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Xia Y, Luo Q, Gao Q, Huang C, Chen P, Zou Y, Chen X, Liu W, Chen Z. SIRT1 activation ameliorates rhesus monkey liver fibrosis by inhibiting the TGF-β/smad signaling pathway. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 394:110979. [PMID: 38555046 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.110979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway plays an important role in the pathogenesis and progression of liver fibrosis. Silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) is a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) dependent enzyme and responsible for deacetylating the proteins. Increasing numbers of reports have shown that the molecular mechanism of SIRT1 as an effective therapeutic target for liver fibrosis but the transformation is not very clear. In the present study, liver fibrotic tissues were screened by staining with Masson, hematoxylin-eosin staining (H&E) and Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for histopathological observation from the liver biopsy of seventy-seven rhesus monkey, which fixed with 4% paraformaldehyde (PFA) after treatment with high-fat diet (HFD) for two years. And the liver function was further determined by serum biochemical tests. The mRNA levels and protein expression of rat hepatic stellate (HSC-T6) cells were determined after treatment with Resveratrol (RSV) and Nicotinamide (NAM), respectively. The results showed that with the increasing of hepatic fibrosis in rhesus monkeys, the liver function impaired, and the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), p-Smad3 (p-Smad3) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) was up-regulated, while SIRT1 and Smad7 were down-regulated. Moreover, when stimulated the HSC-T6 with RSV to activate SIRT1 for 6, 12, and 24 h, the results showed that RSV promoted the expression of smad7, while the expression of TGF-β1, p-Smad3 and α-SMA were inhibited. In contrast, when the cells stimulated with NAM to inhibit SIRT1 for 6, 12, and 24 h, the Smad7 expression was decreased, while TGF-β1, p-Smad3, and α-SMA expressions were increased. These results indicate that SIRT1 acts as an important protective factor for liver fibrosis, which may be attributed to inhibiting the signaling pathway of TGF-β/Smad in hepatic fibrosis of the rhesus monkey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Xia
- Laboratory of Animal Disease Model, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China; Animal Disease Prevention and Control and Healthy Breeding Engineering Technology, Research Centre, Mianyang Normal University, Mianyang, 621000, China
| | - Qihui Luo
- Laboratory of Animal Disease Model, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China; Sichuan Primed Bio-Tech Group Co., Ltd., Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Qi Gao
- Laboratory of Animal Disease Model, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Chao Huang
- Laboratory of Animal Disease Model, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Ping Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Disease Model, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Yao Zou
- Wanzhou District Livestock Industry Development Center, Chongqing, 404120, China
| | - Xiwen Chen
- Animal Disease Prevention and Control and Healthy Breeding Engineering Technology, Research Centre, Mianyang Normal University, Mianyang, 621000, China
| | - Wentao Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Disease Model, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Zhengli Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Disease Model, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China; Sichuan Primed Bio-Tech Group Co., Ltd., Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Wang Y, Li Y, Qiu Y, Shen M, Wang L, Shao J, Zhang F, Xu X, Zhang Z, Guo M, Zheng S. Artesunate Induces Ferroptosis in Hepatic Stellate Cells and Alleviates Liver Fibrosis via the ROCK1/ATF3 Axis. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2024; 12:36-51. [PMID: 38250467 PMCID: PMC10794272 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2023.00162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Development of fibrosis in chronic liver disease requires activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and leads to a poor outcome. Artesunate (Art) is an ester derivative of artemisinin that can induce ferroptosis in HSCs, and activated transcriptional factor 3 (ATF3) is an ATF/CREB transcription factor that is induced in response to stress. In this study, we examined the role of the Rho-associated protein kinase 1 (ROCK1)/ATF3 axis in Art-induced ferroptosis in HSCs. Methods HSC activation and ferroptosis were studied in vitro by western blotting, polymerase chain reaction, immunofluorescence, and other assays. ATF3 electrophoretic mobility and ROCK1 protein stability were assayed by western blotting. Immunoprecipitation was used to detect the interaction of ROCK1 and ATF3, as well as ATF3 phosphorylation. A ubiquitination assay was used to verify ROCK1 degradation. Atf3-interfering and Rock1-overexpressing mice were constructed to validate the anti-hepatic fibrosis activity of Art in vivo. Results Art induced ferroptosis in HSCs following glutathione-dependent antioxidant system inactivation resulting from nuclear accumulation of unphosphorylated ATF3 mediated by ROCK1-ubiquitination in vitro. Art also decreased carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis in mice, which was reversed by interfering with Atf3 or overexpressing Rock1. Conclusions The ROCK1/ATF3 axis was involved in liver fibrosis and regulation of ferroptosis, which provides an experimental basis for further study of Art for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingqian Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yujia Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yangling Qiu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Min Shen
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ling Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiangjuan Shao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Material of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu China
| | - Xuefen Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zili Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Material of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu China
| | - Mei Guo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shizhong Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Material of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu China
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Ahodantin J, Nio K, Funaki M, Zhai X, Wilson E, Kottilil S, Cheng L, Li G, Su L. Type I interferons and TGF-β cooperate to induce liver fibrosis during HIV-1 infection under antiretroviral therapy. JCI Insight 2022; 7:152738. [PMID: 35639478 PMCID: PMC9310524 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.152738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver diseases have become a major comorbidity health concern for people living with HIV-1 (PLWH) treated with combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). To investigate if HIV-1 infection and cART interact to lead to liver diseases, humanized mice reconstituted with progenitor cells from human fetal livers were infected with HIV-1 and treated with cART. We report here that chronic HIV-1 infection with cART induced hepatitis and liver fibrosis in humanized mice, associated with accumulation of M2-like macrophages (M2LMs), elevated TGF-β, and IFN signaling in the liver. Interestingly, IFN-I and TGF-β cooperatively activated human hepatic stellate cells (HepSCs) in vitro. Mechanistically, IFN-I enhanced TGF-β–induced SMAD2/3 activation in HepSCs. Finally, blockade of IFN-I signaling reversed HIV/cART-induced liver diseases in humanized mice. Consistent with the findings in humanized mice with HIV-1 and cART, we detected elevated markers of liver injury, M2LMs, and of IFN signaling in blood specimens from PLWH compared with those of healthy individuals. These findings identify the IFN-I/M2LM/HepSC axis in HIV/cART-induced liver diseases and suggest that inhibiting IFN-I signaling or M2LM may provide a novel therapeutic strategy for treating HIV/cART-associated liver diseases in PLWH treated with antiretroviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Ahodantin
- Department of Pharmacology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland Baltimore School of Medicine, Baltimore, United States of America
| | - Kouki Nio
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Masaya Funaki
- Department of Pharmacology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland Baltimore School of Medicine, Baltimore, United States of America
| | - Xuguang Zhai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Eleanor Wilson
- IHV Clinical Division, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, United States of America
| | - Shyamasundaran Kottilil
- IHV Clinical Division, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, United States of America
| | - Liang Cheng
- School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Guangming Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland Baltimore School of Medicine, Baltimore, United States of America
| | - Lishan Su
- Department of Pharmacology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland Baltimore School of Medicine, Baltimore, United States of America
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Ezhilarasan D. Hepatic stellate cells in the injured liver: Perspectives beyond hepatic fibrosis. J Cell Physiol 2021; 237:436-449. [PMID: 34514599 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Over the last two decades, our understanding of the pathological role of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) in fibrotic liver disease has increased dramatically. As HSCs are identified as the principal collagen-producing cells in the injured liver, several experimental and clinical studies have targeted HSCs to treat liver fibrosis. However, HSCs also play a critical role in developing nonfibrotic liver diseases such as cholestasis, portal hypertension, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Therefore, this review exclusively focuses on the role of activated HSCs beyond hepatic fibrosis. In cholestasis conditions, elevated bile salts and bile acids activate HSCs to secrete collagen and other extracellular matrix products, which cause biliary fibrosis and cholangitis. In the chronically injured liver, autocrine and paracrine signaling from liver sinusoidal endothelial cells activates HSCs to induce portal hypertension via endothelin-1 release. In the tumor microenvironment (TME), activated HSCs are the major source of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). The crosstalk between activated HSC/CAF and tumor cells is associated with tumor cell proliferation, migration, metastasis, and chemoresistance. In TME, activated HSCs convert macrophages to tumor-associated macrophages and induce the differentiation of dendritic cells (DCs) and monocytes to regulatory DCs and myeloid-derived suppressor cells, respectively. This