1
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Horn P, Tacke F. Metabolic reprogramming in liver fibrosis. Cell Metab 2024:S1550-4131(24)00179-7. [PMID: 38823393 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2024.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases, primarily metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), harmful use of alcohol, or viral hepatitis, may result in liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and cancer. Hepatic fibrogenesis is a complex process with interactions between different resident and non-resident heterogeneous liver cell populations, ultimately leading to deposition of extracellular matrix and organ failure. Shifts in cell phenotypes and functions involve pronounced transcriptional and protein synthesis changes that require metabolic adaptations in cellular substrate metabolism, including glucose and lipid metabolism, resembling changes associated with the Warburg effect in cancer cells. Cell activation and metabolic changes are regulated by metabolic stress responses, including the unfolded protein response, endoplasmic reticulum stress, autophagy, ferroptosis, and nuclear receptor signaling. These metabolic adaptations are crucial for inflammatory and fibrogenic activation of macrophages, lymphoid cells, and hepatic stellate cells. Modulation of these pathways, therefore, offers opportunities for novel therapeutic approaches to halt or even reverse liver fibrosis progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Horn
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany; Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, BIH Biomedical Innovation Academy, BIH Charité Digital Clinician Scientist Program, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany.
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2
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Bellanti F, Mangieri D, Vendemiale G. Redox Biology and Liver Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:410. [PMID: 38203581 PMCID: PMC10778611 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a complex process that develops in chronic liver diseases. Even though the initiation and progression of fibrosis rely on the underlying etiology, mutual mechanisms can be recognized and targeted for therapeutic purposes. Irrespective of the primary cause of liver disease, persistent damage to parenchymal cells triggers the overproduction of reactive species, with the consequent disruption of redox balance. Reactive species are important mediators for the homeostasis of both hepatocytes and non-parenchymal liver cells. Indeed, other than acting as cytotoxic agents, reactive species are able to modulate specific signaling pathways that may be relevant to hepatic fibrogenesis. After a brief introduction to redox biology and the mechanisms of fibrogenesis, this review aims to summarize the current evidence of the involvement of redox-dependent pathways in liver fibrosis and focuses on possible therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Bellanti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Domenica Mangieri
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Gianluigi Vendemiale
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy;
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3
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Wang L, Zhong NN, Wang X, Peng B, Chen Z, Wei L, Li B, Li Y, Cheng Y. Metformin Attenuates TGF-β1-Induced Fibrosis in Salivary Gland: A Preliminary Study. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16260. [PMID: 38003450 PMCID: PMC10671059 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis commonly arises from salivary gland injuries induced by factors such as inflammation, ductal obstruction, radiation, aging, and autoimmunity, leading to glandular atrophy and functional impairment. However, effective treatments for these injuries remain elusive. Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) is fundamental in fibrosis, advancing fibroblast differentiation into myofibroblasts and enhancing the extracellular matrix in the salivary gland. The involvement of the SMAD pathway and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in this context has been postulated. Metformin, a type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) medication, has been noted for its potent anti-fibrotic effects. Through human samples, primary salivary gland fibroblasts, and a rat model, this study explored metformin's anti-fibrotic properties. Elevated levels of TGF-β1 (p < 0.01) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) (p < 0.01) were observed in human sialadenitis samples. The analysis showed that metformin attenuates TGF-β1-induced fibrosis by inhibiting SMAD phosphorylation (p < 0.01) through adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-independent pathways and activating the AMPK pathway, consequently suppressing NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) (p < 0.01), a main ROS producer. Moreover, in rats, metformin not only reduced glandular fibrosis post-ductal ligation but also protected acinar cells from ligation-induced injuries, thereby normalizing the levels of aquaporin 5 (AQP5) (p < 0.05). Overall, this study underscores the potential of metformin as a promising therapeutic option for salivary gland fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianhao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Nian-Nian Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Xiaofeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Boyuan Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Zhuo Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Lili Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
- Department of Oral Radiology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Bo Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
- Department of Oral Radiology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Yuhong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Yong Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
- Department of Oral Radiology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
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4
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Lee YA, Shin MH. Involvement of NOX2-derived ROS in human hepatoma HepG2 cell death induced by Entamoeba histolytica. PARASITES, HOSTS AND DISEASES 2023; 61:388-396. [PMID: 38043534 PMCID: PMC10693973 DOI: 10.3347/phd.23094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Entamoeba histolytica is an enteric tissue-invasive protozoan parasite causing amoebic colitis and liver abscesses in humans. Amoebic contact with host cells activates intracellular signaling pathways that lead to host cell death via generation of caspase-3, calpain, Ca2+ elevation, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). We previously reported that various NADPH oxidases (NOXs) are responsible for ROS-dependent death of various host cells induced by amoeba. In the present study, we investigated the specific NOX isoform involved in ROS-dependent death of hepatocytes induced by amoebas. Co-incubation of hepatoma HepG2 cells with live amoebic trophozoites resulted in remarkably increased DNA fragmentation compared to cells incubated with medium alone. HepG2 cells that adhered to amoebic trophozoites showed strong dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCF-DA) fluorescence, suggesting intracellular ROS accumulation within host cells stimulated by amoebic trophozoites. Pretreatment of HepG2 cells with the general NOX inhibitor DPI or NOX2-specific inhibitor GSK 2795039 reduced Entamoeba-induced ROS generation. Similarly, Entamoeba-induced LDH release from HepG2 cells was effectively inhibited by pretreatment with DPI or GSK 2795039. In NOX2-silenced HepG2 cells, Entamoeba-induced LDH release was also significantly inhibited compared with controls. Taken together, the results support an important role of NOX2-derived ROS in hepatocyte death induced by E. histolytica.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Ah Lee
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Institute of Tropical Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722,
Korea
| | - Myeong Heon Shin
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Institute of Tropical Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722,
Korea
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5
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Siani A, Infante-Teixeira L, d'Arcy R, Roberts IV, El Mohtadi F, Donno R, Tirelli N. Polysulfide nanoparticles inhibit fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition via extracellular ROS scavenging and have potential anti-fibrotic properties. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 153:213537. [PMID: 37406516 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
This paper is about the effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS) - and of their nanoparticle-mediated extracellular removal - in the TGF-β1-induced differentiation of fibroblasts (human dermal fibroblasts - HDFa) to more contractile myofibroblasts, and in the maintenance of this phenotype. Here, poly(propylene sulfide) (PPS) nanoparticles have been employed on 2D and 3D in vitro models, showing extremely low toxicity and undergoing negligible internalization, thereby ensuring an extracellular-only action. Firstly, PPS nanoparticles abrogated ROS-mediated downstream molecular events such as glutathione oxidation, NF-κB activation, and heme oxidase-1 (HMOX) overexpression. Secondly, PPS nanoparticles were also capable to inhibit, prevent and reverse the TGF-β1-induced upregulation of key biomechanical elements, such as ED-a fibronectin (EF-A FN) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), respectively markers of protomyofibroblastic and of myofibroblastic differentiation. We also confirmed that ROS alone are ineffective promoters of the myofibroblastic transition, although their presence contributes to its stabilization. Finally, the particles also countered TGF-β1-induced matrix- and tissue-level phenomena, e.g., the upregulation of collagen type 1, the development of aberrant collagen type 1/3 ratios and the contracture of HDFa 3D-seeded fibrin constructs. In short, experimental data at molecular, cellular and tissue levels show a significant potential in the use of PPS nanoparticles as anti-fibrotic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Siani
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Stopford Building, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Lorena Infante-Teixeira
- Laboratory of Polymers and Biomaterials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Richard d'Arcy
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Stopford Building, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK; Laboratory of Polymers and Biomaterials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy.
| | - Iwan V Roberts
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Stopford Building, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Farah El Mohtadi
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Stopford Building, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Roberto Donno
- Laboratory of Polymers and Biomaterials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Nicola Tirelli
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Stopford Building, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK; Laboratory of Polymers and Biomaterials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy.
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6
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Sharma S, Le Guillou D, Chen JY. Cellular stress in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and liver fibrosis. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 20:662-678. [PMID: 37679454 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-023-00832-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
The burden of chronic liver disease is rising substantially worldwide. Fibrosis, characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, is the common pathway leading to cirrhosis, and limited treatment options are available. There is increasing evidence suggesting the role of cellular stress responses contributing to fibrogenesis. This Review provides an overview of studies that analyse the role of cellular stress in different cell types involved in fibrogenesis, including hepatocytes, hepatic stellate cells, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells and macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachin Sharma
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- The Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Dounia Le Guillou
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- The Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Y Chen
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- The Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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7
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Allameh A, Niayesh-Mehr R, Aliarab A, Sebastiani G, Pantopoulos K. Oxidative Stress in Liver Pathophysiology and Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1653. [PMID: 37759956 PMCID: PMC10525124 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12091653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is an organ that is particularly exposed to reactive oxygen species (ROS), which not only arise during metabolic functions but also during the biotransformation of xenobiotics. The disruption of redox balance causes oxidative stress, which affects liver function, modulates inflammatory pathways and contributes to disease. Thus, oxidative stress is implicated in acute liver injury and in the pathogenesis of prevalent infectious or metabolic chronic liver diseases such as viral hepatitis B or C, alcoholic fatty liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Moreover, oxidative stress plays a crucial role in liver disease progression to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Herein, we provide an overview on the effects of oxidative stress on liver pathophysiology and the mechanisms by which oxidative stress promotes liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdolamir Allameh
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 1411713116, Iran; (A.A.); (R.N.-M.); (A.A.)
| | - Reyhaneh Niayesh-Mehr
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 1411713116, Iran; (A.A.); (R.N.-M.); (A.A.)
| | - Azadeh Aliarab
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 1411713116, Iran; (A.A.); (R.N.-M.); (A.A.)
