1
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Tsoneva Y, Velikova T, Nikolaev G. Circadian clock regulation of myofibroblast fate. Cell Signal 2025; 131:111774. [PMID: 40169063 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2025.111774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2024] [Revised: 03/10/2025] [Accepted: 03/26/2025] [Indexed: 04/03/2025]
Abstract
Fibrosis-related disorders represent an increasing medical and economic burden on a worldwide scale, accounting for one-third of all disease-related deaths with limited therapeutic options. As central mediators in fibrosis development, myofibroblasts have been gaining increasing attention in the last 20 years as potential targets for fibrosis attenuation and reversal. While various aspects of myofibroblast physiology have been proposed as treatment targets, many of these approaches have shown limited long-term efficacy so far. However, ongoing research is uncovering new potential strategies for targeting myofibroblast activity, offering hope for more effective treatments in the future. The circadian molecular clock is a feature of almost every cell in the human body that dictates the rhythmic nature of various aspects of human physiology and behavior in response to changes in the surrounding environment. The dysregulation of these rhythms with aging is considered to be one of the underlying reasons behind the development of multiple aging-related chronic disorders, with fibrotic tissue scarring being a common pathological complication among the majority of them. Myofibroblast dysregulation due to skewed circadian clockwork might significantly contribute to fibrotic scar persistence. In the current review, we highlight the role of the circadian clock in the context of myofibroblast activation and deactivation and examine its dysregulation as a driver of fibrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoanna Tsoneva
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski", Bulgaria.
| | - Tsvetelina Velikova
- Medical Faculty, Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski, 1 Kozyak str, 1407 Sofia, Bulgaria.
| | - Georgi Nikolaev
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski", Bulgaria.
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2
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Bozward AG, Davies SP, Morris SM, Kayani K, Oo YH. Cellular interactions in self-directed immune-mediated liver diseases. J Hepatol 2025; 82:1110-1124. [PMID: 39793614 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2025.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2024] [Revised: 12/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/06/2025] [Indexed: 01/13/2025]
Abstract
The lymphocyte population must traverse a complex path throughout their journey to the liver. The signals which these cells must detect, including cytokines, chemokines and other soluble factors, steer their course towards further crosstalk with other hepatic immune cells, hepatocytes and biliary epithelial cells. A series of specific chemokine receptors and adhesion molecules drive not only the recruitment, migration, and retention of these cells within the liver, but also their localisation. Perturbation of these interactions and failure of self-recognition drive the development of several autoimmune liver diseases. We also describe check point-induced liver injury. Immune cell internalisation into hepatocytes (emperipolesis) in autoimmune hepatitis and into biliary epithelial cells (intra-epithelial lymphocyte) in primary biliary cholangitis are typical features in autoimmune liver diseases. Finally, we describe emerging immune-based therapies, including regulatory T cell, anti-cytokine and anti-chemokine therapies, cytokine supplementation (e.g. interleukin-2), as well as co-inhibitory molecule manipulation, including T-cell engagers, and discuss their potential application in the treatment of autoimmune liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber G Bozward
- Centre for Liver and Gastroenterology research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, University of Birmingham and University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK; Centre for Rare Diseases, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN-RARE-LIVER) Centre, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Scott P Davies
- Centre for Liver and Gastroenterology research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, University of Birmingham and University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK; Centre for Rare Diseases, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN-RARE-LIVER) Centre, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sean M Morris
- Centre for Liver and Gastroenterology research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, University of Birmingham and University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK; Centre for Rare Diseases, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN-RARE-LIVER) Centre, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Kayani Kayani
- Centre for Liver and Gastroenterology research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, University of Birmingham and University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK; Centre for Rare Diseases, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN-RARE-LIVER) Centre, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ye H Oo
- Centre for Liver and Gastroenterology research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, University of Birmingham and University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK; Centre for Rare Diseases, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN-RARE-LIVER) Centre, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; Liver Transplant and Hepatobiliary Department, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK.
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3
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Mohammed MJ, Kadhim HM. The hepatoprotective effects of the polyphenol-enriched n-butanol fraction of Cnicus benedictus against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis in rats: In vivo study. Toxicol Rep 2025; 14:101850. [PMID: 39758800 PMCID: PMC11697782 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2024.101850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2024] [Revised: 11/21/2024] [Accepted: 12/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/07/2025] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a continuous wound-healing response to chronic injury caused by various chemical, virus, and pathological disorders; the lack of approved drugs or methods to reverse or prevent liver fibrosis makes it an interesting area of research. This study investigates the potential hepatoprotective effects of the phenolic extract of Cnicus benedictus in rat's module of liver fibrosis. Liver fibrosis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) for six consecutive weeks; the butanol fraction of Cnicus and silymarin was administered orally concurrently with CCl4. After six weeks, all animals were euthanized. Rat liver tissue levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) were measured, and serum liver enzymes and protein were measured using the ELISA technique. Histopathological study and immunohistochemistry of liver tissue for transforming growth factor (TGF-β1), alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and hydroxyproline were assessed. In HPLC analysis, Cnicus extract showed several components, including quercetin, gallic acid, rutin, kaempferol, silibinin, and apigenin. Treatment with Cnicus butanol extract reduces serum ALT, AST, bilirubin, and albumin levels compared to induction. Additionally, Cnicus extract increases liver GSH levels and decreases liver MDA levels compared to induction. Liver tissue of TGF-β1, α-SMA, and hydroxyproline expression was downregulated in rats receiving Cnicus extract. Liver tissue histopathology showed improvement in its features compared to the induction group. In conclusion, oral administration of the polyphenol-enriched n-butanol fraction of Cnicus benedictus showed a protective effect on liver fibrosis caused by CCl4, possibly through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Jasim Mohammed
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
- Ministry of Health and Environment, Kirkuk Health Directorate, Kirkuk, Iraq
| | - Haitham Mahmood Kadhim
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
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4
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Jee YM, Lee JY, Ryu T. Chronic Inflammation and Immune Dysregulation in Metabolic-Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease Progression: From Steatosis to Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Biomedicines 2025; 13:1260. [PMID: 40427086 PMCID: PMC12109540 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines13051260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2025] [Revised: 05/16/2025] [Accepted: 05/19/2025] [Indexed: 05/29/2025] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) progresses from hepatic steatosis to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as a result of systemic immunometabolic dysfunction. This review summarizes the key roles of the innate and adaptive immune mechanisms driving hepatic injury, fibrogenesis, and carcinogenesis in MASLD. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was performed using PubMed to identify relevant published studies. Eligible articles included original research and clinical studies addressing immunological and metabolic mechanisms in MASLD, as well as emerging therapeutic strategies. Results: We highlight the roles of cytokine networks, the gut-liver axis, and immune cell reprogramming. Emerging therapeutic strategies, including cytokine inhibitors, anti-fibrotic agents, metabolic modulators, and nutraceuticals, offer several indications for attenuating MASLD progression and reducing the prevalence of extrahepatic manifestations. Conclusions: Given the heterogeneity of MASLD, personalized combination-based approaches targeting both inflammation and metabolic stress are essential for effective disease management and the prevention of systemic complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Min Jee
- Department of Family Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Seoul 04401, Republic of Korea;
- Department of Family Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Yoon Lee
- Department of Neurology, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Seoul 04401, Republic of Korea;
- Department of Translational Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Tom Ryu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute for Digestive Research, Digestive Disease Center, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul 04401, Republic of Korea