differentiation, in turn, increases T cells proliferation and induces their apoptosis leading to reduced immune surveillance in TME. Thus, HSCs activation in chronically injured liver is a critical process involved in the progression of cholestasis, portal hypertension, and liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, The Blue Lab, Molecular Medicine and Toxicology Division, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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Chen L, Guo P, Li W, Fang F, Zhu W, Fan J, Wang F, Gao Y, Zhao Q, Wang Q, Xiao Y, Xing X, Li D, Shi T, Yu D, Aschner M, Zhang L, Chen W. Perturbation of Specific Signaling Pathways Is Involved in Initiation of Mouse Liver Fibrosis. Hepatology 2021; 73:1551-1569. [PMID: 32654205 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS To identify the regulatory role of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) in the development of liver disease, we generated a mouse model with hepatocyte-specific deletion of Ppp2r1a gene (encoding PP2A Aα subunit). APPROACH AND RESULTS Homozygote (HO) mice and matched wild-type littermates were investigated at 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, and 18 months of age. Pathological examination showed that PP2A Aα deficiency in hepatocytes resulted in progressive liver fibrosis phenotype from 9 months of age. No hepatocyte death was observed in HO mice. However, perturbation of pathways including epidermal growth factor receptor 1 (EGFR1), amino acid metabolism, and translation factors as well as leptin and adiponectin led to pronounced hepatic fibrosis. In vitro studies demonstrated the involvement of specific B subunit complexes in the regulation of EGFR1 signaling pathway and cross talk between defected hepatocytes and stimulation of interstitial hyperplasia. It is noteworthy that HO mice failed to develop hepatocellular carcinoma for as long as 22 months of age. We further demonstrate that PP2A Aβ-containing holoenzymes played a critical role in preventing hepatocyte apoptosis and antagonizing tumorigenesis through specific pathways on Aα loss. Furthermore, PP2A Aα and Aβ were functionally distinct, and the Aβ isoform failed to substitute for Aα in the development of inflammation and liver fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS These observations identify pathways that contribute to the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis and provide putative therapeutic targets for its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ping Guo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenxue Li
- Department of Toxicology, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fei Fang
- Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Science, National Chromatographic Research and Analysis Center, Dalian, China
| | - Wei Zhu
- Department of Toxicology, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junling Fan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fangping Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuanyuan Gao
- The Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, The Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qun Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Science, National Chromatographic Research and Analysis Center, Dalian, China
| | - Qing Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongmei Xiao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiumei Xing
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Daochuan Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tieliu Shi
- The Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, The Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dianke Yu
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
| | - Lihua Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Science, National Chromatographic Research and Analysis Center, Dalian, China
| | - Wen Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Silencing of CD147 inhibits hepatic stellate cells activation related to suppressing aerobic glycolysis via hedgehog signaling. Cytotechnology 2021; 73:233-242. [PMID: 33927478 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-021-00460-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation is a key step that promotes hepatic fibrosis. Emerging evidence suggests that aerobic glycolysis is one of its important metabolic characteristics. Our previous study has reported that CD147, a glycosylated transmembrane protein, contributes significantly to the activation of HSCs. However, whether and how it is involved in the aerobic glycolysis of HSCs activation is unknown. The objective of the present study was to validate the effect of CD147 in HSCs activation and the underlying molecular mechanism. Our results showed that the silencing of CD147 decreased the expression of α-smooth muscle-actin (α-SMA) and collagen I at both mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, CD147 silencing decreased the glucose uptake, lactate production in HSCs, and repressed the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, the expression of hexokinase 2 (HK2), glucose transporter 1 (Glut1). The effect of galloflavin, a well-defined glycolysis inhibitor, was similar to CD147 siRNA. Mechanistically, CD147 silencing suppressed glycolysis-associated HSCs activation through inhibiting the hedgehog signaling. Moreover, the hedgehog signaling agonist SAG could rescue the above effect of CD147 silencing. In conclusion, CD147 silencing blockade of aerobic glycolysis via suppression of hedgehog signaling inhibited HSCs activation, suggesting CD147 as a novel therapeutic target for hepatic fibrosis. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10616-021-00460-9.
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Zhou Y, Wang H, Zhou J, Qiu S, Cai T, Li H, Shen Z, Hu Y, Ding B, Luo M, Huang R, Yan R, Xu W, He C, Zhang Y, Li F, Sun Z, Ma J. Vitamin A and Its Multi-Effects on Pancreas: Recent Advances and Prospects. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:620941. [PMID: 33679618 PMCID: PMC7930481 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.620941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin A (VA), which is stored in several forms in most tissues, is required to maintain metabolite homeostasis and other processes, including the visual cycle, energy balance, epithelial cell integrity, and infection resistance. In recent years, VA molecules, also known as retinoids, have been extensively explored and used in the treatment of skin disorders and immune-related tumors. To date, several observational and interventional studies have explored the relationship between VA status and the pathogenesis of diabetes. In particular, VA micronutrients have been shown to regulate pancreatic development, β-cell function, pancreatic innate immune responses, and pancreatic stellate cells phenotypes through multiple mechanisms. However, there are still many problems to be proven or resolved. In this review, we summarize and discuss recent and available evidence on VA biological metabolism in the pancreas. Analysis of the effects of VA on metabolism in the pancreas will contribute to our understanding of the supportive physiological roles of VA in pancreas protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunting Zhou
- Department of Endocrinology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huiying Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Junming Zhou
- Department of Cadre Gastroenterology, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shanhu Qiu
- Department of Endocrinology, Zhongda Hospital, Institute of Diabetes, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tingting Cai
- Department of Endocrinology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huiqin Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ziyang Shen
- Department of Endocrinology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yun Hu
- Department of Endocrinology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Bo Ding
- Department of Endocrinology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Menghui Luo
- Department of Endocrinology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Rong Huang
- Department of Endocrinology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Rengna Yan
- Department of Endocrinology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou Institute of Medical Sciences, Xuzhou Clinical School of Nanjing Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Cong He
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yumin Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Zhongda Hospital, Institute of Diabetes, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fengfei Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zilin Sun
- Department of Endocrinology, Zhongda Hospital, Institute of Diabetes, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianhua Ma
- Department of Endocrinology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Jianhua Ma,
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Inhibition of ROCK2 alleviates renal fibrosis and the metabolic disorders in the proximal tubular epithelial cells. Clin Sci (Lond) 2020; 134:1357-1376. [PMID: 32490513 DOI: 10.1042/cs20200030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Non-specific inhibition of Rho-associated kinases (ROCKs) alleviated renal fibrosis in the unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) model, while genetic deletion of ROCK1 did not affect renal pathology in mice. Thus, whether ROCK2 plays a role in renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis needs to be clarified. In the present study, a selective inhibitor against ROCK2 or genetic approach was used to investigate the role of ROCK2 in renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis. In the fibrotic kidneys of chronic kidney diseases (CKDs) patients, we observed an enhanced expression of ROCK2 with a positive correlation with interstitial fibrosis. In mice, the ROCK2 protein level was time-dependently increased in the UUO model. By treating CKD animals with KD025 at the dosage of 50 mg/kg/day via intraperitoneal injection, the renal fibrosis shown by Masson's trichrome staining was significantly alleviated along with the reduced expression of fibrotic genes. In vitro, inhibiting ROCK2 by KD025 or ROCK2 knockdown/knockout significantly blunted the pro-fibrotic response in transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-stimulated mouse renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (mPTCs). Moreover, impaired cellular metabolism was reported as a crucial pathogenic factor in CKD. By metabolomics analysis, we found that KD025 restored the metabolic disturbance, including the impaired glutathione metabolism in TGF-β1-stimulated tubular epithelial cells. Consistently, KD025 increased antioxidative stress enzymes and nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in fibrotic models. In addition, KD025 decreased the infiltration of macrophages and inflammatory response in fibrotic kidneys and blunted the activation of macrophages in vitro. In conclusion, inhibition of ROCK2 may serve as a potential novel therapy for renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis in CKD.