| | - Giada Sebastiani
- Chronic Viral Illness Services, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada;
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Kostas Pantopoulos
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
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8
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Park HJ, Choi J, Kim H, Yang DY, An TH, Lee EW, Han BS, Lee SC, Kim WK, Bae KH, Oh KJ. Cellular heterogeneity and plasticity during NAFLD progression. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1221669. [PMID: 37635938 PMCID: PMC10450943 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1221669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a progressive liver disease that can progress to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), NASH-related cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). NAFLD ranges from simple steatosis (or nonalcoholic fatty liver [NAFL]) to NASH as a progressive form of NAFL, which is characterized by steatosis, lobular inflammation, and hepatocellular ballooning with or without fibrosis. Because of the complex pathophysiological mechanism and the heterogeneity of NAFLD, including its wide spectrum of clinical and histological characteristics, no specific therapeutic drugs have been approved for NAFLD. The heterogeneity of NAFLD is closely associated with cellular plasticity, which describes the ability of cells to acquire new identities or change their phenotypes in response to environmental stimuli. The liver consists of parenchymal cells including hepatocytes and cholangiocytes and nonparenchymal cells including Kupffer cells, hepatic stellate cells, and endothelial cells, all of which have specialized functions. This heterogeneous cell population has cellular plasticity to adapt to environmental changes. During NAFLD progression, these cells can exert diverse and complex responses at multiple levels following exposure to a variety of stimuli, including fatty acids, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Therefore, this review provides insights into NAFLD heterogeneity by addressing the cellular plasticity and metabolic adaptation of hepatocytes, cholangiocytes, hepatic stellate cells, and Kupffer cells during NAFLD progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Ju Park
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Juyoung Choi
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunmi Kim
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Da-Yeon Yang
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Hyeon An
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Woo Lee
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Baek-Soo Han
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Biodefense Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Chul Lee
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Kon Kim
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang-Hee Bae
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung-Jin Oh
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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9
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Blas-García A, Apostolova N. Novel Therapeutic Approaches to Liver Fibrosis Based on Targeting Oxidative Stress. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1567. [PMID: 37627562 PMCID: PMC10451738 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12081567] [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: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver disease (CLD) constitutes a growing global health issue, with no effective treatments currently available. Oxidative stress closely interacts with other cellular and molecular processes to trigger stress pathways in different hepatic cells and fuel the development of liver fibrosis. Therefore, inhibition of reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated effects and modulation of major antioxidant responses to counteract oxidative stress-induced damage have emerged as interesting targets to prevent or ameliorate liver injury. Although many preclinical studies have shown that dietary supplements with antioxidant properties can significantly prevent CLD progression in animal models, this strategy has not proved effective to significantly reduce fibrosis when translated into clinical trials. Novel and more specific therapeutic approaches are thus required to alleviate oxidative stress and reduce liver fibrosis. We have reviewed the relevant literature concerning the crucial role of alterations in redox homeostasis in different hepatic cell types during the progression of CLD and discussed current pharmacological approaches to ameliorate fibrosis by reducing oxidative stress focusing on selective modulation of enzymatic oxidant sources, antioxidant systems and ROS-mediated pathogenic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Blas-García
- Departamento de Fisiología, Universitat de València, Av. Blasco Ibáñez, 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- FISABIO (Fundación para el Fomento de la Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de la Comunidad Valenciana), Av. de Catalunya, 21, 46020 Valencia, Spain
- CIBERehd (Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Monforte de Lemos, 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Nadezda Apostolova
- FISABIO (Fundación para el Fomento de la Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de la Comunidad Valenciana), Av. de Catalunya, 21, 46020 Valencia, Spain
- CIBERehd (Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Monforte de Lemos, 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Farmacología, Universitat de València, Av. Blasco Ibáñez, 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain
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10
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Pandey J, Larson-Casey JL, Patil MH, Joshi R, Jiang CS, Zhou Y, He C, Carter AB. NOX4-TIM23 interaction regulates NOX4 mitochondrial import and metabolic reprogramming. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:104695. [PMID: 37044213 PMCID: PMC10193017 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive lung disease characterized by macrophage activation. Asbestos-induced expression of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate hydrogen oxidase 4 (NOX4) in lung macrophages mediates fibrotic progression by the generation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), modulating mitochondrial biogenesis, and promoting apoptosis resistance; however, the mechanism(s) by which NOX4 localizes to mitochondria during fibrosis is not known. Here, we show that NOX4 localized to the mitochondrial matrix following asbestos exposure in lung macrophages via direct interaction with TIM23. TIM23 and NOX4 interaction was found in lung macrophages from human subjects with asbestosis, while it was absent in mice harboring a conditional deletion of NOX4 in lung macrophages. This interaction was localized to the proximal transmembrane region of NOX4. Mechanistically, TIM23 augmented NOX4-induced mitochondrial ROS and metabolic reprogramming to oxidative phosphorylation. Silencing TIM23 decreased mitochondrial ROS and oxidative phosphorylation. These observations highlight the important role of the mitochondrial translocase TIM23 interaction with NOX4. Moreover, this interaction is required for mitochondrial redox signaling and metabolic reprogramming in lung macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyotsana Pandey
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Jennifer L Larson-Casey
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Mallikarjun H Patil
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Rutwij Joshi
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Chun-Sun Jiang
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Yong Zhou
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Chao He
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - A Brent Carter
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA; Department of Medicine, Birmingham VAMC, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.
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11
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Thannickal VJ, Jandeleit‐Dahm K, Szyndralewiez C, Török NJ. Pre-clinical evidence of a dual NADPH oxidase 1/4 inhibitor (setanaxib) in liver, kidney and lung fibrosis. J Cell Mol Med 2023; 27:471-481. [PMID: 36658776 PMCID: PMC9930438 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis describes a dysregulated tissue remodelling response to persistent cellular injury and is the final pathological consequence of many chronic diseases that affect the liver, kidney and lung. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)-oxidase (NOX) enzymes produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) as their primary function. ROS derived from NOX1 and NOX4 are key mediators of liver, kidney and lung fibrosis. Setanaxib (GKT137831) is a first-in-class, dual inhibitor of NOX1/4 and is the first NOX inhibitor to progress to clinical trial investigation. The anti-fibrotic effects of setanaxib in liver, kidney and lung fibrosis are supported by multiple lines of pre-clinical evidence. However, despite advances in our understanding, the precise roles of NOX1/4 in fibrosis require further investigation. Additionally, there is a translational gap between the pre-clinical observations of setanaxib to date and the applicability of these to human patients within a clinical setting. This narrative review critically examines the role of NOX1/4 in liver, kidney and lung fibrosis, alongside the available evidence investigating setanaxib as a therapeutic agent in pre-clinical models of disease. We discuss the potential clinical translatability of this pre-clinical evidence, which provides rationale to explore NOX1/4 inhibition by setanaxib across various fibrotic pathologies in clinical trials involving human patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor J. Thannickal
- John W. Deming Department of MedicineTulane University School of MedicineNew OrleansLouisianaUSA
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Healthcare SystemNew OrleansLouisianaUSA
| | - Karin Jandeleit‐Dahm
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Cédric Szyndralewiez
- Calliditas Therapeutics Suisse SAGenevaSwitzerland
- Present address:
Pherecydes PharmaNantesFrance
| | - Natalie J. Török
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of MedicineStanford UniversityStanfordCaliforniaUSA
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12
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Siedlar AM, Seredenina T, Faivre A, Cambet Y, Stasia MJ, André-Lévigne D, Bochaton-Piallat ML, Pittet-Cuénod B, de Seigneux S, Krause KH, Modarressi A, Jaquet V. NADPH oxidase 4 is dispensable for skin myofibroblast differentiation and wound healing. Redox Biol 2023; 60:102609. [PMID: 36708644 PMCID: PMC9950659 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiation of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts is governed by the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) through a mechanism involving redox signaling and generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Myofibroblasts synthesize proteins of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and display a contractile phenotype. Myofibroblasts are predominant contributors of wound healing and several pathological states, including fibrotic diseases and cancer. Inhibition of the ROS-generating enzyme NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) has been proposed to mitigate fibroblast to myofibroblast differentiation and to offer a therapeutic option for the treatment of fibrotic diseases. In this study, we addressed the role of NOX4 in physiological wound healing and in TGF-β-induced myofibroblast differentiation. We explored the phenotypic changes induced by TGF-β in primary skin fibroblasts isolated from Nox4-deficient mice by immunofluorescence, Western blotting and RNA sequencing. Mice deficient for Cyba, the gene coding for p22phox, a key subunit of NOX4 were used for confirmatory experiments as well as human primary skin fibroblasts. In vivo, the wound healing was similar in wild-type and Nox4-deficient mice. In vitro, despite a strong upregulation following TGF-β treatment, Nox4 did not influence skin myofibroblast differentiation although a putative NOX4 inhibitor GKT137831 and a flavoprotein inhibitor diphenylene iodonium mitigated this mechanism. Transcriptomic analysis revealed upregulation of the mitochondrial protein Ucp2 and the stress-response protein Hddc3 in Nox4-deficient fibroblasts, which had however no impact on fibroblast bioenergetics. Altogether, we provide extensive evidence that NOX4 is dispensable for wound healing and skin fibroblast to myofibroblast differentiation, and suggest that another H2O2-generating flavoprotein drives this mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Malgorzata Siedlar
- Division of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Tamara Seredenina
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Anna Faivre
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Yves Cambet
- READS Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Marie-José Stasia
- Université Grenoble Alpes, CEA, CNRS, IBS, F-38044, Grenoble, France
| | - Dominik André-Lévigne
- Division of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Brigitte Pittet-Cuénod
- Division of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sophie de Seigneux
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland,Service and Laboratory of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine Specialties and of Physiology and Metabolism, University and University Hospital of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Karl-Heinz Krause
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ali Modarressi
- Division of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Vincent Jaquet
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland; READS Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
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13
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Assar DH, Mokhbatly AAA, Ghazy EW, Elbialy ZI, Gaber AA, Hassan AA, Nabil A, Asa SA. Silver nanoparticles induced hepatoxicity via the apoptotic/antiapoptotic pathway with activation of TGFβ-1 and α-SMA triggered liver fibrosis in Sprague Dawley rats. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:80448-80465. [PMID: 35716303 PMCID: PMC9596550 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-21388-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Despite the extraordinary use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in medicinal purposes and the food industry, there is rising worry about potential hazards to human health and the environment. The existing study aims to assess the hepatotoxic effects of different dosages of AgNPs by evaluating hematobiochemical parameters, oxidative stress, liver morphological alterations, immunohistochemical staining, and gene expression to clarify the mechanism of AgNPs' hepatic toxic potential. Forty male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly assigned into control and three AgNPs intraperitoneally treated groups 0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg b.w. daily for 15 and 30 days. AgNP exposure reduced body weight, caused haematological abnormalities, and enhanced hepatic oxidative and nitrosative stress with depletion of the hepatic GSH level. Serum hepatic injury biomarkers with pathological hepatic lesions where cholangiopathy emerges as the main hepatic alteration in a dosage- and duration-dependent manner were also elevated. Furthermore, immunohistochemical labelling of apoptotic markers demonstrated that Bcl-2 was significantly downregulated while caspase-3 was significantly upregulated. In conclusion, the hepatotoxic impact of AgNPs may be regulated by two mechanisms, implying the apoptotic/antiapoptotic pathway via raising BAX and inhibiting Bcl-2 expression levels in a dose-dependent manner. The TGF-β1 and α-SMA pathway which triggered fibrosis with incorporation of iNOS which consequently activates the inflammatory process were also elevated. To our knowledge, there has been no prior report on the experimental administration of AgNPs in three different dosages for short and long durations in rats with the assessment of Bcl-2, BAX, iNOS, TGF-β1, and α-SMA gene expressions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doaa H. Assar
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, 33516 Egypt
| | - Abd-Allah A. Mokhbatly
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, 33516 Egypt
| | - Emad W. Ghazy
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, 33516 Egypt
| | - Zizy I. Elbialy
- Department of Fish Processing and Biotechnology, Faculty of Aquatic and Fisheries Sciences, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, 33516 Egypt
| | - Ahmed A. Gaber
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, 33516 Egypt
| | - Ayman A. Hassan
- High Technological Institute of Applied Health Sciences, Egypt Liver Research Institute and Hospital (ELRIAH), Sherbin, El Mansora Egypt
| | - Ahmed Nabil
- Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
- Egypt Liver Research Institute and Hospital (ELRIAH), Sherbin, El Mansora Egypt
| | - Samah Abou Asa
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, 33516 Egypt
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14
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NOX as a Therapeutic Target in Liver Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11102038. [PMID: 36290761 PMCID: PMC9598239 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11102038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate hydrogen oxidase (NADPH oxidase or NOX) plays a critical role in the inflammatory response and fibrosis in several organs such as the lungs, pancreas, kidney, liver, and heart. In the liver, NOXs contribute, through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), to hepatic fibrosis by acting through multiple pathways, including hepatic stellate cell activation, proliferation, survival, and migration of hepatic stellate cells; hepatocyte apoptosis, enhancement of fibrogenic mediators, and mediation of an inflammatory cascade in both Kupffer cells and hepatic stellate cells. ROS are overwhelmingly produced during malignant transformation and hepatic carcinogenesis (HCC), creating an oxidative microenvironment that can cause different and various types of cellular stress, including DNA damage, ER stress, cell death of damaged hepatocytes, and oxidative stress. NOX1, NOX2, and NOX4, members of the NADPH oxidase family, have been linked to the production of ROS in the liver. This review will analyze some diseases related to an increase in oxidative stress and its relationship with the NOX family, as well as discuss some therapies proposed to slow down or control the disease's progression.
