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Sun YL, Bai T, Zhou L, Zhu RT, Wang WJ, Liang RP, Li J, Zhang CX, Gou JJ. SOD3 deficiency induces liver fibrosis by promoting hepatic stellate cell activation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:4313-4329. [PMID: 33230845 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is suggested to potentially promote HSC activation. Superoxide dismutase 3 (SOD3) is an extracellular antioxidant defense against oxidative damage. Here, we found downregulation of SOD3 in a mouse model of liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 ). SOD3 deficiency induced spontaneous liver injury and fibrosis with increased collagen deposition, and further aggravated CCl4 -induced liver injury in mice. Depletion of SOD3 enhanced HSC activation marked by increased α-smooth muscle actin and subsequent collagen synthesis primarily collagen type I in vivo, and promoted transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-induced HSC activation in vitro. SOD3 deficiency accelerated EMT process in the liver and TGF-β1-induced EMT of AML12 hepatocytes, as evidenced by loss of E-cadherin and gain of N-cadherin and vimentin. Notably, SOD3 expression and its pro-fibrogenic effect were positively associated with sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) expression. SOD3 deficiency inhibited adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling to downregulate SIRT1 expression and thus involving in liver fibrosis. Enforced expression of SIRT1 inhibited SOD3 deficiency-induced HSC activation and EMT, whereas depletion of SIRT1 counteracted the inhibitory effect of SOD3 in vitro. These findings demonstrate that SOD3 deficiency contributes to liver fibrogenesis by promoting HSC activation and EMT process, and suggest a possibility that SOD3 may function through modulating SIRT1 via the AMPK pathway in liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ling Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Tao Bai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Digestive, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Rong-Tao Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wei-Jie Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ruo-Peng Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chi-Xian Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jian-Jun Gou
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Lab of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Zhengzhou, China
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Cai S, Wu L, Yuan S, Liu G, Wang Y, Fang L, Xu D. Carvacrol alleviates liver fibrosis by inhibiting TRPM7 and modulating the MAPK signaling pathway. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 898:173982. [PMID: 33647257 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.173982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a compensatory response to the tissue repair process. The activation and proliferation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are thought to be related to the occurrence of hepatic fibrosis. Therefore, inhibiting the activation and proliferation of HSCs is a key step in alleviating liver fibrosis. As a non-specific inhibitor of transient receptor potential melastatin 7 (TRPM7), carvacrol has anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and anti-hepatic fibrosis activities. This study aimed to explore the protective effect of carvacrol on liver fibrosis and related molecular mechanisms. A CCl4-induced liver fibrosis mouse model and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF-BB)-activated HSC-T6 cells (a rat hepatic stellate cell line) were employed for in vivo and in vitro experiments. C57BL/6J mice were orally administered different concentrations of carvacrol every day for 6 weeks during the development of CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. The results show that carvacrol could effectively reduce liver damage and the progression of liver fibrosis in mice, which are expressed as fibrotic markers levels were reduced and histopathological characteristics were improved. Moreover, carvacrol inhibited the proliferation and activation of HSC-T6 cells induced by PDGF-BB. In addition, it was found that carvacrol inhibits the expression of TRPM7 and mediated through mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK). Collectively, our study shows that carvacrol can reduce liver fibrosis by inhibiting the activation and proliferation of hepatic stellate cells, and the MAPK signaling pathway might be involved in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyi Cai
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui, Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Lijun Wu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui, Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Siyu Yuan
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Guofang Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yalu Wang
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui, Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ling Fang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.
| | - Dujuan Xu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui, Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.
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Chen C, Gu J, Wang J, Wu Y, Yang A, Chen T, Zhou T, Liu Z. Physcion 8-O-β-glucopyranoside ameliorates liver fibrosis through inflammation inhibition by regulating SIRT3-mediated NF-κB P65 nuclear expression. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 90:107206. [PMID: 33246826 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.107206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Physcion 8-O-β-glucopyranoside (PSG), an anthraquinone extracted from Rumex japonicus Houtt, has various pharmacological effects, however, the effect of PSG on liver fibrosis and its related mechanism remain to be determined. We here showed that PSG ameliorated liver injury and liver fibrosis, decreased collagen deposition and inhibited inflammation in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced rats. Consistent with the in vivo results, PSG suppressed the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-induced cell viability, liver fibrosis and secretion of inflammatory factors in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Interestingly, PSG increased the enzyme activity and promoter activity of sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) in fibrotic liver and activated HSCs. In addition, PSG notably increased the mRNA and protein expression of SIRT3 both in vivo and in vitro. Depletion of SIRT3 either by using 3-TYP (SIRT3 selective inhibitor) or SIRT3 siRNA attenuated the anti-inflammatory effect of PSG in activated HSCs. Further study found that TGF-β1 increased the nuclear expression of NF-κB p65, but showed no obvious effect on the total NF-κB p65 expression. Compared to the control adenovirus (Ad.mk), overexpression of SIRT3 by infecting adenovirus encoding SIRT3 (Ad.SIRT3) notably decreased the nuclear expression of NF-κB p65 in activated HSCs. Our results demonstrated that PSG attenuated inflammation by regulating SIRT3-mediated NF-κB P65 nuclear expression in liver fibrosis, providing novel molecular insights into the anti-fibrotic effect of PSG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, 19 Qixiu Road, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, China
| | - Jingya Gu
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, 19 Qixiu Road, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, China
| | - Jue Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, 19 Qixiu Road, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, China
| | - Yu Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Nantong Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Aihua Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Nantong Maternal and Children Health Care Service Hospital, Nantong 226018, China
| | - Tingting Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, 19 Qixiu Road, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, China
| | - Tingting Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, 19 Qixiu Road, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, China
| | - Zhaoguo Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, 19 Qixiu Road, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, China.
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Ryu J, Kim E, Kang MK, Song DG, Shin EA, Lee H, Jung JW, Nam SH, Kim JE, Kim HJ, Son T, Kim S, Kim HY, Lee JW. Differential TM4SF5-mediated SIRT1 modulation and metabolic signaling in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis progression. J Pathol 2021; 253:55-67. [PMID: 32918742 DOI: 10.1002/path.5548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is a chronic condition involving steatosis, steatohepatitis and fibrosis, and its progression remains unclear. Although the tetraspanin transmembrane 4 L six family member 5 (TM4SF5) is involved in hepatic fibrosis and cancer, its role in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) progression is unknown. We investigated the contribution of TM4SF5 to liver pathology using transgenic and KO mice, diet- or drug-treated mice, in vitro primary cells, and in human tissue. TM4SF5-overexpressing mice exhibited nonalcoholic steatosis and NASH in an age-dependent manner. Initially, TM4SF5-positive hepatocytes and liver tissue exhibited lipid accumulation, decreased Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), increased sterol regulatory-element binding proteins (SREBPs) and inactive STAT3 via suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS)1/3 upregulation. In older mice, TM4SF5 promoted inflammatory factor induction, SIRT1 expression and STAT3 activity, but did not change SOCS or SREBP levels, leading to active STAT3-mediated ECM production for NASH progression. A TM4SF5-associated increase in chemokines promoted SIRT1 expression and progression to NASH with fibrosis. Suppression of the chemokine CCL20 reduced immune cell infiltration and ECM production. Liver tissue from high-fat diet- or CCl4 -treated mice and human patients exhibited TM4SF5-dependent steatotic or steatohepatitic livers with links between TM4SF5-mediated SIRT1 modulation and SREBP or SOCS/STAT3 signaling axes. TM4SF5-mediated STAT3 activation in fibrotic NASH livers increased collagen I and laminin γ2. Both collagen I α1 and laminin γ2 suppression resulted in reduced SIRT1 and active STAT3, but no change in SREBP1 or SOCS, and abolished CCl4 -mediated mouse liver damage. TM4SF5-mediated signaling pathways that involve SIRT1, SREBPs and SOCS/STAT3 promoted progression to NASH. Therefore, TM4SF5 and its downstream effectors may be promising therapeutic targets to treat nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. © 2020 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihye Ryu
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunmi Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Kyung Kang
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Geun Song
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Systems Biotechnology Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Gangneung-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Ae Shin
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Haesong Lee
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Woo Jung
- Interdisciplinary Program in Genetic Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo Hee Nam
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program in Genetic Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Eon Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Jin Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Taekwon Son
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Semi Kim
- Immunotherapy Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hwi Young Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Weon Lee
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program in Genetic Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Poole LG, Pant A, Baker KS, Kopec AK, Cline-Fedewa HM, Iismaa SE, Flick MJ, Luyendyk JP. Chronic liver injury drives non-traditional intrahepatic fibrin(ogen) crosslinking via tissue transglutaminase. J Thromb Haemost 2019; 17:113-125. [PMID: 30415489 PMCID: PMC6322974 DOI: 10.1111/jth.14330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Essentials Fibrin clots are often implicated in the progression of liver fibrosis. Liver fibrosis was induced in transgenic mice with defects in clot formation or stabilization. Liver fibrosis and fibrin(ogen) deposition do not require fibrin polymerization or factor XIIIa. Fibrin(ogen) is an in vivo substrate of tissue transglutaminase in experimental liver fibrosis. SUMMARY: Background Intravascular fibrin clots and extravascular fibrin deposits are often implicated in the progression of liver fibrosis. However, evidence supporting a pathological role of fibrin in hepatic fibrosis is indirect and based largely on studies using anticoagulant drugs that inhibit activation of the coagulation protease thrombin, which has other downstream targets that promote fibrosis. Therefore, the goal of this study was to determine the precise role of fibrin deposits in experimental hepatic fibrosis. Methods Liver fibrosis was induced in mice expressing mutant fibrinogen insensitive to thrombin-mediated proteolysis (i.e. locked in the monomeric form), termed FibAEK mice, and factor XIII A2 subunit-deficient (FXIII-/- ) mice. Female wild-type mice, FXIII-/- mice and homozygous FibAEK mice were challenged with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 ) twice weekly for 4 weeks or 6 weeks (1 mL kg-1 , intraperitoneal). Results Hepatic injury and fibrosis induced by CCl4 challenge were unaffected by FXIII deficiency or inhibition of thrombin-catalyzed fibrin polymer formation (in FibAEK mice). Surprisingly, hepatic deposition of crosslinked fibrin(ogen) was not reduced in CCl4 -challenged FXIII-/- mice or FibAEK mice as compared with wild-type mice. Rather, deposition of crosslinked hepatic fibrin(ogen) following CCl4 challenge was dramatically reduced in tissue transglutaminase-2 (TGM2)-deficient (TGM2-/- ) mice. However, the reduction in crosslinked fibrin(ogen) in TGM2-/- mice did not affect CCl4 -induced liver fibrosis. Conclusions These results indicate that neither traditional fibrin clots, formed by the thrombin-activated FXIII pathway nor atypical TGM2-crosslinked fibrin(ogen) contribute to experimental CCl4 -induced liver fibrosis. Collectively, the results indicate that liver fibrosis occurs independently of intrahepatic fibrin(ogen) deposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- L G Poole
- Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - A Pant
- Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - K S Baker
- Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - A K Kopec
- Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - H M Cline-Fedewa
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - S E Iismaa
- Division of Molecular Cardiology and Biophysics, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - M J Flick
- Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - J P Luyendyk
- Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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Abstract
Propranolol is known to reduce portal pressure by decreasing blood flow to the splanchnic circulation and the liver. However, it is unknown if propranolol improves fibrogenesis and sinusoidal remodeling in the cirrhotic liver. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of propranolol on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in a mouse model and the intrinsic mechanisms underlying those effects. In this study, a hepatic cirrhosis mouse model was induced by CCl4 administration for 6 weeks. Propranolol was simultaneously administered orally in the experimental group. Liver tissue and blood samples were collected for histological and molecular analyses. LX-2 cells induced by platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) were used to evaluate the anti-fibrogenic effect of propranolol in vitro. The results showed that treatment of mice with CCl4 induced hepatic fibrosis, as evidenced by inflammatory cell infiltration, collagen deposition and abnormal vascular formation in the liver tissue. All these changes were significantly attenuated by propranolol treatment. Furthermore, we also found that propranolol inhibited PDGF-BB-induced hepatic stellate cell migration, fibrogenesis, and PDGFR/Akt phosphorylation. Taken together, propranolol might prevent CCl4-induced liver injury and fibrosis at least partially through inhibiting the PDGF-BB-induced PDGFR/Akt pathway. The anti-fibrogenic effect of propranolol may support its status as a first-line treatment in patients with chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan 250021, China
| | - Zhen Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan 250021, China; Shandong Provincial Engineering and Technological Research Center for Liver Diseases Prevention and Control, Jinan, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto 606-8507 Japan
| | - Liping Ling
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan 250021, China; Shandong Provincial Engineering and Technological Research Center for Liver Diseases Prevention and Control, Jinan, China
| | - Xiangguo Tian
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan 250021, China
| | - Chunqing Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan 250021, China.
