CCl4-induced Hepatic Fibrosis Research Articles

Transcriptomic analysis reveals pharmacological mechanisms mediating efficacy of Yangyinghuoxue Decoction in CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats

Background and purposeAs a traditional Chinese medicine formula, Yangyinghuoxue Decoction (YYHXD) is used clinically for therapy of hepatic fibrosis. The pharmacological profile of YYHXD comprises multiple components acting on many targets and pathways, but the pharmacological mechanisms underlying its efficacy have not been thoroughly elucidated. This study aimed at probing the pharmacological mechanisms of YYHXD in the treatment of hepatic fibrosis.MethodsYYHXD aqueous extract was prepared and quality control using HPLC-MS fingerprint analysis was performed. A CCl4-induced rat model of hepatic fibrosis was established, and animals were randomly assigned to six groups: control, low-dose YYHXD (L-YYHXD), medium-dose YYHXD (M-YYHXD), high-dose YYHXD (H-YYHXD), CCl4 model, and colchicine group. Rats in the treatment groups received daily oral administration of YYHXD (5, 10, or 20 g/kg) or colchicine (0.2 mg/kg) for 6 weeks, while the control and model groups received distilled water. Histological analysis, including hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and Masson’s trichrome staining, was performed to evaluate hepatic fibrosis. Serum biochemical markers, such as AST, ALT, HA, and LN, were measured. Inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) and oxidative stress indicators (SOD, GSH-Px, and MDA) in hepatic tissue were also assessed. Additionally, transcriptomic analysis using RNA-sequencing was conducted to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the control, CCl4 model, and H-YYHXD groups. Bioinformatics analysis, including differential expression analysis, protein-protein interaction analysis, and functional enrichment analysis, were performed to probe the pharmacological mechanisms of YYHXD. The regulatory effects of YYHXD on fatty acid metabolism and biosynthesis were further confirmed by Oil Red O staining, enzyme activity assays, qPCR, and Western blotting. Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining also validated the involvement of the AMPK signaling pathway in the occurrence and progression of hepatic fibrosis.ResultsHE and Masson’s trichrome staining revealed reduced collagen deposition and improved liver architecture in YYHXD groups compared to the CCl4 model group. Serum biochemical markers, including AST, ALT, HA, and LN, were significantly improved in the YYHXD-treated groups compared to the CCl4 model group. The levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) and oxidative stress indicators (decreased SOD and GSH-Px, increased MDA) in hepatic tissue were significantly ameliorated by YYHXD treatment compared to the CCl4 model group. Moreover, 96 genes implicated in YYHXD therapy of hepatic fibrosis were screened from the transcriptomic data, which were principally enriched in biological pathways such as fatty acid metabolism and biosynthesis, and the AMPK signaling pathway. Oil Red O staining showed reduced hepatic lipid accumulation by YYHXD in a dose-dependent manner, along with decreased serum TG, TC, and LDL-C levels. Additionally, qPCR and Western blot analyses demonstrated upregulated mRNA and protein expression of key enzymes involved in fatty acid metabolism and biosynthesis, Fasn and Fads2, modulated by YYHXD. YYHXD also dose-dependently enhanced phosphorylation of AMPK as evidenced by Western blotting and immunofluorescence assays.ConclusionYYHXD ameliorated CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats through pharmacological mechanisms that involved manifold targets and pathways, including aliphatic acid synthesis and metabolism pathways and the AMPK signaling pathway. This study provided a reference and basis for further research and clinical utilization of YYHXD.

Arbutin ameliorates liver fibrosis in mice by inhibiting macrophage recruitment and regulating the Akt/NF-κB and Smad signaling pathways

To investigate the protective effect of arbutin against CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice and explore the underlying mechanisms. Twenty-four C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into control group, model group, and low- and high-dose arbutin treatment (25 and 50 mg/kg, respectively) groups. Mouse models of liver fibrosis were established by intraperitoneal injection of CCl4, and arbutin was administered daily via gavage for 6 weeks. After the treatments, serum biochemical parameters of the mice were tested, and liver tissues were taken for HE staining, Sirius Red staining and immunohistochemical staining. RT-qPCR was used to detect the mRNA levels of α-SMA, Pdgfb, Col1α1, Timp-1, Ccl2 and Tnf-a, and Western blotting was performed to detect α-SMA protein expression in the liver tissues. In the cell experiment, the effect of arbutin treatment for 24 h on THP-1 and RAW264.7 cell migration and recruitment was examined using Transwell migration assay and DAPI staining; The changes in protein levels of Akt, p65, Smad3, p-Akt, p-p65, p-Smad3 and α-SMA in arbutintreated LX-2 cells were detected with Western blotting. Arbutin treatment significantly lowered serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels, alleviated liver tissue damage and collagen deposition, and reduced macrophage infiltration and α-SMA protein expression in the liver of the mouse models (P < 0.05 or 0.001). Arbutin treatment also significantly reduced CCl4-induced elevation of a-SMA, Pdgfb, Col1α1, Timp-1, Ccl2 and Tnf-a mRNA levels in mice (P < 0.05). In the cell experiment, arbutin treatment obviously inhibited migration and recruitment of THP-1 and RAW264.7 cells and lowered the phosphorylation levels of Akt, p65 and Smad3 and the protein expression level of α-SMA in LX-2 cells. Arbutin ameliorates liver inflammation and fibrosis in mice by inhibiting hepatic stellate cell activation via reducing macrophage recruitment and infiltration and suppressing activation of the Akt/NF-κB and Smad signaling pathways.

