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Mohammed OA, Youssef ME, Doghish AS, Hamad RS, Abdel-Reheim MA, Alghamdi M, Alamri MMS, Alfaifi J, Adam MIE, Alharthi MH, Alhalafi AH, Bahashwan E, Rezigalla AA, BinAfif DF, Abdel-Ghany S, Attia MA, Elmorsy EA, Al-Noshokaty TM, Fikry H, Saleh LA, Saber S. A novel combination therapy targets sonic hedgehog signaling by the dual inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase and HSP90 in rats with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Eur J Pharm Sci 2024; 198:106792. [PMID: 38714237 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2024.106792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is characterized by liver inflammation, fat accumulation, and collagen deposition. Due to the limited availability of effective treatments, there is a pressing need to develop innovative strategies. Given the complex nature of the disease, employing combination approaches is essential. Hedgehog signaling has been recognized as potentially promoting NASH, and cholesterol can influence this signaling by modifying the conformation of PTCH1 and SMO activity. HSP90 plays a role in the stability of SMO and GLI proteins. We revealed significant positive correlations between Hedgehog signaling proteins (Shh, SMO, GLI1, and GLI2) and both cholesterol and HSP90 levels. Herein, we investigated the novel combination of the cholesterol-lowering agent lovastatin and the HSP90 inhibitor PU-H71 in vitro and in vivo. The combination demonstrated a synergy score of 15.09 and an MSA score of 22.85, as estimated by the ZIP synergy model based on growth inhibition rates in HepG2 cells. In a NASH rat model induced by thioacetamide and a high-fat diet, this combination therapy extended survival, improved liver function and histology, and enhanced antioxidant defense. Additionally, the combination exhibited anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic potential by influencing the levels of TNF-α, TGF-β, TIMP-1, and PDGF-BB. This effect was evident in the suppression of the Col1a1 gene expression and the levels of hydroxyproline and α-SMA. These favorable outcomes may be attributed to the combination's potential to inhibit key Hedgehog signaling molecules. In conclusion, exploring the applicability of this combination contributes to a more comprehensive understanding and improved management of NASH and other fibrotic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osama A Mohammed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt; Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mahmoud E Youssef
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa 11152, Egypt
| | - Ahmed S Doghish
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo, 11829, Egypt; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo 11231, Egypt.
| | - Rabab S Hamad
- Biological Sciences Department, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; Central Laboratory, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza 12411, Egypt.
| | - Mustafa Ahmed Abdel-Reheim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Shaqra University, Shaqra 11961, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef 62521, Egypt.
| | - Mushabab Alghamdi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohannad Mohammad S Alamri
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jaber Alfaifi
- Department of Child Health, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha, 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Masoud I E Adam
- Department of Medical Education and Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muffarah Hamid Alharthi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Hassan Alhalafi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Emad Bahashwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Dermatology, College of medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Assad Ali Rezigalla
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Daad Fuad BinAfif
- Department of Medicine, King Abdullah Medical City, Makkah 24246, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sameh Abdel-Ghany
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt; Department of basic medical sciences, Ibn Sina University for medical sciences, Amman 16197, Jordan
| | - Mohammed A Attia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt; Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 11597, Saudi Arabia
| | - Elsayed A Elmorsy
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Saudi Arabia; Clinical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.
| | - Tohada M Al-Noshokaty
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt
| | - Heba Fikry
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Lobna A Saleh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Collage of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sameh Saber
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa 11152, Egypt
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Zhang D, Zhao Y, Zhang G, Lank D, Cooke S, Wang S, Nuotio-Antar A, Tong X, Yin L. Suppression of hepatic ChREBP⍺-CYP2C50 axis-driven fatty acid oxidation sensitizes mice to diet-induced MASLD/MASH. Mol Metab 2024; 85:101957. [PMID: 38740087 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2024.101957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Compromised hepatic fatty acid oxidation (FAO) has been observed in human MASH patients and animal models of MASLD/MASH. It remains poorly understood how and when the hepatic FAO pathway is suppressed during the progression of MASLD towards MASH. Hepatic ChREBP⍺ is a classical lipogenic transcription factor that responds to the intake of dietary sugars. METHODS We examined its role in regulating hepatocyte fatty acid oxidation (FAO) and the impact of hepatic Chrebpa deficiency on sensitivity to diet-induced MASLD/MASH in mice. RESULTS We discovered that hepatocyte ChREBP⍺ is both necessary and sufficient to maintain FAO in a cell-autonomous manner independently of its DNA-binding activity. Supplementation of synthetic PPAR⍺/δ agonist is sufficient to restore FAO in Chrebp-/- primary mouse hepatocytes. Hepatic ChREBP⍺ was decreased in mouse models of diet-induced MAFSLD/MASH and in patients with MASH. Hepatocyte-specific Chrebp⍺ knockout impaired FAO, aggravated liver steatosis and inflammation, leading to early-onset fibrosis in response to diet-induced MASH. Conversely, liver overexpression of ChREBP⍺-WT or its non-lipogenic mutant enhanced FAO, reduced lipid deposition, and alleviated liver injury, inflammation, and fibrosis. RNA-seq analysis identified the CYP450 epoxygenase (CYP2C50) pathway of arachidonic acid metabolism as a novel target of ChREBP⍺. Over-expression of CYP2C50 partially restores hepatic FAO in primary hepatocytes with Chrebp⍺ deficiency and attenuates preexisting MASH in the livers of hepatocyte-specific Chrebp⍺-deleted mice. CONCLUSIONS Our findings support the protective role of hepatocyte ChREBPa against diet-induced MASLD/MASH in mouse models in part via promoting CYP2C50-driven FAO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deqiang Zhang
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, USA; Caswell Diabetes Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, NCRC Building 20-3843, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Yuee Zhao
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, USA; Caswell Diabetes Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, NCRC Building 20-3843, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA; Department of Nephrology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 Renmin Middle Rd, Furong District, Changsha, Hunan Province 410011, PR China
| | - Gary Zhang
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, USA; Caswell Diabetes Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, NCRC Building 20-3843, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Daniel Lank
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, 1340 Jefferson Park Avenue, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Sarah Cooke
- Neurosciences Graduate Program, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44016, USA
| | - Sujuan Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 Renmin Middle Rd, Furong District, Changsha, Hunan Province 410011, PR China
| | - Alli Nuotio-Antar
- Children Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xin Tong
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, USA; Caswell Diabetes Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, NCRC Building 20-3843, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Lei Yin
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, USA; Caswell Diabetes Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, NCRC Building 20-3843, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA.
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Jeng KS, Chang CF, Tsang YM, Sheen IS, Jeng CJ. Reappraisal of the Roles of the Sonic Hedgehog Signaling Pathway in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1739. [PMID: 38730691 PMCID: PMC11083695 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16091739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
HCC remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related death globally. The main challenges in treatments of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) primarily arise from high rates of postoperative recurrence and the limited efficacy in treating advanced-stage patients. Various signaling pathways involved in HCC have been reported. Among them, the Sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway is crucial. The presence of SHH ligands is identified in approximately 60% of HCC tumor tissues, including tumor nests. PTCH-1 and GLI-1 are detected in more than half of HCC tissues, while GLI-2 is found in over 84% of HCC tissues. The SHH signaling pathway (including canonical and non-canonical) is involved in different aspects of HCC, including hepatocarcinogenesis, tumor growth, tumor invasiveness, progression, and migration. The SHH signaling pathway also contributes to recurrence, metastasis, modulation of the cancer microenvironment, and sustaining cancer stem cells. It also affects the resistance of HCC cells to chemotherapy, target therapy, and radiotherapy. Reappraisal of the roles of the SHH signaling pathway in HCC may trigger some novel therapies for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Shyang Jeng
- Department of Surgery, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 220, Taiwan
| | - Chiung-Fang Chang
- Department of Medical Research, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 220, Taiwan;
| | - Yuk-Ming Tsang
- Department of Imaging Medicine, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 220, Taiwan;
| | - I-Shyan Sheen
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Linkou Chang Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung Medical Foundation, Taoyuan City 333, Taiwan;
| | - Chi-Juei Jeng
- Graduate Institude of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University, College of Medicine, Taipei City 10617, Taiwan;
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Sun YD, Zhang H, Li YM, Han JJ. Abnormal metabolism in hepatic stellate cells: Pandora's box of MAFLD related hepatocellular carcinoma. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189086. [PMID: 38342420 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a significant risk factor for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), as key mediators in liver injury response, are believed to play a crucial role in the repair process of liver injury. However, in MAFLD patients, the normal metabolic and immunoregulatory mechanisms of HSCs become disrupted, leading to disturbances in the local microenvironment. Abnormally activated HSCs are heavily involved in the initiation and progression of HCC. The metabolic disorders and abnormal activation of HSCs not only initiate liver fibrosis but also contribute to carcinogenesis. In this review, we provide an overview of recent research progress on the relationship between the abnormal metabolism of HSCs and the local immune system in the liver, elucidating the mechanisms of immune imbalance caused by abnormally activated HSCs in MAFLD patients. Based on this understanding, we discuss the potential and challenges of metabolic-based and immunology-based mechanisms in the treatment of MAFLD-related HCC, with a specific focus on the role of HSCs in HCC progression and their potential as targets for anti-cancer therapy. This review aims to enhance researchers' understanding of the importance of HSCs in maintaining normal liver function and highlights the significance of HSCs in the progression of MAFLD-related HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Dong Sun
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Affiliated Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Affiliated Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, China
| | - Yuan-Min Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Transplant Engineering and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, China
| | - Jian-Jun Han
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Affiliated Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, China.
