Calcium Signaling in Liver Injury and Regeneration

Purinergic signaling in liver disease: calcium signaling and induction of inflammation

Purinergic signaling regulates many metabolic functions and is implicated in liver physiology and pathophysiology. Liver functionality is modulated by ionotropic P2X and metabotropic P2Y receptors, specifically P2Y1, P2Y2, and P2Y6 subtypes, which physiologically exert their influence through calcium signaling, a key second messenger controlling glucose and fat metabolism in hepatocytes. Purinergic receptors, acting through calcium signaling, play an important role in a range of liver diseases. Ionotropic P2X receptors, such as the P2X7 subtype, and certain metabotropic P2Y receptors can induce aberrant intracellular calcium transients that impact normal hepatocyte function and initiate the activation of other liver cell types, including Kupffer and stellate cells. These P2Y- and P2X-dependent intracellular calcium increases are particularly relevant in hepatic disease states, where stellate and Kupffer cells respond with innate immune reactions to challenges, such as excess fat accumulation, chronic alcohol abuse, or infections, and can eventually lead to liver fibrosis. This review explores the consequences of excessive extracellular ATP accumulation, triggering calcium influx through P2X4 and P2X7 receptors, inflammasome activation, and programmed cell death. In addition, P2Y2 receptors contribute to hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance, while inhibiting the expression of P2Y6 receptors can alleviate alcoholic liver steatosis. Adenosine receptors may also contribute to fibrosis through extracellular matrix production by fibroblasts. Thus, pharmacological modulation of P1 and P2 receptors and downstream calcium signaling may open novel therapeutic avenues.

Chemogenomic Screening in a Patient-Derived 3D Fatty Liver Disease Model Reveals the CHRM1-TRPM8 Axis as a Novel Module for Targeted Intervention

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is a leading cause of chronic liver disease with few therapeutic options. To narrow the translational gap in the development of pharmacological MASH treatments, a 3D liver model from primary human hepatocytes and non-parenchymal cells derived from patients with histologically confirmed MASH was established. The model closely mirrors disease-relevant endpoints, such as steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis, and multi-omics analyses show excellent alignment with biopsy data from 306 MASH patients and 77 controls. By combining high-content imaging with scalable biochemical assays and chemogenomic screening, multiple novel targets with anti-steatotic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic effects are identified. Among these, activation of the muscarinic M1 receptor (CHRM1) and inhibition of the TRPM8 cation channel result in strong anti-fibrotic effects, which are confirmed using orthogonal genetic assays. Strikingly, using biosensors based on bioluminescence resonance energy transfer, a functional interaction along a novel MASH signaling axis in which CHRM1 inhibits TRPM8 via Gq/11 and phospholipase C-mediated depletion of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate can be demonstrated. Combined, this study presents the first patient-derived 3D MASH model, identifies a novel signaling module with anti-fibrotic effects, and highlights the potential of organotypic culture systems for phenotype-based chemogenomic drug target identification at scale.

Newer mitochondrial dynamics and their role of calcium signalling in liver regeneration

Liver regeneration is a crucial process involved in cellular proliferation, differentiation, and tissue repair. Calcium signaling impact key pathways like hepatocyte growth factor-Met-tyrosine kinase (HGF-Met) transduction pathway, the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling and Ca-mediated nuclear SKHep1 cell proliferation pathway. Intracellular hepatocyte calcium stores are considered as base for the induction of ca-mediated regeneration process. Calcium signaling interplays with HGF, TGF-β, and NF-κB signaling, influence stem cell behavior and triggers MAPK cascade. The mitochondria calcium is impacting on liver rejuvenation by regulating apoptosis and cell division. In conclusion, it is stated that calcium-signaling holds promise for therapeutic liver interventions.

An update of aurones: food resource, health benefit, biosynthesis and application

Aurones are a subclass of active flavonoids characterized with a scaffold of 2-benzylidene-3(2H)-benzofuranone. This type of chemicals are widely distributed in fruit, vegetable and flower, and contribute to human health. In this review, we summarize the natural aurones isolated from dietary plants. Their positive effects on immunomodulation, antioxidation, cancer prevention as well as maintaining the health status of cardiovascular, nervous system and liver organs are highlighted. The biosynthesis strategies of plant-derived aurones are elaborated to provide solutions for their limited natural abundance. The potential application of natural aurones in food coloration are also discussed. This paper combines the up-to-date information and gives a full image of dietary aurones.

Numerical Analysis of Compound Biochemical Calcium Oscillations Process in Hepatocyte Cells

The hepatocyte cells regulate the wide range of liver function by moderating cellular activities such as lipid, protein metabolism, carbohydrate, and interact with other cells for proliferation and maintenance. In hepatocyte cells, the concentration of calcium uptake is quite extensive from various agonists such as activeG α ${G_\alpha}$ subunit, active phospholipase C, free calcium in the cytosol, and endoplasmic reticulum. The overproduction and degradation of calcium signals can cause homeostasis, liver inflammation, and liver diseases. The spatiotemporal behavior of calcium oscillation reveals the physiological role of these cellular entities in understanding the process of production and degradation. No computational attempt has been registered to date on the compound calcium regulation of these cellular entities including the memory of cells. Hence, the authors proposed a fractional order compartmental model that systematically simulates the exchange of calcium intake in cellular entities. The nonlinear equations of the rate of changes in the activeG α ${G_\alpha}$ subunit, active phospholipase C, free calcium in the cytosol, and endoplasmic reticulum are coupled to form a nonlinear fractional order initial value problem. The existence and uniqueness, stability analysis of the model is performed that validate the theoretical results and explore the dynamic behaviour of calcium oscillation in each compartment.

Ozone Exposure Controls Oxidative Stress and the Inflammatory Process of Hepatocytes in Murine Models

(1) Background: Ozone exposure is a promising tool for treating liver damage since it is known to control the release of free radicals and increase the expression of antioxidant enzymes. The objective is to investigate the main intracellular pathways activated after exposure to ozone, considering the dosage of antioxidant enzymes and markers of oxidative stress. (2) Methods: This systematic review was performed based on the PRISMA guidelines and using a structured search in MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, and Web of Science. Bias analysis and methodological quality assessments were examined using the SYRCLE Risk of Bias tool. (3) Results: Nineteen studies were selected. The results showed that the exposure to ozone has a protective effect on liver tissue, promoting a decrease in inflammatory markers and a reduction in oxidative stress in liver tissue. In addition, ozone exposure also promoted an increase in antioxidant enzymes. The morphological consequences of controlling these intracellular pathways were reducing the tissue inflammatory process and reducing areas of degeneration and necrosis. (4) Conclusions: Ozone exposure has a beneficial effect on models of liver injury through the decrease in oxidative stress in tissue and inflammatory markers. In addition, it regulates the Nrf2/ARE antioxidant pathway and blocks the NF-κB inflammatory pathway.

Pyridaben impaired cell cycle progression through perturbation of calcium homeostasis and PI3K/Akt pathway in zebrafish hepatocytes

Environmental pollution caused by pesticides is a growing concern. Pyridaben, a widely used organochlorine insecticide, is a representative water pollutant. Owing to its extensive usage, it has been detected in various aquatic ecosystems, including rivers and oceans. Pyridaben is highly toxic to aquatic organisms; however, the mechanism of its toxicity in the liver, which is important in toxicant metabolism, has not been studied. Therefore, we employed zebrafish and its well-characterized liver cell line, ZFL to assess pyridaben hepatotoxicity and explore its potential mechanisms of action. Pyridaben led to reduction of the liver size and fluorescence intensity of dsRed-labeled Tg (fabp10a:dsRed) zebrafish. It reduced the viability and proliferation of ZFL cells in vitro by inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. These changes might be primarily linked to uncontrolled intracellular calcium flow in ZFL cells exposed to pyridaben. Additionally, it also downregulates the PI3K/Akt signaling cascade, leading to the inactivation of Gsk3β and nuclear translocation of β-catenin. Taken together, our findings suggest that pyridaben could have hepatotoxic effects on aquatic organisms. This study is the first to provide insight into the hepatotoxic mechanism of pyridaben using both in vivo and in vitro models.

