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Cuño-Gómiz C, de Gregorio E, Tutusaus A, Rider P, Andrés-Sánchez N, Colell A, Morales A, Marí M. Sex-based differences in natural killer T cell-mediated protection against diet-induced steatohepatitis in Balb/c mice. Biol Sex Differ 2023; 14:85. [PMID: 37964320 PMCID: PMC10644614 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-023-00569-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is prevalent in Western countries, evolving into metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) with a sexual dimorphism. Fertile women exhibit lower MASLD risk than men, which diminishes post-menopause. While NKT-cell involvement in steatohepatitis is debated, discrepancies may stem from varied mouse strains used, predominantly C57BL6/J with Th1-dominant responses. Exploration of steatohepatitis, encompassing both genders, using Balb/c background, with Th2-dominant immune response, and CD1d-deficient mice in the Balb/c background (lacking Type I and Type II NKT cells) can clarify gender disparities and NKT-cell influence on MASH progression. METHODS A high fat and choline-deficient (HFCD) diet was used in male and female mice, Balb/c mice or CD1d-/- mice in the Balb/c background that exhibit a Th2-dominant immune response. Liver fibrosis and inflammatory gene expression were measured by qPCR, and histology assessment. NKT cells, T cells, macrophages and neutrophils were assessed by flow cytometry. RESULTS Female mice displayed milder steatohepatitis after 6 weeks of HFCD, showing reduced liver damage, inflammation, and fibrosis compared to males. Male Balb/c mice exhibited NKT-cell protection against steatohepatitis whereas CD1d-/- males on HFCD presented decreased hepatoprotection, increased liver fibrosis, inflammation, neutrophilic infiltration, and inflammatory macrophages. In contrast, the NKT-cell role was negligible in early steatohepatitis development in both female mice, as fibrosis and inflammation were similar despite augmented liver damage in CD1d-/- females. Relevant, hepatic type I NKT levels in female Balb/c mice were significantly lower than in male. CONCLUSIONS NKT cells exert a protective role against experimental steatohepatitis as HFCD-treated CD1d-/- males had more severe fibrosis and inflammation than male Balb/c mice. In females, the HFCD-induced hepatocellular damage and the immune response are less affected by NKT cells on early steatohepatitis progression, underscoring sex-specific NKT-cell influence in MASH development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Cuño-Gómiz
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB, CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Estefanía de Gregorio
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB, CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Tutusaus
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB, CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Patricia Rider
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB, CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nuria Andrés-Sánchez
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of Montpellier (IGMM), University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, 34293, Montpellier, France
| | - Anna Colell
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB, CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Albert Morales
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB, CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Montserrat Marí
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB, CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036, Barcelona, Spain.
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Li J, Zhang Y, Li H, Jiang J, Guo C, Zhou Z, Luo Y, Zhou C, Ming Y. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals a peripheral landscape of immune cells in Schistosomiasis japonica. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:356. [PMID: 37817226 PMCID: PMC10563327 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05975-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis, also known as bilharzia, is a devastating parasitic disease. This progressive and debilitating helminth disease is often associated with poverty and can lead to chronic poor health. Despite ongoing research, there is currently no effective vaccine for schistosomiasis, and praziquantel remains the only available treatment option. According to the progression of schistosomiasis, infections caused by schistosomes are classified into three distinct clinical phases: acute, chronic and advanced schistosomiasis. However, the underlying immune mechanism involved in the progression of schistosomiasis remains poorly understood. METHODS We employed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to profile the immune landscape of Schistosomiasis japonica infection based on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from a healthy control group (n = 4), chronic schistosomiasis group (n = 4) and advanced schistosomiasis group (n = 2). RESULTS Of 89,896 cells, 24 major cell clusters were ultimately included in our analysis. Neutrophils and NK/T cells accounted for the major proportion in the chronic group and the healthy group, and monocytes dominated in the advanced group. A preliminary study showed that NKT cells were increased in patients with schistosomiasis and that CXCR2 + NKT cells were proinflammatory cells. Plasma cells also accounted for a large proportion of B cells in the advanced group. MHC molecules in monocytes were notably lower in the advanced group than in the chronic group or the healthy control group. However, monocytes in the advanced group exhibited high expression of FOLR3 and CCR2. CONCLUSIONS Overall, this study enhances our understanding of the immune mechanisms involved in schistosomiasis. It provides a transcriptional atlas of peripheral immune cells that may contribute to elimination of the disease. This preliminary study suggests that the increased presence of CCR2 + monocyte and CXCR2 + NKT cells might participate in the progression of schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhui Li
- Transplantation Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 138 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Engineering and Technology Research Center for Transplantation Medicine of National Health Commission, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Transplantation Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 138 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Engineering and Technology Research Center for Transplantation Medicine of National Health Commission, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hao Li
- Transplantation Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 138 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Engineering and Technology Research Center for Transplantation Medicine of National Health Commission, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jie Jiang
- Transplantation Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 138 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Engineering and Technology Research Center for Transplantation Medicine of National Health Commission, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chen Guo
- Transplantation Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 138 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Engineering and Technology Research Center for Transplantation Medicine of National Health Commission, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhaoqin Zhou
- Transplantation Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 138 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Engineering and Technology Research Center for Transplantation Medicine of National Health Commission, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yulin Luo
- Transplantation Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 138 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Engineering and Technology Research Center for Transplantation Medicine of National Health Commission, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chen Zhou
- Transplantation Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 138 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Engineering and Technology Research Center for Transplantation Medicine of National Health Commission, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yingzi Ming
- Transplantation Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 138 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
- Engineering and Technology Research Center for Transplantation Medicine of National Health Commission, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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Liu B, Jiang J, Liang H, Xiao P, Lai X, Nie J, Yu W, Gao Y, Wen S. Natural killer T cell/IL-4 signaling promotes bone marrow-derived fibroblast activation and M2 macrophage-to-myofibroblast transition in renal fibrosis. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 98:107907. [PMID: 34243040 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Renal fibrosis is a histological manifestation of chronic kidney disease. Natural killer T (NKT) cells have a critical role in the pathogenesis of fibrotic disorder. However, the role of NKT cells in regulating kidney fibrosis remains largely unknown. In the current study, we showed that the percentages of NKT+ cells and NKT+-IL-4+ cells were notably increased in folic acid (FA) and obstructive nephropathy. CD1d deficiency protected mice from renal fibrosis induced by FA and obstructive injury. Specifically, Loss of CD1d reduced bone marrow-derived myofibroblasts and CD206+/α-smooth muscle actin+ cells in the kidneys of injured mice. But mice treated with α-galactosylceramide (α-GC, a specific activator of NKT cells) developed more severe fibrosis, accumulated more myeloid myofibroblasts and M2 macrophages-myofibroblasts transition (M2MMT) cells in FA injured kidneys. Furthermore, IL-4 expression was markedly reduced in CD1d deficiency mice but increased in α-GC-treated mice. Administration of IL-4 abrogates the inhibiting effect of CD1d deficiency on renal fibrosis, bone marrow-derived fibroblasts activation, and M2MMT in FA injured kidneys. Conversely, pharmacological inhibition of IL-4 attenuated the development of renal fibrosis, decreased bone marrow-derived myofibroblasts, and suppressed M2MMT. Thus, this study revealed a novel role of NKT cells in the bone marrow-derived fibroblasts activation and M2MMT during renal fibrosis. Targeting NKT cell/IL-4 signaling may be an effective treatment for renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benquan Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China; Translational Institute of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China
| | - Jun Jiang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China
| | - Hua Liang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China; Translational Institute of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China.
| | - Ping Xiao
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China
| | - Xiaohong Lai
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China
| | - Jiayi Nie
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China
| | - Wenqiang Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China
| | - Ying Gao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China
| | - Shihong Wen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of SUN YAT-SEN University, Guangzhou 510080, China
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Abstract
TGR5 (G protein-coupled bile acid receptor 1, GPBAR-1) is a G protein-coupled receptor with seven transmembrane domains and is widely distributed in various organs and tissues. As an important bile acid receptor, TGR5 can be activated by primary and secondary bile acids. Increased expression of TGR5 is a risk factor for polycystic liver disease and hepatobiliary cancer. However, there is evidence that the anti-inflammatory effect of the TGR5 receptor and its regulatory effect on hydrophobic bile acid confer protective effects against most liver diseases. Recent studies have shown that TGR5 receptor activation can alleviate the development of diabetic liver fibrosis, regulate the differentiation of natural killer T cells into NKT10 cells, increase the secretion of anti-inflammatory factors, inhibit the invasion of hepatitis B virus, promote white adipose tissue browning, improve arterial vascular dynamics, maintain tight junctions between bile duct cells, and protect against apoptosis. In portal hypertension, TGR5 receptor activation can inhibit the contraction of hepatic stellate cells and improve intrahepatic microcirculation. In addition, the discovery of the regulatory relationship between the TGR5 receptor and miRNA-26a provides a new direction for further studies of the molecular mechanism underlying the effects of TGR5. In this review, we describe recent findings linking TGR5 to various liver diseases, with a focus on the mechanisms underlying its effects and potential therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Ma
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Dan Tang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Chang Yu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Lijin Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
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Tumor Immune Microenvironment and Immunosuppressive Therapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115801. [PMID: 34071550 PMCID: PMC8198390 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 57.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer has the fourth highest mortality rate of all cancers worldwide, with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) being the most prevalent subtype. Despite great advances in systemic therapy, such as molecular-targeted agents, HCC has one of the worst prognoses due to drug resistance and frequent recurrence and metastasis. Recently, new therapeutic strategies such as cancer immunosuppressive therapy have prolonged patients' lives, and the combination of an immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) and VEGF inhibitor is now positioned as the first-line therapy for advanced HCC. Since the efficacy of ICIs depends on the tumor immune microenvironment, it is necessary to elucidate the immune environment of HCC to select appropriate ICIs. In this review, we summarize the findings on the immune microenvironment and immunosuppressive approaches focused on monoclonal antibodies against cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein 4 and programmed cell death protein 1 for HCC. We also describe ongoing treatment modalities, including adoptive cell transfer-based therapies and future areas of exploration based on recent literature. The results of pre-clinical studies using immunological classification and animal models will contribute to the development of biomarkers that predict the efficacy of immunosuppressive therapy and aid in the selection of appropriate strategies for HCC treatment.
