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Ali FEM, Abdel-Reheim MA, Hassanein EHM, Abd El-Aziz MK, Althagafy HS, Badran KSA. Exploring the potential of drug repurposing for liver diseases: A comprehensive study. Life Sci 2024; 347:122642. [PMID: 38641047 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Drug repurposing involves the investigation of existing drugs for new indications. It offers a great opportunity to quickly identify a new drug candidate at a lower cost than novel discovery and development. Despite the importance and potential role of drug repurposing, there is no specific definition that healthcare providers and the World Health Organization credit. Unfortunately, many similar and interchangeable concepts are being used in the literature, making it difficult to collect and analyze uniform data on repurposed drugs. This research was conducted based on understanding general criteria for drug repurposing, concentrating on liver diseases. Many drugs have been investigated for their effect on liver diseases even though they were originally approved (or on their way to being approved) for other diseases. Some of the hypotheses for drug repurposing were first captured from the literature and then processed further to test the hypothesis. Recently, with the revolution in bioinformatics techniques, scientists have started to use drug libraries and computer systems that can analyze hundreds of drugs to give a short list of candidates to be analyzed pharmacologically. However, this study revealed that drug repurposing is a potential aid that may help deal with liver diseases. It provides available or under-investigated drugs that could help treat hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, Wilson disease, liver cancer, and fatty liver. However, many further studies are needed to ensure the efficacy of these drugs on a large scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fares E M Ali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut 71524, Egypt; Michael Sayegh, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aqaba University of Technology, Aqaba 77110, Jordan
| | - Mustafa Ahmed Abdel-Reheim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Shaqra University, Shaqra 11961, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef 62521, Egypt.
| | - Emad H M Hassanein
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut 71524, Egypt.
| | - Mostafa K Abd El-Aziz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut 71524, Egypt
| | - Hanan S Althagafy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid S A Badran
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut 71524, Egypt
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Pessino G, Scotti C, Maggi M, Immuno-Hub Consortium. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Old and Emerging Therapeutic Targets. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:901. [PMID: 38473265 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer, predominantly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), globally ranks sixth in incidence and third in cancer-related deaths. HCC risk factors include non-viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, environmental exposures, and genetic factors. No specific genetic alterations are unequivocally linked to HCC tumorigenesis. Current standard therapies include surgical options, systemic chemotherapy, and kinase inhibitors, like sorafenib and regorafenib. Immunotherapy, targeting immune checkpoints, represents a promising avenue. FDA-approved checkpoint inhibitors, such as atezolizumab and pembrolizumab, show efficacy, and combination therapies enhance clinical responses. Despite this, the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a challenge, as the complex tumor ecosystem and the immunosuppressive microenvironment associated with it hamper the efficacy of the available therapeutic approaches. This review explores current and advanced approaches to treat HCC, considering both known and new potential targets, especially derived from proteomic analysis, which is today considered as the most promising approach. Exploring novel strategies, this review discusses antibody drug conjugates (ADCs), chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T), and engineered antibodies. It then reports a systematic analysis of the main ligand/receptor pairs and molecular pathways reported to be overexpressed in tumor cells, highlighting their potential and limitations. Finally, it discusses TGFβ, one of the most promising targets of the HCC microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Pessino
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Claudia Scotti
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Maristella Maggi
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Immuno-Hub Consortium
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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3
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Fernandez CJ, Alkhalifah M, Afsar H, Pappachan JM. Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease and Chronic Viral Hepatitis: The Interlink. Pathogens 2024; 13:68. [PMID: 38251375 PMCID: PMC10821334 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13010068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has now affected nearly one-third of the global population and has become the number one cause of chronic liver disease in the world because of the obesity pandemic. Chronic hepatitis resulting from hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) remain significant challenges to liver health even in the 21st century. The co-existence of MAFLD and chronic viral hepatitis can markedly alter the disease course of individual diseases and can complicate the management of each of these disorders. A thorough understanding of the pathobiological interactions between MAFLD and these two chronic viral infections is crucial for appropriately managing these patients. In this comprehensive clinical review, we discuss the various mechanisms of chronic viral hepatitis-mediated metabolic dysfunction and the impact of MAFLD on the progression of liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelius J. Fernandez
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Pilgrim Hospital, United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust, Boston PE21 9QS, UK;
| | - Mohammed Alkhalifah
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Royal Preston Hospital, Sharoe Green Lane, Preston PR2 9HT, UK; (M.A.); (H.A.)
- Department of Family Medicine and Polyclinics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
- University Diabetes Center, King Saud University Medical City, King Saud University, Riyadh 11411, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hafsa Afsar
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Royal Preston Hospital, Sharoe Green Lane, Preston PR2 9HT, UK; (M.A.); (H.A.)
| | - Joseph M. Pappachan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Royal Preston Hospital, Sharoe Green Lane, Preston PR2 9HT, UK; (M.A.); (H.A.)
- Faculty of Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester M15 6BH, UK
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
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4
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Papadakos SP, Arvanitakis K, Stergiou IE, Lekakis V, Davakis S, Christodoulou MI, Germanidis G, Theocharis S. The Role of TLR4 in the Immunotherapy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Can We Teach an Old Dog New Tricks? Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2795. [PMID: 37345131 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer and is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Immunotherapy has emerged as the mainstay treatment option for unresectable HCC. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) plays a crucial role in the innate immune response by recognizing and responding primarily to bacterial lipopolysaccharides. In addition to its role in the innate immune system, TLR4 has also been implicated in adaptive immunity, including specific anti-tumor immune responses. In particular, the TLR4 signaling pathway seems to be involved in the regulation of several cancer hallmarks, such as the continuous activation of cellular pathways that promote cell division and growth, the inhibition of programmed cell death, the promotion of several invasion and metastatic mechanisms, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, drug resistance, and epigenetic modifications. Emerging evidence further suggests that TLR4 signaling holds promise as a potential immunotherapeutic target in HCC. The aim of this review was to explore the multilayer aspects of the TLR4 signaling pathway, regarding its role in liver diseases and HCC, as well as its potential utilization as an immunotherapy target for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros P Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Arvanitakis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioanna E Stergiou
- Pathophysiology Department, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Vasileios Lekakis
- Department of Gastroenterology, Laiko General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Spyridon Davakis
- First Department of Surgery, Laiko General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria-Ioanna Christodoulou
- Tumor Immunology and Biomarkers Laboratory, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus
| | - Georgios Germanidis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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Alharthi J, Pan Z, Gloss BS, McLeod D, Weltman M, George J, Eslam M. Loss of metabolic adaptation in lean MAFLD is driven by endotoxemia leading to epigenetic reprogramming. Metabolism 2023; 144:155583. [PMID: 37146900 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2023.155583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Lean patients with MAFLD have an initial adaptive metabolic response characterised by increased serum bile acids and Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR) activity. How this adaptive response wanes resulting in an equal or perhaps worse long-term adverse outcome compared to patients with obese MAFLD is not known. We show that patients with lean MAFLD have endotoxemia while their macrophages demonstrate excess production of inflammatory cytokines in response to activation by Toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands when compared to healthy subjects. Alterations of the lean MAFLD macrophage epigenome drives this response and suppresses bile acids signalling to drive inflammation. Our data suggests that selectively restoring bile acids signalling might restore adaptive metabolic responses in patients with MAFLD who are lean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jawaher Alharthi
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ziyan Pan
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Brian S Gloss
- Westmead Research Hub, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Duncan McLeod
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research (ICPMR), Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Martin Weltman
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nepean Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mohammed Eslam
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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Wang Y, Zhang X, Wang X, Zhang N, Yu Y, Gong P, Zhang X, Ma Y, Li X, Li J. Clonorchis sinensis aggravates biliary fibrosis through promoting IL-6 production via toll-like receptor 2-mediated AKT and p38 signal pathways. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011062. [PMID: 36693049 PMCID: PMC9873171 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Clonorchis sinensis is an important food-borne zoonotic parasite which has been linked to biliary fibrosis and cholangiocarcinoma. However, the details of the pathogenesis of C. sinensis were unclear. To explore the role and regulatory mechanism of toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) in C. sinensis-induced biliary fibrosis, we established the C. sinensis-infected C57BL/6 mouse model with TLR2-/- and wild type (WT) mice. The mortality rate, liver lesions, TLR2 and TGF-β1 expression, phosphorylation of Smad2/3, AKT, p38, ERK and p65, and cytokine productions were analyzed. Furthermore, similar parameters were examined in mouse biliary epithelial cells (BECs) co-cultured with C. sinensis excretory/secretory proteins (ESPs). The results showed that TLR2 expression was enhanced significantly in C. sinensis-infected WT mice and mouse BECs. C. sinensis-infected TLR2-/- mice exhibited an increased weight and a decreased mortality rate; significantly alleviated liver lesions and biliary fibrosis, reduced numbers of myofibroblasts; decreased expression of TGF-β1 and phosphorylation level of AKT, p38 and Smad2/3; significantly decreased production of IL-6, TNF-α and IL-4, while increased production of IFN-γ compared with C. sinensis-infected WT mice. Furthermore, C. sinensis ESPs could activate TLR2-mediated AKT and p38 pathways to increase the production of IL-6 in mouse BECs. In conclusion, these data indicate that C. sinensis infection activated TGF-β1-Smad2/3 through TLR2-mediated AKT and p38 pathways to promote IL-6 production, which resulted in myofibroblast activation and aggravating biliary fibrosis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuru Wang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaocen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yanhui Yu
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Pengtao Gong
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xichen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yeting Ma
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xin Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- * E-mail: (JL); (XL)
| | - Jianhua Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- * E-mail: (JL); (XL)