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Zhang W, Lu J, Feng L, Xue H, Shen S, Lai S, Li P, Li P, Kuang J, Yang Z, Xu X. Sonic hedgehog-heat shock protein 90β axis promotes the development of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in mice. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1280. [PMID: 38342927 PMCID: PMC10859387 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45520-8] [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: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Sonic hedgehog (SHH) and heat shock protein 90β (HSP90β) have been implicated in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) but their molecular mechanisms of action remain elusive. We find that HSP90β is a key SHH downstream molecule for promoting NASH process. In hepatocytes, SHH reduces HSP90β ubiquitylation through deubiquitylase USP31, thus preventing HSP90β degradation and promoting hepatic lipid synthesis. HSP90β significantly increases in NASH mouse model, leading to secretion of exosomes enriched with miR-28-5p. miR-28-5p directly targetes and decreases Rap1b levels, which in turn promotes NF-κB transcriptional activity in macrophages and stimulates the expression of inflammatory factors. Genetic deletion, pharmacological inhibition of the SHH-HSP90β axis, or delivery of miR-28-5p to macrophages in the male mice liver, impairs NASH symptomatic development. Importantly, there is a markedly higher abundance of miR-28-5p in NASH patient sera. Taken together, the SHH-HSP90β-miR-28-5p axis offers promising therapeutic targets against NASH, and serum miR-28-5p may serve as a NASH diagnostic biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weitao Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China; Center for Innovative Traditional Chinese Medicine Target and New Drug Research, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 210009, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Junfeng Lu
- First Department of Liver Disease, Beijing You'An Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Lianshun Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 210009, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hanyue Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 210009, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shiyang Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 210009, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shuiqing Lai
- Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - PingPing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Diabetes Research Center of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Ping Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 210009, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jian Kuang
- Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Zhiwei Yang
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) & Peking Union Medical Collage (PUMC), Beijing, 100021, PR China.
| | - Xiaojun Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China; Center for Innovative Traditional Chinese Medicine Target and New Drug Research, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 210009, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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Abdalla N, Abo-ElMatty DM, Saleh S, Ghattas MH, Omar NN. Empagliflozin suppresses hedgehog pathway, alleviates ER stress, and ameliorates hepatic fibrosis in rats. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19046. [PMID: 37923828 PMCID: PMC10624673 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46288-5] [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: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide mortality from hepatic fibrosis remains high, due to hepatocellular carcinoma and end stage liver failure. The progressive nature of hepatic fibrosis from inflammation to cicatrized tissues warrants subtle intervention with pharmacological agents that hold potential. Empagliflozin (Empa), a novel hypoglycemic drug with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has lately been proposed to have additional antifibrotic activities. In the current study, we examined the antifibrotic effect of the Empa through modulating the activity of hepatic stellate cells by hedgehog (Hh) pathway. We also assessed the markers of inflammatory response and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Male Albino rats were treated with either CCl4 (0.4 mg/kg twice/week) and/or Empa (10 mg/kg/day) for eight weeks. In this study, CCl4 rats had active Hh signaling as indicated by overexpression of Patched 1, Smoothened and Glioblastoma-2. CCl4 induced ER stress as CHOP expression was upregulated and ERAD was downregulated. CCl4-induced inflammatory response was demonstrated through increased levels of TNF-α, IL-6 and mRNA levels of IL-17 while undetectable expression of IL-10. Conversely, Empa elicited immunosuppression, suppressed the expression of Hh markers, and reversed markers of ER stress. In conclusion, Empa suppressed CCl4-induced Hh signaling and proinflammatory response, meanwhile embraced ER stress in the hepatic tissues, altogether provided hepatoprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nourihan Abdalla
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Modern University for Technology and Information, Mokattam, Cairo, 11585, Egypt
| | - Dina M Abo-ElMatty
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt
| | - Sami Saleh
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt
| | - Maivel H Ghattas
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Port Said University, Port Said, Egypt.
| | - Nesreen Nabil Omar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Modern University for Technology and Information, Mokattam, Cairo, 11585, Egypt
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7
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Park H, Lee S, Lee J, Moon H, Ro SW. Exploring the JAK/STAT Signaling Pathway in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Unraveling Signaling Complexity and Therapeutic Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13764. [PMID: 37762066 PMCID: PMC10531214 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) continues to pose a substantial global health challenge due to its high incidence and limited therapeutic options. In recent years, the Janus Kinase (JAK) and Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (STAT) pathway has emerged as a critical signaling cascade in HCC pathogenesis. The review commences with an overview of the JAK/STAT pathway, delving into the dynamic interplay between the JAK/STAT pathway and its numerous upstream activators, such as cytokines and growth factors enriched in pathogenic livers afflicted with chronic inflammation and cirrhosis. This paper also elucidates how the persistent activation of JAK/STAT signaling leads to diverse oncogenic processes during hepatocarcinogenesis, including uncontrolled cell proliferation, evasion of apoptosis, and immune escape. In the context of therapeutic implications, this review summarizes recent advancements in targeting the JAK/STAT pathway for HCC treatment. Preclinical and clinical studies investigating inhibitors and modulators of JAK/STAT signaling are discussed, highlighting their potential in suppressing the deadly disease. The insights presented herein underscore the necessity for continued research into targeting the JAK/STAT signaling pathway as a promising avenue for HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Simon Weonsang Ro
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Kyung Hee University, Yongin-si 17104, Republic of Korea; (H.P.); (S.L.); (J.L.); (H.M.)
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Verçosa BLA, Muniz-Junqueira MI, Barradas ALB, Costa FAL, Melo MN, Vasconcelos AC. Enhanced apoptotic index in hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, and inflammatory infiltrate showed positive correlation with hepatic lesion intensity, parasite load, and clinical status in naturally Leishmania-infected dogs. Microb Pathog 2023:106194. [PMID: 37269879 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
It is unknown if Leishmania amastigote infections affect hepatocytes and Kupffer cell apoptosis, and the role played by apoptosis in liver lesions in leishmaniasis is still unclear. Clinically affected and subclinically infected dogs with leishmaniosis and uninfected controls were assessed. Parasite load, biochemical markers for evaluation of liver damage, morphometry (area, perimeter, number of inflammatory focus, major and minor diameters), apoptosis in hepatic tissue (hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, and inflammatory infiltrates) and cellularity in inflammatory foci were quantified. The parasite load in clinically affected dogs proved to be higher than in the other groups. All morphometric parameters (area, perimeter, number of inflammatory focus, major and minor diameters) from clinically affected were higher than the values found in the subclinically infected and uninfected control dogs. Only clinically affected dogs presented high levels of ALT, FA, GGT and cholesterol in serum. Strong positive correlation was observed between biochemical markers for evaluation of liver damage (ALT, FA, GGT and cholesterol) and hepatic apoptosis (hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, and inflammation). Clinically affected dogs showed a more intense hepatic lesion. Hepatocytes showed a higher rate of apoptosis in Leishmania-infected dogs than in uninfected control dogs. The Kupffer cell apoptotic index and apoptosis within the inflammatory infiltrates were higher in clinically affected dogs. The apoptotic index evaluated in hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, and inflammatory infiltrates showed a positive correlation with the intensity of the hepatic lesion, parasite load, and clinical status. Apoptotic cells also showed positive immunostaining for TUNEL, Bcl2, and Bax. Our data showed that hepatic apoptosis was related to the severity of liver damage, the progression of infection, and the parasite load in leishmaniasis. Apoptotic regulated cell recruitment modulated the inflammatory response and favored the survival and dissemination of parasites, depending on the clinical status of the Leishmania-infected dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Laurice Araujo Verçosa
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Laboratório de Imunologia Celular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil; Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde Pitágoras de Codó, Maranhão, Brazil.
| | | | - Ana Lys Bezerra Barradas
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia veterinária, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal do Piauí, Teresina, Piauí, Brazil
| | - Francisco Assis Lima Costa
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia veterinária, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal do Piauí, Teresina, Piauí, Brazil
| | - Maria Norma Melo
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Anilton Cesar Vasconcelos
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Didamoony MA, Atwa AM, Ahmed LA. Modulatory effect of rupatadine on mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes in hepatic fibrosis in rats: A potential role for miR-200a. Life Sci 2023; 324:121710. [PMID: 37084952 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-EXOs) have emerged as a promising approach in regenerative medicine for management of different diseases. However, the maintenance of their efficacy after in vivo transplantation is still a major concern. The present investigation aimed to assess the modulatory effect of rupatadine (RUP) on MSC-EXOs in diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced liver fibrosis (LF), and to explore the possible underlying mechanism. MAIN METHODS LF was induced in rats by i.p. injection of DEN (100 mg/kg) once per week for 6 successive weeks. Rats were then treated with RUP (4 mg/kg/day, p.o.) for 4 weeks with or without a single i.v. administration of MSC-EXOs. At the end of the experiment, animals were euthanized and serum and liver were separated for biochemical, and histological measurements. KEY FINDINGS The combined MSC-EXOs/RUP therapy provided an additional improvement towards inhibition of DEN-induced LF compared to MSC-EXOs group alone. These outcomes could be mediated through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic effects of RUP which created a more favorable environment for MSC-EXOs homing, and action. This in turn would enhance more effectively miR-200a expression which reduced oxidative stress, inflammation, necroptosis pathway, and subsequently fibrosis as revealed by turning off TGF-β1/α-SMA expression, and hedgehog axis. SIGNIFICANCE The present findings reveal that RUP enhanced the anti-fibrotic efficacy of MSC-EXOs when used as a combined therapy. This was revealed through attenuation of PAF/RIPK3/MLKL/HMGB1, and TGF-β1/hedgehog signaling pathways with a significant role for miR-200a.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manar A Didamoony
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Egyptian Russian University, Cairo 11829, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed M Atwa
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Egyptian Russian University, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Lamiaa A Ahmed
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt.
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Wiering L, Subramanian P, Hammerich L. Hepatic Stellate Cells: Dictating Outcome in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 15:1277-1292. [PMID: 36828280 PMCID: PMC10148161 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2023.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a fast growing, chronic liver disease affecting ∼25% of the global population. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease severity ranges from the less severe simple hepatic steatosis to the more advanced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The presence of NASH predisposes individuals to liver fibrosis, which can further progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. This makes hepatic fibrosis an important indicator of clinical outcomes in patients with NASH. Hepatic stellate cell activation dictates fibrosis development during NASH. Here, we discuss recent advances in the analysis of the profibrogenic pathways and mediators of hepatic stellate cell activation and inactivation, which ultimately determine the course of disease in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease/NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leke Wiering
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany; Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, BIH Biomedical Innovation Academy, BIH Charité Junior Clinician Scientist Program, Berlin, Germany
| | - Pallavi Subramanian
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Linda Hammerich
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany.