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Kisseleva T, Brenner D. Molecular and cellular mechanisms of liver fibrosis and its regression. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 18:151-166. [PMID: 33128017 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-020-00372-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 718] [Impact Index Per Article: 239.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Chronic liver injury leads to liver inflammation and fibrosis, through which activated myofibroblasts in the liver secrete extracellular matrix proteins that generate the fibrous scar. The primary source of these myofibroblasts are the resident hepatic stellate cells. Clinical and experimental liver fibrosis regresses when the causative agent is removed, which is associated with the elimination of these activated myofibroblasts and resorption of the fibrous scar. Understanding the mechanisms of liver fibrosis regression could identify new therapeutic targets to treat liver fibrosis. This Review summarizes studies of the molecular mechanisms underlying the reversibility of liver fibrosis, including apoptosis and the inactivation of hepatic stellate cells, the crosstalk between the liver and the systems that orchestrate the recruitment of bone marrow-derived macrophages (and other inflammatory cells) driving fibrosis resolution, and the interactions between various cell types that lead to the intracellular signalling that induces fibrosis or its regression. We also discuss strategies to target hepatic myofibroblasts (for example, via apoptosis or inactivation) and the myeloid cells that degrade the matrix (for example, via their recruitment to fibrotic liver) to facilitate fibrosis resolution and liver regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Kisseleva
- Department of Surgery, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | - David Brenner
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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Bai X, Wang N, Zhou J, Cui M, Jing X, Liu N. DX5 + NKT cells' increase was correlated with liver damage in FVB mice not in BALB/c mice infected by Clonorchis sinensis. Parasite Immunol 2020; 43:e12796. [PMID: 32984976 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12796] [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: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
AIMS DX5+ NKT cells' distribution and population change in BALB/c and FVB mice infected by C sinensis and their function in liver damage were investigated. METHODS AND RESULTS Mice were infected by Clonorchis sinensis metacercariae, and lymphocytes were isolated from the livers, spleens and peripheral blood. NK, DX5+ NKT, INF-γ+ DX5+ NKT cells and liver fibrosis were analysed. The DX5+ NKT cells displayed the largest amount in normal BALB/c mice liver followed by peripheral blood and spleen. Although the hepatic DX5+ NKT cells of BALB/c mice were more than that of FVB mice, they did not show significant percentage change after C sinensis infection. The hepatic DX5+ NKT cells of FVB mice increased remarkably after infection accompanied with heavier liver injury and fibrosis than the BALB/c mice. And hydroxyproline content was also positively correlated with DX5+ NKT cells only in FVB mice. However, the increase of IFN-γ producing DX5+ NKT cells was lower in FVB mice than in BALB/c mice which showed sharp increase with mild liver damage after infection. The frequencies of anti-fibrotic NK cells were similar in both of the two mouse strains. CONCLUSIONS C sinensis could induce different DX5+ NKT cells responses in different mouse strains which may play roles in liver injury and fibrosis in FVB mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuelian Bai
- Clinical Medicine Laboratory, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, China
| | - Nan Wang
- Clinical Medicine Laboratory, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- Clinical Medicine Laboratory, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, China
| | - Min Cui
- Department of Pediatrics, Binzhou City People's Hospital, Binzhou, China
| | - Xuening Jing
- Department of Immunology, Shandong College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yantai, China
| | - Naiguo Liu
- Clinical Medicine Laboratory, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, China
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Desta YT, Wu M, Bai L, Wu X, Xiong M, Weng X. Mitochondrial-targeted ubiquinone alleviates concanavalin A-induced hepatitis via immune modulation. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 84:106518. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.106518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Zhang M, Zhang S. T Cells in Fibrosis and Fibrotic Diseases. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1142. [PMID: 32676074 PMCID: PMC7333347 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is the extensive deposition of fibrous connective tissue, and it is characterized by the accumulation of collagen and other extracellular matrix (ECM) components. Fibrosis is essential for wound healing and tissue repair in response to a variety of triggers, which include infection, inflammation, autoimmune disorder, degenerative disease, tumor, and injury. Fibrotic remodeling in various diseases, such as liver cirrhosis, pulmonary fibrosis, renal interstitial fibrosis, myocardial infarction, systemic sclerosis (SSc), and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), can impair organ function, causing high morbidity and mortality. Both innate and adaptive immunity are involved in fibrogenesis. Although the roles of macrophages in fibrogenesis have been studied for many years, the underlying mechanisms concerning the manner in which T cells regulate fibrosis are not completely understood. The T cell receptor (TCR) engages the antigen and shapes the repertoire of antigen-specific T cells. Based on the divergent expression of surface molecules and cell functions, T cells are subdivided into natural killer T (NKT) cells, γδ T cells, CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL), regulatory T (Treg) cells, T follicular regulatory (Tfr) cells, and T helper cells, including Th1, Th2, Th9, Th17, Th22, and T follicular helper (Tfh) cells. In this review, we summarize the pro-fibrotic or anti-fibrotic roles and distinct mechanisms of different T cell subsets. On reviewing the literature, we conclude that the T cell regulations are commonly disease-specific and tissue-specific. Finally, we provide perspectives on microbiota, viral infection, and metabolism, and discuss the current advancements of technologies for identifying novel targets and developing immunotherapies for intervention in fibrosis and fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjuan Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Song Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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Liu YT, Lv WL. Research Progress in Astragalus Membranaceus and Its Active Components on Immune Responses in Liver Fibrosis. Chin J Integr Med 2019; 26:794-800. [DOI: 10.1007/s11655-019-3039-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Biagioli M, Carino A, Fiorucci C, Marchianò S, Di Giorgio C, Roselli R, Magro M, Distrutti E, Bereshchenko O, Scarpelli P, Zampella A, Fiorucci S. GPBAR1 Functions as Gatekeeper for Liver NKT Cells and provides Counterregulatory Signals in Mouse Models of Immune-Mediated Hepatitis. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 8:447-473. [PMID: 31226434 PMCID: PMC6718949 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2019.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS GPBAR1, also known as TGR5, is a G protein-coupled receptor activated by bile acids. Hepatic innate immune cells are involved in the immunopathogenesis of human liver diseases and in several murine hepatitis models. Here, by using genetic and pharmacological approaches, we provide evidence that GPBAR1 ligation attenuates the inflammation in rodent models of hepatitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS Hepatitis was induced by concanavalin A (Con A) or α-galactosyl-ceramide (α-GalCer). 6b-Ethyl-3a,7b-dihydroxy-5b-cholan-24-ol (BAR501), a selective agonist of GPBAR1, was administrated by o.s. RESULTS In the mouse models of hepatitis, the genetic ablation of Gpabar1 worsened the severity of liver injury and resulted in a type I NKT cells phenotype that was biased toward a NKT1, a proinflammatory, IFN-γ producing, NKT cells subtype. Further on, NKT cells from GPBAR1-/- mice were sufficient to cause a severe hepatitis when transferred to naïve mice. In contrast, GPBAR1 agonism rescued wild-type mice from acute liver damage and redirects the NKT cells polarization toward a NKT10, a regulatory, IL-10 secreting, type I NKT cell subset. In addition, GPBAR1 agonism significantly expanded the subset of IL-10 secreting type II NKT cells. RNAseq analysis of both NKT cells type confirmed that IL-10 is a major target for GPABR1. Accordingly, IL-10 gene ablation abrogated protection afforded by GPBAR1 agonism in the Con A model. CONCLUSION Present results illustrate a role for GPBAR1 in regulating liver NKT ecology. Because NKT cells are an essential component of liver immune system, our data provide a compelling evidence for a GPBAR1-IL-10 axis in regulating of liver immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Biagioli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Adriana Carino
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Chiara Fiorucci
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Silvia Marchianò
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Cristina Di Giorgio
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Rosalinda Roselli
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università di Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Margherita Magro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Eleonora Distrutti
- SC di Gastroenterologia ed Epatologia, Azienda Ospedaliera di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Oxana Bereshchenko
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy,Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Paolo Scarpelli
- University of Perugia, Department of Experimental Medicine, Perugia, Italy
| | - Angela Zampella
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università di Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Stefano Fiorucci
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy,Correspondence Address correspondence to: Stefano Fiorucci, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Science, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132, S. Andrea delle Fratte, Perugia, Italy. fax: (+39) 075 5858405.
