1
|
Osawa Y, Kawai H, Tsunoda T, Komatsu H, Okawara M, Tsutsui Y, Yoshida Y, Yoshikawa S, Mori T, Yamazoe T, Yoshio S, Oide T, Inui A, Kanto T. Cluster of Differentiation 44 Promotes Liver Fibrosis and Serves as a Biomarker in Congestive Hepatopathy. Hepatol Commun 2021; 5:1437-1447. [PMID: 34430787 PMCID: PMC8369942 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Congestive hepatopathy (CH) with chronic passive congestion is characterized by the progression of liver fibrosis without prominent inflammation and hepatocellular damage. Currently, the lack of reliable biomarkers for liver fibrosis in CH often precludes the clinical management of patients with CH. To explore fibrosis biomarkers, we performed proteome analysis on serum exosomes isolated from patients with CH after the Fontan procedure. Exosomal cluster of differentiation (CD)44 levels were increased in patients with CH compared to healthy volunteers and was accompanied by increases in serum levels of soluble CD44 and CD44 expression in the liver. To address the roles of CD44 in CH, we established a mouse model of chronic liver congestion by partial inferior vena cava ligation (pIVCL) that mimics CH by fibrosis progression with less inflammation and cellular damage. In the pIVCL mice, enhanced CD44 expression in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and deposition of its ligand hyaluronan were observed in the liver. Blood levels of soluble CD44 were correlated with liver fibrosis. The blockade of CD44 with specific antibody inhibited liver fibrosis in pIVCL mice and was accompanied by a reduction in S100 calcium-binding protein A4 expression following activation of HSCs. Conclusion: Chronic liver congestion promotes fibrosis through CD44. This identifies CD44 as a novel biomarker and therapeutic target of liver fibrosis in patients with CH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Osawa
- Department of GastroenterologyInternational University of Health and Welfare HospitalNasushiobaraJapan.,Research Center for Hepatitis and ImmunologyNational Center for Global Health and MedicineIchikawaJapan
| | - Hironari Kawai
- Research Center for Hepatitis and ImmunologyNational Center for Global Health and MedicineIchikawaJapan
| | - Tomoyuki Tsunoda
- Department of Pediatric Hepatology and GastroenterologySaiseikai Yokohamashi Tobu HospitalTsurumi, YokohamaJapan
| | - Haruki Komatsu
- Department of PediatricsToho University Medical CenterSakura HospitalSakuraJapan
| | - Miku Okawara
- Research Center for Hepatitis and ImmunologyNational Center for Global Health and MedicineIchikawaJapan
| | - Yuriko Tsutsui
- Research Center for Hepatitis and ImmunologyNational Center for Global Health and MedicineIchikawaJapan
| | - Yuichi Yoshida
- Research Center for Hepatitis and ImmunologyNational Center for Global Health and MedicineIchikawaJapan
| | - Shiori Yoshikawa
- Research Center for Hepatitis and ImmunologyNational Center for Global Health and MedicineIchikawaJapan
| | - Taizo Mori
- Research Center for Hepatitis and ImmunologyNational Center for Global Health and MedicineIchikawaJapan
| | - Taiji Yamazoe
- Research Center for Hepatitis and ImmunologyNational Center for Global Health and MedicineIchikawaJapan
| | - Sachiyo Yoshio
- Research Center for Hepatitis and ImmunologyNational Center for Global Health and MedicineIchikawaJapan
| | - Takashi Oide
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineKohnodai HospitalNational Center for Global Health and MedicineIchikawaJapan
| | - Ayano Inui
- Department of Pediatric Hepatology and GastroenterologySaiseikai Yokohamashi Tobu HospitalTsurumi, YokohamaJapan
| | - Tatsuya Kanto
- Research Center for Hepatitis and ImmunologyNational Center for Global Health and MedicineIchikawaJapan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yokota S, Ono Y, Nakao T, Zhang P, Michalopoulos GK, Khan Z. Partial Bile Duct Ligation in the Mouse: A Controlled Model of Localized Obstructive Cholestasis. J Vis Exp 2018. [PMID: 29658929 DOI: 10.3791/56930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In rodents, complete bile duct ligation (cBDL) of the common bile duct is an established surgical technique for studying obstructive cholestasis and bile duct proliferation. However, long-term experiments can lead to increased morbidity and mortality. In select mouse strains with underlying liver disease, meaningful comparisons can be made even with ligation of a single lobe of the liver, which can reduce animal losses and expenses. Here, we describe partial bile duct ligation (pBDL) in the mouse, in which only the left hepatic bile duct is ligated, causing biliary obstruction in the left lobe but not the remaining lobes. With careful microsurgical technique, pBDL experiments can be cost-effective, since the unligated lobe serves as an internal control to the ligated lobes, when subjected to the same conditions in the same animal. Unlike cBDL, a separate sham-operated control group is not necessary. pBDL is highly useful to directly compare localized versus systemic effects of cholestasis and other retained bile components. pBDL can also be repurposed as a novel method to investigate mechanisms related to medications and cell migration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shinichiro Yokota