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5
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Ishihara T, Tsugawa H, Iwanami S, Chang JC, Minoda A, Arita M. Transcriptomic and lipidomic analysis of aging-associated inflammatory signature in mouse liver. Inflamm Regen 2025; 45:13. [PMID: 40319315 PMCID: PMC12049063 DOI: 10.1186/s41232-025-00377-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2025] [Accepted: 04/20/2025] [Indexed: 05/07/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aging-associated dysbiosis leads to chronic inflammation and the development of a range of aging-related diseases. The gut microbiota crosstalks with the host by providing lipid metabolites and modulating metabolic functions. However, the precise mechanism by which the gut microbiota regulates aging is unknown. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of the gut microbiota on the transcriptome and lipidome associated with aging in mouse liver. METHODS RNA-sequencing was conducted on the livers of young and aged male and female-specific pathogen-free (SPF) and germ-free (GF) mice to comprehensively analyze transcriptomic alterations with aging. We also reanalyzed our previously reported results on aging-associated changes in the hepatic lipidome to investigate the gut microbiota-dependent hepatic lipidome signatures associated with aging. RESULTS In contrast to the findings in male mice, the changes in hepatic transcriptome associated with aging were attenuated in female GF mice compared with those in SPF mice. In particular, the gene sets associated with inflammatory signatures (i.e., inflammation and tissue remodeling) were found to be suppressed in female GF mice. The ChIP-Atlas database predicted that transcription factors associated with sex differences may be involved in the gene signature of aged female GF mice. Significant differences in the lipid profile were observed between aged SPF and GF female mice, including in bile acids, sterol sulfates, lysophospholipids, oxidized triacylglycerols, vitamin D, and phytoceramides. Moreover, notable alterations were identified in the quality of phospholipids and sphingolipids. Integrated transcriptomic and lipidomic analysis identified candidate enzymes responsible for the change of lipid profiles in aged female mice. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study offer new insights into the molecular mechanisms through which the gut microbiota regulates aging-related phenotypes such as inflammation in the liver, possibly through modulating lipid metabolism in a sex-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoaki Ishihara
- Laboratory for Metabolomics, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, 1-7-22, Suehiro-cho, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan.
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagasaki International University, 2825-7, Huis Ten Bosch, Sasebo, Nagasaki, 859-3298, Japan.
| | - Hiroshi Tsugawa
- Laboratory for Metabolomics, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, 1-7-22, Suehiro-cho, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 2-24-16 Nakamachi, Koganei-shi, Tokyo, 184-8588, Japan
- Metabolome Informatics Research Team, RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, 1-7-22 Suehiro-cho, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
- Molecular and Cellular Epigenetics Laboratory, Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
| | - Seigo Iwanami
- Laboratory for Metabolomics, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, 1-7-22, Suehiro-cho, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
- Division of Physiological Chemistry and Metabolism, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Keio University, 1-5-30 Shibakoen, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8512, Japan
| | - Jen-Chien Chang
- Laboratory for Cellular Epigenomics, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, 1-7-22, Suehiro-cho, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
| | - Aki Minoda
- Laboratory for Cellular Epigenomics, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, 1-7-22, Suehiro-cho, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
- Department of Human Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Makoto Arita
- Laboratory for Metabolomics, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, 1-7-22, Suehiro-cho, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan.
- Molecular and Cellular Epigenetics Laboratory, Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan.
- Division of Physiological Chemistry and Metabolism, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Keio University, 1-5-30 Shibakoen, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8512, Japan.
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Kim HY, Rosenthal SB, Liu X, Miciano C, Hou X, Miller M, Buchanan J, Poirion OB, Chilin-Fuentes D, Han C, Housseini M, Carvalho-Gontijo Weber R, Sakane S, Lee W, Zhao H, Diggle K, Preissl S, Glass CK, Ren B, Wang A, Brenner DA, Kisseleva T. Multi-modal analysis of human hepatic stellate cells identifies novel therapeutic targets for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. J Hepatol 2025; 82:882-897. [PMID: 39522884 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.10.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2024] [Revised: 10/09/2024] [Accepted: 10/29/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease ranges from metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver (MASL) to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) with fibrosis. Transdifferentiation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) into fibrogenic myofibroblasts plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of MASH liver fibrosis. We compared transcriptome and chromatin accessibility of human HSCs from NORMAL, MASL, and MASH livers at single-cell resolution. We aimed to identify genes that are upregulated in activated HSCs and to determine which of these genes are key in the pathogenesis of MASH fibrosis. METHODS Eighteen human livers were profiled using single-nucleus (sn)RNA-seq and snATAC-seq. High priority targets were identified, then tested in 2D human HSC cultures, 3D human liver spheroids, and HSC-specific gene knockout mice. RESULTS MASH-enriched activated HSC subclusters are the major source of extracellular matrix proteins. We identified a set of concurrently upregulated and more accessible core genes (GAS7, SPON1, SERPINE1, LTBP2, KLF9, EFEMP1) that drive activation of HSCs. Expression of these genes was regulated via crosstalk between lineage-specific (JUNB/AP1), cluster-specific (RUNX1/2) and signal-specific (FOXA1/2) transcription factors. The pathological relevance of the selected targets, such as SERPINE1 (PAI-1), was demonstrated using dsiRNA-based HSC-specific gene knockdown or pharmacological inhibition of PAI-1 in 3D human MASH liver spheroids, and HSC-specific Serpine1 knockout mice. CONCLUSION This study identified novel gene targets and regulatory mechanisms underlying activation of fibrogenic HSCs in MASH, and demonstrated that genetic or pharmacological inhibition of select genes suppressed liver fibrosis. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS Herein, we present the results of a multi-modal sequencing analysis of human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) from NORMAL, MASL (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver), and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) livers. We identified additional subclusters that were not detected by previous studies and characterized the mechanism by which HSCs are activated in MASH livers, including the transcriptional machinery that induces the transdifferentiation of HSCs into myofibroblasts. For the first time, we described the pathogenic role of activated HSC-derived PAI-1 (a product of the SERPINE1 gene) in the development of MASH liver fibrosis. Targeting the RUNX1/2-SERPINE1 axis could be a novel strategy for the treatment of liver fibrosis in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Young Kim
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA; Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Sara Brin Rosenthal
- Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Xiao Liu
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA; Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Charlene Miciano
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA; Center for Epigenomics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Xiaomeng Hou
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA; Center for Epigenomics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Michael Miller
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA; Center for Epigenomics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Justin Buchanan
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA; Center for Epigenomics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Olivier B Poirion
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA; Center for Epigenomics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Daisy Chilin-Fuentes
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Cuijuan Han
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Mojgan Housseini
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Raquel Carvalho-Gontijo Weber
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA; Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Sadatsugu Sakane
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA; Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Wonseok Lee
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA; Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Huayi Zhao
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA; Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Karin Diggle
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Sebastian Preissl
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA; Center for Epigenomics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA; Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christopher K Glass
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Bing Ren
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA; Center for Epigenomics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Allen Wang
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA; Center for Epigenomics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA.
| | - David A Brenner
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA; Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California, USA.
| | - Tatiana Kisseleva
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA.
