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Guixé-Muntet S, Quesada-Vázquez S, Gracia-Sancho J. Pathophysiology and therapeutic options for cirrhotic portal hypertension. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 9:646-663. [PMID: 38642564 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(23)00438-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Portal hypertension represents the primary non-neoplastic complication of liver cirrhosis and has life-threatening consequences, such as oesophageal variceal bleeding, ascites, and hepatic encephalopathy. Portal hypertension occurs due to increased resistance of the cirrhotic liver vasculature to portal blood flow and is further aggravated by the hyperdynamic circulatory syndrome. Existing knowledge indicates that the profibrogenic phenotype acquired by sinusoidal cells is the initial factor leading to increased hepatic vascular tone and fibrosis, which cause increased vascular resistance and portal hypertension. Data also suggest that the phenotype of hepatic cells could be further impaired due to the altered mechanical properties of the cirrhotic liver itself, creating a deleterious cycle that worsens portal hypertension in the advanced stages of liver disease. In this Review, we discuss recent discoveries in the pathophysiology and treatment of cirrhotic portal hypertension, a condition with few pharmacological treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergi Guixé-Muntet
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sergio Quesada-Vázquez
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Gracia-Sancho
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
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2
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Gao J, Lan T, Kostallari E, Guo Y, Lai E, Guillot A, Ding B, Tacke F, Tang C, Shah VH. Angiocrine signaling in sinusoidal homeostasis and liver diseases. J Hepatol 2024:S0168-8278(24)00349-0. [PMID: 38763358 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.05.014] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
The hepatic sinusoids are composed of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), which are surrounded by hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and contain liver-resident macrophages called Kupffer cells, and other patrolling immune cells. All these cells communicate with each other and with hepatocytes to maintain sinusoidal homeostasis and a spectrum of hepatic functions under healthy conditions. Sinusoidal homeostasis is disrupted by metabolites, toxins, viruses, and other pathological factors, leading to liver injury, chronic liver diseases, and cirrhosis. Alterations in hepatic sinusoids are linked to fibrosis progression and portal hypertension. LSECs are crucial regulators of cellular crosstalk within their microenvironment via angiocrine signaling. This review discusses the mechanisms by which angiocrine signaling orchestrates sinusoidal homeostasis, as well as the development of liver diseases. Here, we summarise the crosstalk between LSECs, HSCs, hepatocytes, cholangiocytes, and immune cells in health and disease and comment on potential novel therapeutic methods for treating liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhang Gao
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tian Lan
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany
| | - Enis Kostallari
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Yangkun Guo
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Enjiang Lai
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Adrien Guillot
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bisen Ding
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Chengwei Tang
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Vijay H Shah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
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Martínez-López S, Ángel-Gomis E, Gómez-Hurtado I, Fernández-Iglesias A, Morante J, Gracia-Sancho J, Boix P, Cubero FJ, Zapater P, Caparrós E, Francés R. Cirrhosis-downregulated LSECtin can be retrieved by cytokines, shifts the TLR-induced LSECs secretome and correlates with the hepatic Th response. Liver Int 2024; 44:996-1010. [PMID: 38293766 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS We evaluated tolerogenic C-type lectin LSECtin loss in cirrhosis and its potential regulation by cytokines. METHODS Liver tissue from patients with cirrhosis and healthy controls, immortalised and generated LSECtin-CRISPR immortalised LSECs, and murine primary LSECs from the CCl4 model were handled. RESULTS LSECtin expression was reduced in liver tissue from cirrhotic patients, and it decreased from compensated to decompensated disease. Increased phosphorylation of MAPK, Akt and NFkB was observed upon LSECtin stimulation in LSEC murine cell line, showing a pattern of inflammatory and chemotactic cytokines either restrained (IL-10, CCL4) or unrestrained (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, CCL2). CD44 attenuated whereas LAG-3 increased all substrates phosphorylation in combination with TLR4 and TLR2 ligands except for NFkB. TNF-α, IL-1 β, IL-6 and CCL2 were restrained by LSECtin crosslinking on TLRs studied. Conversely, IL-10 and CCL4 were upregulated, suggesting a LSECtin-TLRs synergistic effect. Also, LSECtin was significantly induced after IL-13 stimulation or combined with anti-inflammatory cytokines in cirrhotic and immortalised LSECs. Th17 and regulatory T cells were progressively increased in the hepatic tissue from compensated to decompensated patients. A significant inverse correlation was present between gene expression levels of CLEC4G/LSECtin and RORγT and FOXP3 in liver tissues. CONCLUSION LSECtin restrains TLR proinflammatory secretome induced on LSECs by interfering immune response control, survival and MAPKs signalling pathways. The cytokine-dependent induction of LSECtin and the association between LSECtin loss and Th17 cell subset expansion in the liver, provides a solid background for exploring LSECtin retrieval as a mechanism to reprogram LSEC homeostatic function hampered during cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastián Martínez-López
- Hepatic and Intestinal Immunobiology Group, Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Universidad Miguel Hernández, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
- IIS ISABIAL, Hospital General Universitario Dr. Balmis, Alicante, Spain
| | - Enrique Ángel-Gomis
- Hepatic and Intestinal Immunobiology Group, Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Universidad Miguel Hernández, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
- IIS ISABIAL, Hospital General Universitario Dr. Balmis, Alicante, Spain
| | - Isabel Gómez-Hurtado
- Hepatic and Intestinal Immunobiology Group, Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Universidad Miguel Hernández, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
- IIS ISABIAL, Hospital General Universitario Dr. Balmis, Alicante, Spain
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Anabel Fernández-Iglesias
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Javier Morante
- Instituto de Neurociencias, CSIC-UMH, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
| | - Jordi Gracia-Sancho
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paula Boix
- Hepatic and Intestinal Immunobiology Group, Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Universidad Miguel Hernández, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
- IIS ISABIAL, Hospital General Universitario Dr. Balmis, Alicante, Spain
| | - Francisco J Cubero
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, School of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pedro Zapater
- Hepatic and Intestinal Immunobiology Group, Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Universidad Miguel Hernández, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
- IIS ISABIAL, Hospital General Universitario Dr. Balmis, Alicante, Spain
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto IDIBE, Universidad Miguel Hernández, Elche, Spain
| | - Esther Caparrós
- Hepatic and Intestinal Immunobiology Group, Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Universidad Miguel Hernández, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
- IIS ISABIAL, Hospital General Universitario Dr. Balmis, Alicante, Spain
| | - Rubén Francés
- Hepatic and Intestinal Immunobiology Group, Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Universidad Miguel Hernández, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
- IIS ISABIAL, Hospital General Universitario Dr. Balmis, Alicante, Spain
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto IDIBE, Universidad Miguel Hernández, Elche, Spain
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Gil M, Khouri L, Raurell I, Rafael D, Andrade F, Abasolo I, Schwartz S, Martínez-Gómez M, Salcedo MT, Pericàs JM, Hide D, Wei M, Metanis N, Genescà J, Martell M. Optimization of Statin-Loaded Delivery Nanoparticles for Treating Chronic Liver Diseases by Targeting Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2463. [PMID: 37896223 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15102463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we developed functionalized polymeric micelles (FPMs) loaded with simvastatin (FPM-Sim) as a drug delivery system to target liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) for preserving liver function in chronic liver disease (CLD). Polymeric micelles (PMs) were functionalized by coupling peptide ligands of LSEC membrane receptors CD32b, CD36 and ITGB3. Functionalization was confirmed via spectroscopy and electron microscopy. In vitro and in vivo FPM-Sim internalization was assessed by means of flow cytometry in LSECs, hepatocytes, Kupffer and hepatic stellate cells from healthy rats. Maximum tolerated dose assays were performed in healthy mice and efficacy studies of FPM-Sim were carried out in bile duct ligation (BDL) and thioacetamide (TAA) induction rat models of cirrhosis. Functionalization with the three peptide ligands resulted in stable formulations with a greater degree of in vivo internalization in LSECs than non-functionalized PMs. Administration of FPM-Sim in BDL rats reduced toxicity relative to free simvastatin, albeit with a moderate portal-pressure-lowering effect. In a less severe model of TAA-induced cirrhosis, treatment with FPM-CD32b-Sim nanoparticles for two weeks significantly decreased portal pressure, which was associated with a reduction in liver fibrosis, lower collagen expression as well as the stimulation of nitric oxide synthesis. In conclusion, CD32b-FPM stands out as a good nanotransporter for drug delivery, targeting LSECs, key inducers of liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mar Gil
- Liver Disease Group, Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Campus, Universitat Autonòma de Barcelona (UAB), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lareen Khouri
- Institut of Chemistry, Casali Center for Applied Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Imma Raurell
- Liver Disease Group, Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Campus, Universitat Autonòma de Barcelona (UAB), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto De Salud Carlos III, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Diana Rafael
- Clinical Biochemistry, Drug Delivery and Therapy Group (CB-DDT), Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingenería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto De Salud Carlos III, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fernanda Andrade
- Clinical Biochemistry, Drug Delivery and Therapy Group (CB-DDT), Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingenería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto De Salud Carlos III, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Farmàcia i Tecnologia Farmacèutica i Fisicoquímica, Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l'Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08007 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ibane Abasolo
- Clinical Biochemistry, Drug Delivery and Therapy Group (CB-DDT), Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingenería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto De Salud Carlos III, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Clinical Biochemistry Service, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035e Barcelona, Spain
| | - Simo Schwartz
- Clinical Biochemistry, Drug Delivery and Therapy Group (CB-DDT), Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingenería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto De Salud Carlos III, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Clinical Biochemistry Service, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035e Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Martínez-Gómez
- Liver Disease Group, Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Campus, Universitat Autonòma de Barcelona (UAB), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Teresa Salcedo
- Pathology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Manuel Pericàs
- Liver Disease Group, Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Campus, Universitat Autonòma de Barcelona (UAB), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto De Salud Carlos III, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Diana Hide
- Liver Disease Group, Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Campus, Universitat Autonòma de Barcelona (UAB), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto De Salud Carlos III, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mingxing Wei
- Cellvax, SAS Villejuif Bio Park, 93230 Villejuif, France
| | - Norman Metanis
- Institut of Chemistry, Casali Center for Applied Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Joan Genescà
- Liver Disease Group, Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Campus, Universitat Autonòma de Barcelona (UAB), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto De Salud Carlos III, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Martell
- Liver Disease Group, Liver Unit, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Campus, Universitat Autonòma de Barcelona (UAB), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto De Salud Carlos III, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
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Campreciós G, Anton A, Oncins A, Montironi C, Ruart M, Montañés R, García-Calderó H, García-Pagán JC, Hernández-Gea V. Lack of endothelial autophagy does not impair liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy in mice. Liver Int 2023; 43:2302-2308. [PMID: 37461159 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15677] [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: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) are key elements in regulating the liver response to injury and regeneration. While endothelial autophagy is essential to protect endothelial cells from injury-induced oxidative stress and fibrosis, its role in liver regeneration has not been elucidated. This study was intended to investigate the role of endothelial autophagy in liver regeneration in the context of partial hepatectomy (PHx). Analysis of autophagy levels in rat LSEC after PHx indicated a tendency to decrease activity the first 2 days after surgery. PHx performed in mice with impaired endothelial autophagy (Atg7flox/flox ;VE-Cadherin-Cre+ ) and their littermate controls showed no differences neither in liver-to-body weight ratio, histological analysis, hepatocyte proliferation nor vascular integrity during the first 7 days after PH and liver regeneration was completely achieved. Our results indicate that endothelial autophagy does not play an essential role in the coordination of the liver regeneration process after PHx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genís Campreciós
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain
| | - Aina Anton
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Oncins
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carla Montironi
- Pathology Department and Molecular Biology Core, Centre de Diagnòstic Biomèdic (CDB), Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Ruart
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rosa Montañés
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Héctor García-Calderó
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain
| | - Joan Carles García-Pagán
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain
- Departament de Medicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Virginia Hernández-Gea
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain
- Departament de Medicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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6
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McConnell MJ, Kostallari E, Ibrahim SH, Iwakiri Y. The evolving role of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells in liver health and disease. Hepatology 2023; 78:649-669. [PMID: 36626620 PMCID: PMC10315420 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
LSECs are a unique population of endothelial cells within the liver and are recognized as key regulators of liver homeostasis. LSECs also play a key role in liver disease, as dysregulation of their quiescent phenotype promotes pathological processes within the liver including inflammation, microvascular thrombosis, fibrosis, and portal hypertension. Recent technical advances in single-cell analysis have characterized distinct subpopulations of the LSECs themselves with a high resolution and defined their gene expression profile and phenotype, broadening our understanding of their mechanistic role in liver biology. This article will review 4 broad advances in our understanding of LSEC biology in general: (1) LSEC heterogeneity, (2) LSEC aging and senescence, (3) LSEC role in liver regeneration, and (4) LSEC role in liver inflammation and will then review the role of LSECs in various liver pathologies including fibrosis, DILI, alcohol-associated liver disease, NASH, viral hepatitis, liver transplant rejection, and ischemia reperfusion injury. The review will conclude with a discussion of gaps in knowledge and areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. McConnell
- Section of Digestive Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | - Samar H. Ibrahim
- Division of Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Yasuko Iwakiri
- Section of Digestive Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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7
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Furuta K, Tang X, Islam S, Tapia A, Chen ZB, Ibrahim SH. Endotheliopathy in the metabolic syndrome: Mechanisms and clinical implications. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 244:108372. [PMID: 36894027 PMCID: PMC10084912 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108372] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a threat to global public health due to its lethal complications. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the hepatic manifestation of the MetS characterized by hepatic steatosis, which is potentially progressive to the inflammatory and fibrotic nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The adipose tissue (AT) is also a major metabolic organ responsible for the regulation of whole-body energy homeostasis, and thereby highly involved in the pathogenesis of the MetS. Recent studies suggest that endothelial cells (ECs) in the liver and AT are not just inert conduits but also crucial mediators in various biological processes via the interaction with other cell types in the microenvironment both under physiological and pathological conditions. Herein, we highlight the current knowledge of the role of the specialized liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) in NAFLD pathophysiology. Next, we discuss the processes through which AT EC dysfunction leads to MetS progression, with a focus on inflammation and angiogenesis in the AT as well as on endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition of AT-ECs. In addition, we touch upon the function of ECs residing in other metabolic organs including the pancreatic islet and the gut, the dysregulation of which may also contribute to the MetS. Finally, we highlight potential EC-based therapeutic targets for human MetS, and NASH based on recent achievements in basic and clinical research and discuss how to approach unsolved problems in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunimaro Furuta
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Xiaofang Tang
- Department of Diabetes Complications & Metabolism, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Shahidul Islam
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Alonso Tapia
- Department of Diabetes Complications & Metabolism, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Zhen Bouman Chen
- Department of Diabetes Complications & Metabolism, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA.
