Liver Cirrhosis In Rats Research Articles

Biochemical Studies on Efficiency of Natural Gum in Chronic Kidney Failure and Liver Cirrhosis in Rats

It is well-established that apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation are associated with several disorders, including chronic renal disease and hepatic disease. Oxidative stress (OS) is a major cause of death from end-stage renal disease which also contributes to atherosclerosis and cardiac issues. The present study aimed to assess the efficacy of Gum Arabic (GA) in mitigating renal damage and hepatotoxicity in rats induced by Chloropyrifos-methyl (CPM). A total of 42 male Wistar rats were divided into seven groups, with four groups (group 2 [IC], group 5 [GA1+IC]a, group 6 [GA2+IC], and group 7 [GA1+IC]b treated with CPM for eight weeks to induce hepatic and renal damage. Two models of GA administration, including the standard oral model in drinking water (15% w/v) and the oral model by gavage at a dose of 1 g/kg body weight were administered. Physiological parameters of kidney and liver functions, including urea, creatinine, AST, and ALT along with anti-oxidant factors (Melaodialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, and catalase) were measured in plasma, and homogenates of renal and hepatic tissues on day 57 of the experiment. In addition, histopathological examination was conducted on liver and kidney tissues using hematoxylin and eosin stain to evaluate the efficacy of GA on damaged tissues. Gum Arabic was found to significantly reduce CPM toxic effects in the liver and kidney in groups treated with CPM as liver and kidney parameters were reduced to normal levels. Furthermore, GA reduced histological indicators of inflammation, fibrosis, and apoptosis, as well as renal morphological damage. Additionally, it reduced OS in liver and kidney homogenates. In conclusion, GA effectively reduced the damage that CPM inflicted on liver and kidney tissue by stabilizing physiological parameters to normal levels and repairing cellular structures damaged by OS. Keywords: Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Gum Arabic, Kidney, Liver, Oxidative stress

Therapeutic implication of human placental extract to prevent liver cirrhosis in rats with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis.

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is always accompanied with hepatic fibrosis that could potentially progress to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Employing a rat model, we evaluated the role of human placental extract (HPE) to arrest the progression of hepatic fibrosis to cirrhosis in patients with MASH. SHRSP5/Dmcr rats were fed with a high-fat and high-cholesterol diet for 4 weeks and evaluated for the development of steatosis. The animals were divided into control and treated groups and received either saline or HPE (3.6 ml/kg body weight) subcutaneously thrice a week. A set of animals were killed at the end of 6th, 8th, and 12th weeks from the beginning of the experiment. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione content were measured. Immunohistochemical staining was performed for α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), collagen type I, and type III. Control rats depicted progression of liver fibrosis at 6 weeks, advanced fibrosis and bridging at 8 weeks, and cirrhosis at 12 weeks, which were significantly decreased in HPE-treated animals. Treatment with HPE maintained normal levels of MDA and glutathione in the liver. There was marked decrease in the staining intensity of α-SMA, 4-HNE, and collagen type I and type III in HPE treated rats compared with control animals. The results of the present study indicated that HPE treatment mediates immunotropic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant responses and attenuates hepatic fibrosis and early cirrhosis. HPE depicts therapeutic potential to arrest the progression of MASH towards cirrhosis.

Ameliorative effect of L-carnitine Vs L-carnitine with Rifaximin on skeletal muscle changes in experimentally induced liver cirrhosis in adult male albino rats (biochemical and histological study).

Ameliorative effect of L-carnitine Vs L-carnitine with Rifaximin on skeletal muscle changes in experimentally induced liver cirrhosis in adult male albino rats (biochemical and histological study).

Protective effects of baicalin on diethyl nitrosamine-induced liver cirrhosis by suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation.

Baicalin (BA) is a natural product extract with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective properties. Given that the exact underlying mechanisms responsible for the impact of BA on liver cirrhosis remain ambiguous, a detailed investigation is sorely needed. Accordingly, a rat liver cirrhosis model was established via the intraperitoneal injection of diethyl nitrosamine (DEN, 100 mg/kg). Following the modeling, these rats were given BA (100 mg/kg) or N-acetylcysteine (NAC, 150 mg/kg) alone or in combination. The pathological morphology of rat liver tissues in each group was observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining and Masson's trichrome staining. The expression of fibrosis-related proteins was evaluated by Western blot, and the levels of liver function-related biochemical indexes, oxidative stress-related indexes, and inflammatory factors in the serum by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). The level of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species was measured by flow cytometry. The results depicted that in the rat model of DEN-induced liver cirrhosis, BA reduced the expression of fibrosis-related proteins (collagen type I alpha 1, α-smooth muscle actin, and transforming growth factor-β1), thereby alleviating the structural fibrosis of liver tissue. Furthermore, BA could diminish the level of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, and the serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), malondialdehyde (MDA), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), while promoting albumin, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) levels. Notably, all these effects of BA above were strengthened following the combined treatment of BA and NAC. On the whole, BA suppresses liver fibrosis by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby exerting a hepatoprotective effect.