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Finney AC, Das S, Kumar D, McKinney MP, Cai B, Yurdagul A, Rom O. The interplay between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1116861. [PMID: 37200978 PMCID: PMC10185914 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1116861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic approaches that lower circulating low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol significantly reduced the burden of cardiovascular disease over the last decades. However, the persistent rise in the obesity epidemic is beginning to reverse this decline. Alongside obesity, the incidence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has substantially increased in the last three decades. Currently, approximately one third of world population is affected by NAFLD. Notably, the presence of NAFLD and particularly its more severe form, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), serves as an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), thus, raising interest in the relationship between these two diseases. Importantly, ASCVD is the major cause of death in patients with NASH independent of traditional risk factors. Nevertheless, the pathophysiology linking NAFLD/NASH with ASCVD remains poorly understood. While dyslipidemia is a common risk factor underlying both diseases, therapies that lower circulating LDL-cholesterol are largely ineffective against NASH. While there are no approved pharmacological therapies for NASH, some of the most advanced drug candidates exacerbate atherogenic dyslipidemia, raising concerns regarding their adverse cardiovascular consequences. In this review, we address current gaps in our understanding of the mechanisms linking NAFLD/NASH and ASCVD, explore strategies to simultaneously model these diseases, evaluate emerging biomarkers that may be useful to diagnose the presence of both diseases, and discuss investigational approaches and ongoing clinical trials that potentially target both diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra C. Finney
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Sandeep Das
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Dhananjay Kumar
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - M. Peyton McKinney
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Bishuang Cai
- Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY, United States
| | - Arif Yurdagul
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
- Correspondence: Arif Yurdagul Oren Rom
| | - Oren Rom
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
- Correspondence: Arif Yurdagul Oren Rom
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Yang T, Wu E, Zhu X, Leng Y, Ye S, Dong R, Liu J, Zhong J, Zheng Y, Xu W, Luo J, Kong L, Zhang H. TKF, a mexicanolide-type limonoid derivative, suppressed hepatic stellate cells activation and liver fibrosis through inhibition of the YAP/Notch3 pathway. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 107:154466. [PMID: 36182796 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver fibrosis is a common scarring response and may ultimately lead to liver cancer, unfortunately, there is currently no effective antifibrotic drug approved for human use. Limonoids exhibit a broad spectrum of biological activities; however, the potential role of limonoids against fibrosis is largely unknown. PURPOSE This study investigates the antifibrotic activities and potential mechanisms of TKF (3-tigloyl-khasenegasin F), a natural mexicanolide-type limonoid derivative. STUDY DESIGN/METHODS Two well-established mouse models (CCl4 challenge and bile duct ligation) were used to assess anti-fibrotic effects of TKF in vivo. Human hepatic stellate cell (HSC) line LX-2 and mouse primary hepatic stellate cells (pHSCs) also served as in vitro liver fibrosis models. RESULT TKF administration significantly attenuated hepatic histopathological injury and collagen accumulation and suppressed fibrogenesis-associated gene expression including Col1a1, Acta2, and Timp1. In LX-2 cells and mouse pHSCs, TKF dose-dependently suppressed HSC activation and the expression levels of fibrogenic markers. Mechanistic studies showed that TKF inhibited Notch3-Hes1 and YAP signalings in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, YAP inhibition or knockdown downregulated the Notch3 expression; however, Notch3 inhibition or knockdown did not affect the level of YAP in activated HSC. We revealed that TKF inhibited Notch3-Hes1 activation and downregulated hepatic fibrogenic gene expression via inhibiting YAP. CONCLUSION The therapeutic benefit of TKF against liver fibrosis results from inhibition of YAP and Notch3-Hes1 pathways, indicating that TKF may be a novel therapeutic candidate for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Enyi Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyun Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yingrong Leng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shengtao Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ruirui Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiaman Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiawen Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ying Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenjun Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lingyi Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Hao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.
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Hu Y, He X, Zhou X, Liang Y, Fu Y, Zhang L, Fang J, Liu W, Chen G, Mu Y, Zhang H, Cai H, Liu C, Liu P, Chen J. Gypenosides ameliorate ductular reaction and liver fibrosis via inhibition of hedgehog signaling. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1033103. [PMID: 36483737 PMCID: PMC9722742 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1033103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 08/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Backgroud and aims: Ductular reaction (DR) is a common pathological change and thought to have a key role in the pathogenesis and progression of liver fibrosis. Our previous study reported Gypenosides (GPs) ameliorated liver fibrosis, however, the anti-fibrotic mechanisms of GPs are still unclear. Methods: Liver fibrosis was induced in rats by carbon tetrachloride combining with 2-acerylaminofluorene (CCl4/2-AAF), and Mdr2 knockout (Mdr2 -/-) mice to evaluate the anti-fibrotic role of GPs. In vitro, WB-F344 cells, a hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) line, with or without Gli1 overexpressing lentiviral vectors, were induced by sodium butyrate (SB) to validate the mechanism of GPs and NPLC0393, the main ingredient of GPs. Results: Both in CCl4/2-AAF-treated rats and Mdr2 -/- mice, GPs obviously reduced the deposition of collagen and hydroxyproline content, inhibited the activation of hepatic stellate cells and inflammatory cell infiltration. Notably, GPs reduced the expressions of Epcam, CK19, CK7, Dhh, Smo, Ptch2, Gli1 and Gli2. Furthermore, CK19+ cells co-expressed Gli1, while the number of CK19+/Gli1+ cells was decreased by GPs. In vitro, GPs and NPLC0393 inhibited the differentiation of WB-F344 cells toward a biliary phenotype. Mechanistically, GPs and NPLC0393 protected against DR by inhibiting hedgehog signaling, which was supported by the results that DR, triggered directly by Gli1 overexpressing lentiviral vector was blocked by administration with GPs or NPLC0393. Conclusion: GPs attenuated DR and liver fibrosis by inhibiting hedgehog signaling, which provided more evidences and a novel mechanism of anti-fibrotic effect of GPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonghong Hu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoli He
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoxi Zhou
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue Liang
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yadong Fu
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Linzhang Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Fang
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Gaofeng Chen
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongping Mu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Cai
- Xiamen Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Chenghai Liu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Liu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiamei Chen
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Fibrogenic Pathways in Metabolic Dysfunction Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD). Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23136996. [PMID: 35805998 PMCID: PMC9266719 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23136996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), recently also re-defined as metabolic dysfunction associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), is rapidly increasing, affecting ~25% of the world population. MALFD/NAFLD represents a spectrum of liver pathologies including the more benign hepatic steatosis and the more advanced non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). NASH is associated with enhanced risk for liver fibrosis and progression to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) activation underlies NASH-related fibrosis. Here, we discuss the profibrogenic pathways, which lead to HSC activation and fibrogenesis, with a particular focus on the intercellular hepatocyte–HSC and macrophage–HSC crosstalk.
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15
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Zhu S, Chen X, Chen SY, Wang A, Wu S, Wu YY, Cheng M, Xu JJ, Li XF, Huang C, Li J. Hesperetin derivative decreases CCl 4 -induced hepatic fibrosis by Ptch1-dependent mechanisms. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2022; 36:e23149. [PMID: 35712856 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis (HF), a continuous wound-healing response of the liver to repeated injuries, is characterized by abnormal extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are considered a major cell type for ECM production. However, recent evidence indicates the lack of effective treatments for HF. Hesperetin, a Traditional Chinese Medicine monomer, has been isolated from the fruit peel of Citrusaurantium L. (Rutaceae). Growing evidence suggests the partial function of hesperetin in HF treatment. A hesperetin derivative (HD) was synthesized in our laboratory to increase the bioavailability and the water solubility of hesperetin. In this study, we detected the functions of HD in a mouse model of CCl4 -induced HF and transforming growth factor-β1-stimulated HSC-T6 cells, in vivo and in vitro. HD reduced histological damage and CCl4 -induced HF. Moreover, HD interference was associated with the activation of indicators in HSC-T6 cells, showing that HD is involved in HSCs activation in HF. Mechanistically, the Hedgehog pathway is involved in the HD treatment of HF, and HD may attenuate the aberrant expression of patched1. In conclusion, the studies indicate that HD may function as a potential antifibrotic Traditional Chinese Medicine monomer in HF therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Xin Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Si-Yu Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Ao Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Sha Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Miao Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Jin-Jin Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
| | - Jun Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Hefei, China
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Ferdek PE, Krzysztofik D, Stopa KB, Kusiak AA, Paw M, Wnuk D, Jakubowska MA. When healing turns into killing ‐ the pathophysiology of pancreatic and hepatic fibrosis. J Physiol 2022; 600:2579-2612. [DOI: 10.1113/jp281135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Pawel E. Ferdek
- Department of Cell Biology Faculty of Biochemistry Biophysics and Biotechnology Jagiellonian University Krakow Poland
| | - Daria Krzysztofik
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology Jagiellonian University Krakow Poland
| | - Kinga B. Stopa
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology Jagiellonian University Krakow Poland
| | - Agnieszka A. Kusiak
- Department of Cell Biology Faculty of Biochemistry Biophysics and Biotechnology Jagiellonian University Krakow Poland
| | - Milena Paw
- Department of Cell Biology Faculty of Biochemistry Biophysics and Biotechnology Jagiellonian University Krakow Poland
| | - Dawid Wnuk
- Department of Cell Biology Faculty of Biochemistry Biophysics and Biotechnology Jagiellonian University Krakow Poland
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Target Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Beyond Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors and Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11040585. [PMID: 35453784 PMCID: PMC9027240 DOI: 10.3390/biology11040585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer and its incidence is steadily increasing. The development of HCC is a complex, multi-step process that is accompanied by alterations in multiple signaling cascades. Recent years have seen advancement in understanding molecular signaling pathways that play central roles in hepatocarcinogenesis. Aberrant activation of YAP/TAZ, Hedgehog, or Wnt/β-catenin signaling is frequently found in a subset of HCC patients. Targeting the signaling pathway via small molecule inhibitors could be a promising therapeutic option for the subset of patients. In this review, we will introduce the signaling pathways, discuss their roles in the development of HCC, and propose a therapeutic approach targeting the signaling pathways in the context of HCC. Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major health concern worldwide, and its incidence is increasing steadily. To date, receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are the most favored molecular targets for the treatment of HCC, followed by immune checkpoint regulators such as PD-1, PD-L1, and CTLA-4. With less than desirable clinical outcomes from RTK inhibitors as well as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) so far, novel molecular target therapies have been proposed for HCC. In this review, we will introduce diverse molecular signaling pathways that are aberrantly activated in HCC, focusing on YAP/TAZ, Hedgehog, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways, and discuss potential therapeutic strategies targeting the signaling pathways in HCC.