- Department of Surgery, Jichi Medical University; Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
| | - Yoshihiro Ono
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
| | - Toshimasa Nakao
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
| | - George K Michalopoulos
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh
| | - Zahida Khan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh; McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sheng RF, Wang HQ, Yang L, Jin KP, Xie YH, Fu CX, Zeng MS. Assessment of liver fibrosis using T1 mapping on Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced magnetic resonance. Dig Liver Dis 2017; 49:789-795. [PMID: 28237298 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2017.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Revised: 02/02/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have investigated the value of Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced T1 mapping in exact fibrosis staging, especially its correlation with hepatic molecular transporters. AIMS To investigate the diagnostic value of Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced T1 mapping in staging liver fibrosis and its relationship with hepatic molecular transporters. METHODS Thirty rats were divided into the carbon tetrachloride-induced fibrosis groups and a control group. T1-mapping was performed before and 20min after administration of Gd-EOB-DTPA. The T1 relaxation time and reduction rate (Δ%) were calculated, and their correlations with the degree of fibrosis, necroinflammatory activity, iron load and hepatic molecular transporters were assessed and compared. RESULTS Hepatobiliary phase T1 relaxation time (HBP) and Δ% were different between each adjacent fibrosis subgroups(P=0.000-0.042). Very strong correlations existed between fibrosis and both HBP and Δ% (r=0.960/-0.952), and multivariate analyses revealed that fibrosis was the only factor independently predicted by HBP (P=0.000) and Δ% (P=0.001), comparing to necroinflammatory activity and iron load. The expression of the organic anion transporting polypeptide1a1 (Oatp1a1) was significantly correlated with HBP and Δ% at both mRNA (r=-0.741/0.697) and protein (r=-0.577/0.602) levels. Weaker correlations were found for multidrug resistance associated protein2 (Mrp2). Generally, both transporters showed decreasing levels with increasing degrees of fibrosis. CONCLUSION Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced T1 mapping may provide a reliable diagnostic tool in staging liver fibrosis, and can be regarded as a useful imaging biomarker of hepatocyte transporter function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruo Fan Sheng
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - He Qing Wang
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Yang
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Pu Jin
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Hong Xie
- Department of Pathology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Cai Xia Fu
- MR Collaboration NEA, Siemens Ltd. China, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng Su Zeng
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Delhove JMKM, Buckley SMK, Perocheau DP, Karda R, Arbuthnot P, Henderson NC, Waddington SN, McKay TR. Longitudinal in vivo bioimaging of hepatocyte transcription factor activity following cholestatic liver injury in mice. Sci Rep 2017; 7:41874. [PMID: 28157201 PMCID: PMC5291111 DOI: 10.1038/srep41874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Accepted: 12/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular mechanisms regulating liver repair following cholestatic injury remain largely unknown. We have combined a mouse model of acute cholestatic liver injury, partial bile duct ligation (pBDL), with a novel longitudinal bioimaging methodology to quantify transcription factor activity during hepatic injury and repair. We administered lentiviral transcription factor activated luciferase/eGFP reporter (TFAR) cassettes to neonatal mice enabling longitudinal TFAR profiling by continued bioimaging throughout the lives of the animals and following pBDL in adulthood. Neonatal intravascular injection of VSV-G pseudotyped lentivirus resulted in almost exclusive transduction of hepatocytes allowing analysis of hepatocyte-specific transcription factor activity. We recorded acute but transient responses with NF-κB and Smad2/3 TFAR whilst our Notch reporter was repressed over the 40 days of evaluation post-pBDL. The bipotent hepatic progenitor cell line, HepaRG, can be directed to differentiate into hepatocytes and biliary epithelia. We found that forced expression of the Notch inhibitor NUMB in HepaRG resulted in enhanced hepatocyte differentiation and proliferation whereas over-expressing the Notch agonist JAG1 resulted in biliary epithelial differentiation. In conclusion, our data demonstrates that hepatocytes rapidly upregulate NF-κB and Smad2/3 activity, whilst repressing Notch signalling. This transcriptional response to cholestatic liver injury likely promotes partial de-differentiation to allow pro-regenerative proliferation of hepatocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juliette M K M Delhove
