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Kotsos D, Tziomalos K. Microsomal Prostaglandin E Synthase-1 and -2: Emerging Targets in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24033049. [PMID: 36769370 PMCID: PMC9918023 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24033049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects a substantial proportion of the general population and is even more prevalent in obese and diabetic patients. NAFLD, and particularly the more advanced manifestation of the disease, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), increases the risk for both liver-related and cardiovascular morbidity. The pathogenesis of NAFLD is complex and multifactorial, with many molecular pathways implicated. Emerging data suggest that microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 and -2 might participate in the development and progression of NAFLD. It also appears that targeting these enzymes might represent a novel therapeutic approach for NAFLD. In the present review, we discuss the association between microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 and -2 and NAFLD.
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Takamura N, Renaud L, da Silveira WA, Feghali-Bostwick C. PDGF Promotes Dermal Fibroblast Activation via a Novel Mechanism Mediated by Signaling Through MCHR1. Front Immunol 2021; 12:745308. [PMID: 34912333 PMCID: PMC8667318 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.745308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by vasculopathy and excessive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. To this day, no effective treatments to prevent the progression of fibrosis exist, and SSc patients have disabilities and reduced life expectancy. The need to better understand pathways that drive SSc and to find therapeutic targets is urgent. RNA sequencing data from SSc dermal fibroblasts suggested that melanin-concentrating hormone receptor 1 (MCHR1), one of the G protein-coupled receptors regulating emotion and energy metabolism, is abnormally deregulated in SSc. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB stimulation upregulated MCHR1 mRNA and protein levels in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF), and MCHR1 silencing prevented the PDGF-BB-induced expression of the profibrotic factors transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). PDGF-BB bound MCHR1 in membrane fractions of NHDF, and the binding was confirmed using surface plasmon resonance (SPR). MCHR1 inhibition blocked PDGF-BB modulation of intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). MCHR1 silencing in NHDF reduced PDGF-BB signaling. In summary, MCHR1 promoted the fibrotic response in NHDF through modulation of TGFβ1 and CTGF production, intracellular cAMP levels, and PDGF-BB-induced signaling pathways, suggesting that MCHR1 plays an important role in mediating the response to PDGF-BB and in the pathogenesis of SSc. Inhibition of MCHR1 should be considered as a novel therapeutic strategy in SSc-associated fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Takamura
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Ludivine Renaud
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Willian Abraham da Silveira
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Education, Staffordshire University, Stoke-on-Trent, United Kingdom
| | - Carol Feghali-Bostwick
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
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3
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Cao X, Song Q, Sun Y, Mao Y, Lu W, Li L. A SERS-LFA biosensor combined with aptamer recognition for simultaneous detection of thrombin and PDGF-BB in prostate cancer plasma. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 32:445101. [PMID: 34298537 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ac1754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
An innovative surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and lateral flow assay (SERS-LFA) biosensor combined with aptamer recognition had been developed for the convenient, rapid, sensitive and accurate detection of thrombin and platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) associated with prostate cancer simultaneously. During the biosensor operation, thrombin and PDGF-BB in the sample were recognized and combined by thiol-modified aptamers immobilized on Au-Ag hollow nanoparticles (Au-Ag HNPs) surface and biotinylated aptamers immobilized on the test lines of the biosensor. Thus, thrombin and PDGF-BB were simultaneously captured between detection aptamers and capture aptamers in a sandwich structure. Finite difference time domain simulation confirmed that 'hot spots' appeared at the gaps of Au-Ag HNPs dimer in the enhanced electromagnetic field compared to that of a single Au-Ag HNP, indicating that the aggregated Au-Ag HNPs owned a good SERS signal amplification effect. The detection limits of thrombin and PDGF-BB in human plasma were as low as 4.837 pg ml-1and 3.802 pg ml-1, respectively. Moreover, the accuracy of the biosensor which was applied to detect thrombin and PDGF-BB in prostate cancer plasma had been verified. This designed biosensor had broad application prospects in the clinical diagnosis of prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Cao
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Prevention and Treatment of Senile Diseases, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Noncoding RNA Research, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Qilong Song
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Prevention and Treatment of Senile Diseases, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Noncoding RNA Research, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Sun
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Prevention and Treatment of Senile Diseases, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Noncoding RNA Research, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Mao
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Prevention and Treatment of Senile Diseases, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Noncoding RNA Research, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenbo Lu
- Shanxi Normal University, College of Chemistry and Material Science, Linfen, 041004, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Li
- Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
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Yoshikawa E, Matsui‐Yuasa I, Huang X, Kobayashi Y, Kojima‐Yuasa A. Mallotus furetianus extract protects against ethanol-induced liver injury via the activation of the cAMP-PKA pathway. Food Sci Nutr 2020; 8:3936-3946. [PMID: 32724654 PMCID: PMC7382178 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.1709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The protective effects of Mallotus furetianus extract (MF) on liver fibrosis induced with ethanol were examined using in vivo and in vitro model. MF treatment suppressed plasma alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities in ethanol plus carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced cirrhosis rat model. MF also suppressed the increase in type l collagen and α-smooth muscle actin expression in the livers of ethanol plus CCl4-induced rat by the maintenance of intracellular glutathione levels. Furthermore, we evaluated the effect of MF on the alcohol-induced activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which are responsible for the increased production and deposition of the extracellular matrix in liver injury. Here, we observed the enhancement of the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and the increase in type I collagen and a-SMA expression in HSCs activated with ethanol. However, the enhanced ROS levels were suppressed with the treatments of MF or diphenyleneiodonium (DPI). Furthermore, the treatment of MF or DPI suppressed the increase in type I collagen and a-SMA expression activated with ethanol. We also observed that the treatment of MF or LY194002 suppressed the increase in type I collagen expression in HSCs activated with ethanol, suggesting that ethanol induced type I collagen expression via the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. On the other hand, the suppression of the synthesis of type I collagen in ethanol and MF-treated HSCs was inhibited by H-89. From these results, MF may suppress the increase in the activity of NADPH oxidase in HSCs activated with ethanol through the cAMP-PKA pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eri Yoshikawa
- Department of Food and Human Health SciencesGraduate School of Human Life ScienceOsaka City UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Isao Matsui‐Yuasa
- Department of Food and Human Health SciencesGraduate School of Human Life ScienceOsaka City UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Xuedan Huang
- Department of PharmacognosySchool of PharmacyKitasato UniversityTokyoJapan
| | | | - Akiko Kojima‐Yuasa
- Department of Food and Human Health SciencesGraduate School of Human Life ScienceOsaka City UniversityOsakaJapan
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Mucosal-associated invariant T cells are a profibrogenic immune cell population in the liver. Nat Commun 2018; 9:2146. [PMID: 29858567 PMCID: PMC5984626 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-04450-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the common response to chronic liver injury, and leads to cirrhosis and its complications. Persistent inflammation is a driving force of liver fibrosis progression. Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are non-conventional T cells that display altered functions during chronic inflammatory diseases. Here, we show that circulating MAIT cells are reduced in patients with alcoholic or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease-related cirrhosis while they accumulate in liver fibrotic septa. Using two models of chronic liver injury, we demonstrate that MAIT cell-enriched mice show increased liver fibrosis and accumulation of hepatic fibrogenic cells, whereas MAIT cell-deficient mice are resistant. Co-culture experiments indicate that MAIT cells enhance the proinflammatory properties of monocyte-derived macrophages, and promote mitogenic and proinflammatory functions of fibrogenic cells, via distinct mechanisms. Our results highlight the profibrogenic functions of MAIT cells and suggest that targeting MAIT cells may constitute an attractive antifibrogenic strategy during chronic liver injury.
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Schippers M, Beljaars L, Post E, Lotersztajn S, Reker-Smit C, Han B, Munoz-Llancao P, Schmidt M, Poelstra K. Upregulation of Epac-1 in Hepatic Stellate Cells by Prostaglandin E2 in Liver Fibrosis Is Associated with Reduced Fibrogenesis. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2017; 363:126-135. [DOI: 10.1124/jpet.117.241646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
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7
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The stellate cell system (vitamin A-storing cell system). Anat Sci Int 2017; 92:387-455. [PMID: 28299597 DOI: 10.1007/s12565-017-0395-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Past, present, and future research into hepatic stellate cells (HSCs, also called vitamin A-storing cells, lipocytes, interstitial cells, fat-storing cells, or Ito cells) are summarized and discussed in this review. Kupffer discovered black-stained cells in the liver using the gold chloride method and named them stellate cells (Sternzellen in German) in 1876. Wake rediscovered the cells in 1971 using the same gold chloride method and various modern histological techniques including electron microscopy. Between their discovery and rediscovery, HSCs disappeared from the research history. Their identification, the establishment of cell isolation and culture methods, and the development of cellular and molecular biological techniques promoted HSC research after their rediscovery. In mammals, HSCs exist in the space between liver parenchymal cells (PCs) or hepatocytes and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) of the hepatic lobule, and store 50-80% of all vitamin A in the body as retinyl ester in lipid droplets in the cytoplasm. SCs also exist in extrahepatic organs such as pancreas, lung, and kidney. Hepatic (HSCs) and extrahepatic stellate cells (EHSCs) form the stellate cell (SC) system or SC family; the main storage site of vitamin A in the body is HSCs in the liver. In pathological conditions such as liver fibrosis, HSCs lose vitamin A, and synthesize a large amount of extracellular matrix (ECM) components including collagen, proteoglycan, glycosaminoglycan, and adhesive glycoproteins. The morphology of these cells also changes from the star-shaped HSCs to that of fibroblasts or myofibroblasts.
