Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
German Belenguer, Gianmarco Mastrogiovanni, Clare Pacini, Zoe Hall, Anna M. Dowbaj, Robert Arnes-Benito, Aleksandra Sljukic, Nicole Prior, Sofia Kakava, Charles R. Bradshaw, Susan Davies, Michele Vacca, Kourosh Saeb-Parsy, Bon-Kyoung Koo, Meritxell Huch
Summary: RNF43/ZNRF3 alterations contribute to liver disease and liver cancer by affecting differentiation and lipid metabolism of hepatocytes. The loss of these genes leads to steatohepatitis and an increase in unsaturated lipids. Deletion of Rnf43/Znrf3 results in defective hepatocyte regeneration and liver cancer, causing an imbalance between differentiation and proliferation. Interestingly, ZNRF3 mutant liver cancer patients have a poorer prognosis and exhibit altered hepatic lipid metabolism and steatohepatitis/NASH signatures.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2022)
Article
Pathology
Jenesis Gayden, Shikai Hu, Paul N. Joseph, Evan Delgado, Silvia Liu, Aaron Bell, Stephanie Puig, Satdarshan P. Monga, Zachary Freyberg
Summary: Hepatic zonation is crucial for liver function, and Wnt signaling plays a key role in this process. However, the expression of Wnt signaling components, particularly all 10 Frizzled receptors, in adult liver has not been fully characterized. In this study, the spatial expression of Fzd receptors was mapped in adult mouse liver, revealing that Fzd receptors 1, 4, and 6 were the most highly expressed. While most Wnt signaling occurred in zone 3, the expression of Fzd receptors did not show zonation. However, Fzd receptor 6 was preferentially expressed in zone 1. The study also showed that Fzd receptors and Wnts were not uniformly expressed by all hepatic cell types. These findings provide a foundation for future functional studies of Fzd receptors in healthy and diseased liver states.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Hematology
Antonina Kurtova, Melanie Heinlein, Simon Haas, Lars Velten, Gerrit J. P. Dijkgraaf, Elaine E. Storm, Noelyn M. Kljavin, Soufiane Boumahdi, Patricia Himmels, Aurelie Herault, Andrew Mancini, Hartmut Koeppen, Monique Dail, Qingxiang Yan, Jianhuan Zhang, Ute Koch, Freddy Radtke, Zora Modrusan, Ciara Metcalfe, Robert Piskol, Frederic J. de Sauvage
Summary: The self-renewal and differentiation of stem and progenitor cells are regulated by systemic and local cues. RSPO3 is important for Wnt signaling and is usually expressed in the stem cell niche to regulate stem cell expansion and differentiation. Disrupting the niche-restricted expression of RSPO3 can affect tissue organization and lead to disorders and cancers.
Article
Immunology
Safaa A. Faheem, Reem M. Hazem, Norhan M. Elsayed, Yasser M. Ahmed, Noha M. Saeed
Summary: The study aimed to assess the involvement of Wnt/beta-catenin signaling in CsA-induced hepatotoxicity and whether knockdown of this pathway by NCL can attenuate CsA-induced hepatotoxicity. The results showed that NCL can significantly decrease liver enzymes activities, improve histopathological alterations induced by CsA, alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation. Moreover, NCL inhibited Wnt/beta-catenin signaling and increased the expression of PPAR-gamma.
INTERNATIONAL IMMUNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Immunology
Safaa A. Faheem, Yasser M. Moustafa, Noha M. Saeed, Reem M. Hazem, Norhan M. El-Sayed
Summary: The aim of this study was to investigate whether pyrvinium pamoate (PP) could protect against cyclosporin A (CsA)-induced hepatotoxicity. The results showed that PP has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties, which can reduce CsA-induced liver damage.
INTERNATIONAL IMMUNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Plant Sciences
Weidong Xu, Xia Du, Jiayao Li, Zhiyi Zhang, Xiaoyuan Ma, Dan Luo, Mingzhong Xiao, Quancai Sun
Summary: This study investigated the molecular mechanisms of SiNiSan in treating liver damage using mice and cell culture models. The results showed that SiNiSan alleviated liver injury and promoted liver cell regeneration. This study provides a theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of liver-related diseases with SiNiSan.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Zhonghui Bai, Kun Jia, Guilan Chen, Xinjun Liao, Zigang Cao, Yangqi Zhao, Chunping Zhang, Huiqiang Lu
Summary: Exposure to CBZ induced severe hepatotoxicity in zebrafish by promoting lipid accumulation, generating excessive ROS production, and inhibiting the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway. These findings highlight the environmental concerns associated with CBZ exposure.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2021)
Article
Medicine, Research & Experimental
Weiwei Dai, Jianliang Shen, Junrong Yan, Alex J. Bott, Sara Maimouni, Heineken Q. Daguplo, Yujue Wang, Khoosheh Khayati, Jessie Yanxiang Guo, Lanjing Zhang, Yongbo Wang, Alexander Valvezan, Wen-Xing Ding, Xin Chen, Xiaoyang Su, Shenglan Gao, Wei-Xing Zong
Summary: The text discusses the role of glutamine synthetase in liver function and cancer development. It shows that hepatic GS plays a critical role in tumor suppression through ammonia clearance and regulation of mTORC1 in the presence of beta-catenin mutations.