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Garg C, khan H, Kaur A, Singh TG, Sharma VK, Singh SK. Therapeutic Implications of Sonic Hedgehog Pathway in Metabolic Disorders: Novel Target for Effective Treatment. Pharmacol Res 2022; 179:106194. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Shen-Shuai-Ling Formulation Attenuates Renal Interstitial Fibrosis in Chronic Kidney Disease by Regulating SHH-Gli1 Signaling Pathway. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:3754985. [PMID: 35190746 PMCID: PMC8858066 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3754985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Background Shen-Shuai-Ling Formulation (SSLF) has apparent effects on improving renal function, delaying the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Methods Fifty male SD rats were randomly divided into 5 groups: Sham group, Model group, SSLF group, CPN group, and C + S group. The morphological changes and the collagen fibers of the rat kidneys were observed by HE staining. The expression of α-SMA, Col I, SHH, Gli1, and snail1 was detected by Western blot and qPCR. Then, the cells were divided into the control group, SHH group, and SHH + SSLF serum group. Results Compared with the Model group, the fibrosis in SSLF, CPN, and C + S groups was significantly alleviated. And, compared with those in the Model group, the expression of α-SMA, Col I, SHH, Gli1, Snail in SSLF, CPN, and C + S groups decreased remarkably. Conclusions SSLF remarkably improves renal function and alleviates renal interstitial fibrosis in UUO rats.
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Mehmood R, Sheikh N, Khawar MB, Abbasi MH, Mukhtar M. High-fat diet intake ameliorates the expression of hedgehog signaling pathway in adult rat liver. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:1985-1994. [PMID: 35040007 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-07012-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disproportionate fatty diet intake provokes hepatic lipid accumulation that causes non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, triggering the embryonically conserved Hedgehog (Hh) pathway in the adult liver. The present study incorporates exploring the impact of chronically administered unsaturated (D-1) and saturated (D-2) fat-enriched diets on hematological parameters, liver functioning, and lipid profile in the rat model. Besides, hepatohistology and real time gene expression analysis of Hh signaling pathway genes i.e., Shh, Ihh, Hhip, Ptch1, Smo, Gli1, Gli2, and Gli3 were carried out. METHODS AND RESULTS Fifteen Rattus norvegicus (♂) of 200 ± 25 g weight were grouped into control, D-1, and D-2. Animals were fed on their respective diets for 16 weeks. Fatty diet intake resulted in neutropenia, lymphocytosis, monocytosis, polycythemia, and macrocytosis in both experimental groups. Altered liver injury biomarkers, hypertriglyceridemia, and significantly increased very-low-density lipoprotein VLDL were also noted in both high-fat diet (HFD) groups as compared to control. Hepatohistological examination showed disrupted microarchitecture, infiltration of inflammatory cells, cellular necrosis, widened sinusoidal spaces, and microvesicular steatotic hepatocytes in D-1 and D-2. Collagen deposition in both HFD groups marks the extent of fibrosis. Significant upregulation of hedgehog pathway genes was found in fatty diet groups. In comparison with the control group, Shh Ihh, Hhip, Ptch1, Smo, Gli1, Gli2, and Gli3 were upregulated in D-1. In D-2 Shh, Hhip, and Smo expressions were upregulated, Ihh exhibited downregulation as compared to control. CONCLUSION Excess fat deposits in liver due to chronic consumption of high-fat diet results in anomalous architecture and functioning. High-fat diet induced significant variations in Hh pathway genes expression; especially Shh, Ihh, Hhip, Ptch1, Smo, Gli1, Gli2, and Gli3 were upregulated. Infiltration of inflammatory cells ( ), widened sinusoidal spaces (▲), cellular necrosis, and micro vesicular steatotic hepatocytes (*) were shown in the liver. Significant collagen deposition in both HFD groups i.e. D-1 and D-2 confirmed liver fibrosis. Excessive intake of dietary fats impaired normal liver functioning and liver inflammation triggered Hh signaling in adult rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabia Mehmood
- Institute of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Q-A- Campus, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan
| | - Nadeem Sheikh
- Institute of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Q-A- Campus, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Babar Khawar
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Central Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muddasir Hassan Abbasi
- Institute of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Q-A- Campus, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan.,Department of Zoology, University of Okara, Okara, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Maryam Mukhtar
- Institute of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Q-A- Campus, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan
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Gu L, Zhang F, Wu J, Zhuge Y. Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery for Liver Fibrosis. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 8:804396. [PMID: 35087870 PMCID: PMC8787125 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.804396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a reversible disease course caused by various liver injury etiologies, and it can lead to severe complications, such as liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and even liver cancer. Traditional pharmacotherapy has several limitations, such as inadequate therapeutic effect and side effects. Nanotechnology in drug delivery for liver fibrosis has exhibited great potential. Nanomedicine improves the internalization and penetration, which facilitates targeted drug delivery, combination therapy, and theranostics. Here, we focus on new targets and new mechanisms in liver fibrosis, as well as recent designs and development work of nanotechnology in delivery systems for liver fibrosis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihong Gu
- Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jinhui Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Nano Technology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuzheng Zhuge
- Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
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22
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Zhu MZ, Huang J, Li M, Zhoua WJ, Yao ZM, Ji G, Zhang L. Integrated miRNA and mRNA analysis identified potential mechanisms and targets of qianggan extracts in preventing nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. WORLD JOURNAL OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/wjtcm.wjtcm_48_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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23
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Zhu MZ, Huanga J, Lia M, Zhou WJ, Yao ZM, Ji G, Zhang L. Integrated miRNA and mRNA analysis identified potential mechanisms and targets of qianggan extracts in preventing nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. WORLD JOURNAL OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/2311-8571.335135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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24
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Guo Q, Li S, Wang X, Han HS, Yin XJ, Li JC. Paeoniflorin improves the in vitro maturation of benzo(a)pyrene treated porcine oocytes via effects on the sonic hedgehog pathway. Theriogenology 2021; 180:72-81. [PMID: 34953351 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) is a toxic substance that people are often exposed to. It has serious harmful effects on the body, and has a destructive effect on oocytes and cumulus cells. Here, we found that paeoniflorin (Pae), a traditional Chinese medicine monomer with antioxidant effects, decreased BaP-induced meiotic failure by increasing the activity of the Sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway and reducing the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS). We found that the in vitro maturation (IVM) rate was significantly increased (P < 0.05) in the 0.1 μM Pae and BaP (co-treatment) group compared with BaP group due to reduced ROS levels and increased mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ) and ATP content. The mRNA expression levels of oocyte maturation and cumulus cell expansion-related genes were also significantly higher in the co-treatment group. To demonstrate the quality of oocytes, the development capacity of parthenogenetically activated (PA) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) embryos from different treatment groups oocytes were determined.The blastocyst formation rate was significantly higher in PA and IVF embryos derived from oocytes in the co-treatment group than in those derived from oocytes in the BaP group. To further confirm that the SHH signaling pathway was involved in causing these effects of Pae, we treated oocytes with Pae and BaP in the presence or absence of cyclopamine (Cy), an inhibitor of this pathway. Cy abolished the effects of Pae in BaP treated porcine oocytes. In conclusion, Pae improves the IVM capacity of BaP-treated porcine oocytes by activating the SHH signaling pathway, inhibiting ROS production, and increasing ΔΨ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Guo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, 163319, China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, 163319, China
| | - Suo Li
- Jilin Agricultural University, Xincheng Street 2888, Changchun, 130118, China
| | - Xue Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, 163319, China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, 163319, China
| | - Huan-Sheng Han
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, 163319, China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, 163319, China
| | - Xi-Jun Yin
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Transgenic Animal and Embryo Engineering, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin, 133002, China.
| | - Jing-Chun Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, 163319, China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, 163319, China.
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Mesenchymal Stem Cells Influence Activation of Hepatic Stellate Cells, and Constitute a Promising Therapy for Liver Fibrosis. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9111598. [PMID: 34829827 PMCID: PMC8615475 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a common feature of chronic liver disease. Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the main drivers of extracellular matrix accumulation in liver fibrosis. Hence, a strategy for regulating HSC activation is crucial in treating liver fibrosis. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent stem cells derived from various post-natal organs. Therapeutic approaches involving MSCs have been studied extensively in various diseases, including liver disease. MSCs modulate hepatic inflammation and fibrosis and/or differentiate into hepatocytes by interacting directly with immune cells, HSCs, and hepatocytes and secreting modulators, thereby contributing to reduced liver fibrosis. Cell-free therapy including MSC-released secretomes and extracellular vesicles has elicited extensive attention because they could overcome MSC transplantation limitations. Herein, we provide basic information on hepatic fibrogenesis and the therapeutic potential of MSCs. We also review findings presenting the effects of MSC itself and MSC-based cell-free treatments in liver fibrosis, focusing on HSC activation. Growing evidence supports the anti-fibrotic function of either MSC itself or MSC modulators, although the mechanism underpinning their effects on liver fibrosis has not been established. Further studies are required to investigate the detailed mechanism explaining their functions to expand MSC therapies using the cell itself and cell-free treatments for liver fibrosis.
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26
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Liu Y, Su YY, Yang Q, Zhou T. Stem cells in the treatment of renal fibrosis: a review of preclinical and clinical studies of renal fibrosis pathogenesis. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:333. [PMID: 34112221 PMCID: PMC8194041 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02391-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Renal fibrosis commonly leads to glomerulosclerosis and renal interstitial fibrosis and the main pathological basis involves tubular atrophy and the abnormal increase and excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM). Renal fibrosis can progress to chronic kidney disease. Stem cells have multilineage differentiation potential under appropriate conditions and are easy to obtain. At present, there have been some studies showing that stem cells can alleviate the accumulation of ECM and renal fibrosis. However, the sources of stem cells and the types of renal fibrosis or renal fibrosis models used in these studies have differed. In this review, we summarize the pathogenesis (including signaling pathways) of renal fibrosis, and the effect of stem cell therapy on renal fibrosis as described in preclinical and clinical studies. We found that stem cells from various sources have certain effects on improving renal function and alleviating renal fibrosis. However, additional clinical studies should be conducted to confirm this conclusion in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiping Liu
- Department of Nephrology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No. 69 Dongsha Road, Shantou, 515041, China
| | - Yan-Yan Su
- Department of Nephrology, Huadu District People's Hospital of Guangzhou, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Department of Nephrology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No. 69 Dongsha Road, Shantou, 515041, China
| | - Tianbiao Zhou
- Department of Nephrology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No. 69 Dongsha Road, Shantou, 515041, China.