| | - Samar H Ibrahim
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
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8
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Gillespie SL, Hanrahan TP, Rockey DC, Majumdar A, Hayes PC. Review article: controversies surrounding the use of carvedilol and other beta blockers in the management of portal hypertension and cirrhosis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2023; 57:454-463. [PMID: 36691947 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17380] [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: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advanced chronic liver disease is an increasing cause of premature morbidity and mortality in the UK. Portal hypertension is the primary driver of decompensation, including the development of ascites, hepatic encephalopathy and variceal haemorrhage. Non-selective beta blockers (NSBB) reduce portal pressure and are well established in the prevention of variceal haemorrhage. Carvedilol, a newer NSBB, is more effective at reducing portal pressure due to additional α-adrenergic blockade and has additional anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects. AIM To summarise the available evidence on the use of beta blockers, specifically carvedilol, in cirrhosis, focussing on when and why to start METHODS: We performed a comprehensive literature search of PubMed for relevant publications. RESULTS International guidelines advise the use of NSBB in primary prophylaxis against variceal haemorrhage in those with high-risk varices, with substantial evidence of efficacy comparable with endoscopic band ligation (EBL). NSBB are also well established in secondary prophylaxis, in combination with EBL. More controversial is their use in patients without large varices, but with clinically significant portal hypertension. However, there is gathering evidence that NSBB, particularly carvedilol, reduce the risk of decompensation and improve survival. While caution is advised in patients with advanced cirrhosis and refractory ascites, recent evidence suggests that NSBB can continue to be used safely, and that premature discontinuation may be detrimental. CONCLUSIONS With increasing evidence of benefit independent of variceal bleeding, namely retardation of decompensation and improvement in survival, it is time to consider whether carvedilol should be offered to all patients with advanced chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Timothy P Hanrahan
- Centre for Liver and Digestive Disorders, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Don C Rockey
- Digestive Disease Research Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Avik Majumdar
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia.,The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Peter C Hayes
- Centre for Liver and Digestive Disorders, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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9
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Rampa DR, Feng H, Allur-Subramaniyan S, Shim K, Pekcec A, Lee D, Doods H, Wu D. Kinin B1 receptor blockade attenuates hepatic fibrosis and portal hypertension in chronic liver diseases in mice. J Transl Med 2022; 20:590. [PMID: 36514072 PMCID: PMC9746183 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03808-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Kinin B1 receptors (B1Rs) are implicated in the pathogenesis of fibrosis. This study examined the anti-fibrotic effects of B1R blockade with BI 113823 in two established mouse models of hepatic fibrosis induced by intraperitoneal carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) injection or bile duct ligation (BDL). The mechanisms underlying the protection afforded by B1R inhibition were examined using human peripheral blood cells and LX2 human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). METHODS Fibrotic liver diseases were induced in mice by intraperitoneal carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) injection for 6 weeks, and by bile duct ligation (BDL) for 3 weeks, respectively. Mice received daily treatment of vehicle or BI 113823 (B1R antagonist) from onset of the experiment until the end of the study. RESULTS B1Rs were strongly induced in fibrotic mouse liver. BI 113823 significantly attenuated liver fibrosis and portal hypertension (PH), and improved survival in both CCl4 and BDL mice. BI 113823 significantly reduced the expression of fibrotic proteins α-SMA, collagens 1, 3, 4, and profibrotic growth factors PDGF, TGFβ, CTGF, VEGF, proliferating cell nuclear antigen; and reduced hepatic Akt phosphorylation in CCl4- and BDL-induced liver fibrosis. BI 113823 also reduced expression of Cytokines IL-1, IL-6; chemokines MCP-1, MCP-3 and infiltration of inflammatory cells; and inhibited human monocyte and neutrophil activation, transmigration, TNF-α & MPO production in vitro. BI 113823 inhibited TGF-β and B1R agonist-stimulated human-HSC activation, contraction, proliferation, migration and fibrosis protein expression, and inhibited activation of PI3K/Akt signalling pathway. CONCLUSIONS B1Rs merits consideration as a novel therapeutic target for chronic liver fibrosis and PH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dileep Reddy Rampa
- grid.411545.00000 0004 0470 4320Department of Bio-Nanotechnology and Bio-Convergence Engineering, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Huiying Feng
- grid.411545.00000 0004 0470 4320Department of Bio-Nanotechnology and Bio-Convergence Engineering, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Sivakumar Allur-Subramaniyan
- grid.411545.00000 0004 0470 4320Department of Animal Biotechnology & Agricultural Convergence Technology, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Kwanseob Shim
- grid.411545.00000 0004 0470 4320Department of Animal Biotechnology & Agricultural Convergence Technology, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Anton Pekcec
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Research Beyond Borders, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Dongwon Lee
- grid.411545.00000 0004 0470 4320Department of Bio-Nanotechnology and Bio-Convergence Engineering, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Henri Doods
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Research Beyond Borders, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Dongmei Wu
- grid.411545.00000 0004 0470 4320Department of Bio-Nanotechnology and Bio-Convergence Engineering, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea ,grid.410396.90000 0004 0430 4458Department of Research, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL USA
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10
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Kim HJ, Kim G, Chi KY, Kim JH. In Vitro Generation of Luminal Vasculature in Liver Organoids: From Basic Vascular Biology to Vascularized Hepatic Organoids. Int J Stem Cells 2022; 16:1-15. [PMID: 36310029 PMCID: PMC9978835 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc22154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver organoids have gained much attention in recent years for their potential applications to liver disease modeling and pharmacologic drug screening. Liver organoids produced in vitro reflect some aspects of the in vivo physiological and pathological conditions of the liver. However, the generation of liver organoids with perfusable luminal vasculature remains a major challenge, hindering precise and effective modeling of liver diseases. Furthermore, vascularization is required for large organoids or assembloids to closely mimic the complexity of tissue architecture without cell death in the core region. A few studies have successfully generated liver organoids with endothelial cell networks, but most of these vascular networks produced luminal structures after being transplanted into tissues of host animals. Therefore, formation of luminal vasculature is an unmet need to overcome the limitation of liver organoids as an in vitro model investigating different acute and chronic liver diseases. Here, we provide an overview of the unique features of hepatic vasculature under pathophysiological conditions and summarize the biochemical and biophysical cues that drive vasculogenesis and angiogenesis in vitro. We also highlight recent progress in generating vascularized liver organoids in vitro and discuss potential strategies that may enable the generation of perfusable luminal vasculature in liver organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyo Jin Kim
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Gyeongmin Kim
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyun Yoo Chi
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong-Hoon Kim
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, Korea,Correspondence to Jong-Hoon Kim, Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Korea, Tel: +82-2-3290-3007, Fax: +82-2-3290-3040, E-mail:
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11
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Li H. Intercellular crosstalk of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells in liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Dig Liver Dis 2022; 54:598-613. [PMID: 34344577 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2021.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Intercellular crosstalk among various liver cells plays an important role in liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Capillarization of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) precedes fibrosis and accumulating evidence suggests that the crosstalk between LSECs and other liver cells is critical in the development and progression of liver fibrosis. LSECs dysfunction, a key event in the progression from fibrosis to cirrhosis, and subsequently obstruction of hepatic sinuses and increased intrahepatic vascular resistance (IHVR) contribute to development of portal hypertension (PHT) and cirrhosis. More importantly, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), which is closely related to the crosstalk between LSECs and immune liver cells like CD8+ T cells, promotes advances tumorigenesis, especially HCC. However, the connections within the crosstalk between LSECs and other liver cells during the progression from liver fibrosis to cirrhosis to HCC have yet to be discussed. In this review, we first summarize the current knowledge of how different crosstalk between LSECs and other liver cells, including hepatocytes, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), macrophoges, immune cells in liver and extra cellular matrix (ECM) contribute to the physiological function and the progrssion from liver fibrosis to cirrhosis, or even to HCC. Then we examine current treatment strategies for LSECs crosstalk in liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- Central Laboratory, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO. 39 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, PR China.
