis is a process in which cellular homeostasis is disrupted and extracellular matrix is excessively deposited. Fibrosis can lead to vital organ failure and there are no effective treatments yet. Although epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) may be one of the key cellular mechanisms, the underlying mechanisms of fibrosis remain largely unknown. EMT is a cell phenotypic process in which epithelial cells lose their cell-to-cell adhesion and polarization, after which they acquire mesenchymal features such as infiltration and migration ability. Upon injurious stimulation in different organs, EMT can be triggered by multiple signaling pathways and is also regulated by epigenetic mechanisms. This narrative review summarizes the current understanding of the underlying mechanisms of EMT in fibrogenesis and discusses potential strategies for attenuating EMT to prevent and/or inhibit fibrosis. Despite better understanding the role of EMT in fibrosis development, targeting EMT and beyond in developing therapeutics to tackle fibrosis is challenging but likely feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lexin Liu
- Division of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK.,Department of Nephrology and Urology, Pediatric Urolith Center, The Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, China
| | - Qizhe Sun
- Division of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK
| | - Frank Davis
- Division of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK
| | - Jianhua Mao
- Department of Nephrology, The Children Hospital of Zhejiang University, School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, China
| | - Hailin Zhao
- Division of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK
| | - Daqing Ma
- Division of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK
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Lu Y, Shao M, Xiang H, Wang J, Ji G, Wu T. Qinggan Huoxue Recipe Alleviates Alcoholic Liver Injury by Suppressing Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Through LXR-LPCAT3. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:824185. [PMID: 35431945 PMCID: PMC9009225 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.824185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) plays a key role in alcohol liver injury (ALI). Lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase 3 (LPCAT3) is a potential modifier of ERS. It was examined whether the protective effect of Qinggan Huoxue Recipe (QGHXR) against ALI was associated with LPCAT3 by suppressing ERS from in vivo and in vitro experiment. Male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into five groups (n = 10, each) and treated for 8 weeks as follows: the control diet-fed group (pair-fed), ethanol diet-fed group (EtOH-fed), QGHXR group (EtOH-fed + QGHXR), Qinggan recipe group (EtOH-fed + QGR), and Huoxue recipe group (EtOH-fed + HXR). QGHXR, QGR, and HXR groups attenuated liver injury mainly manifested in reducing serum ALT, AST, and liver TG and reducing the severity of liver cell necrosis and steatosis in ALI mouse models. QGHXR mainly inhibited the mRNA levels of Lxrα, Perk, Eif2α, and Atf4 and activated the mRNA levels of Lpcat3 and Ire1α, while inhibiting the protein levels of LPCAT3, eIF2α, IRE1α, and XBP1u and activating the protein levels of GRP78 to improve ALI. QGR was more inclined to improve ALI by inhibiting the mRNA levels of Lxrα, Perk, Eif2α, Atif4, and Chop and activating the mRNA levels of Lpcat3 and Ire1α while inhibiting the protein levels of LPCAT3, PERK, eIF2α, IRE1α, and XBP1u. HXR was more inclined to improve ALI by inhibiting the mRNA levels of Perk, Eif2α, Atf4, and Chop mRNA while inhibiting the protein levels of LPCAT3, PERK, eIF2α, IRE1α, and XBP1u and activating the protein levels of GRP78. Ethanol (100 mM) was used to intervene HepG2 and AML12 to establish an ALI cell model and treated by QGHXR-, QGR-, and HXR-medicated serum (100 mg/L). QGHXR, QGR, and HXR groups mainly reduced the serum TG level and the expression of inflammatory factors such as IL-6 and TNF-α in the liver induced by ethanol. In AML12 cells, QGHXR and its disassembly mainly activated Grp78 mRNA expression together with inhibiting Lxrα, Lpcat3, Eif2α, Atf4, and Xbp1 mRNA expression. The protein expression of eIF2α and XBP1u was inhibited, and the expression of PERK and GRP78 was activated to alleviate ALI. In HepG2 cells, QGHXR mainly alleviated ALI by inhibiting the mRNA expression of LPCAT3, CHOP, IRE1α, XBP1, eIF2α, CHOP, and IRE1α protein. QGR was more inclined to inhibit the protein expression of PERK, and HXR was more likely to inhibit the protein expression of ATF4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Lu
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingmei Shao
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Teaching Department, Baoshan District Hospital of Intergrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongjiao Xiang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Junmin Wang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Guang Ji
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Guang Ji, ; Tao Wu,
| | - Tao Wu
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Guang Ji, ; Tao Wu,
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Cheng YH, Tsai NC, Chen YJ, Weng PL, Chang YC, Cheng JH, Ko JY, Kang HY, Lan KC. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy Combined with Platelet-Rich Plasma during Preventive and Therapeutic Stages of Intrauterine Adhesion in a Rat Model. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020476. [PMID: 35203684 PMCID: PMC8962268 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is caused by artificial endometrial damage during intrauterine cavity surgery. The typical phenotype involves loss of spontaneous endometrium recovery and angiogenesis. Undesirable symptoms include abnormal menstruation and infertility; therefore, prevention and early treatment of IUA remain crucial issues. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) major proposed therapeutic mechanisms include neovascularization, tissue regeneration, and fibrosis. We examined the effects of ESWT and/or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) during preventive and therapeutic stages of IUA by inducing intrauterine mechanical injury in rats. PRP alone, or combined with ESWT, were detected an increased number of endometrial glands, elevated vascular endothelial growth factor protein expression (hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunohistochemistry), and reduced fibrosis rate (Masson trichrome staining). mRNA expression levels of nuclear factor-kappa B, tumor necrosis factor-α, transforming growth factor-β, interleukin (IL)-6, collagen type I alpha 1, and fibronectin were reduced during two stages. However, PRP alone, or ESWT combined with PRP transplantation, not only increased the mRNA levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and progesterone receptor (PR) during the preventive stage but also increased PR, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and IL-4 during the therapeutic stage. These findings revealed that these two treatments inhibited endometrial fibrosis and inflammatory markers, thereby inhibiting the occurrence and development of intrauterine adhesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Hua Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (Y.-H.C.); (Y.-J.C.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.); (H.-Y.K.)
