1
|
Boraschi P, Mazzantini V, Donati F, Coco B, Vianello B, Pinna A, Morganti R, Colombatto P, Brunetto MR, Neri E. Primary sclerosing cholangitis: Is qualitative and quantitative 3 T MR imaging useful for the evaluation of disease severity? Eur J Radiol Open 2024; 13:100595. [PMID: 39206437 PMCID: PMC11357777 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejro.2024.100595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To analyze the role of qualitative and quantitative 3 T MR imaging assessment as a non-invasive method for the evaluation of disease severity in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Methods A series of 26 patients, with histological diagnosis of PSC undergoing 3 T MRI and hepatological evaluation, was retrospectively enrolled. All MR examinations included diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), T2-weighted (T2w) and T1-weighted (T1w) sequences, before and after administration of Gd-EOB-DTPA with the acquisition of both dynamic and hepato-biliary phase (HBP). Qualitative analysis was performed by assessment of liver parenchyma and biliary tract changes, also including biliary excretion of gadoxetic acid on HBP. Quantitative evaluation was conducted on liver parenchyma by measurement of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and relative enhancement (RE) on 3-minute delayed phase and on HBP. Results of blood tests (ALT, ALP, GGT, total and direct bilirubin, albumin, and platelets) and transient elastography-derived liver stiffness measurements (TE-LSM) were collected and correlated with qualitative and quantitative MRI findings. Results Among qualitative and quantitative findings, fibrosis visual assessment and RE had the best performance in estimating disease severity, showing a statistically significant correlation with both biomarkers of cholestasis and TE-LSM. Statistical analysis also revealed a significant correlation of gadoxetic acid biliary excretion with ALT and direct bilirubin, as well as of ADC with total bilirubin. Conclusion Qualitative and quantitative 3 T MR evaluation is a promising non-invasive method for the assessment of disease severity in patients with PSC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Piero Boraschi
- 2nd Unit of Radiology, Department of Radiological Nuclear and Laboratory Medicine - Pisa University Hospital, Via Paradisa 2, Pisa 56124, Italy
| | - Valentina Mazzantini
- Academic Radiology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, Pisa 56126, Italy
| | - Francescamaria Donati
- 2nd Unit of Radiology, Department of Radiological Nuclear and Laboratory Medicine - Pisa University Hospital, Via Paradisa 2, Pisa 56124, Italy
| | - Barbara Coco
- Hepatology Unit, Pisa University Hospital, Via Paradisa 2, Pisa 56124, Italy
| | - Barbara Vianello
- Hepatology Unit, Pisa University Hospital, Via Paradisa 2, Pisa 56124, Italy
| | - Andrea Pinna
- Hepatology Unit, Pisa University Hospital, Via Paradisa 2, Pisa 56124, Italy
| | - Riccardo Morganti
- Departmental Section of Statistical Support for Clinical Trials, Pisa University Hospital, Via Roma 67, Pisa 56126, Italy
| | - Piero Colombatto
- Hepatology Unit, Pisa University Hospital, Via Paradisa 2, Pisa 56124, Italy
| | | | - Emanuele Neri
- Academic Radiology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, Pisa 56126, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Powell CE, McCurry MD, Quevedo SF, Ventura L, Krishnan K, Dave M, Mahmood SD, Specht K, Bordia R, Pratt DS, Korzenik JR, Devlin AS. Cultured Bacteria Isolated from Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis Patient Bile Induce Inflammation and Cell Death. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.10.08.617321. [PMID: 39416066 PMCID: PMC11482977 DOI: 10.1101/2024.10.08.617321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2024]
Abstract
Background Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic liver disease characterized by inflammation and progressive fibrosis of the biliary tree. The pathogenesis of PSC remains poorly understood, and there are no effective therapeutic options. Previous studies have observed associations between changes in the colonic and biliary microbiome and PSC. We aimed to determine whether bacterial isolates cultured from PSC patient bile induced disease-associated phenotypes in cells. Methods Bile was collected from PSC patients (n=10) by endoscopic retrograde cholangiography and from non-PSC controls (n=3) undergoing cholecystectomies. Biliary bacteria were cultured anaerobically, and 50 colonies per sample were identified by 16S rRNA sequencing. The effects of supernatants from seven PSC-associated bacterial strains on cellular phenotypes were characterized using human colonic (Caco-2), hepatic (HepG2), and biliary (EGI-1) cells. Results No bacteria were isolated from non-PSC controls, while bacteria were cultured from most PSC patients. The PSC bile microbiomes exhibited reduced diversity compared to the gut or oral cavity, with one or two bacterial strains predominating. Overall, PSC-associated bacteria produced factors that were cytotoxic to hepatic and biliary cells. Enterococcus faecalis , and to a lesser extent Veillonella parvula , induced epithelial permeability, while Escherichia coli, Fusobacterium necrophorum , and Klebsiella pneumoniae induced inflammatory cytokines in biliary cells. Conclusions Our data suggest that bacteria cultured from PSC bile induce cellular changes that may contribute to PSC disease pathogenesis. Enterococcus may promote intestinal permeability, facilitating bacterial migration to the biliary tree. Once there, Escherichia, Fusobacterium and Klebsiella , may cause inflammation and damage in biliary and liver cells.
Collapse
|
3
|
Fiorucci S, Urbani G, Di Giorgio C, Biagioli M, Distrutti E. Bile Acids-Based Therapies for Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: Current Landscape and Future Developments. Cells 2024; 13:1650. [PMID: 39404413 PMCID: PMC11475195 DOI: 10.3390/cells13191650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2024] [Revised: 09/30/2024] [Accepted: 10/02/2024] [Indexed: 10/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare, chronic liver disease with no approved therapies. The ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) has been widely used, although there is no evidence that the use of UDCA delays the time to liver transplant or increases survival. Several candidate drugs are currently being developed. The largest group of these new agents is represented by FXR agonists, including obeticholic acid, cilofexor, and tropifexor. Other agents that target bile acid metabolism are ASTB/IBAP inhibitors and fibroblasts growth factor (FGF)19 analogues. Cholangiocytes, the epithelial bile duct cells, play a role in PSC development. Recent studies have revealed that these cells undergo a downregulation of GPBAR1 (TGR5), a bile acid receptor involved in bicarbonate secretion and immune regulation. Additional agents under evaluation are PPARs (elafibranor and seladelpar), anti-itching agents such as MAS-related G-protein-coupled receptors antagonists, and anti-fibrotic and immunosuppressive agents. Drugs targeting gut bacteria and bile acid pathways are also under investigation, given the strong link between PSC and gut microbiota.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Fiorucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (G.U.); (C.D.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Ginevra Urbani
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (G.U.); (C.D.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Cristina Di Giorgio
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (G.U.); (C.D.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Michele Biagioli
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (G.U.); (C.D.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Eleonora Distrutti
- SC di Gastroenterologia ed Epatologia, Azienda Ospedaliera di Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Schneider KM, Kummen M, Trivedi PJ, Hov JR. Role of microbiome in autoimmune liver diseases. Hepatology 2024; 80:965-987. [PMID: 37369002 PMCID: PMC11407779 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
The microbiome plays a crucial role in integrating environmental influences into host physiology, potentially linking it to autoimmune liver diseases, such as autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis. All autoimmune liver diseases are associated with reduced diversity of the gut microbiome and altered abundance of certain bacteria. However, the relationship between the microbiome and liver diseases is bidirectional and varies over the course of the disease. This makes it challenging to dissect whether such changes in the microbiome are initiating or driving factors in autoimmune liver diseases, secondary consequences of disease and/or pharmacological intervention, or alterations that modify the clinical course that patients experience. Potential mechanisms include the presence of pathobionts, disease-modifying microbial metabolites, and more nonspecific reduced gut barrier function, and it is highly likely that the effect of these change during the progression of the disease. Recurrent disease after liver transplantation is a major clinical challenge and a common denominator in these conditions, which could also represent a window to disease mechanisms of the gut-liver axis. Herein, we propose future research priorities, which should involve clinical trials, extensive molecular phenotyping at high resolution, and experimental studies in model systems. Overall, autoimmune liver diseases are characterized by an altered microbiome, and interventions targeting these changes hold promise for improving clinical care based on the emerging field of microbiota medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Martin Kummen
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Palak J. Trivedi
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, Centre for Liver and Gastroenterology Research, University of Birmingham, UK
- Liver Unit, University Hospitals Birmingham Queen Elizabeth, Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, UK
| | - Johannes R. Hov
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhou Q, Gao S, Yu X, Zhang L, Zhang Z, Fu Y, Liu W, Mu Y, Zhang H, Liu P, Chen J. Total astragalus saponins attenuate primary sclerosing cholangitis in mice by upregulation of TGR5. Phytother Res 2024; 38:4502-4518. [PMID: 39032102 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
Total astragalus saponins (TAS) are the main active components of astragali radix, and have potent anti-hepatic fibrosis effect. However, the therapeutic efficacy of TAS and their potential mechanisms in the treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) remain unclear. In this study, two mouse models of PSC, including 3,5-Diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-Dihydro-2,4,6-Collidine (DDC)-induced PSC and Mdr2-/- spontaneous PSC, and the Tgr5-/- mice were used to investigate the therapeutic effect and mechanisms of TAS. Treatment with TAS, particularly with a dose of 56 mg/kg, significantly ameliorated the PSC-related liver injury, cholestasis, collagen deposition, ductular reaction (DR), and fibrosis in the DDC-induced and Mdr2-/-spontaneous PSC mice. Furthermore, treatment with TAS significantly mitigated the PSC-related inflammatory responses in vivo and HIBEpiC cells by inhibiting the expression of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. Mechanistically, treatment with TAS rescued the PSC-decreased hepatic TGR5 expression to attenuate the NF-κB p65 phosphorylation. Notably, the therapeutic efficacy of TAS on PSC in DDC-induced mice was abrogated in Tgr5-/- mice, suggesting the anti-PSC effect of TAS may depend on enhancing TGR5 expression. In conclusion, TAS ameliorated DR, inflammation and liver fibrosis in both models of PSC mice by rescuing TGR5 expression. Our findings may aid in the design of new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of PSC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qun Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases of Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Shanghai, China
| | - Siqi Gao
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases of Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohan Yu
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases of Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Shanghai, China
| | - Linzhang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases of Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Shanghai, China
| | - Zheng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases of Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yadong Fu
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases of Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases of Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongping Mu
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases of Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases of Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Liu
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases of Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiamei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases of Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wu W, Tong HM, Li YS, Cui J. Rosacea and autoimmune liver diseases: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study. Arch Dermatol Res 2024; 316:549. [PMID: 39162878 PMCID: PMC11335937 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-024-03331-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
Rosacea and autoimmune liver diseases (AILDs) are diseases closely associated with immune system abnormalities. AILDs primarily includes autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Currently, research on the association between these two conditions is limited. Therefore, this study employed the bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) method to investigate potential causal relationships between rosacea and AILDs based on genetic predictions. Summary data related to Rosacea, AIH, PSC, and PBC were obtained from public genome-wide association studies (GWAS). The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was used as the primary analytical approach, supplemented by the MR-Egger, weighted mode method, weighted median, and simple mode. A series of sensitivity analyses were also conducted to identify heterogeneity and pleiotropy effects. The MR analysis results indicated a significant increase in the risk of rosacea being associated with PBC (OR = 1.09, 95% CI = 1.02-1.18, P = 0.014), but no such association was found with AIH or PSC. Furthermore, this study did not find a significant impact of rosacea on the risk of AILDs. This study represents the first in-depth exploration of the potential causal relationship between rosacea and AILDs using MR analysis. Thes findings suggest an increased risk of rosacea among PBC patients.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Humans
- Rosacea/genetics
- Rosacea/epidemiology
- Rosacea/diagnosis
- Mendelian Randomization Analysis
- Genome-Wide Association Study
- Cholangitis, Sclerosing/genetics
- Cholangitis, Sclerosing/epidemiology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/genetics
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/epidemiology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/diagnosis
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/immunology
- Hepatitis, Autoimmune/genetics
- Hepatitis, Autoimmune/epidemiology
- Hepatitis, Autoimmune/diagnosis
- Hepatitis, Autoimmune/immunology
- Genetic Predisposition to Disease
- Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
- Autoimmune Diseases/genetics
- Autoimmune Diseases/epidemiology
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wu
- Department of Geriatrics, Chun'an First People's Hospital (Chun'an Branch of Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital), Hangzhou, 311700, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Huo-Mu Tong
- Department of Endocrinology, Chun'an First People's Hospital (Chun'an Branch of Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital), Hangzhou, 311700, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yun-Sheng Li
- Department of Geriatrics, Chun'an First People's Hospital (Chun'an Branch of Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital), Hangzhou, 311700, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jia Cui
- Department of Endocrinology, Chun'an First People's Hospital (Chun'an Branch of Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital), Hangzhou, 311700, Zhejiang Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kayashima A, Sujino T, Fukuhara S, Miyamoto K, Kubosawa Y, Ichikawa M, Kawasaki S, Takabayashi K, Iwasaki E, Kato M, Honda A, Kanai T, Nakamoto N. Unique bile acid profiles in the bile ducts of patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0452. [PMID: 38780302 PMCID: PMC11124737 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relationship between primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and biliary bile acids (BAs) remains unclear. Although a few studies have compared PSC biliary BAs with other diseases, they did not exclude the influence of cholestasis, which affects the composition of BAs. We compared biliary BAs and microbiota among patients with PSC, controls without cholestasis, and controls with cholestasis, based on the hypothesis that alterations in BAs underlie the pathophysiology of PSC. METHODS Bile samples were obtained using endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography from patients with PSC (n = 14), non-hepato-pancreato-biliary patients without cholestasis (n = 15), and patients with cholestasis (n = 13). RESULTS The BA profiles showed that patients with PSC and cholestasis controls had significantly lower secondary BAs than non-cholestasis controls, as expected, whereas the ratio of cholic acid/chenodeoxycholic acid in patients with PSC was significantly lower despite cholestasis, and the ratio of (cholic acid + deoxycholic acid)/(chenodeoxycholic acid + lithocholic acid) in patients with PSC was significantly lower than that in the controls with or without cholestasis. The BA ratio in the bile of patients with PSC showed a similar trend in the serum. Moreover, there were correlations between the alteration of BAs and clinical data that differed from those of the cholestasis controls. Biliary microbiota did not differ among the groups. CONCLUSIONS Patients with PSC showed characteristic biliary and serum BA compositions that were different from those in other groups. These findings suggest that the BA synthesis system in patients with PSC differs from that in controls and patients with other cholestatic diseases. Our approach to assessing BAs provides insights into the pathophysiology of PSC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atsuto Kayashima
