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Girardi P, Buono R, Bisazza C, Marchi L, Angeli P, Di Pascoli M. Prognostic value of procalcitonin in patients with cirrhosis hospitalized for acute infection. Dig Liver Dis 2023:S1590-8658(23)00991-X. [PMID: 37845154 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2023.10.004] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In patients with cirrhosis, infections significantly increase the risk of short and long-term mortality. During infection, the levels of procalcitonin increase, but it has not yet been clarified its prognostic value in subjects with cirrhosis. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic role of procalcitonin in patients with liver cirrhosis hospitalized for acute infection, and to compare it with other markers of infection. PATIENTS We included 279 patients hospitalized because of infection, 133 with liver cirrhosis. At admission the levels of the main biochemical parameters of infection, i.e. leukocytes, procalcitonin, C reactive protein and lactate, were considered. RESULTS The duration of hospitalization and antibiotic therapy were longer in patients with cirrhosis, while no difference was observed for mortality. In both groups, a correlation with the duration of hospitalization and antibiotic therapy was observed for high levels of procalcitonin. In the cirrhotic population, in particular, higher procalcitonin values were associated with an increase in the length of hospitalization and antibiotic therapy, suggesting an even greater predictive value for those patients. High levels of leucocytes and lactate were positively associated with the duration of hospitalization, but not with the duration of antibiotic therapy. For mortality, the strongest correlation was found for high serum lactate levels, regardless of the presence of cirrhosis. CONCLUSION In patients with cirrhosis and acute infection, the value of procalcitonin at admission is a good prognostic indicator for the course of hospitalization, and could be useful for guiding the management and treatment of hospitalized patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Girardi
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari, University of Venice, Italy
| | - Raffaele Buono
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Camilla Bisazza
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Luisa Marchi
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Paolo Angeli
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Marco Di Pascoli
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
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Turkseven S, Turato C, Villano G, Ruvoletto M, Guido M, Bolognesi M, Pontisso P, Di Pascoli M. Low-Dose Acetylsalicylic Acid and Mitochondria-Targeted Antioxidant Mitoquinone Attenuate Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis in Mice. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12040971. [PMID: 37107346 PMCID: PMC10135482 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12040971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease. NAFLD can evolve from simple fatty liver to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and ultimately, to cirrhosis. Inflammation and oxidative stress, promoted by mitochondrial dysfunction, play a crucial role in the onset and development of NASH. To date, no therapy has been approved for NAFLD and NASH. The aim of this study is to evaluate if the anti-inflammatory activity of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and the mitochondria-targeted antioxidant effect of mitoquinone could hinder the progression of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. In mice, fatty liver was induced through the administration of a deficient in methionine and choline and rich in fat diet. Two experimental groups were treated orally with ASA or mitoquinone. Histopathologic evaluation of steatosis and inflammation was performed; the hepatic expression of genes associated with inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis was evaluated; the protein expression of IL-10, cyclooxygenase 2, superoxide dismutase 1, and glutathione peroxidase 1 in the liver was analyzed; a quantitative analysis of 15-epi-lipoxin A4 in liver homogenates was performed. Mitoquinone and ASA significantly reduced liver steatosis and inflammation by decreasing the expression of TNFα, IL-6, Serpinb3, and cyclooxygenase 1 and 2 and restoring the anti-inflammatory IL-10. Treatment with mitoquinone and ASA increased the gene and protein expression of antioxidants, i.e., catalase, superoxide dismutase 1, and glutathione peroxidase 1, and decreased the expression of profibrogenic genes. ASA normalized the levels of 15-epi-Lipoxin A4. In mice fed with a deficient in methionine and choline and rich in fat diet, mitoquinone and ASA reduce steatosis and necroinflammation and may represent two effective novel strategies for the treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saadet Turkseven
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, 35100 Padova, Italy
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Izmir 35040, Turkey
| | - Cristian Turato
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Gianmarco Villano
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences-DISCOG, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Mariagrazia Ruvoletto
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Guido
- Pathology ULSS2, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, 31100 Treviso, Italy
| | - Massimo Bolognesi
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Patrizia Pontisso
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Marco Di Pascoli
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, 35100 Padova, Italy
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Pepe V, Angeli P, Di Pascoli M. Combined Pharmacological and Endoscopic Treatment for Worsening Gastroesophageal Varices in Patients with Cirrhosis. Clin Exp Gastroenterol 2022; 15:59-65. [PMID: 35492075 PMCID: PMC9041142 DOI: 10.2147/ceg.s355392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background At the present time, in patients with liver cirrhosis and gastroesophageal varices, primary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding made with combination therapy with non-selective β-blockers (NSBBs) and endoscopic band ligation (EBL) is not recommended. The aim of this study was to evaluate if patients with worsening varices while on NSBBs regimen benefit, in terms of bleeding and survival, from adding treatment with EBL. Methods Patients with cirrhosis and endoscopic finding of gastroesophageal varices with high risk feature (increased variceal size and/or development of red signs) during primary prophylaxis with NSBBs, followed at the Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, University and General Hospital of Padova, Italy, from 2012 to 2019, were retrospectively evaluated. When an increased bleeding risk of the varices was confirmed, patients maintained the pharmacological therapy alone or underwent also EBL. The primary endpoint of the study was the rate of variceal bleeding, the secondary endpoint was mortality at 30 months. Results Compared to patients treated only with NSBBs (n=56), in patients treated also with EBL (n=45), the 30‐month probability of variceal bleeding (29.1% vs 5.1%; P =0.036) was significantly reduced, while the probability of survival was similar (59.6% vs 65.7%; P=0.61). On multivariate analysis, treatment with EBL was found to be a weak protective factor for mortality (HR 0.47, P=0.044). Conclusion In patients with liver cirrhosis, when varices show endoscopic feature of increased haemorrhagic risk, adding EBL to NSBBs is effective in reducing the probability of first bleeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Pepe
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Paolo Angeli
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Marco Di Pascoli
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), University of Padova, Padua, Italy
- Correspondence: Marco Di Pascoli, Department of Medicine, Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), University of Padova, Padua, Italy, Tel +0039 0498212274, Email
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Turkseven S, Bolognesi M, Di Pascoli M. Contribution of Splenic Resistance Arteries to Splanchnic Blood Overflow in Cirrhosis. Dig Dis Sci 2021; 66:796-801. [PMID: 32242304 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-020-06233-2] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In liver cirrhosis, a marked splanchnic vasodilation causes an increase in portal blood flow, contributing to the development of portal hypertension. AIM To evaluate if, in experimental cirrhosis, a different vascular reactivity exists between splenic and mesenteric components of the splanchnic circulation. METHODS Liver cirrhosis was induced in Sprague Dawley rats by common bile duct ligation. In sections of splenic and superior mesenteric arteries, cumulative dose-response curves were obtained. mRNA expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), inducible NOS (iNOS), and prostaglandin I2 synthase (PTGIS) was evaluated. RESULTS In cirrhotic rats, mesenteric but not splenic arteries showed a significant increase in endothelium-dependent relaxation to acetylcholine. In control and cirrhotic rats, COX inhibition alone did not significantly change the response of mesenteric arteries to acetylcholine; after inhibiting also NOS, the relaxation was completely abolished in control but only partially decreased in cirrhotic rats. After the inhibition of COX and NOS, the relaxation to acetylcholine was similarly decreased in splenic arteries from control and cirrhotic animals. The contraction induced by phenylephrine of both mesenteric and splenic arteries was decreased in cirrhotic rats. PTGIS mRNA expression did not differ in splenic and mesenteric arteries from control and cirrhotic rats; in cirrhotic rats, eNOS and iNOS mRNA expression was increased in mesenteric but not in splenic vascular bed. CONCLUSION In cirrhotic rats, a decreased splenic arterial response to vasoconstrictors, rather than an increased response to vasodilators, contributes to splanchnic vasodilation, while in mesenteric arteries also an increased response to vasodilators secondary to, but not only, eNOS and iNOS overexpression, plays a role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saadet Turkseven
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), University of Padova, Padua, Italy.,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Massimo Bolognesi
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Marco Di Pascoli
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), University of Padova, Padua, Italy.
