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Jin H, Wen G, Zhu J, Liu J, Li J, Yao S, Zhao Z, Dong Z, Zhang X, An J, Liu X, Tuo B. Pantoprazole suppresses carcinogenesis and growth of hepatocellular carcinoma by inhibiting glycolysis and Na +/H + exchange. Drug Dev Res 2024; 85:e22198. [PMID: 38764200 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.22198] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the deadliest cancers. The prevention and therapy for this deadly disease remain a global medical challenge. In this study, we investigated the effect of pantoprazole (PPZ) on the carcinogenesis and growth of HCC. Both diethylnitrosamine (DEN) plus CCl4-induced and DEN plus high fat diet (HFD)-induced HCC models in mice were established. Cytokines and cell proliferation-associated gene in the liver tissues of mice and HCC cells were analyzed. Cellular glycolysis and Na+/H+ exchange activity were measured. The preventive administration of pantoprazole (PPZ) at a clinically relevant low dose markedly suppressed HCC carcinogenesis in both DEN plus CCl4-induced and HFD-induced murine HCC models, whereas the therapeutic administration of PPZ at the dose suppressed the growth of HCC. In the liver tissues of PPZ-treated mice, inflammatory cytokines, IL1, CXCL1, CXCL5, CXCL9, CXCL10, CCL2, CCL5, CCL6, CCL7, CCL20, and CCL22, were reduced. The administration of CXCL1, CXCL5, CCL2, or CCL20 all reversed PPZ-suppressed DEN plus CCL4-induced HCC carcinogenesis in mice. PPZ inhibited the expressions of CCNA2, CCNB2, CCNE2, CDC25C, CDCA5, CDK1, CDK2, TOP2A, TTK, AURKA, and BIRC5 in HCC cells. Further results showed that PPZ reduced the production of these inflammatory cytokines and the expression of these cell proliferation-associated genes through the inhibition of glycolysis and Na+/H+ exchange. In conclusion, PPZ suppresses the carcinogenesis and growth of HCC, which is related to inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines and the expression of cell proliferation-associated genes in the liver through the inhibition of glycolysis and Na+/H+ exchange.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Jin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Guorong Wen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Jiaxing Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Jielong Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Jingguo Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Shun Yao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Zhenglan Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Zhiqi Dong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Xue Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Jiaxing An
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Xuemei Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Biguang Tuo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
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Xie L, Chen H, Zhang L, Ma Y, Zhou Y, Yang YY, Liu C, Wang YL, Yan YJ, Ding J, Teng X, Yang Q, Liu XP, Wu J. JCAD deficiency attenuates activation of hepatic stellate cells and cholestatic fibrosis. Clin Mol Hepatol 2024; 30:206-224. [PMID: 38190829 PMCID: PMC11016487 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2023.0506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Cholestatic liver diseases including primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) are associated with active hepatic fibrogenesis, which ultimately progresses to cirrhosis. Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the main fibrogenic effectors in response to cholangiocyte damage. JCAD regulates cell proliferation and malignant transformation in nonalcoholic steatoheaptitis-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (NASH-HCC). However, its participation in cholestatic fibrosis has not been explored yet. METHODS Serial sections of liver tissue of PBC patients were stained with immunofluorescence. Hepatic fibrosis was induced by bile duct ligation (BDL) in wild-type (WT), global JCAD knockout mice (JCAD-KO) and HSC-specific JCAD knockout mice (HSC-JCAD-KO), and evaluated by histopathology and biochemical tests. In situ-activated HSCs isolated from BDL mice were used to determine effects of JCAD on HSC activation. RESULTS In consistence with staining of liver sections from PBC patients, immunofluorescent staining revealed that JCAD expression was identified in smooth muscle α-actin (α-SMA)-positive fibroblast-like cells and was significantly up-regulated in WT mice with BDL. JCAD deficiency remarkably ameliorated BDL-induced hepatic injury and fibrosis, as documented by liver hydroxyproline content, when compared to WT mice with BDL. Histopathologically, collagen deposition was dramatically reduced in both JCAD-KO and HSC-JCAD-KO mice compared to WT mice, as visualized by Trichrome staining and semi-quantitative scores. Moreover, JCAD deprivation significantly attenuated in situ HSC activation and reduced expression of fibrotic genes after BDL. CONCLUSION JCAD deficiency effectively suppressed hepatic fibrosis induced by BDL in mice, and the underlying mechanisms are largely through suppressed Hippo-YAP signaling activity in HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Xie