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12
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Hazrati A, Malekpour K, Soudi S, Hashemi SM. Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cells and Their Extracellular Vesicles Application in Acute and Chronic Inflammatory Liver Diseases: Emphasizing on the Anti-Fibrotic and Immunomodulatory Mechanisms. Front Immunol 2022; 13:865888. [PMID: 35464407 PMCID: PMC9021384 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.865888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Various factors, including viral and bacterial infections, autoimmune responses, diabetes, drugs, alcohol abuse, and fat deposition, can damage liver tissue and impair its function. These factors affect the liver tissue and lead to acute and chronic liver damage, and if left untreated, can eventually lead to cirrhosis, fibrosis, and liver carcinoma. The main treatment for these disorders is liver transplantation. Still, given the few tissue donors, problems with tissue rejection, immunosuppression caused by medications taken while receiving tissue, and the high cost of transplantation, liver transplantation have been limited. Therefore, finding alternative treatments that do not have the mentioned problems is significant. Cell therapy is one of the treatments that has received a lot of attention today. Hepatocytes and mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) are used in many patients to treat liver-related diseases. In the meantime, the use of mesenchymal stem cells has been studied more than other cells due to their favourable characteristics and has reduced the need for liver transplantation. These cells increase the regeneration and repair of liver tissue through various mechanisms, including migration to the site of liver injury, differentiation into liver cells, production of extracellular vesicles (EVs), secretion of various growth factors, and regulation of the immune system. Notably, cell therapy is not entirely excellent and has problems such as cell rejection, undesirable differentiation, accumulation in unwanted locations, and potential tumorigenesis. Therefore, the application of MSCs derived EVs, including exosomes, can help treat liver disease and prevent its progression. Exosomes can prevent apoptosis and induce proliferation by transferring different cargos to the target cell. In addition, these vesicles have been shown to transport hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and can promote the hepatocytes'(one of the most important cells in the liver parenchyma) growths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Hazrati
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kosar Malekpour
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Soudi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mahmoud Hashemi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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13
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Yu Z, Guo J, Liu Y, Wang M, Liu Z, Gao Y, Huang L. Nano delivery of simvastatin targets liver sinusoidal endothelial cells to remodel tumor microenvironment for hepatocellular carcinoma. J Nanobiotechnology 2022; 20:9. [PMID: 34983554 PMCID: PMC8725360 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-021-01205-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) developed in fibrotic liver does not respond well to immunotherapy, mainly due to the stromal microenvironment and the fibrosis-related immunosuppressive factors. The characteristic of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) in contributing to fibrosis and orchestrating immune response is responsible for the refractory to targeted therapy or immunotherapy of HCC. We aim to seek a new strategy for HCC treatment based on an old drug simvastatin which shows protecting effect on LSEC. METHOD The features of LSECs in mouse fibrotic HCC model and human HCC patients were identified by immunofluorescence and scanning electron microscopy. The effect of simvastatin on LSECs and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) was examined by immunoblotting, quantitative RT-PCR and RNA-seq. LSEC-targeted delivery of simvastatin was designed using nanotechnology. The anti-HCC effect and toxicity of the nano-drug was evaluated in both intra-hepatic and hemi-splenic inoculated mouse fibrotic HCC model. RESULTS LSEC capillarization is associated with fibrotic HCC progression and poor survival in both murine HCC model and HCC patients. We further found simvastatin restores the quiescence of activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) via stimulation of KLF2-NO signaling in LSECs, and up-regulates the expression of CXCL16 in LSECs. In intrahepatic inoculated fibrotic HCC mouse model, LSEC-targeted nano-delivery of simvastatin not only alleviates LSEC capillarization to regress the stromal microenvironment, but also recruits natural killer T (NKT) cells through CXCL16 to suppress tumor progression. Together with anti-programmed death-1-ligand-1 (anti-PD-L1) antibody, targeted-delivery of simvastatin achieves an improved therapeutic effect in hemi-splenic inoculated advanced-stage HCC model. CONCLUSIONS These findings reveal an immune-based therapeutic mechanism of simvastatin for remodeling immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, therefore providing a novel strategy in treating HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Yu
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Department of Liver Disease, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jianfeng Guo
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Yun Liu
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Menglin Wang
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Zhengsheng Liu
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Yueqiu Gao
- Department of Liver Disease, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Leaf Huang
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
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14
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The Hepatic Sinusoid in Chronic Liver Disease: The Optimal Milieu for Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13225719. [PMID: 34830874 PMCID: PMC8616349 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary During the development of chronic liver disease, the hepatic sinusoid undergoes major changes that further compromise the hepatic function, inducing persistent inflammation and the formation of scar tissue, together with alterations in liver hemodynamics. This diseased background may induce the formation and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which is the most common form of primary liver cancer and a major cause of mortality. In this review, we describe the ways in which the dysregulation of hepatic sinusoidal cells—including liver sinusoidal cells, Kupffer cells, and hepatic stellate cells—may have an important role in the development of HCC. Our review summarizes all of the known sinusoidal processes in both health and disease, and possible treatments focusing on the dysregulation of the sinusoid; finally, we discuss how some of these alterations occurring during chronic injury are shared with the pathology of HCC and may contribute to its development. Abstract The liver sinusoids are a unique type of microvascular beds. The specialized phenotype of sinusoidal cells is essential for their communication, and for the function of all hepatic cell types, including hepatocytes. Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) conform the inner layer of the sinusoids, which is permeable due to the fenestrae across the cytoplasm; hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) surround LSECs, regulate the vascular tone, and synthetize the extracellular matrix, and Kupffer cells (KCs) are the liver-resident macrophages. Upon injury, the harmonic equilibrium in sinusoidal communication is disrupted, leading to phenotypic alterations that may affect the function of the whole liver if the damage persists. Understanding how the specialized sinusoidal cells work in coordination with each other in healthy livers and chronic liver disease is of the utmost importance for the discovery of new therapeutic targets and the design of novel pharmacological strategies. In this manuscript, we summarize the current knowledge on the role of sinusoidal cells and their communication both in health and chronic liver diseases, and their potential pharmacologic modulation. Finally, we discuss how alterations occurring during chronic injury may contribute to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma, which is usually developed in the background of chronic liver disease.
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15
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Petrillo S, Manco M, Altruda F, Fagoonee S, Tolosano E. Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells at the Crossroad of Iron Overload and Liver Fibrosis. Antioxid Redox Signal 2021; 35:474-486. [PMID: 32689808 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2020.8168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Significance: Liver fibrosis results from different etiologies and represents one of the most serious health issues worldwide. Fibrosis is the outcome of chronic insults on the liver and is associated with several factors, including abnormal iron metabolism. Recent Advances: Multiple mechanisms underlying the profibrogenic role of iron have been proposed. The pivotal role of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) in iron-level regulation, as well as their morphological and molecular dedifferentiation occurring in liver fibrosis, has encouraged research on LSECs as prime regulators of very early fibrotic events. Importantly, normal differentiated LSECs may act as gatekeepers of fibrogenesis by maintaining the quiescence of hepatic stellate cells, while LSECs capillarization precedes the onset of liver fibrosis. Critical Issues: In the present review, the morphological and molecular alterations occurring in LSECs after liver injury are addressed in an attempt to highlight how vascular dysfunction promotes fibrogenesis. In particular, we discuss in depth how a vicious loop can be established in which iron dysregulation and LSEC dedifferentiation synergize to exacerbate and promote the progression of liver fibrosis. Future Directions: LSECs, due to their pivotal role in early liver fibrosis and iron homeostasis, show great promises as a therapeutic target. In particular, new strategies can be devised for restoring LSECs differentiation and thus their role as regulators of iron homeostasis, hence preventing the progression of liver fibrosis or, even better, promoting its regression. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 35, 474-486.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Petrillo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Marta Manco
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Fiorella Altruda
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Sharmila Fagoonee
- Institute of Biostructure and Bioimaging, CNR c/o Molecular Biotechnology Center, Torino, Italy
| | - Emanuela Tolosano
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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Abstract
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) form the wall of the hepatic sinusoids. Unlike other capillaries, they lack an organized basement membrane and have cytoplasm that is penetrated by open fenestrae, making the hepatic microvascular endothelium discontinuous. LSECs have essential roles in the maintenance of hepatic homeostasis, including regulation of the vascular tone, inflammation and thrombosis, and they are essential for control of the hepatic immune response. On a background of acute or chronic liver injury, LSECs modify their phenotype and negatively affect neighbouring cells and liver disease pathophysiology. This Review describes the main functions and phenotypic dysregulations of LSECs in liver diseases, specifically in the context of acute injury (ischaemia-reperfusion injury, drug-induced liver injury and bacterial and viral infection), chronic liver disease (metabolism-associated liver disease, alcoholic steatohepatitis and chronic hepatotoxic injury) and hepatocellular carcinoma, and provides a comprehensive update of the role of LSECs as therapeutic targets for liver disease. Finally, we discuss the open questions in the field of LSEC pathobiology and future avenues of research.
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Fofiu R, Bende F, Popescu A, Șirli R, Miuţescu B, Sporea I. Assessing Baveno VI Criteria Using Liver Stiffness Measured with a 2D-Shear Wave Elastography Technique. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11050737. [PMID: 33919033 PMCID: PMC8142982 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11050737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study evaluates the performance of Baveno VI criteria, using liver stiffness (LS) assessed with a 2D-SWE elastography technique, for predicting high-risk varices (HRV) in patients with compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD). A secondary aim was to determine whether the use of spleen stiffness measurements (SSMs), as additional criteria, increases the performance of the 2D-SWE Baveno VI criteria. Data were collected from 208 subjects with cACLD, who underwent abdominal ultrasound, liver and spleen stiffness measurements, and upper digestive endoscopy. HRV were defined as grade 1 esophageal varices (EV) with red wale marks, grade 2/3 EV, and gastric varices. A total of 35.6% (74/208) of the included subjects had HRV. The optimal LS cut-off value for predicting HRV was 12 kPa (AUROC-0.80). Using both LS cut-off value < 12 kPa and a platelet cut-off value > 150 × 109 cells/L as criteria to exclude HRV, 52/208 (25%) subjects were selected, 88.5% (46/52) were without EV, 9.6% (5/52) had grade 1 EV, and 1.9% (1/52) had HRV. Thus 98% of the subjects were correctly classified as having or not having HRV and 25% of the surveillance endoscopies could have been avoided. Using SS < 13.2 kPa and a platelet cut-off value > 150 × 109 cells/L as additional criteria for the patients that were outside the initial ones, 32.7% of the surveillance endoscopies could have been avoided.
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Update on New Aspects of the Renin-Angiotensin System in Hepatic Fibrosis and Portal Hypertension: Implications for Novel Therapeutic Options. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10040702. [PMID: 33670126 PMCID: PMC7916881 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10040702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
There is considerable experimental evidence that the renin angiotensin system (RAS) plays a central role in both hepatic fibrogenesis and portal hypertension. Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), a key enzyme of the classical RAS, converts angiotensin I (Ang I) to angiotensin II (Ang II), which acts via the Ang II type 1 receptor (AT1R) to stimulate hepatic fibrosis and increase intrahepatic vascular tone and portal pressure. Inhibitors of the classical RAS, drugs which are widely used in clinical practice in patients with hypertension, have been shown to inhibit liver fibrosis in animal models but their efficacy in human liver disease is yet to be tested in adequately powered clinical trials. Small trials in cirrhotic patients have demonstrated that these drugs may lower portal pressure but produce off-target complications such as systemic hypotension and renal failure. More recently, the alternate RAS, comprising its key enzyme, ACE2, the effector peptide angiotensin-(1–7) (Ang-(1–7)) which mediates its effects via the putative receptor Mas (MasR), has also been implicated in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis and portal hypertension. This system is activated in both preclinical animal models and human chronic liver disease and it is now well established that the alternate RAS counter-regulates many of the deleterious effects of the ACE-dependent classical RAS. Work from our laboratory has demonstrated that liver-specific ACE2 overexpression reduces hepatic fibrosis and liver perfusion pressure without producing off-target effects. In addition, recent studies suggest that the blockers of the receptors of alternate RAS, such as the MasR and Mas related G protein-coupled receptor type-D (MrgD), increase splanchnic vascular resistance in cirrhotic animals, and thus drugs targeting the alternate RAS may be useful in the treatment of portal hypertension. This review outlines the role of the RAS in liver fibrosis and portal hypertension with a special emphasis on the possible new therapeutic approaches targeting the ACE2-driven alternate RAS.
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Abstract
Since it was first described by the German anatomist and histologist, Joseph Hugo Vincenz Disse, the structure and functions of the space of Disse, a thin perisinusoidal area between the endothelial cells and hepatocytes filled with blood plasma, have acquired great importance in liver disease. The space of Disse is home for the hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the major fibrogenic players in the liver. Quiescent HSCs (qHSCs) store vitamin A, and upon activation they lose their retinol reservoir and become activated. Activated HSCs (aHSCs) are responsible for secretion of extracellular matrix (ECM) into the space of Disse. This early event in hepatic injury is accompanied by loss of the pores—known as fenestrations—of the endothelial cells, triggering loss of balance between the blood flow and the hepatocyte, and underlies the link between fibrosis and organ dysfunction. If the imbalance persists, the expansion of the fibrotic scar followed by the vascularized septae leads to cirrhosis and/or end-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Thus, researchers have been focused on finding therapeutic targets that reduce fibrosis. The space of Disse provides the perfect microenvironment for the stem cells niche in the liver and the interchange of nutrients between cells. In the present review article, we focused on the space of Disse, its components and its leading role in liver disease development.
