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Cheng C, Hsu SK, Chen YC, Liu W, Shu ED, Chien CM, Chiu CC, Chang WT. Burning down the house: Pyroptosis in the tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Life Sci 2024; 347:122627. [PMID: 38614301 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122627] [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: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
A high mortality rate makes hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) a difficult cancer to treat. When surgery is not possible, liver cancer patients are treated with chemotherapy. However, HCC management and treatment are difficult. Sorafenib, which is a first-line treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma, initially slows disease progression. However, sorafenib resistance limits patient survival. Recent studies have linked HCC to programmed cell death, which has increased researcher interest in therapies targeting cell death. Pyroptosis, which is an inflammatory mode of programmed cell death, may be targeted to treat HCC. Pyroptosis pathways, executors, and effects are examined in this paper. This review summarizes how pyroptosis affects the tumor microenvironment (TME) in HCC, including the role of cytokines such as IL-1β and IL-18 in regulating immune responses. The use of chemotherapies and their ability to induce cancer cell pyroptosis as alternative treatments and combining them with other drugs to reduce side effects is also discussed. In conclusion, we highlight the potential of inducing pyroptosis to treat HCC and suggest ways to improve patient outcomes. Studies on cancer cell pyroptosis may lead to new HCC treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Cheng
- School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Kai Hsu
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Chun Chen
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Wangta Liu
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - En-De Shu
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Ming Chien
- Department of Medical Sciences Industry, College of Health Sciences, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan 711, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Chih Chiu
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan; Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan; Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan; The Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan.
| | - Wen-Tsan Chang
- Division of General and Digestive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan; Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan.
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2
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Dang J, Huang S, Li S, Liu J, Chen Z, Wang L, Wang J, Chen H, Xu S. Effects of the Biomimetic Microstructure in Electrospun Fiber Sutures and Mechanical Tension on Tissue Repair. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:29087-29097. [PMID: 38788159 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c01478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Electrospun microfibers, designed to emulate the extracellular matrix (ECM), play a crucial role in regulating the cellular microenvironment for tissue repair. Understanding their mechanical influence and inherent biological interactions at the ECM interface, however, remains a complex challenge. This study delves into the role of mechanical cues in tissue repair by fabricating Col/PLCL microfibers with varying chemical compositions and alignments that mimic the structure of the ECM. Furthermore, we optimized these microfibers to create the Col/PLCL@PDO aligned suture, with a specific emphasis on mechanical tension in tissue repair. The result reveals that within fibers of identical chemical composition, fibroblast proliferation is more pronounced in aligned fibers than in unaligned ones. Moreover, cells on aligned fibers exhibit an increased aspect ratio. In vivo experiments demonstrated that as the tension increased to a certain level, cell proliferation augmented, cells assumed more elongated morphologies with distinct protrusions, and there was an elevated secretion of collagen III and tension suture, facilitating soft tissue repair. This research illuminates the structural and mechanical dynamics of electrospun fiber scaffolds; it will provide crucial insights for the advancement of precise and controllable tissue engineering materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Dang
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Shifen Huang
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Shengmei Li
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Jingyao Liu
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Zibo Chen
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Liu Wang
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Shanshan Xu
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
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3
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Min K, Karuppannan SK, Tae G. The impact of matrix stiffness on hepatic cell function, liver fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma-Based on quantitative data. BIOPHYSICS REVIEWS 2024; 5:021306. [PMID: 38846007 PMCID: PMC11151446 DOI: 10.1063/5.0197875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Over the past few decades, extensive research has explored the development of supportive scaffold materials for in vitro hepatic cell culture, to effectively mimic in vivo microenvironments. It is crucial for hepatic disease modeling, drug screening, and therapeutic evaluations, considering the ethical concerns and practical challenges associated with in vivo experiments. This review offers a comprehensive perspective on hepatic cell culture using bioscaffolds by encompassing all stages of hepatic diseases-from a healthy liver to fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)-with a specific focus on matrix stiffness. This review begins by providing physiological and functional overviews of the liver. Subsequently, it explores hepatic cellular behaviors dependent on matrix stiffness from previous reports. For hepatic cell activities, softer matrices showed significant advantages over stiffer ones in terms of cell proliferation, migration, and hepatic functions. Conversely, stiffer matrices induced myofibroblastic activation of hepatic stellate cells, contributing to the further progression of fibrosis. Elevated matrix stiffness also correlates with HCC by increasing proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, metastasis, and drug resistance of HCC cells. In addition, we provide quantitative information on available data to offer valuable perspectives for refining the preparation and development of matrices for hepatic tissue engineering. We also suggest directions for further research on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiyoon Min
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Sathish Kumar Karuppannan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Giyoong Tae
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
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4
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Mai Z, Lin Y, Lin P, Zhao X, Cui L. Modulating extracellular matrix stiffness: a strategic approach to boost cancer immunotherapy. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:307. [PMID: 38693104 PMCID: PMC11063215 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06697-4] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
The interplay between extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness and the tumor microenvironment is increasingly recognized as a critical factor in cancer progression and the efficacy of immunotherapy. This review comprehensively discusses the key factors regulating ECM remodeling, including the activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts and the accumulation and crosslinking of ECM proteins. Furthermore, it provides a detailed exploration of how ECM stiffness influences the behaviors of both tumor and immune cells. Significantly, the impact of ECM stiffness on the response to various immunotherapy strategies, such as immune checkpoint blockade, adoptive cell therapy, oncolytic virus therapy, and therapeutic cancer vaccines, is thoroughly examined. The review also addresses the challenges in translating research findings into clinical practice, highlighting the need for more precise biomaterials that accurately mimic the ECM and the development of novel therapeutic strategies. The insights offered aim to guide future research, with the potential to enhance the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zizhao Mai
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, Guangdong, China
| | - Yunfan Lin
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, Guangdong, China
| | - Pei Lin
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinyuan Zhao
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, Guangdong, China.
| | - Li Cui
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, Guangdong, China.
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5
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Ryoo H, Giovanni R, Kimmel H, Jain I, Underhill GH. Combinatorial Microgels for 3D ECM Screening and Heterogeneous Microenvironmental Culture of Primary Human Hepatic Stellate Cells. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2303128. [PMID: 38348560 PMCID: PMC11022709 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202303128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease affects 30% of the United States population and its progression can lead to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and increased risks for cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. NASH is characterized by a highly heterogeneous liver microenvironment created by the fibrotic activity of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). While HSCs have been widely studied in 2D, further advancements in physiologically relevant 3D culture platforms for the in vitro modeling of these heterogeneous environments are needed. In this study, the use of stiffness-variable, extracellular matrix (ECM) protein-conjugated polyethylene glycol microgels as 3D cell culture scaffolds to modulate HSC activation is demonstrated. These microgels as a high throughput ECM screening system to identify HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities in distinct heterogeneous microenvironmental conditions are further employed. The 6 kPa fibronectin microgels are shown to significantly increase HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities in single or multiple-component microenvironments. Overall, heterogeneous microenvironments consisting of multiple distinct ECM microgels promoted a decrease in HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities compared to homogeneous microenvironments. The study envisions this ECM screening platform being adapted to a broad number of cell types to aid the identification of ECM microenvironments that best recapitulate the desired phenotype, differentiation, or drug efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Ryoo
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
| | - Regina Giovanni
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
| | - Hannah Kimmel
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
| | - Ishita Jain
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
| | - Gregory H. Underhill
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
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6
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Li J, Liu Y, Zheng R, Qu C, Li J. Molecular mechanisms of TACE refractoriness: Directions for improvement of the TACE procedure. Life Sci 2024; 342:122540. [PMID: 38428568 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Transcatheter arterial chemoembolisation (TACE) is the standard of care for intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma and selected patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. However, TACE does not achieve a satisfactory objective response rate, and the concept of TACE refractoriness has been proposed to identify patients who do not fully benefit from TACE. Moreover, repeated TACE is necessary to obtain an optimal and sustained anti-tumour response, which may damage the patient's liver function. Therefore, studies have recently been performed to improve the effectiveness of TACE. In this review, we summarise the detailed molecular mechanisms associated with TACE responsiveness and relapse after this treatment to provide more effective targets for adjuvant therapy while helping to improve TACE regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao Li
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China; The Public Laboratory Platform of the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingnan Liu
- Department of Radiology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruipeng Zheng
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Qu
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China; The Public Laboratory Platform of the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiarui Li
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China.
