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Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Amado V, de la Mata M. Letter: mechanistic target of rapamycin inhibitors as adjuvant therapy for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma undergoing liver transplantation. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2019; 50:478-479. [PMID: 31359472 DOI: 10.1111/apt.15300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Guerrero M, Ferrín G, Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, González-Rubio S, Sánchez-Frías M, Amado V, Pozo JC, Poyato A, Ciria R, Ayllón MD, Barrera P, Montero JL, de la Mata M. mTOR Expression in Liver Transplant Candidates with Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Impact on Histological Features and Tumour Recurrence. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20020336. [PMID: 30650598 PMCID: PMC6359509 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20020336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway activation is critical for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. We aimed to evaluate the mTOR tissue expression in liver transplant (LT) patients and to analyse its influence on post-LT outcomes. (2) Methods: Prospective study including a cohort of HCC patients who underwent LT (2012⁻2015). MTOR pathway expression was evaluated in the explanted liver by using the "PathScan Intracellular Signalling Array Kit" (Cell Signalling). Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses were performed to evaluate post-LT HCC recurrence. (3) Results: Forty-nine patients were included (average age 56.4 ± 6, 14.3% females). Phospho-mTOR (Ser2448) was over-expressed in peritumoral tissue as compared with tumoral tissue (ΔSignal 22.2%; p < 0.001). The mTOR activators were also increased in peritumoral tissue (phospho-Akt (Thr308) ΔSignal 18.2%, p = 0.004; phospho-AMPKa (Thr172) ΔSignal 56.3%, p < 0.001), as they were the downstream effectors responsible for cell growth/survival (phospho-p70S6K (Thr389) ΔSignal 33.3%, p < 0.001 and phospho-S6RP (Ser235/236) ΔSignal 54.6%, p < 0.001). MTOR expression was increased in patients with multinodular HCC (tumoral p = 0.01; peritumoral p = 0.001). Increased phospho-mTOR in tumoral tissue was associated with higher HCC recurrence rates after LT (23.8% vs. 5.9% at 24 months, p = 0.04). (4) Conclusion: mTOR pathway is over-expressed in patients with multinodular HCC and is it associated with increased post-LT tumour recurrence rates.
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Amado V, Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Ferrín G, De la Mata M. Selecting patients with hepatocellular carcinoma for liver transplantation: incorporating tumor biology criteria. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2018; 6:1-10. [PMID: 30613572 PMCID: PMC6306074 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s174549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) is the optimal therapeutic option for patients with liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Due to universal donor shortage, only the patients with limited tumor burden (under the so-called Milan criteria) are considered as potential candidates for LT in most institutions. It is expected that in the near future, more liver grafts will be available for patients with HCC due to the implementation of new direct antivirals against hepatitis C, leaving a prone scenario to consider expanding Milan criteria. A moderate expansion of Milan criteria could be implemented without increasing the risk of tumor recurrence if patients with favorable biological behavior are carefully selected. Incorporating information regarding tumor biology in the decision-making algorithm would result in a more rational use of LT in patients with HCC. In the present review, surrogate markers of tumor biology are critically evaluated as potential tools to be combined with existing radiological criteria. In addition, the current state of liquid biopsy is discussed, as this cutting-edge technology may reshape the management of HCC in the upcoming years.