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The Role of Invariant NKT in Autoimmune Liver Disease: Can Vitamin D Act as an Immunomodulator? Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 2018:8197937. [PMID: 30046564 PMCID: PMC6038587 DOI: 10.1155/2018/8197937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer T (NKT) cells are a distinct lineage of T cells which express both the T cell receptor (TCR) and natural killer (NK) cell markers. Invariant NKT (iNKT) cells bear an invariant TCR and recognize a small variety of glycolipid antigens presented by CD1d (nonclassical MHC-I). CD1d-restricted iNKT cells are regulators of immune responses and produce cytokines that may be proinflammatory (such as interferon-gamma (IFN-γ)) or anti-inflammatory (such as IL-4). iNKT cells also appear to play a role in B cell regulation and antibody production. Alpha-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer), a derivative of the marine sponge, is a potent stimulator of iNKT cells and has been proposed as a therapeutic iNKT cell activator. Invariant NKT cells have been implicated in the development and perpetuation of several autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Animal models of SLE have shown abnormalities in iNKT cells numbers and function, and an inverse correlation between the frequency of NKT cells and IgG levels has also been observed. The role of iNKT cells in autoimmune liver disease (AiLD) has not been extensively studied. This review discusses the current data with regard to iNKT cells function in AiLD, in addition to providing an overview of iNKT cells function in other autoimmune conditions and animal models. We also discuss data regarding the immunomodulatory effects of vitamin D on iNKT cells, which may serve as a potential therapeutic target, given that deficiencies in vitamin D have been reported in various autoimmune disorders.
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Spleen-derived lipocalin-2 in the portal vein regulates Kupffer cells activation and attenuates the development of liver fibrosis in mice. J Transl Med 2017; 97:890-902. [PMID: 28504685 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.2017.44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Revised: 03/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver has an immune tolerance against gut-derived products from the portal vein (PV). A disruption of the gut-liver axis leads to liver injury and fibrosis. The spleen is connected to the PV and regulates immune functions. However, possible splenic effects on liver fibrosis development are unclear. Lipocalin-2 (Lcn2) is an antimicrobial protein that regulates macrophage activation. To clarify the role of the spleen in liver fibrosis development, we induced liver fibrosis in mice after splenectomy, and investigated liver fibrosis development. Liver fibrosis resulted in significantly increased splenic Lcn2 levels, but all other measured cytokine levels were unchanged. Splenectomized mice showed enhanced liver fibrosis and inflammation accompanied by significantly decreased Lcn2 levels in PV. Lipopolysaccharide-stimulated primary Kupffer cells, resident liver macrophages, which were treated with recombinant Lcn2 (rLcn2) produced less tumor necrosis factor-α and Ccl2 and the activation of hepatic stellate cells, the effector cells for collagen production in the liver, was suppressed by co-culture with rLcn2-treated Kupffer cells. In addition, the involvement of gut-derived products in splenectomized mice was evaluated by gut sterilization. Interestingly, gut sterilization blocked the effect of splenectomy on liver fibrosis development. In conclusion, spleen deficiency accelerated liver fibrosis development and decreased PV Lcn2 levels. The mechanism of splenic protection against liver fibrosis development may involve the splenic Lcn2, triggered by gut-derived products that enter the liver through the PV, regulates Kupffer cells activated by the gut-liver axis. Thus, the splenic Lcn2 may have an important role in regulating the immune tolerance of the liver in liver fibrosis development.
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14
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Zimmerman MA, Martin A, Yee J, Schiller J, Hong JC. Natural Killer T Cells in Liver Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury. J Clin Med 2017; 6:jcm6040041. [PMID: 28368299 PMCID: PMC5406773 DOI: 10.3390/jcm6040041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Revised: 03/10/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Restoration of blood flow to an ischemic organ results in significant tissue injury. In the field of liver transplantation, ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI) has proven to be a formidable clinical obstacle. In addition to metabolic stress and inflammation, IRI results in profound graft dysfunction and loss. The severity of IRI further limits the ability to expand the donor pool by using partial grafts and marginal organs. As such, the inflammatory response to reperfusion of the liver continues to be an area of intense investigation. Among the various leukocytes involved in IRI, new insights suggest that natural killer T (NKT) cells may be a central driver of hepatocellular injury. Herein, we examine recent experimental observations that provide a mechanistic link between NKT cell recruitment to liver and post-perfusion tissue injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Zimmerman
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplant Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
| | - Alicia Martin
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplant Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
| | - Jennifer Yee
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplant Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
| | - Jennifer Schiller
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplant Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
- Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics, Blood Center of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53201, USA.
| | - Johnny C Hong
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplant Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
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15
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A New Mouse Model That Spontaneously Develops Chronic Liver Inflammation and Fibrosis. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0159850. [PMID: 27441847 PMCID: PMC4956255 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0159850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 07/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Here we characterize a new animal model that spontaneously develops chronic inflammation and fibrosis in multiple organs, the non-obese diabetic inflammation and fibrosis (N-IF) mouse. In the liver, the N-IF mouse displays inflammation and fibrosis particularly evident around portal tracts and central veins and accompanied with evidence of abnormal intrahepatic bile ducts. The extensive cellular infiltration consists mainly of macrophages, granulocytes, particularly eosinophils, and mast cells. This inflammatory syndrome is mediated by a transgenic population of natural killer T cells (NKT) induced in an immunodeficient NOD genetic background. The disease is transferrable to immunodeficient recipients, while polyclonal T cells from unaffected syngeneic donors can inhibit the disease phenotype. Because of the fibrotic component, early on-set, spontaneous nature and reproducibility, this novel mouse model provides a unique tool to gain further insight into the underlying mechanisms mediating transformation of chronic inflammation into fibrosis and to evaluate intervention protocols for treating conditions of fibrotic disorders.
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16
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Noureddin M, Anstee QM, Loomba R. Review article: emerging anti-fibrotic therapies in the treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2016; 43:1109-23. [PMID: 27061197 PMCID: PMC5906100 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Revised: 02/23/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can lead to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis. Fibrosis predicts worse outcomes and mortality. New treatments targeting fibrosis are being investigated to reverse disease progression. AIM To review the new pipeline therapeutic agents targeting fibrosis in NASH patients, with particular focus on clinical trials in which reversing fibrosis and portal hypertension are the primary outcomes. METHODS The literature was searched in PubMed between January 2000 and January 2016 using search terms non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and NASH, with filters of 'English language'. We focused on fibrosis improvement as the key outcome. We also searched the ClinicalTrials.gov for promising agents that target fibrosis in NASH patients. RESULTS Significant advances have been made on approaches targeting fibrosis in NASH patients. Many therapeutic agents are already in development, some of which have shown promising results in preclinical and phase I studies. Novel therapies have entered phase II and III studies targeting fibrosis reversal and/or improvement in portal hypertension. Innovative studies have also started looking into combining these agents, aiming at different mechanisms to maximise therapeutic outcomes. We found five clinical trials in phase II and one in phase III focusing on fibrosis in NASH patients as key outcomes. One of the phase II trials is using combination therapy to target fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS Ongoing research studies are already investigating new pathways aimed at reversing fibrosis in NASH patients. Novel therapeutic agents are in development and are expected to offer unique options to NASH patients with advanced fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Noureddin
- Fatty Liver Program, Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Q. M. Anstee
- Liver Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, The Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - R. Loomba
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA,Division of Epidemiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA,NAFLD Research Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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17
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Tanno H, Kawakami K, Ritsu M, Kanno E, Suzuki A, Kamimatsuno R, Takagi N, Miyasaka T, Ishii K, Imai Y, Maruyama R, Tachi M. Contribution of Invariant Natural Killer T Cells to Skin Wound Healing. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2016; 185:3248-57. [PMID: 26468976 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2015.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2015] [Revised: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, we determined the contribution of invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells to the skin wound healing process. In iNKT cell-deficient (Jα18KO) mice lacking iNKT cells, wound closure was significantly delayed compared with wild-type mice. Collagen deposition, expression of α-smooth muscle actin and CD31, and wound breaking strength were significantly attenuated in Jα18KO mice. The adoptive transfer of liver mononuclear cells from wild-type but not from Jα18KO or interferon (IFN)-γ gene-disrupted (IFN-γKO) mice resulted in the reversal of this impaired wound healing in Jα18KO mice. IFN-γ expression was induced in the wounded tissues, which was significantly decreased at 6, 12, and 24 hours, but increased on day 3 after wounding in Jα18KO mice. The main source of the late-phase IFN-γ production in Jα18KO mice were neutrophils rather than NK cells and T cells. Administration of α-galactosylceramide, an activator of iNKT cells, resulted in the acceleration of wound healing on day 3 in wild-type mice. This effect was not observed in IFN-γKO mice. These results indicate that iNKT cells play important roles in wound healing. The iNKT cell-induced IFN-γ production may regulate the wound healing process in the early phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromasa Tanno
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Kawakami
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Mycology and Immunology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Masae Ritsu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Emi Kanno
- Department of Science of Nursing Practice, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Aiko Suzuki
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Rina Kamimatsuno
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Naoyuki Takagi
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Tomomitsu Miyasaka
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Mycology and Immunology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Keiko Ishii
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Mycology and Immunology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yoshimichi Imai
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Ryoko Maruyama
- Department of Science of Nursing Practice, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Masahiro Tachi
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan.
