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Shimosegawa T. Between early and established chronic pancreatitis: A proposal of "acinar-ductal hybrid mechanism". Pancreatology 2022; 22:831-837. [PMID: 36163223 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2022.09.239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES The recently proposed "new mechanistic definition of chronic pancreatitis (CP)" categorized early CP as a reversible condition. However, there is no clear explanation regarding the pathological condition of early CP, the reason for the development of the disease in only a small portion of the patients with risk factors, and the mechanism for transition from a reversible pathological condition to an irreversible one. METHODS Based on the available information, a mechanism that could provide answers to the queries associated with CP was proposed. RESULTS Acinar-ductal coordination is very important for the physiological secretion of pancreatic juice. Inflammation originating from acinar cells undermines the function of proximal ducts and leads to a vicious cycle of sustained inflammation by increasing the viscosity and decreasing the alkalinity of pancreatic juice. Persistent elevation of ductal pressure due to stagnation of pancreatic juice caused by protein plugs, stones, or fibrous scar of ducts converts the reversible pathological condition of early CP to an irreversible one. Diagnostic criteria for early CP proposed by Japanese researchers have enabled to the recognition of patients showing a progression from early to established CP. However, most patients diagnosed with early CP do not experience progression of the disease, suggesting the inadequate specificity of the criteria. CONCLUSION The "acinar-ductal hybrid mechanism" may explain the pathological condition and progression of early CP. To diagnose early CP more accurately, it is essential to discover specific biomarkers that can discriminate "early CP" from "acute pancreatitis (AP)/recurrent acute pancreatitis (RAP)" and "established CP." Therapeutic intervention in clinical practices through various new approaches is expected to improve the prognosis of patients with CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tooru Shimosegawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, South-Miyagi Medical Center, 38-1 Aza-nishi, Ohgawara, Shibata-gun, Miyagi, 989-1253, Japan; Department of Gastroenterology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aobaku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8574, Japan.
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Contribution of Oxidative Stress to HIF-1-Mediated Profibrotic Changes during the Kidney Damage. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:6114132. [PMID: 34712385 PMCID: PMC8548138 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6114132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxia and oxidative stress are the common causes of various types of kidney injury. During recent years, the studies on hypoxia inducible factor- (HIF-) 1 attract more and more attention, which can not only mediate hypoxia adaptation but also contribute to profibrotic changes. Through analyzing related literatures, we found that oxidative stress can regulate the expression and activity of HIF-1α through some signaling molecules, such as prolyl hydroxylase domain-containing protein (PHD), PI-3K, and microRNA. And oxidative stress can take part in inflammation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and extracellular matrix deposition mediated by HIF-1 via interacting with classical NF-κB and TGF-β signaling pathways. Therefore, based on previous literatures, this review summarizes the contribution of oxidative stress to HIF-1-mediated profibrotic changes during the kidney damage, in order to further understand the role of oxidative stress in renal fibrosis.
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Yang Z, Wang T, Hu LH. Progress in pharmacotherapy for alleviating pain of chronic pancreatitis. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2021; 29:217-222. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v29.i5.217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pain is the main clinical symptom of chronic pancreatitis (CP), as well as the most common cause of patients' recurrent hospitalizations. The management regimen for CP pain needs to be formulated according to the patient's conditions. Lifestyle changes and drug treatment can usually be used as first-line therapy. Conventional analgesics, pancreatic enzymes, and antioxidants are commonly used in treating pain of CP. In recent years, the application of conventional analgesics has been further standardized. Besides, there have been more clinical studies on the treatment of CP pain with pancreatic enzymes or antioxidants. Traditional Chinese medicine has played an increasingly important role in the treatment of CP pain. New drugs such as camostat mesylate are expected to be used in CP pain, though more high-quality studies are still needed to confirm their safety and effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changhai Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Teng Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changhai Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Liang-Hao Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changhai Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
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4
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Bettac L, Denk S, Seufferlein T, Huber-Lang M. Complement in Pancreatic Disease-Perpetrator or Savior? Front Immunol 2017; 8:15. [PMID: 28144242 PMCID: PMC5239781 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The complement system is a major pillar of the humoral innate immune system. As a first line of defense against pathogens, it mediates early inflammatory response and links different branches of humoral and cellular immunity. Disorders affecting the exocrine pancreas, such as acute pancreatitis, potentially lead to a life-threatening systemic inflammatory response with aberrant activation of complement and coagulation cascades. Pancreatic proteases can activate key effectors of the complement system, which in turn drive local and systemic inflammation. Beyond that, the extent of pancreas–complement interaction covers complex pro- and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, which to this day remain to be fully elucidated. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the pathophysiological role of complement in diseases of the exocrine pancreas, based on existing experimental and clinical data. Participation of complement in acute and chronic pancreatitis is addressed, as well as its role in tumor immunology. Therapeutic strategies targeting complement in these diseases have long been proposed but have not yet arrived in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Bettac
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Ulm , Ulm , Germany