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Chen
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue Ma
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong-Yu Yang
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Li Wang
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Ya-Jun Yan
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Fifth People’s Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jing’an District Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao Teng
- HistoIndex Pte Ltd, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Qiang Yang
- Hangzhou Choutu Technology Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiu-Ping Liu
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Fifth People’s Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Wu
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
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Yao L, Hu X, Yuan M, Liu P, Zhang Q, Wang Z, Chen P, Xiong Z, Wu L, Dai K, Jiang Y. Human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stromal cells alleviate liver cirrhosis through the Hippo/YAP/Id1 pathway and macrophage-dependent mechanism. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 123:110456. [PMID: 37494836 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110456] [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: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few effective anti-fibrotic therapies are currently available for liver cirrhosis. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) ameliorate liver fibrosis and contribute to liver regeneration after cirrhosis, attracting much attention as a potential therapeutic strategy for the disease. However, the underlying molecular mechanism of their therapeutic effect is still unclear. Here, we investigated the effect of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (hUC-MSCs) in treating liver cirrhosis and their underlying mechanisms. METHODS We used carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced mice as liver cirrhosis models and treated them with hUC-MSCs via tail vein injection. We assessed the changes in liver function, inflammation, and fibrosis by histopathology and serum biochemistry and explored the mechanism of hUC-MSCs by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) using liver tissues. In addition, we investigated the effects of hUC-MSCs on hepatic stellate cells (HSC) and macrophages by in vitro co-culture experiments. RESULTS We found that hUC-MSCs considerably improved liver function and attenuated liver inflammation and fibrosis in CCl4-injured mice. We also showed that these cells exerted therapeutic effects by regulating the Hippo/YAP/Id1 axis in vivo. Our in vitro experiments demonstrated that hUC-MSCs inhibit HSC activation by regulating the Hippo/YAP signaling pathway and targeting Id1. Moreover, hUC-MSCs also alleviated liver inflammation by promoting the transformation of macrophages to an anti-inflammatory phenotype. CONCLUSIONS Our study reveals that hUC-MSCs relieve liver cirrhosis in mice through the Hippo/YAP/Id1 pathway and macrophage-dependent mechanisms, providing a theoretical basis for the future use of these cells as a potential therapeutic strategy for patients with liver cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lichao Yao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Hu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengqin Yuan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Pingji Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiuling Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiyu Xiong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Lun Wu
- Experiment Center of Medicine, Sinopharm Dongfeng General Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442008, People's Republic of China.
| | - Kai Dai
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yingan Jiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China.