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Xu Y, Zhao W, Xu J, Li J, Hong Z, Yin Z, Wang X. Activated hepatic stellate cells promote liver cancer by induction of myeloid-derived suppressor cells through cyclooxygenase-2. Oncotarget 2017; 7:8866-78. [PMID: 26758420 PMCID: PMC4891010 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.6839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Accepted: 12/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are critical mediators of immunosuppression and the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Our previous work indicates that HSCs promote HCC progression by enhancing immunosuppressive cell populations including myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and regulatory T cells (Tregs). MDSCs are induced by inflammatory cytokines (e.g., prostaglandins) and are important in immune suppression. However, how HSCs mediate expansion of MDSCs is uncertain. Thus, we studied activated HSCs that could induce MDSCs from bone marrow cells and noted that HSC-induced MDSCs up-regulated immunosuppressive activity via iNOS, Arg-1, and IL-4Rα. After treating cells with a COX-2 inhibitor or an EP4 antagonist, we established that HSC-induced MDSC accumulation was mediated by the COX2-PGE2-EP4 signaling. Furthermore, in vivo animal studies confirmed that inhibition of HSC-derived PGE2 could inhibit HSC-induced MDSC accumulation and HCC growth. Thus, our data show that HSCs are required for MDSC accumulation mediated by the COX2-PGE2-EP4 pathway, and these data are the first to link HSC and MDSC subsets in HCC immune microenvironment and provide a rationale for targeting PGE2 signaling for HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaping Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma (Xiamen University Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital), Xiamen, Fujian, China.,Department of Basic Medicine, Xiamen Medicine College, Fujian, China
| | - Wenxiu Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma (Xiamen University Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital), Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Jianfeng Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma (Xiamen University Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital), Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma (Xiamen University Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital), Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Zaifa Hong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma (Xiamen University Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital), Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Zhenyu Yin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma (Xiamen University Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital), Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Xiaomin Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma (Xiamen University Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital), Xiamen, Fujian, China
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9
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García-Alonso V, Titos E, Alcaraz-Quiles J, Rius B, Lopategi A, López-Vicario C, Jakobsson PJ, Delgado S, Lozano J, Clària J. Prostaglandin E2 Exerts Multiple Regulatory Actions on Human Obese Adipose Tissue Remodeling, Inflammation, Adaptive Thermogenesis and Lipolysis. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0153751. [PMID: 27124181 PMCID: PMC4849638 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2015] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity induces white adipose tissue (WAT) dysfunction characterized by unremitting inflammation and fibrosis, impaired adaptive thermogenesis and increased lipolysis. Prostaglandins (PGs) are powerful lipid mediators that influence the homeostasis of several organs and tissues. The aim of the current study was to explore the regulatory actions of PGs in human omental WAT collected from obese patients undergoing laparoscopic bariatric surgery. In addition to adipocyte hypertrophy, obese WAT showed remarkable inflammation and total and pericellular fibrosis. In this tissue, a unique molecular signature characterized by altered expression of genes involved in inflammation, fibrosis and WAT browning was identified by microarray analysis. Targeted LC-MS/MS lipidomic analysis identified increased PGE2 levels in obese fat in the context of a remarkable COX-2 induction and in the absence of changes in the expression of terminal prostaglandin E synthases (i.e. mPGES-1, mPGES-2 and cPGES). IPA analysis established PGE2 as a common top regulator of the fibrogenic/inflammatory process present in this tissue. Exogenous addition of PGE2 significantly reduced the expression of fibrogenic genes in human WAT explants and significantly down-regulated Col1α1, Col1α2 and αSMA in differentiated 3T3 adipocytes exposed to TGF-β. In addition, PGE2 inhibited the expression of inflammatory genes (i.e. IL-6 and MCP-1) in WAT explants as well as in adipocytes challenged with LPS. PGE2 anti-inflammatory actions were confirmed by microarray analysis of human pre-adipocytes incubated with this prostanoid. Moreover, PGE2 induced expression of brown markers (UCP1 and PRDM16) in WAT and adipocytes, but not in pre-adipocytes, suggesting that PGE2 might induce the trans-differentiation of adipocytes towards beige/brite cells. Finally, PGE2 inhibited isoproterenol-induced adipocyte lipolysis. Taken together, these findings identify PGE2 as a regulator of the complex network of interactions driving uncontrolled inflammation and fibrosis and impaired adaptive thermogenesis and lipolysis in human obese visceral WAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verónica García-Alonso
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esther Titos
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBERehd, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jose Alcaraz-Quiles
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bibiana Rius
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aritz Lopategi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina López-Vicario
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Salvadora Delgado
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Joan Clària
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBERehd, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- * E-mail:
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10
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The Effector Protein BPE005 from Brucella abortus Induces Collagen Deposition and Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 Downmodulation via Transforming Growth Factor β1 in Hepatic Stellate Cells. Infect Immun 2015; 84:598-606. [PMID: 26667834 DOI: 10.1128/iai.01227-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is frequently affected in patients with active brucellosis. In the present study, we identified a virulence factor involved in the modulation of hepatic stellate cell function and consequent fibrosis during Brucella abortus infection. This study assessed the role of BPE005 protein from B. abortus in the fibrotic phenotype induced on hepatic stellate cells during B. abortus infection in vitro and in vivo. We demonstrated that the fibrotic phenotype induced by B. abortus on hepatic stellate (LX-2) cells was dependent on BPE005, a protein associated with the type IV secretion system (T4SS) VirB from B. abortus. Our results indicated that B. abortus inhibits matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) secretion through the activity of the BPE005-secreted protein and induces concomitant collagen deposition by LX-2 cells. BPE005 is a small protein containing a cyclic nucleotide monophosphate binding domain (cNMP) that modulates the LX-2 cell phenotype through a mechanism that is dependent on the cyclic AMP (cAMP)/protein kinase A (PKA) signaling pathway. Altogether, these results indicate that B. abortus tilts LX-2 cells to a profibrogenic phenotype employing a functional T4SS and the secreted BPE005 protein through a mechanism that involves the cAMP and PKA signaling pathway.
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11
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Mouawad CA, Mrad MF, El-Achkar GA, Abdul-Sater A, Nemer GM, Creminon C, Lotersztajn S, Habib A. Statins Modulate Cyclooxygenase-2 and Microsomal Prostaglandin E Synthase-1 in Human Hepatic Myofibroblasts. J Cell Biochem 2015; 117:1176-86. [PMID: 26477987 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.25401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2015] [Accepted: 10/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Statins have been shown to exert anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrogenic properties in the liver. In the present study, we explored the mechanisms underlying anti-fibrogenic effects of statins in isolated hepatic myofibroblasts and focused on cyclooxyegnase-2, a major anti-proliferative pathway in these cells. We show that simvastatin and fluvastatin inhibit thymidine incorporation in hMF in a dose-dependent manner. Pretreatment of cells with NS398, a COX-2 inhibitor, partially blunted this effect. cAMP levels, essential to the inhibition of hMF proliferation, were increased by statins and inhibited by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Since statins modify prenylation of some important proteins in gene expression, we investigated the targets involved using selective inhibitors of prenyltransferases. Inhibition of geranylgeranylation resulted in the induction of COX-2 and mPGES-1. Using gel retardation assays, we further demonstrated that statins potentially activated the NFκB and CRE/E-box binding for COX-2 promoter and the binding of GC-rich regions and GATA for mPGES-1. Together these data demonstrate that statin limit hepatic myofibroblasts proliferation via a COX-2 and mPGES-1 dependent pathway. These data suggest that statin-dependent increase of prostaglandin in hMF contributes to its anti-fibrogenic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charbel A Mouawad
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, PO Box 11-236 Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Food Technologies, Al-Kafaat University, Ain Saadeh, Fanar, Lebanon
| | - May F Mrad
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, PO Box 11-236 Beirut, Lebanon.,Nehme and Therese Tohme Multiple Sclerosis Center-American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ghewa A El-Achkar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, PO Box 11-236 Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali Abdul-Sater
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, PO Box 11-236 Beirut, Lebanon.,Deparment of Immunology, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Georges M Nemer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, PO Box 11-236 Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Christophe Creminon
- iBiTec-S, Service de Pharmacologie et d'Immunoanalyse, CEA Saclay - Bât. 136, 91191 Gif-Sur-Yvette Cedex, France
| | - Sophie Lotersztajn
- Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation, INSERM UMR 1149, Paris, France.,Université Paris 7 Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité-Laboratoire d'excellence Inflamex, Faculté de Médecine Xavier Bichat, 16 rue Henri Huchard, F-75018 Paris, France
| | - Aïda Habib
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, PO Box 11-236 Beirut, Lebanon.,Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation, INSERM UMR 1149, Paris, France.,Université Paris 7 Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité-Laboratoire d'excellence Inflamex, Faculté de Médecine Xavier Bichat, 16 rue Henri Huchard, F-75018 Paris, France
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12
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Zeng Y, Zhu L, Han Q, Liu W, Mao X, Li Y, Yu N, Feng S, Fu Q, Wang X, Du Y, Zhao RC. Preformed gelatin microcryogels as injectable cell carriers for enhanced skin wound healing. Acta Biomater 2015; 25:291-303. [PMID: 26234487 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2015.07.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2015] [Revised: 07/18/2015] [Accepted: 07/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Wound dressings of cell-laden bulk hydrogel or scaffold were mainly applied for enhanced cell engraftment in contrast to free cell injection. However, dressing of cells laden in biomaterials on wound surface might not effectively and timely exert functions on deep or chronic wounds where insufficient blood supply exists. Previously, we developed injectable gelatin microcryogels (GMs) which could load cells for enhanced cell delivery and cell therapy. In this study, biological changes of human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) laden in GMs were compared in varied aspects with traditional two dimensional (2D) cell culture, such as cell phenotype markers, stemness genes, differentiation, secretion of growth factors, cell apoptosis and cell memory by FACS, QRT-PCR and ELISA, that demonstrated the priming effects of GMs on upregulation of stemness genes and improved secretion of growth factors of hASCs for potential augmented wound healing. In a full-thickness skin wound model in nude mice, multisite injection and dressing of hASCs-laden GMs could significantly accelerate the healing compared to free cell injection. Bioluminescence imaging and protein analysis indicated improved cell retention and secretion of multiple growth factors. Our study suggests that GMs as primed injectable 3D micro-niches represent a new cell delivery methodology for skin wound healing which could not only benefit on the recovery of wound bed but also play direct effects on wound basal layer for healing enhancement. Injectable GMs as facile multisite cell delivery approach potentially provide new minimally-invasive therapeutic strategy for refractory wounds such as diabetic ulcer or radiative skin wound. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE This work applied a type of elastic micro-scaffold (GMs) to load and prime hMSCs for skin wound healing. Due to the injectability of GMs, the 3D cellular micro-niches could simply realize minimally-invasive and multisite cell delivery approach for accelerating the wound healing process superior to free cell injection. The biological features of MSCs has been thoroughly characterized during 3D culture in GMs (i.e. cell proliferation, characterization of cell surface markers, stemness of MSCs in GMs, differentiation of MSCs in GMs, secretion of MSCs in GMs, induced apoptosis of MSCs in GMs). Multiple methods such as bioluminescent imaging, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, qRT-PCR, ELSA and western blot were used to assess the in vivo results between groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zeng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Lin Zhu
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Qin Han
- Center of Excellence in Tissue Engineering, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Xiaojing Mao
- Center of Excellence in Tissue Engineering, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Yaqian Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Nanze Yu
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Siyu Feng
- School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Qinyouen Fu
- School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xiaojun Wang
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China.
| | - Yanan Du
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
| | - Robert Chunhua Zhao
- Center of Excellence in Tissue Engineering, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China; Center of Translational Medicine Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China.