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7
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Wang X, Liu H, Wang Y, Wang P, Yi Y, Lin Y, Li X. Novel protein C6ORF120 promotes liver fibrosis by activating hepatic stellate cells through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024. [PMID: 38523410 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The role of C6ORF120 in promoting CCL4-induced hepatic fibrosis and its possible mechanisms were explored in C6orf120 knockout rats (C6orf120-/-) and LX-2 cells (a type of human hepatic stellate cell line). METHODS In vivo experiments, wild-type and C6orf120-/- rats were used to investigate the function of C6ORF120. In the in vitro experiments, C6ORF120 recombinant protein (rC6ORF120) at a concentration of 200 ng/mL was used to stimulate LX-2 cells. Sirius Red staining, Masson staining, western blotting, polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence were used to explore fibrosis-associated factors. RESULTS C6orf120-/- rats showed mild fibrosis and liver injury in the CCL4-induced liver fibrosis model. Furthermore, RNA-seq revealed that C6orf120-/- rats had less extracellular matrix deposition and activated stellate cells. Consistent with the in vivo, the rC6ORF120 induced LX-2 cell activation. Moreover, mechanistic studies revealed that the p-PI3K/PI3K, p-Akt/Akt, and p-mTOR/mTOR levels were significantly elevated and LY294002 (a PI3K/Akt/mTOR typical pathway inhibitor) reversed the function of C6ORF120 in activating LX-2 cells. CONCLUSION C6ORF120 could activate hepatic stellate cells and promote hepatic fibrosis via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Center of Infectious Disease, Beijing Ditan Hospital; Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuqi Wang
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yunyun Yi
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yingying Lin
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Lee J, Lee E, Huh SJ, Kang JI, Park KM, Byun H, Lee S, Kim E, Shin H. Composite Spheroid-Laden Bilayer Hydrogel for Engineering Three-Dimensional Osteochondral Tissue. Tissue Eng Part A 2024; 30:225-243. [PMID: 38062771 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2023.0299] [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] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
A combination of hydrogels and stem cell spheroids has been used to engineer three-dimensional (3D) osteochondral tissue, but precise zonal control directing cell fate within the hydrogel remains a challenge. In this study, we developed a composite spheroid-laden bilayer hydrogel to imitate osteochondral tissue by spatially controlled differentiation of human adipose-derived stem cells. Meticulous optimization of the spheroid-size and mechanical strength of gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel enables the cells to homogeneously sprout within the hydrogel. Moreover, fibers immobilizing transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1) or bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) were incorporated within the spheroids, which induced chondrogenic or osteogenic differentiation of cells in general media, respectively. The spheroids-filled GelMA solution was crosslinked to create the bilayer hydrogel, which demonstrated a strong interfacial adhesion between the two layers. The cell sprouting enhanced the adhesion of each hydrogel, demonstrated by increase in tensile strength from 4.8 ± 0.4 to 6.9 ± 1.2 MPa after 14 days of culture. Importantly, the spatially confined delivery of BMP-2 within the spheroids increased mineral deposition and more than threefold enhanced osteogenic genes of cells in the bone layer while the cells induced by TGF-β1 signals were apparently differentiated into chondrocytes within the cartilage layer. The results suggest that our composite spheroid-laden hydrogel could be used for the biofabrication of osteochondral tissue, which can be applied to engineer other complex tissues by delivery of appropriate biomolecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinkyu Lee
- Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Bioengineering, BK21 FOUR, Education and Research Group for Biopharmaceutical Innovation Leader, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunjin Lee
- Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Bioengineering, BK21 FOUR, Education and Research Group for Biopharmaceutical Innovation Leader, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Jae Huh
- Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Bioengineering, BK21 FOUR, Education and Research Group for Biopharmaceutical Innovation Leader, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeon Il Kang
- Department of Bioengineering and Nano-Bioengineering, College of Life Sciences and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Min Park
- Department of Bioengineering and Nano-Bioengineering, College of Life Sciences and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hayeon Byun
- Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangmin Lee
- Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunhyung Kim
- Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Bioengineering, BK21 FOUR, Education and Research Group for Biopharmaceutical Innovation Leader, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Heungsoo Shin
- Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Bioengineering, BK21 FOUR, Education and Research Group for Biopharmaceutical Innovation Leader, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Bioengineering, Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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9
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van Riet S, Julien A, Atanasov A, Nordling Å, Ingelman-Sundberg M. The role of sinusoidal endothelial cells and TIMP1 in the regulation of fibrosis in a novel human liver 3D NASH model. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0374. [PMID: 38358377 PMCID: PMC10871795 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of NAFLD is rapidly increasing. NAFLD can progress to NASH, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and HCC, which will soon become the main causes of liver transplantation. To date, no effective drug for NASH has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. This is partly due to the lack of reliable human in vitro models. Here, we present a novel human liver spheroid model that can be used to study the mechanisms underlying liver fibrosis formation and degradation. METHODS AND RESULTS Such spheroids, which contain hepatocytes, stellate cells, KC, and LSECs, spontaneously develop fibrosis that is exacerbated by treatment with free fatty acids. Conditioned medium from activated LSECs caused similar activation of fibrosis in spheroids containing primary human hepatocyte and NPCs, indicating the action of soluble mediators from the LSECs. Spheroids containing LSECs treated with free fatty acids produced tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases inhibitor 1, a matrix metalloproteinases inhibitor important for fibrosis progression. Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases inhibitor 1 knockdown using siRNA led to a reduction in collagen and procollagen accumulation, which could be partially rescued using a potent matrix metalloproteinases inhibitor. Interestingly, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases inhibitor 1 was found to be expressed at higher levels, specifically in a subtype of endothelial cells in the pericentral region of human fibrotic livers, than in control livers. CONCLUSION Potential anti-NASH drugs and compounds were evaluated for their efficacy in reducing collagen accumulation, and we found differences in specificity between spheroids with and without LSECs. This new human NASH model may reveal novel mechanisms for the regulation of liver fibrosis and provide a more appropriate model for screening drugs against NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sander van Riet
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section of Pharmacogenetics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anais Julien
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andrea Atanasov
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section of Pharmacogenetics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Åsa Nordling
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section of Pharmacogenetics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Magnus Ingelman-Sundberg
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section of Pharmacogenetics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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10
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Kim WS, Min S, Kim SK, Kang S, An S, Criado-Hidalgo E, Davis H, Bar-Zion A, Malounda D, Kim YH, Lee JH, Bae SH, Lee JG, Kwak M, Cho SW, Shapiro MG, Cheon J. Magneto-acoustic protein nanostructures for non-invasive imaging of tissue mechanics in vivo. NATURE MATERIALS 2024; 23:290-300. [PMID: 37845321 PMCID: PMC10837075 DOI: 10.1038/s41563-023-01688-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Measuring cellular and tissue mechanics inside intact living organisms is essential for interrogating the roles of force in physiological and disease processes. Current agents for studying the mechanobiology of intact, living organisms are limited by poor light penetration and material stability. Magnetomotive ultrasound is an emerging modality for real-time in vivo imaging of tissue mechanics. Nonetheless, it has poor sensitivity and spatiotemporal resolution. Here we describe magneto-gas vesicles (MGVs), protein nanostructures based on gas vesicles and magnetic nanoparticles that produce differential ultrasound signals in response to varying mechanical properties of surrounding tissues. These hybrid nanomaterials significantly improve signal strength and detection sensitivity. Furthermore, MGVs enable non-invasive, long-term and quantitative measurements of mechanical properties within three-dimensional tissues and in vivo fibrosis models. Using MGVs as novel contrast agents, we demonstrate their potential for non-invasive imaging of tissue elasticity, offering insights into mechanobiology and its application to disease diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whee-Soo Kim
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
- Department of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungjin Min
- Department of Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Kyeom Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunghwi Kang
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Chemistry, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soohwan An
- Department of Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ernesto Criado-Hidalgo
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Hunter Davis
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Avinoam Bar-Zion
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Dina Malounda
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Yu Heun Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Hyun Lee
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Han Bae
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei Biomedical Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Gu Lee
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Minsuk Kwak
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Woo Cho
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Mikhail G Shapiro
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA.
- Department of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Andrew and Peggy Cherng Department of Medical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Pasadena, CA, USA.
| | - Jinwoo Cheon
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Chemistry, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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11
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Zhang X, Zhao Y, Li M, Wang M, Qian J, Wang Z, Wang Y, Wang F, Guo K, Gao D, Zhao Y, Chen R, Ren Z, Song H, Cui J. A synergistic regulation works in matrix stiffness-driven invadopodia formation in HCC. Cancer Lett 2024; 582:216597. [PMID: 38145655 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence has suggested that increased matrix stiffness can significantly strengthen the malignant characteristics of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. However, whether and how increased matrix stiffness regulates the formation of invadopodia in HCC cells remain largely unknown. In the study, we developed different experimental systems in vitro and in vivo to explore the effects of matrix stiffness on the formation of invadopodia and its relevant molecular mechanism. Our results demonstrated that increased matrix stiffness remarkably augmented the migration and invasion abilities of HCC cells, upregulated the expressions of invadopodia-associated genes and enhanced the number of invadopodia. Two regulatory pathways contribute to matrix stiffness-driven invadopodia formation together in HCC cells, including direct triggering invadopodia formation through activating integrin β1 or Piezo1/ FAK/Src/Arg/cortactin pathway, and indirect stimulating invadopodia formation through improving EGF production to activate EGFR/Src/Arg/cortactin pathway. Src was identified as the common hub molecule of two synergistic regulatory pathways. Simultaneously, activation of integrin β1/RhoA/ROCK1/MLC2 and Piezo1/Ca2+/MLCK/MLC2 pathways mediate matrix stiffness-reinforced cell migration. This study uncovers a new mechanism by which mechanosensory pathway and biochemical signal pathway synergistically regulate the formation of invadopodia in HCC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Zhang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Yingying Zhao
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Miao Li
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Mimi Wang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Jiali Qian
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Zhiming Wang
- Department of Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Yaohui Wang
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Fan Wang
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, PR China
| | - Kun Guo
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Dongmei Gao
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Rongxin Chen
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Zhenggang Ren
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Haiyan Song
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, PR China.
| | - Jiefeng Cui
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai, 200032, PR China.
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Song L, Zhang D, Wang H, Xia X, Huang W, Gonzales J, Via LE, Wang D. Automated quantitative assay of fibrosis characteristics in tuberculosis granulomas. Front Microbiol 2024; 14:1301141. [PMID: 38235425 PMCID: PMC10792068 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1301141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Granulomas, the pathological hallmark of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection, are formed by different cell populations. Across various stages of tuberculosis conditions, most granulomas are classical caseous granulomas. They are composed of a necrotic center surrounded by multilayers of histocytes, with the outermost layer encircled by fibrosis. Although fibrosis characterizes the architecture of granulomas, little is known about the detailed parameters of fibrosis during this process. Methods In this study, samples were collected from patients with tuberculosis (spanning 16 organ types), and Mtb-infected marmosets and fibrotic collagen were characterized by second harmonic generation (SHG)/two-photon excited fluorescence (TPEF) microscopy using a stain-free, fully automated analysis program. Results Histopathological examination revealed that most granulomas share common features, including necrosis, solitary and compact structure, and especially the presence of multinuclear giant cells. Masson's trichrome staining showed that different granuloma types have varying degrees of fibrosis. SHG imaging uncovered a higher proportion (4%~13%) of aggregated collagens than of disseminated type collagens (2%~5%) in granulomas from matched tissues. Furthermore, most of the aggregated collagen presented as short and thick clusters (200~620 µm), unlike the long and thick (200~300 µm) disseminated collagens within the matched tissues. Matrix metalloproteinase-9, which is involved in fibrosis and granuloma formation, was strongly expressed in the granulomas in different tissues. Discussion Our data illustrated that different tuberculosis granulomas have some degree of fibrosis in which collagen strings are short and thick. Moreover, this study revealed that the SHG imaging program could contribute to uncovering the fibrosis characteristics of tuberculosis granulomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Song
- The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
- Yichang Central People’s Hospital, Yichang, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
- Institute of Infection and Inflammation, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Ding Zhang
- The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
- Yichang Central People’s Hospital, Yichang, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
- Institute of Infection and Inflammation, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Hankun Wang
- The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
- Yichang Central People’s Hospital, Yichang, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
- Institute of Infection and Inflammation, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Xuan Xia
- The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
- Yichang Central People’s Hospital, Yichang, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
- Institute of Infection and Inflammation, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Weifeng Huang
- The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
- Yichang Central People’s Hospital, Yichang, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
- Institute of Infection and Inflammation, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Jacqueline Gonzales
- Tuberculosis Research Section, Laboratory of Clinical Infectious Diseases, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Laura E. Via
- Tuberculosis Research Section, Laboratory of Clinical Infectious Diseases, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Decheng Wang
- The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
- Yichang Central People’s Hospital, Yichang, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
- Institute of Infection and Inflammation, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
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Carvalho AM, Bansal R, Barrias CC, Sarmento B. The Material World of 3D-Bioprinted and Microfluidic-Chip Models of Human Liver Fibrosis. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2307673. [PMID: 37961933 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202307673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Biomaterials are extensively used to mimic cell-matrix interactions, which are essential for cell growth, function, and differentiation. This is particularly relevant when developing in vitro disease models of organs rich in extracellular matrix, like the liver. Liver disease involves a chronic wound-healing response with formation of scar tissue known as fibrosis. At early stages, liver disease can be reverted, but as disease progresses, reversion is no longer possible, and there is no cure. Research for new therapies is hampered by the lack of adequate models that replicate the mechanical properties and biochemical stimuli present in the fibrotic liver. Fibrosis is associated with changes in the composition of the extracellular matrix that directly influence cell behavior. Biomaterials could play an essential role in better emulating the disease microenvironment. In this paper, the recent and cutting-edge biomaterials used for creating in vitro models of human liver fibrosis are revised, in combination with cells, bioprinting, and/or microfluidics. These technologies have been instrumental to replicate the intricate structure of the unhealthy tissue and promote medium perfusion that improves cell growth and function, respectively. A comprehensive analysis of the impact of material hints and cell-material interactions in a tridimensional context is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Margarida Carvalho
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, Porto, 4050-313, Portugal
| | - Ruchi Bansal
- Translational Liver Research, Department of Medical Cell Biophysics, Technical Medical Center, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, 7522 NB, The Netherlands
| | - Cristina C Barrias
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, Porto, 4050-313, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sarmento
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- IUCS - Instituto Universitário de Ciências da Saúde, CESPU, Rua Central de Gandra 1317, Gandra, 4585-116, Portugal
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Hu D, Lin Z, Li P, Zhang Z, Jiang J, Yang C. Investigation of Potential Crucial Genes and Key Pathways in Keratoconus: An Analysis of Gene Expression Omnibus Data. Biochem Genet 2023; 61:2724-2740. [PMID: 37233843 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-023-10398-6] [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: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Keratoconus is one of the most common causes leading to visual impairment in young adult population. The pathogenesis of keratoconus remains poorly understood. The aim of this study was to identify the potential key genes and pathways associated with keratoconus and to further analyze its molecular mechanism. Two RNA-sequencing datasets of keratoconus and paired normal corneal tissues from the Gene Expression Omnibus database were obtained. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, and the Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were conducted. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of the DEGs was established, and the hub genes and significant gene modules of PPI were further constructed. Lastly, the GO and KEGG analyses of the hub gene were performed. In total, 548 common DEGs were identified. GO enrichment analysis showed that the DEGs were primarily associated with regulation of cell adhesion, the response to molecule of bacterial origin, lipopolysaccharide and biotic stimulus, collagen-containing extracellular matrix, extracellular matrix, and structure organization. KEGG pathway analysis showed that these DEGs were mainly involved in the TNF signaling pathway, IL-17 signaling pathway, Rheumatoid arthritis, Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction. The PPI network was constructed with 146 nodes and 276 edges, and 3 significant modules are selected. Finally, top 10 hub genes were identified from the PPI network. The results revealed that extracellular matrix remodeling and immune inflammatory response could be the key links of keratoconus, TNF, IL6, IL1A, IL1B, CCL3, MMP3, MMP9, MMP1, and TGFB1 may be potential crucial genes, and TNF signaling pathway and IL-17 signaling pathway were the potential pathways accounting for pathogenesis and development of keratoconus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, No.399 Wanyuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Zenan Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai First People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Pan Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Hospital of Xi'an, Institute of Ophthalmology, Key Lab of Ophthalmology, Clinical Center for Ophthalmology, Xi'an, 710002, China
| | - Zhehuan Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, No.399 Wanyuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Junhong Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai First People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China.
| | - Chenhao Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, No.399 Wanyuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, China.
