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Li R, Zhang J, Liu Q, Tang Q, Jia Q, Xiong Y, He J, Li Y. CREKA-modified liposomes target activated hepatic stellate cells to alleviate liver fibrosis by inhibiting collagen synthesis and angiogenesis. Acta Biomater 2023; 168:484-496. [PMID: 37392933 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.06.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are considered the key driver of excessive extracellular matrix and abnormal angiogenesis, which are the main pathological manifestations of hepatic fibrosis. However, the absence of specific targeting moieties has rendered the development of HSC-targeted drug delivery systems a significant obstacle in the treatment of liver fibrosis. Here we have identified a notable increase in fibronectin expression on HSCs, which positively correlates with the progression of hepatic fibrosis. Thus, we decorated PEGylated liposomes with CREKA, a peptide with high affinity for fibronectin, to facilitate the targeted delivery of sorafenib to activated HSCs. The CREKA-coupled liposomes exhibited enhanced cellular uptake in the human hepatic stellate cell line LX2 and selective accumulation in CCl4-induced fibrotic liver through the recognition of fibronectin. When loaded with sorafenib, the CREKA-modified liposomes effectively suppressed HSC activation and collagen accumulation in vitro. Furthermore. in vivo results demonstrated that the administration of sorafenib-loaded CREKA-liposomes at a low dose significantly mitigated CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis, prevented inflammatory infiltration and reduced angiogenesis in mice. These findings suggest that CREKA-coupled liposomes have promising potential as a targeted delivery system for therapeutic agents to activated HSCs, thereby providing an efficient treatment option for hepatic fibrosis. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: In liver fibrosis, activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) are the key driver of extracellular matrix and abnormal angiogenesis. Our investigation has revealed a significant elevation in fibronectin expression on aHSCs, which is positively associated with the progression of hepatic fibrosis. Thus, we developed PEGylated liposomes decorated with CREKA, a molecule with a high affinity for fibronectin, to facilitate the targeted delivery of sorafenib to aHSCs. The CREKA-coupled liposomes can specifically target aHSCs both in vitro and in vivo. Loading sorafenib into CREKA-Lip significantly alleviated CCl4-induced liver fibrosis, angiogenesis and inflammation at low doses. These findings suggest that our drug delivery system holds promise as a viable therapeutic option for liver fibrosis with minimal risk of adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Metabolic Diseases and Pharmacotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jinhang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Metabolic Diseases and Pharmacotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Qinhui Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Metabolic Diseases and Pharmacotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Qin Tang
- Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Metabolic Diseases and Pharmacotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Qingyi Jia
- Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Metabolic Diseases and Pharmacotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yimin Xiong
- Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Metabolic Diseases and Pharmacotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jinhan He
- Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Metabolic Diseases and Pharmacotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
| | - Yanping Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Metabolic Diseases and Pharmacotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
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Kaps L, Limeres MJ, Schneider P, Svensson M, Zeyn Y, Fraude S, Cacicedo ML, Galle PR, Gehring S, Bros M. Liver Cell Type-Specific Targeting by Nanoformulations for Therapeutic Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11869. [PMID: 37511628 PMCID: PMC10380755 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocytes exert pivotal roles in metabolism, protein synthesis and detoxification. Non-parenchymal liver cells (NPCs), largely comprising macrophages, dendritic cells, hepatic stellate cells and liver sinusoidal cells (LSECs), serve to induce immunological tolerance. Therefore, the liver is an important target for therapeutic approaches, in case of both (inflammatory) metabolic diseases and immunological disorders. This review aims to summarize current preclinical nanodrug-based approaches for the treatment of liver disorders. So far, nano-vaccines that aim to induce hepatitis virus-specific immune responses and nanoformulated adjuvants to overcome the default tolerogenic state of liver NPCs for the treatment of chronic hepatitis have been tested. Moreover, liver cancer may be treated using nanodrugs which specifically target and kill tumor cells. Alternatively, nanodrugs may target and reprogram or deplete immunosuppressive cells of the tumor microenvironment, such as tumor-associated macrophages. Here, combination therapies have been demonstrated to yield synergistic effects. In the case of autoimmune hepatitis and other inflammatory liver diseases, anti-inflammatory agents can be encapsulated into nanoparticles to dampen inflammatory processes specifically in the liver. Finally, the tolerance-promoting activity especially of LSECs has been exploited to induce antigen-specific tolerance for the treatment of allergic and autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard Kaps
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - María José Limeres
- Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Paul Schneider
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Malin Svensson
- Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Yanira Zeyn
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Silvia Fraude
- Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Maximiliano L Cacicedo
- Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Peter R Galle
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Stephan Gehring
- Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Matthias Bros
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
