Silica nanoparticles aggravated the metabolic associated fatty liver disease through disturbed amino acid and lipid metabolisms-mediated oxidative stress

Bisphenol AF induces lipid metabolism disorders, oxidative stress and upregulation of heat shock protein 70 in zebrafish

Bisphenol AF (BPAF) is a widespread endocrine disruptor in the environment, and the use of BPAF has been strongly associated with the development of several diseases. In this study, we investigated the effects of BPAF on growth, development, oxidative stress and lipid metabolism in zebrafish. We chose the concentrations based on the measured LC50 at 96 h post-fertilization (96 hpf), and the zebrafish embryos were exposed to three different concentrations (0.125, 0.5 and 2 μmol/L). The findings indicated that BPAF exposure in zebrafish leaded to alterations in heart rate, body length and hatching rate, as well as an accumulation of red blood cells in the heart. Additionally, BPAF exposure resulted in increased levels of neutrophils, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), and decreased activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT)), thus disturbing the balance between oxidative and antioxidative systems. BPAF promoted fatty acid catabolism and inhibited fatty acid synthesis, ultimately leading to a reduction in fatty acid content. Mechanistically, RNA-seq analysis and RT-qPCR revealed a significant upregulation of heat shock protein 70 (hsp70) after BPAF exposure. Inhibition of hsp70 with VER-155008 ameliorated BPAF-induced oxidative stress. These data provided a novel approach to investigate BPAF-induced oxidative stress and suggested that regulation of hsp70 is a crucial target for alleviating this process.

A mitochondria-targeted nanozyme with enhanced antioxidant activity to prevent acute liver injury by remodeling mitochondria respiratory chain

Developing nanomedicines with enhanced activity to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) has emerged as a promising strategy for addressing ROS-associated diseases, such as drug-induced liver injury. However, designing nanozymes that not only remove ROS but also accelerate the repair of damaged liver cells remains challenging. Here, a two-pronged black phosphorus/Ceria nanozyme with mitochondria-targeting ability (TBP@CeO2) is designed. TBP@CeO2 nanozymes exhibit multienzyme activities and display significantly enhanced ROS scavenging capacity. They can effectively mitigate acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver injury by scavenging excessive ROS and restoring mitochondrial complex II activity to promote energy-dependent liver cell repair. The in vitro experiments reveal that TBP@CeO2 nanozymes can effectively eliminate ROS and restore mitochondrial function, thereby decreasing the cytotoxicity on BRL 3A cells exposed to APAP/H2O2. The in vivo studies show that TBP@CeO2 nanozymes can improve the complex II activity and mitochondrial function in the liver, decreasing ROS and ensuring sufficient adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, which helps protect the liver tissue against oxidative damage. This research introduces an innovative design strategy for nanozymes in the treatment of ROS-related diseases.

The DHCR7 is the key target of lipotoxic liver injury caused by matrine through abnormal activation of the cholesterol synthesis pathway

BACKGROUND

Matrine, the main active ingredient in Sophora flavescens and Sophorae tonkinensis radix et rhizome, is a highly effective insecticide. However, its hepatotoxicity to some extent affects its application value. This study aimed to explore the mechanism underlying matrine-induced liver injury.

METHODS

The zebrafish (Danio rerio) and L02 cell model were utilized to investigate the toxic dose of matrine and its effects on liver tissue damage, liver cell morphology and activity, and expression levels of ALT and AST. Zebrafish and L02 cell samples were then collected for transcriptomic testing to further explore the possible mechanism by which matrine induced liver injury. Finally, integrated bioinformatics methods and experiments were used to elucidate the possible mechanisms behind matrine-induced liver injury.

RESULTS

The result presented solid in vivo evidence of matrine-induced hepatotoxicity, supported by abnormal changes of liver morphological, disturbed liver cell structure, obvious apoptosis, as well as elevated levels of ALT and AST in zebrafish. In addition, in vitro L02 cell experiments also showed that matrine can produce significant liver cell damage effects. The integrated bioinformatics analysis results revealed that differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were substantially enriched in multiple pathways related to lipid regulation. Among which, the steroid biosynthesis was the most key signaling pathway, evidenced by the enhanced expression of eight genes, including DHCR7, SQLE, CYP51, CYP24A1, SC5D, LSS, MSMO1 and SOAT1. Furthermore, AY9944, the targeted inhibitor of DHCR7, could offset the toxic effect, as reflected by diminished liver phenotype damage, steatosis, and cholesterol accumulation caused by matrine.

CONCLUSIONS

Matrine can upregulate the expression of key genes in steroid biosynthesis pathway, resulting in cholesterol accumulation and then inducing hepatotoxicity. Among them, targeted inhibition of DHCR7 gene expression can alleviate matrine-induced liver injury.

Design, synthesis, and in-vitro/in-vivo pharmacodynamic studies of novel aza-fused heterocyclic compounds against herpes simplex virus type 1

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is a prevalent pathogen that can lead to severe diseases, including herpes labialis, keratitis, and encephalitis. The development of novel antiviral therapies is significant due to the limited number of available treatments and the emergence of drug-resistant strains. In this study, a series of aza-fused heterocyclic derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for antiviral efficacy. Compound 5i demonstrated notable antiviral activity in vitro with an EC50 (Effective Concentration 50 %) of 1.95 ± 0.07 μM. This effect was achieved by inhibiting viral replication and targeting viral ICP4 and gD proteins. In addition, the expression of STING and NF-κB signaling pathways was down-regulated, cytokine storm was reduced, and the multi-targeted activity of compound 5i inhibited apoptosis. The high efficacy of compound 5i was demonstrated in a mouse herpes encephalitis model. Infected mice's survival significantly improved, and viral load in brain tissue was substantially reduced in the presence of compound 5i. Furthermore, compound 5i demonstrated favorable safety in preliminary in vivo evaluations, with no adverse effects on major organs observed. In conclusion, the aza-fused heterocyclic derivative 5i has substantial potential as a therapeutic agent for HSV-1 infection, providing a valuable foundation for further drug development and clinical translation.

Navigating nanotoxicity: Unraveling nanomaterial-induced effects via multi-omics integration

The growing use of nanomaterials in industry and medicine raises significant concerns about their safety, particularly regarding their interactions with biological systems. Traditional toxicological methods, with limited throughput and mechanistic understanding, are increasingly being complemented by omics technologies. Genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics provide comprehensive insights into the molecular mechanisms of nanomaterial toxicity and enable the identification of potential biomarkers. In addition, single-cell and spatial omics approaches are emerging as powerful tools to assess toxicity at the cellular and tissue levels, revealing heterogeneous responses and spatial distribution of nanomaterials. Despite their advantages, omics technologies face challenges in nanotoxicology, including large, complex data sets, integration difficulties, and a lack of standardized protocols. To address these challenges, we propose the development of new bioinformatics tools, multi-omics integration platforms, and standardized analysis processes to enhance research efficiency and accuracy. These efforts can provide a practical roadmap for integrating the application of omics technologies, including single-cell and spatial approaches, in the study of nanomaterial toxicity studies.

Bifidobacterium bifidum 1007478 derived indole-3-lactic acid alleviates NASH via an aromatic hydrocarbon receptor-dependent pathway in zebrafish

AIMS

This study investigates the potential of Bifidobacterium bifidum 1007478 (BB478) and its metabolite indole-3-lactic acid (ILA) in alleviating non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) and fructose exposure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A zebrafish model of NASH was established by exposure to HFD and fructose. BB478 was administered, and the effects on liver lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, and inflammation were assessed. ILA production by BB478 was confirmed, and its impact on hepatic lipogenesis and inflammatory pathways was evaluated. The involvement of the aromatic hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) was also examined using an AhR inhibitor.

KEY FINDINGS

BB478 supplementation inhibited lipid accumulation in the liver, reduced triglycerides (TG) and total cholesterol (TC), and mitigated oxidative stress, as evidenced by lower levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA). ILA, produced by BB478, could alleviate the hepatic damage and fat deposition in liver. Mechanistically, it suppressed hepatic lipogenesis by downregulating lipogenesis-related genes, including sterol response element binding protein 1 (SREBP1) and fatty acid synthase (FASN). ILA also inhibited the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines to suppress inflammation. The therapeutic effects of ILA were reversed by the AhR inhibitor, indicating that ILA's actions are AhR-dependent.

SIGNIFICANCE

These findings reveal the potential of ILA, produced by Bifidobacterium bifidum, as a therapeutic agent for NASH. The mechanistic insights into AhR-mediated effects provide a foundation for further exploration of ILA as a novel approach for managing liver diseases.