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Ezhilarasan D. Endothelin-1 in portal hypertension: The intricate role of hepatic stellate cells. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2020; 245:1504-1512. [PMID: 32791849 DOI: 10.1177/1535370220949148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPACT STATEMENT Portal hypertension is pathologically defined as increase of portal venous pressure, mainly due to chronic liver diseases such as fibrosis and cirrhosis. In fibrotic liver, activated hepatic stellate cells increase their contraction in response to endothelin-1 (ET-1) via autocrine and paracrine stimulation from liver sinusoidal endothelial cells and injured hepatocytes. Clinical studies are limited with ET receptor antagonists in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension. Hence, studies are needed to find molecules that block ET-1 synthesis. Accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins in the perisinusoidal space, tissue contraction, and alteration in blood flow are prominent during portal hypertension. Therefore, novel matrix modulators should be tested experimentally as well as in clinical studies. Specifically, tumor necrosis factor-α, transforming growth factor-β1, Wnt, Notch, rho-associated protein kinase 1 signaling antagonists, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α and γ, interferon-γ and sirtuin 1 agonists should be tested elaborately against cirrhosis patients with portal hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Research Unit and Laboratory Animal Centre, Saveetha Dental College, 194347Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai 600 077, India
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Lin HL, Qin YJ, Zhang YL, Zhang YQ, Chen YL, Niu YY, Pang CP, Chu WK, Zhang HY. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) inhibits myofibroblast transformation of human Tenon's fibroblasts. Exp Eye Res 2020; 197:108119. [PMID: 32603658 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Myofibroblast transformation of human Tenon's fibroblasts severely challenges the outcome of glaucoma filtration surgery. epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is considered as a potential reagent to overcome this issue for its anti-fibrosis effect on various human diseases, but it is unclear on the fibrosis of Tenon's fibroblasts. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of EGCG on TGF-β1-induced myofibroblast transformation of human Tenon's fibroblasts. The human Tenon's fibroblasts were incubated in the medium containing 10 ng/mL TGF-β1, and subsequently treated with EGCG or mitomycin C (MMC). The cell proliferation and migration were analyzed. The expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), type I collagen (Col-I), and p-Smad2/3 were also evaluated. It showed that EGCG and MMC strongly inhibited the elevation in cell number in tissue explants compared to the tissues treated with TGF-β1 alone. Scratch-Wound assay showed that 48 h after TGF-β1 induction, only 10% of the wound width remained. But cells treated with EGCG still showed over 93% wound width. Further, EGCG effectively inhibited TGF-β1-induced expression of α-SMA and Col-I as well as phosphorylation of Smad2/3 in Tenon's fibroblasts. Altogether, we concluded that EGCG suppressed the myofibroblast transformation in Tenon's fibroblasts through inactivating TGF-β1/Smad signaling. These findings demonstrate that EGCG can be considered as one of the possible antifibrotic reagents for preventing postoperative scarring in glaucoma filtration surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Liang Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Eye Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital and Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences. Guangzhou, China; Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Yong-Jie Qin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Eye Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital and Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences. Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Lin Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Eye Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital and Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences. Guangzhou, China; Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Yu-Qiao Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Eye Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital and Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences. Guangzhou, China; Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Yan-Lei Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Eye Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital and Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences. Guangzhou, China
| | - Yong-Yi Niu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Eye Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital and Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences. Guangzhou, China
| | - Chi-Pui Pang
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wai-Kit Chu
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hong-Yang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Eye Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital and Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences. Guangzhou, China; The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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11
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Yoshimatsu Y, Wakabayashi I, Kimuro S, Takahashi N, Takahashi K, Kobayashi M, Maishi N, Podyma‐Inoue KA, Hida K, Miyazono K, Watabe T. TNF-α enhances TGF-β-induced endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition via TGF-β signal augmentation. Cancer Sci 2020; 111:2385-2399. [PMID: 32385953 PMCID: PMC7385392 DOI: 10.1111/cas.14455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of various components including cancer cells, tumor vessels, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and inflammatory cells. These components interact with each other via various cytokines, which often induce tumor progression. Thus, a greater understanding of TME networks is crucial for the development of novel cancer therapies. Many cancer types express high levels of TGF-β, which induces endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), leading to formation of CAFs. Although we previously reported that CAFs derived from EndMT promoted tumor formation, the molecular mechanisms underlying these interactions remain to be elucidated. Furthermore, tumor-infiltrating inflammatory cells secrete various cytokines, including TNF-α. However, the role of TNF-α in TGF-β-induced EndMT has not been fully elucidated. Therefore, this study examined the effect of TNF-α on TGF-β-induced EndMT in human endothelial cells (ECs). Various types of human ECs underwent EndMT in response to TGF-β and TNF-α, which was accompanied by increased and decreased expression of mesenchymal cell and EC markers, respectively. In addition, treatment of ECs with TGF-β and TNF-α exhibited sustained activation of Smad2/3 signals, which was presumably induced by elevated expression of TGF-β type I receptor, TGF-β2, activin A, and integrin αv, suggesting that TNF-α enhanced TGF-β-induced EndMT by augmenting TGF-β family signals. Furthermore, oral squamous cell carcinoma-derived cells underwent epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in response to humoral factors produced by TGF-β and TNF-α-cultured ECs. This EndMT-driven EMT was blocked by inhibiting the action of TGF-βs. Collectively, our findings suggest that TNF-α enhances TGF-β-dependent EndMT, which contributes to tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Yoshimatsu
- Department of BiochemistryGraduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
- Division of PharmacologyGraduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesNiigata UniversityNiigataJapan
| | - Ikumi Wakabayashi
- Department of BiochemistryGraduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Shiori Kimuro
- Department of BiochemistryGraduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Naoya Takahashi
- Department of BiochemistryGraduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Kazuki Takahashi
- Department of BiochemistryGraduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Miho Kobayashi
- Department of BiochemistryGraduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Nako Maishi
- Department of Vascular Biology and Molecular PathologyGraduate School of Dental MedicineHokkaido UniversitySapporoJapan
| | - Katarzyna A. Podyma‐Inoue
- Department of BiochemistryGraduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Kyoko Hida
- Department of Vascular Biology and Molecular PathologyGraduate School of Dental MedicineHokkaido UniversitySapporoJapan
| | - Kohei Miyazono
- Department of Molecular PathologyGraduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Tetsuro Watabe
- Department of BiochemistryGraduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
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12
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Rho-kinase inhibitor coupled to peptide-modified albumin carrier reduces portal pressure and increases renal perfusion in cirrhotic rats. Sci Rep 2019; 9:2256. [PMID: 30783172 PMCID: PMC6381202 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-38678-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Rho-kinase (ROCK) activation in hepatic stellate cells (HSC) is a key mechanism promoting liver fibrosis and portal hypertension (PTH). Specific delivery of ROCK-inhibitor Y-27632 (Y27) to HSC targeting mannose-6-phosphate-receptors reduces portal pressure and fibrogenesis. In decompensated cirrhosis, presence of ascites is associated with reduced renal perfusion. Since in cirrhosis, platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (PDGFRβ) is upregulated in the liver as well as the kidney, this study coupled Y27 to human serum albumin (HSA) substituted with PDGFRβ-recognizing peptides (pPB), and investigated its effect on PTH in cirrhotic rats. In vitro collagen contraction assays tested biological activity on LX2 cells. Hemodynamics were analyzed in BDL and CCl4 cirrhotic rats 3 h, 6 h and 24 h after i.v. administration of Y27pPBHSA (0.5/1 mg/kg b.w). Phosphorylation of moesin and myosin light chain (MLC) assessed ROCK activity in liver, femoral muscle, mesenteric artery, kidney and heart. Three Y27 molecules were coupled to pPBHSA as confirmed by HPLC/MS, which was sufficient to relax LX2 cells. In vivo, Y27pPBHSA-treated rats exhibited lower portal pressure, hepatic vascular resistance without effect on systemic vascular resistance, but a tendency towards lower cardiac output compared to non-treated cirrhotic rats. Y27pPBHSA reduced intrahepatic resistance by reduction of phosphorylation of moesin and MLC in Y27pPBHSA-treated cirrhotic rats. Y27pPBHSA was found in the liver of rats up to 6 hours after its injection, in the HSC demonstrated by double-immunostainings. Interestingly, Y27pPBHSA increased renal arterial flow over time combined with an antifibrotic effect as shown by decreased renal acta2 and col1a1 mRNA expression. Therefore, targeting the ROCK inhibitor Y27 to PDGFRβ decreases portal pressure with potential beneficial effects in the kidney. This unique approach should be tested in human cirrhosis.
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13
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Enguita M, Razquin N, Pamplona R, Quiroga J, Prieto J, Fortes P. The cirrhotic liver is depleted of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a key modulator of NF-κB and TGFβ pathways in hepatic stellate cells. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:14. [PMID: 30622239 PMCID: PMC6325107 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-1243-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis results from chronic hepatic damage and is characterized by derangement of the organ architecture with increased liver fibrogenesis and defective hepatocellular function. It frequently evolves into progressive hepatic insufficiency associated with high mortality unless liver transplantation is performed. We have hypothesized that the deficiency of critical nutrients such as essential omega-3 fatty acids might play a role in the progression of liver cirrhosis. Here we evaluated by LC-MS/MS the liver content of omega-3 docosahexaenoic fatty acid (DHA) in cirrhotic patients and investigated the effect of DHA in a murine model of liver injury and in the response of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) (the main producers of collagen in the liver) to pro-fibrogenic stimuli. We found that cirrhotic livers exhibit a marked depletion of DHA and that this alteration correlates with the progression of the disease. Administration of DHA exerts potent anti-fibrogenic effects in an acute model of liver damage. Studies with HSCs show that DHA inhibits fibrogenesis more intensely than other omega-3 fatty acids. Data from expression arrays revealed that DHA blocks TGFβ and NF-κB pathways. Mechanistically, DHA decreases late, but not early, SMAD3 nuclear accumulation and inhibits p65/RelA-S536 phosphorylation, which is required for HSC survival. Notably, DHA increases ADRP expression, leading to the formation of typical quiescence-associated perinuclear lipid droplets. In conclusion, a marked depletion of DHA is present in the liver of patients with advanced cirrhosis. DHA displays anti-fibrogenic activities on HSCs targeting NF-κB and TGFβ pathways and inducing ADPR expression and quiescence in these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Enguita
- Department of Gene Therapy and Hepatology, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra (UNAV), Pamplona, Spain.,Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Nerea Razquin
- Department of Gene Therapy and Hepatology, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra (UNAV), Pamplona, Spain.,Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Reinald Pamplona
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida (IRB), Lleida, Spain
| | - Jorge Quiroga
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain.,Liver Unit, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - Puri Fortes
- Department of Gene Therapy and Hepatology, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra (UNAV), Pamplona, Spain. .,Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain.