| | - Ni-Chin Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pingtung Christian Hospital, Pingtung 900, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Ju Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (Y.-H.C.); (Y.-J.C.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.); (H.-Y.K.)
| | - Pei-Ling Weng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (Y.-H.C.); (Y.-J.C.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.); (H.-Y.K.)
| | - Yun-Chiao Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (Y.-H.C.); (Y.-J.C.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.); (H.-Y.K.)
| | - Jai-Hong Cheng
- Center for Shockwave Medicine and Tissue Engineering, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (J.-H.C.); (J.-Y.K.)
- Medical Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Department of Leisure and Sports Management, Cheng Shiu University, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Jih-Yang Ko
- Center for Shockwave Medicine and Tissue Engineering, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (J.-H.C.); (J.-Y.K.)
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Yo Kang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (Y.-H.C.); (Y.-J.C.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.); (H.-Y.K.)
- Center for Menopause and Reproductive Medicine Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Chung Lan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (Y.-H.C.); (Y.-J.C.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.); (H.-Y.K.)
- Center for Menopause and Reproductive Medicine Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jen-Ai Hospital, Taichung 412, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-7-7317123-8654; Fax: +886-7-7322915
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Li C, Zhou W, Li M, Shu X, Zhang L, Ji G. Salvia-Nelumbinis naturalis extract protects mice against MCD diet-induced steatohepatitis via activation of colonic FXR-FGF15 pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 139:111587. [PMID: 33865013 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Salvia-Nelumbinis naturalis (SNN) formula is a traditional Chinese medicine prescription, and has been confirmed to be effective in treating non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), but the underlying mechanisms are still unknown. Here we showed that 4-week SNN administration alleviated methionine-choline-deficiency (MCD) diet-induced hepatic steatosis and inflammation as well as serum levels of alanine transaminase (ALT) increase in C57BL/6 mice. Fecal 16S rDNA sequencing indicated that SNN altered the structure of gut microbiota and partially reversed the gut dysbiosis. Simultaneously, we analyzed the fecal BA profile using liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-TQMS) -based metabolomics, and found that SNN modulated fecal BA profile, predominantly increased the microbiomes related BA species (e.g. nordeoxycholic acid) which in turn, activated farnesoid X receptor (FXR)-fibroblast growth factor 15 (FGF15) signaling pathway in the colon but not the ileum. The activation of intestinal FXR-FGF15 signaling was accompanied by increase of liver protein kinase B (PKB/Akt) phosphorylation, and decrease of p-65 subunit of NF-κB phosphorylation, resulting in less liver CD68 positive macrophages, and inflammatory cytokine IL-1β and TNF-α expression. Our results established the link between SNN treatment, gut microbiota, BA profile and NASH, which might shed light into the mechanisms behind the beneficial effects of SNN on NASH, thus provide evidence for the clinical application of SNN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunlin Li
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wenjun Zhou
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Meng Li
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xiangbing Shu
- Department of Geratology, Baoshan Branch of Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201999, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Guang Ji
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China.
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Wang Y, Huang Z. Transforming Growth Factor Beta 1 Affects Gastric Cancer Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion by Regulating Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog. J BIOMATER TISS ENG 2021. [DOI: 10.1166/jbt.2021.2578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is a common tumor with high incidence and poor prognosis. So far, the pathogenesis of GC has not been fully elucidated, which has brought great difficulty to the treatment. TGF-β regulates cell growth and differentiation. As a key member, TGF-β1 is abnormally
expressed in various tumors, but its role on GC and related mechanisms have not been elucidated. Gastric cancer and adjacent tissues were collected to measure TGF-β1 level by real-time PCR. SGC-7901 cell was assigned into control group, mock group, and TGF-β1 siRNA group followed
by analysis of TGF-β1 level by ELISA, cell proliferation by MTT assay, apoptosis by flow cytometry, cell migration by cell scratch test, cell invasion by Transwell chamber assay, and Bcl-2, Bax, and PTEN level by Western blot. TGF-β1 was significantly upregulated in GC tissues (P
<0.05) and increased with TNM stage dependence. TGF-β1 siRNA transfection significantly decreased TGF-β1 mRNA level and secretion, inhibited cell proliferation, increased apoptosis rate, and attenuated cell migration and invasion along with downregulated Bcl-2 and elevated Bax
and PTEN expression (P <0.05). Downregulation of TGF-β1 can promote gastric cancer cell apoptosis, inhibit proliferation, migration, and invasion by regulating PTEN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Fujian Elderly Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350009, China
| | - Zhimin Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Fujian Elderly Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350009, China
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11
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Shi C, Wang L, Zhou K, Shao M, Lu Y, Wu T. Targeted Metabolomics Identifies Differential Serum and Liver Amino Acids Biomarkers in Rats with Alcoholic Liver Disease. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo) 2021; 66:536-544. [PMID: 33390395 DOI: 10.3177/jnsv.66.536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