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Palomer X, Wang JR, Escalona C, Wu S, Wahli W, Vázquez-Carrera M. Targeting AMPK as a potential treatment for hepatic fibrosis in MASLD. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2025:S0165-6147(25)00065-3. [PMID: 40300935 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2025.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2025] [Revised: 03/12/2025] [Accepted: 03/27/2025] [Indexed: 05/01/2025]
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most common chronic liver disease, and often progresses to hepatic fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver failure. Despite its increasing prevalence, effective pharmacological treatments for MASLD-related fibrosis remain limited. Recent research has highlighted AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) as a key regulator of the processes that promote fibrogenesis, and AMPK activation shows potential in mitigating fibrosis. Advances in AMPK activators and deeper insights into their role in fibrotic pathways have recently revitalized interest in targeting AMPK for fibrosis treatment. This review discusses the molecular mechanisms linking AMPK to hepatic fibrosis and evaluates emerging AMPK-directed therapies. Furthermore, it addresses challenges in clinical translation. Importantly, we combine the latest mechanistic discoveries with recent therapeutic developments to provide a comprehensive perspective on AMPK as a target for hepatic fibrosis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Palomer
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona (IBUB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Spanish Biomedical Research Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Diseases (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; Pediatric Research Institute, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jue-Rui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona (IBUB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Spanish Biomedical Research Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Diseases (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; Pediatric Research Institute, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Claudia Escalona
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona (IBUB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Spanish Biomedical Research Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Diseases (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; Pediatric Research Institute, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Siyuan Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona (IBUB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Spanish Biomedical Research Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Diseases (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; Pediatric Research Institute, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Walter Wahli
- Center for Integrative Genomics, University of Lausanne, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; ToxAlim (Research Center in Food Toxicology), Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation, et l'Environnement (INRAE), Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 1331, F-31300 Toulouse Cedex, France
| | - Manuel Vázquez-Carrera
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona (IBUB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Spanish Biomedical Research Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Diseases (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; Pediatric Research Institute, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.
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8
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Kisseleva T, Ganguly S, Murad R, Wang A, Brenner DA. Regulation of Hepatic Stellate Cell Phenotypes in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis. Gastroenterology 2025:S0016-5085(25)00528-1. [PMID: 40120772 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2025.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2024] [Revised: 02/13/2025] [Accepted: 03/05/2025] [Indexed: 03/25/2025]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), a condition characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the hepatocytes, unrelated to alcohol consumption. In a healthy liver, HSCs are quiescent, store vitamin A, and function as pericytes. However, in response to liver injury and inflammation, HSCs become activated. In MASH, HSC activation is driven by metabolic stress, lipotoxicity, and chronic inflammation. Injured hepatocytes, recruited macrophage, capillarized sinusoidal endothelial cells, and permeable intestinal epithelium may each contribute to activating HSCS. This leads to a unique inflammatory environment that promotes fibrosis. MASH HSCs change their metabolism to favor glycolysis, glutaminolysis, and lactate generation. Activated HSCs transform into myofibroblast-like cells, producing excessive extracellular matrix components that result in fibrosis. In addition, HSCs in MASH have inflammatory and intermediate activated phenotypes. This fibrotic process is a key feature of MASH, which can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Understanding the mechanisms of HSC activation and their role in MASH progression is essential for developing targeted therapies to treat and prevent liver fibrosis in affected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Kisseleva
- Department of Surgery, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | | | - Rabi Murad
- Sanford Burnham Prebys, La Jolla, California
| | - Allen Wang
- Center for Epigenetics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - David A Brenner
- Sanford Burnham Prebys, La Jolla, California; Department of Medicine, University of California, La Jolla California.
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Affὸ S, Sererols-Viñas L, Garcia-Vicién G, Cadamuro M, Chakraborty S, Sirica AE. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: Insights into Origins, Heterogeneity, Lymphangiogenesis, and Peritoneal Metastasis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2025; 195:378-396. [PMID: 39117110 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2024.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) denotes a rare, highly malignant, and heterogeneous class of primary liver adenocarcinomas exhibiting phenotypic characteristics of cholangiocyte differentiation. Among the distinctive pathological features of iCCA, one that differentiates the most common macroscopic subtype (eg, mass-forming type) of this hepatic tumor from conventional hepatocellular carcinoma is a prominent desmoplastic reaction manifested as a dense fibro-collagenous-enriched tumor stroma. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) represent the most abundant mesenchymal cell type in the desmoplastic reaction. Although the protumor effects of CAFs in iCCA have been increasingly recognized, more recent cell lineage tracing studies, advanced single-cell RNA sequencing, and expanded biomarker analyses have provided new awareness into their ontogeny, as well as underscored their biological complexity as reflected by the presence of multiple subtypes. In addition, evidence supports CAFs' potential to display cancer-restrictive roles, including immunosuppression. However, CAFs also play important roles in facilitating metastasis, as exemplified by lymph node metastasis and peritoneal carcinomatosis, which are common in iCCA. Herein, the authors provide a timely appraisal of the origins and phenotypic and functional complexity of CAFs in iCCA, together with providing mechanistic insights into lymphangiogenesis and peritoneal metastasis relevant to this lethal human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Affὸ
- Tumor Microenvironment Plasticity and Heterogeneity Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Laura Sererols-Viñas
- Tumor Microenvironment Plasticity and Heterogeneity Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gemma Garcia-Vicién
- Tumor Microenvironment Plasticity and Heterogeneity Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Sanjukta Chakraborty
- Department of Medical Physiology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas
| | - Alphonse E Sirica
- Department of Pathology (Emeritus), Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia.
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10
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Zhang L, Tian J, Li N, Wang Y, Jin Y, Bian H, Xiong M, Zhang Z, Meng J, Han Z, Duan S. Exosomal miRNA reprogramming in pyroptotic macrophage drives silica-induced fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition and pulmonary fibrosis. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2025; 483:136629. [PMID: 39603130 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.136629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2024] [Revised: 11/04/2024] [Accepted: 11/21/2024] [Indexed: 11/29/2024]
Abstract
Silicosis is an occupational lung disease characterized by progressive pulmonary fibrosis, threatening millions of occupational workers worldwide due to a lack of effective treatments. To unveil mechanisms underlying silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis, we established in vitro and in vivo silicosis models, then employed scRNA-sequencing to profile the cellular landscape of lung tissues followed by characterization of macrophage pyroptosis and exosome therefrom in driving fibroblast-to-myofibroblast-transdifferentiation. Using hyperspectral imaging and artificial intelligence-powered pathological recognition, we found that silica nanoparticle (SiNP) triggered progressive lung fibrosis in vivo, and scRNA-seq implicated interstitial macrophage as pivotal regulators for fibroblast transdifferentiation. Mechanistically, SiNPs were demonstrated to induce macrophage pyroptosis and liberate exosomes, which upregulated pro-fibrotic markers and promoted myofibroblast transition. Subsequent high-throughput miR-sequencing revealed distinct exosomal miRNA signatures that modulated TGF-β signaling and induced fibroblast transdifferentiation. Lastly, we administered these exosomes into silicotic mice and found exacerbated inflammatory infiltration and pulmonary fibrosis. In conclusion, SiNPs exposure caused the remodeling of exosomal miRNAs by inducing interstitial macrophage pyroptosis, and exosomes derived from pyroptotic macrophage fuel fibroblast transdifferentiation by creating a pro-fibrotic microenvironment and promoting silicotic fibrosis. These findings provide critical insights into the pathogenesis of silicosis and the formulation of emerging therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhang
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Women and Children Diseases, Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan 250001, China; Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention and Genetic Medicine of Shandong Health Commission, Shandong University, Jinan 250001, China
| | - Jiaqi Tian
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Women and Children Diseases, Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan 250001, China; Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention and Genetic Medicine of Shandong Health Commission, Shandong University, Jinan 250001, China
| | - Ning Li
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Women and Children Diseases, Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan 250001, China; Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention and Genetic Medicine of Shandong Health Commission, Shandong University, Jinan 250001, China
| | - Yongheng Wang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063000, China
| | - Yulan Jin
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063000, China
| | - Hongying Bian
- National Institute of Occupational Health and Poison Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Min Xiong
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063000, China
| | - Zitong Zhang
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Women and Children Diseases, Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan 250001, China; Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention and Genetic Medicine of Shandong Health Commission, Shandong University, Jinan 250001, China; School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Jiahua Meng
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063000, China
| | - Zhengpu Han
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Women and Children Diseases, Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan 250001, China; Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention and Genetic Medicine of Shandong Health Commission, Shandong University, Jinan 250001, China
| | - Shuyin Duan
- School of Public Health, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan 250001, China.