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Aller R, Fernández-Rodríguez C, Lo Iacono O, Bañares R, Abad J, Carrión JA, García-Monzón C, Caballería J, Berenguer M, Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, López Miranda J, Vilar-Gómez E, Crespo J, García-Cortés M, Reig M, Navarro JM, Gallego-Durán R, Genescà J, Arias-Loste MT, Pareja MJ, Albillos A, Muntané J, Jorquera F, Solà E, Hernández-Guerra M, Rojo MÁ, Salmerón J, Caballería L, Diago M, Molina E, Bataller R, Romero-Gómez M. Erratum to «Consensus document. Management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Clinical practice guideline» [Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2018;41(5):328-349]. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2018; 41:475-476. [PMID: 29929828 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2018.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Pozo-Laderas JC, Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Muñoz-Villanueva MC, Rivera-Espinar F, Durban-García I, Muñoz-Trujillo J, Robles-Arista JC, Briceño-Delgado J. Pretransplant predictors of early mortality in adult recipients of liver transplantation in the MELD-Na Era. Med Intensiva 2018; 43:261-269. [PMID: 29735173 DOI: 10.1016/j.medin.2018.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Revised: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To identify pretransplant predictors of early mortality (90 days after transplantation) and evaluate their discriminating capacity in adult liver transplant recipients (LTR). DESIGN An observational, retrospective, nested cases-controls study from a consecutive cohort of LTRs was carried out. SETTING University hospital. PATIENTS All consecutive LTR between January 2003 and December 2016 were eligible for inclusion. Patients with acute liver failure, previous graft dysfunction, simultaneous multiple organ transplantation, non-heart beating donors, and those needing urgent retransplantation during the study period were excluded. The analysis comprised 471 patients. MAIN VARIABLES OF INTEREST Pretransplant characteristics were the main variables of interest. The LTR were grouped according to the dependent variable (early mortality). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify predictors of early mortality. The discriminating capacity of the models obtained was evaluated by comparing ROC curves (models versus MELD-Na). RESULTS The MELD-Na score (OR = 1.069, 95% CI = 1.014-1.127), age > 60 years (OR = 2.479, 95% CI = 1.226-5.015), and LTR height < 163cm (OR = 4.092, 95% CI = 2.115-7.917) were identified as independent predictors of early mortality. The cause of transplantation (hepatocellular carcinoma or decompensated cirrhosis) was identified as a confounding factor. CONCLUSIONS In LTR due to decompensated cirrhosis, the MELD-Na score, age > 60 years, and height < 163cm are independent predictors of early mortality. These factors provide a better classification model than the MELD-Na score for early post-transplant mortality.
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Aller R, Fernández-Rodríguez C, Lo Iacono O, Bañares R, Abad J, Carrión JA, García-Monzón C, Caballería J, Berenguer M, Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Miranda JL, Vilar-Gómez E, Crespo J, García-Cortés M, Reig M, Navarro JM, Gallego R, Genescà J, Arias-Loste MT, Pareja MJ, Albillos A, Muntané J, Jorquera F, Solà E, Hernández-Guerra M, Rojo MÁ, Salmerón J, Caballería L, Diago M, Molina E, Bataller R, Romero-Gómez M. Consensus document. Management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Clinical practice guideline. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2018; 41:328-349. [PMID: 29631866 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2017.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Revised: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the main cause of liver diseases in Spain and the incidence is raising due to the outbreak of type 2 diabetes and obesity. This CPG suggests recommendation about diagnosis, mainly non-invasive biomarkers, and clinical management of this entity. Life-style modifications to achieve weight loss is the main target in the management of NAFLD. Low caloric Mediterranean diet and 200 minutes/week of aerobic exercise are encouraged. In non-responders patients with morbid obesity, bariatric surgery or metabolic endoscopy could be indicated. Pharmacological therapy is indicated in patients with NASH and fibrosis and non-responders to weight loss measures. NAFLD could influence liver transplantation, as a growing indication, the impact of steatosis in the graft viability, de novo NAFLD rate after OLT and a raised cardiovascular risk that modify the management of this entity. The current CPG was the result of the First Spanish NAFLD meeting in Seville.