The raw and vinegar-processed Curcuma phaeocaulis Val. ameliorate TAA-induced zebrafish liver injury by inhibiting TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Liver injury, the main factor in the pathogenesis of most liver diseases, is a known contributor to acute liver failure, liver fibrosis, or liver cancer. Curcuma phaeocaulis Val. (PEZ) has been broadly used in treating liver injury with satisfying therapeutic effects; however, the mechanism is still unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to explore the mechanism of PEZ in ameliorating thioacetamide (TAA)-induced zebrafish liver injury based on a comprehensive method integrating network-based computational prediction and experimental validations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole exactive mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-Exactive MS/MS) analysis was used to analyze components in raw and vinegar-processed PEZ (VPEZ). Network pharmacology was used to construct a compound-target network for liver injury to predict the possible biological targets of PEZ along with potential signaling pathways. TAA-induced zebrafish larvae liver injury model was established, and the anti-liver injury effect of PEZ by a series of indexes was measured, including liver phenotype analysis, histopathological analysis of liver tissues, and biochemical indexes analysis. Remarkably, the predicted pathway by network pharmacology was further validated using RT-qPCR and Western blotting analyzes in animal experiments.

RESULTS

40 chemical constituents derived from PEZ were identified, while 45 chemical components derived from VPEZ were identified. Based on it, 565 genes related to these identified compounds in PEZ and 1023 genes linked to liver injury were collected by network pharmacology. Critically, KEGG analysis indicated that the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway was recommended as one of the main pathways related to the anti-liver injury effect of PEZ. Experimentally, PEZ could alleviate TAA-induced liver injury. Compared to the liver injury model group without any treatment, the treatment of PEZ significantly reduced the expression of both mRNA and protein targets in the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway. In addition, the effect of VPEZ was more significant than that of the raw one.

CONCLUSION

The raw and vinegar-processed PEZ could ameliorate TAA-induced zebrafish liver injury through TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Ferulic acid attenuated diethylnitrosamine-provoked hepato-renal damage and malfunction by suppressing oxidative stress, abating inflammation and upregulating nuclear factor erythroid related factor-2 signaling

Background

Diethylnitrosamine (DEN) is a potent environmental toxin that can reach humans through the food chain. It induces proliferative, degenerative and cancerous lesions in the liver and kidneys.

Objective

The principal goal of the existing research was to assess the preventive impacts of ferulic acid (FA) versus DEN- provoked hepato-renal damage and malfunction.

Materials and methods

Adult male rats were divided into four groups: group 1 (normal control) animals orally received saline every day for 14 weeks; group 2 (DEN) animals intraperitoneally received DEN (150 mg/kg twice a week) for 2 weeks; group 3 (DEN + FA) animals were injected intraperitoneally twice a week with DEN for 2 weeks besides to oral administration of FA (100 mg/kg/day) for 14 weeks; group 4 (FA) animals were given a similar dose of FA for a similar period.

Results

The results revealed that FA treatment reversed the DEN-mediated elevation in serum values of the liver enzymes activities as well as urea and creatinine levels; it also augmented the hepato-renal antioxidant system that overcame DEN-induced oxidative stress deteriorations. Moreover, FA markedly reduced the DEN-induced elevated hepato-renal levels of immuno-inflammatory markers (IL-1β and TNF-α) as well as downregulated the inflammatory mediators (Bcl-2, NF-κB, and nuclear factor erythroid related factor-2 (Nrf-2)), reflecting its protective potential.

Conclusion

The existing results elucidate that ferulic acid could prevent and ameliorate DEN-induced hepato-renal toxicological changes and can restore livers and kidneys’ functions; this effect could be mechanized through activation of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant systems, as well as regulation of NF-κB, Bcl2, and nuclear factor erythroid related factor-2 expression.

Free Radicals, Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Sepsis-induced Organ Dysfunction: A Mechanistic Insight

Sepsis is a complex clinical condition and a leading cause of death worldwide. During Sepsis, there is a derailment in the host response to infection, which can progress to severe sepsis and multiple organ dysfunction or failure, which leads to death. Free radicals, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated predominantly in mitochondria, are one of the key players in impairing normal organ function in sepsis. ROS contributing to oxidative stress has been reported to be the main culprit in the injury of the lung, heart, liver, kidney, gastrointestinal, and other organs. Here in the present review, we describe the generation, and essential properties of various types of ROS, their effect on macromolecules, and their role in mitochondrial dysfunction. Furthermore, the mechanism involved in the ROS-mediated pathogenesis of sepsis-induced organ dysfunction has also been discussed.

Time-of-day-dependent variation of the human liver transcriptome and metabolome is disrupted in MASLD

Background & Aims

Liver homeostasis is ensured in part by time-of-day-dependent processes, many of them being paced by the molecular circadian clock. Liver functions are compromised in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), and clock disruption increases susceptibility to MASLD progression in rodent models. We therefore investigated whether the time-of-day-dependent transcriptome and metabolome are significantly altered in human steatotic and MASH livers.

Methods

Liver biopsies, collected within an 8 h-window from a carefully phenotyped cohort of 290 patients and histologically diagnosed to be either normal, steatotic or MASH hepatic tissues, were analyzed by RNA sequencing and unbiased metabolomic approaches. Time-of-day-dependent gene expression patterns and metabolomes were identified and compared between histologically normal, steatotic and MASH livers.

Results

Herein, we provide a first-of-its-kind report of a daytime-resolved human liver transcriptome-metabolome and associated alterations in MASLD. Transcriptomic analysis showed a robustness of core molecular clock components in steatotic and MASH livers. It also revealed stage-specific, time-of-day-dependent alterations of hundreds of transcripts involved in cell-to-cell communication, intracellular signaling and metabolism. Similarly, rhythmic amino acid and lipid metabolomes were affected in pathological livers. Both TNFα and PPARγ signaling were predicted as important contributors to altered rhythmicity.

Conclusion

MASLD progression to MASH perturbs time-of-day-dependent processes in human livers, while the differential expression of core molecular clock components is maintained.

Impact and implications

This work characterizes the rhythmic patterns of the transcriptome and metabolome in the human liver. Using a cohort of well-phenotyped patients (n = 290) for whom the time-of-day at biopsy collection was known, we show that time-of-day variations observed in histologically normal livers are gradually perturbed in liver steatosis and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis. Importantly, these observations, albeit obtained across a restricted time window, provide further support for preclinical studies demonstrating alterations of rhythmic patterns in diseased livers. On a practical note, this study indicates the importance of considering time-of-day as a critical biological variable which may significantly affect data interpretation in animal and human studies of liver diseases.

The Involvement of Calcium Channels in the Endoplasmic Reticulum Membrane in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Pathogenesis

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent and complex condition that affects millions of people globally. It occurs when fat, primarily triglycerides, accumulates in liver cells, leading to inflammation and damage. Calcium, an essential mineral, is involved in various physiological processes, including the regeneration process following liver injury. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER), a complex organelle involved in protein synthesis and lipid metabolism, regulates intracellular calcium levels. Dysregulation of this process can lead to calcium overload, oxidative stress, and cellular damage, all of which are hallmarks of NAFLD. Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R), a type of calcium ion channel, is found throughout the body, including the liver. IP3R is classified into three subtypes: IP3R1, IP3R2, and IP3R3, and it plays a critical role in regulating intracellular calcium levels. However, excessive calcium accumulation in the mitochondria due to an overload of calcium ions or increased IP3R activity can lead to NAFLD. Therefore, targeting calcium channels in the ER membrane may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for preventing and treating this increasingly prevalent metabolic disorder. It may help prevent mitochondrial calcium accumulation and reduce the risk of hepatic damage. This review article aimed to review the relationship between IP3R modulation and the pathogenicity of NAFLD, providing valuable insights to help researchers develop more effective treatments for the condition.

The role of CD38 in ischemia reperfusion injury in cardiopulmonary bypass and thoracic transplantation: a narrative review

Background and Objective

Ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) is often the underlying cause of endothelium breakdown and damage in cardiac or transplantation operations, which can lead to disastrous post-operative consequences. Recent studies of cluster of differentiation 38 (CD38) have identified its critical role in IRI. Our objective is to provide a comprehensive overview of CD38-mediated axis, pathways, and potential CD38 translational therapies for reducing inflammation associated with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) or thoracic transplantation and IRI.