To investigate changes in serum and hepatic levels of amino acids in ALD and to provide novel evidence and approaches for the prevention and treatment of ALD. Twenty specific pathogen-free SD male rats were devided into two groups, ten for the control group, and ten for the model group. Serum biochemical markers, including alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, laminin and hyaluronidase were measured. Histological analysis of liver tissues was performed. Serum and liver amino acids levels were quantitatively determined by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-TQMS)-based targeted metabolomics. Compared with the normal group, ALD rats showed an obvious increase in the levels of β-alanine, alanine, serine, ornithine, tyrosine and the tyrosine ratio, while there was a decrease in arginine levels, the BTR ratio and Fischer's ratio in serum. Additionally, ALD rats exhibited a significant increase in the levels of cysteine and putrescine, while there was a decrease in sarcosine, β-alanine, serine, proline, valine, threonine, ornithine, lysine, histidine, tyrosine, symmetric dimethylarginine, methionine, isoleucine and methionine-sulfoxide levels in liver tissues compared with the normal group. The serum and liver amino acids showed significant changes in ALD rats and can be considered as potential specific diagnostic biomarkers for ALD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenze Shi
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Hepatology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Kejun Zhou
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Shanghai Institute for Pediatric Research
| | - Mingmei Shao
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Yifei Lu
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Tao Wu
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
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12
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Li Q, Li M, Li F, Zhou W, Dang Y, Zhang L, Ji G. Qiang-Gan formula extract improves non-alcoholic steatohepatitis via regulating bile acid metabolism and gut microbiota in mice. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 258:112896. [PMID: 32325178 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112896] [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: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Qiang-Gan formula is a traditional Chinese medicine formula, which has been widely used in treating liver diseases in China. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the effect of Qiang-Gan formula extract (QGE) on non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and its underlying possible mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS The high-performance liquid chromatography finger-print method was used for the quality control of chemical components in QGE. Methionine- and choline-deficient diet-induced NASH mice were administrated with QGE via gavage for four weeks. Phenotypic parameters including liver histological change as well as serum levels of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) were detected. Bile acid profile in the serum, liver and fecal samples was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometer technique, and fecal microbiota was detected by 16S rDNA sequencing. Expression of liver G protein-coupled bile acid receptor 1 (TGR5), farnesiod X receptor (FXR), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β) as well as molecules in nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway was assayed by immunohistochemistry staining, RT-qPCR, or Western blot, respectively. RESULTS QGE alleviated liver inflammation, reduced serum ALT and AST levels and liver TNF-α and IL-1β expression in NASH mice. It also decreased liver and serum BA concentration and increased fecal lithocholicacid (LCA) production in this animal model. QGE altered the structure of gut microbiota, predominantly increased LCA-producing bacteria Bacteroides and Clostridium in NASH mice. In addition, the expression of liver TGR5 but not FXR was increased, and the molecules in NF-κB pathway were decreased in QGE-treated NASH mice. CONCLUSIONS QGE was effective in preventing NASH, possibly by regulation of gut microbiota-mediated LCA production, promotion of TGR5 expression and suppression of the NF-κB activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Li
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Meng Li
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Fenghua Li
- Experiment Center for Science and Technology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Wenjun Zhou
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Yanqi Dang
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Li Zhang
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Guang Ji
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Yang J, Gao J, Yu W, Hao R, Fan J, Wei J. The effects and mechanism of Aronia melanocarpa Elliot anthocyanins on hepatic fibrosis. J Funct Foods 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2020.103897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
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Lv Y, Bing Q, Lv Z, Xue J, Li S, Han B, Yang Q, Wang X, Zhang Z. Imidacloprid-induced liver fibrosis in quails via activation of the TGF-β1/Smad pathway. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 705:135915. [PMID: 31835194 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Imidacloprid (IMI) is one of the most frequently used neonicotinoid insecticide, and its potential toxicity and environmental hazards have gradually attracted people's attention. Liver fibrosis caused by long-term inflammation or oxidative stress can lead to cirrhosis and liver failure, even death. However, the mechanism of liver fibrosis induced by neonicotinoid insecticide remains unclear. This study investigates whether IMI could induce liver fibrosis in quails and a potential mechanism. Our study used a quail 90-day IMI-induced liver fibrosis model. The results showed that IMI induced histopathological lesions, oxidative stress, inflammation, fibrosis, and changes in nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), nuclear factor-E2-related factor-2 (Nrf2), and transforming growth factor (TGF-β1) levels. Furthermore, IMI enhanced the expression of liver fibrosis marker proteins, including collagen I, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and fibronectin 1 (FN-1), by activating the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that IMI exposure induces liver fibrosis via activation of the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway in quails.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueying Lv
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Qizheng Bing
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Zhanjun Lv
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Jiangdong Xue
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Inner Mongolia University for Nationalities, Tongliao 028000, China
| | - Siyu Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Bing Han
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Qingyue Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Xiaoqiao Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Zhigang Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Harbin 150030, China.
