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Lee DU, Kwon J, Han J, Chang K, Kolachana S, Bahadur A, Lee KJ, Fan GH, Malik R. The Impact of Race and Sex on the Clinical Outcomes of Homeless Patients With Alcoholic Liver Disease: Propensity Score Matched Analysis of US Hospitals. J Clin Gastroenterol 2024; 58:708-717. [PMID: 37983807 PMCID: PMC11035492 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0000000000001919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among patients with alcoholic liver disease (ALD), homelessness poses significant medical and psychosocial risks; however, less is known about the effects of race and sex on the hospital outcomes of admitted homeless patients with ALD. METHODS The National Inpatient Sample database from 2012 to 2017 was used to isolate homeless patients with ALD, and the cohort was further stratified by race and sex for comparisons. Propensity score matching was utilized to minimize covariate confounding. The primary endpoints of this study include mortality, hospital length of stay, and hospital costs; secondary endpoints included the incidence of liver complications. RESULTS There were 3972 females/males postmatch, as well as 2224 Blacks/Whites and 4575 Hispanics/Whites postmatch. In multivariate, there were no significant differences observed in mortality rate, length of stay, and costs between sexes. Comparing liver outcomes, females had a higher incidence of hepatic encephalopathy [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.02, 95% CI: 1.01-1.04, P <0.001]. In comparing Blacks versus Whites, Black patients had higher hospitalization costs (aOR 1.13, 95% CI: 1.03-1.24, P =0.01); however, there were no significant differences in mortality, length of stay, or liver complications. In comparing Hispanics versus Whites, Hispanic patients had longer length of hospital stay (aOR 1.12, 95% CI: 1.06-1.19, P <0.001), greater costs (aOR 1.15, 95% CI: 1.09-1.22, P <0.001), as well as higher prevalence of liver complications including varices (aOR 1.04, 95% CI: 1.02-1.06, P <0.001), hepatic encephalopathy (aOR 1.03, 95% CI: 1.02-1.04, P <0.001), and hepatorenal syndrome (aOR 1.01, 95% CI 1.00-1.01, P =0.03). However, there was no difference in mortality between White and Hispanic patients. CONCLUSIONS Black and Hispanic ALD patients experiencing homelessness were found to incur higher hospital charges; furthermore, Hispanic patients also had greater length of stay and higher incidence of liver-related complications compared with White counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- David U Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD
| | - Jean Kwon
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tufts Medical Center, Liver Center, Boston, MA
| | - John Han
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tufts Medical Center, Liver Center, Boston, MA
| | - Kevin Chang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tufts Medical Center, Liver Center, Boston, MA
| | - Sindhura Kolachana
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD
| | - Aneesh Bahadur
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tufts Medical Center, Liver Center, Boston, MA
| | - Ki Jung Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tufts Medical Center, Liver Center, Boston, MA
| | - Gregory H Fan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tufts Medical Center, Liver Center, Boston, MA
| | - Raza Malik
- Division of Gastroenterology, Albany Medical Center, Liver Center, Albany, NY
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Hsu CS, Kao JH. Management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in patients with sarcopenia. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2021; 23:221-233. [PMID: 34541964 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2021.1978978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sarcopenia usually occurs with aging, sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy dietary habits, and chronic disorders pathophysiologically and bi-directionally linked to obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Because of the global increase in aging and obesity populations, patients with concomitant sarcopenia and NAFLD are common, accompanied by various disorders relevant to obesity and sarcopenia, with across-the-board impact on socio-economic and public health life worldwide. Therefore, developing effective and practical management of these patients has become a pressing clinical issue. AREAS COVERED The authors searched literature from PubMed and Ovid MEDLINE up until Feb 2020. Emerging data on the management of sarcopenia and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease were examined and discussed. EXPERT OPINION Although NAFLD in patients with sarcopenia has become a critical problem worldwide, we still don't know much about the management of such patients. Based on theoretical speculations, we can recommend lifestyle intervention, including diet control with adequate protein intake, exercise intervention, and weight reduction as the mainstay of management at the first stage. More studies are needed in the future to identify the most suitable treatment and solve this important problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Sheng Hsu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Chia-Yi, Taiwan.,School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Taiwan, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Horng Kao
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine and National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University College of Medicine and National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Hepatitis Research Center, National Taiwan University College of Medicine and National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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3
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Feld JJ, Kandel C, Biondi MJ, Kozak RA, Zahoor MA, Lemieux C, Borgia SM, Boggild AK, Powis J, McCready J, Tan DHS, Chan T, Coburn B, Kumar D, Humar A, Chan A, O'Neil B, Noureldin S, Booth J, Hong R, Smookler D, Aleyadeh W, Patel A, Barber B, Casey J, Hiebert R, Mistry H, Choong I, Hislop C, Santer DM, Lorne Tyrrell D, Glenn JS, Gehring AJ, Janssen HLA, Hansen BE. Peginterferon lambda for the treatment of outpatients with COVID-19: a phase 2, placebo-controlled randomised trial. THE LANCET RESPIRATORY MEDICINE 2021; 9:498-510. [PMID: 33556319 PMCID: PMC7906707 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-2600(20)30566-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To date, only monoclonal antibodies have been shown to be effective for outpatients with COVID-19. Interferon lambda-1 is a type III interferon involved in innate antiviral responses with activity against respiratory pathogens. We aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of peginterferon lambda in the treatment of outpatients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19. METHODS In this double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, outpatients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 were randomly assigned to a single subcutaneous injection of peginterferon lambda 180 μg or placebo within 7 days of symptom onset or first positive swab if asymptomatic. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) using a computer-generated randomisation list created with a randomisation schedule in blocks of four. At the time of administration, study nurses received a sealed opaque envelope with the treatment allocation number. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients who were negative for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA on day 7 after the injection, analysed by a χ2 test following an intention-to-treat principle. Prespecified analysis of the primary endpoint, adjusted for baseline viral load, using bivariate logistic regression was done. The trial is now complete. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04354259. FINDINGS Between May 18, and Sept 4, 2020, we recruited 30 patients per group. The decline in SARS-CoV-2 RNA was greater in those treated with peginterferon lambda than placebo from day 3 onwards, with a difference of 2·42 log copies per mL at day 7 (p=0·0041). By day 7, 24 (80%) participants in the peginterferon lambda group had an undetectable viral load, compared with 19 (63%) in the placebo group (p=0·15). After controlling for baseline viral load, patients in the peginterferon lambda group were more likely to have undetectable virus by day 7 than were those in the placebo group (odds ratio [OR] 4·12 [95% CI 1·15-16·73; p=0·029). Of those with baseline viral load above 106 copies per mL, 15 (79%) of 19 patients in the peginterferon lambda group had undetectable virus on day 7, compared with six (38%) of 16 in the placebo group (OR 6·25 [95% CI 1·49-31·06]; p=0·012). Peginterferon lambda was well tolerated, and adverse events were similar between groups with mild and transient aminotransferase, concentration increases more frequently observed in the peginterferon lambda group. Two individuals met the threshold of grade 3 increase, one in each group, and no other grade 3 or 4 laboratory adverse events were reported. INTERPRETATION Peginterferon lambda accelerated viral decline in outpatients with COVID-19, increasing the proportion of patients with viral clearance by day 7, particularly in those with high baseline viral load. Peginterferon lambda has potential to prevent clinical deterioration and shorten duration of viral shedding. FUNDING The Toronto COVID-19 Action Initiative, University of Toronto, and the Ontario First COVID-19 Rapid Research Fund, Toronto General & Western Hospital Foundation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan J Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | | | - Mia J Biondi
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Robert A Kozak
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Muhammad Atif Zahoor
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Camille Lemieux
- University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sergio M Borgia
- Division of Infectious Diseases, William Osler Health System and McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Andrea K Boggild
- University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jeff Powis
- Michael Garron Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Janine McCready
- Michael Garron Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Darrell H S Tan
- St Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Bryan Coburn
- University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Deepali Kumar
- Toronto General Hospital, Multiorgan Transplant Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Atul Humar
- Toronto General Hospital, Multiorgan Transplant Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Adrienne Chan
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Braden O'Neil
- North York General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Seham Noureldin
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Joshua Booth
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rachel Hong
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David Smookler
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Wesam Aleyadeh
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Anjali Patel
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Bethany Barber
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Julia Casey
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ryan Hiebert
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Henna Mistry
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | | | - Deanna M Santer
- The Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - D Lorne Tyrrell
- The Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Jeffrey S Glenn
- Departments of Medicine and Microbiology & Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Adam J Gehring
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Harry L A Janssen
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Bettina E Hansen