Methods

We conducted a review of the literature by performing a search of the PubMed database on 2 April 2023. To find relevant publications on CD38, we utilized the MeSH terms: "CD38" AND "Ischemia" OR "CD38" AND "Transplant" OR "CD38" AND "Heart" from 1990-2023. Additional papers were included if they were felt to be relevant but were not captured in the MeSH terms. We found 160 papers that met this criterion, and following screening, exclusion and consensus a total of 36 papers were included.

Key Content and Findings

CD38 is most notably a nicotine adenine dinucleotide (NAD)+ glycohydrolase (NADase), and a generator of Ca2+ signaling secondary messengers. Ultimately, the release of these secondary messengers leads to the activation of important mediators of cellular death. In the heart and during thoracic transplantation, this pathway is intimately involved in a wide variety of injuries; namely the endothelium. In the heart, activation generally results in vasoconstriction, poor myocardial perfusion, and ultimately poor cardiac function. CD38 activation also prevents the accumulation of atherosclerotic disease. During transplantation, intracellular activation leads to infiltration of recipient innate immune cells, tissue edema, and ultimately primary graft dysfunction (PGD). Specifically, in heart transplantation, extracellular activation could be protective and improve allograft survival.

Conclusions

The knowledge gap in understanding the molecular basis of IRI has prevented further development of novel therapies and treatments. The possible interaction of CD38 with CD39 in the endothelium, and the modulation of the CD38 axis may be a pathway to improve cardiovascular outcomes, heart and lung donor organ quality, and overall longevity.

Ratiometric Fluorescent Sensors Illuminate Cellular Magnesium Imbalance in a Model of Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury

Magnesium(II) plays catalytic, structural, regulatory, and signaling roles in living organisms. Abnormal levels of this metal have been associated with numerous pathologies, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, immunodeficiency, cancer, and, most recently, liver pathologies affecting humans. The role of Mg2+ in the pathophysiology of liver disease, however, has been occluded by concomitant changes in concentration of interfering divalent cations, such as Ca2+, which complicates the interpretation of experiments conducted with existing molecular Mg2+ indicators. Herein, we introduce a new quinoline-based fluorescent sensor, MagZet1, that displays a shift in its excitation and emission wavelengths, affording ratiometric detection of cellular Mg2+ by both fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry. The new sensor binds the target metal with a submillimolar dissociation constant─well suited for detection of changes in free Mg2+ in cells─and displays a 10-fold selectivity against Ca2+. Furthermore, the fluorescence ratio is insensitive to changes in pH in the physiological range, providing an overall superior performance over existing indicators. We provide insights into the metal selectivity profile of the new sensor based on computational modeling, and we apply it to shed light on a decrease in cytosolic free Mg2+ and altered expression of metal transporters in cellular models of drug-induced liver injury caused by acetaminophen overdose.

Mitochondrial Dysfunction-Associated Mechanisms in the Development of Chronic Liver Diseases

The liver is a major metabolic organ that performs many essential biological functions such as detoxification and the synthesis of proteins and biochemicals necessary for digestion and growth. Any disruption in normal liver function can lead to the development of more severe liver disorders. Overall, about 3 million Americans have some type of liver disease and 5.5 million people have progressive liver disease or cirrhosis, in which scar tissue replaces the healthy liver tissue. An estimated 20% to 30% of adults have excess fat in their livers, a condition called steatosis. The most common etiologies for steatosis development are (1) high caloric intake that causes non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and (2) excessive alcohol consumption, which results in alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD). NAFLD is now termed "metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease" (MASLD), which reflects its association with the metabolic syndrome and conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and obesity. ALD represents a spectrum of liver injury that ranges from hepatic steatosis to more advanced liver pathologies, including alcoholic hepatitis (AH), alcohol-associated cirrhosis (AC) and acute AH, presenting as acute-on-chronic liver failure. The predominant liver cells, hepatocytes, comprise more than 70% of the total liver mass in human adults and are the basic metabolic cells. Mitochondria are intracellular organelles that are the principal sources of energy in hepatocytes and play a major role in oxidative metabolism and sustaining liver cell energy needs. In addition to regulating cellular energy homeostasis, mitochondria perform other key physiologic and metabolic activities, including ion homeostasis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, redox signaling and participation in cell injury/death. Here, we discuss the main mechanism of mitochondrial dysfunction in chronic liver disease and some treatment strategies available for targeting mitochondria.

The expression of tuftelin 1 as a new theranostic marker in early diagnosis and as a therapeutic target in hepatocellular carcinoma

Currently, many challenges are associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as the failure of early diagnosis, and the lack of effective therapy. This study aimed to investigate the possible role of tuftelin 1 (TUFT 1) in the early diagnosis of HCC and evaluate the potential contribution of the TUFT 1/Ca+2 /phosphinositol 3 kinase (PI3K) pathway in dantrolene sodium (Dan) therapeutic outcomes. The study was performed on two sets of rats, the staging (30 rats) and treatment sets (80 rats). HCC was induced by a single dose of diethylnitrosamine (DENA). The hepatic content of TUFT 1 protein was assayed via western blot and immunohistochemistry (IHC), while PI3K, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Cyclin D1, and matrix-metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) contents were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Hepatic and serum calcium were measured colorimetrically. Furthermore, the nuclear proliferation marker, (Ki-67), (Kiel [Ki] where the antibody was produced in the University Department of Pathology and the original clone number is 67)-expression was assessed by IHC. TUFT 1/Ca+2 /PI3K signaling pathway was progressively activated in the 3 studied stages of HCC with subsequent upregulation of angiogenesis, cell cycle, and metastasis. More interestingly, Dan led to TUFT 1/Ca+2 /PI3K pathway disruption by diminution of the hepatic contents of TUFT 1, calcium, PI3K, VEGF, Cyclin D1, and MMP-9 in a dose-dependent pattern. TUFT 1 can serve as a theranostic biomarker in HCC. Moreover, Dan exerted an antineoplastic effect against HCC via the interruption of TUFT 1/Ca+2 /PI3K pathway.

Association Between Blood Calcium, Magnesium, and Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Adults: a Cohort-Based Case-Control Study

Previous studies have shown that calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and Ca/Mg ratio are associated with inflammation and metabolic disorders, but their relationship with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is unclear. Thus, we aimed to explore the association between Ca, Mg, Ca/Mg ratio, and NAFLD in Chinese adults. We conducted a case-control study based on the Kailuan Cohort in China, including 1816 cases and 1111 gender- and age-matched controls. Dose-response relationships between blood Ca, Mg, Ca/Mg ratio, and NAFLD were evaluated using restricted cubic splines. Odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated by logistic regression models. A negative association between blood Ca (overall association P < 0.001 and linear association P < 0.001) and NAFLD as well as Ca/Mg ratio (overall association P = 0.002 and linear association P = 0.024) and NAFLD was observed. Compared with the highest quartile, the adjusted OR (95% CI) for the lowest quartile of Ca and Ca/Mg ratio was 2.116 (1.679-2.667) and 1.358 (1.076-1.713), respectively. A U-shaped relationship was found for blood Mg and NAFLD, with the highest OR of 1.685 in the lowest quartile group when using the second quartile as a reference. Additionally, we observed the interaction between alanine aminotransferase and blood Ca (P = 0.024), total cholesterol (P = 0.017), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (P = 0.013), and blood Mg, as well as total cholesterol and Ca/Mg ratio (P = 0.014). Lower blood Ca and Ca/Mg ratio were significantly associated with the risk of NAFLD. Liver function or lipid metabolism parameters may modify their association, suggesting an individualized prevention strategy for NAFLD.

NREP contributes to development of NAFLD by regulating one-carbon metabolism in primary human hepatocytes

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of chronic liver disease. We recently discovered that neuronal regeneration-related protein (NREP/P311), an epigenetically regulated gene reprogrammed by parental metabolic syndrome, is downregulated in human NAFLD. To investigate the impact of NREP insufficiency, we used RNA-sequencing, lipidomics, and antibody microarrays on primary human hepatocytes. NREP knockdown induced transcriptomic remodeling that overlapped with key pathways impacted in human steatosis and steatohepatitis. Additionally, we observed enrichment of pathways involving phosphatidylinositol signaling and one-carbon metabolism. Lipidomics analyses also revealed an increase in cholesterol esters and triglycerides and decreased phosphatidylcholine levels in NREP-deficient hepatocytes. Signalomics identified calcium signaling as a potential mediator of NREP insufficiency's effects. Our results, together with the encouraging observation that several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) spanning the NREP locus are associated with metabolic traits, provide a strong rationale for targeting hepatic NREP to improve NAFLD pathophysiology.