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15
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Wang L, Meng J, Wang C, Yang C, Wang Y, Li Y, Li Y. Hydrogen sulfide alleviates cigarette smoke-induced COPD through inhibition of the TGF- β1/smad pathway. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2020; 245:190-200. [PMID: 32008357 DOI: 10.1177/1535370220904342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Smoking has become a major cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease through weakening of the respiratory mucus-ciliary transport system, impairing cough reflex sensitivity, and inducing inflammation. Recent researches have indicated that hydrogen sulfide is essential in the development of various lung diseases. However, the effect and mechanism of hydrogen sulfide on cigarette smoke-induced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease have not been reported. In this study, rats were treated with cigarette smoke to create a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease model followed by treatment with a low concentration of hydrogen sulfide. Pulmonary function, histopathological appearance, lung edema, permeability, airway remodeling indicators, oxidative products/antioxidases levels, inflammatory factors in lung, cell classification in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were measured to examine the effect of hydrogen sulfide on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease model. The results showed that hydrogen sulfide effectively improved pulmonary function and reduced histopathological changes, lung edema, and permeability. Airway remodeling, oxidative stress, and inflammation were also reduced by hydrogen sulfide treatment. To understand the mechanisms, we measured the expression of TGF-β1, TGF-βIand TGF-βII receptors and Smad7 and phosphorylation of Smad2/Smad3. The results indicated that the TGF-β1 and Smad were activated in cigarette smoke-induced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease model, but inhibited by hydrogen sulfide. In conclusion, this study showed that hydrogen sulfide treatment alleviated cigarette smoke-induced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease through inhibition of the TGF-β1/Smad pathway. Impact statement COPD has become a severe public health issue in the world and smoking has become a major cause of COPD. As a result, it is a demandingly needed to explore new potential therapy for cigarette smoke-associated COPD. The present study suggested that H2S treatment improved pulmonary function and reduced histopathological changes, lung edema, permeability, inflammation, airway remodeling and oxidative injury in a COPD model induced by cigarette smoke. Although additional studies are required to elucidate the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacology of H2S in the cigarette smoke-associated COPD, our findings provide an experimental basis for the potential clinical application of H2S in COPD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care, Hebei Chest Hospital, Hebei 050048, China
| | - Jing Meng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care, Hebei Chest Hospital, Hebei 050048, China
| | - Caicai Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care, Hebei Chest Hospital, Hebei 050048, China
| | - Chao Yang
- Department of Gynecology, Shijiazhuang Second Hospital, Shijiazhuang 050048, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care, Hebei Chest Hospital, Hebei 050048, China
| | - Yamei Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care, Hebei Chest Hospital, Hebei 050048, China
| | - Yujing Li
- Department of Laboratory, Hebei Chest Hospital, Hebei 050048, China
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16
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Tyagi N, Singh DK, Dash D, Singh R. Curcumin Modulates Paraquat-Induced Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition by Regulating Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) in A549 Cells. Inflammation 2020; 42:1441-1455. [PMID: 31028577 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-019-01006-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Paraquat (PQ), a widely used potent herbicide, generates superoxide anions and other free radicals, leading to severe toxicity and acute lung injury. PQ induces pulmonary fibrosis through epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) characterized by increased number of myofibroblasts. Time-dependent PQ-induced EMT has been evaluated in present investigation where intracellular ROS levels were significantly enhanced after 24 h of PQ intoxication. Anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin have been studied where alveolar epithelial cells (A549 cells) were incubated with curcumin (30 μΜ) for 1 and 3 h before PQ intoxication (700 μM). Western blot and immunocytochemistry studies revealed that pretreatment of A549 cells with curcumin for 3 h before PQ exposure has maintained E-cadherin expression and inhibited PQ induced α-smooth-muscle actin (α-SMA) expression. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) that seems to be involved in PQ-induced EMT was enhanced after PQ intoxication, but curcumin pretreatment has effectively inhibited its expression. Immunostaining studies have shown that curcumin pretreatment has significantly reduced matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) expressions, which were elevated after PQ intoxication. These results demonstrate that curcumin can regulate PQ-induced EMT by regulating the expression of TGF-β.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namitosh Tyagi
- Department of Zoology, MMV, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India
| | - D K Singh
- Department of Physics, Udai Pratap Autonomous College, Varanasi, 221002, India
| | - D Dash
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India
| | - Rashmi Singh
- Department of Zoology, MMV, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India.
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17
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Hu S, Li SW, Yan Q, Hu XP, Li LY, Zhou H, Pan LX, Li J, Shen CP, Xu T. Natural products, extracts and formulations comprehensive therapy for the improvement of motor function in alcoholic liver disease. Pharmacol Res 2019; 150:104501. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.104501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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18
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Li C, Meng M, Guo M, Wang M, Ju A, Wang C. The polysaccharides from Grifola frondosa attenuate CCl 4-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats via the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. RSC Adv 2019; 9:33684-33692. [PMID: 35528887 PMCID: PMC9073534 DOI: 10.1039/c9ra04679h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway has been linked to hepatic fibrosis. Previous studies have shown that yellow polysaccharide can prevent the development of hepatic fibrosis. However, it is unclear whether the polysaccharide affects the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway. In this experiment, 50 experimental rats were randomly divided into a normal control group, model group, low GFP dose group (50 mg kg-1), medium GFP dose group (100 mg kg-1), and high GFP dose group (200 mg kg-1). A cirrhotic portal hypertension rat model was established by a CCl4 compound method. After 12 weeks of intragastric administration, the liver index of the medium dose and high dose group was significantly lower than that of the model group. The hepatic fibrosis lesions of rats in each dose group were improved to different extents, and the effect was most significant in the high dose group. The contents of ALT, AST, TBIL and CIV, PCIII, LN and HA in serum were significantly decreased. The activity of SOD and GSH-Px in the liver tissue of GFP medium and high dose groups was significantly increased and the content of MDA was significantly decreased. The contents of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 were significantly decreased. The western blot results showed that the expressions of p-Smad 2/3, Smad4, PAI-1, Imp7 and Imp8 in medium dose and high dose groups were significantly lower than those in the model group, while the expression of Smad7 was significantly higher than that of the model group. The GFP-treated group was able to reduce the expression level of mi R-154 in liver tissue and increase the expression level of miR-146a. GFP has a significant intervention effect on rat hepatic fibrosis, and its mechanism may inhibit the progression of hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammatory response and regulating TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway and mi RNA expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Li