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15
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Amri J, Jamalian M, Salami Z, Akbari A, Alaee M, Soleiman FA, Alimoradian A. Hydroalcoholic extract of Scrophularia striata has a significant therapeutic effect on thioacetamide-induced liver cirrhosis in rats. Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2023; 44:371-377. [PMID: 38124628 DOI: 10.1515/hmbci-2022-0106] [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: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Liver cirrhosis is one of the most important causes of death from liver diseases. Nowadays, the use of herbal medicines has increased due to its availability, less side effects and cheapness for the treatment of liver diseases. The present study was conducted to examine therapeutic effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Scrophularia striata (S. striata) on thioacetamide-induced liver cirrhosis in rats through evaluate its effects on oxidative stress markers and the expression of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP 1), toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4), and Mitofusin (MFN2) genes. METHODS 24 male rats were selected by simple random sampling. Rats were randomly assigned to four groups: group I: healthy rats, group II: thioacetamide (TAA) injected rats, group III: TAA injected rats+100 mg/kg bw of S. striata and group IV: TAA injected rats+200 mg/kg bw of S. striata. Liver cirrhosis was induced in rats by a 300 mg/kg bw TAA administration twice with an interval of 24 h. After 8 weeks of treatment by S. striata at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg bw, biochemical factors and oxidative stress markers (SOD, TAC, GPX, CAT and MDA) were measured using spectrophotometric methods. Also, gene expression of TIMP 1, TLR-4, and MFN2 were analyzed using real-time PCR. ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc test analysis were applied to evaluate the data. RESULTS The results showed the S. striata extract significantly improve the serum ALT, AST and ALP levels, TIMP 1, TLR-4, and MFN2 genes and oxidative stress markers (SOD, TAC, GPX, CAT and MDA) in the liver tissues when compared to control group (p<0.05). Also, it was found that the beneficial effects of the S. striata were dose-dependent. CONCLUSIONS Based on the results obtained S. striata by reducing the expression of TIMP 1, TLR-4, and MFN2 genes and improving oxidative stress might be used as adjuvant treatment for liver cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamal Amri
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, I.R, Iran
- Students' Scientific Research Center (SSRC), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, I.R, Iran
- Traditional and Complementary Medicine Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Mohammad Jamalian
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Poisoning, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Zahre Salami
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetic, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, I.R, Iran
| | - Ahmad Akbari
- Traditional and Complementary Medicine Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Mona Alaee
- Traditional and Complementary Medicine Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Azizi Soleiman
- Department of Nutrition, School of Health, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Abbas Alimoradian
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
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Chen CC, Chen CY, Yeh CT, Liu YT, Leu YL, Chuang WY, Shih YH, Chou LF, Shieh TM, Wang TH. Corylin Attenuates CCl 4-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Mice by Regulating the GAS6/AXL Signaling Pathway in Hepatic Stellate Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16936. [PMID: 38069259 PMCID: PMC10707553 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is reversible when treated in its early stages and when liver inflammatory factors are inhibited. Limited studies have investigated the therapeutic effects of corylin, a flavonoid extracted from Psoralea corylifolia L. (Fabaceae), on liver fibrosis. Therefore, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory activity of corylin and investigated its efficacy and mechanism of action in ameliorating liver fibrosis. Corylin significantly inhibited inflammatory responses by inhibiting the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways and the expression of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in human THP-1 and mouse RAW264.7 macrophages. Furthermore, corylin inhibited the expression of growth arrest-specific gene 6 in human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and the activation of the downstream phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B pathway. This inhibited the activation of HSCs and the expression of extracellular matrix proteins, including α-smooth muscle actin and type I collagen. Additionally, corylin induced caspase 9 and caspase 3 activation, which promoted apoptosis in HSCs. Moreover, in vivo experiments confirmed the regulatory effects of corylin on these proteins, and corylin alleviated the symptoms of carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis in mice. These findings revealed that corylin has anti-inflammatory activity and inhibits HSC activation; thus, it presents as a potential adjuvant in the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-Chuan Chen
- Biobank, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan 33305, Taiwan; (C.-C.C.); (C.-Y.C.); (Y.-T.L.); (Y.-L.L.)
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan 33303, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Yuan Chen
- Biobank, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan 33305, Taiwan; (C.-C.C.); (C.-Y.C.); (Y.-T.L.); (Y.-L.L.)
- Graduate Institute of Health Industry and Technology, Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine and Research Center for Food and Cosmetic Safety, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Tao-Yuan 33303, Taiwan
| | - Chau-Ting Yeh
- Liver Research Center, Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan 33305, Taiwan;
| | - Yi-Tsen Liu
- Biobank, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan 33305, Taiwan; (C.-C.C.); (C.-Y.C.); (Y.-T.L.); (Y.-L.L.)
| | - Yann-Lii Leu
- Biobank, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan 33305, Taiwan; (C.-C.C.); (C.-Y.C.); (Y.-T.L.); (Y.-L.L.)
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan 33303, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Yu Chuang
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan 33305, Taiwan;
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan 33303, Taiwan
| | - Yin-Hwa Shih
- Department of Healthcare Administration, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan;
| | - Li-Fang Chou
- Kidney Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan 33305, Taiwan;
| | - Tzong-Ming Shieh
- School of Dentistry, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Tong-Hong Wang
- Biobank, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan 33305, Taiwan; (C.-C.C.); (C.-Y.C.); (Y.-T.L.); (Y.-L.L.)
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan 33303, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Health Industry and Technology, Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine and Research Center for Food and Cosmetic Safety, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Tao-Yuan 33303, Taiwan
- Liver Research Center, Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan 33305, Taiwan;
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Yang Q, Tian H, Guo Z, Ma Z, Wang G. The role of noncoding RNAs in the tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2023; 55:1697-1706. [PMID: 37867435 PMCID: PMC10686793 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2023231] [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: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the leading fatal malignancy worldwide. The tumor microenvironment (TME) can affect the survival, proliferation, migration, and even dormancy of cancer cells. Hypoxia is an important component of the TME, and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) is the most important transcriptional regulator. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), comprise a large part of the human transcriptome and play an important role in regulating the tumorigenesis of HCC. This review discusses the role of ncRNAs in hepatocarcinogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and angiogenesis in a hypoxic microenvironment, as well as the interactions between ncRNAs and key components of the TME. It further discusses their use as biomarkers and the potential clinical value of drugs, as well as the challenges faced in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Yang
- Laboratory for Noncoding RNA and CancerSchool of Life SciencesShanghai UniversityShanghai200444China
| | - Hui Tian
- Department of GeriatricsZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
| | - Ziyi Guo
- Laboratory for Noncoding RNA and CancerSchool of Life SciencesShanghai UniversityShanghai200444China
| | - Zhongliang Ma
- Laboratory for Noncoding RNA and CancerSchool of Life SciencesShanghai UniversityShanghai200444China
| | - Guangzhi Wang
- School of Medical ImagingWeifang Medical UniversityWeifang261053China
- Department of Medical Imaging CenterAffiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical UniversityWeifang261053China
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18
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Felli E, Selicean S, Guixé-Muntet S, Wang C, Bosch J, Berzigotti A, Gracia-Sancho J. Mechanobiology of portal hypertension. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100869. [PMID: 37841641 PMCID: PMC10568428 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The interplay between mechanical stimuli and cellular mechanobiology orchestrates the physiology of tissues and organs in a dynamic balance characterized by constant remodelling and adaptative processes. Environmental mechanical properties can be interpreted as a complex set of information and instructions that cells read continuously, and to which they respond. In cirrhosis, chronic inflammation and injury drive liver cells dysfunction, leading to excessive extracellular matrix deposition, sinusoidal pseudocapillarization, vascular occlusion and parenchymal extinction. These pathological events result in marked remodelling of the liver microarchitecture, which is cause and result of abnormal environmental mechanical forces, triggering and sustaining the long-standing and progressive process of liver fibrosis. Multiple mechanical forces such as strain, shear stress, and hydrostatic pressure can converge at different stages of the disease until reaching a point of no return where the fibrosis is considered non-reversible. Thereafter, reciprocal communication between cells and their niches becomes the driving force for disease progression. Accumulating evidence supports the idea that, rather than being a passive consequence of fibrosis and portal hypertension (PH), mechanical force-mediated pathways could themselves represent strategic targets for novel therapeutic approaches. In this manuscript, we aim to provide a comprehensive review of the mechanobiology of PH, by furnishing an introduction on the most important mechanisms, integrating these concepts into a discussion on the pathogenesis of PH, and exploring potential therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Felli
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sonia Selicean
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sergi Guixé-Muntet
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Spain
| | - Cong Wang
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jaume Bosch
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Spain
| | - Annalisa Berzigotti
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jordi Gracia-Sancho
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Spain
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Nugraha AP, Triwardhani A, Sitalaksmi RM, Ramadhani NF, Luthfi M, Ulfa NM, Tengku Ahmad Noor TNEB. Phytochemical, antioxidant, and antibacterial activity of Moringa oleifera nanosuspension against peri-implantitis bacteria: An in vitro study. J Oral Biol Craniofac Res 2023; 13:720-726. [PMID: 37753264 PMCID: PMC10518351 DOI: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2023.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective the Moringa oleifera leaf (MO) has active compounds that may be beneficial for peri-implantitis therapy. This research aims to analyze the phytochemical, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties of Moringa oleifera L. nanosuspension (MON) extract in peri-implantitis-related bacteria. Methods MON extract phytochemical analysis was conducted to examine active compounds such as flavonoids, saponins, quinones, alkaloids, tannins, terpenoids, and steroids. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay for antioxidant capacity was evaluated, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for the detection of volatile active compounds in MON extract was performed. Turax was used to create MON extract at concentrations of 1% and 2%, and then a particle size analysis was carried out. Prevotella intermedia (Pi), Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa), and Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) were tested for antibacterial activity of MON extract, comparing them with doxycycline as the reference drug and using the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC), and diffusion zone methods. Results MON extract has lower antioxidant capacity than vitamin C. Flavonoids, saponins, quinones, alkaloids, tannins, terpenoids, and steroids were found in MON extract. 1% and 2% of MON extract has 10-40 d nm particle size. MIC, MBC and diffusion examination of 1% and 2% MON extract on Aa, Pg, Pi, and Fn were seen at concentrations of 25% and 12.5% with significantly different (p < 0.05) in vitro. Conclusion MON extract has potential antioxidant activity, and 1% or 2% of MON extract has antibacterial properties toward Aa, Pg, Pi, and Fn at concentrations of 25% and 12.5%, with significant differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Patera Nugraha
- Orthodontics Department, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Ari Triwardhani
- Orthodontics Department, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Ratri Maya Sitalaksmi
- Prosthodontics Department, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Nastiti Faradilla Ramadhani
- Dentomaxillofacial Radiology Department, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Muhammad Luthfi
- Oral Biology Department, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia
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20
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Wu D, Wu J, Liu H, Shi S, Wang L, Huang Y, Yu X, Lei Z, Ouyang T, Shen J, Wu G, Wang S. A biomimetic renal fibrosis progression model on-chip evaluates anti-fibrotic effects longitudinally in a dynamic fibrogenic niche. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:4708-4725. [PMID: 37840380 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00393k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Although renal fibrosis can advance chronic kidney disease and progressively lead to end-stage renal failure, no effective anti-fibrotic drugs have been clinically approved. To aid drug development, we developed a biomimetic renal fibrosis progression model on-chip to evaluate anti-fibrotic effects of natural killer cell-derived extracellular vesicles and pirfenidone (PFD) across different fibrotic stages. First, the dynamic interplay between fibroblasts and kidney-derived extracellular matrix (ECM) resembling the fibrogenic niche on-chip demonstrated that myofibroblasts induced by stiff ECM in 3 days were reversed to fibroblasts by switching to soft ECM, which was within 2, but not 7 days. Second, PFD significantly down-regulated the expression of α-SMA in NRK-49F in medium ECM, as opposed to stiff ECM. Third, a study in rats showed that early administration of PFD significantly inhibited renal fibrosis in terms of the expression levels of α-SMA and YAP. Taken together, both on-chip and animal models indicate the importance of early anti-fibrotic intervention for checking the progression of renal fibrosis. Therefore, this renal fibrosis progression on-chip with a feature of recapitulating dynamic biochemical and biophysical cues can be readily used to assess anti-fibrotic candidates and to explore the tipping point when the fibrotic fate can be rescued for better medical intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Wu
