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Wang L, Piao Y, Guo F, Wei J, Chen Y, Dai X, Zhang X. Current progress of pig models for liver cancer research. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115256. [PMID: 37536038 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Preclinical trials play critical roles in assessing the safety and efficiency of novel therapeutic strategies for human diseases including live cancer. However, most therapeutic strategies that were proved to be effective in preclinical cancer models failed in human clinical trials due to the lack of appropriate disease animal models. Therefore, it is of importance and urgent to develop a precise animal model for preclinical cancer research. Liver cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers with low 5-year survival rate. Recently, porcine attracted increasing attentions as animal model in biomedical research. Porcine liver cancer model may provide a promising platform for biomedical research due to their similarities to human being in body size, anatomical characteristics, physiology and pathophysiology. In this review, we comprehensively summarized and discussed the advantages and disadvantages, rationale, current status and progress of pig models for liver cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China; National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Disease, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuexian Piao
- Invasive Technology Nursing Platform, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Fucheng Guo
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China; National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Disease, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiarui Wei
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China; National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Disease, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yurong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China; National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Disease, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiangpeng Dai
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China; National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Disease, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
| | - Xiaoling Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China; National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Disease, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
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Esparza-Trujillo JA, Pritchard WF, Mauda-Havakuk M, Starost MF, Wakim P, Zeng J, Mikhail AS, Bakhutashvili I, Wood BJ, Karanian JW. Imaging and Pathologic Evaluation of Cryoablation of Woodchuck ( Marmota monax) Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Comp Med 2023; 73:127-133. [PMID: 36914240 PMCID: PMC10162372 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-cm-22-000092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
We characterized cryoablation as a mode of clinical intervention in adult woodchucks with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Woodchucks (n = 4) were infected with woodchuck hepatitis virus at birth and developed LI-RADS-5 hypervascular HCC. At 21 mo of age, they underwent ultrasound (US), contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) imaging, and US-guided subtotal cryoablation (IcePearl 2.1 CX, Galil, BTG) of their largest tumor (Mean HCC volume of 49 ± 9 cm³). Cryoablation was performed using two 10-min freeze cycles, each followed by an 8-min thaw cycle. The first woodchuck developed significant hemorrhage after the procedure and was euthanized. In the other 3 woodchucks, the probe track was cauterized and all 3 completed the study. Fourteen days after ablation, CECT was performed, and woodchucks were euthanized. Explanted tumors were sectioned using subject-specific, 3D-printed cutting molds. Initial tumor volume, the size of the cryoablation ice ball, gross pathology and hematoxylin and eosin-stained tissue sections were evaluated. On US, the edges of the solid ice balls were echogenic with dense acoustic shadowing and average dimensions of 3.1 ± 0.5 × 2.1 ± 0.4 cm and cross-sectional area of 4.7 ± 1.0 cm². On day 14 after cryoablation, CECT of the 3 woodchucks showed devascularized hypo-attenuating cryolesions with dimensions of 2.8 ± 0.3 × 2.6 ± 0.4 × 2.93 ± 0.7 cm and a cross sectional area of 5.8 ± 1.2 cm². Histopathologic evaluation showed hemorrhagic necrosis with a central amorphous region of coagulative necrosis surrounded by a rim of karyorrhectic debris. A rim of approximately 2.5 mm of coagulative necrosis and fibrous connective tissue clearly demarcated the cryolesion from adjacent HCC. Partial cryoablation of tumors produced coagulative necrosis with well-defined ablation margins at 14 d. Cauterization appeared to prevent hemorrhage after cryoablation of hypervascular tumors. Our findings indicate that woodchucks with HCC may provide a predictive preclinical model for investigating ablative modalities and developing new combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William F Pritchard
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology & Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center
| | - Michal Mauda-Havakuk
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology & Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center
| | | | - Paul Wakim
- Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology Service, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Johnathan Zeng
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology & Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center
| | - Andrew S Mikhail
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology & Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center
| | - Ivane Bakhutashvili
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology & Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center
| | - Bradford J Wood
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology & Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center
- Center for Cancer Research, and
| | - John W Karanian
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology & Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center
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Cone-Beam Computed Tomography-Based Spatial Prediction of Drug Dose After Transarterial Chemoembolization Using Radiopaque Drug-Eluting Beads in Woodchuck Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Invest Radiol 2022; 57:495-501. [PMID: 35239613 DOI: 10.1097/rli.0000000000000864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aims of this study were to develop a model to estimate drug dose delivered to tumors after transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) with radiopaque drug-eluting beads (DEBs) based on DEB density on cone-beam computed tomography (CT) and to evaluate drug penetration into tissue in a woodchuck hepatoma model. MATERIALS AND METHODS Transarterial chemoembolization was performed in woodchucks with hepatocellular carcinoma (N = 5) using DEBs (70-150 μm, LC Bead LUMI) loaded with doxorubicin. Livers were resected 45 minutes after embolization, immediately frozen, and cut using liver-specific, 3D-printed sectioning molds. Doxorubicin levels in tumor specimens were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography and correlated with DEB iodine content that was measured using prototype cone-beam CT-based embolization treatment planning software. Doxorubicin penetration into tissue surrounding DEBs was assessed by fluorescence microscopy of tumor sections. Fluorescence intensity was converted into doxorubicin concentration using calibration standards. Intensity-thresholded color heatmaps were generated representing extravascular drug penetration. RESULTS Consistent segmentation of DEBs on cone-beam CT was achieved using a semiautomated intensity thresholding method. A positive linear correlation (0.96) was found between DEB iodine content measured on cone-beam CT and the amount of doxorubicin measured in tumor specimens. Prediction of doxorubicin levels in tumor sections that were not included in model development was accurate, with a root-mean-square error of 0.08 mg of doxorubicin. Tumor penetration of eluted doxorubicin resulted in concentration gradients where drug content decreased with increasing distance from blood vessels containing DEBs. Drug penetration was greater for blood vessels containing DEB clusters compared with single DEB, with higher doxorubicin concentrations extending further away from the vessels. CONCLUSIONS Estimation of drug dose delivered during transarterial chemoembolization in a woodchuck hepatocellular carcinoma model was possible using DEB radiopacity on cone-beam CT as a surrogate marker. Doxorubicin penetration was greatest adjacent to vessels containing DEB clusters compared with single DEB. Intraprocedural estimation of the spatial distribution of drug dose within the tumor could enable real-time adjustments to DEB delivery, to maximize treatment coverage or identify regions of tumor at risk for undertreatment.
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Woodchuck Hepatic Anatomy and Vascular Alterations Due to Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Angiographic Atlas of the Abdomen and Pelvis. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2022; 33:316-323.e4. [PMID: 34800622 PMCID: PMC8885882 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvir.2021.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To characterize the hepatic and abdominal angiographic anatomy of woodchucks and vascular changes associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty-nine woodchucks (23 with viral-associated HCC, 6 without) underwent multiphasic computed tomography (CT). Fourteen woodchucks (8 with HCC) also underwent diagnostic angiography. Hepatic arterial diameters were measured on the CT scans. Woodchucks were divided into 3 groups: non-tumor-bearing, largest tumor supplied by the right hepatic artery (RHA), and largest tumor supplied by the left hepatic artery (LHA). Statistical analysis with a repeated measures model was performed to determine the effects of tumor location (right, left), vessel measured (RHA, LHA), and interaction between the 2 on vessel diameter. Lobar arteries supplying HCC were compared with those that did not. RESULTS CT anatomy and normal and variant vascular anatomy were defined. In woodchucks with HCC, LHA and RHA supplying tumors had mean diameters of 2.0 mm ± 0.3 and 1.6 mm ± 0.3 versus 1.5 mm ± 0.3 and 1.1 mm ± 0.2 for non-tumor-supplying arteries (P = .0002 and P < .0001), respectively. Lobar arteries supplying tumors were similarly ectatic. The right lateral lobe artery had the most profound increase in the mean diameter when supplying tumors, measuring 1.7 mm ± 0.1 versus 1.0 mm ± 0.1 in the non-tumor-supplying artery (P < .0001). There were no differences in the diameters of the aorta and celiac, common, and proper hepatic arteries between tumor- and non-tumor-bearing woodchucks. An angiographic atlas of the abdominal vessels was generated. CONCLUSIONS HCC tumoral vasculature in woodchucks was ectatic compared with normal vasculature. This phenomenon recapitulates human HCC and may facilitate investigation of transcatheter and drug delivery therapies in an HCC animal model.