| | - Stephanie Denk
- Department of Orthopedic Trauma, Hand, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital of Ulm , Ulm , Germany
| | - Thomas Seufferlein
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Ulm , Ulm , Germany
| | - Markus Huber-Lang
- Department of Orthopedic Trauma, Hand, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital of Ulm , Ulm , Germany
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5
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Bardou O, Menou A, François C, Duitman JW, von der Thüsen JH, Borie R, Sales KU, Mutze K, Castier Y, Sage E, Liu L, Bugge TH, Fairlie DP, Königshoff M, Crestani B, Borensztajn KS. Membrane-anchored Serine Protease Matriptase Is a Trigger of Pulmonary Fibrogenesis. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2016; 193:847-60. [PMID: 26599507 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201502-0299oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a devastating disease that remains refractory to current therapies. OBJECTIVES To characterize the expression and activity of the membrane-anchored serine protease matriptase in IPF in humans and unravel its potential role in human and experimental pulmonary fibrogenesis. METHODS Matriptase expression was assessed in tissue specimens from patients with IPF versus control subjects using quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting, while matriptase activity was monitored by fluorogenic substrate cleavage. Matriptase-induced fibroproliferative responses and the receptor involved were characterized in human primary pulmonary fibroblasts by Western blot, viability, and migration assays. In the murine model of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis, the consequences of matriptase depletion, either by using the pharmacological inhibitor camostat mesilate (CM), or by genetic down-regulation using matriptase hypomorphic mice, were characterized by quantification of secreted collagen and immunostainings. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Matriptase expression and activity were up-regulated in IPF and bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. In cultured human pulmonary fibroblasts, matriptase expression was significantly induced by transforming growth factor-β. Furthermore, matriptase elicited signaling via protease-activated receptor-2 (PAR-2), and promoted fibroblast activation, proliferation, and migration. In the experimental bleomycin model, matriptase depletion, by the pharmacological inhibitor CM or by genetic down-regulation, diminished lung injury, collagen production, and transforming growth factor-β expression and signaling. CONCLUSIONS These results implicate increased matriptase expression and activity in the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis in human IPF and in an experimental mouse model. Overall, targeting matriptase, or treatment by CM, which is already in clinical use for other diseases, may represent potential therapies for IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Bardou
- 1 Inserm UMR1152, Medical School Xavier Bichat, Paris, France.,2 Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Département Hospitalo-universitaire FIRE (Fibrosis, Inflammation and Remodeling) and LabEx Inflamex, Paris, France
| | - Awen Menou
- 1 Inserm UMR1152, Medical School Xavier Bichat, Paris, France.,2 Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Département Hospitalo-universitaire FIRE (Fibrosis, Inflammation and Remodeling) and LabEx Inflamex, Paris, France
| | - Charlène François
- 1 Inserm UMR1152, Medical School Xavier Bichat, Paris, France.,2 Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Département Hospitalo-universitaire FIRE (Fibrosis, Inflammation and Remodeling) and LabEx Inflamex, Paris, France
| | - Jan Willem Duitman
- 3 Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Raphaël Borie
- 2 Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Département Hospitalo-universitaire FIRE (Fibrosis, Inflammation and Remodeling) and LabEx Inflamex, Paris, France.,5 Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Department of Pulmonology A, Competence Center for Rare Lung Diseases, Bichat-Claude Bernard University Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Katiuchia Uzzun Sales
- 6 Oral and Pharyngeal Cancer Branch, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland.,7 Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kathrin Mutze
- 8 Member of the German Center of Lung Research, Comprehensive Pneumology Center, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Yves Castier
- 9 Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Department of Vascular and Thoracic Surgery, Bichat-Claude Bernard University Hospital, Denis Diderot University and Medical School Paris VII, France
| | - Edouard Sage
- 10 Department of Thoracic Surgery and Lung Transplantation, Hôpital Foch, Suresnes, France; and
| | - Ligong Liu
- 11 Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Thomas H Bugge
- 6 Oral and Pharyngeal Cancer Branch, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - David P Fairlie
- 11 Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Mélanie Königshoff
- 8 Member of the German Center of Lung Research, Comprehensive Pneumology Center, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Bruno Crestani
- 1 Inserm UMR1152, Medical School Xavier Bichat, Paris, France.,2 Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Département Hospitalo-universitaire FIRE (Fibrosis, Inflammation and Remodeling) and LabEx Inflamex, Paris, France.,5 Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Department of Pulmonology A, Competence Center for Rare Lung Diseases, Bichat-Claude Bernard University Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Keren S Borensztajn
- 1 Inserm UMR1152, Medical School Xavier Bichat, Paris, France.,2 Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Département Hospitalo-universitaire FIRE (Fibrosis, Inflammation and Remodeling) and LabEx Inflamex, Paris, France
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A Novel, Poly(Ethyl Ethylene Ether) Inhibitor to Trypsin from Marine Cyanobacteria, Lyngbya confervoides. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2015; 178:891-9. [PMID: 26581766 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-015-1916-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2015] [Accepted: 10/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
A novel, poly(ethyl ethylene ether) inhibitor to trypsin was purified from marine cyanobacteria, Lyngbya confervoides from the coastal areas of Thalassery, North Kerala. The kinetics and the thermodynamic parameters of its interactions with the enzyme were also studied. It was demonstrated that the substrate binding, catalytic triad of the enzyme could be blocked by the inhibitor, as expressed by molecular simulation studies. The study also showed that the cyanobacterial group could prove to be a potential source of novel enzyme inhibitors for various applications.
