51
|
Pham EA, Perumpail RB, Fram BJ, Glenn JS, Ahmed A, Gish RG. Future Therapy for Hepatitis B Virus: Role of Immunomodulators. CURRENT HEPATOLOGY REPORTS 2016; 15:237-244. [PMID: 27917363 PMCID: PMC5112294 DOI: 10.1007/s11901-016-0315-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Although currently available therapies for chronic hepatitis B virus infection can suppress viremia and provide long-term benefits for patients, they do not lead to a functional cure for most patients. Advances in our understanding of the virus-host interaction and the recent remarkable success of immunotherapy in cancer offer new and promising strategies for developing immune modulators that may become important components of a total therapeutic approach to hepatitis B, some of which are now in clinical development. Among the immunomodulatory agents currently being investigated to combat chronic HBV are toll-like receptor agonists, immune checkpoint inhibitors, therapeutic vaccines, and engineered T cells. The efficacy of some immune modulatory therapies is compromised by high viral antigen levels. Cutting edge strategies, including RNA interference and CRISPR/Cas9, are now being studied that may ultimately be shown to have the capacity to lower viral antigen levels sufficiently to substantially increase the efficacy of these agents. The current advances in therapies for chronic hepatitis B are leading us toward the possibility of a functional cure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edward A. Pham
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Ryan B. Perumpail
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Benjamin J. Fram
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Jeffrey S. Glenn
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
- Veterans Administration Medical Center, Palo Alto, CA USA
| | - Aijaz Ahmed
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Robert G. Gish
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
- Hepatitis B Foundation, Doylestown, PA USA
| |
Collapse
|
52
|
Fung J. HBV therapeutic vaccines and cccDNA inhibitors - emergence of a cure. Liver Transpl 2016; 22:52-56. [PMID: 27576205 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2016] [Revised: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- James Fung
- The Liver Transplant Centre, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong.
| |
Collapse
|
53
|
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection continues to be a major health burden worldwide. Currently available antiviral treatment options for chronic hepatitis B include pegylated interferon alpha2a (PegIFN) or nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs). The major advantages of NAs are good tolerance and potent antiviral activity associated with high rates of sustained on-treatment response to therapy. The advantages of PegIFN include a finite course of treatment, the absence of drug resistance, and an opportunity to obtain a durable post-treatment response to therapy. Furthermore, PegIFN is the only approved agent known to be active against hepatitis D virus (HDV). The use of these two antiviral agents with different mechanisms of action in combination against hepatitis B is theoretically an attractive approach for treatment. Although several studies have confirmed certain virological advantages of combination therapies, data supporting a long-term clinical benefit for patients are lacking and monotherapy with PegIFN or NAs remains the therapy of choice. Moreover, with the current treatment approaches, only a limited number of patients achieve hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) loss. HBsAg loss is considered a "functional cure", but does not mean viral eradication. There is a need for novel therapeutic approaches that enable not only suppression of viral replication, but resolution of HBV infection. A key challenge is to target covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) in the nucleus of infected hepatocytes. The recent development and availability of innovative in vitro and in vivo systems and sensitive molecular techniques has opened new possibilities to study the complex network of interactions that HBV establishes with the host in the course of infection and to define new targets for antiviral strategies. Several new antiviral or immunomodulatory compounds have reached preclinical or clinical testing with the aim of silencing or eradicating cccDNA to achieve functional cure. Many of these strategies may also be effective for the treatment of HDV, which is dependent on HBsAg for its life cycle. This Clinical Trial Watch summarizes the most recent therapeutic strategies designed to directly target the viruses B and D or to improve immune responses during chronic HBV infection.
Collapse
|
54
|
Lok AS, Pan CQ, Han SHB, Trinh HN, Fessel WJ, Rodell T, Massetto B, Lin L, Gaggar A, Subramanian GM, McHutchison JG, Ferrari C, Lee H, Gordon SC, Gane EJ. Randomized phase II study of GS-4774 as a therapeutic vaccine in virally suppressed patients with chronic hepatitis B. J Hepatol 2016; 65:509-16. [PMID: 27210427 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2016.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Revised: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS GS-4774 is a heat-inactivated, yeast-based, T-cell vaccine designed to elicit hepatitis B virus (HBV)-specific T-cell responses. We evaluated the safety, tolerability and efficacy of GS-4774 in patients with chronic HBV infection. METHODS In this phase II study, 178 patients with chronic HBV infection and no cirrhosis who were virally suppressed on an oral antiviral (OAV) for ⩾1year were randomized (1:2:2:2) to continue OAV alone or receive OAV plus GS-4774 2, 10, or 40 yeast units (YU) subcutaneously every 4weeks until week 20. OAV was continued for the remainder of the study. Efficacy was measured by decline in serum hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) from baseline to week 24. RESULTS Baseline characteristics were similar across groups (mean age, 45-50years; male, 62-74%; Asian, 68-80%; hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-positive, 24-26%; mean HBsAg, 2.5-3.1log10IU/ml). There were no significant differences between groups in mean HBsAg declines from baseline to week 24 or 48. Five HBeAg-positive patients receiving GS-4774 experienced