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Wang CQ, Buggs J, Rogers E, Boyd A, Kumar A, Kemmer N. Hepatitis C and Racial Disparity in Liver Transplant Waitlist Additions : Separate Not Equal. Am Surg 2020; 86:985-990. [PMID: 32816524 DOI: 10.1177/0003134820942178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2014, direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) became available for hepatitis C virus (HCV) with successful results. Since their implementation, the rate of HCV waitlist (WL) for liver transplantation (LT) has decreased, but significant ethnic disparities exist. We hypothesized that the rate of decline for HCV WL for LT is different across the various racial groups. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study using Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network data reports of adult LT candidates from 2014 to 2018. RESULTS Overall, there was a decline in HCV WL rates for all ethnic groups (Caucasians, African Americans [AA], and Hispanics). However, the WL rates were significantly higher in AA compared with Caucasians each year, and this trend was continuous across the 5-year period. There were no differences in WL rates between Caucasians and Hispanics. DISCUSSION The results show that health care disparities related to HCV disproportionately affect AA. The factors associated with this disparity need to be explored further to develop mechanisms to address these differences. By understanding the HCV treatment disparities across racial groups, modifications to HCV treatment nationwide can be adopted. Additional emphasis should be placed on AA to help reduce their WL rate, as well as redistributing resources to promote health care equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Q Wang
- Department of Transplant Surgery, Tampa General Medical Group, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Jacentha Buggs
- Department of Transplant Surgery, Tampa General Medical Group, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Ebonie Rogers
- Office of Clinical Research, Tampa General Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Ashley Boyd
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL, USA
| | - Ambuj Kumar
- Division of Evidence Based Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Nyingi Kemmer
- Department of Transplant Hepatology, Tampa General Medical Group, Tampa, FL, USA
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Sustained virological response rates with direct-acting antivirals in black subjects with HCV genotype 1 infection: systematic analysis of clinical trials. J Virus Erad 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/s2055-6640(20)30043-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
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6
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O'Brien TR, Jackson SS. What Have We Learned from Studies of IFN-λ Variants and Hepatitis C Virus Infection? J Interferon Cytokine Res 2019; 39:618-626. [PMID: 31161939 DOI: 10.1089/jir.2019.0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. In 2009, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) strongly linked genetic variants in the interferon lambda (IFN-λ) chromosomal region to HCV clearance. In 2013, discovery of the IFNL4 gene provided a functional explanation for those GWAS findings. The IFNL4-ΔG/TT (rs368234815) variant controls generation of the IFN-λ4 protein. Paradoxically, the IFNL4-TT allele, which abrogates IFN-λ4, associates with higher rates of spontaneous HCV clearance and better response to treatments for HCV infection. The finding that a "knock-out" allele for IFN-λ4 enhances HCV clearance challenges the paradigm of IFNs as antiviral cytokines. Genetic variants in the IFN-λ region have also been associated with hepatic inflammation and fibrosis from various etiologies, however, alleles that are linked with improved HCV clearance associates with worse inflammation and fibrosis. These studies demonstrate that GWAS of infectious diseases may yield important and unexpected biological insights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas R O'Brien
- Infections and Immunoepidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Sarah S Jackson
- Infections and Immunoepidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
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Hanno AFF, Mohiedeen KM, Alshayeb AF, Deghedy A. HCV RNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) as a predictor of the response to antiviral therapy in chronic hepatitis C. ALEXANDRIA JOURNAL OF MEDICINE 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajme.2013.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Akram Deghedy
- Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Alexandria Faculty of Medicine , Egypt
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Skolnik AA, Noska A, Yakovchenko V, Tsai J, Jones N, Gifford AL, McInnes DK. Experiences with interferon-free hepatitis C therapies: addressing barriers to adherence and optimizing treatment outcomes. BMC Health Serv Res 2019; 19:91. [PMID: 30709352 PMCID: PMC6359844 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-019-3904-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Millions of Americans are living with hepatitis C, the leading cause of liver disease in the United States. Medication treatment can cure hepatitis C. We sought to understand factors that contribute to hepatitis C treatment completion from the perspectives of patients and providers. METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews at three Veterans Affairs Medical Centers. Patients were asked about their experiences with hepatitis C treatments and perspectives on care. Providers were asked about observations regarding patient responses to medications and perspectives about factors resulting in treatment completion. Transcripts were analyzed using a grounded thematic approach-an inductive analysis that lets themes emerge from the data. RESULTS Contributors to treatment completion included Experience with Older Treatments, Hope for Improvement, Symptom Relief, Tailored Organized Routines, and Positive Patient-Provider Relationship. Corresponding barriers also emerged, including pill burden and skepticism about treatment effectiveness and safety. CONCLUSION Despite the improved side-effect profile of newer HCV medications, multiple barriers to treatment completion remain. However, providers and patients were able to identify avenues for addressing such barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avy A. Skolnik
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), Edith Nourse Rogers VA Medical Center, 200 Springs Road (152), Bedford, MA 01730 USA
- Department of Health Law, Policy, and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
- University Health Services, University of Massachusetts, 150 Infirmary Way, Amherst, MA 01003 USA
| | - Amanda Noska
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Providence VA Medical Center, 830 Chalkstone Ave, Providence, RI 02908 USA
- Alpert Medical School, Brown University, 222 Richmond St, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - Vera Yakovchenko
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), Edith Nourse Rogers VA Medical Center, 200 Springs Road (152), Bedford, MA 01730 USA
| | - Jack Tsai
- Veterans Affairs (VA) New England Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), 950 Campbell Ave, West Haven, CT 06516 USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06511 USA
| | - Natalie Jones
- Veterans Affairs (VA) New England Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), 950 Campbell Ave, West Haven, CT 06516 USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06511 USA
| | - Allen L. Gifford
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), Edith Nourse Rogers VA Medical Center, 200 Springs Road (152), Bedford, MA 01730 USA
- Department of Health Law, Policy, and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - D. Keith McInnes
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), Edith Nourse Rogers VA Medical Center, 200 Springs Road (152), Bedford, MA 01730 USA
- Department of Health Law, Policy, and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sarcopenia is a syndrome characterized by progressive and generalized loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength, which is commonly associated with various chronic diseases, including chronic liver diseases. Growing lines of evidence indicate that sarcopenia not only correlates with the clinical outcomes and survival of patients undergoing liver transplant, but also serves as a prognostic factor for candidates of liver transplantation and patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Areas covered: In this review, we conducted a narrative review and search of literature from PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library database up to August 2018. Studies relevant to the emerging data of sarcopenia and chronic liver diseases were examined and discussed. Expert commentary: Although sarcopenia has been shown to play a vital role in the outcomes of cirrhotic patients with or without liver transplant, its impact on non-cirrhotic patients remains unclear and deserves future research efforts. To develop an effective and practical measurement of sarcopenia has become an urgent issue in the management of patients with chronic liver diseases. ABBREVIATIONS HCC: hepatocellular carcinoma; L3SMI: third lumbar vertebra skeletal muscle index; NAFLD: nonalcoholic fatty liver disease; VAT: visceral adipose tissue; PMA: psoas muscle area; LT: liver transplantation; AUC: area under the curve; LC: liver cirrhosis; SPPB: short physical performance battery; HU: Hounsfield units; ASM: appendicular skeletal muscle; SMI: skeletal muscle index; FLI: fatty liver index; PCLD: polycystic liver disease; DEXA: dual energy X-ray absorptiometry; BCAAs: branched-chain amino acids; BIA: bioelectrical impedance analysis; CT: computed tomography; OS: overall survival; CSA: cross-sectional area; NASH: nonalcoholic steatohepatitis; TPMT: transversal psoas muscle thickness; IMAC: intramuscular adipose tissue content; LDLT: living donor liver transplantation; PMI: psoas muscle mass index; PMTH: psoas muscle thickness by height; TPA: total psoas area; OLT: orthotopic liver transplantation; 6MWD: Six-minute walk distance; HRQOL: health-related quality of life; SMA: skeletal muscle area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Sheng Hsu
- a Liver Diseases Research Center, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital , Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation , New Taipei , Taiwan.,b School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine , Tzu Chi University , Hualien , Taiwan
| | - Jia-Horng Kao
- c Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine , National Taiwan University College of Medicine , Taipei , Taiwan.,d Department of Internal Medicine , National Taiwan University College of Medicine and National Taiwan University Hospital , Taipei , Taiwan.,e Department of Medical Research , National Taiwan University College of Medicine and National Taiwan University Hospital , Taipei , Taiwan.,f Hepatitis Research Center , National Taiwan University College of Medicine and National Taiwan University Hospital , Taipei , Taiwan
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Sofosbuvir based regimens in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C genotype 1 infection in African-American patients: a community-based retrospective cohort study. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 30:1200-1207. [PMID: 30096090 PMCID: PMC6133221 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000001233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) drugs have been highly effective in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C (HCV) infection. Limited data exist comparing the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of DAAs in African-American (AA) patients with chronic hepatitis C genotype 1 (HCV GT-1) in the community practice setting. We aim to evaluate treatment response of DAAs in these patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS All the HCV GT-1 patients treated with DAAs between January 2014 and January 2018 in a community clinic setting were retrospectively analyzed. Pretreatment baseline patient characteristics, treatment efficacy with a sustained virologic response at 12 weeks post-treatment (SVR12), and adverse reactions were assessed. RESULTS Two-hundred seventy-eight patients of AA descent were included in the study. One-hundred sixty-two patients were treated with ledipasvir/sofosbuvir (SOF)±ribavirin, 38 were treated with simeprevir/SOF±ribavirin, and 38 patients were treated with SOF/velpatasvir. Overall, SVR at 12 weeks was achieved in 94.6% in patients who received one of the three DAA regimens (93.8% in ledipasvir/SOF group, 92.1% in simeprevir/SOF group, and 97.4% in SOF/velpatasvir group). Previous treatment experience, HCV RNA levels and HIV status had no statistical significance on overall SVR achievement (P=0.905, 0.680, and 0.425, respectively). Compensated cirrhosis in each of the treatment groups did not influence overall SVR of 12. The most common adverse effect was fatigue (27%). None of the patients discontinued the treatment because of adverse events. CONCLUSION In the real-world setting, DAAs are safe, effective, and well tolerated in African-American patients with chronic HCV GT-1 infection with a high overall SVR rate of 94.6%. Treatment rates did not differ on the basis of previous treatment and compensated cirrhosis status.