Gut microbes combined with metabolomics reveal the protective effects of Qijia Rougan decoction against CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis.

Background: The occurrence and development of Hepatic fibrosis (HF) are closely related to the gut microbial composition and alterations in host metabolism. Qijia Rougan decoction (QJ) is a traditional Chinese medicine compound utilized clinically for the treatment of HF with remarkable clinical efficacy. However, its effect on the gut microbiota and metabolite alterations is unknown. Therefore, our objective was to examine the impact of QJ on the gut microbiota and metabolism in Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced HF. Methods: 40% CCl4 was used to induce HF, followed by QJ administration for 6weeks. Serum biochemical analyses, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR, 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and non-targeted metabolomics techniques were employed in this study to investigate the interventional effects of QJ on a CCl4-induced HF model in rats. Results: This study demonstrated that QJ could effectively ameliorate CCl4-induced hepatic inflammation and fibrosis. Moreover, QJ upregulated the expression of intestinal tight junction proteins (TJPs) and notably altered the abundance of some gut microbes, for example, 10 genera closely associated with HF-related indicators and TJPs. In addition, metabolomics found 37 key metabolites responded to QJ treatment and strongly associated with HF-related indices and TJPs. Furthermore, a tight relation between 10 genera and 37 metabolites was found post correlation analysis. Among them, Turicibacter, Faecalibaculum, Prevotellaceae UCG 001, and unclassified Peptococcaceae may serve as the core gut microbes of QJ that inhibit HF. Conclusion: These results suggest that QJ ameliorates hepatic inflammation and fibrosis, which may be achieved by improving intestinal tight junctions and modulating gut microbiota composition as well as modulating host metabolism.

Novel protein C6ORF120 promotes liver fibrosis by activating hepatic stellate cells through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway.

The role of C6ORF120 in promoting CCL4-induced hepatic fibrosis and its possible mechanisms were explored in C6orf120 knockout rats (C6orf120-/-) and LX-2 cells (a type of human hepatic stellate cell line). In vivo experiments, wild-type and C6orf120-/- rats were used to investigate the function of C6ORF120. In the in vitro experiments, C6ORF120 recombinant protein (rC6ORF120) at a concentration of 200ng/mL was used to stimulate LX-2 cells. Sirius Red staining, Masson staining, western blotting, polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence were used to explore fibrosis-associated factors. C6orf120-/- rats showed mild fibrosis and liver injury in the CCL4-induced liver fibrosis model. Furthermore, RNA-seq revealed that C6orf120-/- rats had less extracellular matrix deposition and activated stellate cells. Consistent with the in vivo, the rC6ORF120 induced LX-2 cell activation. Moreover, mechanistic studies revealed that the p-PI3K/PI3K, p-Akt/Akt, and p-mTOR/mTOR levels were significantly elevated and LY294002 (a PI3K/Akt/mTOR typical pathway inhibitor) reversed the function of C6ORF120 in activating LX-2 cells. C6ORF120 could activate hepatic stellate cells and promote hepatic fibrosis via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.

Network pharmacology and transcriptomic profiling elucidate the therapeutic effects of Ranunculus ternatus Thunb on liver fibrosis via MK3-NF-κB inhibition.

Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is critical in the progression of liver fibrosis and is a promising target for anti-hepatic fibrosis drug development. Moreover, effective pharmacological interventions targeting this pathomechanism are scarce. Our study confirms the therapeutic value of β-sitosterol, a major constituent of Ranunculus ternatus Thunb, in hepatic fibrosis and identifies its underlying mechanisms. After treatment with β-sitosterol, CCL4-induced hepatic fibrosis was reversed in mice, while inflammatory and hepatic fibrosis indices were improved. Meanwhile, we explored the molecular mechanism of β-sitosterol treatment for hepatic fibrosis and, based on RNA-seq results, found that the ameliorative effect of β-sitosterol on hepatic fibrosis was associated with the MK3 and NF-κB signalling pathways. MK3, an important kinase in the MAPK pathway, plays a role in transmitting upstream and downstream signals, whereas the NF-κB signalling pathway has been shown to be associated with HSC activation. We verified the interaction between MK3 and IκB in HSC cells using endogenous Co-IP, whereas β-sitosterol reduced the binding of MK3 to IκB and the activation of the NF-κB signalling pathway. Our findings reveal the mechanism of β-sitosterol in the treatment of liver fibrosis, suggesting that β-sitosterol may be a promising drug for the treatment of liver fibrosis and deserves further investigation.