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Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, De Luca L, Crespo G, Rubin Á, Marín S, Benlloch S, Colmenero J, Berenguer M, Navasa M, Tsochatzis E, De la Mata M. An objective definition for clinical suspicion of T-cell-mediated rejection after liver transplantation. Clin Transplant 2017; 31. [DOI: 10.1111/ctr.13005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Aguiar D, Martínez-Urbistondo D, Baroja-Mazo A, de la Mata M, Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Rubín A, Puchades L, Serrano T, Montero J, Cuadrado A, Casafont F, Salcedo M, Rincón D, Pons JA, Herrero JI. Real-World Multicenter Experience of Immunosuppression Minimization Among 661 Liver Transplant Recipients. Ann Transplant 2017; 22:265-275. [PMID: 28461684 PMCID: PMC6248177 DOI: 10.12659/aot.902523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2016] [Accepted: 12/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-term morbidity and mortality in liver transplant recipients is frequently secondary to immunosuppression toxicity. However, data are scarce regarding immunosuppression minimization in clinical practice. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this cross-sectional, multicenter study, we reviewed the indications of immunosuppression minimization (defined as tacrolimus levels below 5 ng/mL or cyclosporine levels below 50 ng/mL) among 661 liver transplant recipients, as well as associated factors and the effect on renal function. RESULTS Fifty-three percent of the patients received minimized immunosuppression. The median time from transplantation to minimization was 32 months. The most frequent indications were renal insufficiency (49%), cardiovascular risk (19%), de novo malignancy (8%), and cardiovascular disease (7%). The factors associated with minimization were older age at transplantation, longer post-transplant follow-up, pre-transplant diabetes mellitus and renal dysfunction, and the hospital where the patients were being followed. The patients who were minimized because of renal insufficiency had a significant improvement in renal function (decrease of the median serum creatinine level, from 1.50 to 1.34 mg/dL; P=0.004). Renal function significantly improved in patients minimized for other indications, too. In the long term, glomerular filtration rate significantly decreased in non-minimized patients and remained stable in minimized patients. CONCLUSIONS Immunosuppression minimization is frequently undertaken in long-term liver transplant recipients, mainly for renal insufficiency. Substantial variability exists regarding the use of IS minimization among centers.
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Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Rico-Juri JM, Tsochatzis E, Burra P, De la Mata M, Lerut J. Biopsy-proven acute cellular rejection as an efficacy endpoint of randomized trials in liver transplantation: a systematic review and critical appraisal. Transpl Int 2016; 29:961-73. [DOI: 10.1111/tri.12737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2015] [Revised: 09/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/18/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Crossan C, Tsochatzis EA, Longworth L, Gurusamy K, Davidson B, Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Mantzoukis K, O'Brien J, Thalassinos E, Papastergiou V, Burroughs A. Cost-effectiveness of non-invasive methods for assessment and monitoring of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis in patients with chronic liver disease: systematic review and economic evaluation. Health Technol Assess 2015; 19:1-409, v-vi. [PMID: 25633908 DOI: 10.3310/hta19090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver biopsy is the reference standard for diagnosing the extent of fibrosis in chronic liver disease; however, it is invasive, with the potential for serious complications. Alternatives to biopsy include non-invasive liver tests (NILTs); however, the cost-effectiveness of these needs to be established. OBJECTIVE To assess the diagnostic accuracy and cost-effectiveness of NILTs in patients with chronic liver disease. DATA SOURCES We searched various databases from 1998 to April 2012, recent conference proceedings and reference lists. METHODS We included studies that assessed the diagnostic accuracy of NILTs using liver biopsy as the reference standard. Diagnostic studies were assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) tool. Meta-analysis was conducted using the bivariate random-effects model with correlation between sensitivity and specificity (whenever possible). Decision models were used to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the NILTs. Expected costs were estimated using a NHS perspective and health outcomes were measured as quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). Markov models were developed to estimate long-term costs and QALYs following testing, and antiviral treatment where indicated, for chronic hepatitis B (HBV) and chronic hepatitis C (HCV). NILTs were compared with each other, sequential testing strategies, biopsy and strategies including no testing. For alcoholic liver disease (ALD), we assessed the cost-effectiveness of NILTs in the context of potentially increasing abstinence from alcohol. Owing to a lack of data and treatments specifically for fibrosis in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the analysis was limited to an incremental cost per correct diagnosis. An analysis of NILTs to identify patients with cirrhosis for increased monitoring was also conducted. RESULTS Given a cost-effectiveness threshold of £20,000 per QALY, treating everyone with HCV without prior testing was cost-effective with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of £9204. This was robust in most sensitivity analyses but sensitive to the extent of treatment benefit for patients with mild fibrosis. For HBV [hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-negative)] this strategy had an ICER of £28,137, which was cost-effective only if the upper bound of the standard UK cost-effectiveness threshold range (£30,000) is acceptable. For HBeAg-positive disease, two NILTs applied sequentially (hyaluronic acid and magnetic resonance elastography) were cost-effective at a £20,000 threshold (ICER: £19,612); however, the results were highly uncertain, with several test strategies having similar expected outcomes and costs. For patients with ALD, liver biopsy was the cost-effective strategy, with an ICER of £822. LIMITATIONS A substantial number of tests had only one study from which diagnostic accuracy was derived; therefore, there is a high risk of bias. Most NILTs did not have validated cut-offs for diagnosis of specific fibrosis stages. The findings of the ALD model were dependent on assuptions about abstinence rates assumptions and the modelling approach for NAFLD was hindered by the lack of evidence on clinically effective treatments. CONCLUSIONS Treating everyone without NILTs is cost-effective for patients with HCV, but only for HBeAg-negative if the higher cost-effectiveness threshold is appropriate. For HBeAg-positive, two NILTs applied sequentially were cost-effective but highly uncertain. Further evidence for treatment effectiveness is required for ALD and NAFLD. STUDY REGISTRATION This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42011001561. FUNDING The National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment programme.