HBeAg loss vs. none in the control group. Three GS-4774 40 YU-treated patients had HBsAg declines ⩾0.5log10IU/ml, but no patient experienced loss of serum HBsAg. No virologic breakthrough occurred. Injection site reactions were the most frequent adverse event (AE), and there were no treatment discontinuations. CONCLUSIONS GS-4774 was well tolerated, but did not provide significant reductions in serum HBsAg in virally suppressed patients with chronic hepatitis B. Efficacy of GS-4774 in treatment-naïve patients remains to be determined. LAY SUMMARY GS-4774 is a therapeutic vaccine designed to improve the immune response against hepatitis B virus (HBV) in patients who already have chronic infection with HBV. In this study, GS-4774 was safe and well tolerated in patients with chronic HBV infection receiving oral antiviral therapy, but did not result in a clinical benefit. Combination approaches with other agents, and evaluation in other populations of patients with HBV are ongoing to determine if GS-4774 might have a therapeutic benefit. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT01943799.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna S Lok
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Calvin Q Pan
- Department of Medicine, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York University School of Medicine, NY, USA
| | - Steven-Huy B Han
- Department of Medicine, Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Huy N Trinh
- San Jose Gastroenterology, San Jose, CA, USA
| | - W Jeffrey Fessel
- Department of Medicine, Kaiser Permanente, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Lanjia Lin
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., Foster City, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Carlo Ferrari
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Parma, Italy
| | - Hannah Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stuart C Gordon
- Division of Gastroenterology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
55
|
Pumpens P, Grens E. The true story and advantages of the famous Hepatitis B virus core particles: Outlook 2016. Mol Biol 2016. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026893316040099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
|
56
|
Lin CL, Kao JH. Review article: novel therapies for hepatitis B virus cure - advances and perspectives. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2016; 44:213-22. [PMID: 27302653 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Revised: 03/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current anti-viral therapies, interferon and nucleos(t)ide analogues, have been proven to reduce the progression of chronic hepatitis B (CHB). However, covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) of hepatitis B virus (HBV) persists, resulting in viral relapse after the discontinuation of treatment. AIM To discuss and review novel therapies for chronic hepatitis B infection. METHODS Recent published studies which searched from PubMed were comprehensive reviewed. The key words include chronic hepatitis B, hepatitis B virus cure, covalently closed circular DNA, direct acting anti-virals and host targeting agents. RESULTS Several novel agents through viral and host targets approaches are under investigations towards functional cure of HBV. On the one hand, direct acting anti-virals targeting virus itself, such as HBV new polymerase inhibitor, entry inhibitor, engineered site-specific nucleases and RNA interference, could inhibit amplification of cccDNA as well as intrahepatic HBV infection and eliminate or silence cccDNA transcription. Inhibitors of HBV nucleocapsid assembly suppress capsid formation and prevent synthesis of HBV DNA. On the other hand, host targeting agents (HTA) include lymphotoxin-β receptor agonist, toll-like receptor agonist, immune checkpoint inhibitors and adenovirus-based therapeutic vaccine. Through enhancing innate and adaptive immune responses, these agents could induce noncytolytic destruction of cccDNA or attack HBV-infected hepatocytes. CONCLUSION With these promising approaches, we hope to reach global hepatitis B virus control in the middle of this century.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C-L Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Renai branch, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Psychology, National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - J-H Kao
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Hepatitis Research Center, National Taiwan University, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
57
|
Moon HY, Lee DW, Sim GH, Kim HJ, Hwang JY, Kwon MG, Kang BK, Kim JM, Kang HA. A new set of rDNA-NTS-based multiple integrative cassettes for the development of antibiotic-marker-free recombinant yeasts. J Biotechnol 2016; 233:190-9. [PMID: 27411901 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2016.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2016] [Revised: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The traditional yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae has been widely used as a host system to produce recombinant proteins and metabolites of great commercial value. To engineer recombinant yeast that stably maintains expression cassettes without an antibiotic resistance gene, we developed new multiple integration cassettes by exploiting the non-transcribed spacer (NTS) of ribosomal DNA (rDNA) in combination with defective selection markers. The 5' and 3'-fragments of rDNA-NTS2 were used as flanking sequences for the expression cassettes carrying a set of URA3, LEU2, HIS3, and TRP1 selection markers with truncated promoters of different lengths. The integration numbers of NTS-based expression cassettes, ranging from one to ∼30 copies, showed a proportional increase with the extent of decreased expression of the auxotrophic markers. The NTS-based cassettes were used to construct yeast strains expressing the capsid protein of red-spotted grouper necrosis virus (RG-NNVCP) in a copy number-dependent manner. Oral administration of the recombinant yeast, harboring ∼30 copies of the integrated RG-NNVCP cassettes, provoked efficient immune responses in mice. In contrast, for the NTS cassettes expressing a truncated 3-hydroxyl-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase, the integrant carrying only 4 copies was screened as the highest producer of squalene, showing a 150-fold increase compared to that of the wild-type strain. The multiple integrated cassettes were stably retained under prolonged nonselective conditions. Altogether, our results strongly support that rDNA-NTS integrative cassettes are useful tools to construct recombinant yeasts carrying optimal copies of a desired expression cassette without an antibiotic marker gene, which are suitable as oral vaccines or feed additives for animal and human consumption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hye Yun Moon