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14
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Yuan B, Chen Y, Wu Z, Zhang L, Zhuang Y, Zhao X, Niu H, Cheng JCH, Zeng Z. Proteomic Profiling of Human Hepatic Stellate Cell Line LX2 Responses to Irradiation and TGF-β1. J Proteome Res 2018; 18:508-521. [PMID: 30489086 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.8b00814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the main target of radiation damage and primarily contribute to the development of radiation-induced liver fibrosis. However, the molecular events underlying the radiation-induced activation of HSCs are not fully elucidated. In the present study, human HSC line LX2 was treated with X-ray irradiation and/or TGF-β1, and profibrogenic molecules were evaluated. The iTRAQ LC-MS/MS technology was performed to identify global protein expression profiles in LX2 following exposure to different stimuli. Irradiation or TGF-β1 alone increased expression of α-SMA, collagen 1, CTGF, PAI-1, and fibronectin. Irradiation and TGF-β1 cooperatively induced expression of these profibrotic markers. In total, 102, 137, 155 dysregulated proteins were identified in LX2 cell samples affected by irradiation, TGF-β1, or cotreatment, respectively. Bioinformatic analyses showed that the three differentially expressed protein sets were commonly associated with cell cycle and protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum. The expression of a set of proteins was properly validated: CDC20, PRC1, KIF20A, CCNB1, SHCBP, TACC3 were upregulated upon irradiation or irradiation and TGF-β1 costimulation, whereas SPARC and THBS1 were elevated by TGF-β1 or TGF-β1 plus irradiation treatment. Furthermore, CDC20 inhibition suppressed expression of profibrotic markers in irradiated and TGF-β1-stimulated LX2 cells. Detailed data on potential molecular mechanisms causing the radiation-induced HSC activation presented here would be instrumental in developing radiotherapy strategies that minimize radiation-induced liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoying Yuan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital , Fudan University , Shanghai 200032 , China
| | - Yuhan Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital , Fudan University , Shanghai 200032 , China.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Nanfang Hospital , Southern Medical University , Guangzhou 510515 , China
| | - Zhifeng Wu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital , Fudan University , Shanghai 200032 , China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital , Fudan University , Shanghai 200032 , China
| | - Yuan Zhuang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital , Fudan University , Shanghai 200032 , China
| | - Xiaomei Zhao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital , Fudan University , Shanghai 200032 , China
| | - Hao Niu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital , Fudan University , Shanghai 200032 , China
| | - Jason Chia-Hsien Cheng
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Departments of Oncology , National Taiwan University Hospital , Taipei 100 , Taiwan
| | - Zhaochong Zeng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital , Fudan University , Shanghai 200032 , China
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15
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Curcumin Inhibited Endothelin mRNA Expression Induced by TGF-β in Bovine Endothelial Cell. Jundishapur J Nat Pharm Prod 2018. [DOI: 10.5812/jjnpp.62317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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16
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Lenti MV, Di Sabatino A. Intestinal fibrosis. Mol Aspects Med 2018; 65:100-109. [PMID: 30385174 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2018.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2018] [Revised: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Extensive tissue fibrosis is the end-stage process of a number of chronic conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract, including inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis), ulcerative jejunoileitis, and radiation enteritis. Fibrogenesis is a physiological, reparative process that may become harmful as a consequence of the persistence of a noxious agent, after an excessive duration of the healing process. In this case, after replacement of dead or injured cells, fibrogenesis continues to substitute normal parenchymal tissue with fibrous connective tissue, leading to uncontrolled scar formation and, ultimately, permanent organ damage, loss of function, and/or strictures. Several mechanisms have been implicated in sustaining the fibrogenic process. Despite their obvious etiological and clinical distinctions, most of the above-mentioned fibrotic disorders have in common a persistent inflammatory stimulus which sustains the production of growth factors, proteolytic enzymes, and pro-fibrogenic cytokines that activate both non-immune (i.e., myofibroblasts, fibroblasts) and immune (i.e., monocytes, macrophages, T-cells) cells, the interactions of which are crucial in the progressive tissue remodeling and destroy. Here we summarize the current status of knowledge regarding the mechanisms implicated in gut fibrosis with a clinical approach, also focusing on possible targets of antifibrogenic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Vincenzo Lenti
- First Department of Internal Medicine, San Matteo Hospital Foundation, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Sabatino
- First Department of Internal Medicine, San Matteo Hospital Foundation, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
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17
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Xu Z, Li T, Li M, Yang L, Xiao R, Liu L, Chi X, Liu D. eRF3b-37 inhibits the TGF-β1-induced activation of hepatic stellate cells by regulating cell proliferation, G0/G1 arrest, apoptosis and migration. Int J Mol Med 2018; 42:3602-3612. [PMID: 30272252 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2018.3900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic management of liver fibrosis remains an unresolved clinical problem. The activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) serves a pivotal role in the formation of liver fibrosis. In our previous study, matrix‑assisted laser desorption/ionization time‑of‑flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‑TOF MS) was employed to identify potential serum markers for liver cirrhosis, such as eukaryotic peptide chain releasing factor 3b polypeptide (eRF3b‑37), which was initially confirmed by our group to serve a protective role in liver tissues in a C‑C motif chemokine ligand 4‑induced liver cirrhosis mouse model. Therefore, eRF3b‑37 was hypothesized to affect the activation state of HSCs, which was determined by the expression of pro‑fibrogenic associated factors in HSCs. In the present study, peptide synthesis technology was employed to elucidate the role of eRF3b‑37 in the expression of pro‑fibrogenic factors induced by transforming growth factor‑β1 (TGF‑β1) in LX‑2 cells that were treated with either control, TGF‑β1 and TGF‑β1+eRF3b‑37. 3‑(4,5‑Dimethyl‑2‑thiazolyl)‑2,5‑diphenyltetrazolium bromide and flow cytometric assays, and fluorescent microscope examinations were performed to evaluate the effects of eRF3b‑37 on proliferation viability, G0/G1 arrest, apoptosis and cell migration. The results of the present study indicated that eRF3b‑37 inhibited the activation of HSCs. The increased mRNA and protein expression of the pro‑fibrogenic factors collagen I, connective tissue growth factor and α‑smooth muscle actin (SMA) stimulated by TGF‑β1 were reduced by eRF3b‑37 via the following mechanisms: i) Inhibiting LX‑2 cell proliferation, leading to G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and inhibition of DNA synthesis by downregulating the mRNA expressions of Cyclin D1 and cyclin dependent kinase‑4, and upregulating the levels of P21; ii) increasing cell apoptosis by upregulating the mRNA level of B‑cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl‑2)‑associated X protein (Bax) and Fas, and downregulating the expression of Bcl‑2; and iii) reducing cell migration by downregulating the mRNA and protein expression of α‑SMA. In addition, eRF3b‑37 is thought to serve a role in HSCs by inhibiting TGF‑β signaling. Therefore, eRF3b‑37 may be a novel therapeutic agent for targeting HSCs for hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengrong Xu
- Department of Epidemiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050017, P.R. China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Epidemiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050017, P.R. China
| | - Man Li
- Department of Epidemiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050017, P.R. China
| | - Lei Yang
- Department of Epidemiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050017, P.R. China
| | - Rudan Xiao
- Department of Epidemiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050017, P.R. China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050017, P.R. China
| | - Xin Chi
- Department of Epidemiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050017, P.R. China
| | - Dianwu Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050017, P.R. China
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18
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Dropmann A, Dediulia T, Breitkopf-Heinlein K, Korhonen H, Janicot M, Weber SN, Thomas M, Piiper A, Bertran E, Fabregat I, Abshagen K, Hess J, Angel P, Coulouarn C, Dooley S, Meindl-Beinker NM. TGF-β1 and TGF-β2 abundance in liver diseases of mice and men. Oncotarget 2017; 7:19499-518. [PMID: 26799667 PMCID: PMC4991397 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.6967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
TGF-β1 is a major player in chronic liver diseases promoting fibrogenesis and tumorigenesis through various mechanisms. The expression and function of TGF-β2 have not been investigated thoroughly in liver disease to date. In this paper, we provide evidence that TGF-β2 expression correlates with fibrogenesis and liver cancer development. Using quantitative realtime PCR and ELISA, we show that TGF-β2 mRNA expression and secretion increased in murine HSCs and hepatocytes over time in culture and were found in the human-derived HSC cell line LX-2. TGF-β2 stimulation of the LX-2 cells led to upregulation of the TGF-β receptors 1, 2, and 3, whereas TGF-β1 treatment did not alter or decrease their expression. In liver regeneration and fibrosis upon CCl4 challenge, the transient increase of TGF-β2 expression was accompanied by TGF-β1 and collagen expression. In bile duct ligation-induced fibrosis, TGF-β2 upregulation correlated with fibrotic markers and was more prominent than TGF-β1 expression. Accordingly, MDR2-KO mice showed significant TGF-β2 upregulation within 3 to 15 months but minor TGF-β1 expression changes. In 5 of 8 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)/hepatoblastoma cell lines, relatively high TGF-β2 expression and secretion were observed, with some cell lines even secreting more TGF-β2 than TGF-β1. TGF-β2 was also upregulated in tumors of TGFα/cMyc and DEN-treated mice. The analysis of publically available microarray data of 13 human HCC collectives revealed considerable upregulation of TGF-β2 as compared to normal liver. Our study demonstrates upregulation of TGF-β2 in liver disease and suggests TGF-β2 as a promising therapeutic target for tackling fibrosis and HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Dropmann
- Molecular Hepatology, Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tatjana Dediulia
- Molecular Hepatology, Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Katja Breitkopf-Heinlein
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | - Susanne N Weber
- Department of Medicine II, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Germany
| | - Maria Thomas
- Dr. Margarete Fischer-Bosch Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Stuttgart, Germany.,University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Albrecht Piiper
- Medizinische Klinik 1, Klinikum der Johann Wolfgang Goethe-Universität, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Esther Bertran
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and University of Barcelona L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isabel Fabregat
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and University of Barcelona L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Kerstin Abshagen
- Institute for Experimental Surgery, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
| | - Jochen Hess
- Research Group Molecular Mechanisms of Head and Neck Tumors, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Section Experimental and Translational Head and Neck Oncology, Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Angel
- Division of Signal Transduction and Growth Control, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Cédric Coulouarn
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale UMR991, University of Rennes, Pontchaillou University Hospital, Rennes, France
| | - Steven Dooley
- Molecular Hepatology, Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nadja M Meindl-Beinker
- Molecular Hepatology, Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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19
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Pervan CL. Smad-independent TGF-β2 signaling pathways in human trabecular meshwork cells. Exp Eye Res 2016; 158:137-145. [PMID: 27453344 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2016.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Revised: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant expression and signaling of Transforming Growth Factor (TGF)-β is strongly associated with development of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). In cells of the trabecular meshwork, a key component of the conventional outflow pathway, TGF-β is well-known to promote expression of multiple ocular hypertensive mediators, including genes associated with fibrosis as well as cellular contractility. These effects are mediated by induction of canonical (Smad) as well as non-canonical (MAPK, Rho GTPase) signaling cascades. In the present review, we will highlight the non-canonical, Smad-independent signaling pathways activated by TGF-β2 in human TM cells, as well as the genes known to be induced by non-canonical TGF-β2 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia L Pervan
- Research Service (151), Department of Veterans Affairs, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, IL, 60141, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA.