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Liu R, Zhu M, Chen J, Gai J, Huang J, Zhou Y, Wan Y, Tu C. Identification and Characterization of a Novel Nanobody Against Human CTGF to Reveal Its Antifibrotic Effect in an in vitro Model of Liver Fibrosis. Int J Nanomedicine 2023; 18:5407-5422. [PMID: 37753068 PMCID: PMC10519214 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s428430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background No agents are currently available for the treatment or reversal of liver fibrosis. Novel antifibrotic therapies for chronic liver diseases are thus urgently needed. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) has been shown to contributes profoundly to liver fibrogenesis, which makes CTGF as a promising target for developing antifibrotic agents. Methods In this study, we identified a novel nanobody (Nb) against human CTGF (anti-CTGF Nb) by phage display using an immunized camel, which showed high affinity and specificity in vitro. LX-2 cells, the immortalized human hepatic stellate cells, were induced by transforming growth factor beta1 (TGFβ1) as an in vitro model of liver fibrosis to verify the antifibrotic activity of the anti-CTGF Nb. Results Our data demonstrated that anti-CTGF Nb effectively alleviated TGFβ1-induced LX-2 cell proliferation, activation, and migration, and promoted the apoptosis of activated LX-2 cells in response to TGFβ1. Moreover, the anti-CTGF Nb remarkably reduced the levels of TGFβ1, Smad2, and Smad3 expression in LX-2 stellate cells stimulated by TGFβ1. Conclusion Taken together, we successfully identified a novel Nb against human CTGF, which exhibited antifibrotic effects in vitro by regulating the biological functions of human stellate cells LX-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Zhu
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Shanghai, 201318, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaojiao Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200434, People's Republic of China
| | - Junwei Gai
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Shanghai, 201318, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Huang
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Shanghai, 201318, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingqun Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, People's Republic of China
| | - Yakun Wan
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Shanghai, 201318, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuantao Tu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201508, People's Republic of China
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Qi J, Zhang X, Zhang S, Wu S, Lu Y, Li S, Li P, Tan J. P65 mediated UBR4 in exosomes derived from menstrual blood stromal cells to reduce endometrial fibrosis by regulating YAP Ubiquitination. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:305. [PMID: 37644565 PMCID: PMC10463480 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02070-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a recurrent and refractory reproductive dysfunction disorder for which menstrual blood-derived stromal cells (MenSCs) might be a promising intervention. We reported that administration of MenSCs-derived exosomes (MenSCs-EXO) could achieve similar therapeutic effects to MenSCs transplantation, including alleviating endometrial fibrosis and improving fertility in IUA rats. The mass spectrometry sequencing result suggested that UBR4, a member of the proteasome family, was abundantly enriched in MenSCs-EXO. This study aimed to investigate the key role of UBR4 in MenSCs-EXO for the treatment of IUA and the specific molecular mechanism. RESULTS UBR4 was lowly expressed in the endometrial stromal cells (EndoSCs) of IUA patients. MenSCs-EXO treatment could restore the morphology of IUA endometrium, reduce the extent of fibrosis, and promote endometrial and vascular proliferation. Knockdown of UBR4 in MenSCs did not affect the characteristics of exosomes but attenuated the therapeutic effect of exosomes. UBR4 in MenSCs-EXO could alleviate endometrial fibrosis by boosting YAP ubiquitination degradation and promoting YAP nuclear-cytoplasmic translocation. Moreover, P65 could bind to the UBR4 promoter region to transcriptionally promote the expression level of UBR4 in MenSCs. CONCLUSION Our study clarified that MenSCs-EXO ameliorated endometrial fibrosis in IUA primarily by affecting YAP activity mediated through UBR4, while inflammatory signaling P65 may affect UBR4 expression in MenSCs to enhance MenSCs-EXO therapeutic effects. This revealed a novel mechanism for the treatment of IUA with MenSCs-EXO, proposing a potential option for the clinical treatment of endometrial injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiarui Qi
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Xudong Zhang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Siwen Zhang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Shanshan Wu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Yimeng Lu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Shuyu Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Pingping Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Jichun Tan
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China.