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 156-756, South Korea
| | - Dong Wook Lee
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 156-756, South Korea
| | - Gyu Hun Sim
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 156-756, South Korea
| | - Hong-Jin Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 156-756, South Korea
| | - Jee Youn Hwang
- Pathology Division, National Institute of Fisheries Science (NIFS), Busan 46083, South Korea
| | - Mun-Gyeong Kwon
- Pathology Division, National Institute of Fisheries Science (NIFS), Busan 46083, South Korea
| | - Bo-Kyu Kang
- Green Cross Veterinary Products Co. LTD., Yongin, Kyunggi-Do, South Korea
| | - Jong Man Kim
- Green Cross Veterinary Products Co. LTD., Yongin, Kyunggi-Do, South Korea
| | - Hyun Ah Kang
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 156-756, South Korea; Bio-Integration Research Center for Nutra-Pharmaceutical Epigenetics, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 156-756, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
58
|
Bitton Alaluf M, Shlomai A. New therapies for chronic hepatitis B. Liver Int 2016; 36:775-82. [PMID: 26854115 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 350 million people worldwide are chronically infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV), representing a significant public health challenge. Nucleos/tide analogues (NUCs) and interferon alpha (IFNα), the current standard of care for chronic infection, aim at preventing progression of the disease to cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and death. However, in contrast to the case of hepatitis C virus infection, in which novel antiviral drugs cure the vast majority of treated patients, in regard to HBV, cure is rare due to the unusual persistence of viral DNA in the form of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) within the nucleus of infected cells. Available therapies for HBV require lifelong treatment and surveillance, as reactivation frequently occurs following medication cessation and the occurrence of HCC is decreased but not eliminated, even after years of successful viral suppression. Progress has been made in the development of new therapeutics, and it is likely that only a combination of immune modulators, inhibitors of gene expression and replication and cccDNA-targeting drugs will eradicate chronic infection. This review aims to summarize the state of the art in HBV drug research highlighting those agents with the greatest potential for success based on in vitro as well as on data from clinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maya Bitton Alaluf
- Department of Medicine D, Beilinson Hospital Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva, Israel
| | - Amir Shlomai
- Department of Medicine D, Beilinson Hospital Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva, Israel.,The Liver Institute, Beilinson Hospital Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva, Israel.,The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
59
|
Liu SHK, Seto WK, Lai CL, Yuen MF. Hepatitis B: treatment choice and monitoring for response and resistance. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 10:697-707. [PMID: 26799653 DOI: 10.1586/17474124.2016.1145547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Despite effective preventive primary prevention with vaccination, many people remain infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and suffer from its complications. Effective treatments such as interferon-based regimens and oral nucleoside/nucleotides have been developed over the last 30 years, but they are not perfect. Each of the treatments has its own merits, but none can eradicate HBV from the host. As a result, regular monitoring of the response during treatment and after treatment is required. The choice and monitoring of selected treatments, new potential therapeutic agents, and treatment options for drug resistance are discussed in this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sze-Hang Kevin Liu
- a Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital , University of Hong Kong , Hong Kong , China
| | - Wai-Kay Seto
- a Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital , University of Hong Kong , Hong Kong , China.,b State Key Laboratory for Liver Research , University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital , Hong Kong , China
| | - Ching-Lung Lai
- a Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital , University of Hong Kong , Hong Kong , China.,b State Key Laboratory for Liver Research , University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital , Hong Kong , China
| | - Man-Fung Yuen
- a Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital , University of Hong Kong , Hong Kong , China.,b State Key Laboratory for Liver Research , University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital , Hong Kong , China
| |
Collapse
|
60
|
Leng XJ, Yan XB. Status and development of anti-HBV drugs based on "HBF drug watch". Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2016; 24:2336-2346. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v24.i15.2336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major public health threat globally. Present therapies can only suppress viral replication instead of viral elimination. With the application of direct anti-viral agents (DAAs) to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, many pharmaceutical industries pay their attention to investigating anti-HBV drugs. As a result, the update of anti-HBV drugs at the website http://www.hepb.org/professionals/hbf_drug_watch.htm speeds up. In this review, we summarize all the drugs available in the market and those in clinical trials based on this website.