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Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Pérez-Medrano I, Guerrero-Misas M, González V, Poyato A, Barrera P, Ferrín G, Pozo JC, Sánchez-Frías M, Ciria R, Briceño J, Montero JL, De la Mata M. Everolimus is safe within the first month after liver transplantation. Transpl Immunol 2015; 33:146-51. [PMID: 26392195 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2015.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2015] [Revised: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/17/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Sirolimus should not be started within the first month after liver transplantation (LT) because of an increased risk of adverse outcomes. The evidence regarding everolimus is lacking but the manufacturer transposed the same warning. We aimed to evaluate the safety of everolimus started within the first month after LT. METHODS A consecutive cohort 187 LT patients (2009-2013) with a tacrolimus-based immunosuppression was evaluated. Patients starting everolimus within the first month after LT (n = 33; 17.6%) were compared with those starting everolimus thereafter (n = 25; 13.4%) or not receiving everolimus (n = 129; 69%). The median follow-up after LT was 21 months (IQR 7-36). Prospective outcomes were evaluated by using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox's regression. RESULTS The incidence of hepatic artery thrombosis was not significantly different in patients early treated with everolimus when compared with the remaining cohort (0% vs 9.1%; p = 0.12). Other vascular complications occurred in 9.1% of patients with early everolimus vs 7.3% in the remaining cohort (p = 0.72). No wound healing complications were detected with early everolimus. There were similar rates of incisional hernia (p = 0.31), infections (p = 0.15), renal impairment (p = 0.37), and histologically-proven acute rejection (p = 0.24) between groups. The rates of hyperlipidemia were increased with early everolimus (29.9% vs 16.5% at 3 years; p = 0.018). Graft loss and mortality rates were similar between groups (p = 0.34 and p = 0.94 respectively), after adjusting for possible confounding factors. CONCLUSIONS Everolimus combined with reduced tacrolimus proved to be safe within the first month after LT. Future trials may be allowed to implement everolimus early after LT.
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Ciria R, López-Cillero P, Gallardo AB, Cabrera J, Pleguezuelo M, Ayllón MD, Luque A, Zurera L, Espejo JJ, Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Montero JL, de la Mata M, Briceño J. Optimizing the management of patients with BCLC stage-B hepatocellular carcinoma: Modern surgical resection as a feasible alternative to transarterial chemoemolization. Eur J Surg Oncol 2015; 41:1153-61. [PMID: 26118317 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2015.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2015] [Revised: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/31/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyse the impact of liver resection (LR) in patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) within the Barcelona-Clinic-Liver-Cancer (BCLC)-B stage. METHODS Analysis of patients with BCLC-B HCC treated with LR or transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) between 2007 and 2012 in our hospital. Survival/recurrence analyses were performed by log-rank tests and Cox multivariate models. Further analyses were specifically obtained for the HCC subclassification (B1-2-3-4) proposed recently. RESULTS Eighty patients were treated (44-TACE/36-LR). Number of nodules was [1.8(1.1)], being multinodular in 50% of cases. Although resected patients had a higher hospital stay than those who underwent TACE (14 ± 13 vs 7 ± 6; P = 0.004), the rate and severity of complications was lower measured by Dindo-Clavien scale (P < 0.05). Overall survival was 40% with a median follow-up of 29.5 months (0.07-96.9). Five-years survival rates were 62.9%, 28.1% and 15.4%, respectively (P = 0.004) for B1, B2 and B3-4 stages. Cox model showed that only total bilirubin [OR = 2.055(1.23-3.44)] and BCLC subclassification B3-4 [OR = 2.439(1.04-5.7)] and B2 [OR = 2.79(1.35-5.77)] vs B1 were independent predictors of 5-years-survival. In B1 patients, surgical approach led a significant decrease in 5-years recurrence-rate (25% vs 60%; P = 0.018). In the surgical subgroup analysis, better results were observed if well/moderate differentiation combined with no microvascular-invasion (VI) in 5-years-survival (84.6%; P = 0.001) and -recurrence (23.1%; P = 0.041), respectively. These survival and recurrence trends were remarkable in B1 stages. CONCLUSIONS Management of Intermediate BCLC-B HCC stage should be more complex and include updated criteria regarding B-stage subclassifications, VI and tumour differentiation. Modern surgical resection would offer improved survival benefit with acceptable safety in selected BCLC-B stage patients.