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15
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Calotropis gigantea stem bark extracts inhibit liver cancer induced by diethylnitrosamine. Sci Rep 2022; 12:12151. [PMID: 35840761 PMCID: PMC9287404 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-16321-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Several fractions of Calotropis gigantea extracts have been proposed to have potential anticancer activity in many cancer models. The present study evaluated the anticancer activity of C. gigantea stem bark extracts in liver cancer HepG2 cells and diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced primary liver cancer in rats. The carcinogenesis model induced by DEN administration has been widely used to study pathophysiological features and responses in rats that are comparable to those seen in cancer patients. The dichloromethane (CGDCM), ethyl acetate, and water fractions obtained from partitioning crude ethanolic extract were quantitatively analyzed for several groups of secondary metabolites and calactin contents. A combination of C. gigantea stem bark extracts with doxorubicin (DOX) was assessed in this study to demonstrate the enhanced cytotoxic effect to cancer compared to the single administration. The combination of DOX and CGDCM, which had the most potential cytotoxic effect in HepG2 cells when compared to the other three fractions, significantly increased cytotoxicity through the apoptotic effect with increased caspase-3 expression. This combination treatment also reduced ATP levels, implying a correlation between ATP and apoptosis induction. In a rat model of DEN-induced liver cancer, treatment with DOX, C. gigantea at low (CGDCM-L) and high (CGDCM-H) doses, and DOX + CGDCM-H for 4 weeks decreased the progression of liver cancer by lowering the liver weight/body weight ratio and the occurrence of liver hyperplastic nodules, fibrosis, and proliferative cells. The therapeutic applications lowered TNF-α, IL-6, TGF-β, and α-SMA inflammatory cytokines in a similar way, implying that CGDCM had a curative effect against the inflammation-induced liver carcinogenesis produced by DEN exposure. Furthermore, CGDCM and DOX therapy decreased ATP and fatty acid synthesis in rat liver cancer, which was correlated with apoptosis inhibition. CGDCM reduced cleaved caspase-3 expression in liver cancer rats when used alone or in combination with DOX, implying that apoptosis-inducing hepatic carcinogenesis was suppressed. Our results also verified the low toxicity of CGDCM injection on the internal organs of rats. Thus, this research clearly demonstrated a promising, novel anticancer approach that could be applied in future clinical studies of CGDCM and combination therapy.
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16
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Bove M, Lama A, Schiavone S, Pirozzi C, Tucci P, Sikora V, Trinchese G, Corso G, Morgese MG, Trabace L. Social isolation triggers oxidative status and impairs systemic and hepatic insulin sensitivity in normoglycemic rats. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 149:112820. [PMID: 35290886 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug-naïve psychotic patients show metabolic and hepatic dysfunctions. The rat social isolation model of psychosis allows to investigate mechanisms leading to these disturbances to which oxidative stress crucially contributes. Here, we investigated isolation-induced central and peripheral dysfunctions in glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity, along with redox dysregulation. Social isolation did not affect basal glycemic levels and the response to glucose and insulin loads in the glucose and insulin tolerance tests. However, HOMA-Index value were increased in isolated (ISO) rats. A hypothalamic reduction of AKT phosphorylation and a trend toward an increase in AMPK phosphorylation were observed following social isolation, accompanied by reduced GLUT-4 levels. Social isolation also induced a reduction of phosphorylation of the insulin receptor, of AKT and GLUT-2, and a decreased phosphorylation of AMPK in the liver. Furthermore, a significant reduction in hepatic CPT1 and PPAR-α levels was detected. ISO rats also showed significant elevations in hepatic ROS amount, lipid peroxidation and NOX4 expression, whereas no differences were detected in NOX2 and NOX1 levels. Expression of SOD2 in the mitochondrial fraction and SOD1 in the cytosolic fraction was not altered following social isolation, whereas SOD activity was increased. Furthermore, a decrease of hepatic CAT and GSH amount was observed in ISO rats compared to GRP animals. Our data suggest that the increased oxidant status and antioxidant capacity modifications may trigger hepatic and systemic insulin resistance, by altering signal hormone pathway and sustaining subsequent alteration of glucose homeostasis and metabolic impairment observed in the social isolation model of psychosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Bove
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli, 20, Foggia 71122, Italy.
| | - Adriano Lama
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano, 49, Naples 80131, Italy.
| | - Stefania Schiavone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli, 20, Foggia 71122, Italy.
| | - Claudio Pirozzi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano, 49, Naples 80131, Italy.
| | - Paolo Tucci
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli, 20, Foggia 71122, Italy.
| | - Vladyslav Sikora
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli, 20, Foggia 71122, Italy; Department of Pathology, Sumy State University, 2, Rymskogo-Korsakova st., Sumy 40007, Ukraine.
| | - Giovanna Trinchese
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, "Complesso Universitario di Monte Sant'Angelo", Cupa Nuova Cinthia 21 - Building 7, Naples 80126, Italy.
| | - Gaetano Corso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli, 20, Foggia 71122, Italy.
| | - Maria Grazia Morgese
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli, 20, Foggia 71122, Italy.
| | - Luigia Trabace
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli, 20, Foggia 71122, Italy.
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Mitochondria homeostasis: Biology and involvement in hepatic steatosis to NASH. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2022; 43:1141-1155. [PMID: 35105958 PMCID: PMC9061859 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-022-00864-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial biology and behavior are central to the physiology of liver. Multiple mitochondrial quality control mechanisms remodel mitochondrial homeostasis under physiological and pathological conditions. Mitochondrial dysfunction and damage induced by overnutrition lead to oxidative stress, inflammation, liver cell death, and collagen production, which advance hepatic steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Accumulating evidence suggests that specific interventions that target mitochondrial homeostasis, including energy metabolism, antioxidant effects, and mitochondrial quality control, have emerged as promising strategies for NASH treatment. However, clinical translation of these findings is challenging due to the complex and unclear mechanisms of mitochondrial homeostasis in the pathophysiology of NASH.