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Wei Y, Hui VLZ, Chen Y, Han R, Han X, Guo Y. YAP/TAZ: Molecular pathway and disease therapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e340. [PMID: 37576865 PMCID: PMC10412783 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The Yes-associated protein and its transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (YAP/TAZ) are two homologous transcriptional coactivators that lie at the center of a key regulatory network of Hippo, Wnt, GPCR, estrogen, mechanical, and metabolism signaling. YAP/TAZ influences the expressions of downstream genes and proteins as well as enzyme activity in metabolic cycles, cell proliferation, inflammatory factor expression, and the transdifferentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. YAP/TAZ can also be regulated through epigenetic regulation and posttranslational modifications. Consequently, the regulatory function of these mechanisms implicates YAP/TAZ in the pathogenesis of metabolism-related diseases, atherosclerosis, fibrosis, and the delicate equilibrium between cancer progression and organ regeneration. As such, there arises a pressing need for thorough investigation of YAP/TAZ in clinical settings. In this paper, we aim to elucidate the signaling pathways that regulate YAP/TAZ and explore the mechanisms of YAP/TAZ-induce diseases and their potential therapeutic interventions. Furthermore, we summarize the current clinical studies investigating treatments targeting YAP/TAZ. We also address the limitations of existing research on YAP/TAZ and propose future directions for research. In conclusion, this review aims to provide fresh insights into the signaling mediated by YAP/TAZ and identify potential therapeutic targets to present innovative solutions to overcome the challenges associated with YAP/TAZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzi Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Victoria Lee Zhi Hui
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Yilin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- Department of OrthodonticsWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Ruiying Han
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- Department of OrthodonticsWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Xianglong Han
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- Department of OrthodonticsWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Yongwen Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- Department of OrthodonticsWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- Department of OrthodonticsLanzhou Stomatological HospitalLanzhouGansuChina
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Jafaripour L, Sohrabi Zadeh B, Jafaripour E, Ahmadvand H, Asadi-Shekaari M. Gallic acid improves liver cirrhosis by reducing oxidative stress and fibrogenesis in the liver of rats induced by bile duct ligation. Scand J Gastroenterol 2023; 58:1474-1483. [PMID: 37452479 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2023.2229929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Disturbance in the production and excretion of bile acid causes cholestatic liver disease. Liver cirrhosis is a disease that occurs if cholestasis continues. This study evaluated the protective effect of gallic acid (GA) on liver damage caused by biliary cirrhosis. Rats were randomly divided into 4 groups, each with 8 subjects: 1) control, 2) BDL, 3) BDL + GA 20, and 4) BDL + GA 30. The rats were anesthetized 28 days after the BDL, followed by collecting their blood and excising their liver. Their serum was used to measure liver enzymes, and the liver was used for biochemical analysis, gene expression, and histopathological analysis. Serum levels of liver enzymes, total bilirubin, liver Malondialdehyde level (MDA), expression of inflammatory cytokines and caspase-3, necrosis of hepatocytes, bile duct proliferation, lymphocytic infiltration, and liver fibrosis showed an increase in the BDL group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). In addition, BDL decreased the activity of liver antioxidant enzymes and glutathione (GSH) levels compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The groups receiving GA indicated a decrease in liver enzymes, total bilirubin, MDA, the expression of inflammatory cytokines and caspase-3, and a reduction in liver tissue damage compared to the BDL group (p < 0.05). The level of GSH in the BDL + GA 20 group showed a significant increase compared to the BDL group (p < 0.05). Moreover, it was found that GA, with its anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory properties, reduces liver damage caused by biliary cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Jafaripour
- Razi Herbal Medicines Researches Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Behzad Sohrabi Zadeh
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Elham Jafaripour
- General Department of Education, Education Research Institute, Khuzestan, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Hassan Ahmadvand
- Medicinal Plants and Natural Products Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Majid Asadi-Shekaari
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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8