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomohisa Sujino
- Center for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Endoscopy, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Seiichiro Fukuhara
- Center for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Endoscopy, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Yoko Kubosawa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masataka Ichikawa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shintaro Kawasaki
- Center for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Endoscopy, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kaoru Takabayashi
- Center for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Endoscopy, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eisuke Iwasaki
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Motohiko Kato
- Center for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Endoscopy, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akira Honda
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University, Ibaraki Medical Center, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Takanori Kanai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobuhiro Nakamoto
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Elger T, Fererberger T, Huss M, Sommersberger S, Mester P, Stoeckert P, Gunawan S, Liebisch G, Loibl J, Kandulski A, Müller M, Buechler C, Tews HC. Urinary soluble CD163 is a putative non-invasive biomarker for primary sclerosing cholangitis. Exp Mol Pathol 2024; 137:104900. [PMID: 38729058 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2024.104900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Soluble CD163 (sCD163) is a selective marker of macrophages whose circulating levels have been found to be induced in patients with active inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Urinary proteins are emerging as non-invasive diagnostic biomarkers, and here, sCD163 levels were measured in the urine of 18 controls and 63 patients with IBD by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Urinary sCD163 levels did, however, not differentiate IBD patients from controls. Analysis of sCD163 in the serum of 51 of these patients did not show higher levels in IBD. Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is often associated with IBD, and sCD163 was higher in the urine of the 21 patients and in the serum of the 13 patients with PSC compared to patients with IBD. Of clinical relevance, urinary sCD163 levels were higher in PSC patients compared to those with other chronic liver diseases (n = 16), while serum sCD163 levels were comparable between the two groups. Serum sCD163 of IBD and PSC patients positively correlated with serum C-reactive protein. Serum creatinine and glomerular filtration rate, surrogate markers for renal function, did not significantly correlate with urinary or serum sCD163 levels in IBD or PSC patients. Moreover, urinary sCD163 was not related to fecal calprotectin levels whereas serum sCD163 of IBD patients showed a positive trend. PSC associated with IBD and PSC without underlying IBD had similar levels of urinary sCD163 while serum sCD163 tended to be higher in the latter group. In PSC patients, urinary sCD163 did not correlate with serum aminotransferase levels, gamma glutamyl transferase, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin or the Model for End Stage Liver Disease score. Ursodeoxycholic acid was prescribed to our PSC patients and fecal levels of ursodeoxycholic acid and its conjugated forms were increased in PSC compared to IBD patients. Otherwise, fecal bile acid levels of IBD and PSC patients were almost identical, and were not correlated with urinary and serum sCD163 in PSC. In summary, our study identified urinary sCD163 as a potential biomarker for PSC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Elger
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Tanja Fererberger
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Muriel Huss
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Sommersberger
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Patricia Mester
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Petra Stoeckert
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Gunawan
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Gerhard Liebisch
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Johanna Loibl
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Arne Kandulski
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Martina Müller
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Christa Buechler
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Hauke Christian Tews
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Gao W, Peng C, Wang Z, Li Y, Liu M. Genetic association and causal relationship between multiple modifiable risk factors and autoimmune liver disease: a two-sample mendelian randomization study. J Transl Med 2024; 22:425. [PMID: 38704596 PMCID: PMC11070123 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05247-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The intricate etiology of autoimmune liver disease (AILD) involves genetic, environmental, and other factors that yet to be completely elucidated. This study comprehensively assessed the causal association between genetically predicted modifiable risk factors and AILD by employing Mendelian randomization. METHODS Genetic variants associated with 29 exposure factors were obtained from genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Genetic association data with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) were also obtained from publicly available GWAS. Univariate and multivariate Mendelian randomization analyses were performed to identify potential risk factors for AILD. RESULTS Genetically predicted rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (OR = 1.620, 95%CI 1.423-1.843, P = 2.506 × 10- 13) was significantly associated with an increased risk of AIH. Genetically predicted smoking initiation (OR = 1.637, 95%CI 1.055-2.540, P = 0.028), lower coffee intake (OR = 0.359, 95%CI 0.131-0.985, P = 0.047), cholelithiasis (OR = 1.134, 95%CI 1.023-1.257, P = 0.017) and higher C-reactive protein (CRP) (OR = 1.397, 95%CI 1.094-1.784, P = 0.007) were suggestively associated with an increased risk of AIH. Genetically predicted inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (OR = 1.212, 95%CI 1.127-1.303, P = 2.015 × 10- 7) and RA (OR = 1.417, 95%CI 1.193-1.683, P = 7.193 × 10- 5) were significantly associated with increased risk of PBC. Genetically predicted smoking initiation (OR = 1.167, 95%CI 1.005-1.355, P = 0.043), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) (OR = 1.086, 95%CI 1.017-1.160, P = 0.014) and higher CRP (OR = 1.199, 95%CI 1.019-1.410, P = 0.028) were suggestively associated with an increased risk of PBC. Higher vitamin D3 (OR = 0.741, 95%CI 0.560-0.980, P = 0.036) and calcium (OR = 0.834, 95%CI 0.699-0.995, P = 0.044) levels were suggestive protective factors for PBC. Genetically predicted smoking initiation (OR = 0.630, 95%CI 0.462-0.860, P = 0.004) was suggestively associated with a decreased risk of PSC. Genetically predicted IBD (OR = 1.252, 95%CI 1.164-1.346, P = 1.394 × 10- 9), RA (OR = 1.543, 95%CI 1.279-1.861, P = 5.728 × 10- 6) and lower glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (OR = 0.268, 95%CI 0.141-0.510, P = 6.172 × 10- 5) were positively associated with an increased risk of PSC. CONCLUSIONS Evidence on the causal relationship between 29 genetically predicted modifiable risk factors and the risk of AIH, PBC, and PSC is provided by this study. These findings provide fresh perspectives on the management and prevention strategies for AILD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weize Gao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Chong Peng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Zhan Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Yongxin Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Mingjun Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Dold L, Kalthoff S, Frank L, Zhou T, Esser P, Lutz P, Strassburg CP, Spengler U, Langhans B. STAT activation in regulatory CD4 + T cells of patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. Immun Inflamm Dis 2024; 12:e1248. [PMID: 38607233 PMCID: PMC11010953 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.1248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Regulatory CD4+ T cells (Tregs) are pivotal for inhibition of autoimmunity. Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is an autoimmune cholestatic liver disease of unknown etiology where contribution of Tregs is still unclear. Activation of the JAK-STAT pathway critically modifies functions of Tregs. In PSC, we studied activation of STAT proteins and Treg functions in response to cytokines. METHODS In 51 patients with PSC, 10 disease controls (chronic replicative hepatitis C), and 36 healthy controls we analyzed frequencies of Foxp3+CD25+CD127lowCD4+ Tregs, their expression of ectonucleotidase CD39, and cytokine-induced phosphorylation of STAT1, 3, 5, and 6 using phospho-flow cytometry. In parallel, we measured cytokines IFN-gamma, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-2, and IL-4 in serum via bead-based immunoassays. RESULTS In patients with PSC, ex vivo frequencies of peripheral Tregs and their expression of CD39 were significantly reduced (p < .05 each). Furthermore, serum levels of IFN-gamma, IL-6, IL-2, and IL-4 were markedly higher in PSC (p < .05 each). Unlike activation of STAT1, STAT5, and STAT6, IL-6 induced increased phosphorylation of STAT3 in Tregs of PSC-patients (p = .0434). Finally, STAT3 activation in Tregs correlated with leukocyte counts. CONCLUSIONS In PSC, we observed enhanced STAT3 responsiveness of CD4+ Tregs together with reduced CD39 expression probably reflecting inflammatory activity of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leona Dold
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Cologne-Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Sandra Kalthoff
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Leonie Frank
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Taotao Zhou
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Pia Esser
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Philipp Lutz
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Ulrich Spengler
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Bettina Langhans
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Cologne-Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Jiang X, Otterdal K, Chung BK, Maucourant C, Rønneberg JD, Zimmer CL, Øgaard J, Boichuk Y, Holm S, Geanon D, Schneditz G, Bergquist A, Björkström NK, Melum E. Cholangiocytes Modulate CD100 Expression in the Liver and Facilitate Pathogenic T-Helper 17 Cell Differentiation. Gastroenterology 2024; 166:667-679. [PMID: 37995866 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2023.11.283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Chronic inflammation surrounding bile ducts contributes to the disease pathogenesis of most cholangiopathies. Poor efficacy of immunosuppression in these conditions suggests biliary-specific pathologic principles. Here we performed biliary niche specific functional interpretation of a causal mutation (CD100 K849T) of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) to understand related pathogenic mechanisms. METHODS Biopsy specimens of explanted livers and endoscopy-guided sampling were used to assess the CD100 expression by spatial transcriptomics, immune imaging, and high-dimensional flow cytometry. To model pathogenic cholangiocyte-immune cell interaction, splenocytes from mutation-specific mice were cocultured with cholangiocytes. Pathogenic pathways were pinpointed by RNA sequencing analysis of cocultured cells and cross-validated in patient materials. RESULTS CD100 is mainly expressed by immune cells in the liver and shows a unique pattern around PSC bile ducts with RNA-level colocalization but poor detection at the protein level. This appears to be due to CD100 cleavage as soluble CD100 is increased. Immunophenotyping suggests biliary-infiltrating T cells as the major source of soluble CD100, which is further supported by reduced surface CD100 on T cells and increased metalloproteinases in cholangiocytes after coculturing. Pathogenic T cells that adhered to cholangiocytes up-regulated genes in the T-helper 17 cell differentiation pathway, and the CD100 mutation boosted this process. Consistently, T-helper 17 cells dominate biliary-resident CD4 T cells in patients. CONCLUSIONS CD100 exerts its functional impact through cholangiocyte-immune cell cross talk and underscores an active, proinflammatory role of cholangiocytes that can be relevant to novel treatment approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Jiang
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kari Otterdal
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Brian K Chung
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Christopher Maucourant
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jørgen D Rønneberg
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Christine L Zimmer
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jonas Øgaard
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Yuliia Boichuk
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sverre Holm
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Daniel Geanon
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Georg Schneditz
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Annika Bergquist
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Niklas K Björkström
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Espen Melum
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Hybrid Technology Hub-Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Schaub JR, Chen JY, Turner SM. Integrins in biliary injury and fibrosis. Curr Opin Gastroenterol 2024; 40:85-91. [PMID: 38190346 DOI: 10.1097/mog.0000000000000995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Current treatment options for cholangiopathies are severely limited and there is thus a critical need to identify and develop therapies. This review discusses the role of integrins in biliary injury and fibrosis and their potential as therapeutic targets. RECENT FINDINGS There are a diverse set of roles that integrins play in biliary injury and fibrosis. Some integrins activate TGF-β signaling or are involved in sensing of the extracellular matrix, making them attractive targets for biliary fibrosis. In recent work, autoantibodies to α v β 6 were identified in patients with PSC, supporting the relevance of this integrin in the disease. In addition, a role for α 2 β 1 in cyst formation was identified in a mouse model of polycystic liver disease. Leukocyte integrins (e.g. α E β 7 and α 4 β 7 ) contribute to lymphocyte trafficking, making them potential targets for biliary inflammation; however, this has not yet translated to the clinic. SUMMARY While all members of the same family of proteins, integrins have diverse roles in the pathogenesis of biliary disease. Targeting one or multiple of these integrins may slow or halt the progression of biliary injury and fibrosis by simultaneously impacting different pathologic cells and processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer Y Chen
- Department of Medicine
- The Liver Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ichikawa M, Okada H, Nakamoto N, Taniki N, Chu PS, Kanai T. The gut-liver axis in hepatobiliary diseases. Inflamm Regen 2024; 44:2. [PMID: 38191517 PMCID: PMC10773109 DOI: 10.1186/s41232-023-00315-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in the analysis of intestinal bacteria have led to reports of variations in intestinal bacterial levels among hepatobiliary diseases. The mechanisms behind the changes in intestinal bacteria in various hepatobiliary diseases include the abnormal composition of intestinal bacteria, weakening of the intestinal barrier, and bacterial translocation outside the intestinal tract, along with their metabolites, but many aspects remain unresolved. Further research employing clinical studies and animal models is expected to clarify the direct relationship between intestinal bacteria and hepatobiliary diseases and to validate the utility of intestinal bacteria as a diagnostic biomarker and potential therapeutic target. This review summarizes the involvement of the microbiota in the pathogenesis of hepatobiliary diseases via the gut-liver axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masataka Ichikawa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Tokyo, 1608582, Japan
| | - Haruka Okada
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Tokyo, 1608582, Japan
| | - Nobuhiro Nakamoto
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Tokyo, 1608582, Japan.