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Huang C, Zhou Y, Cheng J, Guo X, Shou D, Quan Y, Chen H, Chen H, Zhou Y. Pattern recognition receptors in the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and progression to hepatocellular carcinoma: An emerging therapeutic strategy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1145392. [PMID: 37020586 PMCID: PMC10067914 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1145392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by excessive lipid accumulation and has become the leading chronic liver disease worldwide. NAFLD is viewed as the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome, ranging from simple steatosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) to advanced fibrosis, eventually leading to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The pathogenesis of NAFLD progression is still not clear. Pattern recognition receptor (PRR)-mediated innate immune responses play a critical role in the initiation of NAFLD and the progression of NAFLD-related HCC. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and the cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS) are the two major PRRs in hepatocytes and resident innate immune cells in the liver. Increasing evidence indicates that the overactivation of TLRs and the cGAS signaling pathways may contribute to the development of liver disorders, including NAFLD progression. However, induction of PRRs is critical for the release of type I interferons (IFN-I) and the maturation of dendritic cells (DCs), which prime systemic antitumor immunity in HCC therapy. In this review, we will summarize the emerging evidence regarding the molecular mechanisms of TLRs and cGAS in the development of NAFLD and HCC. The dysfunction of PRR-mediated innate immune response is a critical determinant of NAFLD pathology; targeting and selectively inhibiting TLRs and cGAS signaling provides therapeutic potential for treating NALF-associated diseases in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Youlian Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiemin Cheng
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xue Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Diwen Shou
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Quan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hanqing Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yongjian Zhou, ; Huiting Chen, ; Hanqing Chen,
| | - Huiting Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yongjian Zhou, ; Huiting Chen, ; Hanqing Chen,
| | - Yongjian Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yongjian Zhou, ; Huiting Chen, ; Hanqing Chen,
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8
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Tourkochristou E, Assimakopoulos SF, Thomopoulos K, Marangos M, Triantos C. NAFLD and HBV interplay - related mechanisms underlying liver disease progression. Front Immunol 2022; 13:965548. [PMID: 36544761 PMCID: PMC9760931 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.965548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and Hepatitis B virus infection (HBV) constitute common chronic liver diseases with worldwide distribution. NAFLD burden is expected to grow in the coming decade, especially in western countries, considering the increased incidence of diabetes and obesity. Despite the organized HBV vaccinations and use of anti-viral therapies globally, HBV infection remains endemic and challenging public health issue. As both NAFLD and HBV have been associated with the development of progressive fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the co-occurrence of both diseases has gained great research and clinical interest. The causative relationship between NAFLD and HBV infection has not been elucidated so far. Dysregulated fatty acid metabolism and lipotoxicity in NAFLD disease seems to initiate activation of signaling pathways that enhance pro-inflammatory responses and disrupt hepatocyte cell homeostasis, promoting progression of NAFLD disease to NASH, fibrosis and HCC and can affect HBV replication and immune encountering of HBV virus, which may further have impact on liver disease progression. Chronic HBV infection is suggested to have an influence on metabolic changes, which could lead to NAFLD development and the HBV-induced inflammatory responses and molecular pathways may constitute an aggravating factor in hepatic steatosis development. The observed altered immune homeostasis in both HBV infection and NAFLD could be associated with progression to HCC development. Elucidation of the possible mechanisms beyond HBV chronic infection and NAFLD diseases, which could lead to advanced liver disease or increase the risk for severe complications, in the case of HBV-NAFLD co-existence is of high clinical significance in the context of designing effective therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evanthia Tourkochristou
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Stelios F. Assimakopoulos
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece,*Correspondence: Stelios F. Assimakopoulos,
| | - Konstantinos Thomopoulos
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Markos Marangos
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Christos Triantos
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
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Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms of Toll-like Receptor 4 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma-A Single-Center Study. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169430. [PMID: 36012696 PMCID: PMC9409058 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver tumor leading to significant morbidity and mortality; its exact genetic background is largely unrecognized. Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) reacts with lipopolysaccharides, molecules found in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. In damaged liver, TLR4 expression is upregulated, leading to hepatic inflammation and injury. We tried to investigate the role of the two most common single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of TLR4 in HCC-genesis. Aged > 18 years old, cirrhotic patients were included in this study. Exclusion criteria were non-HCC tumors and HIV co-infection. TLR4 SNPs association with HCC occurrence was the primary endpoint, and associations with all-cause and liver-related mortality, as well as time durations between diagnosis of cirrhosis and HCC development or death and diagnosis of HCC and death were secondary endpoints. A total of 52 out of 260 included patients had or developed HCC. TLR4 SNPs showed no correlation with primary or secondary endpoints, except for the shorter duration between HCC development and death in patients with TLR4 mutations. Overall, TLR4 SNPs showed no correlation with carcinogenesis or deaths in patients with liver cirrhosis; patients with TLR4 SNPs that developed HCC had lower survival rates, a finding that should be further evaluated.
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Naghib M, Kariminik A, Kazemi Arababadi M. TLR2, as a Pathogen Recognition Receptor, Plays Critical Roles in Hepatitis B Outcome. Viral Immunol 2022; 35:15-23. [PMID: 35020525 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2021.0141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune system of active and inactive chronic hepatitis B, as prolonged forms of hepatitis B, is unable to eradicate hepatitis B virus (HBV) from the infected hepatocytes completely. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play key roles in the viral recognition and promotion of appropriate immune responses. The molecules also participate in the alteration of the target cell functions and transformation. TLR2 is the unique molecule that makes either homodimer or heterodimer with TLR1 and 6 and shows variable roles against viral infections. Therefore, it has been hypothesized that TLR2 may participate in both immune response against HBV and induction of the virus-related hepatic complications. The studies confirm the hypothesis and revealed that TLR2 is not only one of the main molecules altering the course of HBV infection, but also plays key roles in induction of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver cirrhosis. However, recent studies demonstrated that the molecule can fight against HCC and liver cirrhosis. Collectively, it appears that nutrition habits, TLR2 gene polymorphisms, gut microbiome, HBV antigens, and activation of other receptors may play key roles in the determination of TLR2 functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Naghib
- Department of Microbiology, Kerman Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ashraf Kariminik
- Department of Microbiology, Kerman Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Kazemi Arababadi
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran.,Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
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11
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Getachew A, Hussain M, Huang X, Li Y. Toll-like receptor 2 signaling in liver pathophysiology. Life Sci 2021; 284:119941. [PMID: 34508761 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases (CLD) are among the major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Despite current achievements in the area of hepatitis virus, chronic alcohol abuse and high-fat diet are still fueling an epidemic of severe liver disease, for which, an effective therapy has yet not been discovered. In particular, the therapeutic regimens that could prevent the progression of fibrosis and, in turn, aid cirrhotic liver to develop a robust regenerative capability are intensively needed. To this context, a better understanding of the signaling pathways regulating hepatic disease development may be of critical value. In general, the liver responds to various insults with an orchestrated healing process involving variety of signaling pathways. One such pathway is the TLR2 signaling pathway, which essentially regulates adult liver pathogenesis and thus has emerged as an attractive target to treat liver disease. TLR2 is expressed by different liver cells, including Kupffer cells (KCs), hepatocytes, and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). From a pathologic perspective, the crosstalk between antigens and TLR2 may preferentially trigger a distinctive set of signaling mechanisms in these liver cells and, thereby, induce the production of inflammatory and fibrogenic cytokines that can initiate and prolong liver inflammation, ultimately leading to fibrosis. In this review, we summarize the currently available evidence regarding the role of TLR2 signaling in hepatic disease progression. We first elaborate its pathological involvement in liver-disease states, such as inflammation, fibrosis, and cirrhosis. We then discuss how therapeutic targeting of this pathway may help to alleviate its disease-related functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anteneh Getachew
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Institute of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Muzammal Hussain
- Center for Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Xinping Huang
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Institute of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Yinxiong Li
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Institute of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China; Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory, Guangzhou 510005, China.
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12
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Kairaluoma V, Kemi N, Huhta H, Pohjanen VM, Helminen O. Prognostic role of TLR4 and TLR2 in hepatocellular carcinoma. Acta Oncol 2021; 60:554-558. [PMID: 33502274 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2021.1877346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Valtteri Kairaluoma
- Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Niko Kemi
- Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Heikki Huhta
- Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Vesa-Matti Pohjanen
- Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Olli Helminen
- Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
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Serum soluble Toll-like receptor 4 and the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in hepatitis C virus patients. Contemp Oncol (Pozn) 2021; 24:216-220. [PMID: 33531868 PMCID: PMC7836282 DOI: 10.5114/wo.2020.102818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Soluble Toll-like receptor 4 (sTLR4) is a negative regulator of TLR4 signalling that has been reported in different diseases. In this study, we aimed to assess the serum levels of sTLR4 in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to investigate the correlation of sTLR4 with clinicopathological and biochemical parameters among HCV-related HCC patients and hepatitis C without HCC patients. Material and methods Fifty patients with HCV-related HCC, 50 patients with hepatitis C without HCC and 50 healthy control volunteers were enrolled. Clinicopathological and biochemical parameters were examined in all patients. Serum levels of sTLR4 were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results A significant increase in serum sTLR4 was detected in patients with HCV-related HCC (4436.1 ±7089.8) (pg/ml) ± compared to the level in patients with hepatitis C without HCC (1561.4 ±532.0) (pg/ml) (p = 0.002) and the level in the control group (1170.38 ±159.42) (pg/ml) (p < 0.001). Serum sTLR4 was positively correlated with serum AST activity, serum direct bilirubin levels, serum alpha fetoprotein levels, tumour stages of HCC according to the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging system (BCLC), and the severity of liver cirrhosis according to the Child-Pugh classification among the patients with HCV-related HCC. The combination of serum alpha fetoprotein and serum sTLR4 increased the sensitivity of HCC detection to 76% and the specificity to 94%. Conclusions Serum sTLR4 may be a marker for HCC susceptibility among HCV-infected patients.
