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Pierzchala K, Hadjihambi A, Mosso J, Jalan R, Rose CF, Cudalbu C. Lessons on brain edema in HE: from cellular to animal models and clinical studies. Metab Brain Dis 2024; 39:403-437. [PMID: 37606786 PMCID: PMC10957693 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-023-01269-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Brain edema is considered as a common feature associated with hepatic encephalopathy (HE). However, its central role as cause or consequence of HE and its implication in the development of the neurological alterations linked to HE are still under debate. It is now well accepted that type A and type C HE are biologically and clinically different, leading to different manifestations of brain edema. As a result, the findings on brain edema/swelling in type C HE are variable and sometimes controversial. In the light of the changing natural history of liver disease, better description of the clinical trajectory of cirrhosis and understanding of molecular mechanisms of HE, and the role of brain edema as a central component in the pathogenesis of HE is revisited in the current review. Furthermore, this review highlights the main techniques to measure brain edema and their advantages/disadvantages together with an in-depth description of the main ex-vivo/in-vivo findings using cell cultures, animal models and humans with HE. These findings are instrumental in elucidating the role of brain edema in HE and also in designing new multimodal studies by performing in-vivo combined with ex-vivo experiments for a better characterization of brain edema longitudinally and of its role in HE, especially in type C HE where water content changes are small.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Pierzchala
- CIBM Center for Biomedical Imaging, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Animal Imaging and Technology, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Anna Hadjihambi
- The Roger Williams Institute of Hepatology London, Foundation for Liver Research, London, SE5 9NT, UK
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jessie Mosso
- CIBM Center for Biomedical Imaging, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Animal Imaging and Technology, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Laboratory for Functional and Metabolic Imaging (LIFMET), EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- Liver Failure Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
- European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure (EF Clif), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Christopher F Rose
- Hépato-Neuro Laboratory, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l', Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, QC, H2X 0A9, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, QC, Montreal, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Cristina Cudalbu
- CIBM Center for Biomedical Imaging, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Animal Imaging and Technology, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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Deep V, Sondhi S, Gupta S. Assessment of Serum Zinc Levels in Patients With Decompensated Cirrhosis of the Liver and Its Association With Disease Severity and Hepatic Encephalopathy: A Prospective Observational Study From North India. Cureus 2023; 15:e41207. [PMID: 37525813 PMCID: PMC10387324 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.41207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Zinc, an essential trace element, plays a vital role in cellular metabolism, and the liver is the main organ responsible for its metabolism. Because serum zinc levels are found to be lowered in chronic liver diseases, it has been hypothesized to be a precipitating factor for the development of hepatic encephalopathy. Methodology This prospective, observational study included patients with decompensated cirrhosis of the liver who were admitted to the medical intensive care unit of a tertiary care institute in northern India between September 2021 and April 2023. The diagnosis was based on history and detailed clinical examination. The serum zinc levels of patients were estimated using atomic absorption spectrometry at admission and compared to that of healthy controls. Serum zinc levels were correlated with the severity of liver disease and hepatic encephalopathy among the cases. Results A total of 100 cases of decompensated cirrhosis of the liver and 50 healthy controls were included. The mean serum zinc level of the cases was 40.5 ± 10.0 µg/dL which was significantly lower than the mean serum zinc level (104.0±9.1 µg/dL) of controls (p < 0.0001). Serum zinc level was significantly lower in patients with higher grades of hepatic encephalopathy (p = 0.000). Similarly, serum zinc level was significantly reduced among patients with higher Child-Pugh and Model for End-stage Liver Disease scores. Conclusions Serum zinc level is significantly reduced in patients with decompensated cirrhosis of the liver, and lower serum zinc level is associated with the increased severity of the disease and higher grades of hepatic encephalopathy. In patients with decompensated cirrhosis of the liver, maintenance of adequate serum zinc levels may prevent hepatic encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vansh Deep
- General Medicine, Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Medical Sciences & Research, Mullana, IND
| | - Shankerdeep Sondhi
- General Medicine, Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Medical Sciences & Research, Mullana, IND
| | - Sunita Gupta
- General Medicine, Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Medical Sciences & Research, Mullana, IND
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Nascimento H, Malaquias MJ, Pinto CM, Sá Silva J, Rochate D, Fraga C, Alves JE, Ramos C, Gandara J, Ferreira S, Lopes V, Cavaco S, Pessegueiro Miranda H, Almeida A, Magalhães M. Trace Element Imbalances in Acquired Hepatocerebral Degeneration and Changes after Liver Transplant. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:804. [PMID: 37372089 DOI: 10.3390/biology12060804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Brain manganese (Mn) accumulation is a key feature in patients with acquired hepatocerebral degeneration (AHD). The role of trace elements other than Mn in AHD needs to be clarified. In this study, using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, we aimed to evaluate blood levels of trace elements in patients with AHD before and after liver transplantation (LT). Trace element levels in the AHD group were also compared with those of healthy controls (blood donors, n = 51). Fifty-one AHD patients were included in the study (mean age: 59.2 ± 10.6 years; men: 72.5%). AHD patients had higher levels of Mn, Li, B, Ni, As, Sr, Mo, Cd, Sb, Tl and Pb and a higher Cu/Se ratio, and lower levels of Se and Rb. Six patients (two women; mean age 55 ± 8.7 years) underwent LT, and there was an improvement in neurological symptoms, a significant increase in the Zn, Se and Sr levels, and a decrease in the Cu/Zn and Cu/Se ratios. In summary, several trace element imbalances were identified in AHD patients. Liver transplantation resulted in the improvement of neurological manifestations and the oxidant/inflammatory status. It is possible that observed changes in trace element levels may play a role in the pathophysiology and symptomatology of AHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrique Nascimento