Calcium signalling in hepatic metabolism: Health and diseases

The flexibility between the wide array of hepatic functions relies on calcium (Ca2+) signalling. Indeed, Ca2+ is implicated in the control of many intracellular functions as well as intercellular communication. Thus, hepatocytes adapt their Ca2+ signalling depending on their nutritional and hormonal environment, leading to opposite cellular functions, such as glucose storage or synthesis. Interestingly, hepatic metabolic diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases, are associated with impaired Ca2+ signalling. Here, we present the hepatocytes' toolkit for Ca2+ signalling, complete with regulation systems and signalling pathways activated by nutrients and hormones. We further discuss the current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms leading to alterations of Ca2+ signalling in hepatic metabolic diseases, and review the literature on the clinical impact of Ca2+-targeting therapeutics.

Exposure to Pfaffia glomerata causes oxidative stress and triggers hepatic changes

Medicinal plant species are genetically engineered to obtain higher production of biomass and specific secondary metabolites, which can be used in the pharmaceutical industry. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of Pfaffia glomerata (Spreng.) Pedersen tetraploid hydroalcoholic extract on the liver of adult Swiss mice. The extract was prepared from the plant roots and given to the animals by gavage, for 42 days. The experimental groups were treated with water (control), Pfaffia glomerata tetraploid hydroalcoholic extract (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) and Pfaffia glomerata tetraploid hydroalcoholic extract discontinuously (200 mg/kg). The last group received the extract every 3 days, for 42 days. The oxidative status, mineral dynamics, and cell viability were analysed. The liver weight and the number of viable hepatocytes were reduced, despite the increased cell's number. Increased levels of malondialdehyde and nitric oxide, and changes in iron, copper, zinc, potassium, manganese and sodium levels were observed. aspartate aminotransferase levels were increased while alanine aminotransferase levels were decreased due to BGEt intake. Our results showed that BGEt induced alterations of oxidative stress biomarkers leading to liver injury, which was associated with a reduction in the number of hepatocytes.

In vivo imaging of calcium dynamics in zebrafish hepatocytes

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Hepatocytes were the first cell type for which oscillations of cytoplasmic calcium levels in response to hormones were described. Since then, investigation of calcium dynamics in liver explants and culture has greatly increased our understanding of calcium signaling. A bottleneck, however, exists in observing calcium dynamics in a noninvasive manner because of the optical inaccessibility of the mammalian liver. Here, we aimed to take advantage of the transparency of the zebrafish larvae to image hepatocyte calcium dynamics in vivo at cellular resolution.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

We developed a transgenic model expressing a calcium sensor, GCaMP6s, specifically in zebrafish hepatocytes. Using this, we provide a quantitative assessment of intracellular calcium dynamics during multiple contexts, including growth, feeding, ethanol-induced stress, and cell ablation. Specifically, we show that synchronized calcium oscillations are present in vivo , which are lost upon starvation. Starvation induces lipid accumulation in the liver. Feeding recommences calcium waves in the liver, but in a spatially restricted manner, as well as resolves starvation-induced hepatic steatosis. By using a genetically encoded scavenger for calcium, we show that dampening of calcium signaling accelerates the accumulation of starvation-related lipid droplets in the liver. Furthermore, ethanol treatment, as well as cell ablation, induces calcium flux, but with different dynamics. The former causes asynchronous calcium oscillations, whereas the latter leads to a single calcium spike.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate the presence of oscillations, waves, and spikes in vivo . Calcium waves are present in response to nutrition and negatively regulate starvation-induced accumulation of lipid droplets.

USP53 Regulates Bone Homeostasis by Controlling Rankl Expression in Osteoblasts and Bone Marrow Adipocytes

In the skeleton, osteoblasts and osteoclasts synchronize their activities to maintain bone homeostasis and integrity. Investigating the molecular mechanisms governing bone remodeling is critical and helps understand the underlying biology of bone disorders. Initially, we have identified the ubiquitin-specific peptidase gene (Usp53) as a target of the parathyroid hormone in osteoblasts and a regulator of mesenchymal stem cell differentiation. Mutations in USP53 have been linked to a constellation of developmental pathologies. However, the role of Usp53 in bone has never been visited. Here we show that Usp53 null mice have a low bone mass phenotype in vivo. Usp53 null mice exhibit a pronounced decrease in trabecular bone indices including trabecular bone volume (36%) and trabecular number (26%) along with an increase in trabecular separation (13%). Cortical bone parameters are also impacted, showing a reduction in cortical bone volume (12%) and cortical bone thickness (15%). As a result, the strength and mechanical bone properties of Usp53 null mice have been compromised. At the cellular level, the ablation of Usp53 perturbs bone remodeling, augments osteoblast-dependent osteoclastogenesis, and increases osteoclast numbers. Bone marrow adipose tissue volume increased significantly with age in Usp53-deficient mice. Usp53 null mice displayed increased serum receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) levels, and Usp53-deficient osteoblasts and bone marrow adipocytes have increased expression of Rankl. Mechanistically, USP53 regulates Rankl expression by enhancing the interaction between VDR and SMAD3. This is the first report describing the function of Usp53 during skeletal development. Our results put Usp53 in display as a novel regulator of osteoblast-osteoclast coupling and open the door for investigating the involvement of USP53 in pathologies. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).

Expression profiles of lncRNAs and their possible regulatory role in monocrotaline-induced HSOS in rats

Aims: Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) contribute to the regulation of vital physiological processes and play a role in the pathogenesis of many diseases. Monocrotaline (MCT) can cause large-scale outbreaks of toxic liver disease in humans and animals in the form of hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (HSOS). Although many experiments have been carried out to explain the pathogenesis of Monocrotaline-induced hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome and to develop treatments for it, no studies have examined the role of Long non-coding RNAs in this condition. This study aimed to investigate the Long non-coding RNAs-mRNA regulation network in Monocrotaline-induced hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome in rats. Main methods: We established a model for MCT-induced hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome, and then carried out microarray for liver tissues of SD rats in a model of early hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (12 h Monocrotaline treatment vs. control group) to investigate the differentially expressed Long non-coding RNAs and mRNAs in early hepatotoxicity. This was followed by RT-PCR analysis of selected Long non-coding RNAs, which were markedly altered. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome analyses were also conducted. Key findings: 176 Long non-coding RNAs (63 downregulated and 113 upregulated) and 4,221 mRNAs (2,385 downregulated and 1836 upregulated) were differentially expressed in the Monocrotaline-treated group compared to the control group. The biological processes identified in GO enrichment analysis as playing a role in hepatotoxicity were positive regulation of guanosine triphosphate phosphohydrolase, liver development, and the oxidation-reduction process. Pathway analysis revealed that the metabolism pathways, gap junction, and ribosome biogenesis in eukaryotes were closely related to Monocrotaline-induced hepatotoxicity. According to these analyses, LOC102552718 might play an essential role in hepatotoxicity mechanisms by regulating the expression of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor-1 (Itpr-1). Significance: This study provides a basis for further research on the molecular mechanisms underlying Monocrotaline-induced hepatotoxicity and its treatment, especially in the early stage, when successful treatment is critical before irreversible liver damage occurs.

Osteoporosis Assessment among Adults with Liver Cirrhosis

Osteopenic bone disease occurs frequently in patients with chronic liver cirrhosis, which most frequently presents with hepatic osteodystrophy. Thus, the relationship between nutritional status and bone mineral density has been poorly measured in liver cirrhosis. This single-center study consisted of a group of 70 patients diagnosed with liver cirrhosis. The nutritional status was evaluated with the Controlling Nutritional Status index, and volumetric vertebral bone mineral density was measured with quantitative computed tomography. Among the 70 patients included, osteopenia and osteoporosis were found in 71% and 24.3%, respectively. Malnutrition assessed with the Controlling Nutritional Status index was observed in 56 (80%) patients and was more frequent in alcoholic cirrhosis patients than viral cirrhosis patients (87.24% vs. 65.22%). Significant positive correlation with Controlling Nutritional Status score was found with Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (rho = 0.576, p-value < 0.0001), Child−Pugh score (rho = 0.670, p-value < 0.0001), International Normalized Ratio (rho = 0.517, p-value = 0.001), aspartate aminotransferase (rho = 0.293, p-value = 0.045), and bilirubin (rho =0.395, p-value = 0.02). Among the liver cirrhosis patients, 15 had osteoporosis and 49 had osteopenia at the lumbar spine (L1-L4 vertebrae), as determined by bone mass density via quantitative computed tomography. A non-significant relationship between Controlling Nutritional Status index-assessed nutritional status and bone mass density was documented. Regarding osteoporosis, no differences were found between the viral and alcohol types of liver cirrhosis patients (p-value = 0.870). Age, obesity, grade of varices, Child−Pugh score, and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score were associated with osteoporosis in patients with liver cirrhosis.