Collapse
|
61
|
New antiviral targets for innovative treatment concepts for hepatitis B virus and hepatitis delta virus. J Hepatol 2016; 64:S117-S131. [PMID: 27084032 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2016.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Revised: 02/06/2016] [Accepted: 02/08/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Current therapies of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) remain limited to pegylated-interferon-alpha (PegIFN-α) or any of the five approved nucleos(t)ide analogues (NUC) treatments. While viral suppression can be achieved in the majority of patients with the high-barrier-to-resistance new-generation of NUC, i.e. entecavir and tenofovir, HBsAg loss is achieved by PegIFN-α and/or NUC in only 10% of patients, after a 5-year follow-up. Attempts to improve the response by administering two different NUC or a combination of NUC and PegIFN-α have not provided a dramatic increase in the rate of functional cure. Because of this and the need of long-term NUC administration, there is a renewed interest regarding the understanding of various steps of the HBV replication cycle, as well as specific virus-host cell interactions, in order to define new targets and develop new antiviral drugs. This includes a direct inhibition of viral replication with entry inhibitors, drugs targeting cccDNA, siRNA targeting viral transcripts, capsid assembly modulators, and approaches targeting the secretion of viral envelope proteins. Restoration of immune responses is a complementary approach. The restoration of innate immunity against HBV can be achieved, with TLR agonists or specific antiviral cytokine delivery. Restoration of adaptive immunity may be achieved with inhibitors of negative checkpoint regulators, therapeutic vaccines, or autologous transfer of engineered HBV-specific T cells. Novel targets and compounds will readily be evaluated using both relevant and novel in vitro and in vivo models of HBV infection. The addition of one or several new drugs to current therapies should offer the prospect of a markedly improved response to treatments and an increased rate of functional cure. This should lead to a reduced risk of antiviral drug resistance, and to a decreased incidence of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Collapse
|
62
|
|
63
|
Fung J, Lai CL, Seto WK, Yuen MF. Emerging drugs for the treatment of hepatitis B. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2016; 21:183-93. [DOI: 10.1517/14728214.2016.1162155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
64
|
Soriano V, Labarga P, de Mendoza C, Fernández-Montero JV, Treviño A, Benítez-Gutiérrez L, Peña JM, Barreiro P. Delta hepatitis: new approaches to therapy. Future Virol 2016. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2015-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) infection is a neglected disease despite causing the most severe form of viral hepatitis. Over 15 million people are infected worldwide. IFN-α is largely inefficient and poorly tolerated. The discovery of sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide as the cell receptor for HBV (and consequently for HDV) has allowed development of viral entry inhibitors (i.e., myrcludex-B). More recently, prenylation inhibitors (i.e., lonafarnib) that disrupt virion assembly are being tested. At this time, sustained suppression of HDV replication is the primary goal of hepatitis delta treatment, being associated with normalization of liver enzymes and histological improvement. The lack of persistent forms of HDV-RNA could provide unique opportunities for hepatitis delta cure using specific antivirals, even in the face of persistent HBV cccDNA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Soriano
- Infectious Diseases Unit, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Labarga
- Department of Internal Medicine, La Luz Clinic, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen de Mendoza
- Department of Internal Medicine, Puerta de Hierro Research Institute & University Hospital, Majadahonda, Spain
| | | | - Ana Treviño
- Infectious Diseases Unit, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Benítez-Gutiérrez
- Department of Internal Medicine, Puerta de Hierro Research Institute & University Hospital, Majadahonda, Spain
| | - José M Peña
- Infectious Diseases Unit, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Barreiro
- Infectious Diseases Unit, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
65
|
Brahmania M, Feld J, Arif A, Janssen HLA. New therapeutic agents for chronic hepatitis B. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2016; 16:e10-21. [PMID: 26795693 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(15)00436-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2015] [Revised: 10/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The treatment goal for chronic hepatitis B is true eradication of the hepatitis B virus, but this is rarely achieved with first-line treatment regimens because of an inability to disrupt covalently closed circular DNA and an inadequate host immune response. Therefore, new antiviral agents are needed to target various stages of the hepatitis B virus lifecycle and modulation of the immune system. This Review provides a summary of available regimens with their strengths and limitations, and highlights future therapeutic strategies to target the virus and host immune response. These new agents can hopefully lead to a finite duration of treatment, and provide a functional and durable cure for chronic hepatitis B infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mayur Brahmania
- Toronto Centre for Liver Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jordan Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ambreen Arif
- Toronto Centre for Liver Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Harry L A Janssen
- Toronto Centre for Liver Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus Medical Center University Hospital, Rotterdam, Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
66
|
King TH, Guo Z, Hermreck M, Bellgrau D, Rodell TC. Construction and Immunogenicity Testing of Whole Recombinant Yeast-Based T-Cell Vaccines. Methods Mol Biol 2016; 1404:529-545. [PMID: 27076321 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-3389-1_35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
GlobeImmune's Tarmogen(®) immunotherapy platform utilizes recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast as a vaccine vector to deliver heterologous antigens for activation of disease-specific, targeted cellular immunity. The vaccines elicit immune-mediated killing of target cells expressing viral and cancer antigens in vivo via a CD8(+) CTL-mediated mechanism. Tarmogens are not neutralized by host immune responses and can be administered repeatedly to boost antigen-specific immunity. Production of the vaccines yields stable off-the-shelf products that avoid the need for patient-specific manufacturing found with other immunotherapeutic approaches. Tarmogens for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B and C and various cancers were well tolerated and immunogenic in phase 1 and 2 clinical trials encompassing >600 subjects. The platform is being widely utilized in basic vaccine research and the most rapid path to success in these endeavors follows from optimal immunoassay selection and execution. This chapter provides detailed methods for the construction and preclinical immunogenicity testing of yeast-based immunotherapeutic products to support the rapid and efficient use of this versatile technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas H King
- GlobeImmune, Inc., 1450 Infinite Drive, Louisville, CO, 80027, USA.