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Bousali M, Papatheodoridis G, Paraskevis D, Karamitros T. Hepatitis B Virus DNA Integration, Chronic Infections and Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Microorganisms 2021; 9:1787. [PMID: 34442866 PMCID: PMC8398950 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9081787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is an Old World virus with a high mutation rate, which puts its origins in Africa alongside the origins of Homo sapiens, and is a member of the Hepadnaviridae family that is characterized by a unique viral replication cycle. It targets human hepatocytes and can lead to chronic HBV infection either after acute infection via horizontal transmission usually during infancy or childhood or via maternal-fetal transmission. HBV has been found in ~85% of HBV-related Hepatocellular Carcinomas (HCC), and it can integrate the whole or part of its genome into the host genomic DNA. The molecular mechanisms involved in the HBV DNA integration is not yet clear; thus, multiple models have been described with respect to either the relaxed-circular DNA (rcDNA) or the double-stranded linear DNA (dslDNA) of HBV. Various genes have been found to be affected by HBV DNA integration, including cell-proliferation-related genes, oncogenes and long non-coding RNA genes (lincRNAs). The present review summarizes the advances in the research of HBV DNA integration, focusing on the evolutionary and molecular side of the integration events along with the arising clinical aspects in the light of WHO's commitment to eliminate HBV and viral hepatitis by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Bousali
- Bioinformatics and Applied Genomics Unit, Department of Microbiology, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, 11521 Athens, Greece;
| | - George Papatheodoridis
- Department of Gastroenterology, “Laiko” General Hospital of Athens, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Dimitrios Paraskevis
- Department of Hygiene Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15772 Athens, Greece;
| | - Timokratis Karamitros
- Bioinformatics and Applied Genomics Unit, Department of Microbiology, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, 11521 Athens, Greece;
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology, Department of Microbiology, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, 11521 Athens, Greece
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Suresh M, Menne S. Application of the woodchuck animal model for the treatment of hepatitis B virus-induced liver cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2021; 13:509-535. [PMID: 34163570 PMCID: PMC8204361 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v13.i6.509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This review describes woodchucks chronically infected with the woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV) as an animal model for hepatocarcinogenesis and treatment of primary liver cancer or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) induced by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Since laboratory animal models susceptible to HBV infection are limited, woodchucks experimentally infected with WHV, a hepatitis virus closely related to HBV, are increasingly used to enhance our understanding of virus-host interactions, immune response, and liver disease progression. A correlation of severe liver pathogenesis with high-level viral replication and deficient antiviral immunity has been established, which are present during chronic infection after WHV inoculation of neonatal woodchucks for modeling vertical HBV transmission in humans. HCC in chronic carrier woodchucks develops 17 to 36 mo after neonatal WHV infection and involves liver tumors that are comparable in size, morphology, and molecular gene signature to those of HBV-infected patients. Accordingly, woodchucks with WHV-induced liver tumors have been used for the improvement of imaging and ablation techniques of human HCC. In addition, drug efficacy studies in woodchucks with chronic WHV infection have revealed that prolonged treatment with nucleos(t)ide analogs, alone or in combination with other compounds, minimizes the risk of liver disease progression to HCC. More recently, woodchucks have been utilized in the delineation of mechanisms involved in innate and adaptive immune responses against WHV during acute, self-limited and chronic infections. Therapeutic interventions based on modulating the deficient host antiviral immunity have been explored in woodchucks for inducing functional cure in HBV-infected patients and for reducing or even delaying associated liver disease sequelae, including the onset of HCC. Therefore, woodchucks with chronic WHV infection constitute a well-characterized, fully immunocompetent animal model for HBV-induced liver cancer and for preclinical evaluation of the safety and efficacy of new modalities, which are based on chemo, gene, and immune therapy, for the prevention and treatment of HCC in patients for which current treatment options are dismal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manasa Suresh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, United States
| | - Stephan Menne
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, United States
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Mauda-Havakuk M, Mikhail AS, Starost MF, Jones EC, Karim B, Kleiner DE, Partanen A, Esparza-Trujillo JA, Bakhutashvili I, Wakim PG, Kassin MT, Lewis AL, Karanian JW, Wood BJ, Pritchard WF. Imaging, Pathology, and Immune Correlates in the Woodchuck Hepatic Tumor Model. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2021; 8:71-83. [PMID: 33728278 PMCID: PMC7955744 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s287800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Woodchucks chronically infected with woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV), which resembles human hepatitis B virus, develop spontaneous hepatic tumors and may be an important biological and immunological model for human HCC. Nonetheless, this model requires further validation to fully realize its translational potential. Methods Woodchucks infected at birth with WHV that had developed HCC (n=12) were studied. Computed tomography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging were performed under anesthesia. LI-RADS scoring and correlative histologic analysis of sectioned tissues were performed. For immune characterization of tumors, CD3 (T cells), CD4 (T helpers), NCAM (Natural killers), FOXP3 (T-regulatory), PDL-1 (inhibitory checkpoint protein), and the human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) biomarker alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) immunohistochemical stains were performed. Results Forty tumors were identified on imaging of which 29 were confirmed to be HCC with 26 categorized as LR-4 or 5. The remainder of the tumors had benign histology including basophilic foci, adenoma, and lipidosis as well as pre-malignant dysplastic foci. LR-4 and LR-5 lesions showed high sensitivity (90%) and specificity (100%) for malignant and pre-malignant tumors. Natural killers count was found to be 2–5 times lower in tumors relative to normal parenchyma while other immune cells were located in the periphery of tumors. Tumors expressed AFP and did not express PD-L1. Conclusion Woodchucks chronically infected with WHV developed diverse hepatic tumor types with diagnostic imaging, pathology, and immune patterns comparable to that in humans. This unique animal model may provide a valuable tool for translation and validation of novel image-guided and immune-therapeutic investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Mauda-Havakuk
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Andrew S Mikhail
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Matthew F Starost
- Division of Veterinary Resources, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Elizabeth C Jones
- Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Baktiar Karim
- National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - David E Kleiner
- Center for Cancer Research, Clinical Center, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ari Partanen
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Juan A Esparza-Trujillo
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ivane Bakhutashvili
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Paul G Wakim
- Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology Service, National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Michael T Kassin
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Andrew L Lewis
- Biocompatibles UK Ltd (a BTG International Group Company), Camberley, UK
| | - John W Karanian
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Bradford J Wood
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering and National Cancer Institute Center for Cancer Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - William F Pritchard
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Pritchard WF, Woods DL, Esparza-Trujillo JA, Starost MF, Mauda-Havakuk M, Mikhail AS, Bakhutashvili I, Leonard S, Jones EC, Krishnasamy V, Karanian JW, Wood BJ. Transarterial Chemoembolization in a Woodchuck Model of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2020; 31:812-819.e1. [PMID: 32107125 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvir.2019.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the feasibility of transarterial chemoembolization with drug-eluting embolic (DEE) microspheres in a woodchuck model of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). MATERIALS AND METHODS Nine woodchucks were studied: 4 normal animals and 5 animals infected with woodchuck hepatitis virus in which HCC had developed. Three animals with HCC underwent multidetector CT. A 3-F sheath was introduced into the femoral artery, and the hepatic arteries were selectively catheterized with 2.0-2.4-F microcatheters. Normal animals underwent diagnostic angiography and bland embolization. Animals with HCC underwent DEE transarterial chemoembolization with 70-150-μm radiopaque microspheres loaded with 37.5 mg doxorubicin per milliliter. Cone-beam CT and multidetector CT were performed. Following euthanasia, explanted livers underwent micro-CT, histopathologic examination, and fluorescence imaging of doxorubicin. RESULTS The tumors were hypervascular and supplied by large-caliber tortuous vessels, with arteriovenous shunts present in 2 animals. There was heterogeneous enhancement on multidetector CT with areas of necrosis. Six tumors were identified. The most common location was the right medial lobe (n = 3). Mean tumor volume was 30.7 cm3 ± 12.3. DEE chemoembolization of tumors was achieved. Excluding the 2 animals with arteriovenous shunts, the mean volume of DEE microspheres injected was 0.49 mL ± 0.17. Fluorescence imaging showed diffusion of doxorubicin from the DEE microspheres into the tumor. CONCLUSIONS Woodchuck HCC shares imaging appearances and biologic characteristics with human HCC. Selective catheterization and DEE chemoembolization may similarly be performed. Woodchucks may be used to model interventional therapies and possibly characterize radiologic-pathologic correlations.