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Pei Q, Yi Q, Tang L. Liver Fibrosis Resolution: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutic Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119671. [PMID: 37298621 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is a critical system for metabolism in human beings, which plays an essential role in an abundance of physiological processes and is vulnerable to endogenous or exogenous injuries. After the damage to the liver, a type of aberrant wound healing response known as liver fibrosis may happen, which can result in an excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) and then cause cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), seriously endangering human health and causing a great economic burden. However, few effective anti-fibrotic medications are clinically available to treat liver fibrosis. The most efficient approach to liver fibrosis prevention and treatment currently is to eliminate its causes, but this approach's efficiency is too slow, or some causes cannot be fully eliminated, which causes liver fibrosis to worsen. In cases of advanced fibrosis, the only available treatment is liver transplantation. Therefore, new treatments or therapeutic agents need to be explored to stop the further development of early liver fibrosis or to reverse the fibrosis process to achieve liver fibrosis resolution. Understanding the mechanisms that lead to the development of liver fibrosis is necessary to find new therapeutic targets and drugs. The complex process of liver fibrosis is regulated by a variety of cells and cytokines, among which hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the essential cells, and their continued activation will lead to further progression of liver fibrosis. It has been found that inhibiting HSC activation, or inducing apoptosis, and inactivating activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) can reverse fibrosis and thus achieve liver fibrosis regression. Hence, this review will concentrate on how HSCs become activated during liver fibrosis, including intercellular interactions and related signaling pathways, as well as targeting HSCs or liver fibrosis signaling pathways to achieve the resolution of liver fibrosis. Finally, new therapeutic compounds targeting liver fibrosis are summarized to provide more options for the therapy of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiying Pei
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Qian Yi
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Liling Tang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
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Zheng Y, Xie L, Yang D, Luo K, Li X. Small-molecule natural plants for reversing liver fibrosis based on modulation of hepatic stellate cells activation: An update. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 113:154721. [PMID: 36870824 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154721] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver fibrosis (LF) is a trauma repair process carried out by the liver in response to various acute and chronic liver injuries. Its primary pathological characteristics are excessive proliferation and improper dismissal of the extracellular matrix, and if left untreated, it will progress into cirrhosis, liver cancer, and other diseases. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation is intimately associated to the onset of LF, and it is anticipated that addressing HSCs proliferation can reverse LF. Plant-based small-molecule medications have anti-LF properties, and their mechanisms of action involve suppression of extracellular matrix abnormally accumulating as well as anti-inflammation and anti-oxidative stress. New targeting HSC agents will therefore be needed to provide a potential curative response. PURPOSE The most recent HSC routes and small molecule natural plants that target HSC described domestically and internationally in recent years were examined in this review. METHODS The data was looked up using resources including ScienceDirect, CNKI, Web of Science, and PubMed. Keyword searches for information on hepatic stellate cells included "liver fibrosis", "natural plant", "hepatic stellate cells", "adverse reaction", "toxicity", etc. RESULTS: We discovered that plant monomers can target and control various pathways to prevent the activation and proliferation of HSC and promote the apoptosis of HSC in order to achieve the anti-LF effect in this work by compiling the plant monomers that influence many common pathways of HSC in recent years. It demonstrates the wide-ranging potential of plant monomers targeting different routes to combat LF, with a view to supplying new concepts and new strategies for natural plant therapy of LF as well as research and development of novel pharmaceuticals. The investigation of kaempferol, physalin B, and other plant monomers additionally motivated researchers to focus on the structure-activity link between the main chemicals and LF. CONCLUSION The creation of novel pharmaceuticals can benefit greatly from the use of natural components. They are often harmless for people, non-target creatures, and the environment because they are found in nature, and they can be employed as the starting chemicals for the creation of novel medications. Natural plants are valuable resources for creating new medications with fresh action targets because they feature original and distinctive action mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Long Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Dejun Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Kaipei Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Xiaofang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
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10
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Liu X, Wu Y, Li Y, Li K, Hou S, Ding M, Tan J, Zhu Z, Tang Y, Liu Y, Sun Q, Wang C, Zhang C. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) mediates the quiescence of activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) by regulating M2 macrophage exosomal smooth muscle cell-associated protein 5 (SMAP-5). J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2023; 24:248-261. [PMID: 36916000 PMCID: PMC10014314 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b2200383] [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] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