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11
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Lin Y, Wang X, Cui X, Zhu N, Li Y, Li X. C6orf120 Deficiency Inhibits Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation by Upregulating RARβ Signaling. Cell Biochem Biophys 2025:10.1007/s12013-025-01682-w. [PMID: 39904869 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-025-01682-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/22/2025] [Indexed: 02/06/2025]
Abstract
Vitamin A (VA) and its active form, retinoic acid (RA), are crucial for preserving hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) quiescence and reversing fibrosis. While C6orf120 is known to be involved in HSC activation, its role in RA signaling is unclear. This study found that C6orf120 knockdown markedly reduced CCL4-induced liver fibrosis and TGF-β1-induced activation in LX-2 cells, a human HSC line. This inhibition was associated with enhanced RA signaling, particularly affecting the RA receptor beta (RARβ). Inhibition of RARβ significantly reversed the protective effects of C6orf120 knockdown, indicating that RARβ signaling contributes to the inhibitory effect of C6orf120 knockdown on HSC activation. Our results reveal that C6orf120 inhibition could be a therapeutic strategy for liver fibrosis by regulating RARβ signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Lin
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyu Cui
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Na Zhu
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanyan Li
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China.
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12
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Cui X, Zhang R, Li Y, Li P, Liu Y, Yu X, Zhou J, Wang L, Tian X, Li H, Zhang S, Lan T, Li X, Zhang G, Li J, Liu Z. Bie Jia Jian pill ameliorates BDL-induced cholestatic hepatic fibrosis in rats by regulating intestinal microbial composition and TMAO-mediated PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2025; 337:118910. [PMID: 39369915 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2024] [Revised: 09/16/2024] [Accepted: 10/04/2024] [Indexed: 10/08/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE As a compound of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Bie Jia Jian pill (BJJP) is extensively used to treat the clinical chronic liver disease. Nevertheless, the specific mechanism through which BJJP affects hepatic fibrosis (HF) remains unknown. AIM OF THE STUDY To explore the role and potential mechanism of BJJP involved in treating HF. MATERIALS AND METHODS HF model of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats was induced by a bile duct ligation (BDL). The function of BJJP involved in the intestinal microbiota (IM) and its metabolites in BDL-induced HF rats were explored through the 16S rRNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics technologies. Network pharmacology was used to forecast mechanism underlying BJJP's anti-HF effects, which were validated in BDL-induced rats and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO)-induced LX-2 and HSC-T6 cells. RESULTS BJJP effectively ameliorated pathological liver damage, inflammation, and fibrosis of the BDL-induced HF rats. BJJP regulated IM diversity and composition and interfered with trimethylamine (TMA)-flavin monooxygenase 3 (FMO3)-TMAO process. In vitro, BJJP significantly inhibited the TMAO-induced activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) (rat HSC cell line, HSC-T6; human HSC cell line, LX-2). Network pharmacology results demonstrated that PI3K/AKT signal pathway is crucially involved in BJJP treatment of HF. Further research revealed that BJJP inhibited the PI3K/AKT signal pathway in BDL-induced HF rats. Moreover, TMAO activated the PI3K/AKT pathway, whereas BJJP suppressed TMAO-induced activation. Subsequent intervention with 740Y-P (the PI3K agonist) successfully neutralized the repression effect on PI3K/AKT signal pathway by BJJP. CONCLUSION These results clearly show that BJJP attenuates HF by regulating the IM, as well as inhibiting PI3K/AKT pathway mediated by TMAO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Cui
- Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, China
| | - Ronghua Zhang
- Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, China
| | - Yufeng Li
- The Cancer Institute, Hebei Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Tangshan People's Hospital, Tangshan, 063001, China
| | - Ping Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Medical-Industrial Integration Precision Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063000, China
| | - Yankun Liu
- The Cancer Institute, Hebei Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Tangshan People's Hospital, Tangshan, 063001, China
| | - Xiaohan Yu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Medical-Industrial Integration Precision Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063000, China
| | - Jing Zhou
- Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, China
| | - Luyao Wang
- Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, China
| | - Xuetao Tian
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Medical-Industrial Integration Precision Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063000, China
| | - Hongjie Li
- Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, China
| | - Shukun Zhang
- Institute of Acute Abdominal Diseases of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tianjin Nankai Hospital, Nankai Clinical College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300100, China
| | - Tao Lan
- Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery Department, Cangzhou People's Hospital, Cangzhou, 061000, China
| | - Xin Li
- Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery Department, Cangzhou People's Hospital, Cangzhou, 061000, China
| | - Guangling Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Medical-Industrial Integration Precision Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063000, China.
| | - Jingwu Li
- The Cancer Institute, Hebei Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Tangshan People's Hospital, Tangshan, 063001, China.
| | - Zhiyong Liu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Medical-Industrial Integration Precision Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063000, China.
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Kim HY, Mizrahi O, Lee W, Rosenthal SB, Han C, Yee BA, Blue SM, Diaz J, Jonnalagadda J, Hokutan K, Jang H, Ma CT, Bobkov A, Sergienko E, Jackson MR, Stefanovic B, Kisseleva T, Yeo GW, Brenner DA. LARP6 regulates the mRNA translation of fibrogenic genes in liver fibrosis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2025:2025.01.16.633226. [PMID: 39868246 PMCID: PMC11761402 DOI: 10.1101/2025.01.16.633226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2025]
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome and excessive alcohol consumption result in liver injury and fibrosis, which is characterized by increased collagen production by activated Hepatic Stellate Cells (HSCs). LARP6, an RNA-binding protein, was shown to facilitate collagen production. However, LARP6 expression and functionality as a regulator of fibrosis development in a disease relevant model remains elusive. By using snRNA-sequencing, we show that LARP6 is upregulated mainly in HSCs of liver fibrosis patients. Moreover, LARP6 knockdown in human HSCs suppresses fibrogenic gene expression. By integrating eCLIP analysis and ribosome profiling in HSCs, we show that LARP6 interacts with mature mRNAs comprising over 300 genes, including RNA structural elements within COL1A1 , COL1A2 , and COL3A1 to regulate mRNA expression and translation. Furthermore, LARP6 knockdown in HSC attenuates fibrosis development in human liver spheroids. Altogether, our results suggest that targeting LARP6 in human HSCs may provide new strategies for anti-fibrotic therapy. Highlights LARP6 is upregulated in liver fibrosis, mainly in HSCs.LARP6 knockdown in human HSCs reduces liver fibrosis development.Of the hundreds of gene targets, LARP6 interacts most with collagen mRNAs.LARP6 regulates mRNA translation via interaction with 5'UTRs.