| | - Zhimin Guo
- GlobeImmune, Inc., 1450 Infinite Drive, Louisville, CO, 80027, USA
| | - Melanie Hermreck
- GlobeImmune, Inc., 1450 Infinite Drive, Louisville, CO, 80027, USA
| | - Donald Bellgrau
- GlobeImmune, Inc., 1450 Infinite Drive, Louisville, CO, 80027, USA
- Integrated Department of Immunology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Timothy C Rodell
- GlobeImmune, Inc., 1450 Infinite Drive, Louisville, CO, 80027, USA
| |
Collapse
|
67
|
Liang TJ, Block TM, McMahon BJ, Ghany MG, Urban S, Guo JT, Locarnini S, Zoulim F, Chang KM, Lok AS. Present and future therapies of hepatitis B: From discovery to cure. Hepatology 2015; 62:1893-908. [PMID: 26239691 PMCID: PMC4681668 DOI: 10.1002/hep.28025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 242] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2015] [Accepted: 07/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a significant global pathogen, infecting more than 240 million people worldwide. While treatment for HBV has improved, HBV patients often require lifelong therapies and cure is still a challenging goal. Recent advances in technologies and pharmaceutical sciences have heralded a new horizon of innovative therapeutic approaches that are bringing us closer to the possibility of a functional cure of chronic HBV infection. In this article, we review the current state of science in HBV therapy and highlight new and exciting therapeutic strategies spurred by recent scientific advances. Some of these therapies have already entered into clinical phase, and we will likely see more of them moving along the development pipeline. CONCLUSION With growing interest in developing and efforts to develop more effective therapies for HBV, the challenging goal of a cure may be well within reach in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T. Jake Liang
- Liver Diseases Branch, NIDDK, NIH, Bethesda, MD. USA
| | | | - Brian J. McMahon
- National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Anchorage, AK. USA
| | - Marc G. Ghany
- Liver Diseases Branch, NIDDK, NIH, Bethesda, MD. USA
| | - Stephan Urban
- Dept of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology and German Center for Infection Diseases (DZIF), Univ Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ju-Tao Guo
- Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, Doylestown, PA. USA
| | | | - Fabien Zoulim
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Doherty Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Kyong-Mi Chang
- Dept of Medicine, Philadelphia VAMC & University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. USA
| | - Anna S. Lok
- Div of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Univ of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI. USA
| |
Collapse
|
68
|
Manzoor S, Saalim M, Imran M, Resham S, Ashraf J. Hepatitis B virus therapy: What’s the future holding for us? World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:12558-12575. [PMID: 26640332 PMCID: PMC4658610 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i44.12558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Revised: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B is one of the leading causes of liver cancer worldwide and unfortunately the number of people affected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is still on the rise. Although the HBV has been known to cause fatal illness since decades but the population effected by this lethal virus have still only a few options for its management. The major treatment strategies include interferons and nucleos(t)ide analogues. These agents have so far produced unsatisfactory results in terms of complete virus eradication. Interferons cannot be used for long term therapy because of their potential side effects. Prolong treatment with nucleos(t)ide analogues has also been reported to cause serious side effects besides the increasing resistance by the virus. The need for new innovative solutions for treatment of HBV has been realized by global research institutes and pharmaceutical industry. Present review focuses in detail on the new ideas that are being transformed into therapeutic tools for use as future therapies in HBV infection. Modern drug designing and screening methods have made the drug discovery process shorter and more reliable. HBV therapeutics will take a new turn in coming years owing to these intelligent drug designing and screening methods. Future therapy of HBV is aiming to include the use of vaccines (both prophylactic and therapeutic), immunomodulators such as antibodies, non-nucleoside antivirals such as RNAi and inhibitors of viral life cycle.
Collapse
|
69
|
Gogineni V, Schinazi RF, Hamann MT. Role of Marine Natural Products in the Genesis of Antiviral Agents. Chem Rev 2015; 115:9655-706. [PMID: 26317854 PMCID: PMC4883660 DOI: 10.1021/cr4006318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vedanjali Gogineni
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Pharmacology, Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Mississippi, School of Pharmacy, University, Mississippi 38677, United States
| | - Raymond F. Schinazi
- Center for AIDS Research, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University/Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 1760 Haygood Drive NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Mark T. Hamann
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Pharmacology, Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Mississippi, School of Pharmacy, University, Mississippi 38677, United States
| |
Collapse
|
70
|
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The hepatitis B virus (HBV) causes chronic hepatitis B (CHB) in ∼350 million people worldwide who have an increased risk of end-stage liver disease and/or hepatocellular carcinoma. SOURCES OF DATA Several peer-reviewed papers featuring new approaches to anti-HBV management. Additionally, we also reviewed recent abstract presentations at international congresses. AREAS OF AGREEMENT There has been great progress in CHB therapy with the development of standard and pegylated interferon (i.e. PEG-IFN) as well as nucleos/tide analogs (NAs). IFN has both antiviral and immunomodulatory effects and through immune-mediated destruction of infected hepatocytes offers the possibility of finite therapy. However, this 'killing for a cure' antiviral strategy may not be tolerated in many, especially in cirrhotic patients. NAs inhibit viral reverse transcriptase, have few side effects and prevent liver disease progression, but cannot offer a cure as they have little effect on the resilient HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) intermediate. Moreover, NAs such as tenofovir and entecavir offer a high genetic barrier to resistance, but are expensive and not readily available in many global regions. GROWING POINTS Despite significant treatment advances, there is increased recognition of the need for improved anti-HBV treatments, and new virologic tests for monitoring treatment response. AREAS OF CONTROVERSY The role of quantitative hepatitis B surface antigen, intrahepatic cccDNA levels and viral genotype in selecting treatment candidates and refining NA stopping rules. AREAS TIMELY FOR DEVELOPING NEW RESEARCH Potential new therapies include viral entry inhibitors, RNA interference technologies (i.e. RNAi) and small molecules that modulate cccDNA transcription, as well as novel immunomodulatory therapies to boost HBV-specific T cell responses. The ultimate goal of new tests and anti-HBV therapies is to reduce the burden and expense of life-long CHB treatment, as 'only diamonds are forever'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla S Coffin
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Samuel S Lee
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
71
|
Kang L, Pan J, Wu J, Hu J, Sun Q, Tang J. Anti-HBV Drugs: Progress, Unmet Needs, and New Hope. Viruses 2015; 7:4960-77. [PMID: 26389937 PMCID: PMC4584298 DOI: 10.3390/v7092854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2015] [Revised: 08/18/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 240 million people worldwide are chronically infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV), which represents a significant challenge to public health. The current goal in treating chronic HBV infection is to block progression of HBV-related liver injury and inflammation to end-stage liver diseases, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, because we are unable to eliminate chronic HBV infection. Available therapies for chronic HBV infection mainly include nucleos/tide analogues (NAs), non-NAs, and immunomodulatory agents. However, none of them is able to clear chronic HBV infection. Thus, a new generation of anti-HBV drugs is urgently needed. Progress has been made in the development and testing of new therapeutics against chronic HBV infection. This review aims to summarize the state of the art in new HBV drug research and development and to forecast research and development trends and directions in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Kang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shanghai First People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 650 New Songjiang Road, Songjiang District, Shanghai 201620, China.
