1
|
Gao J, Lan T, Kostallari E, Guo Y, Lai E, Guillot A, Ding B, Tacke F, Tang C, Shah VH. Angiocrine signaling in sinusoidal homeostasis and liver diseases. J Hepatol 2024:S0168-8278(24)00349-0. [PMID: 38763358 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.05.014] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
The hepatic sinusoids are composed of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC), which are surrounded by hepatic stellate cells (HSC) and contain liver-resident macrophages called Kupffer cells, and other patrolling immune cells. All these cells communicate with each other and with hepatocytes to maintain sinusoidal homeostasis and a spectrum of hepatic functions under healthy conditions. Sinusoidal homeostasis is disrupted by metabolites, toxins, viruses, and other pathological factors, leading to liver injury, chronic liver diseases, and liver cirrhosis. Alterations in hepatic sinusoids are linked to fibrosis progression and portal hypertension. LSECs are crucial regulators of cellular crosstalk within their microenvironment via angiocrine signaling. This review discusses the mechanisms by which angiocrine signaling orchestrates sinusoidal homeostasis, as well as the development of liver diseases. Here, we summarize the crosstalk between LSECs, HSCs, hepatocytes, cholangiocytes, and immune cells in health and disease and comment on potential novel therapeutic methods for treating liver diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinhang Gao
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tian Lan
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany
| | - Enis Kostallari
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Yangkun Guo
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Enjiang Lai
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Adrien Guillot
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bisen Ding
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Chengwei Tang
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Vijay H Shah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zuo B, Yang F, Huang L, Han J, Li T, Ma Z, Cao L, Li Y, Bai X, Jiang M, He Y, Xia L. Endothelial Slc35a1 Deficiency Causes Loss of LSEC Identity and Exacerbates Neonatal Lipid Deposition in the Liver in Mice. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 17:1039-1061. [PMID: 38467191 PMCID: PMC11061248 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2024.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The functional maturation of the liver largely occurs after birth. In the early stages of life, the liver of a newborn encounters enormous high-fat metabolic stress caused by the consumption of breast milk. It is unclear how the maturing liver adapts to high lipid metabolism. Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) play a fundamental role in establishing liver vasculature and are decorated with many glycoproteins on their surface. The Slc35a1 gene encodes a cytidine-5'-monophosphate (CMP)-sialic acid transporter responsible for transporting CMP-sialic acids between the cytoplasm and the Golgi apparatus for protein sialylation. This study aimed to determine whether endothelial sialylation plays a role in hepatic vasculogenesis and functional maturation. METHODS Endothelial-specific Slc35a1 knockout mice were generated. Liver tissues were collected for histologic analysis, lipidomic profiling, RNA sequencing, confocal immunofluorescence, and immunoblot analyses. RESULTS Endothelial Slc35a1-deficient mice exhibited excessive neonatal hepatic lipid deposition, severe liver damage, and high mortality. Endothelial deletion of Slc35a1 led to sinusoidal capillarization and disrupted hepatic zonation. Mechanistically, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) in LSECs was desialylated and VEGFR2 signaling was enhanced in Slc35a1-deficient mice. Inhibition of VEGFR2 signaling by SU5416 alleviated lipid deposition and restored hepatic vasculature in Slc35a1-deficient mice. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that sialylation of LSECs is critical for maintaining hepatic vascular development and lipid homeostasis. Targeting VEGFR2 signaling may be a new strategy to prevent liver disorders associated with abnormal vasculature and lipid deposition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zuo
- Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis of National Health Commission, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China; Engineering Center of Hematological Disease of Ministry of Education, Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fei Yang
- Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis of National Health Commission, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lulu Huang
- Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis of National Health Commission, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Han
- Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis of National Health Commission, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Tianyi Li
- Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis of National Health Commission, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhenni Ma
- Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis of National Health Commission, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lijuan Cao
- Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis of National Health Commission, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yun Li
- Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis of National Health Commission, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xia Bai
- Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis of National Health Commission, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, China; State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Miao Jiang
- Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis of National Health Commission, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yang He
- Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis of National Health Commission, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China; Engineering Center of Hematological Disease of Ministry of Education, Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Soochow University, Suzhou, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Lijun Xia
- Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis of National Health Commission, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, China; Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gao J, Zuo B, He Y. Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells as potential drivers of liver fibrosis (Review). Mol Med Rep 2024; 29:40. [PMID: 38240102 PMCID: PMC10828992 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2024.13164] [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: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis due to viral or metabolic chronic liver diseases is a major challenge of global health. It is a critical pre‑stage condition of severe hepatopathy, characterized by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix components and ongoing chronic inflammation. To date, early prevention of liver fibrosis remains challenging. As the most abundant non‑parenchymal hepatic cell population, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are stabilizers that maintain the intrahepatic environment. Notably, LSECs dysfunction appears to be implicated in the progression of liver fibrosis via numerous mechanisms. Following sustained liver injury, they lose their fenestrae (cytoplasmic pores) and change their crosstalk with other cellular interactions in the hepatic blood environment. LSEC‑targeted therapy has shown promising effects on fibrosis resolution, opening up new opportunities for anti‑fibrotic therapy. In light of this, the present study summarized changes in LSECs during liver fibrosis and their interactions with hepatic milieu, as well as possible therapeutic approaches that specially target LSECs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqin Gao
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
- Ministry of Education Engineering Center of Hematological Disease, Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, P.R. China
| | - Bin Zuo
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
- Ministry of Education Engineering Center of Hematological Disease, Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, P.R. China
| | - Yang He
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tan PK, Ostertag T, Rosenthal SB, Chilin-Fuentes D, Aidnik H, Linker S, Murphy K, Miner JN, Brenner DA. Role of Hepatic Stellate and Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells in a Human Primary Cell Three-Dimensional Model of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2024; 194:353-368. [PMID: 38158078 PMCID: PMC10913759 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2023.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is an inflammatory and fibrotic liver disease that has reached epidemic proportions and has no approved pharmacologic therapies. Research and drug development efforts are hampered by inadequate preclinical models. This research describes a three-dimensional bioprinted liver tissue model of NASH built using primary human hepatocytes and nonparenchymal liver cells (hepatic stellate cells, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, and Kupffer cells) from either healthy or NASH donors. Three-dimensional tissues bioprinted with cells sourced from diseased patients showed a NASH phenotype, including fibrosis. More importantly, this NASH phenotype occurred without the addition of disease-inducing agents. Bioprinted tissues composed entirely of healthy cells exhibited significantly less evidence of disease. The role of individual cell types in driving the NASH phenotype was examined by producing chimeric bioprinted tissues composed of healthy cells together with the addition of one or more diseased nonparenchymal cell types. These experiments reveal a role for both hepatic stellate and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells in the disease process. This model represents a fully human system with potential to detect clinically active targets and eventually therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - David A Brenner
- University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California; Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Trogisch FA, Abouissa A, Keles M, Birke A, Fuhrmann M, Dittrich GM, Weinzierl N, Wink E, Cordero J, Elsherbiny A, Martin-Garrido A, Grein S, Hemanna S, Hofmann E, Nicin L, Bibli SI, Airik R, Kispert A, Kist R, Quanchao S, Kürschner SW, Winkler M, Gretz N, Mogler C, Korff T, Koch PS, Dimmeler S, Dobreva G, Heineke J. Endothelial cells drive organ fibrosis in mice by inducing expression of the transcription factor SOX9. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eabq4581. [PMID: 38416842 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abq4581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a hallmark of chronic disease. Although fibroblasts are involved, it is unclear to what extent endothelial cells also might contribute. We detected increased expression of the transcription factor Sox9 in endothelial cells in several different mouse fibrosis models. These models included systolic heart failure induced by pressure overload, diastolic heart failure induced by high-fat diet and nitric oxide synthase inhibition, pulmonary fibrosis induced by bleomycin treatment, and liver fibrosis due to a choline-deficient diet. We also observed up-regulation of endothelial SOX9 in cardiac tissue from patients with heart failure. To test whether SOX9 induction was sufficient to cause disease, we generated mice with endothelial cell-specific overexpression of Sox9, which promoted fibrosis in multiple organs and resulted in signs of heart failure. Endothelial Sox9 deletion prevented fibrosis and organ dysfunction in the two mouse models of heart failure as well as in the lung and liver fibrosis mouse models. Bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing of mouse endothelial cells across multiple vascular beds revealed that SOX9 induced extracellular matrix, growth factor, and inflammatory gene expression, leading to matrix deposition by endothelial cells. Moreover, mouse endothelial cells activated neighboring fibroblasts that then migrated and deposited matrix in response to SOX9, a process partly mediated by the secreted growth factor CCN2, a direct SOX9 target; endothelial cell-specific Sox9 deletion reversed these changes. These findings suggest a role for endothelial SOX9 as a fibrosis-promoting factor in different mouse organs during disease and imply that endothelial cells are an important regulator of fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felix A Trogisch