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14
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An H, Jang Y, Choi J, Hur J, Kim S, Kwon Y. New Insights into AMPK, as a Potential Therapeutic Target in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease and Hepatic Fibrosis. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2025; 33:18-38. [PMID: 39702310 PMCID: PMC11704404 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2024.188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2024] [Revised: 12/08/2024] [Accepted: 12/10/2024] [Indexed: 12/21/2024] Open
Abstract
AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activators have garnered significant attention for their potential to prevent the progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) into liver fibrosis and to fundamentally improve liver function. The broad spectrum of pathways regulated by AMPK activators makes them promising alternatives to conventional liver replacement therapies and the limited pharmacological treatments currently available. In this study, we aim to illustrate the newly detailed multiple mechanisms of MASLD progression based on the multiple-hit hypothesis. This model posits that impaired lipid metabolism, combined with insulin resistance and metabolic imbalance, initiates inflammatory cascades, gut dysbiosis, and the accumulation of toxic metabolites, ultimately promoting fibrosis and accelerating MASLD progression to irreversible hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). AMPK plays a multifaceted protective role against these pathological conditions by regulating several key downstream signaling pathways. It regulates biological effectors critical to metabolic and inflammatory responses, such as SIRT1, Nrf2, mTOR, and TGF-β, through complex and interrelated mechanisms. Due to these intricate connections, AMPK's role is pivotal in managing metabolic and inflammatory disorders. In this review, we demonstrate the specific roles of AMPK and its related pathways. Several agents directly activate AMPK by binding as agonists, while some others indirectly activate AMPK by modulating upstream molecules, including adiponectin, LKB1, and the AMP: ATP ratio. As AMPK activators can target each stage of MASLD progression, the development of AMPK activators offers immense potential to expand therapeutic strategies for liver diseases such as MASH, MASLD, and liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haeun An
- College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Yerin Jang
- College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Jungin Choi
- College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Juhee Hur
- College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Seojeong Kim
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngjoo Kwon
- College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
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15
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Zhang L, Jiang X, Shi J, Zhang J, Shi X, Xie Z, Chen G, Zhang H, Mu Y, Chen J, Qi S, Liu P, Liu W. Isoastragaloside I attenuates cholestatic liver diseases by ameliorating liver injury, regulating bile acid metabolism and restoring intestinal barrier. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 335:118649. [PMID: 39094754 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Cholestatic liver diseases (CLD) are liver disorders resulting from abnormal bile formation, secretion, and excretion from various causes. Due to the lack of suitable and safe medications, liver transplantation is the ultimate treatment for CLD patients. Isoastragaloside I (IAS I) is one of the main saponin found in Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. var. mongholicus (Bge.) Hsiao or Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge, which has been demonstrated to obviously alleviate CLD. Nevertheless, the IAS I's specific anti-CLD mechanism remains undecipherable. AIM OF THE STUDY This study's purpose was to elucidate the protective consequence of IAS I on 0.1% 3, 5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydroxychollidine (DDC) diet-induced CLD mice, and to reveal its potential mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, mice with CLD that had been fed a 0.1% DDC diet were distributed two doses of IAS I (20 mg/kg, 50 mg/kg). The effects of IAS I on CLD models were investigated by assessing blood biochemistry, liver histology, and Hyp concentrations. We investigated markers of liver fibrosis and ductular reaction using immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and qRT-PCR. Liver inflammation indicators, arachidonic acid (ARA), and ω-3 fatty acid (FA) metabolites were also analyzed. Quantitative determination of 39 bile acids (BAs) in different organs employing UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap HRMS technology. Additionally, the H&E and Western blot analysis were used to evaluate differences in intestinal barrier function in DDC-induced mice before and after administering IAS I. RESULTS After treatment with IAS I, serum biochemical indicators and liver hydroxyproline (Hyp) increased in a dose-dependent manner in CLD mice. The IAS I group showed significant improvement in indicators of liver fibrosis and ductular response, including as α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and cytokeratin 19 (CK19), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/Smads signaling pathway. And inflammatory factors: F4/80, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), ARA and ω-3 FA metabolites showed significant improvement following IAS I treatment. Moreover, IAS I significantly ameliorated liver tau-BAs levels, particularly TCA, THCA, THDCA, TCDCA, and TDCA contents, which were associated with enhanced expression of hepatic farnesoid X receptor (FXR), small heterodimer partner (SHP), cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase (Cyp7a1), and bile-salt export pump (BSEP). Furthermore, IAS I significantly improved pathological changes and protein expression related to intestinal barrier function, including zonula occludens protein 1 (ZO-1), Muc2, and Occludin. CONCLUSIONS IAS I alleviated cholestatic liver injury, relieved inflammation, improved the altered tau-BAs metabolism and restored intestinal barrier function to protect against DDC-induced cholestatic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linzhang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; Department of Pharmacy, The SATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xiaoyu Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jiewen Shi
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jianwei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The SATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xiaoli Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, The SATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Zhishen Xie
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, 156 Jinshui East Road, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Gaofeng Chen
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yongping Mu
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jiamei Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, The SATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Shenglan Qi
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; Department of Pharmacy, The SATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Ping Liu
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; Department of Pharmacy, The SATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Wei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; Department of Pharmacy, The SATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
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16
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Liu S. Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Alleviates Hepatic Fibrosis by Inducing Hepatic Stellate Cell Ferroptosis. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e70278. [PMID: 39654034 PMCID: PMC11628353 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.70278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 11/13/2024] [Accepted: 11/27/2024] [Indexed: 12/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver injury-induced activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is a crucial step in the progression of liver fibrosis. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), a ligand-activated transcription factor, is highly expressed in the liver. However, the role of AHR in liver fibrosis remains controversial. Our study revealed that the nontoxic ligand YH439 directly activated the AHR and regulated the expression of multidrug-resistant protein 1 (Mrp1) in mouse hepatic stellate cells (mHSCs), thereby diminishing the antioxidant capacity of mHSCs by promoting GSH efflux, and specifically inducing mHSCs ferroptosis without affecting hepatocytes. In a chronic liver fibrosis model, YH439 activated AHR to promote mHSC ferroptosis without causing hepatocyte ferroptosis, thereby alleviating liver fibrosis. Conclusively, this study shows that AHR alleviates liver fibrosis in mice by selectively inducing mHSC ferroptosis without causing hepatocyte ferroptosis and suggests that AHR is a potential target for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenghui Liu