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Gou Y, Wang L, Zhao J, Xu X, Xu H, Xie F, Wang Y, Feng Y, Zhang J, Zhang Y. PNPLA3-I148M Variant Promotes the Progression of Liver Fibrosis by Inducing Mitochondrial Dysfunction. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119681. [PMID: 37298640 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing 3 (PNPLA3) rs738409 polymorphism (I148M) is strongly associated with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and advanced fibrosis; however, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the effect of PNPLA3-I148M on the activation of hepatic stellate cell line LX-2 and the progression of liver fibrosis. Immunofluorescence staining and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were used to detect lipid accumulation. The expression levels of fibrosis, cholesterol metabolism, and mitochondria-related markers were measured via real-time PCR or western blotting. Electron microscopy was applied to analyze the ultrastructure of the mitochondria. Mitochondrial respiration was measured by a Seahorse XFe96 analyzer. PNPLA3-I148M significantly promoted intracellular free cholesterol aggregation in LX-2 cells by decreasing cholesterol efflux protein (ABCG1) expression; it subsequently induced mitochondrial dysfunction characterized by attenuated ATP production and mitochondrial membrane potential, elevated ROS levels, caused mitochondrial structural damage, altered the oxygen consumption rate, and decreased the expression of mitochondrial-function-related proteins. Our results demonstrated for the first time that PNPLA3-I148M causes mitochondrial dysfunction of LX-2 cells through the accumulation of free cholesterol, thereby promoting the activation of LX-2 cells and the development of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusong Gou
- The Third Unit, The Department of Hepatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Institute of Hepatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Lifei Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Jinhan Zhao
- The Third Unit, The Department of Hepatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Institute of Hepatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Xiaoyi Xu
- The Third Unit, The Department of Hepatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Institute of Hepatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Hangfei Xu
- The Third Unit, The Department of Hepatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Institute of Hepatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Fang Xie
- Beijing Institute of Hepatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center for Precision Medicine and Transformation of Hepatitis and Liver Cancer, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Yanjun Wang
- Beijing Institute of Hepatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center for Precision Medicine and Transformation of Hepatitis and Liver Cancer, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Yingmei Feng
- Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- The Third Unit, The Department of Hepatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Hepatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center for Precision Medicine and Transformation of Hepatitis and Liver Cancer, Beijing 100069, China
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Younis MA, Sato Y, Elewa YHA, Kon Y, Harashima H. Self-homing nanocarriers for mRNA delivery to the activated hepatic stellate cells in liver fibrosis. J Control Release 2023; 353:685-98. [PMID: 36521688 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Herein, we report on the development of a platform for the selective delivery of mRNA to the hard-to-transfect Activated Hepatic Stellate Cells (aHSCs), the fundamental player in the progression of liver fibrosis. Using a microfluidic device (iLiNP), we prepared a series of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) based on a diverse library of pH-sensitive lipids. After an in-depth in vivo optimization of the LNPs, their mRNA delivery efficiency, selectivity, potency, robustness, and biosafety were confirmed. Furthermore, some mechanistic aspects of their selective delivery to aHSCs were investigated. We identified a promising lipid candidate, CL15A6, that has a high affinity to aHSCs. Tweaking the composition and physico-chemical properties of the LNPs enabled the robust and ligand-free mRNA delivery to aHSCs in vivo post intravenous administration, with a high biosafety at mRNA doses of up to 2 mg/Kg, upon either acute or chronic administrations. The mechanistic investigation suggested that CL15A6 LNPs were taken up by aHSCs via Clathrin-mediated endocytosis through the Platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (PDGFRβ) and showed a pKa-dependent cellular uptake. The novel and scalable platform reported in this study is highly promising for clinical applications.
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Peng L, Yan Q, Chen Z, Hu Y, Sun Y, Miao Y, Wu Y, Yao Y, Tao L, Chen F, Li H, Xu T. Research progress on the role of cholesterol in hepatocellular carcinoma. Eur J Pharmacol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Lee J, Byun J, Shim G, Oh YK. Fibroblast activation protein activated antifibrotic peptide delivery attenuates fibrosis in mouse models of liver fibrosis. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1516. [PMID: 35314685 PMCID: PMC8938482 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29186-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In liver fibrosis, activated hepatic stellate cells are known to overexpress fibroblast activation protein. Here we report a targeted antifibrotic peptide-delivery system in which fibroblast activation protein, which is overexpressed in fibrotic regions of the liver, liberates the antifibrotic peptide melittin by cleaving a fibroblast activation protein-specific site in the peptide. The promelittin peptide is linked to pegylated and maleimide-functionalized liposomes, resulting in promelittin-modified liposomes. The promelittin-modified liposomes were effective in reducing the viability of activated hepatic stellate cells but not that of control cells. In three types of liver fibrosis mouse models, intravenously administered promelittin-modified liposomes significantly reduces fibrotic regions. In addition, in the bile duct ligation mouse model promelittin-modified liposome-treatment increases overall survival. Although this peptide-delivery concept was tested for liver fibrosis, it can potentially be adapted to other fibrotic diseases. Activated hepatic stellate cells contribute towards the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis, and overexpress fibroblast activation protein. Here the authors report a targeted peptide-delivery system in which fibroblast activation protein liberates the antifibrotic peptide melittin, and demonstrate the approach attenuates fibrosis in mouse models of liver fibrosis.