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- CFPM (Core Facility Platform Mannheim), Cardiac Imaging Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Aya Abouissa
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- CFPM (Core Facility Platform Mannheim), Cardiac Imaging Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Merve Keles
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- CFPM (Core Facility Platform Mannheim), Cardiac Imaging Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Anne Birke
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Manuela Fuhrmann
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Gesine M Dittrich
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Nina Weinzierl
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Elvira Wink
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Julio Cordero
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- ECAS, Department of Cardiovascular Genomics and Epigenomics, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Adel Elsherbiny
- ECAS, Department of Cardiovascular Genomics and Epigenomics, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Abel Martin-Garrido
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Steve Grein
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Shruthi Hemanna
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ellen Hofmann
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Luka Nicin
- Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cardiopulmonary Institute, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- DZHK, partner site Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sofia-Iris Bibli
- Cardiopulmonary Institute, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- DZHK, partner site Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Institute of Vascular Signaling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Rannar Airik
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Andreas Kispert
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Ralf Kist
- School of Dental Sciences, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4BW, UK
| | - Sun Quanchao
- Medical Research Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sina W Kürschner
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- ECAS, Adjunct Faculty, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Manuel Winkler
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- ECAS, Adjunct Faculty, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Norbert Gretz
- Medical Research Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Carolin Mogler
- Institute of Pathology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Korff
- ECAS, Adjunct Faculty, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Philipp-Sebastian Koch
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- ECAS, Adjunct Faculty, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Stefanie Dimmeler
- Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cardiopulmonary Institute, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- DZHK, partner site Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Gergana Dobreva
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- ECAS, Department of Cardiovascular Genomics and Epigenomics, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Joerg Heineke
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- CFPM (Core Facility Platform Mannheim), Cardiac Imaging Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Liu D, Wang L, Ha W, Li K, Shen R, Wang D. HIF-1α: A potential therapeutic opportunity in renal fibrosis. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 387:110808. [PMID: 37980973 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2023.110808] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Renal fibrosis is a common outcome of various renal injuries, leading to structural destruction and functional decline of the kidney, and is also a critical prognostic indicator and determinant in renal diseases therapy. Hypoxia is induced in different stress and injuries in kidney, and the hypoxia inducible factors (HIFs) are activated in the context of hypoxia in response and regulation the hypoxia in time. Under stress and hypoxia conditions, HIF-1α increases rapidly and regulates intracellular energy metabolism, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and inflammation. Through reprogramming cellular metabolism, HIF-1α can directly or indirectly induce abnormal accumulation of metabolites, changes in cellular epigenetic modifications, and activation of fibrotic signals. HIF-1α protein expression and activity are regulated by various posttranslational modifications. The drugs targeting HIF-1α can regulate the downstream cascade signals by inhibiting HIF-1α activity or promoting its degradation. As the renal fibrosis is affected by renal diseases, different diseases may trigger different mechanisms which will affect the therapy effect. Therefore, comprehensive analysis of the role and contribution of HIF-1α in occurrence and progression of renal fibrosis, and determination the appropriate intervention time of HIF-1α in the process of renal fibrosis are important ideas to explore effective treatment strategies. This study reviews the regulation of HIF-1α and its mediated complex cascade reactions in renal fibrosis, and lists some drugs targeting HIF-1α that used in preclinical studies, to provide new insight for the study of the renal fibrosis mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Disheng Liu
- The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou University, Gansu, 730000, China
| | - Lu Wang
- The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou University, Gansu, 730000, China
| | - Wuhua Ha
- The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou University, Gansu, 730000, China
| | - Kan Li
- The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou University, Gansu, 730000, China
| | - Rong Shen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Gansu, 730000, China.