- Lin He's Academician Workstation of New Medicine and Clinical TranslationJining Medical UniversityJiningChina
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17
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Liu Q, Li J, Li X, Zhang L, Yao S, Wang Y, Tuo B, Jin H. Advances in the understanding of the role and mechanism of action of PFKFB3‑mediated glycolysis in liver fibrosis (Review). Int J Mol Med 2024; 54:105. [PMID: 39301662 PMCID: PMC11448561 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2024.5429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a pathophysiologic manifestation of chronic liver disease and a precursor to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Glycolysis provides intermediate metabolites as well as energy support for cell proliferation and phenotypic transformation in liver fibers. 6‑Phosphofructo‑2‑kinase/fructose‑2,6‑bisphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3) is a key activator of glycolysis and plays an important role in the process of glycolysis. The role of PFKFB3‑mediated glycolysis in myocardial fibrosis, renal fibrosis and pulmonary fibrosis has been demonstrated, and the role of PFKFB3 in the activation of hepatic stellate cells by aerobic glycolysis has been proven by relevant experiments. The present study reviews the research progress on the role and mechanism of action of PFKFB3‑mediated glycolysis in the progression of hepatic fibrosis to discuss the role of PFKFB3‑mediated glycolysis in hepatic fibrosis and to provide new ideas for research on PFKFB3 as a target for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563003, P.R. China
- The Collaborative Innovation Center of Tissue Damage Repair and Regenerative Medicine of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563003, P.R. China
| | - Jiajia Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563003, P.R. China
- The Collaborative Innovation Center of Tissue Damage Repair and Regenerative Medicine of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563003, P.R. China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563003, P.R. China
- The Collaborative Innovation Center of Tissue Damage Repair and Regenerative Medicine of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563003, P.R. China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563003, P.R. China
- The Collaborative Innovation Center of Tissue Damage Repair and Regenerative Medicine of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563003, P.R. China
| | - Shun Yao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563003, P.R. China
- The Collaborative Innovation Center of Tissue Damage Repair and Regenerative Medicine of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563003, P.R. China
| | - Yongfeng Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563003, P.R. China
- The Collaborative Innovation Center of Tissue Damage Repair and Regenerative Medicine of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563003, P.R. China
| | - Biguang Tuo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563003, P.R. China
- The Collaborative Innovation Center of Tissue Damage Repair and Regenerative Medicine of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563003, P.R. China
| | - Hai Jin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563003, P.R. China
- The Collaborative Innovation Center of Tissue Damage Repair and Regenerative Medicine of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563003, P.R. China
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18
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Hu Y, Peng L, Zhuo X, Yang C, Zhang Y. Hedgehog Signaling Pathway in Fibrosis and Targeted Therapies. Biomolecules 2024; 14:1485. [PMID: 39766192 PMCID: PMC11727624 DOI: 10.3390/biom14121485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2024] [Revised: 11/17/2024] [Accepted: 11/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2025] Open
Abstract
Hedgehog (Hh) signaling is a well-established developmental pathway; it is crucial for early embryogenesis, cell differentiation, and damage-driven regeneration. It is being increasingly recognized that dysregulated Hh signaling is also involved in fibrotic diseases, which are characterized by excessive extracellular matrix deposition that compromises tissue architecture and function. As in-depth insights into the mechanisms of Hh signaling are obtained, its complex involvement in fibrosis is gradually being illuminated. Notably, some Hh-targeted inhibitors are currently under exploration in preclinical and clinical trials as a means to prevent fibrosis progression. In this review, we provide a concise overview of the biological mechanisms involved in Hh signaling. We summarize the latest advances in our understanding of the roles of Hh signaling in fibrogenesis across the liver, kidneys, airways, and lungs, as well as other tissues and organs, with an emphasis on both the shared features and, more critically, the distinct functional variations observed across these tissues and organs. We thus highlight the context dependence of Hh signaling, as well as discuss the current status and the challenges of Hh-targeted therapies for fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Hu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (Y.H.); (L.P.); (X.Z.)
- Center for Diabetes and Metabolism Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Linrui Peng
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (Y.H.); (L.P.); (X.Z.)
- Center for Diabetes and Metabolism Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xinyu Zhuo
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (Y.H.); (L.P.); (X.Z.)
- Center for Diabetes and Metabolism Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Chan Yang
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China;
| | - Yuwei Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (Y.H.); (L.P.); (X.Z.)
- Center for Diabetes and Metabolism Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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19
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Šisl D, Planinić P, Novak S, Filipović M, Flegar D, Šućur A, Turčić P, Kovačić N, Kalajzić I, Grčević D, Kelava T. Modulation of Notch signaling pathway in activated hepatic stellate cells does not ameliorate the outcome of liver fibrosis in carbon tetrachloride and DDC-feeding models. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1440236. [PMID: 39529885 PMCID: PMC11551037 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1440236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 10/15/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Recent research suggests a possible role of Notch signaling pathway in development of liver fibrosis, but exact cellular and molecular mechanisms are still not well defined. Methods: We modulated Notch signaling in activated hepatic stellate cells/myofibroblasts using the model of inducible activation or inhibition of Notch signaling selective for αSMA positive cells in murine models of toxic fibrosis induced by CCl4 and cholestatic fibrosis induced by DDC supplemented feeding. Results Our results confirm that Notch signaling pathway is activated in both CCL4 and DDC model of liver fibrosis and that αSMA positive myofibroblasts are of activated hepatic stellate cells origin. However, neither the inhibition of canonical Notch signaling (in tamoxifen treated αSMACreER/RBP-Jfl/fl mice) nor its overactivation (in tamoxifen treated αSMACreER/NICD1 mice) changed the degree of liver fibrosis in comparison to the control groups in either of the investigated models. Furthermore, after the withdrawal of the fibrogenic treatment the degree of resolution of fibrosis was similar between the animals with Notch overactivation and controls. In addition to genetic manipulation, we investigated the effect of antibodies against NOTCH1 and NOTCH2 on the development of liver fibrosis. Treatment with antibodies had effects on thymus and spleen respectively, but failed to ameliorate liver fibrosis. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that modulation of Notch activity in activated HSC is not sufficient to change the outcome of liver fibrosis. The results obtained with inhibitory antibodies further demonstrate limitations of targeting Notch 1 and 2 receptors as antifibrotic therapy. Notch pathway remains a potential target for the treatment of liver fibrosis, but future studies should be directed to Notch 3 signaling and/or targeting different populations of cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dino Šisl
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Pavao Planinić
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Sanja Novak
- Department of Reconstructive Sciences, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, United States
| | - Maša Filipović
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Darja Flegar
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Alan Šućur
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Petra Turčić
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nataša Kovačić
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivo Kalajzić
- Department of Reconstructive Sciences, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, United States