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18
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Yu S, Ericson M, Fanjul A, Erion DM, Paraskevopoulou M, Smith EN, Cole B, Feaver R, Holub C, Gavva N, Horman SR, Huang J. Genome-wide CRISPR Screening to Identify Drivers of TGF-β-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Human Hepatic Stellate Cells. ACS Chem Biol 2022; 17:918-929. [PMID: 35274923 PMCID: PMC9016707 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.2c00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis progression in chronic liver disease leads to cirrhosis, liver failure, or hepatocellular carcinoma and often ends in liver transplantation. Even with an increased understanding of liver fibrogenesis and many attempts to generate therapeutics specifically targeting fibrosis, there is no approved treatment for liver fibrosis. To further understand and characterize the driving mechanisms of liver fibrosis, we developed a high-throughput genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 screening platform to identify hepatic stellate cell (HSC)-derived mediators of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β-induced liver fibrosis. The functional genomics phenotypic screening platform described here revealed the novel biology of TGF-β-induced fibrogenesis and potential drug targets for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Yu
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Matthew Ericson
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Andrea Fanjul
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Derek M. Erion
- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Maria Paraskevopoulou
- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Erin N. Smith
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Banumathi Cole
- HemoShear Therapeutics, Inc., Charlottesville, Virginia 22902, United States
| | - Ryan Feaver
- HemoShear Therapeutics, Inc., Charlottesville, Virginia 22902, United States
| | - Corine Holub
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Narender Gavva
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Shane R. Horman
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Jie Huang
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, California 92121, United States
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Forsythiaside A Regulates Activation of Hepatic Stellate Cells by Inhibiting NOX4-Dependent ROS. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:9938392. [PMID: 35035671 PMCID: PMC8754607 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9938392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation is an important step in the process of hepatic fibrosis. NOX4 and reactive oxygen species expressed in HSCs play an important role in liver fibrosis. Forsythiaside A (FA), a phenylethanoid glycoside extracted and isolated from Forsythiae Fructus, has significant antioxidant activities. However, it is not clear whether FA can play a role in inhibiting the HSCs activation through regulating NOX4/ROS pathway. Therefore, our purpose is to explore the effect and mechanism of FA on HSCs activation to alleviate liver fibrosis. LX2 cells were activated by TGF-β1 in vitro. MTT assay and Wound Healing assay were used to investigate the effect of FA on TGF-β1-induced LX2 cell proliferation and migration. Elisa kit was used to measure the expression of MMP-1 and TIMP-1. Western blot and RT-qPCR were used to investigate the expression of fibrosis-related COLI, α-SMA, MMP-1 and TIMP-1, and inflammation-related TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β. The hydroxyproline content was characterized using a biochemical kit. The mechanism of FA to inhibit HSCs activation and apoptosis was detected by DCF-DA probe, RT-qPCR, western blot and flow cytometry. NOX4 siRNA was used to futher verify the effect of FA on NOX4/ROS pathway. The results showed that FA inhibited the proliferation and migration of LX2 cells and adjusted the expression of MMP-1, TIMP-1, COLI, α-SMA, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β as well as promoted collagen metabolism to show potential in anti-hepatic fibrosis. Mechanically, FA down-regulated NOX4/ROS signaling pathway to improve oxidation imbalances, and subsequently inhibited PI3K/Akt pathway to suppress proliferation. FA also promoted the apoptosis of LX2 cells by Bax/Bcl2 pathway. Furthermore, the effects of FA on TGF-β1-induced increased ROS levels and α-SMA and COLI expression were weaken by silencing NOX4. In conclusion, FA had potential in anti-hepatic fibrosis at least in part by remolding of extracellular matrix and improving oxidation imbalances to inhibit the activation of HSCs and promote HSCs apoptosis.
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Integrative transcriptomic and proteomic analysis reveals mechanisms of silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats. BMC Pulm Med 2022; 22:13. [PMID: 34991559 PMCID: PMC8740005 DOI: 10.1186/s12890-021-01807-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Silicosis is a systemic disease characterized by persistent inflammation and incurable pulmonary fibrosis. Although great effort has been made to understand the pathogenesis of the disease, molecular mechanism underlying silicosis is not fully elucidated. This study was aimed to explore proteomic and transcriptomic changes in rat model of silicosis. Methods Twenty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups with 10 rats in each group. Rats in the model group were intratracheally instilled with 50 mg/mL silicon dioxide (1 mL per rat) and rats in the control group were treated with 1.0 mL saline (1 mL per rat). Twenty-eight days later, transcriptomic analysis by microarray and tandem mass tags (TMT)-based proteomic analysis were performed to reveal the expression of mRNAs and proteins in lung tissues. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) were applied to analyze the altered genes and proteins. The integrated analysis was performed between transcriptome and proteome. The data were further verified by RT-qPCR and parallel reaction monitoring (PRM). Results In total, 1769 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 650 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified between the silicosis model and control groups. The integrated analysis showed 250 DEPs were correlated to the corresponding DEGs (cor-DEPs-DEGs), which were mainly enriched in phagosome, leukocyte transendothelial migration, complement and coagulation cascades and cellular adhesion molecule (CAM). These pathways are interrelated and converged at common points to produce an effect. GM2a, CHI3L1, LCN2 and GNAI1 are involved in the extracellular matrix (ECM) and inflammation contributing to fibrosis. Conclusion Our comprehensive transcriptome and proteome data provide new insights into the mechanisms of silicosis and helpful information for more targeted prevention and treatment of silicosis. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12890-021-01807-w.
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Ma Y, Lee G, Heo SY, Roh YS. Oxidative Stress Is a Key Modulator in the Development of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 11:antiox11010091. [PMID: 35052595 PMCID: PMC8772974 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11010091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide, and scientific studies consistently report that NAFLD development can be accelerated by oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can induce the progression of NAFLD to NASH by stimulating Kupffer cells, hepatic stellate cells, and hepatocytes. Therefore, studies are underway to identify the role of antioxidants in the treatment of NAFLD. In this review, we have summarized the origins of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells, the relationship between ROS and NAFLD, and have discussed the use of antioxidants as therapeutic agents for NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanqiang Ma
- College of Pharmacy and Medical Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28160, Korea; (Y.M.); (G.L.)
| | - Gyurim Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Medical Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28160, Korea; (Y.M.); (G.L.)
| | - Su-Young Heo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea
- Correspondence: (S.-Y.H.); (Y.-S.R.)
| | - Yoon-Seok Roh
- College of Pharmacy and Medical Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28160, Korea; (Y.M.); (G.L.)
- Correspondence: (S.-Y.H.); (Y.-S.R.)
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22
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Bi Y, Lei X, Chai N, Linghu E. NOX4: a potential therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer and its mechanism. J Transl Med 2021; 19:515. [PMID: 34930338 PMCID: PMC8686284 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-021-03182-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase 4 (NOX4) is one of the seven isoforms of NOX family, which is upregulated in pancreatic cancer cell, mouse model of pancreatic cancer and human pancreatic cancer tissue. NOX4 is a constitutively active enzyme that primarily produces hydrogen peroxide, which exhibits completely different properties from other subtypes of NOX family. More importantly, recent studies illuminate that NOX4 promotes pancreatic cancer occurrence and development in different ways. This review summarizes the potential roles and its mechanism of NOX4 in pancreatic cancer and explores NOX4 as the potential therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yawei Bi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Xiao Lei
- Senior Department of Oncology, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100859, China
| | - Ningli Chai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China.
| | - Enqiang Linghu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China.
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Kramar B, Šuput D, Milisav I. Differential p16 expression levels in the liver, hepatocytes and hepatocellular cell lines. PeerJ 2021; 9:e12358. [PMID: 34760375 PMCID: PMC8570159 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background One of the most frequently deleted genes in cancer is CDKN2A encoding p16. This protein is often overexpressed in senescent cells, while its suppression can bypass the oncogene-induced senescence to enable transformation and tumorigenesis. The roles of the protein p16 are recently being expanded from the cell cycle progression regulator to the cellular regulator interacting in several different pathways. Yet data on its liver and liver cells' expression are inconclusive. Methods The expression of the p16 gene in liver and liver cells was determined by RT-qPCR and compared to its protein amounts by western blotting. Results p16 is expressed at low levels in the liver and rat hepatocytes. Its expression varies from none to the considerable levels in the examined hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines (FaO and HepG2) and in immortalized mouse hepatocytes. Such significant expression differences of an important cellular regulator warrant the need to closely examine the differences in biochemical pathways correlated with the p16 expression when using hepatocytes and hepatoma liver models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Kramar
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, Zaloska 4, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Dušan Šuput
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, Zaloska 4, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Irina Milisav
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, Zaloska 4, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,University of Ljubljana, Laboratory of oxidative stress research, Faculty of Health Sciences, Zdravstvena pot 5, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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24
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Oxidative Stress Induced by Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and NADPH Oxidase 4 (NOX4) in the Pathogenesis of the Fibrotic Process in Systemic Sclerosis: A Promising Therapeutic Target. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10204791. [PMID: 34682914 PMCID: PMC8539594 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10204791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous clinical and research investigations conducted during the last two decades have implicated excessive oxidative stress caused by high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the development of the severe and frequently progressive fibrotic process in Systemic Sclerosis (SSc). The role of excessive oxidative stress in SSc pathogenesis has been supported by the demonstration of increased levels of numerous biomarkers, indicative of cellular and molecular oxidative damage in serum, plasma, and other biological fluids from SSc patients, and by the demonstration of elevated production of ROS by various cell types involved in the SSc fibrotic process. However, the precise mechanisms mediating oxidative stress development in SSc and its pathogenetic effects have not been fully elucidated. The participation of the NADPH oxidase NOX4, has been suggested and experimentally supported by the demonstration that SSc dermal fibroblasts display constitutively increased NOX4 expression and that reduction or abrogation of NOX4 effects decreased ROS production and the expression of genes encoding fibrotic proteins. Furthermore, NOX4-stimulated ROS production may be involved in the development of certain endothelial and vascular abnormalities and may even participate in the generation of SSc-specific autoantibodies. Collectively, these observations suggest NOX4 as a novel therapeutic target for SSc.