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20
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Feng Y, Ying HY, Qu Y, Cai XB, Xu MY, Lu LG. Novel matrine derivative MD-1 attenuates hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting EGFR activation of hepatic stellate cells. Protein Cell 2016; 7:662-72. [PMID: 27342773 PMCID: PMC5003784 DOI: 10.1007/s13238-016-0285-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Matrine (MT), the effective component of Sophora flavescens Ait, has been shown to have anti-inflammation, immune-suppressive, anti-tumor, and anti-hepatic fibrosis activities. However, the pharmacological effects of MT still need to be strengthened due to its relatively low efficacy and short half-life. In the present study, we report a more effective thio derivative of MT, MD-1, and its inhibitory effects on the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) in both cell culture and animal models. Cytological experiments showed that MD-1 can inhibit the proliferation of HSC-T6 cells with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 62 μmol/L. In addition, MD-1 more strongly inhibits the migration of HSC-T6 cells compared to MT and can more effectively induce G0/G1 arrest and apoptosis. Investigating the biological mechanisms underlying anti-hepatic fibrosis in the presence of MD-1, we found that MD-1 can bind the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) on the surface of HSC-T6 cells, which can further inhibit the phosphorylation of EGFR and its downstream protein kinase B (Akt), resulting in decreased expression of cyclin D1 and eventual inhibition of the activation of HSC-T6 cells. Furthermore, in rats with dimethylnitrosamine (DMN)-induced hepatic fibrosis, MD-1 slowed the development and progression of hepatic fibrosis, protecting hepatic parenchymal cells and improving hepatic functions. Therefore, MD-1 is a potential drug for anti-hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Feng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai, 200080, China.
| | - Hai-Yan Ying
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Ying Qu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Xiao-Bo Cai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Ming-Yi Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Lun-Gen Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai, 200080, China.
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21
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Shimada S, Wakayama K, Fukai M, Shimamura T, Ishikawa T, Fukumori D, Shibata M, Yamashita K, Kimura T, Todo S, Ohsawa I, Taketomi A. Hydrogen Gas Ameliorates Hepatic Reperfusion Injury After Prolonged Cold Preservation in Isolated Perfused Rat Liver. Artif Organs 2016; 40:1128-1136. [PMID: 27140066 DOI: 10.1111/aor.12710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Revised: 12/30/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hydrogen gas reduces ischemia and reperfusion injury (IRI) in the liver and other organs. However, the precise mechanism remains elusive. We investigated whether hydrogen gas ameliorated hepatic I/R injury after cold preservation. Rat liver was subjected to 48-h cold storage in University of Wisconsin solution. The graft was reperfused with oxygenated buffer with or without hydrogen at 37° for 90 min on an isolated perfusion apparatus, comprising the H2 (+) and H2 (-) groups, respectively. In the control group (CT), grafts were reperfused immediately without preservation. Graft function, injury, and circulatory status were assessed throughout the perfusion. Tissue samples at the end of perfusion were collected to determine histopathology, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. In the H2 (-) group, IRI was indicated by a higher aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) leakage, portal resistance, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine-positive cell rate, apoptotic index, and endothelial endothelin-1 expression, together with reduced bile production, oxygen consumption, and GSH/GSSG ratio (vs. CT). In the H2 (+) group, these harmful changes were significantly suppressed [vs. H2 (-)]. Hydrogen gas reduced hepatic reperfusion injury after prolonged cold preservation via the maintenance of portal flow, by protecting mitochondrial function during the early phase of reperfusion, and via the suppression of oxidative stress and inflammatory cascades thereafter.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Moto Fukai
- Transplant Surgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Tsuyoshi Shimamura
- Central Clinical Facilities, Division of Organ Transplantation, Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | | | - Daisuke Fukumori
- Department of Surgical Gastroenterology and Transplantation, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maki Shibata
- Department of Biological Process of Aging, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Itabashi, Tokyo
| | | | - Taichi Kimura
- Laboratory of Cancer Research, Department of Pathology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido
| | - Satoru Todo
- St. Maria Hospital Laboratory, Kurume, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Ikuroh Ohsawa
- Department of Biological Process of Aging, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Itabashi, Tokyo
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22
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Pervan CL, Lautz JD, Blitzer AL, Langert KA, Stubbs EB. Rho GTPase signaling promotes constitutive expression and release of TGF-β2 by human trabecular meshwork cells. Exp Eye Res 2016; 146:95-102. [PMID: 26743044 PMCID: PMC4893883 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2015.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Revised: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 12/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is causally implicated in the pathophysiology of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). The molecular mechanisms responsible for elevated IOP remain elusive, but may involve aberrant expression and signaling of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β2 within the trabecular meshwork (TM). Consistent with previously published studies, we show here that exogenous addition of TGF-β2 to cultured porcine anterior segments significantly attenuates outflow facility in a time-dependent manner. By comparison, perfusing segments with a TGFβRI/ALK-5 antagonist (SB-431542) unexpectedly elicited a significant and sustained increase in outflow facility, implicating a role for TM-localized constitutive expression and release of TGF-β2. Consistent with this thesis, cultured primary or transformed (GTM3) quiescent human TM cells were found to constitutively express and secrete measurable amounts of biologically-active TGF-β2. Disrupting monomeric GTPase post-translational prenylation and activation with lovastatin or GGTI-298 markedly reduced constitutive TGF-β2 expression and release. Specifically, inhibiting the Rho subfamily of GTPases with C3 exoenzyme similarly reduced constitutive expression and secretion of TGF-β2. These findings suggest that Rho GTPase signaling, in part, regulates constitutive expression and release of biologically-active TGF-β2 from human TM cells. Localized constitutive expression and release of TGF-β2 by TM cells may promote or exacerbate elevation of IOP in POAG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia L Pervan
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, IL, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA.
| | - Jonathan D Lautz
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, IL, USA; Program in Neuroscience, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Andrea L Blitzer
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, IL, USA; Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Kelly A Langert
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, IL, USA
| | - Evan B Stubbs
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, IL, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA; Program in Neuroscience, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA
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23
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NS5ATP9 suppresses activation of human hepatic stellate cells, possibly via inhibition of Smad3/phosphorylated-Smad3 expression. Inflammation 2015; 38:278-89. [PMID: 25300817 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-014-0031-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Activation of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) is the central event in liver fibrosis. NS5ATP9 is related to many malignant tumors, but little is known about its function in HSC activation. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of NS5ATP9 in HSC activation in vitro. Genes related to liver fibrosis were detected after NS5ATP9 overexpression or silencing with or without transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 stimulation in the human HSCs by real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. Cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis were tested, and the mechanisms underlying the effect of NS5ATP9 on HSC activation were studied. We showed that NS5ATP9 suppressed HSC activation and collagen production, with or without TGF-β1 induction. Also, NS5ATP9 inhibited cell proliferation and migration and promoted apoptosis. Furthermore, NS5ATP9 reduced basal and TGF-β1-mediated Smad3/phosphorylated-Smad3 expression. The existence of a physical complex between NS5ATP9 and Smad3 was illustrated. NS5ATP9 suppresses HSC activation, extracellular matrix production, and promotes apoptosis, in part through reducing Smad3/phosphorylated-Smad3 expression.