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7
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Sendler M, Beyer G, Mahajan UM, Kauschke V, Maertin S, Schurmann C, Homuth G, Völker U, Völzke H, Halangk W, Wartmann T, Weiss FU, Hegyi P, Lerch MM, Mayerle J. Complement Component 5 Mediates Development of Fibrosis, via Activation of Stellate Cells, in 2 Mouse Models of Chronic Pancreatitis. Gastroenterology 2015; 149:765-76.e10. [PMID: 26001927 PMCID: PMC4560830 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2015.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2014] [Revised: 05/09/2015] [Accepted: 05/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Little is known about the pathogenic mechanisms of chronic pancreatitis. We investigated the roles of complement component 5 (C5) in pancreatic fibrogenesis in mice and patients. METHODS Chronic pancreatitis was induced by ligation of the midpancreatic duct, followed by a single supramaximal intraperitoneal injection of cerulein, in C57Bl6 (control) and C5-deficient mice. Some mice were given injections of 2 different antagonists of the receptor for C5a over 21 days. In a separate model, mice were given injections of cerulein for 10 weeks to induce chronic pancreatitis. Direct effects of C5 were studied in cultured primary cells. We performed genotype analysis for the single-nucleotide polymorphisms rs 17611 and rs 2300929 in C5 in patients with pancreatitis and healthy individuals (controls). Blood cells from 976 subjects were analyzed by transcriptional profiling. RESULTS During the initial phase of pancreatitis, levels of pancreatic damage were similar between C5-deficient and control mice. During later stages of pancreatitis, C5-deficient mice and mice given injections of C5a-receptor antagonists developed significantly less pancreatic fibrosis than control mice. Primary pancreatic stellate cells were activated in vitro by C5a. There were no differences in the rs 2300929 SNP between subjects with or without pancreatitis, but the minor allele rs17611 was associated with a significant increase in levels of C5 in whole blood. CONCLUSIONS In mice, loss of C5 or injection of a C5a-receptor antagonist significantly reduced the level of fibrosis of chronic pancreatitis, but this was not a consequence of milder disease in early stages of pancreatitis. C5 might be a therapeutic target for chronic pancreatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Sendler
- Department of Medicine A, University Medicine, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Georg Beyer
- Department of Medicine A, University Medicine, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Ujjwal M. Mahajan
- Department of Medicine A, University Medicine, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Vivien Kauschke
- Department of Medicine A, University Medicine, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Sandrina Maertin
- Department of Medicine A, University Medicine, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Claudia Schurmann
- Interfaculty Institutes for Genetics and Functional Genomics, University Medicine, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Georg Homuth
- Interfaculty Institutes for Genetics and Functional Genomics, University Medicine, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Uwe Völker
- Interfaculty Institutes for Genetics and Functional Genomics, University Medicine, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Henry Völzke
- Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Walter Halangk
- Department of Surgery, Division of Experimental Surgery, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Wartmann
- Department of Surgery, Division of Experimental Surgery, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Frank-Ulrich Weiss
- Department of Medicine A, University Medicine, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Peter Hegyi
- First Department of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary,MTA-SZTE Lendulet Translational Gastroenterology Research Group, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Markus M. Lerch
- Department of Medicine A, University Medicine, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Julia Mayerle
- Department of Medicine A, University Medicine, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany.