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25
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Carson JP, Robinson MW, Ramm GA, Gobert GN. RNA sequencing of LX-2 cells treated with TGF-β1 identifies genes associated with hepatic stellate cell activation. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:7677-7688. [PMID: 34648138 PMCID: PMC8604886 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06774-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are liver-resident myofibroblast precursors responsible for the production of collagen and maintenance of the hepatic extracellular matrix (ECM). As such, they are generally associated with fibrotic liver diseases. HSCs become “activated” in response to tissue damage or pathogen invasion, a process most commonly driven by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). Despite this, the full extent of TGF-β1 signalling in these cells is poorly understood. Clarifying the range and diversity of this signalling will further improve our understanding of the process of HSC activation. Methods and results RNA sequencing was used to quantitate the transcriptomic changes induced in LX-2 cells, an activated human HSC line, following TGF-b1 treatment. In total, 5,258 genes were found to be significantly differentially expressed with a false discovery rate cut-off of < 0.1. The topmost deregulated of these genes included those with no currently characterised role in either HSC activation or fibrotic processes, including CIITA and SERPINB2. In silico analysis revealed the prominent signalling pathways downstream of TGF-β1 in LX-2 cells. Conclusions In this study, we describe the genes and signalling pathways significantly deregulated in LX-2 cells following TGF-β1 treatment. We identified several highly deregulated genes with no currently characterised role in HSC activation, which may represent novel mediators of fibrotic responses in HSCs or the liver macroenvironment. This work may be of use in the identification of new markers of liver fibrosis and could provide insight into prospective genes or pathways that might be targeted for the amelioration of fibrotic liver disease in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack P. Carson
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, BT9 5DL Belfast, UK
| | - Mark W. Robinson
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, BT9 5DL Belfast, UK
| | - Grant A. Ramm
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Locked Bag 2000, QLD 4029 Brisbane, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Level 6, Oral Health Centre (Building), Herston Road, 4006 Herston, QLD Australia
| | - Geoffrey N. Gobert
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, BT9 5DL Belfast, UK
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Wang J, Xu Z, Wang Z, Du G, Lun L. TGF-beta signaling in cancer radiotherapy. Cytokine 2021; 148:155709. [PMID: 34597918 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2021.155709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) plays key roles in regulating cellular proliferation and maintaining tissue homeostasis. TGF-β exerts tumor-suppressive effects in the early stages of carcinogenesis, but it also plays tumor-promoting roles in established tumors. Additionally, it plays a critical role in cancer radiotherapy. TGF-β expression or activation increases in irradiated tissues, and studies have shown that TGF-β plays dual roles in cancer radiosensitivity and is involved in ionizing radiation-induced fibrosis in different tumor microenvironments (TMEs). Furthermore, TGF-β promotes radioresistance by inducing the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cancer stem cells (CSCs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), suppresses the immune system and facilitates cancer resistance. In particular, the links between TGF-β and the Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) axis play a critical role in cancer therapeutic resistance. Growing evidence has shown that TGF-β acts as a radiation protection agent, leading to heightened interest in using TGF-β as a therapeutic target. The future of anti-TGF-β signaling therapy for numerous diseases appears bright, and the outlook for the use of TGF-β inhibitors in cancer radiotherapy as TME-targeting agents is promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266061, Shandong, China
| | - Zhonghang Xu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Colorectal and Anal Surgery, The China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130033, Jilin, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266061, Shandong, China
| | - Guoqiang Du
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital (Group), Qingdao 266071, Shandong, China.
| | - Limin Lun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266061, Shandong, China.
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Bertolio MS, La Colla A, Carrea A, Romo A, Canziani G, Echarte SM, Campisano S, Barletta GP, Monzon AM, Rodríguez TM, Chisari AN, Dewey RA. A Novel Splice Variant of Human TGF-β Type II Receptor Encodes a Soluble Protein and Its Fc-Tagged Version Prevents Liver Fibrosis in vivo. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:690397. [PMID: 34568316 PMCID: PMC8461249 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.690397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe, for the first time, a new splice variant of the human TGF-β type II receptor (TβRII). The new transcript lacks 149 nucleotides, resulting in a frameshift and the emergence of an early stop codon, rendering a truncated mature protein of 57 amino acids. The predicted protein, lacking the transmembrane domain and with a distinctive 13-amino-acid stretch at its C-terminus, was named TβRII-Soluble Endogenous (TβRII-SE). Binding predictions indicate that the novel 13-amino-acid stretch interacts with all three TGF-β cognate ligands and generates a more extensive protein–protein interface than TβRII. TβRII-SE and human IgG1 Fc domain were fused in frame in a lentiviral vector (Lv) for further characterization. With this vector, we transduced 293T cells and purified TβRII-SE/Fc by A/G protein chromatography from conditioned medium. Immunoblotting revealed homogeneous bands of approximately 37 kDa (reduced) and 75 kDa (non-reduced), indicating that TβRII-SE/Fc is secreted as a disulfide-linked homodimer. Moreover, high-affinity binding of TβRII-SE to the three TGF-β isoforms was confirmed by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis. Also, intrahepatic delivery of Lv.TβRII-SE/Fc in a carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis model revealed amelioration of liver injury and fibrosis. Our results indicate that TβRII-SE is a novel member of the TGF-β signaling pathway with distinctive characteristics. This novel protein offers an alternative for the prevention and treatment of pathologies caused by the overproduction of TGF-β ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Soledad Bertolio
- Laboratorio de Terapia Génica y Células Madre, Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Anabela La Colla
- Departamento de Química y Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alejandra Carrea
- Laboratorio de Terapia Génica y Células Madre, Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana Romo
- Laboratorio de Terapia Génica y Células Madre, Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gabriela Canziani
- Drexel U-Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson U S200 Biosensor Shared Resource, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Stella Maris Echarte
- Departamento de Química y Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Sabrina Campisano
- Departamento de Química y Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - German Patricio Barletta
- Molecular Physics and Biophysics Group, Department of Science and Technology, National University of Quilmes, CONICET, Bernal, Argentina
| | | | - Tania Melina Rodríguez
- Laboratorio de Terapia Génica y Células Madre, Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Andrea Nancy Chisari
- Departamento de Química y Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ricardo Alfredo Dewey
- Laboratorio de Terapia Génica y Células Madre, Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Herranz-Itúrbide M, Peñuelas-Haro I, Espinosa-Sotelo R, Bertran E, Fabregat I. The TGF-β/NADPH Oxidases Axis in the Regulation of Liver Cell Biology in Health and Disease. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092312. [PMID: 34571961 PMCID: PMC8470857 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) pathway plays essential roles in liver development and homeostasis and become a relevant factor involved in different liver pathologies, particularly fibrosis and cancer. The family of NADPH oxidases (NOXs) has emerged in recent years as targets of the TGF-β pathway mediating many of its effects on hepatocytes, stellate cells and macrophages. This review focuses on how the axis TGF-β/NOXs may regulate the biology of different liver cells and how this influences physiological situations, such as liver regeneration, and pathological circumstances, such as liver fibrosis and cancer. Finally, we discuss whether NOX inhibitors may be considered as potential therapeutic tools in liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Macarena Herranz-Itúrbide
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (M.H.-I.); (I.P.-H.); (R.E.-S.); (E.B.)
- Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene Peñuelas-Haro
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (M.H.-I.); (I.P.-H.); (R.E.-S.); (E.B.)
- Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Rut Espinosa-Sotelo
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (M.H.-I.); (I.P.-H.); (R.E.-S.); (E.B.)
- Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Esther Bertran
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (M.H.-I.); (I.P.-H.); (R.E.-S.); (E.B.)
- Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Fabregat
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (M.H.-I.); (I.P.-H.); (R.E.-S.); (E.B.)
- Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-932-607-828
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29
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Jiménez-Uribe AP, Gómez-Sierra T, Aparicio-Trejo OE, Orozco-Ibarra M, Pedraza-Chaverri J. Backstage players of fibrosis: NOX4, mTOR, HDAC, and S1P; companions of TGF-β. Cell Signal 2021; 87:110123. [PMID: 34438016 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2021.110123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The fibrotic process could be easily defined as a pathological excess of extracellular matrix deposition, leading to disruption of tissue architecture and eventually loss of function; however, this process involves a complex network of several signal transduction pathways. Virtually almost all organs could be affected by fibrosis, the most affected are the liver, lung, skin, kidney, heart, and eyes; in all of them, the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) has a central role. The canonical and non-canonical signal pathways of TGF-β impact the fibrotic process at the cellular and molecular levels, inducing the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the induction of profibrotic gene expression with the consequent increase in proteins such as alpha-smooth actin (α-SMA), fibronectin, collagen, and other extracellular matrix proteins. Recently, it has been reported that some molecules that have not been typically associated with the fibrotic process, such as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase 4 (NOX4), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), histone deacetylases (HDAC), and sphingosine-1 phosphate (S1P); are critical in its development. In this review, we describe and discuss the role of these new players of fibrosis and the convergence with TGF-β signaling pathways, unveiling new insights into the panorama of fibrosis that could be useful for future therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tania Gómez-Sierra
- Facultad de Química, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX 04510, Mexico
| | - Omar Emiliano Aparicio-Trejo
- Departamento de Fisiopatología Cardio-Renal, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología "Ignacio Chávez", Mexico City 14080, Mexico
| | - Marisol Orozco-Ibarra
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología Molecular y Celular, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Manuel Velasco Suárez, Av. Insurgentes Sur # 3877, La Fama, Alcaldía Tlalpan, CP 14269 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - José Pedraza-Chaverri
- Facultad de Química, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX 04510, Mexico.
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Larson-Casey JL, Gu L, Kang J, Dhyani A, Carter AB. NOX4 regulates macrophage apoptosis resistance to induce fibrotic progression. J Biol Chem 2021; 297:100810. [PMID: 34023385 PMCID: PMC8214193 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive lung disease often occurring secondary to environmental exposure. Asbestos exposure is an important environmental mediator of lung fibrosis and remains a significant cause of disease despite strict regulations to limit exposure. Lung macrophages play an integral role in the pathogenesis of fibrosis induced by asbestos (asbestosis), in part by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) and promoting resistance to apoptosis. However, the mechanism by which macrophages acquire apoptosis resistance is not known. Here, we confirm that macrophages isolated from asbestosis subjects are resistant to apoptosis and show they are associated with enhanced mitochondrial content of NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4), which generates mitochondrial ROS generation. Similar results were seen in chrysotile-exposed WT mice, while macrophages from Nox4-/- mice showed increased apoptosis. NOX4 regulated apoptosis resistance by activating Akt1-mediated Bcl-2-associated death phosphorylation. Demonstrating the importance of NOX4-mediated apoptosis resistance in fibrotic remodeling, mice harboring a conditional deletion of Nox4 in monocyte-derived macrophages exhibited increased apoptosis and were protected from pulmonary fibrosis. Moreover, resolution occurred when Nox4 was deleted in monocyte-derived macrophages in mice with established fibrosis. These observations suggest that NOX4 regulates apoptosis resistance in monocyte-derived macrophages and contributes to the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis. Targeting NOX4-mediated apoptosis resistance in monocyte-derived macrophages may provide a novel therapeutic target to protect against the development and/or progression of pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Larson-Casey
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Linlin Gu
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Jungsoon Kang
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Ashish Dhyani
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - A Brent Carter
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA; Birmingham Veterans Administration Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.