An effective therapeutic regimen for hepatic fibrosis requires a deep understanding of the pathogenesis mechanism. Hepatic fibrosis is characterized by activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) with an excessive production of extracellular matrix. Although promoted activation of HSCs by M2 macrophages has been demonstrated, the molecular mechanism involved remains ambiguous. Herein, we propose that the vitamin D receptor (VDR) involved in macrophage polarization may regulate the communication between macrophages and HSCs by changing the functions of exosomes. We confirm that activating the VDR can inhibit the effect of M2 macrophages on HSC activation. The exosomes derived from M2 macrophages can promote HSC activation, while stimulating VDR alters the protein profiles and reverses their roles in M2 macrophage exosomes. Smooth muscle cell-associated protein 5 (SMAP-5) was found to be the key effector protein in promoting HSC activation by regulating autophagy flux. Building on these results, we show that a combined treatment of a VDR agonist and a macrophage-targeted exosomal secretion inhibitor achieves an excellent anti-hepatic fibrosis effect. In this study, we aim to elucidate the association between VDR and macrophages in HSC activation. The results contribute to our understanding of the pathogenesis mechanism of hepatic fibrosis, and provide potential therapeutic targets for its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuwentai Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yue Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yanyi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Kaiming Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Siyuan Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ming Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jingmin Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zijing Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yingqi Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yuming Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Qianhui Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Cong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China. ,
| | - Can Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines / Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases / Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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11
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He H, Xu B, Ge P, Gao Y, Wei M, Li T, Zhang R, Li B, Cao H, Zhang K. The effects of taraxasterol on liver fibrosis revealed by RNA sequencing. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 114:109481. [PMID: 36470119 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109481] [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: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Effective treatment of liver fibrosis remains a challenging medical problem. Taraxasterol (TAR) has anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and hepatoprotective effects. Studies have shown that TAR has good biological activity against liver injury induced by various factors. However, the anti-fibrotic effect of TAR and its mechanism are never clarified. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of TAR in liver fibrosis and to reveal its possible mechanism by RNA sequencing. Our results suggested that TAR attenuated CCl4-induced hepatocyte necrosis, inflammatory infiltration and ECM deposition. TAR inhibited the levels of ALT, AST, ALP, γ-GT, LN, HA, PC III and IV-C in serum and TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β and MDA in liver. In addition, TAR increased the activities of SOD and GSH-Px in liver. RNA sequencing analysis of liver tissues revealed that CCl4 and TAR significantly altered 4,155 genes and 2,675 genes, respectively. TAR reversed changes in ECM-related genes. More specifically, TAR mediated the expression of genes related to the activation of the Hippo pathway, while inhibiting the expression of genes related to the activation of HIF-1α, TGF-β/Smad, and Wnt pathways. In the validation experiments, the qRT-PCR results showed that the expression levels of Yap1, Tead3, Hif1α, Vegfa, Tgfβ1, Want3a, and Ctnnb1 mRNA were consistent with the RNA sequencing results. The Western blot results showed that TAR inhibited the levels of TGF-β1 and p-Smad2. In addition, the results in vitro were consistent with those in vivo. Therefore, we concluded that TAR improved CCl4-induced liver fibrosis by regulating Hippo, HIF-1α, TGF-β/Smad and Wnt pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan He
- Pharmacology Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence of Disease, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China
| | - Baoling Xu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541104, China
| | - Pengfei Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541104, China
| | - Ya Gao
- Pharmacology Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence of Disease, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China
| | - Min Wei
- Pharmacology Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence of Disease, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China
| | - Ting Li
- Pharmacology Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence of Disease, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China
| | - Ruobing Zhang
- Pharmacology Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence of Disease, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China
| | - Bo Li
- Pharmacology Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence of Disease, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China
| | - Houkang Cao
- Pharmacology Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence of Disease, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China
| | - Kefeng Zhang
- Pharmacology Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence of Disease, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541104, Guangxi, China.