- Institute for Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310029, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Rare Diseases, Endocrinology and Metabolism Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, and, College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471003, China
- Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, City of Future Medicine, Chengdu, 641400, China
| | - Jianguo Wu
- Institute for Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310029, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Institute for Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310029, China
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Shengyu Shi
- Institute for Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310029, China
| | - Liangwen Wang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yixiao Huang
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Xiaorui Yu
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Zhuoyue Lei
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Tanliang Ouyang
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Jia Shen
- Kidney Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310029, China
| | - Guohua Wu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Rare Diseases, Endocrinology and Metabolism Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, and, College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471003, China
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
- Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, City of Future Medicine, Chengdu, 641400, China
| | - Shuqi Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310029, China
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
- Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, City of Future Medicine, Chengdu, 641400, China
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21
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Shinohara M, Lau QY, Torizal FG, Choi H, Sakai Y. Inflammatory liver tissue formation using oxygen permeable membrane based culture platform. J Biosci Bioeng 2023; 136:327-333. [PMID: 37573250 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2023.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
During chronic liver injury, inflammation leads to liver fibrosis, particularly due to the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). The involvement of inflammatory cytokines in HSC activation and the interplay among different liver cells are elaborated. To examine their interactions in vitro, many cultured liver tissue models are performed in organoid or spheroid culture with random 3D structure. Herein, we demonstrated the hierarchical coculture of primary rat hepatocytes with non-parenchymal cells such as the human-derived HSC line (LX-2) and liver sinusoidal endothelial cell line (TMNK-1). The cocultured tissue had high usability with simple operation of separating solid and liquid phases with improved liver functions such as albumin production and hepatic cytochrome P450 3A4 activity. We also studied the effects of stimulation by both oxygen tension and the key pro-fibrogenic cytokine, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), on HSC activation. Gene expression of collagen type I and alpha-smooth muscle actin were enhanced in the hierarchical coculture under lower oxygen tension and TGF-β1 stimulation. Therefore, this hierarchical in vitro cocultured liver tissue could provide a useful platform as a disease model for elucidating the interactions of various liver cell types and biochemical signals in future liver fibrogenesis studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Shinohara
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8505, Japan.
| | - Qiao You Lau
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8505, Japan; Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Fuad Gandhi Torizal
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan; Department of Chemical System Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Hyunjin Choi
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan; Department of Chemical System Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Sakai
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8505, Japan; Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan; Department of Chemical System Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
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22
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Li K, Ding K, Zhu Q, Han F, He X, Tan S, Wu Z, Zheng Z, Tang Z, Liu Y. Extracellular matrix stiffness aggravates urethral stricture through Igfbp3/Smad pathway. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14315. [PMID: 37653219 PMCID: PMC10471624 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41584-6] [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: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Urethral stricture refers to the narrowing of the urethral lumen. While previous studies have hinted at inflammation as the initial driver of this condition, the reasons and mechanisms behind its progression remain largely unknown. By Atomic force microscope (AFM), researchers measured the matrix stiffness of urethra to be 5.23 ± 0.37 kPa for normal tissue and 41.59 ± 2.48 kPa for stricture urethral scar. Similar results were observed in rat urethral stricture models, where the matrix stiffness of normal urethra was 4.29 ± 0.82 kPa, while 32.94 ± 7.12 kPa for urethral stricture scar. Notably, the matrix stiffness increased in rat models over time. To further investigate, polyacrylamide hydrogels were employed to mimic different levels of stiffness for normal and stricture condition. Interestingly, higher matrix stiffness led to an increased fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition (FMT) in rat urethral fibroblasts, indicated by enhanced expression of α-SMA and Collagen I, as well as changing in the morphology of fibroblast. RNA-seq analysis suggested that Igfbp3/Smads might regulate the progressive FMT in urethral stricture. In the experiment where the expression of Igfbp3 was inhibited, increasing matrix stiffness lose the potential to stimulate FMT progression and the expression of p-Smad2/3 decreased. On the contrary, overexpression of Igfbp3 promoted the process of FMT in urethral fibroblasts. In conclusion, Igfbp3/Smad pathway appeared to be involved in the progression of urethral fibrosis. This finding suggested that Igfbp3/Smad might be an promising target for future research and treatment in this filed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaixuan Li
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Provincial Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Genitourinary System Disease, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Ke Ding
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Provincial Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Genitourinary System Disease, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Quan Zhu
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Provincial Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Genitourinary System Disease, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Feng Han
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Provincial Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Genitourinary System Disease, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Xi He
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Medical College of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shuo Tan
- Provincial Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Genitourinary System Disease, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Department of Urology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Ziqiang Wu
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Provincial Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Genitourinary System Disease, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Zhihuan Zheng
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Provincial Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Genitourinary System Disease, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Zhengyan Tang
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- Provincial Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Genitourinary System Disease, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
| | - Yanling Liu
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- Provincial Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Genitourinary System Disease, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
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23
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Verma BK, Chatterjee A, Kondaiah P, Gundiah N. Substrate Stiffness Modulates TGF-β Activation and ECM-Associated Gene Expression in Fibroblasts. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:998. [PMID: 37760100 PMCID: PMC10525202 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10090998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a multifunctional cytokine that regulates the expression of ECM-associated genes during early injury. Tissue fibrosis development is driven by synergistic cues between the evolving biochemical and mechanical milieu. Few studies have addressed the role of substrate stiffness on TGF-β activity and extracellular matrix (ECM)-associated genes. We used a commercial formulation of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to fabricate substrates of 40 kPa, 300 kPa, and 1.5 MPa stiffness, and cultured the HMF3S fibroblasts on substrates. We quantified TGF-β protein secreted by HMF3S cells on different substrates using a TGF-β responsive promoter reporter assay. We also tested for variations in gene expression levels on the substrates using RT-PCR and Western blotting and determined the MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities with gelatin zymography. The results showed that TGF-β protein activation was significantly compromised at lower stiffnesses. The expression of integrin α5 decreased on lower stiffness substrates and correlated with inefficient TGF-β protein activation. Collagen I, collagen III, and MMP-2 expression levels were lower on softer substrates; there was little MMP-9 activity on all substrates. Cell and nuclear morphologies were more rounded on compliant substrates, correlating with increased tubulin expression. Proliferations were higher on stiffer substrates, whereas cells on softer substrates showed cell cycle arrest. These results demonstrated critical feedback mechanisms between substrate stiffness and ECM regulation by fibroblasts, relevant in fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brijesh Kumar Verma
- Centre for Biosystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, India
| | - Aritra Chatterjee
- Centre for Biosystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, India
| | - Paturu Kondaiah
- Department of Developmental Biology and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, India
| | - Namrata Gundiah
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, India
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24
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Liu T, Ge Y, Chen Z, Wu L, Tian T, Yao W, Zhao J. Synergistic Modulation of a Tunable Microenvironment to Fabricate a Liver Fibrosis Chip for Drug Testing. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023; 9:4893-4906. [PMID: 37523767 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c00213] [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] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a progressive physiological change that occurs after liver injury and seriously endangers human health. The lack of reliable and physiologically relevant pathological models of liver fibrosis leads to a longer drug development period and sizeable economic investment. The fabrication of a biomimetic liver-on-a-chip is significant for liver disease treatment and drug development. Here, a sandwich chip with a microwell array structure in its bottom layer was fabricated to simulate the Disse space structure of hepatic sinusoids in vitro. By synergistic modulation of the cross-linking degree of gelatin-methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogels and the induction of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), the early and late stages of liver fibrosis were designed in the chip. Owing to its three-dimensional-mixed-culture strategy, it was possible to construct a liver sinusoid model in vitro to allow for faithful physiological emulation. The model was further subjected to drug treatment, and it presented a significant difference in treatment response in early and late fibrosis progression. Our system provides a unique method for emulating liver function through a vitro liver fibrosis-on-a-chip, potentially paving the way for investigating human liver fibrosis and related drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Liu
- Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, P. R. China
- Xiangfu Laboratory, Jiashan 314102, P. R. China
| | - Yuqing Ge
- Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, P. R. China
| | - Zhongping Chen
- Institute of Special Environmental Medicine, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, P. R. China
| | - Lei Wu
- Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, P. R. China
| | - Tian Tian
- Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, P. R. China
| | - Wei Yao
- Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, P. R. China
| | - Jianlong Zhao
- Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, P. R. China
- Center of Materials Science and Optoelectronics Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P. R. China
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25
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Navarro‐Gonzalez YD, Ventura‐Juarez J, Muñoz‐Ortega MH, González‐Blas D, Calvillo‐Robedo A, Avila‐Blanco M, Valdez‐Urias F, Quintanar‐Stephano A. Arginine vasopressin deficiency and conivaptan (a V1a-V2 receptor antagonist) treatment reverses liver damage and fibrosis in rats with chronic portocaval anastomosis. Int J Exp Pathol 2023; 104:209-222. [PMID: 36964979 PMCID: PMC10349233 DOI: 10.1111/iep.12476] [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: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Arginine vasopressin (AVP) is a naturally occurring hormone synthesized in the hypothalamus. AVP demonstrates pro-fibrotic effects as it stimulates hepatic stellate cells to secrete transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and collagen. Previous work in liver cirrhotic (CCL4 -induced) hamsters demonstrated that AVP deficiency induced by neurointermediate pituitary lobectomy (NIL) can restore liver function. Therefore, we hypothesized that liver fibrosis would decrease in portocaval anastomosis (PCA) rats, which model chronic liver diseases, when they are treated with the V1a-V2 AVP receptor antagonist conivaptan (CV). In this study, changes in liver histology and gene expression were analysed in five experimental groups: control, PCA, NIL, PCA + NIL and PCA + CV, with NIL surgery or CV treatment administered 8 weeks after PCA surgery. Body weight gain was assessed on a weekly basis, and serum liver function, liver weight and liver glycogen content were assessed following euthanasia. Most PCA-induced phenotypes were reverted to normal levels following AVP-modelled deficiency, though hypoglycemia and ammonium levels remained elevated in the PCA + CV group. Liver histopathological findings showed a significant reversal in collagen content, less fibrosis in the triad and liver septa and increased regenerative nodules. Molecular analyses showed that the expression of fibrogenic genes (TGF-β and collagen type I) decreased in the PCA + CV group. Our findings strongly suggest that chronic NIL or CV treatment can induce a favourable microenvironment to decrease liver fibrosis and support CV as an alternative treatment for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Javier Ventura‐Juarez