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13
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Regulator of G-protein signaling-5 is a marker of hepatic stellate cells and expression mediates response to liver injury. PLoS One 2014; 9:e108505. [PMID: 25290689 PMCID: PMC4188519 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0108505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Accepted: 08/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is mediated by hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which respond to a variety of cytokine and growth factors to moderate the response to injury and create extracellular matrix at the site of injury. G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR)-mediated signaling, via endothelin-1 (ET-1) and angiotensin II (AngII), increases HSC contraction, migration and fibrogenesis. Regulator of G-protein signaling-5 (RGS5), an inhibitor of vasoactive GPCR agonists, functions to control GPCR-mediated contraction and hypertrophy in pericytes and smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Therefore we hypothesized that RGS5 controls GPCR signaling in activated HSCs in the context of liver injury. In this study, we localize RGS5 to the HSCs and demonstrate that Rgs5 expression is regulated during carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced acute and chronic liver injury in Rgs5LacZ/LacZ reporter mice. Furthermore, CCl4 treated RGS5-null mice develop increased hepatocyte damage and fibrosis in response to CCl4 and have increased expression of markers of HSC activation. Knockdown of Rgs5 enhances ET-1-mediated signaling in HSCs in vitro. Taken together, we demonstrate that RGS5 is a critical regulator of GPCR signaling in HSCs and regulates HSC activation and fibrogenesis in liver injury.
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14
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Pomianowska E, Sandnes D, Grzyb K, Schjølberg AR, Aasrum M, Tveteraas IH, Tjomsland V, Christoffersen T, Gladhaug IP. Inhibitory effects of prostaglandin E2 on collagen synthesis and cell proliferation in human stellate cells from pancreatic head adenocarcinoma. BMC Cancer 2014; 14:413. [PMID: 24912820 PMCID: PMC4084579 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-14-413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2013] [Accepted: 05/20/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have described an increased cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in pancreatic cancer, but the role of COX-2 in tumour development and progression is not clear. The aim of the present study was to examine expression of COX-2 in cancer cells and stromal cells in pancreatic cancer specimens, and to explore the role of PGE2 in pancreatic stellate cell proliferation and collagen synthesis. METHODS Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence was performed on slides from whole sections of tissue blocks using antibodies against COX-2 and α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA). Pancreatic stellate cells (PSC) were isolated from surgically resected tumour tissue by the outgrowth method. Cells were used between passages 4 and 8. Collagen synthesis was determined by [(3)H]-proline incorporation, or by enzyme immunoassay measurement of collagen C-peptide. DNA synthesis was measured by incorporation of [(3)H]-thymidine in DNA. Cyclic AMP (cAMP) was determined by radioimmunoassay. Collagen 1A1 mRNA was determined by RT-qPCR. RESULTS Immunohistochemistry staining showed COX-2 in pancreatic carcinoma cells, but not in stromal cells. All tumours showed positive staining for αSMA in the fibrotic stroma. Cultured PSC expressed COX-2, which could be further induced by interleukin-1β (IL-1β), epidermal growth factor (EGF), thrombin, and PGE2, but not by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ). Indirect coculture with the adenocarcinoma cell line BxPC-3, but not HPAFII or Panc-1, induced COX-2 expression in PSC. Treatment of PSC with PGE2 strongly stimulated cAMP accumulation, mediated by EP2 receptors, and also stimulated phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Treatment of PSC with PGE2 or forskolin suppressed both TGFβ-stimulated collagen synthesis and PDGF-stimulated DNA synthesis. CONCLUSIONS The present results show that COX-2 is mainly produced in carcinoma cells and suggest that the cancer cells are the main source of PGE2 in pancreatic tumours. PGE2 exerts a suppressive effect on proliferation and fibrogenesis in pancreatic stellate cells. These effects of PGE2 are mediated by the cAMP pathway and suggest a role of EP2 receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Pomianowska
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Hepato-pancreato-biliary Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, PO Box 4956, Nydalen 0424 Oslo, Norway
| | - Dagny Sandnes
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Krzysztof Grzyb
- Department of Pathology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Aasa R Schjølberg
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Monica Aasrum
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ingun H Tveteraas
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Vegard Tjomsland
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Hepato-pancreato-biliary Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, PO Box 4956, Nydalen 0424 Oslo, Norway
| | - Thoralf Christoffersen
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ivar P Gladhaug
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Hepato-pancreato-biliary Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, PO Box 4956, Nydalen 0424 Oslo, Norway
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15
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Saito S, Hata K, Iwaisako K, Yanagida A, Takeiri M, Tanaka H, Kageyama S, Hirao H, Ikeda K, Asagiri M, Uemoto S. Cilostazol attenuates hepatic stellate cell activation and protects mice against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis. Hepatol Res 2014; 44:460-73. [PMID: 23607402 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2012] [Revised: 04/08/2013] [Accepted: 04/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
AIM Liver fibrosis is a common pathway leading to cirrhosis. Cilostazol, a clinically available oral phosphodiesterase-3 inhibitor, has been shown to have antifibrotic potential in experimental non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. However, the detailed mechanisms of the antifibrotic effect and its efficacy in a different experimental model remain elusive. METHODS Male C57BL/6J mice were assigned to five groups: mice fed a normal diet (groups 1 and 2); 0.1% or 0.3% cilostazol-containing diet (groups 3 and 4, respectively); and 0.125% clopidogrel-containing diet (group 5). Two weeks after feeding, groups 2-5 were intraperitoneally administered carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 ) twice a week for 6 weeks, while group 1 was treated with the vehicle alone. To investigate the effects of cilostazol on hepatic cells, in vitro studies were conducted using primary hepatic stellate cells (HSC), Kupffer cells and hepatocytes with cilostazol supplementation. RESULTS Sirius red staining revealed that groups 3 and 4 exhibited a lesser fibrotic area (2.49 ± 0.43% and 2.31 ± 0.30%, respectively) than group 2 (3.17 ± 0.67%, P < 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively). In vitro studies showed cilostazol dose-dependently suppressed HSC activation (assessed by morphological change, cell proliferation, and the expression of HSC activation markers), suggesting the therapeutic effect of cilostazol is mediated by its direct action on HSC. CONCLUSION Cilostazol could alleviate CCl4 -induced hepatic fibrogenesis in vivo, presumably due, at least partly, to its direct effect to suppress HSC activation. Given its clinical availability and safety, it may be a novel therapeutic intervention for chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunichi Saito
- Department of Surgery, Division of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Transplantation, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Koichiro Hata
- Department of Surgery, Division of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Transplantation, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Keiko Iwaisako
- Department of Surgery, Division of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Transplantation, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Regenerative Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka City University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Atsuko Yanagida
- Department of Surgery, Division of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Transplantation, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Takeiri
- Innovation Center for Immunoregulation and Therapeutics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Tanaka
- Department of Surgery, Division of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Transplantation, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shoichi Kageyama
- Department of Surgery, Division of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Transplantation, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Hirao
- Department of Surgery, Division of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Transplantation, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kazuo Ikeda
- Department of Anatomy and Regenerative Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka City University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masataka Asagiri
- Innovation Center for Immunoregulation and Therapeutics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shinji Uemoto
- Department of Surgery, Division of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Transplantation, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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16
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Saeed A, Baloch K, Brown RJP, Wallis R, Chen L, Dexter L, McClure CP, Shakesheff K, Thomson BJ. Mannan binding lectin-associated serine protease 1 is induced by hepatitis C virus infection and activates human hepatic stellate cells. Clin Exp Immunol 2013; 174:265-73. [PMID: 23841802 DOI: 10.1111/cei.12174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Mannan binding lectin (MBL)-associated serine protease type 1 (MASP-1) has a central role in the lectin pathway of complement activation and is required for the formation of C3 convertase. The activity of MASP-1 in the peripheral blood has been identified previously as a highly significant predictor of the severity of liver fibrosis in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, but not in liver disease of other aetiologies. In this study we tested the hypotheses that expression of MASP-1 may promote disease progression in HCV disease by direct activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and may additionally be up-regulated by HCV. In order to do so, we utilized a model for the maintenance of primary human HSC in the quiescent state by culture on basement membrane substrate prior to stimulation. In comparison to controls, recombinant MASP-1 stimulated quiescent human HSCs to differentiate to the activated state as assessed by both morphology and up-regulation of HSC activation markers α-smooth muscle actin and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1. Further, the expression of MASP-1 was up-regulated significantly by HCV infection in hepatocyte cell lines. These observations suggest a new role for MASP-1 and provide a possible mechanistic link between high levels of MASP-1 and the severity of disease in HCV infection. Taken together with previous clinical observations, our new findings suggest that the balance of MASP-1 activity may be proinflammatory and act to accelerate fibrosis progression in HCV liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Saeed
- School of Molecular Medical Sciences, University of Nottingham, Leicester, UK; School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Leicester, UK
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17
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Poelstra K, Beljaars L, Melgert BN. Cell-specific delivery of biologicals: problems, pitfalls and possibilities of antifibrotic compounds in the liver. Drug Discov Today 2013; 18:1237-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2013.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2013] [Accepted: 05/22/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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18
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Acquaviva A, Vecchio D, Arezzini B, Comporti M, Gardi C. Signaling pathways involved in isoprostane-mediated fibrogenic effects in rat hepatic stellate cells. Free Radic Biol Med 2013; 65:201-207. [PMID: 23792773 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2013.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2013] [Revised: 06/06/2013] [Accepted: 06/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Despite evidence supporting a potential role for F2-isoprostanes (F2-IsoP's) in liver fibrosis, their signaling mechanisms are poorly understood. We have previously provided evidence that F2-IsoP's stimulate hepatic stellate cell (HSC) proliferation and collagen hyperproduction by activation of a modified form of isoprostane receptor homologous to the classic thromboxane receptor (TP). In this paper, we examined which signal transduction pathways are set into motion by F2-IsoP's to exert their fibrogenic effects. HSCs were isolated from rat liver, cultured to their activated myofibroblast-like phenotype, and then treated with the isoprostane 15-F2t-isoprostane (15-F2t-IsoP). Inositol trisphosphate (IP3) and adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) levels were determined using commercial kits. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and cyclin D1 expression was assessed by Western blotting. Cell proliferation and collagen synthesis were determined by measuring [(3)H]thymidine and [(3)H]proline incorporation, respectively. 15-F2t-IsoP elicited an activation of extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK), p38 MAPK, and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK), which are known to be also regulated by G-protein-coupled receptors. Preincubation with specific ERK (PD98059), p38 (SB203580), or JNK (SP600125) inhibitors prevented 15-F2t-IsoP-induced cell proliferation and collagen synthesis. 15-F2t-IsoP decreased cAMP levels within 30 min, suggesting binding to the TPβ isoform and activation of Giα protein. Also, 15-F2t-IsoP increased IP3 levels within a few minutes, suggesting that the Gq protein pathway is also involved. In conclusion, the fibrogenic effects of F2-IsoP's in HSCs are mediated by downstream activation of MAPKs, through TP binding that couples via both Gqα and Giα proteins. Targeting TP receptor, or its downstream pathways, may contribute to preventing oxidative damage in liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Acquaviva
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Daniela Vecchio
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Beatrice Arezzini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Mario Comporti
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Concetta Gardi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena, Italy.