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20
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Novel therapeutics for portal hypertension and fibrosis in chronic liver disease. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 215:107626. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Gunarathne LS, Rajapaksha H, Shackel N, Angus PW, Herath CB. Cirrhotic portal hypertension: From pathophysiology to novel therapeutics. World J Gastroenterol 2020; 26:6111-6140. [PMID: 33177789 PMCID: PMC7596642 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v26.i40.6111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Portal hypertension and bleeding from gastroesophageal varices is the major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with cirrhosis. Portal hypertension is initiated by increased intrahepatic vascular resistance and a hyperdynamic circulatory state. The latter is characterized by a high cardiac output, increased total blood volume and splanchnic vasodilatation, resulting in increased mesenteric blood flow. Pharmacological manipulation of cirrhotic portal hypertension targets both the splanchnic and hepatic vascular beds. Drugs such as angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II type receptor 1 blockers, which target the components of the classical renin angiotensin system (RAS), are expected to reduce intrahepatic vascular tone by reducing extracellular matrix deposition and vasoactivity of contractile cells and thereby improve portal hypertension. However, these drugs have been shown to produce significant off-target effects such as systemic hypotension and renal failure. Therefore, the current pharmacological mainstay in clinical practice to prevent variceal bleeding and improving patient survival by reducing portal pressure is non-selective -blockers (NSBBs). These NSBBs work by reducing cardiac output and splanchnic vasodilatation but most patients do not achieve an optimal therapeutic response and a significant proportion of patients are unable to tolerate these drugs. Although statins, used alone or in combination with NSBBs, have been shown to improve portal pressure and overall mortality in cirrhotic patients, further randomized clinical trials are warranted involving larger patient populations with clear clinical end points. On the other hand, recent findings from studies that have investigated the potential use of the blockers of the components of the alternate RAS provided compelling evidence that could lead to the development of drugs targeting the splanchnic vascular bed to inhibit splanchnic vasodilatation in portal hypertension. This review outlines the mechanisms related to the pathogenesis of portal hypertension and attempts to provide an update on currently available therapeutic approaches in the management of portal hypertension with special emphasis on how the alternate RAS could be manipulated in our search for development of safe, specific and effective novel therapies to treat portal hypertension in cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakmie S Gunarathne
- Department of Medicine, Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Harinda Rajapaksha
- School of Molecular Science, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
| | | | - Peter W Angus
- Department of Gastroenterology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Chandana B Herath
- Department of Medicine, Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
- South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, 1 Campbell Street, Liverpool, NSW 2170, Australia
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Hatanaka T, Kakizaki S, Nagashima T, Namikawa M, Ueno T, Tojima H, Takizawa D, Naganuma A, Arai H, Sato K, Harimoto N, Shirabe K, Uraoka T. Liver Function Changes in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treated with Lenvatinib: Predictive Factors of Progression to Child-Pugh Class B, the Formation of Ascites and the Candidates for the Post-Progression Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102906. [PMID: 33050527 PMCID: PMC7601832 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this multicenter retrospective study was to assess the change in liver function in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma treated with lenvatinib. Among 139 consecutive patients receiving lenvatinib treatment between March 2018 and July 2019, 28 patients with Child-Pugh class B and one patient with inadequate patient information were excluded. Remaining 110 patients with Child-Pugh class A were analyzed. The median age of 110 patients was 73 years (IQR 66.7-80) and 88 patients (80.0%) were men. Child-Pugh score was 5 (CP5A) and 6 (CP6A) in 58 (52.7%) and 52 patients (47.3%), and ALBI grade was 1 and 2 in 38 (34.5%) and 72 patients (65.5%), respectively. The deterioration to Child-Pugh class B was found in 43 patients (39.1%) during the lenvatinib treatment. The favorable factors related to preserving liver function were significantly shown to be male, ALBI grade 1, CP5A and BCLC early or intermediate stage in the multivariate analysis. The formation of ascites was found in 32 patients (28.6%). The significant unfavorable factors associated with the formation of ascites were found to be low platelet count and CP6A. Among the 79 patients, there were 36 (45.6%) and 11 patients (13.9%) who fulfilled the criteria for candidate for the post-progression treatment and ramucirumab treatment, respectively. The predictive factors of the post-progression treatment were shown to be ALBI grade 1 and CP5A in multivariate analysis. In conclusion, male, ALBI grade 1, CP5A and BCLC early or intermediate stage were favorable factors related to sustaining liver function and the patients with ALBI grade 1 and CP5A were eligible for the post-progression treatment. Careful screening for ascites was needed in patients with low platelet count and CP6A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Hatanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gunma Saiseikai Maebashi Hospital, 564-1 Kamishindenmachi, Maebashi, Gunma 371-0821, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-27-252-6011
| | - Satoru Kakizaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8511, Japan; (S.K.); (H.T.); (K.S.); (T.U.)
- Department of Clinical Research, National Hospital Organization Takasaki General Medical Center, 36 Takamatsu-cho, Takasaki, Gunma 370-0829, Japan
| | - Tamon Nagashima
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Hospital Organization Shibukawa Medical Center, 383 Shirai, Shibukawa, Gunma 377-0280, Japan;
| | - Masashi Namikawa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kiryu Kosei General Hospital, 6-6-3 Orihime-cho, Kiryu, Gunma 376-0024, Japan;
| | - Takashi Ueno
- Department of Internal Medicine, Isesaki Municipal Hospital, 12-1 Tsunatorihonmachi, Isesaki, Gunma 372-0817, Japan;
| | - Hiroki Tojima
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8511, Japan; (S.K.); (H.T.); (K.S.); (T.U.)
| | - Daichi Takizawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Maebashi Red Cross Hospital, 389-1 Asakuramachi, Maebashi, Gunma 371-0811, Japan; (D.T.); (H.A.)
| | - Atsushi Naganuma
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Hospital Organization Takasaki General Medical Center, 36 Takamatsu-cho, Takasaki, Gunma 370-0829, Japan;
| | - Hirotaka Arai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Maebashi Red Cross Hospital, 389-1 Asakuramachi, Maebashi, Gunma 371-0811, Japan; (D.T.); (H.A.)
| | - Ken Sato
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8511, Japan; (S.K.); (H.T.); (K.S.); (T.U.)
| | - Norifumi Harimoto
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8511, Japan; (N.H.); (K.S.)
| | - Ken Shirabe
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8511, Japan; (N.H.); (K.S.)
| | - Toshio Uraoka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8511, Japan; (S.K.); (H.T.); (K.S.); (T.U.)
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Ortega‐Ribera M, Hunt NJ, Gracia‐Sancho J, Cogger VC. The Hepatic Sinusoid in Aging and Disease: Update and Advances From the 20th Liver Sinusoid Meeting. Hepatol Commun 2020; 4:1087-1098. [PMID: 32626839 PMCID: PMC7327202 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This is a meeting report of the 2019 Liver Sinusoid Meeting, 20th International Symposium on Cells of the Hepatic Sinusoid, held in Sydney, Australia, in September 2019. The meeting, which was organized by the International Society for Hepatic Sinusoidal Research, provided an update on the recent advances in the field of hepatic sinusoid cells in relation to cell biology, aging, and liver disease, with particular focus on the molecular and cellular targets involved in hepatic fibrosis, nonalcoholic hepatic steatohepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, hepatocellular carcinoma, and cirrhosis. In addition, the meeting highlighted the recent advances in regenerative medicine, targeted nanotechnologies, therapeutics, and novel methodologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martí Ortega‐Ribera
- Liver Vascular Biology Research GroupBarcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic UnitInstitut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i SunyerCentro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y DigestivasBarcelonaSpain
| | - Nicholas J. Hunt
- Centre for Education and Research on AgeingConcord Repatriation General HospitalANZAC Research InstituteAustralian Ageing and Alzheimers InstituteConcordSydneyNSWAustralia
- Faculty of Medicine and HealthUniversity of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Jordi Gracia‐Sancho
- Liver Vascular Biology Research GroupBarcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic UnitInstitut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i SunyerCentro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y DigestivasBarcelonaSpain
- HepatologyDepartment of Biomedical ResearchUniversity of BernInselspitalBernSwitzerland
| | - Victoria C. Cogger
- Centre for Education and Research on AgeingConcord Repatriation General HospitalANZAC Research InstituteAustralian Ageing and Alzheimers InstituteConcordSydneyNSWAustralia
- Faculty of Medicine and HealthUniversity of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
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Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells Contribute to Hepatic Antigen-Presenting Cell Function and Th17 Expansion in Cirrhosis. Cells 2020; 9:cells9051227. [PMID: 32429209 PMCID: PMC7290576 DOI: 10.3390/cells9051227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic immune function is compromised during cirrhosis. This study investigated the immune features of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) in two experimental models of cirrhosis. Dendritic cells, hepatic macrophages, and LSECs were isolated from carbon tetrachloride and bile duct-ligated rats. Gene expression of innate receptors, bacterial internalization, co-stimulatory molecules induction, and CD4+ T cell activation and differentiation were evaluated. Induced bacterial peritonitis and norfloxacin protocols on cirrhotic rats were also carried out. LSECs demonstrated an active immunosurveillance profile, as shown by transcriptional modulation of different scavenger and cell-adhesion genes, and their contribution to bacterial internalization. LSECs significantly increased their expression of CD40 and CD80 and stimulated CD4+ T cell activation marker CD71 in both models. The pro-inflammatory Th17 subset was expanded in CCl4-derived LSECs co-cultures. In the bile duct ligation (BDL) model, CD4+ T cell differentiation only occurred under induced bacterial peritonitis conditions. Differentiated pro-inflammatory Th cells by LSECs in both experimental models were significantly reduced with norfloxacin treatment, whereas Foxp3 tolerogenic Th CD4+ cells were expanded. Conclusion: LSECs’ participation in the innate-adaptive immune progression, their ability to stimulate pro-inflammatory CD4+ T cells expansion during liver damage, and their target role in norfloxacin-induced immunomodulation granted a specific competence to this cell population in cirrhosis.
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25
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Lafoz E, Ruart M, Anton A, Oncins A, Hernández-Gea V. The Endothelium as a Driver of Liver Fibrosis and Regeneration. Cells 2020; 9:E929. [PMID: 32290100 PMCID: PMC7226820 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a common feature of sustained liver injury and represents a major public health problem worldwide. Fibrosis is an active research field and discoveries in the last years have contributed to the development of new antifibrotic drugs, although none of them have been approved yet. Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) are highly specialized endothelial cells localized at the interface between the blood and other liver cell types. They lack a basement membrane and display open channels (fenestrae), making them exceptionally permeable. LSEC are the first cells affected by any kind of liver injury orchestrating the liver response to damage. LSEC govern the regenerative process initiation, but aberrant LSEC activation in chronic liver injury induces fibrosis. LSEC are also main players in fibrosis resolution. They maintain liver homeostasis and keep hepatic stellate cell and Kupffer cell quiescence. After sustained hepatic injury, they lose their phenotype and protective properties, promoting angiogenesis and vasoconstriction and contributing to inflammation and fibrosis. Therefore, improving LSEC phenotype is a promising strategy to prevent liver injury progression and complications. This review focuses on changes occurring in LSEC after liver injury and their consequences on fibrosis progression, liver regeneration, and resolution. Finally, a synopsis of the available strategies for LSEC-specific targeting is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Lafoz
- Unidad de Hemodinámica Hepática, Servicio de Hepatología, Hospital Clínic, Universidad de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Augusto Pi Suñer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (E.L.); (M.R.); (A.A.); (A.O.)
| | - Maria Ruart
- Unidad de Hemodinámica Hepática, Servicio de Hepatología, Hospital Clínic, Universidad de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Augusto Pi Suñer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (E.L.); (M.R.); (A.A.); (A.O.)
| | - Aina Anton
- Unidad de Hemodinámica Hepática, Servicio de Hepatología, Hospital Clínic, Universidad de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Augusto Pi Suñer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (E.L.); (M.R.); (A.A.); (A.O.)
| | - Anna Oncins
- Unidad de Hemodinámica Hepática, Servicio de Hepatología, Hospital Clínic, Universidad de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Augusto Pi Suñer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (E.L.); (M.R.); (A.A.); (A.O.)
| | - Virginia Hernández-Gea
- Unidad de Hemodinámica Hepática, Servicio de Hepatología, Hospital Clínic, Universidad de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Augusto Pi Suñer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (E.L.); (M.R.); (A.A.); (A.O.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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De Chiara F, Thomsen KL, Habtesion A, Jones H, Davies N, Gracia-Sancho J, Manicardi N, Hall A, Andreola F, Paish HL, Reed LH, Watson AA, Leslie J, Oakley F, Rombouts K, Mookerjee RP, Mann J, Jalan R. Ammonia Scavenging Prevents Progression of Fibrosis in Experimental Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Hepatology 2020; 71:874-892. [PMID: 31378982 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS In nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), fibrosis is the most important factor contributing to NAFLD-associated morbidity and mortality. Prevention of progression and reduction in fibrosis are the main aims of treatment. Even in early stages of NAFLD, hepatic and systemic hyperammonemia is evident. This is due to reduced urea synthesis; and as ammonia is known to activate hepatic stellate cells, we hypothesized that ammonia may be involved in the progression of fibrosis in NAFLD. APPROACH AND RESULTS In a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet-induced rodent model of NAFLD, we observed a progressive stepwise reduction in the expression and activity of urea cycle enzymes resulting in hyperammonemia, evidence of hepatic stellate cell activation, and progressive fibrosis. In primary, cultured hepatocytes and precision-cut liver slices we demonstrated increased gene expression of profibrogenic markers after lipid and/or ammonia exposure. Lowering of ammonia with the ammonia scavenger ornithine phenylacetate prevented hepatocyte cell death and significantly reduced the development of fibrosis both in vitro in the liver slices and in vivo in a rodent model. The prevention of fibrosis in the rodent model was associated with restoration of urea cycle enzyme activity and function, reduced hepatic ammonia, and markers of inflammation. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study suggest that hepatic steatosis results in hyperammonemia, which is associated with progression of hepatic fibrosis. Reduction of ammonia levels prevented progression of fibrosis, providing a potential treatment for NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco De Chiara
- UCL Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Karen Louise Thomsen
- UCL Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK.,Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Abeba Habtesion
- UCL Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Helen Jones
- UCL Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nathan Davies
- UCL Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jordi Gracia-Sancho
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute & CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nicolò Manicardi
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute & CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrew Hall
- UCL Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Fausto Andreola
- UCL Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Hannah L Paish
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Lee H Reed
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Abigail A Watson
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jack Leslie
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Fiona Oakley
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Krista Rombouts
- UCL Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Jelena Mann
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- UCL Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
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Pathophysiological role of prostanoids in coagulation of the portal venous system in liver cirrhosis. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0222840. [PMID: 31644538 PMCID: PMC6808498 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0222840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prostanoids are important regulators of platelet aggregation and thrombotic arterial diseases. Their involvement in the development of portal vein thrombosis, frequent in decompensated liver cirrhosis, is still not investigated. Methods Therefore, we used pro-thrombotic venous milieu generation by bare metal stent transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt insertion, to study the role of prostanoids in decompensated liver cirrhosis. Here, 89 patients receiving transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt insertion were included in the study, and baseline levels of thromboxane B2, prostaglandin D2 and prostaglandin E2 were measured in the portal and the hepatic vein. Results While the hepatic vein contained higher levels of thromboxane B2 than the portal vein, levels of prostaglandin E2 and D2 were higher in the portal vein (all P<0.0001). Baseline concentrations of thromboxane B2 in the portal vein were independently associated with an increase of portal hepatic venous pressure gradient during short term follow-up, as an indirect sign of thrombogenic potential (multivariable P = 0.004). Moreover, severity of liver disease was inversely correlated with portal as well as hepatic vein levels of prostaglandin D2 and E2 (all P<0.0001). Conclusions Elevated portal venous thromboxane B2 concentrations are possibly associated with the extent of thrombogenic potential in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03584204.