| | - Jiaqian Pan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shanghai First People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 650 New Songjiang Road, Songjiang District, Shanghai 201620, China.
| | - Jiaofen Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Ningbo Medical Treatment Center Lihuili Hospital, 57 Xingning Road, Ningbo 315040, China.
| | - Jiali Hu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Staff Hospital of Baogang Group, 15 Qingnian Road, Baotou 014010, China.
| | - Qian Sun
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shanghai First People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 650 New Songjiang Road, Songjiang District, Shanghai 201620, China.
| | - Jing Tang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shanghai First People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 650 New Songjiang Road, Songjiang District, Shanghai 201620, China.
| |
Collapse
|
72
|
Guo Z, King T. Therapeutic Strategies and New Intervention Points in Chronic Hepatitis Delta Virus Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:19537-52. [PMID: 26295228 PMCID: PMC4581312 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160819537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Revised: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 08/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis delta virus infection (CHD) is a condition arising from super-infection of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-infected patients, resulting in a more rapid advance in liver pathology and hepatocellular carcinoma than is observed for HBV mono-infection. Although hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is structurally simple, its life cycle involves the complex participation of host enzymes, HBV-derived surface antigen (HBsAg), and HDV-auto-ribozyme and hepatitis delta antigen (HDAg) activities. Unsatisfactory clinical trial results with interferon-based therapies are motivating researchers to adjust and redirect the approach to CHD drug development. This new effort will likely require additional structural and functional studies of the viral and cellular/host components involved in the HDV replication cycle. This review highlights recent work aimed at new drug interventions for CHD, with interpretation of key pre-clinical- and clinical trial outcomes and a discussion of promising new technological approaches to antiviral drug design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhimin Guo
- Huron Peak Ave., Superior, CO 80027, USA.
| | - Thomas King
- Allevagen, LLC, 4105 Perry St., Denver, CO 80212, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
73
|
Future therapy for hepatitis B virus infection. Clin J Gastroenterol 2015; 8:167-71. [PMID: 26265385 DOI: 10.1007/s12328-015-0590-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
We can now control hepatitis B virus infection by continuously administering nucleoside and nucleotide analogues such as entecavir and tenofovir. These drugs are generally safe and sufficiently effective, but future drugs are needed that can show off-treatment efficacy--in other words, eradication of latent hepatitis B virus DNA (covalently closed circular DNA) in the hepatocytes. This article is an overview of new drugs under development and some novel strategies to inhibit hepatitis B virus proliferation.