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19
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Shen W, Li L, Song B, Li W, Zhou Z, Guo R. Platelet-derived growth factor-BB increases expression of connexin 43 in an extracellular-regulated protein kinase-dependent manner in bladder smooth muscle cells. Int J Urol 2012; 20:123-30. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1442-2042.2012.03192.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2012] [Accepted: 09/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Shen
- Urological Institution of the People's Liberation Army; First Affiliated Hospital of Third Military Medical University; Chongqing
| | - Longkun Li
- Urological Institution of the People's Liberation Army; First Affiliated Hospital of Third Military Medical University; Chongqing
| | - Bo Song
- Urological Institution of the People's Liberation Army; First Affiliated Hospital of Third Military Medical University; Chongqing
| | - Weibing Li
- Urological Institution of the People's Liberation Army; First Affiliated Hospital of Third Military Medical University; Chongqing
| | - Zhansong Zhou
- Urological Institution of the People's Liberation Army; First Affiliated Hospital of Third Military Medical University; Chongqing
| | - Ruiwei Guo
- Department of Cardiology; Kunming General Hospital of Chengdu Army; Kunming; China
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20
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Kwon SH, Jeong SW, Jang JY, Lee JE, Lee SH, Kim SG, Kim YS, Cho YD, Kim HS, Kim BS, Jin SY. Cyclooxygenase-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor in chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Clin Mol Hepatol 2012; 18:287-94. [PMID: 23091809 PMCID: PMC3467432 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2012.18.3.287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2012] [Revised: 08/06/2012] [Accepted: 08/09/2012] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are up-regulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). To investigate the levels of COX-2 and VEGF expression in chronic hepatitis (CH), cirrhosis, and HCC. Methods The immunohistochemical expressions of COX-2 and VEGF were evaluated in tissues from patients with CH (n=95), cirrhosis (n=38), low-grade HCC (LG-HCC; n=6), and high-grade HCC (HG-HCC; n=29). Results The COX-2 expression scores in CH, cirrhosis, LG-HCC, and HG-HCC were 3.3±1.9 (mean±SD), 4.2±1.7, 5.5±1.0, and 3.4±2.4, respectively (CH vs. cirrhosis, P=0.016; CH vs. LG-HCC, P=0.008; LG-HCC vs. HG-HCC, P=0.004), and the corresponding VEGF expression scores were 0.9±0.8, 1.5±0.7, 1.8±0.9, and 1.6±1.1 (CH vs. cirrhosis, P<0.001; CH vs. LG-HCC, P=0.011; LG-HCC vs. HG-HCC, P=0.075). Both factors were correlated with the fibrosis stage in CH and cirrhosis (COX-2: r=0.427, P<0.001; VEGF: r=0.491, P<0.001). There was a significant correlation between COX-2 and VEGF in all of the tissue samples (r=0.648, P<0.001), and between high COX-2 and VEGF expression scores and survival (COX-2: P=0.001; VEGF: P<0.001). Conclusions The expressions of both COX-2 and VEGF are significantly higher in cirrhosis and LG-HCC than in CH. High COX-2 and high VEGF expressions are associated with a high survival rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soon Ha Kwon
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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21
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Poelstra K, Prakash J, Beljaars L. Drug targeting to the diseased liver. J Control Release 2012; 161:188-97. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2012.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2011] [Revised: 02/08/2012] [Accepted: 02/11/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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22
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Zhao L, Gandhi CR, Gao ZH. Involvement of cytosolic phospholipase A2 alpha signalling pathway in spontaneous and transforming growth factor-beta-induced activation of rat hepatic stellate cells. Liver Int 2011; 31:1565-73. [PMID: 22093332 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2011.02632.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2010] [Accepted: 08/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are extracellular matrix-producing cells that play a pivotal role in liver fibrogenesis. During liver injury and when cells are placed in vitro, HSCs undergo phenotypic transition from quiescent retinoid-storing cells to activated retinoid-deficient myofibroblast-like cells. Although several mediators including reactive oxygen species, platelet derived growth factor, transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were implicated in HSC activation, the cellular signalling pathways that regulate this process remain incompletely defined. AIMS The objectives of this study were to evaluate the role of cytosolic phospholipase A(2) alpha (cPLA(2)α) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-beta/delta (PPAR-β/δ) in HSC activation. METHODS Rat HSCs were isolated, purified, cultured and stimulated with TGF-β1 in the presence or absence of the selective cPLA(2)α inhibitor, arachidonyltrifluoromethyl ketone (AACOCF(3)). The activation status of HSC was evaluated by immunofluorescent staining of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and by measuring the expression of cPLA(2)α, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) and PPAR-β/δ using western blot analysis. RESULTS Rapid and significant increase in cPLA(2)α expression was observed during activation of HSCs. These events preceded the elevation of PPAR-β/δ and the expression of α-SMA. Elevated expression of cPLA(2)α, but not COX-2, was also observed during TGF-β-induced HSC activation. The TGF-β-induced α-SMA expression was blocked by AACOCF(3). Furthermore, transfection of a cPLA(2)α expression vector enhanced the transcription activity of PPAR-β/δ and the expression of α-SMA in HSCs. CONCLUSION cPLA(2)α-mediated induction of PPAR-β/δ is a novel intracellular signalling pathway in spontaneous and TGF-β induced activation of HSCs and could be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liena Zhao
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Calgary and Calgary Laboratory Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
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23
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Man GCW, Wong JH, Wang WWJ, Sun GQ, Yeung BHY, Ng TB, Lee SKM, Ng BKW, Qiu Y, Cheng JCY. Abnormal melatonin receptor 1B expression in osteoblasts from girls with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. J Pineal Res 2011; 50:395-402. [PMID: 21480980 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2011.00857.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin signaling dysfunction has been associated with the etiology of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Genetic analysis has also associated the occurrence of AIS with the MT2 gene. Thus, we determined whether there is abnormality in the protein expression of melatonin receptors (MT) in AIS osteoblasts. In this study, we recruited 11 girls with severe AIS and eight normal subjects for intraoperative bone biopsies. MT1 and MT2 receptor protein expressions in the isolated osteoblasts were detected. Also, cell proliferation assay using different melatonin concentrations (0, 10(-9), 10(-5), 10(-4) m) was carried out. The results showed that both MT1 and MT2 receptors are expressed in osteoblasts of the controls. While MT1 receptors were expressed in osteoblasts of all AIS subjects, osteoblasts of only 7 of 11 AIS showed expression of MT2 receptors. Melatonin stimulated control osteoblasts to proliferate. However, proliferation of AIS osteoblasts without expression of MT2 receptor, after treatment with melatonin, was minimal when compared with control and AIS osteoblasts with MT2 receptor expression. The proliferation of AIS osteoblasts with MT2 receptor was greater than those without. This is the first report demonstrating a difference between AIS and normal osteoblasts in the protein expression of MT2 receptor. The results suggest that there is a possible functional effect of MT2 receptor on osteoblast proliferation. AIS osteoblasts without expression of MT2 receptor showed the lowest percentage of viable cells after melatonin treatment. This possibly indicates the modulating role of melatonin through MT2 receptor on the proliferation of osteoblasts.
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MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Blotting, Western
- Cell Proliferation
- Cells, Cultured
- Female
- Humans
- Male
- Osteoblasts/metabolism
- Receptor, Melatonin, MT1/genetics
- Receptor, Melatonin, MT1/metabolism
- Receptor, Melatonin, MT2/genetics
- Receptor, Melatonin, MT2/metabolism
- Scoliosis/genetics
- Scoliosis/metabolism
- Young Adult
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Affiliation(s)
- Gene Chi-Wai Man
- Department of Orthopedics & Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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24
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Khimji AK, Rockey DC. Endothelin and hepatic wound healing. Pharmacol Res 2011; 63:512-8. [PMID: 21421048 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2011.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2011] [Accepted: 03/14/2011] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Liver wound healing is a coordinated response to injury caused by infections (hepatitis) or toxins (alcohol) or other processes where activation of hepatic stellate cells are a central component. During stellate cell activation, a major phenotypic transformation occurs which leads to increased production of increased extracellular matrix proteins and smooth muscle α-actin the results is organ dysfunction due to gross architectural disruption and impaired blood flow. Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is produced in increased amounts and the cellular source of ET-1 shifts from endothelial cells to stellate cells during liver injury thus setting a feedback loop which accentuates further activation, stellate cell proliferation, and production of extracellular matrix proteins. Therapy directed at intervening the ET-1 signaling pathway has significant therapeutic potential in patients with liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Al-karim Khimji
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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25
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Hepatic stellate cell (vitamin A-storing cell) and its relative--past, present and future. Cell Biol Int 2011; 34:1247-72. [PMID: 21067523 DOI: 10.1042/cbi20100321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
HSCs (hepatic stellate cells) (also called vitamin A-storing cells, lipocytes, interstitial cells, fat-storing cells or Ito cells) exist in the space between parenchymal cells and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells of the hepatic lobule and store 50-80% of vitamin A in the whole body as retinyl palmitate in lipid droplets in the cytoplasm. In physiological conditions, these cells play pivotal roles in the regulation of vitamin A homoeostasis. In pathological conditions, such as hepatic fibrosis or liver cirrhosis, HSCs lose vitamin A and synthesize a large amount of extracellular matrix components including collagen, proteoglycan, glycosaminoglycan and adhesive glycoproteins. Morphology of these cells also changes from the star-shaped SCs (stellate cells) to that of fibroblasts or myofibroblasts. The hepatic SCs are now considered to be targets of therapy of hepatic fibrosis or liver cirrhosis. HSCs are activated by adhering to the parenchymal cells and lose stored vitamin A during hepatic regeneration. Vitamin A-storing cells exist in extrahepatic organs such as the pancreas, lungs, kidneys and intestines. Vitamin A-storing cells in the liver and extrahepatic organs form a cellular system. The research of the vitamin A-storing cells has developed and expanded vigorously. The past, present and future of the research of the vitamin A-storing cells (SCs) will be summarized and discussed in this review.