Role of CD68+ and CD206+ cells in the progression of toxic liver fibrosis in rats

The aim of the work was to evaluate the role of stellate macrophages in a large number of points of toxic liver fibrosis in rats. Liver fibrosis and cirrhosis in male Wistar rats were induced with thioacetamide at a dose of 200 mg/kg animal weight for 17 weeks. Histological preparations of the liver were stained with hematoxylin and eosin according to the Mallory method. Immunohistochemical examination was performed on paraffin sections using monoclonal mouse antibodies CD68 and polyclonal rabbit antibodies CD206. The fibrosis degree was determined according to the Ishak semi-quantitative scale. Toxic liver fibrosis before the start of its transformation into cirrhosis (9 weeks) was accompanied by an increase in the number of CD68+ cells compared with the control. At all subsequent experiment stages, no differences were found in comparison to the control. In the liver of control rats, CD206+ cells were practically absent. Throughout the experiment, their number remained above the control point – 3 weeks. With the progression of liver cirrhosis, a decrease in the number of CD206+ cells was noted, but it did not reach a level of 3 weeks. Morphologically, two different groups of CD68+ cells were identified. One group of cells had a pterygoid shape and they were located mainly in the liver sinusoids. The second group of CD68+ cells had a round shape and different localization. They were detected around the vessels of portal zones, surrounded brown pigment accumulations in connective tissue septa, were observed near single lying groups or groups of giant hepatocytes and liver cells containing brown pigment in the cytoplasm, and were also noted in the foci of necrosis of hepatocytes. Cells, expressing the CD206 marker, are round in shape and are elongated and located in the liver sinusoids. Presumably, round-shaped CD68+ cells perform a phagocytic function, and pterygoid-shaped CD68+ cells transdifferentiate into CD206+ cells that have anti-inflammatory properties.

Hepatoprotective effects of Gynura procumbens against thioacetamide-induced cirrhosis in rats: Targeting inflammatory and oxidative stress signalling pathways

Gynura procumbens is an edible flowering plant that has been utilized as traditional therapy for numerous diseases. The current experiment investigates the hepatoprotective potentials of the ethanol extract of Gynura procumbens leaf (EEGPL) against thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver cirrhosis in rats. Thirty Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into 5 clusters: A, rats received orally 10% Tween 80 and intraperitoneal (i.p) inoculation of sterile distal water; B, rats received orally10% Tween 80; C, rats received orally daily 50 mg/kg of silymarin, while groups; D and E, rats received orally daily doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg of EEGPL, respectively. Furthermore, B-E clusters received 200 mg/kg thioacetamide (i.p) three times a week for 60 days.The liver gross morphology of rats that received only TAA (B) revealed irregular rough surface layers compared to smoother livers of rats that received EEGPL. Histopathology of group B revealed clear hepatic necrosis and fibrous connective tissue, which were significantly reduced in C-E groups. EEGPL treatment caused a significant down-regulation of PCNA and α-SMA protein expressions. Antioxidant (SOD and CAT) enzymes in hepatic homogeneity were meaningfully lower, and MDA levels were significantly higher in TAA controls compared to those of C-E groups. Moreover, EEGPL treatment caused a reduction of TNF-α and IL-6 and increased expression of IL-10 cytokines. Therefore, the hepatoprotective potentials of EEGPL might be contributed to its modulation of detoxification enzymes, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities.