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Roy S, Benz F, Vargas Cardenas D, Vucur M, Gautheron J, Schneider A, Hellerbrand C, Pottier N, Alder J, Tacke F, Trautwein C, Roderburg C, Luedde T. miR-30c and miR-193 are a part of the TGF-β-dependent regulatory network controlling extracellular matrix genes in liver fibrosis. J Dig Dis 2015; 16:513-24. [PMID: 26120970 DOI: 10.1111/1751-2980.12266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have recently emerged as novel regulators in liver fibrosis. miR-30c and miR-193 are involved in fibrotic remodeling processes and cancer development, respectively. This study aimed to explore the role of miR-30c and miR-193 in liver fibrosis. METHODS The regulation of miRNAs in carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis was analyzed by microarray. Expression patterns of miR-193 and miR-30c were further confirmed in fibrotic liver samples obtained from two murine models of hepatic fibrosis and human tissues. On a functional level, miRNA levels were analyzed in the context of transforming growth factor (TGF-β) mediated activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Finally, predicted targets were assessed for their roles in fibrosis by transfecting murine HSCs with miRNA mimics. RESULTS Microarray analysis in murine fibrotic livers revealed a panel of 44 dysregulated miRNAs. In addition to previously established miRNAs known to be regulated in liver fibrosis in a TGF-β-dependent manner (e.g., miR-29, miR-133), miR-193 and miR-30c were observed to be specifically downregulated not only in experimental hepatofibrogenesis but also in human liver fibrosis, while they showed a reciprocal expression pattern after recovery from liver fibrosis. Functional experiments confirmed the TGF-β-dependent downregulation of these respective new miRNAs in HSCs. Finally, we identified TGF-β2 and SNAIL1, important regulators of extracellular matrix, as potential target genes of miR-193 and miR-30 in liver fibrosis. CONCLUSION These results suggest that miR-30 and miR-193 are members of a network of miRNAs modifying the TGF-β-dependent regulation of extracellular matrix-related genes in HSCs in the manifestation and resolution of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanchari Roy
- Department of Medicine III, University of Aachen (RWTH), Aachen, Germany
| | - Fabian Benz
- Department of Medicine III, University of Aachen (RWTH), Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Mihael Vucur
- Department of Medicine III, University of Aachen (RWTH), Aachen, Germany
| | - Jeremie Gautheron
- Department of Medicine III, University of Aachen (RWTH), Aachen, Germany
| | - Anne Schneider
- Department of Medicine III, University of Aachen (RWTH), Aachen, Germany
| | - Claus Hellerbrand
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Nicolas Pottier
- EA4483, Faculté de Médecine de Lille, Pole Recherche, Lille, France
| | - Jan Alder
- Department of Medicine III, University of Aachen (RWTH), Aachen, Germany
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Medicine III, University of Aachen (RWTH), Aachen, Germany
| | | | | | - Tom Luedde
- Department of Medicine III, University of Aachen (RWTH), Aachen, Germany
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25
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Wereszczynka-Siemiatkowska U, Swidnicka-Siergiejko A, Siemiatkowski A, Bondyra Z, Wasielica-Berger J, Mroczko B, Janica J, Dabrowski A. Endothelin 1 and transforming growth factor-β1 correlate with liver function and portal pressure in cirrhotic patients. Cytokine 2015; 76:144-151. [PMID: 26144293 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2015.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Revised: 05/13/2015] [Accepted: 05/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The invasive measurement of hepatic venous pressure gradient is the recommended method for the assessment of portal hypertension. We assessed if the mediators that regulate portal hypertension may be used as noninvasive markers of portal hypertension and liver insufficiency. MATERIALS AND METHODS We explored in prospective, observational study the concentration of endothelin-1, nitric oxide, and transforming growth factor-β1/2 in peripheral and hepatic venous blood; their relationship with the values of portal hypertension and liver insufficiency; and their level changes 4-6 months after non-selective beta-blocker therapy in cirrhotic patients with non-bleeding esophageal varices. RESULTS (1) Cirrhotics have significantly increased peripheral endothelin 1 and decreased transforming growth factor-β1 levels; (2) peripheral levels of all factors correlated significantly with their hepatic levels; (3) after therapy, peripheral endothelin-1 levels significantly increased, but transforming growth factor-β2 levels decreased and were lower in patients with pressure gradient value normalization; (4) before and after therapy, peripheral and hepatic endothelin-1, transforming growth factor-β1/2 levels correlated significantly with liver failure indicators (laboratory parameters, Child-Pough and MELD scores) and pressure gradient values. CONCLUSIONS Peripheral endothelin-1 and transforming growth factor-β1 levels, which strongly correlate with their hepatic levels, reflect the stage of portal hypertension and liver insufficiency in cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urszula Wereszczynka-Siemiatkowska
- Department of Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Curie-Sklodowskiej 24a, 15276 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Swidnicka-Siergiejko
- Department of Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Curie-Sklodowskiej 24a, 15276 Bialystok, Poland.
| | - Andrzej Siemiatkowski
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Therapy, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Curie-Sklodowskiej 24a, 15276 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Zofia Bondyra
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Curie-Sklodowskiej 24a, 15276 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Justyna Wasielica-Berger
- Department of Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Curie-Sklodowskiej 24a, 15276 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Barbara Mroczko
- Department of Neurodegeneration Diagnostics, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Curie-Sklodowskiej 24a, 15276 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Jacek Janica
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Curie-Sklodowskiej 24a, 15276 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Andrzej Dabrowski
- Department of Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Curie-Sklodowskiej 24a, 15276 Bialystok, Poland
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26
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Anti-fibrotic effects of Kyungheechunggan-tang on activated hepatic stellate cells and rat liver. Mol Cell Toxicol 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s13273-014-0046-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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27
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Song J, Ge Z, Yang X, Luo Q, Wang C, You H, Ge T, Deng Y, Lin H, Cui Y, Chu W, Yao M, Zhang Z, Gu J, Fan J, Qin W. Hepatic stellate cells activated by acidic tumor microenvironment promote the metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma via osteopontin. Cancer Lett 2014; 356:713-20. [PMID: 25449435 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2014.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2014] [Revised: 10/21/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular pH of solid tumor is generally acidic due to excessive glycolysis and poor perfusion. But whether acidic tumor microenvironment influenced the stromal cells infiltrating in tumor remains unknown. As the predominant progenitor of stromal cells in liver, the number of activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) was found positively correlated to the acidification level in the tumor tissues of HCC patients in our study. Whereas, in vitro acidic culture condition and in vivo co-implanting xenograft model were adopted to study the response of HSCs and its influence on HCC progression. HSCs were activated under acidic culture condition depending on the phosphorylation of cellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Acidity-activated HSCs promoted HCC metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Osteopontin (OPN) excretion from HSCs was increased under acidic condition and proved to promote the migration of HCC cells. Furthermore, the expression level of OPN was significantly associated with myofibroblasts and the combination of α-SMA with OPN was a powerful predictor for poor prognosis of HCC patients. Activation of HSCs in acidic tumor microenvironment represents a novel mechanism for HCC metastasis and provides a potential therapeutic strategy for HCC.
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MESH Headings
- Acids/chemistry
- Animals
- Biomarkers, Tumor/genetics
- Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism
- Blotting, Western
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/mortality
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/secondary
- Cell Movement
- Cell Proliferation
- Culture Media, Conditioned/pharmacology
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
- Female
- Fluorescent Antibody Technique
- Gene Expression Profiling
- Hepatic Stellate Cells/metabolism
- Hepatic Stellate Cells/pathology
- Humans
- Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
- Immunoenzyme Techniques
- Liver Neoplasms/metabolism
- Liver Neoplasms/mortality
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Mice, Nude
- Myofibroblasts/metabolism
- Myofibroblasts/pathology
- Osteopontin/genetics
- Osteopontin/metabolism
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
- Tumor Microenvironment
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Song
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 25/Ln 2200 Xie-Tu Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhouhong Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 25/Ln 2200 Xie-Tu Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xinrong Yang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Key Laboratory for Carcinogenesis & Cancer Invasion, the Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Qin Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 25/Ln 2200 Xie-Tu Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Cun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 25/Ln 2200 Xie-Tu Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Haiyan You
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 25/Ln 2200 Xie-Tu Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Tianxiang Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 25/Ln 2200 Xie-Tu Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yun Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 25/Ln 2200 Xie-Tu Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hechun Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 25/Ln 2200 Xie-Tu Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yongqi Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 25/Ln 2200 Xie-Tu Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wei Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 25/Ln 2200 Xie-Tu Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ming Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 25/Ln 2200 Xie-Tu Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhigang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 25/Ln 2200 Xie-Tu Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jianren Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 25/Ln 2200 Xie-Tu Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jia Fan
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Key Laboratory for Carcinogenesis & Cancer Invasion, the Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Wenxin Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 25/Ln 2200 Xie-Tu Road, Shanghai 200032, China.
