1
|
Chow MD, Otersen K, Wassef A, Kong B, Yamarthy S, Rizzolo D, Yang I, Buckley B, Lu A, Crook N, Lee M, Gao J, Naganand S, Stofan MF, Armstrong L, Schumacher J, Taylor R, Henry Z, Basaly V, Yang Z, Zhang M, Huang M, Kagan L, Brunetti L, Sadek R, Lee YH, Guo GL. Effects of intestine-specific deletion of FGF15 on the development of fatty liver disease with vertical sleeve gastrectomy. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0444. [PMID: 38780301 PMCID: PMC11124683 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vertical sleeve gastrectomy (SGx) is a type of bariatric surgery to treat morbid obesity and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The molecular mechanisms of SGx to improve MASLD are unclear, but increased bile acids (BAs) and FGF19 (mouse FGF15) were observed. FGF15/19 is expressed in the ileum in response to BAs and is critical in not only suppressing BA synthesis in the liver but also promoting energy expenditure. We hypothesized the reduction of obesity and resolution of MASLD by SGx may be mediated by FGF15/19. METHODS First, we conducted hepatic gene expression analysis in obese patients undergoing SGx, with the results showing increased expression of FGF19 in obese patients' livers. Next, we used wild-type and intestine-specific Fgf15 knockout mice (Fgf15ile-/-) to determine the effects of FGF15 deficiency on improving the metabolic effects. RESULTS SGx improved metabolic endpoints in both genotypes, evidenced by decreased obesity, improved glucose tolerance, and reduced MASLD progression. However, Fgf15ile-/- mice showed better improvement compared to wild-type mice after SGx, suggesting that other mediators than FGF15 are also responsible for the beneficial effects of FGF15 deficiency. Further gene expression analysis in brown adipose tissue suggests increased thermogenesis. CONCLUSIONS FGF15 deficiency, the larger BA pool and higher levels of secondary BAs may increase energy expenditure in extrahepatic tissues, which may be responsible for improved metabolic functions following SGx.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica D. Chow
- Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical Center School, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Katherine Otersen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Andrew Wassef
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy-Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Center of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Translational Research and Education, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Center of Excellence for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, Robert Wood Johnson Barnabas University Hospital, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
- Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics of NJ, Somerset, New Jersey, USA
| | - Bo Kong
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Sowmya Yamarthy
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Daniel Rizzolo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Ill Yang
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Brian Buckley
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Alexander Lu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Naomi Crook
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Matthew Lee
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Judy Gao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Sareena Naganand
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Mary F. Stofan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Laura Armstrong
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Justin Schumacher
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Rulaiha Taylor
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Zakiyah Henry
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Veronia Basaly
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Zhenning Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Min Zhang
- Children’s Liver Disease Center, 302 Military Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Mingxing Huang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University (SYSU), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Leonid Kagan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy-Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Center of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Translational Research and Education, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Luigi Brunetti
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy-Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Center of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Translational Research and Education, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Ragui Sadek
- Center of Excellence for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, Robert Wood Johnson Barnabas University Hospital, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
- Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics of NJ, Somerset, New Jersey, USA
| | - Yi-Horng Lee
- Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical Center School, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Grace L. Guo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, New Jersey, USA
- Rutgers Center for Lipid Research, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Taylor R, Yang Z, Henry Z, Capece G, Meadows V, Otersen K, Basaly V, Bhattacharya A, Mera S, Zhou P, Joseph L, Yang I, Brinker A, Buckley B, Kong B, Guo GL. Characterization of individual bile acids in vivo utilizing a novel low bile acid mouse model. Toxicol Sci 2024; 199:316-331. [PMID: 38526215 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfae029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Bile acids (BAs) are signaling molecules synthesized in the liver initially by CYP7A1 and CYP27A1 in the classical and alternative pathways, respectively. BAs are essential for cholesterol clearance, intestinal absorption of lipids, and endogenous modulators of farnesoid x receptor (FXR). FXR is critical in maintaining BA homeostasis and gut-liver crosstalk. Complex reactions in vivo and the lack of suitable animal models impede our understanding of the functions of individual BAs. In this study, we characterized the in vivo effects of three-day