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11
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Fabrizi F, Lunghi G, Martin P. Treatment of HCV-related Liver Disease in the Dialysis Population: A Novel Challenge for Clinical Nephrologists. Int J Artif Organs 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/039139880102400602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- F. Fabrizi
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Maggiore Hospital, IRCCS, Milan - Italy
| | - G. Lunghi
- Institute of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Maggiore Hospital, IRCCS, Milan - Italy
| | - P. Martin
- Liver Transplant Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA - USA
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12
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Bhattacharya D, Belperio PS, Shahoumian TA, Loomis TP, Goetz MB, Mole LA, Backus LI. Effectiveness of All-Oral Antiviral Regimens in 996 Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 1-Coinfected Patients Treated in Routine Practice. Clin Infect Dis 2018; 64:1711-1720. [PMID: 28199525 DOI: 10.1093/cid/cix111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Large cohorts are needed to assess human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/hepatitis C virus (HCV) real-world treatment outcomes. We examined the effectiveness of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir with or without ribavirin (LDV/SOF ± RBV) and ombitasvir/ paritaprevir/ritonavir plus dasabuvir (OPrD) ± RBV in HIV/HCV genotype 1 (GT1)-coinfected patients initiating HCV therapy in clinical practice. Methods. Observational intent-to-treat cohort analysis using the Veterans Affairs Clinical Case Registry to identify HIV/HCV GT1-coinfected veterans initiating 12 weeks of LDV/SOF ± RBV or OPrD ± RBV. Multivariate models of sustained virologic response (SVR) included age, race, cirrhosis, proton pump inhibitor (PPI) prescription, prior HCV treatment, body mass index, genotype subtype, and HCV treatment regimen. Results. Nine hundred ninety-six HIV/HCV GT1-coinfected veterans initiated therapy: 757 LDV/SOF, 138 LDV/SOF + RBV, 28 OPrD, and 73 OPrD + RBV. Overall SVR was 90.9% (823/905); LDV/SOF 92.1% (631/685), LDV/SOF + RBV 86.3% (113/131), OPrD 88.9% (24/27), and OPrD + RBV 88.7% (55/62). SVR was 85.9% (176/205) and 92.4% (647/700) in those with and without cirrhosis (P = .006). SVR was similar between African Americans (90.5% [546/603]) and all others (91.7% [277/302]). PPI use with LDV/SOF ± RBV did not affect SVR (89.7% [131/146] with PPI and 91.5% [613/670] without PPI). Cirrhosis was predictive of reduced SVR (0.51 [95% confidence interval {CI}, .31-.87]; P = .01). Median creatinine change did not differ among patients receiving LDV/SOF and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) without a protease inhibitor (PI) (0.18 [interquartile range {IQR}, 0.08-0.30]; n = 372), LDV/SOF and TDF/PI (0.17 [IQR, 0.04-0.30]; n = 100), and LDV/SOF without TDF (0.15 [IQR, 0.00-0.30]; n = 423). Conclusions. SVR rates in HIV/HCV GT1-coinfected patients were high. African American race or PPI use with LDV/SOF ± RBV was not associated with lower SVR rates, but cirrhosis was. Renal function did not worsen on LDV/SOF regimens with TDF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debika Bhattacharya
- 1 Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Health Care System.,2 Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, and
| | - Pamela S Belperio
- 3Population Health Services, Department of Veterans Affairs, Palo Alto Health Care System, California
| | - Troy A Shahoumian
- 3Population Health Services, Department of Veterans Affairs, Palo Alto Health Care System, California
| | - Timothy P Loomis
- 3Population Health Services, Department of Veterans Affairs, Palo Alto Health Care System, California
| | - Matthew B Goetz
- 1 Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Health Care System.,2 Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, and
| | - Larry A Mole
- 3Population Health Services, Department of Veterans Affairs, Palo Alto Health Care System, California
| | - Lisa I Backus
- 3Population Health Services, Department of Veterans Affairs, Palo Alto Health Care System, California
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Frequency of Interferon-Resistance Conferring Substitutions in Amino Acid Positions 70 and 91 of Core Protein of the Russian HCV 1b Isolates Analyzed in the T-Cell Epitopic Context. J Immunol Res 2018; 2018:7685371. [PMID: 29577052 PMCID: PMC5821972 DOI: 10.1155/2018/7685371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Amino acid substitutions R70Q/H and L91M in HCV subtype 1b core protein can affect the response to interferon and are associated with the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. We found that the rate of R70Q/H in HCV 1b from Russia was 31.2%, similar to that in HCV strains from Asia (34.0%), higher than that in the European (18.0%, p = 0.0010), but lower than that in the US HCV 1b strains (62.8%, p < 0.0001). Substitution L91M was found in 80.4% of the Russian HCV 1b isolates, higher than in Asian isolates (43.8%, p < 0.0001). Thus, a significant proportion of Russian HCV 1b isolates carry the unfavorable R70Q/H and/or L91M substitution. In silico analysis of the epitopic structure of the regions of substitutions revealed that both harbor clusters of T-cell epitopes. Peptides encompassing these regions were predicted to bind to a panel of HLA class I molecules, with substitutions impairing peptide recognition by HLA I molecules of the alleles prevalent in Russia. This indicates that HCV 1b with R70Q/H and L91M substitutions may have evolved as the immune escape variants. Impairment of T-cell recognition may play a part in the negative effect of these substitutions on the response to IFN treatment.
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Abdallah F, Mohamed G, Ibrahim M, El Tarabily M. Effectiveness of Sofosbuvir, Ribavirin and PEG-IFNα-2a in the Treatment of Naïve Egyptian Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 4. Am J Med Sci 2017; 355:456-466. [PMID: 29753376 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjms.2017.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2017] [Revised: 12/23/2017] [Accepted: 12/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Egypt is one of the largest epidemic areas of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the world. Its prevalent genotype is 4 with a majority of subtype 4a. In 2013, the Food and Drug Administration approved a new direct-acting antiviral drug (sofosbuvir) to treat patients with chronic HCV infection. In Egypt, the patients are already being treated with sofosbuvir in conjunction with ribavirin and pegylated interferon alfa-2a (PEG-IFNα-2a) for 12 weeks since 2015. The present study was planned to explain the efficacy of this treatment regimen against the HCV genotype 4a in Egyptian patients and its pretreatment predictive factors of virological response. METHODS In this population-based study, serum samples were biochemically analyzed and the HCV RNA levels were quantified. The direct sequencing and bioinformatics analysis were utilized to investigate the mutation of the core protein. RESULTS The sustained virological response (SVR) and non-SVR were 72% and 16% respectively, but the nonvirological response was only 12% following the treatment regimen. The multivariable analysis recognized viral (level of viremia and substitution of aa70) and host-related factors (age, alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels) affecting the virological response in patients infected with high viral load of HCV 4a. CONCLUSIONS Overall, these results concluded that sofosbuvir with ribavirin and PEG-IFNα-2a are highly efficient in HCV-4a Egyptian patients where a high SVR was achieved (72%). In addition to this, there is a significant association between core protein mutations and treatment outcome predominantly at amino acid position 70 (Arg or Gln).
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Abdallah
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt.
| | - Gehad Mohamed
- Department of Botany (Microbiology), Faculty of Science, Port Said University, Port Said, Egypt
| | - Mohsen Ibrahim
- Department of Botany (Microbiology), Faculty of Science, Port Said University, Port Said, Egypt
| | - Mokhtar El Tarabily
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
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15
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Wilder J, Saraswathula A, Hasselblad V, Muir A. A Systematic Review of Race and Ethnicity in Hepatitis C Clinical Trial Enrollment. J Natl Med Assoc 2016; 108:24-9. [PMID: 26928485 PMCID: PMC5857937 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnma.2015.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The African American/Black population in the United States (US) is disproportionately affected by hepatitis C virus (HCV) and has lower response rates to current treatments. This analysis evaluates the participation of African American/Blacks in North American and European HCV clinical trials. The data source for this analysis was the PubMed database. Randomized controlled clinical trials (RCT) on HCV treatment with interferon 2a or 2b between January 2000 and December 2011 were reviewed. Inclusion criteria included English language and participants 18 years or older with chronic HCV. Exclusion criteria included non-randomized trials, case reports, cohort studies, ethnic specific studies, or studies not using interferon-alfa or PEG-interferon. Of the 588 trials identified, 314 (53.4%) fit inclusion criteria. The main outcome was the rate of African American/ Black participation in North American HCV clinical trials. A meta-analysis comparing the expected and observed rates was performed. Of the RCT's that met search criteria, 123 (39.2%) reported race. Clinical trials in North America were more likely to report racial data than European trials. Racial reporting increased over time. There was a statistically significant difference among the expected and observed participation of African Americans in HCV clinical trials in North America based on the prevalence of this disease within the population. The burden of HCV among African Americans in North America is not reflected in those clinical trials designed to treat HCV. Research on minority participation in clinical trials and how to increase minority participation in clinical trials is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julius Wilder
- Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University School of Medicine, Duke Clinical Research Institute.