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12
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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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13
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Luo N, Zhong W, Li J, Zhai Z, Lu J, Dong R. Targeted activation of HNF4α/HGF1/FOXA2 reverses hepatic fibrosis via exosome-mediated delivery of CRISPR/dCas9-SAM system. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2022; 17:1411-1427. [PMID: 36326013 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2022-0083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Hepatic fibrosis is one of the most common conditions worldwide, and yet no effective antifibrotic therapy is available. This study aimed to reverse hepatic fibrosis via exosome-mediated delivery of the CRISPR/dCas9-SAM system. Materials & methods: The authors constructed a modified-exosome delivery system targeting hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), and constructed the CRISPR/dCas9-SAM system inducing HSCs convert into hepatocyte-like cells in vitro and in vivo. Results: RBP4-modified exosomes could efficiently load and deliver the CRISPR/dCas9 system to HSCs. The in vitro CRISPR/dCas9 system induced the conversion from HSCs to hepatocyte-like cells via targeted activation of HNF4α/HGF1/FOXA2 genes. Importantly, in vivo targeted delivery of this system significantly attenuated CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis. Conclusion: Targeted activation of HNF4α/HGF1/FOXA2 reverses hepatic fibrosis via exosome-mediated delivery of the CRISPR/dCas9-SAM system, which provides a feasible antifibrotic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nianan Luo
- Department of General Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China.,Department of General Surgery, 943 Hospital of PLA, Wuwei, 733000, China
| | - Wenjun Zhong
- Department of General Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China.,School of Clinical Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Jiangbin Li
- Department of General Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Zhongjie Zhai
- Department of Military Preventive Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Jianguo Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Rui Dong
- Department of General Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
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14
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Li N, Zhang X, Zhou J, Li W, Shu X, Wu Y, Long M. Multiscale biomechanics and mechanotransduction from liver fibrosis to cancer. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 188:114448. [PMID: 35820602 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
A growing body of multiscale biomechanical studies has been proposed to highlight the mechanical cues in the development of hepatic fibrosis and cancer. At the cellular level, changes in mechanical microenvironment induce phenotypic and functional alterations of hepatic cells, initiating a positive feedback loop that promotes liver fibrogenesis and hepatocarcinogenesis. Tumor mechanical microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma facilitates tumor cell growth and metastasis, and hinders the drug delivery and immunotherapy. At the molecular level, mechanical forces are sensed and transmitted into hepatic cells via allosteric activation of mechanoreceptors on the cell membrane, leading to the activation of various mechanotransduction pathways including integrin and YAP signaling and then regulating cell function. Thus, the application of mechanomedicine concept in the treatment of liver diseases is promising for rational design and cell-specific delivery of therapeutic drugs. This review mainly discusses the correlation between biomechanical cues and liver diseases from the viewpoint of mechanobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Li
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), and Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; School of Engineering Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), and Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; School of Engineering Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jin Zhou
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), and Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Wang Li
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), and Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; School of Engineering Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xinyu Shu
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), and Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; School of Engineering Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yi Wu
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), and Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; School of Engineering Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Mian Long
- Center for Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), and Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; School of Engineering Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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15
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Cacciola I. Effects of Proton Pump Inhibitors in Cirrhotic Patients: What Do We Really Know? Gastroenterology 2022; 163:47-49. [PMID: 35500621 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2022.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Irene Cacciola
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Internal and Hepatology Unit, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
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16