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Zhu X, Ye S, Yu D, Zhang Y, Li J, Zhang M, Leng Y, Yang T, Luo J, Chen X, Zhang H, Kong L. Physalin B attenuates liver fibrosis via suppressing LAP2α-HDAC1-mediated deacetylation of the transcription factor GLI1 and hepatic stellate cell activation. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:3428-3447. [PMID: 33864382 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Liver fibrosis is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide but lacks any acceptable therapy. The transcription factor glioma-associated oncogene homologue 1 (GLI1) is a potentially important therapeutic target in liver fibrosis. This study investigates the anti-fibrotic activities and potential mechanisms of the phytochemical, physalin B. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Two mouse models (CCl4 challenge and bile duct ligation) were used to assess antifibrotic effects of physalin B in vivo. Mouse primary hepatic stellate cells (pHSCs) and human HSC line LX-2 also served as in vitro liver fibrosis models. Liver fibrogenic genes, GLI1 and GLI1 downstream genes were examined using Western blot and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). GLI1 acetylation and LAP2α-HDAC1 interaction were analysed by co-immunoprecipitation. KEY RESULTS In vivo, physalin B administration attenuated hepatic histopathological injury and collagen accumulation and decreased expression of fibrogenic genes. Physalin B dose-dependently suppressed fibrotic marker expression in LX-2 cells and mouse pHSCs. Mechanistic studies showed that physalin B inhibited GLI activity by non-canonical Hedgehog signalling. Physalin B blocked formation of lamina-associated polypeptide 2α (LAP2α)/histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) complexes, thus inhibiting HDAC1-mediated GLI1 deacetylation. Physalin B up-regulated acetylation of GLI1, down-regulated expression of GLI1 and subsequently inhibited HSC activation. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Physalin B exerted potent antifibrotic effects in vitro and in vivo by disrupting LAP2α/HDAC1 complexes, increasing GLI1 acetylation and inactivating GLI1. This indicates that the phytochemical physalin B may be a potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyun Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shengtao Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dongke Yu
- Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanqiu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Meihui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yingrong Leng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ting Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianguang Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinlin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lingyi Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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28
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Fas/FasL mediates NF-κBp65/PUMA-modulated hepatocytes apoptosis via autophagy to drive liver fibrosis. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:474. [PMID: 33980818 PMCID: PMC8115181 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03749-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Fas/Fas ligand (FasL)-mediated cell apoptosis involves a variety of physiological and pathological processes including chronic hepatic diseases, and hepatocytes apoptosis contributes to the development of liver fibrosis following various causes. However, the mechanism of the Fas/FasL signaling and hepatocytes apoptosis in liver fibrogenesis remains unclear. The Fas/FasL signaling and hepatocytes apoptosis in liver samples from both human sections and mouse models were investigated. NF-κBp65 wild-type mice (p65f/f), hepatocytes specific NF-κBp65 deletion mice (p65Δhepa), p53-upregulated modulator of apoptosis (PUMA) wild-type (PUMA-WT) and PUMA knockout (PUMA-KO) littermate models, and primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were also used. The mechanism underlying Fas/FasL-regulated hepatocytes apoptosis to drive HSCs activation in fibrosis was further analyzed. We found Fas/FasL promoted PUMA-mediated hepatocytes apoptosis via regulating autophagy signaling and NF-κBp65 phosphorylation, while inhibition of autophagy or PUMA deficiency attenuated Fas/FasL-modulated hepatocytes apoptosis and liver fibrosis. Furthermore, NF-κBp65 in hepatocytes repressed PUMA-mediated hepatocytes apoptosis via regulating the Bcl-2 family, while NF-κBp65 deficiency in hepatocytes promoted PUMA-mediated hepatocytes apoptosis and enhanced apoptosis-linked inflammatory response, which contributed to the activation of HSCs and liver fibrogenesis. These results suggest that Fas/FasL contributes to NF-κBp65/PUMA-modulated hepatocytes apoptosis via autophagy to enhance liver fibrogenesis, and this network could be a potential therapeutic target for liver fibrosis.
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Cai J, Hu M, Chen Z, Ling Z. The roles and mechanisms of hypoxia in liver fibrosis. J Transl Med 2021; 19:186. [PMID: 33933107 PMCID: PMC8088569 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-021-02854-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis occurs in response to any etiology of chronic liver injury. Lack of appropriate clinical intervention will lead to liver cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), seriously affecting the quality of life of patients, but the current clinical treatments of liver fibrosis have not been developed yet. Recent studies have shown that hypoxia is a key factor promoting the progression of liver fibrosis. Hypoxia can cause liver fibrosis. Liver fibrosis can, in turn, profoundly further deepen the degree of hypoxia. Therefore, exploring the role of hypoxia in liver fibrosis will help to further understand the process of liver fibrosis, and provide the theoretical basis for its diagnosis and treatment, which is of great significance to avoid further deterioration of liver diseases and protect the life and health of patients. This review highlights the recent advances in cellular and molecular mechanisms of hypoxia in developments of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyao Cai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhiyang Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zeng Ling
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, People's Republic of China
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30
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Su PH, Huang RL, Lai HC, Chen LY, Weng YC, Wang CC, Wu CC. NKX6-1 mediates cancer stem-like properties and regulates sonic hedgehog signaling in leiomyosarcoma. J Biomed Sci 2021; 28:32. [PMID: 33906647 PMCID: PMC8077933 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-021-00726-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Leiomyosarcoma (LMS), the most common soft tissue sarcoma, exhibits heterogeneous and complex genetic karyotypes with severe chromosomal instability and rearrangement and poor prognosis. Methods Clinical variables associated with NKX6-1 were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). NKX6-1 mRNA expression was examined in 49 human uterine tissues. The in vitro effects of NXK6-1 in LMS cells were determined by reverse transcriptase PCR, western blotting, colony formation, spheroid formation, and cell viability assays. In vivo tumor growth was evaluated in nude mice. Results Using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and human uterine tissue datasets, we observed that NKX6-1 expression was associated with poor prognosis and malignant potential in LMS. NKX6-1 enhanced in vitro tumor cell aggressiveness via upregulation of cell proliferation and anchorage-independent growth and promoted in vivo tumor growth. Moreover, overexpression and knockdown of NKX6-1 were associated with upregulation and downregulation, respectively, of stem cell transcription factors, including KLF8, MYC, and CD49F, and affected sphere formation, chemoresistance, NOTCH signaling and Sonic hedgehog (SHH) pathways in human sarcoma cells. Importantly, treatment with an SHH inhibitor (RU-SKI 43) but not a NOTCH inhibitor (DAPT) reduced cell survival in NKX6-1-expressing cancer cells, indicating that an SHH inhibitor could be useful in treating LMS. Finally, using the TCGA dataset, we demonstrated that LMS patients with high expression of NKX6-1 and HHAT, an SHH pathway acyltransferase, had poorer survival outcomes compared to those without. Conclusions Our findings indicate that NKX6-1 and HHAT play critical roles in the pathogenesis of LMS and could be promising diagnostic and therapeutic targets for LMS patients. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12929-021-00726-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po-Hsuan Su
- Translational Epigenetics Center, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Rui-Lan Huang
- Translational Epigenetics Center, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Cheng Lai
- Translational Epigenetics Center, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Lin-Yu Chen
- Translational Epigenetics Center, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chun Weng
- Translational Epigenetics Center, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Chien Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Neihu District, No. 325, Sec. 2, Chengong Road, Taipei, 11490, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chun Wu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Neihu District, No. 325, Sec. 2, Chengong Road, Taipei, 11490, Taiwan.
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31
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Ma XB, Xu YY, Zhu MX, Wang L. Prognostic Signatures Based on Thirteen Immune-Related Genes in Colorectal Cancer. Front Oncol 2021; 10:591739. [PMID: 33680920 PMCID: PMC7935549 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.591739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The immunosuppressive microenvironment is closely related to tumorigenesis and cancer development, including colorectal cancer (CRC). The aim of the current study was to identify new immune biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of CRC. Materials and Methods CRC data were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus and The Cancer Genome Atlas databases. Sequences of immune-related genes (IRGs) were obtained from the ImmPort and InnateDB databases. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and transcription factor regulation analysis were used to explore potential mechanisms. An immune-related classifier for CRC prognosis was conducted using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), Cox regression analysis, and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis. ESTIMATE and CIBERSORT algorithms were used to explore the tumor microenvironment and immune infiltration in the high-risk CRC group and the low-risk CRC group. Results By analyzing the IRGs that were significantly associated with CRC in the module, a set of 13 genes (CXCL1, F2RL1, LTB4R, GPR44, ANGPTL5, BMP5, RETNLB, MC1R, PPARGC1A, PRKDC, CEBPB, SYP, and GAB1) related to the prognosis of CRC were identified. An IRG-based prognostic signature that can be used as an independent potentially prognostic indicator was generated. The ROC curve analysis showed acceptable discrimination with AUCs of 0.68, 0.68, and 0.74 at 1-, 3-, and 5- year follow-up respectively. The predictive performance was validated in the train set. The potential mechanisms and functions of prognostic IRGs were analyzed, i.e., NOD-like receptor signaling, and transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling. Besides, the stromal score and immune score were significantly different in high-risk group and low-risk group (p=4.6982e-07, p=0.0107). Besides, the proportions of resting memory CD4+ T cells was significantly higher in the high-risk groups. Conclusions The IRG-based classifier exhibited strong predictive capacity with regard to CRC. The survival difference between the high-risk and low-risk groups was associated with tumor microenvironment and immune infiltration of CRC. Innovative biomarkers for the prediction of CRC prognosis and response to immunological therapy were identified in the present study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Bo Ma
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Xu
- Department of Day Surgery Centre, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Meng-Xuan Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Abstract
Since it was first described by the German anatomist and histologist, Joseph Hugo Vincenz Disse, the structure and functions of the space of Disse, a thin perisinusoidal area between the endothelial cells and hepatocytes filled with blood plasma, have acquired great importance in liver disease. The space of Disse is home for the hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the major fibrogenic players in the liver. Quiescent HSCs (qHSCs) store vitamin A, and upon activation they lose their retinol reservoir and become activated. Activated HSCs (aHSCs) are responsible for secretion of extracellular matrix (ECM) into the space of Disse. This early event in hepatic injury is accompanied by loss of the pores—known as fenestrations—of the endothelial cells, triggering loss of balance between the blood flow and the hepatocyte, and underlies the link between fibrosis and organ dysfunction. If the imbalance persists, the expansion of the fibrotic scar followed by the vascularized septae leads to cirrhosis and/or end-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Thus, researchers have been focused on finding therapeutic targets that reduce fibrosis. The space of Disse provides the perfect microenvironment for the stem cells niche in the liver and the interchange of nutrients between cells. In the present review article, we focused on the space of Disse, its components and its leading role in liver disease development.