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The TGF-β Pathway: A Pharmacological Target in Hepatocellular Carcinoma? Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13133248. [PMID: 34209646 PMCID: PMC8268320 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily members are essential for tissue homeostasis and consequently, dysregulation of their signaling pathways contributes to the development of human diseases. In the liver, TGF-β signaling participates in all the stages of disease progression from initial liver injury to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). During liver carcinogenesis, TGF-β plays a dual role on the malignant cell, behaving as a suppressor factor at early stages, but contributing to later tumor progression once cells escape from its cytostatic effects. Moreover, TGF-β can modulate the response of the cells forming the tumor microenvironment that may also contribute to HCC progression, and drive immune evasion of cancer cells. Thus, targeting the TGF-β pathway may constitute an effective therapeutic option for HCC treatment. However, it is crucial to identify biomarkers that allow to predict the response of the tumors and appropriately select the patients that could benefit from TGF-β inhibitory therapies. Here we review the functions of TGF-β on HCC malignant and tumor microenvironment cells, and the current strategies targeting TGF-β signaling for cancer therapy. We also summarize the clinical impact of TGF-β inhibitors in HCC patients and provide a perspective on its future use alone or in combinatorial strategies for HCC treatment.
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32
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Sulforaphane Impact on Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in Bladder Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115938. [PMID: 34073079 PMCID: PMC8197880 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sulforaphane (SFN) is a natural glucosinolate found in cruciferous vegetables that acts as a chemopreventive agent, but its mechanism of action is not clear. Due to antioxidative mechanisms being thought central in preventing cancer progression, SFN could play a role in oxidative processes. Since redox imbalance with increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is involved in the initiation and progression of bladder cancer, this mechanism might be involved when chemoresistance occurs. This review summarizes current understanding regarding the influence of SFN on ROS and ROS-related pathways and appraises a possible role of SFN in bladder cancer treatment.
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The Impact of Hepatitis C Virus Genotypes on Oxidative Stress Markers and Catalase Activity. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:6676057. [PMID: 33708335 PMCID: PMC7932765 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6676057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of liver disease worldwide. Chronic HCV infections are usually associated with increased oxidative stress in the liver tissue. The intensity of oxidative stress may be a detrimental factor in liver injury and may determine the severity of the disease. The aim of the present case-control study was to determine the level of lipid peroxidation (TBARS), protein oxidative modification (AOPP), and catalase activity in sera of patients infected with HCV, in relation to different HCV genotypes and viral load. Considering the HCV patients with chronic hepatitis C (52) and control subject (50) recruitment, the study was designed as a case-control-type. The HCV RNA isolation, viral load, and HCV genotyping were performed according to the standard protocols. A significant difference compared to control healthy subjects was reported for TBAR (p < 0.001), AOPP (p = 0.001), and catalase activity (p = 0.007). In a gender-based comparison, a significantly higher level of AOPP for females was reported (p < 0.001). As stratified by HCV genotype, the most common was HCV-1 (HCV-1a and HCV 1b), with the overall participation of more than 60%, followed by genotype 3, while the least represented was genotype 2. No significant difference was documented among genotypes in regard to oxidative stress markers, although somewhat higher TBARS level, but not significant, was registered in patients infected with genotype 1b. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between the concentration of HCV genome copies and AOPP (r = 0.344; p = 0.012). A high level of HCV viral load was more likely to have a higher TBARS, but still without statistical significance (p = 0.072). In conclusion, the results obtained confirmed an imbalance between the ROS production and antioxidative defense system in HCV-infected patients. Since oxidative stress may have a profound influence on disease progression, fibrosis, and carcinogenesis, our results may meet the aspirations of mandatory introduction of antioxidants as early HCV therapy to counteract ROS consequences.
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Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are resident non-parenchymal liver pericytes whose plasticity enables them to regulate a remarkable range of physiologic and pathologic responses. To support their functions in health and disease, HSCs engage pathways regulating carbohydrate, mitochondrial, lipid, and retinoid homeostasis. In chronic liver injury, HSCs drive hepatic fibrosis and are implicated in inflammation and cancer. To do so, the cells activate, or transdifferentiate, from a quiescent state into proliferative, motile myofibroblasts that secrete extracellular matrix, which demands rapid adaptation to meet a heightened energy need. Adaptations include reprogramming of central carbon metabolism, enhanced mitochondrial number and activity, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and liberation of free fatty acids through autophagy-dependent hydrolysis of retinyl esters that are stored in cytoplasmic droplets. As an archetype for pericytes in other tissues, recognition of the HSC's metabolic drivers and vulnerabilities offer the potential to target these pathways therapeutically to enhance parenchymal growth and modulate repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parth Trivedi
- Division of Liver Diseases, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Shuang Wang
- Division of Liver Diseases, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Scott L Friedman
- Division of Liver Diseases, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.
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35
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Herranz-Itúrbide M, López-Luque J, Gonzalez-Sanchez E, Caballero-Díaz D, Crosas-Molist E, Martín-Mur B, Gut M, Esteve-Codina A, Jaquet V, Jiang JX, Török NJ, Fabregat I. NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4) deletion accelerates liver regeneration in mice. Redox Biol 2020; 40:101841. [PMID: 33493901 PMCID: PMC7823210 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2020.101841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver is a unique organ in displaying a reparative and regenerative response after acute/chronic damage or partial hepatectomy, when all the cell types must proliferate to re-establish the liver mass. The NADPH oxidase NOX4 mediates Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) actions, including apoptosis in hepatocytes and activation of stellate cells to myofibroblasts. Aim of this work was to analyze the impact of NOX4 in liver regeneration by using two mouse models where Nox4 was deleted: 1) general deletion of Nox4 (NOX4-/-) and 2) hepatocyte-specific deletion of Nox4 (NOX4hepKO). Liver regeneration was analyzed after 2/3 partial hepatectomy (PH). Results indicated an earlier recovery of the liver-to-body weight ratio in both NOX4-/- and NOX4hepKO mice and an increased survival, when compared to corresponding WT mice. The regenerative hepatocellular fat accumulation and the parenchyma organization recovered faster in NOX4 deleted livers. Hepatocyte proliferation, analyzed by Ki67 and phospho-Histone3 immunohistochemistry, was accelerated and increased in NOX4 deleted mice, coincident with an earlier and increased Myc expression. Primary hepatocytes isolated from NOX4 deleted mice showed higher proliferative capacity and increased expression of Myc and different cyclins in response to serum. Transcriptomic analysis through RNA-seq revealed significant changes after PH in NOX4-/- mice and support a relevant role for Myc in a node of regulation of proliferation-related genes. Interestingly, RNA-seq also revealed changes in the expression of genes related to activation of the TGF-β pathway. In fact, levels of active TGF-β1, phosphorylation of Smads and levels of its target p21 were lower at 24 h in NOX4 deleted mice. Nox4 did not appear to be essential for the termination of liver regeneration in vivo, neither for the in vitro hepatocyte response to TGF-β1 in terms of growth inhibition, which suggest its potential as therapeutic target to improve liver regeneration, without adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Herranz-Itúrbide
- TGF-β and Cancer Group. Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
| | - J López-Luque
- TGF-β and Cancer Group. Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
| | - E Gonzalez-Sanchez
- TGF-β and Cancer Group. Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain; Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Spain
| | - D Caballero-Díaz
- TGF-β and Cancer Group. Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
| | - E Crosas-Molist
- TGF-β and Cancer Group. Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - B Martín-Mur
- CNAG-CRG, Centre for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Gut
- CNAG-CRG, Centre for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Esteve-Codina
- CNAG-CRG, Centre for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - V Jaquet
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Medical School, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland; RE.A.D.S Unit, Medical School, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - J X Jiang
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UC Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - N J Török
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - I Fabregat
- TGF-β and Cancer Group. Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain; Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Spain.
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Li P, Fan C, Cai Y, Fang S, Zeng Y, Zhang Y, Lin X, Zhang H, Xue Y, Guan M. Transplantation of brown adipose tissue up-regulates miR-99a to ameliorate liver metabolic disorders in diabetic mice by targeting NOX4. Adipocyte 2020; 9:57-67. [PMID: 32000567 PMCID: PMC6999837 DOI: 10.1080/21623945.2020.1721970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), main cause of liver damage, is inextricably linked to diabetes. However, there is no specific means to improve the pathology of fatty liver in diabetic patients. Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is an important endocrine organ that secretes adipokines and microRNAs (miRNAs) involved in systemic metabolic regulation. To investigate the effects of BAT transplantation on liver lipid metabolism in diabetic mice, we transplanted BAT from male donor mice into diabetic mice induced by streptozotocin (STZ) combined with high-fat diet (HFD). At 10 weeks after transplantation, BAT transplantation significantly decreased the blood glucose and lipid, downregulated FAS, CD36, Scd1, ACCα, NOX2, NOX4, TGF-β1, FN and COL-1, up-regulated Nrf2, reversed the pathological changes of liver and increased the circulating miR-99a in diabetic mice. To verify whether circulating miR-99a improves oxidative stress by targeting inhibition of NOX4, we used 0.4mM palmitic acid (PA) to treat the LO2 cells. The expression of NOX4 protein was significantly decreased after transfection with miR-99a mimic, and increased after transfection with miR-99a inhibitor. Luciferase reporter assay confirmed that miR-99a could target NOX4 mRNA. These findings clarify the role of miR-99a and NOX4 in liver beneficial effect of BAT transplantation in diabetic mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Li
- Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Cunxia Fan
- Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hainan General Hospital, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Yingying Cai
- Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Women and Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Shu Fang
- Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanmei Zeng
- Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yudan Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaochun Lin
- Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hongbin Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Yaoming Xue
- Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Meiping Guan
- Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Regulation of Metabolic Processes by Hydrogen Peroxide Generated by NADPH Oxidases. Processes (Basel) 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/pr8111424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is an important oxidizing molecule that regulates the metabolisms of aerobic organisms. Redox signaling comprises physiological oxidative stress (eustress), while excessive oxidative stress causes damage to molecules. The main enzymatic generators of H2O2 are nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidases or NADPH oxidases (NOXs) and mitochondrial respiratory chains, as well as various oxidases. The NOX family is constituted of seven enzyme isoforms that produce a superoxide anion (O2−), which can be converted to H2O2 by superoxide dismutase or spontaneously. H2O2 passes through the membranes by some aquaporins (AQPs), known as peroxyporins. It diffuses through cells and tissues to initiate cellular effects, such as proliferation, the recruitment of immune cells, and cell shape changes. Therefore, it has been proposed that H2O2 has the same importance as Ca2+ or adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to act as modulators in signaling and the metabolism. The present overview focuses on the metabolic processes of liver and adipose tissue, regulated by the H2O2 generated by NOXs.