| | - Nobuhito Taniki
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Tokyo, 1608582, Japan
| | - Po-Sung Chu
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Tokyo, 1608582, Japan
| | - Takanori Kanai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Tokyo, 1608582, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Özdirik B, Schnabl B. Microbial Players in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: Current Evidence and Concepts. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 17:423-438. [PMID: 38109970 PMCID: PMC10837305 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2023.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare cholestatic liver disease with progressive biliary inflammation, destruction of the biliary tract, and fibrosis, resulting in liver cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease. To date, liver transplantation is the only definitive treatment option for PSC. The precise etiology of PSC remains elusive, but it is widely accepted to involve a complex interplay between genetic predisposition, immunologic dysfunction, and environmental influence. In recent years, the gut-liver axis has emerged as a crucial pathway contributing to the pathogenesis of PSC, with particular focus on the role of gut microbiota. However, the role of the fungal microbiome or mycobiome has been overlooked for years, resulting in a lack of comprehensive studies on its involvement in PSC. In this review, we clarify the present clinical and mechanistic data and concepts concerning the gut bacterial and fungal microbiota in the context of PSC. This review sheds light on the role of specific microbes and elucidates the dynamics of bacterial and fungal populations. Moreover, we discuss the latest insights into microbe-altering therapeutic approaches involving the gut-liver axis and bile acid metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Burcin Özdirik
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Bernd Schnabl
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California; Department of Medicine, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Praktiknjo M, Zhou T, Krüsken M, Jacob T, Sprinkart AM, Nowak S, Kimmann M, Dold L, Chang J, Jansen C, Strassburg CP, Luetkens J, Weismüller TJ. Myosteatosis independently predicts transplant-free survival in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. Dig Liver Dis 2023; 55:1543-1547. [PMID: 37586906 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2023.08.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) is a progressive cholestatic liver disease with liver transplantation (LT) as the only curative therapy. Some regions use body-weight-loss as standard-exception criteria for organ allocation but data on the impact of body composition on survival of patients with PSC is scarce. METHODS Abdominal MRI of PSC patients were quantitatively analyzed for intramuscular fat fraction (IMFF) as surrogate of myosteatosis. Clinical and laboratory data were retrieved from patient records. Primary outcome was transplant-free survival (TFS). RESULTS 116 PSC patients were included. Median age was 38 (18-71) years with 74 (64%) male patients. 15 (13%) patients had significant weigh loss. IMFF was significantly associated with survival. Multivariate regression analysis showed IMFF ≥ 15% as independent predictor for TFS (p = 0.032, HR 3.215 CI 1.104-9.366), but not significant weight loss (p = 0.618). CONCLUSION IMFF is independently associated with TFS in patients with PSC and may identify patients with more urgent need for LT. NCT03584204.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Praktiknjo
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Hospital Münster, Germany; Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Germany.
| | - Taotao Zhou
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Torid Jacob
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Hospital Münster, Germany
| | - Alois M Sprinkart
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Bonn, Germany
| | - Sebastian Nowak
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Bonn, Germany
| | - Markus Kimmann
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Hospital Münster, Germany
| | - Leona Dold
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Germany
| | - Johannes Chang
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Germany
| | - Christian Jansen
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Julian Luetkens
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Bonn, Germany
| | - Tobias J Weismüller
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Germany; Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Oncology, Vivantes Humboldt Hospital Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Thoeni C, Perciani CT, Nakib D, Camat D, McGilvray ID, MacParland SA, Fischer S. Analysis of various ATP-binding cassette transporters revealed quantification of ABCB4 as a potential diagnostic tool in primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Histopathology 2023; 83:559-568. [PMID: 37488782 DOI: 10.1111/his.15006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
AIMS ATP-binding cassette transporters are important proteins in regulating bile constituent transport between hepatocytes and the bile canalicular system. Dysfunctional transporters lead to accumulation of toxic bile components within hepatocytes or the biliary system, known as cholestasis, resulting in liver damage. It has been previously reported that two particular ATP-binding cassette transporters, ABCB4 and ABCB11, have altered expression in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Interested in further analysis of expression patterns of ATP-binding cassette transporters in PSC patients, we investigated liver samples from 201 patients, including 43 patients with PSC and 51 patients with primary biliary cholangitis patients (PBC). In addition to ABCB4 and ABCB11, we also included other ATP-binding cassette transporters, to determine if upregulation of ABCB4 and ABCB11 is specifically found in the liver of patients with PSC. METHODS AND RESULTS Retrospectively, formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded liver biopsies, resections, and explants were selected to investigate the expression of ABCB1, ABCB4, ABCB11, ABCG5/8, and FXR1 using nanoString nCounter and immunohistochemistry for validation of differently expressed transporters seen in PSC liver samples in comparison to non-PSC liver specimens. Strikingly, ABCB4 was the only ATP-binding cassette transporter showing increased gene and protein expression in hepatocytes of PSC livers when compared to non-PSC liver specimens. Furthermore, ABCB4 protein expression also correlated with disease stage in PSC. CONCLUSION Our study concluded that altered ABCB4 expression is specifically seen in liver specimens of PSC patients. Therefore, quantitative ABCB4 analysis may be an additional useful tool for the histopathological diagnosis of PSC to distinguish this entity from other cholangiopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Thoeni
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Catia T Perciani
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Diana Nakib
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Damra Camat
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ian D McGilvray
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Multi-Organ Transplant Program, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sonya A MacParland
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sandra Fischer
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory Medicine Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zhang H, Li S, Feng Y, Zhang Q, Xie B. Efficacy of fibrates in the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis: a meta-analysis. Clin Exp Med 2023; 23:1741-1749. [PMID: 36318376 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-022-00904-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
Patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) who respond poorly to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) are increasingly being trialed using fibrates, showing promising results. To further investigate, we performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the benefit of administrating fibrates to patients with PBC. PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane library databases were searched using the keywords "bezafibrate", "fenofibrate", "fibrate", "primary biliary cholangitis" and clinical studies involving the use of fibrates in patients with PBC were included. The primary outcome of this study was the effect of fibrates administration on biochemical markers related to cholestasis in patients with PBC, and the secondary outcome was the incidence of treatment-related adverse events. A total of 20 studies with 4783 participants were included in this study. The results revealed that adding fibrates could significantly reduce the levels of ALP (fibrates vs. placebo, MD: - 370.14, P = 0.04; fibrates + UDCA vs. UDCA, MD: - 184.15, P < 0.01), total cholesterol (MD: - 2.82, P = 0.04), GGT (fibrates vs. placebo, MD: - 140.88, P < 0.01; fibrates + UDCA vs. UDCA, MD: - 130.73, P = 0.04), alleviate pruritus symptoms (RD: - 0.20, 95% CI: - 0.39 ~ - 0.01, P = 0.04), and did not significantly increase the incidence of treatment-related side effects. Fibrates can significantly improve liver biochemical parameters and alleviate pruritus in PBC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haifu Zhang
- Internal Medicine, The First Hospital of Fuyang, Hangzhou, 311400, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shuojun Li
- Internal Medicine, The First Hospital of Fuyang, Hangzhou, 311400, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yonghang Feng
- Internal Medicine, The First Hospital of Fuyang, Hangzhou, 311400, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qinxia Zhang
- Internal Medicine, The First Hospital of Fuyang, Hangzhou, 311400, Zhejiang, China
| | - Biyun Xie
- Internal Medicine, The First Hospital of Fuyang, Hangzhou, 311400, Zhejiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Shah YR, Nombera-Aznaran N, Guevara-Lazo D, Calderon-Martinez E, Tiwari A, Kanumilli S, Shah P, Pinnam BSM, Ali H, Dahiya DS. Liver transplant in primary sclerosing cholangitis: Current trends and future directions. World J Hepatol 2023; 15:939-953. [PMID: 37701917 PMCID: PMC10494561 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v15.i8.939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic and progressive immune-mediated cholangiopathy causing biliary tree inflammation and scarring, leading to liver cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease. Diagnosis of PSC is challenging due to its nonspecific symptoms and overlap with other liver diseases. Despite the rising incidence of PSC, there is no proven medical therapy that can alter the natural history of the disease. While liver transplantation (LT) is the most effective approach for managing advanced liver disease caused by PSC, post-transplantation recurrence of PSC remains a challenge. Therefore, ongoing research aims to develop better therapies for PSC, and continued efforts are necessary to improve outcomes for patients with PSC. This article provides an overview of PSC's pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and management options, including LT trends and future aspects. It also highlights the need for improved therapeutic options and ethical considerations in providing equitable access to LT for patients with PSC. Additionally, the impact of liver transplant on the quality of life and psychological outcomes of patients with PSC is discussed. Ongoing research into PSC's pathogenesis and post-transplant recurrence is crucial for improved understanding of the disease and more effective treatment options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yash R Shah
- Department of Internal Medicine, Trinity Health Oakland, Pontiac, MI 48341, United States
| | | | - David Guevara-Lazo
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima 15102, Peru
| | - Ernesto Calderon-Martinez
- Department of Internal Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Ciudad De Mexico 04510, Mexico
| | - Angad Tiwari
- Department of Internal Medicine, Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College, Jhansi 284001, India
| | | | - Purva Shah
- Department of Postgraduate Education, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Bhanu Siva Mohan Pinnam
- Department of Internal Medicine, John H. Stroger Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Hassam Ali
- Department of Internal Medicine, East Carolina University/Brody School of Medicine, Greenville, NC 27858, United States
| | - Dushyant Singh Dahiya
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Motility, The University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Yoshida H, Shiokawa M, Kuwada T, Muramoto Y, Ota S, Nishikawa Y, Maeda H, Kakiuchi N, Okamoto K, Yamazaki H, Yokode M, Nakamura T, Matsumoto S, Hirano T, Okada H, Marui S, Sogabe Y, Matsumori T, Mima A, Uza N, Eso Y, Takai A, Takahashi K, Ueda Y, Kodama Y, Chiba T, Seno H. Anti-integrin αvβ6 autoantibodies in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. J Gastroenterol 2023; 58:778-789. [PMID: 37310456 PMCID: PMC10366314 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-023-02006-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) possess autoantibodies against biliary epithelial cells. However, the target molecules remain unknown. METHODS The sera of patients with PSC and controls were subjected to enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays to detect autoantibodies using recombinant integrin proteins. Integrin αvβ6 expression in the bile duct tissues was examined using immunofluorescence. The blocking activity of the autoantibodies was examined using solid-phase binding assays. RESULTS Anti-integrin αvβ6 antibodies were detected in 49/55 (89.1%) patients with PSC and 5/150 (3.3%) controls (P < 0.001), with a sensitivity and specificity of 89.1% and 96.7%, respectively, for PSC diagnosis. When focusing on the presence or absence of IBD, the proportion of the positive antibodies in PSC with IBD was 97.2% (35/36) and that in PSC alone was 73.7% (14/19) (P = 0.008). Integrin αvβ6 was expressed in bile duct epithelial cells. Immunoglobulin (Ig)G from 15/33 patients with PSC blocked integrin αvβ6-fibronectin binding through an RGD (Arg-Gly-Asp) tripeptide motif. CONCLUSIONS Autoantibodies against integrin αvβ6 were detected in most patients with PSC; anti-integrin αvβ6 antibody may serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker for PSC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Yoshida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masahiro Shiokawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Takeshi Kuwada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuya Muramoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Sakiko Ota
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Nishikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hirona Maeda
- Department of Pathology and Tumor Biology, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Kakiuchi
- Department of Pathology and Tumor Biology, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kanako Okamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hajime Yamazaki
- Section of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Community Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masataka Yokode
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takeharu Nakamura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shimpei Matsumoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tomonori Hirano
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Okada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Saiko Marui
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuko Sogabe
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Matsumori
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Atsushi Mima
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Norimitsu Uza
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuji Eso
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Atsushi Takai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ken Takahashi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshihide Ueda