Bioengineered MSCGFPCxcr2-Mmp13 Transplantation Alleviates Hepatic Fibrosis by Regulating Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Signaling.

Aims: Hepatic fibrosis is the pathological change during chronic liver diseases (CLD) that turns into cirrhosis if not reversed timely. Allogenic mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy is an alternative to liver transplantation for CLD. However, poor engraftment of the transplanted MSCs limits their therapeutic efficacy. MSCs express chemokine receptors that regulate their physiology. We observed several-fold increased expressions of Cxcl3 and decreased expression of Mmp13 in the fibrotic liver. Therefore, we bioengineered MSCs with stable overexpression of Cxcr2 (CXCL3-cognate receptor) and Mmp13, collagenase (MSCGFPCxcr2-Mmp13). Results: The CXCL3/CXCR2 axis significantly increased migration through the activation of AKT/ERK/mTOR signaling. These bioengineered MSCs transdifferentiated into hepatocyte-like cells (MSCGFPCxcr2-Mmp13-HLCs) that endured the drug-/hepatotoxicant-induced toxicity by significantly increasing the antioxidants-Nrf2 and Sod2, while decreasing the apoptosis-Cyt C, Casp3, Casp9, and drug-metabolizing enzyme-Cyp1A1, Cyp1A2, Cyp2E1 markers. Therapeutic transplantation of MSCGFPCxcr2-Mmp13 abrogated AAP-/CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice by CXCR2-mediated targeted engraftment and MMP-13-mediated reduction in collagen. Mechanistically, induction of CXCL3/CXCR2 axis-activated mTOR-p70S6K signaling led to increased targeted engraftment and modulation of the oxidative stress by increasing the expression and activity of nuclear Nrf2 and SOD2 expression in the regenerated hepatic tissues. A marked change in the fate of transplanted MSCGFPCxcr2-Mmp13 toward hepatocyte lineage demonstrated by co-immunostaining of GFP/HNF4α along with reduced COL1α1 facilitated the regeneration of the fibrotic liver. Innovation and Conclusions: Our study suggests the therapeutic role of allogenic Cxcr2/Mmp13-bioengineered MSC transplantation decreases the hepatic oxidative stress as an effective translational therapy for hepatic fibrosis mitigation-mediated liver regeneration.

RNA-seq combined network pharmacology reveals that Fu-Gan-Wan (FGW) inhibits liver fibrosis via NF-κB/CCL2/CCR2 and lipid peroxidation via Nrf2/HMOX1 signaling pathway

Ethnopharmacological relevanceLiver fibrosis is a serious complication of liver disease characterized by excessive collagen deposition, without effective therapeutic agents in the clinic. Fu-Gan-Wan (FGW) is an empirical formula used for the clinical treatment of hepatitis and cirrhosis. It has been shown to reverse experimental liver fibrosis. However, its corresponding mechanisms remain unclear. Aim of the reviewThis study aimed to elucidate the key pathways and target genes of FGW in attenuating liver fibrosis. Materials and methodsThe therapeutic effects of different doses of FGW on liver fibrosis were investigated using a 2 mL/kg 15% CCl4-induced mouse model. Then, RNA-seq combined with network pharmacology was used to analyze the key biological processes and signaling pathways underlying the anti-liver fibrosis exertion of FGW. These findings were validated in a TGF-β1-induced model of activation and proliferation of mouse hepatic stellate cell line JS-1. Finally, the key signaling pathways and molecular targets were validated using animal tissues, and the effect of FGW on tissue lipid peroxidation was additionally observed. ResultsWe found that 19.5 g/kg FGW significantly down-regulated CCl4-induced elevation of hepatic ALT and AST, decreased collagen deposition, and inhibited the expression of pro-fibrotic factors α-SMA, COL1α1, CTGF, TIMP-1, as well as pro-inflammatory factor TGF-β1. Additionally, FGW at doses of 62.5, 125, and 250 μg/mL dose-dependently blocked JS-1 proliferation, migration, and activation. Furthermore, RNA-seq identified the NF-κB signaling pathway as a key target molecular pathway for FGW against liver fibrosis, and network pharmacology combined with RNA-seq focused on 11 key genes. Significant changes were identified in CCL2 and HMOX1 by tissue RT-PCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry. We further demonstrated that FGW significantly attenuated CCl4-induced increases in p-p65, CCL2, CCR2, and HMOX1, while significantly elevating Nrf2. Finally, FGW significantly suppressed the accumulation of lipid peroxidation products MDA and 4-HNE and reconfigured the oxidation-reduction balance, including promoting the increase of antioxidants GPx, GSH, and SOD, and the decrease of peroxidation products ROS and GSSG. ConclusionsThis study demonstrated that FGW exhibits potential in mitigating CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis, lipid peroxidation, and iron metabolism disorders in mice. This effect may be mediated through the NF-κB/CCL2/CCR2 and Nrf2/HMOX1 pathways.