| | - Danka Grčević
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tomislav Kelava
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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20
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Muns JA, Schooten E, van Dasselaar RDJ, Noordman YE, Adamzek K, Eibergen AC, Pronk SD, Cali S, Sijbrandi NJ, Merkul E, Oliveira S, van Bergen En Henegouwen PMP, Takkenberg RB, Verheij J, van de Graaf SFJ, Nijmeijer BA, van Dongen GAMS. Preclinical targeting of liver fibrosis with a 89Zr-labeled Fibrobody® directed against platelet derived growth factor receptor-β. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2024; 51:3545-3558. [PMID: 38888612 PMCID: PMC11445362 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-024-06785-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Hepatic fibrosis develops as a response to chronic liver injury, resulting in the formation of fibrous scars. This process is initiated and driven by collagen-producing activated myofibroblasts which reportedly express high levels of platelet derived growth factor receptor-β (PDGFRβ). We therefore regard PDGFRβ as an anchor for diagnosis and therapy. The Fibrobody® SP02SP26-ABD is a biparatopic VHH-construct targeting PDGFRβ. Here, we explore its potential as a theranostic vector for liver fibrosis. METHODS Specificity, cross-species binding, and cellular uptake of SP02SP26-ABD was assessed using human, mouse and rat PDGFRβ ectodomains and PDGFRβ-expressing cells. Cellular uptake by PDGFRβ-expressing cells was also evaluated by equipping the Fibrobody® with auristatinF and reading out in vitro cytotoxicity. The validity of PDGFRβ as a marker for active fibrosis was confirmed in human liver samples and 3 mouse models of liver fibrosis (DDC, CCl4, CDA-HFD) through immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR. After radiolabeling of DFO*-SP02SP26-ABD with 89Zr, its in vivo targeting ability was assessed in healthy mice and mice with liver fibrosis by PET-CT imaging, ex vivo biodistribution and autoradiography. RESULTS SP02SP26-ABD shows similar nanomolar affinity for human, mouse and rat PDGFRβ. Cellular uptake and hence subnanomolar cytotoxic potency of auristatinF-conjugated SP02SP26-ABD was observed in PDGFRβ-expressing cell lines. Immunohistochemistry of mouse and human fibrotic livers confirmed co-localization of PDGFRβ with markers of active fibrosis. In all three liver fibrosis models, PET-CT imaging and biodistribution analysis of [89Zr]Zr-SP02SP26-ABD revealed increased PDGFRβ-specific uptake in fibrotic livers. In the DDC model, liver uptake was 12.15 ± 0.45, 15.07 ± 0.90, 20.23 ± 1.34, and 20.93 ± 4.35%ID/g after 1,2,3 and 4 weeks of fibrogenesis, respectively, compared to 7.56 ± 0.85%ID/g in healthy mice. Autoradiography revealed preferential uptake in the fibrotic (PDGFRβ-expressing) periportal areas. CONCLUSION The anti-PDGFRβ Fibrobody® SP02SP26-ABD shows selective and high-degree targeting of activated myofibroblasts in liver fibrosis, and qualifies as a vector for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joey A Muns
- LinXis Biopharmaceuticals, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Erik Schooten
- LinXis Biopharmaceuticals, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Kevin Adamzek
- LinXis Biopharmaceuticals, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Sebas D Pronk
- Department of Biology, Division of Cell Biology, Neurology and Biophysics, Science Faculty, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Sagel Cali
- LinXis Biopharmaceuticals, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Eugen Merkul
- LinXis Biopharmaceuticals, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sabrina Oliveira
- Department of Biology, Division of Cell Biology, Neurology and Biophysics, Science Faculty, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics Devision, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Paul M P van Bergen En Henegouwen
- Department of Biology, Division of Cell Biology, Neurology and Biophysics, Science Faculty, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - R Bart Takkenberg
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joanne Verheij
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Stan F J van de Graaf
- Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism (AGEM), Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Guus A M S van Dongen
- LinXis Biopharmaceuticals, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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21
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Amengual J, Alay A, Vaquero J, Gonzalez-Sanchez E, Bertran E, Sánchez A, Herrera B, Meyer K, Maus M, Serrano M, Martínez-Chantar ML, Fabregat I. Iron chelation as a new therapeutic approach to prevent senescence and liver fibrosis progression. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:680. [PMID: 39289337 PMCID: PMC11408630 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-07063-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 09/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
Iron overload and cellular senescence have been implicated in liver fibrosis, but their possible mechanistic connection has not been explored. To address this, we have delved into the role of iron and senescence in an experimental model of chronic liver injury, analyzing whether an iron chelator would prevent liver fibrosis by decreasing hepatocyte senescence. The model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) in mice was used as an experimental model of liver fibrosis. Results demonstrated that during the progression of liver fibrosis, accumulation of iron occurs, concomitant with the appearance of fibrotic areas and cells undergoing senescence. Isolated parenchymal hepatocytes from CCl4-treated mice present a gene transcriptomic signature compatible with iron accumulation and senescence, which correlates with induction of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)-related genes, activation of the Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) pathway and inhibition of oxidative metabolism. Analysis of the iron-related gene signature in a published single-cell RNA-seq dataset from CCl4-treated livers showed iron accumulation correlating with senescence in other non-parenchymal liver cells. Treatment with deferiprone, an iron chelator, attenuated iron accumulation, fibrosis and senescence, concomitant with relevant changes in the senescent-associated secretome (SASP), which switched toward a more anti-inflammatory profile of cytokines. In vitro experiments in human hepatocyte HH4 cells demonstrated that iron accumulates in response to a senescence-inducing reagent, doxorubicin, being deferiprone able to prevent senescence and SASP, attenuating growth arrest and cell death. However, deferiprone did not significantly affect senescence induced by two different agents (doxorubicin and deoxycholic acid) or activation markers in human hepatic stellate LX-2 cells. Transcriptomic data from patients with different etiologies demonstrated the relevance of iron accumulation in the progression of liver chronic damage and fibrosis, correlating with a SASP-related gene signature and pivotal hallmarks of fibrotic changes. Altogether, our study establishes iron accumulation as a clinically exploitable driver to attenuate pathological senescence in hepatocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josep Amengual
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ania Alay
- Unit of Bioinformatics for Precision Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Preclinical and Experimental Research in Thoracic Tumors (PReTT), Oncobell Program, IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Javier Vaquero
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
- HepatoBiliary Tumours Lab, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, 37007, Spain
| | - Ester Gonzalez-Sanchez
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
- HepatoBiliary Tumours Lab, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, 37007, Spain
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Esther Bertran
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Aránzazu Sánchez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Health Research Institute of the "Hospital Clínico San Carlos" (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Blanca Herrera
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Health Research Institute of the "Hospital Clínico San Carlos" (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Kathleen Meyer
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
- Altos Labs, Cambridge Institute of Science, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Mate Maus
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Serrano
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
- Altos Labs, Cambridge Institute of Science, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Luz Martínez-Chantar
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
- Liver Disease and Liver Metabolism Laboratory, CIC bioGUNE-BRTA (Basque Research & Technology Alliance), Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Isabel Fabregat
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain.