| | | | | | - Andrew Muir
- Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University School of Medicine, Duke Clinical Research Institute
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Whitehead NE, Hearn L, Trenz RC, Burrell LE, Latimer WW. Age cohort differences in illicit drug use and hepatitis C among African American substance users. J Addict Dis 2015; 33:314-21. [PMID: 25299749 DOI: 10.1080/10550887.2014.969605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Identifying prognostic indicators for undiagnosed Hepatitis C is crucial to attenuate the negative impact of this disease. This study explored the influence of recent and more distal injection drug use on biologically confirmed Hepatitis C infection among a sample (N = 260) of older and younger African Americans. Data from the baseline assessment of the NEURO-HIV epidemiologic study was analyzed using confounder adjusted regression techniques. Older adults were more likely to test positive for Hepatitis C (OR = 2.80, 95% CI = 1.53-5.11) due to lifetime injection drug use (AOR = 5.37, 95% CI = 3.10-9.28). Clinical implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Ennis Whitehead
- a Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, College of Public Health and Health Professions , University of Florida , Gainesville , Florida , USA
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Uraki S, Tameda M, Sugimoto K, Shiraki K, Takei Y, Nobori T, Ito M. Substitution in Amino Acid 70 of Hepatitis C Virus Core Protein Changes the Adipokine Profile via Toll-Like Receptor 2/4 Signaling. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0131346. [PMID: 26121241 PMCID: PMC4487891 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0131346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims It has been suggested that amino acid (aa) substitution at position 70 from arginine (70R) to glutamine (70Q) in the genotype 1b hepatitis C virus (HCV) core protein is associated with insulin resistance and worse prognosis. However, the precise mechanism is still unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the substitution at position 70 in HCV core protein on adipokine production by murine and human adipocytes. Methods The influence of treatment with HCV core protein (70R or 70Q) on adipokine production by both 3T3-L1 and human adipocytes were examined with real-time PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and triglyceride content was also analyzed. The effects of toll-like receptor (TLR)2/4 inhibition on IL-6 production by 3T3-L1 induced by HCV core protein were examined. Results IL-6 production was significantly increased and adiponectin production was reduced without a change in triglyceride content by treatment with 70Q compared to 70R core protein in both murine and human adipocytes. IL-6 induction of 3T3-L1 cells treated by 70Q HCV core protein was significantly inhibited with anti-TLR2 antibody by 42%, and by TLR4 inhibitor by 40%. Conclusions Our study suggests that extracellular HCV core protein with substitution at position 70 enhanced IL-6 production and reduced adiponectin production from visceral adipose tissue, which can cause insulin resistance, hepatic steatosis, and ultimately development of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoko Uraki
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Mie University School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan
| | - Masahiko Tameda
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Mie University School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan
- Department of Molecular and Laboratory Medicine, Mie University School of Medicine, 2–174 Edobashi, Tsu, Mie, 514–8507, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mie University School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan
| | - Kazushi Sugimoto
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Mie University School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan
- Department of Molecular and Laboratory Medicine, Mie University School of Medicine, 2–174 Edobashi, Tsu, Mie, 514–8507, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mie University School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Katsuya Shiraki
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Mie University School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mie University School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Takei
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mie University School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Nobori
- Department of Molecular and Laboratory Medicine, Mie University School of Medicine, 2–174 Edobashi, Tsu, Mie, 514–8507, Japan
| | - Masaaki Ito
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Mie University School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan
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Sustained virologic response rates with telaprevir-based therapy in treatment-naive patients evaluated by race or ethnicity. J Clin Gastroenterol 2015; 49:336-44. [PMID: 24828357 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0000000000000150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The phase 3 studies of telaprevir (T) in combination with peginterferon α-2a and ribavirin (PR) in treatment-naive genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C virus-infected patients (ADVANCE/ILLUMINATE) were not designed a priori to assess the effect of race and ethnicity on treatment response. However, these factors are important given the lower sustained virologic response (SVR) rates observed in black and Hispanic/Latino patients treated with PR. GOALS This retrospective pooled analysis evaluated the effect of race or ethnicity on treatment-naive patient response to telaprevir-based therapy and assessed resistant variant profiles. MATERIALS AND METHODS This analysis comprised patients enrolled in ADVANCE (N=363) and ILLUMINATE (N=540) who received 12 weeks of telaprevir in combination with PR followed by 12 or 36 weeks of PR alone and patients in ADVANCE (N=361) who received 48 weeks of PR alone. Race and ethnicity were self-reported and not mutually exclusive. RESULTS Higher SVR rates were observed with telaprevir-based therapy compared with PR in blacks [n=99 (62%) vs. n=28 (29%), respectively] and in Hispanics/Latinos [n=89 (72%) vs. n=38 (39%)]. The SVR was lower in telaprevir-treated blacks [n=99 (62%)] compared with nonblacks [n=791 (78%)] and in Hispanic/Latinos compared with non-Hispanics/Latinos [n=89 (72%) vs. n=801 (76%)]. Low discontinuation rates due to adverse events, including rash and anemia, were observed across subgroups. Resistance profiles were similar among the subgroups. CONCLUSIONS Treatment-naive black and Hispanic/Latino patients with genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C virus infection may benefit from telaprevir-based therapy, an important finding given the lower SVR rates observed in these patients when they are treated with PR alone.
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Hepatitis C in African Americans. Am J Gastroenterol 2014; 109:1576-84; quiz 1575, 1585. [PMID: 25178700 DOI: 10.1038/ajg.2014.243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The care of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in African Americans represents an opportunity to address a major health disparity in medicine. In all facets of HCV infection, African Americans are inexplicably affected, including in the prevalence of the virus, which is higher among them compared with most of the racial and ethnic groups. Ironically, although fibrosis rates may be slow, hepatocellular carcinoma and mortality rates appear to be higher among African Americans. Sustained viral response (SVR) rates have historically significantly trailed behind Caucasians. The reasons for this gap in SVR are related to both viral and host factors. Moreover, low enrollment rates in clinical trials hamper the study of the efficacy of anti-viral therapy. Nevertheless, the gap in SVR between African Americans and Caucasians may be narrowing with the use of direct-acting agents. Gastroenterologists, hepatologists, primary care physicians, and other health-care providers need to address modifiable risk factors that affect the natural history, as well as treatment outcomes, for HCV among African Americans. Efforts need to be made to improve awareness among health-care providers to address the differences in screening and referral patterns for African Americans.
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Wysocki J, Newby C, Balart L, Shores N. HCV Triple Therapy is Equally effective in African-Americans and Non-African-Americans. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s40615-014-0039-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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21
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Forde KA, Tanapanpanit O, Reddy KR. Hepatitis B and C in African Americans: current status and continued challenges. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2014; 12:738-48. [PMID: 23811241 PMCID: PMC3947744 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2013.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2013] [Revised: 06/15/2013] [Accepted: 06/17/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Viral hepatitis remains a public health concern in the United States, resulting in excess morbidity and mortality for the individual and representing a burden to societies as evidenced by billions of dollars in health care expenditures. As with many chronic diseases, race and ethnicity influence various aspects of disease pathogenesis, including mechanisms of persistence, disease progression, disease sequelae, and response to therapy. For hepatitis B and C infections, African Americans disproportionately bear a large burden of disease in the United States. The role and importance of African American race, however, have been less well-characterized in the literature among the population of viral hepatitis-infected individuals. The differences in epidemiology, manifestations of liver disease, response to therapy, and differential trends in liver transplantation in African Americans compared with other racial and ethnic groups deserve special attention. This review will address the current status of hepatitis B and C infection in African Americans in the United States and identify some of the remaining challenges in diagnosis, characterization of natural history, and treatment. For the purposes of this review, the terms African American and black will be used interchangeably throughout the text.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly A. Forde
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA.,Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Orapin Tanapanpanit
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - K. Rajender Reddy
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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Alhamlan FS, Al-Ahdal MN, Khalaf NZ, Abdo AA, Sanai FM, Al-Ashgar HI, ElHefnawi M, Zaid A, Al-Qahtani AA. Genetic variability of the core protein in hepatitis C virus genotype 4 in Saudi Arabian patients and its implication on pegylated interferon and ribavirin therapy. J Transl Med 2014; 12:91. [PMID: 24708767 PMCID: PMC4012185 DOI: 10.1186/1479-5876-12-91] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2014] [Accepted: 03/20/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) shows a remarkable genetic diversity, contributing to its high persistence and varied susceptibilities to antiviral treatment. Previous studies have reported that the substitution of amino acids in the HCV subgenotype 1b core protein in infected patients is associated with a poor response to pegylated interferon and ribavirin (PEG-IFN/RBV) combined therapy. Objectives Because the role of the core protein in HCV genotype 4 infections is unclear, we aimed in this study to compare the full-length core protein sequences of HCV genotype 4 between Saudi patients who responded (SVR) and did not respond (non-SVR) to PEG-IFN/RBV therapy. Study design Direct sequencing of the full-length core protein and bioinformatics sequence analysis were utilized. Results Our data revealed that there is a significant association between core protein mutations, particularly at position 70 (Arg70Gln), and treatment outcome in HCV subgenotype 4d patients. However, HCV subgenotype 4a showed no significant association between core protein mutations and treatment outcome. In addition, amino acid residue at position 91 was well-conserved among studied patients where Cys91 is the dominant amino acid residue. Conclusions These findings provide a new insight into HCV genotype 4 among affected Saudi population where the knowledge of HCV core gene polymorphisms is inadequate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ahmed A Al-Qahtani
- Department of Infection and Immunity, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center MBC 03, P,O, Box 3354, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia.