Network pharmacology combines machine learning, molecular simulation dynamics and experimental validation to explore the mechanism of acetylbinankadsurin A in the treatment of liver fibrosis

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThe Kadsura coccinea (Lem.) A. C. Smith is known as “Heilaohu” of the Tujia ethnomedicine in China. It has anti-tumor, anti-oxidation, anti-HIV, anti-inflammatory and liver protective effects, used to treat diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, gastritis and hepatitis. In this research, we investigated the anti-fibrotic effect and possible mechanisms of acetylbinankadsurin A (ACBA) in vitro and in vivo, which is a natural compound derived from roots of K. coccinea. Aim of the studyWe try to evaluate the efficacy of ACBA in the treatment of liver fibrosis and to explore the underlying mechanisms of ACBA by network pharmacology, machine learning, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and experimental assessment. Materials and methodsACBA was isolated from the CH2Cl2 layer of the roots of K. coccinea through column chromatographic techniques. The structure of ACBA was determined by using 1D and 2D NMR. CCl4-induced C57BL/6 mouse liver fibrosis models were established to evaluate the anti-fibrosis effects of ACBA in vivo. The molecular targets of ACBA and liver fibrosis were obtained from various databases, then constructed a protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks through the STRING database. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment and kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analysis were applied using the “clusterProfiler” R package. Furthermore, the key genes for ACBA treatment of liver fibrosis were identified by the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO). Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were also carried out. Finally, the target and pathway of ACBA were verified by immunofluorescence staining, RT-PCR and Western blot. ResultFirst, ACBA attenuated CCl4-induced liver injury and fibrosis in vivo. These findings were accompanied by decreased expression of α-SMA and collagen I. Second, ACBA significantly decreased serum levels of ALT, AST, TNF-α and IL-6. Then, we identified 133 potential targets of ACBA and 7987 targets of liver fibrosis. KEGG analysis showed that ACBA could regulate the drug metabolism - cytochrome P450, fructose and mannose metabolism, IL-17 and NF-κB signaling pathways. Next, six core targets was screened by LASSO analysis including AKR1B1, PFKFB3, EPHA3, CDK1, CCR1 and CYP3A4. Molecular docking showed that ACBA has a good binding affinity for CCR1. Furthermore, compared with CCR1 inhibitor BX-471, The results of molecular simulation dynamics showed that ACBA was stable in binding with CCR1. Consistently, ACBA remarkably downregulated the expression of CCR1, p-NF-κBp65, p-IκBα, p-STAT1 and TNF-α proteins, which were upregulated in CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis and LPS-THP-1 cells. ConclusionOur results suggest that ACBA significantly attenuated CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in histopathological and in serum level. This effect may be mediated by CCR1, NF-κB and STAT1 signalling.

Total flavonoids extracted from Penthorum chinense Pursh mitigates CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats via inactivation of TLR4-MyD88-mediated NF-κB pathways and regulation of liver metabolism

Background:Penthorum chinense Pursh (PCP) is widely utilized in China to treat a variety of liver diseases. It has been shown that flavonoids inhibit inflammation and have the potential to attenuate tissue damage and fibrosis. However, the mechanisms underlying how total flavonoids isolated from PCP (TFPCP) exert their anti-fibrotic effects remain unclear.Methods: The chemical composition of TFPCP was determined using UHPLC–Q-Orbitrap HRMS. Subsequently, rats were randomly assigned to a control group (Control), a carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis model group (Model), a positive control group [0.2 mg/(kg∙day)] of Colchicine), and three TFPCP treatment groups [50, 100, and 150 mg/(kg∙day)]. All substances were administered by gavage and treatments lasted for 9 weeks. Simultaneously, rats were intraperitoneally injected with 10%–20% CCl4 for 9 weeks to induce liver fibrosis. At the end of the experiment, the liver ultrasound, liver histomorphological, biochemical indicators, and inflammatory cytokine levels were tested respectively. The underlying mechanisms were assessed using Western blot, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, RT-qPCR, and metabolomics.Results: Fourteen flavonoids were identified in TFPCP. Compared with control animals, CCl4-treated rats demonstrated obvious liver injury and fibrosis, manifested as increases in gray values, distal diameter of portal vein (DDPV) and a decrease in blood flow velocity (VPV) in the ultrasound analysis; increased biochemical index values (serum levels of ALT, AST, TBIL, and ALP); marked increases in the contents of fibrotic markers (PC III, COL4, LN, HA) and inflammatory factors (serum TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β); and significant pathological changes. However, compared with the Model group, the ultrasound parameters were significantly improved and the serum levels of inflammatory cytokines were reduced in the TFPCP group. In contrast, the expression of TGF-β1, TLR4, and MyD88, as well as the p-P65/P65 and p-IκBα/IκBα ratios, were considerably reduced following TFPCP treatment. In addition, we identified 32 metabolites exhibiting differential abundance in the Model group. Interestingly, TFPCP treatment resulted in the restoration of the levels of 20 of these metabolites.Conclusion: Our findings indicated that TFPCP can ameliorate hepatic fibrosis by improving liver function and morphology via the inactivation of the TLR4/MyD88-mediated NF-κB pathway and the regulation of liver metabolism.