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7
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Hong Y, Han YQ, Wang YZ, Gao JR, Li YX, Liu Q, Xia LZ. Paridis Rhizoma Sapoinins attenuates liver fibrosis in rats by regulating the expression of RASAL1/ERK1/2 signal pathway. J Ethnopharmacol 2016; 192:114-122. [PMID: 27396351 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Revised: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
ETHNO-PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Paridis Rhizoma is a Chinese medicinal herb that has been used in liver disease treatment for thousands of years. Our previous studies found that Paridis Rhizoma saponins (PRS) are the critical components of Paridis Rhizoma which has good liver protection effect. However, the anti-hepatic fibrosis effect and the mechanism of PRS have seldom been reported. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the potential of PRS in the treatment of experimental liver fibrosis and the underlying mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS The chemical feature fingerprint of PRS was analyzed by UPLC-PDA. A total of 40 Male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into the control group, the model group, the PRS high dose group (PRS H) and the PRS low dose group (PRS L) with 10 rats in each group. The model, PRS H and L groups as liver fibrosis models were established with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) method. PRS H and L groups were adopted PRS (300 and 150mg/kgd-1) treatment since the twelfth week of modeling till the sixteenth week. Pathological changes in hepatic tissue were examined using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and MASSON trichrome staining. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to determine the protein expression of the RASAL1. RT-PCR and western blotting were used to detect the expression of ERK1/2 mRNA and protein. RESULTS Four saponins in PRS were identified from 19 detected chromatographic peaks on UPLC-PDA by comparing to the standard compounds. PRS can improve the degeneration and necrosis of hepatic tissue, reduce the extent of its fibrous hyperplasia according to H&E and MASSON staining detection. As was detected in PRS H and L groups, PRS down-regulated p-ERK1/2 mRNA and RASAL1 protein, and up-regulated the level of p-ERK1/2 mRNA and RASAL1 protein. CONCLUSION These results demonstrated that PRS can attenuate CCl4-induced liver fibrosis through the regulation of RAS/ERK1/2 signal pathway.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Blotting, Western
- Carbon Tetrachloride
- Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/enzymology
- Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/pathology
- Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/prevention & control
- Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid
- Cytoprotection
- GTPase-Activating Proteins/genetics
- GTPase-Activating Proteins/metabolism
- Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic
- Hyperplasia
- Immunohistochemistry
- Liver/drug effects
- Liver/enzymology
- Liver/pathology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/chemically induced
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/enzymology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/pathology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/prevention & control
- Male
- Melanthiaceae/chemistry
- Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 1/genetics
- Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 1/metabolism
- Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 3/genetics
- Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 3/metabolism
- Necrosis
- Phosphorylation
- Phytotherapy
- Plant Extracts/isolation & purification
- Plant Extracts/pharmacology
- Plants, Medicinal
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Saponins/isolation & purification
- Saponins/pharmacology
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Hong
- Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China.
| | - Yan-Quan Han
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Grade 3 Laboratory of TCM Preparation, State Administration of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China.
| | - Yong-Zhong Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Grade 3 Laboratory of TCM Preparation, State Administration of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China.
| | - Jia-Rong Gao
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Grade 3 Laboratory of TCM Preparation, State Administration of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China.
| | - Yu-Xin Li
- Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Grade 3 Laboratory of TCM Preparation, State Administration of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China.
| | - Qing Liu
- Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Grade 3 Laboratory of TCM Preparation, State Administration of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China.
| | - Lun-Zhu Xia
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Grade 3 Laboratory of TCM Preparation, State Administration of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China.
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Song YN, Zhang GB, Lu YY, Chen QL, Yang L, Wang ZT, Liu P, Su SB. Huangqi decoction alleviates dimethylnitrosamine-induced liver fibrosis: An analysis of bile acids metabolic mechanism. J Ethnopharmacol 2016; 189:148-156. [PMID: 27196295 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.05.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2015] [Revised: 01/30/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Huangqi Decoction (HQD), a classical traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, is used to treating liver injury in China. The aim of the study is to investigate mechanisms of HQD against dimethylnitrosamine (DMN)-induced liver fibrosis underlying metabolic profiles of bile acids. MATERIALS AND METHODS DMN-induced liver fibrosis rats were administrated HQD and its compounds, astragalosides (AS), glycyrrhizic acid (GA) and their combination. The anti-fibrosis effects were evaluated and targeted metabolomics by UPLC-MS was used to examine whether HQD had an influence on bile acid metabolism. The levels of mRNAs associated with bile acid metabolism were expressed by RT-PCR. Chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA)-induced hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) proliferation and activation were examined using MTS assay and Western blot. RESULTS Histopathological changes and serum liver function in HQD group had significant improvements (P<0.01). Concentrations of free bile acids and taurine conjugates were significantly increased in DMN group (P<0.05). HQD and its compounds restored the increased bile acids to normal levels, and HQD was more effected on parts of bile acids. Furthermore, the levels of mRNAs related bile acid synthesis and reabsorption such as CYP7A1, CYP8B1, CYP27A1, OATP2, OATP3, OATP4 and NTCP were significantly down-regulated in DMN group (P<0.05), mRNAs related excretion such as MRP3 and BESP were up-regulated (P<0.01), and CYP7A1, CYP8B1, OATP3, OATP4, NTCP and MRP3 restored to normal levels by HQD treatment. Moreover, CDCA-induced HSCs proliferation and activation were weaken by HQD (P<0.05) with down-regulated α-SMA, TGF-β1, p-Smad2 and p-Smad3 expressions. CONCLUSIONS HQD alleviated DMN-induced liver fibrosis with a better effect than its compounds, which may be involved in the regulation of bile acid metabolism enzyme. Moreover, HQD may inhibit CDCA-induced HSCs proliferation and activation.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Astragalus propinquus
- Bile Acids and Salts/blood
- Biomarkers/blood
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/enzymology
- Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/genetics
- Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/pathology
- Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/prevention & control
- Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid
- Dimethylnitrosamine
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/pharmacology
- Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic
- Hepatic Stellate Cells/drug effects
- Hepatic Stellate Cells/enzymology
- Hepatic Stellate Cells/pathology
- Hydroxyproline/metabolism
- Liver/drug effects
- Liver/enzymology
- Liver/pathology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/chemically induced
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/enzymology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/genetics
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/pathology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/prevention & control
- Male
- Mass Spectrometry
- Metabolomics/methods
- Protective Agents/pharmacology
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Rats, Wistar
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Nan Song
- Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine Complexity System, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Gui-Biao Zhang
- Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine Complexity System, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Yi-Yu Lu
- Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine Complexity System, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Qi-Long Chen
- Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine Complexity System, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Li Yang
- Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine and System biology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203 China.
| | - Zheng-Tao Wang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Ping Liu
- E-institutes of Traditional Chinese Internal Medicine, Shanghai Municipal Education Commission, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Shi-Bing Su
- Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine Complexity System, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
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9
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Saeedi Saravi SS, Ghazi-Khansari M, Ejtemaei Mehr S, Nobakht M, Mousavi SE, Dehpour AR. Contribution of mammalian target of rapamycin in the pathophysiology of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:4685-94. [PMID: 27217700 PMCID: PMC4870075 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i19.4685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2016] [Revised: 02/27/2016] [Accepted: 03/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To explore the role of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) in the pathogenesis of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy and the potential of rapamycin to improve this pathologic condition.
METHODS: Male albino Wistar rats weighing 100-120 g were treated with tetrachloride carbon (CCl4) for 8 wk to induce cirrhosis. Subsequently, animals were administered rapamycin (2 mg/kg per day). The QTc intervals were calculated in a 5-min electrocardiogram. Then, the left ventricular papillary muscles were isolated to examine inotropic responsiveness to β-adrenergic stimulation using a standard organ bath equipped by Powerlab system. Phosphorylated-mTOR localization in left ventricles was immunohistochemically assessed, and ventricular tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α was measured. Western blot was used to measure levels of ventricular phosphorylated-mTOR protein.
RESULTS: Cirrhosis was confirmed by hematoxylin and eosin staining of liver tissues, visual observation of lethargy, weight loss, jaundice, brown urine, ascites, liver stiffness, and a significant increase of spleen weight (P < 0.001). A significant prolongation in QTc intervals occurred in cirrhotic rats exposed to CCl4 (P < 0.001), while this prolongation was decreased with rapamycin treatment (P < 0.01). CCl4-induced cirrhosis caused a significant decrease of contractile responsiveness to isoproterenol stimulation and a significant increase in cardiac TNF-α. These findings were correlated with data from western blot and immunohistochemical studies on phosphorylated-mTOR expression in left ventricles. Phosphorylated-mTOR was significantly enhanced in cirrhotic rats, especially in the endothelium, compared to controls. Rapamycin treatment significantly increased contractile force and myocardial localization of phosphorylated-mTOR and decreased cardiac TNF-α concentration compared to cirrhotic rats with no treatment.
CONCLUSION: In this study, we demonstrated a potential role for cardiac mTOR in the pathophysiology of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. Rapamycin normalized the inotropic effect and altered phosphorylated-mTOR expression and myocardial localization in cirrhotic rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Soheil Saeedi Saravi
- Seyed Soheil Saeedi Saravi, Mahmoud Ghazi-Khansari, Shahram Ejtemaei Mehr, Seyyedeh Elaheh Mousavi, Ahmad Reza Dehpour, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 13145, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Ghazi-Khansari
- Seyed Soheil Saeedi Saravi, Mahmoud Ghazi-Khansari, Shahram Ejtemaei Mehr, Seyyedeh Elaheh Mousavi, Ahmad Reza Dehpour, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 13145, Iran
| | - Shahram Ejtemaei Mehr
- Seyed Soheil Saeedi Saravi, Mahmoud Ghazi-Khansari, Shahram Ejtemaei Mehr, Seyyedeh Elaheh Mousavi, Ahmad Reza Dehpour, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 13145, Iran
| | - Maliheh Nobakht
- Seyed Soheil Saeedi Saravi, Mahmoud Ghazi-Khansari, Shahram Ejtemaei Mehr, Seyyedeh Elaheh Mousavi, Ahmad Reza Dehpour, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 13145, Iran
| | - Seyyedeh Elaheh Mousavi
- Seyed Soheil Saeedi Saravi, Mahmoud Ghazi-Khansari, Shahram Ejtemaei Mehr, Seyyedeh Elaheh Mousavi, Ahmad Reza Dehpour, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 13145, Iran
| | - Ahmad Reza Dehpour
- Seyed Soheil Saeedi Saravi, Mahmoud Ghazi-Khansari, Shahram Ejtemaei Mehr, Seyyedeh Elaheh Mousavi, Ahmad Reza Dehpour, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 13145, Iran
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10
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Ma ZG, Lv XD, Zhan LL, Chen L, Zou QY, Xiang JQ, Qin JL, Zhang WW, Zeng ZJ, Jin H, Jiang HX, Lv XP. Human urokinase-type plasminogen activator gene-modified bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells attenuate liver fibrosis in rats by down-regulating the Wnt signaling pathway. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:2092-2103. [PMID: 26877613 PMCID: PMC4726681 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i6.2092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2015] [Revised: 09/27/2015] [Accepted: 11/24/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To evaluate the therapeutic effects of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) with human urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) on liver fibrosis, and to investigate the mechanism of gene therapy.