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The virological response in Koreans infected with HCV genotype 1 did not differ between groups treated with a full dose or reduced dose (≥80 % full dose) of peginterferon alfa-2a: a prospective randomized multicenter trial. Hepatol Int 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s12072-013-9472-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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Imran M, Manzoor S, Ashraf J, Khalid M, Tariq M, Khaliq HM, Azam S. Role of viral and host factors in interferon based therapy of hepatitis C virus infection. Virol J 2013; 10:299. [PMID: 24079723 PMCID: PMC3849893 DOI: 10.1186/1743-422x-10-299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2013] [Accepted: 09/24/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The current standard of care (SOC) for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is the combination of pegylated interferon (PEG-IFN), Ribavirin and protease inhibitor for HCV genotype 1. Nevertheless, this treatment is successful only in 70-80% of the patients. In addition, the treatment is not economical and is of immense physical burden for the subject. It has been established now, that virus-host interactions play a significant role in determining treatment outcomes. Therefore identifying biological markers that may predict the treatment response and hence treatment outcome would be useful. Both IFN and Ribavirin mainly act by modulating the immune system of the patient. Therefore, the treatment response is influenced by genetic variations of the human as well as the HCV genome. The goal of this review article is to summarize the impact of recent scientific advances in this area regarding the understanding of human and HCV genetic variations and their effect on treatment outcomes. Google scholar and PubMed have been used for literature research. Among the host factors, the most prominent associations are polymorphisms within the region of the interleukin 28B (IL28B) gene, but variations in other cytokine genes have also been linked with the treatment outcome. Among the viral factors, HCV genotypes are noteworthy. Moreover, for sustained virological responses (SVR), variations in core, p7, non-structural 2 (NS2), NS3 and NS5A genes are also important. However, all considered single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of IL28B and viral genotypes are the most important predictors for interferon based therapy of HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Imran
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), 44000 Islamabad, Pakistan.
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Loftis JM, Morasco BJ, Menasco D, Fuchs D, Strater M, Hauser P. Serum Serotonin Levels are Associated with Antiviral Therapy Outcomes in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 4:132-141. [PMID: 21151716 DOI: 10.2174/1874279301004010132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The role of serotonin in contributing to viral clearance has not been investigated in patients with chronic hepatitis C (HCV). In this prospective study we collected blood samples from 39 patients prior to and during antiviral therapy. Participants completed mood rating scales to monitor psychiatric symptoms, and serum serotonin and tryptophan levels were measured. Significant differences in serotonin levels were found between patients who achieved sustained viral responses (SVRs) and those who did not. Regression analysis revealed that serotonin was the only variable with a statistically significant relationship with antiviral therapy outcomes, even after controlling for other variables known to be associated with outcomes. Baseline serum serotonin levels, in combination with other variables such as degree of liver fibrosis, may be clinically useful for identifying patients in whom HCV can be cleared by antiviral therapy. Additional clinical predictors that could forecast treatment success are needed so that interventions to improve SVR rates, and reduce side effects, can be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Loftis
- Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University; Research & Development Service, 3710 SW US Veterans Hospital Road, Portland Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Portland, Oregon, USA
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Khaliq S, Latief N, Jahan S. Role of different regions of the hepatitis C virus genome in the therapeutic response to interferon-based treatment. Arch Virol 2013; 159:1-15. [PMID: 23851652 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-013-1780-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2013] [Accepted: 05/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is considered a significant risk factor in HCV-induced liver diseases and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nucleotide substitutions in the viral genome result in its diversification into quasispecies, subtypes and distinct genotypes. Different genotypes vary in their infectivity and immune response due to these nucleotide/amino acid variations. The current combination treatment for HCV infection is pegylated interferon α (PEG-IFN-α) with ribavirin, with a highly variable response rate mainly depending upon the HCV genotype. Genotypes 2 and 3 are found to respond better than genotypes 1 and 4, which are more resistant to IFN-based therapies. Different studies have been conducted worldwide to explore the basis of this difference in therapy response, which identified some putative regions in the HCV genome, especially in Core and NS5a, and to some extent in the E2 region, containing specific sequences in different genotypes that act differently with respect to the IFN response. In the review, we try to summarize the role of HCV proteins and their nucleotide sequences in association with treatment outcome in IFN-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Khaliq
- Department of Immunology, University of Health Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan,
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Sublette VA, Douglas MW, McCaffery K, George J, Perry KN. Psychological, lifestyle and social predictors of hepatitis C treatment response: a systematic review. Liver Int 2013; 33:894-903. [PMID: 23581550 DOI: 10.1111/liv.12138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2012] [Accepted: 02/13/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To increase cure rates for Hepatitis C, barriers to treatment adherence and completion must be identified and overcome. AIMS This study systematically reviewed evidence on the psychological, lifestyle and social determinants of achieving viral eradication with antiviral therapy. METHODS An electronic search strategy was used to identify relevant studies that examined psychological, lifestyle and social factors related to achieving a sustained virological response (SVR). RESULTS Thirty-four studies that matched our criteria were identified. Of the factors that predict response to treatment, Asian ethnicity was an independent predictor of SVR. We found an indirect relationship between diet and SVR, with non-responders to treatment consuming more polyunsaturated fatty acids, fats and carbohydrates than those who attained SVR. The effect of alcohol consumption relied on the amount consumed; fewer than 30 grams daily had no effect on SVR, whereas >70 grams daily had an adverse impact on a patient's ability to achieve SVR, with termination rates up to 44% in those who drank >2 drinks a day. Patients with psychiatric illnesses had comparable SVR rates to controls if they continued psychological therapy (average 42%), although discontinuation rates were high with 11 studies reporting rates from 14 to 48%. CONCLUSIONS There are major gaps in current knowledge of the impact of variables such as diet, exercise, attitudes and coping skills on cure rates in chronic Hepatitis C. Those who drink limited amounts of alcohol or have psychiatric disorders should be offered treatment for their disease, with adjunctive education and support to improve treatment completion.
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Nguyen LH, Nguyen MH. Systematic review: Asian patients with chronic hepatitis C infection. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2013; 37:921-36. [PMID: 23557103 DOI: 10.1111/apt.12300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2012] [Revised: 10/16/2012] [Accepted: 03/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) infection is a risk factor for both the development of end-stage liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Globally, approximately 170 million people are chronically infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV), and the majority of these individuals come from the western Pacific and Southeast Asia regions (94.6 million persons combined). CHC is an understudied and underappreciated health problem in many Asian countries and in the US, where Asians represent one of the fastest growing groups of new Americans. AIM To perform a systematic review of the current literature on the epidemiology, diagnosis and screening, clinical characteristics and response to anti-viral therapy of Asians with CHC. METHODS Using a PubMed search of 'hepatitis C' and 'Asia,' 341 original manuscripts published in peer-reviewed journals were identified, and 99 were selected based on their relevance. RESULTS Many Asian CHC patients do not have easily identifiable risk factors and may be underdiagnosed. Rates of HCV infection in Asians on community screening in the US are unexpectedly high, and there is a high prevalence of HCV genotype 6 in Southeast Asia and Southern China. HCV-infected Asians tend to present at older age and may have higher risk of HCC; however, they respond better to anti-viral therapy than non-Asians across all HCV genotypes. CONCLUSIONS Given the high HCV endemicity in Asia, lack of identifiable risk factors and favourable treatment response rates in Asians, we advocate the screening for HCV infection of all Asians who come from areas where HCV prevalence is ≥2%.
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Affiliation(s)
- L H Nguyen
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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Assessment and utilization of rapid virologic response in US veterans with chronic hepatitis C: evaluating provider adherence to practice guidelines. J Clin Gastroenterol 2013; 47:264-70. [PMID: 23269309 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0b013e31827035cf] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND GOALS There are limited data on the extent to which medical providers adhere to practice guidelines for the antiviral treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. As representative of overall provider adherence to practice guidelines, provider adherence to specific recommendations regarding rapid virologic response (RVR) was assessed. STUDY From the Department of Veterans Affairs' Clinical Case Registry, all patients with HCV genotype 1 who initiated peginterferon and ribavirin between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2008 were identified. The rate of testing for RVR was determined. Patient, provider, and facility characteristics were assessed to determine the factors that predicted improved provider adherence. For patients who achieved RVR, the overall treatment duration was calculated as a secondary measure of provider adherence. RESULTS About one half of the cohort (54%) had HCV RNA testing for RVR. Among several significant predictors, testing for RVR was more likely in gastroenterology/hepatology specialty clinics, by midlevel providers such as nurse practitioners and physician assistants, and in facilities with a higher volume of HCV patients. Most patients who achieved RVR completed a treatment course within the recommended range. However, 27% of the cohort received more or less than the recommended duration of treatment, thereby unnecessarily increasing their risk for adverse events or decreasing their potential for cure. CONCLUSIONS More aggressive education is needed to improve provider adherence to HCV antiviral treatment guidelines and optimize the outcomes of HCV patients, especially with the recent approval of complicated direct-acting antiviral regimens.
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Abstract
In 2009, several different research groups simultaneously identified the polymorphisms close to IL28B gene as an important predictor of therapeutic response for chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients receiving interferon-based treatment using approaches of genome-wide association studies. They also found that these genetic variations were strongly associated with the spontaneous viral clearance of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Following these studies, ITPA gene variants were reported to affect ribavirin-induced anemia and therapeutic outcomes of CHC patients. All these lines of evidence usher in a new genomic era for the management of HCV infection. In this article, advances in recent genome-wide association studies regarding HCV infection, and their impacts on the management of CHC patients will be reviewed. In addition, the clinical usefulness of genomic variations on the addition of direct antiviral agents to current standard of care will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Sheng Hsu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Taipei Branch, Taiwan
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Rodríguez-Torres M, Hallman D. Impact of Ethnicity and Race on Treatment Response: Past, Present and Future. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s11901-012-0134-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Impact of donor and recipient race on survival after hepatitis C-related liver transplantation. Transplantation 2012; 93:444-9. [PMID: 22277982 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0b013e3182406a94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Both donor and recipient race impact outcomes after liver transplantation (LT), especially for hepatitis C virus (HCV). The interaction and simultaneous impact of both on patient survival is not clearly defined. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of donor and recipient race on recipient and graft survival after HCV-related LT using the United Network for Organ Sharing database. METHODS A total of 16,053 recipients (75.5% white, 9.3% black, and 15.2% Hispanic) who underwent primary LT for HCV between 1998 and 2008 were included. Cox regression models were used to assess the association between recipient/donor race and patient survival. RESULTS A significant interaction between donor and recipient race was noted (P=0.01). Black recipients with white donors had a higher risk of patient mortality (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.66; 95% confidence interval, 1.47-1.87) compared with that of white recipients with white donors. In contrast, the pairing of Hispanic recipients with black donors was associated with a lower risk of recipient mortality compared with that of white recipients with white donors (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.64; 95% confidence interval, 0.46-0.87). Similar results were noted for graft failure. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the impact of donor and recipient race on patient survival varies substantially by the matching of recipient/donor race.