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Villano G, Verardo A, Martini A, Brocco S, Pesce P, Novo E, Parola M, Sacerdoti D, Di Pascoli M, Fedrigo M, Castellani C, Angelini A, Pontisso P, Bolognesi M. Hyperdynamic circulatory syndrome in a mouse model transgenic for SerpinB3. Ann Hepatol 2021; 19:36-43. [PMID: 31607648 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2019.06.021] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES SerpinB3 is a cysteine protease inhibitor involved in several biological activities. It is progressively expressed in chronic liver disease, but not in normal liver. The role in vascular reactivity of this serpin, belonging to the same family of Angiotensin II, is still unknown. Our aim was to evaluate the in vivo and in vitro effects of SerpinB3 on systemic and splanchnic hemodynamics. MATERIAL AND METHODS Different hemodynamic parameters were evaluated by ultrasonography in two colonies of mice (transgenic for human SerpinB3 and C57BL/6J controls) at baseline and after chronic carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) treatment. In vitro SerpinB3 effect on mesenteric microvessels of 5 Wistar-Kyoto rats was analyzed measuring its direct action on: (a) preconstricted arteries, (b) dose-response curves to phenylephrine, before and after inhibition of angiotensin II type 1 receptors with irbesartan. Hearts of SerpinB3 transgenic mice and of the corresponding controls were also analyzed by morphometric assessment. RESULTS In SerpinB3 transgenic mice, cardiac output (51.6±21.5 vs 30.1±10.8ml/min, p=0.003), hepatic artery pulsatility index (0.85±0.13 vs 0.65±0.11, p<0.001) and portal vein blood flow (5.3±3.2 vs 3.1±1.8ml/min, p=0.03) were significantly increased, compared to controls. In vitro, recombinant SerpinB3 had no direct hemodynamic effect on mesenteric arteries, but it increased their sensitivity to phenylephrine-mediated vasoconstriction (p<0.01). This effect was suppressed by inhibiting angiotensin II type-1 receptors. CONCLUSIONS In transgenic mice, SerpinB3 is associated with a hyperdynamic circulatory syndrome-like pattern, possibly mediated by angiotensin receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianmarco Villano
- Dept. of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | | | - Silvia Brocco
- Dept. of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Paola Pesce
- Dept. of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Erica Novo
- Dept. of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Unit of Experimental Medicine and Interuniversity Center for Liver Pathophysiology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Maurizio Parola
- Dept. of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Unit of Experimental Medicine and Interuniversity Center for Liver Pathophysiology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | | | | | - Marny Fedrigo
- Dept. of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Chiara Castellani
- Dept. of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Annalisa Angelini
- Dept. of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Nicoară-Farcău O, Han G, Rudler M, Angrisani D, Monescillo A, Torres F, Casanovas G, Bosch J, Lv Y, Thabut D, Fan D, Hernández-Gea V, García-Pagán JC, Abraldes JG, Nevens F, Caca K, Laleman W, Appenrodt B, Luca A, Vinel JP, Mössner J, Di Pascoli M, Zipprich A, Sauerbruch T, Martinez-Lagares F, Ruiz-del-Arbol L, Sierra A, Guevara C, Jimenez E, Marrero JM, Buceta E, Sanchez J, Castellot A, Penate M, Cruz A, Pena E, Procopeț B, Giráldez Á, Amitrano L, Villanueva C, Ibañez-Samaniego L, Silva-Junior G, Martinez J, Genescà J, Trebicka J, Llop E, Palazon JM, Castellote J, Rodrigues S, Gluud LL, Ferreira CN, Barcelo R, Cañete N, Rodríguez M, Ferlitsch A, Mundi JL, Gronbaek H, Hernández-Guerra M, Sassatelli R, Dell’Era A, Senzolo M, Romero-Gómez M, Casas M, Masnou H, Primignani M, Krag A, Calleja JL, Jansen C, Robic MA, Conejo I, Catalina MV, Albillos A, Alvarado E, Guardascione MA, Tanțău M, Zuo L, Zhu X, Zhao J, Xue H, Jiang Z, Zhuge Y, Zhang C, Sun J, Ding P, Ren W, Li Y, Zhang K, Zhang W, He C, Zhong J, Peng Q, Ma F, Luo J, Zhang M, Wang G, Sun M, Dong J, Bai W, Guo W, Wang Q, Yuan X, Wang Z, Yu T, Luo B, Li X, Yuan J, Han N, Zhu Y, Niu J, Li K, Yin Z, Nie Y, Fischer P, Horia Ștefănescu, Pop A, Laursen SB, Turon F, Baiges A, Ferrusquía-Acosta J, Magaz M, Cerda E, Tellez L, Allegretti G, Macedo G, Haldrup D, Santos P, Moura M, Reis D, Meireles L, Sousa P, Alexandrino P, Navascues C, Augustin S, La Mura V, Bañares R, Diaz R, Gómez ML, Ripoll C. Effects of Early Placement of Transjugular Portosystemic Shunts in Patients With High-Risk Acute Variceal Bleeding: a Meta-analysis of Individual Patient Data. Gastroenterology 2021; 160:193-205.e10. [PMID: 32980344 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2020.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [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: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Compared with drugs plus endoscopy, placement of transjugular portosystemic shunt within 72 hours of admission to the hospital (early or preventive transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt [TIPS], also called preemptive TIPS) increases the proportion of high-risk patients with cirrhosis and acute variceal bleeding who survive for 1 year. However, the benefit of preemptive TIPS is less clear for patients with a Child-Pugh score of B and active bleeding (CP-B+AB). We performed an individual data meta-analysis to assess the efficacy of preemptive TIPS in these patients and identify factors associated with reduced survival of patients receiving preemptive TIPS. METHODS We searched publication databases for randomized controlled trials and observational studies comparing the effects of preemptive TIPS versus endoscopy plus nonselective beta-blockers in the specific population of high-risk patients with cirrhosis and acute variceal bleeding (CP-B+AB or Child-Pugh C, below 14 points), through December 31, 2019. We performed a meta-analysis of data from 7 studies (3 randomized controlled trials and 4 observational studies), comprising 1327 patients (310 received preemptive TIPS and 1017 received drugs plus endoscopy). We built adjusted models to evaluate risk using propensity score for baseline covariates. Multivariate Cox regression models were used to assess the factors associated with survival time. The primary endpoint was effects of preemptive TIPS versus drugs plus endoscopy on 1-year survival in the overall population as well as CP-B+AB and Child-Pugh C patients. RESULTS Overall, preemptive TIPS significantly increased the proportion of high-risk patients with cirrhosis and acute variceal bleeding who survived for 1 year, compared with drugs plus endoscopy (hazard ratio [HR] 0.443; 