- Departamento de Morfología, Centro de Ciencias BásicasUniversidad Autónoma de AguascalientesAguascalientesMexico
| | | | | | - Argelia Calvillo‐Robedo
- Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Centro de Ciencias BásicasUniversidad Autónoma de AguascalientesAguascalientesMexico
| | - Manuel‐Enrique Avila‐Blanco
- Departamento de Morfología, Centro de Ciencias BásicasUniversidad Autónoma de AguascalientesAguascalientesMexico
| | - Fernando Valdez‐Urias
- Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Centro de Ciencias BásicasUniversidad Autónoma de AguascalientesAguascalientesMexico
| | - Andrés Quintanar‐Stephano
- Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Centro de Ciencias BásicasUniversidad Autónoma de AguascalientesAguascalientesMexico
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26
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Ryoo H, Underhill GH. Combinatorial Microgels for 3D ECM Screening and Heterogeneous Microenvironmental Culture of Primary Human Hepatic Stellate Cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.05.539608. [PMID: 37214995 PMCID: PMC10197534 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.05.539608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease affects 30% of the United States population and its progression can lead to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can result in cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. NASH is characterized by a highly heterogeneous liver microenvironment created by the fibrotic activity of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). While HSCs have been widely studied in 2D, further advancements in physiologically-relevant 3D culture platforms for the in vitro modeling of these heterogeneous environments are needed. In this study, we have demonstrated the use of stiffness-variable, ECM protein-conjugated polyethylene glycol microgels as 3D cell culture scaffolds to modulate HSC activation. We further employed these microgels as a high throughput ECM screening system to identify HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities in distinct heterogeneous microenvironmental conditions. In particular, 6 kPa fibronectin microgels were shown to significantly increase HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities in single or multiple component microenvironments. Overall, heterogeneous microenvironments consisting of multiple distinct ECM microgels promoted a decrease in HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities compared to homogeneous microenvironments. We envision this ECM screening platform being adapted to a broad number of cell types to aid the identification of ECM microenvironments that best recapitulate the desired phenotype, differentiation, or drug efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Ryoo
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Gregory H. Underhill
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
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27
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Matellan C, Lachowski D, Cortes E, Chiam KN, Krstic A, Thorpe SD, Del Río Hernández AE. Retinoic acid receptor β modulates mechanosensing and invasion in pancreatic cancer cells via myosin light chain 2. Oncogenesis 2023; 12:23. [PMID: 37130839 PMCID: PMC10154384 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-023-00467-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common and lethal form of pancreatic cancer, characterised by stromal remodelling, elevated matrix stiffness and high metastatic rate. Retinoids, compounds derived from vitamin A, have a history of clinical use in cancer for their anti-proliferative and differentiation effects, and more recently have been explored as anti-stromal therapies in PDAC for their ability to induce mechanical quiescence in cancer associated fibroblasts. Here, we demonstrate that retinoic acid receptor β (RAR-β) transcriptionally represses myosin light chain 2 (MLC-2) expression in pancreatic cancer cells. As a key regulatory component of the contractile actomyosin machinery, MLC-2 downregulation results in decreased cytoskeletal stiffness and traction force generation, impaired response to mechanical stimuli via mechanosensing and reduced ability to invade through the basement membrane. This work highlights the potential of retinoids to target the mechanical drivers of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Matellan
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Dariusz Lachowski
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Ernesto Cortes
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Madrid, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Kai Ning Chiam
- UCD School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aleksandar Krstic
- UCD School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Systems Biology Ireland, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Stephen D Thorpe
- UCD School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
- UCD Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Armando E Del Río Hernández
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK.
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28
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Shan L, Wang F, Zhai D, Meng X, Liu J, Lv X. Matrix metalloproteinases induce extracellular matrix degradation through various pathways to alleviate hepatic fibrosis. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 161:114472. [PMID: 37002573 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the common consequence of various chronic liver injuries and is mainly characterized by the imbalance between the production and degradation of extracellular matrix, which leads to the accumulation of interstitial collagen and other matrix components. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their specific inhibitors, that is, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), play a crucial role in collagen synthesis and lysis. Previous in vivo and in vitro studies of our laboratory found repressing extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation by restoring the balance between MMPs and TIMPs can alleviate liver fibrosis. We conducted a review of articles published in PubMed and Science Direct in the last decade until February 1, 2023, which were searched for using these words "MMPs/TIMPs" and "Hepatic Fibrosis." Through a literature review, this article reviews the experimental studies of liver fibrosis based on MMPs/TIMPs, summarizes the components that may exert an anti-liver fibrosis effect by affecting the expression or activity of MMPs/TIMPs, and attempts to clarify the mechanism of MMPs/TIMPs in regulating collagen homeostasis, so as to provide support for the development of anti-liver fibrosis drugs. We found the MMP-TIMP-ECM interaction can result in better understanding of the pathogenesis and progression of hepatic fibrosis from a different angle, and targeting this interaction may be a promising therapeutic strategy for hepatic fibrosis. Additionally, we summarized and analyzed the drugs that have been found to reduce liver fibrosis by changing the ratio of MMPs/TIMPs, including medicine natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Shan
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230011, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Fengling Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230011, China
| | - Dandan Zhai
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230011, China
| | - Xiangyun Meng
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230011, China
| | - Jianjun Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230011, China.
| | - Xiongwen Lv
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China.
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Zhao YQ, Deng XW, Xu GQ, Lin J, Lu HZ, Chen J. Mechanical homeostasis imbalance in hepatic stellate cells activation and hepatic fibrosis. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1183808. [PMID: 37152902 PMCID: PMC10157180 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1183808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver disease or repeated damage to hepatocytes can give rise to hepatic fibrosis. Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is a pathological process of excessive sedimentation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins such as collagens, glycoproteins, and proteoglycans (PGs) in the hepatic parenchyma. Changes in the composition of the ECM lead to the stiffness of the matrix that destroys its inherent mechanical homeostasis, and a mechanical homeostasis imbalance activates hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) into myofibroblasts, which can overproliferate and secrete large amounts of ECM proteins. Excessive ECM proteins are gradually deposited in the Disse gap, and matrix regeneration fails, which further leads to changes in ECM components and an increase in stiffness, forming a vicious cycle. These processes promote the occurrence and development of hepatic fibrosis. In this review, the dynamic process of ECM remodeling of HF and the activation of HSCs into mechanotransduction signaling pathways for myofibroblasts to participate in HF are discussed. These mechanotransduction signaling pathways may have potential therapeutic targets for repairing or reversing fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Quan Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Xi-Wen Deng
- Graduate School of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Guo-Qi Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Jie Lin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Hua-Ze Lu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
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Zhao T, Han Z, Zhang J, Ding Y, Chen J, Qiao H, Gao N. Effect of ADHI on hepatic stellate cell activation and liver fibrosis in mice. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 651:98-106. [PMID: 36801615 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.02.008] [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: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and liver fibrosis has been studied, but the mechanism of ADH involvement in liver fibrosis remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to explore the role of ADHI, the classical liver ADH, in hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and the effect of 4-methylpyrazole (4-MP), an ADH inhibitor, on liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) in mice. The results showed that overexpression of ADHI significantly increases proliferation, migration, adhesion and invasion rates of HSC-T6 cells as compared with controls. When HSC-T6 cells were activated by ethanol, TGF-β1 or LPS, the expression of ADHI was elevated significantly (P < 0.05). Overexpression of ADHI significantly increased the levels of COL1A1 and α-SMA, markers of HSC activation. Moreover, the expression of COL1A1 and α-SMA was decreased significantly by transfection of ADHI siRNA (P < 0.01). In a liver fibrosis mouse model ADH activity increased significantly and was highest in the 3rd week. The activity of ADH in the liver was correlated with its activity in the serum (P < 0.05). 4-MP significantly decreased ADH activity and ameliorated liver injury, and ADH activity was positively correlated with the Ishak score of liver fibrosis. In conclusion, ADHI plays an important role in the activation of HSC, and inhibition of ADH ameliorates liver fibrosis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyuan Zhao
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zixinying Han
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jiamin Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ying Ding
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jingjing Chen
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Hailing Qiao
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Na Gao
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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Du L, Yue H, Rorabaugh BR, Li OQY, DeHart AR, Toloza‐Alvarez G, Hong L, Denvir J, Thompson E, Li W. Thymidine Phosphorylase Deficiency or Inhibition Preserves Cardiac Function in Mice With Acute Myocardial Infarction. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e028023. [PMID: 36974758 PMCID: PMC10122909 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.122.028023] [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: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Background Ischemic cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Current pharmacologic therapy has multiple limitations, and patients remain symptomatic despite maximal medical therapies. Deficiency or inhibition of thymidine phosphorylase (TYMP) in mice reduces thrombosis, suggesting that TYMP could be a novel therapeutic target for patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Methods and Results A mouse AMI model was established by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery in C57BL/6J wild-type and TYMP-deficient (Tymp-/-) mice. Cardiac function was monitored by echocardiography or Langendorff assay. TYMP-deficient hearts had lower baseline contractility. However, cardiac function, systolic left ventricle anterior wall thickness, and diastolic wall strain were significantly greater 4 weeks after AMI compared with wild-type hearts. TYMP deficiency reduced microthrombus formation after AMI. TYMP deficiency did not affect angiogenesis in either normal or infarcted myocardium but increased arteriogenesis post-AMI. TYMP deficiency enhanced the mobilization of bone marrow stem cells and promoted mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) proliferation, migration, and resistance to inflammation and hypoxia. TYMP deficiency increased the number of larger MSCs and decreased matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression, resulting in a high homing capability. TYMP deficiency induced constitutive AKT phosphorylation in MSCs but reduced expression of genes associated with retinoid-interferon-induced mortality-19, a molecule that enhances cell death. Inhibition of TYMP with its selective inhibitor, tipiracil, phenocopied TYMP deficiency, improved post-AMI cardiac function and systolic left ventricle anterior wall thickness, attenuated diastolic stiffness, and reduced infarct size. Conclusions This study demonstrated that TYMP plays an adverse role after AMI. Targeting TYMP may be a novel therapy for patients with AMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Du
- Department of Biomedical SciencesJoan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall UniversityHuntingtonWVUSA
- Department of PathophysiologyCollege of Basic Medical Science, China Medical UniversityShenyangLiaoningChina
| | - Hong Yue
- Department of Biomedical SciencesJoan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall UniversityHuntingtonWVUSA
| | - Boyd R. Rorabaugh
- Department of Biomedical SciencesJoan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall UniversityHuntingtonWVUSA
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesSchool of Pharmacy at Marshall UniversityHuntingtonWVUSA
| | - Oliver Q. Y. Li
- Department of Biomedical SciencesJoan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall UniversityHuntingtonWVUSA
| | - Autumn R. DeHart
- Department of Biomedical SciencesJoan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall UniversityHuntingtonWVUSA
| | - Gretel Toloza‐Alvarez