- Stem Cell Group, Cardiovascular &Cell Sciences Research Institute, St. George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London SW17 0RE, UK.,Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Suzanne M K Buckley
- Gene Transfer Technology Group, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, 86-96 Chenies Mews, London WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - Dany P Perocheau
- Gene Transfer Technology Group, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, 86-96 Chenies Mews, London WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - Rajvinder Karda
- Gene Transfer Technology Group, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, 86-96 Chenies Mews, London WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - Patrick Arbuthnot
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Neil C Henderson
- MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, U.K
| | - Simon N Waddington
- Gene Transfer Technology Group, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, 86-96 Chenies Mews, London WC1E 6HX, UK.,Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Tristan R McKay
- Stem Cell Group, Cardiovascular &Cell Sciences Research Institute, St. George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London SW17 0RE, UK.,School of Healthcare Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Palladini G, Ferrigno A, Richelmi P, Perlini S, Vairetti M. Role of matrix metalloproteinases in cholestasis and hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury: A review. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:12114-12124. [PMID: 26576096 PMCID: PMC4641129 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i42.12114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2015] [Revised: 04/28/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of proteases using zinc-dependent catalysis to break down extracellular matrix (ECM) components, allowing cell movement and tissue reorganization. Like many other proteases, MMPs are produced as zymogens, an inactive form, which are activated after their release from cells. Hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) is associated with MMP activation and release, with profound effects on tissue integrity: their inappropriate, prolonged or excessive expression has harmful consequences for the liver. Kupffer cells and hepatic stellate cells can secrete MMPs though sinusoidal endothelial cells are a further source of MMPs. After liver transplantation, biliary complications are mainly attributable to cholangiocytes, which, compared with hepatocytes, are particularly susceptible to injury and ultimately a major cause of increased graft dysfunction and patient morbidity. This paper focuses on liver I/R injury and cholestasis and reviews factors and mechanisms involved in MMP activation together with synthetic compounds used in their regulation. In this respect, recent data have demonstrated that the role of MMPs during I/R may go beyond the mere destruction of the ECM and may be much more complex than previously thought. We thus discuss the role of MMPs as an important factor in cholestasis associated with I/R injury.
Collapse
|
6
|
Inhibition of Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate (cAMP)-response Element-binding Protein (CREB)-binding Protein (CBP)/β-Catenin Reduces Liver Fibrosis in Mice. EBioMedicine 2015; 2:1751-8. [PMID: 26870800 PMCID: PMC4740320 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2015.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2015] [Revised: 10/03/2015] [Accepted: 10/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin is involved in every aspect of embryonic development and in the pathogenesis of many human diseases, and is also implicated in organ fibrosis. However, the role of β-catenin-mediated signaling on liver fibrosis remains unclear. To explore this issue, the effects of PRI-724, a selective inhibitor of the cAMP-response element-binding protein-binding protein (CBP)/β-catenin interaction, on liver fibrosis were examined using carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)- or bile duct ligation (BDL)-induced mouse liver fibrosis models. Following repetitive CCl4 administrations, the nuclear translocation of β-catenin was observed only in the non-parenchymal cells in the liver. PRI-724 treatment reduced the fibrosis induced by CCl4 or BDL. C-82, an active form of PRI-724, inhibited the activation of isolated primary mouse quiescent hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and promoted cell death in culture-activated HSCs. During the fibrosis resolution period, an increase in F4/80(+) CD11b(+) and Ly6C(low) CD11b(+) macrophages was induced by CCl4 and was sustained for two weeks thereafter, even after having stopped CCl4 treatment. PRI-724 accelerated the resolution of CCl4-induced liver fibrosis, and this was accompanied by increased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, MMP-2, and MMP-8 expression in intrahepatic leukocytes. In conclusion, targeting the CBP/β-catenin interaction may become a new therapeutic strategy in treating liver fibrosis.