95% CI 0.323-0.607; P < .001). This effect was observed in CP-B+AB patients (HR 0.524; 95% CI 0.307-0.896; P = .018) and in patients with Child-Pugh C scores below 14 points (HR 0.374; 95% CI 0.253-0.553; P < .001). Preemptive TIPS significantly improved control of bleeding and ascites without increasing risk of hepatic encephalopathy in Child-Pugh C and CP-B+AB patients, compared with drugs plus endoscopy. Cox analysis of patients who received preemptive TIPS showed that patients could be classified into 3 categories for risk of death, based on age, serum level of creatinine, and Child-Pugh score. In each of these risk categories, preemptive TIPS increased the proportion of patients who survived for 1 year, compared with drugs plus endoscopy. CONCLUSIONS In a meta-analysis of data from 1327 patients with cirrhosis, acute variceal bleeding, and Child-Pugh score between 10 and 13 points or CP-B+AB, preemptive TIPS increased the proportion who survived for 1 year, in both subgroups separately, compared with drugs plus endoscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oana Nicoară-Farcău
- Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology "Octavian Fodor", Hepatology Department and "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 3rd Medical Clinic, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Guohong Han
- Department of Liver Diseases and Digestive Interventional Radiology, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases and Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Marika Rudler
- Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière-Charles Foix, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Debora Angrisani
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alberto Monescillo
- Digestive Disease Department, Hospital Universitario Insular de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
| | - Ferran Torres
- Medical Statistics Core Facility, Institut D'Investigacions Biomédiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clinic Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Georgina Casanovas
- Medical Statistics Core Facility, Institut D'Investigacions Biomédiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clinic Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaime Bosch
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain; Hepatology, University Clinic for Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Yong Lv
- Department of Liver Diseases and Digestive Interventional Radiology, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases and Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Dominique Thabut
- Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière-Charles Foix, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Daiming Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases and Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Virginia Hernández-Gea
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos García-Pagán
- Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain.
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Turkseven S, Bolognesi M, Brocca A, Pesce P, Angeli P, Di Pascoli M. Mitochondria-targeted antioxidant mitoquinone attenuates liver inflammation and fibrosis in cirrhotic rats. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2020; 318:G298-G304. [PMID: 31813234 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00135.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [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] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In liver cirrhosis, oxidative stress plays a major role in promoting liver inflammation and fibrosis. Mitochondria dysregulation is responsible for excessive reactive oxygen species production. Therefore, in an experimental model of cirrhosis, we investigated the effect of mitochondria-targeted antioxidant mitoquinone. Liver cirrhosis was induced in Spraque-Dawley rats by common bile duct ligation (CBDL). Mitoquinone (10 mg·kg-1·day-1, oral gavage) or vehicle was administered from 3rd to 28th day after CBDL, when animals were euthanized; liver oxidative stress, inflammation, fibrosis, mitophagy were evaluated; and in vivo and ex vivo hemodynamic studies were performed. In cirrhotic rats, mitoquinone prevented liver inflammation, hepatocyte necrosis, and fibrosis at histological examination; decreased circulating TNF-α, gene expression of transforming growth factor-β1, collagen type 1a1, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, and MMP-13; and reduced hepatic oxidative stress, as shown by reduced oxidative carbonylation of the proteins, by modulating antioxidants catalase, Mn superoxide dismutase, and Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase. Furthermore, mitoquinone attenuated apoptosis by reducing hepatic protein expression of cleaved caspase-3. A selective removal of dysfunctional mitochondria was improved by mitoquinone, as shown by the increase in Parkin translocation to mitochondria. Treatment with mitoquinone normalized the weight of the spleen; however, it increased portal blood flow and reduced splenic artery intrahepatic resistance, suggesting an effect on resistance index. Mitochondria-targeted antioxidant mitoquinone improves liver inflammation and fibrosis in cirrhotic rats by reducing hepatic oxidative stress, preventing apoptosis, and promoting removal of dysfunctional mitochondria. Therefore, it may represent a promising strategy for the prevention and treatment of liver cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saadet Turkseven
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Massimo Bolognesi
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Alessandra Brocca
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Paola Pesce
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Paolo Angeli
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Marco Di Pascoli