- Department of Biomedical SciencesJoan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall UniversityHuntingtonWVUSA
| | - Liang Hong
- Department of Biomedical SciencesJoan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall UniversityHuntingtonWVUSA
| | - James Denvir
- Department of Biomedical SciencesJoan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall UniversityHuntingtonWVUSA
| | - Ellen Thompson
- Department of MedicineJoan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall UniversityHuntingtonWVUSA
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Biomedical SciencesJoan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall UniversityHuntingtonWVUSA
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Lebedeva EI, Babenka AS, Shchastniy AT. literammp-9 mRNA Expression and Bridging Fibrosis Progression in Toxic Liver Injury. Acta Naturae 2023; 15:50-58. [PMID: 37538808 PMCID: PMC10395773 DOI: 10.32607/actanaturae.17856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Developing liver disease treatments, in which fibrosis is a key pathogenetic link, still remains an urgent problem in hepatology. In the present study, the level of mmp-9 mRNA expression and the number of FAP+, α-SMA+, CD45+ cells were analyzed at nine time points of fibrosis and cirrhosis. It was found that in the case of liver fibrosis, the choice of the optimal reference gene depended on the stage of fibrogenesis. When studying the specific stages rather than the entire process in a long-term experiment, it was shown that choosing an optimal reference gene has to be done additionally. In this case, the mmp-9 mRNA expression level should be considered as a marker of liver fibrosis initiation and development but not as that of cirrhosis progression. In the liver, two morphologically heterogeneous populations of myofibroblasts were simultaneously identified as able to synthesize various types of immunohistochemical markers. It was found that the FAP+ cells were the main contributor to the development of portal fibrosis and the initial stages of bridging fibrosis. In the selected experimental model, fibrosis initiation and the development stages preceding parenchyma restructuring were accompanied by a low level of inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. I. Lebedeva
- Vitebsk State Order of Peoples’ Friendship Medical University, Vitebsk, 210009 Republic of Belarus
| | - A. S. Babenka
- Belarussian State Medical University, Minsk, 220116 Republic of Belarus
| | - A. T. Shchastniy
- Vitebsk State Order of Peoples’ Friendship Medical University, Vitebsk, 210009 Republic of Belarus
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Loeck T, Schwab A. The role of the Na +/Ca 2+-exchanger (NCX) in cancer-associated fibroblasts. Biol Chem 2023; 404:325-337. [PMID: 36594183 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2022-0253] [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: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is characterized by uncontrolled growth, invasion, and metastasis. In addition to solid cancer cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play important roles in cancer pathophysiology. They arise from "healthy" cells but get manipulated by solid cancer cells to supply them and develop a tumor microenvironment (TME) that protects the cancer cells from the immune defense. A wide variety of cell types can differentiate into CAFs, including fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and epithelial cells. Precise Ca2+ regulation is essential for each cell including CAFs. The electrogenic Na+/Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) is one of the ubiquitously expressed regulatory Ca2+ transport proteins that rapidly responds to changes of the intracellular ion concentrations. Its transport function is also influenced by the membrane potential and thereby indirectly by the activity of ion channels. NCX transports Ca2+ out of the cell (forward mode) or allows its influx (reverse mode), always in exchange for 3 Na+ ions that are moved into the opposite direction. In this review, we discuss the functional roles NCX has in CAFs and how these depend on the properties of the TME. NCX activity modifies migration and leads to a reduced proliferation and apoptosis. The effect of the NCX in fibrosis is still largely unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thorsten Loeck
- Institut für Physiologie II, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Robert-Koch-Str. 27b, D-48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Albrecht Schwab
- Institut für Physiologie II, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Robert-Koch-Str. 27b, D-48149 Münster, Germany
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The Role of Exosomes in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Progression and Their Potential as Biomarkers. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15061776. [PMID: 36980662 PMCID: PMC10046651 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15061776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the most common pancreatic malignancy, is an aggressive and lethal cancer with a dismal five-year survival rate. Despite remarkable improvements in cancer therapeutics, the clinical outcome of PDAC patients remains poor due to late diagnosis of the disease. This highlights the importance of early detection, wherein biomarker evaluation including exosomes would be helpful. Exosomes, small extracellular vesicles (sEVs), are cell-secreted entities with diameters ranging from 50 to 150 nm that deliver cellular contents (e.g., proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids) from parent cells to regulate the cellular processes of targeted cells. Recently, an increasing number of studies have reported that exosomes serve as messengers to facilitate stromal-immune crosstalk within the PDAC tumor microenvironment (TME), and their contents are indicative of disease progression. Moreover, evidence suggests that exosomes with specific surface markers are capable of distinguishing patients with PDAC from healthy individuals. Detectable exosomes in bodily fluids (e.g., blood, urine, saliva, and pancreatic juice) are omnipresent and may serve as promising biomarkers for improving early detection and evaluating patient prognosis. In this review, we shed light on the involvement of exosomes and their cargos in processes related to disease progression, including chemoresistance, angiogenesis, invasion, metastasis, and immunomodulation, and their potential as prognostic markers. Furthermore, we highlight feasible clinical applications and the limitations of exosomes in liquid biopsies as tools for early diagnosis as well as disease monitoring. Taking advantage of exosomes to improve diagnostic capacity may provide hope for PDAC patients, although further investigation is urgently needed.
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Ghobrial DK, El-Nikhely N, Sheta E, Ragab HM, Rostom SAF, Saeed H, Wahid A. The Role of Pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine-Based Kinase Inhibitors in The Attenuation of CCl4-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Rats. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12030637. [PMID: 36978885 PMCID: PMC10045301 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12030637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver Fibrosis can be life-threatening if left untreated as it may lead to serious, incurable complications. The common therapeutic approach is to reverse the fibrosis while the intervention is still applicable. Celecoxib was shown to exhibit some antifibrotic properties in the induced fibrotic liver in rats. The present study aimed to investigate the possible antifibrotic properties in CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in male Sprague–Dawley rats compared to celecoxib of three novel methoxylated pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidines. The three newly synthesized compounds were proved to be safe candidates. They showed a therapeutic effect against severe CCl4-induced fibrosis but at different degrees. The three compounds were able to partially reverse hepatic architectural distortion and reduce the fibrotic severity by showing antioxidant properties reducing MDA with increasing GSH and SOD levels, remodeling the extracellular matrix proteins and liver enzymes balance, and reducing the level of proinflammatory (TNF-α and IL-6) and profibrogenic (TGF-β) cytokines. The results revealed that the dimethoxy-analog exhibited the greatest activity in all the previously mentioned parameters compared to celecoxib and the other two analogs which could be attributed to the different methoxylation patterns of the derivatives. Collectively, the dimethoxy-derivative could be considered a safe promising antifibrotic candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana K. Ghobrial
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Graduate Studies and Research, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21526, Egypt
- Correspondence: (D.K.G.); (A.W.)
| | - Nefertiti El-Nikhely
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Graduate Studies and Research, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21526, Egypt
| | - Eman Sheta
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21321, Egypt
| | - Hanan M. Ragab
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21500, Egypt
| | - Sherif A. F. Rostom
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21500, Egypt
| | - Hesham Saeed
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Graduate Studies and Research, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21526, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Wahid
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21500, Egypt
- Correspondence: (D.K.G.); (A.W.)
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Paliwal VM, Kundu S, Kulhari U, Jala A, Ishteyaque S, Borkar RM, Mugale MN, Murty US, Sahu BD. Alternanthera brasiliana L. extract alleviates carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury and fibrotic changes in mice: Role of matrix metalloproteinases and TGF-β/Smad axis. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 303:115992. [PMID: 36509261 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115992] [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: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Alternanthera brasiliana L. is a flowering plant belonging to the family Amaranthaceae and is popularly known as "penicillin". It is used in folk medicine to treat infections, coughs, wound healing, and inflammatory diseases. AIM OF THE STUDY We investigated the effect of Alternanthera brasiliana L. leaves hydroalcoholic extract (AB) against oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrotic changes in an experimental model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver injury and fibrosis in mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty-six male Balb/C mice were randomized into five groups: normal control, AB control, CCl4 control, CCl4 + AB-200 mg/kg, and CCl4 + AB-400 mg/kg. In mice, liver injury was induced by intraperitoneal injection of CCl4 (20% in corn oil, 5 ml/kg body weight) thrice a week for six consecutive weeks. AB extract at two doses (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg body weight) was administered orally for six consecutive weeks. Liver injury-related serum markers (ALT, AST, ALP), antioxidants (GSH, GST, SOD, and vitamin C), pro-inflammatory cytokines including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-18, ultrasonographic and histological alterations, proteins of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1), nuclear factor-κB (p65) (NF-κB), nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), and TGF-β/Smad signaling were accessed. LC-Q-TOF-MS/MS analysis of AB was performed. RESULTS AB treatment significantly decreased the CCl4-induced rise in serum ALT, AST, and ALP activities and improved the histological alterations. Compared with the CCl4-treated group, treatment with AB significantly restored the hepatic antioxidants and reduced the pro-inflammatory cytokines in the liver. The antioxidant activity of AB may be attributed to its terpenoid constituents, which was confirmed by LC-Q-TOF-MS/MS analysis. The CCl4-induced rise in expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and decrease in TIMP-1 were markedly restored in the AB-treated groups. Further findings revealed a significant reduction in the protein levels of phospho-NF-κB (p65), NLRP3, TGF-β, pSmad2/3, collagen I, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) in the AB treatment groups. CONCLUSIONS The hepatoprotective effect of AB may be attributed to the high content of terpenoid compounds and alleviates liver injury and associated fibrotic changes through modulating MMPs, NF-κB (p65), and the TGF-β/Smad axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinay M Paliwal
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Guwahati, Changsari, PIN-781101, Assam, India
| | - Sourav Kundu
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Guwahati, Changsari, PIN-781101, Assam, India
| | - Uttam Kulhari
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Guwahati, Changsari, PIN-781101, Assam, India
| | - Aishwarya Jala
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Guwahati, Changsari, PIN-781101, Assam, India
| | - Sharmeen Ishteyaque
- Toxicology & Experimental Medicine, CSIR- Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), Lucknow, 226 031, India
| | - Roshan M Borkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Guwahati, Changsari, PIN-781101, Assam, India
| | - Madhav Nilakanth Mugale
- Toxicology & Experimental Medicine, CSIR- Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), Lucknow, 226 031, India
| | - Upadhyayula Suryanarayana Murty
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Guwahati, Changsari, PIN-781101, Assam, India
| | - Bidya Dhar Sahu
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Guwahati, Changsari, PIN-781101, Assam, India.
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Abouelezz HM, Shehatou GS, Shebl AM, Salem HA. A standardized pomegranate fruit extract ameliorates thioacetamide-induced liver fibrosis in rats via AGE-RAGE-ROS signaling. Heliyon 2023; 9:e14256. [PMID: 36938469 PMCID: PMC10015255 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14256] [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: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This work aimed to investigate a possible mechanism that may mediate the hepatoprotective effects of pomegranate fruit extract (PFE) against thioacetamide (THIO)-induced liver fibrosis in rats. Male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly allocated into four groups (n = 8 each): control; PFE (150 mg/kg/day, orally); THIO (200 mg/kg, i.p, 3 times a week); and THIO and PFE-treated groups. Oral PFE treatment decreased liver/body weight ratio by 12.4%, diminished serum function levels of ALT, AST, ALP, LDH, and total bilirubin, increased serum albumin, boosted hepatic GSH (by 35.6%) and SOD (by 17.5%), and significantly reduced hepatic levels of ROS, MDA, 4-HNE, AGEs, and RAGE in THIO-fibrotic rats relative to untreated THIO group. Moreover, PFE administration downregulated the hepatic levels of profibrotic TGF-β1 (by 23.0%, P < 0.001) and TIMP-1 (by 41.5%, P < 0.001), attenuated α-SMA protein expression, decreased serum HA levels (by 41.3%), and reduced the hepatic levels of the fibrosis markers hydroxyproline (by 26.0%, P < 0.001), collagen type IV (by 44.3%, P < 0.001) and laminin (by 43.4%, P < 0.001) compared to the untreated THIO group. The histopathological examination has corroborated these findings, where PFE decreased hepatic nodule incidence, attenuated portal necroinflammation and reduced extent of fibrosis. These findings may suggest that oral PFE administration could slow the progression of hepatic fibrogenesis via reducing hepatic levels of AGEs, RAGE, ROS, TGF-β1, and TIMP-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadeer M. Abouelezz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
- Corresponding author.