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8
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Tian B, Ma C, Wang J, Pan CS, Yang GJ, Lu JP. Analysis of metabolic characteristics in a rat model of chronic pancreatitis using high-resolution magic-angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Mol Med Rep 2014; 11:53-8. [PMID: 25338744 PMCID: PMC4237080 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2014.2738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2013] [Accepted: 06/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathological and metabolic alterations co-exist and co-develop in the progression of chronic pancreatitis (CP). The aim of the present study was to investigate the metabolic characteristics and disease severity of a rat model of CP in order to determine associations in the observed pathology and the metabolites of CP using high-resolution magic-angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (HR-MAS NMR). Wistar rats (n=36) were randomly assigned into 6 groups (n=6 per group). CP was established by administering dibutyltin dichloride solution into the tail vein. After 0, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35 days, the pancreatic tissues were collected for pathological scoring or for HR-MAS NMR. Correlation analyses between the major pathological scores and the integral areas of the major metabolites were determined. The most representative metabolites, aspartate, betaine and fatty acids, were identified as possessing the greatest discriminatory significance. The Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients between the pathology and metabolites of the pancreatic tissues were as follows: Betaine and fibrosis, 0.454 (P=0.044); betaine and inflammatory cell infiltration, 0.716 (P=0.0001); aspartate and fibrosis, −0.768 (P=0.0001); aspartate and inflammatory cell infiltration, −0.394 (P=0.085); fatty acid and fibrosis, −0.764 (P=0.0001); and fatty acid and inflammatory cell infiltration, −0.619 (P=0.004). The metabolite betaine positively correlated with fibrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration in CP. In addition, aspartate negatively correlated with fibrosis, but exhibited no significant correlation with inflammatory cell infiltration. Furthermore, the presence of fatty acids negatively correlated with fibrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration in CP. HR-MAS NMR may be used to analyze metabolic characteristics in a rat model of different degrees of chronic pancreatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Tian
- Department of Radiology, Changhai Hospital of Shanghai, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Chao Ma
- Department of Radiology, Changhai Hospital of Shanghai, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Radiology, Changhai Hospital of Shanghai, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Chun-Shu Pan
- Department of Radiology, Changhai Hospital of Shanghai, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Gen-Jin Yang
- Pharmaceutical Analysis and Testing Center, School of Pharmacy, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Jian-Ping Lu
- Department of Radiology, Changhai Hospital of Shanghai, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
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9
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Inhibition of prolyl hydroxylase domain-containing protein on hypertension/renal injury induced by high salt diet and nitric oxide withdrawal. J Hypertens 2013; 31:2043-9. [DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0b013e32836356a0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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10
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Won JH, Zhang Y, Ji B, Logsdon CD, Yule DI. Phenotypic changes in mouse pancreatic stellate cell Ca2+ signaling events following activation in culture and in a disease model of pancreatitis. Mol Biol Cell 2011; 22:421-36. [PMID: 21148289 PMCID: PMC3031471 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e10-10-0807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The specific characteristics of intracellular Ca 2+ signaling and the downstream consequences of these events were investigated in mouse pancreatic stellate cells (PSC) in culture and in situ using multiphoton microscopy in pancreatic lobules. PSC undergo a phenotypic transformation from a quiescent state to a myofibroblast-like phenotype in culture. This is believed to parallel the induction of an activated state observed in pancreatic disease such as chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. By day 7 in culture, the complement of cell surface receptors coupled to intracellular Ca 2+ signaling was shown to be markedly altered. Specifically, protease-activated receptors (PAR) 1 and 2, responsive to thrombin and trypsin, respectively, and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) receptors were expressed only in activated PSC (aPSC). PAR-1, ATP, and PDGF receptor activation resulted in prominent nuclear Ca 2+ signals. Nuclear Ca 2+ signals and aPSC proliferation were abolished by expression of parvalbumin targeted to the nucleus. In pancreatic lobules, PSC responded to agonists consistent with the presence of only quiescent PSC. aPSC were observed following induction of experimental pancreatitis. In contrast, in a mouse model of pancreatic disease harboring elevated K-Ras activity in acinar cells, aPSC were present under control conditions and their number greatly increased following induction of pancreatitis. These data are consistent with nuclear Ca 2+ signaling generated by agents such as trypsin and thrombin, likely present in the pancreas in disease states, resulting in proliferation of "primed" aPSC to contribute to the severity of pancreatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Hak Won
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
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11
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Wang Z, Zhu Q, Xia M, Li PL, Hinton SJ, Li N. Hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl-hydroxylase 2 senses high-salt intake to increase hypoxia inducible factor 1alpha levels in the renal medulla. Hypertension 2010; 55:1129-36. [PMID: 20308610 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.109.145896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
