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Ding D, Ren P, Guo G, Liu Y, Yang C, Zheng L, Jia G, Deng J, Sun R, Wang X, Zhou X, Shang Y, Han Y. Fenofibrate normalizes alkaline phosphatase and improves long-term outcomes in patients with advanced primary biliary cholangitis refractory to ursodeoxycholic acid. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2023; 46:692-701. [PMID: 36632973 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2023.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although patients with advanced liver disease have been included in studies evaluating fibrates for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), the frequency of biochemical responses and adverse effects for this group of patients was not reported separately and comprehensively. AIMS to evaluate the efficacy and safety of additional fenofibrate therapy in patients with advanced and ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA)-refractory PBC. METHODS Patients were analyzed retrospectively to determine the clinical therapeutic effects of UDCA with additional fenofibrate therapy versus continued UDCA monotherapy. The liver transplantation (LT)-free survival and the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) normalization rates were estimated using Cox regression analyses and Kaplan-Meier plots with inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW). RESULTS A total of 118 patients were included: 54 received UDCA alone and 64 received UDCA in combination with fenofibrate therapy. In the fenofibrate and UDCA groups, 37% and 11% of patients with advanced and UDCA-refractory PBC, respectively, achieved ALP normalization (P=0.001). Additional fenofibrate therapy improved both LT-free survival and ALP normalization rate after IPTW (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.23, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.07-0.75, P=0.015; and HR: 11.66, 95% CI: 5.02-27.06, P=0.001, respectively). These effects were supported by parallel changes in the rates of liver decompensation and histologic progression, and the United Kingdom (UK)-PBC and Globe risk scores. During the follow-up period, serum levels of ALP and aminotransferase decreased significantly, while total bilirubin, albumin, platelet, serum creatinine, and estimated glomerular filtration rate remained stable in fenofibrate-treated participants. No fenofibrate-related significant adverse events were observed in our cohort. CONCLUSIONS Additional fenofibrate therapy significantly improved LT-free survival and ALP normalization in patients with advanced and UDCA-refractory PBC. Furthermore, adding-on fenofibrate therapy appeared to be safe and well tolerated in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawei Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Pengwei Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Guanya Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yansheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chunmei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Linhua Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Gui Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Juan Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ruiqing Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiufang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xinmin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Yulong Shang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Ying Han
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
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Liu Y, Guo G, Zheng L, Sun R, Wang X, Deng J, Jia G, Yang C, Cui L, Guo C, Shang Y, Han Y. Effectiveness of Fenofibrate in Treatment-Naive Patients With Primary Biliary Cholangitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Am J Gastroenterol 2023; 118:1973-1979. [PMID: 36892506 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000002238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a progressive autoimmune liver disease, and patients with inadequate response to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) treatment show reduced long-term survival. Recent studies have shown that fenofibrate is an effective off-label therapy for PBC. However, prospective studies on biochemical response including the timing of fenofibrate administration are lacking. This study is aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of fenofibrate in UDCA treatment-naive patients with PBC. METHODS A total of 117 treatment-naive patients with PBC were recruited from the Xijing Hospital for a 12-month randomized, parallel, and open-label clinical trial. Study participants were assigned to receive either UDCA standard dose (UDCA-only group) or fenofibrate at a daily dose of 200 mg in addition to UDCA (UDCA-Fenofibrate group). RESULTS The primary outcome was biochemical response percentage in patients according to the Barcelona criterion at 12 months. In the UDCA-Fenofibrate group, 81.4% (69.9%-92.9%) of patients achieved the primary outcome and 64.3% (51.9%-76.8%) in the UDCA-only group achieved the primary outcome ( P = 0.048). There was no difference between the 2 groups in noninvasive measures of liver fibrosis and biochemical markers other than alkaline phosphatase at 12 months. Creatinine and transaminases levels in the UDCA-Fenofibrate group increased within the first month, then returned to normal, and remained stable thereafter until the end of the study, even in patients with cirrhosis. DISCUSSION In this randomized clinical trial in treatment-naive patients with PBC, the combination of fenofibrate and UDCA resulted in a significantly higher biochemical response rate. Fenofibrate seemed to be well-tolerated in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yansheng Liu
- National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases and Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Sohal A, Kowdley KV. Primary Biliary Cholangitis: Promising Emerging Innovative Therapies and Their Impact on GLOBE Scores. Hepat Med 2023; 15:63-77. [PMID: 37312929 PMCID: PMC10259525 DOI: 10.2147/hmer.s361077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), previously referred to as primary biliary cirrhosis, is an autoimmune disorder leading to the destruction of intra-hepatic bile ducts. If untreated, progressive bile duct damage and cholestasis can lead to ductopenia and result in cirrhosis. Ursodiol, the first drug approved for PBC, has changed the natural history of this disease and improved patient outcomes. Subsequently, several new prediction models incorporating a response to ursodiol were developed. These include the GLOBE score, which was shown to predict long-term outcomes in patients with PBC. In 2016, obeticholic acid (OCA) became the second drug to be approved by the FDA, predominantly based on improvement in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels. This trial has subsequently influenced the design of clinical trials. Several drugs are currently being evaluated as therapeutic options for PBC, with improvement in ALP being a main endpoint. In this review, we will discuss the impact of new therapies on GLOBE scores in patients with PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aalam Sohal
- Department of Hepatology, Liver Institute Northwest, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kris V Kowdley
- Department of Hepatology, Liver Institute Northwest, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Elson Floyd College of Medicine, Spokane, WA, USA
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Trivella J, John BV, Levy C. Primary biliary cholangitis: Epidemiology, prognosis, and treatment. Hepatol Commun 2023; 7:02009842-202306010-00027. [PMID: 37267215 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic cholestatic autoimmune liver disease characterized by a destructive, small duct, and lymphocytic cholangitis, and marked by the presence of antimitochondrial antibodies. The incidence and prevalence of PBC vary widely in different regions and time periods, and although disproportionally more common among White non-Hispanic females, contemporary data show a higher prevalence in males and racial minorities than previously described. Outcomes largely depend on early recognition of the disease and prompt institution of treatment, which, in turn, are directly influenced by provider bias and socioeconomic factors. Ursodeoxycholic acid remains the initial treatment of choice for PBC, with obeticholic acid and fibrates (off-label therapy) reserved as add-on therapy for the management of inadequate responders or those with ursodeoxycholic acid intolerance. Novel and repurposed drugs are currently at different stages of clinical development not only for the treatment of PBC but also for its symptomatic management. Here, we summarize the most up-to-date data regarding the epidemiology, prognosis, and treatment of PBC, providing clinically useful information for its holistic management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Trivella
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Binu V John
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Miami VA Medical System, Miami, Florida, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Digestive Health and Liver Diseases, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Cynthia Levy
- Department of Medicine, Division of Digestive Health and Liver Diseases, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
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Colapietro F, Gershwin ME, Lleo A. PPAR agonists for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis: Old and new tales. J Transl Autoimmun 2023; 6:100188. [PMID: 36684809 PMCID: PMC9850184 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtauto.2023.100188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune liver disease involving the small intrahepatic bile ducts; when untreated or undertreated, it may evolve to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) is the standard of care treatment, Obeticholic Acid (OCA) has been approved as second-line therapy for those non responder or intolerant to UDCA. However, due to moderate rate of UDCA-non responders and to warnings recently issued against OCA use in patients with cirrhosis, further therapies are needed.Areas covered. Deep investigations into the pathogenesis of PBC is leading to proposal of new therapeutic agents, among which peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) ligands seem to be highly promising given the preliminary, positive results in Phase 2 and 3 trials. Bezafibrate, the most evaluated, is currently used in clinical practice in combination with UDCA in referral centers. We herein describe completed and ongoing trials involving PPAR agonists use in PBC, analyzing pits and falls. Expert opinion Testing new therapeutic opportunities in PBC is challenging due to its low prevalence and slow progression. However, new drugs including PPAR agonists, are currently under investigation and should be considered for at-risk PBC patients.
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Key Words
- AEs, adverse events
- AIH, Autoimmune Hepatitis
- ALP, Alkaline Phosphatase
- AMA, Antimitochondrial antibodies
- BZF, Bezafibrate
- CKD, chronic kidney disease
- Elafibranor
- FDA, Food and Drug
- FF, Fenofibrate
- FXR, Farnesoid X Receptor
- Fibrates
- GGT, γ-glutamil transferase
- HCC, Hepatocellular Carcinoma
- HDL, high-density lipoprotein
- HR, Hazard Ratio
- HSC, Hepatic Stellate Cells
- IL-1β, Interleukin-1
- IgM, Immunoglobulin M
- LDL, low-density- lipoprotein
- LT, Liver Transplant
- MDR3, multidrug resistance protein 3
- NASH, Non Alcoholic Steato-Hepatits
- NRS, Numerical Raing Scale
- OCA, Obeticholic Acid
- OR, Odds Ratio
- PAR, protease-activated receptors
- PBC, Primary Biliary Cholangitis
- PC, phosphatidylcholine
- PH, Portal Hypertension
- PPAR agonists
- PPAR, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor
- Primary biliary cholangitis
- QoL, Quality of Life
- RCT, randomized controlled trial
- SAE, Severe Adverse Event
- Saroglitazar
- Seladelpar
- TGR, transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor
- TLR, Toll Like Receptor
- TNF-α, Tumor Necrosis Factor- α
- UDCA
- UDCA, ursodeoxycholic acid
- UK, United Kingdom
- ULN, upper limit of normal
- VAS, Visual Analogue Scale
- VRS, Verbal Rating Scale
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Colapietro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy,Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology, Humanitas Research Hospital IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - M. Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Ana Lleo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy,Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology, Humanitas Research Hospital IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy,Corresponding author.Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University; Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via A. Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089, Italy.