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Affiliation(s)
- William F Pritchard
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr., Room 3N320B, MSC 1182, Bethesda, MD 20892.
| | - David L Woods
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr., Room 3N320B, MSC 1182, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Juan A Esparza-Trujillo
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr., Room 3N320B, MSC 1182, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Matthew F Starost
- Division of Veterinary Resources, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr., Room 3N320B, MSC 1182, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Michal Mauda-Havakuk
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr., Room 3N320B, MSC 1182, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Andrew S Mikhail
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr., Room 3N320B, MSC 1182, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Ivane Bakhutashvili
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr., Room 3N320B, MSC 1182, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Shelby Leonard
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr., Room 3N320B, MSC 1182, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Elizabeth C Jones
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr., Room 3N320B, MSC 1182, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Venkatesh Krishnasamy
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr., Room 3N320B, MSC 1182, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - John W Karanian
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr., Room 3N320B, MSC 1182, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Bradford J Wood
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr., Room 3N320B, MSC 1182, Bethesda, MD 20892; National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering and National Cancer Institute Center for Cancer Research, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr., Room 3N320B, MSC 1182, Bethesda, MD 20892
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Cheng CW, Machtay M, Dorth J, Sergeeva O, Xia H, Manaspon C, Wu H, Iyer R, Sexton S, Xin W, Exner AA, Lee Z. Delayed response to proton beam treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. BJR Case Rep 2020; 6:20180125. [PMID: 32201597 PMCID: PMC7068085 DOI: 10.1259/bjrcr.20180125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has become one of the leading causes of cancer death worldwide. There has been anecdotal report regarding the effectiveness of proton beam treatment for HCC. In this pre-clinical investigation, the woodchuck model of viral hepatitis infection-induced HCC was used for proton beam treatment experiment. The radiopaque fiducial markers that are biodegradable were injected around the tumor under ultrasound guidance to facilitate positioning in sequential treatments. An α cradle mode was used to ensure reproducibility of animal positioning on the treatment couch. A CT scan was performed first for contouring by a radiation oncologist. The CT data set with contours was then exported for dose planning. Three fractionations, each 750 CcGyE, were applied every other day with a Mevion S250 passive scattering proton therapy system. Multiphase contrast-enhanced CT scans were performed after the treatment and at later times for follow-ups. 3 weeks post-treatment, shrinking of the HCC nodule was detected and constituted to a partial response (30% reduction along the long axis). By week nine after treatment, the nodule disappeared during the arterial phase of multiphase contrast-enhanced CT scan. Pathological evaluation corroborated with this imaging response. A delayed, but complete imaging response to proton beam treatment applied to HCC was achieved with this unique and clinically relevant animal model of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chee-Wai Cheng
- Radiation Oncology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, ClevelandOH, United States
| | - Mitchell Machtay
- Radiation Oncology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, ClevelandOH, United States
| | - Jennifer Dorth
- Radiation Oncology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, ClevelandOH, United States
| | - Olga Sergeeva
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, ClevelandOH, United States
| | - Hangsheng Xia
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, ClevelandOH, United States
| | - Chawan Manaspon
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, ClevelandOH, United States
| | - Hanping Wu
- Radiology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, ClevelandOH, United States
| | - Renuka Iyer
- Medical Oncology, Rowell Park Cancer Institute, BuffaloNY, United States
| | - Sandra Sexton
- Medical Oncology, Rowell Park Cancer Institute, BuffaloNY, United States
| | - Wei Xin
- Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, ClevelandOH, United States
| | - Agata A Exner
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, ClevelandOH, United States
| | - Zhenghong Lee
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, ClevelandOH, United States
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Genetically Engineered Mouse Models for Liver Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 12:cancers12010014. [PMID: 31861541 PMCID: PMC7016809 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12010014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death globally, accounting for approximately 800,000 deaths annually. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer, comprising approximately 80% of cases. Murine models of HCC, such as chemically-induced models, xenograft models, and genetically engineered mouse (GEM) models, are valuable tools to reproduce human HCC biopathology and biochemistry. These models can be used to identify potential biomarkers, evaluate potential novel therapeutic drugs in pre-clinical trials, and develop molecular target therapies. Considering molecular target therapies, a novel approach has been developed to create genetically engineered murine models for HCC, employing hydrodynamics-based transfection (HT). The HT method, coupled with the Sleeping Beauty transposon system or the CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing tool, has been used to rapidly and cost-effectively produce a variety of HCC models containing diverse oncogenes or inactivated tumor suppressor genes. The versatility of these models is expected to broaden our knowledge of the genetic mechanisms underlying human hepatocarcinogenesis, allowing the study of premalignant and malignant liver lesions and the evaluation of new therapeutic strategies. Here, we review recent advances in GEM models of HCC with an emphasis on new technologies.
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11
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Sergeeva O, Kepe V, Zhang Y, Miller-Atkins GA, Keynon JD, Iyer R, Sexton S, Awadallah A, Xin W, Saunthararajah Y, Chan ER, Lee Z. [ 18F] Clofarabine for PET Imaging of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11111748. [PMID: 31703407 PMCID: PMC6896045 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11111748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) relies heavily on radiological imaging. However, information pertaining to liver cancer treatment such as the proliferation status is lacking. Imaging tumor proliferation can be valuable in patient management. This study investigated 18F-labeled clofarabine ([18F]CFA) targeting deoxycytidine kinase (dCK) for PET imaging of dCK-dependent proliferation in HCC. Since clinical PET scans showed a high liver background uptake of [18F]CFA, the aim of this study was to reduce this liver background uptake. A clinically relevant animal model of spontaneously developed HCC in the woodchucks was used for imaging experiments. Several modifiers were tested and compared with the baseline PET scan: Forodesine, probenecid, and cold clofarabine, all applied before the hot [18F]CFA injection to evaluate the reduction in liver background uptake. Application of forodesine before hot [18F]CFA injection did not reduce the background uptake. Instead, it increased the background by 11.6–36.3%. Application of probenecid also increased the liver background uptake by 16.6–32.1%. Cold CFA application did reduce the liver background uptake of [18F]CFA, comparing to the baseline scan. Combining cold CFA with [18F]CFA for PET imaging of liver cancers is a promising strategy, worthy of further clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Sergeeva
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (O.S.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Vladimir Kepe
- Nuclear Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA;
| | - Yifan Zhang
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (O.S.); (Y.Z.)
| | | | | | - Renuka Iyer
- Medical Oncology, Rowell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA; (R.I.); (S.S.)
| | - Sandra Sexton
- Medical Oncology, Rowell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA; (R.I.); (S.S.)
| | - Amad Awadallah
- Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (A.A.); (W.X.)
| | - Wei Xin
- Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (A.A.); (W.X.)
| | | | - E. Ricky Chan
- Institute for Computational Biology, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (G.A.M.-A.); (E.R.C.)
| | - Zhenghong Lee
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (O.S.); (Y.Z.)
- Nuclear Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-216-844-7920
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12
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Bender D, Hildt E. Effect of Hepatitis Viruses on the Nrf2/Keap1-Signaling Pathway and Its Impact on Viral Replication and Pathogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20184659. [PMID: 31546975 PMCID: PMC6769940 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20184659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
With respect to their genome and their structure, the human hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are complete different viruses. However, both viruses can cause an acute and chronic infection of the liver that is associated with liver inflammation (hepatitis). For both viruses chronic infection can lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a central role in a variety of chronic inflammatory diseases. In light of this, this review summarizes the impact of both viruses on ROS-generating and ROS-inactivating mechanisms. The focus is on the effect of both viruses on the transcription factor Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NF-E2)-related factor 2). By binding to its target sequence, the antioxidant response element (ARE), Nrf2 triggers the expression of a variety of cytoprotective genes including ROS-detoxifying enzymes. The review summarizes the literature about the pathways for the modulation of Nrf2 that are deregulated by HBV and HCV and describes the impact of Nrf2 deregulation on the viral life cycle of the respective viruses and the virus-associated pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Bender
- Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Straβe 51-59, D-63225 Langen, Germany.
| | - Eberhard Hildt
- Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Straβe 51-59, D-63225 Langen, Germany.