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33
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Freag MS, Namgung B, Reyna Fernandez ME, Gherardi E, Sengupta S, Jang HL. Human Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis on a Chip. Hepatol Commun 2021; 5:217-233. [PMID: 33553970 PMCID: PMC7850303 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), an advanced stage of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is a rapidly growing and global health problem compounded by the current absence of specific treatments. A major limiting factor in the development of new NASH therapies is the absence of models that capture the unique cellular structure of the liver microenvironment and recapitulate the complexities of NAFLD progression to NASH. Organ-on-a-chip platforms have emerged as a powerful approach to dynamically model diseases and test drugs. Herein, we describe a NASH-on-a-chip platform. Four main types of human primary liver cells (hepatocytes [HCs], Kupffer cells, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, and hepatic stellate cells [HSCs]) were cocultured under microfluidic dynamics. Our chip-based model successfully recapitulated a functional liver cellular microenvironment with stable albumin and urea secretion for at least 2 weeks. Exposing liver chips to a lipotoxic environment led to gradual development of NASH phenotypic characteristics, including intracellular lipid accumulation, hepatocellular ballooning, HSC activation, and elevation of inflammatory and profibrotic markers. Further, exposure of the chip to elafibranor, a drug under study for the therapy of NASH, inhibited the development of NASH-specific hallmarks, causing an ~8-fold decrease in intracellular lipids, a 3-fold reduction in number of ballooned HCs, a significant reduction in HSC activation, and a significant decrease in the levels of inflammatory and profibrotic markers compared with controls. Conclusion: We have successfully developed a microfluidic NASH-on-a-chip platform that recapitulates the main NASH histologic endpoints in a single chip and that can emerge as a powerful noninvasive, human-relevant, in vitro platform to study disease pathogenesis and develop novel anti-NASH drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- May S Freag
- Center for Engineered TherapeuticsDivision of Engineering in MedicineDepartment of MedicineBrigham and Women's HospitalHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA.,Division of Health Sciences and TechnologyHarvard-Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyBostonMAUSA
| | - Bumseok Namgung
- Center for Engineered TherapeuticsDivision of Engineering in MedicineDepartment of MedicineBrigham and Women's HospitalHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA.,Division of Health Sciences and TechnologyHarvard-Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyBostonMAUSA
| | - Maria E Reyna Fernandez
- Center for Engineered TherapeuticsDivision of Engineering in MedicineDepartment of MedicineBrigham and Women's HospitalHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA.,Division of Health Sciences and TechnologyHarvard-Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyBostonMAUSA
| | - Ermanno Gherardi
- Unit of Immunology and General PathologyDepartment of Molecular MedicineUniversity of PaviaPaviaItaly
| | - Shiladitya Sengupta
- Center for Engineered TherapeuticsDivision of Engineering in MedicineDepartment of MedicineBrigham and Women's HospitalHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA.,Division of Health Sciences and TechnologyHarvard-Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyBostonMAUSA.,Dana Farber Cancer InstituteBostonMAUSA
| | - Hae Lin Jang
- Center for Engineered TherapeuticsDivision of Engineering in MedicineDepartment of MedicineBrigham and Women's HospitalHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
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Maladaptive regeneration - the reawakening of developmental pathways in NASH and fibrosis. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 18:131-142. [PMID: 33051603 PMCID: PMC7854502 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-020-00365-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
With the rapid expansion of the obesity epidemic, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is now the most common chronic liver disease, with almost 25% global prevalence. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease ranges in severity from simple steatosis, a benign 'pre-disease' state, to the liver injury and inflammation that characterize nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which in turn predisposes individuals to liver fibrosis. Fibrosis is the major determinant of clinical outcomes in patients with NASH and is associated with increased risks of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. NASH has no approved therapies, and liver fibrosis shows poor response to existing pharmacotherapy, in part due to an incomplete understanding of the underlying pathophysiology. Patient and mouse data have shown that NASH is associated with the activation of developmental pathways: Notch, Hedgehog and Hippo-YAP-TAZ. Although these evolutionarily conserved fundamental signals are known to determine liver morphogenesis during development, new data have shown a coordinated and causal role for these pathways in the liver injury response, which becomes maladaptive during obesity-associated chronic liver disease. In this Review, we discuss the aetiology of this reactivation of developmental pathways and review the cell-autonomous and cell-non-autonomous mechanisms by which developmental pathways influence disease progression. Finally, we discuss the potential prognostic and therapeutic implications of these data for NASH and liver fibrosis.
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Li L, Zhou G, Fu R, He Y, Xiao L, Peng F, Yuan C. Polysaccharides extracted from balanophora polyandra Griff (BPP) ameliorate renal Fibrosis and EMT via inhibiting the Hedgehog pathway. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:2828-2840. [PMID: 33507617 PMCID: PMC7957266 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) is a crucial pathological change leading to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Currently, no effective medicines have been available for treating it. In our research, we examined the effects of polysaccharides extracted from Balanophora polyandra Griff (BPPs) on kidney fibrosis and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vivo and in vitro, aiming to explore the underlying mechanisms. By using the mice with unilateral urethral obstruction (UUO) as experimental subjects, we examined the medicinal values of BPPs on alleviating RIF. The effects of BPPs were evaluated by examining the histological staining and relative mRNA and protein expression levels of the related genes. The possible underlying mechanisms were further explored with human normal renal proximal tubular epithelia (HK‐2 cells) as in vitro model. In UUO mice, BPP treatment could significantly alleviate interstitial fibrosis through reducing the components (Collagens I, III and IV) of extracellular matrix (ECM), and reducing the activation of fibroblasts producing these components, as revealed by inhibiting the hallmarks (fibronectin and α‐SMA) of fibroblast activation. Furthermore, BPP administration increased the expression levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and declined those of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). BPPs markedly ameliorated EMT in both the kidneys of UUO mice and TGF‐β1 treated HK‐2 cells. Moreover, BPP treatment decreased the expression levels of several transcriptional factors involved in regulating E‐cadherin expression, including snail, twist and ZEB1. Additionally, the Hedgehog pathway was found to be closely correlated with renal fibrosis and EMT. Altogether, our results clearly demonstrated that BPP treatment effectively inhibited the Hedgehog pathway both in renal tissues of UUO mice and TGF‐β1‐treated HK‐2 cells. Thus, BPPs ameliorated RIF and EMT in vivo and in vitro via suppressing Hedgehog signalling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luoying Li
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Gang Zhou
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China.,Yichang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yichang, China
| | - Rui Fu
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Stomatological Hospital of Jingmen City, Jingmen, China
| | - Yumin He
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China.,Third-Grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Chinese Medicine Approved by State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Li Xiao
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Fan Peng
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Chengfu Yuan
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China.,Third-Grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Chinese Medicine Approved by State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
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Ding J, Li HY, Zhang L, Zhou Y, Wu J. Hedgehog Signaling, a Critical Pathway Governing the Development and Progression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cells 2021; 10:cells10010123. [PMID: 33440657 PMCID: PMC7826706 DOI: 10.3390/cells10010123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Hedgehog (Hh) signaling is a classic morphogen in controlling embryonic development and tissue repairing. Aberrant activation of Hh signaling has been well documented in liver cancer, including hepatoblastoma, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma. The present review aims to update the current understanding on how abnormal Hh signaling molecules modulate initiation, progression, drug resistance and metastasis of HCC. The latest relevant literature was reviewed with our recent findings to provide an overview regarding the molecular interplay and clinical relevance of the Hh signaling in HCC management. Hh signaling molecules are involved in the transformation of pre-carcinogenic lesions to malignant features in chronic liver injury, such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Activation of GLI target genes, such as ABCC1 and TAP1, is responsible for drug resistance in hepatoma cells, with a CD133−/EpCAM− surface molecular profile, and GLI1 and truncated GLI1 account for the metastatic feature of the hepatoma cells, with upregulation of matrix metalloproteinases. A novel bioassay for the Sonic Hh ligand in tissue specimens may assist HCC diagnosis with negative α-fetoprotein and predict early microvascular invasion. In-depth exploration of the Hh signaling deepens our understanding of its molecular modulation in HCC initiation, drug sensitivity and metastasis, and guides precise management of HCC on an individual basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Jing’an District Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China;
| | - Hui-Yan Li
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, MOE/NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; (H.-Y.L.); (L.Z.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, MOE/NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; (H.-Y.L.); (L.Z.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, MOE/NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; (H.-Y.L.); (L.Z.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Jian Wu
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, MOE/NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; (H.-Y.L.); (L.Z.); (Y.Z.)
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-215-423-7705; Fax: +86-216-422-7201
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Garcia-Lezana T, Lopez-Canovas JL, Villanueva A. Signaling pathways in hepatocellular carcinoma. Adv Cancer Res 2020; 149:63-101. [PMID: 33579428 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2020.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite the recent introduction of new effective systemic agents, the survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) at advanced stages remains dismal. This underscores the need for new therapies, which has spurred extensive research on the identification of the main drivers of pathway de-regulation as a source of novel therapeutic targets. Frequently altered pathways in HCC involve growth factor receptors (e.g., VEGFR, FGFR, TGFA, EGFR, IGFR) and/or its cytoplasmic intermediates (e.g., PI3K-AKT-mTOR, RAF/ERK/MAPK) as well as key pathways in cell differentiation (e.g., Wnt/β-catenin, JAK/STAT, Hippo, Hedgehog, Notch). Somatic mutations, chromosomal aberrations and epigenetic changes are common mechanisms for pathway deregulation in HCC. Aberrant pathway activation has also been explored as a biomarker to predict response to specific therapies, but currently, these strategies are not implemented when deciding systemic therapies in HCC patients. Beyond the well-established molecular cascades, there are numerous emerging signaling pathways also deregulated in HCC (e.g., tumor microenvironment, non-coding RNA, intestinal microbiota), which have opened new avenues for therapeutic exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Garcia-Lezana
- Division of Liver Diseases, Liver Cancer Program, Department of Medicine, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Juan Luis Lopez-Canovas
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Maimonides Institute of Biomedical Research of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Augusto Villanueva
- Division of Liver Diseases, Liver Cancer Program, Department of Medicine, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States; Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States.