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Wang L, Sun K, Tian A, Liu Y, Zhang M, Zhou X, Han Y. Fenofibrate improves GLOBE and UK-PBC scores and histological features in primary biliary cholangitis. Minerva Med 2022; 113:974-982. [PMID: 33949176 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4806.21.07316-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fenofibrate (FF) has been suggested as a second-line therapy for primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) with suboptimal response to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). But its long-term effect is unclear. METHODS From a retrospective cohort (N.=838), we enrolled 106 UDCA-refractory PBC patients, among them 62 received UDCA monotherapy (UDCA group) and 44 received FF combined with UDCA (UDCA+FF group). Changes of liver biochemistries and prognosis after treatment were determined. In addition, sequential liver biopsies were used to assess the effect of FF on histological parameters. RESULTS We found adding FF could significantly reduce serum levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), but for patients with pretreatment ALP≥1.67 upper limit of normal (ULN), the significant decline of serum ALP was only observed in the UDCA+FF group after 1 year of therapy. The mean GLOBE Score and the liver transplant-free survival predicted by GLOBE Score were both improved significantly in patients receiving UDCA+FF after 1 year of therapy. The liver-related death or liver transplant calculated using UK-PBC risk score was significantly reduced in patients receiving UDCA+FF after 1 year of therapy. Although there was no marked difference in the final histological analysis after 3 years of therapy, patients receiving UDCA+FF had improvements or stabilization in fibrosis (85.7%), and bile duct loss (78.6%) were more than that of patients receiving UDCA (70.6% and 76.5%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Adding FF improves GLOBE and UK-PBC scores and is also associated with the improvements or stabilization of disease features, including fibrosis and ductular injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Keshuai Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ai Tian
- Department of Hepatology, the 9th Hospital of Nan chang, Nan chang, China
| | - Yansheng Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Miao Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xinmin Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ying Han
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China -
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Hussain N, Trivedi PJ. The Inconvenient Truth of Primary Biliary Cholangitis/Autoimmune Hepatitis Overlap Syndrome. Clin Liver Dis 2022; 26:657-680. [PMID: 36270722 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2022.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The term 'PBC/AIH-overlap' has been applied when features of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), be they biochemical, serological or histological, coexist with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), either at first presentation or sequentially during disease course. Several treatment paradigms have been proposed, extrapolated from those of the primary conditions. However, there are no randomised studies showing improved survival with combination therapy compared to bile acid monotherapy. In the absence of high-quality evidence, multidisciplinary patient-specific approaches must be used to individualise treatment pathways, with appreciation that disease phenotypes are not always static, differ in treatment responses, and have the potential to evolve over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasir Hussain
- NIHR Birmingham BRC, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom; Liver Unit, University Hospitals Birmingham National Health Service Foundation Trust Queen Elizabeth, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Palak J Trivedi
- NIHR Birmingham BRC, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom; Liver Unit, University Hospitals Birmingham National Health Service Foundation Trust Queen Elizabeth, Birmingham, United Kingdom; Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom; Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
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Liu CH, Bowlus CL. Treatment of Primary Biliary Cholangitis: First-Line and Second-Line Therapies. Clin Liver Dis 2022; 26:705-726. [PMID: 36270725 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2022.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune disease of the interlobular bile ducts leading to secondary damage of hepatocytes and may progress to cirrhosis and liver failure. The first-line treatment is ursodeoxycholic acid; up to 40% of patients do not have an adequate response and remain at risk of disease progression. Obeticholic acid has been conditionally approved for the treatment of PBC as add-on therapy and bezafibrate has shown similar efficacy in this group of patients. Several new therapies are in development and may further add to the treatment options available to patients with PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung-Heng Liu
- Drexel University College of Medicine, 2900 W Queen Ln, Philadelphia, PA 19129 USA
| | - Christopher L Bowlus
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, 4150 V Street, PSSB 3500, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
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Ding D, Guo G, Liu Y, Zheng L, Jia G, Deng J, Sun R, Wang X, Guo C, Shang Y, Han Y. Efficacy and safety of fenofibrate addition therapy in patients with cirrhotic primary biliary cholangitis with incomplete response to ursodeoxycholic acid. Hepatol Commun 2022; 6:3487-3495. [PMID: 36213941 PMCID: PMC9701475 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.2103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Fenofibrate (FF) has shown potential benefits in patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) who have an incomplete response to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). However, the efficacy and safety of FF in patients with cirrhosis remain unclear. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of additional FF therapy in patients with PBC-related cirrhosis with an incomplete response to UDCA, we conducted a retrospective analysis comparing the clinical results of additional FF therapy and continued UDCA monotherapy. A total of 59 patients were included; 27 cases underwent UDCA monotherapy and 32 cases underwent UDCA combined with FF therapy. A significant difference in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) normalization was achieved in the FF group compared to the UDCA group (37% vs. 11%, respectively; p = 0.020). Additional FF therapy was an independent risk factor for ALP normalization (hazard ratio, 7.679; 95% confidence interval, 2.059-28.633; p = 0.003). Hepatic deterioration was experienced by 40% versus 48% (p = 0.562) while 11% vs. 37% (p = 0.111) experienced liver-related mortality or liver transplantation in the FF and UDCA groups, respectively. Compared to UDCA monotherapy, additional FF therapy was associated with lower United Kingdom (UK)-PBC risk score and surrogate serum indices of liver fibrosis. After 12 months of add-on FF therapy, median ALP level and UK-PBC risk score decreased 35% and 52% from baseline (p = 0.001 and 0.210, respectively). Serum aminotransferase, triglyceride, and cholesterol decreased progressively, while total bilirubin, serum creatinine, blood urea, estimated glomerular filtration rate, aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index, and fibrosis-4 index remained stable in FF-treated cirrhotic cases during follow-up. No significant adverse effects associated with additional FF therapy were observed in our cohort. Conclusion: Additional FF therapy was associated with higher ALP normalization rates and lower UK-PBC risk scores in patients with cirrhotic PBC with an incomplete response to UDCA. In addition, FF therapy seemed safe and well tolerated with a low frequency of adverse effects in patients with cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawei Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer BiologyXijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Air Force Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Guanya Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer BiologyXijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Air Force Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Yansheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer BiologyXijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Air Force Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Linhua Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer BiologyXijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Air Force Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Gui Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer BiologyXijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Air Force Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Juan Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer BiologyXijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Air Force Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Ruiqing Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer BiologyXijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Air Force Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Xiufang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer BiologyXijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Air Force Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Changcun Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer BiologyXijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Air Force Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Yulong Shang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer BiologyXijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Air Force Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Ying Han
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer BiologyXijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, The Air Force Military Medical UniversityXi'anChina
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10
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Guoyun X, Dawei D, Ning L, Yinan H, Fangfang Y, Siyuan T, Hao S, Jiaqi Y, Ang X, Guanya G, Xi C, Yulong S, Ying H. Efficacy and safety of fenofibrate add-on therapy in patients with primary biliary cholangitis refractory to ursodeoxycholic acid: A retrospective study and updated meta-analysis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:948362. [PMID: 36110537 PMCID: PMC9468667 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.948362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is currently used for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), but some people do not respond well to UDCA. It reported that the combination of fenofibrate and UDCA can improve the clinical indices in these patients. However, more high-quality evidence is needed to improve guideline recommendations.Methods: Through an updated meta-analysis, studies included were valued by the Cochrane Evaluation Manual and Robins-I. Biochemical and clinical indicator changes in UDCA-refractory PBC patients receiving combination therapy were analyzed by Revman 5.42. Then, we explored the influence of fenofibrate dose and the effectiveness and safety of long-term application by retrospective cohort study.Results: Our meta-analysis included nine publications with a total of 389 patients, including 216 treated with UDCA alone and 173 who received combination therapy. The meta-analysis showed that combination therapy was more effective than UDCA monotherapy in decreasing biochemical parameters, such as ALP, GGT, IgM, and TG. However, the occurrence of pruritus and adverse events was slightly higher with combination therapy than with UDCA monotherapy. A total of 156 patients were included in our cohort study: 68 patients underwent UDCA monotherapy, and 88 patients underwent combination therapy. Among UDCA-refractory patients, fenofibrate add-on therapy significantly improved the ALP normalization rate.Conclusion: The combination of fenofibrate and UDCA can decrease biochemical parameters, of UDCA-refractory PBC patient. Furthermore, the efficacy and safety of long-term combination therapy were also confirmed in our cohort study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Guoyun
- National Clinical Research Centre for Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Medical University (Fourth Military Medical University), Xi’an, China
| | - Ding Dawei
- National Clinical Research Centre for Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Medical University (Fourth Military Medical University), Xi’an, China
| | - Liu Ning
- Medical Service, The Air Force Hospital of Southern Theater of PLA, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hu Yinan
- National Clinical Research Centre for Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Medical University (Fourth Military Medical University), Xi’an, China
| | - Yang Fangfang
- National Clinical Research Centre for Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Medical University (Fourth Military Medical University), Xi’an, China
| | - Tian Siyuan
- National Clinical Research Centre for Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Medical University (Fourth Military Medical University), Xi’an, China
| | - Sun Hao
- National Clinical Research Centre for Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Medical University (Fourth Military Medical University), Xi’an, China
| | - Yang Jiaqi
- National Clinical Research Centre for Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Medical University (Fourth Military Medical University), Xi’an, China
| | - Xu Ang
- National Clinical Research Centre for Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Medical University (Fourth Military Medical University), Xi’an, China
| | - Guo Guanya
- National Clinical Research Centre for Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Medical University (Fourth Military Medical University), Xi’an, China
| | - Chen Xi
- Medical Service, The Air Force Hospital of Southern Theater of PLA, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Han Ying, ; Shang Yulong, ; Chen Xi,
| | - Shang Yulong
- National Clinical Research Centre for Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Medical University (Fourth Military Medical University), Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Han Ying, ; Shang Yulong, ; Chen Xi,
| | - Han Ying
- National Clinical Research Centre for Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Medical University (Fourth Military Medical University), Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Han Ying, ; Shang Yulong, ; Chen Xi,
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Wang C, Shi Y, Wang X, Ma H, Liu Q, Gao Y, Niu J. Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors Regulate Hepatic Immunity and Assist in the Treatment of Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:940688. [PMID: 35880178 PMCID: PMC9307989 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.940688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrates, which are agonists of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha, have received increasing attention in the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis. Reduced alkaline phosphatase levels and improved clinical outcomes were observed in patients with primary biliary cholangitis with an inadequate response to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) monotherapy4 when treated with bezafibrate or fenofibrate combined with UDCA. In contrast to obeticholic acid, which exacerbates pruritus in patients, fibrates have been shown to relieve pruritus. Clinical trial outcomes show potential for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis by targeting peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. It is currently agreed that primary biliary cholangitis is an autoimmune-mediated cholestatic liver disease, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor is a nuclear receptor that regulates the functions of multiple immune cells, thus playing an important role in regulating innate and adaptive immunity. Therefore, this review focuses on the immune disorder of primary biliary cholangitis and summarizes the regulation of hepatic immunity when peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors are targeted for treating primary biliary cholangitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Wang
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ying Shi
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Center of Infectious Disease and Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of the Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Zoonotic Disease, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaomei Wang
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Center of Infectious Disease and Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of the Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Zoonotic Disease, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Heming Ma
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Center of Infectious Disease and Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of the Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Zoonotic Disease, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Quan Liu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yanhang Gao
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Center of Infectious Disease and Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of the Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Zoonotic Disease, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Yanhang Gao, ; Junqi Niu,
| | - Junqi Niu
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Center of Infectious Disease and Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of the Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Zoonotic Disease, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Yanhang Gao, ; Junqi Niu,
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Li C, Zheng K, Chen Y, He C, Liu S, Yang Y, Li M, Zeng X, Wang L, Zhang F. A randomized, controlled trial on fenofibrate in primary biliary cholangitis patients with incomplete response to ursodeoxycholic acid. Ther Adv Chronic Dis 2022; 13:20406223221114198. [PMID: 35924008 PMCID: PMC9340330 DOI: 10.1177/20406223221114198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: About one-third of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) patients do not exhibit
complete response to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). Some of these patients
were reported to benefit from the combination therapy of fibrates and UDCA,
but more clinical evidence is required. In this study, we conducted a
randomized, controlled trial on the safety and efficacy of fenofibrate in
the treatment of patients with PBC. Methods: Forty-eight PBC patients with incomplete response to UDCA were enrolled and
randomly assigned to two groups (24 in the experiment group and 24 in the
control group). For the experimental group, the patients were administered
13–15 mg/kg/day UDCA in combination with 200 mg/day fenofibrate. For the
control group, the patients continued to receive UDCA at 13–15 mg/kg/day.