Collapse
|
74
|
Zeisel MB, Lucifora J, Mason WS, Sureau C, Beck J, Levrero M, Kann M, Knolle PA, Benkirane M, Durantel D, Michel ML, Autran B, Cosset FL, Strick-Marchand H, Trépo C, Kao JH, Carrat F, Lacombe K, Schinazi RF, Barré-Sinoussi F, Delfraissy JF, Zoulim F. Towards an HBV cure: state-of-the-art and unresolved questions--report of the ANRS workshop on HBV cure. Gut 2015; 64:1314-26. [PMID: 25670809 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2014-308943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2014] [Accepted: 01/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
HBV infection is a major cause of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Although HBV infection can be efficiently prevented by vaccination, and treatments are available, to date there is no reliable cure for the >240 million individuals that are chronically infected worldwide. Current treatments can only achieve viral suppression, and lifelong therapy is needed in the majority of infected persons. In the framework of the French National Agency for Research on AIDS and Viral Hepatitis 'HBV Cure' programme, a scientific workshop was held in Paris in June 2014 to define the state-of-the-art and unanswered questions regarding HBV pathobiology, and to develop a concerted strategy towards an HBV cure. This review summarises our current understanding of HBV host-interactions leading to viral persistence, as well as the roadblocks to be overcome to ultimately address unmet medical needs in the treatment of chronic HBV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mirjam B Zeisel
- Inserm, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques, Strasbourg, France Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Julie Lucifora
- Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR 5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Université de Lyon (UCBL), Lyon, France
| | | | - Camille Sureau
- INTS, Laboratoire de Virologie Moléculaire, Paris, France
| | - Jürgen Beck
- Department of Internal Medicine 2/Molecular Biology, University Hospital Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Massimo Levrero
- Center for Life Nanosciences (CNLS)-IIT/Sapienza, Rome, Italy Laboratory of Gene Expression, Department of Internal Medicine (DMISM), Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Michael Kann
- Université de Bordeaux, Microbiologie fondamentale et Pathogénicité, UMR 5234, Bordeaux, France CNRS, Microbiologie fondamentale et Pathogénicité, UMR 5234, Bordeaux, France CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Percy A Knolle
- Technische Universität München, Institut für Molekulare Immunologie, München, Germany
| | - Monsef Benkirane
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, Laboratoire de Virologie Moléculaire, CNRS UPR1142, Montpellier, France
| | - David Durantel
- Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR 5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Université de Lyon (UCBL), Lyon, France
| | - Marie-Louise Michel
- Laboratoire de Pathogenèse des Virus de l'Hépatite B, Département de Virologie, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Brigitte Autran
- Laboratory of Immunity and Infection, Inserm U945, Paris, France Laboratory of Immunity and Infection, UPMC University Paris 06, Unité mixte de recherche-S945, Paris, France Inserm, IFR 113, Immunité-Cancer-Infection, Paris, France
| | - François-Loïc Cosset
- CIRI-International Center for Infectiology Research, Team EVIR, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France. Inserm, U1111, Lyon, France Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France. CNRS, UMR5308, Lyon, France LabEx Ecofect, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | | | - Christian Trépo
- Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR 5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Université de Lyon (UCBL), Lyon, France Department of Hepatology, Croix-Rousse Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Jia-Horng Kao
- Department of Internal Medicine, Department of Medical Research, Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, and Hepatitis Research Center, National Taiwan University College of Medicine and Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Fabrice Carrat
- Inserm, UMR_S 1136, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, Paris, France Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Saint Antoine, Paris, France
| | - Karine Lacombe
- Inserm, UMR_S 1136, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, Paris, France Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Saint Antoine, Paris, France
| | - Raymond F Schinazi
- Center for AIDS Research, Emory University School of Medicine and Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Françoise Barré-Sinoussi
- Inserm and Unit of Regulation of Retroviral Infections, Department of Virology, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | | | - Fabien Zoulim
- Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR 5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Université de Lyon (UCBL), Lyon, France Department of Hepatology, Croix-Rousse Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| |
Collapse
|
75
|
Said ZNA, Abdelwahab KS. Induced immunity against hepatitis B virus. World J Hepatol 2015; 7:1660-1670. [PMID: 26140085 PMCID: PMC4483547 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v7.i12.1660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2014] [Revised: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 05/28/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Prevention of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection with its consequent development of HBV chronic liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma is a global mandatory goal. Fortunately, safe and effective HBV vaccines are currently available. Universal hepatitis B surface antigen HBV vaccination coverage is almost done. Growing knowledge based upon monitoring and surveillance of HBV vaccination programs has accumulated and the policy of booster vaccination has been evaluated. This review article provides an overview of the natural history of HBV infection, immune responses and the future of HBV infection. It also summarizes the updated sources, types and uses of HBV vaccines, whether in the preclinical phase or in the post-field vaccination.
Collapse
|
76
|
Block TM, Rawat S, Brosgart CL. Chronic hepatitis B: A wave of new therapies on the horizon. Antiviral Res 2015; 121:69-81. [PMID: 26112647 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2015.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 06/21/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the discovery of the Australia antigen (Blumberg et al., 1965), which in 1967 was identified to be the hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen. Even though several antiviral medications have been in use for the management of chronic HBV infection for more than 20years, sustained clearance of HBsAg, similar to the sustained viral response (SVR) or cure in chronic hepatitis C, occurs in only a minority of treated patients. Moreover, even after 10years of effective suppression of HBV viremia with current therapy, there is only a 40-70% reduction in deaths from liver cancer. Recent success in developing antivirals for hepatitis C that are effective across all genotypes has renewed interest in a similar cure for chronic HBV infection. In this article, we review a wave of newly identified drug targets, investigational compounds and experimental strategies that are now under clinical evaluation or in preclinical development. The paper forms part of a symposium in Antiviral Research on "An unfinished story: From the discovery of the Australia antigen to the development of new curative therapies for hepatitis B."
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy M Block
- Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, PA 18902, USA.