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION
(2022)
Article
Pathology
Enrica Saponara, Carlos Penno, Vanessa Orsini, Zhong-Yi Wang, Audrey Fischer, Alexandra Aebi, Meztli L. Matadamas-Guzman, Virginie Brun, Benoit Fischer, Margaret Brousseau, Peter O'Donnell, Jonathan Turner, Alexandra Graff Meyer, Laura Bollepalli, Giovanni dArio, Guglielmo Roma, Walter Carbone, Stefano Annunziato, Michael Obrecht, Nicolau Beckmann, Chandra Saravanan, Arnaud Osmont, Philipp Tropberger, Shola M. Richards, Christel Genoud, Svenja Ley, Iwona Ksiazek, Florian Nigsch, Luigi M. Terracciano, Heiko S. Schadt, Tewis Bouwmeester, Jan S. Tchorz, Heinz Ruffner
Summary: This study investigated the role of Lgr4/5 in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and found that the loss of Lgr4/5 in hepatic epithelial cells led to hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in mice fed with a high-fat diet. The study also demonstrated that the loss of Lgr4/5 resulted in impaired bile acid secretion, altered lipid homeostasis, and deregulation of lipoprotein pathways, all of which contributed to the onset of NAFLD.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Toxicology
David S. Umbaugh, Anup Ramachandran, Hartmut Jaeschke
Summary: This study used single-cell RNA sequencing to investigate the molecular mechanisms of APAP liver injury in different hepatocytes. The results showed that PP hepatocytes transitioned to oxidative stress after exposure and resolved the injury through innate and adaptive mechanisms, whereas PC hepatocytes continued to be stressed, ultimately leading to cell death.
TOXICOLOGICAL SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Ruihong Li, Juan Liu, Jie Ma, Xuer Sun, Yi Wang, Jiexin Yan, Qunfang Yu, Jinmei Diao, Chun Yang, Lola M. Reid, Yunfang Wang
Summary: The liver functions depend on interactions between parenchymal cells and the microenvironment, with biological macromolecules in the matrix playing a key role. Rat liver biomatrix scaffold prepared from adult rats is more effective in enhancing hepatic spheroid function. Fibronectin and fibrinogen show potential for improving hepatocyte function, promoting cell aggregation and activating Wnt/beta-catenin pathway.
Article
Cell Biology
Donald W. Little, Typhanie Dumontet, Christopher R. LaPensee, Gary D. Hammer
Summary: The Wnt signaling pathway is crucial for the development and maintenance of the adrenal cortex, affecting its zonation and endocrine function. Dysregulation of Wnt signaling can lead to various adrenal disorders, including cancer.
MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR ENDOCRINOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Jakub Havlasek, Jiri Vrba, Martina Zatloukalova, Barbora Papouskova, Martin Modriansky, Jan Storch, Jan Vacek
Summary: This study investigated the biotransformation of phytocannabinoids in human hepatocytes, revealing the different metabolic pathways and susceptibility of the compounds.
TOXICOLOGY AND APPLIED PHARMACOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Feng Zhang, Feixia Wang, Jianlin He, Naqi Lian, Zhenyi Wang, Jiangjuan Shao, Hai Ding, Shanzhong Tan, Anping Chen, Zili Zhang, Shijun Wang, Shizhong Zheng
Summary: This study investigated the regulation of HSC contraction by Wnt signaling and its therapeutic implications for cirrhotic portal hypertension. The findings suggest that targeting Wnt/beta-catenin signaling in HSCs may offer therapeutic benefits for reducing portal pressure and improving liver function in cirrhotic patients.