The patients were followed up for at least 12 months. The serum levels of
alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (γ-GT), aspartate
aminotransferase (AST), and other biochemical parameters were measured at 3,
6, and 12 months during the trial to assess patient conditions. Results: At 12 months, 20.8% of the patients in the experimental group had all three
indexes of serum ALP, γ-GT, and total bilirubin normalized, while 0% of
patients in the control group reached the primary outcome (difference,
20.8 percentage points; 95% CI, 4.6–37.0). 54.2% of the patients had normal
ALP levels in the experimental group and 4.2% in the control group
(difference, 50 percentage points; 95% CI, 28.5–71.5). The experimental
group had greater improvement of ALP (p < 0.001) and IgG
(p = 0.026) than the control group. The biochemical
indexes of the patients in the experimental group also significantly
improved during the treatment of fenofibrate. Conclusion: Addition of fenofibrate can improve biochemical indexes of PBC patients who
had an incomplete response to UDCA. Reversible elevation of serum creatine
and transaminases is observed in some patients. The trial was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR) as
ChiCTR1800020160 (protocol available online: http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=32443).
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunlei Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Kunyu Zheng
- Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Yiran Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Chengmei He
- Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Suying Liu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Yunjiao Yang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Mengtao Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zeng
- Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, No.1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Fengchun Zhang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
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13
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New agents for immunosuppression. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2021; 54-55:101763. [PMID: 34874846 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2021.101763] [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: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The human abdomen harbors organs that the host's immune system can attack easily. This immunological storm front leads to diseases like Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis or Autoimmune Hepatitis. Serious symptoms like pain, diarrhea, fatigue, or malnutrition accompany these diseases. Moreover, many patients have an increased risk for developing special kind of malignancies and some autoimmune disease can show a high mortality. The key to treat them consists of a deep understanding of their pathophysiology. In vitro and especially in vivo basic research laid the foundation for our increasing knowledge about it during the past years. This enabled the development of new therapeutic approaches that interact directly with cytokines or immune cells instead of building the treatment on a total immunosuppression. Different kind of antibodies, kinase inhibitors, and regulatory T cells build the base for these approaches. This review shows new therapeutical approaches in gastrointestinal autoimmune diseases in context to their pathophysiological basis.
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Contreras-Omaña R, Velarde-Ruiz Velasco JA, Castro-Narro GE, Trujillo-Benavides O, Zamarripa-Dorsey F, Reyes-Dorantes AA, Muñoz-Espinosa L, Aiza-Haddad I, Castillo-Barradas M, Cerda-Reyes E, Cisneros-Garza LE, Flores-Calderón J, García-Jiménez ES, Higuera-de-la-Tijera MF, Lira-Pedrín MA, Marquez-Guillén E, Moctezuma-Velázquez C, Moreno-Alcántar R, Noyola-Cedillo SG, Pérez-Hernández JL, Ramos-Gómez MV, Remes-Troche JM, Rizo-Robles MT, Rodríguez-Hernández H. Approach to the patient with cholestasis and jaundice syndrome. Joint AMH, AMG, and AMEG scientific position statement. REVISTA DE GASTROENTEROLOGÍA DE MÉXICO 2021; 87:80-88. [PMID: 34866042 DOI: 10.1016/j.rgmxen.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The term cholestasis refers to bile acid retention, whether within the hepatocyte or in the bile ducts of any caliber. Biochemically, it is defined by a level of alkaline phosphatase that is 1.67-times higher than the upper limit of normal. Cholestatic diseases can be associated with an inflammatory process of the liver that destroys hepatocytes (hepatitis), withjaundice (yellowing of the skin and mucus membranes, associated with elevated serum bilirubin levels), or with both, albeit the three concepts should not be considered synonymous. Cholestatic diseases can be classified as intrahepatic or extrahepatic, depending on their etiology. Knowing the cause of the condition is important for choosing the adequate diagnostic studies and appropriate treatment in each case. A complete medical history, together with a thorough physical examination and basic initial studies, such as liver ultrasound and liver function tests, aid the clinician in deciding which path to follow, when managing the patient with cholestasis. In a joint effort, the Asociación Mexicana de Hepatología (AMH), the Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología (AMG) and the Asociación Mexicana de Endoscopia Gastrointestinal (AMEG) developed the first Mexican scientific position statement on said theme.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Contreras-Omaña
- Centro de Estudio e Investigación en Enfermedades Hepáticas (CEIHE), Pachuca, Hidalgo, Mexico.
| | | | | | | | | | | | - L Muñoz-Espinosa
- Centro de Hepatología, Departamento de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario "Dr. José E. González", Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - I Aiza-Haddad
- Clínica de Enfermedades Hepáticas, Hospital Ángeles Lomas, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - M Castillo-Barradas
- Hospital de Especialidades CMN La Raza, IMSS Hospital Ángeles Lindavista, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | - J Flores-Calderón
- Servicio de Gastropediatría, UMAE Hospital de Pediatría CMN Siglo XXI IMSS, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - E S García-Jiménez
- Hospital Civil de Guadalajara "Fray Antonio Alcalde", Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - M F Higuera-de-la-Tijera
- Servicio de Gastroenterología, Hospital General de México "Dr. Eduardo Liceaga", Mexico City, Mexico
| | - M A Lira-Pedrín
- Hospital Centro Médico del Prado, Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
| | | | | | | | - S G Noyola-Cedillo
- Centro Médico del Noreste, Clínica 25 IMSS, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Hospital Ángeles Torreón, Coahuila, Mexico
| | - J L Pérez-Hernández
- Hospital Central Sur de Alta Especialidad Petróleos Mexicanos, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - M V Ramos-Gómez
- Servicio de Gastroenterología, CMN 20 de Noviembre, ISSSTE Mexico City, Mexico
| | - J M Remes-Troche
- Instituto de Investigaciones Médico-Biológicas, Universidad Veracruzana, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - M T Rizo-Robles
- UMAE Hospital de Especialidades CMN La Raza IMSS, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - H Rodríguez-Hernández
- Facultad de Medicina y Nutrición, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Durango, Mexico
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15
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Obeticholic Acid and Fibrates in Primary Biliary Cholangitis: Comparative Effects in a Multicentric Observational Study. Am J Gastroenterol 2021; 116:2250-2257. [PMID: 34158466 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000001343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Obeticholic acid (OCA) and fibrates therapy results in biochemical improvement in placebo-controlled trials in patients with primary biliary cholangitis and insufficient response to ursodeoxycholic acid. There is scarce information outside of clinical trials. Therefore, we have assessed the effectiveness and adverse events of these treatments. METHODS Data from patients included in the ColHai registry treated with OCA, fibrates, or both were recorded during a year, as well as adverse events and treatment discontinuation. RESULTS Eighty-six patients were treated with OCA, 250 with fibrates (81% bezafibrate; 19% fenofibrate), and 15 with OCA plus fibrates. OCA group had baseline significantly higher alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (P = 0.01) and lower platelets (P = 0.03) than fibrates. Both treatments significantly decreased ALP, gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and transaminases and improved Globe score. Albumin and immunoglobulin type M improved in the fibrates group. ALP decrease was higher under fibrates, whereas alanine aminotransferase decline was higher under OCA. Although baseline transaminases and GGT were higher in patients with OCA plus fibrates, significant ALP, GGT, alanine aminotransferase, and Globe score improvement were observed during triple therapy. Adverse events were reported in 14.7% of patients (21.3% OCA; 17.6% fenofibrate; 10.7% bezafibrate), mainly pruritus (10.1% with OCA). Discontinuation was more frequent in fenofibrate treatment mainly because of intolerance or adverse events. DISCUSSION Second-line therapy with OCA or fibrates improves hepatic biochemistry and the GLOBE score in primary biliary cholangitis patients with suboptimal response to ursodeoxycholic acid. Simultaneous treatment with OCA and fibrates improved ALP as well.