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Di Pascoli M, Fasolato S, Piano S, Bolognesi M, Angeli P. Long-term administration of human albumin improves survival in patients with cirrhosis and refractory ascites. Liver Int 2019; 39:98-105. [PMID: 30230204 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [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: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS In patients with cirrhosis, the clinical benefit of the treatment with human albumin for ascites is debated, and no data are available regarding refractory ascites. In this study, in patients with cirrhosis and refractory ascites, we assessed the effect of long-term albumin administration on emergent hospitalization and mortality. METHODS Seventy patients with cirrhosis and refractory ascites, followed at the Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, University and General Hospital of Padova, Italy, were included into the study. Forty-five patients were non-randomly assigned to receive long-term administration of human albumin at the doses of 20 g twice per week (n = 45), in addition to standard medical of care (SOC), and compared to those followed according to SOC. Patients were followed up to the end of the study, liver transplantation or death. RESULTS The cumulative incidence of 24-month mortality was significantly lower in patients treated with albumin than in the group of patients treated with SOC (41.6% vs 65.5%; P = 0.032). The period free of emergent hospitalization was significantly longer in patients treated with long-term administration of albumin (P = 0.008). Analysing separately the causes of inpatient admission, patients treated with albumin showed a reduction in the incidence of overt hepatic encephalopathy, ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) and non-SBP infections. In addition, a non-significant trend towards a reduced probability of hepatorenal syndrome was observed. CONCLUSION In patients with cirrhosis and refractory ascites, long-term treatment with albumin improves survival and reduces the probability of emergent hospitalizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Di Pascoli
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Silvano Fasolato
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Salvatore Piano
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Massimo Bolognesi
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Paolo Angeli
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Di Pascoli M, Sacerdoti D, Pontisso P, Angeli P, Bolognesi M. Molecular Mechanisms Leading to Splanchnic Vasodilation in Liver Cirrhosis. J Vasc Res 2017; 54:92-99. [PMID: 28402977 DOI: 10.1159/000462974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [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: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In liver cirrhosis, portal hypertension is a consequence of enhanced intrahepatic vascular resistance and portal blood flow. Significant vasodilation in the arterial splanchnic district is crucial for an increase in portal flow. In this pathological condition, increased levels of circulating endogenous vasodilators, including nitric oxide, prostacyclin, carbon monoxide, epoxyeicosatrienoic acids, glucagon, endogenous cannabinoids, and adrenomedullin, and a decreased vascular response to vasoconstrictors are the main mechanisms underlying splanchnic vasodilation. In this review, the molecular pathways leading to splanchnic vasodilation will be discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Di Pascoli
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
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Di Pascoli M, Ceranto E, De Nardi P, Donato D, Gatta A, Angeli P, Pontisso P. Hospitalizations Due to Cirrhosis: Clinical Aspects in a Large Cohort of Italian Patients and Cost Analysis Report. Dig Dis 2017; 35:433-438. [PMID: 28245467 DOI: 10.1159/000458722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [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: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 02/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Liver cirrhosis is characterized by high morbidity and mortality rates. This study was addressed to evaluate the epidemiological and economic impact of cirrhosis on hospitalizations in a large population in Italy. METHODS Epidemiological analysis was performed using hospital discharge sheets of 57,720 hospitalizations due to liver disease from 2006 to 2008, selected from the Veneto regional archive. In a sample of 100 randomly selected hospitalizations, a detailed cost analysis was performed and a comparison was made with sets of patients admitted for heart failure (HF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). RESULTS Among patients with cirrhosis, ascites emerged as the most frequent cause of admission, followed by hepatic encephalopathy, hepatocellular carcinoma, and upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Encephalopathy and ascites were the complications with the highest rates of readmission. The detailed cost analysis of hospitalizations revealed that economic expenses in the set of patients admitted for cirrhosis were about 30% higher than those for patients admitted for HF or COPD, mainly due to the longer duration of hospitalization. CONCLUSIONS Cirrhosis has a relevant epidemiological and economic impact on hospitalizations and preventive strategies for its clinical management are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Di Pascoli
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua and Regional Referral Center for Liver Disease, Padua, Italy
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Bolognesi M, Di Pascoli M, Sacerdoti D. Clinical role of non-invasive assessment of portal hypertension. World J Gastroenterol 2017; 23:1-10. [PMID: 28104976 PMCID: PMC5221271 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v23.i1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Revised: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Measurement of portal pressure is pivotal in the evaluation of patients with liver cirrhosis. The measurement of the hepatic venous pressure gradient represents the reference method by which portal pressure is estimated. However, it is an invasive procedure that requires significant hospital resources, including experienced staff, and is associated with considerable cost. Non-invasive methods that can be reliably used to estimate the presence and the degree of portal hypertension are urgently needed in clinical practice. Biochemical and morphological parameters have been proposed for this purpose, but have shown disappointing results overall. Splanchnic Doppler ultrasonography and the analysis of microbubble contrast agent kinetics with contrast-enhanced ultrasonography have shown better accuracy for the evaluation of patients with portal hypertension. A key advancement in the non-invasive evaluation of portal hypertension has been the introduction in clinical practice of methods able to measure stiffness in the liver, as well as stiffness/congestion in the spleen. According to the data published to date, it appears to be possible to rule out clinically significant portal hypertension in patients with cirrhosis (i.e., hepatic venous pressure gradient ≥ 10 mmHg) with a level of clinically-acceptable accuracy by combining measurements of liver stiffness and spleen stiffness along with Doppler ultrasound evaluation. It is probable that the combination of these methods may also allow for the identification of patients with the most serious degree of portal hypertension, and ongoing research is helping to ensure progress in this field.