| | - George S.G. Shehatou
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa City, Egypt
| | - Abdelhadi M. Shebl
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Hatem A. Salem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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Gałdyszyńska M, Zwoliński R, Piera L, Szymański J, Jaszewski R, Drobnik J. Stiff substrates inhibit collagen accumulation via integrin α2β1, FAK and Src kinases in human atrial fibroblast and myofibroblast cultures derived from patients with aortal stenosis. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 159:114289. [PMID: 36696802 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114289] [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: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to confirm whether cell substrate stiffness may participate in the regulation of fibrosis. The involvement of integrin α2β1, focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and Src kinase in signal transmission was investigated. Human atrial fibroblasts and myofibroblasts were cultured in both soft (2.23 ± 0.8 kPa) and stiff (8.28 ± 1.06 kPa) polyacrylamide gels. The cells were derived from the right atrium of patients with aortal stenosis undergoing surgery. The isolated cells, identified as fibroblasts or myofibroblasts, were stained positively with α smooth muscle actin, vimentin and desmin. The cultures settled on stiff gel demonstrated lower intracellular collagen and collagen type I telopeptide (PICP) levels; however, no changes in α1 chain of procollagen type I and III expression were noted. Inhibition of α2β1 integrin by TC-I 15 (10-7 and 10-8 M) or α2 integrin subunit silencing augmented intracellular collagen level. Moreover, FAK or Src kinase inhibitors increased collagen content within the culture. Lower TIMP4 secretion was reported within the stiff gel cultures but neither MMP 2 nor TIMP-1, 2 or 3 release was altered. The stiff substrate cultures also demonstrated lower interleukin-6 release. Substrate stiffness modified collagen deposition within the atrial fibroblast and myofibroblast cultures. The elasticity of the cellular environment exerts a regulatory influence on both synthesis and breakdown of collagen. Integrin α2β1, FAK and Src kinase activity participates in signal transmission, which may influence fibrosis in the atria of the human heart.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Gałdyszyńska
- Laboratory of Connective Tissue Metabolism, Department of Pathophysiology, Medical University of Lodz, Zeligowskiego 7/9, 90-752 Lodz, Poland
| | - R Zwoliński
- Department of Cardiosurgery, Medical University of Lodz, 92-215 Lodz, Poland
| | - L Piera
- Laboratory of Connective Tissue Metabolism, Department of Pathophysiology, Medical University of Lodz, Zeligowskiego 7/9, 90-752 Lodz, Poland
| | - J Szymański
- Research Laboratory CoreLab, Medical University of Lodz, 92-215 Lodz, Poland
| | - R Jaszewski
- Department of Cardiosurgery, Medical University of Lodz, 92-215 Lodz, Poland
| | - J Drobnik
- Laboratory of Connective Tissue Metabolism, Department of Pathophysiology, Medical University of Lodz, Zeligowskiego 7/9, 90-752 Lodz, Poland.
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Pi Z, Qiu X, Liu J, Shi Y, Zeng Z, Xiao R. Activating Protein-1 (AP-1): A Promising Target for the Treatment of Fibrotic Diseases. Curr Med Chem 2023; 31:CMC-EPUB-129375. [PMID: 36757030 DOI: 10.2174/0929867330666230209100059] [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: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
The fibrosis of tissues and organs occurs via an aberrant tissue remodeling process characterized by an excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, which can lead to organ dysfunction, organ failure, and death. Because the pathogenesis of fibrosis remains unclear and elusive, there is currently no medication to reverse it; hence, this process deserves further study. Activating protein-1 (AP-1)-comprising Jun (c-Jun, JunB, JunD), Fos (c-fos, FosB, Fra1, and Fra2), and activating transcription factor-is a versatile dimeric transcription factor. Numerous studies have demonstrated that AP-1 plays a crucial role in advancing tissue and organ fibrosis via induction of the expression of fibrotic molecules and activating fibroblasts. This review focuses on the role of AP-1 in a range of fibrotic disorders as well as on the antifibrotic effects of AP-1 inhibitors. It also discusses the potential of AP-1 as a new therapeutic target in conditions involving tissue and organ fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixin Pi
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
- Department of Medical Genetics, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Xiangning Qiu
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Jiani Liu
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Yaqian Shi
- Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University Department of Dermatology Changsha China
| | - Zhuotong Zeng
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Rong Xiao
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
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Ali Mondal S, Sathiaseelan R, Mann SN, Kamal M, Luo W, Saccon TD, Isola JVV, Peelor FF, Li T, Freeman WM, Miller BF, Stout MB. 17α-estradiol, a lifespan-extending compound, attenuates liver fibrosis by modulating collagen turnover rates in male mice. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2023; 324:E120-E134. [PMID: 36516471 PMCID: PMC9902223 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00256.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen signaling is protective against chronic liver diseases, although men and a subset of women are contraindicated for chronic treatment with 17β-estradiol (17β-E2) or combination hormone replacement therapies. We sought to determine if 17α-estradiol (17α-E2), a naturally occurring diastereomer of 17β-E2, could attenuate liver fibrosis. We evaluated the effects of 17α-E2 treatment on collagen synthesis and degradation rates using tracer-based labeling approaches in male mice subjected to carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis. We also assessed the effects of 17α-E2 on markers of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation, collagen cross-linking, collagen degradation, and liver macrophage content and polarity. We found that 17α-E2 significantly reduced collagen synthesis rates and increased collagen degradation rates, which was mirrored by declines in transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and lysyl oxidase-like 2 (LOXL2) protein content in liver. These improvements were associated with increased matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) activity and suppressed stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase 1 (SCD1) protein levels, the latter of which has been linked to the resolution of liver fibrosis. We also found that 17α-E2 increased liver fetuin-A protein, a strong inhibitor of TGF-β1 signaling, and reduced proinflammatory macrophage activation and cytokines expression in the liver. We conclude that 17α-E2 reduces fibrotic burden by suppressing HSC activation and enhancing collagen degradation mechanisms. Future studies will be needed to determine if 17α-E2 acts directly in hepatocytes, HSCs, and/or immune cells to elicit these benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samim Ali Mondal
- Aging and Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Roshini Sathiaseelan
- Aging and Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Shivani N Mann
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Maria Kamal
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Wenyi Luo
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Tatiana D Saccon
- Aging and Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - José V V Isola
- Aging and Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Frederick F Peelor
- Aging and Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Tiangang Li
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Willard M Freeman
- Genes & Human Disease Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Benjamin F Miller
- Aging and Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Michael B Stout
- Aging and Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
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McDuffie D, Barr D, Helm M, Baumert T, Agarwal A, Thomas E. Physiomimetic In Vitro Human Models for Viral Infection in the Liver. Semin Liver Dis 2023; 43:31-49. [PMID: 36402129 PMCID: PMC10005888 DOI: 10.1055/a-1981-5944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Viral hepatitis is a leading cause of liver morbidity and mortality globally. The mechanisms underlying acute infection and clearance, versus the development of chronic infection, are poorly understood. In vitro models of viral hepatitis circumvent the high costs and ethical considerations of animal models, which also translate poorly to studying the human-specific hepatitis viruses. However, significant challenges are associated with modeling long-term infection in vitro. Differentiated hepatocytes are best able to sustain chronic viral hepatitis infection, but standard two-dimensional models are limited because they fail to mimic the architecture and cellular microenvironment of the liver, and cannot maintain a differentiated hepatocyte phenotype over extended periods. Alternatively, physiomimetic models facilitate important interactions between hepatocytes and their microenvironment by incorporating liver-specific environmental factors such as three-dimensional ECM interactions and co-culture with non-parenchymal cells. These physiologically relevant interactions help maintain a functional hepatocyte phenotype that is critical for sustaining viral hepatitis infection. In this review, we provide an overview of distinct, novel, and innovative in vitro liver models and discuss their functionality and relevance in modeling viral hepatitis. These platforms may provide novel insight into mechanisms that regulate viral clearance versus progression to chronic infections that can drive subsequent liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis McDuffie
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida
| | - David Barr
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Madeline Helm
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida
| | - Thomas Baumert
- Inserm Research Institute for Viral and Liver Diseases, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Ashutosh Agarwal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Emmanuel Thomas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
- Schiff Center for Liver Diseases, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
- Address for correspondence Emmanuel Thomas, MD, PhD, FAASLD Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of MiamiCoral Gables, FL 33136-1015
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Guo T, Wantono C, Tan Y, Deng F, Duan T, Liu D. Regulators, functions, and mechanotransduction pathways of matrix stiffness in hepatic disease. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1098129. [PMID: 36711017 PMCID: PMC9878334 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1098129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) provides physical support and imparts significant biochemical and mechanical cues to cells. Matrix stiffening is a hallmark of liver fibrosis and is associated with many hepatic diseases, especially liver cirrhosis and carcinoma. Increased matrix stiffness is not only a consequence of liver fibrosis but is also recognized as an active driver in the progression of fibrotic hepatic disease. In this article, we provide a comprehensive view of the role of matrix stiffness in the pathological progression of hepatic disease. The regulators that modulate matrix stiffness including ECM components, MMPs, and crosslinking modifications are discussed. The latest advances of the research on the matrix mechanics in regulating intercellular signaling and cell phenotype are classified, especially for hepatic stellate cells, hepatocytes, and immunocytes. The molecular mechanism that sensing and transducing mechanical signaling is highlighted. The current progress of ECM stiffness's role in hepatic cirrhosis and liver cancer is introduced and summarized. Finally, the recent trials targeting ECM stiffness for the treatment of liver disease are detailed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China,Research Center of Digestive Disease, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Cindy Wantono
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China,Research Center of Digestive Disease, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yuyong Tan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China,Research Center of Digestive Disease, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Feihong Deng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China,Research Center of Digestive Disease, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Tianying Duan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China,Research Center of Digestive Disease, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Deliang Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China,Research Center of Digestive Disease, Central South University, Changsha, China,*Correspondence: Deliang Liu,
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Induction of premature senescence and a less-fibrogenic phenotype by programmed cell death 4 knockdown in the human hepatic stellate cell line Lieming Xu-2. Hum Cell 2023; 36:583-601. [PMID: 36522523 PMCID: PMC9947070 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-022-00844-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Although programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4) was initially reported as a tumor suppressor and has been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth and metastasis, recent studies have demonstrated that loss of PDCD4 expression also induces growth inhibition by inducing apoptosis and/or cellular senescence. At present, the roles of PDCD4 in the activation and profibrogenic properties of myofibroblasts, which are critically involved in organ fibrosis, such as that in the liver, are unclear. We, therefore, investigated the roles of PDCD4 in myofibroblasts using human hepatic stellate cell line Lieming Xu-2 (LX-2). PDCD4 knockdown inhibited LX-2 proliferation and induced a senescent phenotype with increased β-galactosidase staining and p21 expression in a p53-independent manner together with downregulation of the notch signaling mediator RBJ-κ/CSL. During PDCD4 knockdown, alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA; an activation marker of myofibroblasts), matrix metalloproteinases MMP-1 and MMP-9, and collagen IV were upregulated, but the expression of collagen1α1 and collagen III was markedly downregulated without any marked change in the expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1). These results demonstrated that knockdown of PDCD4 induced the cellular senescence phenotype and activated myofibroblasts while suppressing the profibrogenic phenotype, suggesting roles of PDCD4 in cellular senescence and fibrogenesis in the liver.