METHODS: BMSCs transfected with adenovirus-mediated human urokinase plasminogen activator (Ad-uPA) were transplanted into rats with CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. All rats were sacrificed after 8 wk, and their serum and liver tissue were collected for biochemical, histopathologic, and molecular analyzes. The degree of liver fibrosis was assessed by hematoxylin and eosin or Masson’s staining. Western blot and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were used to determine protein and mRNA expression levels.
RESULTS: Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, aminotransferase, total bilirubin, hyaluronic acid, laminin, and procollagen type III were markedly decreased, whereas the levels of serum albumin were increased by uPA gene modified BMSCs treatment. Histopathology revealed that chronic CCl4-treatment resulted in significant fibrosis while uPA gene modified BMSCs treatment significantly reversed fibrosis. By quantitatively analysing the fibrosis area of liver tissue using Masson staining in different groups of animals, we found that model animals with CCl4-induced liver fibrosis had the largest fibrotic area (16.69% ± 1.30%), while fibrotic area was significantly decreased by BMSCs treatment (12.38% ± 2.27%) and was further reduced by uPA-BMSCs treatment (8.31% ± 1.21%). Both protein and mRNA expression of β-catenin, Wnt4 and Wnt5a was down-regulated in liver tissues following uPA gene modified BMSCs treatment when compared with the model animals.
CONCLUSION: Transplantation of uPA gene modified BMSCs suppressed liver fibrosis and ameliorated liver function and may be a new approach to treating liver fibrosis. Furthermore, treatment with uPA gene modified BMSCs also resulted in a decrease in expression of molecules of the Wnt signaling pathway.
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11
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Wu Y, Liu X, Zhou Q, Huang C, Meng X, Xu F, Li J. Silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) ameliorates liver fibrosis via promoting activated stellate cell apoptosis and reversion. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2015; 289:163-76. [PMID: 26435214 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2015.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2015] [Revised: 09/27/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
SIRT1 (silent information regulator 1), a conserved NAD+-dependent histone deacetylase, is closely related with various biological processes. Moreover, the important role of SIRT1 in alcoholic liver disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver and HCC had been widely reported. Recently, a novel role of SIRT1 was uncovered in organ fibrosis diseases. Here, we investigated the inhibitory effect of SIRT1 in liver fibrogenesis. SIRT1 protein was dramatically decreased in CCl4-treated mice livers. Stimulation of LX-2 cells with TGF-β1 also resulted in a significant suppression of SIRT1 protein. Nevertheless, TGF-β1-induced LX-2 cell activation was inhibited by SIRT1 plasmid, and this was accompanied by up-regulation of cell apoptosis-related proteins. Overexpression of SIRT1 also attenuated TGF-β1-induced expression of myofibroblast markers α-SMA and COL1a. However, the important characteristic of the recovery of liver fibrosis is not only the apoptosis of activated stellate cells but also the reversal of the myofibroblast-like phenotype to a quiescent-like phenotype. Restoration of SIRT1 protein was observed in the in vivo spontaneously liver fibrosis reversion model and in vitro MDI (isobutylmethylxanthine, dexamethasone, and insulin)-induced reversed stellate cells, and forced expression of SIRT1 also promoted the reversal of activated stellate cells. Furthermore, lncRNA MALAT1 (metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1) was increased in liver fibrosis. RNAi-mediated suppression of MALAT1 resulted in a decrease of myofibroblast markers and restoration of SIRT1 protein. These observations suggested that SIRT1 contributed to apoptosis and reversion of activated LX-2 cells and SIRT1 might be regulated by MALAT1 in liver fibrosis. Therefore, SIRT1 could be considered as a valuable therapeutic target for translational studies of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University (AMU), China; Anhui Key Laboratory of Bioactivity of Natural Products, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China.
| | - Xuejiao Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University (AMU), China; Anhui Key Laboratory of Bioactivity of Natural Products, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Qun Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University (AMU), China; Anhui Key Laboratory of Bioactivity of Natural Products, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University (AMU), China; Anhui Key Laboratory of Bioactivity of Natural Products, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xiaoming Meng
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University (AMU), China; Anhui Key Laboratory of Bioactivity of Natural Products, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Fengyun Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University (AMU), China; Anhui Key Laboratory of Bioactivity of Natural Products, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jun Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University (AMU), China; Anhui Key Laboratory of Bioactivity of Natural Products, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China.
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12
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He W, Shi F, Zhou ZW, Li B, Zhang K, Zhang X, Ouyang C, Zhou SF, Zhu X. A bioinformatic and mechanistic study elicits the antifibrotic effect of ursolic acid through the attenuation of oxidative stress with the involvement of ERK, PI3K/Akt, and p38 MAPK signaling pathways in human hepatic stellate cells and rat liver. Drug Des Devel Ther 2015; 9:3989-4104. [PMID: 26347199 PMCID: PMC4529259 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s85426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
NADPH oxidases (NOXs) are a predominant mediator of redox homeostasis in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), and oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. Ursolic acid (UA) is a pentacyclic triterpenoid with various pharmacological activities, but the molecular targets and underlying mechanisms for its antifibrotic effect in the liver remain elusive. This study aimed to computationally predict the molecular interactome and mechanistically investigate the antifibrotic effect of UA on oxidative stress, with a focus on NOX4 activity and cross-linked signaling pathways in human HSCs and rat liver. Drug-drug interaction via chemical-protein interactome tool, a server that can predict drug-drug interaction via chemical-protein interactome, was used to predict the molecular targets of UA, and Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery was employed to analyze the signaling pathways of the predicted targets of UA. The bioinformatic data showed that there were 611 molecular proteins possibly interacting with UA and that there were over 49 functional clusters responding to UA. The subsequential benchmarking data showed that UA significantly reduced the accumulation of type I collagen in HSCs in rat liver, increased the expression level of MMP-1, but decreased the expression level of TIMP-1 in HSC-T6 cells. UA also remarkably reduced the gene expression level of type I collagen in HSC-T6 cells. Furthermore, UA remarkably attenuated oxidative stress via negative regulation of NOX4 activity and expression in HSC-T6 cells. The employment of specific chemical inhibitors, SB203580, LY294002, PD98059, and AG490, demonstrated the involvement of ERK, PI3K/Akt, and p38 MAPK signaling pathways in the regulatory effect of UA on NOX4 activity and expression. Collectively, the antifibrotic effect of UA is partially due to the oxidative stress attenuating effect through manipulating NOX4 activity and expression. The results suggest that UA may act as a promising antifibrotic agent. More studies are warranted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of UA in the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhua He
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Feng Shi
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Wei Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Bimin Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kunhe Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xinhua Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Canhui Ouyang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shu-Feng Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Xuan Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People’s Republic of China
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13
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Bridle KR, Sobbe AL, de Guzman CE, Santrampurwala N, Jaskowski LA, Clouston AD, Campbell CM, Nathan Subramaniam V, Crawford DHG. Lack of efficacy of mTOR inhibitors and ACE pathway inhibitors as antifibrotic agents in evolving and established fibrosis in Mdr2⁻/⁻ mice. Liver Int 2015; 35:1451-63. [PMID: 24517519 DOI: 10.1111/liv.12494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Mammalian target of rapamycin and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition has been shown to have antifibrotic activity in models of liver fibrosis. The aim of our study was to determine the efficacy of rapamycin, everolimus, irbesartan and captopril, alone and in combination, as antifibrotic agents in the Mdr2(-/-) model of cholestasis both in early injury and established disease. METHODS Mdr2(-/-) mice were treated for 4 weeks with vehicle, rapamycin (1 mg/kg) or everolimus (5 mg/kg) every second day or with captopril (30 mg/kg/day), irbesartan (10 mg/kg/day) or vehicle. Further groups of 3-week-old Mdr2(-/-) mice were treated with rapamycin and irbesartan in combination (1 mg/kg/day and 10 mg/kg/day) or with rapamycin (2 mg/kg/day) for 4 weeks. Liver injury and fibrosis were compared between treated and untreated animals. RESULTS There were no significant improvements in liver injury, histology, hepatic hydroxyproline or profibrogenic gene expression following treatment with rapamycin, everolimus, captopril or irbesartan at any time point studied. Likewise, there were no improvements in liver histology or profibrogenic gene expression following combination therapy or high-dose rapamycin treatment. CONCLUSIONS The antifibrotic effects of rapamycin, everolimus, captopril and irbesartan seen in other models of fibrosis were not replicated in the Mdr2(-/-) model in this study. This highlights the clear need to test specific antifibrotic agents in a number of different animal models. We believe this animal model is ideal to study usefulness of antifibrotic agents in cholestatic liver disease because of the similarity in genetics and hepatic histopathology to human cholestatic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim R Bridle
- The University of Queensland School of Medicine and the Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Envoi Specialist Pathologists and The Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
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14
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Guo R, Xu X, Babcock SA, Zhang Y, Ren J. Aldehyde dedydrogenase-2 plays a beneficial role in ameliorating chronic alcohol-induced hepatic steatosis and inflammation through regulation of autophagy. J Hepatol 2015; 62:647-56. [PMID: 25457208 PMCID: PMC4336638 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2014.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2013] [Revised: 09/08/2014] [Accepted: 10/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH2) plays a critical role in the detoxification of the ethanol metabolite acetaldehyde. This study was designed to examine the impact of global ALDH2 overexpression on alcohol-induced hepatic steatosis. METHODS Wild type Friend virus B (FVB) and ALDH2 transgenic mice were placed on a 4% alcohol or control diet for 12 weeks. Serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), bilirubin and cholesterol, hepatic triglyceride, steatosis, fat metabolism-related proteins, pro-inflammatory cytokines, glutathione (GSH), oxidized glutathione (GSSG), autophagy and autophagy signalling were examined. The role of autophagy was evaluated in alcohol dehydrogenase 1 (ADH1)-transfected human hepatocellular liver carcinoma cells (VA-13) treated with or without the autophagy inducer rapamycin and lysosomal inhibitors. RESULTS Chronic alcohol intake led to elevated AST-, ALT-levels, bilirubin, AST/ALT ratio, cholesterol, hepatic triglycerides and hepatic fat deposition as evidenced by H&E and Oil Red O staining. Hepatic fat deposition was associated with disturbed levels of fat metabolism-related proteins (fatty acid synthase, SCD1), upregulated interleukin-6, TNF-α, cyclooxygenase, oxidative stress, and loss of autophagy, effects which were attenuated or ablated by the ALDH2 transgene. Moreover, ethanol (100 mM) and acetaldehyde (100 and 500 μM) increased levels of IL-6 and IFN-γ, and suppressed autophagy in VA-13 cells, effects which were markedly alleviated by rapamycin. In addition, lysosomal inhibitors mimicked ethanol-induced p62 accumulation with little additive effect with ethanol. Ethanol significantly suppressed LC3 conversion in the presence of lysosomal inhibitors. CONCLUSIONS In summary, our results revealed that ALDH2 plays a beneficial role in ameliorating chronic alcohol intake-induced hepatic steatosis and inflammation through regulation of autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Guo
- Center for Cardiovascular Research and Alternative Medicine, University of Wyoming College of Health Sciences, Laramie, USA
| | - Xihui Xu
- Center for Cardiovascular Research and Alternative Medicine, University of Wyoming College of Health Sciences, Laramie, USA
| | - Sara A Babcock
- Center for Cardiovascular Research and Alternative Medicine, University of Wyoming College of Health Sciences, Laramie, USA
| | - Yingmei Zhang
- Center for Cardiovascular Research and Alternative Medicine, University of Wyoming College of Health Sciences, Laramie, USA; Department of Cardiology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China; Department of Cardiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jun Ren
- Center for Cardiovascular Research and Alternative Medicine, University of Wyoming College of Health Sciences, Laramie, USA; Department of Cardiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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15
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Celik S, Kartal K, Ozseker H, Hayran M, Hamaloglu E. Hepatoprotective effect of pioglitazone in cases of chemotherapy induced steatohepatitis. Chirurgia (Bucur) 2015; 110:49-55. [PMID: 25800316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/01/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES To evaluate the harmful effects of 5-floururacil (5-FU) and Irinotecan on the liver and to determine the role of Pioglitazone in averting liver damage. METHODS Sixty Sprague-Dawley female rats were divided into 4 groups. The first group (n=20) was administered 40 mg of 5-FU and 40 mg kg of Irinotecan intraperitoneally for 4 cycles, while the second group (n=20) received 4 mg kg of Pioglitazone by gastric gavage at 5 days a week for 20 days in addition to chemotherapy. The third group (n=10) was the sham group; chemotherapy regimen was given as in the first group. In addition, normal saline was given daily for 20 days by gastric gavage. The fourth group (n=10) was only given a standard diet as a control group. Then, blood samples were studied for the evaluation of alanine aminotransferase (AST)and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels. And left liver lobes of rats were taken for pathological analysis. RESULTS Although short-term chemotherapy was administered,aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT)levels were found to be significantly higher in the first and third groups compared to the others (p 0.0001). No significant difference was determined between the second and the control group. Pioglitazone reduced the adverse metabolic effects of chemotherapy on the liver, but had no effect on the histopathological changes. CONCLUSION short-term CT causes metabolic disruption in hepatocytes, but not relevant with CASH. Preventive treatments like Pioglitazone should be used more carefully.