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Ferrín G, Aguilar-Melero P, Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Montero-Álvarez JL, de la Mata M. Biomarkers for hepatocellular carcinoma: diagnostic and therapeutic utility. Hepat Med 2015; 7:1-10. [PMID: 25926760 PMCID: PMC4403743 DOI: 10.2147/hmer.s50161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Because of the high prevalence and associated-mortality of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), early diagnosis of the disease is vital for patient survival. In this regard, tumor size is one of the two main prognostic factors for surgical resection, which constitutes the only curative treatment for HCC along with liver transplantation. However, techniques for HCC surveillance and diagnosis that are currently used in clinical practice have certain limitations that may be inherent to the tumor development. Thus, it is important to continue efforts in the search for biomarkers that increase diagnostic accuracy for HCC. In this review, we focus on different biological sources of candidate biomarkers for HCC diagnosis. Although those biomarkers identified from biological samples obtained by noninvasive methods have greater diagnostic value, we have also considered those obtained from liver tissue because of their potential therapeutic value. To date, sorafenib is the only US Food and Drug Administration-approved antineoplastic for HCC. However, this therapeutic agent shows very low tumor response rates and frequently causes acquired resistance in HCC patients. We discuss the use of HCC biomarkers as therapeutic targets themselves, or as targets to increase sensitivity to sorafenib treatment.
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Ferrín G, Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Aguilar-Melero P, Ranchal I, Llamoza C, Linares CI, González-Rubio S, Muntané J, Briceño J, López-Cillero P, Montero-Álvarez JL, de la Mata M. Plasma protein biomarkers of hepatocellular carcinoma in HCV-infected alcoholic patients with cirrhosis. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0118527. [PMID: 25789864 PMCID: PMC4366144 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0118527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2014] [Accepted: 11/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common and lethal cancers in the world, with limited options for treatment unless timely diagnosed. Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and persistent heavy alcohol consumption are independent risk factors for HCC development, which may induce a specific protein expression pattern different from those caused separately. The aim of the study was to identify protein biomarkers for the detection of HCC in HCV-infected alcoholic patients with cirrhosis in order to improve survival. We compared protein expression profiles of plasma samples from 52 HCV-infected alcoholic patients with and without HCC, using 2-D DIGE coupled with MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry. The 2-D DIGE results were analyzed statistically using Decyder software, and verified by western-blot and ELISA. In plasma samples from HCV-infected alcoholic patients, we found significantly differential expression profiles of carboxypeptidase-N, ceruloplasmin (CP), complement component 4a (C4a), fibrinogen-alpha (FGA), immunoglobulin mu chain C region, serum albumin, and serum paraoxonase/arylesterase 1 (PON1). Deregulation of plasma/serum levels of the identified proteins was associated to HCV, ethanol consumption, and/or HCC progression. In the validation through ELISA, C4a serum concentration was increased in HCC patients (2.4±1 ng/mg vs 1.8±0.6 ng/mg; p = 0.029), being the only independent predictor of HCC in the multivariate analysis (OR = 2.15; p = 0.015), with an AUROC = 0.70. The combination of C4a, FGA, CP and PON1 improved slightly the predictive ability of C4a alone (AUROC 0.81). In conclusion, we identified proteins related to acute-phase response, oxidative stress, or immune response, whose differential expression in plasma may be attributed to the presence of HCC. Among them, C4a, and its combination with CP, FGA and PON1, could be considered as potentially reliable biomarkers for the detection of HCC in HCV-infected alcoholic patients.