Nanoplastics disrupt hepatic lipid metabolism via the inhibition of PPARγ: a study based on digestive system exposure

Nanoplastics (NPs) are emerging environmental contaminants capable of crossing biological barriers and accumulating in organs such as the liver, raising growing concerns about their potential contribution to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Notably, bottled water has been recognised as a major daily source of NP exposure. However, the associations between NP exposure and NAFLD onset, as well as the mechanistic basis, remain unclear. To investigate this, we analysed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2013-2016 cycles, using daily bottled water intake to estimate NP exposure and the hepatic steatosis index (HSI) as an indicator of liver fat accumulation. Animal and cellular experiments were conducted to evaluate NP-induced hepatic alterations. Additionally, transcriptomic analysis of liver tissues was performed, and integration with DisGeNET and the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD) enabled bioinformatic analyses and identification of key regulatory pathways. Epidemiological results revealed a significant positive correlation between bottled water consumption and HSI. Experimental findings demonstrated that NP exposure induced liver vacuolisation, oxidative damage, metabolic disruption, and inflammation in both in vivo and in vitro models. Transcriptomic and database integration revealed that NP exposure suppressed the PPAR signalling pathway, particularly by downregulating PPARγ expression, with excessive ROS generation likely contributing to this inhibition. These results were summarised in an adverse outcome pathway (AOP) framework, illustrating how NP exposure may impair PPARγ signalling and promote hepatic lipid accumulation. In conclusion, this study provides evidence that environmental NP exposure may be a contributing factor to NAFLD development and highlights the potential public health impact of the intake of NPs from bottled water.

Magnoflorine alleviates nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by modulating lipid metabolism, mitophagy and inflammation

BACKGROUND

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent liver condition associated with metabolic syndrome, often aggravated by inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction. This study aims to explore the therapeutic potential of magnoflorine, an alkaloid with known anti-inflammatory properties, in ameliorating NAFLD by modulating mitochondrial autophagy and inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome.

METHODS

Male C57BL/6 J mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for 16 weeks to induce NAFLD. Magnoflorine (5 and 10 mg/kg) was administered by gavage daily for 16 weeks. Liver and serum samples were analyzed for lipid profiles, inflammation markers, and autophagy-related proteins, and liver histology was examined to assess changes.

RESULTS

Magnoflorine treatment improved dyslipidemia in NAFLD mice, shown by decreased serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL-C, and increased HDL-C. Histological analysis showed reduced hepatic steatosis and inflammation, with less lipid droplet accumulation and hepatocyte ballooning. Western blot results indicated upregulation of Parkin and PINK1, and downregulation of NLRP3, ASC, and caspase-1, with lower serum IL-1β levels, reflecting reduced inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

Magnoflorine offers a promising approach for mitigating NAFLD progression through modulating mitochondrial autophagy and inhibiting inflammation.

Suppression of NOX2-Derived Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) Reduces Epithelial-to-MesEnchymal Transition Through Blocking SiO2-Regulated JNK Activation

(1) Background: Silicosis, a chronic lung fibrosis disorder triggered by the accumulation of silica dust in the deep lung regions, is characterized by intricate molecular mechanisms. Among these, the NOX2 (NADPH oxidase 2) and JNK (C-Jun N-terminal kinase) signaling pathways play pivotal roles in the progression of pulmonary fibrosis. Despite their significance, the precise mechanisms underlying the crosstalk between these pathways remain largely unexplored. (2) Methods: To unravel these interactions, we examined the interplay between JNK and NOX2 in human epithelial cells subjected to silica dust exposure through in vivo assays, followed by validation using single-cell sequencing. Our findings consistently revealed elevated expression levels of key components from both the JNK signaling pathway and NOX2 in the lungs of silicosis-induced mice and silica-treated human epithelial cells. (3) Results: Notably, the activation of these pathways was linked to increased ROS (reactive oxygen species) production, elevated levels of profibrogenic factors, and diminished cell proliferation in silica-exposed human lung epithelial cells. Further mechanistic analyses demonstrated that JNK signaling amplifies NOX2 expression and ROS production induced by silica exposure, while treatment with the JNK inhibitor SP600125 mitigates these effects. Conversely, overexpression of NOX2 enhanced silica-induced JNK activation and the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related factors, whereas NOX2 knockdown exerted the opposite effect. These results suggest a positive feedback loop between JNK and NOX2 signaling, which may drive EMT in lung epithelial cells following silica exposure. (4) Conclusions: This reciprocal interaction appears to play a critical role in lung epithelial cell damage and the pathogenesis of silicosis, shedding light on the molecular mechanisms underlying profibrogenic disease and offering potential avenues for therapeutic intervention.

Surface Modification of Gold Nanoparticle Impacts Distinct Lipid Metabolism

Gold nanomaterials have garnered significant attention in biomedicine owing to their tunable size and morphology, facile surface modification capabilities, and distinctive optical properties. The surface functionalization of these nanoparticles can enhance their safety and efficacy in nanomedical applications. In this study, we examined the biological effects of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) with three distinct surface modifications (polyethylene glycol, chitosan, and polyethylenimine) in murine models, elucidating their mechanisms of action on hepatic tissue at both the transcriptomic and metabolomic levels. Our findings revealed that PEG-modified GNPs did not significantly alter any major metabolic pathway. In contrast, CS-GNPs markedly affected the metabolic pathways of retinol, arachidonic acid, linoleic acid, and glycerophospholipids (FDR < 0.05). Similarly, PEI-GNPs significantly influenced the metabolic pathways of retinol, arachidonic acid, linoleic acid, and sphingolipids (FDR < 0.05). Through a comprehensive analysis of the regulatory information within these pathways, we identified phosphatidylcholine compounds as potential biomarkers that may underlie the differential biological effects of the three functionalized GNPs. These findings provide valuable experimental data for evaluating the biological safety of functionalized GNPs.

Landscape of small nucleic acid therapeutics: moving from the bench to the clinic as next-generation medicines

The ability of small nucleic acids to modulate gene expression via a range of processes has been widely explored. Compared with conventional treatments, small nucleic acid therapeutics have the potential to achieve long-lasting or even curative effects via gene editing. As a result of recent technological advances, efficient small nucleic acid delivery for therapeutic and biomedical applications has been achieved, accelerating their clinical translation. Here, we review the increasing number of small nucleic acid therapeutic classes and the most common chemical modifications and delivery platforms. We also discuss the key advances in the design, development and therapeutic application of each delivery platform. Furthermore, this review presents comprehensive profiles of currently approved small nucleic acid drugs, including 11 antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), 2 aptamers and 6 siRNA drugs, summarizing their modifications, disease-specific mechanisms of action and delivery strategies. Other candidates whose clinical trial status has been recorded and updated are also discussed. We also consider strategic issues such as important safety considerations, novel vectors and hurdles for translating academic breakthroughs to the clinic. Small nucleic acid therapeutics have produced favorable results in clinical trials and have the potential to address previously "undruggable" targets, suggesting that they could be useful for guiding the development of additional clinical candidates.

Warning on the inhalation of silica nanoparticles: Experimental evidence for its easy passage through the air-blood barrier, resulting in systemic distribution and pathological injuries

As a result of accumulating data, silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) are known to be harmful when inhaled. Nevertheless, the systemic research on its biological processes remains incompletely understood. In our work, we investigated the systemic effects in rats in response to the respiratory exposure of SiNPs, and in-depth clarified the particle distribution in vivo. Moreover, a model of the air-blood barrier was developed to assess the interplay of SiNPs with the epithelium/endothelium interface in vitro. The model was established via a transwell co-culturing of the alveolar epithelium (MLE-12) and the pulmonary microvascular epithelium (MPVECs). Consequently, our data revealed a systemic particle distribution and ensuing multi-tissue pathological injuries in SiNPs-instilled rats, including the heart, spleen, and kidneys. Simultaneously, the translocation of SiNPs passing through the air-blood barrier was verified in vitro. Also, a dose-dependent interruption to the air-blood barrier integrity by SiNPs was noticed in vitro, accompanied by the damage of tight junctions. SiNPs translocation across the air-blood barrier can inevitably facilitate the extra-pulmonary distribution of SiNPs and ensuing systemic effects. Overall, this study provides evidence on the systemic toxicity potential of SiNPs, while highlighting the significance of comprehending SiNPs toxicity and ultimately controlling the health hazards.

Nanomaterials for liver cancer targeting: research progress and future prospects

The incidence and mortality rates of liver cancer in China remain elevated. Although early-stage liver cancer is amenable to surgical resection, a significant proportion of patients are diagnosed at advanced stages. Currently, in addition to surgical resection for hepatocellular carcinoma, the primary treatment modalities predominantly include chemotherapy. The widespread use of chemotherapy, which non-selectively targets both malignant and healthy cells, often results in substantial immunosuppression. Simultaneously, the accumulation of chemotherapeutic agents can readily induce drug resistance upon reaching the physiological threshold, thereby diminishing the efficacy of these treatments. Besides chemotherapy, there exist targeted therapy, immunotherapy and other therapeutic approaches. Nevertheless, the development of drug resistance remains an inevitable challenge. To address these challenges, we turn to nanomedicine, an emerging and widely utilized discipline that significantly influences medical imaging, antimicrobial strategies, drug delivery systems, and other related areas. Stable and safe nanomaterials serve as effective carriers for delivering anticancer drugs. They enhance the precision of drug targeting, improve bioavailability, and minimize damage to healthy cells. This review focuses on common nanomaterial carriers used in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment over the past five years. The following is a summary of the three drugs: Sorafenib, Gefitinib, and lenvatinib. Each drug employs distinct nanomaterial delivery systems, which result in varying levels of bioavailability, drug release rates, and therapeutic efficacy.