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16
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Sorda JA, González Ballerga E, Barreyro FJ, Avagnina A, Carballo P, Paes de Lima A, Daruich J. Bezafibrate therapy in primary biliary cholangitis refractory to ursodeoxycholic acid: a longitudinal study of paired liver biopsies at 5 years of follow up. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2021; 54:1202-1212. [PMID: 34587309 DOI: 10.1111/apt.16618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is the first-line therapy for primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). However, nearly 40% of patients have an incomplete response to UDCA. The addition of bezafibrate has shown biochemical benefit in this group of patients. AIM To evaluate the long-term effects of UDCA in combination with bezafibrate on histological outcomes in patients with UDCA-refractory PBC. METHODS Fifty-nine patients refractory to UDCA were included. Clinical parameters were monitored and paired liver biopsy (PLB) was performed after 5 years of follow-up. RESULTS Of the total cohort, 49 subjects were analysed and 31 had PLB at 5 years. Values for serum ALP, AST, ALT and GGT significantly improved with UDCA-bezafibrate. This beneficial effect was observed at 12 months where 86% achieved ALP at normal levels. Analyses of PLB showed a significant decrease in liver damage as reflected by Ludwig (baseline 2.29 ± 1.2, to 1.84 ± 1 at year 5, P = 0.0242) and Ishak (baseline 6.19 ± 2.2 to 4.77 ± 2.2 at year 5, P = 0.0008) scores. Overall, regression of fibrosis was attained in 48% of patients. Furthermore, we observed a significant reduction in the proportion with cirrhosis from 19% at baseline to 3% at 5 years (P < 0.001). These beneficial effects were associated with better predictive risk scores using the GLOBE and UK-PBC prognosis models. CONCLUSIONS Adding bezafibrate to UDCA in patients with UDCA-refractory PBC showed a significant decrease in fibrosis and inflammatory histological scores at 5 years. These beneficial effects warrant further evaluation in long-term cohort studies and controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Antonio Sorda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital "José de San Martín", Faculty of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Esteban González Ballerga
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital "José de San Martín", Faculty of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fernando Javier Barreyro
- Biotechnology Institute of Misiones (INBIOMIS), National University of Misiones, National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Posadas, Argentina
| | - Alejandra Avagnina
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital "José de San Martín", Faculty of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pilar Carballo
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital "José de San Martín", Faculty of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Andrea Paes de Lima
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital "José de San Martín", Faculty of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jorge Daruich
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital "José de San Martín", Faculty of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Dohmen K, Onohara SY, Harada S. Effects of Switching from Fenofibrate to Pemafibrate for Asymptomatic Primary Biliary Cholangitis. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2021; 78:227-234. [PMID: 34697277 DOI: 10.4166/kjg.2021.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Background/Aims The addition of a fibrate to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is the standard treatment for asymptomatic primary biliary cholangitis (aPBC) with an incomplete response to UDCA. Among the fibrates, bezafibrate and fenofibrate increase the serum creatinine level and reduce the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Pemafibrate is an selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha modulator (SPPARM-α) mainly metabolized by the liver that was recently approved to treat dyslipidemia. This study confirmed the changes in the biochemical markers after switching from fenofibrate to pemafibrate in aPBC patients. Methods This study examined the effects of switching treatment from fenofibrate to pemafibrate in 16 aPBC patients. The biological parameters of these patients were examined at the initiation of fenofibrate and after switching to pemafibrate, then at 24 and 48 weeks later, respectively. Results Among patients with aPBC treated with UDCA and fenofibrate, the ALP, GGT, and serum IgM levels decreased significantly (p<0.0001) over 48 weeks. On the other hand, serum creatinine levels increased significantly, and eGFR decreased significantly (p<0.0001). After switching to pemafibrate plus UDCA, patients with aPBC exhibited significantly lower serum creatinine levels (p=0.007) and significantly higher eGFR levels (p=0.014). Conclusions Pemafibrate has therapeutic efficacy for aPBC patients with an inadequate response to UDCA. Pemafibrate might be another option for aPBC patients given its beneficial effects on renal function, but larger, multicenter studies with a longer follow-up are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazufumi Dohmen
- Gastrointestinal and Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Center, Chihaya Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Shin-Ya Onohara
- Gastrointestinal and Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Center, Chihaya Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Shigeru Harada
- Gastrointestinal and Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Center, Chihaya Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
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18
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Wetten A, Jones DEJ, Dyson JK. Specific considerations for the management of primary biliary cholangitis: are the drug treatment options good enough? Expert Opin Pharmacother 2021; 22:1949-1953. [PMID: 34121570 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2021.1940135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Wetten
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK.,Liver unit, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - David Emrys Jeffreys Jones
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK.,Liver unit, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Jessica Katharine Dyson
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK.,Liver unit, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
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19
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Abstract
Cholestatic liver disease is a disease that causes liver damage and fibrosis owing to bile stasis. It is represented by primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), but the pathophysiological pathways that cause bile stasis in both diseases are different. The pathogenesis of the disease is still unclear, although autoimmune mechanisms have been postulated and partially elucidated. Although the disease may progress slowly with only mild liver dysfunction, it may progress to liver cirrhosis or liver failure, which require liver transplantation. As a medical treatment, ursodeoxycholic acid is widely used for PBC and has proved to be very effective against disease progression in cases of PBC. On the other hand, its efficacy is limited in cases of PSC, and the research and development of various drugs are underway. Furthermore, the clinical course of both diseases is quite variable, making the design of clinical trials fairly difficult. In this review, we present the general natural history of PBC and PSC, and provide information on the latest drug therapies currently available and those that are under investigation.
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20
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Clinical Management of Primary Biliary Cholangitis-Strategies and Evolving Trends. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2021; 59:175-194. [PMID: 31713023 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-019-08772-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PBC is a chronic progressive autoimmune disorder involving the destruction of intrahepatic small bile ducts, cholestasis, fibrosis, and ultimately cirrhosis if left untreated. It is largely driven by the autoimmune response, but bile acids and the intestinal microbiota are implicated in disease progression as well. The only drugs licensed for PBC are UDCA and OCA. UDCA as a first-line and OCA as a second-line therapy are safe and effective, but the lack of response in a significant portion of patients and inadequate control of symptoms such as fatigue and pruritus remain as concerns. Liver transplantation is an end-stage therapy for many patients refractory to UDCA, which gives excellent survival rates but also moderate to high recurrence rates. The limited options for FDA-approved PBC therapies necessitate the development of alternative approaches. Currently, a wide variety of experimental drugs exist targeting immunological and physiological aspects of PBC to suppress inflammation. Immunological therapies include drugs targeting immune molecules in the B cell and T cell response, and specific cytokines and chemokines implicated in inflammation. Drugs targeting bile acids are also noteworthy as bile acids can perpetuate hepatic inflammation and lead to fibrosis over time. These include FXR agonists, ASBT inhibitors, and PPAR agonists such as bezafibrate and fenofibrate. Nonetheless, many of these drugs can only delay disease progression and fail to enhance patients' quality of life. Nanomedicine shows great potential for treatment of autoimmune diseases, as it provides a new approach that focuses on tolerance induction rather than immunosuppression. Tolerogenic nanoparticles carrying immune-modifying agents can be engineered to safely and effectively target the antigen-specific immune response in autoimmune diseases. These may work well with PBC especially, given the anatomical features and immunological specificity of the disease. Nanobiological therapy is thus an area of highly promising research for future treatment of PBC.
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21
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Cortez-Pinto H, Liberal R, Lopes S, Machado MV, Carvalho J, Dias T, Santos A, Agostinho C, Figueiredo P, Loureiro R, Martins A, Alexandrino G, Cotrim I, Leal C, Presa J, Mesquita M, Nunes J, Gouveia C, Vale AHE, Alves AL, Coelho M, Maia L, Pedroto I, Banhudo A, Pinto JS, Gomes MV, Oliveira J, Andreozzi V, Calinas F. Predictors for incomplete response to ursodeoxycholic acid in primary biliary cholangitis. Data from a national registry of liver disease. United European Gastroenterol J 2021; 9:699-706. [PMID: 34102008 PMCID: PMC8280809 DOI: 10.1002/ueg2.12095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The current standard of treatment in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), although a considerable proportion of patients show incomplete response resulting in disease progression. Objective This study aimed to assess the prevalence of incomplete response to UDCA and determine associated patients' characteristics. Methods Patients with PBC as main diagnosis were included from a national multicentric patient registry—Liver.pt. Main endpoints included incomplete response to UDCA treatment according to Barcelona, Paris I and Paris II criteria, Globe and UK PBC scores and the association between baseline characteristics and incomplete response according to Paris II criteria. Results A total of 434 PBC patients were identified, with a mean age of 55 years and 89.2% females. Nearly half of patients were asymptomatic at diagnosis and 93.2% had positive anti‐mitochondrial antibodies. Almost all patients (95.6%) had been prescribed at least one drug for PBC treatment. At the last follow‐up visit, 93.3% were under treatment of which 99.8% received UDCA. Incomplete response to UDCA was observed in 30.7%, 35.3%, 53.7% and 36.4% of patients according to Barcelona, Paris I, Paris II criteria and Globe score, respectively. After adjusting for age and sex, and accordingly to Paris II criteria, the risk for incomplete biochemical response was 25% higher for patients with cirrhosis at diagnosis (odds ratio [OR] = 1.25; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.02–1.54; p = 0.033) and 35% (95%CI:1.06–1.72; p = 0.016) and 5% (OR = 1.05; 95%CI:1.01–1.10; p = 0.013) for those with elevated gamma‐glutamyl transferase (GGT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Conclusion A considerable proportion of patients showed incomplete biochemical response to UDCA treatment according to Paris II criteria. Cirrhosis, elevated GGT and ALP at diagnosis were identified as associated risk factors for incomplete response. Early identification of patients at risk of incomplete response could improve treatment care and guide clinical decision to a more careful patient monitorization.
Summarise the established knowledge on this subject
Primary biliary cholangitis is a liver disease that can progress to end‐stage liver disease, with premature death or need for liver transplantation. Treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) significantly increases liver transplant‐free survival. However, incomplete response to UDCA reduces this beneficial effect.
What are the significant and/or new findings of this study?
