Retinoic acid-inducible gene (RIG)-I is an essential innate immune sensor that recognises pathogen RNAs and induces interferon (IFN) production. However, little is known about how host proteins regulate RIG-I activation. Here, we show that leukocyte cell-derived chemotaxin 2 (LECT2), a hepatokine and ligand of the MET receptor tyrosine kinase is an antiviral regulator that promotes the RIG-I-mediated innate immune response.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFIt remains unclear how hepatic steatosis links to inflammation. Leukocyte cell-derived chemotaxin 2 (LECT2) is a hepatokine that senses fat in the liver and is upregulated prior to weight gain. The aim of this study was to investigate the significance of LECT2 in the development of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
View Article and Find Full Text PDFRecent articles have reported an association between fatty liver disease and systemic insulin resistance in humans, but the causal relationship remains unclear. The liver may contribute to muscle insulin resistance by releasing secretory proteins called hepatokines. Here we demonstrate that leukocyte cell-derived chemotaxin 2 (LECT2), an energy-sensing hepatokine, is a link between obesity and skeletal muscle insulin resistance.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFPurpose: The activities of breast cancer resistance protein (Bcrp/ABCG2) as well as P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and drug-metabolizing enzymes can be inhibited by several flavonoids or drugs in rats. However, the species, gender and regional differences of effects of flavonoids on Bcrp/ABCG2 in rats and mice remain unclear, although Bcrp, like P-gp, is also important in controlling drug absorption and disposition.
Methods: We used chrysin as a model flavonoid because it possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties and is used as a dietary supplement.