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Abstract
The liver is an organ that has the largest amount of natural killer T(NKT) cells, which play critical roles in the pathogenesis of liver diseases. In this article, the authors summarize recent findings about the roles of NKT cells in liver injury, inflammation, fibrosis, regeneration and cancer. In brief, NKT cells accelerate liver injury by producing pro-inflammatory cytokines and directly killing hepatocytes. NKT cells are involved in complex roles in liver fibrogenesis. For instance, NKT cells inhibit liver fibrosis via suppressing hepatic stellate cell activation and can also promote liver fibrosis via enhancing liver inflammation and injury. Inactivated or weakly activated NKT cells play a minimal role in controlling liver regeneration, whilst activated NKT cells have an inhibitory effect on liver regeneration. In liver cancer, NKT cells play both pro-tumor and anti-tumor roles in controlling tumor progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Wang
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
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19
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Li M, Zhou ZH, Sun XH, Zhang X, Zhu XJ, Jin SG, Jiang Y, Gao YT, Li CZ, Gao YQ. The dynamic changes of circulating invariant natural killer T cells during chronic hepatitis B virus infection. Hepatol Int 2016; 10:594-601. [PMID: 26924524 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-015-9650-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2015] [Accepted: 07/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
AIM The protective role of invariant natural killer T cells (iNKTs) against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains controversial. We sought to clarify the role of peripheral iNKT cells during chronic HBV infection. METHODS Sixty patients with chronic HBV infection were categorized into an immune tolerance phase (HBV-IT) (n = 16), an immune clearance phase (HBV-IC) (n = 19) and an inactive carrier phase (HBV-IA) (n = 25). Twenty healthy individuals were enrolled as healthy controls. Another 21 HBeAg-positive patients were administrated with entecavir (0.5 mg/day) for 6 months. The percentages of circulating iNKT cells and their IFN-γ and IL-4 expression levels were examined by flow cytometry. The relationships between serum HBV DNA, ALT levels, the percentages of iNKT cells, and their IFN-γ and IL-4 levels were analyzed. RESULTS Compared to healthy controls, the percentage of iNKT cells decreased in HBV-IT, but increased in HBV-IC and HBV-IA. Circulating IFN-γ-producing iNKT cells gradually increased, whereas IL-4-producing iNKT cells gradually decreased from HBV-IT stage to HBV-IC and HBV-IA stages. The frequency of iNKT cells and their IFN-γ levels were reversely correlated with viral load. The levels of IL-4 expressed by iNKT cells were positively correlated to viral load and the serum ALT levels. After anti-virus therapy, the percentage of IFN-γ-producing iNKT cells increased while the percentage of IL-4-producing iNKT cells decreased. CONCLUSIONS During chronic HBV infection, the percentages of peripheral iNKT cells and its cytokines expressions of IFN-γ and IL-4 showed dynamic changes. The expression levels of IFN-γ and IL-4 were correlated with the clearance of HBV and liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Li
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunity, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen-Hua Zhou
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunity, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue-Hua Sun
- Department of Hepatopathy, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunity, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Jun Zhu
- Department of Hepatopathy, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Shu-Gen Jin
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunity, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun Jiang
- Department of Hepatopathy, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Ya-Ting Gao
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunity, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng-Zhong Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yue-Qiu Gao
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunity, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Hepatopathy, Shuguang Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China.
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20
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Abstract
Hepatocytes are targeted for infection by a number of major human pathogens, including hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and malaria. However, hepatocytes are also immunological agents in their own right. In systemic immunity, they are central in the acute-phase response, which floods the circulation with defensive proteins during diverse stresses, including ischemia, physical trauma, and sepsis. Hepatocytes express a variety of innate immune receptors and, when challenged with pathogen- or damage-associated molecular patterns, can deliver cell-autonomous innate immune responses that may result in host defense or in immunopathology. Important human pathogens have evolved mechanisms to subvert these responses. Finally, hepatocytes talk directly to T cells, resulting in a bias toward immune tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian N Crispe
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195
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21
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Doherty DG. Immunity, tolerance and autoimmunity in the liver: A comprehensive review. J Autoimmun 2015; 66:60-75. [PMID: 26358406 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2015.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2015] [Accepted: 08/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The hepatic immune system is constantly exposed to a massive load of harmless dietary and commensal antigens, to which it must remain tolerant. Immune tolerance in the liver is mediated by a number of specialized antigen-presenting cells, including dendritic cells, Kupffer cells, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells and hepatic stellate cells. These cells are capable of presenting antigens to T cells leading to T cell apoptosis, anergy, or differentiation into regulatory T cells. However, the hepatic immune system must also be able to respond to pathogens and tumours and therefore must be equipped with mechanisms to override immune tolerance. The liver is a site of accumulation of a number of innate lymphocyte populations, including natural killer cells, CD56(+) T cells, natural killer T cells, γδ T cells, and mucosal-associated invariant T cells. Innate lymphocytes recognize conserved metabolites derived from microorganisms and host cells and respond by killing target cells or promoting the differentiation and/or activation of other cells of the immune system. Innate lymphocytes can promote the maturation of antigen-presenting cells from their precursors and thereby contribute to the generation of immunogenic T cell responses. These cells may be responsible for overriding hepatic immune tolerance to autoantigens, resulting in the induction and maintenance of autoreactive T cells that mediate liver injury causing autoimmune liver disease. Some innate lymphocyte populations can also directly mediate liver injury by killing hepatocytes or bile duct cells in murine models of hepatitis, whilst other populations may protect against liver disease. It is likely that innate lymphocyte populations can promote or protect against autoimmune liver disease in humans and that these cells can be targeted therapeutically. Here I review the cellular mechanisms by which hepatic antigen-presenting cells and innate lymphocytes control the balance between immunity, tolerance and autoimmunity in the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek G Doherty
- Division of Immunology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland.
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22
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Jian L, Xin L, Yufang M, Yifan H. Protective effect of calycosin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside against oxidative stress of BRL-3A cells induced by thioacetamide. Pharmacogn Mag 2015; 11:524-32. [PMID: 26246727 PMCID: PMC4522838 DOI: 10.4103/0973-1296.160461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2014] [Revised: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Calycosin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (CG) is a natural isoflavone found in traditional Chinese medicines Astragali Radix (AR). Objective: Calycosin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, an isoflavone isolated from AR, has been found to have potent antioxidantive effects. This study was designed to investigate whether CG prevents oxidative stress induced by thioacetamide (TAA). Materials and Methods: BRL-3A cells were pretreated with different concentrations of CG (10, 20, 40 mg/mL) for 12 h and then exposed to 0.18 mol/L TAA for 2 h. The cell viability were examined by 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazolium assay, total antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde (MDA) and the activity of antioxidant enzymes, including catalase, glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase were determined by microplate method. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was quantified by the 2’,7’-dichlorofluorescin-diacetate method. Protein and mRNA expression of CYP2E1 were determined by western blotting and real-time PCR. Results: The cell oxidative stress was significantly increased after 2 h of TAA exposure. Pretreatment of BRL-3A cells with CG significantly increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes, scavenged ROS and reduced MDA production. CG decreased the expression of CYP2E1, and ultimately decreased TAA-induced BRL-3A cells oxidative stress. Conclusions: Calycosin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside has a protective effect against TAA-induced oxidative stress in BRL-3A cells, and that the underlying mechanism involves in scavenging of ROS and the modulating expression of CYP2E1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Jian
- University Key Laboratory for Integrated Chinese Traditional and Western Veterinary Medicine and Animal Healthcare in Fujian Province, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Lin Xin
- University Key Laboratory for Integrated Chinese Traditional and Western Veterinary Medicine and Animal Healthcare in Fujian Province, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ma Yufang
- University Key Laboratory for Integrated Chinese Traditional and Western Veterinary Medicine and Animal Healthcare in Fujian Province, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Huang Yifan
- University Key Laboratory for Integrated Chinese Traditional and Western Veterinary Medicine and Animal Healthcare in Fujian Province, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
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23
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Shen TCD, Albenberg L, Bittinger K, Chehoud C, Chen YY, Judge CA, Chau L, Ni J, Sheng M, Lin A, Wilkins BJ, Buza EL, Lewis JD, Daikhin Y, Nissim I, Yudkoff M, Bushman FD, Wu GD. Engineering the gut microbiota to treat hyperammonemia. J Clin Invest 2015; 125:2841-50. [PMID: 26098218 DOI: 10.1172/jci79214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Accepted: 05/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence indicates that the gut microbiota can be altered to ameliorate or prevent disease states, and engineering the gut microbiota to therapeutically modulate host metabolism is an emerging goal of microbiome research. In the intestine, bacterial urease converts host-derived urea to ammonia and carbon dioxide, contributing to hyperammonemia-associated neurotoxicity and encephalopathy in patients with liver disease. Here, we engineered murine gut microbiota to reduce urease activity. Animals were depleted of their preexisting gut microbiota and then inoculated with altered Schaedler flora (ASF), a defined consortium of 8 bacteria with minimal urease gene content. This protocol resulted in establishment of a persistent new community that promoted a long-term reduction in fecal urease activity and ammonia production. Moreover, in a murine model of hepatic injury, ASF transplantation was associated with decreased morbidity and mortality. These results provide proof of concept that inoculation of a prepared host with a defined gut microbiota can lead to durable metabolic changes with therapeutic utility.