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Linares CI, Ferrín G, Aguilar-Melero P, González-Rubio S, Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Sánchez-Aragó M, Chicano-Gálvez E, Cuezva JM, Montero-Álvarez JL, Muntané J, de la Mata M. Sensitivity to anti-Fas is independent of increased cathepsin D activity and adrenodoxin reductase expression occurring in NOS-3 overexpressing HepG2 cells. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2015; 1853:1182-94. [PMID: 25712867 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2015.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2014] [Revised: 02/13/2015] [Accepted: 02/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Stable overexpression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS-3) in HepG2 cells (4TO-NOS) leads to increased nitro-oxidative stress and upregulation of the cell death mediators p53 and Fas. Thus, NOS-3 overexpression has been suggested as a useful antiproliferative mechanism in hepatocarcinoma cells. We aimed to identify the underlying mechanism of cell death induced by NOS-3 overexpression at basal conditions and with anti-Fas treatment. The intracellular localization of NOS-3, the nitro-oxidative stress and the mitochondrial activity were analysed. In addition, the protein expression profile in 4TO-NOS was screened for differentially expressed proteins potentially involved in the induction of apoptosis. NOS-3 localization in the mitochondrial outer membrane was not associated with changes in the respiratory cellular capacity, but was related to the mitochondrial biogenesis increase and with a higher protein expression of mitochondrial complex IV. Nitro-oxidative stress and cell death in NOS-3 overexpressing cells occurred with the expression increase of pro-apoptotic genes and a higher expression/activity of the enzymes adrenodoxin reductase mitochondrial (AR) and cathepsin D (CatD). CatD overexpression in 4TO-NOS was related to the apoptosis induction independently of its catalytic activity. In addition, CatD activity inhibition by pepstatin A was not effective in blocking apoptosis induced by anti-Fas. In summary, NOS-3 overexpression resulted in an increased sensitivity to anti-Fas induced cell death, independently of AR expression and CatD activity.
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Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, García-Caparrós C, Tsochatzis E, Germani G, Hogan B, Poyato-González A, O'Beirne J, Senzolo M, Guerrero-Misas M, Montero-Álvarez JL, Patch D, Barrera P, Briceño J, Dhillon AP, Burra P, Burroughs AK, De la Mata M. Lack of agreement for defining 'clinical suspicion of rejection' in liver transplantation: a model to select candidates for liver biopsy. Transpl Int 2015; 28:455-64. [PMID: 25557691 DOI: 10.1111/tri.12514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2014] [Revised: 10/17/2014] [Accepted: 12/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The gold standard to diagnose acute cellular rejection (ACR) after liver transplantation (LT) is histological evaluation, but there is no consensus to select patients for liver biopsy. We aimed to evaluate the agreement among clinicians to select candidates for liver biopsy early after LT. From a protocol biopsy population (n = 690), we randomly selected 100 LT patients in whom the biopsy was taken 7-10 days after LT. The clinical information between LT and protocol biopsy was given to nine clinicians from three transplant centres who decided whether a liver biopsy was needed. The agreement among clinicians to select candidates for liver biopsy was poor: κ = 0.06-0.62, being κ < 0.40 in 76% of comparisons. The concordance between indication for liver biopsy and moderate-severe ACR in the protocol biopsy was κ < 0.30 in all cases. A multivariate model based on the product age-by-MELD (OR = 0.81; P = 0.013), delta eosinophils (OR = 1.5; P = 0.002) and mean tacrolimus trough concentrations <6 ng/ml within the prior 4 days (OR = 11.4; P = 0.047) had an AUROC = 0.84 to diagnose moderate-severe histological ACR. In conclusion, the agreement among clinicians to select patients for liver biopsy is very poor. If further validated the proposed model would provide an objective method to select candidates for liver biopsy after LT.