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16
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Shahid SM, Fatima SN, Mahboob T. Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) gene expression in experimentally induced liver cirrhosis in rats. Pak J Pharm Sci 2013; 26:853-857. [PMID: 24035938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) is a key player of Renin Angiotensin System (RAS), involved in conversion of active product, angiotensin-II. Alterations in RAS have been implicated in the pathophysiology of various diseases involving heart, kidney, lung and liver. This study is designed to investigate the association of ACE gene expression in induction of liver cirrhosis in rats. Total 12 male albino Wistar rats were selected and divided in two groups. Control group received 0.9% NaCl, where as Test group received thioacidamide (TAA), dissolved in 0.9%NaCl, injected intraperitoneally at a dosage of 200mg/Kg of body weight, twice a week for 12 weeks. The rats were decapitated and blood sample was collected at the end of experimental period and used for liver functions, enzyme activity, antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation estimations. Genomic DNA was isolated from excised tissue determine the ACE genotypes using specific primers. The ACE gene expression in liver tissue was assessed using the quantitative RT-PCR method. The activity of ALT, total and direct bilirubin, SOD and CAT levels were significantly high (p<0.05) and level of MDA was significantly low (p<0.05) in TAA treated rats as compared to control rats. The ACE gene expression after 12 weeks TAA treatment in cirrhotic rats was significantly increased (p<0.05) in comparison to controls. This study describes the importance of RAS in the development of hepatic fibrosis and the benefits of modulation of this system ACE gene expression. The finding of major up-regulation of ACE in the experimental rat liver provides further insight into the complexities of the RAS and its regulation in liver injury. The development of specific modulators of ACE activity and function, in future, will help determine the role of ACE and its genetic variants in the pathophysiology of liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Muhammad Shahid
- The Karachi Institute of Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering (KIBGE), University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
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Wang QM, Du JL, Duan ZJ, Guo SB, Sun XY, Liu Z. Inhibiting heme oxygenase-1 attenuates rat liver fibrosis by removing iron accumulation. World J Gastroenterol 2013; 19:2921-2934. [PMID: 23704825 PMCID: PMC3660817 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v19.i19.2921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2013] [Revised: 03/08/2013] [Accepted: 03/29/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To investigate the effects of the heme oxygenase (HO)-1/carbon monoxide system on iron deposition and portal pressure in rats with hepatic fibrosis induced by bile duct ligation (BDL).
METHODS: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided randomly into a Sham group, BDL group, Fe group, deferoxamine (DFX) group, zinc protoporphyrin (ZnPP) group and cobalt protoporphyrin (CoPP) group. The levels of HO-1 were detected using different methods. The serum carboxyhemoglobin (COHb), iron, and portal vein pressure (PVP) were also quantified. The plasma and mRNA levels of hepcidin were measured. Hepatic fibrosis and its main pathway were assessed using Van Gieson’s stain, hydroxyproline, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1).
RESULTS: Serum COHb and protein and mRNA expression levels of HO-1 and Nrf2 were increased in the BDL group compared with the Sham group and were much higher in the CoPP group. The ZnPP group showed lower expression of HO-1 and Nrf2 and lower COHb. The levels of iron and PVP were enhanced in the BDL group but were lower in the ZnPP and DFX groups and were higher in the CoPP and Fe groups. Hepcidin levels were higher, whereas superoxide dismutase levels were increased and malonaldehyde levels were decreased in the ZnPP and DFX groups. The ZnPP group also showed inhibited TGF-β1 expression and regulated TIMP-1/MMP-2 expression, as well as obviously attenuated liver fibrosis.
CONCLUSION: Reducing hepatic iron deposition and CO levels by inhibiting HO-1 activity though the Nrf2/Keap pathway could be helpful in improving hepatic fibrosis and regulating PVP.
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Chowdhury S, Chen Y, Yao TW, Ajami K, Wang XM, Popov Y, Schuppan D, Bertolino P, McCaughan GW, Yu DMT, Gorrell MD. Regulation of dipeptidyl peptidase 8 and 9 expression in activated lymphocytes and injured liver. World J Gastroenterol 2013; 19:2883-93. [PMID: 23704821 PMCID: PMC3660813 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v19.i19.2883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2012] [Revised: 01/17/2013] [Accepted: 02/02/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To investigate the expression of dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP) 8 and DPP9 in lymphocytes and various models of liver fibrosis. METHODS DPP8 and DPP9 expression were measured in mouse splenic CD4⁺ T-cells, CD8⁺ T-cells and B-cells (B220⁺), human lymphoma cell lines and mouse splenocytes stimulated with pokeweed mitogen (PWM) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and in dithiothreitol (DTT) and mitomycin-C treated Raji cells. DPP8 and DPP9 expression were measured in epidermal growth factor (EGF) treated Huh7 hepatoma cells, in fibrotic liver samples from mice treated with carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) and from multidrug resistance gene 2 (Mdr2/Abcb4) gene knockout (gko) mice with biliary fibrosis, and in human end stage primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). RESULTS All three lymphocyte subsets expressed DPP8 and DPP9 mRNA. DPP8 and DPP9 expression were upregulated in both PWM and LPS stimulated mouse splenocytes and in both Jurkat T- and Raji B-cell lines. DPP8 and DPP9 were downregulated in DTT treated and upregulated in mitomycin-C treated Raji cells. DPP9-transfected Raji cells exhibited more annexin V⁺ cells and associated apoptosis. DPP8 and DPP9 mRNA were upregulated in CCl₄ induced fibrotic livers but not in the lymphocytes isolated from such livers, while DPP9 was upregulated in EGF stimulated Huh7 cells. In contrast, intrahepatic DPP8 and DPP9 mRNA expression levels were low in the Mdr2 gko mouse and in human PBC compared to non-diseased livers. CONCLUSION These expression patterns point to biological roles for DPP8 and DPP9 in lymphocyte activation and apoptosis and in hepatocytes during liver disease pathogenesis.
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MESH Headings
- ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily B/deficiency
- ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily B/genetics
- Adult
- Aged
- Animals
- Apoptosis
- Carbon Tetrachloride
- Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/enzymology
- Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/etiology
- Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/genetics
- Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/immunology
- Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/pathology
- Dipeptidases/genetics
- Dipeptidases/metabolism
- Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4/deficiency
- Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4/genetics
- Dipeptidyl-Peptidases and Tripeptidyl-Peptidases/genetics
- Dipeptidyl-Peptidases and Tripeptidyl-Peptidases/metabolism
- Endopeptidases
- Female
- Gelatinases/deficiency
- Gelatinases/genetics
- Humans
- Jurkat Cells
- Liver/enzymology
- Liver/innervation
- Liver/pathology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/enzymology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/etiology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/genetics
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/immunology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/pathology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/enzymology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/etiology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/genetics
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/immunology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/pathology
- Lymphocyte Activation
- Lymphocyte Subsets/enzymology
- Lymphocyte Subsets/immunology
- Male
- Membrane Proteins/deficiency
- Membrane Proteins/genetics
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Middle Aged
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Serine Endopeptidases/deficiency
- Serine Endopeptidases/genetics
- Time Factors
- ATP-Binding Cassette Sub-Family B Member 4
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Floreani M, De Martin S, Gabbia D, Barbierato M, Nassi A, Mescoli C, Orlando R, Bova S, Angeli P, Gola E, Sticca A, Palatini P. Severe liver cirrhosis markedly reduces AhR-mediated induction of cytochrome P450 in rats by decreasing the transcription of target genes. PLoS One 2013; 8:e61983. [PMID: 23626760 PMCID: PMC3633963 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0061983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2012] [Accepted: 03/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the induction of cytochrome P450 (CYP) has long been investigated in patients with cirrhosis, the question whether liver dysfunction impairs the response to CYP inducers still remains unresolved. Moreover, the mechanism underlying the possible effect of cirrhosis on induction has not been investigated. Since ethical constraints do not permit methodologically rigorous studies in humans, this question was addressed by investigating the effect of the prototypical inducer benzo[a]pyrene (BP) on CYP1A1 and CYP1A2 in cirrhotic rats stratified according to the severity of liver dysfunction. We simultaneously assessed mRNA level, protein expression and enzymatic activity of the CYP1A enzymes, as well as mRNA and protein expressions of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), which mediates the BP effect. Basal mRNA and protein expressions of CYP1A1 were virtually absent in both healthy and cirrhotic rats. On the contrary, CYP1A2 mRNA, protein and enzyme activity were constitutively present in healthy rats and decreased significantly as liver function worsened. BP treatment markedly increased the concentrations of mRNA and immunodetectable protein, and the enzymatic activities of both CYP1A enzymes to similar levels in healthy and non-ascitic cirrhotic rats. Induced mRNA levels, protein expressions and enzymatic activities of both CYPs were much lower in ascitic rats and were proportionally reduced. Both constitutive and induced protein expressions of AhR were significantly lower in ascitic than in healthy rats. These results indicate that the inducibility of CYP1A enzymes is well preserved in compensated cirrhosis, whereas it is markedly reduced when liver dysfunction becomes severe. Induction appears to be impaired at the transcriptional level, due to the reduced expression of AhR, which controls the transcription of CYP1A genes.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Ascites/chemically induced
- Ascites/enzymology
- Ascites/genetics
- Ascites/pathology
- Benzo(a)pyrene
- Cytochrome P-450 CYP1A1/genetics
- Cytochrome P-450 CYP1A1/metabolism
- Cytochrome P-450 CYP1A2
- Cytochromes/genetics
- Cytochromes/metabolism
- Enzyme Induction/genetics
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Liver/enzymology
- Liver/pathology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/chemically induced
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/enzymology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/genetics
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/pathology
- Liver Function Tests
- Male
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Rats
- Rats, Wistar
- Receptors, Aryl Hydrocarbon/genetics
- Receptors, Aryl Hydrocarbon/metabolism
- Severity of Illness Index
- Transcription, Genetic
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Affiliation(s)
- Maura Floreani
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Sara De Martin
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Daniela Gabbia
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Massimo Barbierato
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Alberto Nassi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Claudia Mescoli
- Surgical Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Rocco Orlando
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Sergio Bova
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Paolo Angeli
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Gola
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Antonietta Sticca
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Pietro Palatini
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Floreani M, De Martin S, Gabbia D, Barbierato M, Nassi A, Mescoli C, Orlando R, Bova S, Angeli P, Gola E, Sticca A, Palatini P. Severe liver cirrhosis markedly reduces AhR-mediated induction of cytochrome P450 in rats by decreasing the transcription of target genes. PLoS One 2013. [PMID: 23626760 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0061983;] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the induction of cytochrome P450 (CYP) has long been investigated in patients with cirrhosis, the question whether liver dysfunction impairs the response to CYP inducers still remains unresolved. Moreover, the mechanism underlying the possible effect of cirrhosis on induction has not been investigated. Since ethical constraints do not permit methodologically rigorous studies in humans, this question was addressed by investigating the effect of the prototypical inducer benzo[a]pyrene (BP) on CYP1A1 and CYP1A2 in cirrhotic rats stratified according to the severity of liver dysfunction. We simultaneously assessed mRNA level, protein expression and enzymatic activity of the CYP1A enzymes, as well as mRNA and protein expressions of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), which mediates the BP effect. Basal mRNA and protein expressions of CYP1A1 were virtually absent in both healthy and cirrhotic rats. On the contrary, CYP1A2 mRNA, protein and enzyme activity were constitutively present in healthy rats and decreased significantly as liver function worsened. BP treatment markedly increased the concentrations of mRNA and immunodetectable protein, and the enzymatic activities of both CYP1A enzymes to similar levels in healthy and non-ascitic cirrhotic rats. Induced mRNA levels, protein expressions and enzymatic activities of both CYPs were much lower in ascitic rats and were proportionally reduced. Both constitutive and induced protein expressions of AhR were significantly lower in ascitic than in healthy rats. These results indicate that the inducibility of CYP1A enzymes is well preserved in compensated cirrhosis, whereas it is markedly reduced when liver dysfunction becomes severe. Induction appears to be impaired at the transcriptional level, due to the reduced expression of AhR, which controls the transcription of CYP1A genes.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Ascites/chemically induced
- Ascites/enzymology
- Ascites/genetics
- Ascites/pathology
- Benzo(a)pyrene
- Cytochrome P-450 CYP1A1/genetics
- Cytochrome P-450 CYP1A1/metabolism
- Cytochrome P-450 CYP1A2
- Cytochromes/genetics
- Cytochromes/metabolism
- Enzyme Induction/genetics
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Liver/enzymology
- Liver/pathology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/chemically induced
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/enzymology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/genetics