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Duval F, Moreno-Cuevas JE, González-Garza MT, Maldonado-Bernal C, Cruz-Vega DE. Liver fibrosis and mechanisms of the protective action of medicinal plants targeting inflammation and the immune response. Int J Inflam 2015; 2015:943497. [PMID: 25954568 PMCID: PMC4411506 DOI: 10.1155/2015/943497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2014] [Accepted: 11/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is a central feature of liver fibrosis as suggested by its role in the activation of hepatic stellate cells leading to extracellular matrix deposition. During liver injury, inflammatory cells are recruited in the injurious site through chemokines attraction. Thus, inflammation could be a target to reduce liver fibrosis. The pandemic trend of obesity, combined with the high incidence of alcohol intake and viral hepatitis infections, highlights the urgent need to find accessible antifibrotic therapies. Medicinal plants are achieving popularity as antifibrotic agents, supported by their safety, cost-effectiveness, and versatility. The aim of this review is to describe the role of inflammation and the immune response in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis and detail the mechanisms of inhibition of both events by medicinal plants in order to reduce liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florent Duval
- Catedra de Terapia Celular, Escuela de Medicina, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Avenida Morones Prieto 3000 Pte., 64710 Monterrey, NL, Mexico
| | - Jorge E. Moreno-Cuevas
- Catedra de Terapia Celular, Escuela de Medicina, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Avenida Morones Prieto 3000 Pte., 64710 Monterrey, NL, Mexico
| | - María Teresa González-Garza
- Catedra de Terapia Celular, Escuela de Medicina, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Avenida Morones Prieto 3000 Pte., 64710 Monterrey, NL, Mexico
| | - Carmen Maldonado-Bernal
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Inmunología y Proteómica, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, Calle Dr. Márquez 162, 06720 Ciudad de México, DF, Mexico
| | - Delia Elva Cruz-Vega
- Catedra de Terapia Celular, Escuela de Medicina, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Avenida Morones Prieto 3000 Pte., 64710 Monterrey, NL, Mexico
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25
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Maricic I, Sheng H, Marrero I, Seki E, Kisseleva T, Chaturvedi S, Molle N, Mathews KS, Gao B, Kumar V. Inhibition of type I natural killer T cells by retinoids or following sulfatide-mediated activation of type II natural killer T cells attenuates alcoholic liver disease in mice. Hepatology 2015; 61:1357-69. [PMID: 25477000 PMCID: PMC4376634 DOI: 10.1002/hep.27632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2014] [Accepted: 11/26/2014] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Innate immune mechanisms leading to liver injury subsequent to chronic alcohol ingestion are poorly understood. Natural killer T (NKT) cells, enriched in the liver and comprised of at least two distinct subsets, type I and II, recognize different lipid antigens presented by CD1d molecules. We have investigated whether differential activation of NKT cell subsets orchestrates inflammatory events leading to alcoholic liver disease (ALD). We found that after chronic plus binge feeding of Lieber-DeCarli liquid diet in male C57BL/6 mice, type I, but not type II, NKT cells are activated, leading to recruitment of inflammatory Gr-1(high) CD11b(+) cells into the liver. A central finding is that liver injury after alcohol feeding is dependent upon type I NKT cells. Thus, liver injury is significantly inhibited in Jα18(-/-) mice deficient in type I NKT cells as well as after their inactivation by sulfatide-mediated activation of type II NKT cells. Furthermore, we have identified a novel pathway involving all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and its receptor (RARγ) signaling that inhibits type I NKT cells and, consequently, ALD. A semiquantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis of hepatic gene expression of some of the key proinflammatory molecules shared in human disease indicated that their up-regulation in ALD is dependent upon type I NKT cells. CONCLUSIONS Type I, but not type II, NKT cells become activated after alcohol feeding. Type I NKT cell-induced inflammation and neutrophil recruitment results in liver tissue damage whereas type II NKT cells protect from injury in ALD. Inhibition of type I NKT cells by retinoids or by sulfatide prevents ALD. Given that the CD1d pathway is highly conserved between mice and humans, NKT cell subsets might be targeted for potential therapeutic intervention in ALD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Maricic
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity, Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Huiming Sheng
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity, Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Idania Marrero
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity, Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Ehikiro Seki
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, UCSD, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Tatiana Kisseleva
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, UCSD, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Som Chaturvedi
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity, Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Natasha Molle
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity, Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | | | - Bin Gao
- NIH, Bathesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Vipin Kumar
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity, Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
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Zhang H, Zhang F, Zhu Z, Luong D, Meadows GG. Chronic alcohol consumption enhances iNKT cell maturation and activation. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2014; 282:139-50. [PMID: 25499027 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2014.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Revised: 11/13/2014] [Accepted: 11/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol consumption exhibits diverse effects on different types of immune cells. NKT cells are a unique T cell population and play important immunoregulatory roles in different types of immune responses. The effects of chronic alcohol consumption on NKT cells remain to be elucidated. Using a mouse model of chronic alcohol consumption, we found that alcohol increases the percentage of NKT cells, especially iNKT cells in the thymus and liver, but not in the spleen or blood. Alcohol consumption decreases the percentage of NK1.1(-) iNKT cells in the total iNKT cell population in all of the tissues and organs examined. In the thymus, alcohol consumption increases the number of NK1.1(+)CD44(hi) mature iNKT cells but does not alter the number of NK1.1(-) immature iNKT cells. A BrdU incorporation assay shows that alcohol consumption increases the proliferation of thymic NK1.1(-) iNKT cells, especially the NK1.1(-)CD44(lo) Stage I iNKT cells. The percentage of NKG2A(+) iNKT cells increases in all of the tissues and organs examined; whereas CXCR3(+) iNKT cells only increases in the thymus of alcohol-consuming mice. Chronic alcohol consumption increases the percentage of IFN-γ-producing iNKT cells and increases the blood concentration of IFN-γ and IL-12 after in vivo α-galactosylceramide (αGalCer) stimulation. Consistent with the increased cytokine production, the in vivo activation of iNKT cells also enhances the activation of dendritic cells (DC) and NK, B, and T cells in the alcohol-consuming mice. Taken together the data indicate that chronic alcohol consumption enhances iNKT cell maturation and activation, which favors the Th1 immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99210-1495, USA.
| | - Faya Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99210-1495, USA
| | - Zhaohui Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99210-1495, USA
| | - Dung Luong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99210-1495, USA
| | - Gary G Meadows
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99210-1495, USA
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Pharmacological inhibition of the chemokine CXCL16 diminishes liver macrophage infiltration and steatohepatitis in chronic hepatic injury. PLoS One 2014; 9:e112327. [PMID: 25372401 PMCID: PMC4221470 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0112327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Accepted: 10/10/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in developed countries, resulting in steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis and eventually cirrhosis. Modulating inflammatory mediators such as chemokines may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for NAFLD. We recently demonstrated that the chemokine receptor CXCR6 promotes hepatic NKT cell accumulation, thereby controlling inflammation in experimental NAFLD. In this study, we first investigated human biopsies (n = 20), confirming that accumulation of inflammatory cells such as macrophages is a hallmark of progressive NAFLD. Moreover, CXCR6 gene expression correlated with the inflammatory activity (ALT levels) in human NAFLD. We then tested the hypothesis that pharmacological inhibition of CXCL16 might hold therapeutic potential in NAFLD, using mouse models of acute carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)- and chronic methionine-choline-deficient (MCD) diet-induced hepatic injury. Neutralizing CXCL16 by i.p. injection of anti-CXCL16 antibody inhibited the early intrahepatic NKT cell accumulation upon acute toxic injury in vivo. Weekly therapeutic anti-CXCL16 administrations during the last 3 weeks of 6 weeks MCD diet significantly decreased the infiltration of inflammatory macrophages into the liver and intrahepatic levels of inflammatory cytokines like TNF or MCP-1. Importantly, anti-CXCL16 treatment significantly reduced fatty liver degeneration upon MCD diet, as assessed by hepatic triglyceride levels, histological steatosis scoring and quantification of lipid droplets. Moreover, injured hepatocytes up-regulated CXCL16 expression, indicating that scavenging functions of CXCL16 might be additionally involved in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Targeting CXCL16 might therefore represent a promising novel therapeutic approach for liver inflammation and steatohepatitis.