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Ohya K, Kawaoka T, Namba M, Uchikawa S, Kodama K, Morio K, Nakahara T, Murakami E, Hiramatsu A, Tsuge M, Yamauchi M, Imamura M, Chayama K, Aikata H. Early changes in ammonia levels and liver function in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma treated by lenvatinib therapy. Sci Rep 2019; 9:12101. [PMID: 31431642 PMCID: PMC6702170 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-48045-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to investigate the early changes in ammonia levels and liver function in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma treated with lenvatinib. This retrospective study included 23 patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma who were able to receive lenvatinib continuously for at least 1 week. We compared their ammonia levels (NH3), total bilirubin (Bil), albumin, and prothrombin (PT) activity at before and after 1 week of lenvatinib administration, and additionally, compared the 2 groups which were divided based on the presence/absence of portosystemic collaterals (PSCs). Before administration of lenvatinib the patients with PSCs had significantly worse ammonia levels and liver function than the patients without PSCs (NH3: P = 0.013, Bil: P = 0.004, PT: P = 0.047, respectively). Moreover, the indices were worse in all the patients after 1 week of lenvatinib than before administration (NH3: P = 0.001, Bil: P = 0.025, PT: P < 0.001, respectively). Moreover, the changes in ammonia levels were investigated for 4 weeks. The ammonia level increased, to peak at 2 weeks, but decreased after 3 weeks. None of the patients discontinued lenvatinib therapy because of an adverse event. The ammonia levels of the study patients increased from baseline at 1 week after lenvatinib administration, but therapy could be continued for 4 weeks by appropriate management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuki Ohya
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Tomokazu Kawaoka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Maiko Namba
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Uchikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Kenichiro Kodama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Kei Morio
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Takashi Nakahara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Eisuke Murakami
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Akira Hiramatsu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Masataka Tsuge
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Masami Yamauchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Michio Imamura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Chayama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Aikata
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan.
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Gracia‐Sancho J, Manicardi N, Ortega‐Ribera M, Maeso‐Díaz R, Guixé‐Muntet S, Fernández‐Iglesias A, Hide D, García‐Calderó H, Boyer‐Díaz Z, Contreras PC, Spada A, Bosch J. Emricasan Ameliorates Portal Hypertension and Liver Fibrosis in Cirrhotic Rats Through a Hepatocyte-Mediated Paracrine Mechanism. Hepatol Commun 2019; 3:987-1000. [PMID: 31304452 PMCID: PMC6601324 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In cirrhosis, liver microvascular dysfunction is a key factor increasing hepatic vascular resistance to portal blood flow, which leads to portal hypertension. De-regulated inflammatory and pro-apoptotic processes due to chronic injury play important roles in the dysfunction of liver sinusoidal cells. The present study aimed at characterizing the effects of the pan-caspase inhibitor emricasan on systemic and hepatic hemodynamics, hepatic cells phenotype, and underlying mechanisms in preclinical models of advanced chronic liver disease. We investigated the effects of 7-day emricasan on hepatic and systemic hemodynamics, liver function, hepatic microcirculatory function, inflammation, fibrosis, hepatic cells phenotype, and paracrine interactions in rats with advanced cirrhosis due to chronic CCl4 administration. The hepato-protective effects of emricasan were additionally investigated in cells isolated from human cirrhotic livers. Cirrhotic rats receiving emricasan showed significantly lower portal pressure than vehicle-treated animals with no changes in portal blood flow, indicating improved vascular resistance. Hemodynamic improvement was associated with significantly better liver function, reduced hepatic inflammation, improved phenotype of hepatocytes, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, hepatic stellate cells and macrophages, and reduced fibrosis. In vitro experiments demonstrated that emricasan exerted its benefits directly improving hepatocytes' expression of specific markers and synthetic capacity, and ameliorated nonparenchymal cells through a paracrine mechanism mediated by small extracellular vesicles released by hepatocytes. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that emricasan improves liver sinusoidal microvascular dysfunction in cirrhosis, which leads to marked amelioration in fibrosis, portal hypertension and liver function, and therefore encourages its clinical evaluation in the treatment of advanced chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Gracia‐Sancho
- Liver Vascular Biology Research GroupBarcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research InstituteBarcelonaSpain
- CIBEREHDMadridSpain
- Hepatology, Department of Biomedical ResearchInselspital – University of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Nicolò Manicardi
- Liver Vascular Biology Research GroupBarcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research InstituteBarcelonaSpain
| | - Martí Ortega‐Ribera
- Liver Vascular Biology Research GroupBarcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research InstituteBarcelonaSpain
| | - Raquel Maeso‐Díaz
- Liver Vascular Biology Research GroupBarcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research InstituteBarcelonaSpain
| | - Sergi Guixé‐Muntet
- Liver Vascular Biology Research GroupBarcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research InstituteBarcelonaSpain
- Hepatology, Department of Biomedical ResearchInselspital – University of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Anabel Fernández‐Iglesias
- Liver Vascular Biology Research GroupBarcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research InstituteBarcelonaSpain
- CIBEREHDMadridSpain
| | - Diana Hide
- Liver Vascular Biology Research GroupBarcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research InstituteBarcelonaSpain
- CIBEREHDMadridSpain
| | - Héctor García‐Calderó
- Liver Vascular Biology Research GroupBarcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research InstituteBarcelonaSpain
- CIBEREHDMadridSpain
| | | | | | | | - Jaime Bosch
- Liver Vascular Biology Research GroupBarcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research InstituteBarcelonaSpain
- CIBEREHDMadridSpain
- Hepatology, Department of Biomedical ResearchInselspital – University of BernBernSwitzerland
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30
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Chen L, Gu T, Li B, Li F, Ma Z, Zhang Q, Cai X, Lu L. Delta-like ligand 4/DLL4 regulates the capillarization of liver sinusoidal endothelial cell and liver fibrogenesis. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2019; 1866:1663-1675. [PMID: 31233801 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2019.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) undergo capillarization, or loss of fenestrae, and produce basement membrane during liver fibrotic progression. DLL4, a ligand of the Notch signaling pathway, is predominantly expressed in endothelial cells and maintains liver sinusoidal homeostasis. The aim of this study was to explore the role of DLL4 in LSEC capillarization. The expression levels of DLL4 and the related genes, capillarization markers and basement membrane proteins were assessed by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, RT-PCR and immunoblotting as appropriate. Fenestrae and basement membrane formation were examined by electron microscopy. We found DLL4 was up-regulated in the LSECs of human and CCl4-induced murine fibrotic liver, consistent with LSEC capillarization and liver fibrosis. Primary murine LSECs also underwent capillarization in vitro, with concomitant DLL4 overexpression. Bioinformatics analysis confirmed that DLL4 induced the production of basement membrane proteins in LSECs, which were also increased in the LSECs from 4 and 6-week CCl4-treated mice. DLL4 overexpression also increased the coverage of liver sinusoids by hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) through endothelin-1 (ET-1) synthesis. The hypoxic conditions that was instrumental in driving DLL4 overexpression in the LSECs. Consistent with the above findings, DLL4 silencing in vivo alleviated LSEC capillarization and CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. In conclusion, DLL4 mediates LSEC capillarization and the vicious circle between fibrosis and pathological sinusoidal remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liuying Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases & Institution of Translational Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201600, China
| | - Tianyi Gu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases & Institution of Translational Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201600, China
| | - Binghang Li
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases & Institution of Translational Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201600, China
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases & Institution of Translational Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201600, China
| | - Zhenzeng Ma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases & Institution of Translational Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201600, China
| | - Qidi Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases & Institution of Translational Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201600, China
| | - Xiaobo Cai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases & Institution of Translational Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201600, China.
| | - Lungen Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases & Institution of Translational Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201600, China.
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31
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Shenoda B, Boselli J. Vascular syndromes in liver cirrhosis. Clin J Gastroenterol 2019; 12:387-397. [PMID: 30980261 DOI: 10.1007/s12328-019-00956-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis is associated with multiple vascular syndromes affecting almost all body systems. Many of these syndromes are directly related to impaired liver function and sometimes reversible after liver transplantation while others arise secondary to portal hypertension and ascites. Altered expression of angiogenic and vasoactive compounds (most importantly nitric oxide), endothelial dysfunction, dysregulated neurohormonal control, and systemic inflammatory state play differential roles in mediating homeostatic instability and abnormal vasogenic response. Important vascular features encountered in liver disease include portal hypertension, splanchnic overflow, abnormal angiogenesis and shunts, portopulmonary syndrome, hepatopulmonary syndrome, and systemic hyperdynamic circulation. Redistribution of effective circulatory volume deviating from vital organs and pooling in splanchnic circulation is also encountered in liver patients which may lead to devastating outcomes as hepatorenal syndrome. Etiologically, vascular syndromes are not isolated phenomena and vascular dysfunction in one system may lead to the development of another in a different system. This review focuses on understanding the pathophysiological factors underlying vascular syndromes related to chronic liver disease and the potential links among them. Many of these syndromes are associated with high mortality, thus it is crucial to look for early biomarkers for these syndromes and develop novel preventive and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Botros Shenoda
- Department of Medicine, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19102, USA
| | - Joseph Boselli
- Department of Medicine, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19102, USA. .,Drexel Internal Medicine, 205 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, 19107, USA.
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32
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Gracia-Sancho J, Marrone G, Fernández-Iglesias A. Hepatic microcirculation and mechanisms of portal hypertension. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 16:221-234. [PMID: 30568278 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-018-0097-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The liver microcirculatory milieu, mainly composed of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and hepatic macrophages, has an essential role in liver homeostasis, including in preserving hepatocyte function, regulating the vascular tone and controlling inflammation. Liver microcirculatory dysfunction is one of the key mechanisms that promotes the progression of chronic liver disease (also termed cirrhosis) and the development of its major clinical complication, portal hypertension. In the present Review, we describe the current knowledge of liver microcirculatory dysfunction in cirrhotic portal hypertension and appraise the preclinical models used to study the liver circulation. We also provide a comprehensive summary of the promising therapeutic options to target the liver microvasculature in cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Gracia-Sancho
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain. .,Hepatology, Department of Biomedical Research, Inselspital, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Giusi Marrone
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anabel Fernández-Iglesias
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain
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33
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Ruart M, Chavarria L, Campreciós G, Suárez-Herrera N, Montironi C, Guixé-Muntet S, Bosch J, Friedman SL, Garcia-Pagán JC, Hernández-Gea V. Impaired endothelial autophagy promotes liver fibrosis by aggravating the oxidative stress response during acute liver injury. J Hepatol 2019; 70:458-469. [PMID: 30367898 PMCID: PMC6704477 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2018.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 09/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Endothelial dysfunction plays an essential role in liver injury, yet the phenotypic regulation of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) remains unknown. Autophagy is an endogenous protective system whose loss could undermine LSEC integrity and phenotype. The aim of our study was to investigate the role of autophagy in the regulation of endothelial dysfunction and the impact of its manipulation during liver injury. METHODS We analyzed primary isolated LSECs from Atg7control and Atg7endo mice as well as rats after CCl4 induced liver injury. Liver tissue and primary isolated stellate cells were used to analyze liver fibrosis. Autophagy flux, microvascular function, nitric oxide bioavailability, cellular superoxide content and the antioxidant response were evaluated in endothelial cells. RESULTS Autophagy maintains LSEC homeostasis and is rapidly upregulated during capillarization in vitro and in vivo. Pharmacological and genetic downregulation of endothelial autophagy increases oxidative stress in vitro. During liver injury in vivo, the selective loss of endothelial autophagy leads to cellular dysfunction and reduced intrahepatic nitric oxide. The loss of autophagy also impairs LSECs ability to handle oxidative stress and aggravates fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS Autophagy contributes to maintaining endothelial phenotype and protecting LSECs from oxidative stress during early phases of liver disease. Selectively potentiating autophagy in LSECs during early stages of liver disease may be an attractive approach to modify the disease course and prevent fibrosis progression. LAY SUMMARY Liver endothelial cells are the first liver cell type affected after any kind of liver injury. The loss of their unique phenotype during injury amplifies liver damage by orchestrating the response of the liver microenvironment. Autophagy is a mechanism involved in the regulation of this initial response and its manipulation can modify the progression of liver damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Ruart
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic-Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, University of Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laia Chavarria
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic-Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, University of Barcelona, Spain
| | - Genís Campreciós
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic-Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, University of Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica Red de enfermedades hepáticas y digestivas, Spain
| | - Nuria Suárez-Herrera
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic-Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, University of Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carla Montironi
- Pathology Department, Liver Cancer Translational Research Laboratory, BCLC Group, IDIBAPS, Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, Spain
| | | | - Jaume Bosch
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic-Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, University of Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica Red de enfermedades hepáticas y digestivas, Spain; Swiss Liver Centre, Inselspital, Bern University, CH, Switzerland
| | - Scott L Friedman
- Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, United States
| | - Juan Carlos Garcia-Pagán
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic-Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, University of Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica Red de enfermedades hepáticas y digestivas, Spain
| | - Virginia Hernández-Gea
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic-Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, University of Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica Red de enfermedades hepáticas y digestivas, Spain.