| | - Degui Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Gansu, 730000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Song P, Duan J, Ding J, Liu J, Fang Z, Xu H, Li Z, Du W, Xu M, Ling Y, He F, Tao K, Wang L. Cellular senescence primes liver fibrosis regression through Notch-EZH2. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e346. [PMID: 37614965 PMCID: PMC10442476 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.346] [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: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular senescence plays a pivotal role in wound healing. At the initiation of liver fibrosis regression, accumulated senescent cells were detected and genes of senescence were upregulated. Flow cytometry combined with single-cell RNA sequencing analyses revealed that most of senescent cells were liver nonparenchymal cells. Removing senescent cells by dasatinib and quercetin (DQ), alleviated hepatic cellular senescence, impeded fibrosis regression, and disrupted liver sinusoids. Clearance of senescent cells not only decreased senescent macrophages but also shrank the proportion of anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages through apoptotic pathway. Subsequently, macrophages were depleted by clodronate, which diminished hepatic senescent cells and impaired fibrosis regression. Mechanistically, the change of the epigenetic regulator enhancer of zeste homolog2 (EZH2) accompanied with the emergence of hepatic senescent cells while liver fibrosis regressed. Blocking EZH2 signaling by EPZ6438 reduced hepatic senescent cells and macrophages, decelerating liver fibrosis regression. Moreover, the promoter region of EZH2 was transcriptionally suppressed by Notch-Hes1 (hairy and enhancer of split 1) signaling. Disruption of Notch in macrophages using Lyz2 (lysozyme 2) Cre-RBP-J (recombination signal binding protein Jκ) f/f transgenic mice, enhanced hepatic cellular senescence, and facilitated fibrosis regression by upregulating EZH2 and blocking EZH2 abrogated the above effects caused by Notch deficiency. Ultimately, adopting Notch inhibitor Ly3039478 or exosome-mediated RBP-J decoy oligodeoxynucleotides accelerated liver fibrosis regression by augmenting hepatic cellular senescence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ping Song
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryXi‐Jing HospitalFourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Juan‐Li Duan
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryXi‐Jing HospitalFourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Jian Ding
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryXi‐Jing HospitalFourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Jing‐Jing Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryXi‐Jing HospitalFourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Zhi‐Qiang Fang
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryXi‐Jing HospitalFourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Hao Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryXi‐Jing HospitalFourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Zhi‐Wen Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryXi‐Jing HospitalFourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Wei Du
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryXi‐Jing HospitalFourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Ming Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryXi‐Jing HospitalFourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Yu‐Wei Ling
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryXi‐Jing HospitalFourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Fei He
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryXi‐Jing HospitalFourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Kai‐Shan Tao
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryXi‐Jing HospitalFourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryXi‐Jing HospitalFourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Li ZW, Ruan B, Yang PJ, Liu JJ, Song P, Duan JL, Wang L. Oit3, a promising hallmark gene for targeting liver sinusoidal endothelial cells. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:344. [PMID: 37696816 PMCID: PMC10495338 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01621-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) play a pivotal role in maintaining liver homeostasis and influencing the pathological processes of various liver diseases. However, neither LSEC-specific hallmark genes nor a LSEC promoter-driven Cre mouse line has been introduced before, which largely restricts the study of liver diseases with vascular disorders. To explore LSEC-specific hallmark genes, we compared the top 50 marker genes between liver endothelial cells (ECs) and liver capillary ECs and identified 18 overlapping genes. After excluding globally expressed genes and those with low expression percentages, we narrowed our focus to two final candidates: Oit3 and Dnase1l3. Through single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and analysis of the NCBI database, we confirmed the extrahepatic expression of Dnase1l3. The paired-cell sequencing data further demonstrated that Oit3 was predominantly expressed in the midlobular liver ECs. Subsequently, we constructed inducible Oit3-CreERT2 transgenic mice, which were further crossed with ROSA26-tdTomato mice. Microscopy validated that the established Oit3-CreERT2-tdTomato mice exhibited significant fluorescence in the liver rather than in other organs. The staining analysis confirmed the colocalization of tdTomato and EC markers. Ex-vivo experiments further confirmed that isolated tdTomato+ cells exhibited well-differentiated fenestrae and highly expressed EC markers, confirming their identity as LSECs. Overall, Oit3 is a promising hallmark gene for tracing LSECs. The establishment of Oit3-CreERT2-tdTomato mice provides a valuable model for studying the complexities of LSECs in liver diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Wen Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi-Jing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, 710032, Xi'an, China