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Parisi I, Tsochatzis E, Wijewantha H, Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, De Luca L, Manousou P, Fatourou E, Pieri G, Papastergiou V, Davies N, Yu D, Luong T, Dhillon AP, Thorburn D, Patch D, O'Beirne J, Meyer T, Burroughs AK. Inflammation-based scores do not predict post-transplant recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients within Milan criteria. Liver Transpl 2014; 20:1327-35. [PMID: 25088400 DOI: 10.1002/lt.23969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2014] [Revised: 06/04/2014] [Accepted: 07/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Increased preoperative inflammation scores, such as neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and inflammation-based index (IBI) have been related to post-transplant HCC recurrence. We evaluated the association between inflammation-based scores (NLR, PLR, IBI) and post-LT HCC recurrence as well as tumor necrosis after transarterial embolization. 150 consecutive patients who underwent transplantation for HCC within the Milan criteria between 1996 and 2010 were included; data regarding inflammatory markers, patient and tumor characteristics were analyzed. NLR, PLR, and IBI were not significantly associated with post-LT HCC recurrence or worse overall survival. Increased NLR and PLR were associated with complete tumor necrosis in the subset of patients who received preoperative transarterial embolization (P < 0.05). Cox regression analysis revealed that absence of neoadjuvant transarterial therapy (OR = 4.33, 95% CI = 1.28-14.64; P = 0.02) and no fulfillment of the Milan criteria in the explanted liver (OR = 3.34, 95% CI = 1.08-10.35; P = 0.04) were independently associated with post-LT HCC recurrence inflammation-based scores did not predict HCC recurrence post-LT in our group of patients. NLR and PLR were associated with better response to TAE, as this was recorded histologically in the explanted liver. Histological fulfillment of the Milan criteria and absence of neoadjuvant transarterial treatment were significantly associated with post-LT HCC recurrence.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Long-term survival of liver transplant recipients is threatened by increased rates of de-novo malignancy and recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), both events tightly related to immunosuppression. RECENT FINDINGS There is accumulating evidence linking increased exposure to immunosuppressants and carcinogenesis, particularly concerning calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs), azathioprine and antilymphocyte agents. A recent study including 219 HCC transplanted patients showed that HCC recurrence rates were halved if a minimization of CNIs was applied within the first month after liver transplant. With mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors as approved immunosuppressants for liver transplant patients, pooled data from several retrospective studies have suggested their possible benefit for reducing HCC recurrence. SUMMARY Randomized controlled trials with sufficiently long follow-up are needed to evaluate the influence of different immunosuppression protocols in preventing malignancy after LT. Currently, early minimization of CNIs with or without mTOR inhibitors or mycophenolate seems a rational strategy for patients with risk factors for de-novo malignancy or recurrence of HCC after liver transplant. A deeper understanding of the immunological pathways of rejection and cancer would allow for designing more specific and safer drugs, and thus to prevent cancer after liver transplant.
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Manousou P, Cholongitas E, Samonakis D, Tsochatzis E, Corbani A, Dhillon AP, Davidson J, Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Patch D, O'Beirne J, Thorburn D, Luong T, Rolles K, Davidson B, McCormick PA, Hayes P, Burroughs AK. Reduced fibrosis in recurrent HCV with tacrolimus, azathioprine and steroids versus tacrolimus: randomised trial long term outcomes. Gut 2014; 63:1005-13. [PMID: 24131637 PMCID: PMC4033276 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2013-305606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Early results of a randomised trial showed reduced fibrosis due to recurrent HCV hepatitis with tacrolimus triple therapy (TT) versus monotherapy (MT) following transplantation for HCV cirrhosis. We evaluated the clinical outcomes after a median 8 years of follow-up, including differences in fibrosis assessed by collagen proportionate area (CPA). DESIGN 103 consecutive liver transplant recipients with HCV cirrhosis receiving cadaveric grafts were randomised to tacrolimus MT (n=54) or TT (n=49) with daily tacrolimus (0.1 mg/kg divided dose), azathioprine (1 mg/kg) and prednisolone (20 mg), the last tailing off to zero by 6 months. Both groups had serial transjugular biopsies with hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) measurement. Time to reach Ishak stage 4 was the predetermined endpoint. CPA was measured in all biopsies. Factors associated with HCV recurrence were evaluated. Clinical decompensation was the first occurrence of ascites/hydrothorax, variceal bleeding or encephalopathy. RESULTS No significant preoperative, peri-operative or postoperative differences between groups were found. During 96 months median follow-up, stage 4 fibrosis was reached in 19 MT/11 TT with slower fibrosis progression in TT (p=0.009). CPA at last biopsy was 12% in MT and 8% in TT patients (p=0.004). 14 MT/ three TT patients reached HVPG≥10 mm Hg (p=0.002); 10 MT/three TT patients, decompensated. Multivariately, allocated MT (p=0.047, OR 3.23, 95% CI 1.01 to 10.3) was independently associated with decompensation: 14 MT/ seven TT died, and five MT/ four TT were retransplanted. CONCLUSIONS Long term immunosuppression with tacrolimus, azathioprine and short term prednisolone in HCV cirrhosis recipients resulted in slower progression to severe fibrosis assessed by Ishak stage and CPA, less portal hypertension and decompensation, compared with tacrolimus alone. ISRCTN94834276--Randomised study for immunosuppression regimen in liver transplantation.