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13
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Sergeeva O, Zhang Y, Kenyon JD, Miller-Atkins GA, Wu C, Iyer R, Sexton S, Wojtylak P, Awadallah A, Xin W, Chan ER, O’Donnel JK, Lee Z. PET imaging of hepatocellular carcinoma with anti-1-amino-3-[ 18F]fluorocyclobutanecarboxylic acid in comparison with L-[S-methyl- 11C]methionine. EJNMMI Res 2019; 9:47. [PMID: 31119488 PMCID: PMC6531569 DOI: 10.1186/s13550-019-0519-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE [11C]methionine ([11C]Met) was used for cancer imaging based on upregulated amino acid transport and protein synthesis in different tumor types. However, the short half-life of 11C decay limited further clinical development of [11C]Met. Synthetic amino acid analog anti-1-amino-3-[18F]fluoro-cyclobutyl-1-carboxylic acid ([18F]FCABC) was developed and FDA-approved for PET imaging of recurrent prostate cancer. This study investigated "repurposed" [18F]FACBC for PET imaging of primary liver cancer such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in comparison with [11C]Met. METHODS [11C]Met was synthesized in the lab, and [18F]FACBC was purchased from a commercial outlet. A clinically relevant animal model of spontaneously developed HCC in the woodchucks was used for PET imaging. Bioinformatics analysis was performed for the expression of amino acid transporters responsible for radiotracer uptake and validated by PCR. Dynamic PET scans of [11C]Met and [18F]FACBC were acquired within 1 week. Standardized uptake value (SUV) was calculated for regions of interest (ROIs) defined over HCC and a liver background region. H&E staining and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining were performed with harvested tissues post-imaging. RESULTS Higher expression of ACST2 and LAT1 was found in HCC than in the surrounding liver tissues. PCR validated this differential expression. [11C]Met and [18F]FACBC displayed some differences in their uptake and retention in HCC. Both peaked in HCC with an SUV of 3.5 after 10 min post-injection. Met maintained a plateaued contrast uptake in HCC to that in the liver while [18F]FCABC declined in HCC and liver after peak uptake. The pathological assessment revealed the liver tumor as moderately differentiated similar to the human HCC and proliferative. CONCLUSION Both [18F]FACBC and [11C]Met showed uptake in HCC through the use of a clinically relevant animal model of woodchuck HCC. The uptake and retention of [18F]FACBC and [11C]Met depend on their metabolism and also rely on the distribution of their principal amino acid transporters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Sergeeva
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Yifan Zhang
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH USA
| | | | | | - Chunying Wu
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Renuka Iyer
- Medical Oncology, Rowell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY USA
| | - Sandra Sexton
- Medical Oncology, Rowell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY USA
| | - Patrick Wojtylak
- Nuclear Medicine, Radiology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Amad Awadallah
- Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Wei Xin
- Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - E. Ricky Chan
- Institute for Computational Biology, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - James K. O’Donnel
- Nuclear Medicine, Radiology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Zhenghong Lee
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH USA
- Nuclear Medicine, Radiology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH USA
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14
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Tu T, Bühler S, Bartenschlager R. Chronic viral hepatitis and its association with liver cancer. Biol Chem 2017; 398:817-837. [PMID: 28455951 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2017-0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Chronic infection with hepatitis viruses represents the major causative factor for end-stage liver diseases, including liver cirrhosis and primary liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma, HCC). In this review, we highlight the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms that drive the hepatocarcinogenesis associated with chronic hepatitis virus infections. While chronic inflammation (associated with a persistent, but impaired anti-viral immune response) plays a major role in HCC initiation and progression, hepatitis viruses can also directly drive liver cancer. The mechanisms by which hepatitis viruses induce HCC include: hepatitis B virus DNA integration into the host cell genome; metabolic reprogramming by virus infection; induction of the cellular stress response pathway by viral gene products; and interference with tumour suppressors. Finally, we summarise the limitations of hepatitis virus-associated HCC model systems and the development of new techniques to circumvent these shortcomings.
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15
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DNA Oncogenic Virus-Induced Oxidative Stress, Genomic Damage, and Aberrant Epigenetic Alterations. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2017; 2017:3179421. [PMID: 28740569 PMCID: PMC5504953 DOI: 10.1155/2017/3179421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Revised: 05/01/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Approximately 20% of human cancers is attributable to DNA oncogenic viruses such as human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Unrepaired DNA damage is the most common and overlapping feature of these DNA oncogenic viruses and a source of genomic instability and tumour development. Sustained DNA damage results from unceasing production of reactive oxygen species and activation of inflammasome cascades that trigger genomic changes and increased propensity of epigenetic alterations. Accumulation of epigenetic alterations may interfere with genome-wide cellular signalling machineries and promote malignant transformation leading to cancer development. Untangling and understanding the underlying mechanisms that promote these detrimental effects remain the major objectives for ongoing research and hope for effective virus-induced cancer therapy. Here, we review current literature with an emphasis on how DNA damage influences HPV, HVB, and EBV replication and epigenetic alterations that are associated with carcinogenesis.
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16
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Mulrooney-Cousins PM, Michalak TI. Asymptomatic Hepadnaviral Persistence and Its Consequences in the Woodchuck Model of Occult Hepatitis B Virus Infection. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2015; 3:211-9. [PMID: 26623268 PMCID: PMC4663203 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2015.00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Revised: 07/20/2015] [Accepted: 07/21/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV) is molecularly and pathogenically closely related to hepatitis B virus (HBV). Both viruses display tropism towards hepatocytes and cells of the immune system and cause similar liver pathology, where acute hepatitis can progress to chronic hepatitis and to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Two forms of occult hepadnaviral persistence were identified in the woodchuck-WHV model: secondary occult infection (SOI) and primary occult infection (POI). SOI occurs after resolution of a serologically apparent infection with hepatitis or after subclinical serologically evident virus exposure. POI is caused by small amounts of virus and progresses without serological infection markers, but the virus genome and its replication are detectable in the immune system and with time in the liver. SOI can be accompanied by minimal hepatitis, while the hallmark of POI is normal liver morphology. Nonetheless, HCC develops in about 20% of animals with SOI or POI within 3 to 5 years. The virus persists throughout the lifespan in both SOI and POI at serum levels rarely greater than 100 copies/mL, causes hepatitis and HCC when concentrated and administered to virus-naïve woodchucks. SOI is accompanied by virus-specific T and B cell immune responses, while only virus-specific T cells are detected in POI. SOI coincides with protection against reinfection, while POI does not and hepatitis develops after challenge with liver pathogenic doses >1000 virions. Both SOI and POI are associated with virus DNA integration into the liver and the immune system genomes. Overall, SOI and POI are two distinct forms of silent hepadnaviral persistence that share common characteristics. Here, we review findings from the woodchuck model and discuss the relevant observations made in human occult HBV infection (OBI).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tomasz I. Michalak
- Correspondence to: Tomasz I. Michalak, Molecular Virology and Hepatology Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Memorial University, St. John’s, NL A1B 3V6, Canada. Tel: +1-709-777-7301, Fax: +1-709-777-8279, E-mail:
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17
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Tu T, Budzinska MA, Shackel NA, Jilbert AR. Conceptual models for the initiation of hepatitis B virus-associated hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver Int 2015; 35:1786-800. [PMID: 25640596 DOI: 10.1111/liv.12773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2014] [Accepted: 12/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Although chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a known risk factor for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the steps involved in the progression from normal liver to HCC are poorly understood. In this review, we apply five conceptual models, previously proposed by Vineis et al. to explain carcinogenesis in general, to explore the possible steps involved in the initiation and evolution of HBV-associated HCC. Available data suggest that the most suitable and inclusive model is based on evolution of hepatocyte subpopulations. In this evolutionary model, HCC-associated changes are driven by selection and subsequent clonal expansion of phenotypically altered hepatocyte subpopulations in the microenvironment of the HBV-infected liver. This model can incorporate the wide range of mechanisms proposed to play a role in the initiation of HCC including oncogenic HBV proteins, integration of HBV DNA and chronic inflammation of the liver. The model may assist in the early prevention, detection and treatment of HCC and may guide future studies of the initiation of HBV-associated HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Tu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Liver Cell Biology, Centenary Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Magdalena A Budzinska
- Liver Cell Biology, Centenary Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicholas A Shackel
- Liver Cell Biology, Centenary Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,A.W. Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Allison R Jilbert
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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18
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Abstract
The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a widespread human pathogen that causes liver inflammation, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recent sequencing technologies have refined our knowledge of the genomic landscape and pathogenesis of HCC, but the mechanisms by which HBV exerts its oncogenic role remain controversial. In a prevailing view, inflammation, liver damage, and regeneration may foster the accumulation of genetic and epigenetic defects leading to cancer onset. However, a more direct and specific contribution of the virus is supported by clinical and biological observations. Among genetically heterogeneous HCCs, HBV-related tumors display high genomic instability, which may be attributed to the ability of HBV to integrate its DNA into the host cell genome, provoking chromosomal alterations and insertional mutagenesis of cancer genes. The viral transactivator HBx may also participate in transformation by deregulating diverse cellular machineries. A better understanding of the complex mechanisms linking HBV to HCC will improve prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Annick Buendia
- Pathogenesis and Treatment of Acute Hepatitis and Liver Cancer Unit, INSERM U785, University Paris-Sud, Paul Brousse Hospital, 94800 Villejuif, France
| | - Christine Neuveut
- Hepacivirus and Innate Immunity Unit, URA CNRS 3015, Institut Pasteur, 75015 Paris, France
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19