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education, College of Food Engineering and Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology No. 29, 13th Avenue, Tianjin Economy Technological Development Area Tianjin 300457 People Republic of China +86-022-60912421 +86-022-60912421
| | - Meng Meng
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education, College of Food Engineering and Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology No. 29, 13th Avenue, Tianjin Economy Technological Development Area Tianjin 300457 People Republic of China +86-022-60912421 +86-022-60912421
| | - Mingzhu Guo
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education, College of Food Engineering and Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology No. 29, 13th Avenue, Tianjin Economy Technological Development Area Tianjin 300457 People Republic of China +86-022-60912421 +86-022-60912421
| | - Mengyang Wang
- Cangzhou Institutes for Food and Drug Control Cangzhou 061000 People Republic of China
| | - Aining Ju
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University Yantai 264100 People Republic of China
| | - Chunling Wang
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education, College of Food Engineering and Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology No. 29, 13th Avenue, Tianjin Economy Technological Development Area Tianjin 300457 People Republic of China +86-022-60912421 +86-022-60912421
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Chen C, Li H, Wang X, Wang L, Zeng Q. Lnc-LFAR1 affects intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma proliferation, invasion, and EMT by regulating the TGFβ/Smad signaling pathway. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL PATHOLOGY 2019; 12:2455-2461. [PMID: 31934072 PMCID: PMC6949567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) has had an increasing incidence in recent years. It exhibits high recurrence and metastasis rates, so it is a global health problem. LncRNAs have long been thought to have a role in regulating tumorigenesis and tumor progression and in playing a carcinogenic or tumor suppressor role in malignant cells. Lnc-LFAR1 is enriched in liver tissue, but its role and mechanism in ICC have not been elucidated. ICC cell line QBC939 cells were randomly divided into 3 groups, including a control group, an lnc-LFAR1 overexpression group, and an lnc-LFAR1 siRNA group, the cells of which were transfected with pcDNA3.1-LFAR1 plasmid and lnc-LFAR1 siRNA, respectively. Real-time PCR was used to quantify lnc-LFAR1 expression. A tetrazolium salt (MTT) colorimetric assay was adopted to assess cell viability. A cell scratch assay was selected to assess cell migration. A transwell chamber assay was used to test cell invasion. E-cadherin and vimentin expressions were detected using Western blot. The TGFβ/Smad signaling pathway was measured using real-time PCR. The transfection of pcDNA3.1-LFAR1 significantly increased the expression of lnc-LFAR1, promoted cell proliferation, facilitated cell migration and invasion, reduced E-cadherin levels, enhanced vimentin expression, upregulated TGF-β1 and Smad2 and Smad4 expressions (P < 0.05). Lnc-LFAR1 siRNA transfection clearly downregulated lnc-LFAR1 expression, inhibited cell proliferation, suppressed cell migration and invasion, increased E-cadherin expression, and decreased vimentin, TGF-β1, Smad2, and Smad4 levels (P < 0.05). Targeting lnc-LFAR1 can inhibit cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT by regulating the TGFβ/Smad pathway to affect the occurrence and development of cholangiocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xintian Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qinghua Zeng
- Department of Nephrology and Immunology Center, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangsha, Hunan, China
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20
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Li X, Liu Y, Yue W, Tan Y, Wang H, Zhang L, Chen J. A Compound of Chinese Herbs Protects against Alcoholic Liver Fibrosis in Rats via the TGF- β1/Smad Signaling Pathway. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2019; 2019:9121347. [PMID: 31118972 PMCID: PMC6500606 DOI: 10.1155/2019/9121347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Alcoholic liver fibrosis (ALF) has become a major public health concern owing to its health impacts and the lack of effective treatment strategies for the disease. In this study, we investigated the effect of a compound composed of Chinese herbs Pueraria lobata (Willd.), Salvia miltiorrhiza, Schisandra chinensis, and Silybum marianum on ALF. An ALF model was established. Rats were fed with modified Lieber-Decarli alcohol liquid diet and injected with trace CCl4 at late stage. The rats were then treated with several doses of the compound. Biochemical and fibrosis-relevant parameters were measured from the sera obtained from the rats. Liver tissues were obtained for hematoxylin and eosin and Masson's trichrome staining. Matrix metalloproteinase-13 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 were determined by immunohistochemistry assays. The mRNA and protein expression levels of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), Smad2, Smad3, and Smad7 on the livers were also measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. Results showed that the compound treatment alleviated pathological lesions in the liver, decreased the serum levels of hyaluronan, laminin, and hydroxyproline, and diminished the expression of hepatic tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1. Compound treatment also increased hepatic matrix metalloproteinase-13 expression and inhibited the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway. In conclusion, the compound has a protective effect against ALF in rats, and an underlying mechanism is involved in the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomeng Li
- West China School of Public Health and West China fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Food Safety Monitoring and Risk Assessment Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Yunjie Liu
- West China School of Public Health and West China fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Food Safety Monitoring and Risk Assessment Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Wuyang Yue
- West China School of Public Health and West China fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Food Safety Monitoring and Risk Assessment Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuefeng Tan
- West China School of Public Health and West China fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Food Safety Monitoring and Risk Assessment Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - He Wang