High salt induces the expression of transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) 1alpha and its target genes in the renal medulla, which is an important renal adaptive mechanism to high-salt intake. HIF prolyl-hydroxylase domain-containing proteins (PHDs) have been identified as major enzymes to promote the degradation of HIF-1alpha. PHD2 is the predominant isoform of PHDs in the kidney and is primarily expressed in the renal medulla. The present study tested the hypothesis that PHD2 responds to high salt and mediates high-salt-induced increase in HIF-1alpha levels in the renal medulla. In normotensive rats, high-salt intake (4% NaCl, 10 days) significantly inhibited PHD2 expressions and enzyme activities in the renal medulla. Renal medullary overexpression of the PHD2 transgene significantly decreased HIF-1alpha levels. PHD2 transgene also blocked high-salt-induced activation of HIF-1alpha target genes heme oxygenase 1 and NO synthase 2 in the renal medulla. In Dahl salt-sensitive hypertensive rats, however, high-salt intake did not inhibit the expression and activities of PHD2 in the renal medulla. Correspondingly, renal medullary HIF-1alpha levels were not upregulated by high-salt intake in these rats. After transfection of PHD2 small hairpin RNA, HIF-1alpha and its target genes were significantly upregulated by high-salt intake in Dahl salt-sensitive rats. Overexpression of PHD2 transgene in the renal medulla impaired renal sodium excretion after salt loading. These data suggest that high-salt intake inhibits PHD2 in the renal medulla, thereby upregulating the HIF-1alpha expression. The lack of PHD-mediated response to high salt may represent a pathogenic mechanism producing salt-sensitive hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengchao Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Virginia Campus, Virginia Commonwealth University, PO Box 980613, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
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Sai JK, Suyama M, Kubokawa Y, Matsumura Y, Inami K, Watanabe S. Efficacy of camostat mesilate against dyspepsia associated with non-alcoholic mild pancreatic disease. J Gastroenterol 2010; 45:335-41. [PMID: 19876587 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-009-0148-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2009] [Accepted: 10/05/2009] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the present study was to examine the potential efficacy of camostat mesilate, a protease inhibitor, against dyspepsia associated with non-alcoholic mild pancreatic disease. METHODS Patients with upper abdominal pain suggesting pancreatic disease (persistent over hours, pain aggravated by ingestion of food, epigastric pain radiating to the back), without a history of alcohol consumption and who exhibited no abnormalities regarding serum amylase and lipase, ultrasonography, CT and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, were prescribed 200 mg camostat mesilate three times daily for 2 weeks. The patients were subjected to endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) while under treatment and were distributed into those who had 4 or more suggestive findings of chronic pancreatitis (suspected pancreatic disease group), 2 or 3 (equivalent group) and those with 1 or no findings (control group). Symptom severity was recorded before and after treatment using a 10-cm visual analog scale (VAS). RESULTS Among 95 patients, 40 were in the suspected pancreatic disease group, 30 were in the equivalent group and 25 served as controls. A significant intra- and intergroup improvement of symptoms was observed not only in the suspected pancreatic disease group but also in the equivalent group. CONCLUSIONS Camostat mesilate may serve as a therapeutic agent for patients with dyspepsia associated with mild pancreatic disease, who do not habitually drink alcohol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Kan Sai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Juntendo University, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan.
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13
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Effect of Korean red ginseng on superoxide dismutase inhibitor-induced pancreatitis in rats: a histopathologic and immunohistochemical study. Pancreas 2009; 38:661-6. [PMID: 19531970 DOI: 10.1097/mpa.0b013e3181a9eb85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Korean red ginseng (KRG) is a representative herbal remedy in Korea. We examined the effects of KRG treatment on superoxide dismutase inhibitor-induced experimental pancreatitis. METHODS Sprague-Dawley rats and KRG from the roots of a 6-year-old fresh Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer plant were used in this study. Pancreatitis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of diethyldithiocarbamate for 4 weeks. Korean red ginseng was fed orally to rats for the next 3 weeks. At week 7, all rats were killed, and pancreatic tissues were analyzed. RESULTS No histological alterations were detected in the pancreata of normal and KRG control groups. Tissues from the non-KRG-treated pancreatitis group exhibited marked pancreatic damage including changes in histological architecture, acinar cell necrosis and degeneration, and cytoplasmic vacuolization. However, tissues from the KRG-treated pancreatitis group exhibited no cellular damage and had normal histological pancreatic architecture. Immunohistochemical examination revealed that the expressions of nuclear factor kappaB, tumor necrosis factor alpha, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and the oxidant stress markers, malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxynonenal, were significantly decreased in the KRG-treated pancreatitis group as compared with the non-KRG-treated pancreatitis group. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that KRG has antioxidant therapeutic effects on superoxide dismutase inhibitor-induced pancreatitis by inhibition of nuclear factor kappaB.