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Zhu Z, Zhang X, Wang G, Zheng H. Role of MicroRNAs in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2014; 14:e18672. [PMID: 25337143 PMCID: PMC4199151 DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon.18672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2014] [Revised: 04/20/2014] [Accepted: 06/09/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNAs that play an important role in posttranscriptional gene regulation and function as negative gene regulators. They are an abundant class of RNA, each of which can control hundreds of gene targets and regulate diverse biological processes such as hematopoiesis, organogenesis, apoptosis and cell proliferation. Aberrant miRNA expression contributes to tumorigenesis and cancer progression. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION In this study we provided a summarized review of the most important new data available on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)-associated miRNAs. The data were collected through searching the related keywords and were categorized and summarized in different sections. RESULTS Researchers have reported that miRNAs can repress the expression of important cancer-related genes and might be helpful in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. During the past two decades, numerous studies have shown that miRNAs play an essential role in inhibiting HCC via several different pathways. Deregulated miRNAs may contribute to carcinogenesis, indicating that miRNAs can act as tumor suppressors and oncogenes. CONCLUSIONS In this mini review, we highlight current findings and discuss recent work to determine the contribution of miRNA expression to the maintenance and growth of HCC, thereby providing a significant source of hope that miRNAs could serve as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixiang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, National Foot and Mouth Disease Reference Laboratory, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiangle Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, National Foot and Mouth Disease Reference Laboratory, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Guoqing Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Haixue Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, National Foot and Mouth Disease Reference Laboratory, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
- Corresponding Author: Haixue Zheng, State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, National Foot and Mouth Disease Reference Laboratory, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 1, Xujiaping Road, 730046, Lanzhou, China. Tel: +86-2134293139, Fax: +86-9318342710, E-mail:
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20
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Studach LL, Menne S, Cairo S, Buendia MA, Hullinger RL, Lefrançois L, Merle P, Andrisani OM. Subset of Suz12/PRC2 target genes is activated during hepatitis B virus replication and liver carcinogenesis associated with HBV X protein. Hepatology 2012; 56:1240-51. [PMID: 22505317 PMCID: PMC3417088 DOI: 10.1002/hep.25781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major risk factor for developing liver cancer, and the HBV X protein (pX) has been implicated as a cofactor in hepatocyte transformation. We have shown that HBV replication as well as in vitro transformation by pX are associated with induction of the mitotic polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) and down-regulation of the chromatin remodeling components Suz12 and Znf198. Herein, we demonstrate the same inverse relationship between Plk1 and Suz12/Znf198 in liver tumors from X/c-myc bitransgenic mice and woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV)-infected woodchucks. Employing these animal models and the HBV replicating HepAD38 cells we examined the effect of Suz12/Znf198 down-regulation on gene expression. Genes analyzed include hepatic cancer stem cell markers BAMBI, DKK1,2, DLK1, EpCAM, MYC, and proliferation genes CCNA1, CCND2, IGFII, MCM4-6, PLK1, RPA2, and TYMS. Suz12 occupancy at the promoters of BAMBI, CCND2, DKK2, DLK1, EpCAM, and IGFII was demonstrated by chromatin immunoprecipitation in untransformed hepatocytes, but was markedly reduced in pX-transformed and Suz12 knockdown cells. Accordingly, we refer to these genes as "Suz12 repressed" genes in untransformed hepatocytes. The Suz12 repressed genes and proliferation genes were induced in HBV-replicating HepAD38 cells and, interestingly, they exhibited distinct expression profiles during hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression in X/c-myc bitransgenics. Specifically, CCND2, EpCAM, and IGFII expression was elevated at the proliferative and preneoplastic stages in X/c-myc bitransgenic livers, whereas BAMBI and PLK1 were overexpressed in hepatic tumors from X/c-myc bitransgenics and WHV-infected woodchucks. Importantly, most of these genes were selectively up-regulated in HBV-induced HCCs. CONCLUSION The distinct expression profile of the identified Suz12 repressed genes in combination with the proliferation genes hold promise as biomarkers for progression of chronic HBV infection to HCC.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/genetics
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/virology
- Cell Cycle Proteins/genetics
- Cell Cycle Proteins/metabolism
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/genetics
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/pathology
- Cells, Cultured
- Disease Models, Animal
- Down-Regulation
- Gene Expression Regulation, Viral
- Hepatitis B virus/genetics
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/genetics
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/physiopathology
- Hepatocytes/pathology
- Liver Neoplasms/genetics
- Liver Neoplasms/virology
- Marmota
- Mice
- Mice, Transgenic
- Polycomb Repressive Complex 2/genetics
- Polycomb Repressive Complex 2/metabolism
- Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/genetics
- Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/metabolism
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins/genetics
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins/metabolism
- Random Allocation
- Sensitivity and Specificity
- Trans-Activators/genetics
- Trans-Activators/metabolism
- Transcriptional Activation
- Viral Regulatory and Accessory Proteins
- Virus Replication/genetics
- Polo-Like Kinase 1
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Affiliation(s)
- Leo L. Studach
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences and Purdue University Center for Cancer Research, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Stephan Menne
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Stefano Cairo
- XenTech, Research and Development Department, Genopole Campus 3 Evry, France
| | - Marie Annick Buendia
- Inserm U785 Unit, Hepatobiliary Center, Paul Brousse Hospital, Villejuif, France
| | - Ronald L. Hullinger
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences and Purdue University Center for Cancer Research, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Lydie Lefrançois
- Inserm U1052, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Hepatocarcinogenesis and Viral Infection, Lyon Cedex 03 France
| | - Philippe Merle
- Inserm U1052, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Hepatocarcinogenesis and Viral Infection, Lyon Cedex 03 France
| | - Ourania M. Andrisani
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences and Purdue University Center for Cancer Research, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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21
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Jiang S, Yang Z, Li W, Li X, Wang Y, Zhang J, Xu C, Chen PJ, Hou J, McCrae MA, Chen X, Zhuang H, Lu F. Re-evaluation of the carcinogenic significance of hepatitis B virus integration in hepatocarcinogenesis. PLoS One 2012; 7:e40363. [PMID: 22962577 PMCID: PMC3433482 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0040363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2012] [Accepted: 06/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
To examine the role of hepatitis B virus (HBV) integration in hepatocarcinogenesis, a systematic comparative study of both tumor and their corresponding non-tumor derived tissue has been conducted in a cohort of 60 HBV associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. By using Alu-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and ligation-mediated PCR, 233 viral-host junctions mapped across all human chromosomes at random, no difference between tumor and non-tumor tissue was observed, with the exception of fragile sites (P = 0.0070). HBV insertions in close proximity to cancer related genes such as hTERT were found in this study, however overall they were rare events. No direct correlation between chromosome aberrations and the number of HBV integration events was found using a sensitive array-based comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) assay. However, a positive correlation was observed between the status of several tumor suppressor genes (TP53, RB1, CDNK2A and TP73) and the number of chromosome aberrations (r = 0.6625, P = 0.0003). Examination of the viral genome revealed that 43% of inserts were in the preC/C region and 57% were in the HBV X gene. Strikingly, approximately 24% of the integrations examined had a breakpoint in a short 15 nt viral genome region (1820-1834 nt). As a consequence, all of the confirmed X gene insertions were C-terminal truncated, losing their growth-suppressive domain. However, the same pattern of X gene C-terminal truncation was found in both tumor and non-tumor derived samples. Furthermore, the integrated viral sequences in both groups had a similar low frequency of C1653T, T1753V and A1762T/G1764A mutations. The frequency and patterns of HBV insertions were similar between tumor and their adjacent non-tumor samples indicating that the majority of HBV DNA integration events are not associated with hepatocarcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzhen Jiang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, Beijing, China
- Department of Infectious Disease, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Infectious Disease, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, Shandong, China
| | - Ziwei Yang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Weijie Li
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojun Li
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Yongfeng Wang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Jiangbo Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Chunhui Xu
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Pei-Jer Chen
- Hepatitis Research Center, National Taiwan University and Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jinlin Hou
- Department of Infectious Disease, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Malcolm A. McCrae
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Xiangmei Chen
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, Beijing, China
- Infectious Disease Center, Peking University, Beijing, China
- * E-mail: (XMC); Lu.fengmin @hsc.pku.edu.cn (FML)
| | - Hui Zhuang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, Beijing, China
- Infectious Disease Center, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Fengmin Lu
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, Beijing, China
- Infectious Disease Center, Peking University, Beijing, China
- * E-mail: (XMC); Lu.fengmin @hsc.pku.edu.cn (FML)
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Burke CT, Cullen JM, State A, Gadi S, Wilber K, Rosenthal M, Bulysheva A, Pease A, Mauro MA, Fuchs H. Development of an animal model for radiofrequency ablation of primary, virally induced hepatocellular carcinoma in the woodchuck. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2011; 22:1613-1618.e1. [PMID: 21959057 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvir.2011.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2011] [Revised: 08/12/2011] [Accepted: 08/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To develop a consistent and reproducible method in an animal model for studies of radiofrequency (RF) ablation of primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). MATERIALS AND METHODS Fifteen woodchucks were inoculated with woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV) to establish chronic infections. When serum γ-glutamyl transpeptidase levels became elevated, the animals were evaluated with ultrasound, and, in most cases, preoperative magnetic resonance (MR) imaging to confirm tumor development. Ultimately, RF ablation of tumors was performed by using a 1-cm probe with the animal submerged in a water bath for grounding. Ablation effectiveness was evaluated with contrast-enhanced MR imaging and gross and histopathologic analysis. RESULTS RF ablation was performed in 15 woodchucks. Modifications were made to the initial study design to adapt methodology for the woodchuck. The last 10 of these animals were treated with a standardized protocol using a 1-cm probe that produced a consistent area of tumor necrosis (mean size of ablation, 10.2 mm × 13.1 mm) and led to no complications. CONCLUSIONS A safe, reliable and consistent method was developed to study RF ablation of spontaneous primary HCC using chronically WHV-infected woodchucks, an animal model of hepatitis B virus-induced HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles T Burke
- Department of Radiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7510, USA.