feeding of cholic acid (CA), deoxycholic acid (DCA), or ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) at physiological/non-hepatotoxic concentrations in a novel low-BA mouse model (Cyp7a1-/-/Cyp27a1-/-, DKO). Liver injury, BA levels and composition and BA signaling by the FXR-fibroblast growth factor 15 (FGF15) axis were determined. Overall, higher basal inflammation and altered lipid metabolism in DKO mice might be associated with low BAs. CA, DCA, and UDCA feeding activated FXR signals with tissue specificity. Dietary CA and DCA similarly altered tissue BA profiles to be less hydrophobic, while UDCA promoted a more hydrophobic tissue BA pool with the profiles shifted toward non-12α-OH BAs and secondary BAs. However, UDCA did not offer any overt protective effects as expected. These findings allow us to determine the precise effects of individual BAs in vivo on BA-FXR signaling and overall BA homeostasis in liver physiology and pathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rulaiha Taylor
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Rutgers Center for Lipid Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, USA
| | - Zhenning Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Rutgers Center for Lipid Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, USA
| | - Zakiyah Henry
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Rutgers Center for Lipid Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, USA
| | - Gina Capece
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Rutgers Center for Lipid Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, USA
| | - Vik Meadows
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Rutgers Center for Lipid Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, USA
| | - Katherine Otersen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Rutgers Center for Lipid Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, USA
| | - Veronia Basaly
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Rutgers Center for Lipid Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, USA
| | - Anisha Bhattacharya
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
| | - Stephanie Mera
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
| | - Peihong Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
| | - Laurie Joseph
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Rutgers Center for Lipid Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, USA
| | - Ill Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
| | - Anita Brinker
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
| | - Brian Buckley
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
| | - Bo Kong
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Rutgers Center for Lipid Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, USA
| | - Grace L Guo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Rutgers Center for Lipid Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, USA
- Veterans Administration Medical Center, VA New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, New Jersey 07017, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lu H. Inflammatory liver diseases and susceptibility to sepsis. Clin Sci (Lond) 2024; 138:435-487. [PMID: 38571396 DOI: 10.1042/cs20230522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Patients with inflammatory liver diseases, particularly alcohol-associated liver disease and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), have higher incidence of infections and mortality rate due to sepsis. The current focus in the development of drugs for MAFLD is the resolution of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and prevention of progression to cirrhosis. In patients with cirrhosis or alcoholic hepatitis, sepsis is a major cause of death. As the metabolic center and a key immune tissue, liver is the guardian, modifier, and target of sepsis. Septic patients with liver dysfunction have the highest mortality rate compared with other organ dysfunctions. In addition to maintaining metabolic homeostasis, the liver produces and secretes hepatokines and acute phase proteins (APPs) essential in tissue protection, immunomodulation, and coagulation. Inflammatory liver diseases cause profound metabolic disorder and impairment of energy metabolism, liver regeneration, and production/secretion of APPs and hepatokines. Herein, the author reviews the roles of (1) disorders in the metabolism of glucose, fatty acids, ketone bodies, and amino acids as well as the clearance of ammonia and lactate in the pathogenesis of inflammatory liver diseases and sepsis; (2) cytokines/chemokines in inflammatory liver diseases and sepsis; (3) APPs and hepatokines in the protection against tissue injury and infections; and (4) major nuclear receptors/signaling pathways underlying the metabolic disorders and tissue injuries as well as the major drug targets for inflammatory liver diseases and sepsis. Approaches that focus on the liver dysfunction and regeneration will not only treat inflammatory liver diseases but also prevent the development of severe infections and sepsis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong Lu
- Department of Pharmacology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, U.S.A
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Moon AN, Briand F, Breyner N, Song DK, Madsen MR, Kim H, Choi K, Lee Y, Namkung W. Improvement of NASH and liver fibrosis through modulation of the gut-liver axis by a novel intestinal FXR agonist. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 173:116331. [PMID: 38428307 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) plays a pivotal role in the regulation of bile acid homeostasis and is involved in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Although FXR agonists effectively alleviate pathological features of NASH, adverse effects such as disturbance of cholesterol homeostasis and occurrence of pruritus remain to be addressed. Here, we identified a novel FXR agonist, ID119031166 (ID166), and explored the pharmacological benefits of ID166 in the treatment of NASH. ID166, a potent and selective non-bile acid FXR agonist, exhibits preferential distribution in the intestine and shows no agonist activity against potential itch receptors including Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor X4 (MRGPRX4). Interestingly, ID166 significantly attenuated total nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) activity and liver fibrosis in a free choice diet-induced NASH hamster model. In addition, ID166 drastically modulated the relative abundance of five gut microbes and reduced the increase in plasma total bile acid levels to normal levels in NASH hamsters. Moreover, long-term treatment with ID166 significantly improved key histological features of NASH and liver fibrosis in a diet-induced NASH mouse model. In the NASH mouse livers, RNA-seq analysis revealed that ID166 reduced the gene expression changes associated with both NASH and liver fibrosis. Notably, ID166 exhibited no substantial effects on scratching behavior and serum IL-31 levels in mice. Our findings suggest that ID166, a novel FXR agonist with improved pharmacological properties, provides a preclinical basis to optimize clinical benefits for NASH drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- An-Na Moon
- College of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Yonsei University, 85 Songdogwahak-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21983, South Korea; iLeadBMS Co., Ltd., 614 Dongtangiheung-ro, Hwaseong-si 18469, South Korea
| | - François Briand
- Physiogenex, 280 rue de l'Hers, ZAC de la Masquère, Escalquens 31750, France
| | - Natalia Breyner
- Physiogenex, 280 rue de l'Hers, ZAC de la Masquère, Escalquens 31750, France
| | - Dong-Keun Song
- iLeadBMS Co., Ltd., 614 Dongtangiheung-ro, Hwaseong-si 18469, South Korea
| | | | - Hongbin Kim
- KINS, Korean Institute of Nonclinical Study, 172 Dolma-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do 13505, South Korea
| | - Keonwoo Choi
- KINS, Korean Institute of Nonclinical Study, 172 Dolma-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do 13505, South Korea
| | - Yoonsuk Lee
- iLeadBMS Co., Ltd., 614 Dongtangiheung-ro, Hwaseong-si 18469, South Korea.
| | - Wan Namkung
- College of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Yonsei University, 85 Songdogwahak-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21983, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wang Y, Yu H, Cen Z, Zhu Y, Wu W. Drug targets regulate systemic metabolism and provide new horizons to treat nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Metabol Open 2024; 21:100267. [PMID: 38187470 PMCID: PMC10770762 DOI: 10.1016/j.metop.2023.100267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), is the advanced stage of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) with rapidly rising global prevalence. It is featured with severe hepatocyte apoptosis, inflammation and hepatic lipogenesis. The drugs directly targeting the processes of steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis are currently under clinical investigation. Nevertheless, the long-term ineffectiveness and remarkable adverse effects are well documented, and new concepts are required to tackle with the root causes of NASH progression. We critically assess the recently validated drug targets that regulate the systemic metabolism to ameliorate NASH. Thermogenesis promoted by mitochondrial uncouplers restores systemic energy expenditure. Furthermore, regulation of mitochondrial proteases and proteins that are pivotal for intracellular metabolic homeostasis normalize mitochondrial function. Secreted proteins also improve systemic metabolism, and NASH is ameliorated by agonizing receptors of secreted proteins with small molecules. We analyze the drug design, the advantages and shortcomings of these novel drug candidates. Meanwhile, the structural modification of current NASH therapeutics significantly increased their selectivity, efficacy and safety. Furthermore, the arising CRISPR-Cas9 screen strategy on liver organoids has enabled the identification of new genes that mediate lipid metabolism, which may serve as promising drug targets. In summary, this article discusses the in-depth novel mechanisms and the multidisciplinary approaches, and they provide new horizons to treat NASH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yibing Wang
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, 200438, China
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Exercise and Metabolic Health, China
| | - Hanhan Yu
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Zhipeng Cen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
- Nanhai Translational Innovation Center of Precision Immunology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Foshan, 528200, China
| | - Yutong Zhu
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Wenyi Wu
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, 200438, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kei N, Cheung KK, Ma KL, Yau TK, Lauw S, Wong VWS, You L, Cheung PCK. Effects of Oat β-Glucan and Inulin on Alleviation of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Aggravated by Circadian Disruption in C57BL/6J Mice. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:3520-3535. [PMID: 38333950 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c08028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
This was the first study that examined the effects of oat β-glucan and inulin on diet-induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in circadian-disrupted (CD)-male C57BL/6J mice. CD intensified NASH, significantly increasing alanine aminotransferase and upregulating hepatic tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and transforming growth factor β 1 (TGFβ1). However, these observations were significantly alleviated by oat β-glucan and inulin treatments. Compared to CD NASH mice, oat β-glucan significantly decreased the liver index, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and insulin. In prebiotic-treated and CD NASH mice, significant negative correlations were found between enrichment of Muribaculaceae bacterium Isolate-036 (Harlan), Muribaculaceae bacterium Isolate-001 (NCI), and Bacteroides ovatus after oat β-glucan supplementation with TNFα and TGFβ1 levels; and enrichment of Muribaculaceae bacterium Isolate-110 (HZI) after inulin supplementation with AST level. In conclusion, oat β-glucan and inulin exhibited similar antiliver injury, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic activities but had no effect on cecal short-chain fatty acids and gut microbiota diversity in CD NASH mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nelson Kei