Collapse
Key Words
- BDL, bile duct ligation
- Beta-catenin
- CBP, CREB-binding protein
- CCL, c–c motif ligand
- CCl4, carbon tetrachloride
- CREB, cAMP-response element-binding protein
- CXCL, c–x–c motif ligand
- Fibrosis
- GAPDH, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase
- HCV, hepatitis C virus
- HSC, hepatic stellate cell
- Hepatic stellate cell
- H–E, hematoxylin and eosin
- Liver
- MMP, matrix metalloproteinase
- Macrophage
- PBDL, partial BDL
- SPARC, secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine
- TGF-β, transforming growth factor
- TIMP-1, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase
- αSMA, α-smooth muscle actin,
Collapse
|
7
|
Osawa Y, Hoshi M, Yasuda I, Saibara T, Moriwaki H, Kozawa O. Tumor necrosis factor-α promotes cholestasis-induced liver fibrosis in the mouse through tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 production in hepatic stellate cells. PLoS One 2013; 8:e65251. [PMID: 23755201 PMCID: PMC3670853 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0065251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2013] [Accepted: 04/23/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, which is a mediator of hepatotoxicity, has been implicated in liver fibrosis. However, the roles of TNF-α on hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and liver fibrosis are complicated and remain controversial. To explore this issue, the role of TNF-α in cholestasis-induced liver fibrosis was examined by comparing between TNF-α(-/-) mice and TNF-α(+/+) mice after bile duct ligation (BDL). Serum TNF-α levels in mice were increased by common BDL combined with cystic duct ligation (CBDL+CDL). TNF-α deficiency reduced liver fibrosis without affecting liver injury, inflammatory cell infiltration, and liver regeneration after CBDL+CDL. Increased expression levels of collagen α1(I) mRNA, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β mRNA, and α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) protein by CBDL+CDL in the livers of TNF-α(-/-) mice were comparable to those in TNF-α(+/+) mice. Exogenous administration of TNF-α decreased collagen α1(I) mRNA expression in isolated rat HSCs. These results suggest that the reduced fibrosis in TNF-α(-/-) mice is regulated in post-transcriptional level. Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. TIMP-1 expression in HSCs in the liver was increased by CBDL+CDL, and the induction was lower in TNF-α(-/-) mice than in TNF-α(+/+) mice. Fibrosis in the lobe of TIMP-1(-/-) mice with partial BDL was also reduced. These findings indicate that TNF-α produced by cholestasis can promote liver fibrosis via TIMP-1 production from HSCs. Thus, targeting TNF-α and TIMP-1 may become a new therapeutic strategy for treating liver fibrosis in cholestatic liver injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Osawa
- Department of Pharmacology, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Gifu, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Leeming DJ, He Y, Veidal SS, Nguyen QHT, Larsen DV, Koizumi M, Segovia-Silvestre T, Zhang C, Zheng Q, Sun S, Cao Y, Barkholt V, Hägglund P, Bay-Jensen AC, Qvist P, Karsdal MA. A novel marker for assessment of liver matrix remodeling: An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) detecting a MMP generated type I collagen neo-epitope (C1M). Biomarkers 2011; 16:616-28. [DOI: 10.3109/1354750x.2011.620628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
9
|
Vassiliadis E, Veidal SS, Simonsen H, Larsen DV, Vainer B, Chen X, Zheng Q, Karsdal MA, Leeming DJ. Immunological detection of the type V collagen propeptide fragment, PVCP-1230, in connective tissue remodeling associated with liver fibrosis. Biomarkers 2011; 16:426-33. [DOI: 10.3109/1354750x.2011.584131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
|
10
|
Veidal SS, Vassiliadis E, Barascuk N, Zhang C, Segovia-Silvestre T, Klickstein L, Larsen MR, Qvist P, Christiansen C, Vainer B, Karsdal MA. Matrix metalloproteinase-9-mediated type III collagen degradation as a novel serological biochemical marker for liver fibrogenesis. Liver Int 2010; 30:1293-304. [PMID: 20666994 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2010.02309.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During fibrogenesis in the liver, in which excessive remodelling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) occurs, both the quantity of type III collagen (CO3) and levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), including MMP-9, increase significantly. MMPs play major roles in ECM remodelling, via their activity in the proteolytic degradation of extracellular macromolecules such as collagens, resulting in the generation of specific cleavage fragments. These neo-epitopes may be used as markers of fibrosis. AIMS The current study investigated whether a novel enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) assay specifically measuring an MMP-9-cleaved sequence of type III collagen located at position 610 (CO3-610C) may be used as a marker of liver fibrosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS Bile duct ligation (BDL) was performed in 20 rats, with