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Yuzo Kodama
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Chiba
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
- Kansai Electric Power Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Seno
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Walmsley M, Tornai D, Cazzagon N, Leburgue A, Mrzljak A, Lenzen H, Carbone M, Madaleno J, Lleo A, Junge N, Schramm C, Bergquist A. Patient-reported quality of care in primary sclerosing cholangitis. Liver Int 2023; 43:1654-1662. [PMID: 37312635 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Management and follow-up strategies for primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) vary. The aim of the present study was to assess patient-reported quality of care to identify the most important areas for improvement. METHODS Data were collected via an online survey hosted on the EU Survey platform in 11 languages between October 2021 and January 2022. Questions were asked about the disease, symptoms, treatment, investigations and quality of care. RESULTS In total, 798 nontransplanted people with PSC from 33 countries responded. Eighty-six per cent of respondents reported having had at least one symptom. Twenty-four per cent had never undergone an elastography, and 8% had not had a colonoscopy. Nearly half (49%) had never undergone a bone density scan. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) was used in 90-93% in France, Netherlands and Germany, and 49-50% in the United Kingdom and Sweden. Itch was common (60%), and 50% of those had received any medication. Antihistamines were taken by 27%, cholestyramine by 21%, rifampicin by 13% and bezafibrate by 6.5%. Forty-one per cent had been offered participation in a clinical trial or research. The majority (91%) reported that they were confident with their care although half of the individuals reported the need for more information on disease prognosis and diet. CONCLUSION Symptom burden in PSC is high, and the most important areas of improvement are disease monitoring with more widespread use of elastography, bone density scan and appropriate treatment for itch. Personalised prognostic information should be offered to all individuals with PSC and include information on how they can improve their health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martine Walmsley
- PSC Support, Oxford, UK
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
| | - Dávid Tornai
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Nora Cazzagon
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Azienda Ospedale - Università Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Angela Leburgue
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
- Albi, Association pour la Lutte contre les maladies inflammatoires du foie et des voies biliaires, Versailles, France
| | - Anna Mrzljak
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
- Department of Medicine, Merkur University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Henrike Lenzen
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marco Carbone
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - João Madaleno
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
- Liver Disease Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Lleo
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Norman Junge
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
- Division for Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Pediatric Kidney, Liver, and Metabolic Diseases, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Christoph Schramm
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
- I. Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik, and Universitätsklinikum Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Martin Zeitz Center for Rare Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Hamburg Center of Translational Immunology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Annika Bergquist
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
- Department of Upper Abdominal Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Dold L, Frank L, Lutz P, Kaczmarek DJ, Krämer B, Nattermann J, Weismüller TJ, Branchi V, Toma M, Gonzalez-Carmona M, Strassburg CP, Spengler U, Langhans B. IL-6-Dependent STAT3 Activation and Induction of Proinflammatory Cytokines in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis. Clin Transl Gastroenterol 2023; 14:e00603. [PMID: 37256725 PMCID: PMC10461951 DOI: 10.14309/ctg.0000000000000603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare cholestatic liver disease with periductal inflammation and fibrosis. Genetic studies suggest inflammatory cytokines and IL-6-dependent activation of transcription factor STAT3 as pivotal steps in PSC pathogenesis. However, details of inflammatory regulation remain unclear. METHODS We recruited 50 patients with PSC (36 with inflammatory bowel disease, 14 without inflammatory bowel disease), 12 patients with autoimmune hepatitis, and 36 healthy controls to measure cytokines in the serum, bile, and immune cell supernatant using bead-based immunoassays and flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry to analyze phosphorylation of STATs in immune cells. Finally, we analyzed cytokines and STAT3 phosphorylation of T cells in the presence of JAK1/2 inhibitors. RESULTS In PSC, IL-6 specifically triggered phosphorylation of STAT3 in CD4 + T cells and lead to enhanced production of interferon (IFN) gamma and interleukin (IL)-17A. Phospho-STAT3-positive CD4 + T cells correlated with systemic inflammation (C-reactive protein serum levels). Combination of immunohistology and flow cytometry indicated that phospho-STAT3-positive cells were enriched in the peribiliary liver stroma and represented CD4 + T cells with prominent production of IFN gamma and IL-17A. JAK1/2 inhibitors blocked STAT3 phosphorylation and production of IFN gamma and IL-6, whereas IL-17A was apparently resistant to this inhibition. DISCUSSION Our results demonstrate systemic and local activation of the IL-6/STAT3 pathway in PSC. Resistance of IL-17A to STAT3-targeted inhibition points to a more complex immune dysregulation beyond STAT3 activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leona Dold
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany;
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Cologne-Bonn, Bonn, Germany;
| | - Leonie Frank
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany;
| | - Philipp Lutz
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany;
| | | | - Benjamin Krämer
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany;
| | - Jacob Nattermann
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany;
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Cologne-Bonn, Bonn, Germany;
| | - Tobias J. Weismüller
- Department of Internal Medicine - Gastroenterology and Oncology, Vivantes Humboldt Hospital, Berlin, Germany;
| | - Vittorio Branchi
- Department of General, Abdominal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany;
| | - Marieta Toma
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
| | | | | | - Ulrich Spengler
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany;
| | - Bettina Langhans
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany;
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Cologne-Bonn, Bonn, Germany;
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Sierra L, Barba R, Ferrigno B, Goyes D, Diaz W, Patwardhan VR, Saberi B, Bonder A. Living-Donor Liver Transplant and Improved Post-Transplant Survival in Patients with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12082807. [PMID: 37109144 PMCID: PMC10145248 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12082807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is the leading indication of liver transplantation (LT) among autoimmune liver disease patients. There is a scarcity of studies comparing survival outcomes between living-donor liver transplants (LDLT)s and deceased-donor liver transplants (DDLTs) in this population. Using the United Network for Organ Sharing database, we compared 4679 DDLTs and 805 LDLTs. Our outcome of interest was post-LT patient survival and post-LT graft survival. A stepwise multivariate analysis was performed, adjusting for recipient age, gender, diabetes mellitus, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, cholangiocarcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, race, and the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score; donor' age and sex were also included to the analysis. According to univariate and multivariate analysis, LDLT had a patient and graft survival benefit compared to DDLT (HR, 0.77, 95% CI 0.65-0.92; p < 0.002). LDLT patient survival (95.2%, 92.6%, 90.1%, and 81.9%) and graft survival (94.1%, 91.1%, 88.5%, and 80.5%) at 1, 3, 5, and 10 years were significantly better than DDLT patient survival (93.2%, 87.6%, 83.3%, and 72.7%) and graft survival (92.1%, 86.5%, 82.1%, and 70.9%) (p < 0.001) in the same interval. Variables including donor and recipient age, male recipient gender, MELD score, diabetes mellitus, hepatocellular carcinoma, and cholangiocarcinoma were associated with mortality and graft failure in PSC patients. Interestingly, Asians were more protected than Whites (HR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.35-0.99; p < 0.047), and cholangiocarcinoma was associated with the highest hazard of mortality (HR, 2.07; 95% CI, 1.71-2.50; p < 0.001) in multivariate analysis. LDLT in PSC patients were associated with greater post-transplant patient and graft survival compared to DDLT patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leandro Sierra
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Romelia Barba
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Bryan Ferrigno
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Daniela Goyes
- Department of Medicine, Loyola Medicine-MacNeal Hospital, Berwyn, IL 60402, USA
| | - Wilfor Diaz
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Vilas R Patwardhan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Behnam Saberi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Alan Bonder
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Eder P, Łodyga M, Gawron-Kiszka M, Dobrowolska A, Gonciarz M, Hartleb M, Kłopocka M, Małecka-Wojciesko E, Radwan P, Reguła J, Zagórowicz E, Banasiewicz T, Durlik M, Rydzewska G. Guidelines for the management of ulcerative colitis. Recommendations of the Polish Society of Gastroenterology and the Polish National Consultant in Gastroenterology. PRZEGLAD GASTROENTEROLOGICZNY 2023; 18:1-42. [PMID: 37007752 PMCID: PMC10050986 DOI: 10.5114/pg.2023.125882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
This paper is an update of the diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations of the National Consultant for Gastroenterology and the Polish Society of Gastroenterology from 2013. It contains 49 recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment, both pharmacological and surgical, of ulcerative colitis in adults. The guidelines were developed by a group of experts appointed by the Polish Society of Gastroenterology and the National Consultant in the field of Gastroenterology. The methodology related to the GRADE methodology was used to assess the quality of available evidence and the strength of therapeutic recommendations. The degree of expert support for the proposed statements was assessed on a 6-point Likert scale. Voting results, together with comments, are included with each statement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Eder
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dietetics and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan University Clinical Hospital, Poznan, Poland
| | - Michał Łodyga
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Gawron-Kiszka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Dobrowolska
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dietetics and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan University Clinical Hospital, Poznan, Poland
| | - Maciej Gonciarz
- Department of Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine, Military Institute of Medicine, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marek Hartleb
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Maria Kłopocka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Nutrition Disorders, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Poland
| | | | - Piotr Radwan
- Chair and Department of Gastroenterology with Endoscopy Unit, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Jarosław Reguła
- Department of Oncological Gastroenterology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Oncology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Edyta Zagórowicz
- Department of Oncological Gastroenterology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Oncology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Banasiewicz
- Department of General, Endocrinological and Gastroenterological Oncology Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan University Clinical Hospital, Poznan, Poland
| | - Marek Durlik
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery and Transplantology, National Medical Institute of Ministry of Inferior and Administration, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Grażyna Rydzewska
- Department of Gastroenterology with the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Subdivision, National Medical Institute of Ministry of Inferior and Administration, Warsaw, Poland
- Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, Kielce, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Trauner M, Chung C, Sterling K, Liu X, Lu X, Xu J, Tempany-Afdhal C, Goodman ZD, Färkkilä M, Tanaka A, Trivedi P, Kowdley KV, Bowlus CL, Levy C, Myers RP. PRIMIS: design of a pivotal, randomized, phase 3 study evaluating the safety and efficacy of the nonsteroidal farnesoid X receptor agonist cilofexor in noncirrhotic patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. BMC Gastroenterol 2023; 23:75. [PMID: 36922785 PMCID: PMC10015541 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-023-02653-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic progressive liver disease leading to biliary fibrosis and cirrhosis. Cilofexor is a nonsteroidal farnesoid X receptor agonist that demonstrated significant improvements in liver biochemistry and markers of cholestasis in patients with PSC in a phase 2 study. We describe here the rationale, design, and implementation of the phase 3 PRIMIS trial, the largest placebo-controlled trial in PSC. METHODS Adults with large-duct PSC without cirrhosis are randomized 2:1 to receive oral cilofexor 100 mg once daily or placebo for up to 96 weeks during the blinded phase. Patients completing the blinded phase are eligible to receive open-label cilofexor 100 mg daily for up to 96 weeks. The primary objective is to evaluate whether cilofexor reduces the risk of fibrosis progression compared with placebo. Liver biopsy is performed at screening and Week 96 of the blinded phase for histologic assessment of fibrosis. The primary endpoint-chosen in conjunction with guidance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration-is the proportion of patients with ≥ 1-stage increase in fibrosis according to Ludwig histologic classification at week 96. Secondary objectives include evaluation of changes in liver biochemistry, serum bile acids, liver fibrosis assessed by noninvasive methods, health-related quality of life, and safety of cilofexor. CONCLUSION The phase 3 PRIMIS study is the largest randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in PSC to date and will allow for robust evaluation of the efficacy and safety of cilofexor in noncirrhotic patients with large-duct PSC. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03890120; registered 26/03/2019.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
| | | | - Kate Sterling
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., 333 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
| | - Xiangyu Liu
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., 333 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
| | - Xiaomin Lu
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., 333 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA.