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23
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WENG ZHIHONG, WANG DONGDONG, ZHAO WENYUE, SONG MENGQI, YOU FAPING, YANG LIAN, CHEN LIBO. microRNA-450a targets DNA methyltransferase 3a in hepatocellular carcinoma. Exp Ther Med 2011; 2:951-955. [PMID: 22977604 PMCID: PMC3440703 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2011.288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2011] [Accepted: 06/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
microRNAs (miRNAs) have been proven to play key regulatory roles in hepatocarcinogenesis. In the present study, the possible role of microRNA-450a (miR-450a) in hepatocarcinogenesis was investigated. Our study revealed that miR-450a was significantly down-regulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues compared with that in normal liver (NL) and para-tumorous (PT) tissues, and miR-450a expression in HepG2 cells was significantly lower than that in L02 cells. Both the mRNA and protein levels of the miR-450a potential target gene, DNA methyltransferase 3a (DNMT3a), were obviously higher in HCC compared with levels in the NL and PT tissues. We further identified DNMT3a as the direct target gene for miR-450a, and ectopic miR-450a expression in HepG2 cells caused the down-regulation of DNMT3a and an inhibition of cell proliferation. Taken together, these findings suggest that miR-450a plays an important regulatory role in hepatocarcinogenesis through inhibition of DNMT3a expression, and miR-450a may be a potential target for the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - DONGDONG WANG
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, P.R.
China
| | - WENYUE ZHAO
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, P.R.
China
| | - MENGQI SONG
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, P.R.
China
| | - FAPING YOU
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, P.R.
China
| | - LIAN YANG
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, P.R.
China
| | - LIBO CHEN
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, P.R.
China
- Correspondence to: Dr Libo Chen, Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, P.R. China, E-mail:
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24
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Zhang G, Wang Q, Xu R. Therapeutics Based on microRNA: A New Approach for Liver Cancer. Curr Genomics 2011; 11:311-25. [PMID: 21286309 PMCID: PMC2944997 DOI: 10.2174/138920210791616671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2010] [Revised: 04/11/2010] [Accepted: 04/16/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a serious public health hazard. Polygenes involvement, accumulation of genetic and epigenetic changes and immune response of viral vector during gene therapy have resulted in the high mortality rate without marked change. To provide a safeguard for gene therapy and the feasibility for a clinical application, efforts have been focused predominantly upon constructing liver-targeted vector recently. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of short endogenous RNAs, regulate the gene expression at the post-transcriptional level through imperfect base pairing with the 3′-untranslated region of target mRNAs. miRNAs, especially the liver-specific miRNA: miR-122, have multiple functions in liver development and abnormal expression of miRNAs could lead to liver diseases. Altered miRNA expressions have been observed in HCCs, viral hepatitis and hepatic fibrosis. The different expression profiles of miRNAs in HCC suggest that miRNAs may serve as either novel potential targets acting directly as oncogenes or therapeutic molecules working as tumor suppressor genes. Moreover, the abundance in general and liver specificity in particular, all together make them attractive to be considered as elements for hepatic specific targeting viral vector. This review describes recent progress in miRNA investigation on liver associated for better understanding the relationship between miRNA and liver cancer in order to raise prospects for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Zhang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Huaqiao University & Engineering Research Center of Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, Quanzhou, Fujian, 362021, China
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25
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Liver cell transformation in chronic HBV infection. Viruses 2009; 1:630-646. [PMID: 21994562 PMCID: PMC3185520 DOI: 10.3390/v1030630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2009] [Revised: 10/26/2009] [Accepted: 10/29/2009] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological studies have provided overwhelming evidence for a causal role of chronic HBV infection in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the molecular mechanisms underlying virally-induced tumorigenesis remain largely debated. In the absence of a dominant oncogene encoded by the HBV genome, indirect roles have been proposed, including insertional activation of cellular oncogenes by HBV DNA integration, induction of genetic instability by viral integration or by the regulatory protein HBx, and long term effects of viral proteins in enhancing immune-mediated liver disease. In this chapter, we discuss different models of HBV-mediated liver cell transformation based on animal systems of hepadnavirus infection as well as functional studies in hepatocyte and hepatoma cell lines. These studies might help identifying the cellular effectors connecting HBV infection and liver cell transformation.
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26
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Lattová E, McKenzie EJ, Gruwel MLH, Spicer V, Goldman R, Perreault H. Mass spectrometric study of N-glycans from serum of woodchucks with liver cancer. RAPID COMMUNICATIONS IN MASS SPECTROMETRY : RCM 2009; 23:2983-2995. [PMID: 19685473 DOI: 10.1002/rcm.4202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Woodchucks have been a preferred lab animal model of chronic hepatitis B viral infection. The model recapitulates the disease progression of HBV infection to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and has documented similarities in protein glycosylation with human HCC. This study examined N-glycans in serum of animals with(out) HCC. Oligosaccharides were released enzymatically using PNGaseF from total serum or from serum partially fractionated by extraction. Two different extraction procedures - reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) and solid-phase extraction (SPE) on a cation-exchange/reversed-phase STRATA-XC cartridge - were used with the purpose of confirming glycosylation profiles. Oligosaccharides were analyzed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) after derivatization with phenylhydrazine and/or permethylation. Characteristic fragment ions produced under MS/MS conditions allowed discrimination between isomeric structures of oligosaccharides, including those sialylated with two types of acidic residues. The complementary methods allowed structural characterization of oligosaccharides from various N-glycan classes. Furthermore, to validate results, glycosylation profiles of woodchuck sera were compared to glycans obtained from mouse serum on the same conditions. In summary, we have identified 40 N-glycan structures in the serum of woodchucks and some types of oligosaccharide structures appeared to increase in HCC samples following protease digest. The study provides improved tools for the characterization of N-glycans from total serum in the progression of liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Lattová
- Chemistry Department, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada R3T 2N2.
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27
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsutomu Masaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Neurology, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Kagawa, Japan
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28
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Detection of clonally expanded hepatocytes in chimpanzees with chronic hepatitis B virus infection. J Virol 2009; 83:8396-408. [PMID: 19535448 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00700-09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
During a hepadnavirus infection, viral DNA integrates at a low rate into random sites in the host DNA, producing unique virus-cell junctions detectable by inverse nested PCR (invPCR). These junctions serve as genetic markers of individual hepatocytes, providing a means to detect their subsequent proliferation into clones of two or more hepatocytes. A previous study suggested that the livers of 2.4-year-old woodchucks (Marmota monax) chronically infected with woodchuck hepatitis virus contained at least 100,000 clones of >1,000 hepatocytes (W. S. Mason, A. R. Jilbert, and J. Summers, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 102:1139-1144, 2005). However, possible correlations between sites of viral-DNA integration and clonal expansion could not be explored because the woodchuck genome has not yet been sequenced. In order to further investigate this issue, we looked for similar clonal expansion of hepatocytes in the livers of chimpanzees chronically infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV). Liver samples for invPCR were collected from eight chimpanzees chronically infected with HBV for at least 20 years. Fifty clones ranging in size from approximately 35 to 10,000 hepatocytes were detected using invPCR in 32 liver biopsy fragments (approximately 1 mg) containing, in total, approximately 3 x 10(7) liver cells. Based on searching the analogous human genome, integration sites were found on all chromosomes except Y, approximately 30% in known or predicted genes. However, no obvious association between the extent of clonal expansion and the integration site was apparent. This suggests that the integration site per se is not responsible for the outgrowth of large clones of hepatocytes.
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29
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Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are an emerging class of highly conserved non-coding small RNAs that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. It is now clear that miRNAs can potentially regulate every aspect of cellular activity, including differentiation and development, metabolism, proliferation, apoptotic cell death, viral infection and tumorigenesis. Recent studies provide clear evidence that miRNAs are abundant in the liver and modulate a diverse spectrum of liver functions. Deregulation of miRNA expression may be a key pathogenetic factor in many liver diseases including viral hepatitis, hepatocellular cancer and polycystic liver diseases. A clearer understanding of the mechanisms involved in miRNA deregulation will offer new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to treat liver diseases. Moreover, better understanding of miRNA regulation and identification of tissue-specific miRNA targets employing transgenic/knockout models and/or modulating oligonucleotides will improve our knowledge of liver physiology and diseases.