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Jeong SW, Jang JY, Lee SH, Kim SG, Cheon YK, Kim YS, Cho YD, Kim HS, Lee JS, Jin SY, Shim CS, Kim BS. Increased expression of cyclooxygenase-2 is associated with the progression to cirrhosis. Korean J Intern Med 2010; 25:364-71. [PMID: 21179273 PMCID: PMC2997964 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2010.25.4.364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2009] [Revised: 01/21/2010] [Accepted: 05/24/2010] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS To investigate the degree of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) protein expression in chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis. METHODS COX-2 protein expression was evaluated in 43 cases of chronic hepatitis and 24 cases of cirrhosis using immunohistochemical techniques. The COX-2 immunohistochemical staining score was assessed using the scoring systems of Pazirandeh et al and Qiu et al. and each scoring system was based on a sum of the parameters of staining intensity and distribution. RESULTS The mean COX-2 expression scores in chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis were 2.5 ± 1.3 vs. 3.3 ± 1.1 (p = 0.008), and 3.2 ± 2.0 vs. 4.5 ± 1.7 (p = 0.006), respectively, based on the Pazirandeh et al. and Qiu et al. scoring systems. The percentage samples of high COX-2 expression score (4 to 5) in chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis were 16.3% vs. 45.8% (p = 0.022), and 23.3% vs. 50% (p = 0.021), respectively, based on the two scoring systems. The mean COX-2 expression scores based on the severity of hepatic fibrosis scored using Ishak's modified staging system (fibrosis score 0 to 3 vs. 4 to 6) were 2.4 ± 1.3 vs. 3.2 ± 1.1 (p = 0.009), and 3.1 ± 2.0 vs. 4.3 ± 1.8 (p = 0.009), respectively, based on the two scoring systems. CONCLUSIONS COX-2 expression was significantly higher in liver cirrhosis group than in chronic hepatitis. COX-2 expression scores according to Ishak's staging was significantly higher in the advanced fibrosis group. COX-2 may play a role in the progression of hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soung Won Jeong
- Institute for Digestive Research and Digestive Disease Center, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Young Jang
- Institute for Digestive Research and Digestive Disease Center, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sae Hwan Lee
- Institute for Digestive Research and Digestive Disease Center, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Gyun Kim
- Institute for Digestive Research and Digestive Disease Center, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Koog Cheon
- Institute for Digestive Research and Digestive Disease Center, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Seok Kim
- Institute for Digestive Research and Digestive Disease Center, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Deok Cho
- Institute for Digestive Research and Digestive Disease Center, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hong Soo Kim
- Institute for Digestive Research and Digestive Disease Center, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joon Seong Lee
- Institute for Digestive Research and Digestive Disease Center, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - So-Young Jin
- Department of Pathology, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chan Sup Shim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Boo Sung Kim
- Institute for Digestive Research and Digestive Disease Center, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Gillibert-Duplantier J, Rullier A, Neaud V, Kisiel W, Rosenbaum J. Liver myofibroblasts activate protein C and respond to activated protein C. World J Gastroenterol 2010; 16:210-6. [PMID: 20066740 PMCID: PMC2806559 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v16.i2.210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To study the protein C activation system in human liver myofibroblasts, and the effects of activated protein C (APC) on these cells.
METHODS: Human liver myofibroblasts were obtained by outgrowth. Expression of protease activated receptor 1 (PAR-1), endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR) and thrombomodulin (TM) was analyzed by flow cytometry. Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 activation was assessed by Western blotting using anti-phospho-ERK antibodies. Collagen synthesis was studied with real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Activation of protein C was studied by incubating liver myofibroblasts with zymogen protein C in the presence of thrombin and detecting the generation of APC with a colorimetric assay using a peptide substrate.
RESULTS: Primary cultures of human liver myofibroblasts expressed EPCR on their surface, together with PAR-1 and TM. This receptor system was functional since exposure of myofibroblasts to APC induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Furthermore, APC significantly upregulated the expression of collagen mRNA, as shown by real-time RT-PCR. Collagen upregulation was controlled through the ERK pathway as it was inhibited when using the mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinase inhibitor PD98059. Finally, using a cell-based colorimetric assay, we showed that intact myofibroblasts converted protein C into APC in the presence of thrombin.
CONCLUSION: These data suggest that APC is a new modulator of liver myofibroblast activity and contributes to the pathophysiology of chronic liver diseases.
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Clària J, Horrillo R, Martínez-Clemente M, Morán-Salvador E, Titos E, González-Périz A, Ferré N. [Basic mechanisms of hepatocellular injury. Role of inflammatory lipid mediators]. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2009; 31:682-92. [PMID: 19174085 DOI: 10.1016/s0210-5705(08)75816-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2008] [Accepted: 03/14/2008] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The presence of a lesion in the cellular parenchyma is common to a large number of chronic liver diseases, such as viral hepatitides, alcoholic hepatitis, chronic cholestasis and steatohepatitis. Although the pathogenesis may vary according to the etiological agent, a series of mechanisms is common to all. Notable among these mechanisms are Kupffer cell activation and inflammatory cell recruitment, free oxygen radical formation and the development of oxidative stress, cytokine production, mainly TNFa and TGFb, and inflammatory mediator release due to arachidonic acid oxidation through the COX-2 and 5-LO pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Clària
- Servicio de Bioquímica y Genética Molecular, Hospital Clínic, Centro de Investigación Biomédica Esther Koplowitz (CIBEK) y CIBER de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), IDIBAPS, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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Rullier A, Gillibert-Duplantier J, Costet P, Cubel G, Haurie V, Petibois C, Taras D, Dugot-Senant N, Deleris G, Bioulac-Sage P, Rosenbaum J. Protease-activated receptor 1 knockout reduces experimentally induced liver fibrosis. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2008; 294:G226-35. [PMID: 17962354 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00444.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Thrombin inhibition protects against liver fibrosis. However, it is not known whether the thrombin profibrogenic effect is due to effects on blood coagulation or to signaling via protease-activated receptors (PARs). We took advantage of the lack of blood coagulation defects in PAR-1-knockout mice. Acute carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4)) toxicity was similar in wild-type (WT), PAR-1(-/-), and PAR-1(+/-) mice as judged by aminotransferase levels, area of liver necrosis, and liver peroxidation measured by Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy. Fifteen mice/group received CCl(4) or its solvent for 6 wk (300 microl/kg, 3 times a week). Fibrosis area was increased 10-fold by CCl(4) treatment in WT mice. PAR-1 deficiency protected against fibrosis, with 36% and 56% decrease in PAR-1(+/-) and PAR-1(-/-) mice, respectively (P < 0.001). Similar results were obtained for area of activated fibrogenic cells (64% and 79% decrease in PAR-1(+/-) and PAR-1(-/-) mice, respectively, P < 0.001). These findings were corroborated by measurements of type I collagen, matrix metalloproteinase-2, and PDGF-beta receptor mRNA levels. There was also a significant decrease in T lymphocyte infiltration in PAR-1-deficient mice. Altogether, these results suggest that thrombin profibrogenic effects are independent of effects on blood coagulation and are instead due to direct effects on fibrogenic cells and possibly on T lymphocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Rullier
- INSERM U889, Université Victor Segalen Bordeaux 2, 146, Rue Léo Saignat, 33076 Bordeaux, France
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Lotersztajn S, Teixeira-Clerc F, Julien B, Deveaux V, Ichigotani Y, Manin S, Tran-Van-Nhieu J, Karsak M, Zimmer A, Mallat A. CB2 receptors as new therapeutic targets for liver diseases. Br J Pharmacol 2007; 153:286-9. [PMID: 17952109 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0707511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid type-1 (CB1) and type-2 (CB2) receptors belong to the family of G protein-coupled receptors and mediate biological effects of phyto-derived and endogenous cannabinoids. Whereas functions of CB1 receptor have been extensively studied, the CB2 receptor has emerged over the last few years as a critical player in regulation of inflammation, pain, atherosclerosis and osteoporosis. Therefore, although still at a preclinical stage, the development of selective CB2 molecules has gained of interest as new targets in drug discovery. Recent data have unravelled a key role of CB2 receptors during chronic and acute liver injury, including fibrogenesis associated to chronic liver diseases, ischaemia-reperfusion-induced liver injury, and hepatic encephalopathy associated to acute liver failure. This review summarizes the latest advances on the recently identified role of CB2 receptors in the pathophysiology of liver diseases.
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Gillibert-Duplantier J, Neaud V, Blanc JF, Bioulac-Sage P, Rosenbaum J. Thrombin inhibits migration of human hepatic myofibroblasts. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2007; 293:G128-36. [PMID: 17379757 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00031.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Several lines of data recently pointed out a role of the serine proteinase thrombin in liver fibrogenesis, but its mechanism of action is unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of thrombin on the migration of human liver myofibroblasts. We show here that thrombin inhibits both basal migration and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB-induced migration of myofibroblasts. By using a thrombin antagonist, a protease-activated receptor (PAR)-1 mimetic peptide, and a PAR-1 antibody, we show that this effect is dependent on the catalytic activity of thrombin and on PAR-1 activation. Thrombin's effect on basal migration was dependent on cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) activation because it was blocked by the COX-2 inhibitors NS-398 and nimesulide, and pharmacological studies showed that it was relayed through prostaglandin E(2) and its EP(2) receptor. On the other hand, thrombin-induced inhibition of PDGF-BB-induced migration was not dependent on COX-2. We show that thrombin inhibits PDGF-induced Akt-1 phosphorylation. This effect was consecutive to inhibition of PDGF-beta receptor activation through active dephosphorylation. Thus thrombin, through two distinct mechanisms, inhibits both basal- and PDGF-BB-induced migration of human hepatic liver myofibroblasts. The fine tuning of myofibroblast migration may be one of the mechanisms used by thrombin to regulate liver fibrogenesis.
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Brown KS, Keogh MJ, Tagiuri N, Grainge MJ, Presanis JS, Ryder SD, Irving WL, Ball JK, Sim RB, Hickling TP. Severe fibrosis in hepatitis C virus-infected patients is associated with increased activity of the mannan-binding lectin (MBL)/MBL-associated serine protease 1 (MASP-1) complex. Clin Exp Immunol 2007; 147:90-8. [PMID: 17177967 PMCID: PMC1810446 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2006.03264.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Mannan-binding lectin (MBL) binds microorganisms via interactions with glycans on the target surface. Bound MBL subsequently activates MBL-associated serine protease proenzymes (MASPs). A role for MBL in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection had been indicated by previous studies examining MBL levels and polymorphisms in relation to disease progression and response to treatment. We undertook this study to investigate a possible relationship between disease progression and functional MBL/MASP-1 complex activity. A functional assay for MBL/MASP-1 complex activity was employed to examine serum samples from patients with chronic HCV infection, non-HCV liver disease and healthy controls. Intrapatient consistency of MBL/MASP-1 complex activity levels was assessed in sequential samples from a subgroup of patients. Median values of MBL/MASP-1 complex activity were higher in sera from patients with liver disease compared with healthy controls. MBL/MASP-1 complex activity levels correlate with severity of fibrosis after adjusting for confounding factors (P = 0.003). MBL/MASP-1 complex activity was associated more significantly with fibrosis than was MBL concentration. The potential role of MBL/MASP-1 complex activity in disease progression is worthy of further study to investigate possible mechanistic links.