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Bi Y, Ding Y, Wu J, Miao Z, Wang J, Wang F. Staphylococcus aureus induces mammary gland fibrosis through activating the TLR/NF-κB and TLR/AP-1 signaling pathways in mice. Microb Pathog 2020; 148:104427. [PMID: 32783982 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2020.104427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the TLR-NF-κB/AP-1 pathways in S. aureus infection-induced mammary gland fibrosis, mice were infected with S. aureus isolated from the mammary glands of cows with mastitis. Lactating mice were divided into three groups: control group (CON); PBS control group (PBS) and the S. aureus-treated group (S. aureus). Pathological observations revealed that neutrophil infiltration into mammary gland tissue was obviously induced by S. aureus at the early stage of infection (1-7 d). With persistent S. aureus infection, mammary gland fibrosis developed and was characterized by infiltration and proliferation of macrophage, lymphocyte and fibroblast and ECM hyperplasia (7-21 d). Immunohistochemistry staining showed upregulation of fibrosis associated cytokines viz bFGF and PDGF-BB. Real-time qPCR and Western blot analysis revealed that transcription and translation of TLR2, TLR4, bFGF, PDGF-BB, α-SMA and COL Ⅰ α1 was significantly upregulated by S. aureus. NF-κB p65 and AP-I c-jun were translocated into the nucleus after S. aureus infection. There was no remarkable difference between the CON and PBS groups. The datas indicate that mammary gland fibrosis in mice is induced by S. aureus, which promotes cytokine release and the expression of ECM though activating the TLR/NF-κB p65 and TLR/AP-1 c-jun signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannan Bi
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Technology in Animal Disease, Ministry of Agriculture, Zhaowuda Road 306, 010018, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, People's Republic of China; School of Basic Medical Science and Forensic Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Jianshe Road 31, 014040, Baotou, Inner Mongolia, People's Republic of China
| | - Yulin Ding
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Technology in Animal Disease, Ministry of Agriculture, Zhaowuda Road 306, 010018, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianmei Wu
- The Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Comprehensive Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Erdos Street 50, 010031, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Zengqiang Miao
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Technology in Animal Disease, Ministry of Agriculture, Zhaowuda Road 306, 010018, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinling Wang
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Technology in Animal Disease, Ministry of Agriculture, Zhaowuda Road 306, 010018, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, People's Republic of China
| | - Fenglong Wang
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Technology in Animal Disease, Ministry of Agriculture, Zhaowuda Road 306, 010018, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, People's Republic of China.
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Mohamed FEZA, Hammad S, Luong TV, Dewidar B, Al-Jehani R, Davies N, Dooley S, Jalan R. Expression of TLR-2 in hepatocellular carcinoma is associated with tumour proliferation, angiogenesis and Caspase-3 expression. Pathol Res Pract 2020; 216:152980. [PMID: 32703481 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2020.152980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Unlike other Toll-like receptors (TLRs), the role of toll like receptor 2 (TLR-2) in the pathogenesis of chronic liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is not well studied. We, therefore, set out to investigate the expression of TLR-2 in different chronic liver disease states along with other markers of cell death, cellular proliferation and tissue vascularisation METHODS AND RESULTS: Immunohistochemistry was performed on liver tissue microarrays comprising hepatitis, cirrhosis and HCC patient samples using antibodies against TLR-2, Ki-67, Caspase-3 and VEGF. This was done in order to characterise receptor expression and translocation, apoptosis, cell proliferation and vascularisation. Cytoplasmic TLR-2 expression was found to be weak in 5/8 normal liver cases, 10/19 hepatitis cases and 8/21 cirrhosis patients. Moderate to strong TLR-2 expression was observed in some cases of hepatitis and cirrhosis. Both, nuclear and cytoplasmic TLR-2 expression was present in HCC with weak intensity in 11/41 cases, and moderate to strong staining in 19/41 cases. Eleven HCC cases were TLR-2 negative. Surprisingly, both cytoplasmic and nuclear TLR-2 expression in HCC were found to significantly correlate with proliferative index (r = 0.24 and 0.37), Caspase-3 expression (r = 0.27 and 0.38) and vascularisation (r = 0.56 and 0.23). Further, nuclear TLR-2 localisation was predominant in HCC, whereas cytoplasmic expression was more prevalent in hepatitis and cirrhosis. Functionally, treatment of HUH7 HCC cells with a TLR-2 agonist induced the expression of cellular proliferation and vascularisation markers CD34 and VEGF. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate a positive correlation between the expression of TLR-2 and other markers of proliferation and vascularisation in HCC which suggests a possible role for TLR-2 in HCC pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma El-Zahraa Ammar Mohamed
- Molecular Hepatology Section, Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany; Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt.
| | - Seddik Hammad
- Molecular Hepatology Section, Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany; Department of Forensic Medicine and Veterinary Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Tu Vinh Luong
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Bedair Dewidar
- Molecular Hepatology Section, Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Rajai Al-Jehani
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Nathan Davies
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Steven Dooley
- Molecular Hepatology Section, Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
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Chen D, Le TH, Shahidipour H, Read SA, Ahlenstiel G. The Role of Gut-Derived Microbial Antigens on Liver Fibrosis Initiation and Progression. Cells 2019; 8:E1324. [PMID: 31717860 PMCID: PMC6912265 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Intestinal dysbiosis has recently become known as an important driver of gastrointestinal and liver disease. It remains poorly understood, however, how gastrointestinal microbes bypass the intestinal mucosa and enter systemic circulation to enact an inflammatory immune response. In the context of chronic liver disease (CLD), insults that drive hepatic inflammation and fibrogenesis (alcohol, fat) can drastically increase intestinal permeability, hence flooding the liver with gut-derived microbiota. Consequently, this may result in exacerbated liver inflammation and fibrosis through activation of liver-resident Kupffer and stellate cells by bacterial, viral, and fungal antigens transported to the liver via the portal vein. This review summarizes the current understanding of microbial translocation in CLD, the cell-specific hepatic response to intestinal antigens, and how this drives the development and progression of hepatic inflammation and fibrosis. Further, we reviewed current and future therapies targeting intestinal permeability and the associated, potentially harmful anti-microbial immune response with respect to their potential in terms of limiting the development and progression of liver fibrosis and end-stage cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dishen Chen
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia; (D.C.); (T.H.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Thanh H. Le
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia; (D.C.); (T.H.L.); (H.S.)
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown 2560, NSW, Australia
| | - Haleh Shahidipour
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia; (D.C.); (T.H.L.); (H.S.)
- Blacktown Medical School, Western Sydney University, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia
| | - Scott A. Read
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia; (D.C.); (T.H.L.); (H.S.)
- Blacktown Medical School, Western Sydney University, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia
| | - Golo Ahlenstiel
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia; (D.C.); (T.H.L.); (H.S.)
- Blacktown Medical School, Western Sydney University, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia
- Blacktown Hospital, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia
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17
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Zhang J, Chen M, Zhai Y, Fu Y. HOTAIR regulates lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory response in hepatocytes. J Cell Physiol 2019; 235:4247-4255. [PMID: 31621909 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
It has been widely accepted that long-noncoding RNA (lncRNA) HOX transcript antisense intergenic RNA (HOTAIR) emerges as a crucial mediator in inflammation. Here, we first detected HOTAIR in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated normal human liver cell line (L02) and hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines (C3A, HepG2, and SMMC-7721). Further, we explored the biological function of HOTAIR in LPS-induced hepatocytes (L02 and C3A) lesions and investigated the molecular mechanisms. Besides, we focused on inflammatory signaling crosstalk. The inflammatory insults were assayed by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), cell cycle and apoptosis analysis kit, and immunoblotting assay. HOTAIR level was examined by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. To determine the effect of HOTAIR silence or overexpression in inflammation, we applied quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, immunoblotting assay, and enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay. Regulator inhibitors of Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK2/STAT3; AG490) and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB; BAY-11-7082) were applied to treat cells. Our results suggested that LPS induced the overexpression of HOTAIR in L02, C3A, HepG2, and SMMC-7721 cells. LPS repressed viability, induced apoptosis, and facilitated the expression of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in L02 and C3A cells. IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α were upregulated by HOTAIR overexpression while downregulated by HOTAIR knockdown in LPS-treated cells. We further observed that HOTAIR overexpression accelerated LPS-induced phosphorylation whereas HOTAIR silence blocked this progress. Inhibition of JAK/STAT and NF-κB contributed to the suppression of cytokines which was evoked by LPS. Collectively, our findings indicated that HOTAIR exerted a crucial role in cytokines expression by activating JAK/STAT and NF-κB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhua Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, JuanCheng People's Hospital, Heze, Shandong, China
| | - Miao Chen
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Heze Municipal Hospital, Heze, Shandong, China
| | - Yuyan Zhai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heze Municipal Hospital, Heze, Shandong, China
| | - Yu Fu
- Department of Infection, Heze Municipal Hospital, Heze, Shandong, China
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18
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Chen Y, Huang Z, Chen X, Ye H. Activation of the Toll‑like receptor 2 signaling pathway inhibits the proliferation of HCC cells in vitro. Oncol Rep 2019; 42:2267-2278. [PMID: 31578587 PMCID: PMC6826303 DOI: 10.3892/or.2019.7340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Toll‑like receptor 2 (TLR2), is an important pattern recognition receptor which serves a role in chronic inflammation of the liver. However, the role of TLR2 in the progression of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unknown. The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of the activation of the TLR2 signaling pathway on biological functions, such as proliferation and apoptosis. TLR2 expression in HCC tissues was assayed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, flow cytometry and western blotting. B76/Huh7 cells were transfected with overexpression plasmids, and cell proliferation was detected using a Cell Counting Kit‑8 assay and the secreted cytokines in the supernatant of transfected cells were measured by ELISA. The findings revealed that TLR2 expression was increased in the peritumoral groups compared with inner‑tumoral groups. Activation of the TLR2 signaling pathway through overexpression of pathway molecules inhibited the growth of B76/Huh7 cells and the secretion of interleukin‑6 and tumor necrosis factor‑α were reduced. Inhibition of the TLR2 signaling pathway resulted in a significant increase in the downstream signaling cascade, thus potentially increasing hepatocarcinogenesis and tumor progression. Activation of the TLR2 signaling pathway may be a potential target for therapeutic intervention in patients with HCC and downstream secreted cytokines are required for the functional biological effect. Therefore, modulation of the TLR2 signaling pathway may provide important insight into designing effective therapeutic regimens for treating patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Chen