- Food and Nutritional Sciences Program, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kam Kuen Cheung
- Food and Nutritional Sciences Program, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Food Research Centre, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR , China
| | - Ka Lee Ma
- Food and Nutritional Sciences Program, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tsz Kwan Yau
- Cell and Molecular Biology Program, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Susana Lauw
- Food and Nutritional Sciences Program, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Food Research Centre, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR , China
| | - Vincent Wai Sun Wong
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Lijun You
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Peter Chi Keung Cheung
- Food and Nutritional Sciences Program, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Food Research Centre, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR , China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chen C, Zhang B, Tu J, Peng Y, Zhou Y, Yang X, Yu Q, Tan X. Discovery of 4-aminophenylacetamide derivatives as intestine-specific farnesoid X receptor antagonists for the potential treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 264:115992. [PMID: 38043493 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) plays a key role in bile acid homeostasis, inflammation, fibrosis, lipid and glucose metabolism and is emerging as a promising therapeutic target for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Emerging evidence suggested that intestine-specific FXR antagonists exhibited remarkable metabolic improvements and slowed NASH progression. In this study, we discovered several potent FXR antagonists using a multistage ligand- and structure-based virtual screening approach. Notably, compound V023-9340, which possesses a 4-aminophenylacetamide scaffold, emerged as the most potent FXR antagonist with an IC50 value of 4.27 μM. In vivo, V023-9340 demonstrated selective accumulation in the intestine, substantially ameliorating high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NASH in mice by mitigating hepatic steatosis and inflammation. Mechanistic studies revealed that V023-9340 strongly inhibited intestinal FXR while concurrently feedback-activated hepatic FXR. Further structure-activity relationship optimization employing V023-9340 has resulted in the synthesis of a more efficacious compound V02-8 with an IC50 value of 0.89 μM, which exhibited a 4.8-fold increase in FXR antagonistic activity compared to V023-9340. In summary, 4-aminophenylacetamide derivative V023-9340 represented a novel intestine-specific FXR antagonist and showed improved effects against HFD-induced NASH in mice, which may serve as a promising lead in discovering potential therapeutic drugs for NASH treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cong Chen
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery and Optimization, College of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541199, China
| | - Bing Zhang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery and Optimization, College of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541199, China
| | - Jiaojiao Tu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery and Optimization, College of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541199, China
| | - Yanfen Peng
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery and Optimization, College of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541199, China
| | - Yihuan Zhou
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery and Optimization, College of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541199, China
| | - Xinping Yang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery and Optimization, College of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541199, China
| | - Qiming Yu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure Omics and Life Cycle Health, College of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541199, China.
| | - Xiangduan Tan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery and Optimization, College of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541199, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Díaz LA, Arab JP, Louvet A, Bataller R, Arrese M. The intersection between alcohol-related liver disease and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 20:764-783. [PMID: 37582985 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-023-00822-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) are the leading causes of chronic liver disease worldwide. NAFLD and ALD share pathophysiological, histological and genetic features and both alcohol and metabolic dysfunction coexist as aetiological factors in many patients with hepatic steatosis. A diagnosis of NAFLD requires the exclusion of significant alcohol consumption and other causes of liver disease. However, data suggest that significant alcohol consumption is often under-reported in patients classified as having NAFLD and that alcohol and metabolic factors interact to exacerbate the progression of liver disease. In this Review, we analyse existing data on the interaction between alcohol consumption and metabolic syndrome as well as the overlapping features and differences in the pathogenesis of ALD and NAFLD. We also discuss the clinical implications of the coexistence of alcohol consumption, of any degree, in patients with evidence of metabolic derangement as well as the use of alcohol biomarkers to detect alcohol intake. Finally, we summarize the evolving nomenclature of fatty liver disease and describe a recent proposal to classify patients at the intersection of NAFLD and ALD. We propose that, regardless of the presumed aetiology, patients with fatty liver disease should be evaluated for both metabolic syndrome and alcohol consumption to enable better prognostication and a personalized medicine approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luis Antonio Díaz