| | - Jun Xu
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., 333 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
| | - Clare Tempany-Afdhal
- Department of Radiology, Ferenc Jolesz National Center for Image Guided Therapy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis St, L1 Rm 050, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Zachary D Goodman
- Hepatic Pathology Consultation and Research, Inova Fairfax Hospital, 8110 Gatehouse Rd, Falls Church, VA, 22042, USA
| | - Martti Färkkilä
- Abdominal Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Atsushi Tanaka
- Department of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, 2-11-1, Kaga, Itabashi-Ku, Tokyo, 173-8605, Japan
| | - Palak Trivedi
- National Institute for Health Research Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, ITM Building, Mindelsohn Way, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Kris V Kowdley
- Liver Institute Northwest, 3216 NE 45 Pl #212, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
| | - Christopher L Bowlus
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UC Davis School of Medicine, 4150 V Street, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Cynthia Levy
- Schiff Center for Liver Diseases, University of Miami, Jackson Medical Towers, 1500 NW 12 Ave, Suite 1101 ET, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Single Center Experience of Oral Vancomycin Therapy in Young Patients with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: A Case Series. LIVERS 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/livers3010009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
There is no single proven therapy that prolongs hepatic transplant-free survival in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Oral vancomycin (OV) has shown some benefit in small pediatric and adult series. We describe the effect of OV on pediatric onset PSC at our tertiary hospital. This is a single-center, retrospective, descriptive case series involving patients (<21 years at diagnosis) with PSC on OV from 2001 till 2021. The therapy effect was assessed based on symptoms, biochemical labs, imaging and liver biopsy at six and twelve months, and then annually until therapy was discontinued. The inclusion criteria identified 17 patients. Baseline GGT (n = 17) was elevated among 88.2% which then normalized among 53.8% (n = 13) at six months and 55.6% (n = 9) at one year post-OV. Baseline ALT normalized in 58.8% (n = 17) at six months and 42.8% (n = 14) at one year. Imaging findings within one year of OV revealed improved/stable biliary findings among 66.7% (n = 8/12). No adverse events were reported. OV was associated with an improvement in bile duct injury marker (GGT) after at least six months of therapy, with no disease progression on imaging within one year of therapy.
Collapse
|
26
|
Hov JR, Karlsen TH. The microbiota and the gut-liver axis in primary sclerosing cholangitis. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 20:135-154. [PMID: 36352157 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-022-00690-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) offers unique opportunities to explore the gut-liver axis owing to the close association between liver disease and colonic inflammation. It is well established that the gut microbiota in people with PSC differs from that of healthy individuals, but details of the microbial factors that demarcate PSC from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) without PSC are poorly understood. In this Review, we aim to provide an overview of the latest literature on the gut microbiome in PSC and PSC with IBD, critically examining hypotheses on how microorganisms could contribute to the pathogenesis of PSC. A particular emphasis will be put on pathogenic features of the gut microbiota that might explain the occurrence of bile duct inflammation and liver disease in the context of IBD, and we postulate the potential existence of a specific yet unknown factor related to the gut-liver axis as causative in PSC. Available data are scrutinized in the perspective of therapeutic approaches related to the gut-liver axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johannes R Hov
- Norwegian PSC Research Center and Section of gastroenterology and Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tom H Karlsen
- Norwegian PSC Research Center and Section of gastroenterology and Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway. .,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Kelly C, Zen Y, Heneghan MA. Post-Transplant Immunosuppression in Autoimmune Liver Disease. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2023; 13:350-359. [PMID: 36950491 PMCID: PMC10025678 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2022.07.002] [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] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune liver diseases (AILDs) are a group of conditions where immune-mediated liver damage can lead to the need for transplantation. Collectively, they account for almost a quarter of all liver transplants. Outcomes in terms of graft and patient survival for all liver transplants have improved markedly over decades with improvements in patient selection, surgical techniques and longer-term care and this is also seen in patients with AILDs. The current five- and ten-year survival rates post-transplant in autoimmune disease are excellent, at 88% and 78%, respectively. A key factor in maintaining good outcomes post liver transplant for these autoimmune conditions is the immunosuppression strategy. These patients have increased the rates of rejection, and autoimmune conditions can all recur in the graft ranging from 12 to 60% depending on the population studied. Immunosuppressive regimens are centred on calcineurin inhibitors, often combined with low dose corticosteroids, with or without the addition of antimetabolite therapy. There is no clear evidence-based immunosuppressive regimen for these conditions, and a tailored approach balancing the individuals' immunological profile against the risks of immunosuppression is often used. There are disease-specific considerations to optimised graft function including the role of ursodeoxycholic acid in both primary biliary cholangitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis and the role and timing of colectomy in primary sclerosing cholangitis in inflammatory bowel disease patients. However, unmet needs still exist in the management of AILDs post liver transplantation particularly in building the evidence base for optimal immunosuppression as well as mitigating the risk of recurrent disease.
Collapse
Key Words
- AIH, Autoimmune hepatitis
- AILD, Autoimmune liver disease
- CNI, Calcineurin inhibitors
- IBD, Inflammatory bowel disease
- LT, Liver transplantation
- PBC, Primary biliary cholangitis
- PSC, Primary sclerosing cholangitis
- autoimmune liver disease
- immunosuppression
- rAIH, Recurrent autoimmune hepatitis
- rPBC, Recurrent primary biliary cholangitis
- rPSC, Recurrent primary sclerosing cholangitis
- transplantation
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire Kelly
- Institute of Liver Studies, Kings College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Yoh Zen
- Institute of Liver Studies, Kings College Hospital, London, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Turning Microbial AhR Agonists into Therapeutic Agents via Drug Delivery Systems. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020506. [PMID: 36839828 PMCID: PMC9966334 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Developing therapeutics for inflammatory diseases is challenging due to physiological mucosal barriers, systemic side effects, and the local microbiota. In the search for novel methods to overcome some of these problems, drug delivery systems that improve tissue-targeted drug delivery and modulate the microbiota are highly desirable. Microbial metabolites are known to regulate immune responses, an observation that has resulted in important conceptual advances in areas such as metabolite pharmacology and metabolite therapeutics. Indeed, the doctrine of "one molecule, one target, one disease" that has dominated the pharmaceutical industry in the 20th century is being replaced by developing therapeutics which simultaneously manipulate multiple targets through novel formulation approaches, including the multitarget-directed ligands. Thus, metabolites may not only represent biomarkers for disease development, but also, being causally linked to human diseases, an unexploited source of therapeutics. We have shown the successful exploitation of this approach: by deciphering how signaling molecules, such as the microbial metabolite, indole-3-aldehyde, and the repurposed drug anakinra, interact with the aryl hydrocarbon receptor may pave the way for novel therapeutics in inflammatory human diseases, for the realization of which drug delivery platforms are instrumental.
Collapse
|
29
|
Braadland PR, Schneider KM, Bergquist A, Molinaro A, Lövgren-Sandblom A, Henricsson M, Karlsen TH, Vesterhus M, Trautwein C, Hov JR, Marschall HU. Suppression of bile acid synthesis as a tipping point in the disease course of primary sclerosing cholangitis. JHEP REPORTS : INNOVATION IN HEPATOLOGY 2022; 4:100561. [PMID: 36176935 PMCID: PMC9513776 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2022.100561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background & Aims Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonists and fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) analogues suppress bile acid synthesis and are being investigated for their potential therapeutic efficacy in cholestatic liver diseases. We investigated whether bile acid synthesis associated with outcomes in 2 independent populations of people with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) not receiving such therapy. Methods Concentrations of individual bile acids and 7α-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one (C4) were measured in blood samples from 330 patients with PSC attending tertiary care hospitals in the discovery and validation cohorts and from 100 healthy donors. We used a predefined multivariable Cox proportional hazards model to evaluate the prognostic value of C4 to predict liver transplantation-free survival and evaluated its performance in the validation cohort. Results The bile acid synthesis marker C4 was negatively associated with total bile acids. Patients with fully suppressed bile acid synthesis had strongly elevated total bile acids and short liver transplantation-free survival. In multivariable models, a 50% reduction in C4 corresponded to increased hazards for liver transplantation or death in both the discovery (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 1.24, 95% CI 1.06–1.43) and validation (adjusted HR = 1.23, 95% CI 1.03–1.47) cohorts. Adding C4 to established risk scores added value to predict future events, and predicted survival probabilities were well calibrated externally. There was no discernible impact of ursodeoxycholic acid treatment on bile acid synthesis. Conclusions Bile acid accumulation-associated suppression of bile acid synthesis was apparent in patients with advanced PSC and associated with reduced transplantation-free survival. In a subset of the patients, bile acid synthesis was likely suppressed beyond a tipping point at which any further pharmacological suppression may be futile. Implications for patient stratification and inclusion criteria for clinical trials in PSC warrant further investigation. Lay summary We show, by measuring the level of the metabolite C4 in the blood from patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), that low production of bile acids in the liver predicts a more rapid progression to severe disease. Many people with PSC appear to have fully suppressed bile acid production, and both established and new drugs that aim to reduce bile acid production may therefore be futile for them. We propose C4 as a test to find those likely to respond to these treatments. The bile acid synthesis marker C4 associated negatively with bile acid levels in patients with PSC. Suppression of bile acid synthesis was likely nearly complete in advanced PSC. UDCA treatment contributed significantly to total circulating bile acids but did not appear to affect bile acid synthesis. Attempts to inhibit bile acid synthesis in patients with low C4 may be futile, and such drugs may be contraindicated. Patients with PSC and low circulating C4 had shorter liver transplantation-free survival in two independent cohorts.