BRITISH JOURNAL OF PHARMACOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Chun-Chun Chang, Sheng-Feng Pan, Min-Huang Wu, Chun-Tse Cheng, Yan-Rui Su, Shinn-Jong Jiang, Hao-Jen Hsu
Summary: This study focused on the abnormal Wnt signaling pathway and found that the inhibition of tankyrase (TNKS) activity can reduce cancer cell growth, invasion, and resistance to treatment. Through pharmacophore search and docking, potential TNKS inhibitors were identified and two of them were validated as promising inhibitors. Additionally, a cell-based assay revealed that one of the inhibitors is the most likely TNKS inhibitor and can effectively inhibit the growth of colorectal cancer cells.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Saehan Choi, Jeonga Kim, Rafia Tasnim Rahman, Dong Jae Lee, Kimoon Lee, Yoon Sung Nam
Summary: This study presents plastic-free silica-titania-tannin hybrids that enhance the blocking effects of UV-to-blue light while suppressing the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The results demonstrate the promising application of these hybrids in protecting the skin from UV and blue light-induced damage.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Chang Woo Song, Dae-Hyeon Song, Dong Gyu Kang, Ki Hyun Park, Chan E. Park, Hyunwoo Kim, Yongsuk Hur, Sung Duk Jo, Yoon Sung Nam, Jihyeon Yeom, Seung Min Han, Jae-Byum Chang
Summary: This study introduces a method for synthesizing metallic structures resembling specific protein assemblies in mammalian cells and tissues, enabling the growth of metal particles. Utilizing nanogold-conjugated antibodies to label specific proteins within cells and tissues, nanogold acts as nucleation sites for metal particle growth. The new biotemplating approach converts specific protein structures into metallic forms in ex vivo multicellular organisms, demonstrating potential applications in catalysis and structural replication.
ADVANCED MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Biophysics
Shinyoung Choi, Yoon Sung Nam
Summary: This study reports a novel DNA nanoprobe based on plasmon-enhanced fluorescence and quenching effects, which enables rapid, sensitive, and reliable detection of pathogenic DNA.
BIOSENSORS & BIOELECTRONICS
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Hae-Ri Lee, Soo Kim, Sungho Shin, Seon-Yeong Jeong, Dae-Won Lee, Sun-Ung Lim, Ji Yeon Kang, Mi-Young Son, Cheolju Lee, Kyung-Rok Yu, Myungshin Kim, Il-Hoan Oh
Summary: In this study, the transition from primary MSCs to iMSCs was characterized by increased proliferative activity and variations in differentiation potential. iMSCs exhibited unique gene and protein expression patterns, resembling pericyte-like cells, and showed enhanced self-renewal and immune suppression capabilities.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Medicine, Research & Experimental
Ilkyu Park, Nakyoung Kim, Sugi Lee, Kunhyang Park, Mi-Young Son, Hyun-Soo Cho, Dae-Soo Kim
Summary: The timely diagnosis of different stages in NAFLD is crucial for disease treatment and reversal. In this study, we identified differentially expressed genes in NAFLD patients compared to healthy controls and determined their predictive power. We also found significant differential expression of candidate genes in liver cancer that may influence patient survival.
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Jae Chul Park, Hyebin Na, Saehan Choi, Huiju Jeon, Yoon Sung Nam
Summary: A simple method for miRNA assay is presented, which is based on the one-pot self-assembly of Y-shaped DNAs with streptavidin via an miRNA-catalyzed TMSD cascade reaction. This method incorporates a single base-pair mismatch to facilitate RNA-triggered strand displacement while minimally disturbing nonspecific reactions. The detection limit is significantly reduced from the nanomolar level to the picomolar level.
ADVANCED HEALTHCARE MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Hyunah Ahn, Younghak Cho, Geun-Tae Yun, Kwang Bo Jung, Wonji Jeong, Yesol Kim, Mi-Young Son, Eunjung Lee, Sung Gap Im, Hee-Tae Jung
Summary: This study presents a hierarchical structure composed of nano-pillars on micro-wrinkles for enhancing cardiomyocyte maturation. The responses of cardiomyocytes on hierarchical topography are systematically investigated. The combination of nano-pillars and micro-wrinkles significantly enhances the maturation of cardiomyocytes.