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Affiliation(s)
- K S Brown
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, School of Molecular Medical Sciences, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
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Mallat A, Teixeira-Clerc F, Deveaux V, Lotersztajn S. Cannabinoid receptors as new targets of antifibrosing strategies during chronic liver diseases. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2007; 11:403-9. [PMID: 17298297 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.11.3.403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Chronic liver injury exposes the patient to liver fibrosis and its end stage, cirrhosis, is a major public health problem worldwide. In western countries, prevailing causes of cirrhosis include chronic alcohol consumption, hepatitis C virus infection and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Current treatment of hepatic fibrosis is limited to withdrawal of the noxious agent. Nevertheless, suppression of the cause of hepatic injury is not always feasible and numerous efforts are directed at the development of liver-specific antifibrotic therapies. Along these lines, the authors recently demonstrated that the endocannabinoid system shows promise as a novel target for antifibrotic therapy during chronic liver injury. Indeed, cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 promote dual pro- and antifibrogenic effects, respectively. Therefore, endocannabinoid-based therapies, combining CB2 agonists and CB1 antagonists may open novel therapeutic perspectives for the treatment of chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane Mallat
- INSERM, Unité 841, Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale, Université Paris XII-Val de Marne, Créteil, F-94000, France.
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Lotersztajn S, Teixeira-Clerc F, Hezode C, Tran van Nhieu J, Deveaux V, Mallat A. Le système cannabinoïde : perspectives thérapeutiques au cours des hépatopathies chroniques. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 31:255-8. [PMID: 17396081 DOI: 10.1016/s0399-8320(07)89369-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Appetite Depressants/therapeutic use
- Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators/physiology
- Cannabinoids/antagonists & inhibitors
- Chronic Disease
- Disease Models, Animal
- Disease Progression
- Endocannabinoids
- Fatty Liver/prevention & control
- Glycolysis/drug effects
- Hepatitis C, Chronic/complications
- Hepatocytes/drug effects
- Humans
- Hypertension, Portal/drug therapy
- Lipogenesis/drug effects
- Liver/drug effects
- Liver/metabolism
- Liver Cirrhosis/drug therapy
- Liver Cirrhosis/prevention & control
- Liver Diseases/drug therapy
- Obesity/drug therapy
- Piperidines/therapeutic use
- Pyrazoles/therapeutic use
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/physiology
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/physiology
- Rimonabant
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Cao Z, Liu LZ, Dixon DA, Zheng JZ, Chandran B, Jiang BH. Insulin-like growth factor-I induces cyclooxygenase-2 expression via PI3K, MAPK and PKC signaling pathways in human ovarian cancer cells. Cell Signal 2007; 19:1542-53. [PMID: 17341442 PMCID: PMC1995421 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2007.01.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2006] [Revised: 01/25/2007] [Accepted: 01/30/2007] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Elevated levels of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) are associated with ovarian carcinogenesis and progression. However, the molecular mechanisms by which IGF-I contributes to ovarian cancer development remain to be elucidated. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is a crucial player in the pathogenesis of human malignancies. Herein we showed that IGF-I efficiently induced COX-2 expression and PGE(2) biosynthesis at physiologically relevant concentrations in human ovarian cancer cells. IGF-I treatment significantly increased COX-2 transcriptional activation. IGF-I also stabilized COX-2 mRNA through the COX-2 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR), which appeared independent of the conserved AU-rich elements. We next investigated the signaling pathways involved in IGF-I-induced COX-2 expression. We found that PI3K inhibitor wortmannin or LY294002 blocked COX-2 expression induced by IGF-I. Wortmannin treatment or a dominant negative PI3K mutant significantly inhibited IGF-I-induced COX-2 mRNA stabilization, but only slightly decreased COX-2 transcriptional activation. We showed that ERK1/2 and p38 MAPKs were required for IGF-I-induced COX-2 expression and that activation of both pathways by IGF-I increased COX-2 transcriptional activation and its mRNA stability. IGF-I stimulated PKC activation in the cells and pretreatment with PKC inhibitor bisindolylmaleimide prevented IGF-I-induced COX-2 transcriptional activation and mRNA stabilization, and inhibited COX-2 mRNA and protein expression. Taken together, our data demonstrate that IGF-I induces COX-2 expression in human ovarian cancer cells, which is mediated by three parallel signaling cascades--PI3K, MAPK, and PKC pathways that differentially regulate COX-2 expression at transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongxian Cao
- Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506-9300
| | - Ling-Zhi Liu
- Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506-9300
| | - Dan A. Dixon
- Department of Biological Sciences and South Carolina Cancer Center, University of South Carolina, 14 Richland Medical Park Drive, Suite 500, Columbia, SC 29203
| | - Jenny Z. Zheng
- Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506-9300
| | - Bala Chandran
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, 3333 Green Bay Road, North Chicago, IL 60064
| | - Bing-Hua Jiang
- Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506-9300
- #Correspondence should be directed to: B.H. Jiang, e-mail:
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Meng JP, Ceryak S, Aratsu Z, Jones L, Epstein L, Bouscarel B. Biphasic regulation by bile acids of dermal fibroblast proliferation through regulation of cAMP production and COX-2 expression level. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2006; 291:C546-54. [PMID: 16687473 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00011.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
We have previously reported that the bile acids chenodeoxycholate (CDCA) and ursodeoxycholate (UDCA) decreased PGE1-induced cAMP production in a time- and dose-dependent manner not only in hepatocytes but also in nonhepatic cells, including dermal fibroblasts. In the present study, we investigated the physiological relevance of this cAMP modulatory action of bile acids. PGE1 induced cAMP production in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Moreover, PGE1 (1 microM), forskolin (1-10 microM), and the membrane-permeable cAMP analog CPT-cAMP (0.1-10 microM) decreased dermal fibroblast proliferation in a dose-dependent manner with a maximum inhibition of approximately 80%. CDCA alone had no significant effect on cell proliferation at a concentration up to 25 microM. However, CDCA significantly reduced PGE1-induced cAMP production by 80-90% with an EC(50) of approximately 20 microM. Furthermore, at concentrations < or =25 microM, CDCA significantly attenuated the PGE-1-induced decreased cell proliferation. However, at concentrations of 50 microM and above, while still able to almost completely inhibit PGE-1-induced cAMP production, CDCA, at least in part through an increased cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression level and PGE2 synthesis, produced a direct and significant decrease in cell proliferation. Indeed, the CDCA effect was partially blocked by approximately 50-70% by both indomethacin and dexamethasone. In addition, overexpression of COX-2 cDNA wild type resulted in an increased efficacy of CDCA to block cell proliferation. The effects of CDCA on both cAMP production and cell proliferation were similar to those of UDCA and under the same conditions cholate had no effect. Results of the present study underline pathophysiological consequences of cholestatic hepatobiliary disorders, in which cells outside of the enterohepatic circulation can be exposed to elevated bile acid concentrations. Under these conditions, low bile acid concentrations can attenuate the negative hormonal control on cell proliferation, resulting in the stimulation of cell growth, while at high concentrations these bile acids provide for a profound and prolonged inhibition of cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Ping Meng
- Gastroenterology Research Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The George Washington University Medical Center, 2300 I Street NW, 523 Ross Hall, Washington, DC 20037, USA
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Hui AY, Leung WK, Chan HLY, Chan FKL, Go MYY, Chan KK, Tang BD, Chu ESH, Sung JJY. Effect of celecoxib on experimental liver fibrosis in rat. Liver Int 2006; 26:125-36. [PMID: 16420518 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2005.01202.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), an inducible enzyme that catalyzes prostaglandin synthesis, has been implicated in a number of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) functions. In the current study, we assessed the in vivo effect of celecoxib, a COX-2-selective inhibitor, in experimental liver fibrosis in rats. METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats received experimental treatments for 5 weeks. Serum alanine transminase at the time of sacrifice was measured. Quantitative assessment of liver fibrosis was performed by computerized morphometry. Expression of COX-2, alpha smooth muscle actin and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Real-time quantitative PCR was used to determine the expression of genes associated with fibrogenesis and extracellular matrix degradation. RESULTS Liver fibrosis was significantly worse in rats that received both carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and celecoxib, compared with rats that received CCl4 and gavage of water (P = 0.037). There was also more HSC activation, and upregulation of collagen alpha1(I), heat-shock protein 47, alphaB crystallin, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, MMP-9 and tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP)-2. The expression of TIMP-1 and CTGF was not significantly different between the two groups. The pro-fibrogenic effect of celecoxib in toxin-induced liver fibrosis in rats was further confirmed in thioacetamide model of liver injury. CONCLUSIONS Celecoxib potentiates experimental liver fibrosis; further studies are warranted to investigate the potential pro-fibrogenic effect of celecoxib in other animal models of liver fibrosis and in patients with chronic hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Yui Hui
- Department of Medicine & Therapeutics, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
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Yao J, Kitamura M, Zhu Y, Meng Y, Kasai A, Hiramatsu N, Morioka T, Takeda M, Oite T. Synergistic effects of PDGF-BB and cAMP-elevating agents on expression of connexin43 in mesangial cells. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2005; 290:F1083-93. [PMID: 16263806 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00134.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The gap junction plays an important role in the regulation of cell growth, migration, and differentiation. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is reported to be a potent inhibitor of gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC). Short-term exposure of cells to PDGF causes rapid and transient disruption of GJIC without altering connexin43 (Cx43) protein level. In this study, we investigated long-term effects of PDGF-BB on Cx43 expression in mesangial cells (MCs). Exposure of MCs to PDGF-BB affected neither the Cx43 protein level nor GJIC. However, in the presence of cAMP-elevating agents, PDGF-BB dramatically increased the expression of Cx43, which was accompanied by obviously augmented membrane distribution of Cx43 and functional GJIC. The increased expression of Cx43 was closely correlated with reduction in alpha-actin, a dedifferentiation marker of MCs. The effect of PDGF on Cx43 was largely prevented by inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol 3'-kinase or mitogen-activated protein kinase, but not by inhibition of protein kinase C. Exposure of MCs to PDGF-BB caused elevation in intracellular cAMP, and it was abolished by indomethacin, a cyclooxygenase inhibitor. However, indomethacin did not affect the synergistic effect. In addition, PDGF-BB also did not affect the degradation of Cx43. With the use of MCs transfected with a Cx43 promoter-luciferase vector, cooperative activation of Cx43 promoter by PDGF and cAMP was found. Together, our data reveal, for the first time, unexpected synergy between PDGF-BB and cAMP-elevating agents in the induction of Cx43 and MC differentiation. Regulation of GJIC could be an important mechanism via which PDGF modulates MC phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Yao
- Dept. of Molecular Signaling, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine and Engineering, Univ. of Yamanashi, Tamaho, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan.