- Liver Cirrhosis, Experimental/pathology
- Liver Function Tests
- Male
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Rats
- Rats, Wistar
- Receptors, Aryl Hydrocarbon/genetics
- Receptors, Aryl Hydrocarbon/metabolism
- Severity of Illness Index
- Transcription, Genetic
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Affiliation(s)
- Maura Floreani
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Showpittapornchai U, Wattanasirichaigoon S, Pradidarcheep W. Predominant vascular dilatation with NOS expression in lung lower lobe of thioacetamide induced-cirrhotic rat. J Med Assoc Thai 2012; 95 Suppl 12:S99-S104. [PMID: 23513473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND About eighteen percent of cirrhotic patients come along with decreased systemic arterial oxygenation and expansion of pulmonary venous plexus which triggered by nitric oxide. The level of nitrate and iNOS significantly increase in the cirrhotic patients. However the localization of nNOS and iNOS in the lung tissue has not yet been clarified. OBJECTIVE The present study, therefore, aimed to demonstrate the sites of expansion of pulmonary blood vessels and to localize nNOS and iNOS in the lung tissue of cirrhotic rat models induced by thioacetamide (TAA). MATERIAL AND METHOD The rats were divided into 5 groups. The first group was the control. The other four groups were treated with 200 mg/kg body weight of TAA 3 times per week for 1, 2, 3, or 4 month(s), respectively. At the end of each month rats in each treated group were sacrificed. Lung histology and pulmonary NOS expression was studied by light microscope and immunohistochemical technique, respectively. RESULTS It was found that diameter of blood vessels were highest increased in the right lower lobe of the 4-months TAA-treated group. In addition, iNOS and nNOS expression was localized at epithelium of respiratory tract, endothelium of pulmonary vessel and macrophage at this age. CONCLUSION The present study demonstrated that the pulmonary blood vessels at the right lower lobe with cirrhotic background got enormous dilatation. iNOS and nNOS were immunostained at epithelium of respiratory tract, pulmonary endothelium and macrophages. Our observations suggested that enhanced NOS expression is important in the development of systemic hyperdynamic circulatory abnormalities in cirrhosis. As appearance of vasodilatation at right lower lobe of lung, it could, therefore, be evidence confirming that there was a real connection between inferior pulmonary vein and azygos vein at the embryonic period but obliterated later.
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Bassiouny AR, Zaky AZ, Abdulmalek SA, Kandeel KM, Ismail A, Moftah M. Modulation of AP-endonuclease1 levels associated with hepatic cirrhosis in rat model treated with human umbilical cord blood mononuclear stem cells. Int J Clin Exp Pathol 2011; 4:692-707. [PMID: 22076170 PMCID: PMC3209610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2011] [Accepted: 10/15/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress in liver cells may contribute to the etiology of hepatic diseases, as in liver cirrhosis. AP-Endonuclease1 (APE1/Ref-1) is essential for cell protection toward oxidative stress by acting as a transcriptional regulator of pro-survival genes and as a redox sensitive protein. The aim of this study was to critically analyze the various parameters governing the success of human umbilical cord blood mononuclear stem cell-based (MNCs) therapy without the use of an immunosuppressant and to investigate for the first time the expression of APE1 during thioacetamide (TAA)-induced cirrhosis and MNCs therapy in a rat model. Umbilical cord blood samples from full-term deliveries were collected. Lethal fulminant hepatic cirrhosis in rats was induced by intraperitoneal injection of thio-acetamide. MNCs were then intrahepatically transplanted. We measured APE1 expression at mRNA and protein levels, mRNA expression of TGF-β, α-SMA, STAP, CTGF, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in a follow up study. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses were performed 10 weeks after intrahepatic injection of the cells. Transdifferentiated cells could be efficiently stained with antihuman hepatocytes. Interestingly, human hepatocyte-specific markers, human albumin, cytokeratin-18 and cytokeratin-19 mRNAs were detected in rat liver after 10 days of MNCs infusion. MNC transplanted by intrahepatic route, could engraft recipient liver, differentiated into functional hepatocytes, and rescued liver failure. Moreover up regulation of APE1 expression confirmed by marked immunohistochemical staining may be involved in MNCs-induced hepatocytes regeneration suggesting that maintaining high level of APE1 has protective effect as pro-survival signal.
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23
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Ochenashko OV, Nikitchenko IV, Lebedyns'kyĭ OS, Sukach OM, Petrenko OI. [Antioxidant system activation in rats with experimental cirrhosis after injection of cryopreserved fetal liver cells]. Ukr Biokhim Zh (1999) 2011; 83:85-92. [PMID: 21851050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The possibility to recover the antioxidant system in rats with experimental liver cirrhosis (LC) after allo- and xenotransplantation of cryopreserved fetal liver cells (FLC) was investigated. It was shown that the content of lipid peroxidation products in the blood serum of animals with LC four weeks after FLC transplantation decreased significantly as compared to control group. Such changes were accompanied by a significant increase of catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), Se-dependent glutathione peroxidase (GP) activity in the liver and total anti-oxidative activity (AOA) of blood. Obtained results demonstrate that the main direction of FLC effects in animals with LC agree with that we observed previously in other experimental models (partial hepatectomy, chronic alcohol poisoning and hypercholesterolemia). In conclusion, cell therapy may be considered as the universal method for correction of disorders in regulation of free-radical processes in various experimental pathologies.
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Wang H, Zhang Y, Wang T, You H, Jia J. N-methyl-4-isoleucine cyclosporine attenuates CCl -induced liver fibrosis in rats by interacting with cyclophilin B and D. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2011; 26:558-67. [PMID: 21332552 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1746.2010.06406.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM N-methyl-4-isoleucine cyclosporine (NIM811), a new analogue of cyclosporine A, can inhibit collagen deposition in vitro and reduce liver necrosis in a bile-duct-ligation animal model. However, whether NIM811 effects on CCl(4) -induced rat liver fibrosis, and the related mechanism has not been determined. METHODS A liver fibrosis model was induced in Wistar rats using CCl(4) for 6 weeks. Meanwhile, two different doses of NIM811 (low-dose 10 mg/kg and high-dose 20 mg/kg) were given to the CCl(4) -treated rats. Liver fibrosis was then evaluated according to histopathological scoring and liver hydroxyproline content. Serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and albumin levels, expression of matrix metalloproteinase-13, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1, α-smooth muscle actin and cyclophilin B and D in liver tissue were determined. Cyclophilin B and D were also studied in an hepatic stellate cell line. RESULTS Hydroxyproline content was decreased in both NIM811 groups compared with the model (P < 0.05). Liver necrosis and fibrosis were also attenuated in the NIM811 groups. NIM811 suppressed the expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1, transforming growth factor beta mRNA and α-smooth muscle actin protein in liver tissue. Expression of cyclophilin B in the fibrosis model was increased compared with the normal group (P < 0.05), and was decreased significantly in the low-dose NIM811 treatment group (P < 0.05), which indicated that cyclophilin B might have a profibrotic effect. In vitro studies revealed that cyclophilin B and/or D knockout were associated with collagen inhibition. CONCLUSIONS NIM811 attenuates liver fibrosis in a CCl(4)-induced rat liver fibrosis model, which may be related to binding with cyclophilin B and D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Wang
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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25
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Cai HB, Sun XG, Liu ZF, Liu YW, Tang J, Liu Q, Ji BM, Song YH, Zhou YC, Yang MH, Lv ZP. Effects of dahuangzhechong pills on cytokines and mitogen activated protein kinase activation in rats with hepatic fibrosis. J Ethnopharmacol 2010; 132:157-164. [PMID: 20723595 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2010.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2009] [Revised: 07/20/2010] [Accepted: 08/07/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED RELEVANCE TO ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY: Dahuangzhechong pill (DHZCP), a well-known and canonical Chinese medicine formula from "The Synopsis of Prescriptions of the Golden Chamber", is officially approved and recommended by Chinese association of integrative medicine for the prevention and treatment of hepatic fibrosis in China. AIM OF THE STUDY To test the hypothesis that therapeutic effects of DHZCP on hepatic fibrosis are conferred by regulating cytokine profile through a mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. MATERIALS AND METHODS Hepatic fibrosis is inducted by carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4)) in rats which then were randomly divided into six groups: hepatic fibrosis model group, high dose DHZCP group, low dose DHZCP group, Fufang Biejia Ruangan Pian (FBRP) group, Colchicine group and control group. Pathological, immunohistochemical, multiplex immunoassay and protein expression studies (Western blotting) are performed. RESULTS DHZCP significantly decreases the levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, hyaluronic acid, laminin, type IV collagen and procollagen III, and reverses hepatic fibrosis in rat model. DHZCP also could reduce the expression of α-smooth muscle actin, and lower the serum level of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 13 (IL-13). The expressions of phosphorylated p38 MAPK and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) are down-regulated, while no significant changes are found in phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). CONCLUSIONS DHZCP can alleviate hepatic fibrosis induced by CCl(4). The anti-fibrotic effects of DHZCP are conferred by decreasing the secretion of TNF-α and IL-13 through down-regulating p38 and ERK phosphorylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Bing Cai
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangdong, China
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Dashti H, Jeppsson B, Abdulla M, Srinivas U, Hägerstrand I, Bengmark S. Changes in the plasma levels of copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium and selenium in thioacetamide induced liver cirrhosis. Acta Pharmacol Toxicol (Copenh) 2009; 59 Suppl 7:219-22. [PMID: 3776567 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0773.1986.tb02748.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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27
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Horrillo R, Planagumà A, González-Périz A, Ferré N, Titos E, Miquel R, López-Parra M, Masferrer JL, Arroyo V, Clària J. Comparative protection against liver inflammation and fibrosis by a selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor and a nonredox-type 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2007; 323:778-86. [PMID: 17766677 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.107.128264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we examined the relative contribution of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO), two major proinflammatory pathways up-regulated in liver disease, to the progression of hepatic inflammation and fibrosis. Separate administration of 4-[5-(4-chlorophenyl)-3-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-pyrazol-1-yl]benzenesulfonamide (SC-236), a selective COX-2 inhibitor, and CJ-13,610, a 5-LO inhibitor, to carbon tetrachloride-treated mice significantly reduced fibrosis as revealed by the analysis of Sirius Red-stained liver sections without affecting necroinflammation. Conversely, combined administration of SC-236 and 4-[3-[4-(2-methylimidazol-1-yl)-phenylthio]]phenyl-3,4,5,6-tetrahydro-2H-pyran-4-carboxamide (CJ-13,610) reduced both necroinflammation and fibrosis. These findings were confirmed in 5-LO-deficient mice receiving SC-236, which also showed reduced hepatic monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 expression. Interestingly, SC-236 and CJ-13,610 significantly increased the number of nonparenchymal liver cells with apoptotic nuclei (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling-positive). Additional pharmacological profiling of SC-236 and CJ-13,610 was performed in macrophages, the primary hepatic inflammatory cell type. In these cells, SC-236 inhibited prostaglandin (PG) E2 formation in a concentration-dependent manner, whereas CJ-13,610 blocked leukotriene B4 biosynthesis. Of note, the simultaneous addition of SC-236 and CJ-13,610 resulted in a higher inhibitory profile on PGE2 biosynthesis than the dual COX/5-LO inhibitor licofelone. These drugs differentially regulated interleukin-6 mRNA expression in macrophages. Taken together, these findings indicate that both COX-2 and 5-LO pathways are contributing factors to hepatic inflammation and fibrosis and that these two pathways of the arachidonic acid cascade represent potential targets for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Horrillo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona 08036, Spain
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Fallowfield JA, Mizuno M, Kendall TJ, Constandinou CM, Benyon RC, Duffield JS, Iredale JP. Scar-associated macrophages are a major source of hepatic matrix metalloproteinase-13 and facilitate the resolution of murine hepatic fibrosis. J Immunol 2007; 178:5288-95. [PMID: 17404313 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.178.8.5288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 339] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Both the identity and source of the rodent collagenase(s) that mediates matrix remodeling in liver fibrosis remain elusive. We have recently demonstrated an unequivocal role for scar-associated macrophages (SAMs) in the spontaneous resolution of liver fibrosis and sought to determine whether SAMs are the source of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 13 (collagenase 3), considered to be the primary interstitial collagenase in rodents. In this study, we demonstrate an association between MMP13 expression and the presence of SAMs in the regression of experimental liver fibrosis. mmp13 gene expression was restricted to regions of fibrosis that were rich in SAMs. Both MMP13 mRNA and protein colocalized to large phagocytes within and directly apposed to hepatic scars. Using the CD11b-DTR-transgenic mouse to deplete SAMs in a model of chronic CCl(4) injury, we found that SAM depletion resulted in a 5-fold reduction in mmp13 message (p = 0.005). Furthermore, resolution of CCl(4)-induced fibrosis was retarded in MMP13-deficient mice. Thus, SAMs selectively, during resolution of fibrosis induce and use the major collagenase MMP13 to mediate the resorption of interstitial matrix and successfully remodel the fibrotic liver.