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Piano S, Romano A, Di Pascoli M, Angeli P. Why and how to measure renal function in patients with liver disease. Liver Int 2017; 37 Suppl 1:116-122. [PMID: 28052631 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [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: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Patients with advanced liver disease frequently have impaired renal function. Both acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are quite common in patients with cirrhosis and both are associated with a worse prognosis in these patients. A careful assessment of renal function is highly important in these patients to help physicians determine their diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutic management and to define transplantation strategies (liver transplantation alone vs simultaneous liver and kidney transplantation). Although they are still widely used in clinical practice, conventional biomarkers of renal function such as serum creatinine have several limitations in these patients. Recent progress has been made in the evaluation of renal function and new diagnostic criteria for AKI have been proposed. However, certain issues such as the noninvasive assessment of the glomerular filtration rate and/or improvement in the differential diagnosis between hepatorenal syndrome and acute tubular necrosis must still be addressed. The purposes of this paper are: (i) to highlight the importance of the evaluation of renal function in patients with cirrhosis; (ii) to review the state of the art in the assessment of renal function in these patients as well as advances that we expect will be made to improve the accuracy of available tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Piano
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Antonietta Romano
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Marco Di Pascoli
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Paolo Angeli
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Di Pascoli M, Zampieri F, Verardo A, Pesce P, Turato C, Angeli P, Sacerdoti D, Bolognesi M. Inhibition of epoxyeicosatrienoic acid production in rats with cirrhosis has beneficial effects on portal hypertension by reducing splanchnic vasodilation. Hepatology 2016; 64:923-30. [PMID: 27312119 DOI: 10.1002/hep.28686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Revised: 05/03/2016] [Accepted: 05/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED In cirrhosis, 11,12-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (EET) induces mesenteric arterial vasodilation, which contributes to the onset of portal hypertension. We evaluated the hemodynamic effects of in vivo inhibition of EET production in experimental cirrhosis. Sixteen control rats and 16 rats with carbon tetrachloride-induced cirrhosis were studied. Eight controls and eight rats with cirrhosis were treated with the specific epoxygenase inhibitor N-(methylsulfonyl)-2-(2-propynyloxy)-benzenehexanamide (MS-PPOH; 20 mg/kg/day) for 3 consecutive days. Portal blood flow and renal and splenic resistive indexes were calculated through echographic measurements, while portal and systemic pressures were measured through polyethylene-50 catheters. Small resistance mesenteric arteries were connected to a pressure servo controller in a video-monitored perfusion system, and concentration-response curves to phenylephrine and acetylcholine were evaluated. EET levels were measured in tissue homogenates of rat liver, kidney, and aorta, using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Urinary Na(+) excretion function was also evaluated. In rats with cirrhosis, treatment with MS-PPOH significantly reduced portal blood flow and portal pressure compared to vehicle (13.6 ± 5.7 versus 25.3 ± 7.1 mL/min/100 g body weight, P < 0.05; 9.6 ± 1.1 versus 12.2 ± 2.3 mm Hg, P < 0.05; respectively) without effects on systemic pressure. An increased response to acetylcholine of mesenteric arteries from rats with cirrhosis (50% effect concentration -7.083 ± 0.197 versus -6.517 ± 0.73 in control rats, P < 0.05) was reversed after inhibition of EET production (-6.388 ± 0.263, P < 0.05). In liver, kidney, and aorta from animals with cirrhosis, treatment with MS-PPOH reversed the increase in EET levels. In both controls and rats with cirrhosis, MS-PPOH increased urinary Na(+) excretion. CONCLUSION In rats with cirrhosis, in vivo inhibition of EET production normalizes the response of mesenteric arteries to vasodilators, with beneficial effects on portal hypertension. (Hepatology 2016;64:923-930).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Paola Pesce
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Paolo Angeli
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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Sacerdoti D, Pesce P, Di Pascoli M, Brocco S, Cecchetto L, Bolognesi M. Arachidonic acid metabolites and endothelial dysfunction of portal hypertension. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2015; 120:80-90. [PMID: 26072731 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2015.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [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: 03/17/2015] [Revised: 05/20/2015] [Accepted: 05/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Increased resistance to portal flow and increased portal inflow due to mesenteric vasodilatation represent the main factors causing portal hypertension in cirrhosis. Endothelial cell dysfunction, defined as an imbalance between the synthesis, release, and effect of endothelial mediators of vascular tone, inflammation, thrombosis, and angiogenesis, plays a major role in the increase of resistance in portal circulation, in the decrease in the mesenteric one, in the development of collateral circulation. Reduced response to vasodilators in liver sinusoids and increased response in the mesenteric arterioles, and, viceversa, increased response to vasoconstrictors in the portal-sinusoidal circulation and decreased response in the mesenteric arterioles are also relevant to the pathophysiology of portal hypertension. Arachidonic acid (AA) metabolites through the three pathways, cyclooxygenase (COX), lipoxygenase, and cytochrome P450 monooxygenase and epoxygenase, are involved in endothelial dysfunction of portal hypertension. Increased thromboxane-A2 production by liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) via increased COX-1 activity/expression, increased leukotriens, increased epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) (dilators of the peripheral arterial circulation, but vasoconstrictors of the portal-sinusoidal circulation), represent a major component in the increased portal resistance, in the decreased portal response to vasodilators and in the hyper-response to vasoconstrictors. Increased prostacyclin (PGI2) via COX-1 and COX-2 overexpression, and increased EETs/heme-oxygenase-1/K channels/gap junctions (endothelial derived hyperpolarizing factor system) play a major role in mesenteric vasodilatation, hyporeactivity to vasoconstrictors, and hyper-response to vasodilators. EETs, mediators of liver regeneration after hepatectomy and of angiogenesis, may play a role in the development of regenerative nodules and collateral circulation, through stimulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inside the liver and in the portal circulation. Pharmacological manipulation of AA metabolites may be beneficial for cirrhotic portal hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Sacerdoti
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova Via Giustiniani, 2, 35100 Padova, Italy.