THE MORPHOLOGICAL AND FUNCTIONAL ASSESSMENT OF FAP+ AND α-SMA+-CELLS IN DIFFERENT TIMES OF RAT TOXIC LIVER FIBROSIS

Qualitative study of the source of the fibro-genic cell population in relation to the etiology and stage of fibrosis, as well as an understanding of the molecular mechanisms that regulate changes in the phenotype of hepatic fibroblasts, are of paramount importance in the development of pharmacological drugs. The purpose of the study was a morphological and functional assessment of activated portal fibroblasts (FAP+) and fat-accumulating cells (α-SMA+) of the liver at various stages of toxic liver fibrosis in rats. Liver fibrosis and cirrhosis in male Wistar rats were induced with thioacetamide solution for 17 weeks. Morphological examination of the liver was carried out on paraffin sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin using the Mallory method; immunohistochemical examination was carried out using polyclonal rabbit antibodies to the portal fibroblast antigen FAP and using monoclonal mouse antibodies to the α-SMA+ cell antigen. Before the onset of liver fibrosis stage F3/F4, from weeks 3 to 7, the number of FAP+ and α-SMA+ cells increased alternately. During the stages of transformation of fibrosis into cirrhosis from 7 to 11 weeks, their number increased slightly. At the stage of incomplete (F5) and before the onset of significant cirrhosis (F6) from weeks 11 to 15, the number of FAP+ and α-SMA+ cells were inconsistent and there was an alternating increase and decrease in their number. α-SMA+ cells before the start of the process of transformation of fibrosis into cirrhosis (F4/F5) were observed in sinusoids and foci of necrosis. Then they were detected both in sinusoids and in connective tissue trabeculae. FAP+ cells at the stage of portal fibrosis (F1) were localized near the interlobular vessels and interlobular bile ducts of the portal zones, and from the F2/F3 period they were detected in connective tissue trabeculae and sinusoids. In quantitative terms, α-SMA+ cells predominated at all stages of fibrosis. Based on the results obtained, it can be assumed that FAP+ cells make a major contribution to the development of the portal and initial stages of bridging fibrosis. They should be considered as one of the myofibroblast populations in thioacetamide-induced liver fibrogenesis.

PPARγ-dependent hepatic macrophage switching acts as a central hub for hUCMSC-mediated alleviation of decompensated liver cirrhosis in rats

BackgroundDecompensated liver cirrhosis (DLC), a terminal-stage complication of liver disease, is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with hepatopathies. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (hUCMSC) therapy has emerged as a novel treatment alternative for the treatment of DLC. However, optimized therapy protocols and the associated mechanisms are not entirely understood.MethodsWe constructed a DLC rat model consistent with the typical clinical characteristics combined use of PB and CCL4. Performing dynamic detection of liver morphology and function in rats for 11 weeks, various disease characteristics of DLC and the therapeutic effect of hUCMSCs on DLC in experimental rats were thoroughly investigated, according to ascites examination, histopathological, and related blood biochemical analyses. Flow cytometry analysis of rat liver, immunofluorescence, and RT-qPCR was performed to examine the changes in the liver immune microenvironment after hucMSCs treatment. We performed RNA-seq analysis of liver and primary macrophages and hUCMSCs co-culture system in vitro to explore possible signaling pathways. PPARγ antagonist, GW9662, and clodronate liposomes were used to inhibit PPAR activation and pre-exhaustion of macrophages in DLC rats’ livers, respectively.ResultsWe found that changing the two key issues, the frequency and initial phase of hUCMSCs infusion, can affect the efficacy of hUCMSCs, and the optimal hUCMSCs treatment schedule is once every week for three weeks at the early stage of DLC progression, providing the best therapeutic effect in reducing mortality and ascites, and improving liver function in DLC rats. hUCMSCs treatment skewed the macrophage phenotype from M1-type to M2-type by activating the PPARγ signaling pathway in the liver, which was approved by primary macrophages and hUCMSCs co-culture system in vitro. Both inhibition of PPARγ activation with GW9662 and pre-exhaustion of macrophages in DLC rats’ liver abolished the regulation of hUCMSCs on macrophage polarization, thus attenuating the beneficial effect of hUCMSCs treatment in DLC rats.ConclusionsThese data demonstrated that the optimal hUCMSCs treatment effectively inhibits the ascites formation, prolongs survival and significantly improves liver structure and function in DLC rats through the activation of the PPARγ signaling pathway within liver macrophages. Our study compared the efficacy of different hUCMSCs infusion regimens for DLC, providing new insights on cell-based therapies for regenerative medicine.

Exposure to Nickel-Cadmium Contamination of Drinking Water Culminates in Liver Cirrhosis, Renal Azotemia, and Metabolic Stress in Rats.

Drinking water polluted by heavy metals has the potential to expose delicate biological systems to a range of health issues. This study embraced the health risks that may arise from subchronic exposure of thirty-four male Wistar rats to nickel (Ni)-cadmium (Cd)-contaminated water. It was done by using the Box-Behnken design (BBD) with three treatment factors (Ni and Cd doses at 50-150mg/L and exposure at 14-21-28days) at a single alpha level, resulting in seventeen experimental combinations. Responses such as serum creatinine (CREA) level, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level, BUN/CREA ratio (BCR), aspartate and alanine aminotransferases (AST and ALT) activities, and the De Ritis ratio (DRR), as well as malondialdehyde (MDA) level, catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities, were evaluated. The results revealed that these pollutants jointly caused hepatocellular damage by raising AST and ALT activities and renal dysfunction by increasing CREA and BUN levels in Wistar rats' sera (p < 0.05). These outcomes were further supported by BCR and DRR values beyond 1. In rats' hepatocytes and renal tissues, synergistic interactions of these metals resulted in higher MDA levels and significant impairments of CAT and SOD activities (p < 0.05). In order to accurately forecast the effects on the responses, the study generated seven acceptable regression models (p < 0.05) with r-squared values of > 80% at no discernible lack of fit (p > 0.05). The findings hereby demonstrated that Wistar rats exposed to these pollutants at varied doses had increased risks of developing liver cirrhosis and azotemia marked by metabolic stress.