| | - Bai Ruan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi-Jing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, 710032, Xi'an, China
- Center of Clinical Aerospace Medicine & Department of Aviation Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, 710032, Xi'an, China
| | - Pei-Jun Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi-Jing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, 710032, Xi'an, China
| | - Jing-Jing Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi-Jing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, 710032, Xi'an, China
| | - Ping Song
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi-Jing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, 710032, Xi'an, China
| | - Juan-Li Duan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi-Jing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, 710032, Xi'an, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi-Jing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, 710032, Xi'an, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Shen B, Gu T, Shen Z, Zhou C, Guo Y, Wang J, Li B, Xu X, Li F, Zhang Q, Cai X, Dong H, Lu L. Escherichia coli Promotes Endothelial to Mesenchymal Transformation of Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells and Exacerbates Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Via Its Flagellin. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 16:857-879. [PMID: 37572735 PMCID: PMC10598062 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND&AIMS: Gut bacteria translocate into the liver through a disrupted gut vascular barrier, which is an early and common event in the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are directly exposed to translocated gut microbiota in portal vein blood. Escherichia coli, a commensal gut bacterium with flagella, is markedly enriched in the gut microbiota of patients with NAFLD. However, the impact of E coli on NAFLD progression and its underlying mechanisms remains unclear. METHODS The abundance of E coli was analyzed by using 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing in a cohort of patients with NAFLD and healthy controls. The role of E coli was assessed in NAFLD mice after 16 weeks of administration, and the features of NAFLD were evaluated. Endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT) in LSECs induced by E coli was analyzed through Western blotting and immunofluorescence. RESULTS The abundance of gut Enterobacteriaceae increased in NAFLD patients with severe fat deposition and fibrosis. Importantly, translocated E coli in the liver aggravated hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis in NAFLD mice. Mechanistically, E coli induced EndMT in LSECs through the TLR5/MYD88/TWIST1 pathway during NAFLD development. The toll-like receptor 5 inhibitor attenuated E coli-induced EndMT in LSECs and liver injury in NAFLD mice. Interestingly, flagellin-deficient E coli promoted less EndMT in LSECs and liver injury in NAFLD mice. CONCLUSIONS E coli promoted the development of NAFLD and promoted EndMT in LSECs through toll-like receptor 5/nuclear factor kappa B-dependent activation of TWIST1 mediated by flagellin. Therapeutic interventions targeting E coli and/or flagellin may represent a promising candidate for NAFLD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianyi Gu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenyang Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Cui Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuecheng Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Junjun Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Binghang Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianjun Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qidi Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaobo Cai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Dong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Lungen Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
McConnell MJ, Kostallari E, Ibrahim SH, Iwakiri Y. The evolving role of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells in liver health and disease. Hepatology 2023; 78:649-669. [PMID: 36626620 PMCID: PMC10315420 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
LSECs are a unique population of endothelial cells within the liver and are recognized as key regulators of liver homeostasis. LSECs also play a key role in liver disease, as dysregulation of their quiescent phenotype promotes pathological processes within the liver including inflammation, microvascular thrombosis, fibrosis, and portal hypertension. Recent technical advances in single-cell analysis have characterized distinct subpopulations of the LSECs themselves with a high resolution and defined their gene expression profile and phenotype, broadening our understanding of their mechanistic role in liver biology. This article will review 4 broad advances in our understanding of LSEC biology in general: (1) LSEC heterogeneity, (2) LSEC aging and senescence, (3) LSEC role in liver regeneration, and (4) LSEC role in liver inflammation and will then review the role of LSECs in various liver pathologies including fibrosis, DILI, alcohol-associated liver disease, NASH, viral hepatitis, liver transplant rejection, and ischemia reperfusion injury. The review will conclude with a discussion of gaps in knowledge and areas for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. McConnell
- Section of Digestive Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | - Samar H. Ibrahim
- Division of Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Yasuko Iwakiri