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Novel Interplay Between Sonic Hedgehog and Transforming Growth Factor-β1 in Human Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis. Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol 2020; 28:154-160. [PMID: 32044884 DOI: 10.1097/pai.0000000000000724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has the potential to progress to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Upregulation of sonic hedgehog (Shh) has been documented in development of NASH through sustained cell stress. At the same time, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), which is a central element in fibrogenic reactions in various diseases and sites, has been reported to be associated with hepatic inflammation and fibrotic reaction. To explore crosstalk between Shh and TGF-β1 in the development and progression of NASH, we investigated the expression of both these proteins in 135 human specimens of NASH, 35 fatty liver specimens, 35 specimens of alcoholic steatohepatitis with immunohistochemistry. Shh protein was expressed in the cytoplasm of ballooned hepatocytes with an ubiquitin-like pattern. In addition, a few scattered apoptotic hepatocytes in the inflammatory foci showed homogeneous cytoplasmic Shh expression. TGF-β1 protein was observed mainly in the activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) which were located in the inflammatory foci surrounding ballooned hepatocytes. Moreover, the mRNA levels of both Shh and TGF-β1 in the liver biopsy specimens from NASH patients was significantly increased compared with those in fatty liver patients. Statistically, there was a significant association of the expressions of Shh and TGF-β1 proteins in NASH (r=0.6, P<0.05). In addition, increased expression of Shh protein significantly parallels the severity of hepatocellular ballooning, lobular, and portal inflammatory responses and progression of fibrosis in NASH patients. Moreover, we found that much HSCs transformed into myofibroblast-like phenotype and migrated downward to HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cells with overexpression of Shh by transwell assay. We also observed overexpression of proteins of Shh and TGF-β1 in cultured activated HSCs with confocal microscopy. These findings strongly suggest there is interplay between Shh and TGF-β1 in hepatic inflammatory reactions. Shh secreted through damaged hepatocytes may result in activation of TGF-β1 and subsequent transformation of HSCs, which together modulate the progression of human NASH.
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Wang W, Huang X, Fan X, Yan J, Luan J. Progress in evaluating the status of hepatitis C infection based on the functional changes of hepatic stellate cells (Review). Mol Med Rep 2020; 22:4116-4124. [PMID: 33000255 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.11516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a global public health problem. Cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma are the main causes of death in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) infection. Liver fibrosis is an important cause of cirrhosis and end‑stage liver disease after CHC infection. Along with the course of infection, liver fibrosis exhibits a progressive exacerbation. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are involved in both physiological and pathological processes of the liver. During the chronic liver injury process, the activated HSCs transform into myofibroblasts, which are important cells in the development of liver fibrosis. At present, HCV infection still lacks specific markers for the accurate detection of the disease condition and progression. Therefore, the present review focused on HSCs, which are closely related to HCV‑infected liver fibrosis, and analyzed the changes in the HSCs, including their surface‑specific markers, cytokine production, activation, cell function and morphological structure. The present review aimed to propose novel diagnostic markers, at both the cellular and molecular level, which would be of great significance for the timely diagnosis of the disease. According to this aim, the characteristic changes of HSCs during HCV infection were reviewed in the present article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- Department of Blood Transfusion Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, P.R. China
| | - Xuelian Huang
- Department of Blood Transfusion Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, P.R. China
| | - Xuzhou Fan
- Department of Blood Transfusion Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, P.R. China
| | - Jingmei Yan
- Department of Blood Transfusion Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, P.R. China
| | - Jianfeng Luan
- Department of Blood Transfusion Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, P.R. China
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Li C, Tan YH, Sun J, Deng FM, Liu YL. PAX6 contributes to the activation and proliferation of hepatic stellate cells via activating Hedgehog/GLI1 pathway. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 526:314-320. [PMID: 32209258 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.03.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of Hedgehog signaling is considered as the key player in hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation involved in liver fibrosis (LF). The glioma-associated protein gene (GLI) has a predicted paired box 6 (PAX6)-binding site within its transcribed region. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between PAX6 and GLI and their contribution to HSC activation and proliferation. PAX6 expression was upregulated in platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB)-induced LX-2 cells. The activation and proliferation of HSC were inhibited by interference of PAX6 with short hairpin RNA (shPAX6) via curbing Hedgehog signaling. Notably, PAX6 directly bound to the promoter sequence of GLI1 independent of the PTCH/SMO axis. Therefore, we propose that PAX6 upregulation induces HSC activation and proliferation through crosstalk with GLI1 signaling. Thus, these novel mechanistic insights involving the PAX6-mediated regulation of the activation and proliferation of HSC may provide a new therapeutic target for LF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Can Li
- School of Basic Medical Science, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610500, China; Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610500, China
| | - Yue Hao Tan
- School of Basic Medical Science, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610500, China
| | - Jing Sun
- School of Basic Medical Science, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610500, China
| | - Feng Mei Deng
- School of Basic Medical Science, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610500, China; Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610500, China.
| | - Yi Lun Liu
- Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610500, China.
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Yang X, Wang Z, Kai J, Wang F, Jia Y, Wang S, Tan S, Shen X, Chen A, Shao J, Zhang F, Zhang Z, Zheng S. Curcumol attenuates liver sinusoidal endothelial cell angiogenesis via regulating Glis-PROX1-HIF-1α in liver fibrosis. Cell Prolif 2020; 53:e12762. [PMID: 32119185 PMCID: PMC7106966 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hepatic sinusoidal angiogenesis owing to dysfunctional liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) accompanied by an abnormal angioarchitecture is a symbol related to liver fibrogenesis, which indicates a potential target for therapeutic interventions. However, there are few researches connecting angiogenesis with liver fibrosis, and the deeper mechanism remains to be explored. MATERIALS AND METHODS Cell angiogenesis and angiogenic protein were examined in primary LSECs of rats, and multifarious cellular and molecular assays revealed the efficiency of curcumol intervention in fibrotic mice. RESULTS We found that curcumol inhibited angiogenic properties through regulating their upstream mediator hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α). The transcription activation of HIF-1α was regulated by hedgehog signalling on the one hand, and the protein stabilization of HIF-1α was under the control of Prospero-related homeobox 1 (PROX1) on the other. A deubiquitinase called USP19 could be recruited by PROX1 and involved in ubiquitin-dependent degradation of HIF-1α. Furthermore, our researches revealed that hedgehog signalling participated in the activation of PROX1 transcription probably in vitro. Besides, curcumol was found to ameliorate liver fibrosis and sinusoid angiogenesis via hedgehog pathway in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 ) induced liver fibrotic mice. The protein expression of key regulatory factors, PROX1 and HIF-1α, was consistent with the Smo, the marker protein of Hh signalling pathway. CONCLUSIONS In this article, we evidenced that curcumol controlling LSEC-mediated angiogenesis could be a promising therapeutic approach for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhimin Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Kai
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Feixia Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Jia
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Shijun Wang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Shanzhong Tan
- Nanjing Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xikun Shen
- Suzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Suzhou, China
| | - Anping Chen
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jiangjuan Shao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Material of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Material of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zili Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Material of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Shizhong Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Material of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Intercellular crosstalk of hepatic stellate cells in liver fibrosis: New insights into therapy. Pharmacol Res 2020; 155:104720. [PMID: 32092405 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a dynamic wound-healing process characterized by the net accumulation of extracellular matrix. There is no efficient antifibrotic therapy other than liver transplantation to date. Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the major cellular source of matrix-producing myofibroblasts, playing a central role in the initiation and progression of liver fibrosis. Paracrine signals from resident and inflammatory cells such as hepatocytes, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, hepatic macrophages, natural killer/natural killer T cells, biliary epithelial cells, hepatic progenitor cells, and platelets can directly or indirectly regulate HSC differentiation and activation. Intercellular crosstalk between HSCs and those "responded" cells has been a critical event involved in HSC activation and fibrogenesis. This review summarizes recent advancement regarding intercellular communication between HSCs and other "responded cells" during liver fibrosis and experimental models of intercellular crosstalk systems, and provides novel ideas for potential antifibrotic therapeutic strategy.
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Leung HW, Lau EYT, Leung CON, Lei MML, Mok EHK, Ma VWS, Cho WCS, Ng IOL, Yun JP, Cai SH, Yu HJ, Ma S, Lee TKW. NRF2/SHH signaling cascade promotes tumor-initiating cell lineage and drug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Lett 2020; 476:48-56. [PMID: 32061952 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2020.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Solid evidence shows that tumor-initiating cells (T-ICs) are the root of tumor relapse and drug resistance, which lead to a poor prognosis in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Through an in vitro liver T-IC enrichment approach, we identified nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2) as a transcription regulator that is significantly activated in enriched liver T-IC populations. In human HCCs, NRF2 was found to be overexpressed, which was associated with poor patient survival. Through a lentiviral based knockdown approach, NRF2 was found to be critical for regulating liver T-IC properties, including self-renewal, tumorigenicity, drug resistance and expression of liver T-IC markers. Furthermore, we found that ROS-induced NRF2 activation regulates sorafenib resistance in HCC cells. Mechanistically, NRF2 was found to physically bind to the promoter of sonic hedgehog homolog (SHH), which triggers activation of the sonic hedgehog pathway. The effect of NRF2 knockdown was eliminated upon administration of recombinant SHH, demonstrating that NRF2 mediated T-IC function via upregulation of SHH expression. Our study suggests a novel regulatory mechanism for the canonical sonic hedgehog pathway that may function through the NRF2/SHH/GLI signaling axis, thus mediating T-IC phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoi Wing Leung
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | | | - Carmen Oi Ning Leung
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Martina Mang Leng Lei
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Etienne Ho Kit Mok
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Victor Wan San Ma
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong
| | | | - Irene Oi Lin Ng
- Department of Pathology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Jing Ping Yun
- Department of Pathology, Sun Yat Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shao Hang Cai
- Department of Pathology, Sun Yat Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hua Jian Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Stephanie Ma
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Terence Kin Wah Lee
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong.