Evaluation of the Possible Ameliorative Effects of Anemarrhena asphodeloides Extract on Liver Cirrhosis by Combining Biochemical Analysis and Electrical Tissue Conductivity

Anemarrhena asphodeloides extract (AAE) has been used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases and its anti-inflammatory effects have been reported. In this feasibility study, the hepato-protective effect of AAE was evaluated in a rat liver cirrhosis model by a combination of biochemical analysis and electrical tissue conductivity. Liver cirrhosis was induced by dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) injection. A total of 32 Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into four groups such as normal liver, cirrhotic liver, cirrhotic liver with AAE treatment, and cirrhotic liver with lactulose treatment. Effects of AAE were compared with those of lactulose. Cirrhotic liver with both AAE and lactulose treatments showed increased body weight, decreased levels of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase, and increased albumin level compared with cirrhotic liver (p &lt; 0.05). The expression levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in immunohistochemical analysis showed reduced fibrosis and inflammatory response in both AAE and lactulose treatments compared with cirrhotic liver (p &lt; 0.05). The levels of AAE treatment were relatively lower than those of lactulose. The western blot analysis of α-SMA and COX-2 protein in both AAE and lactulose treatments was similar to that of normal liver. When comparing electrical conductivity to normal liver, difference in conductivity was 21.2%, 11.5%, and 7.7% in cirrhotic liver, lactulose treatment, and AAE treatment, respectively. These results suggest that the anti-inflammatory effect of AAE may delay or prevent the progress from liver fibrosis to cirrhosis. In summary, a more precise analysis of tissue conditions following the induction of liver cirrhosis was possible by combining electrical tissue conductivity with conventional biochemical analysis.

Recombinant VEGF-C (Cys156Ser) improves mesenteric lymphatic drainage and gut immune surveillance in experimental cirrhosis

Lymphatic vessels (LVs) are crucial for maintaining abdominal fluid homoeostasis and immunity. In cirrhosis, mesenteric LVs (mLVs) are dilated and dysfunctional. Given the established role of vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C) in improving LVs, we hypothesised that VEGF-C treatment could ameliorate the functions of mLVs in cirrhosis. In this study, we developed a nanoformulation comprising LV-specific growth factor, recombinant human VEGF-C (Cys156Ser) protein (E-VEGF-C) and delivered it orally in different models of rat cirrhosis to target mLVs. Cirrhotic rats were given nanoformulation without VEGF-C served as vehicles. Drainage of mLVs was analysed using tracer dye. Portal and systemic physiological assessments and computed tomography were performed to measure portal pressures and ascites. Gene expression and permeability of primary mesenteric lymphatic endothelial cells (LyECs) was studied. Immune cells in mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) were quantified by flow cytometry. Endogenous and exogenous gut bacterial translocation to MLNs was examined. In cirrhotic rats, mLVs were dilated and leaky with impaired drainage. Treatment with E-VEGF-C induced proliferation of mLVs, reduced their diameter, and improved functional drainage. Ascites and portal pressures were significantly reduced in E-VEGF-C rats compared with vehicle rats. In MLNs of E-VEGF-C animals, CD8+CD134+ T cells were increased, whereas CD25+ regulatory T cells were decreased. Both endogenous and exogenous bacterial translocation were limited to MLNs in E-VEGF-C rats with reduced levels of endotoxins in ascites and blood in comparison with those in vehicle rats. E-VEGF-C treatment upregulated the expression of vascular endothelial-cadherin in LyECs and functionally improved the permeability of these cells. E-VEGF-C treatment ameliorates mesenteric lymph drainage and portal pressure and strengthens cytotoxic T-cell immunity in MLNs in experimental cirrhosis. It may thus serve as a promising therapy to manage ascites and reduce pathogenic gut bacterial translocation in cirrhosis. A human recombinant pro-lymphangiogenic growth factor, VEGF-C, was encapsulated in nanolipocarriers (E-VEGF-C) and orally delivered in different models of rat liver cirrhosis to facilitate its gut lymphatic vessel uptake. E-VEGF-C administration significantly increased mesenteric lymphatic vesselproliferation and improved lymph drainage, attenuating abdominal ascites and portal pressures in the animal models. E-VEGF-C treatment limited bacterial translocation to MLNs only with reduced gut bacterial load and ascitic endotoxins. E-VEGF-C therapy thus holds the potential to manage ascites and portal pressure and reduce gut bacterial translocation in patients with cirrhosis.