- West China School of Public Health and West China fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Food Safety Monitoring and Risk Assessment Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Lishi Zhang
- West China School of Public Health and West China fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Food Safety Monitoring and Risk Assessment Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Jinyao Chen
- West China School of Public Health and West China fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Food Safety Monitoring and Risk Assessment Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
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21
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Wang Z, Zhao X, Ma Z, Liu L, Wang B, Li Y. Modulation on gallbladder carcinoma by TGF-β1 via IGFBP-2. Cancer Biomark 2018:CBM181895. [PMID: 30614799 DOI: 10.3233/cbm-181895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Gallbladder carcinoma (GC) occupies more than 90% of all cancers in biliary tract with an increasing incidence. Most patients with GC are already at terminal stage at the time of primary diagnosis, causing unfavorable prognosis and high mortality. Transformation growth factor-beta (TGF-β) is up-regulated in GC. However, the mechanism by how TGF-β is involved in GC remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect and mechanism of TGF-β in GC using GC cell line NOZ cells.In vitro cultured NOZ cell was randomly assigned into control, si-NC and TGF-β1 siRNA groups and were transfected with siRNA negative control (NC) or TGF-β1 siRNA followed by analysis of TGF-β1 expression by Real-time PCR, cell proliferation by MTT assay, cell apoptosis and cell invasion, as well as expression of proteins in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), p38, Smad2/3 and Smad4 phosphorylation by Western blot, Insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-2 (IGFBP-2) level by ELISA. After transfecting TGF-β1 siRNA into NOZ cells, TGF-β1 expression was suppressed and cell proliferation and invasion were inhibited, together with enhanced Caspase-3 activity. Meanwhile, E-cadherin expression was increased, with decreased Vimentin, IGFBP-2, p38, Smad2/3 and Smad4 phosphorylation (P< 0.05 comparing to control group). In conclusion, inhibition of TGF-β1 expression facilitates GC cell apoptosis, inhibits GC cell proliferation, invasion and EMT occurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhibin Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Fifth Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, China
- Department of Oncology, The Fifth Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, China
| | - Xuan Zhao
- Department of Operation Room, The Fifth Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, China
- Department of Oncology, The Fifth Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, China
| | - Zhiming Ma
- Department of Operation Room, The Fifth Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, China
- Department of Oncology, The Fifth Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Fifth Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, China
- Department of Oncology, The Fifth Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Fifth Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Department of Oncology, The Fifth Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, China
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22
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Antifibrotic Effect of Smad Decoy Oligodeoxynucleotide in a CCl₄-Induced Hepatic Fibrosis Animal Model. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23081991. [PMID: 30103395 PMCID: PMC6222866 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23081991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is the wound-healing process of chronic hepatic disease that leads to the end-stage of hepatocellular carcinoma and demolition of hepatic structures. Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been identified to phenotypic conversion of the epithelium to mesenchymal phenotype that occurred during fibrosis. Smad decoy oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) is a synthetic DNA fragment containing a complementary sequence of Smad transcription factor. Thus, this study evaluated the antifibrotic effects of Smad decoy ODN on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice. As shown in histological results, CCl4 treatment triggered hepatic fibrosis and increased Smad expression. On the contrary, Smad decoy ODN administration suppressed fibrogenesis and EMT process. The expression of Smad signaling and EMT-associated protein was markedly decreased in Smad decoy ODN-treated mice compared with CCl4-injured mice. In conclusion, these data indicate the practicability of Smad decoy ODN administration for preventing hepatic fibrosis and EMT processes.
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23
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Wu T, Liu T, Xing L, Ji G. Baicalin and puerarin reverse epithelial-mesenchymal transition via the TGF-β1/Smad3 pathway in vitro. Exp Ther Med 2018; 16:1968-1974. [PMID: 30186426 PMCID: PMC6122322 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2018.6400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) occurs in the development of fibrosis and carcinogenesis. EMT is associated with chronic liver injury. Evidence shows that hepatocytes undergo EMT in the adult liver. The Qinggan Huoxue Recipe (QGHXR), a Traditional Chinese Medicinal formula, shows a range of pharmacological effects in treating alcoholic liver disease. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of four major components of QGHXR, baicalin, salvianic acid, puerarin and saikosaponin, on EMT in vitro, and to elucidate the potential mechanism of QGHXR against EMT via the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/Smads signaling pathway. EMT models were established using LO2 hepatocytes and HepG2 cells treated with acetaldehyde in vitro. Acetaldehyde presented a mesenchymal cell characteristic in hepatocytes, accompanied by an increased expression of mesenchymal markers, including vimentin and fibronectin, and decreased E-cadherin. Baicalin and puerarin abrogated the increased expression of vimentin and fibronectin, and rescued E-cadherin expression in acetaldehyde-treated hepatocytes. It was further demonstrated that baicalin and puerarin reduced the gene expression of snail, TGF-β1 and Smad3. A decreased expression of tight function markers, including ZO-1, occludin and claudin, were also found in the acetaldehyde-treated hepatocytes. Barcacin regulated the mRNA level of TGF-βl and snail, and then suppressed the EMT process. This was accompanied by an increased mRNA level of E-cadherin and decreased levels of vimentin and fibronectin, but no significant differences in of Smad3, occludin, ZO-1 and claudin were observed. Puerarin regulated the mRNA level of TGF-βl, Smad3 and snail, suppresing the EMT process, which was accompanied by an increased mRNA level of E-cadherin and decreased levels of vimentin and fibronectin, along with increased levels of occludin, ZO-1 and claudin. When the snail gene was silent, barcacin and puerarin did not show significant effects in the acetaldehyde-treated cells. The results presented a novel mechanism through which baicalin and puerarin modulated hepatocyte EMT to improve liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wu
- Center of Chinese Medical Therapy and Systems Biology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, P.R. China.,Institute of Digestive Disease, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Tao Liu
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Lianjun Xing