Dahuang zhechong pill ameliorates hepatic fibrosis by regulating gut microbiota and metabolites

Ethnopharmacological relevanceDHZCP is a traditional Chinese medicinal formula in “The Synopsis of Prescriptions of the Golden Chamber” that has been often used in the treatment of hepatic disorders, gynecopathy and atherosclerosis. However, its underlying mechanisms in preventing hepatic fibrosis remain incompletely understood. Aim of the studyThis study aims to explore the therapeutic efficacy and potential mechanism of DHZCP in a CCL4-induced experimental hepatic fibrosis rat model. Materials and methodsDHZCP was orally administered at doses of 0.168, 0.084 and 0.042 g⋅kg-1⋅d-1 in a CCL4-induced hepatic fibrosis model using SD rats. Histopathology, immunohistochemistry and biochemical analysis, ELISA, Flow cytometry, WB, RT-PCR, 16 S rRNA, and untargeted metabolomic analysis were used to determine the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of DHZCP in the treatment of CCL4-induced hepatic fibrosis. ResultsPharmacodynamically, DHZCP inhibited ALT and AST, improved liver function, decreased NF-κB, TNF-α and IL-6 in liver tissue, indicating its role in inhibiting CCL4-induced liver inflammation. Most importantly, it reduces the level of fibrosis in serum and liver tissue. Histological analysis also showed that DHZCP could effectively inhibit inflammatory cytokine infiltration and excessive collagen deposition. Mechanistically, DHZCP regulates gut microbiota, improves the proportion of firmicutes and bacteroidota at the phylum level, and increases the abundance of beneficial bacteria at the genus level, such as muribagulaceae unclassified, prevotella, alloprevotella, closteriales unclassified, lachnospiraceae unclassified and phascolarctobacterium. Instead, it reduced the abundance of two harmful bacteria, desulfovibrio and colidextribacter. Four types of metabolites such as hydrocarbons, organic nitrogen compounds, organic oxygen compounds, and organosulfur compounds were added. Furthermore, DHZCP was found to reduce the damage of intestinal barrier caused by changes in gut microbiota and metabolites. ConclusionDHZCP is an effective inhibitor of hepatic fibrosis by regulating gut microbiota and metabolites, improving the integrity of the intestinal barrier.

Bile acids metabolism involved in the beneficial effects of Danggui Shaoyao San via gut microbiota in the treatment of CCl4 induced hepatic fibrosis

Ethnopharmacological relevanceDanggui Shaoyao San (DSS) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) first recorded in the Synopsis of the Golden Chamber. DSS has proven efficacy in treating hepatic fibrosis (HF). However, the effects and mechanisms of DSS on HF are not clear. Aim of the studyTo investigate the effect of DSS on HF via gut microbiota and its metabolites (SCFAs, BAs). Materials and methodsHF rats were induced with CCl4 and treated with DSS. Firstly, the therapeutic efficacy of DSS in HF rats and the protection of gut barrier were assessed. Then, 16S rRNA gene sequencing and untargeted fecal metabolomics preliminarily explored the mechanism of DSS in treating HF, and identified different microbiota and metabolic pathways. Finally, targeted metabolomics and RT-qPCR were used to further validate the mechanism of DSS for HF based on the metabolism of SCFAs and BAs. ResultsAfter 8 weeks of administration, DSS significantly reduced the degree of HF. In addition, DSS alleviated inflammation in the ileum and reduced the levels of LPS and D-lactate. Furthermore, DSS altered the structure of gut microbiota, especially Veillonella, Romboutsia, Monoglobus, Parabacteroides, norank_f_Coriobacteriales_Incertae_Sedis. These bacteria have been linked to the production of SCFAs and the metabolism of BAs. Untargeted metabolomics suggested that DSS may play a role via BAs metabolism. Subsequently, targeted metabolomics and RT-qPCR further confirmed the key role of DSS in increasing SCFAs levels and regulating BAs metabolism. ConclusionsDSS can alleviate CCl4-induced HF and protect the gut barrier. DSS may exert its beneficial effects on HF by affecting the gut microbiota and its metabolites (SCFAs, BAs).