sham operations performed on another 20 rats. Serum levels of the neo-epitope CO3-610C (MMP-mediated type III collagen degradation) were determined with an ELISA at 14 and 28 days post-surgery. Liver fibrosis was evaluated by quantitative digital image analysis of Sirius red-stained formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded sections. Western blot and densitometry were performed to confirm the CO3-610C ELISA data. RESULTS CO3-610C levels in serum increased significantly in BDL rats compared with those undergoing sham operations (% increase: 14 days=153%, P<0.0001; 28 days=134%, P=0.0014). This increase was confirmed by Western blot and densitometry of the identified bands. The CO3-610C levels correlated to liver fibrosis (R(2) =0.23 and P=0.01), as evaluated by quantitative digital histology. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION The data suggest that MMP-9-mediated CO3 turnover is a central event in the pathogenesis of fibrosis, and that the neo-epitope generated may be a novel biochemical marker.
Collapse
|
11
|
Barascuk N, Veidal SS, Larsen L, Larsen DV, Larsen MR, Wang J, Zheng Q, Xing R, Cao Y, Rasmussen LM, Karsdal MA. A novel assay for extracellular matrix remodeling associated with liver fibrosis: An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for a MMP-9 proteolytically revealed neo-epitope of type III collagen. Clin Biochem 2010; 43:899-904. [PMID: 20380828 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2010.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2010] [Revised: 02/18/2010] [Accepted: 03/21/2010] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components and increased matrix-metalloprotease (MMPs) activity are hallmarks of fibrosis. We developed an ELISA for quantification of MMP-9 derived collagen type III (CO3) degradation. DESIGN AND METHODS A monoclonal antibody targeting a specific MMP-9 cleaved fragment of CO3 was used for development of a competitive ELISA. The assay was investigated in serum and tissues from bile duct ligated rats (BDL). RESULTS The ELISA showed no cross-reaction with either intact CO3, or other collagens. The intra- and inter-assay CV were below 10%. Liver fibrosis was demonstrated in BDL animals by semi quantitative scoring (P<0.0001). Serum levels of CO3-610 increased 2.5 fold in BDL animals (P<0.001). The CO3-610 levels were 5 fold higher in ex vivo cultures of fibrotic livers compared to controls (P<0.001). CONCLUSION We have developed a novel ELISA for measuring a specific fragment CO3 generated by MMP-9 important in pathogenesis of liver fibrosis.
Collapse
|
12
|
Veidal SS, Vassiliadis E, Bay-Jensen AC, Tougas G, Vainer B, Karsdal MA. Procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide (PINP) is a marker for fibrogenesis in bile duct ligation-induced fibrosis in rats. FIBROGENESIS & TISSUE REPAIR 2010; 3:5. [PMID: 20359335 PMCID: PMC2860343 DOI: 10.1186/1755-1536-3-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2009] [Accepted: 04/01/2010] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Background Fibrosis can be described as the excess deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, such as collagens and proteoglycans. Fibrosis of the liver, which eventually leads to cirrhosis, is a major global health problem. Being able to measure fibrosis progression may enable timely preventative intervention. The aim of the current study was to investigate the utility of serum procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide (PINP) as a marker of hepatic fibrosis, as distinct from bone formation, during three different periods of fibrosis development following hepatic injury induced by bile duct ligation (BDL) in rats. Methods BDL was performed on 30 female Sprague-Dawley rats aged 6 months, and sham operations on 30 controls. Animals were killed after 14, 28, or 35 days. The extent of liver fibrosis was evaluated by quantitative histology after Sirus Red staining. Levels of serum PINP and osteocalcin (a marker solely for osteoblastic bone formation) were determined using ELISA at baseline and post termination. Results Collagen formation increased by 30% compared to 3% in sham-operated animals (P < 0.0001). PINP levels increased significantly in all BDL groups compared with baseline (14 days: baseline 13.9 ng/ml, termination 17.7 ng/ml, P = 0.047; 28 days: baseline 17.9 ng/ml, termination 26.2 ng/ml, P = 0.005; 35 days: baseline 18.0 ng/ml, termination 27.4 ng/ml P = 0.015, an increase of 52%). PINP levels did not change from baseline in the sham-operated rats, indicating that the increased PINP levels were due to hepatic injury. The bone-specific marker, osteocalcin, did not increase in either BDL or sham-operated rats. PINP measured in serum correlated to the extent of liver fibrosis as evaluated by quantitative histology (R2 = 0.42, P < 0.001). Conclusion PINP was associated with the development of liver fibrosis, but not bone formation, in mature rats subjected to BDL. Thus, PINP may be useful in studying the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. However, caution should be applied when interpreting PINP levels in other disease states.