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Saleh DO, Abdel Jaleel GAR, El-Awdan SA, Oraby F, Badawi M. Thioacetamide-induced liver injury: protective role of genistein. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2014; 92:965-73. [PMID: 25358106 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2014-0192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the possible protective effects of genistein (GEN), a phytoestrogen, on the liver injury induced in rats by thioacetamide (TTA; 200.0 mg·(kg body mass)(-1); administered 3 times a week by intraperitoneal injection). GEN (0.5, 1.0, or 2.0 mg·(kg body mass)(-1); by subcutaneous injection) was concurrently administered on a daily basis for 8 weeks, and its effects were evaluated 24 h after the administration of the last dose. The results from this study revealed that TTA-induced liver injury was associated with massive changes in the serum levels of liver biomarkers, oxidative stress markers, and liver inflammatory cytokines. Treatment of TAA-induced liver injury in rats with GEN decreased the elevated serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and total and direct bilirubin, and increased the serum level of albumin. GEN also restored the liver levels of malondialdehyde and reduced glutathione, as well as tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6, and their modulator nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells. From our results, it can be concluded that GEN attenuates the liver injury-induced in rats with TAA, and this hepatoprotective role is attributed to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia O Saleh
- a Pharmacology Department, National Research Center, Cairo, Egypt
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Mattner J. Natural killer T (NKT) cells in autoimmune hepatitis. Curr Opin Immunol 2013; 25:697-703. [PMID: 24148235 PMCID: PMC4013545 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2013.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2013] [Revised: 09/15/2013] [Accepted: 09/27/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer T (NKT) cells represent an innate-like lymphocyte population endowed with unique antigen recognition and tissue distribution features. Their abundance in the microvascular compartments of the liver allows NKT cells to immediately respond to lipid antigens and soluble factors circulating through the portal vein system by releasing tremendous amounts of different cytokines and chemokines. Subsequently, dependent on the nature of the lipid antigen encountered as well as the accessory signal(s) provided, NKT cells not only contribute to the maintenance of immune tolerance, but also direct adverse immune reactions locally and systemically. Focusing on their potent immunomodulatory features and their interactions with various innate and adaptive immune cells, the role of NKT cells in perpetuating the loss of liver-specific immune tolerance will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jochen Mattner
- Mikrobiologisches Institut - Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen und Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany; Division of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
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Luo XY, Takahara T, Kawai K, Fujino M, Sugiyama T, Tsuneyama K, Tsukada K, Nakae S, Zhong L, Li XK. IFN-γ deficiency attenuates hepatic inflammation and fibrosis in a steatohepatitis model induced by a methionine- and choline-deficient high-fat diet. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2013; 305:G891-9. [PMID: 24136786 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00193.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Cytokines play important roles in all stages of steatohepatitis, including hepatocyte injury, the inflammatory response, and the altered function of sinusoidal cells. This study examined the involvement of a major inflammatory cytokine, interferon-γ (IFN-γ), in the progression of steatohepatitis. In a steatohepatitis model by feeding a methionine- and choline-deficient high-fat (MCDHF) diet to both wild-type and IFN-γ-deficient mice, the liver histology, expression of genes encoding inflammatory cytokines, and fibrosis-related markers were examined. To analyze the effects of IFN-γ on Kupffer cells in vitro, we examined the tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) production by a mouse macrophage cell line. Forty two days of MCDHF diet resulted in weight loss, elevated aminotransferases, liver steatosis, and inflammation in wild-type mice. However, the IFN-γ-deficient mice exhibited less extensive changes. RT-PCR revealed that the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), transforming growth factor-β, inducible nitric oxide synthase, interleukin-4 and osteopontin were increased in wild-type mice, although they were suppressed in IFN-γ-deficient mice. Seventy days of MCDHF diet induced much more liver fibrosis in wild-type mice than in IFN-γ-deficient mice. The expression levels of fibrosis-related genes, α-smooth muscle actin, type I collagen, tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1, and matrix metalloproteinase-2, were dramatically increased in wild-type mice, whereas they were significantly suppressed in IFN-γ-deficient mice. Moreover, in vitro experiments showed that, when RAW 264.7 macrophages were treated with IFN-γ, they produced TNF-α in a dose-dependent manner. The present study showed that IFN-γ deficiency might inhibit the inflammatory response of macrophages cells and subsequently suppress stellate cell activation and liver fibrosis. These findings highlight the critical role of IFN-γ in the progression of steatohepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yu Luo
- Division of Transplantation Immunology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 157-8535 Japan.
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Xie Y, Hao HP, Wang H, Wang ZX, Wang GJ. Reversing effects of silybin on TAA-induced hepatic CYP3A dysfunction through PXR regulation. Chin J Nat Med 2013; 11:645-52. [PMID: 24345506 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(13)60075-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM Silybin (SB), a major constituent of the milk thistle, has been used to treat several liver disorders. However, liver diseases were always accompanied by CYP450 dysfunction. This study was designed to explore the relationship between the hepatoprotective effect and CYP3A regulation of SB during thioacetamide (TAA)-induced rat liver injury. METHODS Serum biochemical analysis and histopathological study were taken to evaluate the hepatoprotectinve effect of SB. α-SMA were detected by immunohistochemical analysis and cytokine release in rat liver was determined by ELISA assay. CYP3A and PXR expression were determined by RT-PCR and Western blot analysis, and CYP3A activity was based on the midazolam 4-hydroxylation reaction. Also, siRNA transfection was induced in HepG2 cells to evaluate the effect of PXR on cytotoxicity and CYP3A4 dysregulation caused by TAA. RESULTS SB showed powerful hepatoprotective effects, and anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrosis effects, and reversed the loss of CYP3A and PXR in TAA-injured rat liver, and decreased PXR translocation into the cell nucleus. PXR silencing weakened the effect of SB on cytoprotection and CYP3A regulation. CONCLUSIONS PXR was a very important factor of CYP3A regulation and might be the target of SB in TAA-induced liver disease. Also, because of the potential interactions of SB and co-administered medicines, it might be necessary to adjust the dosage in the clinical medication of liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Xie
- Department of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Hai-Ping Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Hong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhao-Xian Wang
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Guang-Ji Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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Hepatocellular proliferation correlates with inflammatory cell and cytokine changes in a murine model of nonalchoholic fatty liver disease. PLoS One 2013; 8:e73054. [PMID: 24039859 PMCID: PMC3767686 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0073054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2013] [Accepted: 07/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalchoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a problem of increasing prevalence and clinical significance worldwide and is associated with increased risk of development of end stage liver disease and cirrhosis, and can be complicated by hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). NAFLD is characterized by physical and molecular changes in the liver microenvironment which include an influx of inflammatory cell populations, fibrosis, changes in gene expression, and cytokine production. To better understand changes to the liver in the setting of steatosis, we used a murine model of diet induced hepatic steatosis and corroborated our results with human patient samples of NAFLD. Among the cellular changes, we identified a significant increase in hepatocellular proliferation in the setting of steatosis as compared to controls. Analysis of inflammatory cell populations revealed increased infiltration of CD11b positive myeloid and CD3 positive lymphocytic cell populations in steatotic livers compared to normal livers. Resident Kupffer cells of the liver comprise the largest percentage of these myeloid cells and appear to be responsible for important cytokine alterations impacting proliferation of cells in the liver microenvironment. Significant alterations in cytokine profiles in the plasma and liver tissue lysates from normal and steatotic mice were detected including leptin, CXCL1, CXCL2, and CXCL16 that were further shown to directly increase hepatocyte proliferation in vitro. This increased hepatocellular proliferation and turnover in the setting of steatosis may play important roles in the progression and complications of NAFLD.
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Kumar V. NKT-cell subsets: promoters and protectors in inflammatory liver disease. J Hepatol 2013; 59:618-20. [PMID: 23669283 PMCID: PMC4086465 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2013.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2012] [Revised: 02/20/2013] [Accepted: 02/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer T cells (NKT) are innate-like cells which are abundant in liver sinusoids and express the cell surface receptors of NK cells (e.g., NK1.1 (mouse) or CD161+/CD56+(human)) as well as an antigen receptor (TCR) characteristic of conventional T cells. NKT cells recognize lipid antigens in the context of CD1d, a non-polymorphic MHC class I-like molecule. Activation of NKT cells has a profound influence on the immune response against tumors and infectious organisms and in autoimmune diseases. NKT cells can be categorized into at least two distinct subsets: iNKT or type I use a semi-invariant TCR, whereas type II NKT TCRs are more diverse. Recent evidence suggests that NKT-cell subsets can play opposing roles early in non-microbial liver inflammation in that type I NKT are proinflammatory whereas type II NKT cells inhibit type I NKT-mediated liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vipin Kumar
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity, Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, San Diego, CA 92121, USA.