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Yokozaki S, Katano Y, Hayashi K, Ishigami M, Itoh A, Hirooka Y, Nakano I, Goto H. Mutations in two PKR-binding domains in chronic hepatitis C of genotype 3a and correlation with viral loads and interferon responsiveness. J Med Virol 2012; 83:1727-32. [PMID: 21837788 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.21959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Interferon (IFN) induces the double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase (PKR) to inhibit viral replication. Two motifs of the PKR-binding domain exist in the E2 and the NS5A regions of the hepatitis C virus (HCV). These regions are called the PKR-eukaryotic transcription factor (elF2-alpha) phosphorylation homology domain (PePHD), and the IFN sensitivity-determining region (ISDR). Both regions are inhibited by PKR. Thus, several studies have reported the relationship between these regions and IFN responsiveness and the HCV viral load. However, the data obtained from these studies remain controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate the genomic heterogeneity of the PePHD and the ISDR in patients with genotype 3a and how this impacts HCV replication and the response to IFN therapy. Twenty-one male patients infected with HCV genotype 3a were studied. The PePHD was well conserved, and mutations were found in only one amino acid position in two patients. Patients with three or more mutations in the ISDR had lower viral loads than those with fewer than two mutations (192.2 ± 176.7 vs. 1279.4 ± 997.6 KIU/ml, P = 0.0277). Ten (71.4%) of 14 patients achieved a sustained virological response to IFN therapy. No specific amino acid substitutions in the PePHD and the ISDR were associated with IFN responsiveness; however, the number of mutations in the ISDR was significantly associated with the HCV viral load. The findings from this study suggest that the ISDR plays an important role in regulating viral replication in patients infected with HCV genotype 3a.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shouichi Yokozaki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
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Ho EY, Ha NB, Ahmed A, Ayoub W, Daugherty T, Garcia G, Cooper A, Keeffe EB, Nguyen MH. Prospective study of risk factors for hepatitis C virus acquisition by Caucasian, Hispanic, and Asian American patients. J Viral Hepat 2012; 19:e105-11. [PMID: 22239506 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2893.2011.01513.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Commonly known risk factors for infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) include blood transfusion, injection drug use, intranasal cocaine use, and body tattoos. We hypothesized that Asian Americans infected with HCV may not identify with these established risk factors present in Caucasians and Hispanics, and our aim was to conduct a survey of risk factors in HCV-infected patients in these ethnic groups. In this prospective study, 494 patients infected with HCV completed a detailed risk assessment questionnaire at a liver centre in Northern California from 2001 to 2008. Among subjects participating in this study, 55% identified themselves as Caucasian, 20% as Hispanic, and 25% as Asian. Asian Americans were older, less likely to smoke or consume alcohol, and have a family history of cancer compared with Caucasians and Hispanics. The laboratory profiles were similar, and genotype 1 was the most common infection in all groups (74-75%). The great majority of Caucasians (94%) and Hispanics (86%) identified with commonly known risk factors, which was in contrast to 67% of Asians (P < 0.0001). The most common risk factors in Asians were blood transfusions (50%) and acupuncture (50%). Furthermore, 74% of Caucasians and 66% of Hispanics identified more than one major risk factor, while only 20% of Asians reported having more than one risk factor (P < 0.0001). Survey for established risk factors for acquisition of HCV may be more appropriate for risk assessment of Caucasians and Hispanics, but not for Asian Americans. These findings may guide the development of HCV screening in our increasingly diverse population.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Y Ho
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
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Different aspects of CD4 T cells that lead to viral clearance or persistence of HCV infection. Hepatol Int 2012. [PMID: 26201340 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-011-9321-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
More than 170 million people worldwide are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). A characteristic of this virus is a high tendency toward chronic infection. Several factors affect the viral outcome after infection. Among them, HCV-specific CD4 T cells are thought to play a crucial role in controlling viremia. Cumulative data showed that spontaneously resolved individuals have vigorous CD4 T-cell responses to a broad spectrum of HCV antigens and maintain these responses over a long period of time, whereas chronically infected patients lose their CD4 T-cell responses in the acute phase of infection. Although several possibilities of why CD4 T cells lose their function have been proposed, the mechanisms are not completely understood. Moreover, there is another subset of CD4 T cells called regulatory T cells (Tregs). These cells suppress immune reaction of T cells, B cells, and antigen-presenting cells, and are thought to protect organs from immune overreaction and autoimmunity. An increasing amount of data supports the possibility that Tregs participate in the mechanism of HCV persistence. It is obvious that CD4 T cells are the main effectors controlling HCV outcome. To achieve a better prognosis, we need to understand the mechanism of how HCV earns its chronicity by escaping from host cellular immune attacks. In this review, we will focus on the role of HCV-specific T cells in controlling viremia, particularly the aspects of these cells being either inhibitors or propellers of chronic infection.
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Lawson A. A comparison of the natural history and outcome of treatment for Asian and non-Asian hepatitis C-infected patients. J Viral Hepat 2011; 18:e270-7. [PMID: 21138506 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2893.2010.01406.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Ethnicity is an important host variable, but its impact on disease progression and response to therapy in Hepatitis C infection is unclear. Here we compare the natural history and outcome of therapy in white and Asian (Indian subcontinent) Hepatitis C infected patients. A total of 2123 White and 120 Asian HCV infected patients were identified within the Trent HCV study. Response to therapy was assessed in 224 white and 46 Asian patients with genotype 3 infection who received pegylated interferon and ribavirin. Asian patients were more likely to be older, female, infected with genotype 3 and to consume no alcohol. At time of first biopsy, fibrosis stage was significantly higher in Asian patients than in Whites (3.0 ± 2.3 vs 1.8 ± 2.0, P < 0.001), as were necro-inflammation and steatosis scores. However, in those patients where duration of infection could be estimated, fibrosis progression was similar for both groups (0.25 ± 0.31 vs. 0.16 ± 0.54 Ishak points/year, P = 0.068). 78.3% of Asian and 67.9% of White genotype 3 patients had a sustained virological response following Pegylated Interferon and Ribavirin. Cirrhosis and increased levels of GGT, but not ethnicity were associated with a reduction in the likelihood of a sustained virological response on multivariate analysis. Asian patients with Hepatitis C are more likely to be female, less likely to give a history of risk factors, present to medical services at an older age, and have more severe liver disease at diagnosis, but disease progression and response to treatment are similar to white patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Lawson
- Department of Hepatology, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, UK
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Hayashi K, Katano Y, Ishigami M, Itoh A, Hirooka Y, Nakano I, Urano F, Yoshioka K, Toyoda H, Kumada T, Goto H. Mutations in the core and NS5A region of hepatitis C virus genotype 1b and correlation with response to pegylated-interferon-alpha 2b and ribavirin combination therapy. J Viral Hepat 2011; 18:280-6. [PMID: 20367792 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2893.2010.01305.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in two regions of hepatitis C virus (HCV) have been implicated in influencing response to interferon (IFN) therapy. Substitutions in the NS5A region of HCV have been associated with response to IFN therapy, and this region has been known as the IFN sensitivity-determining region (ISDR). The mutations in the core region of HCV have also been reported to predict IFN response. The aim of this study was to investigate whether amino acid substitutions in the core region and ISDR among patients with HCV genotype 1b affect the response to IFN therapy. A total of 213 patients who completed IFN treatment were randomly selected. All patients received pegylated-IFN-alpha 2b once each week, plus oral ribavirin daily for 48 weeks. Of the 213 patients, 117 (54.9%) showed early virologic response (EVR), with HCV-negativity, at 12 weeks. Factors related to EVR on multivariate analysis were non-Gln70 and Leu91 in the core region, and ISDR mutant-type. One hundred and two (47.9%) showed a sustained virologic response (SVR). SVR occurred more frequently in patients without Gln70 (55.4%) than in those with Gln70 (21.3%) (P < 0.0001). SVR was achieved in 43.6% of patients with wild-type ISDR and 62.5% of patients with mutant-type (P = 0.0227). Of the 34 patients who simultaneously had non-Gln70 and mutant-type ISDR, 26 (76.5%) achieved SVR. Factors related to SVR on multivariate analysis were non-Gln70 and ISDR mutant-type. In conclusion, amino acid substitutions in the core region and ISDR were useful for predicting the response to IFN in patients with HCV genotype 1b.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Hayashi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Tsuruma-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Japan
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Muir AJ, Hu KQ, Gordon SC, Koury K, Boparai N, Noviello S, Albrecht JK, Sulkowski MS, McCone J. Hepatitis C treatment among racial and ethnic groups in the IDEAL trial. J Viral Hepat 2011; 18:e134-43. [PMID: 21108699 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2893.2010.01402.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment have demonstrated variations in response among racial and ethnic groups including poorer efficacy rates among African American and Hispanic patients. The individualized dosing efficacy vs flat dosing to assess optimaL pegylated interferon therapy (IDEAL) trial enrolled 3070 patients from 118 United States centres to compare treatment with peginterferon (PEG-IFN) alfa-2a and ribavirin (RBV) and two doses of PEG-IFN alfa-2b and RBV. This analysis examines treatment response among the major racial and ethnic groups in the trial. Overall, sustained virologic response (SVR) rates were 44% for white, 22% for African American, 38% for Hispanic and 59% for Asian American patients. For patients with undetectable HCV RNA at treatment week 4, the positive predictive value of SVR was 86% for white, 92% for African American, 83% for Hispanic and 89% for Asian American patients. The positive predictive values of SVR in those with undetectable HCV RNA at treatment week 12 ranged from 72% to 81%. Multivariate regression analysis using baseline characteristics demonstrated that treatment regimen was not a predictor of SVR. Despite wide-ranging SVR rates among the different racial and ethnic groups, white and Hispanic patients had similar SVR rates. In all groups, treatment response was largely determined by antiviral activity in the first 12 weeks of treatment. Therefore, decisions regarding HCV treatment should consider the predictive value of the early on-treatment response, not just baseline characteristics, such as race and ethnicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Muir
- Duke Clinical Research Institute and Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27701, USA.