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Charbeneau RP, Peters-Golden M. Eicosanoids: mediators and therapeutic targets in fibrotic lung disease. Clin Sci (Lond) 2005; 108:479-91. [PMID: 15896193 DOI: 10.1042/cs20050012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a common end-stage sequella of a number of acute and chronic lung diseases. Current concepts of pathogenesis implicate dysregulated interactions between epithelial cells and mesenchymal cells. Although investigative efforts have documented important roles for cytokines and growth factors in the pathogenesis of fibrotic lung diseases, these observations have not as yet been translated into efficacious therapies, and there is a pressing need for new pathogenetic insights and therapeutic approaches for these devastating disorders. Eicosanoids are lipid mediators derived from arachidonic acid, the most studied of which are the prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Although they are primarily known for their roles in asthma, pain, fever and vascular responses, present evidence indicates that eicosanoids exert relevant effects on immune/inflammatory, as well as structural, cells pertinent to fibrogenesis. In general, leukotrienes promote, whereas prostaglandin E(2) opposes, fibrogenic responses. An imbalance of eicosanoids also exists in pulmonary fibrosis, which favours the production of leukotrienes over prostaglandin E(2). This review highlights the role of this imbalance in the evolution of fibrotic lung disease, discusses the mechanisms by which it may arise and considers approaches for therapeutic targeting of eicosanoids in these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan P Charbeneau
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0642, USA
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Sancho-Bru P, Bataller R, Gasull X, Colmenero J, Khurdayan V, Gual A, Nicolás JM, Arroyo V, Ginès P. Genomic and functional characterization of stellate cells isolated from human cirrhotic livers. J Hepatol 2005; 43:272-82. [PMID: 15964095 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2005.02.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2004] [Revised: 01/17/2005] [Accepted: 02/23/2005] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are believed to participate in liver fibrogenesis and portal hypertension. Knowledge on human HSCs is based on studies using HSCs isolated from normal livers. We investigated the phenotypic, genomic and functional characteristics of HSCs from human cirrhotic livers. METHODS HSC were obtained from normal and cirrhotic human livers. Cells were characterized by immunocytochemistry and gene microarray analysis. Cell proliferation, Ca(2+) changes and cell contraction were assessed by 3H-thymidine incorporation and by using an epifluorescence microscope. RESULTS HSCs freshly isolated from human cirrhotic livers showed phenotypical features of myofibroblasts. These features were absent in HSCs freshly isolated from normal human livers and become prominent after prolonged culture. HSCs from cirrhotic human livers markedly express genes involved in fibrogensis, inflammation and apoptosis. HSCs from normal livers after prolonged culture preferntially expressed genes related to fibrogenesis and contractility. Agonists induced proliferation, Ca(2+) increase and cell contraction in HSCs isolated from human cirrhotic livers. Response to agonists was more marked in culture-activated HSCs and was not observed in HSCs freshly isolated from normal livers. CONCLUSIONS HSCs from human cirrhotic livers show fibrogenic and contractile features. However, the current model of HSCs activated in culture does not exactly reproduce the activated phenotype found in cirrhotic human livers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pau Sancho-Bru
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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Lotersztajn S, Julien B, Teixeira-Clerc F, Grenard P, Mallat A. Hepatic fibrosis: molecular mechanisms and drug targets. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2005; 45:605-28. [PMID: 15471534 DOI: 10.1146/annurev.pharmtox.45.120403.095906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 235] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the common response to chronic liver injury, ultimately leading to cirrhosis and its complications, portal hypertension, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Efficient and well-tolerated antifibrotic drugs are currently lacking, and current treatment of hepatic fibrosis is limited to withdrawal of the noxious agent. Efforts over the past decade have mainly focused on fibrogenic cells generating the scarring response, although promising data on inhibition of parenchymal injury and/or reduction of liver inflammation have also been obtained. A large number of approaches have been validated in culture studies and in animal models, and several clinical trials are underway or anticipated for a growing number of molecules. This review highlights recent advances in the molecular mechanisms of liver fibrosis and discusses mechanistically based strategies that have recently emerged.
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Treffkorn L, Scheibe R, Maruyama T, Dieter P. PGE2 exerts its effect on the LPS-induced release of TNF-alpha, ET-1, IL-1alpha, IL-6 and IL-10 via the EP2 and EP4 receptor in rat liver macrophages. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2005; 74:113-23. [PMID: 15560120 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2004.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces a release of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, endothelin (ET)-1, interleukin (IL)-1alpha, IL-6 and IL-10 in rat liver macrophages (Kupffer cells). Prostaglandin (PG)E2 inhibits the release of the fibrogenic mediators TNF-alpha, ET-1 and IL-1alpha, and enhances the release of the anti-fibrogenic mediators IL-6 and IL-10. This effect of PGE2 is mimicked by specific agonists for the PGE2 receptors EP2 and EP4; whereas, agonists for the PGE2 receptors EP1 and EP3 are inactive. Rat liver macrophages express mRNA encoding the PGE2 receptors EP2 and EP4 but not the PGE2 receptors EP1 and EP3. These data suggest that PGE2 exerts its anti-fibrogenic effect through the EP2 and EP4 receptor by inhibiting the release of the fibrogenic mediators TNF-alpha, ET-1 and IL-1alpha, and by enhancing the release of the anti-fibrogenic mediators IL-6 and IL-10 in liver macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Treffkorn
- Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Technical University of Dresden, Fiedlerstrasse 42, D-01307 Dresden, Germany
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Kim DI, Lee TK, Jang TH, Kim CH. The inhibitory effect of a Korean herbal medicine, Zedoariae rhizoma, on growth of cultured human hepatic myofibroblast cells. Life Sci 2005; 77:890-906. [PMID: 15964308 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2005.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2004] [Accepted: 01/05/2005] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the effect of ZR on the growth of cultured human hepatic myofibroblast cells (hMF). The zedoary (Zedoariae Rhizoma) made from the dried rhizome of Curcuma zedoaria Roscoe is an herbal drug used as an aromatic stomachic. The plant is a perennial herb which is natively distributed throughout Korea and is a traditional Korean herbal medicine. Zedoariae rhizoma is a bioactive traditional medicine with anti-tumor, anti-atherosclerosis, anti-inflammation, and growth-regulating properties. During the course of liver fibrogenesis, hMF, mostly derived from hepatic stellate cells, proliferate and synthesize excessive amounts of extracellular matrix components. To evaluate the antiproliferative effect of a traditional herbal medicine, Zedoariae rhizoma water extracts (ZR) was examined on the growth inhibition of hMF since proliferation of hMF is known to be central for the development of fibrosis during liver injury, and factors that may limit their growth are potential antifibrotic agents. The aim of this study was to test the effects of ZR on the proliferation in cultured hMF. hMF were obtained by outgrowth from human liver explants. ZR markedly reduced serum driven cell proliferation, as assessed by nuclear autoradiography experiments and measurement of actual cell growth. Growth inhibition was totally reversed after removal of the ZR. ZR potently inhibited hMF growth (IC50 = 8.5 microg/ml), in a pertussis toxin-insensitive manner. Analysis of the mechanisms involved in growth inhibition revealed that ZR rapidly increased prostaglandin E2 production and in turn cAMP, which inhibited hMF proliferation, did not affect cAMP levels. Production of cAMP by ZR was abolished by NS-398, a selective inhibitor of cycloxygenase (COX)-2. Also, ZR potently induced COX-2 protein expression. Blocking COX-2 by NS-398 blunted the antiproliferative effect of ZR. We conclude that ZR inhibits proliferation of hMF, probably via an intracellular mechanism, through early COX-2-dependent release of prostaglandin E2 and cAMP, and delayed COX-2 induction. Our results indicated a novel role for ZR as a growth inhibitory mediator and pointed out its potential involvement in the negative regulation of liver fibrogenesis. The results that ZR exhibits potent antiproliferative and antifibrogenic effects toward hMF, indicated that ZR might have therapeutic implications in chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Il Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Gynecology, Dongguk University College of Oriental Medicine, and National Research Laboratory for Glycobiology, Kyungju, Kyungbuk 780-714, Korea
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Park SD, Jung JH, Lee HW, Kwon YM, Chung KH, Kim MG, Kim CH. Zedoariae rhizoma and curcumin inhibits platelet-derived growth factor-induced proliferation of human hepatic myofibroblasts. Int Immunopharmacol 2005; 5:555-69. [PMID: 15683851 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2004.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2004] [Revised: 10/27/2004] [Accepted: 11/01/2004] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
During the course of liver fibrogenesis, hepatic myofibroblast cells (hMF), mostly derived from hepatic stellate cells (HSC), proliferate and synthesize excessive amounts of extracellular matrix (ECM) components. To evaluate the antiproliferative effect of a traditional herbal medicine, Zedoariae rhizoma water extracts (ZR) was examined on the growth inhibition of human hMF since proliferation of hMF is known to be central for the development of fibrosis during liver injury, and factors that may limit their growth are potential antifibrotic agents. The aim of this study was to test the effects of ZR on the proliferation and to clarify the molecular mechanisms of ZR inhibition of HSC proliferation in cultured human hMF. The cells were stimulated by platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB in the presence or absence of ZR. Proliferation was determined by bromodeoxy-uridine (BrdU) incorporation. The mRNA expressions of collagen alpha1(I) and (IV) were evaluated by a quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). PDGF-receptor tyrosine phosphorylation was detected using anti-phosphotyrosine antibody. PDGF-receptor radioligand binding assay was performed by [125I]PDGF-BB. ZR inhibited the PDGF-BB-induced cell-proliferation and collagen alpha1(I) and (IV) mRNA expressions. ZR reduced the autophosphorylation of the PDGF-receptor. ZR blocked PDGF-BB binding to its receptor in a non-competitive manner. Furthermore, the 80% aqueous acetone extract of ZR was also found to show a decreasing effect against the proportion of S phase cells after PDGF stimulation. To clarify the active compounds, the principal constituents of seven sesquiterpenes (curdione, dehydrocurdione, germacrone, curcumenol, isocurcumenol, zedoarondiol and curcumenone) and a diarylheptanoid (curcumin) were examined. Among them, curcumin was found to decrease the proportion of S phase cells after PDGF stimulation at a dose of 30-50 microM. Potent antiproliferative and antifibrogenic effects of ZR toward hMF indicated that ZR might have therapeutic implications in chronic liver disease, indicating a novel role for ZR as a growth inhibitory mediator and pointing out its potential involvement in the negative regulation of liver fibrogenesis. In conclusion, ZR has an inhibitory effect on PDGF-induced proliferation of hMF and the blocking of PDGF-BB binding to its receptor may be the mechanism behind this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Dong Park
- Department of Herbal Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dongguk University College of Oriental Medicine and National Research Laboratory for Glycobiology, Sukjang-Dong 707, Kyungju City, Kyungbuk 780-714, Korea
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Julien B, Grenard P, Teixeira-Clerc F, Van Nhieu JT, Li L, Karsak M, Zimmer A, Mallat A, Lotersztajn S. Antifibrogenic role of the cannabinoid receptor CB2 in the liver. Gastroenterology 2005; 128:742-55. [PMID: 15765409 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2004.12.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 363] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatic myofibroblasts are central for the development of liver fibrosis associated with chronic liver diseases, and blocking their accumulation may prevent fibrogenesis. Cannabinoids are the active components of marijuana and act via 2 G-protein-coupled receptors, CB1 and CB2. Here, we investigated whether liver fibrogenic cells are a target of cannabinoids. METHODS CB2 receptors were characterized in biopsy specimens of normal human liver and active cirrhosis by immunohistochemistry, and in cultures of hepatic stellate cells and hepatic myofibroblasts by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), immunocytochemistry, and GTPgammaS assays. Functional studies were performed in cultured hepatic myofibroblasts and activated hepatic stellate cells. Carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis was studied in mice invalidated for CB2 receptors. RESULTS In liver biopsy specimens from patients with active cirrhosis of various etiologies, CB2 receptors were expressed in nonparenchymal cells located within and at the edge of fibrous septa in smooth muscle alpha-actin-positive cells. In contrast, CB2 receptors were not detected in normal human liver. CB2 receptors were also detected in cultured hepatic myofibroblasts and in activated hepatic stellate cells. Their activation triggered potent antifibrogenic effects, namely, growth inhibition and apoptosis. Growth inhibition involved cyclooxygenase-2, and apoptosis resulted from oxidative stress. Finally, mice invalidated for CB2 receptors developed enhanced liver fibrosis following chronic carbon tetrachloride treatment as compared with wild-type mice. CONCLUSIONS These data constitute the first demonstration that CB2 receptors are highly up-regulated in the cirrhotic liver, predominantly in hepatic fibrogenic cells. Moreover, this study also highlights the antifibrogenic role of CB2 receptors during chronic liver injury.