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Zhang F, Kong D, Chen L, Zhang X, Lian N, Zhu X, Lu Y, Zheng S. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ interrupts angiogenic signal transduction by transrepression of platelet-derived growth factor-β receptor in hepatic stellate cells. J Cell Sci 2013; 127:305-14. [PMID: 24259663 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.128306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are liver-specific pericytes that are recruited to vessels and secret pro-angiogenic cytokines, and thus actively involved in pathological vascularization during liver fibrosis. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) is a switch molecule controlling HSC activation. We investigated PPARγ regulation of angiogenic signal transduction and the molecular mechanisms involved in HSCs. Primary rat HSCs and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) were isolated and used in this study. Boyden chamber and tubulogenesis assays, identified that focal adhesion kinase (FAK)-RhoA signaling activated by platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) was required for HSC motility and the associated vascularization. PDGF also stimulated vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and HSC-driven vascularization through signals mediated by extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Gain- and loss-of-function analyses demonstrated that activation of PPARγ interrupted FAK-RhoA, ERK and mTOR cascades and inhibited HSC-based vascularization. Molecular evidence further revealed that PPARγ attenuation of HSC angiogenic properties was dependent on inhibition of PDGF-β receptor expression. We concluded that PPARγ inhibited angiogenic signal transduction through transrepression of PDGF-β receptor leading to reduced HSC motility, reduced VEGF expression, and thereby attenuated HSC-driven angiogenesis. PPARγ could be a molecular target for preventing vascular remolding in hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
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29
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Sun X, He Y, Ma TT, Huang C, Zhang L, Li J. Participation of miR-200a in TGF-β1-mediated hepatic stellate cell activation. Mol Cell Biochem 2013; 388:11-23. [PMID: 24242045 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-013-1895-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2013] [Accepted: 11/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation is a pivotal event in the initiation and progression of hepatic fibrosis since it mediates transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1)-driven extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNAs modulating messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression, have emerged as key factors to regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Although the function of miR-200a has been discussed in many cancers and fibrotic diseases, its role in hepatic fibrosis is still poorly understood. The aim of this study is to investigate whether miR-200a could attenuate hepatic fibrosis partly through Wnt/β-catenin and TGF-β-dependant mechanisms. Our study found that the expression of endogenous miR-200a was decreased in vitro in TGF-β1-induced HSC activation as well as in vivo in CCl4-induced rat liver fibrosis. Overexpression of miR-200a significantly inhibited α-SMA activity and further affected the proliferation of TGF-β1-dependent activation of HSC. In addition, we identified β-catenin and TGF-β2 as two functional downstream targets for miR-200a. Interestingly, miR-200a specifically suppressed β-catenin in the protein level, whereas miR-200a-mediated suppression of TGF-β2 was shown on both mRNA and protein levels. Our results revealed the critical regulatory role of miR-200a in HSC activation and implied miR-200a as a potential candidate for therapy by deregulation of Wnt/β-catenin and TGFβ signaling pathways, at least in part, via decreasing the expression of β-catenin and TGF-β2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Bioactivity of Natural Products, Anhui Medical University, Mei Shan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, People's Republic of China
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30
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Venkatraman L, Tucker-Kellogg L. The CD47-binding peptide of thrombospondin-1 induces defenestration of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells. Liver Int 2013; 33:1386-97. [PMID: 23799952 PMCID: PMC4285809 DOI: 10.1111/liv.12231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2013] [Accepted: 05/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS A fenestrated phenotype is characteristic of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), but liver sinusoids become defenestrated during fibrosis and other liver diseases. Thrombospondin-1 (TSP1) is a matrix glycoprotein with pro-fibrotic effects, and the CD47-binding fragment of TSP1 also has anti-angiogenic effects in endothelial cells. We hypothesized that the CD47-binding fragment of TSP1 could induce defenestration in LSECs through the Rho-Rho kinase (ROCK)-myosin pathway. METHODS Freshly isolated rat LSECs were treated with TSP1 or CD47-binding peptides of TSP1. LSEC fenestration was assessed with scanning electron microscopy, and myosin phosphorylation was assessed with immuno-fluorescence. RESULTS Treating LSECs with TSP1 caused a dose-dependent loss of fenestrae, and this effect could not be blocked by SB-431542, the TGF-β1 receptor inhibitor. A CD47-binding fragment of TSP1, p4N1, was able to induce defenestration, and a CD47-blocking antibody, B6H12, was able to suppress p4N1-induced defenestration. The p4N1 fragment also caused contraction of fenestra size, correlated with an increase in myosin activation. Pretreatment with Y-237642 (a ROCK inhibitor) prevented p4N1-induced myosin activation and fenestrae decrease. Simvastatin has also been shown to antagonize Rho-ROCK signalling, and we found that simvastatin pretreatment protected LSECs from p4N1-induced myosin activation and defenestration. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that CD47 signals through the Rho-ROCK-myosin pathway to induce defenestration in LSECs. In addition, our results show that simvastatin and Y-237642 have a beneficial impact on fenestration in vitro, providing an additional explanation for the efficacy of these compounds for regression of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lisa Tucker-Kellogg
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of SingaporeSingapore,Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, State University of New York at Stony BrookNew York, NY, USA,Singapore-MIT Alliance, National University of SingaporeSingapore
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31
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Wang Q, Wang LX, Zeng JP, Liu XJ, Liang XM, Zhou YB. Histone demethylase retinoblastoma binding protein 2 regulates the expression of α-smooth muscle actin and vimentin in cirrhotic livers. Braz J Med Biol Res 2013; 46:739-45. [PMID: 24068189 PMCID: PMC3854431 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x20132843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2012] [Accepted: 05/17/2013] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis is one of the most common diseases of Chinese patients. Herein,
we report the high expression of a newly identified histone 3 lysine 4
demethylase, retinoblastoma binding protein 2 (RBP2), and its role in liver
cirrhosis in humans. The siRNA knockdown of RBP2 expression in hepatic stellate
cells (HSCs) reduced levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and vimentin and
decreased the proliferation of HSCs; and overexpression of RBP2 increased α-SMA
and vimentin levels. Treatment with transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)
upregulated the expression of RBP2, α-SMA, and vimentin, and the siRNA knockdown
of RBP2 expression attenuated TGF-β-mediated upregulation of α-SMA and vimentin
expression and HSC proliferation. Furthermore, RBP2 was highly expressed in
cirrhotic rat livers. Therefore, RBP2 may participate in the pathogenesis of
liver cirrhosis by regulating the expression of α-SMA and vimentin. RBP2 may be
a useful marker for the diagnosis and treatment of liver cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q Wang
- Shandong University, Department of Microbiology, Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of the Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Jinan, China
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Staten NR, Welsh EA, Sidik K, McDonald SA, Dufield DR, Maqsodi B, Ma Y, McMaster GK, Mathews RW, Arch RH, Masferrer JL, Souberbielle BE. Multiplex transcriptional analysis of paraffin-embedded liver needle biopsy from patients with liver fibrosis. FIBROGENESIS & TISSUE REPAIR 2012; 5:21. [PMID: 23270325 PMCID: PMC3564743 DOI: 10.1186/1755-1536-5-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2012] [Accepted: 12/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Background The possibility of extracting RNA and measuring RNA expression from paraffin sections can allow extensive investigations on stored paraffin samples obtained from diseased livers and could help with studies of the natural history of liver fibrosis and inflammation, and in particular, correlate basic mechanisms to clinical outcomes. Results To address this issue, a pilot study of multiplex gene expression using branched-chain DNA technology was conducted to directly measure mRNA expression in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded needle biopsy samples of human liver. Twenty-five genes were selected for evaluation based on evidence obtained from human fibrotic liver, a rat BDL model and in vitro cultures of immortalized human hepatic stellate cells. The expression levels of these 25 genes were then correlated with liver fibrosis and inflammation activity scores. Statistical analysis revealed that three genes (COL3A1, KRT18, and TUBB) could separate fibrotic from non-fibrotic samples and that the expression of ten genes (ANXA2, TIMP1, CTGF, COL4A1, KRT18, COL1A1, COL3A1, ACTA2, TGFB1, LOXL2) were positively correlated with the level of liver inflammation activity. Conclusion This is the first report describing this multiplex technique for liver fibrosis and has provided the proof of concept of the suitability of RNA extracted from paraffin sections for investigating the modulation of a panel of proinflammatory and profibrogenic genes. This pilot study suggests that this technique will allow extensive investigations on paraffin samples from diseased livers and possibly from any other tissue. Using identical or other genes, this multiplex expression technique could be applied to samples obtained from extensive patient cohorts with stored paraffin samples in order to correlate gene expression with valuable clinically relevant information. This method could be used to provide a better understanding of the mechanisms of liver fibrosis and inflammation, its progression, and help development of new therapeutic approaches for this indication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas R Staten
- Pfizer Global Research & Development, 700 Chesterfield Parkway West, Chesterfield, MO, 63017, USA.