- Departamento de Gastroenterología, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Juan Pablo Arab
- Departamento de Gastroenterología, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine, Western University & London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alexandre Louvet
- Service des Maladies de l'Appareil Digestif, Hôpital Huriez, Lille Cedex, France
- Université Lille Nord de France, Lille, France
- Unité INSERM INFINITE 1286, Lille, France
| | - Ramón Bataller
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomediques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marco Arrese
- Departamento de Gastroenterología, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Adorini L, Trauner M. FXR agonists in NASH treatment. J Hepatol 2023; 79:1317-1331. [PMID: 37562746 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
The farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a bile acid (BA)-activated nuclear receptor highly expressed in the liver and intestine, regulates the expression of genes involved in cholesterol and bile acid homeostasis, hepatic gluconeogenesis, lipogenesis, inflammation and fibrosis, in addition to controlling intestinal barrier integrity, preventing bacterial translocation and maintaining gut microbiota eubiosis. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), an advanced stage of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, is characterized by hepatic steatosis, hepatocyte damage (ballooning) and inflammation, leading to fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. NASH represents a major unmet medical need, but no pharmacological treatments have yet been approved. The pleiotropic mechanisms involved in NASH development offer a range of therapeutic opportunities and among them FXR activation has emerged as an established pharmacological target. Various FXR agonists with different physicochemical properties, which can be broadly classified as BA derivatives, non-BA-derived steroidal FXR agonists, non-steroidal FXR agonists, and partial FXR agonists, are in advanced clinical development. In this review we will summarize key preclinical and clinical features of the most advanced FXR agonists and critically evaluate their potential in NASH treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luciano Adorini
- Intercept Pharmaceuticals Inc., 305 Madison Ave., Morristown, NJ 07960, USA.
| | - Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bhattacharya A, Taylor RE, Guo GL. In vivo mouse models to study bile acid synthesis and signaling. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2023; 22:466-473. [PMID: 37620226 PMCID: PMC10790561 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2023.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
The synthesis of bile acids (BAs) is carried out by complex pathways characterized by sequential chemical reactions in the liver through various cytochromes P450 (CYP) and other enzymes. Maintaining the integrity of these pathways is crucial for normal physiological function in mammals, encompassing hepatic and neurological processes. Studying on the deficiencies in BA synthesis genes offers valuable insights into the significance of BAs in modulating farnesoid X receptor (FXR) signaling and metabolic homeostasis. By creating mouse knockout (KO) models, researchers can manipulate deficiencies in genes involved in BA synthesis, which can be used to study human diseases with BA dysregulation. These KO mouse models allow for a more profound understanding of the functions and regulations of genes responsible for BA synthesis. Furthermore, KO mouse models shed light on the distinct characteristics of individual BA and their roles in nuclear receptor signaling. Notably, alterations of BA synthesis genes in mouse models have distinct differences when compared to human diseases caused by the same BA synthesis gene deficiencies. This review summarizes several mouse KO models used to study BA synthesis and related human diseases, including mice deficient in Cyp7a1, Cyp27a1, Cyp7a1/Cyp27a1, Cyp8b1, Cyp7b1, Cyp2c70, Cyp2a12, and Cyp2c70/Cyp2a12, as well as germ-free mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anisha Bhattacharya
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Rulaiha E Taylor
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Rutgers Center for Lipid Research, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Grace L Guo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Rutgers Center for Lipid Research, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; VA New Jersey Health Care System, Veterans Administration Medical Center, East Orange, New Jersey, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Meadows V, Yang Z, Basaly V, Guo GL. FXR Friend-ChIPs in the Enterohepatic System. Semin Liver Dis 2023; 43:267-278. [PMID: 37442156 PMCID: PMC10620036 DOI: 10.1055/a-2128-5538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases encompass a wide spectrum of hepatic maladies that often result in cholestasis or altered bile acid secretion and regulation. Incidence and cost of care for many chronic liver diseases are rising in the United States with few Food and Drug Administration-approved drugs available for patient treatment. Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is the master regulator of bile acid homeostasis with an important role in lipid and glucose metabolism and inflammation. FXR has served as an attractive target for management of cholestasis and fibrosis; however, global FXR agonism results in adverse effects in liver disease patients, severely affecting quality of life. In this review, we highlight seminal studies and recent updates on the FXR proteome and identify gaps in knowledge that are essential for tissue-specific FXR modulation. In conclusion, one of the greatest unmet needs in the field is understanding the underlying mechanism of intestinal versus hepatic FXR function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vik Meadows
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Zhenning Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Veronia Basaly
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Grace L. Guo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey
- Department of Veterans Affairs, New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, New Jersey
| |
Collapse
|