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Abstract
Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) isoforms play a major role in stimulating the replication, survival, and migration of myofibroblasts during the pathogenesis of fibrotic diseases. During fibrogenesis, PDGF is secreted by a variety of cell types as a response to injury, and many pro-inflammatory cytokines mediate their mitogenic effects via the autocrine release of PDGF. PDGF action is determined by the relative expression of PDGF alpha-receptors (PDGFRalpha) and beta-receptors (PDGFRbeta) on the surface of myofibroblasts. These receptors are induced during fibrogenesis, thereby amplifying biological responses to PDGF isoforms. PDGF action is also modulated by extracellular binding proteins and matrix molecules. This review summarizes the literature on the role of PDGF and its receptors in the development of fibrosis in a variety of organ systems, including lung, liver, kidney, and skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- James C Bonner
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
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Hui AY, Cheng ASL, Chan HLY, Go MYY, Chan FKL, Sakata R, Ueno T, Sata M, Sung JJY. Effect of prostaglandin E2 and prostaglandin I2 on PDGF-induced proliferation of LI90, a human hepatic stellate cell line. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2004; 71:329-33. [PMID: 15380820 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2004.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2003] [Accepted: 04/26/2004] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) are central to liver fibrosis. The eicosanoid pathway and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) may be an important signaling mechanism in HSC. We investigated the role of COX-2, prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) and prostaglandin I(2) (PGI(2)) in proliferation of LI90, an immortalized cell line of HSC. Our results showed that COX-2 was upregulated by platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), a mitogen in HSC. COX-2 was responsible for the production of PGE(2) and PGI(2) in PDGF-stimulated LI90 cells. Furthermore, we demonstrated that COX-2 and PGE(2) mediated the proliferative response of LI90 to PDGF while synthetic analogue of PGI(2) exhibited anti-proliferative effect. Our findings suggest complex interactions of prostaglandins in liver fibrogenesis. In vivo studies using animal models are needed to elucidate the effect of COX-2 inhibition by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or COX-2 inhibitor in hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Yui Hui
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.
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Cardoso CCA, Paviani ER, Cruz LA, Guma FCR, Borojevic R, Guaragna RM. Effect of pentoxifylline on arachidonic acid metabolism, neutral lipid synthesis and accumulation during induction of the lipocyte phenotype by retinol in murine hepatic stellate cell. Mol Cell Biochem 2004; 254:37-46. [PMID: 14674680 DOI: 10.1023/a:1027356412399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In liver fibrosis, the quiescent hepatic stellate cells (HSC) are activated to proliferate and express the activated myofibroblast phenotype, losing fat droplets and the stored vitamin A, and depositing more extracellular matrix. Therapeutic strategies for liver fibrosis are focused on HSC. Pentoxifylline (PTF), an analog of the methylxanthine, prevents the biochemical and histological changes associated with animal liver fibrosis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the phenotypic change of myofibroblasts into quiescent lipocytes by PTF and/or retinol, using a permanent cell line GRX that represents murine HSC. We studied the action of both drugs on the synthesis of neutral lipids, activity of phospholipase A2 (PLA2), release of arachidonic acid (AA) and prostaglandins synthesis. Accumulation and synthesis of neutral lipids was dependent upon association of retinol with PTF. PTF (0.5 mg/mL) alone did not induce lipid accumulation and synthesis, but in cells induced by physiologic concentration of retinol (1-2.5 microM), it increased the quantity of stored lipids. Retinol and PTF (5 microM and 0.1 mg/mL, respectively) had a synergistic effect on neutral lipid synthesis and accumulation. In higher PTF concentrations (0.5 and 0.7 mg/ml), the synthesis was stimulated but accumulation decreased. Membrane-associated PLA2 activity decreased after PTF treatment, which increased the AA release 8 fold, and significantly increased the production of PGE2, but not of PGF2. However, when in presence of retinol, we observed a slightly higher increase in PGE2 and PGF2a production. In conclusion, PTF treatment generated an excess of free AA. We propose that retinol counteracts the action of PTF on the AA release and PGs production, even though both drugs stimulated the lipocyte induction in the HSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla C A Cardoso
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
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Hui AY, Dannenberg AJ, Sung JJY, Subbaramaiah K, Du B, Olinga P, Friedman SL. Prostaglandin E2 inhibits transforming growth factor beta 1-mediated induction of collagen alpha 1(I) in hepatic stellate cells. J Hepatol 2004; 41:251-8. [PMID: 15288474 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2004.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2003] [Revised: 03/28/2004] [Accepted: 04/27/2004] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) has been implicated in a number of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) functions but its relationship to transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta 1)-mediated fibrogenesis is unknown. We assessed the impact of COX-2 inhibition and PGE(2) on the regulation of TGF-beta 1-stimulated matrix synthesis in an immortalized human HSC line, LX-1 and corroborated these findings in primary stellate cells. METHODS Expression of COX-2 was assessed by Western blotting and real time quantitative PCR. The effect of NS398, a selective COX-2 inhibitor, and PGE(2) on TGF-beta 1-mediated fibrogenesis was examined by measuring mRNA levels of collagen alpha1(I). PGE(2) receptor expression was analyzed by RT-PCR. RESULTS Under basal conditions, NS398 suppressed PGE(2) synthesis and induced collagen alpha 1(I) whereas exogenous PGE(2) suppressed expression of collagen alpha1(I). TGF-beta 1 induced COX-2 mRNA, COX-2 protein and PGE(2) biosynthesis. Importantly, TGF-beta 1-mediated induction of collagen alpha 1(I) was markedly suppressed by the addition of exogenous PGE(2). All four major PGE(2) receptors were expressed in LX-1 cells. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that COX-2-derived PGE(2) inhibits both basal and TGF-beta 1-mediated induction of collagen synthesis by HSC. Based on these findings, it will be important to determine whether inhibiting COX-derived PGE(2) synthesis alters the progression of liver fibrosis in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Y Hui
- Division of Liver Diseases, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY 10029, USA
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da Silva FM, Guimarães ELM, Grivicich I, Trindade VMT, Guaragna RM, Borojevic R, Guma FCR. Hepatic stellate cell activation in vitro: cell cycle arrest at G2/M and modification of cell motility. J Cell Biochem 2004; 90:387-96. [PMID: 14505354 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.10642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a common response to chronic liver injury and is characterized by increased production of extracellular matrix components, whose major part is produced by hepatic stellate cells activated by inflammatory mediators to proliferate and migrate into the injured regions. GRX cells are a model of hepatic stellate cells characterized as myofibroblasts by morphological and biochemical criteria. We have recently shown that they respond to inflammatory mediators and cytokines present in the concanavalin A-activated spleen cell supernatant (SCS) by quantitative changes in the expression of intermediate filaments. The present study investigated the effects of SCS and TNF-alpha on the GRX cell proliferation and on the organization of the actin cytoskeleton. SCS and TNF-alpha diminished the culture cell density, with an increase of cell [(3)H]thymidine incorporation and of cellular protein content, indicating an arrest in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle, which was reversible 48 h after removal of SCS. This effect was abrogated by dibutiryl-cAMP. Actin cytoskeleton reorganization was observed after 24 h treatment, indicating increased cell motility. Our results suggest that inflammation-dependent activation of stellate cells occurs in ordered interaction and coordination of proinflammatory agents. The increase of cAMP levels activates the conversion of lipocytes into myofibroblasts and increases the number of cells that can participate in repair. Since cAMP retains cells in the G1 phase, cytokines of the TNF-alpha group are required for cell proliferation inducing the entry into the S phase. The progression through the G2/M checkpoint is mediated again by increased cAMP levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana M da Silva
- Departamento de Bioquímica, ICBS, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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