Collapse
|
13
|
Osawa Y, Seki E, Adachi M, Suetsugu A, Ito H, Moriwaki H, Seishima M, Nagaki M. Role of acid sphingomyelinase of Kupffer cells in cholestatic liver injury in mice. Hepatology 2010; 51:237-45. [PMID: 19821528 DOI: 10.1002/hep.23262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Kupffer cells, resident tissue macrophages of the liver, play a key role in the regulation of hepatic inflammation, hepatocyte death, and fibrosis that characterize liver diseases. However, it is controversial whether Kupffer cells promote or protect from liver injury. To explore this issue we examined the role of Kupffer cells in liver injury, cell death, regeneration, and fibrosis on cholestatic liver injury in C57BL/6 mice using a model of partial bile duct ligation (BDL), in which animals do not die and the effects of BDL can be compared between injured ligated lobes and nonligated lobes. In cholestatic liver injury, the remaining viable cells represented tolerance for tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha)-induced hepatocyte apoptosis and regenerative features along with AKT activation. Inhibition of AKT by adenovirus expressing dominant-negative AKT abolished the survival and regenerative properties in hepatocytes. Moreover, Kupffer cell depletion by alendronate liposomes increased hepatocyte damage and the sensitivity of TNF-alpha-induced hepatocyte apoptosis in ligated lobes. Kupffer cell depletion decreased hepatocyte regeneration and liver fibrosis with reduced AKT activation. To investigate the impact of acid sphingomyelinase (ASMase) in Kupffer cells, we generated chimeric mice that contained ASMase-deficient Kupffer cells and -sufficient hepatocytes using a combination of Kupffer cell depletion, irradiation, and the transplantation of ASMase-deficient bone marrow cells. In these mice, AKT activation, the tolerance for TNF-alpha-induced apoptosis, and the regenerative responses were attenuated in hepatocytes after BDL. CONCLUSION Kupffer cells have a protective role for hepatocyte damage and promote cell survival, liver regeneration, and fibrosis in cholestatic liver disease. Kupffer cell-derived ASMase is crucial for AKT activation of hepatocytes that is required for the survival and regenerative responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Osawa
- Department of Informative Clinical Medicine, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Schmeckpeper J, Ikeda Y, Kumar AH, Metharom P, Russell SJ, Caplice NM. Lentiviral tracking of vascular differentiation in bone marrow progenitor cells. Differentiation 2009; 78:169-76. [DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2009.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2009] [Revised: 01/16/2009] [Accepted: 01/21/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
15
|
Dasgupta C, Sakurai R, Wang Y, Guo P, Ambalavanan N, Torday JS, Rehan VK. Hyperoxia-induced neonatal rat lung injury involves activation of TGF-{beta} and Wnt signaling and is protected by rosiglitazone. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2009; 296:L1031-41. [PMID: 19304912 PMCID: PMC3286237 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.90392.2008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2008] [Accepted: 03/05/2009] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite tremendous technological and therapeutic advances, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) remains a leading cause of respiratory morbidity in very low birth weight infants, and there are no effective preventive and/or therapeutic options. We have previously reported that hyperoxia-induced neonatal rat lung injury might be prevented by rosiglitazone (RGZ). Here, we characterize 1) perturbations in wingless/Int (Wnt) and transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta signaling, and 2) structural aberrations in lung morphology following 7-day continuous in vivo hyperoxia exposure to neonatal rats. We also tested whether treatment of neonatal pups with RGZ, concomitant to hyperoxia, could prevent such aberrations. Our study revealed that hyperoxia caused significant upregulation of Wnt signaling protein markers lymphoid enhancer factor 1 (Lef-1) and beta-catenin and TGF-beta pathway transducers phosphorylated Smad3 and Smad7 proteins in whole rat lung extracts. These changes were also accompanied by upregulation of myogenic marker proteins alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA) and calponin but significant downregulation of the lipogenic marker peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARgamma) expression. These molecular perturbations were associated with reduction in alveolar septal thickness, radial