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Liao XW, Ling Y, Li XH, Han Y, Zhang SY, Gu LL, Yu DM, Yao BL, Zhang DH, Jin GD, Lu ZM, Gong QM, Zhang XX. Association of genetic variation in IL28B with hepatitis C treatment-induced viral clearance in the Chinese Han population. Antivir Ther 2011; 16:141-7. [PMID: 21447862 DOI: 10.3851/imp1703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genome-wide association studies have recently shown that the rs12979860 polymorphism in IL28B is associated with the response to chronic hepatitis C treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate whether rs12979860 could be used as a predictive marker for end-of-treatment response (ETR) or sustained virological response (SVR) in the Chinese Han population. METHODS The rs12979860 genotype was detected in 259 individuals infected with HCV by DNA sequencing. Among them, 120 patients were administered complete pegylated interferon-α and ribavirin combination therapy and 92 patients were followed for 24 weeks after the cessation of treatment and were divided into different groups according to outcomes of treatment. RESULTS The rs12979860 genotype CC was the primary genotype (87.64%, 227/259) and genotype TT was found in only one individual within this cohort. The patients with the rs12979860 genotype CC had higher rates of ETR (P=0.0044) and SVR (P=0.0046) than the patients with N-CC (CT or TT). In multivariate analyses, the rs12979860 genotype CC was associated with a substantial difference in rates of achieving ETR (odds ratio [OR] 8.983, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.173-37.145; P=0.0024) and SVR (OR 24.298, 95% CI 2.27-259.90; P=0.0083). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated for the first time that the rs12979860 variation in IL28B could be a predictor of ETR and SVR in Chinese Han patients infected with HCV. The high frequency of the rs12979860 genotype CC might explain why the SVR rate is higher than that of the average global population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Wei Liao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, China
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Nguyen NH, VuTien P, Garcia RT, Trinh H, Nguyen H, Nguyen K, Levitt B, Nguyen MH. Response to pegylated interferon and ribavirin in Asian American patients with chronic hepatitis C genotypes 1 vs 2/3 vs 6. J Viral Hepat 2010; 17:691-7. [PMID: 20002562 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2893.2009.01226.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C is generally underappreciated in Asian Americans, and most pivotal studies were conducted in western countries and only included a small numbers of Asian patients. Our goal was to examine and compare treatment outcomes in these patients with genotypes 1 vs 2/3 vs 6. We performed a retrospective cohort study of 167 consecutive treatment-naïve Asian American patients treated with pegylated interferon (PEG IFN) plus ribavirin (RBV) at two community clinics in Northern California from 12/00 to 1/08. Primary outcome was sustained virological response rate by intention-to-treat analysis. The overall completion rate was 76%, and treatment adherence (completion of ≥ 75-80% PEG IFN + RBV dose for ≥ 75-80% of intended duration) was 74%. Significant depression was noted in only 4% of patients. Sustained virologic response in patients with genotype 6 treated for 48 weeks was similar to that seen in those with genotype 2/3 (74%vs 75%, P = 0.89) and significantly higher than those with genotype 1 (74%vs 49%, P = 0.016). On multivariate analysis inclusive of sex, age, body mass index (≤ 25 vs > 25) and viral load, only treatment adherence and genotype (2/3 and 6 treated for 48 weeks) were found to be significant predictors of sustained virologic response. We conclude that significant depression is rare in Asian American patients (4%). Patients with genotype 6 treated for 48 weeks appear to have a similar treatment response rate as patients with genotype 2/3 and a significantly higher response rate than those with genotype 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- N H Nguyen
- Pacific Health Foundation, San Jose, CA, USA
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Comparative efficacy and overall safety of different doses of consensus interferon for treatment of chronic HCV infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2010; 66:1071-9. [PMID: 20857094 DOI: 10.1007/s00228-010-0881-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2010] [Accepted: 07/29/2010] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND About one-half of patients with hepatitis C genotype 1 and one-third with genotype 2/3 have treatment failure with peginterferon alpha and ribavirin. Consensus interferon (CIFN) is an option for retreatment of these patients. OBJECTIVE To summarize comparative safety and efficacy of different regimens of CIFN for the treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis C infection. DATA SOURCE Medline, Scopus, ISI, and Cochran Central Register of Clinical Trials were used. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) were eligible for inclusion in the study. PARTICIPANTS HIV and HBV seronegative patients with positive HCV-RNA during the 6 months before the start of the study were eligible for inclusion. INTERVENTIONS Different regimens of CIFN were studied. STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHODS Studies were appraised based on methods of random sequence generation, allocation concealment, and blinding. The random effects model of DerSimonian and Laird was employed to run the meta-analysis. The end-point was sustained virological response (SVR). RESULTS Data of 10 RCTs including 1,600 subjects were extracted. High daily induction dose regimen of CIFN did not yield a higher rate of SVR than low daily induction dose treatment regimen, RR = 0.83 (95% CI 0.58-1.17). A dose of 9 μg thrice weekly (tiw) was associated with a significantly higher rate of SVR compared with 3 μg [RR = 3.14 (95% CI 1.68-5.58)][Symbol: see text]. Withdrawal rate was similar [RR = 1.28 (95% CI 0.65-2.50)] but dose modification was higher in 9 μg [RR = 3.22 (95% CI 1.08-9.60)]. A dose of 18/15 μg tiw was not more effective than 9 μg over a similar treatment duration [RR = 1.02 (95% CI 0. 87-1.19)]. LIMITATIONS Limitations include inadequate reporting of methodological information and side effects, lack of publication bias assessment due to the small number of studies in each analysis. CONCLUSIONS High dose daily induction therapy with CIFN is not superior to low dose therapy in terms of SVR. It seems that 9 μg tiw is the optimal treatment dose of CIFN for treatment of HCV infection. Optimal duration and safety profile of CIFN therapy have yet been elucidated.
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Zhao S, Liu E, Wei K, Wang Y, Li Y, Huang B, Chen Y, Yang P. Treatment with peginterferon versus interferon in Chinese patients with chronic hepatitis C. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2010; 30:51-7. [PMID: 20827497 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-010-1051-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2010] [Accepted: 08/20/2010] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Higher sustained virological response (SVR) rates after treating with peginterferon than after treating with interferon have been obtained in some randomized clinical trials (RCTs) in Chinese patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC). However, the numbers of patients included in these clinical trials were too small to draw a clear conclusion. Therefore, a new meta-analysis including a large number of patients was needed to compare peginterferon with interferon in the treatment of Chinese CHC patients. A search of Medline, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure, the Wanfang Database, and the China Biomedical Database for relevant articles published between 1966 and 2009 was performed. RCTs comparing the use of peginterferon and interferon for the treatment of Chinese patients with CHC were assessed. Of the 236 studies screened, 18 RCTs including 1,148 patients (659 treated with peginterferon therapy and 489 treated with interferon therapy) were analyzed. The total SVR rates obtained in patients treated with peginterferon were significantly higher than those obtained in patients treated with interferon (64% vs. 40%; relative risk, 1.56; 95% confidence interval: 1.28-1.91; p < 0.01), but the difference between the peginterferon α-2b and interferon α-2b treatments was not significant. Withdrawal rates were similar between patients treated with peginterferon and interferon. Chinese patients with CHC have a greater likelihood of achieving an SVR with peginterferon α-2a.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Zhao
- Research Institute of Atherosclerotic Disease, Xi'an Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shaanxi, China.
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Manka C, Gomes R, Reviere R, Lee C. Treatment options for hepatitis C and the rationale for low response rates in African Americans. J Natl Med Assoc 2010; 101:604-8. [PMID: 19585932 DOI: 10.1016/s0027-9684(15)30948-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV), the leading cause for liver transplantation, is emerging as1 of the infections that pose public health problems in the world since about 170 million people worldwide are infected with this virus. Inequality in addressing racial/ethnic disparities in treatment for hepatitis C is a pressing problem. HCV is more common among African Americans than among other racial groups in the United States. Although African Americans have been shown to have a lower rate of viral clearance and a higher rate of chronic hepatitis C, they may have at the same time a much lower rate of fibrosis progression compared to Caucasians. The purpose of this study is to summarize treatment options available for hepatitis C in African Americans and to describe the different mechanisms thought to be the reasons for the disparate response to treatment in African Americans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheu Manka
- Department of Biology, Howard University, Washington, DC, USA.