- United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, P.R. China
| | - Zuxiong Huang
- The Liver Center of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, P.R. China
| | - Xuzheng Chen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, P.R. China
| | - Hanhui Ye
- The Liver Center of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, P.R. China
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Ding YF, Peng ZX, Ding L, Peng YR. Baishouwu Extract Suppresses the Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma via TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:389. [PMID: 31068809 PMCID: PMC6491767 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The root of Cynanchum auriculatum Royle ex Wight, known as Baishouwu, has been widely used for a tonic supplement since ancient times. The current study was performed to explore the effect of Baishouwu extract on the development of experimental hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the potential mechanism involved. Methods: Rats were injected diethylnitrosamine (DEN) to initiate the multistep hepatocarcinogenesis. Animals were treated concurrently with Baishouwu extract given daily by oral gavage for 20 weeks to evaluate its protective effects. Time series sera and organ samples from each group were collected to evaluate the effect of Baishouwu extract on hepatic carcinogenesis. Results: It was found that Baishouwu extract pretreatment successfully attenuated liver injury induced by DEN, as shown by decreased levels of serum biochemical indicators (AST, ALT, ALP, TP, and T-BIL). Administration of Baishouwu extract inhibited the fibrosis-related index in serum and live tissue, respectively from inflammation stage to HCC stage after DEN treatment. It significantly reduced the incidence and multiplicity of DEN-induced HCC development in a dose-dependent manner. Macroscopic and microscopic features suggested that pretreatment with Baishouwu extract for 20 weeks was effective in inhibiting DEN-induced inflammation, liver fibrosis, and HCC. Furthermore, TLR4 overexpression induced by DEN was decreased by Baishouwu extract, leading to the markedly down-regulated levels of MyD88, TRAF6, NF-κB p65, TGF-β1 and α-SMA in hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocarcinoma. Conclusion: In conclusion, Baishouwu extract exhibited potent effect on the development of HCC by altering TLR4/MyD88/ NF-κB signaling pathway in the sequence of hepatic inflammation-fibrosis-cancer, which provided novel insights into the mechanism of Baishouwu extract as a candidate for the pretreatment of HCC in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Fang Ding
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zi-Xuan Peng
- Third College of Clinical Medicine, Xinjiang Medical University, Ürümqi, China
| | - Lan Ding
- Department of Nephrology, Suzhou Wuzhong People's Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Yun-Ru Peng
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are a type of pattern-recognition receptor (PRR) that are part of the innate immune system known to recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns and thereby play a crucial role in host immune response. Among the various known TLRs, TLR4 is one of the most extensively studied PRRs expressed by immune, certain nonimmune, and tumor cells. When TLR4 binds with the bacterial lipopolysaccharide, it induces production of proinflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and effector molecules as part of the immune response. Continuous exposure to pathogens and TLR4 signaling results in chronic inflammation that may further lead to malignant transformation. TLR4 is a highly polymorphic gene, and genetic variations are known to influence host immune response, leading to dysregulation of signaling pathway, which may affect an individual's susceptibility to various diseases, including cancer. Furthermore, TLR4 expression in different tumor types may also serve as a marker for tumor proliferation, differentiation, metastasis, prognosis, and patient survival. This review aims to summarize various reports related to TLR4 polymorphisms and expression patterns and their influences on different cancer types with a special focus on solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilesh Pandey
- P D Patel Institute of Applied Sciences, Charotar University of Science and Technology (CHARUSAT), Changa, Anand, 388421, India
| | - Alex Chauhan
- P D Patel Institute of Applied Sciences, Charotar University of Science and Technology (CHARUSAT), Changa, Anand, 388421, India
| | - Neeraj Jain
- P D Patel Institute of Applied Sciences, Charotar University of Science and Technology (CHARUSAT), Changa, Anand, 388421, India.
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Mmu-miR-92a-2-5p targets TLR2 to relieve Schistosoma japonicum-induced liver fibrosis. Int Immunopharmacol 2019; 69:126-135. [PMID: 30708193 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2019.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 12/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
According to conservative estimates, >230 million people are infected with schistosomiasis,which becomes one of the most common parasitic diseases. This study focuses on investigating in vivo and in vitro effects of mmu-miR-92a-2-5p in Schistosoma japonicum-induced liver fibrosis by targeting TLR2. Through bioinformatic analysis, the overexpression of TLR2 and the down-regulation of mmu-miR-92a-2-5p were revealed in the progression of S. japonicum-induced liver fibrosis. BALB/C mice were taken advantage to construct normal control and schistosomiasis liver fibrosis (SLF) model. The mice in model groups were transfected recombinant lentivirus (Lenti-mmu-miR-92a-2-5p or Lenti-NC) to alter the expression of mmu-miR-92a-2-5p in vivo. HE and Masson staining were employed to observe the pathological changes and collagenous fibrosis. QRT-PCR showed that mmu-miR-92a-2-5p was decreased while TLR2 was elevated in the infected groups. However, lenti-mmu-miR-92a-2-5p group could inhibit liver fibrosis. Then the effect of mmu-miR-92a-2-5p on S. japonicum-induced liver fibrosis including cell apoptosis rates, proliferation and proteins related to liver fibrosis was examined in NIH-3T3 mouse embryonic fibroblasts. Moreover, the association between mmu-miR-92a-2-5p and TLR2 was detected by dual-luciferase reporter gene assay and the expression of cytokines IL-4, IFN-γ and TNF-α in SLF model was detected by ELISA. Further, the knockout of TLR2 in C57BL/6J mice was used to confirm the association between mmu-miR-92a-2-5p and TLR2. Thus, these findings demonstrated that mmu-miR-92a-2-5p inhibited S. japonicum-induced liver fibrosis by targeting TLR2 in vitro and in vivo.
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Borges Canha M, Portela-Cidade JP, Conceição G, Sousa-Mendes C, Leite S, Fontoura D, Moreira-Gonçalves D, Falcão-Pires I, Lourenço A, Leite-Moreira A, Pimentel-Nunes P. Characterization of liver changes in ZSF1 rats, an animal model of metabolic syndrome. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE ENFERMEDADES DIGESTIVAS 2018; 109:491-497. [PMID: 28593786 DOI: 10.17235/reed.2017.4575/2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is the hepatic counterpart of the metabolic syndrome. ZSF1 rats are a metabolic syndrome animal model in which liver changes have not been described yet. AIM The characterization of liver histological and innate immunity changes in ZSF1 rats. METHODS Five groups of rats were included (n = 7 each group): healthy Wistar-Kyoto control rats (Ctrl), hypertensive ZSF1 lean (Ln), ZSF1 obese rats with a normal diet (Ob), ZSF1 obese rates with a high-fat diet (Ob-HFD), and ZSF1 obese rats with low-intensity exercise training (Ob-Ex). The animals were sacrificed at 20 weeks of age, their livers were collected for: a) measurements of the area of steatosis, fibrosis and inflammation (histomorphological analysis); and b) innate immunity (toll-like receptor [TLR] 2, TLR4, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ [PPARγ], toll interacting protein [TOLLIP]) and inflammatory marker (tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNFα], interleukin 1 [IL-1]) expression analysis by real-time PCR. RESULTS Ob, Ob-HFD and Ob-Ex were significantly heavier than Ln and Ctrl animals. Ob, Ob-HFD and Ob-Ex animals had impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance. ZSF1 Ob, Ob-HFD and Ob-Ex presented a higher degree of steatosis (3,5x; p < 0.05) than Ctrl or ZSF1 Ln rats. Steatohepatitis and fibrosis were not observed in any of the groups. No differences in expression were observed between Ctrl, Ln and Ob animals (except for the significantly higher expression of TOLLIP observed in the Ob vs Ln comparison). Ob-HFD and Ob-Ex rats showed increased expression of PPARγ and TOLLIP as compared to other groups. However, both groups also showed increased expression of TLR2 and TLR4. Nevertheless, this did not translate into a differential expression of TNFα or IL-1 in any of the groups. CONCLUSION The ZSF1 model is associated with liver steatosis but not with steatohepatitis or a significantly increased expression of innate immunity or inflammation markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Borges Canha
- Physiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Glória Conceição
- Physiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto
| | | | - Sara Leite
- Physiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto
| | - Dulce Fontoura
- Physiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto
| | | | - Inês Falcão-Pires
- Physiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto
| | - André Lourenço
- Physiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto
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Fukui H. Gut Microbiome-based Therapeutics in Liver Cirrhosis: Basic Consideration for the Next Step. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2017; 5:249-260. [PMID: 28936406 PMCID: PMC5606971 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2017.00008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Infections account for significant morbidity and mortality in liver cirrhosis and most are related to the gut microbiome. Fecal dysbiosis, characterized by an overgrowth of potentially pathogenic bacteria and a decrease in autochthonous non-pathogenic bacteria, becomes prominent with the progression of liver cirrhosis. In cirrhotic patients, disruption of the intestinal barrier causes intestinal hyperpermeability (i.e. leaky gut), which is closely related to gut dysmotility, dysbiosis and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and may induce pathological bacterial translocation. Although the involved microbial taxa are somewhat different between the cirrhotic patients from the East and the West, the common manifestation of a shortage of bacteria that contribute to the production of short-chain fatty acids and secondary bile acids may facilitate intestinal inflammation, leaky gut and gut dysbiosis. Translocated endotoxin and bacterial DNA are capable of provoking potent inflammation and affecting the metabolic and hemodynamic systems, which may ultimately enhance the progression of liver cirrhosis and its various complications, such as hepatic encephalopathy (HE), variceal bleeding, infection and renal disturbances. Among studies on the microbiome-based therapeutics, findings of probiotic effects on HE have been contradictory in spite of several supportive results. However, the effects of synbiotics and prebiotics are substantially documented. The background of their effectiveness should be evaluated again in relation to the cirrhosis-related changes in gut microbiome and their metabolic effects. Strict indications for the antibiotic rifaximin remain unestablished, although its effect is promising, improving HE and other complications with little influence on microbial populations. The final goal of microbiome-based therapeutics is to adjust the gut-liver axis to the maximal benefit of cirrhotic patients, with the aid of evolving metagenomic and metabolomic analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Fukui
- *Correspondence to: Hiroshi Fukui, Department of Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho Kashihara, 634-8522 Nara, Japan. Tel: +81-744223051, E-mail:
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24