Dapansutrile Regulates Mitochondrial Oxidative Stress and Reduces Hepatic Lipid Accumulation in Diabetic Mice

(1) Background: Hepatic lipid accumulation is the initial factor in metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in type 2 diabetics, leading to accelerated liver damage. The NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome plays a critical role in this process. Dapansutrile (DAPA) is a novel NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitor; however, its effect on ectopic lipid accumulation in the liver remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect of DAPA on hepatic lipid accumulation in a diabetic mouse model and its potential mechanisms. (2) Methods: The effects of DAPA on hepatic ectopic lipid deposition and liver function under metabolic stress were evaluated in vivo using db/db and high-fat diet (HFD) + streptozotocin (STZ) mouse models. Additionally, the role and mechanism of DAPA in cellular lipid deposition, mitochondrial oxidative stress, and inflammation were assessed in HepG2 cells treated with free fatty acids (FFA) and DAPA. (3) Results: Our findings indicated that DAPA treatment improved glucose and lipid metabolism in diabetic mice, particularly addressing liver heterotopic lipid deposition and insulin resistance. DAPA treatment also ameliorated lipid accumulation and mitochondrial-related functions and inflammation in HepG2 cells through the NLRP3-Caspase-1 signaling axis. (4) Conclusions: Targeting NLRP3 with DAPA may represent a novel therapeutic approach for diabetes-related fatty liver diseases.

Tissue accumulation and hepatotoxicity of 8:2 chlorinated polyfluoroalkyl ether sulfonate: A multi-omics analysis deciphering hepatic amino acid metabolic dysregulation in mice

8:2 Chlorinated polyfluoroalkyl ether sulfonate (8:2 Cl-PFESA) is a substitute for perfluorooctane sulfonate and an emerging environmental pollutant, yet its bioaccumulation and health risks are poorly understood. We established a subchronic exposure model in mice (0.04, 0.2, and 1 mg/kg/d) to evaluate its adverse effects. Our findings show extensive distribution of 8:2 Cl-PFESA in various tissues (plasma, liver, kidney, brain, heart, lung, testis, ovary, spleen, thymus, thyroid, uterus, large intestine, small intestine, muscle, and fat), with the highest accumulation in the liver, identified as the primary storage organ. Liver histopathology revealed elevated alanine aminotransferase levels, reduced triglycerides, and ballooning degeneration. Proteomics analysis indicated significant involvement of amino acid metabolism in 8:2 Cl-PFESA-induced hepatotoxicity. Metabolomics analysis further highlighted pronounced alterations in amino acid interconversion. Multi-omics integration revealed disruptions in amino acid metabolism, particularly with alanine, histidine, and tryptophan, identifying key proteins EHHADH, HAL, MAO-A, ALDH3A2, and TDO2 as crucial connectors in these metabolic processes, validated by Western blot experiments. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of 8:2 Cl-PFESA accumulation and distribution in biological systems, demonstrating that hepatotoxicity is primarily mediated through amino acid metabolism disruption, offering insights for pollution mitigation strategies and future toxicological research.

Melatonin intervention to prevent nanomaterial exposure-induced damages: A systematic review and meta-analysis of in vitro and in vivo studies

Given its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties, melatonin (MEL), a health-caring food to improve sleep disorders, is hypothesized to protect against nanomaterial exposure-induced toxicity. However, the conclusion derived from different studies seemed inconsistent. A meta-analysis of all available preclinical studies was performed to examine the effects of MEL on nanomaterial-induced damages. Eighteen relevant studies were retrieved through searching five electronic databases up to December 2023. The meta-analysis showed that relative to control, MEL treatment significantly increased cell viability (standardized mean difference [SMD = 1.27]) and alleviated liver function (lowered AST [SMD = -3.89] and ALT [SMD = -5.89]), bone formation (enhanced BV/TV [SMD = 4.13] and lessened eroded bone surface [SMD = -5.40]), and brain nerve (inhibition of AChE activity [SMD = -3.60]) damages in animals. The protective mechanisms of MEL against damages caused by nanomaterial exposure were associated with its antiapoptotic (decreased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio [SMD = -4.50] and caspase-3 levels [dose <100 μM: SMD = -3.66]), antioxidant (decreased MDA [in vitro: SMD = -2.84; in vivo: SMD = -4.27]), and anti-inflammatory (downregulated TNF-α [in vitro: SMD = -5.41; in vivo: SMD = -3.21] and IL-6 [in vitro: SMD = -5.90; in vivo: SMD = -2.81]) capabilities. In conclusion, our study suggests that MEL should be supplemented to prevent damages in populations exposed to nanomaterials.

Neuregulin1 ameliorates metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease via the ERK/SIRT1 signaling pathways

BACKGROUND

Neuregulin (NRG) family is involved in energy metabolism, among which NRG1 is a neuregulin proved to play a protective role in MAFLD cells. But the presice echanism has not been fully illustrated. This study aimed to investigate the role of NRG1 via the ERK/SIRT1 signaling in the pathogenesis of MAFLD.

METHODS

C57BL/6 mice were fed with high-fat diet for 8 weeks, and then injected with NRG1 (0.3 mg/kg/d) and PD98059 (0.3 mg/kg/d) via tail vein for 5 weeks. HepG2 cells induced by oleic acid and palmitic acid were treated with 20ng/mL NRG1 and 10µmol/L PD98059. The changes of histopathological, biochemical indexes, inflammatory factors, lipid metabolism, apoptosis and autophagy parameters were measured.

RESULTS

The expressions of NRG1 in MAFLD cell and animal models were significantly lower than that in the control group. After the intervention of ERK inhibitor PD98059, the expression of NRG1 decreased significantly in vivo, but no significant change was observed in vitro. Moreover, NRG1 ameliorated hepatic steatosis, enhanced cell viability, reduced cell apoptosis, and attenuated liver injury both in vitro and in vivo. After NRG1 intervention, the expressions of ERBB2, ERBB3, p-ERK1/2, SIRT1 and p-FOXO1 as well as the LC3II/I ratio in MAFLD cells and liver tissues of MAFLD mice were significantly increased, while the expression of SREBP1c was decreased. The aforementioned therapeutic effect of NRG1 was lost after the intervention of PD98059.

CONCLUSION

NRG1 might play a protective role in the pathogenesis of MAFLD by activating the downstream ERK1/2 through ErbB2-ErbB3, which promotes the expression of SIRT1 and autophagy markers. This study might indicate a new therapeutic strategy for MAFLD.

ACOX1 activates autophagy via the ROS/mTOR pathway to suppress proliferation and migration of colorectal cancer

Acyl-CoA oxidase 1 (ACOX1), a member of the acyl-coenzyme A oxidase family, is considered a crucial regulator whose dysregulation is implicated in the occurrence and progression of various cancers. This study aims to elucidate the impact of ACOX1 in CRC, shedding light on its potential as a therapeutic target. Through analysis of the GEO dataset, it was found that ACOX1 is significantly downregulated in colorectal cancer (CRC), and this lower expression level is associated with a worse prognosis. Additionally, in vitro as well as in vivo, ACOX1 overexpression dramatically reduced the proliferation and metastasis of CRC cells. Mass spectrometry revealed the crucial role of ACOX1 in fatty acid β-oxidation, as its overexpression led to a substantial increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) derived from fatty acid β-oxidation. Further experiments demonstrated that ACOX1 overexpression, through modulation of fatty acid metabolism, increased ROS levels, reduced the phosphorylation activation of the key autophagy regulator mTOR, enhanced autophagy, and ultimately suppressed the growth and metastasis of CRC. In conclusions, ACOX1 expression is decreased in CRC. ACOX1 may regulate autophagy by reprogramming lipid metabolism to modulate the ROS/mTOR signaling pathway, consequently inhibiting the proliferation and migration of CRC.

The Improvement Effects of Weizmannia coagulans BC99 on Liver Function and Gut Microbiota of Long-Term Alcohol Drinkers: A Randomized Double-Blind Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

With the improvement of living standards, alcoholic liver disease caused by long-term drinking has been a common multiple disease. Probiotic interventions may help mitigate liver damage caused by alcohol intake, but the mechanisms need more investigation.

METHODS

This study involved 70 long-term alcohol drinkers (18-65 years old, alcohol consumption ≥20 g/day, lasting for more than one year) who were randomly assigned to either the BC99 group or the placebo group. Two groups were given BC99 (3 g/day, 1 × 1010 CFU) or placebo (3 g/day) for 60 days, respectively. Before and after the intervention, blood routine indicators, liver function, renal function, inflammatory factors and intestinal flora were evaluated.