Vitamin D protects intestines from liver cirrhosis-induced inflammation and oxidative stress by inhibiting the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Liver cirrhosis affects the structures and physiological functions of the intestine. Our previous study revealed that liver injury inhibited 25-hydroxylation of vitamin D (25(OH)-VD). The aim of this study was to investigate the roles and mechanisms of vitamin D in liver cirrhosis-induced intestinal injury. The rat liver cirrhosis model was established through the administration of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) for 8 weeks. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was performed to unveil the intestinal injury induced by liver cirrhosis. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent and reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) analysis were used to determine the levels of 25(OH)-VD, vitamin D receptor, Cytochrome P450 24A1 (CYP24A1), and α-defensin 5 (DEFA5) in rat and human serum of liver cirrhosis. Furthermore, liver cirrhosis rats were treated with low-dose (500 IU/kg) and high-dose (2,000 IU/kg) vitamin D intraperitoneally. The expression levels of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway were evaluated by RT-PCR and Western blot. In conclusion, we determined the deficiency of vitamin D and down-regulation of DEFA5 and intestinal damage induced by liver cirrhosis. Moreover, vitamin D effectively inhibited liver cirrhosis-induced intestinal inflammation and oxidative stress through the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway. Vitamin D might be a promising therapeutic strategy for future treatment of liver-induced intestinal injury.

Sinapic Acid Attenuate Liver Injury by Modulating Antioxidant Activity and Inflammatory Cytokines in Thioacetamide-Induced Liver Cirrhosis in Rats.

Sinapic acid (SA) is a natural pharmacological active compound found in berries, nuts, and cereals. The current study aimed to investigate the protective effects of SA against thioacetamide (TAA) fibrosis in rats by histopathological and immunohistochemical assays. The albino rats (30) were randomly divided into five groups (G). G1 was injected with distilled water 3 times/week and fed orally daily with 10% Tween 20 for two months. G2-5 were injected with 200 mg/kg TAA three times weekly for two months and fed with 10% Tween 20, 50 mg/kg silymarin, 20, and 40 mg/kg of SA daily for 2 months, respectively. The results showed that rats treated with SA had fewer hepatocyte injuries with lower liver index (serum bilirubin, total protein, albumin, and liver enzymes (ALP, ALT, and AST) and were similar to that of control and silymarin-treated rats. Acute toxicity for 2 and 4 g/kg SA showed to be safe without any toxic signs in treated rats. Macroscopic examination showed that hepatotoxic liver had an irregular, rough surface with micro and macro nodules and histopathology expressed by Hematoxylin and Eosin, and Masson Trichrome revealed severe inflammation and infiltration of focal necrosis, fibrosis, lymphocytes, and proliferation bile duct. In contrast, rats fed with SA had significantly lower TAA toxicity in gross and histology and liver tissues as presented by less liver tissue disruption, lesser fibrosis, and minimum in filtered hepatocytes. Immunohistochemistry of rats receiving SA showed significant up-regulation of HSP 70% and down-regulation of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) protein expression compared to positive control rats. The homogenized liver tissues showed a notable rise in the antioxidant enzymes (SOD and CAT) actions with significantly lower malondialdehyde (MDA) levels compared to that of the positive control group. Furthermore, the SA-treated rats had significantly lower TNF-a, IL-6, and higher IL-10 levels than the positive control rats. Thus, the findings suggest SA as a hepatoprotective compound due to its inhibitory effects on fibrosis, hepatotoxicity, liver cell proliferation, up-regulation of HSP 70, and downregulation of α-SMA expression, inhibiting lipid peroxidation (MDA), while retaining the liver index and antioxidant enzymes to normal.

Dahuang Zhechong pill attenuates hepatic sinusoidal capillarization in liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma rat model via the MK/integrin signaling pathway.