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Salunkhe SA, Chitkara D, Mahato RI, Mittal A. Lipid based nanocarriers for effective drug delivery and treatment of diabetes associated liver fibrosis. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 173:394-415. [PMID: 33831474 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a cluster of several liver diseases like hepatic steatosis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL), liver fibrosis, and cirrhosis which may eventually progress to liver carcinoma. One of the primary key factors associated with the development and pathogenesis of NAFLD is diabetes mellitus. The present review emphasizes on diabetes-associated development of liver fibrosis and its treatment using different lipid nanoparticles such as stable nucleic acid lipid nanoparticles, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems, and conjugates including phospholipid, fatty acid and steroid-based. We have comprehensively described the various pathological and molecular events linking effects of elevated free fatty acid levels, insulin resistance, and diabetes with the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. Various passive and active targeting strategies explored for targeting hepatic stellate cells, a key target in liver fibrosis, have also been discussed in detail in this review.
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Wu H, Chen C, Ziani S, Nelson LJ, Ávila MA, Nevzorova YA, Cubero FJ. Fibrotic Events in the Progression of Cholestatic Liver Disease. Cells 2021; 10:cells10051107. [PMID: 34062960 PMCID: PMC8147992 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholestatic liver diseases including primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) are associated with active hepatic fibrogenesis, which can ultimately lead to the development of cirrhosis. However, the exact relationship between the development of liver fibrosis and the progression of cholestatic liver disease remains elusive. Periductular fibroblasts located around the bile ducts seem biologically different from hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). The fibrotic events in these clinical conditions appear to be related to complex crosstalk between immune/inflammatory mechanisms, cytokine signalling, and perturbed homeostasis between cholangiocytes and mesenchymal cells. Several animal models including bile duct ligation (BDL) and the Mdr2-knockout mice have improved our understanding of mechanisms underlying chronic cholestasis. In the present review, we aim to elucidate the mechanisms of fibrosis in order to help to identify potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanghang Wu
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology & ENT, Complutense University School of Medicine, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (H.W.); (C.C.); (S.Z.); (Y.A.N.)
| | - Chaobo Chen
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology & ENT, Complutense University School of Medicine, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (H.W.); (C.C.); (S.Z.); (Y.A.N.)
- Health Research Institute Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), 28007 Madrid, Spain
- Department of General Surgery, Wuxi Xishan People’s Hospital, Wuxi 214000, China
| | - Siham Ziani
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology & ENT, Complutense University School of Medicine, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (H.W.); (C.C.); (S.Z.); (Y.A.N.)
| | - Leonard J. Nelson
- Institute for Bioengineering (IBioE), School of Engineering, Faraday Building, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3 JL, Scotland, UK;
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering (IB3), School of Engineering and Physical Sciences (EPS), Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, Scotland, UK
| | - Matías A. Ávila
- Hepatology Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
- Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra IdiSNA, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Yulia A. Nevzorova
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology & ENT, Complutense University School of Medicine, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (H.W.); (C.C.); (S.Z.); (Y.A.N.)
- Health Research Institute Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), 28007 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Francisco Javier Cubero
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology & ENT, Complutense University School of Medicine, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (H.W.); (C.C.); (S.Z.); (Y.A.N.)
- Health Research Institute Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), 28007 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-91-394-1385; Fax: +34-91-394-1641
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Teratani T, Tomita K, Wada A, Sugihara N, Higashiyama M, Inaba K, Horiuchi K, Hanawa Y, Nishii S, Mizoguchi A, Tanemoto R, Ito S, Okada Y, Kurihara C, Akita Y, Narimatsu K, Watanabe C, Komoto S, Oike Y, Miura S, Hokari R, Kanai T. Angiopoietin-like protein 4 deficiency augments liver fibrosis in liver diseases such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in mice through enhanced free cholesterol accumulation in hepatic stellate cells. Hepatol Res 2021; 51:580-592. [PMID: 33247991 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM We recently reported that lipoprotein lipase (LPL)-mediated free cholesterol (FC) accumulation in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) augmented liver fibrosis in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The aim of the present study was to explore the role of angiopoietin-like protein 4 (Angptl4), an LPL inhibitor, in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis in NASH. METHODS Angptl4-deficient or wild-type mice were used to investigate the role of Angptl4 in the pathogenesis of NASH induced by feeding a methionine- and choline-deficient diet. We also examined the effect of Angptl4 on FC accumulation in HSCs, and the subsequent activation of HSCs, using Angptl4-deficient HSCs. RESULTS In the NASH model, Angptl4-deficient mice had significantly aggravated liver fibrosis and activated HSCs without enhancement of hepatocellular injury, liver inflammation, or liver angiogenesis. FC levels were significantly higher in HSCs from Angptl4-deficient mice than in those from wild-type mice. Treatment with Angptl4 reversed low-density lipoprotein-induced FC accumulation in HSCs through the inhibition of LPL. The Angptl4 deficiency-induced FC accumulation in HSCs suppressed HSC expression of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-ß) pseudoreceptor, bone morphogenetic protein, and activin membrane-bound inhibitor, and sensitized HSCs to TGF-β-induced activation in vivo and in vitro. CONCLUSIONS Angptl4 plays an important role in the pathogenesis of FC accumulation in HSCs. In addition, regulation of FC levels in HSCs by Angptl4 plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis in NASH. Thus, Angptl4 could represent a novel therapeutic option for NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiaki Teratani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kengo Tomita