Sodium alginate combined with oxymatrine ameliorates CCl4-induced chemical hepatic fibrosis in mice

Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is a challenging clinical problem. Both sodium alginate (SA) and oxymatrine (OM) can be used to treat HF; however, the influence of viscosity on the therapeutic efficacy of sodium alginate is currently unknown. This study used a CCl4-induced HF mouse model to screen the specifications and doses of SA and investigate its therapeutic effects on HF in combination with OM. Sodium alginate of different viscosities ameliorated HF in mice, with 232 mPa·s SA delivered at a dose of 100 mg/kg showing remarkable therapeutic effect, characterized by reduced aspartate transaminase/alanine transaminase levels, reduced expression of α-SMA, collagen I, and other related genes, and increased abundance of beneficial intestinal probiotics such as Lactococcus and Blautia. The combination treatment further improved other related indices and increased the abundance of Phascolarctobacterium and Oscillospiraceae. These results suggest that the oral administration of SA may improve HF via the “gut-liver axis” based on the gut microbiota and has potential clinical applications.

Kaempferol attenuates carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis by promoting ASIC1a degradation and suppression of the ASIC1a-mediated ERS

BackgroundKaempferol is a flavonoid derived from the herb, Kaempferia galanga L., in addition to exhibiting a wide range of pharmacological properties, kaempferol is also an anti-inflammatory, anti-lipid metabolizing, and anti-oxidative stress agent. The underlying molecular mechanisms of its effects on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion and activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are yet unknown. Activated HSCs induces VEGF release and extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation which are important factors in hepatic fibrosis. PurposeOur aim is to explore how kaempferol may affect hepatic fibrosis and the mechanisms behind its effects. MethodsThe in vivo model was Sprague-Dawley rats induced with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Histological staining was used to observe histological features of the liver. The levels of (alanine aminotransferase) ALT and (aspartate aminotransferase) AST were detected by the corresponding kits. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) was used to stimulate the HSC-T6 rat hepatic stellate cells. The mechanisms underlying this process were investigated using a variety of molecular approaches, including immunofluorescence, RT-qPCR, and western blotting. Moreover, intracellular Ca2+ were observed by laser confocal microscope. ResultsIt was found that kaempferol significantly reduced the expression of ASIC1a, VEGF, α-SMA and Collagen-I proteins in a model of CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats. In HSC-T6, kaempferol inhibits activation of HSCs by decreasing expression of ASIC1a, eIF2α, p-eIF2α and ATF-4. Laser confocal fluorescence showed that kaempferol inhibited Ca2+ influx and reduced Ca2+ concentration around the endoplasmic reticulum. Molecular docking and cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) results further indicated that kaempferol interacted with ASIC1a. We found that kaempferol may promote the degradation of ASIC1a and inhibited ASIC1a- mediated upregulation of ERS. ConclusionThe data from our in vivo experiments demonstrate that kaempferol effectively attenuates hepatic fibrosis. In vitro studies we further propose a novel mechanism of kaempferol against hepatic fibrosis which can interact with ASIC1a and promote ASIC1a degradation while inhibiting the activation and VEGF release of HSCs by suppressing the ASIC1a-eIF2α-ATF-4 signaling pathway.

MANF brakes TLR4 signaling by competitively binding S100A8 with S100A9 to regulate macrophage phenotypes in hepatic fibrosis.

The mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor (MANF) has been recently identified as a neurotrophic factor, but its role in hepatic fibrosis is unknown. Here, we found that MANF was upregulated in the fibrotic liver tissues of the patients with chronic liver diseases and of mice treated with CCl4. MANF deficiency in either hepatocytes or hepatic mono-macrophages, particularly in hepatic mono-macrophages, clearly exacerbated hepatic fibrosis. Myeloid-specific MANF knockout increased the population of hepatic Ly6Chigh macrophages and promoted HSCs activation. Furthermore, MANF-sufficient macrophages (from WT mice) transfusion ameliorated CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in myeloid cells-specific MANF knockout (MKO) mice. Mechanistically, MANF interacted with S100A8 to competitively block S100A8/A9 heterodimer formation and inhibited S100A8/A9-mediated TLR4-NF-κB signal activation. Pharmacologically, systemic administration of recombinant human MANF significantly alleviated CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in both WT and hepatocytes-specific MANF knockout (HKO) mice. This study reveals a mechanism by which MANF targets S100A8/A9-TLR4 as a "brake" on the upstream of NF-κB pathway, which exerts an impact on macrophage differentiation and shed light on hepatic fibrosis treatment.