alveolar count, and larger alveoli in the hyperoxia-exposed lung. These hyperoxia-induced molecular and morphological changes were prevented by systemic administration of RGZ, with lung sections appearing near normal. This is the first evidence that in vivo hyperoxia induces activation of both Wnt and TGF-beta signal transduction pathways in lung and of its near complete prevention by RGZ. Hyperoxia-induced arrest in alveolar development, a hallmark of BPD, along with these molecular changes strongly implicates these proteins in hyperoxia-induced lung injury. Administration of PPARgamma agonists may thus be a potential strategy to attenuate hyperoxia-induced lung injury and subsequent BPD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiranjib Dasgupta
- Departments of Pediatrics , Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Torrance, California, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Yang H, Li TWH, Ko KS, Xia M, Lu SC. Switch from Mnt-Max to Myc-Max induces p53 and cyclin D1 expression and apoptosis during cholestasis in mouse and human hepatocytes. Hepatology 2009; 49:860-70. [PMID: 19086036 PMCID: PMC4427513 DOI: 10.1002/hep.22720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Toxic bile acids induce hepatocyte apoptosis, for which p53 and cyclin D1 have been implicated as underlying mediators. Both p53 and cyclin D1 are targets of c-Myc, which is also up-regulated in cholestasis. Myc and Mnt use Max as a cofactor for DNA binding. Myc-Max typically activates transcription via E-box binding. Mnt-Max also binds the E-box sequence but serves as a repressor and inhibits the enhancer activity of Myc-Max. The current work tested the hypothesis that the switch from Mnt-Max to Myc-Max is responsible for p53 and cyclin D1 up-regulation and apoptosis during cholestasis. Following common bile duct ligation or left hepatic bile duct ligation, the expression of p53, c-Myc, and cyclin D1 increased markedly, whereas Mnt expression decreased. Nuclear binding activity of Myc to the E-box element of p53 and cyclin D1 increased, whereas that of Mnt decreased in a time-dependent fashion. Lithocholic acid (LCA) treatment of primary human hepatocytes and HuH-7 cells induced a similar switch from Mnt to Myc and increased p53 and cyclin D1 promoter activity and endogenous p53 and cyclin D1 expression and apoptosis. Blocking c-Myc induction in HuH-7 cells prevented the LCA-mediated increase in p53 and cyclin D1 expression and reduced apoptosis. Lowering Mnt expression further enhanced LCA's inductive effect on p53 and cyclin D1. Bile duct-ligated mice treated with a lentivirus harboring c-myc small interfering RNA were protected from hepatic induction of p53 and cyclin D1, a switch from Mnt to Myc nuclear binding to E-box, and hepatocyte apoptosis. CONCLUSION The switch from Mnt to Myc during bile duct ligation and in hepatocytes treated with LCA is responsible for the induction in p53 and cyclin D1 expression and contributes to apoptosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heping Yang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, USC Research Center for Liver Diseases, USC-UCLA Research Center for Alcoholic Liver and Pancreatic Diseases, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Khimji AK, Shao R, Rockey DC. Divergent transforming growth factor-beta signaling in hepatic stellate cells after liver injury: functional effects on ECE-1 regulation. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2008; 173:716-27. [PMID: 18753413 DOI: 10.2353/ajpath.2008.071121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
In liver wound healing, transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) plays a critical role in stellate cell activation as well as signaling cascades in the fibrogenic response to injury. We postulate that the TGF-beta-dependent downstream signaling pathway may vary according to the mechanism of stellate cell activation; this study was undertaken to ascertain whether the downstream signaling pathways mediated by TGF-beta vary in different liver injury models. We measured Smad3 and MAP kinase activation after isolating stellate cells from rat livers injured by either bile duct ligation (BDL) or repeated carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4)) administration. Phospho-Smad3 was dramatically up-regulated in stellate cells after CCl(4) injury, but not after BDL-induced injury. TGF-beta signaling in stellate cells activated after BDL was mediated prominently through ERK activation, whereas activation induced by CCl(4) injury or culture led to a cross-signaling mechanism involving both Smad3 and p38. The divergent Smad signaling pathways observed appeared to be attributable to the differential regulation of the early growth response gene-1 (Egr-1), an apparent negative transcriptional factor for Smad3 in our system. In addition, inhibition of ERK activation in stellate cells from BDL-injured liver led to a decrease in expression of endothelin-converting enzyme-1, a critical regulator of endothelin-1. We speculate that TGF-beta signaling proceeds through differential signaling pathways depending on the mechanism of liver injury that leads to stellate cell activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Al-Karim Khimji