By evaluating prevalence and risk factors for UDCA incomplete response through a large multicentric national registry it was found that 53.7% of patients were incomplete responders, according to Paris II criteria, with cirrhosis, elevated gamma‐glutamyl transferase and alkaline phosphatase at diagnosis as the main risk factors. These findings suggest that patients diagnosed at an advanced stage should be closely monitored and might benefit from novel therapies to improve outcomes if incomplete response is present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Cortez-Pinto
- Clínica Universitária de Gastrenterologia, Departamento de Gastrenterologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Norte, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Rodrigo Liberal
- Gastroenterology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário São João, Porto, Portugal.,Gastroenterology Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Susana Lopes
- Gastroenterology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário São João, Porto, Portugal.,Gastroenterology Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana V Machado
- Clínica Universitária de Gastrenterologia, Departamento de Gastrenterologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Norte, Lisboa, Portugal.,Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Vila Franca de Xira, Vila Franca de Xira, Portugal
| | - Joana Carvalho
- Clínica Universitária de Gastrenterologia, Departamento de Gastrenterologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Norte, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Teresa Dias
- Department of Internal Medicine, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Arsénio Santos
- Department of Internal Medicine, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Agostinho
- Gastroenterology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Pedro Figueiredo
- Gastroenterology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rafaela Loureiro
- Gastroenterology Department, Central Lisbon Hospital Centre, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Alexandra Martins
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando da Fonseca, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Gonçalo Alexandrino
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando da Fonseca, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Isabel Cotrim
- Gastroenterology Department, Centro Hospitalar de Leiria, Leiria, Portugal
| | - Carina Leal
- Gastroenterology Department, Centro Hospitalar de Leiria, Leiria, Portugal
| | - José Presa
- Internal Medicine Department, Liver Unit, Centro Hospitalar de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Mónica Mesquita
- Internal Medicine Department, Liver Unit, Centro Hospitalar de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Joana Nunes
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Catarina Gouveia
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Lisboa, Portugal
| | | | - Ana Luísa Alves
- Gastroenterology Department, Centro Hospitalar de Setúbal, Setúbal, Portugal
| | - Mariana Coelho
- Gastroenterology Department, Centro Hospitalar de Setúbal, Setúbal, Portugal
| | - Luís Maia
- Gastroenterology Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Isabel Pedroto
- Gastroenterology Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - António Banhudo
- Gastroenterology Department, Unidade Local de Saúde Castelo Branco, Castelo Branco, Portugal
| | - João Sebastião Pinto
- Gastroenterology Department, Unidade Local de Saúde Castelo Branco, Castelo Branco, Portugal
| | | | | | | | - Filipe Calinas
- Gastroenterology Department, Central Lisbon Hospital Centre, Lisboa, Portugal
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22
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Carrion AF, Lindor KD, Levy C. Safety of fibrates in cholestatic liver diseases. Liver Int 2021; 41:1335-1343. [PMID: 33751787 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Off-label use of fibrates in patients with cholestatic liver diseases results in improved biochemical parameters and pruritus; however, their safety in this population has been a concern. This study summarizes safety data for fibrates when used for treatment of cholestatic liver diseases. METHODS A systematic review of published studies evaluating the use of fibrates for treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) was performed. Electronic databases were searched up to December 2019 for published studies evaluating treatment outcomes associated to fibrates for these 2 diseases. RESULTS A total of 37 studies were identified, including 31 for PBC and 6 for PSC, with a total of 1107 unique patients treated with fibrates ± ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). Most studies evaluated fenofibrate and bezafibrate, and only 1 study evaluated pemafibrate. There were no studies evaluating gemfibrozil or clofibrate. The most commonly reported adverse events (AEs) were gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal. Elevations of aminotransferases and serum creatinine were reported more commonly in patients treated with UDCA plus fibrates versus UDCA monotherapy. CONCLUSIONS Fibrates appear to be safe and well tolerated in patients with PBC, with a low frequency of AEs. There are scarce data about the safety of these agents for treatment of PSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andres F Carrion
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Keith D Lindor
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
- Office of University Provost, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Cynthia Levy
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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23
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Li H, Guan Y, Han C, Zhang Y, Liu Q, Wei W, Ma Y. The pathogenesis, models and therapeutic advances of primary biliary cholangitis. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 140:111754. [PMID: 34044277 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the destruction of intrahepatic small bile ducts and the presence of antimitochondrial antibody (AMA), eventually progresses to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Genetic predisposition and environmental factors are involved in the occurrence of PBC, and the epitopes exposure and the imbalance of autoimmune tolerance are the last straw. The apoptosis of biliary epithelial cell (BEC) leads to the release of autoantigen epitopes, which activate the immune system, and the disorder of innate and adaptive immunity eventually leads to the start of disease. Animal models have unique advantages in investigating the pathogenesis and drug exploitation of PBC. Multiple models have been reported, and spontaneous model and induced model have been widely used in relevant research of PBC in recent years. Currently, the only drugs licensed for PBC are ursodesoxycholic acid (UDCA) and obeticholic acid (OCA). In the last few years, as the learned more about the pathogenesis of PBC, more and more targets have been discovered, and multiple targeted drugs are being in developed. In this review, the pathogenesis, murine models and treatment strategies of PBC were summarized, and the current research status was discussed to provide insights for the further study of PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Li
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Yanling Guan
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Chenchen Han
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Qian Liu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China.
| | - Yang Ma
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China.
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24
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Gerussi A, D'Amato D, Cristoferi L, O'Donnell SE, Carbone M, Invernizzi P. Multiple therapeutic targets in rare cholestatic liver diseases: Time to redefine treatment strategies. Ann Hepatol 2021; 19:5-16. [PMID: 31771820 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2019.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis are rare diseases affecting the bile ducts and the liver. The limited knowledge of their pathogenesis leads to limited therapeutic options. Nevertheless, the landscape of novel therapies for these cholangiopathies is now rapidly changing, providing new treatment opportunities for patients and clinicians involved in their care. The aim of this review is to summarize the evidence of novel molecules under investigation for primary biliary cholangitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis and to discuss how they can potentially change current treatment paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Gerussi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Daphne D'Amato
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Laura Cristoferi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Sarah Elizabeth O'Donnell
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Marco Carbone
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy.
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25
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Gochanour EM, Kowdley KV. Investigational drugs in early phase development for primary biliary cholangitis. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2020; 30:131-141. [PMID: 33249947 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2021.1857364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: With a large percentage of patients having an incomplete response or intolerance to current FDA approved medications, new therapies for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis are in great demand. Areas covered: In this review, we assess currently available drugs as well as promising new therapies for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis. A literature search was performed with the following search terms: 'PBC treatment,' 'PBC therapeutics,' 'PBC clinical trials,' and included original articles, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews from 1 January 1981, to 1 January 2020. ClinicalTrials.gov was accessed for data from ongoing trials. Expert opinion: Targeted drug therapies offer an alternative for patients who are unable to meet their therapeutic goals with either of the two currently approved treatment options. Specifically, new drugs targeting bile-acid regulation, immune-modulation, and fibrogenic pathways are currently in development with multiple agents showing encouraging early results with the ultimate goal of developing therapies that will achieve high rates of biochemical remission, will be well tolerated, and improve symptoms and quality of life in patients with primary biliary cholangitis. Based on a review of the current literature, PPAR agonists appear to be promising agents, along with FGF19 analogs and FXR agonists.
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26
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Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) causes chronic and persistent cholestasis in the liver, eventually resulting in cirrhosis and hepatic failure without appropriate treatment. PBC mainly develops in middle-aged women, but it is also common in young women and men. PBC is considered a model of autoimmune disease because of the presence of disease-specific autoantibodies, that is, antimitochondrial antibodies (AMAs), intense infiltration of mononuclear cells into the bile ducts, and a high prevalence of autoimmune diseases such as comorbidities. Histologically, PBC is characterized by degeneration and necrosis of intrahepatic biliary epithelial cells surrounded by a dense infiltration of mononuclear cells, coined as chronic non-suppurative destructive cholangitis, which leads to destructive changes and the disappearance of small- or medium-sized bile ducts. Since 1990, early diagnosis with the detection of AMAs and introduction of ursodeoxycholic acid as first-line treatment has greatly altered the clinical course of PBC, and liver transplantation-free survival of patients with PBC is now comparable to that of the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Tanaka
- Department of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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27
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Abenavoli L, Procopio AC, Fagoonee S, Pellicano R, Carbone M, Luzza F, Invernizzi P. Primary Biliary Cholangitis and Bile Acid Farnesoid X Receptor Agonists. Diseases 2020; 8:diseases8020020. [PMID: 32532037 PMCID: PMC7348889 DOI: 10.3390/diseases8020020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic autoimmune liver disease characterized by the progressive destruction of the intrahepatic bile ducts. Currently, the first line drug for PBC is ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) characterized by anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory and protective actions on cholangiocytes. Despite its recognized therapeutic action, 30–40% of PBC patients only partially benefit from UDCA therapy. This has led to the identification of the role of the farnesoid x receptor (FXR) in cholestatic liver diseases and, consequently, to the development of obeticholic acid (OCA), a steroid FXR agonist that has been recently approved for the treatment of PBC. OCA though is not effective in all patients and can cause itch, which eventually induces treatment drop out. Therefore, the search for new therapeutic strategies for PBC has begun. This review, in addition to summarizing the current treatments for PBC, provides overview of the chemical characteristics of new steroid FXR agonist candidates that could represent a future perspective for the treatment of PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludovico Abenavoli
- Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Graecia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (A.C.P.); (F.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0961-369-4387; Fax: +39-0961-754-220
| | - Anna Caterina Procopio
- Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Graecia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (A.C.P.); (F.L.)
| | - Sharmila Fagoonee
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (CNR) c/o Molecular Biotechnology Center, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | | | - Marco Carbone
- Division of Gastroenterology, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca; 20126 Milan, Italy; (M.C.); (P.I.)
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Francesco Luzza
- Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Graecia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (A.C.P.); (F.L.)
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca; 20126 Milan, Italy; (M.C.); (P.I.)
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, 20900 Monza, Italy
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28
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Gerussi A, Lucà M, Cristoferi L, Ronca V, Mancuso C, Milani C, D'Amato D, O'Donnell SE, Carbone M, Invernizzi P. New Therapeutic Targets in Autoimmune Cholangiopathies. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:117. [PMID: 32318580 PMCID: PMC7154090 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.00117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) are autoimmune cholangiopathies characterized by limited treatment options. A more accurate understanding of the several pathways involved in these diseases has fostered the development of novel and promising targeted drugs. For PBC, the characterization of the role of farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and perixosome-proliferator activated receptor (PPAR) has paved the way to several clinical trials including different molecules with choleretic and antinflammatory action. Conversely, different pathogenetic models have been proposed in PSC such as the “leaky gut” hypothesis, a dysbiotic microbiota or a defect in mechanisms protecting against bile acid toxicity. Along these theories, new treatment approaches have been developed, ranging from drugs interfering with trafficking of lymphocytes from the gut to the liver, fecal microbiota transplantation or new biliary acids with possible immunomodulatory potential. Finally, for both diseases, antifibrotic agents are under investigation. In this review, we will illustrate current understanding of molecular mechanisms in PBC and PSC, focusing on actionable biological pathways for which novel treatments are being developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Gerussi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Martina Lucà
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Laura Cristoferi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Ronca
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy.,National Institute of Health Research Liver Biomedical Research Centre Birmingham, Centre for Liver Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Clara Mancuso
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Chiara Milani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Daphne D'Amato
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Sarah Elizabeth O'Donnell
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Marco Carbone
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
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29
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Villa-Gómez CC, Velilla-Aguirre DS, Lopera-Restrepo LC, Hoyos-Duque SI. Colangitis esclerosante primaria. Una revisión narrativa. IATREIA 2020. [DOI: 10.17533/udea.iatreia.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
La colangitis esclerosante primaria (CEP) es una patología hepática crónica y rara que se caracterizapor la inflamación y fibrosis de los conductos biliares, cuya evolución puede llevar a la cirrosis, hipertensión portal y enfermedad hepática en etapa terminal. Su etiología es desconocida, pero se ha relacionado con factores genéticos y autoinflamatorios. Además, tiene una relación muy estrecha con la enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal (EII). Su presentación clínica es muy inespecífica, sus principales síntomas son el prurito y la fatiga.