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Liu YS, Gu H, Huang TC, Wei XW, Ma W, Liu D, He YW, Luo WT, Huang JT, Zhao D, Jia SS, Wang F, Zhang T, Bai YZ, Wang WL, Yuan ZW. miR-322 treatment rescues cell apoptosis and neural tube defect formation through silencing NADPH oxidase 4. CNS Neurosci Ther 2020; 26:902-912. [PMID: 32329577 PMCID: PMC7415201 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Failure of neural tube closure resulting from excessive apoptosis leads to neural tube defects (NTDs). NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) is a critical mediator of cell growth and death, yet its role in NTDs has never been characterized. NOX4 is a potential target of miR-322, and we have previously demonstrated that miR-322 was involved in high glucose-induced NTDs. In this study, we investigated the effect of NOX4 on the embryonic neuroepithelium in NTDs and reveal a new regulatory mechanism for miR-322 that disrupts neurulation by ameliorating cell apoptosis. METHODS All-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA)-induced mouse model was utilized to study NTDs. RNA pull-down and dual-luciferase reporter assays were used to confirm the interaction between NOX4 and miR-322. In mouse neural stem cells and whole-embryo culture, Western blot and TUNEL were carried out to investigate the effects of miR-322 and NOX4 on neuroepithelium apoptosis in NTD formation. RESULTS NOX4, as a novel target of miR-322, was upregulated in ATRA-induced mouse model of NTDs. In mouse neural stem cells, the expression of NOX4 was inhibited by miR-322; still further, NOX4-triggered apoptosis was also suppressed by miR-322. Moreover, in whole-embryo culture, injection of the miR-322 mimic into the amniotic cavity attenuated cell apoptosis in NTD formation by silencing NOX4. CONCLUSION miR-322/NOX4 plays a crucial role in apoptosis-induced NTD formation, which may provide a new understanding of the mechanism of embryonic NTDs and a basis for potential therapeutic target against NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Si Liu
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Hui Gu
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tian-Chu Huang
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiao-Wei Wei
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Wei Ma
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yi-Wen He
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Wen-Ting Luo
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jie-Ting Huang
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Duan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shan-Shan Jia
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Zuo Bai
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Wei-Lin Wang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zheng-Wei Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Abstract
Significance: Fibrosis is a stereotypic, multicellular tissue response to diverse types of injuries that fundamentally result from a failure of cell/tissue regeneration. This complex tissue remodeling response disrupts cellular/matrix composition and homeostatic cell-cell interactions, leading to loss of normal tissue architecture and progressive loss of organ structure/function. Fibrosis is a common feature of chronic diseases that may affect the lung, kidney, liver, and heart. Recent Advances: There is emerging evidence to support a combination of genetic, environmental, and age-related risk factors contributing to susceptibility and/or progression of fibrosis in different organ systems. A core pathway in fibrogenesis involving these organs is the induction and activation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase (NOX) family enzymes. Critical Issues: We explore current pharmaceutical approaches to targeting NOX enzymes, including repurposing of currently U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs. Specific inhibitors of various NOX homologs will aid establishing roles of NOXs in the various organ fibroses and potential efficacy to impede/halt disease progression. Future Directions: The discovery of novel and highly specific NOX inhibitors will provide opportunities to develop NOX inhibitors for treatment of fibrotic pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Bernard
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Victor J Thannickal
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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40
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Ni Y, Zhuge F, Nagashimada M, Nagata N, Xu L, Yamamoto S, Fuke N, Ushida Y, Suganuma H, Kaneko S, Ota T. Lycopene prevents the progression of lipotoxicity-induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis by decreasing oxidative stress in mice. Free Radic Biol Med 2020; 152:571-582. [PMID: 31790829 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2019.11.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Excessive fatty acid uptake-induced oxidative stress causes liver injury and the consecutive recruitment of inflammatory immune cells, thereby promoting the progression of simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Lycopene, the most effective singlet oxygen scavenger of the antioxidant carotenoids, has anti-inflammatory activity. Here, we investigated the preventive and therapeutic effects of lycopene in a lipotoxic model of NASH: mice fed a high-cholesterol and high-fat diet. Lycopene alleviated excessive hepatic lipid accumulation and enhanced lipolysis, decreased the proportion of M1-type macrophages/Kupffer cells, and activated stellate cells to improve hepatic inflammation and fibrosis, and subsequently reduced the recruitment of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in the liver. Importantly, lycopene reversed insulin resistance, as well as hepatic inflammation and fibrosis, in pre-existing NASH. In parallel, lycopene decreased LPS-/IFN-γ-/TNFα-induced M1 marker mRNA levels in peritoneal macrophages, as well as TGF-β1-induced expression of fibrogenic genes in a stellate cell line, in a dose-dependent manner. These results were associated with decreased oxidative stress in cells, which might be mediated by the expression of NADPH oxidase subunits. In summary, lycopene prevented and reversed lipotoxicity-induced inflammation and fibrosis in NASH mice by reducing oxidative stress. Therefore, it might be a novel and promising treatment for NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinhua Ni
- Advanced Preventive Medical Sciences Research Center, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-8640, Japan; College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310032, China
| | - Fen Zhuge
- Advanced Preventive Medical Sciences Research Center, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-8640, Japan; Institute of Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310015, China
| | - Mayumi Nagashimada
- Advanced Preventive Medical Sciences Research Center, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-8640, Japan; Division of Health Science, Graduate of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-0942, Japan
| | - Naoto Nagata
- Advanced Preventive Medical Sciences Research Center, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Liang Xu
- Advanced Preventive Medical Sciences Research Center, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Sayo Yamamoto
- Innovation Division, KAGOME CO., LTD, Nasushiobara, 329-2762, Japan
| | - Nobuo Fuke
- Innovation Division, KAGOME CO., LTD, Nasushiobara, 329-2762, Japan
| | - Yusuke Ushida
- Innovation Division, KAGOME CO., LTD, Nasushiobara, 329-2762, Japan
| | | | - Shuichi Kaneko
- Advanced Preventive Medical Sciences Research Center, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Tsuguhito Ota
- Advanced Preventive Medical Sciences Research Center, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-8640, Japan; Division of Metabolism and Biosystemic Science, Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan.
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NADPH oxidases: Pathophysiology and therapeutic potential in age-associated pulmonary fibrosis. Redox Biol 2020; 33:101541. [PMID: 32360174 PMCID: PMC7251244 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2020.101541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress has been associated with a number of human fibrotic diseases, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Although oxidative stress is associated with both fibrosis and aging, the precise cellular sources(s) of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that contribute to the disease pathogenesis remain poorly understood. NADPH oxidase (Nox) enzymes are an evolutionarily conserved family, where their only known function is the production of ROS. A growing body of evidence supports a link between excessive Nox-derived ROS and numerous chronic diseases (including fibrotic disease), which is most prevalent among the elderly population. In this review, we examine the evidence for Nox isoforms in the pathogenesis of IPF, and the potential to target this enzyme family for the treatment of IPF and related fibrotic disorders. A better understanding of the Nox-mediated redox imbalance in aging may be critical to the development of more effective therapeutic strategies for age-associated fibrotic disorders. Strategies aimed at specifically blocking the source(s) of ROS through Nox inhibition may prove to be more effective as anti-fibrotic therapies, as compared to antioxidant approaches. This review also discusses the potential of Nox-targeting therapeutics currently in development.
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Roehlen N, Crouchet E, Baumert TF. Liver Fibrosis: Mechanistic Concepts and Therapeutic Perspectives. Cells 2020; 9:cells9040875. [PMID: 32260126 PMCID: PMC7226751 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 494] [Impact Index Per Article: 123.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 03/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis due to viral or metabolic chronic liver diseases is a major challenge of global health. Correlating with liver disease progression, fibrosis is a key factor for liver disease outcome and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Despite different mechanism of primary liver injury and disease-specific cell responses, the progression of fibrotic liver disease follows shared patterns across the main liver disease etiologies. Scientific discoveries within the last decade have transformed the understanding of the mechanisms of liver fibrosis. Removal or elimination of the causative agent such as control or cure of viral infection has shown that liver fibrosis is reversible. However, reversal often occurs too slowly or too infrequent to avoid life-threatening complications particularly in advanced fibrosis. Thus, there is a huge unmet medical need for anti-fibrotic therapies to prevent liver disease progression and HCC development. However, while many anti-fibrotic candidate agents have shown robust effects in experimental animal models, their anti-fibrotic effects in clinical trials have been limited or absent. Thus, no approved therapy exists for liver fibrosis. In this review we summarize cellular drivers and molecular mechanisms of fibrogenesis in chronic liver diseases and discuss their impact for the development of urgently needed anti-fibrotic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natascha Roehlen
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (N.R.); (E.C.)
- Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques U1110, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Emilie Crouchet
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (N.R.); (E.C.)
- Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques U1110, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Thomas F. Baumert
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (N.R.); (E.C.)
- Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques U1110, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Pôle Hepato-digestif, Institut Hopitalo-Universitaire, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-366853703
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Transient Receptor Potential Channel Canonical Type 3 Deficiency Antagonizes Myofibroblast Transdifferentiation In Vivo. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:1202189. [PMID: 32219126 PMCID: PMC7077044 DOI: 10.1155/2020/1202189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective Myofibroblast transformation has been shown to be associated with the reactive oxygen species- (ROS-) producing enzyme NADPH oxidase (Nox4). Inhibition of transient receptor potential channel canonical type 3 (TRPC3) attenuates mitochondrial calcium handling and ROS production in the vasculature of hypertensive rats. However, it remains elusive whether TRPC3 regulates mitochondrial calcium and ROS production and participates in myofibroblast transdifferentiation during wound healing. Methods and Results In this study, we demonstrated that activation of TRPC3 by transforming growth factor β (TGFβ (TGFαSMA). Inhibition of TRPC3 with its specific inhibitor, Pyr3, significantly decreased TGFβ (TGFαSMA). Inhibition of TRPC3 with its specific inhibitor, Pyr3, significantly decreased TGFβ (TGFβ (TGFTrpc3−/− mice exhibited significantly attenuated myofibroblast transdifferentiation, as demonstrated by decreased αSMA). Inhibition of TRPC3 with its specific inhibitor, Pyr3, significantly decreased TGFβ (TGFβ (TGFTrpc3−/− mice exhibited significantly attenuated myofibroblast transdifferentiation, as demonstrated by decreased Trpc3+/+ mice. In addition, Trpc3−/− mice exhibited significantly attenuated myofibroblast transdifferentiation, as demonstrated by decreased Conclusions Our data indicate that TGFβ1-mediated activation of TRPC3 enhances mitochondrial calcium and ROS production, which promotes myofibroblast transdifferentiation and HTS formation. Inhibition of the TRPC3-mediated Nox4/pSmad2/3 pathway may be a useful strategy to limit HTS formation after injury.β (TGF
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44
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Ruan Q, Wang H, Burke LJ, Bridle KR, Li X, Zhao CX, Crawford DHG, Roberts MS, Liang X. Therapeutic modulators of hepatic stellate cells for hepatocellular carcinoma. Int J Cancer 2020; 147:1519-1527. [PMID: 32010970 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.32899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary tumor in the liver and is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are key components of the HCC microenvironment and play an important role in the onset and progression of HCC through the secretion of growth factors and cytokines. Current treatment modalities that include chemotherapy, radiotherapy and ablation are able to activate HSCs and remodel the tumor microenvironment. Growing evidence has demonstrated that the complex interaction between activated HSCs and tumor cells can facilitate cancer chemoresistance and metastasis. Therefore, therapeutic targeting of activated HSCs has emerged as a promising strategy to improve treatment outcomes for HCC. This review summarizes the molecular mechanisms of HSC activation triggered by treatment modalities, the function of activated HSCs in HCC, as well as the crosstalk between tumor cells and activated HSCs. Pathways of activated HSC reduction are discussed, including inhibition, apoptosis, and reversion to the inactivated state. Finally, we outline the progress and challenges of therapeutic approaches targeting activated HSCs in the development of HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Ruan
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Haolu Wang
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia.,Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Leslie J Burke
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia.,Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Kim R Bridle
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Xinxing Li
- Department of General Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chun-Xia Zhao
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Darrell H G Crawford
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Michael S Roberts
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Xiaowen Liang
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia.,Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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45
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Abstract
There is a growing recognition that aging is a risk factor for fibrosis that affects a number of organ systems, including the lung. Despite this understanding, most studies of experimental fibrosis have been conducted in young mice that typically resolve injury-induced lung fibrosis over the course of several months. Our studies demonstrate that aged mouse models may recapitulate human disease by generating a more persistent fibrotic response to injury. This is, in part, due to an imbalance in the expression and activity of NADPH oxidase (NOX) enzymes, in particular the NOX4 isoform, and a related deficiency in antioxidant responses in pathogenic myofibroblasts. These pathogenic myofibroblasts acquire features of cellular senescence and become resistant to apoptosis. In this chapter, we present methods and procedures to apply the aging model of lung fibrosis in mice that will allow interrogation of myofibroblast functions and the expression and activity of NOX4 in cells. We provide recommendations for best laboratory practices to assess the severity and resolution of fibrosis in murine models of aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Bernard
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Victor J Thannickal
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
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46
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TGF- β3 Induces Autophagic Activity by Increasing ROS Generation in a NOX4-Dependent Pathway. Mediators Inflamm 2019; 2019:3153240. [PMID: 32082074 PMCID: PMC7012255 DOI: 10.1155/2019/3153240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Higher concentrations of reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been associated with epithelial cell damage, cell shedding, and airway hyperresponsiveness. Previous studies have indicated that transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) mediates ROS production and NADPH oxidase (NOX) activity. In our previous study, we also observed that TGF-β3 increases mucus secretion in airway epithelial cells in an autophagy-dependent fashion. Although it is well known that the relationship between ROS and autophagy is cell context-dependent, the exact mechanism of action remains unclear. The following study examined whether ROS act as upstream of autophagy activation in response to TGF-β3 induction. Using an allergic inflammation mouse model induced by house dust mite (HDM), we observed elevated lung amounts of TGF-β3 accompanied by increased ROS levels. And we found that ROS levels were elevated and NOX4 expression was increased in TGF-β3-induced epithelial cells, while the lack of NOX4 in the epithelial cells could reduce ROS generation and autophagy-dependent MUC5AC expression treated with TGF-β3. Furthermore, our studies demonstrated that the Smad2/3 pathway was involved in TGF-β3-induced ROS generation by promoting NOX4 expression. The inhibition of ROS generation by N-Acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) resulted in a decrease in mucus expression and autophagy activity in vivo as well as in vitro. Finally, TGF-β3-neutralizing antibody significantly reduced the ROS generation, mucus expression, and autophagy activity and also decreased the phosphorylation of Smad2 and Smad3. Taken together, the obtained results revealed that persistent TGF-β3 activation increased ROS levels in a NOX4-dependent pathway and subsequently induced autophagy as well as MUC5AC expression in the epithelial cells.
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47
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Khomich O, Ivanov AV, Bartosch B. Metabolic Hallmarks of Hepatic Stellate Cells in Liver Fibrosis. Cells 2019; 9:E24. [PMID: 31861818 PMCID: PMC7016711 DOI: 10.3390/cells9010024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a regenerative process that occurs after injury. It is characterized by the deposition of connective tissue by specialized fibroblasts and concomitant proliferative responses. Chronic damage that stimulates fibrogenic processes in the long-term may result in the deposition of excess matrix tissue and impairment of liver functions. End-stage fibrosis is referred to as cirrhosis and predisposes strongly to the loss of liver functions (decompensation) and hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver fibrosis is a pathology common to a number of different chronic liver diseases, including alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and viral hepatitis. The predominant cell type responsible for fibrogenesis is hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). In response to inflammatory stimuli or hepatocyte death, HSCs undergo trans-differentiation to myofibroblast-like cells. Recent evidence shows that metabolic alterations in HSCs are important for the trans-differentiation process and thus offer new possibilities for therapeutic interventions. The aim of this review is to summarize current knowledge of the metabolic changes that occur during HSC activation with a particular focus on the retinol and lipid metabolism, the central carbon metabolism, and associated redox or stress-related signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Khomich
- INSERM, U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Université de Lyon (UCBL1), CNRS UMR_5286, Centre Léon Bérard, CEDEX 03, 69424 Lyon, France;
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander V. Ivanov
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Birke Bartosch
- INSERM, U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Université de Lyon (UCBL1), CNRS UMR_5286, Centre Léon Bérard, CEDEX 03, 69424 Lyon, France;
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48
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Dewidar B, Meyer C, Dooley S, Meindl-Beinker N. TGF-β in Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Liver Fibrogenesis-Updated 2019. Cells 2019; 8:cells8111419. [PMID: 31718044 PMCID: PMC6912224 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 403] [Impact Index Per Article: 80.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is an advanced liver disease condition, which could progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. To date, there is no direct approved antifibrotic therapy, and current treatment is mainly the removal of the causative factor. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β is a master profibrogenic cytokine and a promising target to treat fibrosis. However, TGF-β has broad biological functions and its inhibition induces non-desirable side effects, which override therapeutic benefits. Therefore, understanding the pleiotropic effects of TGF-β and its upstream and downstream regulatory mechanisms will help to design better TGF-β based therapeutics. Here, we summarize recent discoveries and milestones on the TGF-β signaling pathway related to liver fibrosis and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation, emphasizing research of the last five years. This comprises impact of TGF-β on liver fibrogenesis related biological processes, such as senescence, metabolism, reactive oxygen species generation, epigenetics, circadian rhythm, epithelial mesenchymal transition, and endothelial-mesenchymal transition. We also describe the influence of the microenvironment on the response of HSC to TGF-β. Finally, we discuss new approaches to target the TGF-β pathway, name current clinical trials, and explain promises and drawbacks that deserve to be adequately addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bedair Dewidar
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (B.D.); (C.M.); (S.D.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, 31527 Tanta, Egypt
| | - Christoph Meyer
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (B.D.); (C.M.); (S.D.)
| | - Steven Dooley
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (B.D.); (C.M.); (S.D.)
| | - Nadja Meindl-Beinker
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (B.D.); (C.M.); (S.D.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-621-383-4983; Fax: +49-621-383-1467
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49
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Kong M, Chen X, Lv F, Ren H, Fan Z, Qin H, Yu L, Shi X, Xu Y. Serum response factor (SRF) promotes ROS generation and hepatic stellate cell activation by epigenetically stimulating NCF1/2 transcription. Redox Biol 2019; 26:101302. [PMID: 31442911 PMCID: PMC6831835 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2019.101302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) is a hallmark event in liver fibrosis. Accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) serves as a driving force for HSC activation. The regulatory subunits of the NOX complex, NCF1 (p47phox) and NCF2 (p67phox), are up-regulated during HSC activation contributing to ROS production and liver fibrosis. The transcriptional mechanism underlying NCF1/2 up-regulation is not clear. In the present study we investigated the role of serum response factor (SRF) in HSC activation focusing on the transcriptional regulation of NCF1/2. We report that compared to wild type littermates HSC-conditional SRF knockout (CKO) mice exhibited a mortified phenotype of liver fibrosis induced by thioacetamide (TAA) injection or feeding with a methionine-and-choline deficient diet (MCD). More importantly, SRF deletion attenuated ROS levels in HSCs in vivo. Similarly, SRF knockdown in cultured HSCs suppressed ROS production in vitro. Further analysis revealed that SRF deficiency resulted in repression of NCF1/NCF2 expression. Mechanistically, SRF regulated epigenetic transcriptional activation of NCF1/NCF2 by interacting with and recruiting the histone acetyltransferase KAT8 during HSC activation. In conclusion, we propose that SRF integrates transcriptional activation of NCF1/NCF2 and ROS production to promote liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Kong
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xuyang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fangqiao Lv
- Department of Cell Biology and the Municipal Laboratory of Liver Protection and Regulation of Regeneration, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Haozhen Ren
- Department of Hepato-biliary Surgery and Department of Pathology, Affiliated Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhiwen Fan
- Department of Hepato-biliary Surgery and Department of Pathology, Affiliated Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Hao Qin
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Liming Yu
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaolei Shi
- Department of Hepato-biliary Surgery and Department of Pathology, Affiliated Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China.
| | - Yong Xu
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Institute of Biomedical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China.
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50
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Das S, Wikström P, Walum E, Lovicu FJ. A novel NADPH oxidase inhibitor targeting Nox4 in TGFβ-induced lens epithelial to mesenchymal transition. Exp Eye Res 2019; 185:107692. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2019.107692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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