Dahuang Zhechong pill (DHZCP), a traditional Chinese medicine, was derived from the famous book Unk "Synopsis of Prescriptions of the Golden Chamber" during the Han dynasty. Owing to its ability to invigorate the circulation of blood in Chinese medicine, DHZCP is usually used for treating liver cirrhosis (LC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Clinical application have shown that DHZCP exhibits satisfactory therapeutic effects in HCC adjuvant therapy; however, little is known about its underlying mechanisms. We aimed to clarify the mechanism of DHZCP against hepatic sinusoidal capillarization in rats with LC and HCC by inhibiting the MK/integrin signaling pathway of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs). The contents of 29 characteristic components in DHZCP were determined by ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. DEN (Diethylnitrosamine)-induced LC and HCC rat models were constructed, and DHZCP was administered when the disease entered the LC stage. After 4 or 12 weeks of administration, hematoxylin and eosin staining, Masson staining, Metavir score, and SSCP (Single strand conformation polymorphism) gene mutation detection were used to confirm tissue fibrosis and cancer. The levels of NO, ET-1 and TXA2, which can regulate vasomotor functions and activate the MK/Itgα6/Src signaling pathway were evaluated by using immunohistochemistry, chemiluminescence, immunofluorescence, Western blot analysis, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Similar methods were also used to evaluate the levels of VEGF, VEGFR, Ang-2 and Tie, which can promote pathological angiogenesis and activate the MK/Itgα4/NF-κB signaling pathway. In vitro cell experiments were performedusing potential pharmacodynamic molecules targeting integrins in DHZCP were selected by molecular docking, and the effects of these molecules on the function of LSECs were studied by Itgα4+ and Itgα6+ cell models. At the stage of LC, the animal experiments demonstrated that DHZCP mainly inhibited the MK/Itgα6 signaling pathway to increase the number and size of hepatic sinus fenestration, reversed the ET-1/NO and TXA2/NO ratios, regulated hepatic sinus relaxation and contraction balance, reduced the portal vein pressure, and inhibited cirrhotic carcinogenesis. At the HCC stage, DHZCP could also significantly inhibit the MK/Itgα4 signaling pathway, reduce pathological angiogenesis, and alleviate disease progression. The results of the cell experiments showed that Rhein, Naringenin, Liquiritin and Emodin-8-O-β-D-glucoside (PMEG) were involved in vascular regulation by affecting the MK/integrin signaling pathway. Liquiritin and PMEG mainly blocked the MK/α6 signal, which is important in regulating the vasomotor function of the liver sinus. Naringenin and Rhein mainly acted by blocked the signaling of MK/α4 action signal, which are potent molecules that inhibit pathological angiogenesis. DHZCP could improve the hepatic sinusoidal capillarization of LC and HCC by inhibiting the MK/Itgα signaling pathway and inhibited disease progression. Rhein, Naringenin, Liquiritin and PMEG were the main active molecules that affected the MK/Itgα signaling pathway.

Hepatoprotective Effect of Alpinetin on Thioacetamide-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Sprague Dawley Rat

Alpinetin is an original medicinal plant flavonoid derived from Alpinia katsumadai and has several biological activities. The current research aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of Alpinetin against thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver cirrhosis in rats. Five groups of rats were utilized in this study. Hepatic injury was measured macroscopically and microscopically for entire groups. The rats’ body weight was significantly lower in the TAA control group, likened to rats fed with Silymarin or Alpinetin groups, while liver weight was significantly greater in the TAA control group when equated to rats nourished with Alpinetin groups. A histopathological investigation of hepatic tissues displayed that TAA remarkably induced hepatocyte necrosis and gristly connective tissue propagation in the TAA control group. Alpinetin implicitly decreased the influence of TAA toxicity and diminished fibrosis of liver tissues. The TAA control group presented an increase in liver enzymes (ALP, ALT, and AST) and a decrease in total protein and albumin. Rats who were fed Alpinetin had significantly lower hepatic enzyme activity as well as augmented total protein and albumin, yet they were close to the normal range. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Catalase (CAT) enzymes in hepatic homogenate were significantly reduced, and malondialdehyde (MDA) was meaningfully elevated in the TAA control group, while rats fed with Alpinetin had significantly increased SOD and CAT achievement and depressed MDA level. Alpinetin-gavaged groups had reduced levels of Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6), significantly down-regulated Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), Alpha-smooth muscle (α-SMA), and reduced hepatic stellate cell activity. However, the TAA control group significantly up-regulated PCNA and α-SMA and increased the activity of hepatic stellate cells. Alpinetin was nontoxic and could improve defensive mechanisms against hepatic tissue injury. Acute toxicity tests discovered no evidence of any toxic signs or dead rats, which highlights the safety of Alpinetin. Consequently, the investigation´s outcomes revealed that the hepatoprotective effects of Alpinetin in TAA-induced hepatic impairment might be due to reduced TAA toxicity, increased protein and albumin, increased SOD and CAT levels, reduced MDA levels, and modulation of inflammatory cytokines and their anti-oxidant activities, and suppressed PCNA and α-SMA.