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Guang Ji
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China.,China-Canada Center of Research for Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
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24
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Zhang Y, Miao H, Yan H, Sheng Y, Ji L. Hepatoprotective effect of Forsythiae Fructus water extract against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis in mice. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2018; 218:27-34. [PMID: 29474900 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2018.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Revised: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The fruit of Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl, named Forsythiae Fructus (Lian-Qiao), is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) used for clearing away heat and toxic material, eliminating the mass and relieving swelling. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aims to observe the attenuation of the water extract of Forsythiae Fructus (FSE) on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis in male C57BL/6 mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS Hepatic fibrosis was induced in male C57BL/6 mice by intraperitoneal injection with 2 ml/kg CCl4 (mixed 1: 3 in olive oil) twice a week for 4 weeks. At the same time, the mice were orally given with FSE (1, 2 g/kg) every day for 4 weeks. Serum biochemical parameters, gene and protein expression related to liver fibrosis were analyzed. The contents of forsythiaside A and forsythin in FSE were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). RESULTS Results of serum alanine/aspartate aminotransferase (ALT/AST) activity and liver histological evaluation both showed the protection of FSE against CCl4-induced liver injury. Further, the anti-fibrotic effects of FSE was evidenced by the results of Masson's trichrome and Sirius red staining, liver hydroxyproline content, and serum amounts of hyaluronic acid, laminin, collagen Ⅳ and type III procollagen (PCIII). FSE also reduced the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) in livers from CCl4-injured mice. Additionally, FSE decreased the increased hepatic expression of fibroblast-specific protein 1 (FSP1) and vimentin induced by CCl4 in mice. CONCLUSIONS FSE attenuates CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in mice by inhibiting hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation, reducing hepatic extracellular matrix (ECM) disposition and reversing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Hui Miao
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Hongyu Yan
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Yuchen Sheng
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Lili Ji
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
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25
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Tang X, Hu W, Lv Y, Zhang W, Sun T, Jiang Y, Zhan X, Zhou S. A Polysaccharide from Amusium Pleuronectes Combined with Praziquantel Treatment Ameliorates Hepatic Fibrosis in Schistosoma Japonicum-Infected Mice. Med Sci Monit 2018; 24:1597-1603. [PMID: 29550831 PMCID: PMC5870401 DOI: 10.12659/msm.909320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Polysaccharides from bivalves have multiple bioactivities in various aspects of biology. However, the role of a polysaccharide derived from Amusium pleuronectes on potential hepatoprotective effects remains unclear. Material/Methods A water-soluble polysaccharide was isolated from Amusium pleuronectes (APS-1) using ultrasound-assisted hot-water extraction. The molecular weight of APS-1 was approximately 11.7 kDa and was determined by calibration with dextran. APS-1 was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and mainly consisted of a uniform glucose polymer. The protective effect of APS-1 on Schistosoma japonicum-induced liver fibrosis was investigated in a mouse model. Results Treatment with APS-1 increased serum levels of interleukin (IL)-12 and interferon (IFN)-γ, increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and decreased levels of IL-13 and IL-5, and hyaluronidase activity. Moreover, immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the collagen content of hepatic tissue of APS-1-treated mice, including that of collagen I, II, and IV, was dramatically decreased. Furthermore, our data showed that combined treatment of APS-1 with praziquantel had more pronounced effects than treatment with either APS-1 or praziquantel alone. Conclusions Our findings suggest that the treatment using APS-1 in combination with praziquantel attenuated S. japonicum egg-induced hepatic fibrosis, and possessed potent hepatoprotective activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoniu Tang
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland).,Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioactive Macromolecules, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland)
| | - Wei Hu
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland)
| | - Yechao Lv
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland)
| | - Wenqi Zhang
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland)
| | - Tian Sun
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland)
| | - Yuxin Jiang
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland).,Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioactive Macromolecules, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland)
| | - Xiaodong Zhan
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland).,Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioactive Macromolecules, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland)
| | - Shulin Zhou
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland).,Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioactive Macromolecules, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland)
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26
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Zhang C, Tian X, Zhang K, Li GY, Wang HY, Wang JH. Protective effects of Foeniculum vulgare root bark extract against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice. World J Gastroenterol 2017; 23:5722-5731. [PMID: 28883697 PMCID: PMC5569286 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v23.i31.5722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 05/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To investigate the protective effects of Foeniculum vulgare root bark (FVRB), a traditional Uyghur medicine, against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice.
METHODS Mice were randomly divided into eight groups (n = 20 each). Except for the normal control group, mice in the rest groups were intraperitoneally injected (i.p.) with 0.1% CCl4-olive oil mixture at 10 mL/kg twice a week to induce liver fibrosis. After 4 wk, mice were treated concurrently with the 70% ethanol extract of FVRB (88, 176, 352 and 704 mg/kg, respectively) daily by oral gavage for 4 wk to evaluate its protective effects. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), triglyceride (TG), hexadecenoic acid (HA), laminin (LN), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in liver tissues were measured. Hematoxylin-eosin (H and E) staining and Masson trichrome (MT) staining were performed to assess histopathological changes in the liver. The expression of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), matrix metalloprotein 9 (MMP-9) and metallopeptidase inhibitor 1 (TIMP-1) was detected by immunohistochemical analysis. Additionally, TGF-β1 and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) protein expression was measured by Western blot.