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Yamaguchi S, Kawanaka H, Yoshida D, Maehara Y, Hashizume M. Splenic hemodynamics and decreased endothelial nitric oxide synthase in the spleen of rats with liver cirrhosis. Life Sci 2007; 80:2036-44. [PMID: 17481668 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2007.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2006] [Revised: 02/28/2007] [Accepted: 03/05/2007] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The enlarged spleen in liver cirrhosis is considered to play a role in the pathogenesis of portal hypertension, but the splenic hemodynamics and molecular mechanisms behind the phenomenon have not been elucidated. The present study aimed to examine the splenic hemodynamics associated with splenic microcirculation and congestion, and to determine the status of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) signaling pathway in the spleen of rats with liver cirrhosis. Liver cirrhosis was induced by bile duct ligation. In rats with bile duct ligation (BDL rats) and control rats, splenic blood flow was measured using a laser Doppler flowmeter, and splenic blood volume was measured using a near-infrared spectrophotometer. The expressions of eNOS and its upstream effectors, Akt, TNF-alpha and VEGF, in the spleen were also determined. Specific splenic blood flow was significantly decreased in BDL rats compared with control rats. Specific splenic blood volume was also decreased in BDL rats, while their total splenic blood volume, especially the deoxygenated volume, was significantly increased. The expressions of phosphorylated and total eNOS, and the eNOS phosphorylation ratio, were all significantly decreased in the spleen of BDL rats. The Akt phosphorylation ratio and TNF-alpha concentration were also decreased in the spleen of BDL rats although the expression of VEGF was increased. These findings suggest that the eNOS signaling pathway is suppressed in the spleen of cirrhotic rats, and may contribute to the measured decreases in specific blood flow and volume in the spleen of liver cirrhosis. Determination of the factors influencing the suppression of eNOS in the spleen may shed light on how liver cirrhosis results in hypodynamic intrasplenic circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shohei Yamaguchi
- Department of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan.
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Bueno M, Salgado S, Beas-Zárate C, Armendariz-Borunda J. Urokinase-type plasminogen activator gene therapy in liver cirrhosis is mediated by collagens gene expression down-regulation and up-regulation of MMPs, HGF and VEGF. J Gene Med 2007; 8:1291-9. [PMID: 16958060 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) gene administration via an adenoviral (Ad)-vector induced cirrhosis regression and ameliorated hepatic dysfunction in a model of experimental liver cirrhosis. The administration of a single dose of 6 x 10(11) viral particles per kilogram of a clinical-grade Ad-vector was evaluated after the onset of rat liver cirrhosis via degradation of deposited collagen and a substantial decrease of alpha-sma-positive cells. Also, gene expression for pro-fibrogenic molecules (Col I, III, IV, TIMP-1 and PAI-1) was clearly down-regulated. In contrast, gene expression for collagen-degrading enzymes such as MMP-13 and MMP-2 was up-regulated. These events correlated with increased amounts of proteic free-TIMP-1, i.e. non-complexed with metalloproteinases (MMPs), indicating the presence of higher amounts of active MMPs inside the liver of cirrhotic animals treated with Ad-huPA. The harmonized and concerted expression of HGF and c-met resulted in exacerbated hepatocyte proliferation, although these events did not induce an abnormal liver growth. Angiogenesis, i.e. formation of new blood vessels, was evaluated by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression which was notably detected to be 10 times higher during the first 6 days after Ad-huPA-treatment in cirrhotic animals as compared with controls. These events provide a clearer rationale as to how Ad-huPA-induced liver regeneration on CCl(4)-induced liver fibrosis takes place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Bueno
- Institute for Molecular Biology and Gene Therapy, CUCS, University of Guadalajara, Apdo. Postal 2-123, Guadalajara, Jal, Mexico 44281
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González-Cuevas J, Bueno-Topete M, Armendariz-Borunda J. Urokinase plasminogen activator stimulates function of active forms of stromelysin and gelatinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) in cirrhotic tissue. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2006; 21:1544-54. [PMID: 16928215 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1746.2006.04398.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The authors' previous data support the notion that adenoviral-driven urokinase plasminogen activator (u-PA) expression results in reversion of experimental liver cirrhosis. The specific aim of the present study was to decipher the mechanisms involved in the regulation by endogenous/gene-delivered u-PA of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) and related proteins engaged in degradation of excessive hepatic connective tissue. METHODS Tissue slices from cirrhotic rat livers were incubated with u-PA-rich supernatants from 24-h-cultured hepatic stellate cells (HSC). Matrix metalloproteinase-2, -9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1) were detected by western blot and biologic activity. The HSC that discontinued u-PA production were transfected with the adenovector Adu-PA and serum-free supernatants evaluated for proteolytic activity by MMP-3, MMP-2 and MMP-9. Collagen I, transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and TIMP-1 mRNA levels were also evaluated. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION Endogenous u-PA from cultured HSC significantly induced the active forms of MMP-2 (68 kDa) and MMP-9 (78 kDa) in cirrhotic tissue slices. The TIMP-1 molecular forms demonstrated that u-PA pushed the presence of 'free' TIMP-1 (not complexed with MMP; 71%) in cirrhotic tissue. When non-producing u-PA-HSC were transfected with adenoviral vector coding for the functional human protein u-PA (Adhu-PA), an overactivation of MMP-3, MMP-2 and MMP-9 (800%, 48% and 100%, respectively) was found as compared with HSC transfected with control adenovirus encoding green fluorescent protein (Ad-GFP). Finally, gene expression of collagen I, TGF-beta1, PAI-1 and TIMP-1 were downregulated by Adhu-PA action as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime González-Cuevas
- Institute for Molecular Biology in Medicine and Gene Therapy, CUCS, University of Guadalajara, OPD Civil Hospital of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
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Zhang Y, Ikegami T, Honda A, Miyazaki T, Bouscarel B, Rojkind M, Hyodo I, Matsuzaki Y. Involvement of integrin-linked kinase in carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats. Hepatology 2006; 44:612-22. [PMID: 16941698 DOI: 10.1002/hep.21315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Integrin-linked kinase (ILK) is a multidomain focal adhesion protein implicated in signal transduction between integrins and growth factor receptors. Although its expression is upregulated in pulmonary and renal fibrosis, its role in the development of hepatic fibrosis remains to be determined. Therefore, we considered it important to investigate whether ILK is involved in activation of hepatic stellate cells and thus plays a role in the development of hepatic fibrosis. Immunohistochemical analysis of liver sections obtained from rats with CCl4-induced cirrhosis revealed increased expression and colocalization of ILK and alpha-smooth muscle actin in hepatic stellate cells in perisinusoidal areas. In addition, hepatic stellate cells isolated from fibrotic livers expressed high levels of ILK and alpha-smooth muscle actin, and their expression was sustained in culture. In contrast, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) isolated from normal rat liver did not express ILK, but its expression was increased when the cells were activated in culture. Our studies also showed that ILK is involved in the phosphorylation of ERK 1/2, p38 MAPK, JNK, and PKB and that selective inhibition of ILK expression by siRNA results in a significant decrease in their phosphorylation. These changes were accompanied by significant inhibition of cell spreading and migration without affecting cell proliferation. In conclusion, ILK plays a key role in HSC activation and could be a possible target for antifibrogenic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yining Zhang
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Science, University of Tsukuba, Tsukaba City, and Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University Kasumigaura Hospital, Japan
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Lee DY, Lee I, Lee MG. Pharmacokinetics of omeprazole after intravenous and oral administration to rats with liver cirrhosis induced by dimethylnitrosamine. Int J Pharm 2006; 330:37-44. [PMID: 16997515 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2006.08.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2006] [Revised: 08/17/2006] [Accepted: 08/28/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to report the pharmacokinetics of omeprazole after intravenous (20 mg/kg) and oral (40 mg/kg) administration to rats with liver cirrhosis induced by dimethylnitrosamine (cirrhotic rats) with respect to CYP isozyme changes. The expressions of CYP1A2 and 3A1 decreased in cirrhotic rats and omeprazole is reported to be mainly metabolized via CYP1A1/2, 2D1, and 3A1/2 in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Hence, the pharmacokinetics of omeprazole could be changed in cirrhotic rats. After intravenous administration to cirrhotic rats, the AUC (1180 microg min/ml versus 474 microg min/ml) and CL(NR) (17.4 ml/min/kg versus 42.3 ml/min/kg) of omeprazole were significantly greater and slower, respectively, than the controls. This could be due to decrease in the expressions of CYP1A2 and 3A1 in cirrhotic rats. The significantly slower CL(NR) could be supported by significantly slower in vitro CL(int) for the disappearance of omeprazole from hepatic microsomal study (0.102 ml/min/mg protein versus 0.144 ml/min/mg protein) and slower hepatic blood flow rate in cirrhotic rats. After oral administration to cirrhotic rats, the AUC difference was considerably greater (451% versus 149%) than that after intravenous administration, possibly due to decrease in intestinal first-pass effect of omeprazole in addition to decrease in hepatic metabolism of omeprazole in cirrhotic rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dae Y Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, San 56-1, Shinlim-Dong, Kwanak-Gu, Seoul 151-742, South Korea
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Dasarathy S, Mullen KD, Dodig M, Donofrio B, McCullough AJ. Inhibition of aromatase improves nutritional status following portacaval anastomosis in male rats. J Hepatol 2006; 45:214-20. [PMID: 16684577 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2006.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2005] [Revised: 02/01/2006] [Accepted: 02/20/2006] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS The portacaval anastamosis (PCA) rat is a model of the nutritional and endocrine consequences of liver cirrhosis. We hypothesized that failure to gain body weight in the PCA rat was the consequence of low testosterone levels and will be reversed by 4-hydroxyandrostenedione, a specific aromatase inhibitor. METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats subjected to an end-to-side PCA or sham surgery were administered either 4-hydroxyandrostenedione or vehicle. Food intake, food efficiency, and body weight were measured, animals sacrificed 3 weeks after surgery, visceral organs harvested and plasma sex steroids measured. Hepatic RNA was extracted and dot blots done to quantify the expression of sex hormone dependent enzymes 16alpha hydroxylase and 15beta hydroxylase. RESULTS Growth, food intake, food efficiency and plasma testosterone were lower and plasma estradiol higher in PCA than sham rats. Hepatic expression of testosterone driven 16alpha hydroxylase was lower and estradiol driven 15beta hydroxylase higher in PCA rats. These alterations were reversed by 4-hydroxyandrostenedione. CONCLUSIONS These observations demonstrate that use of aromatase inhibitor reverses the nutritional and endocrine abnormalities in the PCA rat and suggest that this approach may be useful in cirrhotic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinivasan Dasarathy
- Gastroenterology Division, Department of Medicine, Metro Health Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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Tsui TY, Lau CK, Ma J, Glockzin G, Obed A, Schlitt HJ, Fan ST. Adeno-associated virus-mediated heme oxygenase-1 gene transfer suppresses the progression of micronodular cirrhosis in rats. World J Gastroenterol 2006; 12:2016-23. [PMID: 16610050 PMCID: PMC4087678 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v12.i13.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To test the hypothesis that enhancement of the activity of heme oxygenase can interfere with processes of fibrogenesis associated with recurrent liver injury, we investigated the therapeutic potential of over-expression of heme oxygense-1 in a CCl4-induced micronodular cirrhosis model.