| | - Paola Pesce
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova Via Giustiniani, 2, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Marco Di Pascoli
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova Via Giustiniani, 2, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Silvia Brocco
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova Via Giustiniani, 2, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Lara Cecchetto
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova Via Giustiniani, 2, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Massimo Bolognesi
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova Via Giustiniani, 2, 35100 Padova, Italy
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Gatta A, Verardo A, Di Pascoli M, Giannini S, Bolognesi M. Hepatic osteodystrophy. Clin Cases Miner Bone Metab 2014; 11:185-191. [PMID: 25568651 PMCID: PMC4269141] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic disturbances of bone are frequent in patients with chronic liver disease. The prevalence of osteoporosis among patients with advanced chronic liver disease is reported between 12% and 55%; it is higher in primary biliary cirrhosis. All patients with advanced liver disease should be screened for osteoporosis with a densitometry, especially if the etiology is cholestatic and in the presence of other risk factors. Clinical relevance of hepatic osteodystrophy increases after liver transplantation. After liver transplant, a rapid loss of bone mineral density can be detected in the first 6 months, followed by stabilization and slight improvement of the values. At the time of transplantation, bone density values are very important prognostic factors. Therapy of hepatic osteodystrophy is based primarily on the control of risk factors: cessation of tobacco and alcohol assumption, reduction of caffeine ingestion, exercise, supplementation of calcium and vitamin D, limitation of drugs such as loop diuretics, corticosteroids, cholestyramine. Bisphosphonates have been proposed for the therapy of osteoporosis in patients with liver disease, particularly after liver transplantation. The possible side effects of oral administration of bisphosphonates, such as the occurrence of esophageal ulcerations, are of particular concern in patients with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension, due to the risk of gastrointestinal hemorrhage from ruptured esophageal varices, although this risk is probably overestimated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Massimo Bolognesi
- Address for correspondence: Massimo Bolognesi, MD, PhD, Department of Internal Medicine - DIMED, University of Padua, Azienda Ospedaliera Università di Padova, Clinica Medica 5, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padua, Italy, Phone: +39 049 8212383 - Fax: +39 049 8754179, E-mail:
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Bolognesi M, Verardo A, Pascoli MD. Peculiar characteristics of portal-hepatic hemodynamics of alcoholic cirrhosis. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:8005-8010. [PMID: 25009370 PMCID: PMC4081669 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i25.8005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2013] [Revised: 12/31/2013] [Accepted: 02/27/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcohol-related cirrhosis is a consequence of heavy and prolonged drinking. Similarly to patients with cirrhosis of other etiologies, patients with alcoholic cirrhosis develop portal hypertension and the hepatic, splanchnic and systemic hemodynamic alterations that follow. However, in alcoholic cirrhosis, some specific features can be observed. Compared to viral cirrhosis, in alcohol-related cirrhosis sinusoidal pressure is generally higher, hepatic venous pressure gradient reflects portal pressure better, the portal flow perfusing the liver is reduced despite an increase in liver weight, the prevalence of reversal portal blood flow is higher, a patent paraumbilical vein is a more common finding and signs of hyperdynamic circulations, such as an increased cardiac output and decreased systemic vascular resistance, are more pronounced. Moreover, alcohol consumption can acutely increase portal pressure and portal-collateral blood flow. Alcoholic cardiomyopathy, another pathological consequence of prolonged alcohol misuse, may contribute to the hemodynamic changes occurring in alcohol-related cirrhosis. The aim of this review was to assess the portal-hepatic changes that occur in alcohol-related cirrhosis, focusing on the differences observed in comparison with patients with viral cirrhosis. The knowledge of the specific characteristics of this pathological condition can be helpful in the management of portal hypertension and its complications in patients with alcohol-related cirrhosis.
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Bolognesi M, Di Pascoli M, Verardo A, Gatta A. Splanchnic vasodilation and hyperdynamic circulatory syndrome in cirrhosis. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:2555-2563. [PMID: 24627591 PMCID: PMC3949264 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i10.2555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2013] [Revised: 11/08/2013] [Accepted: 11/30/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Portal hypertension is a clinical syndrome which leads to several clinical complications, such as the formation and rupture of esophageal and/or gastric varices, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy and hepato-renal syndrome. In cirrhosis, the primary cause of the increase in portal pressure is the enhanced resistance to portal outflow. However, also an increase in splanchnic blood flow worsens and maintains portal hypertension. The vasodilatation of arterial splanchnic vessels and the opening of collateral circulation are the determinants of the increased splanchnic blood flow. Several vasoactive systems/substances, such as nitric oxide, cyclooxygenase-derivatives, carbon monoxide and endogenous cannabinoids are activated in portal hypertension and are responsible for the marked splanchnic vasodilatation. Moreover, an impaired reactivity to vasoconstrictor systems, such as the sympathetic nervous system, vasopressin, angiotensin II and endothelin-1, plays a role in this process. The opening of collateral circulation occurs through the reperfusion and dilatation of preexisting vessels, but also through the generation of new vessels. Splanchnic vasodilatation leads to the onset of the hyperdynamic circulatory syndrome, a syndrome which occurs in patients with portal hypertension and is characterized by increased cardiac output and heart rate, and decreased systemic vascular resistance with low arterial blood pressure. Understanding the pathophysiology of splanchnic vasodilatation and hyperdynamic circulatory syndrome is mandatory for the prevention and treatment of portal hypertension and its severe complications.
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Di Pascoli M, Diví M, Rodríguez-Vilarrupla A, Rosado E, Gracia-Sancho J, Vilaseca M, Bosch J, García-Pagán JC. Resveratrol improves intrahepatic endothelial dysfunction and reduces hepatic fibrosis and portal pressure in cirrhotic rats. J Hepatol 2013; 58:904-10. [PMID: 23262250 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2012.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2012] [Revised: 11/29/2012] [Accepted: 12/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in a variety of fruits, exerts a wide range of beneficial effects on the endothelium, regulates multiple vasoactive substances and decreases oxidative stress, factors involved in the pathophysiology of portal hypertension. Our study aimed at evaluating the effects of resveratrol on hepatic and systemic hemodynamics, hepatic endothelial dysfunction, and hepatic fibrosis in CCl₄ cirrhotic rats. METHODS Resveratrol (10 and 20 mg/kg/day) or its vehicle was administered to cirrhotic rats for two weeks and hepatic and systemic hemodynamics were measured. Moreover, we evaluated endothelial function by dose-relaxation curves to acetylcholine, hepatic NO bioavailability and TXA2 production. We also evaluated liver fibrosis by Sirius Red staining of liver sections, collagen-1, NFκB, TGFβ mRNA expression, and desmin and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) protein expression, as a surrogate of hepatic stellate cell activation. RESULTS Resveratrol administration significantly decreased portal pressure compared to vehicle (12.1 ± 0.9 vs. 14.3 ± 2.2 mmHg; p <0.05) without significant changes in systemic hemodynamics. Reduction in portal pressure was associated with an improved vasodilatory response to acetylcholine, with decreased TXA2 production, increased endothelial NO, and with a significant reduction in liver fibrosis. The decrease in hepatic fibrosis was associated with a reduced collagen-1, TGFβ, NFκB mRNA expression and desmin and α-SMA protein expression. CONCLUSIONS Resveratrol administration reduces portal pressure, hepatic stellate cell activation and liver fibrosis, and improves hepatic endothelial dysfunction in cirrhotic rats, suggesting it may be a useful dietary supplement in the treatment of portal hypertension in patients with cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Di Pascoli
- Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer and Ciberehd, University of Barcelona, Spain
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Garcia-Pagán JC, Di Pascoli M, Caca K, Laleman W, Bureau C, Appenrodt B, Luca A, Zipprich A, Abraldes JG, Nevens F, Vinel JP, Sauerbruch T, Bosch J. Use of early-TIPS for high-risk variceal bleeding: results of a post-RCT surveillance study. J Hepatol 2013; 58:45-50. [PMID: 22940408 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2012.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2012] [Revised: 08/22/2012] [Accepted: 08/23/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS In a recent randomized international clinical trial (RCT) in high-risk cirrhotic patients with acute variceal bleeding, the early use of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) was associated with marked and significant reductions in both treatment failure and mortality. The aim of this study was to confirm these results in clinical practice in the same centers of the RCT study. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed patients admitted for acute variceal bleeding and high risk of treatment failure (Child C <14 or Child B plus active bleeding), treated with early-TIPS (n=45) or drugs+endoscopic therapy (ET) (n=30). RESULTS Patients treated with early-TIPS had a much lower incidence of failure to control bleeding or rebleeding than patients receiving drug+ET (3 vs. 15; p <0.001). The 1-year actuarial probability of remaining free of this composite end point was 93% vs. 53% (p <0.001). The same was observed in mortality (1-year actuarial survival was 86% vs. 70% respectively; p=0.056). Actuarial curves of failure to control bleeding+rebleeding and of survival were well within the confidence intervals of those observed in the RCT. CONCLUSIONS This study supports the early use of TIPS in patients with cirrhosis and a high-risk variceal bleeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Carlos Garcia-Pagán
- Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, Institut de Malalties Digestives i Metaboliques, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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Piva A, Zampieri F, Di Pascoli M, Gatta A, Sacerdoti D, Bolognesi M. Mesenteric arteries responsiveness to acute variations of wall shear stress is impaired in rats with liver cirrhosis. Scand J Gastroenterol 2012; 47:1003-13. [PMID: 22774919 DOI: 10.3109/00365521.2012.703231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In liver cirrhosis, excessive splanchnic vasodilation is due to abnormal synthesis of endogenous vasodilators and to decreased sensitivity to vasoconstrictors. The role of mechanical stimuli such as wall shear stress (WSS) on splanchnic circulation remains unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the vasodilation induced by wall shear stress (WSS) and acute changes in blood flow in the mesenteric arteries in an experimental model of liver cirrhosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS The effect of acute changes in intraluminal flow (0, 10, and 20 μl/min) and WSS on the diameter of the mesenteric arteries (diameters <500 μm) of control and cirrhotic rats was assessed, at baseline and after the inhibition of nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase and hemeoxygenase. Concentration-response curves to phenylephrine were also obtained. RESULTS In controls, the increase in intraluminal flow led to a significant increase in arterial diameter (p < 0.05), while WSS remained stable; the effect was maintained in vessels pre-constricted with phenylephrine, blocked by the exposure to indomethacin and L-NAME and restored by the subsequent addition of chromium mesoporphyrin (p < 0.05). In cirrhotic arteries, arterial diameters did not change in response to acute increase in flow, neither at baseline nor after exposure to indomethacin and L-NAME, while WSS increased (p < 0.01). Responsiveness to flow was partially restored (p < 0.05) after exposure of the arteries to chromium mesoporphyrin in addition to indomethacin and L-NAME. CONCLUSIONS Arteries from cirrhotic rats showed an abolished responsiveness to acute variations in flow, which exposes the mesenteric endothelium to sudden variations in WSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Piva
- Clinica Medica 5, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
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Bolognesi M, Zampieri F, Di Pascoli M, Verardo A, Turato C, Calabrese F, Lunardi F, Pontisso P, Angeli P, Merkel C, Gatta A, Sacerdoti D. Increased myoendothelial gap junctions mediate the enhanced response to epoxyeicosatrienoic acid and acetylcholine in mesenteric arterial vessels of cirrhotic rats. Liver Int 2011; 31:881-90. [PMID: 21645220 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2011.02509.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cirrhotic portal hypertension is characterized by mesenteric arterial vasodilation and hyporeactivity to vasoconstrictors. AIM We evaluated the role of epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (EET) and of myoendothelial gap junctions (GJ) in the haemodynamic alterations of experimental cirrhosis. METHODS Thirty-five control rats and 35 rats with carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4))-induced cirrhosis were studied. Small resistance mesenteric arteries (diameter <350 μm) were connected to a pressure servo controller in a video-monitored perfusion system. Concentration-response curves to acetylcholine (ACh) were evaluated in mesenteric arteries pre-incubated with indomethacin, N(G)-nitro-L-arginine-methyl-ester and 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one before and after the epoxygenase inhibitor miconazole or 18α-glycyrrhetinic acid (18α-GA) (GJ inhibitor). EC(50) was calculated. Concentration-response curves to 11,12-EET were also evaluated. mRNA and protein expression of connexins (Cxs) in the mesenteric arteries was evaluated by real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS The ACh response was increased in cirrhotic rats (EC(50): -6.55±0.10 vs. -6.01±0.10 log[M]; P<0.01) and was blunted by miconazole only in cirrhotic animals. 18α-GA blunted the response to ACh more in cirrhotic than that in control rats (P<0.05). Concentration-response curves to 11,12-EET showed an increased endothelium-dependent vasodilating response in cirrhotic rats (P<0.05); the BK(Ca) inhibitor Iberiotoxin (25 nM) blocked the response in normal rats but not in cirrhotic rats, while 18α-GA blunted the response in cirrhotic rats but not in control rats. An increased mRNA and protein expression of Cx40 and Cx43 in cirrhotic arteries was detected (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS The increased nitric oxide/PGI(2)-independent vasodilation of mesenteric arterial circulation in cirrhosis is because of, at least in part, hyperreactivity to 11,12-EET through an increased expression of myoendothelial GJs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Bolognesi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.