La prueba estándar para su diagnóstico es la colangiopancreatografía por resonancia magnética (CPRM), donde se observa un aspecto anular ocasionado por estenosis multifocales cortas con segmentos alternos normales o dilatados. Actualmente, no existe ningún tratamiento farmacológico que logre prolongar la supervivencia sin un trasplante de hígado en la CEP. Sólo se puede hacer tratamiento sintomático, especialmente del prurito.
El único manejo curativo con el que se cuenta hoy en día es el trasplante hepático, aunque existe un riesgo de recurrencia de la enfermedad. Es muy importante la vigilancia de los trastornos inflamatorios intestinales, la malignidad y la enfermedad metabólica ósea en estos pacientes. Se ha visto que algunos factores, como el diagnóstico temprano, son de buen pronóstico para la enfermedad.
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30
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Shah RA, Kowdley KV. Current and potential treatments for primary biliary cholangitis. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 5:306-315. [DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(19)30343-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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31
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Hao YL, Bian ZL, Ju LL, Liu Y, Qin G. RANK/RANKL Acts as a Protective Factor by Targeting Cholangiocytes in Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Dig Dis Sci 2020; 65:470-479. [PMID: 31377883 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-019-05758-5] [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: 12/24/2018] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune liver disease characterized by the highly selective autoimmune injury of small intrahepatic bile ducts. Studies reported that the cholangiocytes from PBC patients expressed significantly higher levels of both receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B (RANK) and its ligand RANKL. However, the accurate role of RANK/RANKL axis in PBC remains unclear. METHODS Forty patients with PBC were enrolled according to the inclusion criteria. The biochemical parameters (alkaline phosphatase, ALP; gamma-glutamyltransferase, GGT; alanine aminotransferase, ALT; aspartate transaminase, AST; total bilirubin, TB) were collected at baseline and followed-up after 6 months of treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA, 15 mg/kg d). Stages of PBC were diagnosed based on liver biopsy histopathology according to Nakanuma's criteria. RANK expression in hepatic tissues was detected by immunohistochemistry. The cellular immunofluorescence method was used to locate the distribution of RANK in the human intrahepatic biliary epithelial cells (HIBECs) cultured in vitro. HIBECs were treated with RANKL at a concentration of 100 ng/ml or transfected with RANK-overexpressing lentivirus (LV-RANK). CCK-8 assay and cell cycle assay were used to detect the cell proliferation. Real-time PCR was used to detect the expression of IL-6, E-cadherin, VCAM, ICAM-1, TNF-α, and CD80. RESULTS RANK expression in liver biopsies from early PBC patients (stage I + stage II) was significantly lower than that from advanced PBC patients (stage III + stage IV) (1.7 ± 0.63 vs. 2.3 ± 0.45 scores, P < 0.05). High-RANK patients seemed to have better response to UDCA than low-RANK patients (88.9% vs. 40.9%, P < 0.05). The baseline biochemical parameters between the two groups were comparable. The decline percentages of ALP and GGT after UDCA treatment were more obvious in high-RANK patients than those in low-RANK patients (53.90% ± 9.82% vs. 23.93% ± 6.24%, P < 0.05; 74.11% ± 7.18% vs. 48.00% ± 8.17%, P < 0.05, respectively). HIBECs proliferation was significantly inhibited after treatment of RANKL or transfection with LV-RANK. Increased expression of IL-6 and E-cadherin was observed in HIBECs treated with RANKL or LV-RANK. CONCLUSION The overall hepatic RANK expression was associated with disease severity and biochemical response in PBC patients. Activation of RANK/RANKL signaling pathway inhibited cholangiocytes proliferation in vitro. Our study suggested that RANK/RANKL pathway might be a potential target of immunotherapy of PBC based on its involvement in the occurrence and development of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Li Hao
- Center for Liver Diseases, Nantong Third People's Hospital, Nantong University, 60 Mid-Youth Road, Nantong, 226006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhao-Lian Bian
- Center for Liver Diseases, Nantong Third People's Hospital, Nantong University, 60 Mid-Youth Road, Nantong, 226006, Jiangsu, China.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shanghai Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Lin-Ling Ju
- Center for Liver Diseases, Nantong Third People's Hospital, Nantong University, 60 Mid-Youth Road, Nantong, 226006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuan Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Gang Qin
- Center for Liver Diseases, Nantong Third People's Hospital, Nantong University, 60 Mid-Youth Road, Nantong, 226006, Jiangsu, China.
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Abstract
Though ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) remains the baseline treatment for most cholestatic liver diseases, UDCA treatment leaves approximately one-third of patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and all patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) at risk for disease progression. New anticholestatic agents, including nuclear receptor agonists, choleretics, and bile acid synthesis suppressors, will likely increase response rates to therapy in PBC and PSC. Strategies that target early immune-mediated injury have so far been disappointing, hampered by the lack of biomarkers to detect early disease states, which then could profit from immunomodulatory therapy. Future concepts need to personalize treatments according to disease stage, progression, and phase, and to combine multiple drugs to target different pathogenic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Wagner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Peter Fickert
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
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Honda A, Tanaka A, Kaneko T, Komori A, Abe M, Inao M, Namisaki T, Hashimoto N, Kawata K, Takahashi A, Ninomiya M, Kang JH, Arakawa M, Yamagiwa S, Joshita S, Umemura T, Sato K, Kaneko A, Kikuchi K, Itakura J, Nomura T, Kakisaka K, Fujii H, Kawada N, Takikawa Y, Masaki T, Ohira H, Mochida S, Yoshiji H, Iimuro S, Matsuzaki Y, Takikawa H. Bezafibrate Improves GLOBE and UK-PBC Scores and Long-Term Outcomes in Patients With Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Hepatology 2019; 70:2035-2046. [PMID: 30737815 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In Japan, bezafibrate (BF) is a second-line agent for primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) that is refractory to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) treatment. From a retrospective cohort (n = 873) from the Japan PBC Study Group, we enrolled 118 patients who had received UDCA monotherapy for at least 1 year followed by combination therapy with UDCA+BF for at least 1 year. GLOBE and UK-PBC scores after UDCA monotherapy (i.e., immediately before UDCA+BF combination therapy) were compared with those after 1 year of UDCA+BF combination therapy. The real outcomes of enrolled patients estimated by Kaplan-Meier analysis were compared with the predicted outcomes calculated using GLOBE and UK-PBC scores. In addition, the hazard ratio of BF treatment was calculated using propensity score analysis. The mean GLOBE score before the combination therapy was 0.504 ± 0.080, which improved significantly to 0.115 ± 0.085 (P < 0.0001) after 1 year of combination therapy. The real liver transplant-free survival of enrolled patients was significantly better than that predicted by GLOBE score before introducing BF. Combination therapy did not significantly improve the real rates of liver transplantation or liver-related death compared with those predicted by UK-PBC risk score before introducing BF, but the predicted risk was significantly reduced by the addition of BF (P < 0.0001). Cox regression analysis with inverse probability of treatment weighting showed that the addition of BF significantly reduced the hazard of liver transplant or liver-related death in patients who, after 1 year of UDCA monotherapy, had normal serum bilirubin (adjusted hazard ratio 0.09, 95% confidence interval 0.01-0.60, P = 0.013). Conclusion: Addition of BF to UDCA monotherapy improves not only GLOBE and UK-PBC scores but also the long-term prognosis of PBC patients, especially those with early-stage PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akira Honda
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tokyo Medical University Ibaraki Medical Center, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Atsushi Tanaka
- Department of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuji Kaneko
- Teikyo Academic Research Center, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsumasa Komori
- Clinical Research Center, National Hospital Organization (NHO) Nagasaki Medical Center, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Masanori Abe
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime, Japan
| | - Mie Inao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Tadashi Namisaki
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Naoaki Hashimoto
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tokyo Teishin Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuhito Kawata
- Hepatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Atsushi Takahashi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Masashi Ninomiya
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Jong-Hon Kang
- Center for Gastroenterology, Teine Keijinkai Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Mie Arakawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Yufu City, Japan
| | - Satoshi Yamagiwa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Satoru Joshita
- Division of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Takeji Umemura
- Division of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Ken Sato
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Akira Kaneko
- Department of Gastroenterology, NTT West Osaka Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kentaro Kikuchi
- The Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, Teikyo University Mizonokuchi Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Jun Itakura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takako Nomura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Neurology, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Kagawa, Japan
| | - Keisuke Kakisaka
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
| | - Hideki Fujii
- Department of Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka City University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Norifumi Kawada
- Department of Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka City University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Takikawa
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Masaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Neurology, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Kagawa, Japan
| | - Hiromasa Ohira
- Department of Gastroenterology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Satoshi Mochida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Yoshiji
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Satoshi Iimuro
- Teikyo Academic Research Center, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasushi Matsuzaki
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tokyo Medical University Ibaraki Medical Center, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hajime Takikawa
- Department of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Wah-Suarez MI, Danford CJ, Patwardhan VR, Jiang ZG, Bonder A. Hyperlipidaemia in primary biliary cholangitis: treatment, safety and efficacy. Frontline Gastroenterol 2019; 10:401-408. [PMID: 31656566 PMCID: PMC6788128 DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2018-101124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Revised: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/09/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune liver disease associated with altered lipoprotein metabolism, mainly cholesterol. Hypercholesterolaemia, a major modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease in the general population, occurs in 75%-95% of individuals with PBC. The impact of hypercholesterolaemia on cardiovascular risk in PBC, however, is controversial. Previous data have shown that hypercholesterolaemia in PBC is not always associated with an increase in cardiovascular events. However, patients with PBC with cardiovascular risk factors may still warrant cholesterol-lowering therapy. Treatment of hypercholesterolaemia in PBC poses unique challenges among primary care providers due to concerns of hepatotoxicity associated with cholesterol-lowering medications. This review summarises the current understanding of the pathophysiology of hypercholesterolaemia in PBC and its pertinent cardiovascular risk. We will also discuss indications for treatment and the efficacy and safety of available agents for hypercholesterolaemia in PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin I Wah-Suarez
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital ’Dr. José Eleuterio González', Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Christopher J Danford
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Vilas R Patwardhan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Z Gordon Jiang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alan Bonder
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Tanaka A. Emerging novel treatments for autoimmune liver diseases. Hepatol Res 2019; 49:489-499. [PMID: 30969002 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The etiology of autoimmune liver diseases, such as autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), still remains largely unknown and no therapeutic agents that are able to "cure" these diseases have been developed. Although corticosteroids for AIH and ursodeoxycholic acid for PBC have been shown to significantly improve liver transplantation (LT)-free survival and are recommended as first-line drugs, treatment strategies for patients who show incomplete response to these drugs have not yet been fully established. No drug is significantly associated with long LT-free survival in PSC patients. Nevertheless, with progress in genetics, immunology, and cellular biology, several new compounds or antibodies are expected to have an effect on autoimmune liver diseases and several drugs are under consideration for clinical use. Although most clinical trials have been carried out in the USA or Europe, some are, or will be, undertaken in Japan in the future. In this review, the current standard-of-care of autoimmune liver diseases will be summarized, together with emerging novel treatments relevant to clinical practice in Japan.