METHODS: Recombinant adeno-associated viruses carrying rat HO-1 or GFP gene were generated. 1×1012 vg of adeno-associated viruses were administered through portal injection at the time of the induction of liver fibrosis.
RESULTS: Conditioning the rat liver with over-expression of HO-1 by rAAV/HO-1 significantly increased the HO enzymatic activities in a stable manner. The development of micronodular cirrhosis was significantly inhibited in rAAV/HO-1-transduced animals as compared to controls. Portal hypertension was markedly diminished in rAAV/HO-1-transduced animals as compared to controls, whereas there are no significant changes in systolic blood pressure. This finding was accompanied with improved liver biochemistry, less infiltrating macrophages and less activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) in rAAV/HO-1-transduced livers.
CONCLUSIONS: Enhancement of HO activity in the livers suppresses the development of cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tung-Yu Tsui
- Department of Surgery, Center for the Study of Liver Disease, the University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.
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Roderfeld M, Weiskirchen R, Wagner S, Berres ML, Henkel C, Grötzinger J, Gressner AM, Matern S, Roeb E. Inhibition of hepatic fibrogenesis by matrix metalloproteinase‐9 mutants in mice. FASEB J 2006; 20:444-54. [PMID: 16507762 DOI: 10.1096/fj.05-4828com] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1) plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrosis and thus may represent an important therapeutic target in the design of anti-fibrotic strategies for chronic liver disease. We present an innovative therapy based on the assignment of inactivated enzymes acting as scavengers for TIMP-1. Hepatic fibrosis was induced in BALB/c mice by repetitive intraperitoneal CCl4 injection. The animals were treated with proteolytic inactive matrix metalloproteinase-9 mutants (E402Q, H401A, E402H/H411E) using adenovirus-mediated gene transfer. Application of these MMP-9 mutants inhibited fibrogenesis, which was indicated by decreasing portal and periportal accumulation of collagen. Total hydroxyproline of liver tissue, the morphometric stage of fibrosis as well as mRNA expression of marker proteins for hepatic fibrosis in livers of E402Q- and H401A-treated mice were significantly reduced. MMP-9 mutants suppressed transdifferentiation of hepatic stellate cells to the myofibroblast like phenotype in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, adenoviral application of the mutants MMP-9-H401A and -E402Q led to increased apoptosis of activated hepatic stellate cells, thought to be the main promoters of hepatic fibrosis. Application of MMP-9 mutants as TIMP-1 scavengers may provide a new therapeutic strategy for hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Roderfeld
- Department of Internal Medicine III, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
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Zhang YF, Nie QH, Xie YM, Shao B, Gou YZ, Zhou YX. [Effect of inhibited expression of TIMP-2 by TIMP-2 on rat liver fibrosis]. Zhonghua Gan Zang Bing Za Zhi 2006; 14:138-40. [PMID: 16494789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ya-fei Zhang
- Chinese People's Liberation Army Center of Diagnosis and Treatment for Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
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Gui SY, Wei W, Wang H, Wu L, Sun WY, Chen WB, Wu CY. Effects and mechanisms of crude astragalosides fraction on liver fibrosis in rats. J Ethnopharmacol 2006; 103:154-9. [PMID: 16198523 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2005.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2005] [Revised: 07/08/2005] [Accepted: 07/22/2005] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Astragalosides is the major active constituent of Radix Astragali. The present study was carried out to investigate the effect of crude astragalosides fraction (CAF) on rats liver fibrosis and its possible mechanisms. Hepatic fibrosis was induced by subcutaneous injection with 50% CCl(4) in Sprague-Dawley rats. The amount of CCl(4) administered was 1 mg kg(-1). The alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels in plasma and hydroxyproline (Hyp), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-px) contents in liver tissue were assayed by spectrophotometry. The hyaluronic acid (HA) and procollagen III (PC III) were assessed by radioimmunoassay. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) levels in culture supernatants of Kupffer cells (KCs) were determined with ELISA. Liver samples collected after 8 weeks of CCl(4) treatment were stained with hematoxylin-eosin (HE) and massion, and scored. Intragastric administration of CAF (10, 20 and 40 mg kg(-1)) significantly decreased indices of liver and spleen, the serum transaminase activities, HA and PC III levels, and Hyp and MDA contents in liver tissue in rats of hepatic fibrosis. Decreased SOD and GSH-px levels were reversed after administration of CAF. Histopathological scores showed CAF had inhibitory effect on the progression of hepatic fibrosis. In the in vitro experiments, CAF significantly reduced TNF-alpha and TGF-beta1 levels in culture supernatants of KCs. The results showed CAF significantly inhibited the progression of hepatic fibrosis induced by CCl(4), and the inhibitory effect of CAF on hepatic fibrosis might be associated with its ability to scavenge free radical and inhibit the production of TNF-alpha and TGF-beta1 from activated KCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang-Ying Gui
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Anhui Province, Hefei 230032, PR China
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Moreno MG, Muriel P. Inducible nitric oxide synthase is not essential for the development of fibrosis and liver damage induced by CCl4 in mice. J Appl Toxicol 2006; 26:326-32. [PMID: 16705756 DOI: 10.1002/jat.1144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present work was to investigate the role of inducible nitric oxide (NO) synthase (iNOS) in CCl(4)-induced cirrhosis by utilizing iNOS knock out mice (iNOS(-/-)). Cirrhosis was produced by i.p. administration of CCl(4) (1 ml kg(-1) of body weight) dissolved in olive oil three times a week for 3 months to iNOS(-/-) or iNOS(+/+) (wild type) mice; appropriate olive oil controls were performed. Nitrite plus nitrate levels were lower in iNOS(-/-) compared with iNOS(+/+) mice, but CCl(4) did not produce a significant effect in any mice. Reduced (GSH) glutathione was increased in iNOS(-/-) mice receiving vehicle and in both groups receiving CCl(4); lipid peroxidation increased significantly in iNOS(+/+) but not in iNOS(-/-) mice. Bilirubins, alanine aminotransferase and collagen (measured as the hepatic hydroxyproline content) were increased significantly by the chronic intoxication with CCl(4) in both iNOS(-/-) and iNOS(+/+) mice; importantly there was no difference between these groups. This study clearly suggests that NO derived from iNOS does not participate in cholestasis, necrosis or fibrosis induced by CCl(4) in the mice. The present results are in disagreement with several studies indicating a beneficial or detrimental effect of this molecule utilizing different experimental approaches and in agreement with some studies indicating that NO does not affect liver damage in some models. It must be pointed out that this is the first report in iNOS knock out mice utilizing the chronic model of intoxication with CCl(4); thus, comparisons with other models or approaches are difficult to reconcile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario G Moreno
- Sección Externa de Farmacología, Cinvestav-IPN, México, DF, México
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Méndez-López M, Méndez M, López L, Aller MA, González-Pardo H, Nava MP, Sánchez-Patán F, Arias J, Arias JL. Increased cytochrome oxidase activity in adrenal glands of thioacetamide-cirrhotic rats. Neuro Endocrinol Lett 2005; 26:719-23. [PMID: 16380689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2005] [Accepted: 10/26/2005] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cytochrome oxidase activity has been determined in the adrenal glands of thioacetamide (TAA)-cirrhotic rats. MATERIAL AND METHODS Two groups of animals (Control group; n=10 and TAA group; n=11) of three months evolution were used to study the cytochrome oxidase activity in the suprarenal cortex (glomerular, fascicular and reticular layers) and medulla. TAA was administered orally and cytochrome oxidase (COX) activity was assayed by an immunohistochemical technique. RESULTS In TAA-cirrhotic rats, COX activity increases in the cortex fascicular layer (221 +/- 1.79 vs 181.9 +/- 2.75; p<0.001) as well as in the medulla (146.6 +/- 1.72 vs 129 +/- 3.09; p<0.001). CONCLUSION These results make it possible to consider the existence of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-axis and adrenomedullary sympathetic system hyperactivity, both peripheral limbs of the stress system, in this experimental model of cirrhosis.
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Sansoè G, Aragno M, Mastrocola R, Restivo F, Mengozzi G, Smedile A, Rosina F, Danni O, Parola M, Rizzetto M. Neutral endopeptidase (EC 3.4.24.11) in cirrhotic liver: a new target to treat portal hypertension? J Hepatol 2005; 43:791-8. [PMID: 16085334 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2005.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2004] [Revised: 02/20/2005] [Accepted: 04/05/2005] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS In liver cirrhosis atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) decreases portal vascular resistance and tributary flow. The enzyme neutral endopeptidase (NEP) degrades ANP and bradykinin and generates endothelin-1 from big-endothelin. We determined the effects of NEP inhibition by candoxatrilat on hormonal status, liver function and arterial and portal pressures in rats with CCl4-induced cirrhosis. METHODS Two groups of seven control rats received 1 ml 5% glucose solution alone or containing 10 mg/kg candoxatrilat; three groups of 10 ascitic cirrhotic rats received placebo, 5 or 10 mg/kg candoxatrilat. NEP protein concentration and immunostaining were analyzed in normal and cirrhotic livers. RESULTS In cirrhotic rats 10 mg/kg candoxatrilat significantly increased steady-state indocyanine green clearance (a parameter reflecting liver plasma flow) (P<0.01), decreased portal pressure (P<0.01), had no effect on arterial pressure and plasma renin activity but increased ANP plasma levels (P<0.05) and urinary excretions (P<0.01) of ANP and cGMP. In the cytosol fraction of rat cirrhotic livers a 280% increase in NEP content was found (P<0.01), chiefly localized in desmin-positive myofibroblast-like cells of fibrous septa. CONCLUSIONS Candoxatrilat has few effects on systemic hemodynamics and hormonal status; its portal hypotensive action depends on effects exerted on intrahepatic vascular resistance.