ADVANCED HEALTHCARE MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Biomaterials
Kyounghee Shin, Kun Bong Lee, Jee-Hyun Hwang, Boryeong Lee, Hyunsun Ryu, Minjoo Noh, Jun Bae Lee, Yoon Sung Nam, Kyung-Min Lim, Jin Woong Kim
Summary: This study presents a microvehicle platform with a multilamellar ceramide core structure for effective recovery of the skin barrier function. The researchers used bacterial cellulose nanofiber (BCNF) to encapsulate ceramide-rich lipid microparticles (CerMPs), forming BCNF-armored oil-in-water Pickering emulsions. The CerMP cores had a multilamellar structure that could be adjusted by using fatty alcohols (FAs) with different alkyl chain lengths. The CerMPs reduced trans-epidermal water loss and restored the structural integrity of damaged skin. The findings demonstrate that the CerMP system offers a practical approach for developing skin-friendly formulations that strengthen the skin barrier function.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS CHEMISTRY B
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Bon Il Koo, Rafia Tasnim Rahman, Jihui Jang, Dong Jae Lee, Jun Bae Lee, Yoon Sung Nam
Summary: This study presents a technique for the fabrication of structurally robust lipid nanovesicles through self-assembly of preformed cationic large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs) with hydrolyzed collagen peptides (HCPs). The resulting multilamellar collagen-lipid vesicles (MCLVs) show excellent structural stability against variations in pH, ionic strength, and the addition of surfactants, as well as repeated freeze-thaw stresses. This technique provides a simple and quick method for the production of stable lipid nanovesicles without the use of covalent crosslinkers, organic solvents, and specialized instruments.
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Nyeongbeen Jo, Insu Kim, Yoon Sung Nam
Summary: Natural photosynthesis provides attractive models for various applications in photovoltaics and solar fuel production, but poor interfacial electron transfer limits the performance of photoelectrodes. This study presents efficient bias-free biophotovoltaics based on dual heterostructure photoelectrodes. The photocathode and photoanode were prepared using PSI-protonated carbon nitride nanosheet complexes and PSII-TiO2 nanoparticle films, resulting in high photocurrent density and cell power. This work demonstrates a simple self-assembly method for constructing efficient nanobio complex photoelectrodes for enhanced interfacial electron transfer.
ACS APPLIED NANO MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Biomaterials
Jihyo Kil, Rafia Tasnim Rahman, Wenxuan Wang, Saehan Choi, Yoon Sung Nam, Sheng Li
Summary: Polymer coatings containing fouling-resistant and fouling-release components show synergistic antifouling properties. The composition of the polymer influences the antifouling performance against different biofoulants. The best-performing copolymer shows surface heterogeneity with a PEG-rich top layer and a PEG/PDMS mixed bottom layer, resisting biofoulant attachment.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS CHEMISTRY B
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Kwangho Kim, Tae Young Ryu, Jinkwon Lee, Mi-Young Son, Dae-Soo Kim, Sang Kyum Kim, Hyun-Soo Cho
Summary: This study identified EHMT1 as an overexpressed gene in colorectal cancer (CRC) and demonstrated that knocking down EHMT1 expression suppressed cell growth and induced apoptosis in CRC cell lines. Further analysis revealed that EHMT1 regulates cell apoptosis through the CHOP gene. These findings suggest EHMT1 as a potential therapeutic target for CRC treatment.
MOLECULES AND CELLS
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Seung-Ho Park, Sung-Jin Yoon, Song Choi, Jaeeun Jung, Jun-Young Park, Young-Ho Park, Jinho Seo, Jungwoon Lee, Moo-Seung Lee, Seon-Jin Lee, Mi-Young Son, Young-Lai Cho, Jang-Seong Kim, Hyo Jin Lee, Jinyoung Jeong, Dae-Soo Kim, Young-Jun Park
Summary: The study reveals that exposure to particulate matter pollutants can induce immune cells to secrete HBEGF, leading to a more invasive state in cancer cells. This finding helps uncover the mechanism by which PM promotes cancer metastasis.
EXPERIMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MEDICINE
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jongjin Park, Dong Gwang Lee, Na Geum Lee, Min-Gi Kwon, Yeon Sung Son, Mi-Young Son, Kwang-Hee Bae, Jangwook Lee, Jong-Gil Park, Nam-Kyung Lee, Jeong-Ki Min
Summary: In this study, researchers developed a monoclonal antibody K312 that can distinguish undifferentiated pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) from differentiated PSC progeny. By targeting with K312, pluripotent cells can be depleted from differentiated PSC progeny, effectively preventing teratoma formation.
Article
Cell & Tissue Engineering
Ohman Kwon, Won Dong Yu, Ye Seul Son, Kwang Bo Jung, Hana Lee, Mi-Young Son
Summary: This study develops a reliable culture method for 3D intestinal spheroids (InSexp) that can expand and maintain human intestinal stem cells (ISCs). By activating the WNT pathway, the InSexp can rapidly expand and be passaged. These findings contribute to the development of scalable culture systems for studying ISC biology.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF STEM CELLS
(2022)