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Zhang DW, Zhao YX, Wei D, Li YL, Zhang Y, Wu J, Xu J, Chen C, Tang H, Zhang W, Gong L, Han Y, Chen ZN, Bian H. HAb18G/CD147 promotes activation of hepatic stellate cells and is a target for antibody therapy of liver fibrosis. J Hepatol 2012; 57:1283-91. [PMID: 22878468 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2012.07.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2012] [Revised: 07/23/2012] [Accepted: 07/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) located in the Disse's space play a crucial role in liver fibrosis. HAb18G/CD147, a tumor-related glycoprotein, is highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma cells and fibroblasts. Whether HAb18G/CD147 plays an important role in the hepatic fibrogenesis is unknown. METHODS Immunohistochemistry for HAb18G/CD147 and α-smooth muscle actin expression in diseased liver tissues was used for correlation analysis. The function of HAb18G/CD147 in fibrogenesis was evaluated with the human HSCs LX-2 cell line and carbon tetrachloride-induced mouse liver fibrosis model. The specific antibody HAb18 targeting HAb18G/CD147 was injected intravenously into the mouse to investigate whether HAb18G/CD147 could be a potential target for liver fibrosis treatment. RESULTS HAb18G/CD147 is highly expressed on activated HSCs in the sinusoid. The positive rates of HAb18G/CD147 expression in human HBV-related liver cirrhosis, liver biopsy with HBV and liver adjacent to hemangioma were 95.6% (65/68), 14.8% (8/54) and 6.4% (8/125), respectively. HAb18G/CD147 expression was significantly correlated with the Child-Pugh grade (r=0.2848, p=0.0186) and with the expression of α-smooth muscle actin in HSCs (r=0.4434, p=0.0002) in liver cirrhosis. Transforming growth factor-β1 upregulated HAb18G/CD147 expression in LX-2 cells. Transfection of HAb18G/CD147 promoted the profibrogenic genes expression. In mouse liver fibrosis model, HAb18G/CD147 expression increased with the development of fibrogenesis and decreased during the liver fibrosis spontaneous recovery. The HAb18 targeting HAb18G/CD147 could attenuate liver fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that HAb18G/CD147 plays a role in HSC activation and is a potential therapeutic target in fibrosis/cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da-Wei Zhang
- Cell Engineering Research Center and Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Rasmussen AL, Wang IM, Shuhart MC, Proll SC, He Y, Cristescu R, Roberts C, Carter VS, Williams CM, Diamond DL, Bryan JT, Ulrich R, Korth MJ, Thomassen LV, Katze MG. Chronic immune activation is a distinguishing feature of liver and PBMC gene signatures from HCV/HIV coinfected patients and may contribute to hepatic fibrogenesis. Virology 2012; 430:43-52. [PMID: 22608059 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2012.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2012] [Revised: 04/06/2012] [Accepted: 04/17/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus/human immunodeficiency virus (HCV/HIV) coinfected patients demonstrate accelerated progression to severe liver injury in comparison to HCV monoinfected patients, although the underlying mechanisms are unclear owing to infection of separate tissue compartments with two distinct viral pathogens. Microarray analysis of paired liver biopsy and peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) specimens from HCV/HIV coinfected and HCV monoinfected patients identified a gene expression signature associated with increased inflammation and immune activation that was present only in liver and PBMC samples from coinfected patients. We also identified in these samples liver- and PBMC-specific signatures enriched with fibrogenic/hepatic stellate activation and proinflammatory genes, respectively. Finally, Bayesian networks were constructed by assimilating these data with existing data from liver and PBMC samples from other cohorts, augmenting enrichment of biologically important pathways and further indicating that chronic immune activation in HCV/HIV coinfection may exacerbate liver disease progression in coinfected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela L Rasmussen
- Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Box 358070, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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A nanofiber membrane maintains the quiescent phenotype of hepatic stellate cells. Dig Dis Sci 2012; 57:1152-62. [PMID: 22359192 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-012-2084-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2011] [Accepted: 02/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) play a major role in the progression of liver fibrosis. AIM The aim of our study was to investigate whether rat HSC cultured on a nanofiber membrane (NM) retain their quiescent phenotype during both short- and long-term culture and whether activated HSC revert to a quiescent form when re-cultured on NM. METHODS Rat HSC cultured for 1 day on plastic plates (PP) were used as quiescent HSC, while cells cultured for 1 week on PP were considered to be activated HSC. Quiescent or activated HSC were subsequently plated on PP or NM and cultured for an additional 4 days at which time their gene expression, stress fiber development, and growth factor production were determined. For long-term culture, HSC were grown on NM for 20 days and the cells then replated on PP and cultured for another 10 days. RESULTS Expression of marker genes for HSC activation, stress fiber development, and growth factor production were significantly lower in both quiescent and activated HSC cultured on NM than in those cultured on PP. After long-term culture on NM, activation marker gene expression and stress fiber development were still significantly lower in HSC than in PP, and HSC still retained the ability to activate when replated onto PP. CONCLUSIONS HSC cultured on NM retained quiescent characteristics after both short- and long-term culture while activated HSC reverted toward a quiescent state when cultured on NM. Cultures of HSC grown on NM are a useful in vitro model to investigate the mechanisms of activation and deactivation.
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Chen HY, Wang XZ, Chen ZX. Expression of the hepatitis B virus X gene in liver cells promotes the proliferation and migration of co-cultured hepatic stellate cells. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2012; 20:721-728. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v20.i9.721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To determine whether the hepatitis B virus X (HBV X) gene is involved in the pathogenesis of hepatitis B-related cirrhosis.
METHODS: A eukaryotic expression vector containing the HBV X gene (pHBV-X-IRES2-EGFP) was constructed and transfected into HL-7702 cells. The transfected cells were divided into two groups. One group was selected with G418 and named L02/x, which could express the HBV X gene stably, and another group was transfected with pHBV-X-IRES2-EGFP for 48 h and named L02/48x. The expression of HBV X was detected by real-time PCR and Western blot. L02/x and L02/48x cells were then co-cultured with hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) for 36 h, and the proliferation and migration of HSCs were detected.
RESULTS: Real-time PCR and Western blot analyses showed that L02/x and L02/48x cells could express HBV X. Compared to HSCs co-cultured with HL-7702 cells transfected with empty vector and non-transfected cells, the proliferation and migration of HSCs co-cultured with L02/x or L02/48x cells significantly increased.
CONCLUSION: The expression of the HBV X gene in HL-7702 cells could promote the proliferation and migration of HSCs and may play an important role in the pathogenesis of hepatitis B virus-induced liver fibrosis.
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Toma I, McCaffrey TA. Transforming growth factor-β and atherosclerosis: interwoven atherogenic and atheroprotective aspects. Cell Tissue Res 2012; 347:155-75. [PMID: 21626289 PMCID: PMC4915479 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-011-1189-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2011] [Accepted: 05/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Age-related progression of cardiovascular disease is by far the largest health problem in the US and involves vascular damage, progressive vascular fibrosis and the accumulation of lipid-rich atherosclerotic lesions. Advanced lesions can restrict flow to key organs and can trigger occlusive thrombosis resulting in a stroke or myocardial infarction. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) is a major orchestrator of the fibroproliferative response to tissue damage. In the early stages of repair, TGF-β is released from platelets and activated from matrix reservoirs; it then stimulates the chemotaxis of repair cells, modulates immunity and inflammation and induces matrix production. At later stages, it negatively regulates fibrosis through its strong antiproliferative and apoptotic effects on fibrotic cells. In advanced lesions, TGF-β might be important in arterial calcification, commonly referred to as "hardening of the arteries". Because TGF-β can signal through multiple pathways, namely the SMADs, a MAPK pathway and the Rho/ROCK pathways, selective defects in TGF-β signaling can disrupt otherwise coordinated pathways of tissue regeneration. TGF-β is known to control cell proliferation, cell migration, matrix synthesis, wound contraction, calcification and the immune response, all being major components of the atherosclerotic process. However, many of the effects of TGF-β are essential to normal tissue repair and thus, TGF-β is often thought to be "atheroprotective". The present review attempts to parse systematically the known effects of TGF-β on both the major risk factors for atherosclerosis and to isolate the role of TGF-β in the many component pathways involved in atherogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Toma
- Department of Medicine, Division of Genomic Medicine, The George Washington University Medical Center, 2300 I Street NW. Ross Hall 443, Washington DC 20037, USA
| | - Timothy A. McCaffrey
- Department of Medicine, Division of Genomic Medicine, The George Washington University Medical Center, 2300 I Street NW. Ross Hall 443, Washington DC 20037, USA
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Soriano V, Poveda E, Vispo E, Labarga P, Rallón N, Barreiro P. Pharmacogenetics of hepatitis C. J Antimicrob Chemother 2011; 67:523-9. [PMID: 22194301 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkr506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent discoveries have highlighted the influence of host genomics on hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection outcomes. As a result, our views on hepatitis C pathogenesis and therapeutic approaches have been transformed. The recognition of the impact of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the genes interleukin 28B (IL28B), inosine triphosphatase (ITPA) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol receptor (LDLR) may lead to refinements in the pharmacogenomic prediction of antiviral response and drug-related toxicities and favour the discovery of new therapeutic targets for hepatitis C. Although the relevance of host genetics may be less in the setting of very potent new direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), genetic markers may continue to aid decision making regarding the length of therapy. Moreover, in several populations, such as HIV/HCV-coinfected patients, current therapy with peginterferon-α/ribavirin will continue in use for most patients, and thus host factors will retain their predictive value for treatment outcomes for a while.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Soriano
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
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