- Section of Digestive Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Cooper SA, Kostallari E, Shah VH. Angiocrine Signaling in Sinusoidal Health and Disease. Semin Liver Dis 2023; 43:245-257. [PMID: 37442155 PMCID: PMC10798369 DOI: 10.1055/a-2128-5907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are key players in maintaining hepatic homeostasis. They also play crucial roles during liver injury by communicating with liver cell types as well as immune cells and promoting portal hypertension, fibrosis, and inflammation. Cutting-edge technology, such as single cell and spatial transcriptomics, have revealed the existence of distinct LSEC subpopulations with a clear zonation in the liver. The signals released by LSECs are commonly called "angiocrine signaling." In this review, we summarize the role of angiocrine signaling in health and disease, including zonation in healthy liver, regeneration, fibrosis, portal hypertension, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, alcohol-associated liver disease, aging, drug-induced liver injury, and ischemia/reperfusion, as well as potential therapeutic advances. In conclusion, sinusoidal endotheliopathy is recognized in liver disease and promising preclinical studies are paving the path toward LSEC-specific pharmacotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shawna A. Cooper
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Enis Kostallari
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Vijay H. Shah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Furuta K, Tang X, Islam S, Tapia A, Chen ZB, Ibrahim SH. Endotheliopathy in the metabolic syndrome: Mechanisms and clinical implications. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 244:108372. [PMID: 36894027 PMCID: PMC10084912 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108372] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a threat to global public health due to its lethal complications. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the hepatic manifestation of the MetS characterized by hepatic steatosis, which is potentially progressive to the inflammatory and fibrotic nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The adipose tissue (AT) is also a major metabolic organ responsible for the regulation of whole-body energy homeostasis, and thereby highly involved in the pathogenesis of the MetS. Recent studies suggest that endothelial cells (ECs) in the liver and AT are not just inert conduits but also crucial mediators in various biological processes via the interaction with other cell types in the microenvironment both under physiological and pathological conditions. Herein, we highlight the current knowledge of the role of the specialized liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) in NAFLD pathophysiology. Next, we discuss the processes through which AT EC dysfunction leads to MetS progression, with a focus on inflammation and angiogenesis in the AT as well as on endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition of AT-ECs. In addition, we touch upon the function of ECs residing in other metabolic organs including the pancreatic islet and the gut, the dysregulation of which may also contribute to the MetS. Finally, we highlight potential EC-based therapeutic targets for human MetS, and NASH based on recent achievements in basic and clinical research and discuss how to approach unsolved problems in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kunimaro Furuta
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Xiaofang Tang
- Department of Diabetes Complications & Metabolism, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Shahidul Islam
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Alonso Tapia
- Department of Diabetes Complications & Metabolism, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Zhen Bouman Chen
- Department of Diabetes Complications & Metabolism, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA.
| | - Samar H Ibrahim
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Huang R, Deng J, Zhu CP, Liu SQ, Cui YL, Chen F, Zhang X, Tao X, Xie WF. Sulodexide attenuates liver fibrosis in mice by restoration of differentiated liver sinusoidal endothelial cell. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 160:114396. [PMID: 36791568 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sulodexide is a heparinoid compound with wide-ranging pharmacological activities. However, the effect of sulodexide on liver fibrogenesis has not been reported. In this study, we aim to evaluate the therapeutic potential of sulodexide in mouse model of liver fibrosis and explore the underlying antifibrotic mechanisms. We found that sulodexide treatment significantly attenuated thioacetamide (TAA) and 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC)-induced liver fibrosis in mice. Transcriptome analysis revealed that sulodexide treatment downregulated fibrosis-related genes and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) capillarization-associated genes in fibrotic livers. Immunohistochemistry confirmed that the increased expression of LSEC capillarization-related genes (CD34, CD31 and Laminin) in liver fibrotic tissues was reduced by sulodexide treatment. Scanning electron microscopy showed that LSECs fenestrations were preserved upon sulodexide treatment. Quantitative real-time PCR and immunofluorescence demonstrated that the expression of mesenchymal markers was downregulated by sulodexide administration, suggesting sulodexide inhibited endothelial-mesenchymal transition of LSECs during liver fibrosis. Furthermore, sulodexide administration protected primary LSECs from endothelial dysfunction in vitro. In conclusion, sulodexide attenuated liver fibrosis in mice by restoration of differentiated LSECs, indicating that sulodexide treatment may present as a potential therapy for patients with liver fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ru Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Juan Deng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Chang-Peng Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Shu-Qing Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Ya-Lu Cui
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Fei Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Xia Tao
- Department of Pharmacology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China.