Collapse
Key Words
- 7α-Hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one
- AOM, Amsterdam–Oxford model
- ASBT, apical sodium-dependent bile acid cotransporter
- Biliary disease
- C4
- C4, 7α-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one
- CYP7A1, cytochrome P450 family 7 subfamily A member 1
- Cholestasis
- Cholestatic liver disease
- FGF19, fibroblast growth factor 19
- FXR, farnesoid X receptor
- GUDCA, glycooursodeoxycholic acid
- HR, hazard ratio
- IBAT, ileal bile acid transporter
- Liver transplantation
- Liver transplantation-free survival
- MELD, model for end-stage liver disease
- PBC, primary biliary cholangitis
- PSC, primary sclerosing cholangitis
- STROBE, Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology
- TUDCA, tauroursodeoxycholic acid
- UDCA, ursodeoxycholic acid
- UPLC-MS/MS, ultraperformance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
- Ursodeoxycholic acid
- c-index, concordance index
- liver
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peder Rustøen Braadland
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kai Markus Schneider
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany.,Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Annika Bergquist
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Rheumatology, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Antonio Molinaro
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Wallenberg Laboratory, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Marcus Henricsson
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Wallenberg Laboratory, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Tom Hemming Karlsen
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Mette Vesterhus
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Medicine, Haraldsplass Deaconess Hospital and Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Christian Trautwein
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Johannes Roksund Hov
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Hanns-Ulrich Marschall
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Wallenberg Laboratory, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Efficacy and safety of immune-modulating therapy for primary sclerosing cholangitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 237:108163. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
31
|
Huang Y, Zhang S, Weng JF, Huang D, Gu WL. Recent discoveries in microbiota dysbiosis, cholangiocytic factors, and models for studying the pathogenesis of primary sclerosing cholangitis. Open Med (Wars) 2022; 17:915-929. [PMID: 35647306 PMCID: PMC9106112 DOI: 10.1515/med-2022-0481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a cholangiopathy caused by genetic and microenvironmental changes, such as bile homeostasis disorders and microbiota dysbiosis. Therapeutic options are limited, and proven surveillance strategies are currently lacking. Clinically, PSC presents as alternating strictures and dilatations of biliary ducts, resulting in the typical “beaded” appearance seen on cholangiography. The pathogenesis of PSC is still unclear, but cholangiocytes play an essential role in disease development, wherein a reactive phenotype is caused by the secretion of neuroendocrine factors. The liver–gut axis is implicated in the pathogenesis of PSC owing to the dysbiosis of microbiota, but the underlying mechanism is still poorly understood. Alterations in cholangiocyte responses and related signalling pathways during PSC progression were elucidated by recent research, providing novel therapeutic targets. In this review, we summarise the currently known underlying mechanisms of PSC pathogenesis caused by the dysbiosis of microbiota and newly reported information regarding cholangiocytes in PSC. We also summarise recently reported in vitro and in vivo models for studying the pathogenesis of PSC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Huang
- Department of Surgery, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, No. 1 Panfu Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510180, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuai Zhang
- Department of Surgery, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangdong 510180, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie-Feng Weng
- Department of Surgery, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangdong 510180, People's Republic of China
| | - Di Huang
- Department of Surgery, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangdong 510180, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei-Li Gu
- Department of Surgery, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, No. 1 Panfu Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510180, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Sjöblom N, Boyd S, Kautiainen H, Arola J, Färkkilä M. Novel histological scoring for predicting disease outcome in primary sclerosing cholangitis. Histopathology 2022; 81:192-204. [PMID: 35510514 PMCID: PMC9544993 DOI: 10.1111/his.14677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Background Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a progressive cholestatic liver disease that may lead to liver cirrhosis or cholangiocarcinoma. Liver histology and fibrosis stage are predictive markers of disease progression, and histological cirrhosis is defined as a significant endpoint. PSC‐specific histological scoring methods are lacking at present. We aimed to develop a tailored classification system for PSC, the PSC histoscore, based on histological features associated with disease progression. Methods In total, 300 PSC patients diagnosed between 1988 and 2018 were enrolled; their data were collected from the PSC registry (Helsinki University Hospital), and liver specimens were obtained from the Biobank of Helsinki. Five histological features included in the adapted Nakanuma scoring system and three additional parameters typical for PSC histology were evaluated and compared with the clinical and laboratory data. A compound endpoint consisting of liver transplantation, development of cholangiocarcinoma, or death was used as outcome measurement. Results Stage (fibrosis, bile duct loss, ductular reaction, and chronic cholestasis) and grade (portal inflammation, portal edema, hepatitis activity, and cholangitis activity) parameters were found to be independent predictive risk factors for the compound endpoint (P < 0.001). High disease grade (2–6) and stage (2–4) better correlated with clinical endpoints when evaluated with the PSC histoscore system compared to the adapted Nakanuma classification. The risk for disease progression in sequential endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) examinations was increased with elevated total PSC histoscores. Conclusion The PSC histoscore is a novel histological classification system for PSC. Our findings support the applicability of liver histology as a marker for disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nelli Sjöblom
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Haartmaninkatu 3, 00290, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sonja Boyd
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Haartmaninkatu 3, 00290, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hannu Kautiainen
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Johanna Arola
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Haartmaninkatu 3, 00290, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Martti Färkkilä
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, 00290, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Losurdo G, Gravina AG, Maroni L, Gabrieletto EM, Ianiro G, Ferrarese A. Future challenges in gastroenterology and hepatology, between innovations and unmet needs: A SIGE Young Editorial Board's perspective. Dig Liver Dis 2022; 54:583-597. [PMID: 34509394 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2021.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Gastroenterology, Digestive Endoscopy and Hepatology have faced significant improvements in terms of diagnosis and therapy in the last decades. However, many fields still remain poorly explored, and many questions unanswered. Moreover, basic-science, as well as translational and clinical discoveries, together with technology advancement will determine further steps toward a better, refined care for many gastroenterological disorders in the future. Therefore, the Young Investigators of the Italian Society of Gastroenterology (SIGE) joined together, offering a perspective on major future innovations in some hot clinical topics in Gastroenterology, Endoscopy, and Hepatology, as well as the current pitfalls and the grey zones.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Losurdo
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University 'Aldo Moro' of Bari; PhD Course in Organs and Tissues Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University 'Aldo Moro' of Bari.
| | - Antonietta Gerarda Gravina
- Hepatogastroenterology Division, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Maroni
- Department of Gastroenterology, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Gianluca Ianiro
- Digestive Disease Center, Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - Alberto Ferrarese
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Ospedale Borgo Trento, Verona, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Valestrand L, Zheng F, Hansen SH, Øgaard J, Hov JR, Björkström NK, Karlsen TH, Jiang X, Melum E. Bile from Patients with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis Contains Mucosal-Associated Invariant T-Cell Antigens. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2022; 192:629-641. [PMID: 35063408 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2021.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is associated with altered microbiota of the gut and bile. Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells, enriched in human liver, uniquely recognize microbial-derived metabolites. This study aimed to determine whether bile from patients with PSC contains antigens activating MAIT cells. Bile was collected at the time of liver transplantation from patients with PSC (n = 28). The bile samples were either directly incubated with peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy donors or with antigen-presenting cells followed by co-culture with peripheral blood mononuclear cells. MAIT cell activation was assessed by flow cytometry. An anti-MR1 antibody was used to determine whether the activation was major histocompatibility complex class I-related protein (MR1) restricted. Biliary microbiota profiles were generated using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, and the abundance of the bacterial gene ribD was predicted. Eight of 28 bile samples could activate MAIT cells. This activation was partly MR1-dependent in five of eight bile samples. Microbial DNA was detected in 15 of 28 bile samples, including the five bile samples leading to MR1-dependent activation. A higher abundance of the ribD gene expression in the group of bile samples that could activate MAIT cells was predicted on the basis of the 16S sequencing. In co-culture experiments, cholangiocytes could take up and present biliary antigens to MAIT cells. These findings suggest a pathophysiological pathway in PSC connecting the immune system and the microbiome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Valestrand
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Section of Gastroenterology, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Fei Zheng
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Simen H Hansen
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jonas Øgaard
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Johannes R Hov
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Section of Gastroenterology, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Niklas K Björkström
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tom H Karlsen
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Section of Gastroenterology, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Xiaojun Jiang
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Espen Melum
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Section of Gastroenterology, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Hybrid Technology Hub-Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Abstract
Cholestatic and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) share several key pathophysiological mechanisms which can be targeted by novel therapeutic concepts that are currently developed for both areas. Nuclear receptors (NRs) are ligand-activated transcriptional regulators of key metabolic processes including hepatic lipid and glucose metabolism, energy expenditure and bile acid (BA) homoeostasis, as well as inflammation, fibrosis and cellular proliferation. Dysregulation of these processes contributes to the pathogenesis and progression of cholestatic as well as fatty liver disease, placing NRs at the forefront of novel therapeutic approaches. This includes BA and fatty acid activated NRs such as farnesoid-X receptor (FXR) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, respectively, for which high affinity therapeutic ligands targeting specific or multiple isoforms have been developed. Moreover, novel liver-specific ligands for thyroid hormone receptor beta 1 complete the spectrum of currently available NR-targeted drugs. Apart from FXR ligands, BA signalling can be targeted by mimetics of FXR-activated fibroblast growth factor 19, modulation of their enterohepatic circulation through uptake inhibitors in hepatocytes and enterocytes, as well as novel BA derivatives undergoing cholehepatic shunting (instead of enterohepatic circulation). Other therapeutic approaches more directly target inflammation and/or fibrosis as critical events of disease progression. Combination strategies synergistically targeting metabolic disturbances, inflammation and fibrosis may be ultimately necessary for successful treatment of these complex and multifactorial disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Claudia Daniela Fuchs
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Protein discrimination using erythrosin B-based GUMBOS in combination with UV-Vis spectroscopy and chemometrics. Talanta 2021; 240:123164. [PMID: 34972064 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2021.123164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
GUMBOS (Group of Uniform Materials Based on Organic Salts) have recently emerged as interesting materials for protein analysis due to their unique features and high tunability. In this regard, four novel erythrosin B (EB)-based GUMBOS were synthesized and their potential to discriminate among proteins with distinct properties (e.g., size, charge, and hydrophobicity) was assessed. These solid-phase materials were prepared using a single-step metathesis reaction between EB and various phosphonium and ammonium cations, namely tetrabutylphosphonium (P4444+), tributylhexadecylphosphonium (P44416+), tetrabutylammonium (N4444+), and benzyldimethylhexadecylammonium (BDHA+). Subsequently, the effect of pH (3.0, 4.5, and 6.0) and reaction time (5, 10, and 15 min) on the discriminatory power of synthesized GUMBOS was evaluated. Absorption spectra resulting from the interaction between EB-based GUMBOS and proteins were analyzed using partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLSDA). Unlike time, the pH value was determined to have influence over GUMBOS discrimination potential. Correct protein assignments varied from 86.5% to 100.0%, and the best discriminatory results were observed for [P4444]2[EB] and [N4444]2[EB] at pH 6.0. Additionally, these two GUMBOS allowed discrimination of protein mixtures containing different ratios of albumin and myoglobin, which appeared as individualized clusters in the PLSDA scores plots. Overall, this study showcases EB-based GUMBOS as simple synthetic targets to provide a label-free, cost-effective, rapid, and successful approach for discrimination of single proteins and their mixtures.
Collapse
|
37
|
Bile Acid Dysregulation Is Intrinsically Related to Cachexia in Tumor-Bearing Mice. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246389. [PMID: 34945009 PMCID: PMC8699129 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer cachexia is considered a multi-organ syndrome. An improved understanding of how circulating molecules can affect tissues and mediate their crosstalk in the pathogenesis of cancer cachexia is emerging. Considering the various actions of bile acids on host metabolism and immunity, they could represent innovative targets in cancer cachexia. In this study, we investigated how bile acids could contribute to this syndrome by assessing the bile flow, by comparing the impact on bile acid pathways of cachexia-inducing and non-cachexia-inducing cell sublines, and by investigating the effects of ursodeoxycholic acid, a choleretic compound, in cachectic mice. Altogether, our analyses strengthen the importance of bile acids and their receptors as key players in the metabolic disorders associated with cancer, thereby laying the foundation for new therapeutic opportunities. Abstract Bile acids exert diverse actions on host metabolism and immunity through bile acid-activated receptors, including Takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5 (TGR5). We have recently evidenced an alteration in bile acids in cancer cachexia, an inflammatory and metabolic syndrome contributing to cancer death. This current study aims to further explore the links emerging between bile acids and cancer cachexia. First, we showed that bile flow is reduced in cachectic mice. Next, comparing mice inoculated with cachexia-inducing and with non-cachexia-inducing C26 colon carcinoma cells, we demonstrated that alterations in the bile acid pathways and profile are directly associated with cachexia. Finally, we performed an interventional study using ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), a compound commonly used in hepatobiliary disorders, to induce bile acid secretion and decrease inflammation. We found that UDCA does not improve hepatic inflammation and worsens muscle atrophy in cachectic mice. This exacerbation of the cachectic phenotype upon UDCA was accompanied by a decreased TGR5 activity, suggesting that TGR5 agonists, known to reduce inflammation in several pathological conditions, could potentially counteract cachectic features. This work brings to light major evidence sustaining the emerging links between bile acids and cancer cachexia and reinforces the interest in studying bile acid-activated receptors in this context.