RESULTS A significant reduction in serum levels of AST, ALT, TG, HA and LN was observed in the FVRB-treated groups, suggesting that FVRB displayed hepatoprotective effects. Also, the depletion of GSH, SOD, and MDA accumulation in liver tissues was suppressed by FVRB. The expression of TGF-β1, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 determined by immunohistochemistry was markedly reduced in a dose-dependent manner by FVRB treatment. Furthermore, protective effects of FVRB against CCl4-induced liver injury were confirmed by histopathological studies. Protein expression of TGF-β1 and α-SMA detected by Western blot was decreased by FVRB treatment.
CONCLUSION Our results indicate that FVRB may be a promising agent against hepatic fibrosis and its possible mechanisms are inhibiting lipid peroxidation and reducing collagen formation in liver tissue of liver fibrosis mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cai Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832002, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Xing Tian
- School of Pharmacy, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832002, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Ke Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832002, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Guo-Yu Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832002, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Hang-Yu Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832002, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Jin-Hui Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832002, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
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Yang L, Xing S, Wang K, Yi H, Du B. Paeonol attenuates aging MRC-5 cells and inhibits epithelial–mesenchymal transition of premalignant HaCaT cells induced by aging MRC-5 cell-conditioned medium. Mol Cell Biochem 2017; 439:117-129. [DOI: 10.1007/s11010-017-3141-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Anti-fibrotic effects of Salvia miltiorrhiza and Ligustrazine Injection on LX-2 cells involved with increased N-myc downstream-regulated gene 2 expression. Chin J Integr Med 2016; 23:923-928. [PMID: 27933510 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-016-2640-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of Salvia miltiorrhiza and Ligustrazine Injection (SML) on proliferation and apoptosis of human hepatic stellate cell LX-2 and the expression of N-myc downstreamregulated gene 2 (NDRG2, a tumor suppressor gene). METHODS HSCs from the LX-2 cell line were cultured in vitro. The proliferative state of different initial LX-2 cell numbers was measured using a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol- 2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) colorimetric assay. LX-2 cells were plated in 96-well plates at an approximate density of 2.50×104 cells/mL and cultured for 24 h followed by the application of different concentrations of SML (1, 2, 4 and 8 μL/mL). Cell proliferation was measured using the MTT assay at 24 and 48 h. Apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry at 24 h. LX-2 cells were treated with different concentrations of SML and extracted with protein lysis buffer. The levels of NDRG2 and β-catenin were measured by Western blot. RESULTS With the exception of the 1 and 2 μL/mL concentrations, 4 and 8 μL/mL SML inhibited cell proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner at 24 and 48 h (P<0.05). With the exception of the 1 and 2 μL/mL concentrations, the NDRG2 expression level was greatly increased in a concentration-dependent manner. However, the level of β-catenin was unaffected. CONCLUSION SML inhibit LX-2 cell proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner, and the mechanism may be associated with NDRG2 over-expression.
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Huang M, Wu S, Hu Q, Wu H, Wei S, Xie H, Sun K, Li X, Fang L. Agkihpin, a novel SVAE may inhibit the migration and invasion of liver cancer cells associated with the inversion of EMT induced by Wnt/β-catenin signaling inhibition. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2016; 479:283-289. [PMID: 27644877 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2016.09.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In our previous work, agkihpin, a snake venom arginine esterase (SVAE), was isolated from the Gloydius halys Pallas, which could attenuate the migration of liver cancer cells. However, the mechanism of the effect of agkihpin on attenuating migration of liver cancer cell is unknown yet. Here, to learn more about agkihpin and explore the possibility of agkihpin as an anti-metastatic drug in the future, a series of experiments about the migration and invasion of liver cancer cells with agkihpin, HepG 2 and SMMC-7721, was conducted. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an initial step and a major phenotype of cancer metastasis and invasion, while a number of EMT opposite phenomenons were observed, for example, epithelial marker E-cadherin was up-regulated, mesenchymal markers N-cadherin and Vimentin, and transcription regulators Snail and twist were down-regulated after treating with agkihpin in liver cancer cells; canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway, one of the signals initiated EMT, was inhibited by decreased expressions of FZD7 and β-catenin, phosphorylation of GSK3β (Ser9), and nuclear β-catenin accumulation in agkihpin treated cancer cells. By using bioinformatics analysis and protease activity analysis in vitro we also found that agkihpin might bind and degrade FZD7. As a result, we hypothesized that agkihpin could inhibit the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by cleaving FZD7, leading to the inactivation of the TCF/LEF transcription factor, which contributed to the inversion of EMT, and finally attenuated the migration and invasion of liver cancer cells. Therefore, our findings provided novel mechanistic insights into the role of SVAEs in liver cancer controlling, and raised the possibility that agkihpin may be used therapeutically in liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Huang
- Radiology Department, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530021, PR China
| | - Shengming Wu
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530021, PR China
| | - Qiping Hu
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Pre-clinical Medicine, Guangxi medical university, Nanning, 530021, PR China.
| | - Huayu Wu
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Pre-clinical Medicine, Guangxi medical university, Nanning, 530021, PR China
| | - Shu Wei
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Pre-clinical Medicine, Guangxi medical university, Nanning, 530021, PR China
| | - Huiqiong Xie
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Pre-clinical Medicine, Guangxi medical university, Nanning, 530021, PR China
| | - Kejian Sun
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Pre-clinical Medicine, Guangxi medical university, Nanning, 530021, PR China
| | - Xiaolong Li
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Pre-clinical Medicine, Guangxi medical university, Nanning, 530021, PR China
| | - Ling Fang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Pre-clinical Medicine, Guangxi medical university, Nanning, 530021, PR China
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