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Yan J, Feng Y, Fang X, Cui X, Xia X, Li F, Luo W, Liang J, Feng J, Yu K. Anti-liver fibrosis effects of the total flavonoids of litchi semen on CCl 4-induced liver fibrosis in rats associated with the upregulation of retinol metabolism. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2022; 60:1264-1277. [PMID: 35787093 PMCID: PMC9262366 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2022.2086584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The litchi semen are traditional medications for treating liver fibrosis (LF) in China. The mechanism remains unclear. OBJECTIVE This study investigates the anti-liver fibrotic mechanism of the total flavonoids of litchi semen (TFL). MATERIALS AND METHODS Sprague-Dawley rats with carbon tetrachloride-induced LF were treated with TFL (50 and 100 mg/kg) for 4 weeks. The anti-liver fibrotic effects of TFL were evaluated and the underlying mechanisms were investigated via histopathological analysis, proteomic analysis and molecular biology technology. RESULTS Significant anti-LF effects were observed in the high-TFL-dose group (TFL-H, p < 0.05). Five hundred and eighty-five and 95 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified in the LF rat model (M group) and TFL-H group, respectively. The DEPs were significantly enriched in the retinol metabolism pathway (p < 0.0001). The content of 9-cis-retinoic acid (0.93 ± 0.13 vs. 0.66 ± 0.10, p < 0.05, vs. the M group) increased significantly in the TFL-H group. The upregulation of RXRα (0.50 ± 0.05 vs. 0.27 ± 0.13 protein, p < 0.05), ALDH2 (1.24 ± 0.09 vs. 1.04 ± 0.08 protein, p < 0.05), MMP3 (0.89 ± 0.02 vs. 0.61 ± 0.12 protein, p < 0.05), Aldh1a7 (0.20 ± 0.03 vs. 0.03 ± 0.00 mRNA, p < 0.05) and Aox3 (0.72 ± 0.14 vs. 0.05 ± 0.01 mRNA, p < 0.05) after TFL treatment was verified. CONCLUSIONS TFL exhibited good anti-liver fibrotic effects, which may be related to the upregulation of the retinol metabolism pathway. TFL may be promising anti-LF agents with potential clinical application prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiongyi Yan
- College of Pharmacy, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
- School of Health, Wuzhou Vocational College, Wuzhou, China
| | - Yinyi Feng
- College of Pharmacy, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Xuewan Fang
- College of Pharmacy, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Xiaojuan Cui
- College of Pharmacy, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Xing Xia
- College of Pharmacy, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Fang Li
- College of Pharmacy, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Weisheng Luo
- College of Pharmacy, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Jianqin Liang
- College of Pharmacy, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Jianfang Feng
- College of Pharmacy, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Kai Yu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
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Guvatova ZG, Borisov PV, Alekseev AA, Moskalev AA. Age-Related Changes in Extracellular Matrix. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2022; 87:1535-1551. [PMID: 36717445 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297922120112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular matrix (ECM) is an extracellular tissue structure that, in addition to mechanical support to the cell, is involved in regulation of many cellular processes, including chemical transport, growth, migration, differentiation, and cell senescence. Age-related changes in the structure and composition of the matrix and increase of ECM stiffness with age affect functioning of many tissues and contribute to the development of various pathological conditions. This review considers age-related changes of ECM in various tissues and organs, in particular, effect of ECM changes on aging is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zulfiia G Guvatova
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia.,Russian Clinical Research Center for Gerontology, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Moscow, 129226, Russia
| | - Pavel V Borisov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Alexey A Alekseev
- Russian Clinical Research Center for Gerontology, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Moscow, 129226, Russia
| | - Alexey A Moskalev
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia. .,Russian Clinical Research Center for Gerontology, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Moscow, 129226, Russia
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Ishtiaq SM, Arshad MI, Khan JA. PPARγ signaling in hepatocarcinogenesis: Mechanistic insights for cellular reprogramming and therapeutic implications. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 240:108298. [PMID: 36243148 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Liver cancer or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is leading cause of cancer-related mortalities globally. The therapeutic approaches for chronic liver diseases-associated liver cancers aimed at modulating immune check-points and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) signaling pathway during multistep process of hepatocarcinogenesis that played a dispensable role in immunopathogenesis and outcomes of disease. Herein, the review highlights PPARγ-induced effects in balancing inflammatory (tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), and interplay of PPARγ, hepatic stellate cells and fibrogenic niche in cell-intrinsic and -extrinsic crosstalk of hepatocarcinogenesis. PPARγ-mediated effects in pre-malignant microenvironment promote growth arrest, cell senescence and cell clearance in liver cancer pathophysiology. Furthermore, PPARγ-immune cell axis of liver microenvironment exhibits an immunomodulation strategy of resident immune cells of the liver (macrophages, natural killer cells, and dendritic cells) in concomitance with current clinical guidelines of the European Association for Study of Liver Diseases (EASL) for several liver diseases. Thus, mechanistic insights of PPARγ-associated high value targets and canonical signaling suggest PPARγ as a possible therapeutic target in reprogramming of hepatocarcinogenesis to decrease burden of liver cancers, worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syeda Momna Ishtiaq
- Institute of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan
| | | | - Junaid Ali Khan
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, MNS University of Agriculture, Multan 60000, Pakistan.
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Yang R, Yang H, Jiang D, Xu L, Feng L, Xing Y. Investigation of the potential mechanism of the Shugan Xiaozhi decoction for the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease based on network pharmacology, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation. PeerJ 2022; 10:e14171. [PMID: 36389420 PMCID: PMC9657198 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a metabolic disease, the incidence of which increases annually. Shugan Xiaozhi (SGXZ) decoction, a composite traditional Chinese medicinal prescription, has been demonstrated to exert a therapeutic effect on NAFLD. In this study, the potential bioactive ingredients and mechanism of SGXZ decoction against NAFLD were explored via network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation. Methods Compounds in SGXZ decoction were identified and collected from the literature, and the corresponding targets were predicted through the Similarity Ensemble Approach database. Potential targets related to NAFLD were searched on DisGeNET and GeneCards databases. The compound-target-disease and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed to recognize key compounds and targets. Functional enrichment analysis of Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) was performed on the targets. Molecular docking was used to further screen the potent active compounds in SGXZ. Finally, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was applied to verify and validate the binding between the most potent compound and targets. Results A total of 31 active compounds and 220 corresponding targets in SGXZ decoction were collected. Moreover, 1,544 targets of NAFLD were obtained, of which 78 targets intersected with the targets of SGXZ decoction. Key compounds and targets were recognized through the compound-target-disease and PPI network. Multiple biological pathways were annotated, including PI3K-Akt, MAPK, insulin resistance, HIF-1, and tryptophan metabolism. Molecular docking showed that gallic acid, chlorogenic acid and isochlorogenic acid A could combine with the key targets. Molecular dynamics simulations suggested that isochlorogenic acid A might potentially bind directly with RELA, IL-6, VEGFA, and MMP9 in the regulation of PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Conclusion This study investigated the active substances and key targets of SGXZ decoction in the regulation of multiple-pathways based on network pharmacology and computational approaches, providing a theoretical basis for further pharmacological research into the potential mechanism of SGXZ in NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Yang
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China
| | - Huili Yang
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Dansheng Jiang
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Linyi Xu
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lian Feng
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yufeng Xing
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
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Saifi MA, Bansod S, Godugu C. COVID-19 and fibrosis: Mechanisms, clinical relevance, and future perspectives. Drug Discov Today 2022; 27:103345. [PMID: 36075378 PMCID: PMC9444298 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.103345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has had significant impacts worldwide since its emergence in December, 2019. Despite a high recovery rate, there is a growing concern over its residual, long-term effects. However, because of a lack of long-term data, we are still far from establishing a consensus on post-COVID-19 complications. The deposition of excessive extracellular matrix (ECM), known as fibrosis, has been observed in numerous survivors of COVID-19. Given the exceptionally high number of individuals affected, there is an urgent need to address the emergence of fibrosis post-COVID-19. In this review, we discuss the clinical relevance of COVID-19-associated fibrosis, the current status of antifibrotic agents, novel antifibrotic targets, and challenges to its management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Aslam Saifi
- Department of Biological Sciences (Regulatory Toxicology), National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Balanagar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500 037, India
| | - Sapana Bansod
- Department of Internal Medicine, Oncology Division, Washington University, School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Chandraiah Godugu
- Department of Biological Sciences (Regulatory Toxicology), National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Balanagar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500 037, India.
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Obesity and cancer-extracellular matrix, angiogenesis, and adrenergic signaling as unusual suspects linking the two diseases. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2022; 41:517-547. [PMID: 36074318 PMCID: PMC9470659 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-022-10058-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Obesity is an established risk factor for several human cancers. Given the association between excess body weight and cancer, the increasing rates of obesity worldwide are worrisome. A variety of obesity-related factors has been implicated in cancer initiation, progression, and response to therapy. These factors include circulating nutritional factors, hormones, and cytokines, causing hyperinsulinemia, inflammation, and adipose tissue dysfunction. The impact of these conditions on cancer development and progression has been the focus of extensive literature. In this review, we concentrate on processes that can link obesity and cancer, and which provide a novel perspective: extracellular matrix remodeling, angiogenesis, and adrenergic signaling. We describe molecular mechanisms involved in these processes, which represent putative targets for intervention. Liver, pancreas, and breast cancers were chosen as exemplary disease models. In view of the expanding epidemic of obesity, a better understanding of the tumorigenic process in obese individuals might lead to more effective treatments and preventive measures.
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Jiang K, Wen X, Pettersson T, Crouzier T. Engineering Surfaces with Immune Modulating Properties of Mucin Hydrogels. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:39727-39735. [PMID: 36000701 PMCID: PMC9460428 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c19250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogels of cross-linked mucin glycoproteins (Muc-gel) have shown strong immune-modulating properties toward macrophages in vitro, which are translated in vivo by the dampening of the foreign body response to implantation in mice. Beyond mucin hydrogels, other biomaterials such as sensors, electrodes, and other long-term implants would also benefit from such immune-modulating properties. In this work, we aimed to transfer the bioactivity observed for three-dimensional Muc-gels to the surface of two model materials by immobilizing mucin into thin films (Muc-film) using covalent layer-by-layer assembly. We tested how the surface immobilization of mucins affects macrophage responses compared to Muc-gels. We showed that Muc-films on soft polyacrylamide gels mimic Muc-gel in their modulation of macrophage responses with activated gene expression of inflammatory cytokines on day 1 and then dampening them on day 3. Also, the markers of polarized macrophages, M1 and M2, were expressed at the same level for macrophages on Muc-film-coated soft polyacrylamide gels and Muc-gel. In contrast, Muc-film-coated hard polystyrene led to a different macrophage response compared to Muc-gel, having no activated expression of inflammatory cytokines and a different M1 marker expression. This suggested that the substrate mechanical properties and mucin molecular configuration determined by substrate-mucin interactions affect mucin immune-modulating properties. We conclude that mucin immune-modulating properties can be transferred to materials by mucin surface immobilization but will be dependent on the substrate chemical and mechanical properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Jiang
- Division
of Glycoscience, Department of Chemistry, School of Engineering Sciences
in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH, Royal Institute of Technology, AlbaNova University Center, Stockholm 106 91, Sweden
- AIMES
- Center for the Advancement of Integrated Medical and Engineering
Sciences at Karolinska Institutet and KTH
Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm SE-100 44, Sweden
- Department
of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm SE-171 77, Sweden
| | - Xueyu Wen
- Division
of Glycoscience, Department of Chemistry, School of Engineering Sciences
in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH, Royal Institute of Technology, AlbaNova University Center, Stockholm 106 91, Sweden
| | - Torbjörn Pettersson
- Division
of Fibre Technology, Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, School
of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm SE-100 44, Sweden
| | - Thomas Crouzier
- Division
of Glycoscience, Department of Chemistry, School of Engineering Sciences
in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH, Royal Institute of Technology, AlbaNova University Center, Stockholm 106 91, Sweden
- AIMES
- Center for the Advancement of Integrated Medical and Engineering
Sciences at Karolinska Institutet and KTH
Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm SE-100 44, Sweden
- Department
of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm SE-171 77, Sweden
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