Collapse
|
38
|
De Muynck K, Vanderborght B, Van Vlierberghe H, Devisscher L. The Gut-Liver Axis in Chronic Liver Disease: A Macrophage Perspective. Cells 2021; 10:2959. [PMID: 34831182 PMCID: PMC8616442 DOI: 10.3390/cells10112959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver disease (CLD) is a growing health concern which accounts for two million deaths per year. Obesity, alcohol overconsumption, and progressive cholestasis are commonly characterized by persistent low-grade inflammation and advancing fibrosis, which form the basis for development of end-stage liver disease complications, including hepatocellular carcinoma. CLD pathophysiology extends to the intestinal tract and is characterized by intestinal dysbiosis, bile acid dysregulation, and gut barrier disruption. In addition, macrophages are key players in CLD progression and intestinal barrier breakdown. Emerging studies are unveiling macrophage heterogeneity and driving factors of their plasticity in health and disease. To date, in-depth investigation of how gut-liver axis disruption impacts the hepatic and intestinal macrophage pool in CLD pathogenesis is scarce. In this review, we give an overview of the role of intestinal and hepatic macrophages in homeostasis and gut-liver axis disruption in progressive stages of CLD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin De Muynck
- Gut-Liver Immunopharmacology Unit, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Liver Research Center Ghent, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (K.D.M.); (B.V.)
- Hepatology Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Liver Research Center Ghent, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
| | - Bart Vanderborght
- Gut-Liver Immunopharmacology Unit, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Liver Research Center Ghent, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (K.D.M.); (B.V.)
- Hepatology Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Liver Research Center Ghent, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
| | - Hans Van Vlierberghe
- Hepatology Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Liver Research Center Ghent, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
| | - Lindsey Devisscher
- Gut-Liver Immunopharmacology Unit, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Liver Research Center Ghent, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (K.D.M.); (B.V.)
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Shi S, Verstegen MMA, Roest HP, Ardisasmita AI, Cao W, Roos FJM, de Ruiter PE, Niemeijer M, Pan Q, IJzermans JNM, van der Laan LJW. Recapitulating Cholangiopathy-Associated Necroptotic Cell Death In Vitro Using Human Cholangiocyte Organoids. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 13:541-564. [PMID: 34700031 PMCID: PMC8688721 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2021.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Liver and bile duct diseases often are associated with extensive cell death of cholangiocytes. Necroptosis represents a common mode of programmed cell death in cholangiopathy, however, detailed mechanistic knowledge is limited owing to the lack of appropriate in vitro models. To address this void, we investigated whether human intrahepatic cholangiocyte organoids (ICOs) can recapitulate cholangiopathy-associated necroptosis and whether this model can be used for drug screening. METHODS We evaluated the clinical relevance of necroptosis in end-stage liver diseases and liver transplantation by immunohistochemistry. Cholangiopathy-associated programmed cell death was evoked in ICOs derived from healthy donors or patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis or alcoholic liver diseases by the various stimuli. RESULTS The expression of key necroptosis mediators, receptor-interacting protein 3 and phosphorylated mixed lineage kinase domain-like, in cholangiocytes during end-stage liver diseases was confirmed. The phosphorylated mixed lineage kinase domain-like expression was etiology-dependent. Gene expression analysis confirmed that primary cholangiocytes are more prone to necroptosis compared with primary hepatocytes. Both apoptosis and necroptosis could be specifically evoked using tumor necrosis factor α and second mitochondrial-derived activator of caspases mimetic, with or without caspase inhibition in healthy and patient-derived ICOs. Necroptosis also was induced by ethanol metabolites or human bile in ICOs from donors and patients. The organoid cultures further uncovered interdonor variable and species-specific drug responses. Dabrafenib was identified as a potent necroptosis inhibitor and showed a protective effect against ethanol metabolite toxicity. CONCLUSIONS Human ICOs recapitulate cholangiopathy-associated necroptosis and represent a useful in vitro platform for the study of biliary cytotoxicity and preclinical drug evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaojun Shi
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Monique M A Verstegen
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Henk P Roest
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arif I Ardisasmita
- Department of Metabolic Diseases, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Wanlu Cao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Oncology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Floris J M Roos
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Petra E de Ruiter
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marije Niemeijer
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Qiuwei Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan N M IJzermans
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Luc J W van der Laan
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Saffioti F, Mavroeidis VK. Review of incidence and outcomes of treatment of cholangiocarcinoma in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2021; 13:1336-1366. [PMID: 34721770 PMCID: PMC8529934 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v13.i10.1336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a premalignant condition and a well-documented risk factor for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) which is the most common malignancy in this setting and the leading cause of deaths in the recent years, with an increasing incidence. PSC-associated CCA has a geographical distribution that follows the incidence of PSC, with an observed ascending gradient from the Eastern to the Western and from the Southern to the Northern countries. It may arise at any location along the biliary tree but is most common in the perihilar area. Patients with PSC and intrahepatic or perihilar CCA are typically not suitable for liver resection, which is otherwise the treatment of choice with curative intent in patients with resectable tumours, providing a radical resection with clear margins can be achieved. This largely relates to the commonly advanced stage of liver disease at presentation, which allows consideration for liver resection only for a very limited number of suitable patients with PSC. On the other hand, remarkable progress has been reached in the last decades with the implementation of a protocol combining neoadjuvant chemoradiation and orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) for the treatment of perihilar CCA, within specific criteria. Excellent results have been achieved particularly for PSC patients with this cancer, who seem to benefit the most from this treatment, having converted this into an accepted indication for transplantation and the standard of care in several experienced centres. Intrahepatic CCA as an indication for OLT remains controversial and has not been accepted given disappointing previous results. However, as recent studies have shown favourable outcomes in early intrahepatic CCA, it may be that under defined criteria, OLT may play a more prominent role in the future. Distal CCA in the context of PSC requires aggressive surgical treatment with curative intent, when feasible. This review provides insight about particular features of CCA in the setting of PSC, with a main focus on its incidence, considerations relating to its anatomical location and implications to treatment and outcomes, through the viewpoint of historical evolution of management, and future perspectives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Saffioti
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health and Sheila Sherlock Liver Unit, Royal Free Hospital, University College London, London NW3 2QG, United Kingdom
| | - Vasileios K Mavroeidis
- Department of Surgery, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London SW3 6JJ, United Kingdom
- Department of Transplant Surgery, North Bristol NHS Trust, Southmead Hospital, Bristol BS10 5NB, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Abstract
Bile acids and their signaling pathways are increasingly recognized as potential therapeutic targets for cholestatic and metabolic liver diseases. This review summarizes new insights in bile acid physiology, focusing on regulatory roles of bile acids in the control of immune regulation and on effects of pharmacological modulators of bile acid signaling pathways in human liver disease. Recent mouse studies have highlighted the importance of the interactions between bile acids and gut microbiome. Interfering with microbiome composition may be beneficial for cholestatic and metabolic liver diseases by modulating formation of secondary bile acids, as different bile acid species have different signaling functions. Bile acid receptors such as FXR, VDR, and TGR5 are expressed in a variety of cells involved in innate as well as adaptive immunity, and specific microbial bile acid metabolites positively modulate immune responses of the host. Identification of Cyp2c70 as the enzyme responsible for the generation of hydrophilic mouse/rat-specific muricholic acids has allowed the generation of murine models with a human-like bile acid composition. These novel mouse models will aid to accelerate translational research on the (patho)physiological roles of bile acids in human liver diseases .
Collapse
|
42
|
Mousa OY, Juran BD, McCauley BM, Vesterhus MN, Folseraas T, Turgeon CT, Ali AH, Schlicht EM, Atkinson EJ, Hu C, Harnois D, Carey EJ, Gossard AA, Oglesbee D, Eaton JE, LaRusso NF, Gores GJ, Karlsen TH, Lazaridis KN. Bile Acid Profiles in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis and Their Ability to Predict Hepatic Decompensation. Hepatology 2021; 74:281-295. [PMID: 33226645 PMCID: PMC8141059 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Altered bile acid (BA) homeostasis is an intrinsic facet of cholestatic liver diseases, but clinical usefulness of plasma BA assessment in primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) remains understudied. We performed BA profiling in a large retrospective cohort of patients with PSC and matched healthy controls, hypothesizing that plasma BA profiles vary among patients and have clinical utility. APPROACH AND RESULTS Plasma BA profiling was performed in the Clinical Biochemical Genetics Laboratory at Mayo Clinic using a mass spectrometry based assay. Cox proportional hazard (univariate) and gradient boosting machines (multivariable) models were used to evaluate whether BA variables predict 5-year risk of hepatic decompensation (HD; defined as ascites, variceal hemorrhage, or encephalopathy). There were 400 patients with PSC and 302 controls in the derivation cohort (Mayo Clinic) and 108 patients with PSC in the validation cohort (Norwegian PSC Research Center). Patients with PSC had increased BA levels, conjugated fraction, and primary-to-secondary BA ratios relative to controls. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) increased total plasma BA level while lowering cholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid concentrations. Patients without inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) had primary-to-secondary BA ratios between those of controls and patients with ulcerative colitis. HD risk was associated with increased concentration and conjugated fraction of many BA, whereas higher G:T conjugation ratios were protective. The machine-learning model, PSC-BA profile score (concordance statistic [C-statistic], 0.95), predicted HD better than individual measures, including alkaline phosphatase, and performed well in validation (C-statistic, 0.86). CONCLUSIONS Patients with PSC demonstrated alterations of plasma BA consistent with known mechanisms of cholestasis, UDCA treatment, and IBD. Notably, BA profiles predicted future HD, establishing the clinical potential of BA profiling, which may be suited for use in clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omar Y. Mousa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Mankato, MN,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Brian D. Juran
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Bryan M. McCauley
- Division of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Mette N. Vesterhus
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Medicine and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway,Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Norway
| | - Trine Folseraas
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Medicine and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Coleman T. Turgeon
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Ahmad H. Ali
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Erik M. Schlicht
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | - Chang Hu
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champagne, IL
| | - Denise Harnois
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
| | - Elizabeth J. Carey
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ
| | - Andrea A. Gossard
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Devin Oglesbee
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - John E. Eaton
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | - Gregory J. Gores
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Tom H. Karlsen
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Medicine and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Caraceni P, Abraldes JG, Ginès P, Newsome PN, Sarin SK. The search for disease-modifying agents in decompensated cirrhosis: From drug repurposing to drug discovery. J Hepatol 2021; 75 Suppl 1:S118-S134. [PMID: 34039483 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Patients with decompensated cirrhosis are currently managed through targeted strategies aimed at preventing or treating specific complications. In contrast, a disease-modifying agent should, by definition, be aimed at globally addressing 'decompensated cirrhosis'. To be defined as a disease-modifying agent in decompensated cirrhosis, interventions need to demonstrate an unequivocal benefit on the course of disease in well-designed and adequately powered randomised clinical trials with hard endpoints (i.e. patient survival). These trials also need to define the target population, dosage and timing of administration, factors guiding treatment, temporary or permanent stopping rules, transferability to daily clinical practice, cost-effectiveness, and global treatment access. By eliminating the underlying cause of cirrhosis, aetiologic treatments can still influence the course of decompensated disease by halting or slowing down disease progression or even inducing reversion to the compensated state. In contrast, there remains an unmet clinical need for disease-modifying agents which can antagonise key pathophysiological mechanisms of decompensated cirrhosis, such as portal hypertension, gut translocation, circulatory dysfunction, systemic inflammation, and immunological dysfunction. However, in the last few years, the repurposing of "old drugs" that have already been prescribed for more limited indications in hepatology or for other diseases has provided a few candidates, including human albumin, statins, and poorly absorbable oral antibiotics, which are under further evaluation in large-scale randomised clinical trials. New disease-modifying agents are also expected to be identified in the next decade through the systematic repurposing of existing drugs and the development of novel molecules which are currently undergoing pre-clinical or early clinical testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Caraceni
- Division of Medical Semeiotics, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Center for Biomedical Applied Research, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Italy.