| | - Wei-Fen Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China; Shanghai Institute of Stem Cell Research and Clinical Translation, Shanghai 200120, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhou Q, Li B, Li J. DLL4-Notch signalling in acute-on-chronic liver failure: State of the art and perspectives. Life Sci 2023; 317:121438. [PMID: 36709913 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a syndrome characterized by acute decompensation of chronic liver disease associated with multiple-organ failures and high short-term mortality. Acute insults to patients with chronic liver disease can lead to ACLF, among which, hepatitis B virus-related ACLF is the most common type of liver failure in the Asia-Pacific region. Currently, immune-metabolism disorders and systemic inflammation are proposed to be the main mechanisms of ACLF. The resulting cholestasis and intrahepatic microcirculatory dysfunction accelerate the development of ACLF. Treatments targeting immune regulation, metabolic balance, microcirculation maintenance and bile duct repair can alleviate inflammation and restore the tissue structure. An increasing number of studies have demonstrated that delta-like ligand 4 (DLL4), one of the Notch signalling ligands, plays a vital role in immune regulation, metabolism, angiogenesis, and biliary regeneration, which participate in liver pathological and physiological processes. The detailed mechanism of the DLL4-Notch signalling pathway in ACLF has rarely been investigated. Here, we review the evidence showing that DLL4-Notch signalling is involved in ACLF and analyse the potential role of DLL4 in the treatment of ACLF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhou
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Rd., Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Bingqi Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Rd., Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Jun Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Rd., Hangzhou 310003, China; Precision Medicine Center of Taizhou Central Hospital, Taizhou University Medical School, Taizhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Vasuri F, Germinario G, Ciavarella C, Carroli M, Motta I, Valente S, Cescon M, D’Errico A, Pasquinelli G, Ravaioli M. Trophism and Homeostasis of Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Graft Cells during Preservation, with and without Hypothermic Oxygenated Perfusion. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11091329. [PMID: 36138808 PMCID: PMC9495341 DOI: 10.3390/biology11091329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the homeostasis and trophism of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) in vivo in different stages of liver graft donation, in order to understand the effects of graft ischemia and perfusion on LSEC activity in liver grafts. Special attention was paid to grafts that underwent hypothermic oxygenated perfusion (HOPE). Forty-seven donors were prospectively enrolled, and two distinct biopsies were performed in each case: one allocation biopsy (at the stage of organ allocation) and one post-perfusion biopsy, performed after graft implant in the recipients. In all biopsies, immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR analyses were carried out for the endothelial markers CD34, ERG, Nestin, and VEGFR-2. We observed an increase in CD34 immunoreactivity in LSEC during the whole preservation/perfusion period (p < 0.001). Nestin and ERG expression was low in allocation biopsies, but increased in post-perfusion biopsies, in both immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR (p < 0.001). An inverse correlation was observed between ERG positivity and donor age. Our results indicate that LSEC trophism is severely depressed in liver grafts, but it is restored after reperfusion in standard conditions. The execution of HOPE seems to improve this recovery, confirming the effectiveness of this machine perfusion technique in restoring endothelial functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Vasuri
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Albertoni 15, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuliana Germinario
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Albertoni 15, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Carmen Ciavarella
- Clinical Pathology, Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine Department (DIMES), University of Bologna, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Albertoni 15, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Michele Carroli
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Albertoni 15, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Ilenia Motta
- Clinical Pathology, Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine Department (DIMES), University of Bologna, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Albertoni 15, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Sabrina Valente
- Clinical Pathology, Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine Department (DIMES), University of Bologna, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Albertoni 15, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Matteo Cescon
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Albertoni 15, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Antonia D’Errico
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Albertoni 15, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Gianandrea Pasquinelli
- Clinical Pathology, Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine Department (DIMES), University of Bologna, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Albertoni 15, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Matteo Ravaioli
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Albertoni 15, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-051-214-4810
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Duan JL, Zhou ZY, Ruan B, Fang ZQ, Ding J, Liu JJ, Song P, Xu H, Xu C, Yue ZS, Han H, Dou GR, Wang L. Notch-Regulated c-Kit-Positive Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells Contribute to Liver Zonation and Regeneration. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 13:1741-1756. [PMID: 35114417 PMCID: PMC9046233 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2022.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (SECs) promote the proliferation of hepatocytes during liver regeneration. However, the specific subset of SECs and its mechanisms during the process remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the potential role of c-kit+ SECs, a newly identified subset of SECs in liver regeneration. METHODS Partial hepatectomy mice models were established to induce liver regeneration. Hepatic c-kit expression was detected by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, immunofluorescent staining, and fluorescence-activated cell sorting. VE-cadherin-cyclization recombinase-estrogen receptor (Cdh5-Cre-ERT) Notch intracellular domain and Cdh5-Cre recombination signal binding protein Jκfloxp mice were introduced to mutate Notch signaling. c-Kit+ SECs were isolated by magnetic beads. Single-cell RNA sequencing was performed on isolated SECs. Liver injuries were induced by CCl4 or quantitative polymerase chain reaction injection. RESULTS Hepatic c-kit is expressed predominantly in SECs. Liver resident SECs contribute to the increase of c-kit during partial hepatectomy-induced liver regeneration. Isolated c-kit+ SECs promote hepatocyte proliferation in vivo and in vitro by facilitating angiocrine. The distribution of c-kit shows distinct spatial differences that are highly coincident with the liver zonation marker wingless-type MMTV integration site family, member2 (Wnt2). Notch mutation reshapes the c-kit distribution and liver zonation, resulting in altered hepatocyte proliferation. c-Kit+ SECs were shown to regulate hepatocyte regeneration through angiocrine in a Wnt2-dependent manner. Activation of the Notch signaling pathway weakens liver regeneration by inhibiting positive regulatory effects of c-kit+ SECs on hepatocytes. Furthermore, c-kit+ SEC infusion attenuates toxin-induced liver injuries in mice. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that c-kit+ SECs contributes to liver zonation and regeneration through Wnt2 and is regulated by Notch signaling, providing opportunities for novel therapeutic approaches to liver injury in the future. Transcript profiling: GEO (accession number: GSE134037).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan-Li Duan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi'an, China
| | - Zi-Yi Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xi-Jing Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Bai Ruan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi'an, China; State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Xi'an, China; Center of Clinical Aerospace Medicine, Department of Aviation Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | | | - Jian Ding
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi'an, China
| | | | - Ping Song
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi'an, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi'an, China
| | - Chen Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhen-Sheng Yue
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi'an, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Xi-Jing Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Hua Han
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Xi'an, China.