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Wang H, Liao ZX, Chen M, Hu XL. Effects of hepatic fibrosis on ofloxacin pharmacokinetics in rats. Pharmacol Res 2005; 53:28-34. [PMID: 16182555 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2005.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2005] [Revised: 08/04/2005] [Accepted: 08/15/2005] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of the present work was to study the pharmacokinetics of ofloxacin, a poorly metabolised drug, in experimental hepatic fibrosis. The possible roles of small intestinal P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and cytochrome P450 (CYP) in the bioavailability of ofloxacin were also evaluated. Rat hepatic fibrosis model was successfully induced using complex factors including carbon tetrachloride, ethanol and high fat. After rats received a single oral or intravenous dose of ofloxacin (40 mg kg(-1)), the plasma concentrations of ofloxacin were monitored at the scheduled time using spectrofluorimetric assay. Plasma concentration-time profiles were comodeled using compartmental method. Meanwhile, microsomal CYP isoenzymatic levels and P-gp expression in small intestines were compared between normal and hepatic fibrosis rats. When ofloxacin was administered intravenously, C(max) and the distribution half-life increased significantly in comparison with normal group, whereas the distribution rate constants, the apparent volume of distribution decreased. Oral ofloxacin bioavailability was significantly altered in hepatic fibrosis rats. AUC and C(max) were reduced, while the absorption half-life, peak time and elimination half-life significantly were prolonged, suggesting that both the extent and the rate of ofloxacin absorption were decreased. Furthermore, the increases in the levels of microsomal ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase and erythromycin N-demethylase were accompanied with up-regulation of mdr 1a mRNA in the small intestines of hepatic fibrosis rats when compared to those of the normal rats. The Results showed that pharmacokinetics of ofloxacin could be altered in hepatic fibrosis. Up-regulated P-gp expression and increased CYP isoenzymatic activities of small intestines in hepatic fibrosis rats may contribute to the decreased bioavailability and increased elimination of ofloxacin after oral administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Hubei Province, China.
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Cruz A, Padillo FJ, Torres E, Navarrete CM, Muñoz-Castañeda JR, Caballero FJ, Briceño J, Marchal T, Túnez I, Montilla P, Pera C, Muntané J. Melatonin prevents experimental liver cirrhosis induced by thioacetamide in rats. J Pineal Res 2005; 39:143-50. [PMID: 16098091 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2005.00227.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis is a critical stage of chronic liver diseases that can produce liver failure, portal hypertension and hepatocarcinoma. Sustained oxidative stress plays a key role in cell damage and fibrosis induced during liver cirrhosis. We evaluated the effect of oxidative stress regulation by melatonin on the development of parenchymal destruction and stellate cell activation in experimental liver cirrhosis. Melatonin was administered to rats with liver cirrhosis induced by thioacetamide (TAA) for 1 or 3 months. Liver injury was assessed by serological analysis, as well as hematoxylin-eosin staining and the in situ apoptosis detection assay in liver sections. Oxidative stress was evaluated by lipoperoxide and reduced glutathione levels, and by the measurement of catalase and superoxide dismutase activities in liver and serum respectively. The activation of stellate cells was evaluated by alpha-smooth muscle actin expression in liver sections. Our results showed that TAA induced oxidative stress with extensive tissue damage and enhanced alpha-smooth muscle actin expression in liver. Melatonin prevented the oxidative stress-related changes associated with TAA toxicity. In conclusion, the study showed that melatonin prevents the tissue damage and fibrosis associated with TAA-induced liver cirrhosis in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adolfo Cruz
- Department of General Surgery, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain
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Tsui TY, Lau CK, Ma J, Wu X, Wang YQ, Farkas S, Xu R, Schlitt HJ, Fan ST. rAAV-mediated stable expression of heme oxygenase-1 in stellate cells: a new approach to attenuate liver fibrosis in rats. Hepatology 2005; 42:335-42. [PMID: 16025519 DOI: 10.1002/hep.20803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the consequence of activation of hepatic stellate cells mediated by persistent or recurrent liver injury, where oxidative stress or inflammatory response resulting from immune cells and cytokines are involved. Targeting of hepatic stellate cells could be an important strategy for the therapy of liver fibrosis. In this study, we showed a tropism of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV, serotype 2) with high efficiency in transduction of a homeostatic gene, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), to activated stellate cells. The binding of rAAVs to stellate cells increased significantly after serum-stimulated activation compared with quiescent status. Portal injection of rAAVs to normal or carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4))-induced liver fibrosis showed a distinct distribution of rAAV binding. The majority of injected rAAVs bound to the cells in fibrotic areas that were associated with higher expression levels of fibroblast growth factor receptor-1alpha at 2 hours after administration. Isolation of different types of cells from CCl(4)-induced fibrotic livers showed predominant expression of transgene in stellate cells after rAAV/HO-1 administration on day 3 and remained stable for 12 weeks. In addition, HO-1-transduced stellate cells showed reduced transcript levels of type 1 collagen and impaired proliferative ability compared with controls. With this approach, the severity of established micronodular cirrhosis was markedly reduced. In conclusion, these findings suggest a new approach for the treatment of liver fibrosis using adeno-associated virus-mediated gene transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tung-Yu Tsui
- Center for the Study of Liver Disease, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China.
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Zhu YK, Wang BE, Shen FJ, Jia JD, Ma H. [Dynamic evolution of MMP-2 gene expression and its enzymatic activities in experimental liver fibrosis]. Zhonghua Gan Zang Bing Za Zhi 2005; 13:509-12. [PMID: 16042886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore the dynamic changes and interactions between MMP-2 and TIMP-2 during experimental liver fibrosis. METHODS Wistar rats were randomly allocated into a normal group and a model group. To induce liver fibrosis, rats were injected intraperitoneally with dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) three consecutive times in the first week, then two consecutive times per week, totally for 6 weeks. In the normal control group, rats were injected with saline by the same method as the model group. Animals were sacrificed 1, 4, 10, 17, 28, 42, 56 days after starting DMN injections. Conventional histological examinations of the livers were performed with hematoxylin and eosin and Masson staining. The fibrosis was classified into 0 to 4 stages. Hydroxyproline content was determined after liver tissues were hydrolyzed in HCl at 160 degree C for 2 hrs and then measured with spectrometry at 560 nm wavelength. mRNA levels of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 were determined by semi-quantitive RT-PCR. Gelatinase activity of MMP-2 was examined by zymography using gelatin substrate. RESULTS In the model group the hepatic MMP-2 mRNA expression started to increase 10 days after DMN administration and remained at a much higher level than in the normal group throughout the study period, while TIMP-2 mRNA expression started to be lower than in the normal group 17 days after DMN administration and reached the lowest level on the 28th day. Then it rapidly rebounded and remained higher than that in the normal group from the 42nd day to the end of the study period. TIMP-2/MMP-2 began to be lower by several days than that of the normal group after DMN administration through the remaining study period. Zymography showed that the enzymatic activities of both latent MMP-2 and active MMP-2 were increased during the process of liver fibrosis. CONCLUSION In liver fibrosis, MMP-2 expression increases, while TIMP-2 expression relatively decreases. The enzymatic activities of MMP-2 increase as the liver fibrosis develops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue-ke Zhu
- Artificial Liver Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital University of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100054, China.
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Zhang AF, Chen PS, Zhang LD, Zhang XM, Liu DF. [Effects of hyperbaric oxygen with free-radical antagonists on the expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2 in rat livers]. Zhonghua Gan Zang Bing Za Zhi 2005; 13:545-6. [PMID: 16042900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ai-feng Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
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Jiang J, Tan SZ, Tan CY, Liu CH, Xu LM. [Effect of FZHY recipe on elastase expression in liver fibrosis in rats]. Zhonghua Gan Zang Bing Za Zhi 2005; 13:307-8. [PMID: 15850526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Jiang
- The Affiliated Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai 200021, China
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Angeli P, Fernández-Varo G, Dalla Libera V, Fasolato S, Galioto A, Arroyo V, Sticca A, Guarda S, Gatta A, Jiménez W. The role of nitric oxide in the pathogenesis of systemic and splanchnic vasodilation in cirrhotic rats before and after the onset of ascites. Liver Int 2005; 25:429-37. [PMID: 15780069 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2005.01092.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of nitric oxide (NO) in the pathogenesis of splanchnic arterial vasodilation in cirrhosis has been recently debated by some experimental studies. AIMS We investigated the role of NO in the pathogenesis of the splanchnic arterial vasodilation along the course of CCl(4)-induced experimental cirrhosis. METHODS We analyzed the effect on mean arterial pressure (MAP), cardiac output (CO), total peripheral resistance (TPR), and resistance in the superior mesenteric artery (RSMA), before and after the administration of a unspecific NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor (Nomega-nitro-L-arginine-methyl-ester, L-NAME) and a specific NOS2 inhibitor (L-N-(1-iminoethyl)-lysine, L-NIL) to cirrhotic rats with and without ascites, and to control rats. NOS2 and NOS3 protein expression was also assessed in systemic and splanchnic arteries of these animals. RESULTS L-NAME in cirrhotic rats markedly improved MAP, and TPR and decreased CO regardless of whether they had ascites or not. L-NIL did not produce any significant effect on systemic haemodynamics in control and cirrhotic rats. NOS3 overexpression in the aorta of cirrhotic animals paralleled the progression of the liver disease. L-NAME increased RSMA in cirrhotic rats, but this effect was much less intense in rats with ascites. L-NIL had an effect only on RSMA in rats with ascites, which was of a similar extent to that produced by L-NAME. Western blot experiment showed a faint overexpression of NOS3 in the mesenteric artery of cirrhotic rats with and without ascites and a clear induction of NOS2 only in the mesenteric artery of rats with ascites. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that NO contributes significantly to the pathogenesis of arterial splanchnic circulation in the early stages of experimental cirrhosis but has only a minor role in its maintenance after the development of ascites. Furthermore, the expression of the different NOS isoforms varies along the course of the liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Angeli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 2, Padova 35100, Italy
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Islas-Carbajal MC, Covarrubias A, Grijalva G, Alvarez-Rodríguez A, Armendáriz-Borunda J, Rincón-Sánchez AR. Nitric oxide synthases inhibition results in renal failure improvement in cirrhotic rats. Liver Int 2005; 25:131-40. [PMID: 15698410 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2005.01018.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Nitric oxide (NO) has been implicated in cirrhosis and might be implicated in renal failure end-stage cirrhosis. AIM Our aim was to evaluate NO role in renal failure induced during decompensated cirrhosis, using the following inhibitors: aminoguanidine (AG), a specific inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) inhibitor and NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), a nonselective blocker of NOS isoforms. METHODS Endothelial (eNOS) and iNOS gene expression was analyzed by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Cirrhotic rats received a single intragastric dose of CCl(4) to induce acute liver damage (ALD). RESULTS After ALD, aspartate aminotransferase highest levels were observed in rats treated with AG and ALT in rats treated with L-NAME. Inhibitors decreased creatinine serum levels to normal values and serum sodium levels re-established after the third day of ALD. L-NAME diminished (P<0.05) eNOS RNA renal expression. Renal iNOS with no inhibitor was overexpressed but was down-regulated by AG treatment. Liver eNOS RNA expression had a decreased expression before ALD in cirrhotic rats, but L-NAME treatment down-regulated eNOS after ALD. AG induced an important iNOS liver decrease. CONCLUSION Both inhibitors improved renal function, although AG displayed a better effect and did not aggravate liver function. We concluded that NOS isoforms are implicated in the renal pathophysiologic events induced by ALD.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Islas-Carbajal
- Instituto de Biología Molecular en Medicina y Terapia Génica. C.U.C.S. U. de G, Mexico, Mexico
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Abstract
AIM: Nitric oxide (NO) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of liver cirrhosis. We have found inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) can be induced in hepatocytes of cirrhotic liver. This study further investigated the temporal expression and activity of hepatic iNOS in cirrhosis development.
METHODS: Cirrhosis was induced in rats by chronic bile duct ligation (BDL). At different time points after the operation, samples were collected to examine NO concentration, liver function, and morphological changes. Hepatocytes were isolated for determination of iNOS mRNA, protein and enzymatic activity.
RESULTS: Histological examination showed early cirrhosis 1-2 wk after BDL, with advanced cirrhosis at 3-4 wk. Bilirubin increased dramatically 3 d after BDL, but decreased by 47% on d 14. Three weeks after BDL, it elevated again. Systemic NO concentration did not increase significantly until 4 wk after BDL, when ascites developed. Hepatocyte iNOS mRNA expression was identified 3 d after BDL, and enhanced with time to 3 wk, but reduced thereafter. iNOS protein showed a similar pattern to mRNA expression. iNOS activity decreased from d 3 to d 7, but increased again thereafter till d 21.
CONCLUSION: Hepatic iNOS can be induced in the early stage, which increases with time as cirrhosis develops. Its enzymatic activity is significantly correlated with protein expression and histological alterations of the liver, but not with systemic NO levels, nor with absolute values of liver function markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Li Wei
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 119260, Singapore
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