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34
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Fernández‐Iglesias A, Ortega‐Ribera M, Guixé‐Muntet S, Gracia‐Sancho J. 4 in 1: Antibody-free protocol for isolating the main hepatic cells from healthy and cirrhotic single rat livers. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 23:877-886. [PMID: 30417530 PMCID: PMC6349241 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cells isolated from pre-clinical models are essential tools for studying liver (patho)physiology, and also for screening new therapeutic options. We aimed at developing a new antibody-free isolation method able to obtain the four main hepatic cell types (hepatocytes, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells [LSEC], hepatic macrophages [HMΦ] and hepatic stellate cells [HSC]) from a single rat liver. Control and cirrhotic (CCl4 and TAA) rat livers (n = 6) were perfused, digested with collagenase and mechanically disaggregated obtaining a multicellular suspension. Hepatocytes were purified by low revolution centrifugations while non-parenchymal cells were subjected to differential centrifugation. Two different fractions were obtained: HSC and mixed LSEC + HMΦ. Further LSEC and HMΦ enrichment was achieved by selective adherence time to collagen-coated substrates. Isolated cells showed high viability (80%-95%) and purity (>95%) and were characterized as functional: hepatocytes synthetized albumin and urea, LSEC maintained endocytic capacity and in vivo fenestrae distribution, HMΦ increased expression of inflammatory markers in response to LPS and HSC were activated upon in vitro culture. The 4 in 1 protocol allows the simultaneous isolation of highly pure and functional hepatic cell sub-populations from control or cirrhotic single livers without antibody selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anabel Fernández‐Iglesias
- Liver Vascular Biology Research GroupBarcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic LaboratoryIDIBAPS Biomedical Research InstituteBarcelonaSpain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD)MadridSpain
| | - Martí Ortega‐Ribera
- Liver Vascular Biology Research GroupBarcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic LaboratoryIDIBAPS Biomedical Research InstituteBarcelonaSpain
| | - Sergi Guixé‐Muntet
- HepatologyDepartment of Biomedical ResearchInselspitalBern UniversityBernSwitzerland
| | - Jordi Gracia‐Sancho
- Liver Vascular Biology Research GroupBarcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic LaboratoryIDIBAPS Biomedical Research InstituteBarcelonaSpain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD)MadridSpain
- HepatologyDepartment of Biomedical ResearchInselspitalBern UniversityBernSwitzerland
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35
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Boregowda U, Umapathy C, Halim N, Desai M, Nanjappa A, Arekapudi S, Theethira T, Wong H, Roytman M, Saligram S. Update on the management of gastrointestinal varices. World J Gastrointest Pharmacol Ther 2019; 10:1-21. [PMID: 30697445 PMCID: PMC6347650 DOI: 10.4292/wjgpt.v10.i1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cirrhosis of liver is a major problem in the western world. Portal hypertension is a complication of cirrhosis and can lead to a myriad of pathology of which include the development of porto-systemic collaterals. Gastrointestinal varices are dilated submucosal veins, which often develop at sites near the formation of gastroesophageal collateral circulation. The incidence of varices is on the rise due to alcohol and obesity. The most significant complication of portal hypertension is life-threatening bleeding from gastrointestinal varices, which is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. In addition, this can cause a significant burden on the health care facility. Gastrointestinal varices can happen in esophagus, stomach or ectopic varices. There has been considerable progress made in the understanding of the natural history, pathophysiology and etiology of portal hypertension. Despite the development of endoscopic and medical treatments, early mortality due to variceal bleeding remains high due to significant illness of the patient. Recurrent variceal bleed is common and in some cases, there is refractory variceal bleed. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the management of gastrointestinal varices with an emphasis on endoscopic interventions, strategies to handle refractory variceal bleed and newer endoscopic treatment modalities. Early treatment and improved endoscopic techniques can help in improving morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umesha Boregowda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California San Francisco, Fresno, CA 93721, United States
| | - Chandraprakash Umapathy
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California San Francisco, Fresno, CA 93721, United States
| | - Nasir Halim
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California San Francisco, Fresno, CA 93721, United States
| | - Madhav Desai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansas University Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States
| | - Arpitha Nanjappa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California San Francisco, Fresno, CA 93721, United States
| | | | - Thimmaiah Theethira
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California San Francisco, Fresno, CA 93721, United States
| | - Helen Wong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, VA Central California Healthcare System, Fresno, CA 93703, United States
| | - Marina Roytman
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California San Francisco, Fresno, CA 93721, United States
| | - Shreyas Saligram
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California San Francisco, Fresno, CA 93721, United States
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, VA Central California Healthcare System, Fresno, CA 93703, United States
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36
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Vilaseca M, Guixé-Muntet S, Fernández-Iglesias A, Gracia-Sancho J. Advances in therapeutic options for portal hypertension. Therap Adv Gastroenterol 2018; 11:1756284818811294. [PMID: 30505350 PMCID: PMC6256317 DOI: 10.1177/1756284818811294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Portal hypertension represents one of the major clinical consequences of chronic liver disease, having a deep impact on patients' prognosis and survival. Its pathophysiology defines a pathological increase in the intrahepatic vascular resistance as the primary factor in its development, being subsequently aggravated by a paradoxical increase in portal blood inflow. Although extensive preclinical and clinical research in the field has been developed in recent decades, no effective treatment targeting its primary mechanism has been defined. The present review critically summarizes the current knowledge in portal hypertension therapeutics, focusing on those strategies driven by the disease pathophysiology and underlying cellular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Vilaseca
- Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, IDIBAPS
Biomedical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sergi Guixé-Muntet
- Department of Biomedical Research, University of
Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Jordi Gracia-Sancho
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, Barcelona
Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute,
CIBEREHD, Rosselló 149, 4th floor, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
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37
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Tripathi DM, Vilaseca M, Lafoz E, Garcia-Calderó H, Viegas Haute G, Fernández-Iglesias A, Rodrigues de Oliveira J, García-Pagán JC, Bosch J, Gracia-Sancho J. Simvastatin Prevents Progression of Acute on Chronic Liver Failure in Rats With Cirrhosis and Portal Hypertension. Gastroenterology 2018; 155:1564-1577. [PMID: 30055171 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2018.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Cirrhosis and its clinical consequences can be aggravated by bacterial infections, ultimately leading to the development of acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF), characterized by acute decompensation, organ failure, and high mortality within 28 days. Little is known about cellular and molecular mechanisms of ACLF in patients with cirrhosis, so no therapeutic options are available. We developed a sepsis-associated preclinical model of ACLF to facilitate studies of pathogenesis and evaluate the protective effects of simvastatin. METHODS Male Wistar rats inhaled CCl4 until they developed cirrhosis (at 10 weeks) or cirrhosis with ascites (at 15-16 weeks). Male Sprague-Dawley rats received bile-duct ligation for 28 days or intraperitoneal thioacetamide for 10 weeks to induce cirrhosis. After induction of cirrhosis, some rats received a single injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce ACLF; some were given simvastatin or vehicle (control) 4 hours or 24 hours before induction of ACLF. We collected data on changes in hepatic and systemic hemodynamics, hepatic microvascular phenotype and function, and survival times. Liver tissues and plasma were collected and analyzed by immunoblots, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, immuno(fluoro)histochemistry and immunoassays. RESULTS Administration of LPS aggravated portal hypertension in rats with cirrhosis by increasing the severity of intrahepatic microvascular dysfunction, exacerbating hepatic inflammation, increasing oxidative stress, and recruiting hepatic stellate cells and neutrophils. Rats with cirrhosis given LPS had significantly shorter survival times than rats with cirrhosis given the control. Simvastatin prevented most of ACLF-derived complications and increased survival times. Simvastatin appeared to increase hepatic sinusoidal function and reduce portal hypertension and markers of inflammation and oxidation. The drug significantly reduced levels of transaminases, total bilirubin, and ammonia, as well as LPS-mediated activation of hepatic stellate cells in liver tissues of rats with cirrhosis. CONCLUSIONS In studies of rats with cirrhosis, we found administration of LPS to promote development of ACLF, aggravating the complications of chronic liver disease and decreasing survival times. Simvastatin reduced LPS-induced inflammation and liver damage in rats with ACLF, supporting its use in treatment of patients with advanced chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Mani Tripathi
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marina Vilaseca
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Erica Lafoz
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Héctor Garcia-Calderó
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gabriela Viegas Haute
- Laboratório de Pesquisa em Biofísica Celular e Inflamação, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre-RS, Brazil
| | - Anabel Fernández-Iglesias
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jarbas Rodrigues de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Pesquisa em Biofísica Celular e Inflamação, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre-RS, Brazil
| | - Juan Carlos García-Pagán
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaime Bosch
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain; Hepatology, Department of Biomedical Research, Inselspital, University of Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Jordi Gracia-Sancho
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain; Hepatology, Department of Biomedical Research, Inselspital, University of Bern, Switzerland.