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30
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Experimental models of hepatocellular carcinoma: developments and evolution. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2009; 135:969-81. [DOI: 10.1007/s00432-009-0591-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2008] [Accepted: 04/09/2009] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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31
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Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are an emerging class of highly conserved non-coding small RNAs that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. It is now clear that miRNAs can potentially regulate every aspect of cellular activity, including differentiation and development, metabolism, proliferation, apoptotic cell death, viral infection and tumorigenesis. Recent studies provide clear evidence that miRNAs are abundant in the liver and modulate a diverse spectrum of liver functions. Deregulation of miRNA expression may be a key pathogenetic factor in many liver diseases including viral hepatitis, hepatocellular cancer and polycystic liver diseases. A clearer understanding of the mechanisms involved in miRNA deregulation will offer new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to treat liver diseases. Moreover, better understanding of miRNA regulation and identification of tissue-specific miRNA targets employing transgenic/knockout models and/or modulating oligonucleotides will improve our knowledge of liver physiology and diseases.
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32
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Li M, Marin-Muller C, Bharadwaj U, Chow KH, Yao Q, Chen C. MicroRNAs: control and loss of control in human physiology and disease. World J Surg 2009; 33:667-84. [PMID: 19030926 PMCID: PMC2933043 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-008-9836-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Analysis of the human genome indicates that a large fraction of the genome sequences are RNAs that do not encode any proteins, also known as non-coding RNAs. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of small non-coding RNA molecules 20-22 nucleotides (nt) in length that are predicted to control the activity of approximately 30% of all protein-coding genes in mammals. miRNAs play important roles in many diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and immune disorders. The expression of miRNAs can be regulated by epigenetic modification, DNA copy number change, and genetic mutations. miRNAs can serve as a valuable therapeutic target for a large number of diseases. For miRNAs with oncogenic capabilities, potential therapies include miRNA silencing, antisense blocking, and miRNA modifications. For miRNAs with tumor suppression functions, overexpression of those miRNAs might be a useful strategy to inhibit tumor growth. In this review, we discuss the current progress of miRNA research, regulation of miRNA expression, prediction of miRNA targets, and regulatory role of miRNAs in human physiology and diseases, with a specific focus on miRNAs in pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, colorectal cancer, cardiovascular disease, the immune system, and infectious disease. This review provides valuable information for clinicians and researchers who want to recognize the newest advances in this new field and identify possible lines of investigation in miRNAs as important mediators in human physiology and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Li
- Molecular Surgeon Research Center, Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery and Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Christian Marin-Muller
- Molecular Surgeon Research Center, Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery and Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Uddalak Bharadwaj
- Molecular Surgeon Research Center, Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery and Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kwong-Hon Chow
- Molecular Surgeon Research Center, Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery and Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Qizhi Yao
- Molecular Surgeon Research Center, Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery and Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Changyi Chen
- Molecular Surgeon Research Center, Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery and Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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33
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Girard M, Jacquemin E, Munnich A, Lyonnet S, Henrion-Caude A. miR-122, a paradigm for the role of microRNAs in the liver. J Hepatol 2008; 48:648-56. [PMID: 18291553 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2008.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 283] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have uncovered profound and unexpected roles for a family of tiny regulatory RNAs, known as microRNAs (miRNAs), in the control of diverse aspects of hepatic function and dysfunction, including hepatocyte growth, stress response, metabolism, viral infection and proliferation, gene expression, and maintenance of hepatic phenotype. In liver cancer, misexpression of specific miRNAs suggests diagnostic and prognostic significance. Here, we review the biology of the most abundant miRNA in human liver, miR-122, and consider the diversity of its roles in the liver. We provide a compilation of all miRNAs expressed in the liver, and consider some possible therapeutic opportunities for exploiting miRNAs in the different settings of liver diseases.
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34
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Kulkarni K, Jacobson IM, Tennant BC. The role of the woodchuck model in the treatment of hepatitis B virus infection. Clin Liver Dis 2007; 11:707-25, vii. [PMID: 17981226 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2007.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Experimental studies of animals with chronic hepadnavirus infection could provide valuable insight into optimal therapeutic strategies for individuals with chronic HBV infection. In this review, we focus on the contributions of the woodchuck model to our understanding of HBV biology and on its role in the development of antiviral drug. Furthermore, we consider the implications of studies focusing on the natural history of WHV infection for the management of HBV and the capacity of treatment to prevent complications of chronic hepatitis B infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ketan Kulkarni
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, 1305 York Avenue, 4th floor, New York, NY 10021, USA
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35
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Xu C, Yamamoto T, Zhou T, Aldrich CE, Frank K, Cullen JM, Jilbert AR, Mason WS. The liver of woodchucks chronically infected with the woodchuck hepatitis virus contains foci of virus core antigen-negative hepatocytes with both altered and normal morphology. Virology 2007; 359:283-94. [PMID: 17078989 PMCID: PMC1861837 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2006.09.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2006] [Revised: 07/05/2006] [Accepted: 09/08/2006] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The livers of woodchucks chronically infected with woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV) contain foci of morphologically altered hepatocytes (FAH) with "basophilic", "amphophilic" and "clear cell" phenotypes, which are possibly pre-neoplastic in nature. Interestingly, most fail to express detectable levels of WHV proteins and nucleic acids. We studied sections of WHV-infected liver tissue to determine if all foci of hepatocytes that failed to express detectable levels of WHV, as assessed by immunoperoxidase staining for WHV core antigen, could be classified morphologically as FAH. We found that at least half of the foci of WHV core antigen-negative hepatocytes did not show clear morphological differences in either H&E or PAS (periodic acid Schiff) stained sections from surrounding hepatocytes, and were therefore not designated as FAH. In the second approach, we assayed core antigen-negative foci for the presence of fetuin B, a serum protein produced by normal hepatocytes, but not by neoplastic hepatocytes in hepatocellular carcinomas. Basophilic and amphophilic FAH had reduced levels of fetuin B compared to hepatocytes present in the surrounding liver; fetuin B staining was detected in clear cell FAH but the level could not be accurately assessed because of the displacement of fetuin B to the cell periphery by accumulated glycogen. The foci of morphologically normal WHV core antigen-negative hepatocytes had similar levels of fetuin B to that of the surrounding hepatocytes. The co-existence of at least four types of WHV core antigen-negative foci, including those with no obvious morphologic changes, raises the possibility that the different foci arise from distinct primary events. We hypothesize that a common event is loss of the ability to express WHV, allowing these hepatocytes to escape immune mediated cell death and to undergo clonal expansion to form distinct foci.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxiao Xu
- Division of Basic Science, Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111
| | - Toshiki Yamamoto
- Division of Basic Science, Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111
| | - Tianlun Zhou
- Hepatitis B Foundation of Drexel University, 700 East Butler Avenue, Doylestown, PA 18901
| | - Carol E. Aldrich
- Division of Basic Science, Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111
| | - Katy Frank
- Division of Basic Science, Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111
| | - John M. Cullen
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27066
| | - Allison R. Jilbert
- Infectious Diseases Laboratories, Institute of Medical and Veterinary Science, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
- School of Molecular and Biomedical Science, University of Adelaide, Adelaide SA 5005, Australia
| | - William S. Mason
- Division of Basic Science, Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111
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36
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Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers in the world with an annual incidence of more than 500 000 in the year 2000. Its incidence is rising in many countries. Recently, it has been estimated that about 53% of HCC cases in the world are related to hepatitis B virus (HBV). The epidemiological association of HBV with HCC is well established. In recent studies, it was revealed that HBsAg carriers have a 25-37 times increased risk of developing HCC as compared to non-infected people. At present, HBV-associated carcinogenesis can be seen as a multi-factorial process that includes both direct and indirect mechanisms that might act synergistically. The integration of HBV DNA into the host genome occurs at early steps of clonal tumor expansion. The integration has been shown in a number of cases to affect a variety of cancer-related genes and to exert insertional mutagenesis. The permanent liver inflammation, induced by the immune response, resulting in a degeneration and regeneration process confers to the accumulation of critical mutations in the host genome. In addition to this, the regulatory proteins HBx and the PreS2 activators that can be encoded by the integrate exert a tumor promoter-like function resulting in positive selection of cells producing a functional regulatory protein. Gene expression profiling and proteomic techniques may help to characterize the molecular mechanisms driving HBV-associated carcinogenesis, and thus potentially identify new strategies in diagnosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Lupberger
- University of Freiburg, Department of Internal Medicine II, Hugstetter Strasse 55, Freiburg D-79106, Germany
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37