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Bolognesi M, Sacerdoti D, Piva A, Di Pascoli M, Zampieri F, Quarta S, Motterlini R, Angeli P, Merkel C, Gatta A. Carbon monoxide-mediated activation of large-conductance calcium-activated potassium channels contributes to mesenteric vasodilatation in cirrhotic rats. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2007; 321:187-94. [PMID: 17229879 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.106.116665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Large-conductance calcium-activated potassium channels (BK(Ca)s) are important regulators of arterial tone and represent a mediator of the endogenous vasodilator carbon monoxide (CO). Because an up-regulation of the heme oxygenase (HO)/CO system has been associated with mesenteric vasodilatation of cirrhosis, we analyzed the interactions of BK(Ca) and of HO/CO in the endothelium-dependent dilatation of mesenteric arteries in ascitic cirrhotic rats. In pressurized mesenteric arteries (diameter, 170-350 microm) of ascitic cirrhotic rats, we evaluated the effect of inhibition of BK(Ca), HO, and guanylyl-cyclase on dilatation induced by acetylcholine and by exogenous CO; and HO-1 and BK(Ca) subunit protein expression. Inhibition of HO and of BK(Ca) reduced acetylcholine-induced vasodilatation more in cirrhotic rats than in control rats, whereas inhibition of guanylyl-cyclase had a similar effect in the two groups. CO was more effective in cirrhotic rats than in control rats, and the effect was hindered by BK(Ca) inhibition. The expression of HO-1 and of BK(Ca) alpha-subunit was higher in mesenteric arteries of cirrhotic rats compared with that of control animals, whereas the expression of the BK(Ca) beta1-subunit was lower. In conclusion, an overexpression of BK(Ca) alpha-subunits, possibly due to HO up-regulation with increased CO production, participates in the endothelium-dependent alterations and mesenteric arterial vasodilatation of ascitic cirrhotic rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Bolognesi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
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Sacerdoti D, Colombrita C, Di Pascoli M, Schwartzman ML, Bolognesi M, Falck JR, Gatta A, Abraham NG. 11,12-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid stimulates heme-oxygenase-1 in endothelial cells. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2006; 82:155-61. [PMID: 17164143 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2006.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2006] [Revised: 07/06/2006] [Accepted: 07/07/2006] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
As epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs), particularly 11,12-EET, and the heme oxygenase/carbon monoxide (HO/CO) system share overlapping biological activities, we examined a possible link between 11,12-EET and HO activity in endothelial cells. Confocal microscopy analysis of immunostaining of HO-1 and HO-2 in cultured endothelial cells treated with 11,12-EET (1 microM) showed an increase in florescence of HO-1 protein in the various cellular compartments, but not of HO-2. Incubation of endothelial cells with 11,12-EET (1 microM) for 24 h increased the level of HO-1 protein by about three-fold. Similarly, incubation of endothelial cells with 8,9-EET and sodium nitroprussiate, a known inducer of HO-1, increased HO-1 protein without any effect on HO-2. Upregulation of HO-1 by 11,12-EET, as well as 8,9-EET, was associated with an increase in HO activity, which was inhibited by stannous mesoporphirin (10 microM). Incubation of rat aortas with 11,12-EET (1 microM for 60 min) increased HO activity. These findings identify a novel effect of EETs on endothelial HO-1 and indicate that the signaling pathway of EETs in endothelial cells is possibly via an increase in HO-1 expression and activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Sacerdoti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Clinica Medica 5, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100 Padova, Italy.
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Sacerdoti D, Bolognesi M, Di Pascoli M, Gatta A, McGiff JC, Schwartzman ML, Abraham NG. Rat mesenteric arterial dilator response to 11,12-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid is mediated by activating heme oxygenase. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2006; 291:H1999-2002. [PMID: 16798831 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00082.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
11,12-Epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (11,12-EET), a potent vasodilator produced by the endothelium, acts on calcium-activated potassium channels and shares biological activities with the heme oxygenase/carbon monoxide (HO/CO) system. We examined whether activation of HO mediates the dilator action of 11,12-EET, and that of the other EETs, on rat mesenteric arteries. Dose-response curves (10(-9) to 10(-6) M) to 5,6-EET, 8,9-EET, 11,12-EET, 14,15-EET, and ACh (10(-9) to 10(-4) M) were evaluated in preconstricted (10(-6) mol/l phenylephrine) mesenteric arteries (<350 microm diameter) in the presence or absence of 1) the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin (2.8 microM), 2) the HO inhibitor chromium mesoporphyrin (CrMP) (15 microM), 3) the soluble guanylyl cyclase (GC) inhibitor ODQ (10 microM), and 4) the calcium-activated potassium channel inhibitor iberiotoxin (25 nM). The vasodilator response to 11,12-EET was abolished by CrMP and iberiotoxin, whereas indomethacin and ODQ had no effect. In contrast, the effect of ACh was attenuated by ODQ but not by CrMP. The vasodilator effect of 8,9-EET, like that of 11,12-EET, was greatly attenuated by HO inhibition. In contrast, the mesenteric vasodilator response to 5,6-EET was independent of both HO and GC, whereas that to 14,15-EET demonstrated two components, an HO and a GC, of equal magnitude. Incubation of mesenteric microvessels with 11,12-EET caused a 30% increase in CO release, an effect abolished by inhibition of HO. We conclude that the rat mesenteric vasodilator action of 11,12-EET is mediated via an increase in HO activity and an activation of calcium-activated potassium channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Sacerdoti
- Dept. of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Univ. of Padova, Italy, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100 Padova, Italy.
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Di Pascoli M, Rodella L, Sacerdoti D, Bolognesi M, Turkseven S, Abraham NG. Chronic CO levels has a beneficial effect on vascular relaxation in diabetes. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2006; 340:935-43. [PMID: 16403456 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2005.12.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2005] [Accepted: 12/12/2005] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Heme oxygenase (HO) has been shown to provide cytoprotection to the vascular system in diabetes. Isolated femoral arteries from diabetic rats treated with cobalt protoporphyrin (CoPP) exhibited increased relaxation to acetylcholine (ACh), which was markedly decreased in control diabetic rats. In control rats treated with either CoPP or with CO releasing molecules-3 (CORM-3), but not in rats treated with biliverdin, we observed an increased dilatory response to ACh. The inhibition of guanylyl-cyclase (GC) with 1H-[1,2,4]Oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ) caused a contractile response to ACh in control rats and in biliverdin-treated rats, while in rats treated with CoPP and CORM-3, the ACh dilatory effect was only decreased. Moreover, the inhibition of HO with chromium mesoporphyrin did not change the response to ACh in rats treated with CoPP, suggesting that the improving effect of overproduction of CO on vascular reactivity is due to a decrease in iNOS and the beneficial effect on vascular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Di Pascoli
- Department of Pharmacology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
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