RESULTS

The results showed that intervention with Weizmannia coagulans BC99 reduced the levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, glutamyl transpeptidase, serum total bilirubin, blood urea nitrogen, uric acid and 'blood urea nitrogen/creatinine'. Weizmannia coagulans BC99 also reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory factors TNF-α and IL-6 and increased the levels of anti-inflammatory factor IL-10. The results of intestinal flora analysis showed that Weizmannia coagulans BC99 regulated the imbalance of intestinal flora, increased the beneficial bacteria abundance (Prevotella, Faecalibacterium and Roseburia) and reduced the conditionally pathogenic bacteria abundance (Escherichia-Shigella and Klebsiella). Both LEfSe analysis and random forest analysis indicated that the increase in the abundance of Muribaculaceae induced by BC99 was a key factor in alleviating alcohol-induced liver damage.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings demonstrate that Weizmannia coagulans BC99 has the potential to alleviate alcoholic liver injury and provide an effective strategy for liver protection in long-term drinkers.

Quercetin Protects against Silicon dioxide Particles-induced spleen ZBP1-Mediated PANoptosis by regulating the Nrf2/Drp1/mtDNA axis

Silicon dioxide particles (SiO2) are a widely used novel material, and SiO2 that enter the body can accumulate in the spleen and cause spleen injury. Quercetin (Que) has a strong antioxidant activity and can also regulate and improve immune function, but whether Que can improve SiO2-induced spleen injury and its underlying mechanism remain to be explored. Herein, we established a C57BL/6 mice model with SiO2 exposure (10 mg/kg) and treated with Que (25 mg/kg). We also cultured CTLL-2 cells for in vitro experiments. Studies in vivo and in vitro showed that SiO2 exposure caused oxidative stress and mitochondrial dynamics disorder, which led to decrease of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) leakage. mtDNA was recognized by Z-DNA binding protein 1 (ZBP1) in the cytoplasm and increased the expression of ZBP1. This process further promoted the assembly of the ZBP1-mediated PANoptosome, which subsequently induced PANoptosis. Interestingly, supplementation with Que significantly reversed these changes. Specifically, Que mitigated spleen ZBP-1 mediated PANoptosis through preventing mtDNA leakage via regulating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/reactive oxygen species/dynamin-related protein 1 (Nrf2/ROS/Drp1) axis. This study enriches the understanding of the toxicological mechanisms of SiO2 and provides evidence for the protective effects of Que against SiO2-induced splenic toxicity.

The Genetic and Epigenetic Toxicity of Silica Nanoparticles: An Updated Review

Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) are widely used in biomedical fields, such as drug delivery, disease diagnosis, and molecular imaging. An increasing number of consumer products containing SiNPs are being used without supervision, and the toxicity of SiNPs to the human body is becoming a major problem. SiNPs contact the human body in various ways and cause damage to the structure and function of genetic material, potentially leading to carcinogenesis, teratogenicity and infertility. This review summarizes SiNPs-induced genetic and epigenetic toxicity, especially to germ cells, and explore their potential mechanisms. SiNPs cause genetic material damage mainly by inducing oxidative stress. Furtherly, the molecular mechanisms of epigenetic toxicity are discussed in detail for the first time. SiNPs alter DNA methylation, miRNA expression, histone modification and inhibit chromatin remodeling by regulating epigenetic-related enzymes and transcription factors. This review is beneficial for investigating potential solutions to avoid toxicity and provide guidance for better application of SiNPs in the biomedical field.

Lower-dose vs high-dose oral bisphenol S action of lipid metabolism in liver of male SD rat via mediating different SREBP isoforms

Bisphenol S (BPS) is commonly used for the industrial production of thermal paper, polycarbonate plastics, epoxy resins and other materials. Studies have reported that BPS can lead to triglyceride (TAG) or/and cholesterol (CHO) accumulation in the liver in zebrafish and mice, but the reasons for the different types of lipids that accumulate in the liver following BPS exposure are unclear. Here, the influences of lower-dose (10 mg/kg body weight/day) and high-dose (50 mg/kg body weight/day) BPS exposure to male SD rats on the accumulation of different lipids in the liver were explored. The results indicated that BPS treatment increased the levels of acetyl-CoA and glycogen in the liver. A lower dose of BPS upregulated the mRNA and protein expression levels of sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (srebp1), which is involved in the de novo synthesis of TAG in the liver, thus promoting the synthesis of glycerides (diacetylglyceride and TAG). However, a higher dose of BPS induced CHO accumulation, but inhibited the mRNA expression of genes (i.e., srebp2, hmgcr and hmgcs) involved in the de novo synthesis of CHO in the liver. Excessive accumulation of glycerides and CHO led to destruction of the physiological structure of rat liver, causing disorders in liver function. Our data provide new insight into the different mechanisms by which glyceride and CHO accumulate in the liver after BPS exposure.

Alterations in Glutathione Redox Homeostasis in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease: A Systematic Review

Low molecular weight (LMW) thiols, particularly glutathione, play pathogenic roles in various multiorgan diseases. The liver is central for the production and systemic distribution of LMW thiols; thus, it is particularly susceptible to the imbalance of redox status that may determine increased oxidative stress and trigger the liver damage observed in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) models and humans. Indeed, increased LMW thiols at the cellular and extracellular levels may be associated with the severity of MASLD. Here, we present a systematic literature review of recent studies assessing the levels of LMW thiols in MASLD in in vivo and in vitro models and human subjects. Based on the PRISMA 2020 criteria, a search was conducted using PubMed and Scopus by applying inclusion/exclusion filters. The initial search returned 1012 documents, from which 165 eligible studies were selected, further described, and qualitatively analysed. Of these studies, most focused on animal and cellular models, while a minority used human fluids. The analysis of these studies revealed heterogeneity in the methods of sample processing and measurement of LMW thiol levels, which hinder cut-off values for diagnostic use. Standardisation of the analysis and measure of LMW thiol is necessary to facilitate future studies.

Lung Single-Cell Transcriptomics Offers Insights into the Pulmonary Interstitial Toxicity Caused by Silica Nanoparticles

The adverse respiratory outcomes motivated by silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) exposure have received increasing attention. Herein, we aim to elucidate the interplay of diverse cell populations in the lungs and key contributors in triggering lung injuries caused by SiNPs. We conducted a subchronic respiratory exposure model of SiNPs via intratracheal instillation in Wistar rats, where rats were administered with 1.5, 3.0, or 6.0 mg/kg body weight SiNPs once a week for 12 times in total. We revealed that SiNPs caused pulmonary interstitial injury in rats by histopathological examination and pulmonary hydroxyproline determination. Further, a single-cell RNA-Seq via screening 10 457 cells in the rat lungs disclosed cell-specific responses to SiNPs and cell-to-cell interactions within the alveolar macrophages, epithelial cells, and fibroblasts from rat lungs. These disturbed responses were principally related to the dysregulation of protein homeostasis (proteostasis), accompanied by an inflammatory response in macrophages, cell death in epithelial, proliferation, and extracellular matrix deposition in fibroblast. These cell-specific responses may serve a synergistic role in the pathogenesis of pulmonary interstitial disease triggered by SiNPs. In particular, the analyses of gene interaction networks and gene-disease associations filtered out heat shock proteins (Hsps) family genes crucial to the observed pulmonary lesions caused by SiNPs. Of note, both GEO database analysis and our experiments' validation indicated that Hsps, especially Hspd1, may be a key contributor to pulmonary interstitial injury, possibly through triggering oxidative stress, immune response, and disrupting protein homeostasis. Taken together, our study provides insights into pulmonary toxic effects and underlying molecular mechanisms of SiNPs from a single-cell perspective.

Effects of triclosan on lipid metabolism and underlying mechanisms in the cyprinid fish Squalidus argentatus

The ubiquitous presence of the disinfectant triclosan (TCS) has raised global concerns regarding its potential threat to aquatic organisms. However, the effects of TCS on lipid metabolism in fish and its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigated the effect of environmentally relevant levels of TCS on the lipid metabolism in the cyprinid fish Squalidus argentatus. Our results showed that the lipid metabolism in the cyprinid fish S. argentatus was perturbed by 28-day exposure to TCS, as evidenced by higher levels of lipid accumulation in both the liver and blood. To elucidate the mechanisms underlying toxicity, we evaluated oxidative stress, inflammatory status, and lipase activity in the liver. Our findings indicated increased ROS-specific fluorescence intensity, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content in the livers of S. argentatus exposed to TCS, suggesting oxidative damage. Additionally, TCS treatment induced the production of proinflammatory cytokines in the liver of S. argentatus exposed to TCS, which suppressed hepatic lipase activity. Intestinal tissue morphology, inflammation, and blood lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels were also examined. Significant increases in goblet cell count and MDA levels were observed in the intestinal tract. After 28 days of TCS exposure, the serum LPS levels were significantly elevated. 16S rRNA sequencing was conducted to analyze the effects of TCS on the diversity and composition of the intestinal microbiota. Transcriptomic analysis was performed to reveal global molecular alterations following TCS exposure. In conclusion, our results indicate that TCS may disrupt the lipid metabolism in S. argentatus by (i) inducing hepatic oxidative stress and inflammation, which suppress lipoprotein lipase activity, (ii) affecting the production of beneficial metabolites and endotoxins by dysregulating gut microbiota composition, and (iii) altering the expression levels of lipid metabolism-related pathways.