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Bruni R, Conti I, Villano U, Giuseppetti R, Palmieri G, Rapicetta M. Lack of WHV integration nearby N-myc2 and in the downstream b3n and win loci in a considerable fraction of liver tumors with activated N-myc2 from naturally infected wild woodchucks. Virology 2005; 345:258-69. [PMID: 16271377 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2005.09.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2005] [Revised: 09/08/2005] [Accepted: 09/30/2005] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
In liver tumors induced by chronic WHV infection in the WHV/woodchuck model of HBV infection, activation of genes of the myc family by WHV insertion has been well documented. Several studies have shown that N-myc2 is by far the most frequently involved, and in most cases, its transcriptional activation is due to WHV insertion nearby the gene. N-myc2 has been shown to be also activated by WHV insertion in two downstream loci, b3n and win. Although the extent of insertion in these latter loci in woodchuck tumors has not been investigated, their discovery has led to the notion that therein WHV insertion accounts for N-myc2 activation in the remaining tumors expressing the proto-oncogene in absence of any detectable alteration nearby the gene, a notion remained unproved and not further investigated yet. In the majority of cases, the above observations were derived from tumors developed in colony born laboratory bred woodchucks experimentally infected with standardized viral inocula, mostly of the same lineage. In the present work, we investigated a survey of liver tumors naturally developed in wild woodchucks with naturally acquired chronic WHV infection. Tumors had histological features of well to moderately differentiated HCCs. In most animals, multiple tumor nodules were observed; in the great majority of cases, they were shown to be independent tumors because their WHV integration patterns were not clonally related. 53 independent tumors were investigated for N-myc activation and WHV integration nearby N-myc genes and in the b3n and win loci. Comparison of our results with data from previous studies revealed that, in tumors from naturally infected wild woodchucks, the frequency of WHV integration nearby N-myc2 has a tendency to be lower and, in addition, N-myc2 activation is due to WHV integration nearby the gene significantly less frequently than in tumors from experimentally infected colony born animals (12/28, 43% vs. 15/20, 75%, P = 0.0397). These findings are likely related to the less uniform conditions as to infecting virus and host genetic background in naturally infected wild woodchucks with respect to experimentally infected colony born woodchucks and suggest that viral and/or host factors may influence the site of viral insertion finally detected in overt tumors. In addition, more than one third (11/28, 39%) tumors with activated N-myc2 transcription did not show rearrangement either nearby the gene, or in b3n or in win. These findings challenge the notion that integration in the downstream b3n and win loci is responsible for N-myc2 activation in tumors lacking insertion nearby N-myc2 and suggest that in a considerable fraction of liver tumors, at least from wild woodchucks, N-myc2 activation might be due either to WHV integration in further regions of the N-myc2 chromosomal domain or to other mechanisms related or unrelated to viral insertion.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Blotting, Northern
- Blotting, Southern
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/virology
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Gene Rearrangement
- Genes, myc/genetics
- Hepatitis B/complications
- Hepatitis B/pathology
- Hepatitis B/virology
- Hepatitis B Virus, Woodchuck/genetics
- Hepatitis B Virus, Woodchuck/physiology
- Liver/pathology
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Liver Neoplasms/virology
- Marmota/virology
- Mutagenesis, Insertional
- RNA, Messenger/biosynthesis
- Recombination, Genetic
- Trans-Activators
- Viral Proteins
- Virus Integration
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bruni
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Viral Hepatitis Unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
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38
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McKenzie EJ, Jackson M, Sun J, Volotovskyy V, Gruwel MLH. Monitoring the development of hepatocellular carcinoma in woodchucks using 31P-MRS. MAGNETIC RESONANCE MATERIALS IN PHYSICS BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2005; 18:201-5. [PMID: 16133593 DOI: 10.1007/s10334-005-0120-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2005] [Revised: 07/17/2005] [Accepted: 07/18/2005] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The woodchuck is one of the only lab animal models of chronic viral hepatitis infection and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. Using this model, changes in tissue energetics in the liver due to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma can be monitored by repeated magnetic resonance imaging and localized phosphorus spectroscopy. Age- and sex-matched control (n=5) and chronically infected (n=5) adult woodchucks were imaged four times in a six-month period in a 7-T horizontal-bore magnet. Using a custom-built doubly tunable quadrature volume coil, sagittal and axial FLASH images (128 x 128, slice thickness = 5 mm, TR/TE=1000/4.1, 8 averages) were acquired to locate the largest portion of the liver with the least amount of signal contamination from surrounding abdominal muscle. Two-dimensional 31P chemical-shift imaging (2D-CSI) was acquired (16 x 16 data matrix, 24 x 24 x 2 cm3, 1024 data points, 16 averages) for all animals. The extent of liver injury was determined using serum gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT). The livers of infected woodchucks showed a significant increase (p=0.01) in phosphomonoesters (PME):beta-adenosine triphosphate (NTP). Chronically infected woodchucks had higher levels of serum GGT compared to uninfected woodchucks (p=0.002). An increase in the PME:beta-NTP ratio indicates cellular proliferation within the malignant tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- E J McKenzie
- National Research Council, Institute for Biodiagnostics, 435 Ellice Ave., Winnipeg, MB, R3B 1Y6, Canada.
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Kramer MG, Hernandez-Alcoceba R, Qian C, Prieto J. Evaluation of hepatocellular carcinoma models for preclinical studies. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ddmod.2005.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Mason WS, Jilbert AR, Summers J. Clonal expansion of hepatocytes during chronic woodchuck hepatitis virus infection. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2005; 102:1139-44. [PMID: 15657132 PMCID: PMC544623 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0409332102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepadnavirus infections cause liver damage with ongoing death and regeneration of hepatocytes. In the present study we set out to quantify the extent of liver turnover by measuring the clonal proliferation of hepatocytes by using integrated viral DNA as a genetic marker for individual hepatocyte lineages. Liver tissue from woodchucks with chronic woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV) infection was assayed for randomly integrated viral DNA by using inverse PCR. Serial endpoint dilution of viral-cell junction fragments into 96-well plates, followed by nested PCR and DNA sequencing, was used to determine the copy number of specific viral cell junctions as a measure of the clonal distribution of infected cell subpopulations. The results indicated that the livers contained a minimum of 100,000 clones of >1,000 cells containing integrated DNA, representing at least 0.2% of the hepatocyte population of the liver. Because cells with integrated WHV DNA comprised only 1-2% of total liver cells, it is likely that the total number of clones far exceeds this estimate, with as much as one-half of the liver derived from high copy clones of >1,000 cells. It may be inferred that these clones have a strong selective growth or survival advantage. The results provide evidence for a large amount of hepatocyte proliferation and selection having occurred during the period of chronic WHV infection ( approximately 1.5 years) in these animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- William S Mason
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA.
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Abstract
Chronic infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major risk factor for development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The pathogenesis of cancer in HBV infection has been extensively analyzed, and multiple factors appear to play a role. A major factor is chronic inflammation and the effects of cytokines in the development of fibrosis and liver cell proliferation. Also important is the role of integration of HBV DNA into host cellular DNA, which, in some situations, acts to disrupt or promote expression of cellular genes that are important in cell growth and differentiation. In addition, expression of HBV proteins may have a direct effect on cellular functions, and some of these gene products can favor malignant transformation. Several HBV genes have been found in infected tissues more frequently than others, including truncated pre-S2/S, hepatitis B X gene, and a novel spliced transcript of HBV, referred to as the hepatitis B spliced protein. The proteins expressed from these integrated genes have been shown to have intracellular activities that may account for their association with HCC, including effects on cellular growth and apoptosis. Finally, some patients with HCC have no detectable hepatitis B surface antigen in serum but do have low levels of HBV DNA in serum and integrated molecules of HBV DNA in tissue. Occult HBV infection may account for a proportion of cases of HCC that occur in patients without serologic markers for hepatitis B and C and may be a cofactor in HCC in patients with chronic hepatitis C who have coexistent occult HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Bréchot
- Liver Unit and INSERM U370, Rene Descartes University, Pasteur/Necker Institute, Paris, France.
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Tennant BC, Toshkov IA, Peek SF, Jacob JR, Menne S, Hornbuckle WE, Schinazi RD, Korba BE, Cote PJ, Gerin JL. Hepatocellular carcinoma in the woodchuck model of hepatitis B virus infection. Gastroenterology 2004; 127:S283-93. [PMID: 15508096 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2004.09.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The Eastern woodchuck ( Marmota monax ) harbors a DNA virus (Woodchuck hepatitis virus [WHV]) that is similar in structure and replicative life cycle to the human hepatitis B virus (HBV). Like HBV, WHV infects the liver and can cause acute and chronic hepatitis. Furthermore, chronic WHV infection in woodchucks usually leads to development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) within the first 2-4 years of life. The woodchuck model has been important in the preclinical evaluation of safety and efficacy of the antiviral drugs now in use for treatment of HBV infection and continues to serve as an important, predictive model for innovative forms of therapy of hepatitis B using antiviral nucleosides and immune response modifiers alone or in combination. Almost all woodchucks that become chronic WHV carriers after experimental neonatal inoculation develop HCC with a median HCC-free survival of 24 months and a median life expectancy of 30-32 months. The woodchuck model of viral-induced HCC has been used effectively for the development of new imaging agents for enhancement of detection of hepatic neoplasms by ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging. The chemoprevention of HCC using long-term antiviral nucleoside therapy has been shown in the woodchuck, and "proof of principal" has been established for some of the innovative, molecular methods for treatment of HCC. The model is available for fundamental investigations of the viral and molecular mechanisms responsible for hepatocarcinogenesis and should have substantial value for future development of innovative methods for chemoprevention and gene therapy of human HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bud C Tennant
- Gastrointestinal Unit, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14953, USA.
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