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Akinori Wada
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Nao Sugihara
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Masaaki Higashiyama
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Kenichi Inaba
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Kazuki Horiuchi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Hanawa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Shin Nishii
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Akinori Mizoguchi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Rina Tanemoto
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Suguru Ito
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yoshikiyo Okada
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Chie Kurihara
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Akita
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Narimatsu
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Chikako Watanabe
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Komoto
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yuichi Oike
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Soichiro Miura
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan.,International University of Health and Welfare Graduate School, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryota Hokari
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Takanori Kanai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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Zhang Y, Li Y, Mu T, Tong N, Cheng P. Hepatic stellate cells specific liposomes with the Toll-like receptor 4 shRNA attenuates liver fibrosis. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:1299-1313. [PMID: 33336563 PMCID: PMC7812270 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a significant role in the onset of liver fibrosis, which can be treated by the inhibition and reversal of HSC activation. The RNA interference-mediated TLR4 gene silencing might be a potential therapeutic approach for liver fibrosis. The crucial challenge in this method is the absence of an efficient delivery system for the RNAi introduction in the target cells. HSCs have an enhanced capacity of vitamin A intake as they contain retinoic acid receptors (RARs). In the current study, we developed cationic liposomes modified with vitamin A to improve the specificity of delivery vehicles for HSCs. The outcome of this study revealed that the VitA-coupled cationic liposomes delivered the TLR4 shRNA to aHSCs more efficiently, as compared to the uncoupled cationic liposomes, both in the in vitro and in vivo conditions. Besides, as evident from the outcome of this study, the TLR4 gene silencing inhibited the HSCs activation and attenuated the liver fibrosis via the NF-κB transcriptional inactivation, pro-inflammatory cytokines secretion and reactive oxygen species (ROS) synthesis. Thus, the VitA-coupled liposomes encapsulated with the TLR4-shRNA might prove as an efficient therapeutic agent for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Zhang
- Division of Endocrinology and MetabolismState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyChengduChina
| | - Yang Li
- Division of Endocrinology and MetabolismState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyChengduChina
| | - Tong Mu
- Division of Endocrinology and MetabolismState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyChengduChina
| | - Nanwei Tong
- Division of Endocrinology and MetabolismState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyChengduChina
| | - Ping Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer CenterWest China HospitalSichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyChengduChina
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Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The pathophysiology underlying metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) involves a multitude of interlinked processes, including insulin resistance (IR) underlying the metabolic syndrome, lipotoxicity attributable to the accumulation of toxic lipid species, infiltration of proinflammatory cells causing hepatic injury and ultimately leading to hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and fibrogenesis. The proximal processes, such as IR, lipid overload and lipotoxicity are relatively well established, but the downstream molecular mechanisms, such as inflammatory processes, hepatocyte lipoapoptosis, and fibrogenesis are incompletely understood. METHODS A literature search was performed with Medline (PubMed), Scopus and Google Scholar electronic databases till June 2020, using relevant keywords (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease; metabolic associated fatty liver disease; nonalcoholic steatohepatitis; NASH pathogenesis) to extract relevant studies describing pathogenesis of MAFLD/MASH. RESULTS Several studies have reported new concepts underlying pathophysiology of MAFLD. Activation of HSCs is the common final pathway for diverse signals from damaged hepatocytes and proinflammatory cells. Activated HSCs then secrete excess extracellular matrix (ECM) which accumulates and impairs structure and function of the liver. TAZ (a transcriptional regulator), hedgehog (HH) ligands, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), bone morphogenetic protein 8B (BMP8B) and osteopontin play important roles in activating these HSCs. Dysfunctional gut microbiome, dysregulated bile acid metabolism, endogenous alcohol production, and intestinal fructose handling, modify individual susceptibility to MASH. CONCLUSIONS Newer concepts of pathophysiology underlying MASH, such as TAZ/Ihh pathway, extracellular vesicles, microRNA, dysfunctional gut microbiome and intestinal fructose handling present promising targets for the development of therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Shafi Kuchay
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Medanta the Medicity Hospital, Gurugram, 122001, Haryana, India.