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Shalev I, Selzner N, Helmy A, Foerster K, Adeyi OA, Grant DR, Levy G. The Role of FGL2 in the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Hepatitis C Virus Infection. Rambam Maimonides Med J 2010; 1:e0004. [PMID: 23908776 PMCID: PMC3721661 DOI: 10.5041/rmmj.10004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a leading cause of liver disease worldwide and remains the most common indication for liver transplantation. The current standard of care leads to a sustained viral response of roughly 50% of treated patients at best. Furthermore, anti-viral therapy is expensive, prolonged, and associated with serious side-effects. Evidence suggests that a poor response to treatment may be the result of a suppressed anti-viral immunity due to the presence of increased numbers and activity of CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) regulatory T cells (Treg cells). We and others have recently identified fibrinogen-like protein 2 (FGL2) as a putative effector of Treg cells, which accounts for their suppressive function through binding to Fc gamma receptors (FcγR). In an experimental model of fulminant viral hepatitis, our laboratory showed that increased plasma levels of FGL2 pre- and post-viral infection were predictive of susceptibility and severity of disease. Moreover, treatment with antibody to FGL2 fully protected susceptible animals from the lethality of the virus, and adoptive transfer of wild-type Treg cells into resistant fgl2-deficient animals accelerated their mortality post-infection. In patients with HCV infection, plasma levels of FGL2 and expression of FGL2 in the liver correlated with the course and severity of the disease. Collectively, these studies suggest that FGL2 may be used as a biomarker to predict disease progression in HCV patients and be a logical target for the development of novel therapeutic approaches for the treatment of patients with HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Gary Levy
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
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Abstract
Hepatitis C (HCV) is the disease that has affected around 200 million people globally. HCV is a life threatening human pathogen, not only because of its high prevalence and worldwide burden but also because of the potentially serious complications of persistent HCV infection. Chronicity of the disease leads to cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma and end-stage liver disease. HCV positive hepatocytes vary between less than 5% and up to 100%, indicating the high rate of replication of viral RNA. HCV has a very high mutational rate that enables it to escape the immune system. Viral diversity has two levels; the genotypes and Quasiaspecies. Major HCV genotypes constitute genotype 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 while more than 50 subtypes are known. All HCV genotypes have their particular patterns of geographical distribution and a slight drift in viral population has been observed in some parts of the globe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazish Bostan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad-45320, Pakistan
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Bodlaj G, Hubmann R, Saleh K, Stojakovic T, Biesenbach G, Berg J. Alkaline phosphatase predicts relapse in chronic hepatitis C patients with end-of-treatment response. World J Gastroenterol 2010; 16:2407-10. [PMID: 20480527 PMCID: PMC2874146 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v16.i19.2407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To investigate relapse predictors in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients with end-of-treatment response (ETR), after pegylated interferon-α (PegIFN-α) and ribavirin treatment.
METHODS: In a retrospective study we evaluated a spectrum of predictors of relapse after PegIFN-α and ribavirin treatment in 86 CHC patients with ETR. Viral loads were determined with real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Hepatitis C virus genotyping was performed by sequencing analysis. Patients with genotype 1 were treated for 48 wk with 180 μg PegIFN-α2a or 1.5 μg/kg PegIFN-α2b once weekly plus ribavirin at a dosage of 1000 mg/d for those under 75 kg or 1200 mg/d for those over 75 kg. Patients with genotypes 2 and 3 were treated for 24 wk with 180 μg PegIFN-α2a or 1.5 μg/kg PegIFN-α2b once weekly plus ribavirin at a dosage of 800 mg/d.
RESULTS: In all ETR patients, binary logistic regression analysis identified absence of complete early virological response (cEVR) (OR 27.07, 95% CI: 3.09-237.26, P < 0.005), serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels prior to therapy < 75 U/L (OR: 6.16, 95% CI: 2.1-18.03, P < 0.001) and body mass index > 26 kg/m2 (OR: 8.27, 95% CI: 2.22-30.84, P < 0.005) as independent predictors of relapse. When cEVR patients were analyzed exclusively, ALP prior to therapy < 75 U/L remained the only predictor of relapse.
CONCLUSION: Lower levels of ALP prior to, during and after therapy seem to be associated with a higher risk of relapse in CHC patients with ETR.
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Lim YS. Current status of liver disease in Korea: hepatitis C. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF HEPATOLOGY 2010; 15 Suppl 6:S25-8. [PMID: 20037276 DOI: 10.3350/kjhep.2009.15.s6.s25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is the third most common cause of chronic liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Korea, following hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and alcohol. HCV prevalence among Koreans older than 40 years of age has been estimated to be 1.29%. The prevalence of CHC increases with age, with the peak prevalence at the age of 60 or older. Blood transfusions have generated no risk of HCV infection since April 1991, when routine screening for anti-HCV in blood donors was adopted in Korea. Although injection drug use seems to be one of the most important risk factors of HCV infection among young adults in urban areas, the majority of CHC patients are not associated with injection drug use. Exposure to acupuncture was identified as a significant risk factor among older adults in rural areas. The mean age of patients with HCV-related cirrhosis and HCC was consistently about 10 years above that of patients associated with HBV. Genotypes 1b and 2a are the two most common types with almost equal proportions, and other genotypes are extremely rare. Korean patients with CHC have a high likelihood of responding to combination therapy with pegylated interferon and ribavirin, with a sustained virological response rate of 60-70% in patients with genotype 1 and 85-90% in those with genotype 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Suk Lim
- Department of Gastroenterology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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Similar treatment response to peginterferon and ribavirin in Asian and Caucasian patients with chronic hepatitis C. Am J Gastroenterol 2010; 105:1110-5. [PMID: 19904247 DOI: 10.1038/ajg.2009.635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Previous studies have found ethnicity to be an important predictor of outcomes of treatment with peginterferon (PEG-IFN) and ribavirin (RBV) in chronic hepatitis C. Although the expected sustained virological response (SVR) rates of Hispanics and African Americans are lower than those of Caucasians, SVR rates in Asians appear to be more favorable. However, in some of these studies, hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype was identified by INNO-LiPA assay, which can mistype the easier-to-treat HCV genotype 6 as genotype 1. Our goal was to compare SVR rates among Caucasian and Asian-American patients with genotype 1 and 2/3 infection whose HCV genotypes were accurately classified by core sequencing testing. METHODS A cohort of 269 consecutive treatment-naive HCV-infected patients with genotype 1 or 2/3 (157 Caucasians and 112 Asians) treated with PEG-IFN+RBV from January 2001 to November 2007 at four community-based gastroenterology clinics in Northern California were studied. The analysis of data was by intention-to-treat. RESULTS The SVR rates for patients with genotype 1 were 45% for Caucasians and 52% for Asians (P=0.37). The SVR rates for patients with genotype 2/3 infection was 77% for Asians and 74% for Caucasians (P=0.7). On multivariate logistic regression analyses adjusting for age, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), baseline viral load, HCV genotype, and treatment adherence, we did not find Asian ethnicity to predict SVR. On a separate analysis, we found that Asians who had HCV genotype 1 or 1b by the less accurate INNO-LiPA assay had significantly higher SVR rates than Caucasians with genotype 1 (64% vs. 45%, respectively, P=0.03). CONCLUSIONS SVR rates were similar in Asian Americans and Caucasians infected with HCV genotype 1 or 2/3 when HCV genotype classification was accurately determined.
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Chen L, Borozan I, Sun J, Guindi M, Fischer S, Feld J, Anand N, Heathcote J, Edwards AM, McGilvray ID. Cell-type specific gene expression signature in liver underlies response to interferon therapy in chronic hepatitis C infection. Gastroenterology 2010; 138:1123-33.e1-3. [PMID: 19900446 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2009.10.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2009] [Revised: 10/01/2009] [Accepted: 10/29/2009] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Chronic hepatitis C virus (CHC) infection is treated with interferon/ribavirin, but only a subset of patients respond. Treatment nonresponders have marked pretreatment up-regulation of a subset of interferon stimulated genes (ISGs) in their livers, including ISG15. We here study how the nonresponder gene expression phenotype is influenced by clinical factors and uncover the cellular basis of the phenotype through ISG15 protein expression. METHODS Seventy-eight CHC patients undergoing treatment were classified by clinical (gender, viral genotype, viral load, treatment outcome) and histologic (inflammation, fibrosis) factors and subjected to gene expression profiling on their pretreatment liver biopsies. An analysis of variance model was used to study the influence of individual factors on gene expression. ISG15 immunohistochemistry was performed on a subset of 31 liver biopsy specimens. RESULTS One hundred twenty-three genes were differentially expressed in the 78 CHC livers when compared with 20 normal livers (P < .001; fold change, > or =1.5-fold). Of genes influenced by a single factor, genotype (1 vs 2/3) influenced more genes (17) than any other variable; when treatment outcome was included in the analysis, this became the predominant influence (24 genes), and the effect of genotype was diminished. Treatment response was linked to cell-specific activation patterns: ISG15 protein up-regulation was more pronounced in hepatocytes in treatment nonresponders but in Kuppfer cells in responders. CONCLUSIONS Genotype is a surrogate marker for the nonresponder phenotype. This phenotype manifests as differential gene expression and is driven by activation of different cell types: hepatocytes in treatment nonresponders and macrophages in treatment responders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limin Chen
- Banting and Best Department of Medical Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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