| | - Guo-Rui Dou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xi-Jing Hospital, Xi'an, China.
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xi'an, China; State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Xi'an, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Pharmacological regulation of tissue fibrosis by targeting the mechanical contraction of myofibroblasts. FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fmre.2021.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
|
18
|
Belinskaia DA, Voronina PA, Goncharov NV. Integrative Role of Albumin: Evolutionary, Biochemical and Pathophysiological Aspects. J EVOL BIOCHEM PHYS+ 2021; 57:1419-1448. [PMID: 34955553 PMCID: PMC8685822 DOI: 10.1134/s002209302106020x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Being one of the main proteins in the human body and many
animal species, albumin plays a crucial role in the transport of
various ions, electrically neutral molecules and in maintaining
the colloidal osmotic pressure of the blood. Albumin is able to
bind almost all known drugs, many nutraceuticals and toxic substances,
determining their pharmaco- and toxicokinetics. However, albumin
is not only the passive but also the active participant of the pharmacokinetic
and toxicokinetic processes possessing a number of enzymatic activities.
Due to the thiol group of Cys34, albumin can serve as a trap for
reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, thus participating in redox
processes. The interaction of the protein with blood cells, blood
vessels, and also with tissue cells outside the vascular bed is
of great importance. The interaction of albumin with endothelial glycocalyx
and vascular endothelial cells largely determines its integrative
role. This review provides information of a historical nature, information
on evolutionary changes, inflammatory and antioxidant properties
of albumin, on its structural and functional modifications and their significance
in the pathogenesis of some diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D. A. Belinskaia
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary
Physiology and Biochemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - P. A. Voronina
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary
Physiology and Biochemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - N. V. Goncharov
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary
Physiology and Biochemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
- Research Institute of Hygiene,
Occupational Pathology and Human Ecology, p/o Kuzmolovsky, Vsevolozhsky District, Leningrad
Region, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Serum Albumin in Health and Disease: Esterase, Antioxidant, Transporting and Signaling Properties. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910318. [PMID: 34638659 PMCID: PMC8508759 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Being one of the main proteins in the human body and many animal species, albumin plays a decisive role in the transport of various ions-electrically neutral and charged molecules-and in maintaining the colloidal osmotic pressure of the blood. Albumin is able to bind to almost all known drugs, as well as many nutraceuticals and toxic substances, largely determining their pharmaco- and toxicokinetics. Albumin of humans and respective representatives in cattle and rodents have their own structural features that determine species differences in functional properties. However, albumin is not only passive, but also an active participant of pharmacokinetic and toxicokinetic processes, possessing a number of enzymatic activities. Numerous experiments have shown esterase or pseudoesterase activity of albumin towards a number of endogeneous and exogeneous esters. Due to the free thiol group of Cys34, albumin can serve as a trap for reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, thus participating in redox processes. Glycated albumin makes a significant contribution to the pathogenesis of diabetes and other diseases. The interaction of albumin with blood cells, blood vessels and tissue cells outside the vascular bed is of great importance. Interactions with endothelial glycocalyx and vascular endothelial cells largely determine the integrative role of albumin. This review considers the esterase, antioxidant, transporting and signaling properties of albumin, as well as its structural and functional modifications and their significance in the pathogenesis of certain diseases.
Collapse
|