Solvent Free Twin Screw Processed Silybin Nanophytophospholipid: In Silico, In Vitro and In Vivo Insights

Silybin (SIL) is a polyphenolic phytoconstituent that is commonly used to treat liver disorders. It is difficult to fabricate an orally delivered SIL product due to its low oral bioavailability (0.95%). Therefore, the current research focusses on the development of a novel composition of a phospholipid complex, termed as nanophytophospholipid, of SIL by employing a unique, solvent-free Twin Screw Process (TSP), with the goal of augmenting the solubility and bioavailability of SIL. The optimised SIL-nanophytophospholipid (H6-SNP) was subjected to physicochemical interactions by spectrometry, thermal, X-ray and electron microscopy. The mechanism of drug and phospholipid interaction was confirmed by molecular docking and dynamics studies. Saturation solubility, in vitro dissolution, ex vivo permeation and preclinical pharmacokinetic studies were also conducted. H6-SNP showed good complexation efficiency, with a high practical yield (80%). The low particle size (334.7 ± 3.0 nm) and positively charged zeta potential (30.21 ± 0.3 mV) indicated the immediate dispersive nature of H6-SNP into nanometric dimensions, with good physical stability. Further high solubility and high drug release from the H6-SNP was also observed. The superiority of the H6-SNP was demonstrated in the ex vivo and preclinical pharmacokinetic studies, displaying enhanced apparent permeability (2.45-fold) and enhanced bioavailability (1.28-fold). Overall, these findings indicate that not only can phospholipid complexes be formed using solvent-free TSP, but also that nanophytophospholipids can be formed by using a specific quantity of lipid, drug, surfactant, superdisintegrant and diluent. This amalgamation of technology and unique composition can improve the oral bioavailability of poorly soluble and permeable phytoconstituents or drugs.

Regional and Seasonal Variability of Mineral Patterns in Some Organs of Slaughtered One-Humped Camels [Camelus dromedarius] from Saudi Arabia

Camel products are receiving great interest worldwide because of their high functional properties and nutritive values. Therefore, this study was focused on the variation of copper [Cu], zinc [Zn], manganese [Mn], selenium [Se], iron [Fe], iodine [I], and some heavy metals, cobalt [Co], lead [Pb], and cadmium [Cd], in the blood and tissues of slaughtered camels from five regions in Saudi Arabia [SA] during the summer and winter seasons, because environmental factors vary from region to region. Whole blood, meat, liver, rumen fluid, and rumen tissues were collected from the slaughterhouse in each region during the two seasons. Moreover, samples were prepared and analyzed for trace mineral and heavy metal concentrations using ICP-MS. The data were statistically analyzed as part of a complete randomized design and correlation analysis for season and location using SAS. The findings revealed a pattern in the minerals, with Ca being the only mineral that was unrelated to other minerals in the liver. For lead and cadmium, our mean value in liver [0.40 µg/g] was below the limit of the EU standard for cadmium [0.50 µg/g], while in meat and liver, lead contents [1.62 µg/g and 2.57 µg/g, respectively] were above the limit of the EU standard [0.10 and 0.20 µg/g, respectively]. For meat, the significantly highest positive correlations were observed between P and Mg [R² = 0.928], Fe and Mn [R² = 0.860], and Co and Mn [R² = 0.821]. For rumen tissues, P and Mg were highly correlated [R² = 0.958] as well as Zn and Mg [R² = 0.857], Zn and P [R² = 0.836], and Fe and Ca [R² = 0.802]. As a result, a region and season reflect variations in mineral concentrations in SA during the summer and winter seasons. Further intensive research is needed to investigate the minerals' biological mechanisms in camels under different environmental conditions.

Involvement of oxidative species in cyclosporine-mediated cholestasis

Cyclosporine is an established medication for the prevention of transplant rejection. However, adverse consequences such as nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, and cholestasis have been associated with prolonged usage. In cyclosporine-induced obstructive and chronic cholestasis, for example, the overproduction of oxidative stress is significantly increased. Additionally, cyclosporine exerts adverse effects on liver function and redox balance responses in treated rats, as evidenced by its increasing levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and bilirubin while also decreasing the levels of glutathione and NADPH. Cyclosporine binds to cyclophilin to produce its therapeutic effects, and the resulting complex inhibits calcineurin, causing calcium to accumulate in the mitochondria. Accumulating calcium with concomitant mitochondrial abnormalities induces oxidative stress, perturbation in ATP balance, and failure of calcium pumps. Also, cyclosporine-induced phagocyte oxidative stress generation via the interaction of phagocytes with Toll-like receptor-4 has been studied. The adverse effect of cyclosporine may be amplified by the release of mitochondrial DNA, mediated by oxidative stress-induced mitochondrial damage. Given the uncertainty surrounding the mechanism of cyclosporine-induced oxidative stress in cholestasis, we aim to illuminate the involvement of oxidative stress in cyclosporine-mediated cholestasis and also explore possible strategic interventions that may be applied in the future.

Cross Talk Between Insulin and Glucagon Receptor Signaling in the Hepatocyte

While the consumption of external energy (i.e., feeding) is essential to life, this action induces a temporary disturbance of homeostasis in an animal. A primary example of this effect is found in the regulation of glycemia. In the fasted state, stored energy is released to maintain physiological glycemic levels. Liver glycogen is liberated to glucose, glycerol and (glucogenic) amino acids are used to build new glucose molecules (i.e., gluconeogenesis), and fatty acids are oxidized to fuel long-term energetic demands. This regulation is driven primarily by the counterregulatory hormones epinephrine, growth hormone, cortisol, and glucagon. Conversely, feeding induces a rapid influx of diverse nutrients, including glucose, that disrupt homeostasis. Consistently, a host of hormonal and neural systems under the coordination of insulin are engaged in the transition from fasting to prandial states to reduce this disruption. The ultimate action of these systems is to appropriately store the newly acquired energy and to return to the homeostatic norm. Thus, at first glance it is tempting to assume that glucagon is solely antagonistic regarding the anabolic effects of insulin. We have been intrigued by the role of glucagon in the prandial transition and have attempted to delineate its role as beneficial or inhibitory to glycemic control. The following review highlights this long-known yet poorly understood hormone.

Calcium influx and spermatogenesis in the testis and liver enzyme activities in the zebrafish are rapidly modulated by the calcium content of the water

This study investigated the effects of varying environmental Ca²⁺ concentrations on the influx of Ca²⁺ to the testis, testicular morphology, and liver enzymes in the zebrafish. Adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) were held in water containing low (0.02 mM), control (0. 7 mM) or high (2 mM) Ca²⁺ concentrations for 12 h. Testes were then incubated in vitro with 0.1 μCi/mL ⁴⁵Ca²⁺ to measure Ca²⁺ influx at 30 and 60 min and qualitative and quantitative testicular histological analyses were conducted. In addition, activity of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), enzymes that indicate tissue damage, were evaluated in the liver. The testes from zebrafish exposed in vivo to low (0.02 mM) and high (2 mM) Ca²⁺ content water had a higher Ca²⁺ influx than the control group after 30 min of incubation, and at 60 min (high Ca²⁺ group only). There were morphological changes in the testes from the low and high Ca²⁺ groups including spermatozoa distributed in dense agglomerates and apoptotic cells. Furthermore, zebrafish exposed to high Ca²⁺ containing water had an increased density of haploid cells (spermatids and spermatozoa). In addition, both low and high Ca²⁺ water affected liver function by increasing ALT and GGT activities. Collectively, these studies show that alterations in calcium homeostasis in the testis, stimulation of the spermatogenic wave and hepatic injury were rapid responses to changes in the concentration of Ca²⁺ in the water.