CXCL12 mRNA expression as an independent marker of liver fi brogenesis in rats

The accumulated knowledge about the role of the CXCL12 chemokine in the initiation and development of liver fi brosis is insignifi cant and does not allow us to assess the potential of using the CXCL12 mRNA level as an independent marker of fi brogenesis and processes associated with fi brosis and cirrhosis. Thioacetamide modeling of liver fi brosis and cirrhosis in male Wistar rats showed a low level of CXCL12 mRNA expression (p = 0.0000) at all stages of fi brosis progression. At the beginning of the experiment (3 weeks), a decrease in the level of CXCL12 mRNA by 2.93 times (p = 0.0000) compared with the control group was revealed. After 3, 7 and 9 weeks, the level of gene expression decreased gradually (p = 0.0000). During the reorganization of the parenchyma of the organ and the formation of false hepatic nodules (11, 13 and 15 weeks), a certain stabilization of the level of gene expression was noted. Against the background of the total formation of pseudohepatic nodules and a pronounced diff use proliferation of connective tissue (17 weeks), the level of CXCL12 mRNA expression increased, but did not reach the level of control values. Based on our results, the level of CXCL12 mRNA is associated with the processes of fi brosis/cirrhosis and can act as an independent marker of fi brogenesis, but not cirrhosis of the liver against the background of toxic damage to it by thioacetamide. When conducting fundamental and preclinical studies to evaluate the eff ectiveness of drugs using this experimental model, the minimum allowable number of control points is considered to be three, namely: portal fi brosis (3 weeks), bridging fi brosis (5 weeks), the beginning of the process of transformation of liver fi brosis into cirrhosis (9 weeks).

Evaluation of score parameters for severity assessment of surgery and liver cirrhosis in rats.

Severity assessment in animals is an ongoing field of research. In particular, the question of objectifiable and meaningful parameters of score-sheets, as well as their best combination, arise. This retrospective analysis investigates the suitability of a score-sheet for assessing severity and seeks to optimise it for predicting survival in 89 male Sprague Dawley rats (Rattus norvegicus), during an experiment evaluating the influence of liver cirrhosis by bile duct ligation (BDL) on vascular healing. The following five parameters were compared for their predictive power: (i) overall score; (ii) relative weight loss; (iii) general condition score; (iv) spontaneous behaviour score; and (v) the observer's assessment whether pain might be present. Suitable cut-off values of these individual parameters and the combination of multiple parameters were investigated. A total of ten rats (11.2%; 10/89) died or had to be sacrificed at an early stage due to pre-defined humane endpoints. Neither the overall score nor any individual parameter yielded satisfactory results for predicting survival. Using retrospectively calculated cut-off values and combining the overall score with the observer's assessment of whether the animal required analgesia (dipyrone) for pain relief resulted in an improved prediction of survival on the second post-operative day. This study demonstrates that combining score parameters was more suitable than using single ones and that experienced human judgement of animals can be useful in addition to objective parameters in the assessment of severity. By optimising the score-sheet and better understanding the burden of the model on rats, this study contributes to animal welfare.

Исследование молекулярно-клеточных механизмов фиброзирования печени крыс при посттоксическом гепатозе смешанной этиологии и при применении окисленного декстрана