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Kim SM, Park KC, Kim HG, Han SJ. Effect of selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor meloxicam on liver fibrosis in rats with ligated common bile ducts. Hepatol Res 2008; 38:800-9. [PMID: 18462380 DOI: 10.1111/j.1872-034x.2008.00339.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM Cholestasis triggers fibrogenesis in the liver. Hepatic cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression increases in various chronic liver diseases caused either by viruses or toxins. We hypothesized that selective COX-2 inhibitor meloxicam could suppress inflammation and fibrogenesis in a rat model of cholestasis induced by bile duct ligation (BDL). METHODS Forty-three Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to one of four treatment groups (sham-operation, BDL, daily meloxicam injections following BDL, and daily meloxicam injection without BDL). Liver histopathology was analyzed with hematoxylin-eosin and Masson's trichrome staining. The expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA), transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1), and COX-2 were measured with immunohistochemical staining. The levels of COX-2, TGF-beta1, and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) production were measured with the Western blot method and an enzyme immunoassay. RESULTS Meloxicam treatment attenuated the expression of alpha-SMA, TGF-beta1, and COX-2 in rats that were treated with BDL for 3 weeks. This was associated with a marked reduction in collagen accumulation and histological improvement. In addition, meloxicam treatment was found to downregulate the levels of hepatic COX-2, TGF-beta1, and MMP-9 production. CONCLUSION Cholestasis in BDL rats induces hepatic COX-2 expression. Selective COX-2 inhibitor meloxicam reduces BDL-induced hepatic fibrosis, and this is associated with reduced hepatic TGF-beta1 expression as well as decreased cyclooxygenase activity in the liver.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seong Min Kim
- Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
The hepatic stellate cell has surprised and engaged physiologists, pathologists, and hepatologists for over 130 years, yet clear evidence of its role in hepatic injury and fibrosis only emerged following the refinement of methods for its isolation and characterization. The paradigm in liver injury of activation of quiescent vitamin A-rich stellate cells into proliferative, contractile, and fibrogenic myofibroblasts has launched an era of astonishing progress in understanding the mechanistic basis of hepatic fibrosis progression and regression. But this simple paradigm has now yielded to a remarkably broad appreciation of the cell's functions not only in liver injury, but also in hepatic development, regeneration, xenobiotic responses, intermediary metabolism, and immunoregulation. Among the most exciting prospects is that stellate cells are essential for hepatic progenitor cell amplification and differentiation. Equally intriguing is the remarkable plasticity of stellate cells, not only in their variable intermediate filament phenotype, but also in their functions. Stellate cells can be viewed as the nexus in a complex sinusoidal milieu that requires tightly regulated autocrine and paracrine cross-talk, rapid responses to evolving extracellular matrix content, and exquisite responsiveness to the metabolic needs imposed by liver growth and repair. Moreover, roles vital to systemic homeostasis include their storage and mobilization of retinoids, their emerging capacity for antigen presentation and induction of tolerance, as well as their emerging relationship to bone marrow-derived cells. As interest in this cell type intensifies, more surprises and mysteries are sure to unfold that will ultimately benefit our understanding of liver physiology and the diagnosis and treatment of liver disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Scott L Friedman
- Division of Liver Diseases, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York 10029-6574, USA.
| |
Collapse
|