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Abstract
Chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer are characterised by a progressive fibrosis. Accumulation of extracellular matrix not only accompanies both diseases but is directly involved in their progression, suggesting inhibition of fibrogenesis as a potential therapeutic strategy. Pancreatic stellate cells (PSC) are the main extracellular matrix-producing cell type in the diseased pancreas. In response to pro-fibrogenic mediators including cytokines and ethanol metabolites, PSC undergo phenotypic changes termed activation, resulting in the exhibition of a myofibroblast-like phenotype. In the perpetuation of PSC activation, autocrine loops of mediators such as transforming growth factor beta play an important role. Most recently signal transduction pathways in PSC that are associated with the process of activation were characterised, facilitating identification of potential intracellular targets for an anti-fibrotic therapy. While some putative inhibitors of fibrogenesis have been tested in animal models of pancreatic fibrosis for their in vivo efficiency, clinical studies still remain to be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Jaster
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Medical Faculty, University of Rostock, E.-Heydemann-Strasse 6, 18057 Rostock, Germany.
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15
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Shirahige A, Mizushima T, Matsushita K, Sawa K, Ochi K, Ichimura M, Tanioka H, Shinji T, Koide N, Tanimoto M. Oral administration of taurine improves experimental pancreatic fibrosis. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2008; 23:321-7. [PMID: 17764527 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1746.2007.05127.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The mechanism of pancreatic fibrosis is unclear. Taurine is used in the clinical treatment of a wide variety of diseases, but its effect on improving pancreatic fibrosis is unknown. We examined whether a diet with added taurine improves pancreatic fibrosis induced by dibutyltin dichloride (DBTC) in an experimental chronic pancreatitis rat model. In addition, we examined the influence of taurine on pancreatic stellate cells. METHODS Pancreatic fibrosis was induced by DBTC. Rats were fed a taurine-containing diet or a normal diet and were killed at 4 weeks. Pancreatic stellate cells were isolated from male Wistar rats. Cultured pancreatic stellate cells were incubated with or without taurine chloramine. Type I collagen and transforming growth factor-beta1 secretion was evaluated by ELISA, and matrix metalloproteinase activity was assessed by gelatin zymography. Interleukin-6, interleukin-2, and transforming growth factor-beta1 levels in the supernatants of pancreatic tissue homogenates were measured. RESULTS Pancreatic fibrosis induced by DBTC was improved remarkably by the oral administration of the taurine-containing diet. Taurine chloramine decreased type I collagen, transforming growth factor-beta1, and matrix metalloproteinases 2 of the pancreatic stellate cell culture supernatant. Increased interleukin-6 and decreased interleukin-2 were found in the supernatants of the pancreatic tissue homogenates of DBTC-induced pancreatitis rats compared with other groups. CONCLUSION The oral administration of taurine improves pancreatic fibrosis. Taurine chloramine inhibits transforming growth factor-beta1 produced from activated pancreatic stellate cells and improves pancreatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akinori Shirahige
- Laboratory of Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine and Dentistry, Okayama, Japan
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16
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Talukdar R, Tandon RK. Pancreatic stellate cells: new target in the treatment of chronic pancreatitis. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2008; 23:34-41. [PMID: 17995943 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1746.2007.05206.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is characterized by progressive fibrosis, pain and/or loss of exocrine and endocrine functions. Recent in vitro and in vivo experiments have proven objectively the role of activated pancreatic stellate cells (PSC) in fibrogenesis in CP. Molecular mediators shown to regulate the pathogenesis include transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-alpha. Furthermore, molecular pathways involving mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), phosphatidyl inositol 3-kinase (PI3K), Ras superfamily G proteins, serine threonine protein kinase Raf-1 and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPAR-gamma) have been elucidated. Understanding of the pathogenesis has led to identification of novel molecular targets and development of potential newer therapeutic agents. Those found to retard the progression of experimental CP and fibrosis in animal models include interferon (IFN) beta and IFN-gamma; a Japanese herbal medicine called Saiko-keishi-to (TJ-10); curcumin; PPAR-gamma ligand (troglitazone); antioxidants (vitamin A, vitamin E, DA 9601 and epigallocatechin-3-gallate); a protease inhibitor (camostat mesilate) and hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA inhibitor (lovastatin). This review summarizes the current literature addressing the role of different pharmacological agents aimed at reducing or preventing inflammation and the consequent fibrogenesis in CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupjyoti Talukdar
- Department of Gastroenterology, Pushpawati Singhania Research Institute, New Delhi, India
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17
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Omary MB, Lugea A, Lowe AW, Pandol SJ. The pancreatic stellate cell: a star on the rise in pancreatic diseases. J Clin Invest 2007; 117:50-9. [PMID: 17200706 PMCID: PMC1716214 DOI: 10.1172/jci30082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 517] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic stellate cells (PaSCs) are myofibroblast-like cells found in the areas of the pancreas that have exocrine function. PaSCs are regulated by autocrine and paracrine stimuli and share many features with their hepatic counterparts, studies of which have helped further our understanding of PaSC biology. Activation of PaSCs induces them to proliferate, to migrate to sites of tissue damage, to contract and possibly phagocytose, and to synthesize ECM components to promote tissue repair. Sustained activation of PaSCs has an increasingly appreciated role in the fibrosis that is associated with chronic pancreatitis and with pancreatic cancer. Therefore, understanding the biology of PaSCs offers potential therapeutic targets for the treatment and prevention of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Bishr Omary
- Department of Medicine, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA.
Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA.
USC-UCLA Research Center for Alcoholic Liver and Pancreatic Diseases and Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Aurelia Lugea
- Department of Medicine, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA.
Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA.
USC-UCLA Research Center for Alcoholic Liver and Pancreatic Diseases and Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Anson W. Lowe
- Department of Medicine, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA.
Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA.
USC-UCLA Research Center for Alcoholic Liver and Pancreatic Diseases and Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Stephen J. Pandol
- Department of Medicine, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA.
Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA.
USC-UCLA Research Center for Alcoholic Liver and Pancreatic Diseases and Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA
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18
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Sármán B, Tulassay Z. [Pathogenesis and treatment of pain in chronic pancreatitis]. Orv Hetil 2007; 148:397-403. [PMID: 17344167 DOI: 10.1556/oh.2007.27979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Chronic pancreatitis is an inflammatory, usually painful disease characterized by progressive fibrosis and the loss of exocrine and endocrine functions. Pain influences the quality of life of patients and may lead to inability to work and frequent hospitalisation. The pathogenesis of pain in chronic pancreatitis is still unclear. Several different mechanisms of pain have been proposed, but pain in chronic pancreatitis is most probably multifactorial. Pain management in chronic pancreatitis is difficult. This is due to the multifactorial origin, there are no standardized methods to quantify pain and patients are often addicted to alcohol in chronic pancreatitis. This review summarises the different hypotheses of pain and the possibilities of pain management in chronic pancreatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrix Sármán
- Semmelweis Orvostudományi Egyetem, Altalános Orvostudományi Kar II. Belgyógyászati Klinika Budapest Szentkirályi u. 46. 1088, Hungary.
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19
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Proell V, Carmona-Cuenca I, Murillo MM, Huber H, Fabregat I, Mikulits W. TGF-beta dependent regulation of oxygen radicals during transdifferentiation of activated hepatic stellate cells to myofibroblastoid cells. COMPARATIVE HEPATOLOGY 2007; 6:1. [PMID: 17311678 PMCID: PMC1804283 DOI: 10.1186/1476-5926-6-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2006] [Accepted: 02/20/2007] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) plays a pivotal role during liver injury because the resulting myofibroblasts (MFBs) are mainly responsible for connective tissue re-assembly. MFBs represent therefore cellular targets for anti-fibrotic therapy. In this study, we employed activated HSCs, termed M1-4HSCs, whose transdifferentiation to myofibroblastoid cells (named M-HTs) depends on transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta. We analyzed the oxidative stress induced by TGF-beta and examined cellular defense mechanisms upon transdifferentiation of HSCs to M-HTs. RESULTS We found reactive oxygen species (ROS) significantly upregulated in M1-4HSCs within 72 hours of TGF-beta administration. In contrast, M-HTs harbored lower intracellular ROS content than M1-4HSCs, despite of elevated NADPH oxidase activity. These observations indicated an upregulation of cellular defense mechanisms in order to protect cells from harmful consequences caused by oxidative stress. In line with this hypothesis, superoxide dismutase activation provided the resistance to augmented radical production in M-HTs, and glutathione rather than catalase was responsible for intracellular hydrogen peroxide removal. Finally, the TGF-beta/NADPH oxidase mediated ROS production correlated with the upregulation of AP-1 as well as platelet-derived growth factor receptor subunits, which points to important contributions in establishing antioxidant defense. CONCLUSION The data provide evidence that TGF-beta induces NADPH oxidase activity which causes radical production upon the transdifferentiation of activated HSCs to M-HTs. Myofibroblastoid cells are equipped with high levels of superoxide dismutase activity as well as glutathione to counterbalance NADPH oxidase dependent oxidative stress and to avoid cellular damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Proell
- Department of Medicine I, Division: Institute of Cancer Research, Medical University of Vienna, Borschke-Gasse 8a, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Irene Carmona-Cuenca
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Miguel M Murillo
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid 28040, Spain
- IDIBELL-Institut de Recerca Oncològica, Gran Via s/n, Km 2.7, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Heidemarie Huber
- Department of Medicine I, Division: Institute of Cancer Research, Medical University of Vienna, Borschke-Gasse 8a, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Isabel Fabregat
- IDIBELL-Institut de Recerca Oncològica, Gran Via s/n, Km 2.7, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Wolfgang Mikulits
- Department of Medicine I, Division: Institute of Cancer Research, Medical University of Vienna, Borschke-Gasse 8a, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
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20