TORC1 Regulates Thermotolerance via Modulating Metabolic Rate and Antioxidant Capacity in Scallop Argopecten irradians irradians

Target of rapamycin complex 1 (TORC1) is a key regulator of metabolism in eukaryotes across multiple pathways. Although TORC1 has been extensively studied in vertebrates and some invertebrates, research on this complex in scallops is limited. In this study, we identified the genes encoding TORC1 complex subunits in the scallop Argopecten irradians irradians through genome-wide in silico scanning. Five genes, including TOR, RAPTOR, LST8, DEPTOR, and PRAS40, that encode the subunits of TORC1 complex were identified in the bay scallop. We then conducted structural characterization and phylogenetic analysis of the A. i. irradians TORC1 (AiTORC1) subunits to determine their structural features and evolutionary relationships. Next, we analyzed the spatiotemporal expressions of AiTORC1-coding genes during various embryo/larvae developmental stages and across different tissues in healthy adult scallops. The results revealed stage- and tissue-specific expression patterns, suggesting diverse roles in development and growth. Furthermore, the regulation of AiTORC1-coding genes was examined in temperature-sensitive tissues (the mantle, gill, hemocyte, and heart) of bay scallops exposed to high-temperature (32 °C) stress over different durations (0 h, 6 h, 12 h, 24 h, 3 d, 6 d, and 10 d). The expression of AiTORC1-coding genes was predominantly suppressed in the hemocyte but was generally activated in the mantle, gill, and heart, indicating a tissue-specific response to heat stress. Finally, functional validation was performed using the TOR inhibitor rapamycin to suppress AiTORC1, leading to an enhanced catabolism, a decreased antioxidant capacity, and a significant reduction in thermotolerance in bay scallops. Collectively, this study elucidates the presence, structural features, evolutional relationships, expression profiles, and roles in antioxidant capacity and metabolism regulation of AiTORC1 in the bay scallop, providing a preliminary understanding of its versatile functions in response to high-temperature challenges in marine mollusks.

Evaluating the safety and efficiency of nanomaterials: A focus on mitochondrial health

Nanomaterials (NMs) have extensive application potential in drug delivery, tissue engineering, and various other domains, attributable to their exceptional physical and chemical properties. Nevertheless, an increasing body of literature underscores the diverse safety risks are associated with NMs upon interaction with the human body, including oxidative stress and programmed cell death. Mitochondria, serving as cellular energy factories, play a pivotal role in energy metabolism and the regulation of cell fate. Organs with substantial energy demands, including the heart and brain, are highly sensitive to mitochondrial integrity, with mitochondrial impairment potentially resulting in significant dysfunction and pathologies such as as heart failure and neurodegenerative disease. This review elucidates the pathways by which NMs translocate into mitochondria, their intracellular dynamics, and their impact on mitochondrial morphology, respiratory chain activity, and metabolic processes. We further investigate associated molecular mechanisms, including mitochondrial dynamic imbalance, calcium overload, and oxidative stress, and elucidate the pivotal roles of mitochondria in different forms of programmed cell death such as apoptosis and autophagy. Finally, we offer recommendations regarding the safety and efficacy of NMs for medical applications. By systematically analyzing the interactions and molecular mechanisms between NMs and mitochondria, this paper aims to enhance the toxicological evaluation framework of NMs and provide a foundational reference and theoretical basis for their clinical utilization.

Gaudichaudione H ameliorates liver fibrosis and inflammation by targeting NRF2 signaling pathway

Gaudichaudione H (GH) is a natural small molecular compound isolated from Garcinia oligantha Merr. (Clusiaceae). Being an uncommon rare caged polyprenylated xanthone, the potential pharmacological functions of GH remain to be fully elucidated currently. In this study, we primarily focused on identifying potential bioavailable targets and elucidating related therapeutic actions. Herein, the network pharmacology analysis, metabolomics analysis and genome-wide mRNA transcription assay were performed firstly to predict the major pharmacological action and potential targets of GH. To confirm the hypothesis, gene knockout model was created using CRISPR/Cas9 method. The pharmacological action of GH was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Firstly, our results of network pharmacology analysis and omics assay indicated that GH significantly activated NRF2 signaling pathway, and the function could be associated with liver disease treatment. Then, the pharmacological action of GH was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. The treatment with GH significantly increased the protein levels of NRF2 and promoted the transcription of NRF2 downstream genes. Further analysis suggested that GH regulated NRF2 through an autophagy-mediated non-canonical mechanism. Additionally, the administration of GH effectively protected the liver from carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis and inflammation, which depended on the activation of NRF2 in hepatic stellate cells and inflammatory cells respectively. Collectively, our findings underscore the potential therapeutic effect of GH on alleviating hepatic fibrosis and inflammation through the augmentation of NRF2 signaling pathway, providing a promising avenue for the treatment of liver fibrosis and inflammation in clinical settings.

Chondroitin Sulfate from Halaelurus burgeri Skin Inhibits Hepatic Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Inflammation, and Regulates Gut Microbiota

SCOPE

Previous study has demonstrated the chemical structure of chondroitin sulfate (CHS) from Halaelurus burgeri skin and its effects on insulin resistance. However, the precise impact of this phenomenon on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and inflammation, which contribute to insulin resistance, remains unclear. This study is to investigate the impact of CHS on ER stress, inflammatory response and signaling, and gut microbiota in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice.

METHODS AND RESULTS

HFD-fed C57BL/6J mice receive dietary gavage intervention of CHS for 18 weeks. Blood, liver tissue, and feces are harvested for further investigation. Results show that CHS inhibits ER stress, accompanied by lowered blood glucose, nitric oxide (NO), reactive oxygen (ROS), and free fatty acids (FFA) levels, and increases hepatic glycogen accumulation. Moreover, hepatic inflammation is improved by CHS treatment via inactivation of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling and its downstream c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) pathways. Additionally, CHS regulates gut microbiota, particularly the decline in the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio. CHS also lowers fecal lipopolysaccharide and elevates several fecal short chain fatty acids.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that CHS from H. burgeri skin may be an alternative functional food supplement for anti-ER stress, anti-inflammtion, and regulation of gut microbiota.

Serum metabonomics reveal the effectiveness of human placental mesenchymal stem cell therapy for primary sclerosing cholangitis

BACKGROUND

The metabolic patterns of human placental-derived mesenchymal stem cell (hP-MSC) treatment for primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) remain unclear, and therapeutic effects significantly vary due to individual differences. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the serological response to hP-MSC transplantation through small molecular metabolites and identify easily detectable markers for efficacy evaluation.

METHODS

Using Mdr2-/- mice as a PSC model and Mdr2+/+ mice as controls, the efficacy of hP-MSC treatment was assessed based on liver pathology, liver enzymes, and inflammatory factors. Serum samples were collected for 12C-/13C-dansylation and DmPA labeling LC-MS analysis to investigate changes in metabolic pathways after hP-MSC treatment. Key metabolites and regulatory enzymes were validated by qRT-PCR and Western blotting. Potential biomarkers of hP-MSC efficacy were identified through correlation analysis and machine learning.

RESULTS

Collectively, the results of the liver histology, serum liver enzyme levels, and inflammatory factors supported the therapeutic efficacy of hP-MSC treatment. Based on significant differences, 41 differentially expressed metabolites were initially identified; these were enriched in bile acid, lipid, and hydroxyproline metabolism. After treatment, bile acid transport was accelerated, whereas bile acid production was reduced; unsaturated fatty acid synthesis was upregulated overall, with increased FADS2 and elongase expression and enhanced fatty acid β-oxidation; hepatic proline 4-hydroxylase expression was decreased, leading to reduced hydroxyproline production. Correlation analysis of liver enzymes and metabolites, combined with time trends, identified eight potential biomarkers: 2-aminomuconate semialdehyde, L-1-pyrroline-3-hydroxy-5-carboxylic acid, L-isoglutamine, and maleamic acid were more abundant in model mice but decreased after hP-MSC treatment. Conversely, 15-methylpalmitic, eicosenoic, nonadecanoic, and octadecanoic acids were less abundant in model mice but increased after hP-MSC treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed metabolic regulatory changes in PSC model mice after hP-MSC treatment and identified eight promising biomarkers, providing preclinical evidence to support therapeutic applications of hP-MSC.