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38
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Ortega-Ribera M, Fernández-Iglesias A, Illa X, Moya A, Molina V, Maeso-Díaz R, Fondevila C, Peralta C, Bosch J, Villa R, Gracia-Sancho J. Resemblance of the human liver sinusoid in a fluidic device with biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. Biotechnol Bioeng 2018; 115:2585-2594. [PMID: 29940068 PMCID: PMC6220781 DOI: 10.1002/bit.26776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Revised: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Maintenance of the complex phenotype of primary hepatocytes in vitro represents a limitation for developing liver support systems and reliable tools for biomedical research and drug screening. We herein aimed at developing a biosystem able to preserve human and rodent hepatocytes phenotype in vitro based on the main characteristics of the liver sinusoid: unique cellular architecture, endothelial biodynamic stimulation, and parenchymal zonation. Primary hepatocytes and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) were isolated from control and cirrhotic human or control rat livers and cultured in conventional in vitro platforms or within our liver‐resembling device. Hepatocytes phenotype, function, and response to hepatotoxic drugs were analyzed. Results evidenced that mimicking the in vivo sinusoidal environment within our biosystem, primary human and rat hepatocytes cocultured with functional LSEC maintained morphology and showed high albumin and urea production, enhanced cytochrome P450 family 3 subfamily A member 4 (CYP3A4) activity, and maintained expression of hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (hnf4α) and transporters, showing delayed hepatocyte dedifferentiation. In addition, differentiated hepatocytes cultured within this liver‐resembling device responded to acute treatment with known hepatotoxic drugs significantly different from those seen in conventional culture platforms. In conclusion, this study describes a new bioengineered device that mimics the human sinusoid in vitro, representing a novel method to study liver diseases and toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martí Ortega-Ribera
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain.,Biomedical Applications Group (GAB), Institut de Microelectrònica de Barcelona, IMB-CNM (CSIC), Esfera UAB, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Anabel Fernández-Iglesias
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain.,Biomedical Research Networking Center in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain
| | - Xavi Illa
- Biomedical Applications Group (GAB), Institut de Microelectrònica de Barcelona, IMB-CNM (CSIC), Esfera UAB, Bellaterra, Spain.,Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBERBBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Moya
- Biomedical Applications Group (GAB), Institut de Microelectrònica de Barcelona, IMB-CNM (CSIC), Esfera UAB, Bellaterra, Spain.,Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBERBBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Víctor Molina
- Liver Surgery and Transplantation Unit, IDIBAPS, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raquel Maeso-Díaz
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Constantino Fondevila
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain.,Liver Surgery and Transplantation Unit, IDIBAPS, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen Peralta
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain.,Protective Strategies Against Hepatic Ischemia-Reperfusion Group, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Bosch
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain.,Biomedical Research Networking Center in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain.,Hepatology, Department of Biomedical Research, Inselspital, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Rosa Villa
- Biomedical Applications Group (GAB), Institut de Microelectrònica de Barcelona, IMB-CNM (CSIC), Esfera UAB, Bellaterra, Spain.,Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBERBBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jordi Gracia-Sancho
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain.,Biomedical Research Networking Center in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain.,Hepatology, Department of Biomedical Research, Inselspital, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland
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Mayr U, Fahrenkrog-Petersen L, Batres-Baires G, Herner A, Rasch S, Schmid RM, Huber W, Lahmer T. Large-volume paracentesis effects plasma disappearance rate of indo-cyanine green in critically ill patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis and intraabdominal hypertension. Ann Intensive Care 2018; 8:78. [PMID: 29980962 PMCID: PMC6035121 DOI: 10.1186/s13613-018-0422-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ascites is a major complication of decompensated liver cirrhosis. Intraabdominal hypertension and structural alterations of parenchyma involve decisive changes in hepatosplanchnic blood flow. Clearance of indo-cyanine green (ICG) is mainly dependent on hepatic perfusion and hepatocellular function. As a consequence, plasma disappearance rate of ICG (ICG-PDR) is rated as a useful dynamic parameter of liver function. This study primarily evaluates the impact of large-volume paracentesis (LVP) on ICG-PDR in critically ill patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Additionally, it describes influences on intraabdominal pressure (IAP), abdominal perfusion pressure (APP), hepatic blood flow, hemodynamic and respiratory function. METHODS We analyzed LVP in 22 patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis. ICG-PDR was assessed by using noninvasive LiMON technology (Pulsion® Medical Systems; Maquet Getinge Group), and hepatic blood flow was analyzed by color-coded duplex sonography. RESULTS Paracentesis of a median volume of 3450 mL ascites evoked significant increases of ICG-PDR from 3.6 (2.8-4.6) to 5.1 (3.9-6.2)%/min (p < 0.001). Concomitantly, we observed a raise in "ICG-Clearance" from 99 (73.5-124.5) to 104 (91-143.5) mL/min/m2 (p = 0.005), while circulating blood volume index was unchanged [2412 (1983-3025) before paracentesis vs. 2409 (1997-2805) mL/m2, p = 0.734]. Sonography revealed a significant impact of paracentesis on hepatic blood flow: Hepatic artery resistance index dropped from 0.74 (0.68-0.75) to 0.68 (0.65-0.71) (p < 0.001) and maximum flow velocity in hepatic vein increased from 24 (17-30) to 30 (22-36) cm/s (p < 0.001). Consistent with previous studies, paracentesis caused significant decreases in IAP from 19.0 (15.0-20.3) to 11.0 (8.8-12.3) mmHg (p < 0.001) and central venous pressure from 22.5 (17.8-29.0) to 17.5 (12.8-24.0) mmHg (p < 0.001) with inverse increases in APP from 63.0 (56.8-69.5) to 71.0 (65.5-78.5) mmHg (p < 0.001). Changes in ICG-PDR were concomitant with changes in IAP (r = - 0.602) and APP (r = 0.576). Moreover, we found a substantial improvement in respiratory function. By contrast, hemodynamic parameters assessed by transpulmonary thermodilution, serum bilirubin and international normalized ratio did not change after paracentesis. CONCLUSION Critically ill patients with decompensated cirrhosis and elevated IAP showed dramatically impaired ICG-PDR. Paracentesis evoked an improvement in ICG-PDR in parallel with a decreased IAP and an increased APP, while conventional parameters of liver function did not change. This effect on ICG-PDR is mainly referable to a relief of intraabdominal hypertension and changes in hepatosplanchnic blood flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Mayr
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin II, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Strasse 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Leonie Fahrenkrog-Petersen
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin II, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Strasse 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Gonzalo Batres-Baires
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin II, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Strasse 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Alexander Herner
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin II, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Strasse 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Sebastian Rasch
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin II, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Strasse 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Roland M. Schmid
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin II, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Strasse 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Huber
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin II, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Strasse 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Tobias Lahmer
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin II, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Strasse 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
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40
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Lin L, Cai M, Deng S, Huang W, Huang J, Huang X, Huang M, Wang Y, Shuai X, Zhu K. Amelioration of cirrhotic portal hypertension by targeted cyclooxygenase-1 siRNA delivery to liver sinusoidal endothelium with polyethylenimine grafted hyaluronic acid. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2017; 13:2329-2339. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2017.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Revised: 06/13/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Natarajan V, Harris EN, Kidambi S. SECs (Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells), Liver Microenvironment, and Fibrosis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 2017:4097205. [PMID: 28293634 PMCID: PMC5331310 DOI: 10.1155/2017/4097205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a wound-healing response to chronic liver injury such as alcoholic/nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and viral hepatitis with no FDA-approved treatments. Liver fibrosis results in a continual accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and paves the way for replacement of parenchyma with nonfunctional scar tissue. The fibrotic condition results in drastic changes in the local mechanical, chemical, and biological microenvironment of the tissue. Liver parenchyma is supported by an efficient network of vasculature lined by liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs). These nonparenchymal cells are highly specialized resident endothelial cell type with characteristic morphological and functional features. Alterations in LSECs phenotype including lack of LSEC fenestration, capillarization, and formation of an organized basement membrane have been shown to precede fibrosis and promote hepatic stellate cell activation. Here, we review the interplay of LSECs with the dynamic changes in the fibrotic liver microenvironment such as matrix rigidity, altered ECM protein profile, and cell-cell interactions to provide insight into the pivotal changes in LSEC physiology and the extent to which it mediates the progression of liver fibrosis. Establishing the molecular aspects of LSECs in the light of fibrotic microenvironment is valuable towards development of novel therapeutic and diagnostic targets of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaishaali Natarajan
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Edward N. Harris
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA
- Nebraska Center for Integrated Biomolecular Communication, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Nebraska Center for the Prevention of Obesity Diseases, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Srivatsan Kidambi
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA
- Nebraska Center for Integrated Biomolecular Communication, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Nebraska Center for the Prevention of Obesity Diseases, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA
- Nebraska Center for Materials and Nanoscience, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA
- Mary and Dick Holland Regenerative Medicine Program, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
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Abstract
In patients with advanced liver disease with portal hypertension, portal-systemic collaterals contribute to circulatory disturbance, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, hepatic encephalopathy, ascites, hepatopulmonary syndrome and portopulmonary hypertension. Angiogenesis has a pivotal role in the formation of portal-systemic shunts. Recent research has defined many of the mediators and mechanisms involved in this angiogenic process, linking the central roles of hepatic stellate cells and endothelial cells. Studies of animal models have demonstrated the potential therapeutic impact of drugs to inhibit angiogenesis in cirrhosis. For example, inhibition of VEGF reduces portal pressure, hyperdynamic splanchnic circulation, portosystemic collateralization and liver fibrosis. An improved understanding of the role of other angiogenic factors provides hope for a novel targeted therapy for portal hypertension with a tolerable adverse effect profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Cristóbal Gana
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology & Nutrition, Division of Pediatrics, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Chile
| | - Carolina A Serrano
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology & Nutrition, Division of Pediatrics, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Chile
| | - Simon C Ling
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, and The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
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Guixé-Muntet S, de Mesquita FC, Vila S, Hernández-Gea V, Peralta C, García-Pagán JC, Bosch J, Gracia-Sancho J. Cross-talk between autophagy and KLF2 determines endothelial cell phenotype and microvascular function in acute liver injury. J Hepatol 2017; 66:86-94. [PMID: 27545498 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2016.07.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Revised: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 07/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The transcription factor Krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2), inducible by simvastatin, confers endothelial vasoprotection. Considering recent data suggesting activation of autophagy by statins, we aimed to: 1) characterize the relationship between autophagy and KLF2 in the endothelium, 2) assess this relationship in acute liver injury (cold ischemia/reperfusion) and 3) study the effects of modulating KLF2-autophagy in vitro and in vivo. METHODS Autophagic flux, the vasoprotective KLF2 pathway, cell viability and microvascular function were assessed in endothelial cells and in various pre-clinical models of acute liver injury (cold storage and warm reperfusion). RESULTS Positive feedback between autophagy and KLF2 was observed in the endothelium: KLF2 inducers, pharmacological (statins, resveratrol, GGTI-298), biomechanical (shear stress) or genetic (adenovirus containing KLF2), caused endothelial KLF2 overexpression through a Rac1-rab7-autophagy dependent mechanism, both in the specialized liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) and in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. In turn, KLF2 induction promoted further activation of autophagy. Cold ischemia blunted autophagic flux. Upon reperfusion, LSEC stored in University of Wisconsin solution did not reactivate autophagy, which resulted in autophagosome accumulation probably due to impairment in autophagosome-lysosome fusion, ultimately leading to increased cell death and microvascular dysfunction. Simvastatin pretreatment maintained autophagy (through the upregulation of rab7), resulting in increased KLF2, improved cell viability, and ameliorated hepatic damage and microvascular function. CONCLUSIONS We herein describe for the first time the complex autophagy-KLF2 relationship, modulating the phenotype and survival of the endothelium. These results help understanding the mechanisms of protection conferred by KLF2-inducers, such as simvastatin, in hepatic vascular disorders. LAY SUMMARY Autophagy and the transcription factor KLF2 share a common activation pathway in the endothelium, being able to regulate each other. Statins maintain microvascular function through the inhibition of Rac1, which consequently liberates Rab7, activates autophagy and increments the expression of KLF2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergi Guixé-Muntet
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab., IDIBAPS - Hospital Clínic - CIBEREHD, University of Barcelona Medical School, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fernanda Cristina de Mesquita
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab., IDIBAPS - Hospital Clínic - CIBEREHD, University of Barcelona Medical School, Barcelona, Spain; Laboratório de Biofisica Celular e Inflamação, Pontificia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Sergi Vila
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab., IDIBAPS - Hospital Clínic - CIBEREHD, University of Barcelona Medical School, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Virginia Hernández-Gea
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab., IDIBAPS - Hospital Clínic - CIBEREHD, University of Barcelona Medical School, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Juan Carlos García-Pagán
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab., IDIBAPS - Hospital Clínic - CIBEREHD, University of Barcelona Medical School, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaime Bosch
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab., IDIBAPS - Hospital Clínic - CIBEREHD, University of Barcelona Medical School, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Gracia-Sancho
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab., IDIBAPS - Hospital Clínic - CIBEREHD, University of Barcelona Medical School, Barcelona, Spain.
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Abstract
Cellular crosstalk is a process through which a message is transmitted within an individual cell (intracellular crosstalk) or between different cells (intercellular crosstalk). Intercellular crosstalk within the liver microenvironment is critical for the maintenance of normal hepatic functions and for cells survival. Hepatic cells are closely connected to each other, work in synergy, and produce molecules that modulate their differentiation and activity. This review summarises the current knowledge regarding paracrine communication networks in parenchymal and non-parenchymal cells in liver fibrosis due to chronic injury, and regeneration after partial hepatectomy.