| | - Narendra Singh Choudhary
- Institute of Digestive and Hepatobiliary Sciences, Medanta-The Medicity Hospital, Gurugram, 122001, Haryana, India
| | - Sunil Kumar Mishra
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Medanta the Medicity Hospital, Gurugram, 122001, Haryana, India
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12
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Pillai SS, Lakhani HV, Zehra M, Wang J, Dilip A, Puri N, O’Hanlon K, Sodhi K. Predicting Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease through a Panel of Plasma Biomarkers and MicroRNAs in Female West Virginia Population. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186698. [PMID: 32933141 PMCID: PMC7554851 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is primarily characterized by the presence of fatty liver, hepatic inflammation and fibrogenesis eventually leading to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) or cirrhosis. Obesity and diabetes are common risk factors associated with the development and progression of NAFLD, with one of the highest prevalence of these diseased conditions in the West Virginia population. Currently, the diagnosis of NAFLD is limited to radiologic studies and biopsies, which are not cost-effective and highly invasive. Hence, this study aimed to develop a panel and assess the progressive levels of circulatory biomarkers and miRNA expression in patients at risk for progression to NASH to allow early intervention strategies. (2) Methods: In total, 62 female patients were enrolled and blood samples were collected after 8–10 h of fasting. Computed tomography was performed on abdomen/pelvis following IV contrast administration. The patients were divided into the following groups: Healthy subjects with normal BMI and normal fasting blood glucose (Control, n = 20), Obese with high BMI and normal fasting blood glucose (Obese, n = 20) and Obese with high fasting blood glucose (Obese + DM, n = 22). Based on findings from CT, another subset was created from Obese + DM group with patients who showed signs of fatty liver infiltration (Obese + DM(FI), n = 10). ELISA was performed for measurement of plasma biomarkers and RT-PCR was performed for circulating miRNA expression. (3) Results: Our results show significantly increased levels of plasma IL-6, Leptin and FABP-1, while significantly decreased level of adiponectin in Obese, Obese + DM and Obese + DM(FI) group, as compared to healthy controls. The level of CK-18 was significantly increased in Obese + DM(FI) group as compared to control. Subsequently, the expression of miR-122, miR-34a, miR-375, miR-16 and miR-21 was significantly increased in Obese + DM and Obese + DM(FI) group as compared to healthy control. Our results also show distinct correlation of IL-6, FABP-1 and adiponectin levels with the expression of miRNAs in relation to the extent of NAFLD progression. (4) Conclusion: Our results support the clinical application of these biomarkers and miRNAs in monitoring the progression of NAFLD, suggesting a more advanced diagnostic potential of this panel than conventional methods. This panel may provide an appropriate method for early prognosis and management of NAFLD and subsequent adverse hepatic pathophysiology, potentially reducing the disease burden on the West Virginia population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sneha S. Pillai
- Departments of Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (S.S.P.); (H.V.L.); (M.Z.); (J.W.); (A.D.)
| | - Hari Vishal Lakhani
- Departments of Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (S.S.P.); (H.V.L.); (M.Z.); (J.W.); (A.D.)
| | - Mishghan Zehra
- Departments of Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (S.S.P.); (H.V.L.); (M.Z.); (J.W.); (A.D.)
| | - Jiayan Wang
- Departments of Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (S.S.P.); (H.V.L.); (M.Z.); (J.W.); (A.D.)
| | - Anum Dilip
- Departments of Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (S.S.P.); (H.V.L.); (M.Z.); (J.W.); (A.D.)
| | - Nitin Puri
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences and Medical Education, Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Huntington, WV 25701, USA;
| | - Kathleen O’Hanlon
- Departments of Family Medicine, Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Huntington, WV 25701, USA;
| | - Komal Sodhi
- Departments of Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (S.S.P.); (H.V.L.); (M.Z.); (J.W.); (A.D.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(304)-691-1704; Fax: +1-(914)-347-4956
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13
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Zehra M, Curry JC, Pillai SS, Lakhani HV, Edwards CE, Sodhi K. Elucidating Potential Profibrotic Mechanisms of Emerging Biomarkers for Early Prognosis of Hepatic Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E4737. [PMID: 32635162 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21134737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis has been associated with a series of pathophysiological processes causing excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins. Several cellular processes and molecular mechanisms have been implicated in the diseased liver that augments fibrogenesis, fibrogenic cytokines and associated liver complications. Liver biopsy remains an essential diagnostic tool for histological evaluation of hepatic fibrosis to establish a prognosis. In addition to being invasive, this methodology presents with several limitations including poor cost-effectiveness, prolonged hospitalizations, and risks of peritoneal bleeding, while the clinical use of this method does not reveal underlying pathogenic mechanisms. Several alternate noninvasive diagnostic strategies have been developed, to determine the extent of hepatic fibrosis, including the use of direct and indirect biomarkers. Immediate diagnosis of hepatic fibrosis by noninvasive means would be more palatable than a biopsy and could assist clinicians in taking early interventions timely, avoiding fatal complications, and improving prognosis. Therefore, we sought to review some common biomarkers of liver fibrosis along with some emerging candidates, including the oxidative stress-mediated biomarkers, epigenetic and genetic markers, exosomes, and miRNAs that needs further evaluation and would have better sensitivity and specificity. We also aim to elucidate the potential role of cardiotonic steroids (CTS) and evaluate the pro-inflammatory and profibrotic effects of CTS in exacerbating hepatic fibrosis. By understanding the underlying pathogenic processes, the efficacy of these biomarkers could allow for early diagnosis and treatment of hepatic fibrosis in chronic liver diseases, once validated.