The multiple mechanisms and therapeutic significance of rutin in metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD)

The global incidence of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has been steadily increasing, making it a leading chronic liver disease. MAFLD refers to a metabolic syndrome linked with type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity. However, its pathophysiology is complex, there are currently no effective and approved medicines for therapy. Rutin, a naturally occurring polyphenolic flavonoid, is widely distributed in fruits, vegetables, and other plants. It exhibits a plethora of bioactive properties, such as antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective activities, making it an extremely promising phytochemical. Rutin has shown great potential in the treatment of a wide variety of metabolic diseases and received considerable attention in recent years. Fortuitously, various research studies have validated rutin's extensive biological functions in treating metabolic disorders. Despite the fact that the exact pathophysiological mechanisms through which rutin has a hepatoprotective effect on MAFLD are still not fully elucidated. This review comprehensively outlines rutin's multifaceted preventive and therapeutic effects in MAFLD, including the modulation of lipid metabolism, reduction of insulin resistance, diminution of inflammation and oxidative stress, combatting of obesity, and influence on intestinal flora. This paper details the known molecular targets and pathways of rutin in MAFLD pathogenesis. It endeavored to provide new ideas for treating MAFLD and accelerating its translation from bench to bedside.

TIR8 protects against nonalcoholic steatohepatitis by antagonizing lipotoxicity-induced PPARα downregulation and reducing the sensitivity of hepatocytes to LPS

In up to one-third of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients, simple steatosis progresses to its more severe form, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), but the precise mechanisms underlying this transition are not fully understood. Toll/interleukin-1 receptor 8 (TIR8), a conventional innate immune regulator highly expressed in hepatic tissue, has shown potential for ameliorating various inflammation-related disorders. However, its role in NASH pathogenesis, especially its regulatory effects on lipid metabolism and inflammatory responses, is still unclear. Here, using a TIR8 knockout (TIR8KO) mouse model and mass spectrometry analyses, we found that TIR8KO mice displayed aggravated hepatic steatosis and inflammation, whereas TIR8 overexpression attenuated these adverse effects. Ectopic TIR8 expression counteracts free fatty acid (FFA)-induced PPARα inhibition and downstream signaling. A decrease in TIR8 levels in hepatocytes heightened lipopolysaccharide (LPS) sensitivity. Notably, FFA stimulation led to a direct interaction between TIR8 and proteasome subunit alpha type 4 (PSMA4), facilitating TIR8 degradation. These results revealed that TIR8 safeguards PPARα-regulated lipid metabolism and mitigates inflammation induced by external factors during NASH progression. Our study highlights TIR8 as a promising target for NASH therapy, indicating the potential of TIR8 agonists in treatment strategies.

ROS-responsive nanoparticle delivery of obeticholic acid mitigate primary sclerosing cholangitis

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a challenging cholestatic liver disease marked by progressive bile duct inflammation and fibrosis that has no FDA-approved therapy. Although obeticholic acid (OCA) has been sanctioned for PSC, its clinical utility in PSC is constrained by its potential hepatotoxicity. Here, we introduce a novel therapeutic construct consisting of OCA encapsulated within a reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive, biodegradable polymer, further cloaked with human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cell (hP-MSC) membrane (MPPFTU@OCA). Using PSC patient-derived organoid models, we assessed its cellular uptake and cytotoxicity. Moreover, using a PSC mouse model induced by 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydro-collidine (DDC), we demonstrated that intravenous administration of MPPFTU@OCA not only improved cholestasis via the FXR-SHP pathway but also reduced macrophage infiltration and the accumulation of intracellular ROS, and alleviated mitochondria-induced apoptosis. Finally, we verified the ability of MPPFTU@OCA to inhibit mitochondrial ROS thereby alleviating apoptosis by measuring the mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate (ATP) concentration, ROS levels, and membrane potential (ΔΨm) using H2O2-stimulated PSC-derived organoids. These results illuminate the synergistic benefits of integrating an ROS-responsive biomimetic platform with OCA, offering a promising therapeutic avenue for PSC.

Astaxanthin Alleviates Hepatic Lipid Metabolic Dysregulation Induced by Microcystin-LR

Microcystin-LR (MC-LR), frequently generated by cyanobacteria, has been demonstrated to raise the likelihood of liver disease. Few previous studies have explored the potential antagonist against MC-LR. Astaxanthin (ASX) has been shown to possess various beneficial effects in regulating lipid metabolism in the liver. However, whether ASX could alleviate MC-LR-induced hepatic lipid metabolic dysregulation is as yet unclear. In this work, the important roles and mechanisms of ASX in countering MC-LR-induced liver damage and lipid metabolic dysregulation were explored for the first time. The findings revealed that ASX not only prevented weight loss but also enhanced liver health after MC-LR exposure. Moreover, ASX effectively decreased triglyceride, total cholesterol, aspartate transaminase, and alanine aminotransferase contents in mice that were elevated by MC-LR. Histological observation showed that ASX significantly alleviated lipid accumulation and inflammation induced by MC-LR. Mechanically, ASX could significantly diminish the expression of genes responsible for lipid generation (Srebp-1c, Fasn, Cd36, Scd1, Dgat1, and Pparg), which probably reduced lipid accumulation induced by MC-LR. Analogously, MC-LR increased intracellular lipid deposition in THLE-3 cells, while ASX decreased these symptoms by down-regulating the expression of key genes in the lipid synthesis pathway. Our results implied that ASX played a crucial part in lipid synthesis and effectively alleviated MC-LR-induced lipid metabolism dysregulation. ASX might be developed as a novel protectant against hepatic impairment and lipid metabolic dysregulation associated with MC-LR. This study offers new insights for further management of MC-LR-related metabolic diseases.

Bushen Huoxue formula attenuates lipid accumulation evoking excessive autophagy in premature ovarian insufficiency rats and palmitic acid-challenged KGN cells by modulating lipid metabolism

Introduction

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) has affected about 3.7% of women of reproductive age and is a major factor contributing to infertility. Bushen Huoxue formula (BHF), a traditional Chinese medicine prescription, is clinically used to treat POI in China. This study aims to investigate the potential mechanisms of BHF in combating POI using corticosterone-induced rats and palmitic acid (PA)-challenged human ovarian granulosa cells (GCs).

Methods

Initially, ultra performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry was employed to analyze the components of BHF. The pharmacodynamic parameters evaluated included body weight, ovaries index, and serum hormone in rats. Follicle numbers were observed using H&E staining. Additionally, PCNA and TUNEL staining were used to assess GCs proliferation and apoptosis, respectively. Lipid accumulation and ROS levels were examined using Oil Red O and ROS staining. Protein expressions were determined by western blot. To probe mechanisms, cell viability and E2 levels in BHF-treated, PA-stimulated GCs were determined using MTT and ELISA, respectively. Cell apoptosis and ROS levels were assessed using TUNEL and ROS staining. Proteins related to lipid metabolism and autophagy in PA-stimulated GCs were studied using agonists.

Results

Our results shown that BHF effectively normalized serum hormone levels, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), estradiol (E2), and luteinizing hormone (LH). Concurrently, BHF also significantly reduced follicular atresia and promoted cell proliferation while inhibiting apoptosis in POI rats. Furthermore, BHF mitigated ovarian lipid accumulation by modulating lipid metabolism, which included reducing lipid synthesis (expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α), increasing lipid catabolism (expression of adipose triglyceride lipase), and enhancing lipid oxidation (expression of carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1A). Mechanistically, the therapeutic effects of BHF on POI were linked with alleviation of lipid deposition-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and excessive autophagy, corroborating the results in PA-challenged GCs. After treatment with elesclomol (a ROS inducer) and rapamycin (an autophagy inducer) in GCs, the effects of BHF were almost counteracted under model conditions.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that BHF alleviates the symptoms of POI by altering lipid metabolism and reducing lipid accumulation-induced ROS and autophagy, offering evidence for BHF's efficacy in treating POI clinically.

Enhancing cancer immunotherapy: Nanotechnology-mediated immunotherapy overcoming immunosuppression

Immunotherapy is an important cancer treatment method that offers hope for curing cancer patients. While immunotherapy has achieved initial success, a major obstacle to its widespread adoption is the inability to benefit the majority of patients. The success or failure of immunotherapy is closely linked to the tumor's immune microenvironment. Recently, there has been significant attention on strategies to regulate the tumor immune microenvironment in order to stimulate anti-tumor immune responses in cancer immunotherapy. The distinctive physical properties and design flexibility of nanomedicines have been extensively utilized to target immune cells (including tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), T cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and tumor-associated fibroblasts (TAFs)), offering promising advancements in cancer immunotherapy. In this article, we have reviewed treatment strategies aimed at targeting various immune cells to regulate the tumor immune microenvironment. The focus is on cancer immunotherapy models that are based on nanomedicines, with the goal of inducing or enhancing anti-tumor immune responses to improve immunotherapy. It is worth noting that combining cancer immunotherapy with other treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and photodynamic therapy, can maximize the therapeutic effects. Finally, we have identified the challenges that nanotechnology-mediated immunotherapy needs to overcome in order to design more effective nanosystems.