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Yi HS, Jeong WI. Interaction of hepatic stellate cells with diverse types of immune cells: foe or friend? J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2013; 28 Suppl 1:99-104. [PMID: 23855303 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.12017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) have been considered as a major type of cells in liver fibrosis by producing a huge amount of extracellular matrix, especially collagen fibers, and profibrotic mediators such as transforming growth factor-beta, interleukin-6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1. Recently, accumulated evidence suggests that the liver is an immunologic organ because of enrichment of diverse types of immune cells and that their interactions with HSCs are closely related with the progression of liver fibrosis. However, the underlying mechanisms of interaction between HSCs and immune cells remain largely unknown. Recently, several studies have demonstrated that natural killer cells, M2 macrophages, regulatory T cells, and bone marrow derived CD11b(+) Gr1(+) immature cells ameliorate liver fibrosis, whereas neutrophils, M1 macrophages, CD8 T cells, natural killer T cells and interleukin-17-producing cells accelerate liver fibrosis. However, there are still controversial issues about their functions during liver fibrogenesis. In this review, we summarize the diversity roles of immune cells (e.g. profibrotic/antifibrotic or both) in regulating the activation of HSCs during hepatic fibrogenesis, in which several producible mediators by HSCs play important roles in the interaction with them. Moreover, the current cell-based therapies using immune cells against liver fibrosis are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyon-Seung Yi
- Laboratory of Liver Research, Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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35
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Gao B, Radaeva S. Natural killer and natural killer T cells in liver fibrosis. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2013; 1832:1061-9. [PMID: 23022478 PMCID: PMC3552008 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2012.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2012] [Accepted: 09/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The liver lymphocyte population is enriched with natural killer (NK) cells, which play a key role in host defense against viral infection and tumor transformation. Recent evidence from animal models suggests that NK cells also play an important role in inhibiting liver fibrosis by selectively killing early or senescence activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and by producing the anti-fibrotic cytokine IFN-γ. Furthermore, clinical studies have revealed that human NK cells can kill primary human HSCs and that the ability of NK cells from HCV patients to kill HSCs is enhanced and correlates inversely with the stages of liver fibrosis. IFN-α treatment enhances, while other factors (e.g., alcohol, TGF-β) attenuate, the cytotoxicity of NK cells against HSCs, thereby differentially regulating liver fibrogenesis. In addition, the mouse liver lymphocyte population is also enriched for natural killer T (NKT) cells, whereas human liver lymphocytes have a much lower percentage of NKT cells. Many studies suggest that NKT cells promote liver fibrogenesis by producing pro-fibrotic cytokines such as IL-4, IL-13, hedgehog ligands, and osteopontin; however, NKT cells may also attenuate liver fibrosis under certain conditions by killing HSCs and by producing IFN-γ. Finally, the potential for NK and NKT cells to be used as therapeutic targets for anti-fibrotic therapy is discussed. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Fibrosis: Translation of basic research to human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Gao
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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Heinrichs D, Berres ML, Nellen A, Fischer P, Scholten D, Trautwein C, Wasmuth HE, Sahin H. The chemokine CCL3 promotes experimental liver fibrosis in mice. PLoS One 2013; 8:e66106. [PMID: 23799074 PMCID: PMC3684603 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0066106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is associated with infiltrating immune cells and activation of hepatic stellate cells. We here aimed to investigate the effects of the CC chemokine CCL3, also known as macrophage inflammatory protein-1α, in two different fibrosis models. To this end, we treated mice either with carbon tetrachloride or with a methionine- and choline-deficient diet to induce fibrosis in CCL3 deficient and wild-type mice. The results show that the protein expression of CCL3 is increased in wild-type mice after chronic liver injury. Deletion of CCL3 exhibited reduced liver fibrosis compared to their wild-type counterparts. We could validate these results by treating the two mouse groups with either carbon tetrachloride or by feeding a methionine- and choline-deficient diet. In these models, lack of CCL3 is functionally associated with reduced stellate cell activation and liver immune cell infiltration. In vitro, we show that CCL3 leads to increased proliferation and migration of hepatic stellate cells. In conclusion, our results define the chemokine CCL3 as a mediator of experimental liver fibrosis. Thus, therapeutic modulation of CCL3 might be a promising target for chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Heinrichs
- Medical Department III, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Andreas Nellen
- Medical Department III, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Petra Fischer
- Medical Department III, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - David Scholten
- Medical Department III, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | | | | | - Hacer Sahin
- Medical Department III, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
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Wehr A, Baeck C, Heymann F, Niemietz PM, Hammerich L, Martin C, Zimmermann HW, Pack O, Gassler N, Hittatiya K, Ludwig A, Luedde T, Trautwein C, Tacke F. Chemokine receptor CXCR6-dependent hepatic NK T Cell accumulation promotes inflammation and liver fibrosis. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2013; 190:5226-36. [PMID: 23596313 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1202909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 190] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Chronic liver injury characteristically results in hepatic inflammation, which represents a prerequisite for organ fibrosis. Although NKT cells are abundantly present in liver and involved in hepatic inflammation, molecular mechanisms of their recruitment in liver fibrosis remained elusive. We hypothesized that chemokine receptor CXCR6 and its ligand CXCL16 control NKT cell migration and functionality in liver fibrosis. In patients with chronic liver diseases (n = 58), CXCR6 and CXCL16 expression was intrahepatically upregulated compared with controls. In murine liver, Cxcl16 was strongly expressed by endothelium and macrophages, whereas lymphocyte populations (NKT, NK, CD4 T, CD8 T cells) expressed CXCR6. Intravital two-photon microscopy imaging of Cxcr6(+/gfp) and Cxcr6(gfp/gfp) mice and chemotaxis studies in vitro revealed that CXCR6 specifically controls hepatic NKT cell accumulation during the early response upon experimental liver damage. Hepatic invariant NKT cells expressed distinct proinflammatory cytokines including IFN-γ and IL-4 upon injury. CXCR6-deficient mice were protected from liver fibrosis progression in two independent experimental models. Macrophage infiltration and protein levels of inflammatory cytokines IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-4 were also reduced in fibrotic livers of Cxcr6(-/-) mice, corroborating that hepatic NKT cells provide essential cytokine signals perpetuating hepatic inflammation and fibrogenesis. Adoptive transfer of NKT cells, but not CD4 T cells, isolated from wild type livers restored hepatic fibrosis in Cxcr6(-/-) mice upon experimental steatohepatitis. Our results demonstrate that hepatic NKT cells accumulate CXCR6-dependent early upon injury, thereby accentuating the inflammatory response in the liver and promoting hepatic fibrogenesis. Interfering with CXCR6/CXCL16 might therefore bear therapeutic potential in liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Wehr
- Department of Medicine III, University-Hospital Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany
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Yamagata H, Ikejima K, Takeda K, Aoyama T, Kon K, Okumura K, Watanabe S. Altered expression and function of hepatic natural killer T cells in obese and diabetic KK-A(y) mice. Hepatol Res 2013; 43:276-88. [PMID: 22834991 DOI: 10.1111/j.1872-034x.2012.01062.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the role of natural killer (NK)T cells in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), here we investigated the expression and function of hepatic NKT cells in KK-A(y) mice, an animal model of metabolic syndrome. METHODS Male, 8-week-old KK-A(y) and C57Bl/6 mice were fed a high-fat (HF) diet for 4 weeks. Some mice were given daily intragastric injections of pioglitazone for 5 days prior to or after dietary treatment. RESULTS In untreated KK-A(y) mice, the percentages of NKT cells in liver mononucleolar cells were nearly one-third of those in C57Bl/6 controls. Elevations in interleukin (IL)-4 and interferon (IFN)-γ mRNA in the liver after a single injection of α-galactosylceramide (GalCer) were blunted in KK-A(y) mice largely. Percentages of NKT cells, as well as GalCer-induced increases in IL-4 mRNA, were blunted significantly in both strains after HF diet feeding for 4 weeks. Interestingly, KK-A(y) mice pretreated with pioglitazone showed significant increases in NKT cell proportion, and GalCer-induced increases in IL-4 and IFN-γ mRNA were also enhanced by pioglitazone. In KK-A(y) mice, the percentages of annexin V positive NKT cells were nearly 2.5-fold higher than those in C57Bl/6 controls; however, pioglitazone decreased annexin V positive cells significantly. Moreover, pioglitazone increased NKT cell fraction in KK-A(y) mice even after HF diet feeding. CONCLUSION KK-A(y) mice exhibit proportional and functional alterations in hepatic NKT cells in close relation with the development of steatohepatitis, and it is postulated that pioglitazone improves steatohepatitis in part through restoration of hepatic NKT cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisafumi Yamagata
- Departments of Gastroenterology Immunology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Hosoya S, Ikejima K, Takeda K, Arai K, Ishikawa S, Yamagata H, Aoyama T, Kon K, Yamashina S, Watanabe S. Innate immune responses involving natural killer and natural killer T cells promote liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy in mice. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2013; 304:G293-9. [PMID: 23086918 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00083.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