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14
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Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is the most prevalent liver disease worldwide, affecting 20%-25% of the adult population. In 25% of patients, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease progresses to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which increases the risk for the development of cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma. In patients with NASH, liver fibrosis is the main determinant of mortality. Here, we review how interactions between different liver cells culminate in fibrosis development in NASH, focusing on triggers and consequences of hepatocyte-macrophage-hepatic stellate cell (HSC) crosstalk. We discuss pathways through which stressed and dead hepatocytes instigate the profibrogenic crosstalk with HSC and macrophages, including the reactivation of developmental pathways such as TAZ, Notch, and hedgehog; how clearance of dead cells in NASH via efferocytosis may affect inflammation and fibrogenesis; and insights into HSC and macrophage heterogeneity revealed by single-cell RNA sequencing. Finally, we summarize options to therapeutically interrupt this profibrogenic hepatocyte-macrophage-HSC network in NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert F Schwabe
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, New York; Institute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University, New York, New York.
| | - Ira Tabas
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, New York; Institute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University, New York, New York; Department of Physiology and Cellular Biophysics, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Utpal B Pajvani
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, New York; Institute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University, New York, New York
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15
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Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of Review
Treatment of liver fibrosis benefits from hepatic stellate cell (HSC)-specific delivery. Since the description of first carrier to HSC, many developments have taken place in this area. The purpose is to give an overview of the different carriers and homing moieties that are available for HSC targeting and illustrate the opportunities and hurdles they provide.
Recent Findings
There is a growing number of homing devices to deliver drugs to HSC, and options to deliver siRNA to HSC have emerged. Other developments include controlling corona formation, development of linker technology, and design of theranostic approaches. We are on the eve of reaching the clinic with innovative HSC-specific compounds.
Summary
An overview of different core molecules is presented together with an overview of targeting strategies toward different receptors on HSC, providing a versatile toolbox. Many therapeutics, ranging from small chemical entities and proteins to RNA- or DNA-modulating substances, have already been incorporated in these constructs in the recent years.
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16
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Zhu YH, Li JB, Wu RY, Yu Y, Li X, Li ZL, Zhang HL, Feng GK, Deng R, Zhu XF. Clinical significance and function of RDH16 as a tumor-suppressing gene in hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatol Res 2020; 50:110-120. [PMID: 31661588 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
AIM Our previous transcriptome sequencing analysis detected that retinol dehydrogenase 16 (RDH16) was dramatically downregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). RDH16 belongs to the short-chain dehydrogenases/reductases super family, and its role in HCC remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the expression and function of RDH16 in HCC. METHODS The mRNA and protein level of RDH16 in HCC samples were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry analyses, respectively. The role of RDH16 in HCC was determined by in vitro and in vivo functional studies. RESULTS Downregulation of RDH16 has been detected in approximately 90% of primary HCCs, which was significantly associated with high serum alpha-fetoprotein level, tumor size, microsatellite formation, thrombus, and poor overall survival of HCC patients. Compared with non-tumor tissues, higher density of methylation was identified in HCC samples. In addition, RDH16 increases the level of retinoic acid and blocks the de novo synthesis of fatty acid in HCC cells. Functional study shows that ectopic expression of RDH16 in HCC cells suppresses cell growth, clonogenicity, and cell motility. CONCLUSIONS RDH16 might be a prognostic biomarker and intervention point for new therapeutic strategies in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Hui Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian-Biao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.,BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China.,China National Gene Bank, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Rui-Yan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Ling Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hai-Liang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gong-Kan Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rong Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
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17
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Higashiyama M, Tomita K, Sugihara N, Nakashima H, Furuhashi H, Nishikawa M, Inaba K, Wada A, Horiuchi K, Hanawa Y, Shibuya N, Kurihara C, Okada Y, Nishii S, Mizoguchi A, Hozumi H, Watanabe C, Komoto S, Yamamoto J, Seki S, Miura S, Hokari R. Chitinase 3-like 1 deficiency ameliorates liver fibrosis by promoting hepatic macrophage apoptosis. Hepatol Res 2019; 49:1316-1328. [PMID: 31250532 PMCID: PMC6916176 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Revised: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIM Chitinase 3-like 1 (CHI3L1), an 18-glycosyl hydrolase-related molecule, is a member of the enzymatically inactive chitinase-like protein family. Serum levels of CHI3L1 are strongly correlated with hepatic fibrosis progression during many liver diseases. Therefore, this protein could be involved in the development of hepatic fibrosis pathology; however, its role has not been elucidated. We aimed to elucidate its role in the pathophysiology of liver fibrosis. METHODS Chitinase 3-like 1-deficient (Chi3l1-/- ) mice were given carbon tetrachloride