SIRT2 alleviated renal fibrosis by deacetylating SMAD2 and SMAD3 in renal tubular epithelial cells

Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is the primary factor that drives fibrosis in most, if not all, forms of chronic kidney disease. In kidneys that are obstructed, specific deletion of Sirt2 in renal tubule epithelial cells (TEC) has been shown to aggravate renal fibrosis, while renal tubule specific overexpression of Sirt2 has been shown to ameliorate renal fibrosis. Similarly, specific deletion of Sirt2 in hepatocyte aggravated CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis. In addition, we have demonstrated that SIRT2 overexpression and knockdown restrain and enhance TGF-β-induced fibrotic gene expression, respectively, in TEC. Mechanistically, SIRT2 reduced the phosphorylation, acetylation, and nuclear localization levels of SMAD2 and SMAD3, leading to inhibition of the TGF-β signaling pathway. Further studies have revealed that that SIRT2 was able to directly interact with and deacetylate SMAD2 at lysine 451, promoting its ubiquitination and degradation. Notably, loss of SMAD specific E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 2 abolishes the ubiquitination and degradation of SMAD2 induced by SIRT2 in SMAD2. Regarding SMAD3, we have found that SIRT2 interact with and deacetylates SMAD3 at lysine 341 and 378 only in the presence of TGF-β, thereby reducing its activation. This study provides initial indication of the anti-fibrotic role of SIRT2 in renal tubules and hepatocytes, suggesting its therapeutic potential for fibrosis.

Knockdown of TXNDC5 alleviates CCL4-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice by enhancing endoplasmic reticulum stress

BackgroundHepatic fibrosis is a common pathological process in many chronic liver diseases. TXNDC5 has been shown to be involved in the progression of renal and pulmonary fibrosis. However, the role of TXNDC5 in hepatic fibrosis is unknown. The purpose of this study is to explore the role and mechanism of TXNDC5 in hepatic fibrosis. MethodsWe used TGF-β1 to activate LX-2 cells and reduced TXNDC5 expression by short hairpin RNA. Cell viability was assessed by CCK-8 assay. Cell apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry or Tunel assay. The fibrosis-related proteins and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERs)-related proteins were measured by western blot. ELISA was performed to detect COL1AL levels and MMP2/9 activities in cell medium. A mouse model of hepatic fibrosis was constructed by intraperitoneal injection of CCL4. HE and Masson staining were performed to assess fibrosis in mouse liver tissue. ResultsThe results show that TXNDC5 was up-regulated in activated LX-2 cells and CCL4-induced hepatic fibrosis mice. Knockdown of TXNDC5 inhibited the viability of activated LX-2 cells and the production of collagen COL1A1. Knockdown of TXNDC5 promoted apoptosis of activated LX-2 cells. Mechanically, inhibition of TXNDC5 enhanced ERs, and the ERs inhibitor 4-Phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA) reversed the effect of TXNDC5 on activated LX-2 cells. More importantly, knockdown of TXNDC5 alleviated CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice. ConclusionsKnockdown of TXNDC5 may reduce hepatic fibrosis by regulating ERs, and targeting TXNDC5 seems to be a candidate treatment for hepatic fibrosis.

Anlotinib Attenuates Liver Fibrosis by Regulating the Transforming Growth Factor β1/Smad3 Signaling Pathway.

Hepatic stellate cell hyperactivation is a central link in liver fibrosis development, transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) is a key activator of HSCs. This study investigated whether anlotinib attenuates CCl4 induced liver fibrosis in mice and explored its antifibrotic mechanism. We used the human hepatic stellate cell line LX-2 for in vitro assays and used TGF-β1 to induce hepatic fibrosis in LX-2 cells. We analyzed cytotoxicity using a cell-counting kit-8 and transwell chambers to detect the migratory ability of LX-2 cells. Western blotting was used to detect the protein levels of collagen type I, α-smooth muscle actin, and p-Smad3. In addition, mice with CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis were used as in vivo models. Histopathological examination was performed using H&E staining, Masson's trichrome staining, and immunohistochemistry. Anlotinib significantly reversed TGF-β1-induced protein levels of Col I, α-SMA and p-Smad3 and inhibits migratory and proliferative abilities in vitro using LX-2 cells. CCl4 cause F4 grade (Ishak) hepatic fibrosis, liver inflammatory scores ranged from 12 to 14 (Ishak), a mean ALT measurement of 130 U/L and a mean measurement AST value of 119 U/L in mice. However, the CCl4-induced changes were markedly attenuated by anlotinib treatment, which returned to F2 grade (Ishak) hepatic fibrosis, liver inflammatory scores ranged from 4 to 6 (Ishak), a mean ALT measurement of 40 U/L and a mean measurement AST value of 56 U/L in mice. Our results suggest that anlotinib-mediated suppression of liver fibrosis is related to the inhibition of TGF-β1 signaling pathway. Hepatic stellate cell hyper activation is a central link in liver fibrosis development, transforming growth factor β1 is a key activator of HSCs. Anlotinib is a multi-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor that has similar targets to nintedanib, a clinically used anti-pulmonary fibrosis drug. Our study demonstrates an FDA-approved drug-anlotinib-that could prevent liver fibrosis and inflammation. Experiments in cell cultures and mice show that anlotinib can inhibit the activation of hepatic stellate cells by down-regulating the TGFβ1/smad3 pathway, thereby reversing liver fibrosis. In animal experiments, anlotinib showed protective effects on the CCl4-induced liver damage, including ameliorating liver inflammation, reversing liver fibrosis and reducing liver enzymes. This is a very good signal, anlotinib may be useful for halting or reversing the progression of liver fibrosis and could be employed in the development of novel therapeutic drugs for the management of chronic liver diseases.