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW As in our previous reviews, we endeavor to review important new observations in chronic pancreatitis made in the past year. Topics recently reviewed were truncated to accommodate a surge in publications on clinical aspects of chronic pancreatitis, which contained new observations or insights into new or old concepts. RECENT FINDINGS Cystic fibrosis carriers have been found to be at increased risk of pancreatitis. Autoimmune pancreatitis may belong to a multiorgan immunoglobulin G4-related autoimmune disease, and the natural history of chronic pancreatitis differs among the etiologies. Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging improves upon previous methodologies for diagnosing reduced pancreatic exocrine secretion, and fecal elastase-1 has been found to be a poor test for diagnosing pancreatic malabsorption. Visceral hyperalgesia or heightened central pain perception may contribute to pain in chronic pancreatitis. Instruments are evolving to assess quality of life in chronic pancreatitis, and fibrolytic agents have been found to have therapeutic promise. SUMMARY Researchers this past year have further characterized genetic, molecular and clinical aspects of chronic pancreatitis. Advancing the understanding of fibrogenesis, mechanisms of exocrine insufficiency, calcification, and pain and continuing development/modification of diagnostic tests should lead to improved prevention, detection and treatment of the condition. More accurate quantification of outcomes is critical for translating potential therapies from bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J DiMagno
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
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22
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Abstract
Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is characterized by progressive fibrosis, pain and/or loss of exocrine and endocrine functions. With the identification and characterization of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), the pathogenesis of CP and pancreatic fibrosis is now better understood. Molecular mediators shown to regulate the pathogenesis include transforming growth factor-beta, platelet-derived growth factor, and proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. Besides these, the roles of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 and apoptosis-related proteins have also been implicated in the pathogenesis. Furthermore, molecular pathways involving mitogen-activated protein kinases, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, Ras superfamily G proteins, serine threonine protein kinase Raf-1 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-gamma) have been elucidated. Newer pathobiologic concepts concerning pain generation have also been put forward. Understanding the pathogenesis has led to the identification of novel molecular targets and the development of newer potential therapeutic agents. Those found to retard the progression of experimental CP and fibrosis in animal models include antioxidants, a Japanese herbal medicine called Saiko-keisi-to (TJ 10), the PPAR-gamma ligand troglitazone, the protease inhibitor Camostat mesilate, and Lovastatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupjyoti Talukdar
- Department of Gastroenterology, Pushpawati Singhania Research Institute, New Delhi, India
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23
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Tanioka H, Mizushima T, Shirahige A, Matsushita K, Ochi K, Ichimura M, Matsumura N, Shinji T, Tanimoto M, Koide N. Xanthine oxidase-derived free radicals directly activate rat pancreatic stellate cells. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2006; 21:537-44. [PMID: 16638095 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1746.2005.03999.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Free radicals are reported to be associated with fibrosis in the pancreas. It is generally accepted that pancreatic stellate cells (PSC) play an important role in pancreatic fibrosis. However, the exact role of free radicals in activation of PSC has not been fully elucidated. In the present study, using a superoxide dismutase (SOD) inhibitor, diethyldithiocarbamate (DDC) with cultured PSC, we investigated how free radicals act on the activation of PSC. METHODS PSC were isolated from male Wister rats. Cultured rat PSC were incubated with DDC for 48 h. Intracellular SOD activity and lipid peroxidation were examined in DDC-treated PSC. Activation of PSC was examined by determining the expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA) by immunocytochemistry. The number of PSC using a hemocytometer, type I collagen secretion with ELISA and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) activities with gelatin zymography were also examined. Secretion of transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) was evaluated by ELISA. The effects of the allopurinol, a xanthine oxidase (XOD) inhibitor, on PSC were also examined. RESULTS DDC decreased SOD activity and increased lipid peroxidation products in PSC. DDC activated PSC, increasing the number of alpha-SMA positive cells, enhancing secretion of type I collagen and MMP, inhibiting PSC proliferation. Secretion of TGF-beta1, which is known to activate PSC, was increased by DDC treatment. These alterations were prevented by allopurinol. CONCLUSION These results suggest that free radicals generated by XOD might directly activate PSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Tanioka
- Laboratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine and Dentistry, Okayama, Japan
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