Identification of New Toxicity Mechanisms in Drug-Induced Liver Injury through Systems Pharmacology

Among adverse drug reactions, drug-induced liver injury presents particular challenges because of its complexity, and the underlying mechanisms are still not completely characterized. Our knowledge of the topic is limited and based on the assumption that a drug acts on one molecular target. We have leveraged drug polypharmacology, i.e., the ability of a drug to bind multiple targets and thus perturb several biological processes, to develop a systems pharmacology platform that integrates all drug–target interactions. Our analysis sheds light on the molecular mechanisms of drugs involved in drug-induced liver injury and provides new hypotheses to study this phenomenon.

Protein undernutrition reduces the efficacy of praziquantel in a murine model of Schistosoma mansoni infection

Background

Undernutrition and schistosomiasis are public health problems and often occur in low and middle-income countries. Protein undernutrition can alter the host-parasite environment system and aggravate the course of schistosomiasis. This study aimed to assess the impact of a low-protein diet on the efficacy of praziquantel.

Methodology/Principal findings

Thirty-day-old mice were fed with a low-protein diet, and 40 days later, they were individually infected with fifty Schistosoma mansoni cercariae. A 28-day-treatment with praziquantel at 100 mg/kg for five consecutive days followed by distilled water begins on the 36^th day post-infection. Mice were sacrificed on the 64^th day post-infection. We determined the parasitological burden, liver and intestine histomorphometry, liver injury, and immunomodulation parameters. Praziquantel treatment of infected mice fed with a standard diet (IN-PZQ) resulted in a significant reduction of worm and egg burdens and a normalization of iron and calcium levels. The therapy also improved schistosomiasis-induced hepatopathy and oxidative stress. The anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities of praziquantel were also significant in these mice. When infected mice receiving the low-protein diet were treated with praziquantel (ILP-PZQ), the body weight loss and hepatomegaly were not alleviated, and the worm and liver egg burdens were significantly higher than those of IN-PZQ mice (P < 0.001). The treatment did not reduce the increased activities of ALT and γ-GGT, the high malondialdehyde concentration, and the liver granuloma volume. The iron and calcium levels were not ameliorated and differed from those of IN-PZQ mice (P < 0.001 and P < 0.05). Moreover, in these mice, praziquantel treatment did not reverse the high level of IL-5 and the low mRNA expression of CCL3/MIP-1α and CXCL-10/IP-10 induced by S. mansoni infection.

Conclusion/Significance

These results demonstrated that a low-protein diet reduced the schistosomicidal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities of praziquantel.

Almost 90% of people requiring schistosomiasis preventive chemotherapy in 2018 lived in sub-Saharan Africa. Besides, 205.3 million children under five years suffer and die of undernutrition in low- and middle-income countries. The physiopathology of schistosomiasis mansoni involves liver damage, oxidative stress, and perturbation of the immune response. These disturbances are intensified by undernutrition. Praziquantel is used to treat schistosomiasis, but its efficacy on the comorbidity of S. mansoni infection and undernutrition has not been investigated. We conducted this study to assess the effectiveness of praziquantel on S. mansoni infection in mice fed with a low-protein diet. We recorded growth retardation, hepatomegaly, and high worm and egg burdens in mice fed with a low-protein diet and treated with PZQ. Moreover, the treatment did not reverse the liver function injury, oxidative stress, high iron level, and low calcium level. The proinflammatory cytokine IL-5 was still high, and the gene expression of some macrophage-associated chemokines was reduced. Therefore, this study demonstrated that in a murine model of a low-protein diet, the efficacy of praziquantel on S. mansoni infection was reduced. It also underlines the importance of targeting protein deficiency and malnutrition in populations living in schistosomiasis endemic areas for efficient disease control.

From Seeing to Simulating: A Survey of Imaging Techniques and Spatially-Resolved Data for Developing Multiscale Computational Models of Liver Regeneration

Liver regeneration, which leads to the re-establishment of organ mass, follows a specifically organized set of biological processes acting on various time and length scales. Computational models of liver regeneration largely focused on incorporating molecular and signaling detail have been developed by multiple research groups in the recent years. These modeling efforts have supported a synthesis of disparate experimental results at the molecular scale. Incorporation of tissue and organ scale data using noninvasive imaging methods can extend these computational models towards a comprehensive accounting of multiscale dynamics of liver regeneration. For instance, microscopy-based imaging methods provide detailed histological information at the tissue and cellular scales. Noninvasive imaging methods such as ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging provide morphological and physiological features including volumetric measures over time. In this review, we discuss multiple imaging modalities capable of informing computational models of liver regeneration at the organ-, tissue- and cellular level. Additionally, we discuss available software and algorithms, which aid in the analysis and integration of imaging data into computational models. Such models can be generated or tuned for an individual patient with liver disease. Progress towards integrated multiscale models of liver regeneration can aid in prognostic tool development for treating liver disease.

Gene expression signature of exercise and change of diet on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in mice

Non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLD) are particularly prevalent in the general Western adult population, with around one third of the population suffering from the disease. Evidence shows that NAFLD is associated with metabolic syndromes such as obesity, insulin resistance, and hypertension. Currently, the sole therapy for NAFLD involves exercise intervention. Studies showed that, with and without weight loss, exercise interventions produced a significant cutback in intrahepatic lipid content in humans, but better controlled studies that can investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms are still lacking. In the current study we perform RNA sequencing analysis on liver samples from C57BL/6 mice submitted to aerobic exercise and diet interventions that are human-translatable and determine the genetic expression signature of exercise in the NAFLD onset. We show that aerobic exercise affects genes and pathways related to liver metabolism, muscle contraction and relaxation, immune response and inflammation, and development of liver cancer, counteracting non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma development. While genes and pathways implicating immune response are activated by aerobic exercise in all interventions, the most effective intervention in terms of improvement of NASH is the combination of aerobic exercise with change of diet.

3'mRNA sequencing reveals pro-regenerative properties of c5ar1 during resolution of murine acetaminophen-induced liver injury

Murine acetaminophen-induced acute liver injury (ALI) serves as paradigmatic model for drug-induced hepatic injury and regeneration. As major cause of ALI, acetaminophen overdosing is a persistent therapeutic challenge with N-acetylcysteine clinically used to ameliorate parenchymal necrosis. To identify further treatment strategies that serve patients with poor N-acetylcysteine responses, hepatic 3′mRNA sequencing was performed in the initial resolution phase at 24 h/48 h after sublethal overdosing. This approach disclosed 45 genes upregulated (≥5-fold) within this time frame. Focusing on C5aR1, we observed in C5aR1-deficient mice disease aggravation during resolution of intoxication as evidenced by increased liver necrosis and serum alanine aminotransferase. Moreover, decreased hepatocyte compensatory proliferation and increased caspase-3 activation at the surroundings of necrotic cores were detectable in C5aR1-deficient mice. Using a non-hypothesis-driven approach, herein pro-regenerative/-resolving effects of C5aR1 were identified during late acetaminophen-induced ALI. Data concur with protection by the C5a/C5aR1-axis during hepatectomy and emphasize the complex role of inflammation during hepatic regeneration and repair.

Molecular targets regulating endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondria crosstalk for NAFLD treatment

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) as the most common chronic liver disease poses a significant impact on public healthcare and economic risk worldwide. As a multifactorial disease, NAFLD is usually associated with many comorbidities such as obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Without effectively preventive intervention, the advanced stage of NAFLD, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), can progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, there is no approved therapeutic treatment. Excessive fat accumulation in the liver is the hallmark of NAFLD, which can lead to mitochondrial dysfunction and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Dysfunction of two organelles also induces the upregulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR), and disruption of calcium transport, which promote NAFLD progression. Herein, this review summarized the current understanding of the roles of mitochondrial dysfunction and ER stress in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Specifically, this review focused on the key molecules associated with the ER-mitochondria communication and different treatment options by targeting ER stress and mitochondrial dysfunction to treat NAFLD or NASH. Clinical trials to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of representative agents, such as natural products, metabolites, and modulators of stress, have been reviewed and analyzed. Overall, recent findings suggest that targeting ER stress and mitochondrial dysfunction holds a promise for NAFLD treatment.