Introduction. The development of liver cirrhosis, regardless of etiology, is based on the process of fibrosis and structural alteration of the organ. Regulation of this process is associated with a high level of TGF-β expression and suppression of apoptosis in hepatocytes. Oxidized dextran (OD) has a high antifibrotic activity and is able to change the functional state of the phagocytic cell, thus preventing the development of fibrosis and stimulating reparative processes in organs with post-toxic hepatosis and liver cirrhosis. Aim. To study the molecular and cellular mechanisms of the effect of OD on the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-associated proteins during fibrosis and the development of liver cirrhosis in rats with post-toxic hepatosis. Materials and methods. In the experiment, 30 male Wistar rats weighing 280–320 g were used. The animals were divided into 2 groups. In group 1 rats (hepatosis), the post-toxic hepatosis was modeled by administration of a solution of CCl4 and ethyl alcohol. In rats from group 2, the post-toxic hepatosis was modeled in the same way, and OD was administered. The numerical density (Nai) of liver nonparenchymal cells expressing TGF-β (Kupffer cells, endothelial cells, fibroblasts) was calculated. The expression of E-cadherin, vimentin, SNAIL + SLUG by fibroblasts and hepatocytes was evaluated. Results. The numerical density (Nai) of hepatocytes expressing vimentin prevailed in the liver of group 1 rats (hepatosis), compared with that of group 2 animals (hepatosis + OD) on the 30th and 60th days. In animals of the 1st (hepatosis) group on the 60th day, a 3-fold lower numerical density of hepatocytes expressing E-cadherin was noted in comparison with that in rats treated with OD (group 2). In animals of the 1st (hepatosis) group on the 30th and 60th days, a 2-fold and 5-fold higher numerical density of hepatocytes expressing SNAIL + SLUG was noted in comparison with that in rats of the 2nd group. The numerical density of fibroblasts expressing vimentin prevailed in the liver of group 2 rats (hepatosis + OD), compared with that of group 1 animals (hepatosis) on day 30. In animals of the 1st (hepatosis) group on the 60th day, a 6-fold higher numerical density of fibroblasts expressing E-cadherin was noted in comparison with that in rats treated with OD (group 2). In animals of the 1st (hepatosis) group on the 30th and 60th days, the numerical density of fibroblasts expressing SNAIL + SLUG was 6 and 7 times higher than in rats treated with OD (group 2). In the liver of animals of the 2nd group (hepatosis + OD), the numerical density of cells expressing TGF-β was lower in comparison with that of animals of the 1st group (hepatosis) by 2.5 times on the 30th day and 3.6 times on the 60th day of the experiment. Conclusion. In post-toxic hepatosis, the expression of TGF-β, SNAIL + SLUG and vimentin proteins increases in liver parenchymal and nonparenchymal cells, contributing to the acquisition of a mesenchymal immunophenotype by cells, which leads to increased profibrotic activity and the development of liver cirrhosis. The use of OD in post-toxic hepatosis reduces the expression of vimentin, TGF-β and EMT-associated proteins in liver parenchymal and nonparenchymal cells, which decreases the severity of fibroplastic processes and prevents the development of liver cirrhosis.

Effects of Isosakuranetin on Pharmacokinetic Changes of Tofacitinib in Rats with N-Dimethylnitrosamine-Induced Liver Cirrhosis.

Tofacitinib, a Janus kinase 1 and 3 inhibitor, is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. It is mainly metabolized by the cytochromes p450 (CYP) 3A1/2 and CYP2C11 in the liver. Chronic inflammation eventually leads to cirrhosis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Isosakuranetin (ISN), a component of Citrus aurantium L., has hepatoprotective effects in rats. This study was performed to determine the effects of ISN on the pharmacokinetics of tofacitinib in rats with N-dimethylnitrosamine-induced liver cirrhosis (LC). After intravenous administration of 10 mg/kg tofacitinib to control (CON), LC, and LC treated with ISN (LC-ISN) rats, the total area under the plasma concentration-time curves (AUC) from time zero to infinity increased by 158% in LC rats compared to those in CON rats; however, the AUC of LC-ISN rats decreased by 35.1% compared to that of LC rat. Similar patterns of AUC changes were observed in the LC and LC-ISN rats after oral administration of 20 mg/kg tofacitinib. These results can be attributed to decreased non-renal clearance (CLNR) and intestinal intrinsic clearance (CLint) in the LC rats and increased intestinal and hepatic CLint in the LC-ISN rats. Our findings imply that ISN treatment in LC rats restored the decrease in either CLNR or CLint, or both, through increased hepatic and intestinal expression of CYP3A1/2 and CYP2C11, which is regulated by the induction of pregnane X receptor (PXR) and constitutive androstane receptor (CAR).

Hepatoprotective effect of pinostrobin against thioacetamide-induced liver cirrhosis in rats

The study in vivo assessed the effect of pinostrobin on the histology, immunohistochemistry, and biochemical parameters of thioacetamide (TAA) induced liver cirrhosis in Sprague Dawley rats. The rats were noticeably gavaged with two doses of pinostrobin (30 mg/kg and 60 mg/kg) with TAA and exhibited a substantial decrease in the liver index and hepatocyte propagation with much minor cell injury. These groups meaningfully down-regulated the proliferation of cellular nucleus antigen (PCNA) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). The liver homogenate displayed augmented antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities escorted with reducing in malondialdehyde (MDA) level. The serum level of bilirubin, total protein, albumin, and liver enzymes (ALP, ALT, and AST) returned to normal and was similar to that of normal control and silymarin with TAA-treated groups. pinostrobin-fed groups also decreased the level of Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and increased the level of Interleukin-10 (IL-10). Acute toxicity with a higher dose of 500 mg/kg of pinostrobin did not manifest any toxicological signs in rats. The hepatoprotective effect of pinostrobin could be due to potentially inhibited the progression of liver cirrhosis, down-regulation of PCNA and α-SMA proliferation, prevented oxidation of hepatocytes, improved SOD and CAT enzymes, condensed MDA, repairs of liver biomarkers, reduced cellular inflammation and modulation of inflammatory cytokines.