ADAR1 Inhibits Macrophage Apoptosis and Alleviates Sepsis-induced Liver Injury Through miR-122/BCL2A1 Signaling

Shanshou Liu1, Jiangang Xie1, Chujun Duan1

  • 1Emergency Department, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.

Abstract

Insights

Adenosine deaminases acting on RNA-1 (ADAR1) reduces sepsis-induced liver injury by alleviating macrophage apoptosis via the miR-122/BCL2A1 pathway. This finding offers new therapeutic strategies for sepsis.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Hepatology

Background:

  • Sepsis progression involves immune cell apoptosis, contributing to immunosuppression and organ failure.
  • Adenosine deaminases acting on RNA-1 (ADAR1) previously showed protective effects against sepsis-related damage.
  • The specific role and mechanism of ADAR1 in sepsis-induced liver injury were not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of ADAR1 on immune cell activities in sepsis.
  • To elucidate the mechanism by which ADAR1 influences sepsis-induced liver injury.
  • To explore ADAR1's therapeutic potential in sepsis.

Main Methods:

  • Transcriptome and single-cell RNA sequencing of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from sepsis patients.
  • Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) sepsis mouse model to assess liver injury.
  • In vitro studies using murine RAW 264.7 macrophages treated with lipopolysaccharide to explore ADAR1 mechanisms.

Main Results:

  • Sepsis patients' PBMCs exhibited apoptotic features, with elevated ADAR1 and BCL2A1 in severe cases.
  • ADAR1 overexpression alleviated liver injury and Kupffer cell apoptosis in septic mice.
  • ADAR1 modulated miR-122 biosynthesis, which regulated BCL2A1, thereby reducing macrophage apoptosis via the miR-122/BCL2A1 pathway.

Conclusions:

  • ADAR1 mitigates macrophage apoptosis and sepsis-induced liver damage through the miR-122/BCL2A1 signaling pathway.
  • This study provides novel insights into sepsis pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets.
  • ADAR1 represents a promising target for developing interventions against sepsis-related liver injury.