Anti-obesity effect of sulforaphane in broccoli leaf extract on 3T3-L1 adipocytes and ob/ob mice

The present study evaluated the anti-obesity effect of sulforaphane (SFN) and glucoraphanin (GRN) in broccoli leaf extract (BLE) on 3T3-L1 adipocytes and ob/ob mice. Based on Oil Red O staining and triglyceride (TG) assay, SFN and BLE significantly reduced (P<.05) both lipid accumulation and TG content in the differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes. SFN and BLE increased 2-NBDG uptake by 3T3-L1 adipocytes in a dose-dependent manner. Western blot analysis confirmed that SFN and BLE increased the phosphorylation levels of both AMPK (Thr172) and ACC (Ser79), and reduced the expression of HMGCR in liver and white adipose tissues of ob/ob mice. Histological analysis revealed that SFN and BLE ameliorated hepatic steatosis, and reduced the size of adipocyte in ob/ob mice. Treatment with SFN and BLE significantly reduced (P<.05) TG content, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, total cholesterol (TC), and glucose in the serum of ob/ob mice. RNA sequencing analysis showed that up- or down-regulation of 32 genes related to lipid metabolism was restored to control level in both SFN and BLE-treated ob/ob mice groups. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed via STRING analysis, and Srebf2, Pla2g2c, Elovl5, Plb1, Ctp1a, Lipin1, Fgfr1, and Plcg1 were located in the functional hubs of the PPI network of lipid metabolism. Overall results suggest that the SFN content in BLE exerts a potential anti-obesity effect by normalizing the expression of genes related to lipid metabolism, which are up- or down-regulated in ob/ob mice.

Transcriptional and epigenetic landscape of Ca2+-signaling genes in hepatocellular carcinoma

Calcium (Ca2+) signaling has a major role in regulating a wide range of cellular mechanisms, including gene expression, proliferation, metabolism, cell death, muscle contraction, among others. Recent evidence suggests that ~ 1600 genes are related to the Ca2+ signaling. Some of these genes' expression is altered in several pathological conditions, including different cancer types, and epigenetic mechanisms are involved. However, their expression and regulation in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the liver are barely known. Here, we aimed to explore the expression of genes involved in the Ca2+-signaling in HCC, liver regeneration, and hepatocyte differentiation, and whether their expression is regulated by epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation and histone posttranslational modifications (HPM). Results show that several Ca2+-signaling genes' expression is altered in HCC samples; among these, a subset of twenty-two correlate with patients' survival. DNA methylation correlates with eight of these genes' expression, and Guadecitabine, a hypomethylating agent, regulates the expression of seven down-regulated and three up-regulated genes in HepG2 cells. The down-regulated genes displayed a marked decrease of euchromatin histone marks, whereas up-regulated genes displayed gain in these marks. Additionally, the expression of these genes is modulated during liver regeneration and showed similar profiles between in vitro differentiated hepatocytes and liver-derived hepatocytes. In conclusion, some components of the Ca2+-signaling are altered in HCC and displayed a correlation with patients' survival. DNA methylation and HMP are an attractive target for future investigations to regulate their expression. Ca2+-signaling could be an important regulator of cell proliferation and differentiation in the liver.

Hypothermal effects on expression of regucalcin, a calcium-binding protein, in the livers of seawater- and fresh water-acclimated milkfish, Chanos chanos

Regucalcin (RGN) is a calcium-binding protein mainly expressed in the liver. It functions in regulating activities of several calcium-dependent enzymes related to energy metabolism, antioxidant mechanisms, and apoptotic pathways. Previous proteomics analyses revealed downregulation of regucalcin in milkfish livers when acclimated to low temperature (18 °C) from normal temperature (28 °C). This study first identified the full-length sequence of milkfish regucalcin from the livers with high similarity in the protein structure and calcium-binding function compared to the regucalcin of other animals. The mRNA and protein expression of regucalcin in the livers of fresh water (FW)- and seawater (SW)-acclimated milkfish under hypothermal acclimation were further analyzed. In FW milkfish, upregulation of regucalcin was found in mRNA and protein levels from 2 to 4 days, respectively, to 1 week after transfer to 18 °C for the two. However, in SW milkfish, upregulation of regucalcin occurred quickly and returned to the basal levels in 1 (mRNA expression) or 2 days (protein expression) up until 1 week after transfer. These results suggested potential roles of regucalcin in maintaining calcium homeostasis and its correlation to differential physiological responses in the livers of milkfish when they were acclimated to FW and SW.

New Insights in Mechanisms and Therapeutics for Short- and Long-Term Impacts of Hepatic Ischemia Reperfusion Injury Post Liver Transplantation

Liver transplantation has been identified as the most effective treatment for patients with end-stage liver diseases. However, hepatic ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) is associated with poor graft function and poses a risk of adverse clinical outcomes post transplantation. Cell death, including apoptosis, necrosis, ferroptosis and pyroptosis, is induced during the acute phase of liver IRI. The release of danger-associated molecular patterns (DAPMs) and mitochondrial dysfunction resulting from the disturbance of metabolic homeostasis initiates graft inflammation. The inflammation in the short term exacerbates hepatic damage, leading to graft dysfunction and a higher incidence of acute rejection. The subsequent changes in the graft immune environment due to hepatic IRI may result in chronic rejection, cancer recurrence and fibrogenesis in the long term. In this review, we mainly focus on new mechanisms of inflammation initiated by immune activation related to metabolic alteration in the short term during liver IRI. The latest mechanisms of cancer recurrence and fibrogenesis due to the long-term impact of inflammation in hepatic IRI is also discussed. Furthermore, the development of therapeutic strategies, including ischemia preconditioning, pharmacological inhibitors and machine perfusion, for both attenuating acute inflammatory injury and preventing late-phase disease recurrence, will be summarized in the context of clinical, translational and basic research.

Calcium to magnesium intake ratio and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease development: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. Adoption of sedentary life style and westernized diet are shown to be associated with development of NAFLD. Since previous studies suggested that calcium (Ca) to magnesium (Mg) ratio intake is associated with some chronic diseases including dyslipidemia and insulin resistance, we designed this study to find any possible association between this ratio and NAFLD development.

METHODS

The NAFLD was diagnosed using Fibroscan according to a CAP cut-off value of 263 dB/m. Dietary intakes of one hundred and ninety-six patients with incident NAFLD diagnosis, and eight hundred and three controls without NAFLD were assessed using a valid food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Dietary nutrients were calculated using Nutritionist IV software.

RESULTS

Age of the study population (57 % female) was 43.2 ± 14.1 years. In addition, energy-adjusted daily calcium to magnesium intake ratio was 2.34 ± 0.57 and 2.73 ± 0.69 for control and case groups, respectively. In the multivariable-adjusted model, after adjustment for potential confounding variables; including, age, gender, BMI, alcohol consumption, smoking, diabetes, physical activity, energy, dietary fiber, carbohydrate, fat, and protein intakes, participants in the third (Q3) and fourth (Q4) quartile of Ca/Mg ratio intake had a greater development of incidental NAFLD compared to the lowest quartile (Q1) [(OR = 2.86; 95 % CI: 1.20-6.81), (P-value = 0.017) and (OR = 5.97; 95 % CI: 2.54-14.01), (P-value < 0.001) for Q3 and Q4 compared to the Q1, respectively]. Moreover, energy-adjusted Ca to Mg intake ratio was positively correlated with plasma level of ALT (r = 0.18; P = 0.01); contrarily, it had no correlation with plasma levels of AST.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study revealed that higher dietary Ca to Mg intake ratio is associated with a greater development of NAFLD. Further interventional studies are needed to confirm the causal relationship of the Ca/Mg ratio intake and development of NAFLD.

TRPM5 rs886277 Polymorphism Predicts Hepatic Fibrosis Progression in Non-Cirrhotic HCV-Infected Patients

BACKGROUND

TRPM5 (transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily M member 5) rs886277 polymorphism has been related to liver cirrhosis from different etiologies. The present study investigates the association of TRPM5 rs886277 polymorphism with liver fibrosis progression and cirrhosis development in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study of 208 non-cirrhotic patients with CHC, who had at least two liver stiffness measurements (LSM) with a separation of 12 months (baseline LSM (LSM1) and the last LSM (LSM2)). Two outcome variables were considered: (1) LSM2/LSM1 ratio; (2) cirrhosis progression (F4; LSM ≥ 12.5 kPa). DNA genotyping was done at the CeGen using a MassARRAY platform.