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Jiang N, Xie F, Guo Q, Li MQ, Xiao J, Sui L. Toll-like receptor 4 promotes proliferation and apoptosis resistance in human papillomavirus-related cervical cancer cells through the Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-κB pathway. Tumour Biol 2017; 39:1010428317710586. [PMID: 28653898 DOI: 10.1177/1010428317710586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptor 4 is overexpressed in various tumors, including cervical carcinoma. However, the role of Toll-like receptor 4 in cervical cancer remains controversial, and the underlying mechanisms are largely elusive. Therefore, Toll-like receptor 4 in cervical cancer and related mechanisms were investigated in this study. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses were used to detect messenger RNA and protein levels in HeLa, Caski, and C33A cells with different treatments. Proliferation was quantified using Cell Counting Kit-8. Cell cycle distribution and apoptosis were assessed by flow cytometry. Higher levels of Toll-like receptor 4 expression were found in human papillomavirus-positive cells compared to human papillomavirus-negative cells. Proliferation of HeLa and Caski cells was promoted in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated groups but suppressed in short hairpin RNA-transfected groups. Apoptosis rates were lower in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated groups relative to short hairpin RNA-transfected groups. In addition, G2-phase distribution was enhanced when Toll-like receptor 4 was downregulated. Moreover, the pNF-κBp65 level was positively correlated with the Toll-like receptor 4 level in HeLa and Caski cells, though when an nuclear factor-κB inhibitor was applied to lipopolysaccharide-stimulated groups, the patterns of proliferation and apoptosis were opposite to those of the lipopolysaccharide-stimulated groups without inhibitor treatment. In conclusion, these data suggest that Toll-like receptor 4 promotes proliferation and apoptosis resistance in human papillomavirus-related cervical cancer cells at least in part through the Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-κB pathway, which may be correlated with the occurrence and development of cervical carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ninghong Jiang
- 1 Medical Center of Diagnosis and Treatment for Cervical Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,2 Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Xie
- 1 Medical Center of Diagnosis and Treatment for Cervical Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,2 Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qisang Guo
- 1 Medical Center of Diagnosis and Treatment for Cervical Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,2 Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- 2 Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingjing Xiao
- 1 Medical Center of Diagnosis and Treatment for Cervical Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,2 Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Long Sui
- 1 Medical Center of Diagnosis and Treatment for Cervical Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,2 Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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25
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Nosratabadi R, Alavian SM, Zare-Bidaki M, Shahrokhi VM, Arababadi MK. Innate immunity related pathogen recognition receptors and chronic hepatitis B infection. Mol Immunol 2017; 90:64-73. [PMID: 28704708 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2017.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Revised: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Innate immunity consists of several kinds of pathogen recognition receptors (PRRs), which participate in the recognition of pathogens and consequently activation of innate immune system against pathogens. Recently, several investigations reported that PRRs may also play key roles in the induction/stimulation of immune system related complications in microbial infections. Hepatitis B virus (HBV), as the main cause of viral hepatitis in human, can induce several clinical forms of hepatitis B and also might be associated with hepatic complications such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Based on the important roles of PRRs in the eradication of microbial infections including viral infections and their related complications, it appears that the molecules may be a main part of immune responses against viral infections including HBV and participate in the HBV related complications. Thus, this review article has brought together information regarding the roles of PRRs in immunity against HBV and its complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Nosratabadi
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; Dept. of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Seyed Moayed Alavian
- Baqiyatallah Research Center for Gastroenterology and Liver Disease, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Zare-Bidaki
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; Dept. of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Vahid Mohammadi Shahrokhi
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; Dept. of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Kazemi Arababadi
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; Dept. of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran.
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26
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Sepehri Z, Kiani Z, Kohan F, Alavian SM, Ghavami S. Toll like receptor 4 and hepatocellular carcinoma; A systematic review. Life Sci 2017; 179:80-87. [PMID: 28472619 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2017.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2017] [Revised: 04/16/2017] [Accepted: 04/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Toll like receptor 4 (TLR4) is an extracellular pathogen recognition receptor (PRR) which recognizes a wide range of pathogens and damage associated molecular patterns (PAMPs and DAMPs). It can activate intracellular signaling and consequently transcription factors which participate in transcription from either immune related or malignancy genes. Thus, it has been hypothesized that TLR4 may be a cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This article has reviewed the roles of TLR4 in the pathogenesis of HCC. METHOD "TLR4", "hepatocellular carcinoma", "liver tumor" and "liver cancer" were used as key words for searching in Scopus, Google Scholar and MEDLINE scientific databases. RESULTS Most of the investigations documented the roles of TLR4 in induction of HCC via several mechanisms including increased number of T regulatory lymphocytes and liver resident follicular helper like cells, increased production of pro-inflammatory and malignancy related molecules including cytokines, NANOG, Caspase-1, Ephrin-A1, NO and BCL6. TLR4 participates in the proliferation of the cells and also production of the molecules in both chronic infectious and non-infectious inflammatory diseases. DISCUSSION TLR4 is an innate immunity receptor which plays a pathogenic role during chronic inflammation and can induce HCC in human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Sepehri
- Department of Internal Medicine, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Zohre Kiani
- Zabol Medicinal Plant Research Center, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran; Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Farhad Kohan
- Student Research Committee, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Seyed Moayed Alavian
- Baqiyatallah Research Center for Gastroenterology and Liver Disease, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeid Ghavami
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P4, Canada
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Zakaria S, Mahmoud AA, Hasan RA, Mahmoud MF, El Fayoumi HM. Cinnamaldehyde Mitigates Carbon Tetrachloride-induced Acute Liver Injury in Rats Through Inhibition of Toll-like Receptor 4 Signaling Pathway. INT J PHARMACOL 2016. [DOI: 10.3923/ijp.2016.851.862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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28
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Doerrenberg M, Kloetgen A, Hezaveh K, Wössmann W, Bleckmann K, Stanulla M, Schrappe M, McHardy AC, Borkhardt A, Hoell JI. T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in infants has distinct genetic and epigenetic features compared to childhood cases. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 2016; 56:159-167. [DOI: 10.1002/gcc.22423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Revised: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mareike Doerrenberg
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology; Heinrich-Heine-University, Medical Faculty; Düsseldorf Germany
| | - Andreas Kloetgen
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology; Heinrich-Heine-University, Medical Faculty; Düsseldorf Germany
- Computational Biology of Infection Research, Helmholtz Center for Infection Research; Braunschweig Germany
| | - Kebria Hezaveh
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology; Heinrich-Heine-University, Medical Faculty; Düsseldorf Germany
| | - Wilhelm Wössmann
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology; University Hospital Gießen and Marburg; Gießen Germany
| | - Kirsten Bleckmann
- ALL BFM Trial Center; University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein; Kiel Germany
| | - Martin Stanulla
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology; Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
| | - Martin Schrappe
- Department of Pediatrics; University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein; Kiel Germany
| | - Alice C McHardy
- Computational Biology of Infection Research, Helmholtz Center for Infection Research; Braunschweig Germany
| | - Arndt Borkhardt
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology; Heinrich-Heine-University, Medical Faculty; Düsseldorf Germany
| | - Jessica I Hoell
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology; Heinrich-Heine-University, Medical Faculty; Düsseldorf Germany
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Venturi C, Reding R, Quinones JA, Sokal E, Rahier J, Bueno J, Sempoux C. Relevance of activated hepatic stellate cells in predicting the development of pediatric liver allograft fibrosis. Liver Transpl 2016; 22:822-9. [PMID: 26851053 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Revised: 01/09/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the main collagen-producing cells in liver fibrogenesis. With the purpose of analyzing their presence and relevance in predicting liver allograft fibrosis development, 162 liver biopsies of 54 pediatric liver transplantation (LT) recipients were assessed at 6 months, 3 years, and 7 years after LT. The proportion of activated HSCs, identified by α-smooth muscle actin (ASMA) immunostaining, and the amount of fibrosis, identified by picrosirius red (PSR%) staining, were determined by computer-based morphometric analysis. Fibrosis was also staged by using the semiquantitative liver allograft fibrosis score (LAFSc), specifically designed to score fibrosis in the pediatric LT population. Liver allograft fibrosis displayed progression over time by PSR% (P < 0.001) and by LAFSc (P < 0.001). The ASMA expression decreased in the long term, with inverse evolution with respect to fibrosis (P < 0.01). Patients with ASMA-positive HSCs area ≥ 8% at 6 months (n = 20) developed a higher fibrosis proportion compared to those with ASMA-positive HSCs area ≤ 8% (n = 34) at the same period of time and in the long term (P = 0.03 and P < 0.01, respectively), but not at 3 years (P = 0.8). ASMA expression ≥ 8% at 6 months was found to be an independent risk factor for 7-year fibrosis development by PSR% (r(2) = 0.5; P < 0.01) and by LAFSc (r(2) = 0.3; P = 0.03). Furthermore, ASMA expression ≥ 8% at 3 years showed an association with the development of fibrosis at 7 years (P = 0.02). In conclusion, there is a high proportion of activated HSCs in pediatric LT recipients. ASMA ≥ 8% at 6 months seems to be a risk factor for early and longterm fibrosis development. In addition, activated HSCs showed inverse evolution with respect to fibrosis in the long term. Liver Transplantation 22 822-829 2016 AASLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Venturi
- Pediatric Surgery and Transplant Unit, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Raymond Reding
- Pediatric Surgery and Transplant Unit, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Etienne Sokal
- Service de Gastroentérologie and Hépatologie Pédiatrique, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium.,Pediatric Hepatology and Cell Therapy, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jacques Rahier
- Department of Pathology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Javier Bueno
- Pediatric Surgery Department, Virgen del Rocio and Virgen de la Macarena, University Hospitals, Seville, Spain
| | - Christine Sempoux
- Department of Pathology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
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Abstract
Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), one of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) which can recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and danger associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), regulates the innate immune system at early phase by presenting danger signals to the host. Because of its role in immune response, inflammation regulation and tumorigenesis, a growing number of oncology studies, including those on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), have started to focus on TLR4; however, there are very few studies on the specific mechanism of TLR4 in HCC. Pathogenesis of HCC involves cell damage and eventual cell malignant transformation caused by chronic inflammation, and this process involves many molecular pathways. Therefore, clarifying the role of TLR4 in the occurrence, development, metastasis and treatment of HCC has important biological significance and clinical value. This review reviews the role of TLR4 in HCC.