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Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Tsochatzis E, Naveas MC, Pieri G, García-Caparrós C, O'Beirne J, Poyato-González A, Ferrín-Sánchez G, Montero-Álvarez JL, Patch D, Thorburn D, Briceño J, De la Mata M, Burroughs AK. Reduced exposure to calcineurin inhibitors early after liver transplantation prevents recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma. J Hepatol 2013; 59:1193-9. [PMID: 23867318 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2013.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2013] [Revised: 06/14/2013] [Accepted: 07/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major complication after liver transplantation (LT). The initial immunosuppression protocol may influence HCC recurrence, but the optimal regimen is still unknown. METHODS 219 HCC consecutive patients under Milan criteria, who received an LT at 2 European centres between 2000 and 2010, were included. Median follow-up was 51 months (IQR 26-93). Demographic characteristics, HCC features, and immunosuppression protocol within the first month after LT were evaluated against HCC recurrence by using Cox regression. RESULTS In the explanted liver, 110 patients (50%) had multinodular HCC, and largest nodule diameter was 3±2.1cm. Macrovascular invasion was incidentally detected in 11 patients (5%), and microvascular invasion was present in 41 patients (18.7%). HCC recurrence rates were 13.3% at 3 years and 17.6% at 5 years. HCC recurrence was not influenced by the use/non-use of steroids and antimetabolites (p=0.69 and p=0.70 respectively), and was similar with tacrolimus or cyclosporine (p=0.25). Higher exposure to calcineurin inhibitors within the first month after LT (mean tacrolimus trough concentrations >10ng/ml or cyclosporine trough concentrations >300ng/ml), but not thereafter, was associated with increased risk of HCC recurrence (27.7% vs. 14.7% at 5 years; p=0.007). The independent predictors of HCC recurrence by multivariate analysis were: high exposure to calcineurin inhibitors defined as above (RR=2.82; p=0.005), diameter of the largest nodule (RR=1.31; p<0.001), microvascular invasion (RR=2.98; p=0.003) and macrovascular invasion (RR=4.57; p=0.003). CONCLUSIONS Immunosuppression protocols with early CNI minimization should be preferred in LT patients with HCC in order to minimize tumour recurrence.
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Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Manousou P, Lerut J, De la Mata M, Burroughs AK. How much immunosuppression is needed after liver transplantation? Clin Transplant 2013; 28:6-7. [PMID: 24033553 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.12242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Germani G, Darius T, Lerut J, Tsochatzis E, De la Mata M, Burroughs AK. Tacrolimus exposure after liver transplantation in randomized controlled trials: too much for too long. Am J Transplant 2013; 13:1371-2. [PMID: 23621166 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.12216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Germani G, Darius T, Lerut J, Tsochatzis E, De la Mata M, Burroughs AK. Tacrolimus Exposure After Liver Transplantation in Randomized Controlled Trials: Too Much for Too Long. Am J Transplant 2013. [DOI: 10.1002/ajt.12216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Germani G, Darius T, Lerut J, Tsochatzis E, Burroughs AK. Reducing early exposure to calcineurin inhibitors: the key factor for a successful renal sparing strategy. Am J Transplant 2013; 13:239. [PMID: 23126593 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-6143.2012.04306.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Luong TV, Andreana L, Meyer T, Dhillon AP, Burroughs AK. A Systematic Review of Microvascular Invasion in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Diagnostic and Prognostic Variability. Ann Surg Oncol 2012; 20:325-39. [DOI: 10.1245/s10434-012-2513-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 386] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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