| | - Juan G Abraldes
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Alberta, Canada
| | - Pere Ginès
- Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBEReHD, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Phil N Newsome
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Birmingham, UK; Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, UK; Liver Unit, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Shiv K Sarin
- Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS), New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
D’Onofrio F, Renga G, Puccetti M, Pariano M, Bellet MM, Santarelli I, Stincardini C, Mosci P, Ricci M, Giovagnoli S, Costantini C, Romani L. Indole-3-Carboxaldehyde Restores Gut Mucosal Integrity and Protects from Liver Fibrosis in Murine Sclerosing Cholangitis. Cells 2021; 10:1622. [PMID: 34209524 PMCID: PMC8305598 DOI: 10.3390/cells10071622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a long-term liver disease characterized by a progressive course of cholestasis with liver inflammation and fibrosis. Intestinal barrier dysfunction has been implicated in the pathogenesis of PSC. According to the "leaky gut" hypothesis, gut inflammation alters the permeability of the intestinal mucosa, with the translocation of gut-derived products that enter the enterohepatic circulation and cause hepatic inflammation. Thus, the administration of molecules that preserve epithelial barrier integrity would represent a promising therapeutic strategy. Indole-3-carboxaldehyde (3-IAld) is a microbial-derived product working at the interface between the host and the microbiota and is able to promote mucosal immune homeostasis in a variety of preclinical settings. Herein, by resorting to a murine model of PSC, we found that 3-IAld formulated for localized delivery in the gut alleviates hepatic inflammation and fibrosis by modulating the intestinal microbiota and activating the aryl hydrocarbon receptor-IL-22 axis to restore mucosal integrity. This study points to the therapeutic potential of 3-IAld in liver pathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fiorella D’Onofrio
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (F.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (M.M.B.); (I.S.); (C.S.); (P.M.); (C.C.)
| | - Giorgia Renga
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (F.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (M.M.B.); (I.S.); (C.S.); (P.M.); (C.C.)
| | - Matteo Puccetti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via del Liceo 1, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (M.P.); (M.R.); (S.G.)
| | - Marilena Pariano
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (F.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (M.M.B.); (I.S.); (C.S.); (P.M.); (C.C.)
| | - Marina Maria Bellet
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (F.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (M.M.B.); (I.S.); (C.S.); (P.M.); (C.C.)
| | - Ilaria Santarelli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (F.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (M.M.B.); (I.S.); (C.S.); (P.M.); (C.C.)
| | - Claudia Stincardini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (F.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (M.M.B.); (I.S.); (C.S.); (P.M.); (C.C.)
| | - Paolo Mosci
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (F.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (M.M.B.); (I.S.); (C.S.); (P.M.); (C.C.)
| | - Maurizio Ricci
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via del Liceo 1, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (M.P.); (M.R.); (S.G.)
| | - Stefano Giovagnoli
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via del Liceo 1, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (M.P.); (M.R.); (S.G.)
| | - Claudio Costantini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (F.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (M.M.B.); (I.S.); (C.S.); (P.M.); (C.C.)
| | - Luigina Romani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (F.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (M.M.B.); (I.S.); (C.S.); (P.M.); (C.C.)
- University Research Center on Functional Genomics (C.U.R.Ge.F), University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Li S, Wang C, Zhang X, Su W. Cytochrome P450 Omega-Hydroxylase 4a14 Attenuates Cholestatic Liver Fibrosis. Front Physiol 2021; 12:688259. [PMID: 34135776 PMCID: PMC8201794 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.688259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cholestasis is a pathological condition involving obstruction of bile secretion and excretion that results in hepatotoxicity, inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and eventually liver failure. Common bile duct ligation (BDL) model is a well-established murine model to mimic cholestatic liver fibrosis. We previously reported that cytochrome P450 omega-hydroxylase 4a14 (Cyp4a14) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)-related fibrosis. The goal of this study was to determine the role of Cyp4a14 in cholestatic-induced liver fibrosis. Methods C57BL/6 mice were subjected to BDL for 14 days, and Cyp4a14 mRNA and protein levels were examined and compared with those of the sham group. Cyp4a14 knockout mice and adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated overexpression of Cyp4a14 in C57BL/6 mice underwent BDL and liver histology, and key fibrosis markers were examined. Results Both hepatic Cyp4a14 mRNA and protein levels were markedly reduced in BDL liver compared with the time-matched sham group. Cyp4a14 gene-deficient mice aggravates whereas its overexpression alleviates BDL-induced hepatic fibrosis, which were determined by liver function, liver histology, and levels of key fibrotic markers including α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and collagen 1a2 (Col1a2). Conclusion Cyp4a14 exerts a contrasting role in different hepatic fibrosis models. Strategies that enhance Cyp4a14 activity may be potential strategies to cholestatic related liver fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sha Li
- Medical College, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, China.,Hebei Key Laboratory of Applied Basic Research of Blood Purification, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei Engineering University, Handan, China.,Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chenghai Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Applied Basic Research of Blood Purification, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei Engineering University, Handan, China
| | - Xiaxia Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Handan Central Hospital, Handan, China
| | - Wen Su
- Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Cardiovascular Homeostasis, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Abstract
Autoimmune liver diseases are characterized by immune-mediated inflammation and eventual destruction of the hepatocytes and the biliary epithelial cells. They can progress to irreversible liver damage requiring liver transplantation. The post-liver transplant goals of treatment include improving the recipient’s survival, preventing liver graft-failure, and decreasing the recurrence of the disease. The keystone in post-liver transplant management for autoimmune liver diseases relies on identifying which would be the most appropriate immunosuppressive maintenance therapy. The combination of a steroid and a calcineurin inhibitor is the current immunosuppressive regimen of choice for autoimmune hepatitis. A gradual withdrawal of glucocorticoids is also recommended. On the other hand, ursodeoxycholic acid should be initiated soon after liver transplant to prevent recurrence and improve graft and patient survival in primary biliary cholangitis recipients. Unlike the previously mentioned autoimmune diseases, there are not immunosuppressive or disease-modifying agents available for patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. However, colectomy and annual colonoscopy are key components during the post-liver transplant period.
Collapse
|
47
|
Aghabi YO, Yasin A, Kennedy JI, Davies SP, Butler AE, Stamataki Z. Targeting Enclysis in Liver Autoimmunity, Transplantation, Viral Infection and Cancer. Front Immunol 2021; 12:662134. [PMID: 33953725 PMCID: PMC8089374 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.662134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Persistent liver inflammation can lead to cirrhosis, which associates with significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. There are no curative treatments beyond transplantation, followed by long-term immunosuppression. The global burden of end stage liver disease has been increasing and there is a shortage of donor organs, therefore new therapies are desperately needed. Harnessing the power of the immune system has shown promise in certain autoimmunity and cancer settings. In the context of the liver, regulatory T cell (Treg) therapies are in development. The hypothesis is that these specialized lymphocytes that dampen inflammation may reduce liver injury in patients with chronic, progressive diseases, and promote transplant tolerance. Various strategies including intrinsic and extracorporeal expansion of Treg cells, aim to increase their abundance to suppress immune responses. We recently discovered that hepatocytes engulf and delete Treg cells by enclysis. Herein, we propose that inhibition of enclysis may potentiate existing regulatory T cell therapeutic approaches in patients with autoimmune liver diseases and in patients receiving a transplant. Moreover, in settings where the abundance of Treg cells could hinder beneficial immunity, such us in chronic viral infection or liver cancer, enhancement of enclysis could result in transient, localized reduction of Treg cell numbers and tip the balance towards antiviral and anti-tumor immunity. We describe enclysis as is a natural process of liver immune regulation that lends itself to therapeutic targeting, particularly in combination with current Treg cell approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Zania Stamataki
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
He C, Yang Y, Zheng K, Chen Y, Liu S, Li Y, Han Q, Zhao RC, Wang L, Zhang F. Mesenchymal stem cell-based treatment in autoimmune liver diseases: underlying roles, advantages and challenges. Ther Adv Chronic Dis 2021; 12:2040622321993442. [PMID: 33633826 PMCID: PMC7887681 DOI: 10.1177/2040622321993442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune liver disease (AILD) is a series of chronic liver diseases with abnormal immune responses, including autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). The treatment options for AILD remain limited, and the adverse side effects of the drugs that are typically used for treatment frequently lead to a low quality of life for AILD patients. Moreover, AILD patients may have a poor prognosis, especially those with an incomplete response to first-line treatment. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are pluripotent stem cells with low immunogenicity and can be conveniently harvested. MSC-based therapy is emerging as a promising approach for treating liver diseases based on their advantageous characteristics of immunomodulation, anti-fibrosis effects, and differentiation to hepatocytes, and accumulating evidence has revealed the positive effects of MSC therapy in AILD. In this review, we first summarize the mechanisms, safety, and efficacy of MSC treatment for AILD based on work in animal and clinical studies. We also discuss the challenges of MSC therapy in clinical applications. In summary, although promising data from preclinical studies are now available, MSC therapy is currently far for being applied in clinical practice, thus developing MSC therapy in AILD is still challenging and warrants further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chengmei He
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yanlei Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Kunyu Zheng
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yiran Chen
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Suying Liu
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yongzhe Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Qin Han
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Robert Chunhua Zhao
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Fengchun Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing 100730, China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Prokopič M, Beuers U. Management of primary sclerosing cholangitis and its complications: an algorithmic approach. Hepatol Int 2020; 15:6-20. [PMID: 33377990 PMCID: PMC7886831 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-020-10118-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare cholestatic liver disease, characterized by multiple strictures and dilatations of the intra- and extrahepatic bile ducts, leading to progressive liver fibrosis, in 10–15% cholangiocarcinoma, and ultimately end-stage liver disease. The pathogenesis is poorly understood, but (epi-)genetic factors, mechanisms of innate and adaptive immunity, toxic effects of hydrophobic bile acids, and possibly intestinal dysbiosis appear to be involved. The strong link with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with a markedly enhanced risk of colorectal cancer which next to cholangiocarcinoma represents the most serious diagnostic challenge in long-term PSC management. Despite extensive research, no medical treatment has been proven so far to prolong the time to liver transplantation (LTx), which remains the effective treatment in late-stage disease. Recurrence of PSC after LTx is observed in up to 20% of patients. Here, we briefly summarize actual views on PSC pathogenesis and provide an algorithmic approach to diagnostic procedures and recommendations for the management of PSC and its complications. We describe promising treatment options subject to current clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michal Prokopič
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, AGEM, C2-327, Meibergdreef 9, 1100 DE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Gastroenterology, Comenius University Bratislava, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Ulrich Beuers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, AGEM, C2-327, Meibergdreef 9, 1100 DE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Sirica AE, Strazzabosco M, Cadamuro M. Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: Morpho-molecular pathology, tumor reactive microenvironment, and malignant progression. Adv Cancer Res 2020; 149:321-387. [PMID: 33579427 PMCID: PMC8800451 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2020.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is a relatively rare, but highly lethal and biologically complex primary biliary epithelial cancer arising within liver. After hepatocellular carcinoma, iCCA is the second most common primary liver cancer, accounting for approximately 10-20% of all primary hepatic malignancies. Over the last 10-20 years, iCCA has become the focus of increasing concern largely due to its rising incidence and high mortality rates in various parts of the world, including the United States. The challenges posed by iCCA are daunting and despite recent progress in the standard of care and management options for iCCA, the prognosis for this cancer continues to be dismal. In an effort to provide a framework for advancing our understanding of iCCA malignant aggressiveness and therapy resistance, this review will highlight key etiological, biological, molecular, and microenvironmental factors hindering more effective management of this hepatobiliary cancer. Particular focus will be on critically reviewing the cell origins and morpho-molecular heterogeneity of iCCAs, providing mechanistic insights into high risk fibroinflammatory cholangiopathies associated with iCCA development, and notably discussing the deleterious role played by the tumor reactive desmoplastic stroma in regulating iCCA malignant progression, lymphangiogenesis, and tumor immunobiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alphonse E Sirica
- Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.
| | - Mario Strazzabosco
- Liver Center and Section of Digestive Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|