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Duan W, Ou X, Wang X, Wang Y, Zhao X, Wang Q, Wu X, Zhang W, Ma H, You H, Jia J. Efficacy and safety of fenofibrate add-on therapy for patients with primary biliary cholangitis and a suboptimal response to UDCA. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE ENFERMEDADES DIGESTIVAS 2019; 110:557-563. [PMID: 29739227 DOI: 10.17235/reed.2018.5533/2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) patients with a suboptimal response to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) have a significantly worse survival rate. Fenofibrate has been shown to improve the short-term biochemical response in this group of patients. However, there is limited data available on the safety and efficacy of its long-term use, especially in patients with cirrhosis. Methods:in this retrospective cohort study, fenofibrate was given to PBC patients with a suboptimal response to at least 12 months of UDCA (13-15 mg/kg/d) therapy. Biochemistry data, GLOBE score and UK-PBC risk score at baseline and at different time points of treatment were compared. The safety profiles were also compared between cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic patient groups. Results:fenofibrate (200 mg/day) was given to 39 PBC patients with a suboptimal response to UDCA (15 cirrhotic and 24 non-cirrhotic patients). In the 26 patients who completed more than one year of combination therapy, the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels were 215 (185, 326) U/l, 122 (110, 202) U/l, 128 (106, 194) U/l, 124 (100, 181) U/l and 120 (82, 168) U/l, at baseline, three months, six months, 12 months and 24 months, respectively. All p values were < 0.01 when compared to baseline values. After two years of combination therapy, the UK-PBC risk score and GLOBE score did not significantly improve. The overall rates of adverse events were not significantly different between the cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic group. The elevation of liver enzymes was the most frequent side effect (n = 7), leading to a discontinuation in four patients. Furthermore, after two years of combination therapy, the serum creatinine levels and estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR) were significantly worse in both groups. CONCLUSION fenofibrate add-on therapy could improve ALP and γ-GT levels in both non-cirrhotic and cirrhotic PBC patients with a suboptimal response to UDCA. However, patients need to be monitored carefully for a potential liver injury and nephrotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijia Duan
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, china
| | - Xiaojuan Ou
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, china
| | - Xiaoming Wang
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, china
| | - Yu Wang
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, china
| | - Xinyan Zhao
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, china
| | - Qianyi Wang
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, china
| | - Xiaoning Wu
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, china
| | - Wei Zhang
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, china
| | - Hong Ma
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, china
| | - Hong You
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, china
| | - Jidong Jia
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, china
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Hirschfield GM, Dyson JK, Alexander GJM, Chapman MH, Collier J, Hübscher S, Patanwala I, Pereira SP, Thain C, Thorburn D, Tiniakos D, Walmsley M, Webster G, Jones DEJ. The British Society of Gastroenterology/UK-PBC primary biliary cholangitis treatment and management guidelines. Gut 2018; 67:1568-1594. [PMID: 29593060 PMCID: PMC6109281 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2017-315259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Revised: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (formerly known as primary biliary cirrhosis, PBC) is an autoimmune liver disease in which a cycle of immune mediated biliary epithelial cell injury, cholestasis and progressive fibrosis can culminate over time in an end-stage biliary cirrhosis. Both genetic and environmental influences are presumed relevant to disease initiation. PBC is most prevalent in women and those over the age of 50, but a spectrum of disease is recognised in adult patients globally; male sex, younger age at onset (<45) and advanced disease at presentation are baseline predictors of poorer outcome. As the disease is increasingly diagnosed through the combination of cholestatic serum liver tests and the presence of antimitochondrial antibodies, most presenting patients are not cirrhotic and the term cholangitis is more accurate. Disease course is frequently accompanied by symptoms that can be burdensome for patients, and management of patients with PBC must address, in a life-long manner, both disease progression and symptom burden. Licensed therapies include ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and obeticholic acid (OCA), alongside experimental new and re-purposed agents. Disease management focuses on initiation of UDCA for all patients and risk stratification based on baseline and on-treatment factors, including in particular the response to treatment. Those intolerant of treatment with UDCA or those with high-risk disease as evidenced by UDCA treatment failure (frequently reflected in trial and clinical practice as an alkaline phosphatase >1.67 × upper limit of normal and/or elevated bilirubin) should be considered for second-line therapy, of which OCA is the only currently licensed National Institute for Health and Care Excellence recommended agent. Follow-up of patients is life-long and must address treatment of the disease and management of associated symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gideon M Hirschfield
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, Birmingham, UK
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Liver Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jessica K Dyson
- Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre, Newcastle, United Kingdom
| | - Graeme J M Alexander
- Sheila Sherlock Liver Centre, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - Michael H Chapman
- Department of Gastroenterology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jane Collier
- Translational Gastroenterology Unit, Oxford University Hospitals, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Stefan Hübscher
- Centre for Liver Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Cellular Pathology, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Imran Patanwala
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospitals NHS Trust, Liverpool, UK
- University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Stephen P Pereira
- Sheila Sherlock Liver Centre, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Douglas Thorburn
- Sheila Sherlock Liver Centre, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - Dina Tiniakos
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - George Webster
- Department of Gastroenterology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - David E J Jones
- Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre, Newcastle, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis is a progressive, autoimmune disease of the interlobular bile ducts, leading to secondary damage of hepatocytes that may progress to cirrhosis and liver failure. Until recently, the only approved treatment was ursodeoxycholic acid. However, 40% of patients do not have an adequate response. Obeticholic acid was approved for treatment as add-on therapy in this group of patients. Off-label use of fibrates has also been reported to be effective. Several new therapies are in development and may further add to the treatment options available to patients with primary biliary cholangitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly A Wong
- Department of Internal Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, 4150 V Street, PSSB 3000, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Runalia Bahar
- Department of Internal Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, 4150 V Street, PSSB 3000, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Chung H Liu
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UC Davis School of Medicine, 4150 V Street, PSSB 3500, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Christopher L Bowlus
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UC Davis School of Medicine, 4150 V Street, PSSB 3500, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
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Dyson JK, Beuers U, Jones DEJ, Lohse AW, Hudson M. Primary sclerosing cholangitis. Lancet 2018; 391:2547-2559. [PMID: 29452711 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(18)30300-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 247] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2016] [Revised: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a rare, chronic cholestatic liver disease characterised by intrahepatic or extrahepatic stricturing, or both, with bile duct fibrosis. Inflammation and fibrosis of bile ducts and the liver are followed by impaired bile formation or flow and progressive liver dysfunction. Patients might be asymptomatic at presentation or might have pruritus, fatigue, right upper quadrant pain, recurrent cholangitis, or sequelae of portal hypertension. The key diagnostic elements are cholestatic liver biochemistry and bile duct stricturing on cholangiography. Genetic and environmental factors are important in the cause of the disease, with the intestinal microbiome increasingly thought to play a pathogenetic role. Approximately 70% of patients have concurrent inflammatory bowel disease and patients require colonoscopic screening and surveillance. Primary sclerosing cholangitis is associated with increased malignancy risk and surveillance strategies for early cholangiocarcinoma detection are limited. No single drug has been proven to improve transplant-free survival. Liver transplantation is effective for advanced disease but at least 25% of patients develop recurrent disease in the graft.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica K Dyson
- Department of Hepatology, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK.
| | - Ulrich Beuers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - David E J Jones
- Department of Hepatology, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
| | - Ansgar W Lohse
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mark Hudson
- Department of Hepatology, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
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Harms MH, van Buuren HR, van der Meer AJ. Improving prognosis in primary biliary cholangitis - Therapeutic options and strategy. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2018; 34-35:85-94. [PMID: 30343714 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Overall survival in primary biliary cholangitis is diminished. As patients are often asymptomatic, the disease may silently progress towards cirrhosis and liver failure. Timely diagnosis and effective treatment options are of vital importance to improve the prognosis of affected patients. Ursodeoxycholic acid is the standard of care first-line therapy and is associated with a reduced risk of liver transplantation and death. Treatment with UDCA is relevant for all patients, irrespective of disease stage or biochemical response. In case of incomplete biochemical response according to internationally accepted criteria, second-line treatment should be considered to improve long-term prognosis. Ursodeoxycholic acid has been the only accepted treatment for PBC during the last decades. Recent research, however, has identified a number of new therapeutic targets and agents, including obeticholic acid, fibrates and budesonide. While these agents all qualify as potentially beneficial second-line treatment, obeticholic acid is currently the only drug specifically approved for the treatment of PBC. Although long-term follow-up studies for these agents are mostly lacking, improvement of biochemical surrogate markers of clinical outcome induced by these drugs suggests a therapeutic benefit. The authors of this review aim to provide a summary of the results of previous and current studies evaluating medical treatments, and propose a treatment strategy based on the evidence available today.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maren H Harms
- Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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41
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Patterns of disease progression and incidence of complications in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2018; 34-35:71-83. [PMID: 30343713 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2018.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Clinical outcome for patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is dictated by development of cirrhosis, portal hypertension and its associated complications; including for some, a predisposition toward hepatocellular carcinoma. However rates of clinical progression vary, and accurately identifying disease course is of critical importance to patients, clinicians, as well as industry, who are committed to developing new effective and life-prolonging therapy as well as treating symptoms that appear disproportionate to underlying disease severity. Patients seek reassurance and guidance as to their own prognosis, and clinicians wish to confidently recognise those at highest risk of poor outcomes as equally as they strive to reassure individuals with a more favourable disease trajectory. International registries have facilitated a much greater knowledge of disease incidence and heterogeneity of presenting phenotypes. In so doing they highlight the opportunity to provide a more individualized estimate of the clinical course that patients experience, and have led to a renewed approach to risk stratification; both in terms of 'hard outcomes' and also disease-associated complications in PBC specifically.