RESULTS

The follow-up time was similar irrespective of the rs886277 genotype (46.4 months in TT genotype, 46.4 months in CT genotype, and 49.2 months in CC genotype; p = 0.649). The highest LSM increases were found in patients with CC genotype compared with TT and CT genotypes (p = 0.044 and p = 0.038, respectively). The cirrhosis progression was higher in patients with CC genotype than TT genotype (p = 0.033). Thus, the rs886277 C allele was associated with higher cirrhosis progression (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.64; p = 0.014). Moreover, rs886277 CC genotype was also related to higher values of LSM2/LSM1 ratio (adjusted arithmetic mean ratio a(AMR) = 1.31; p = 0.001) and cirrhosis progression (aOR = 4.33; p = 0.027).

CONCLUSIONS

TRPM5 rs886277 polymorphism was associated with liver fibrosis progression and cirrhosis development among hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients. Specifically, the rs886277 C allele and CC genotype were risk factors for advancing liver fibrosis and cirrhosis compared to the rs886277 T allele and CT/TT genotype, respectively.

Ethanol Disrupts Hormone-Induced Calcium Signaling in Liver

Receptor-coupled phospholipase C (PLC) is an important target for the actions of ethanol. In the ex vivo perfused rat liver, concentrations of ethanol >100 mM were required to induce a rise in cytosolic calcium (Ca²⁺) suggesting that these responses may only occur after binge ethanol consumption. Conversely, pharmacologically achievable concentrations of ethanol (≤30 mM) decreased the frequency and magnitude of hormone-stimulated cytosolic and nuclear Ca²⁺ oscillations and the parallel translocation of protein kinase C-β to the membrane. Ethanol also inhibited gap junction communication resulting in the loss of coordinated and spatially organized intercellular Ca²⁺ waves in hepatic lobules. Increasing the hormone concentration overcame the effects of ethanol on the frequency of Ca²⁺ oscillations and amplitude of the individual Ca²⁺ transients; however, the Ca²⁺ responses in the intact liver remained disorganized at the intercellular level, suggesting that gap junctions were still inhibited. Pretreating hepatocytes with an alcohol dehydrogenase inhibitor suppressed the effects of ethanol on hormone-induced Ca²⁺ increases, whereas inhibiting aldehyde dehydrogenase potentiated the inhibitory actions of ethanol, suggesting that acetaldehyde is the underlying mediator. Acute ethanol intoxication inhibited the rate of rise and the magnitude of hormone-stimulated production of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP₃), but had no effect on the size of Ca²⁺ spikes induced by photolysis of caged IP₃. These findings suggest that ethanol inhibits PLC activity, but does not affect IP₃ receptor function. We propose that by suppressing hormone-stimulated PLC activity, ethanol interferes with the dynamic modulation of [IP₃] that is required to generate large, amplitude Ca²⁺ oscillations.

Role of mitochondria in liver metabolic health and diseases

The liver is a major organ that coordinates the metabolic flexibility of the whole body, which is characterized by the ability to adapt dynamically in response to fluctuations in energy needs and supplies. In this context, hepatocyte mitochondria are key partners in fine-tuning metabolic flexibility. Here we review the metabolic and signalling pathways carried by mitochondria in the liver, the major pathways that regulate mitochondrial function and how they function in health and metabolic disorders associated to obesity, i.e. insulin resistance, non-alcoholic steatosis and steatohepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Finally, strategies targeting mitochondria to counteract liver disorders are discussed.

[Liver regeneration: solved and problem issues]

It is known that liver is able to restore own dimensions and functional properties in response to various injuries. Despite extensive injuries, liver can preserve functional activity. Analysis of liver regeneration mechanisms allowed us to obtain significant results in the treatment of hepatitis, cirrhosis and liver failure. Liver regeneration processes substantiate the development of hepatocellular cancer following cirrhosis. Modern experimental and clinical data on liver regeneration, as well as current methods of stimulating this process are summarized in the manuscript. Despite significant advances in this issue, there are still many questions in scientific understanding of liver regeneration.

Role of Hydrogen Sulfide and 3-Mercaptopyruvate Sulfurtransferase in the Regulation of the Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Response in Hepatocytes

It is estimated that over 1.5 billion people suffer from various forms of chronic liver disease worldwide. The emerging prevalence of metabolic syndromes and alcohol misuse, along with the lack of disease-modifying agents for the therapy of many severe liver conditions predicts that chronic liver disease will continue to be a major problem in the future. Better understanding of the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms and identification of potential therapeutic targets remains a priority. Herein, we explored the potential role of the 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase/hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) system in the regulation of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and of its downstream processes in the immortalized hepatic cell line HepG2 in vitro. ER stress suppressed endogenous H₂S levels and pharmacological supplementation of H₂S with sodium hydrogen sulfide (NaHS) mitigated many aspects of ER stress, culminating in improved cellular bioenergetics and prevention of autophagic arrest, thereby switching cells’ fate towards survival. Genetic silencing of 3-MST or pharmacological inhibition of the key enzymes involved in hepatocyte H₂S biosynthesis exacerbated many readouts related to ER-stress or its downstream functional responses. Our findings implicate the 3-MST/H₂S system in the intracellular network that governs proteostasis and ER-stress adaptability in hepatocytes and reinforce the therapeutic potential of pharmacological H₂S supplementation.

Organ Metallome Processed with Chemometric Methods Enable the Determination of Elements that May Serve as Markers of Exposure to Iron Oxide Nanoparticles in Male Rats

The systemic influence of iron oxide nanoparticles on the elemental homeostasis of key organs was examined in male rats. In tissues taken at different intervals from nanoparticles injection, the dynamics of elemental changes was analyzed. The organ metallome was studied using total reflection X-ray fluorescence. The obtained data were processed with advanced cluster and discriminant analyses-to classify the tissues according to their organs of origin and to distinguish accurately the nanoparticle-treated and normal rats. Additionally, in the case of liver and heart, it was possible to determine the elements of highest significance for different treatments, which may serve as markers of exposure to iron oxide nanoparticles.

Genome-wide resolution peripheral blood methylome profiling reveals signatures for cholestatic liver disease

Aim:

To profile DNA methylation changes of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC).

Materials & methods:

Patients with: PBC, PSC with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), PSC without IBD, and age-, sex-matched controls were profiled for methylomes of peripheral blood by reduced representation bisulfite sequencing. Differentially methylated CpG (DMC) and differentially methylated region (DMR) were detected and compared.

Results:

We identified consistently altered DMCs and DMRs across diseases with involvement in key pathways. Many similarities noted between two subtypes of PSC, interestingly few existed between PBC and PSC. DMRs were highly enriched with transcription factor binding. Top DMC changes were validated in liver tissue of an independent cohort.

Conclusion:

Methylome profiling provides insights to PBC and PSC.

Fructose-palmitate based high calorie induce steatosis in HepG2 cells via mitochondrial dysfunction: An in vitro approach

A proper in vitro model for conducting research on high energy food induced steatosis via defective energy metabolism in the liver is not visible in the literature. The present study developed an in vitro model in HepG2 cell line to mimic high energy diet induced steatosis in liver via mitochondrial dysfunction. For this, HepG2 cells were treated with fructose (100 mM) and palmitate (100 μM) for about 24 h and subjected for biochemical analysis relevant to lipogenesis and mitochondrial biology. Our findings showed that fructose-palmitate treatment caused significant lipid accumulation and rise in lipogenic proteins. Further studies showed alteration in mitochondrial integrity, dynamics and oxidative phosphorylation. Mitochondrial integrity was affected by the dissipation of trans-membrane potential, surplus mitochondrial superoxide with calcium overload. Similarly, mitochondrial dynamics were altered with up regulation of mitochondrial fission proteins: DRP1 and FIS1, cytochrome c release, caspase-3 activity and apoptosis. Various components of the electron transport chain: complex I, II, III and IV were altered with significant depletion in oxygen consumption. Overall our findings illustrate the dominant role of mitochondria in the genesis of high fructose-palmitate induced steatosis in HepG2 cells. Since continuous high energy food consumption is the main inducer of steatosis, this model is found to be an ideal one for preliminary and basic research in the area of liver disease via mitochondrial dysfunction.