Lipidomics Investigation Reveals the Reversibility of Hepatic Injury by Silica Nanoparticles in Rats After a 6-Week Recovery Duration

Given the inevitable human exposure owing to its increasing production and utilization, the comprehensive safety evaluation of silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) has sparked concerns. Substantial evidence indicated liver damage by inhaled SiNPs. Notwithstanding, few reports focused on the persistence or reversibility of hepatic injuries, and the intricate molecular mechanisms involved remain limited. Here, rats are intratracheally instilled with SiNPs in two regimens (a 3-month exposure and a subsequent 6-week recovery after terminating SiNPs administration) to assess the hepatic effects. Nontargeted lipidomics revealed alterations in lipid metabolites as a contributor to the hepatic response and recovery effects of SiNPs. In line with the functional analysis of differential lipid metabolites, SiNPs activated oxidative stress, and induced lipid peroxidation and lipid deposition in the liver, as evidenced by the elevated hepatic levels of ROS, MDA, TC, and TG. Of note, these indicators showed great improvements after a 6-week recovery, even returning to the control levels. According to the correlation, ROC curve, and SEM analysis, 11 lipids identified as potential regulatory molecules for ameliorating liver injury by SiNPs. Collectively, the work first revealed the reversibility of SiNP-elicited hepatotoxicity from the perspective of lipidomics and offered valuable laboratory evidence and therapeutic strategy to facilitate nanosafety.

Transcriptome analysis reveals high concentration of resveratrol promotes lipid synthesis and induces apoptosis in Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii)

Resveratrol has been reported to promote immunity and decrease oxidative stress, but which demonstrates biphasic effects relied on the use concentration. In this study, the effects of diet supplement with a relative high concentration of resveratrol (0.32 mg/kg) on metabolism, antioxidation and apoptosis of liver were investigated in Siberian sturgeon. The results showed that resveratrol significantly increased the lipid synthesis and the apoptosis, but did not either activate the antioxidant NRF2/KEAP1 pathway or enhance the antioxidant enzyme activity. Transcriptome analysis revealed significant changes in regulatory pathways related to glycolipid, including PPAR signaling pathway, Insulin signaling pathway, Fatty acid biosynthesis, and Glycolysis/Gluconeogenesis. In addition, resveratrol significantly increased the lipid synthesis genes (accα and fas), fatty acid transport gene (fatp 6) and gluconeogenesis gene (gck), but decreased the survival-promoting genes (gadd45β and igf 1). These findings highlight a significant effect of resveratrol on glycolipid metabolism in Siberian sturgeon. Moreover, this study also demonstrated that 0.32 mg/kg resveratrol has physiological toxicity to the liver of Siberian sturgeon, indicating that this dose is too high for Siberian sturgeon. Thus, our study provides a valuable insight for future research and application of resveratrol in fish.

Silica nanoparticles triggered epithelial ferroptosis via miR-21-5p/GCLM signaling to contribute to fibrogenesis in the lungs

The toxicity of silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) to lung is known. We previously demonstrated that exposure to SiNPs promoted pulmonary impairments, but the precise pathogenesis remains elucidated. Ferroptosis has now been identified as a unique form of oxidative cell death, but whether it participated in SiNPs-induced lung injury remains unclear. In this work, we established a rat model with sub-chronic inhalation exposure of SiNPs via intratracheal instillation, and conducted histopathological examination, iron detection, and ferroptosis-related lipid peroxidation and protein assays. Moreover, we evaluated the effect of SiNPs on epithelial ferroptosis, possible mechanisms using in vitro-cultured human bronchial epithelial cells (16HBE), and also assessed the ensuing impact on fibroblast activation for fibrogenesis. Consequently, fibrotic lesions occurred in the rat lungs, concomitantly by enhanced lipid peroxidation, iron overload, and ferroptosis. Consistently, the in vitro data showed SiNPs triggered oxidative stress and caused the accumulation of lipid peroxides, resulting in ferroptosis. Importantly, the mechanistic investigation revealed miR-21-5p as a key player in the epithelial ferroptotic process induced by SiNPs via targeting GCLM for GSH depletion. Of note, ferrostatin-1 could greatly suppress ferroptosis and alleviate epithelial injury and ensuing fibroblast activation by SiNPs. In conclusion, our findings first revealed SiNPs triggered epithelial ferroptosis through miR-21-5p/GCLM signaling and thereby promoted fibroblast activation for fibrotic lesions, and highlighted the therapeutic potential of inhibiting ferroptosis against lung impairments upon SiNPs exposure.

Nano-Formulations of Natural Antioxidants for the Treatment of Liver Cancer

Oxidative stress is a key factor in the pathological processes that trigger various chronic liver diseases, and significantly contributes to the development of hepatocarcinogenesis. Natural antioxidants reduce oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals and play a crucial role in the treatment of free-radical-induced liver diseases. However, their efficacy is often limited by poor bioavailability and metabolic stability. To address these limitations, recent advances have focused on developing nano-drug delivery systems that protect them from degradation and enhance their therapeutic potential. Among the several critical benefits, they showed to be able to improve bioavailability and targeted delivery, thereby reducing off-target effects by specifically directing the antioxidant to the liver tumor site. Moreover, these nanosystems led to sustained release, prolonging the therapeutic effect over time. Some of them also exhibited synergistic effects when combined with other therapeutic agents, allowing for improved overall efficacy. This review aims to discuss recent scientific advances in nano-formulations containing natural antioxidant molecules, highlighting their potential as promising therapeutic approaches for the treatment of liver cancer. The novelty of this review lies in its comprehensive focus on the latest developments in nano-formulations of natural antioxidants for the treatment of liver cancer.

Fanlian Huazhuo Formula alleviates high-fat diet-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by modulating autophagy and lipid synthesis signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Fanlian Huazhuo Formula (FLHZF) has the functions of invigorating spleen and resolving phlegm, clearing heat and purging turbidity. It has been identified to have therapeutic effects on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in clinical application. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is frequently diagnosed in patients with T2DM. However, the therapeutic potential of FLHZF on NAFLD and the underlying mechanisms need further investigation.

AIM

To elucidate the effects of FLHZF on NAFLD and explore the underlying hepatoprotective mechanisms in vivo and in vitro.

METHODS

HepG2 cells were treated with free fatty acid for 24 hours to induce lipid accumulation cell model. Subsequently, experiments were conducted with the different concentrations of freeze-dried powder of FLHZF for 24 hours. C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat diet for 8-week to establish a mouse model of NAFLD, and then treated with the different concentrations of FLHZF for 10 weeks.

RESULTS

FLHZF had therapeutic potential against lipid accumulation and abnormal changes in biochemical indicators in vivo and in vitro. Further experiments verified that FLHZF alleviated abnormal lipid metabolism might by reducing oxidative stress, regulating the AMPKα/SREBP-1C signaling pathway, activating autophagy, and inhibiting hepatocyte apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

FLHZF alleviates abnormal lipid metabolism in NAFLD models by regulating reactive oxygen species, autophagy, apoptosis, and lipid synthesis signaling pathways, indicating its potential for clinical application in NAFLD.

Serum Metabolomics Uncovers the Mechanisms of Inulin in Preventing Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Inulin may be a promising therapeutic molecule for treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, the underlying mechanisms of its therapeutic activity remain unclear. To address this issue, a high-fat-diet-induced NAFLD mouse model was developed and treated with inulin. The NAFLD phenotype was evaluated via histopathological analysis and biochemical parameters, including serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, liver triglycerides, etc. A serum metabolomics study was conducted using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. The results revealed that inulin mitigated NAFLD symptoms such as histopathological changes and liver cholesterol levels. Through the serum metabolomics study, 347 differential metabolites were identified between the model and control groups, and 139 differential metabolites were identified between the inulin and model groups. Additionally, 48 differential metabolites (such as phosphatidylserine, dihomo-γ-linolenic acid, L-carnitine, and 13-HODE) were identified as candidate targets of inulin and subjected to pathway enrichment analysis. The results revealed that these 48 differential metabolites were enriched in several metabolic pathways such as fatty acid biosynthesis and cardiolipin biosynthesis. Taken together, our results suggest that inulin might attenuate NAFLD partially by modulating 48 differential metabolites and their correlated metabolic pathways, constituting information that might help us find novel therapies for NAFLD.

Multi-omics integration identifies ferroptosis involved in black phosphorus quantum dots-induced renal injury

Black phosphorus quantum dots (BPQDs) have recently emerged as a highly promising contender in biomedical applications ranging from drug delivery systems to cancer therapy modalities. Nevertheless, the potential toxicity and its effects on human health need to be thoroughly investigated. In this study, we utilized multi-omics integrated approaches to explore the complex mechanisms of BPQDs-induced kidney injury. First, histological examination showed severe kidney injury in male mice after subacute exposure to 1 mg/kg BPQDs for 28 days. Subsequently, transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses of kidney tissues exposed to BPQDs identified differentially expressed genes and metabolites associated with ferroptosis, an emerging facet of regulated cell death. Our findings highlight the utility of the multi-omics integrated approach in predicting and elucidating potential toxicological outcomes of nanomaterials. Furthermore, our study provides a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms driving BPQDs-induced kidney injury, underscoring the importance of recognizing ferroptosis as a potential toxic mechanism associated with BPQDs.