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Li J, Zhang N, Li M, Hong T, Meng W, Ouyang T. The Emerging Role of OTUB2 in Diseases: From Cell Signaling Pathway to Physiological Function. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:820781. [PMID: 35309903 PMCID: PMC8926145 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.820781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian tumor (OTU) domain-containing ubiquitin aldehyde-binding protein Otubain2 (OTUB2) was a functional cysteine protease in the OTU family with deubiquitinase activity. In recent years, with the wide application of molecular biology techniques, molecular mechanism regulation at multiple levels of cell signaling pathways has been gradually known, such as ubiquitin-mediated protein degradation and phosphorylation-mediated protein activation. OTUB2 is involved in the deubiquitination of many key proteins in different cell signaling pathways, and the effect of OTUB2 on human health or disease is not clear. OTUB2 is likely to cause cancer and other malignant diseases while maintaining normal human development and physiological function. Therefore, it is of great value to comprehensively understand the regulatory mechanism of OTUB2 and regard it as a target for the treatment of diseases. This review makes a general description and appropriate analysis of OTUB2's regulation in different cell signaling pathways, and connects OTUB2 with cancer from the research hotspot perspective of DNA damage repair and immunity, laying the theoretical foundation for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, China.,Department of the Second Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, China
| | - Na Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, China
| | - Meihua Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, China
| | - Tao Hong
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, China
| | - Wei Meng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, China
| | - Taohui Ouyang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, China
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17
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Wang Y, Xu Y, Xu X, Wang H, Wang D, Yan W, Zhu J, Hao H, Wang G, Cao L, Zhang J. Ginkgo biloba extract ameliorates atherosclerosis via rebalancing gut flora and microbial metabolism. Phytother Res 2022; 36:2463-2480. [PMID: 35312112 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The Ginkgo biloba leave extract (GbE) is widely applied in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases in clinical practice. However, its mechanism of actions has not been totally elucidated. In this study, we confirmed the beneficial effects of GbE in alleviating hypercholesterolemia, inflammation and atherosclerosis in Ldlr-/- mice, which were fed 12 weeks of Western diet (WD). Moreover, 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that GbE treatment reshaped the WD-perturbed intestinal microbiota, particularly decreased the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and elevated the abundance of Akkermansia, Alloprevotella, Alistipes, and Parabacteroides. Furthermore, GbE treatment downregulated the intestinal transcriptional levels of proinflammatory cytokines and enhanced the expression of tight junction proteins, exerting the roles of attenuating the intestinal inflammation as well as repairing the gut barrier. Meanwhile, the targeted metabolomic analysis displayed that GbE treatment significantly reversed the dysfunction of the microbial metabolic phenotypes, including promoting the production of short chain fatty acids, indole-3-acetate and secondary bile acids, which were correlated with the atherosclerotic plaque areas. Finally, we confirmed GbE-altered gut microbiota was sufficient to alleviate atherosclerosis by fecal microbiota transplantation. In summary, our findings provide important insights into the pharmacological mechanism underlying the antiatherogenic efficacy of GbE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuanyuan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaowei Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenchao Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiaying Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Haiping Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guangji Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lijuan Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.,School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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Ion Channel Drugs Suppress Cancer Phenotype in NG108-15 and U87 Cells: Toward Novel Electroceuticals for Glioblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14061499. [PMID: 35326650 PMCID: PMC8946312 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14061499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is a lethal brain cancer that commonly recurs after tumor resection and chemotherapy treatment. Depolarized resting membrane potentials and an acidic intertumoral extracellular pH have been associated with a proliferative state and drug resistance, suggesting that forced hyperpolarization and disruption of proton pumps in the plasma membrane could be a successful strategy for targeting glioblastoma overgrowth. We screened 47 compounds and compound combinations, most of which were ion-modulating, at different concentrations in the NG108-15 rodent neuroblastoma/glioma cell line. A subset of these were tested in the U87 human glioblastoma cell line. A FUCCI cell cycle reporter was stably integrated into both cell lines to monitor proliferation and cell cycle response. Immunocytochemistry, electrophysiology, and a panel of physiological dyes reporting voltage, calcium, and pH were used to characterize responses. The most effective treatments on proliferation in U87 cells were combinations of NS1643 and pantoprazole; retigabine and pantoprazole; and pantoprazole or NS1643 with temozolomide. Marker analysis and physiological dye signatures suggest that exposure to bioelectric drugs significantly reduces proliferation, makes the cells senescent, and promotes differentiation. These results, along with the observed low toxicity in human neurons, show the high efficacy of electroceuticals utilizing combinations of repurposed FDA approved drugs.
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