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31
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Lopes JAG, Borges-Canha M, Pimentel-Nunes P. Innate immunity and hepatocarcinoma: Can toll-like receptors open the door to oncogenesis? World J Hepatol 2016; 8:162-182. [PMID: 26839640 PMCID: PMC4724579 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v8.i3.162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocarcinoma (HCC) is a highly prevalent cancer worldwide and its inflammatory background was established long ago. Recent studies have shown that innate immunity is closely related to the HCC carcinogenesis. An effective innate immunity response relies on the toll-like receptors (TLR) found in several different liver cells which, through different ligands and many signaling pathways can elicit, not only a pro-inflammatory but also an oncogenic or anti-oncogenic response. Our aim was to study the role of TLRs in the liver oncogenesis and as a consequence their value as potential therapeutic targets. We performed a systematic review of PubMed searching for original articles studying the relationship between HCC and TLRs until March 2015. TLR2 appears to be a fundamental stress-sensor as its absence reveals an augmented tendency to accumulate DNA-damages and to cell survival. However, pathways are still not fully understood as TLR2 up-regulation was also associated to enhanced tumorigenesis. TLR3 has a well-known protective role influencing crucial processes like angiogenesis, cell growth or proliferation. TLR4 works as an interesting epithelial-mesenchymal transition’s inducer and a promoter of cell survival probably inducing HCC carcinogenesis even though an anti-cancer role has already been observed. TLR9’s influence on carcinogenesis is also controversial and despite a potential anti-cancer capacity, a pro-tumorigenic role is more likely. Genetic polymorphisms in some TLRs have been found and its influence on the risk of HCC has been reported. As therapeutic targets, TLRs are already in use and have a great potential. In conclusion, TLRs have been shown to be an interesting influence on the HCC’s microenvironment, with TLR3 clearly determining an anti-tumour influence. TLR4 and TLR9 are considered to have a positive relationship with tumour development even though, in each of them anti-tumorigenic signals have been described. TLR2 presents a more ambiguous role, possibly depending on the stage of the inflammation-HCC axis.
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Gingerol protects against experimental liver fibrosis in rats via suppression of pro-inflammatory and profibrogenic mediators. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2016; 389:419-28. [PMID: 26809353 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-016-1210-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2015] [Accepted: 01/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
6-Gingerol (Gin) is known to possess hepatoprotective effects. Liver fibrosis is a major health concern that results in significant morbidity and mortality. There is no FDA-approved medication for liver fibrosis. The present work aimed at exploring the beneficial effects of Gin against liver fibrosis in rats. Experimental fibrosis was induced by challenging animals with CCl4 for 6 weeks. Gin significantly ameliorated the increase in serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities, albumin, total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) concentrations, and liver index. These effects were confirmed by light and electron microscopic examinations. The antifibrotic effects were confirmed by examining Masson trichrome-stained liver sections which indicated reduced collagen deposition in Gin-treated animals. Further, Gin administration hampered alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression and significantly reduced hepatic content of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β). Also, Gin elicited profound antioxidant actions as indicated by preventing reduced glutathione (GSH) depletion and lipid peroxide accumulation. The observed antifibrotic activities involved decreased production of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), expression of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM), and vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM). Involvement of Gin anti-inflammatory activity was verified by the decreased expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in livers of animals treated with Gin. Thus, it can be concluded that Gin protects against CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in rats. This can be ascribed, at least partly, to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effects as well as the inhibition of NF-κB/TLR-4 expression.
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Xu CL, Hao YH, Lu YP, Tang ZS, Yang XC, Wu J, Zheng X, Wang BJ, Liu J, Yang DL. Upregulation of toll-like receptor 4 on T cells in PBMCs is associated with disease aggravation of HBV-related acute-on-chronic liver failure. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 35:910-915. [PMID: 26670445 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-015-1527-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2015] [Revised: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Immune-mediated inflammatory injury is an important feature of the disease aggravation of hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). Toll-like receptors (TLRs) have been shown previously to play a pivotal role in the activation of innate immunity. The purpose of this study was to characterize the TLR4 expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of ACLF patients and its possible role in the disease aggravation. Twelve healthy subjects, 15 chronic HBV-infected (CHB) patients and 15 ACLF patients were enrolled in this study. The TLR4 expression in PBMCs and T cells of all subjects was examined by real-time PCR and flow cytometry. The correlation of TLR4 expression on T cells with the markers of disease aggravation was evaluated in ACLF patients. The ability of TLR4 ligands stimulation to induce inflammatory cytokine production in ACLF patients was analyzed by flow cytometry. The results showed that TLR4 mRNA level was upregulated in PBMCs of ACLF patients compared to that in the healthy subjects and the CHB patients. Specifically, the expression of TLR4 on CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells of PBMCs was significantly increased in ACLF patients. The TLR4 levels on CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells were positively correlated with serum total bilirubin (TBIL), direct bilirubin (DBIL), international normalized ratio (INR) levels and white blood cells (WBCs), and negatively correlated with serum albumin (ALB) levels in the HBV-infected patients, indicating TLR4 pathway may play a role in the disease aggravation of ACLF. In vitro TLR4 ligand stimulation on PBMCs of ACLF patients induced a strong TNF-α production by CD4(+) T cells, which was also positively correlated with the serum markers for liver injury severity. It was concluded that TLR4 expression is upregulated on T cells in PBMCs, which is associated with the aggravation of ACLF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Li Xu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - You-Hua Hao
- Division of Clinical Immunology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yin-Ping Lu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Zong-Sheng Tang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Xue-Cheng Yang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Jun Wu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Xin Zheng
- Department of Infectious Disease, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Bao-Ju Wang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
| | - Dong-Liang Yang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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Dehghan-Manshadi M, Hadinedoushan H, Amirbaigy MK, Zare F, Eslami G, Mirghanizade-Bafghi SA, Akhondi-Meybodi M. Relative Expression of Toll-Like Receptors 2 and 7 mRNA in Peripheral Blood of Patients With Hepatitis C. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2015; 15:e30427. [PMID: 26834788 PMCID: PMC4719121 DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon.30427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2015] [Revised: 09/13/2015] [Accepted: 09/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an important human pathogen affecting an estimated 120 - 170 million individuals in the world. Toll-Like receptors (TLRs) are pattern-recognition receptors that recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns, and stimulate immune responses. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to determine the mRNA expression level of TLR2 and TLR7 in HCV-infected patients in comparison with normal controls. PATIENTS AND METHODS Nineteen consecutive patients with HCV infection and nineteen sex and age-matched healthy controls were studied in a case-controlled research. RESULTS Our results showed that the expressions of TLR7 in HCV infected samples were significantly increased in comparison those of the controls (P = 0.02), while the expression of TLR2 was similar between the case and the control group (P = 0.8). There were no associations between the expression levels of TLR2 and TLR7 with HCV viral load and HCV genotypes. Also, there was no association between viral load and genotypes of the virus. CONCLUSIONS Our findings showed that HCV infection could lead to increased expression level of TLR7 mRNA in peripheral blood cells of HCV infected samples. The viral load and genotypes of HCV did not affect the mRNA expression levels of TLR2 and TLR7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Dehghan-Manshadi
- Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, IR Iran
| | - Hossein Hadinedoushan
- Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, IR Iran
- Immunology Department, Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, IR Iran
- Corresponding Author: Hossein Hadinedoushan, Immunology Department, Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, IR Iran. Tel: +98-3536285406; +98-9133576620, Fax: +98-3536238561, E-mail:
| | - Mohammad Kazem Amirbaigy
- Gastrology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi Hospital, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, IR Iran
| | - Fateme Zare
- Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, IR Iran
| | - Gilda Eslami
- Parasitology and Mycology Department, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, IR Iran
| | | | - Mohsen Akhondi-Meybodi
- Gastrology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi Hospital, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, IR Iran
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Benbow JH, Thompson KJ, Cope HL, Brandon-Warner E, Culberson CR, Bossi KL, Li T, Russo MW, Gersin KS, McKillop IH, deLemos AS, Schrum LW. Diet-Induced Obesity Enhances Progression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma through Tenascin-C/Toll-Like Receptor 4 Signaling. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2015; 186:145-58. [PMID: 26603137 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2015.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Revised: 08/12/2015] [Accepted: 09/10/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Obesity is an independent risk factor for the development of liver fibrosis/cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Tenascin-C (TnC), an extracellular matrix protein, is transiently expressed during tissue injury and plays a role in fibrogenesis and tumorigenesis. However, the mechanistic role of TnC signaling in the development of HCC remains unknown. We developed a diet-induced obesity HCC mouse model and examined TnC expression and liver injury. To determine the cellular mechanism of TnC signaling in promoting inflammation and hepatocyte epithelial-mesenchymal transition and migration, we used primary hepatocytes and hepatoma and macrophage cell lines. Further, to determine whether elevated TnC expression correlated with obesity-associated HCC, we measured plasma TnC in obese patients with various levels of liver injury. Increased tissue inflammation accompanied with elevated hepatic stellate cell-derived TnC and Toll-like receptor 4 expression was observed in the diet-induced obesity HCC animal model. In vitro studies found enhanced Toll-like receptor 4 signaling activated by TnC, promoting an increased inflammatory response, hepatocyte transformation, and migration. Further, obese patients with cirrhosis alone and in combination with HCC showed significant increases in plasma TnC compared with healthy volunteers and patients with less severe liver injury. Overall, these studies suggest TnC/Toll-like receptor 4 signaling as an important regulator in HCC; inhibiting this signaling axis may be a viable therapeutic target for impeding HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer H Benbow
- Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Pathobiology Laboratory, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Kyle J Thompson
- Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Heidi L Cope
- Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Pathobiology Laboratory, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Elizabeth Brandon-Warner
- Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Pathobiology Laboratory, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Catherine R Culberson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Pathobiology Laboratory, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Krista L Bossi
- Center for Liver Diseases and Liver Transplant, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Ting Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Pathobiology Laboratory, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Mark W Russo
- Center for Liver Diseases and Liver Transplant, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Keith S Gersin
- Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Iain H McKillop
- Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Andrew S deLemos
- Center for Liver Diseases and Liver Transplant, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Laura W Schrum
- Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Pathobiology Laboratory, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina.