Hepatic Oxidative Stress and Cell Death Influenced by Dietary Lipid Levels in a Fresh Teleost

Ferroptosis is a form of regulated cell death characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, affecting physiological and pathological processes. Fatty liver disease associated with metabolic dysfunction is a common pathological condition in aquaculture. However, the exact role and mechanism of ferroptosis in its pathogenesis and progression remains unclear. In this study, an experiment was conducted using different dietary lipid levels in the feeding of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) for 11 weeks. The results revealed that the growth performance and whole-body protein content significantly increased with the elevation of dietary lipid levels up to 12%. The activities of antioxidant enzymes as well as the content of GSH (glutathione) in the liver initially increased but later declined as the lipid levels increased; the contents of MDA (malondialdehyde) and GSSG (oxidized glutathione) demonstrated an opposite trend. Moreover, elevating lipid levels in the diet significantly increased liver Fe2+ content, as well as the expressions of TF (Transferrin), TFR (Transferrin receptor), ACSL4 (acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4), LPCAT3 (lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase 3), and LOX12 (Lipoxygenase-12), while decreasing the expressions of GPX4 (glutathione peroxidase 4) and SLC7A11 (Solute carrier family 7 member 11). In conclusion, the optimal lipid level is 12.2%, determined by WG-based linear regression. Excess lipid-level diets can up-regulate the ACSL4/LPCAT3/LOX12 axis, induce hepatic oxidative stress and cell death through a ferroptotic-like program, and decrease growth performance.

Luteolin alleviates cadmium-induced metabolism disorder through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms in chicken kidney

Cadmium (Cd) is a common environmental pollutant associated with an increased incidence of renal metabolic diseases. Luteolin (Lut), a natural flavonoid, is widely used for its multifaceted therapeutic properties in inflammatory diseases. However, whether Lut protects against Cd-induced nephrotoxicity is still equivocal. The present study investigated the effects of Lut supplementation on renal oxidative stress, inflammation and metabolism and their related mechanisms. Therefore, 40 chickens were treated with Cd and/or Lut with automatic water and free food intake for 1 mo and then the kidney tissues were collected to explore this issue. In this study, Cd exposure induced renal glycolipid metabolism disorders and resultant kidney damage by periodic acid Schiff (PAS) staining, Oil Red O staining, total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and glucose (Glu) levels in kidney, which were significantly ameliorated by Lut. Moreover, Lut also normalized the expression levels of factors related to Cd-disturbed glycolipid metabolism, improving metabolic homeostasis, and contributing to alleviating kidney damage. Furthermore, Lut demonstrated therapeutic potential against Cd-induced renal oxidative stress and inflammation by enhancing antioxidant capacity and inhibiting cytokine production in the kidney tissues. Mechanistically, Lut activated the AMPK/SIRT1/FOXO1 signaling pathway, attenuating oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, ameliorating the metabolic disturbance. In conclusion, these observations demonstrate that Lut treatment activates AMPK/SIRT1/FOXO1 signaling pathway, decreases oxidative stress and inflammation response, which may contribute to prevent Cd-induced metabolism disorder and consequent kidney damage.

Silica nanoparticles-induced cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in A549 cell lines

Among the myriad of nanoparticles, silica nanoparticles (SiO2NPs) have gained significant attention since they are extensively produced and used across several kinds of industries. Because of its widespread usage, there has been increasing concern about the potential health effects. This study aims to evaluate the effects of SiO2NPs on Interleukin-6 (IL-6) gene expression in human lung epithelial cell lines (A549). In this study, A549 cells were exposed to SiO2NPs at concentrations of 0, 1, 10, 50, 100, and 200 µg/mL for 24 and 48 h. The IL-6 gene expression was assessed using Real-Time RT-PCR. Additionally, the impact of SiO2NPs on the viability of A549 cells was determined by MTT assay. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism software 8.0. MTT assay results indicated a concentration-dependent impact on cell survival. After 24 h, survival decreased from 80 to 68% (1-100 µg/mL), rising to 77% at higher concentrations. After 48 h, survival dropped from 97 to 80%, decreasing to 90% at higher concentrations. RT-PCR showed a dose-response relationship in cellular toxicity up to 10 µg/mL. At higher concentrations, there was increased IL-6 gene expression, mitigating SiO2NP-induced cytotoxic effects. The study shows that the viability and proliferation of A549 cells are impacted by different SiO2NPs concentrations. There may be a potential correlation between IL-6 gene expression reduction and a mechanism linked to cellular toxicity. However, at higher concentrations, an unknown mechanism increases IL-6 gene expression, reducing SiO2NPs' cytotoxic effects. These effects are concentration-dependent and not influenced by exposure times. Further investigation is recommended to determine this mechanism's nature and implications, particularly in cancer research.

Application of stem cells in the study of developmental and functional toxicity of endodermal-derived organs caused by nanoparticles

Nanoparticles have unique properties that make them useful in biomedicine. However, their extensive use raises concerns about potential hazards to the body. Therefore, it is crucial to establish effective and robust toxicology models to evaluate the developmental and functional toxicity of nanoparticles on the body. This article discusses the use of stem cells to study the developmental and functional toxicity of organs of endodermal origin due to nanoparticles. The study discovered that various types of nanoparticles have varying effects on stem cells. The application of stem cell models can provide a possibility for studying the effects of nanoparticles on organ development and function, as they can more accurately reflect the toxic mechanisms of different types of nanoparticles. However, stem cell toxicology systems currently cannot fully reflect the effects of nanoparticles on entire organs. Therefore, the establishment of organoid models and other advanced assessment models is expected to address this issue.

Molecular mechanism of nanomaterials induced liver injury: A review

The unique physicochemical properties inherent to nanoscale materials have unveiled numerous potential applications, spanning beyond the pharmaceutical and medical sectors into various consumer industries like food and cosmetics. Consequently, humans encounter nanomaterials through diverse exposure routes, giving rise to potential health considerations. Noteworthy among these materials are silica and specific metallic nanoparticles, extensively utilized in consumer products, which have garnered substantial attention due to their propensity to accumulate and induce adverse effects in the liver. This review paper aims to provide an exhaustive examination of the molecular mechanisms underpinning nanomaterial-induced hepatotoxicity, drawing insights from both in vitro and in vivo studies. Primarily, the most frequently observed manifestations of toxicity following the exposure of cells or animal models to various nanomaterials involve the initiation of oxidative stress and inflammation. Additionally, we delve into the existing in vitro models employed for evaluating the hepatotoxic effects of nanomaterials, emphasizing the persistent endeavors to advance and bolster the reliability of these models for nanotoxicology research.

Proteomics revealed composition- and size-related regulators for hepatic impairments induced by silica nanoparticles

Along with the growing production and application of silica nanoparticles (SiNPs), increased human exposure and ensuing safety evaluation have progressively attracted concern. Accumulative data evidenced the hepatic injuries upon SiNPs inhalation. Still, the understanding of the hepatic outcomes resulting from SiNPs exposure, and underlying mechanisms are incompletely elucidated. Here, SiNPs of two sizes (60 nm and 300 nm) were applied to investigate their composition- and size-related impacts on livers of ApoE-/- mice via intratracheal instillation. Histopathological and biochemical analysis indicated SiNPs promoted inflammation, lipid deposition and fibrosis in the hepatic tissue, accompanied by increased ALT, AST, TC and TG. Oxidative stress was activated upon SiNPs stimuli, as evidenced by the increased hepatic ROS, MDA and declined GSH/GSSG. Of note, these alterations were more dramatic in SiNPs with a smaller size (SiNPs-60) but the same dosage. LC-MS/MS-based quantitative proteomics unveiled changes in mice liver protein profiles, and filtered out particle composition- or size-related molecules. Interestingly, altered lipid metabolism and oxidative damage served as two critical biological processes. In accordance with correlation analysis and liver disease-targeting prediction, a final of 10 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were selected as key potential targets attributable to composition- (4 molecules) and size-related (6 molecules) liver impairments upon SiNPs stimuli. Overall, our study provided strong laboratory evidence for a comprehensive understanding of the harmful biological effects of SiNPs, which was crucial for toxicological evaluation to ensure nanosafety.

Exploring the role of genetic variations in NAFLD: implications for disease pathogenesis and precision medicine approaches

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the leading causes of chronic liver diseases, affecting more than one-quarter of people worldwide. Hepatic steatosis can progress to more severe forms of NAFLD, including NASH and cirrhosis. It also may develop secondary diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Genetic and environmental factors regulate NAFLD incidence and progression, making it a complex disease. The contribution of various environmental risk factors, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, hyperlipidemia, diet, and sedentary lifestyle, to the exacerbation of liver injury is highly understood. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanisms of genetic variations in the NAFLD occurrence or its deterioration still need to be clarified. Hence, understanding the genetic susceptibility to NAFLD is essential for controlling the course of the disease. The current review discusses genetics' role in the pathological pathways of NAFLD, including lipid and glucose metabolism, insulin resistance, cellular stresses, and immune responses. Additionally, it explains the role of the genetic components in the induction and progression of NAFLD in lean individuals. Finally, it highlights the utility of genetic knowledge in precision medicine for the early diagnosis and treatment of NAFLD patients.