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22
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Arteel GE. Hepatic Extracellular Matrix and Its Role in the Regulation of Liver Phenotype. Semin Liver Dis 2024; 44:343-355. [PMID: 39191427 PMCID: PMC12057067 DOI: 10.1055/a-2404-7973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
The hepatic extracellular matrix (ECM) is most accurately depicted as a dynamic compartment that comprises a diverse range of players that work bidirectionally with hepatic cells to regulate overall homeostasis. Although the classic meaning of the ECM referred to only proteins directly involved in generating the ECM structure, such as collagens, proteoglycans, and glycoproteins, the definition of the ECM is now broader and includes all components associated with this compartment. The ECM is critical in mediating phenotype at the cellular, organ, and even organismal levels. The purpose of this review is to summarize the prevailing mechanisms by which ECM mediates hepatic phenotype and discuss the potential or established role of this compartment in the response to hepatic injury in the context of steatotic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin E. Arteel
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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23
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Chen L, Huang Y, Zhang N, Qu J, Fang Y, Fu J, Yuan Y, Zhang Q, Li H, Wen Z, Yuan L, Chen L, Xu Z, Li Y, Yan H, Izawa H, Li L, Xiang C. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals reduced intercellular adhesion molecule crosstalk between activated hepatic stellate cells and neutrophils alleviating liver fibrosis in hepatitis B virus transgenic mice post menstrual blood-derived mesenchymal stem cell transplantation. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e654. [PMID: 39040848 PMCID: PMC11261812 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis can cause hepatitis B virus (HBV)-associated hepatocellular carcinoma. Menstrual blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MenSCs) can ameliorate liver fibrosis through paracrine. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) may be used to explore the roadmap of activated hepatic stellate cell (aHSC) inactivation to target liver fibrosis. This study established HBV transgenic (HBV-Tg) mouse model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis and demonstrated that MenSCs migrated to the injured liver to improve serological indices and reduce fibrotic accumulation. RNA-bulk analysis revealed that MenSCs mediated extracellular matrix accumulation and cell adhesion. Liver parenchymal cells and nonparenchymal cells were identified by scRNA-seq in the control, CCl4, and MenSC groups, revealing the heterogeneity of fibroblasts/HSCs. A CellChat analysis revealed that diminished intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM) signaling is vital for MenSC therapy. Specifically, Icam1 in aHSCs acted on Itgal/Itgb2 and Itgam/Itgb2 in neutrophils, causing decreased adhesion. The expression of Itgal, Itgam, and Itgb2 was higher in CCl4 group than in the control group and decreased after MenSC therapy in neutrophil clusters. The Lcn2, Pglyrp1, Wfdc21, and Mmp8 had high expression and may be potential targets in neutrophils. This study highlights interacting cells, corresponding molecules, and underlying targets for MenSCs in treating HBV-associated liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesNational Medical Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Research Units of Infectious Disease and MicroecologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Yuqi Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesNational Medical Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Ning Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesNational Medical Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Jingjing Qu
- Department of Respiratory DiseaseThoracic Disease CentreThe First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Yangxin Fang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesNational Medical Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Jiamin Fu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesNational Medical Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Yin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesNational Medical Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Qi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesNational Medical Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Hang Li
- Innovative Precision Medicine (IPM) GroupHangzhouChina
| | - Zuoshi Wen
- Department of CardiologyThe First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Li Yuan
- Innovative Precision Medicine (IPM) GroupHangzhouChina
| | - Lu Chen
- Innovative Precision Medicine (IPM) GroupHangzhouChina
| | - Zhenyu Xu
- Innovative Precision Medicine (IPM) GroupHangzhouChina
| | - Yifei Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesNational Medical Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Research Units of Infectious Disease and MicroecologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Huadong Yan
- Infectious Disease DepartmentShulan (Hangzhou) Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Shuren University Shulan International Medical CollegeHangzhouChina
| | | | - Lanjuan Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesNational Medical Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Research Units of Infectious Disease and MicroecologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong LaboratoryJinanChina
| | - Charlie Xiang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesNational Medical Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Research Units of Infectious Disease and MicroecologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong LaboratoryJinanChina
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24
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Kim HY, Lee W, Liu X, Jang H, Sakane S, Carvalho-Gontijo Weber R, Diggle K, Kerk SA, Metallo CM, Kisseleva T, Brenner DA. Protocol to generate human liver spheroids to study liver fibrosis induced by metabolic stress. STAR Protoc 2024; 5:103111. [PMID: 38833372 PMCID: PMC11179098 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2024.103111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Currently, there is no effective treatment for obesity and alcohol-associated liver diseases, partially due to the lack of translational human models. Here, we present a protocol to generate 3D human liver spheroids that contain all the liver cell types and mimic "livers in a dish." We describe strategies to induce metabolic and alcohol-associated hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis. We outline potential applications, including using human liver spheroids for experimental and translational research and drug screening to identify potential anti-fibrotic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Young Kim
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Wonseok Lee
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Xiao Liu
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Department of Surgery, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Haeum Jang
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Sadatsugu Sakane
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | | | - Karin Diggle
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Department of Surgery, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Samuel A Kerk
- Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Christian M Metallo
- Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Tatiana Kisseleva
- Department of Surgery, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - David A Brenner
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
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McGrath MS, Wentworth BJ. The Renin-Angiotensin System in Liver Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5807. [PMID: 38891995 PMCID: PMC11172481 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is a complex homeostatic entity with multiorgan systemic and local effects. Traditionally, RAS works in conjunction with the kidney to control effective arterial circulation, systemic vascular resistance, and electrolyte balance. However, chronic hepatic injury and resulting splanchnic dilation may disrupt this delicate balance. The role of RAS in liver disease, however, is even more extensive, modulating hepatic fibrosis and portal hypertension. Recognition of an alternative RAS pathway in the past few decades has changed our understanding of RAS in liver disease, and the concept of opposing vs. "rebalanced" forces is an ongoing focus of research. Whether RAS inhibition is beneficial in patients with chronic liver disease appears to be context-dependent, but further study is needed to optimize clinical management and reduce organ-specific morbidity and mortality. This review presents the current understanding of RAS in liver disease, acknowledges areas of uncertainty, and describes potential areas of future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary S. McGrath
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA;
| | - Brian J. Wentworth
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
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26
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Wells RG. Liver fibrosis: Our evolving understanding. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2024; 23:e0243. [PMID: 38961878 PMCID: PMC11221862 DOI: 10.1097/cld.0000000000000243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
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27
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Ma L, Yin L, Zhu H, Li J, Wang D. Two-dimensional vascularized liver organoid on extracellular matrix with defined stiffness for modeling fibrotic and normal tissues. J Tissue Eng 2024; 15:20417314241268344. [PMID: 39130682 PMCID: PMC11316963 DOI: 10.1177/20417314241268344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Antifibrotic drug screening requires evaluating the inhibitory effects of drug candidates on fibrotic cells while minimizing any adverse effects on normal cells. It is challenging to create organ-specific vascularized organoids that accurately model fibrotic and normal tissues for drug screening. Our previous studies have established methods for culturing primary microvessels and epithelial cells from adult tissues. In this proof-of-concept study, we used rats as a model organism to create a two-dimensional vascularized liver organoid model that comprised primary microvessels, epithelia, and stellate cells from adult livers. To provide appropriate substrates for cell culture, we engineered ECMs with defined stiffness to mimic the different stages of fibrotic tissues and normal tissues. We examined the effects of two TGFβ signaling inhibitors, A83-01 and pirfenidone, on the vascularized liver organoids on the stiff and soft ECMs. We found that A83-01 inhibited fibrotic markers while promoting epithelial genes of hepatocytes and cholangiocytes. However, it inhibited microvascular genes on soft ECM, indicating a detrimental effect on normal tissues. Furthermore, A83-01 significantly promoted the expression of markers of stem cells and cancers, increasing the potential risk of it being a carcinogen. In contrast, pirfenidone, an FDA-approved compound for antifibrotic treatments, did not significantly affect all the genes examined on soft ECM. Although pirfenidone had minor effects on most genes, it did reduce the expression of collagens, the major components of fibrotic tissues. These results explain why pirfenidone can slow fibrosis progression with minor side effects in clinical trials. In conclusion, our study presents a method for creating vascularized liver organoids that can accurately mimic fibrotic and normal tissues for drug screening. Our findings provide valuable insights into the potential risks and benefits of using A83-01 and pirfenidone as antifibrotic drugs. This method can be applied to other organs to create organ-specific vascularized organoids for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Ma
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lin Yin
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Hai Zhu
- Department of Urology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jing Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Dong Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
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