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Tanaka A, Leung PS, Young HA, Gershwin ME. Therapeutic and immunological interventions in primary biliary cholangitis: from mouse models to humans. Arch Med Sci 2018; 14:930-940. [PMID: 30002712 PMCID: PMC6040118 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2017.70995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 04/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Tanaka
- Department of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Patrick S.C. Leung
- Division of Rheumatology Allergy and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Howard A. Young
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute-Frederick, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - M. Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology Allergy and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
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Abstract
In most cholestatic liver diseases the primary cholestasis-causing lesions are located in the biliary tree and may be of (auto)immune origin. Bile salts are responsible for the secondary toxic consequences. Bile salt and nuclear hormone directed therapies primarily aim at improving this secondary toxic injury. In primary biliary cholangitis, trials show statistically significant responses on biochemical endpoints. Preclinical studies suggest that FXR- and PPAR-agonists, inhibitors of the apical sodium-dependent bile salt transporter (ASBT-inhibitors) and the C23 UDCA derivative nor-UDCA are promising agents for the treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Area covered: Pharmaceuticals that interfere with bile salt signaling in humans for the treatment of chronic cholestatic liver disease are reviewed. Expert commentary: Nuclear hormone receptors, bile salt transport proteins and receptors provide targets for novel therapies of cholestatic liver disease. These drugs show positive results on biochemical endpoints. For histological endpoints, survival and transplant-free survival, long-term trials are needed. For relief of symptoms, such as fatigue and pruritus, these drugs have yet to prove their value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter L M Jansen
- a Maastricht Center for Systems Biology (MaCSBio) , Maastricht University , Maastricht , The Netherlands.,b Academic Medical Center , University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam , The Netherlands
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Reig A, Sesé P, Parés A. Effects of Bezafibrate on Outcome and Pruritus in Primary Biliary Cholangitis With Suboptimal Ursodeoxycholic Acid Response. Am J Gastroenterol 2018; 113:49-55. [PMID: 29016567 DOI: 10.1038/ajg.2017.287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Adding fibrates improves liver biochemistries in patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and suboptimal response to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). As there are no consistent data regarding the course and outcome, we have assessed the effects of the combined treatment with UDCA and bezafibrate on a long-term basis. METHODS A total of 48 patients (45 female) with PBC treated with UDCA and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) above 1.5 times upper normal levels (× UNL) were treated with bezafibrate (400 mg/day) plus UDCA (13-16 mg/kg/day). Changes in clinical features, liver biochemistries, and prognosis after therapy were assessed, as well as pruritus, using a visual analog scale (43 patients) and the 5-D descriptive pruritus scale. RESULTS After a median of 38 months, 26 patients (54%) had normalized ALP. In these patients, jaundice, pruritus, and liver stiffness was lower, and age was higher than in patients who remained with elevated ALP. Biochemical improvement was less prominent in patients without ALP normalization. Five of these patients (23%) developed events of disease progression: 1 died, 3 were transplanted, and 1 developed hepatocellular carcinoma. Partial or complete itching relief was reported in all but one case with pruritus. Itching recurrence or worsening was observed after bezafibrate discontinuation. CONCLUSIONS The long-term treatment with UDCA and bezafibrate results in excellent response, and is associated with a complete or partial itching relief. Incomplete ALP normalization was observed in patients with advanced disease who remained at risk for developing severe events. The combined treatment is mainly effective in patients with lower fibrosis and severity of cholestasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Reig
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pilar Sesé
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Albert Parés
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Suraweera D, Rahal H, Jimenez M, Viramontes M, Choi G, Saab S. Treatment of primary biliary cholangitis ursodeoxycholic acid non-responders: A systematic review. Liver Int 2017; 37:1877-1886. [PMID: 28517369 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), formerly known as primary biliary cirrhosis, is a chronic cholestatic liver disease characterized by an immune mediated destruction of intrahepatic bile ducts. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) has been the primary medication for the treatment of PBC, resulting in improved liver tests, resolution of symptoms and increased transplant free survival. However, not all patients respond to UDCA. The aim of this systematic review is to provide an evidence based assessment of the medications that have been studied in patients who are refractory to UDCA. METHODS We performed a systematic literature search on MEDLINE and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews of the published literature. A total of 23 articles fulfilling our inclusion criteria were found. RESULTS Several studies have shown an improvement in liver biochemistries with the use of obeticholic acid in conjunction with UDCA. Fibrates, including fenofibrate and bezafibrate, have evidence supporting benefit in this population but need more robust studies to confirm these observational results. Neither obeticholic acid nor fibrates have shown to increase transplant free survival. While there may be some benefit with methotrexate, colchicine, budesonide, mycophenolate mofetil and azathioprine, these findings were not consistent and the benefits were marginal. Further investigation is needed. CONCLUSION In patients with PBC refractory to UDCA, obeticholic acid or a fibrate is a reasonable choice as an adjunctive treatment to UDCA. Further investigation with randomized controlled trials is needed to provide high quality evidence to formulate standardized therapies in this difficult to treat population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Harman Rahal
- Department of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Melissa Jimenez
- Department of Surgery, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Matthew Viramontes
- Department of Surgery, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gina Choi
- Department of Surgery, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sammy Saab
- Department of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Department of Surgery, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Ahmad J, Odin JA, Hayashi PH, Chalasani N, Fontana RJ, Barnhart H, Cirulli ET, Kleiner DE, Hoofnagle JH. Identification and Characterization of Fenofibrate-Induced Liver Injury. Dig Dis Sci 2017; 62:3596-3604. [PMID: 29119413 PMCID: PMC5694705 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-017-4812-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [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: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fenofibrate is a commonly used hypolipidemic associated with rare instances of hepatotoxicity, and routine liver biochemistry monitoring is recommended. AIMS The aim of this study is to describe the presenting clinical features, liver histopathology, and outcomes of 7 cases of acute liver injury associated with fenofibrate. METHODS All cases of definite, very likely, and probable drug-induced liver injury (DILI) attributed to fenofibrate enrolled in the DILI Network study between 2004 and 2015 were reviewed. RESULTS Among 1229 patients with confirmed DILI, 7 cases (0.6%) were attributed to fenofibrate. The median age was 43 (range 37-61) years, and latency to onset was short (5-8 weeks) in 4 patients but more prolonged (18-56 weeks) in the rest. Laboratory results at presentation showed hepatocellular, mixed, and cholestatic injury, but 6 cases presented with jaundice. No patient had undergone routine monitoring. Four patients required hospitalization and 2 in whom drug discontinuation was delayed had a severe outcome, 1 undergoing liver transplantation, and 1 developing chronic injury and death. Liver biopsy was available in 4 patients and showed diverse injury patterns. Genetic studies showed the presence of the rare HLA-A*33:01 in 3 patients (43 vs. 1% in control populations). The causality scores were highly likely in 5 and probable in 2. CONCLUSIONS Liver injury after fenofibrate exposure occurs with variable latency, enzyme elevation, and histology. Although most cases are self-limited, severe injury and mortality can occur, particularly if drug withdrawal is delayed. Jaundice or abnormal laboratory tests during fenofibrate therapy should trigger prompt discontinuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jawad Ahmad
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
| | - Joseph A Odin
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Paul H Hayashi
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Naga Chalasani
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Robert J Fontana
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Huiman Barnhart
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Elizabeth T Cirulli
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - David E Kleiner
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Jay H Hoofnagle
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
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Parés A. Advances in treatment options for patients with primary biliary cholangitis. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/21678707.2017.1394840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Albert Parés
- Liver Unit, University of Barcelona, Hospital Clínic, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Barcelona, Spain
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49
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Khanna A, Jones DE. Novel strategies and therapeutic options for the management of primary biliary cholangitis. Therap Adv Gastroenterol 2017; 10:791-803. [PMID: 29051789 PMCID: PMC5638183 DOI: 10.1177/1756283x17728669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic autoimmune liver disease. It has a varied course of progression ranging from being completely asymptomatic to aggressive disease leading to cirrhosis and resulting in liver transplantation. In addition, symptoms can be debilitating and can have a major impact on quality of life. For decades, there was only one anti-cholestatic agent available to target this disease and that was only effective in around half of patients, with little or no effect on symptoms. With increasing understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of PBC and potential targets for drug treatment, pharmaceutical companies have shown a greater interest in this rare disease. A large number of novel therapeutic molecules have been developed and are currently being evaluated. In this review article all the novel molecules in use and in trials targeting cholestasis and symptoms in PBC are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David E. Jones
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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50
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EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines: The diagnosis and management of patients with primary biliary cholangitis. J Hepatol 2017; 67:145-172. [PMID: 28427765 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2017.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 752] [Impact Index Per Article: 107.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune cholestatic liver disease, which when untreated will culminate in end-stage biliary cirrhosis. Diagnosis is usually based on the presence of serum liver tests indicative of a cholestatic hepatitis in association with circulating antimitochondrial antibodies. Patient presentation and course can be diverse and risk stratification is important to ensure all patients receive a personalised approach to their care. The goals of treatment and management are the prevention of end-stage liver disease, and the amelioration of associated symptoms. Pharmacologic approaches in practice, to reduce the impact of the progressive nature of disease, currently include licensed therapies (ursodeoxycholic acid and obeticholic acid) and off-label therapies (fibric acid derivatives, budesonide). These clinical practice guidelines summarise the evidence for the importance of a structured, life-long and individualised, approach to the care of patients with PBC, providing a framework to help clinicians diagnose and effectively manage patients.
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