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Raza S, Rajak S, Anjum B, Sinha RA. Molecular links between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 5:42. [PMID: 31867441 PMCID: PMC6924993 DOI: 10.20517/2394-5079.2019.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its advanced complication, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), have become leading causes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. In this review, we discuss the role of metabolic, gut microbial, immune and endocrine mediators which promote the progression of NAFLD to HCC. In particular, this progression involves multiple hits resulting from lipotoxicity, oxidative stress, inhibition of hepatic autophagy and inflammation. Furthermore, dysbiosis in the gut associated with obesity also promotes HCC via induction of proinflammatory cytokines and Toll like receptor signalling as well as altered bile metabolism. Additionally, compromised T-cell function and impaired hepatic hormonal action promote the development of NASH-associated HCC. Lastly, we discuss the current challenges involved in the diagnosis and treatment of NAFLD/NASH-associated HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Raza
- Department of Bioscience, Integral University, Lucknow 226026, India
| | - Sangam Rajak
- Department of Endocrinology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow 226014, India
| | - Baby Anjum
- Department of Endocrinology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow 226014, India
| | - Rohit A Sinha
- Department of Endocrinology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow 226014, India
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Liu X, Sun N, Mo N, Lu S, Song E, Ren C, Li Z. Quercetin inhibits kidney fibrosis and the epithelial to mesenchymal transition of the renal tubular system involving suppression of the Sonic Hedgehog signaling pathway. Food Funct 2019; 10:3782-3797. [PMID: 31180394 DOI: 10.1039/c9fo00373h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Quercetin is the most ubiquitous flavonoid in fruits, herbs, vegetables and products made from them. It shows the potential to inhibit the progression of kidney fibrosis and the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) of the renal tubular system, but the molecular mechanism behind this is still not known. In our study, we explored the effect of quercetin treatment on extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and stimulation of the EMT in vitro and in vivo and tried to deduce the mechanisms regulating these effects. In rats having unilateral ureter obstruction (UUO), quercetin treatment significantly prevented renal function decline. Quercetin reduced the TGF-β1 expression and inhibited the epithelial cell to mesenchymal cell phenotypic switch, as well as ECM deposition in rats with UUO. In cultured epithelial cells of the renal tubular region (NRK-52E), quercetin markedly ameliorated the EMT and ECM synthesis induced by TGF-β1. Activation of the Hedgehog pathway was closely related to EMT induction. Quercetin effectively suppressed the hyperactive Hedgehog pathway in NRK-52E cells treated with TGF-β1 and in kidney obstructed rats, which reduced the EMT, ECM deposition and cellular proliferation. Moreover, we examined certain transcriptional factors (slug, snail, ZEB-1 and twist) that govern the E-cadherin expression at the level of transcription. The results unveiled that the four transcriptional factors were highly repressed in NRK-52E cells treated with TGF-β1 and also in obstructed kidneys by quercetin-mediated inhibition. Therefore, these outcomes indicate that quercetin could alleviate fibrosis and the EMT in vitro and in vivo by inhibiting the activation of Hedgehog signaling and could act as a therapeutic agent for patients having several kinds of renal fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianghua Liu
- Scientific Research and Experiment Center, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, China
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Abdel-Rahman N, Sharawy MH, Megahed N, El-Awady MS. Vitamin D3 abates BDL-induced cholestasis and fibrosis in rats via regulating Hedgehog pathway. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2019; 380:114697. [DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2019.114697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Jiang H, Wu F, Jiang N, Gao J, Zhang J. Reconstruction and analysis of competitive endogenous RNA network reveals regulatory role of long non‑coding RNAs in hepatic fibrosis. Mol Med Rep 2019; 20:4091-4100. [PMID: 31545470 PMCID: PMC6797987 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2019.10682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis (HF), one of the leading global health problems, is defined as aberrant and excess production of extracellular matrix components. The pathogenesis of HF is complex and poorly understood. Long non‑coding RNAs (LncRNAs) can interact with microRNAs (miRNAs) as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) to regulate the expression of target genes, which play a significant role in the initiation and progression of HF. In the present study, the LncRNA‑associated ceRNA network was reconstructed based on LncRNA, miRNA and mRNA expression profiles that were downloaded from National Center for Biotechnology Information Gene Expression Omnibus. Bioinformatics assessments including Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses were performed with Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integration Discovery. The ceRNA network was composed of 220 LncRNA nodes, 24 miRNA nodes, 164 mRNA nodes and 1,149 edges. Functional assays identified that a total of 338 GO terms and 25 pathways, including regulation of cytokine and collagen, and the transforming growth factor‑β and Toll‑like receptor signaling pathways, were significantly enriched. In addition, 4 LncRNAs (NONMMUT036242, XR_877072, XR_378619 and XR_378418) were highly related to HF and thereby chosen as key LncRNAs. The present study uncovered a ceRNA network that could further the understanding of the mechanisms underlying HF development and provide potential novel markers for clinical diagnosis and targets for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Jiang
- Experimental Center of Clinical Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, P.R. China
| | - Furong Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Hefei, Anhui 230001, P.R. China
| | - Nannan Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, P.R. China
| | - Jiarong Gao
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, P.R. China
| | - Jiafu Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, P.R. China
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48
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Jeng KS, Jeng CJ, Jeng WJ, Sheen IS, Li SY, Leu CM, Tsay YG, Chang CF. Sonic Hedgehog signaling pathway as a potential target to inhibit the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncol Lett 2019; 18:4377-4384. [PMID: 31611946 PMCID: PMC6781692 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2019.10826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-associated mortality worldwide. Hepatocarcinogenesis involves numerous interlinked factors and processes, including the Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway, which participates in the carcinogenesis, progression, invasiveness, recurrence and cancer stem cell maintenance of HCC. The Shh signaling pathway is activated by ligands that bind to their receptor protein, Protein patched homolog (Ptch). The process of Shh ligand binding to Ptch weakens the inhibition of smoothened homolog (SMO) and activates signal transduction via glioma-associated oncogene homolog (Gli) transcription factors. The overexpression of Shh pathway molecules, including Shh, Ptch-1, Gli and SMO has been indicated in patients with HCC. It has also been suggested that the Shh signaling pathway exhibits cross-talk between numerous other signaling pathways. The inactivation of the Shh signaling pathway reduces HCC growth, increases radio-sensitivity and increases the beneficial effect of chemotherapy in HCC treatment. Therefore, inhibition of the Shh pathway may be an effective target therapy that can be used in the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Shyang Jeng
- Department of General Surgery, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 22060, Taiwan, R.O.C.,Department of Medical Research, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 22060, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Chi-Juei Jeng
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei City 10617, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Wen-Juei Jeng
- Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center, Chang-Gung University, Taoyuan City 33305, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - I-Shyan Sheen
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei City 10617, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Shih-Yun Li
- Department of Medical Research, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 22060, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Chuen-Miin Leu
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei City 11221, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Yeou-Guang Tsay
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei City 11221, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Chiung-Fang Chang
- Department of General Surgery, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 22060, Taiwan, R.O.C.,Department of Medical Research, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 22060, Taiwan, R.O.C
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Moscoso CG, Steer CJ. "Let my liver rather heat with wine" - a review of hepatic fibrosis pathophysiology and emerging therapeutics. Hepat Med 2019; 11:109-129. [PMID: 31565001 PMCID: PMC6731525 DOI: 10.2147/hmer.s213397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cirrhosis is characterized by extensive hepatic fibrosis, and it is the 14th leading cause of death worldwide. Numerous contributing conditions have been implicated in its development, including infectious etiologies, medication overdose or adverse effects, ingestible toxins, autoimmunity, hemochromatosis, Wilson’s disease and primary biliary cholangitis to list a few. It is associated with portal hypertension and its stigmata (varices, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, combined coagulopathy and thrombophilia), and it is a major risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma. Currently, orthotopic liver transplantation has been the only curative modality to treat cirrhosis, and the scarcity of donors results in many people waiting years for a transplant. Identification of novel targets for pharmacologic therapy through elucidation of key mechanistic components to induce fibrosis reversal is the subject of intense research. Development of robust models of hepatic fibrosis to faithfully characterize the interplay between activated hepatic stellate cells (the principal fibrogenic contributor to fibrosis initiation and perpetuation), hepatocytes and extracellular matrix components has the potential to identify critical components and mechanisms that can be exploited for targeted treatment. In this review, we will highlight key cellular pathways involved in the pathophysiology of fibrosis from extracellular ligands, effectors and receptors, to nuclear receptors, epigenetic mechanisms, energy homeostasis and cytokines. Further, molecular pathways of hepatic stellate cell deactivation are discussed, including apoptosis, senescence and reversal or transdifferentiation to an inactivated state resembling quiescence. Lastly, clinical evidence of fibrosis reversal induced by biologics and small molecules is summarized, current compounds under clinical trials are described and efforts for treatment of hepatic fibrosis with mesenchymal stem cells are highlighted. An enhanced understanding of the rich tapestry of cellular processes identified in the initiation, perpetuation and resolution of hepatic fibrosis, driven principally through phenotypic switching of hepatic stellate cells, should lead to a breakthrough in potential therapeutic modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos G Moscoso
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition
| | - Clifford J Steer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition.,Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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Chen X, Li XF, Chen Y, Zhu S, Li HD, Chen SY, Wang JN, Pan XY, Bu FT, Huang C, Li J. Hesperetin derivative attenuates CCl 4-induced hepatic fibrosis and inflammation by Gli-1-dependent mechanisms. Int Immunopharmacol 2019; 76:105838. [PMID: 31473406 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2019.105838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis, a common pathological feature and leading cause of various chronic liver diseases, still lacks effective therapy. Hesperetin derivative (HD) is a derivative of Traditional Chinese Medicine monomer isolated from the fruit peel of Citrusaurantium L. (Rutaceae). In the present study, we revealed the anti-fibrotic effects of HD in CCl4-induced mouse hepatic fibrosis model and in TGF-β1-activated LX-2 cells, in vivo and in vitro. Results showed that HD prevented CCl4-induced liver injury and histological damage. Consistently, HD inhibited the up-regulation of liver fibrogenesis markers α-SMA, Col1α1, Col3α1 and TIMP-1 in primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and suppressed inflammatory responses in primary liver macrophages from hepatic fibrosis mice. Furthermore, HD promoted the apoptosis of activated HSCs, a key step in the onset of fibrosis regression. Mechanistically, the Hedgehog pathway was involved in HD-treated hepatic fibrosis, and HD specifically contributed to attenuate the aberrant expression of Glioma associated oncogene-1 (Gli-1). Interestingly, blockade of Gli-1 removed the inhibitory effect of HD on activated HSCs, indicating that Gli-1 may play a pivotal role in mediating the anti-fibrotic effect of HD in hepatic fibrosis. Collectively, our results suggest that HD may be a potential anti-fibrotic Traditional Chinese Medicine monomer for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yu Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Sai Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Hai-Di Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Si-Yu Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jia-Nan Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xue-Yin Pan
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Fang-Tian Bu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China.
| | - Jun Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China.
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