twice per week for 4 weeks or fed a methionine choline-deficient diet for 12 weeks to generate mouse liver fibrosis models. Human fibrotic liver tissues were also examined immunohistochemically. RESULTS In human and mouse fibrotic livers, CHI3L1 expression was mainly localized to hepatic macrophages, and the intrahepatic accumulation of CHI3L1+ macrophages was significantly enhanced compared to that in control livers. In the two mouse models, hepatic fibrosis was significantly ameliorated in Chi3l1-/- mice compared to that in wild-type mice, which was dependent on hepatic macrophages. The accumulation and activation of hepatic macrophages was also significantly suppressed in Chi3l1-/- mice compared to that in wild-type mice. Furthermore, apoptotic hepatic macrophages were significantly increased in Chi3l1-/- mice. Chitinase 3-like 1 was found to inhibit hepatic macrophage apoptosis by suppressing Fas expression and activating Akt signaling in an autocrine manner, which resulted in hepatic macrophage accumulation and activation, exaggerating liver fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS Chitinase 3-like 1 exacerbates liver fibrosis progression by suppressing apoptosis in hepatic macrophages. Therefore, this might be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaaki Higashiyama
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa
| | - Kengo Tomita
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa
| | - Nao Sugihara
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa
| | | | - Hirotaka Furuhashi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa
| | - Makoto Nishikawa
- Departments of SurgeryNational Defense Medical CollegeTokorozawa
| | - Kenichi Inaba
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa
| | - Akinori Wada
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa
| | - Kazuki Horiuchi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa
| | - Yoshinori Hanawa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa
| | - Naoki Shibuya
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa
| | - Chie Kurihara
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa
| | - Yoshikiyo Okada
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa
| | - Shin Nishii
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa
| | - Akinori Mizoguchi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa
| | - Hideaki Hozumi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa
| | - Chikako Watanabe
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa
| | - Shunsuke Komoto
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa
| | - Junji Yamamoto
- Departments of SurgeryNational Defense Medical CollegeTokorozawa
| | - Shuhji Seki
- Departments of Immunology and MicrobiologyTokorozawa
| | - Soichiro Miura
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa,International University of Health and Welfare Graduate SchoolTokyoJapan
| | - Ryota Hokari
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineTokorozawa
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18
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Bian M, He J, Jin H, Lian N, Shao J, Guo Q, Wang S, Zhang F, Zheng S. Oroxylin A induces apoptosis of activated hepatic stellate cells through endoplasmic reticulum stress. Apoptosis 2019; 24:905-920. [DOI: 10.1007/s10495-019-01568-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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19
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Jain A, Barve A, Zhao Z, Fetse JP, Liu H, Li Y, Cheng K. Targeted Delivery of an siRNA/PNA Hybrid Nanocomplex Reverses Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Fibrosis. Adv Ther (Weinh) 2019; 2. [PMID: 33072857 DOI: 10.1002/adtp.201900046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a wound healing process with excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix in the liver. We recently discovered a PCBP2 siRNA that reverses fibrogenesis in activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which are the key players in liver fibrogenesis. However, targeted delivery of siRNAs to HSCs still remains a challenge. Herein, we developed a new strategy to fabricate a multicomponent nanocomplex using siRNA/PNA hybrid instead of chemically conjugated siRNA, thus increasing the scalability and feasibility of the siRNA nanocomplex for animal studies. We modified the nanocomplex with an insulin growth factor 2 receptor (IGF2R)-specific peptide, which specifically binds to activated HSCs. The siRNA nanocomplex shows a controllable size and high serum stability. The nanocomplex also demonstrates high cellular uptake in activated HSCs in vitro and in vivo. Anti-fibrotic activity of the siRNA nanocomplex was evaluated in rats with carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis. Treatment with the PCBP2 siRNA nanocomplex significantly inhibits the mRNA expressions of PCBP2 and type I collagen in fibrotic liver. Histology study revealed that the siRNA nanocomplex efficiently reduces the protein level of type I collagen and reverses liver fibrosis. Our data suggest that the nanocomplex efficiently delivers the siRNA to fibrotic liver and produces a potent anti-fibrotic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Jain
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Ashutosh Barve
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Zhen Zhao
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - John Peter Fetse
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Hao Liu
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Yuanke Li
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Kun Cheng
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
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20