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Wang Y, Cai J, Zeng X, Chen Y, Yan W, Ouyang Y, Xiao D, Zeng Z, Huang L, Liu A. Downregulation of toll-like receptor 4 induces suppressive effects on hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma via ERK1/2 signaling. BMC Cancer 2015; 15:821. [PMID: 26514586 PMCID: PMC4627624 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-015-1866-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major risk factor which can lead to development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we aimed to explore the effects of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) downregulation on the growth and survival of HBV-related HCC cells and to examine the molecular mechanisms been involved. Methods The expression levels of TLR4 were examined in a panel of HCC cell lines (HepG2, SMMC7721, Huh7, HepG2.2.15 and Hep3B). The effects of TLR4 downregulation on the proliferation, apoptosis, and tumorigenicity of HBV-related HepG2.2.15 cells were determined. The effects of TLR4 downregulation on multiple signaling pathways were also measured. Co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluoresence staining assays were performed to investigate the interaction between TLR4 and HBV X protein (HBx). Results The mRNA and protein levels of TLR4 were significantly increased in HepG2.2.15 cells than those in the other cells which have been studied. Downregulation of TLR4 significantly decreased the proliferation and induced G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in HepG2.2.15 cells. TLR4 depletion inhibited HepG2.2.15 cell colony formation and tumor growth in nude mice. TLR4 silencing decreased the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 but not JNK1/2, p38, or NF-κB. Chemical inhibition of ERK1/2 approximately phenocopied the growth-suppressive effect of TLR4 downregulation on HepG2.2.15 cells. In addition, TLR4 showed a physical interaction with HBx. Conclusions Taken together, TLR4 plays a tumor-promoting role in HBV-related HCC cells, which is associated with regulation of ERK1/2 activation and interaction with HBx. Therefore, TLR4 may be a potential therapeutic target for HBV-related HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiting Wang
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China.
| | - Jing Cai
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China.
| | - Xiaoli Zeng
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China.
| | - Yajie Chen
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China.
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China.
| | - Yuming Ouyang
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China.
| | - Dan Xiao
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China.
| | - Zhiming Zeng
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China.
| | - Long Huang
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China.
| | - Anwen Liu
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China.
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Protective effect of wild ginseng cambial meristematic cells on d-galactosamine-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. J Ginseng Res 2015; 39:376-83. [PMID: 26869831 PMCID: PMC4593786 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2015.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2015] [Revised: 04/11/2015] [Accepted: 04/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Panax ginseng has a wide range of biological activities including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory functions. Wild ginseng cambial meristematic cells (CMCs) were obtained from P. ginseng cambium. This study examined the protective mechanism of wild ginseng CMCs against d-galactosamine (GalN)-induced liver injury. GalN, a well-known hepatotoxicant, causes severe hepatocellular inflammatory damage and clinical features similar to those of human viral hepatitis in experimental animals. Methods Hepatotoxicity was induced in rats using GalN (700 mg/kg, i.p.). Wild ginseng CMCs was administered orally once a day for 2 wks, and then 2 h prior to and 6 h after GalN injection. Results Wild ginseng CMCs attenuated the increase in serum aminotransferase activity that occurs 24 h after GalN injection. Wild ginseng CMCs also attenuated the GalN-induced increase in serum tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6 level, and hepatic cyclooxygenase-2 protein and mRNA expression. Wild ginseng CMCs augmented the increase in serum interleukin -10 and hepatic heme oxygenase-1 protein and mRNA expression that was induced by GalN, inhibited the increase in the nuclear level of nuclear factor-kappa B, and enhanced the increase in NF-E2-related factor 2. Conclusion Our findings suggest that wild ginseng CMCs protects liver against GalN-induced inflammation by suppressing proinflammatory mediators and enhancing production of anti-inflammatory mediators.
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Wang Y, Xie J, Li Y, Dong S, Liu H, Chen J, Wang Y, Zhao S, Zhang Y, Zhang H. Probiotic Lactobacillus casei Zhang reduces pro-inflammatory cytokine production and hepatic inflammation in a rat model of acute liver failure. Eur J Nutr 2015; 55:821-831. [PMID: 25893720 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-015-0904-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE In this study, we sought to find the effects and mechanisms of probiotic Lactobacillus casei Zhang (L. casei Zhang) on the pro-inflammatory cytokine production and hepatic inflammatory response in a rat model of acute liver failure induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and d-galactosamine (GalN). METHODS Male Wistar rats were orally administrated with or without L. casei Zhang for 30 days prior to challenge with LPS and GalN. Dexamethasone administrated group serving as a positive anti-inflammation control. Serum, intestinal and liver samples were collected 8 h after LPS/GalN challenge for histological, molecular and biochemical analysis. RESULTS LPS/GalN challenge alone resulted in significantly increased production of endotoxin, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and nitric oxide as compared to the normal control rats. Pretreatment with L. casei Zhang not only reduced these changes, but also attenuated hepatic inflammation as shown by improved histological assessment, decreased myeloperoxidase activity and reduced expression of IL-1β and inducible nitric oxide synthase in the liver. L. casei Zhang supplementation significantly inhibited LPS/GalN-triggered phosphorylation of ERK, JNK and p-38 MAPK, but increased the expression of TLR2, TLR9 and PPAR-γ. Moreover, L. casei Zhang treatment prevented intestinal injury and modulated the intestinal ecology by increasing the fecal Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium levels. CONCLUSIONS Probiotic L. casei Zhang reduces LPS/GalN-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine and hepatic inflammation through modulating the TLR-MAPK-PPAR-γ signaling pathways and intestinal microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhen Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, No. 306 Zhaowuda Road, Saihan district, Hohhot, 010018, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jiming Xie
- Clinical Laboratory, Inner Mongolia People's Hospital, Hohhot, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunxu Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, No. 306 Zhaowuda Road, Saihan district, Hohhot, 010018, People's Republic of China
| | - Shichao Dong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, No. 306 Zhaowuda Road, Saihan district, Hohhot, 010018, People's Republic of China
| | - Huan Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, No. 306 Zhaowuda Road, Saihan district, Hohhot, 010018, People's Republic of China
| | - Junna Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, No. 306 Zhaowuda Road, Saihan district, Hohhot, 010018, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, No. 306 Zhaowuda Road, Saihan district, Hohhot, 010018, People's Republic of China
| | - Shimin Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, No. 306 Zhaowuda Road, Saihan district, Hohhot, 010018, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Dairy Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Educational Ministry of China, College of Food Science and Engineering, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, People's Republic of China
| | - Heping Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Dairy Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Educational Ministry of China, College of Food Science and Engineering, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, People's Republic of China
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Li S, Sun R, Chen Y, Wei H, Tian Z. TLR2 limits development of hepatocellular carcinoma by reducing IL18-mediated immunosuppression. Cancer Res 2015; 75:986-95. [PMID: 25600646 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-14-2371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Immune mechanisms underlying hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are not well understood. Here, we show that the Toll-like receptor TLR2 inhibits production of the proinflammatory cytokine IL18 and protects mice from DEN-induced liver carcinogenesis. On this protocol, Tlr2(-/-) mice exhibited more aggressive HCC development associated with impaired CD8(+) T-cell function. Furthermore, Ly6C(high)IL18Rα(+) myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) were increased in number in the livers of Tlr2(-/-) mice before tumor onset. MDSC in this setting exhibited higher iNOS levels that could inhibit IFNγ production and CD8(+) T-cell proliferation in vitro. Notably, Tlr2(-/-) hepatocytes produced more mature IL18 after DEN treatment that was sufficient to drive MDSC accumulation there. IL18 administration was sufficient to induce accumulation of MDSC, whereas hepatocyte-specific silencing of IL18 in Tlr2(-/-) mice decreased the proportion of MDSC, increased the proportion of functional CD8(+) T cells, and alleviated HCC progression. IL18 production was mediated by caspase-8 insofar as the decrease in its silencing was sufficient to attenuate levels of mature IL18 in Tlr2(-/-) mice. Furthermore, the TLR2 agonist Pam3CSK4 inhibited both caspase-8 and IL18 expression, decreasing MDSC, increasing CD8(+) T-cell function, and promoting HCC regression. Overall, our findings show how TLR2 deficiency accelerates IL18-mediated immunosuppression during liver carcinogenesis, providing new insights into immune control that may assist the design of effective immunotherapies to treat HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinan Li
- Institute of Immunology and CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences and Medical Center, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Rui Sun
- Institute of Immunology and CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences and Medical Center, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China. Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yongyan Chen
- Institute of Immunology and CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences and Medical Center, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Haiming Wei
- Institute of Immunology and CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences and Medical Center, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China. Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Zhigang Tian
- Institute of Immunology and CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences and Medical Center, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China. Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, Hefei, Anhui, China. Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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40
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Lee JH, Won JH, Choi JM, Cha HH, Jang YJ, Park S, Kim HG, Kim HC, Kim DK. Protective effect of ellagic acid on concanavalin A-induced hepatitis via toll-like receptor and mitogen-activated protein kinase/nuclear factor κB signaling pathways. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2014; 62:10110-10117. [PMID: 25238033 DOI: 10.1021/jf503188c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Ellagic acid (EA) is present in certain fruits and nuts, including raspberries, pomegranates, and walnuts, and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The aims of this study were to examine the protective effect of EA on concanavalin A (Con A)-induced hepatitis and to elucidate its underlying molecular mechanisms in mice. Mice were orally administered EA at different doses before the intravenous delivery of Con A; the different experimental groups were as follows: (i) vehicle control, (ii) Con A alone without EA, (iii) EA at 50 mg/kg, (iv) EA at 100 mg/kg, and (v) EA at 200 mg/kg. We found that EA pretreatment significantly reduced the levels of plasma aminotransferase and liver necrosis in Con A-induced hepatitis. Also, EA significantly decreased the expression levels of the toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and TLR4 mRNA and protein in liver tissues. Further, EA decreased the phosphorylation of JNK, ERK1/2, and p38. EA-treated groups showed suppressions of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and IκB-α degradation levels in liver tissues. In addition, EA pretreatment decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and interleukin 1β (IL-1β). These results suggest that EA protects against T-cell-mediated hepatitis through TLR and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/NF-κB signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Hong Lee