| | - Siddhartha Rawat
- Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, PA 18902, USA
| | - Carol L Brosgart
- University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine, Departments of Medicine, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, USA
| |
Collapse
|
77
|
Gish RG, Given BD, Lai CL, Locarnini SA, Lau JYN, Lewis DL, Schluep T. Chronic hepatitis B: Virology, natural history, current management and a glimpse at future opportunities. Antiviral Res 2015; 121:47-58. [PMID: 26092643 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2015.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 183] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The host immune system plays an important role in chronic hepatitis B (CHB), both in viral clearance and hepatocellular damage. Advances in our understanding of the natural history of the disease have led to redefining the major phases of infection, with the "high replicative, low inflammatory" phase now replacing what was formerly termed the "immune tolerant" phase, and the "nonreplicative phase" replacing what was formerly termed the "inactive carrier" phase. As opposed to the earlier view that HBV establishes chronic infection by exploiting the immaturity of the neonate's immune system, new findings on trained immunity show that the host is already somewhat "matured" following birth, and is actually very capable of responding immunologically, potentially altering future hepatitis B treatment strategies. While existing therapies are effective in reducing viral load and necroinflammation, often restoring the patient to near-normal health, they do not lead to a cure except in very rare cases and, in many patients, viremia rebounds after cessation of treatment. Researchers are now challenged to devise therapies that will eliminate infection, with a particular focus on eliminating the persistence of viral cccDNA in the nuclei of hepatocytes. In the context of chronic hepatitis B, new definitions of 'cure' are emerging, such as 'functional' and 'virological' cure, defined by stable off-therapy suppression of viremia and antigenemia, and the normalization of serum ALT and other liver-related laboratory tests. Continued advances in the understanding of the complex biology of chronic hepatitis B have resulted in the development of new, experimental therapies targeting viral and host factors and pathways previously not accessible to therapy, approaches which may lead to virological cures in the near term and functional cures upon long term follow-up. This article forms part of a symposium in Antiviral Research on "An unfinished story: from the discovery of the Australia antigen to the development of new curative therapies for hepatitis B."
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert G Gish
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
78
|
Phyo WW, Soh AYS, Lim SG, Lee GH. Search for a cure for chronic hepatitis B infection: How close are we? World J Hepatol 2015; 7:1272-1281. [PMID: 26019743 PMCID: PMC4438502 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v7.i9.1272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2014] [Revised: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 02/12/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) remains a significant unmet medical need, with 240 million chronically infected persons worldwide. It can be controlled effectively with either nucleoside/nucleotide-based or interferon-based therapies. However, most patients receiving these therapies will relapse after treatment withdrawal. During recent years, the advances in molecular biology and immunology have enabled a better understanding of the viral-host interaction and inspired new treatment approaches to achieve either elimination of the virus from the liver or durable immune control of the infection. This review aims to provide a brief overview on the potential new therapies that may overcome the challenge of persistent CHB infection in the near future.
Collapse
|
79
|
Dammermann W, Bentzien F, Stiel EM, Kühne C, Ullrich S, Schulze Zur Wiesch J, Lüth S. Development of a novel IGRA assay to test T cell responsiveness to HBV antigens in whole blood of chronic Hepatitis B patients. J Transl Med 2015; 13:157. [PMID: 25968473 PMCID: PMC4465460 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-015-0513-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2014] [Accepted: 05/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interferon gamma release assays (IGRA) have been developed to support easy and fast diagnosis of diseases like tuberculosis, and CMV in transplant patients. IGRAs focus on cellular immunity especially memory T cells and thus also allow rapid screening prior to complex flow cytometric testing. Here, we describe a novel, sensitive whole blood based cytokine release assay capable of assessing T cell responsiveness to HBV antigens in Hepatitis B patients and assessing hepatitis B vaccination status in healthy individuals. METHODS Seventy two chronic Hepatitis B patients (CHB), 8 acute hepatitis B patients (AHB) and 80 healthy controls (HC) were tested by ELISA for IFNγ- and IL2-secretion in whole blood after challenge with synthetic peptide libraries of hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg) or hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). RESULTS The developed IGRA test reliably differentiated between Hepatitis B patients, vaccinees and unvaccinated healthy controls. Treatment naïve and treated CHB patients showed a weaker IFNγ response to HBcAg (16 ± 5 and 35 ± 28 pg/ml, respectively) compared to the AHB group (82 ± 39 pg/ml), whereas HC remained unresponsive (6 ± 1 pg/ml). IL2 levels after HBcAg challenge were also higher in the AHB group compared to naive and treated CHB as well as HC (47 ± 21 vs. 12 ± 3, 15 ± 10 and 12 ± 9 pg/ml, respectively). HBsAg stimulation led to increased IFNγ and IL2 levels in the AHB group (33 ± 12 and 22 ± 12 pg/ml) and even higher levels in HC due to a high hepatitis B vaccination rate (41 ± 10 and 167 ± 58 pg/ml). Naive and treated CHB patients developed no or only weaker IFNγ or IL2 responses to HBsAg (5 ± 2 and 12 ± 7 pg/ml, for naive CHB, 12 ± 10 and 18 ± 15 pg/ml, for treated CHB). For HC, IL2 release after HBsAg stimulation depicted hepatitis B vaccination status with a diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of 85 % and 90 %. CONCLUSION Our novel whole blood based cytokine release assay constitutes an easy and robust tool for screening HBV specific cellular immunity as alternative to flow cytometry or ELISPOT assays.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Werner Dammermann
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg, 20246, Germany.
| | - Frank Bentzien
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg, 20246, Germany.
| | - Eva-Maria Stiel
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg, 20246, Germany.
| | - Claudia Kühne
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg, 20246, Germany.
| | - Sebastian Ullrich
- Department of Anatomy and Experimental Morphology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Julian Schulze Zur Wiesch
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg, 20246, Germany. .,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), partner site Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany. .,Heinrich Pette Institute - Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Stefan Lüth
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg, 20246, Germany. .,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), partner site Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
80
|
Therapeutic vaccines in treating chronic hepatitis B: the end of the beginning or the beginning of the end? Med Microbiol Immunol 2014; 204:121-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s00430-014-0381-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2014] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|