To clarify the roles of innate immune cells in liver regeneration, here, we investigated the alteration in regenerative responses after partial hepatectomy (PH) under selective depletion of natural killer (NK) and/or NKT cells. Male, wild-type (WT; C57Bl/6), and CD1d-knockout (KO) mice were injected with anti-NK1.1 or anti-asialo ganglio-N-tetraosylceramide (GM1) antibody and then underwent the 70% PH. Regenerative responses after PH were evaluated, and hepatic expression levels of cytokines and growth factors were measured by real-time RT-PCR and ELISA. Phosphorylation of STAT3 was detected by Western blotting. Depletion of both NK and NKT cells with an anti-NK1.1 antibody in WT mice caused drastic decreases in bromodeoxyuridine uptake, expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen, and cyclin D1, 48 h after PH. In mice given NK1.1 antibody, increases in hepatic TNF-α, IL-6/phospho-STAT3, and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) levels following PH were also blunted significantly, whereas IFN-γ mRNA levels were not different. CD1d-KO mice per se showed normal liver regeneration; however, pretreatment with an antiasialo GM1 antibody to CD1d-KO mice, resulting in depletion of both NK and NKT cells, also blunted regenerative responses. Collectively, these observations clearly indicated that depletion of both NK and NKT cells by two different ways results in impaired liver regeneration. NK and NKT cells most likely upregulate TNF-α, IL-6/STAT3, and HGF in a coordinate fashion, thus promoting normal regenerative responses in the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoko Hosoya
- Dept. of Gastroenterology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Liver inflammation in a mouse model of Th1 hepatitis despite the absence of invariant NKT cells or the Th1 chemokine receptors CXCR3 and CCR5. J Transl Med 2012; 92:1461-71. [PMID: 22906987 PMCID: PMC3460069 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.2012.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The specific mechanisms that mediate CD4(+) T-cell-mediated liver injury have not been fully elucidated. CD4(+) invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are required for liver damage in some mouse models of hepatitis, while the chemokine receptors CXCR3 and CCR5 are considered dominant Th1 chemokine receptors involved in Th1 trafficking in inflammatory conditions. BALB/c-Tgfb1(-/-) mice spontaneously develop Th1 hepatitis. Here, we directly test the hypotheses that iNKT cells or the Th1-cell chemokine receptors CXCR3 and CCR5 are required for development of liver disease in Tgfb1(-/-) mice. Tgfb1(-/-) mouse livers exhibited significant increases in iNKT cells and in ligands for CXCR3 or CCR5. Tgfb1(-/-) mice were rendered deficient in iNKT cells, CXCR3, CCR5, or both CXCR3 and CCR5, by cross-breeding with appropriate knockout mice. Tgfb1(-/-) mice developed severe liver injury, even in the absence of functional CD1d/iNKT cells, CXCR3, CCR5, or both CXCR3 and CCR5. Liver CD4(+) T cells accumulated to high numbers, and spleen CD4(+) T-cell numbers declined, regardless of the functionality of the CXCR3/CCR5 response pathways. Similarly, dendritic cells and macrophages accumulated in Tgfb1(-/-) livers even when CXCR3 and CCR5 were knocked out. Th1-associated cytokines (IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-2) and chemokines (CXCL9, CXCL10) were strongly overexpressed in Tgfb1(-/-) mice despite knockouts in CD1d, CXCR3, or CCR5. These studies indicate that the cellular and biochemical basis for CD4(+) T-cell-mediated injury in liver can be complex, with myriad pathways potentially involved.
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Abstract
Natural killer T cells (NKT cells) represent a subset of T lymphocytes that express natural killer (NK) cell surface markers. A subset of NKT cells, termed invariant NKT cells (iNKT), express a highly restricted T cell receptor (TCR) and respond to CD1d-restricted lipid ligands. iNKT cells are now appreciated to play an important role in linking innate and adaptive immune responses and have been implicated in infectious disease, allergy, asthma, autoimmunity, and tumor surveillance. Advances in iNKT identification and purification have allowed for the detailed study of iNKT activity in both humans and mice during a variety of chronic and acute infections. Comparison of iNKT function between non-pathogenic simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection models and chronic HIV-infected patients implies a role for iNKT activity in controlling immune activation. In vitro studies of influenza infection have revealed novel effector functions of iNKT cells including IL-22 production and modulation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells, but ex vivo characterization of human iNKT cells during influenza infection are lacking. Similarly, as recent evidence suggests iNKT involvement in dengue virus pathogenesis, iNKT cells may modulate responses to a number of emerging pathogens. This Review will summarize current knowledge of iNKT involvement in responses to viral infections in both human and mouse models and will identify critical gaps in knowledge and opportunities for future study. We will also highlight recent efforts to harness iNKT ligands as vaccine adjuvants capable of improving vaccination-induced cellular immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A. Juno
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Yoav Keynan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Keith R. Fowke
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
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Bian Z, Ma X. Liver fibrogenesis in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Front Physiol 2012; 3:248. [PMID: 22934006 PMCID: PMC3429026 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2012.00248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2012] [Accepted: 06/17/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is emerging as one of the most common chronic liver diseases in developed western countries. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is the most severe form of NAFLD, and can progress to more severe forms of liver disease, including fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even hepatocellular carcinoma. The activation of hepatic stellate cells plays a critical role in NASH-related fibrogenesis. Multiple factors, such as insulin resistance, oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory cytokines and adipokines, and innate immune responses, are known to contribute to the development of NASH-related fibrogenesis. Furthermore, these factors may share synergistic interactions, which could contribute to the process of liver fibrosis. Given the complex etiology of NASH, combined treatment regimes that target these different factors provide potential treatment strategies for NASH-related liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaolian Bian
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao-Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai, China
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Xie Y, Wang G, Wang H, Yao X, Jiang S, Kang A, Zhou F, Xie T, Hao H. Cytochrome P450 dysregulations in thioacetamide-induced liver cirrhosis in rats and the counteracting effects of hepatoprotective agents. Drug Metab Dispos 2012; 40:796-802. [PMID: 22266841 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.111.043539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysregulations of cytochromes P450 (P450s) under liver injury have been extensively studied. However, little is known about the possible reversing effects of hepatoprotective agents, the understanding of which is of great importance in guiding clinical dosage adjustment for patients with liver injury. This study aims to investigate the dysregulation patterns of major P450s in thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver cirrhosis in rats and the potential counteracting effects of hepatoprotective agents schisandra lignans extract (SLE) and dimethyl diphenyl bicarboxylate (DDB). TAA intoxications for 6 weeks induced apparent liver injury and dramatically reduced the hepatic protein expressions of CYP1A2, CYP2C6, CYP2E1, and CYP3A2 to 18, 71, 30, and 21% of that in the normal control, respectively. Both SLE and DDB treatments could significantly reverse the TAA-induced loss of P450 protein levels, which may be ascribed to their hepatoprotective effects and direct P450-inducing effects that have been confirmed in healthy rats. However, the recovery of enzyme activities of most P450s by SLE and DDB treatment was less evident than that for the protein expression levels. TAA exhibited NADPH-, time-, and concentration-dependent inactivating effects on all of the four major P450 isozymes; both DDB and GSH showed little effects on counteracting such an inactivation efficacy. These findings provided a good explanation on the disproportional effects of hepatoprotective agents in recovering the protein levels and enzyme activities of TAA-induced dysregulated P450s.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Tongjiaxiang 24, Nanjing 210009, China
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Reply to: “NKT cells in liver fibrosis: Controversies or complexities”. J Hepatol 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2011.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
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Wang H, Park O, Gao B. NKT cells in liver fibrosis: controversies or complexities. J Hepatol 2011; 55:1166; author reply 1166-1167. [PMID: 21763666 PMCID: PMC3743922 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2011.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2011] [Accepted: 04/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hua Wang
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Ogyi Park
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Bin Gao
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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A polymeric nanoparticle formulation of curcumin (NanoCurc™) ameliorates CCl4-induced hepatic injury and fibrosis through reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines and stellate cell activation. J Transl Med 2011; 91:1383-95. [PMID: 21691262 PMCID: PMC3345948 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.2011.86] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Plant-derived polyphenols such as curcumin hold promise as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of chronic liver diseases. However, its development is plagued by poor aqueous solubility resulting in poor bioavailability. To circumvent the suboptimal bioavailability of free curcumin, we have developed a polymeric nanoparticle formulation of curcumin (NanoCurc™) that overcomes this major pitfall of the free compound. In this study, we show that NanoCurc™ results in sustained intrahepatic curcumin levels that can be found in both hepatocytes and non-parenchymal cells. NanoCurc™ markedly inhibits carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury, production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and fibrosis. It also enhances antioxidant levels in the liver and inhibits pro-fibrogenic transcripts associated with activated myofibroblasts. Finally, we show that NanoCurc™ directly induces stellate cell apoptosis in vitro. Our results suggest that NanoCurc™ might be an effective therapy for patients with chronic liver disease.
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DeLeve LD, Jaeschke H, Kalra VK, Asahina K, Brenner DA, Tsukamoto H. 15th International Symposium on Cells of the Hepatic Sinusoid, 2010. Liver Int 2011; 31:762-72. [PMID: 21645207 PMCID: PMC4388239 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2011.02527.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
This is a meeting report of the presentations given at the 15th International Symposium on Cells of the Hepatic Sinusoid, held in 2010. The areas covered include the contributions of the various liver cell populations to liver disease, molecular and cellular targets involved in steatohepatitis, hepatic fibrosis and cancer and regenerative medicine. In addition to a review of the science presented at the meeting, this report provides references to recent literature on the topics covered at the meeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurie D DeLeve
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90069, USA.
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