- Department of Environmental and Health Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University , 221 Huksuk-Dong, Dongjak-Ku, Seoul 156-756, South Korea
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Zare-Bidaki M, Tsukiyama-Kohara K, Arababadi MK. Toll-like receptor 4 and hepatitis B infection: molecular mechanisms and pathogenesis. Viral Immunol 2014; 27:321-6. [PMID: 25014492 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2014.0039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection mainly causes liver disease, including inflammation, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It has been documented that prolonged hepatitis B-infected patients are unable to clear HBV from hepatocytes completely. Previous investigations have suggested that various genetic and immunologic parameters may be responsible for the induction of prolonged infection forms. Toll-like receptors (TLRs), as members of pathogen recognition receptors (PRRs), play critical roles in the recognition of viruses and the induction of appropriate immune responses. Thus, TLRs may be considered as essential sensors for the recognition of HBV and the induction of immune responses against this virus. It has been documented that TLR4 plays key roles in the detection of several microbial pathogen-associated molecular pattern molecules, including bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), as well as endogenous ligands (damage-associated molecular pattern molecules) and subsequently activates pro-inflammatory transcription factors in either MYD88 or TRIF dependent pathways. Previous investigations have proposed that TLR4 might be involved in appropriate immune responses against HBV. Therefore, the aim of this review is to present the recent data regarding the important roles of TLR4 in HBV recognition and regulation of immune responses against this virus, and also its roles in the pathogenesis of cirrhosis and HCC as complications of prolonged hepatitis B infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Zare-Bidaki
- 1 Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences , Rafsanjan, Iran
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Bagheri V, Askari A, Arababadi MK, Kennedy D. Can Toll-Like Receptor (TLR) 2 be considered as a new target for immunotherapy against hepatitis B infection? Hum Immunol 2014; 75:549-54. [PMID: 24530748 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2014.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2013] [Revised: 01/03/2014] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The current literature describes pivotal mechanisms in which hepatitis B virus (HBV) induces liver diseases including inflammation, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It appears that differences in genetic and immunological parameters between patients and controls may be responsible for inducing the prolonged forms of the infection. Previous studies demonstrated that Toll-Like Receptors (TLRs) play key roles in viral recognition and inducing appropriate immune responses. Therefore, TLRs can be considered as key sensors for HBV recognition and subsequent induction of immune responses against this virus. It has also been shown that the TLR2 detects several microbial PAMPs either in its homodimer form or in a heterodimer with TLR1 or TLR6 and subsequently activates NF-κB in a MYD88 dependent manner. Therefore, defective TLR2 expression may result in impaired immune responses against HBV which is reported in long-term forms of hepatitis B. This review presents the recent data regarding the status and important roles played by TLR2 in HBV recognition and induction or suppression of immune responses against HBV as well as its roles in the pathogenesis of cirrhosis and HCC in prolonged hepatitis B forms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahid Bagheri
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Azam Askari
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Kazemi Arababadi
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran.
| | - Derek Kennedy
- School of Biomolecular and Physical Science, Eskitis Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University Nathan, Queensland, Australia
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Mahmoud MF, Hamdan DI, Wink M, El-Shazly AM. Hepatoprotective effect of limonin, a natural limonoid from the seed of Citrus aurantium var. bigaradia, on D-galactosamine-induced liver injury in rats. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2013; 387:251-61. [PMID: 24258286 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-013-0937-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2013] [Accepted: 10/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Toll-like receptors have been implicated in inflammation and injury in various tissues and organs including the liver. We have investigated the effects of limonin isolated from the dichloromethane fraction of the seeds of bittersweet orange (Citrus aurantium var. bigaradia) in two dose levels (50 and 100 mg/kg) against D-galactosamine (D-GalN)-induced liver toxicity in comparison with standard silymarin treatment on Toll-like receptors expression and hepatic injury, using a well-established rat model of acute hepatic inflammation. The limonoids in the seeds of bittersweet orange were identified. Oral administration of limonin before D-GalN injection, significantly attenuated markers of hepatic damage (elevated liver enzyme activities and total bilirubin) and hepatic inflammation (TNF-α, infiltration of neutrophils), oxidative stress and expression of TLR-4 but not TLR-2 in D-GalN-treated rats. Limonin effects were similar in most aspects to that of the lignan silymarin. The higher dose of limonin (100 mg/kg) performed numerically better for AST and bilirubin, and both doses yielded similar results for ALT and GGT. While the lower dose of limonin (50 mg/kg) performed better against oxidative stress and liver structural damage as compared to the higher dose. Limonin exerts protective effects on liver toxicity associated with inflammation and tissue injury via attenuation of inflammation and reduction of oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona F Mahmoud
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt,
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Lee W, Lee SH, Ahn DG, Cho H, Sung MH, Han SH, Oh JW. The antiviral activity of poly-γ-glutamic acid, a polypeptide secreted by Bacillus sp., through induction of CD14-dependent type I interferon responses. Biomaterials 2013; 34:9700-8. [PMID: 24016850 PMCID: PMC7112489 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2013.08.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2013] [Accepted: 08/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) is an anionic polypeptide secreted by Bacillus sp. that has been shown to activate immune cells through interactions with toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). However, its ability to induce the type I interferon (IFN) response has not yet been characterized. Here, we demonstrate that γ-PGA induces type I IFN signaling pathway via the TLR4 signaling pathway. The induction required both myeloid differentiation factor 2 (MD2) and the pattern-recognition receptor CD14, which are two TLR4-associated accessory proteins. The γ-PGA with high molecular weights (2000 and 5000 kDa) was able to activate the subsequent signals through TLR4/MD2 to result in dimerization of IRF-3, a transcription factor required for IFN gene expression, leading to increases in mRNA levels of the type I IFN-response genes, 2′–5′ OAS and ISG56. Moreover, γ-PGA (2000 kDa) displayed an antiviral activity against SARS coronavirus and hepatitis C virus. Our results identify high-molecular weight γ-PGA as a TLR4 ligand and demonstrate that γ-PGA requires both CD14 and MD2 for the activation of type I IFN responses. Our results suggest that the microbial biopolymer γ-PGA may have therapeutic potential against a broad range of viruses sensitive to type I IFNs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wooseong Lee
- Department of Biotechnology and Center for Protein Function Control, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 120-749, Republic of Korea
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Clearance of activated stellate cells for hepatic fibrosis regression: molecular basis and translational potential. Biomed Pharmacother 2012. [PMID: 23201010 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2012.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis, characterized by abnormal accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM), is a common pathological process of many chronic liver diseases. A growing number of studies have shown that the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrosis. Inhibiting the activation of HSCs and accelerating the clearance of activated HSCs may be effective strategies for resolution of hepatic fibrosis. Therefore, understanding the underlying mechanisms of clearance of activated HSCs and the therapeutic implications is an active subject of research. Studies have shown that apoptosis, immune clearance, phenotype reversion and senescence are involved in clearance of activated HSCs. In this review, we will discuss the mechanisms of clearance of activated HSCs and their potential in resolution of hepatic fibrosis.
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Tu CT, Yao QY, Xu BL, Wang JY, Zhou CH, Zhang SC. Protective effects of curcumin against hepatic fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride: modulation of high-mobility group box 1, Toll-like receptor 4 and 2 expression. Food Chem Toxicol 2012; 50:3343-51. [PMID: 22683883 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2012.05.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2012] [Revised: 05/18/2012] [Accepted: 05/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of curcumin on the liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4)) in rats, and to elucidate its underlying molecular mechanisms. Rats were administered with CCl(4) together with or without curcumin for 6 weeks. Hepatic damage was evaluated by analysis of liver function tests in serum. Hepatic histopathology and collagen content were employed to quantify liver fibrosis; and activated hepatic stellate cells were assessed. Moreover, the mRNA and protein expression levels of interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1, high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), Toll like receptor (TLR) 2 and TLR4 were determined by quantitative real time PCR, Western blot or immunohistochemistry. Treatment with curcumin significantly attenuated CCl(4)-induce liver injury, hepatic inflammation and reduced the levels of proinflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-6 and MCP-1). Moreover, curcumin significantly inhibited extracellular matrix deposition, reduced the number of activated stellate cells, and decreased the levels of HMGB1, TLR4 and TLR2 expression in the rat model of fibrogenesis. These results suggest that curcumin could be an effective agent for preventing liver fibrosis and its mechanism may in part be a consequence of the reduction TLR2, TLR4 and HMGB1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan-tao Tu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, People's Republic of China.
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Yang L, Seki E. Toll-like receptors in liver fibrosis: cellular crosstalk and mechanisms. Front Physiol 2012; 3:138. [PMID: 22661952 PMCID: PMC3357552 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2012.00138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2012] [Accepted: 04/24/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are pattern recognition receptors that distinguish conserved microbial products, also known as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), from host molecules. Liver is the first filter organ between the gastrointestinal tracts and the rest of the body through portal circulation. Thus, the liver is a major organ that must deal with PAMPs and microorganisms translocated from the intestine and to respond to the damage associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) released from injured organs. These PAMPs and DAMPs preferentially activate TLR signaling on various cell types in the liver inducing the production of inflammatory and fibrogenic cytokines that initiate and prolong liver inflammation, thereby leading to fibrosis. We summarize recent findings on the role of TLRs, ligands, and intracellular signaling in the pathophysiology of liver fibrosis due to different etiology, as well as to highlight the potential role of TLR signaling in liver fibrosis associated with hepatitis C infection, non-alcoholic and alcoholic steatoheoatitis, primary biliary cirrhosis, and cystic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Yang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, School of Medicine La Jolla, CA, USA
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