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45
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Sastre E, Caracuel L, Prieto I, Llévenes P, Aller MÁ, Arias J, Balfagón G, Blanco-Rivero J. Decompensated liver cirrhosis and neural regulation of mesenteric vascular tone in rats: role of sympathetic, nitrergic and sensory innervations. Sci Rep 2016; 6:31076. [PMID: 27484028 PMCID: PMC4971476 DOI: 10.1038/srep31076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
We evaluated the possible alterations produced by liver cholestasis (LC), a model of decompensated liver cirrhosis in sympathetic, sensory and nitrergic nerve function in rat superior mesenteric arteries (SMA). The vasoconstrictor response to electrical field stimulation (EFS) was greater in LC animals. Alpha-adrenoceptor antagonist phentolamine and P2 purinoceptor antagonist suramin decreased this response in LC animals more than in control animals. Both non-specific nitric oxide synthase (NOS) L-NAME and calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) (8-37) increased the vasoconstrictor response to EFS more strongly in LC than in control segments. Vasomotor responses to noradrenaline (NA) or CGRP were greater in LC segments, while NO analogue DEA-NO induced a similar vasodilation in both experimental groups. The release of NA was not modified, while those of ATP, nitrite and CGRP were increased in segments from LC. Alpha 1 adrenoceptor, Rho kinase (ROCK) 1 and 2 and total myosin phosphatase (MYPT) expressions were not modified, while alpha 2B adrenoceptor, nNOS expression and nNOS and MYPT phosphorylation were increased by LC. Together, these alterations might counteract the increased splanchnic vasodilation observed in the last phases of decompensated liver cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Sastre
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, España.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario La Paz (IdiPAZ), Madrid, España
| | - Laura Caracuel
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, España.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario La Paz (IdiPAZ), Madrid, España
| | - Isabel Prieto
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario La Paz (IdiPAZ), Madrid, España.,Departamento de Cirugía General y Digestiva, Hospital la Paz, Madrid, España
| | - Pablo Llévenes
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, España
| | - M Ángeles Aller
- Cátedra de Cirugía, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, España
| | - Jaime Arias
- Cátedra de Cirugía, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, España
| | - Gloria Balfagón
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, España.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario La Paz (IdiPAZ), Madrid, España
| | - Javier Blanco-Rivero
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, España.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario La Paz (IdiPAZ), Madrid, España
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Gonzalez-Paredes FJ, Hernández Mesa G, Morales Arraez D, Marcelino Reyes R, Abrante B, Diaz-Flores F, Salido E, Quintero E, Hernández-Guerra M. Contribution of Cyclooxygenase End Products and Oxidative Stress to Intrahepatic Endothelial Dysfunction in Early Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0156650. [PMID: 27227672 PMCID: PMC4882009 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0156650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Metabolic syndrome induces endothelial dysfunction, a surrogate marker of cardiovascular disease. In parallel, metabolic syndrome is frequently associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which may progress to cirrhosis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate intrahepatic endothelial dysfunction related to cyclooxygenase end products and oxidative stress as possible mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of NAFLD. Materials and Methods Sprague-Dawley rats were fed standard diet (control-diet, CD) or high-fat-diet (HFD) for 6 weeks. Metabolic syndrome was assessed by recording arterial pressure, lipids, glycemia and rat body weight. Splanchnic hemodynamics were measured, and endothelial dysfunction was evaluated using concentration-effect curves to acetylcholine. Response was assessed with either vehicle, L-NG-Nitroarginine (L-NNA), indomethacin, tempol, or a thromboxane receptor antagonist, SQ 29548. We quantified inflammation, fibrosis, oxidative stress, nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability and thromboxane B2 levels. Results HFD rats exhibited metabolic syndrome together with the presence of NAFLD. Compared to control-diet livers, HFD livers showed increased hepatic vascular resistance unrelated to inflammation or fibrosis, but with decreased NO activity and increased oxidative stress. Endothelial dysfunction was observed in HFD livers compared with CD rats and improved after cyclooxygenase inhibition or tempol pre-incubation. However, pre-incubation with SQ 29548 did not modify acetylcholine response. Conclusions Our study provides evidence that endothelial dysfunction at an early stage of NAFLD is associated with reduced NO bioavailability together with increased cyclooxygenase end products and oxidative stress, which suggests that both pathways are involved in the pathophysiology and may be worth exploring as therapeutic targets to prevent progression of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Javier Gonzalez-Paredes
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies and Center of Biomedical Research of the Canary Islands (CIBICAN), University of La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Goretti Hernández Mesa
- Gastroenterology Department, University Hospital of the Canary Islands, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Dalia Morales Arraez
- Gastroenterology Department, University Hospital of the Canary Islands, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Raquel Marcelino Reyes
- Gastroenterology Department, University Hospital of the Canary Islands, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Beatriz Abrante
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies and Center of Biomedical Research of the Canary Islands (CIBICAN), University of La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Felicitas Diaz-Flores
- Central Laboratory, University Hospital of the Canary Islands, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Eduardo Salido
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies and Center of Biomedical Research of the Canary Islands (CIBICAN), University of La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Enrique Quintero
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies and Center of Biomedical Research of the Canary Islands (CIBICAN), University of La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
- Gastroenterology Department, University Hospital of the Canary Islands, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
- Department of Medicine and Psychiatry, University of La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Manuel Hernández-Guerra
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies and Center of Biomedical Research of the Canary Islands (CIBICAN), University of La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
- Gastroenterology Department, University Hospital of the Canary Islands, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
- Department of Medicine and Psychiatry, University of La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
- * E-mail:
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Zhang CG, Zhang B, Deng WS, Duan M, Chen W, Wu ZY. Role of estrogen receptor β selective agonist in ameliorating portal hypertension in rats with CCl 4-induced liver cirrhosis. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:4484-4500. [PMID: 27182159 PMCID: PMC4858631 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i18.4484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2015] [Revised: 02/27/2016] [Accepted: 03/18/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To investigate the role of diarylpropionitrile (DPN), a selective agonist of estrogen receptor β (ERβ), in liver cirrhosis with portal hypertension (PHT) and isolated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs).
METHODS: Female Sprague-Dawley rats were ovariectomized (OVX), and liver cirrhosis with PHT was induced by CCl4 injection. DPN and PHTPP, the selective ERβ agonist and antagonist, were used as drug interventions. Liver fibrosis was assessed by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and Masson’s trichrome staining and by analyzing smooth muscle actin expression. Hemodynamic parameters were determined in vivo using colored microspheres technique. Protein expression and phosphorylation were determined by immunohistochemical staining and Western blot analysis. Messenger RNA levels were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Collagen gel contraction assay was performed using gel lattices containing HSCs treated with DPN, PHTPP, or Y-27632 prior to ET-1 addition.
RESULTS: Treatment with DPN in vivo greatly lowered portal pressure and improved hemodynamic parameters without affecting mean arterial pressure, which was associated with the attenuation of liver fibrosis and intrahepatic vascular resistance (IHVR). In CCl4-treated rat livers, DPN significantly decreased the expression of RhoA and ROCK II, and even suppressed ROCK II activity. Moreover, DPN remarkedly increased the levels of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and phosphorylated eNOS, and promoted the activities of protein kinase G (PKG), which is an NO effector in the liver. Furthermore, DPN reduced the contractility of activated HSCs in the 3-dimensional stress-relaxed collagen lattices, and decreased the ROCK II activity in activated HSCs. Finally, in vivo/in vitro experiments demonstrated that MLC activity was inhibited by DPN.
CONCLUSION: For OVX rats with liver cirrhosis, DPN suppressed liver RhoA/ROCK signal, facilitated NO/PKG pathways, and decreased IHVR, giving rise to reduced portal pressure. Therefore, DPN represents a relevant treatment choice against PHT in cirrhotic patients, especially postmenopausal women.
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Hide D, Ortega-Ribera M, Garcia-Pagan JC, Peralta C, Bosch J, Gracia-Sancho J. Effects of warm ischemia and reperfusion on the liver microcirculatory phenotype of rats: underlying mechanisms and pharmacological therapy. Sci Rep 2016; 6:22107. [PMID: 26905693 PMCID: PMC4764954 DOI: 10.1038/srep22107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/08/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Warm ischemia and reperfusion (WIR) causes hepatic damage and may lead to liver failure, however the mechanisms involved are largely unknown. Here we have characterized the microcirculatory status and endothelial phenotype of livers undergoing WIR, and evaluated the use of simvastatin in WIR injury prevention. Male Wistar rats received simvastatin, or vehicle, 30 min before undergoing 60 min of partial warm ischemia (70%) followed by 2 h or 24 h of reperfusion. Hepatic and systemic hemodynamics, liver injury (AST, ALT, LDH), endothelial function (vasodilatation in response to acetylcholine), KLF2 and nitric oxide pathways, oxidative stress, inflammation (neutrophil and macrophage infiltration) and cell death were evaluated. Profound microcirculatory dysfunction occurred rapidly following WIR. This was evidenced by down-regulation of the KLF2 vasoprotective pathway, impaired vasodilatory capability and endothelial activation, altogether leading to increased hepatic vascular resistance and liver inflammation, with significant leukocyte infiltration, oxidative stress and cell death. Simvastatin preserved the hepatic endothelial phenotype, and blunted the detrimental effects of WIR on liver hemodynamics and organ integrity. In conclusion, WIR-induced injury to liver sinusoidal endothelial cells is mitigated by pre-treatment with Simvastatin probably through a KLF2-dependent mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Hide
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab. IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute - Hospital Clinic de Barcelona - CIBEREHD. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Martí Ortega-Ribera
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab. IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute - Hospital Clinic de Barcelona - CIBEREHD. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan-Carlos Garcia-Pagan
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab. IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute - Hospital Clinic de Barcelona - CIBEREHD. Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Jaime Bosch
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab. IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute - Hospital Clinic de Barcelona - CIBEREHD. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Gracia-Sancho
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab. IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute - Hospital Clinic de Barcelona - CIBEREHD. Barcelona, Spain
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Tripathi DM, Erice E, Lafoz E, García-Calderó H, Sarin SK, Bosch J, Gracia-Sancho J, García-Pagán JC. Metformin reduces hepatic resistance and portal pressure in cirrhotic rats. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2015; 309:G301-9. [PMID: 26138461 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00010.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2015] [Accepted: 06/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Increased hepatic vascular resistance is the primary factor in the development of portal hypertension. Metformin ameliorates vascular cells function in several vascular beds. Our study was aimed at evaluating the effects, and the underlying mechanisms, of metformin on hepatic and systemic hemodynamics in cirrhotic rats and its possible interaction with the effects of propranolol (Prop), the current standard treatment for portal hypertension. CCl4-cirrhotic rats received by gavage metformin 300 mg/kg or its vehicle once a day for 1 wk, before mean arterial pressure (MAP), portal pressure (PP), portal blood flow (PBF), hepatic vascular resistance, and putative molecular/cellular mechanisms were measured. In a subgroup of cirrhotic rats, the hemodynamic response to acute Prop (5 mg/kg iv) was assessed. Effects of metformin ± Prop on PP and MAP were validated in common bile duct ligated-cirrhotic rats. Metformin-treated CCl4-cirrhotic rats had lower PP and hepatic vascular resistance than vehicle-treated rats, without significant changes in MAP or PBF. Metformin caused a significant reduction in liver fibrosis (Sirius red), hepatic stellate cell activation (α-smooth muscle actin, platelet-derived growth factor receptor β polypeptide, transforming growth factor-βR1, and Rho kinase), hepatic inflammation (CD68 and CD163), superoxide (dihydroethidium staining), and nitric oxide scavenging (protein nitrotyrosination). Prop, by decreasing PBF, further reduced PP. Similar findings were observed in common bile duct ligated-cirrhotic rats. Metformin administration reduces PP by decreasing the structural and functional components of the elevated hepatic resistance of cirrhosis. This effect is additive to that of Prop. The potential impact of this pharmacological combination, otherwise commonly used in patients with cirrhosis and diabetes, needs clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh M Tripathi
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain; and Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Eva Erice
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain; and
| | - Erica Lafoz
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain; and
| | - Héctor García-Calderó
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain; and
| | - Shiv K Sarin
- Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Jaime Bosch
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain; and
| | - Jordi Gracia-Sancho
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain; and
| | - Juan Carlos García-Pagán
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain; and
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Marrone G, Maeso-Díaz R, García-Cardena G, Abraldes JG, García-Pagán JC, Bosch J, Gracia-Sancho J. KLF2 exerts antifibrotic and vasoprotective effects in cirrhotic rat livers: behind the molecular mechanisms of statins. Gut 2015; 64:1434-43. [PMID: 25500203 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2014-308338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2014] [Accepted: 11/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In the liver, the transcription factor, Kruppel-like factor 2 (KLF2), is induced early during progression of cirrhosis to lessen the development of vascular dysfunction; nevertheless, its endogenous expression results insufficient to attenuate establishment of portal hypertension and aggravation of cirrhosis. Herein, we aimed to explore the effects and the underlying mechanisms of hepatic KLF2 overexpression in in vitro and in vivo models of liver cirrhosis. DESIGN Activation phenotype was evaluated in human and rat cirrhotic hepatic stellate cells (HSC) treated with the pharmacological inductor of KLF2 simvastatin, with adenovirus codifying for this transcription factor (Ad-KLF2), or vehicle, in presence/absence of inhibitors of KLF2. Possible paracrine interactions between parenchymal and non-parenchymal cells overexpressing KLF2 were studied. Effects of in vivo hepatic KLF2 overexpression on liver fibrosis and systemic and hepatic haemodynamics were assessed in cirrhotic rats. RESULTS KLF2 upregulation profoundly ameliorated HSC phenotype (reduced α-smooth muscle actin, procollagen I and oxidative stress) partly via the activation of the nuclear factor (NF)-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Coculture experiments showed that improvement in HSC phenotype paracrinally ameliorated liver sinusoidal endothelial cells probably through a vascular endothelial growth factor-mediated mechanism. No paracrine interactions between hepatocytes and HSC were observed. Cirrhotic rats treated with simvastatin or Ad-KLF2 showed hepatic upregulation in the KLF2-Nrf2 pathway, deactivation of HSC and prominent reduction in liver fibrosis. Hepatic KLF2 overexpression was associated with lower portal pressure (-15%) due to both attenuations in the increased portal blood flow and hepatic vascular resistance, together with a significant improvement in hepatic endothelial dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS Exogenous hepatic KLF2 upregulation improves liver fibrosis, endothelial dysfunction and portal hypertension in cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giusi Marrone
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red en Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raquel Maeso-Díaz
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red en Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Guillermo García-Cardena
- Departments of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital & Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Juan G Abraldes
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red en Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos García-Pagán
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red en Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaime Bosch
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red en Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Gracia-Sancho
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red en Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Barcelona, Spain
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