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Okimoto S, Kuroda S, Tashiro H, Kobayashi T, Taogoshi T, Matsuo H, Ohdan H. Vitamin A-coupled liposomal Rho-kinase inhibitor ameliorates liver fibrosis without systemic adverse effects. Hepatol Res 2019; 49:663-675. [PMID: 30675748 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 01/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM Rho-kinase (ROCK) inhibitor could ameliorate liver fibrosis by suppressing hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. However, because systemic administration of ROCK inhibitor causes serious adverse effects, we developed a drug delivery system selectively delivering ROCK inhibitor to HSCs. Here, we examined whether our developed vitamin A (VA)-coupled liposomal ROCK inhibitor reduced liver fibrosis in rats without causing systemic adverse effects. METHODS LX-2 HSCs were analyzed for morphological changes and the expression of profibrotic proteins. The inhibitory effects of VA-coupled liposomal ROCK inhibitor on liver fibrosis were confirmed in a rat model of liver fibrosis induced by i.p. injection of carbon tetrachloride. The degree of liver fibrosis, biochemical changes, and survival rates were also investigated. RESULTS Vitamin A-coupled liposomal ROCK inhibitor had an effect at approximately 1/100 the amount of the free ROCK inhibitor for inhibiting the activation of LX-2 cells and caused significant decreases in the expression levels of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1. The degree of liver fibrosis was suppressed by treatment with VA-coupled liposomal ROCK inhibitor, and the expression of α-SMA and TGF-β1 in liver tissues was also significantly suppressed. In addition, serum levels of alanine aminotransferase and hyaluronic acid were significantly reduced, and there was no decline in kidney function, which has been noted as a systemic adverse effect of ROCK inhibitor. Furthermore, VA-coupled liposomal ROCK inhibitor improved survival rates in rats with liver fibrosis. CONCLUSION Vitamin A-coupled liposomal ROCK inhibitor efficiently suppressed liver fibrosis without causing systemic adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sho Okimoto
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Applied Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Shintaro Kuroda
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Applied Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Tashiro
- Department of Surgery, National Hospital Organization Kure Medical Center, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Kobayashi
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Applied Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Takanori Taogoshi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Services, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Matsuo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Services, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hideki Ohdan
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Applied Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
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21
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Li Y, Pu S, Liu Q, Li R, Zhang J, Wu T, Chen L, Li H, Yang X, Zou M, Xiao J, Xie W, He J. An integrin-based nanoparticle that targets activated hepatic stellate cells and alleviates liver fibrosis. J Control Release 2019; 303:77-90. [PMID: 31004666 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2019.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) contributes to the development of liver fibrosis. Because of a relatively small population of HSCs in the liver and the lack of specific membrane targeting proteins, HSC-targeted therapy remains a major clinical challenge. Here we first showed that a hallmark of activated HSC (aHSC) is their increased expression of integrin αvβ3. Thus we established sterically stable liposomes that contain the cyclic peptides (cRGDyK) with a high affinity to αvβ3 to achieve aHSC-specific delivery. Our results showed that the cRGDyK-guided liposomes were preferentially internalized by activated HSCs in vitro and in vivo, and the internalization was abolished by excess free cRGDyK or knockdown of αvβ3. In contrast, quiescent HSCs, hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, sinusoidal endothelial cells, or biliary cells showed minimal uptake of the cRGDyK-guided liposomes. When loaded with the hedgehog inhibitor vismodegib, the cRGDyK-guided liposomes inhibited hedgehog pathway signaling specifically in activated HSCs. Moreover, treatment of mice with vismodegib-loaded cRGDyK-liposomes markedly inhibited the fibrogenic phenotype in bile duct ligation- or thioacetamide-treated mice. We conclude that the cRGDyK-guided liposomes can specifically target the activated HSCs, but not quiescent HSCs. This nanoparticle system showed great promise to deliver therapeutic agents to aHSC to treat liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanping Li
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacy and Adverse Drug Reaction, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shiyun Pu
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacy and Adverse Drug Reaction, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qinhui Liu
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacy and Adverse Drug Reaction, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Rui Li
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacy and Adverse Drug Reaction, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jinhang Zhang
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacy and Adverse Drug Reaction, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tong Wu
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacy and Adverse Drug Reaction, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacy and Adverse Drug Reaction, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hong Li
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacy and Adverse Drug Reaction, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuping Yang
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacy and Adverse Drug Reaction, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Min Zou
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jia Xiao
- Institute of Clinical Science, Guangzhou Overseas Chinese Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen Xie
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Jinhan He
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacy and Adverse Drug Reaction, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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22
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Abstract
Activation of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) involves the transition from a quiescent to a proliferative, migratory, and fibrogenic phenotype (i.e., myofibroblast), which is characteristic of liver fibrogenesis. Multiple cellular and molecular signals which contribute to HSC activation have been identified. This review specially focuses on the metabolic changes which impact on HSC activation and fibrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Hou
- Tianjin Second People's Hospital and Tianjin Institute of Hepatology, Tianjin, China.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Wing-Kin Syn
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States.,Section of Gastroenterology, Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, SC, United States
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