Axitinib attenuates the progression of liver fibrosis by restoring mitochondrial function.

Liver fibrosis can progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, which may eventually lead to liver failure and even death. No direct anti-fibrosis drugs are available at present. Axitinib is a new generation of potent multitarget tyrosine kinase receptor inhibitors, but its role in liver fibrosis remains unclear. In this study, a CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis mouse model and a TGF-β1-induced hepatic stellate cell model were used to explore the effect and mechanism of axitinib on hepatic fibrosis. Results confirmed that axitinib could alleviate the pathological damage of liver tissue induced by CCl4 and inhibit the production of glutamic-oxalacetic transaminase and glutamic-pyruvic transaminase. It also inhibited collagen and hydroxyproline deposition and the protein expression of Col-1 and α-SMA in CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. In addition, axitinib inhibited the expression of CTGF and α-SMA in TGF-β1-induced hepatic stellate cells. Further studies showed that axitinib inhibited mitochondrial damage and reduced oxidative stress and NLRP3 maturation. The use of rotenone and antimycin A confirmed that axitinib could restore the activity of mitochondrial complexes I and III, thereby inhibiting the maturation of NLRP3. In summary, axitinib inhibits the activation of HSCs by enhancing the activity of mitochondrial complexes I and III, thereby alleviating the progression of liver fibrosis. This study reveals the strong potential of axitinib in the treatment of liver fibrosis.

CREKA-modified liposomes target activated hepatic stellate cells to alleviate liver fibrosis by inhibiting collagen synthesis and angiogenesis.

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.

Danggui Shaoyao San: Chemical characterization and inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammation to treat CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis

Ethnopharmacological relevanceDanggui Shaoyao San (DSS) has effective in treating hepatic ascites and liver disease. Aim of the studyTo explore the chemical characterization of DSS and protective effect on CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis and its mechanism, especially its anti-oxidative stress and anti-inflammation. Materials and methodsThe chemical characterization of DSS was determined by HPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS. And the antioxidant activity of DSS in vitro was determined. The hepatic fibrosis model was established using intragastric administration of 40% CCl4/soybean oil (v/v) twice weekly for 13 weeks. From 6th week, the DSS group and the positive control group were given DSS (2, 4, 8 g/kg/d) and silymarin (50 mg/kg/d), respectively. The livers of rats were examined histologically by H&E. The ALT, AST, ALB and TBIL were determined, and hepatic fibrosis markers (HA, LN, CIV, PIIINP), oxidative stress (SOD, MDA, GST, GSH) and inflammatory factor (IL-6, TNF-α) were tested using ELISA kits. In addition, the levels of TAC, TOS, LOOH and AOPP in the liver were also determined. ResultsThe chemical characterization of DSS was determined by HPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS. The results show that DSS mainly includes triterpenoids, monoterpenes, phenols, sesquiterpenes, butyl phthalide, etc., and DSS has good antioxidant activity in vitro. In addition, the ALT, AST and TBIL of rats were remarkably reduced after treatment with DSS at three doses. Liver histopathological analysis showed that DSS alleviated the inflammatory infiltration, hepatocyte swelling, necrosis and hepatic fibrosis induced by CCl4. DSS significantly decreased HA, IV-C, PIIINP and LN. Further determination showed that DSS significantly increased TAC, OSI and decreased TOC, LOOH and MDA, indicating that DSS could regulate redox balance and reduce lipid peroxidation in vivo. DSS also increased the activity of GST, SOD and GSH concentration. In addition, DSS also reduced IL-6 and TNF-α. ConclusionsIn this study, we described the chemical characterization of DSS and found that it has good antioxidant activity. We proved that DSS has the functions of reducing oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory, protecting liver cells and reducing hepatic fibrosis.