- Neurology Service, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria João Malaquias
- Neurology Service, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal
| | - Catarina Mendes Pinto
- Neuroradiology Service, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal
| | - José Sá Silva
- Neuroradiology Service, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal
| | - Dina Rochate
- Hematology Service, Hospital do Divino Espírito Santo, 9500-370 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
| | - Cristina Fraga
- Hematology Service, Hospital do Divino Espírito Santo, 9500-370 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
| | - José Eduardo Alves
- Neuroradiology Service, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina Ramos
- Neuroradiology Service, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal
| | - Judit Gandara
- Hepatic Pancreatic Transplantation Unit, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia Ferreira
- Hepatic Pancreatic Transplantation Unit, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal
| | - Vítor Lopes
- Hepatic Pancreatic Transplantation Unit, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara Cavaco
- Neuropsychology Unit, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal
| | - Helena Pessegueiro Miranda
- Hepatic Pancreatic Transplantation Unit, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal
| | - Agostinho Almeida
- Laboratório Associado para a Química Verde (Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry) of the Network of Chemistry and Technology (LAQV/REQUIMTE), Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Marina Magalhães
- Neurology Service, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal
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Ullah MI, Alameen AAM, Al-Oanzi ZH, Eltayeb LB, Atif M, Munir MU, Ejaz H. Biological Role of Zinc in Liver Cirrhosis: An Updated Review. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041094. [PMID: 37189711 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis is a complication usually due to the consequence of persistent chronic liver disease. It is associated with different mechanisms, including hypoalbuminemia, impaired amino acid turnover, and micronutrient deficiencies. Consequently, cirrhotic patients can develop progressive complications like ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The liver is a vital organ that regulates the different metabolic pathways and transportation of trace elements. Zn is an indispensable micronutrient trace element involved in its crucial functions in cellular metabolic activity. Zn mediates its action by binding to a wide range of proteins; therefore, it imparts numerous biological effects, including cellular division, differentiation, and growth. It is also involved in critical processes for the biosynthesis of structural proteins and regulation of transcription factors and acts as a co-factor for the various enzymatic processes. As the liver is a significant regulator of Zn metabolism, its abnormalities lead to Zn deficiency, which has consequences on cellular, endocrine, immune, sensory, and skin dysfunctions. Conversely, Zn deficiency may modify the functions of hepatocytes and immune responses (acute phase protein production) in inflammatory liver diseases. This review has concisely stated the evolving indication of the critical role of Zn in biological processes and complications associated with liver cirrhosis pathogenesis due to Zn deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Ikram Ullah
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayman Ali Mohammed Alameen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ziad H Al-Oanzi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lienda Bashier Eltayeb
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam Bin Abdul Aziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Atif
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Usman Munir
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hasan Ejaz
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia
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Simicic D, Cudalbu C, Pierzchala K. Overview of oxidative stress findings in hepatic encephalopathy: From cellular and ammonium-based animal models to human data. Anal Biochem 2022; 654:114795. [PMID: 35753389 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2022.114795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress is a natural phenomenon in the body. Under physiological conditions intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) are normal components of signal transduction cascades, and their levels are maintained by a complex antioxidants systems participating in the in-vivo redox homeostasis. Increased oxidative stress is present in several chronic diseases and interferes with phagocytic and nervous cell functions, causing an up-regulation of cytokines and inflammation. Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) occurs in both acute liver failure (ALF) and chronic liver disease. Increased blood and brain ammonium has been considered as an important factor in pathogenesis of HE and has been associated with inflammation, neurotoxicity, and oxidative stress. The relationship between ROS and the pathophysiology of HE is still poorly understood. Therefore, sensing ROS production for a better understanding of the relationship between oxidative stress and functional outcome in HE pathophysiology is critical for determining the disease mechanisms, as well as to improve the management of patients. This review is emphasizing the important role of oxidative stress in HE development and documents the changes occurring as a consequence of oxidative stress augmentation based on cellular and ammonium-based animal models to human data.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Simicic
- CIBM Center for Biomedical Imaging, Switzerland; Animal Imaging and Technology, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Laboratory of Functional and Metabolic Imaging, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - C Cudalbu
- CIBM Center for Biomedical Imaging, Switzerland; Animal Imaging and Technology, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - K Pierzchala
- CIBM Center for Biomedical Imaging, Switzerland; Animal Imaging and Technology, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Laboratory of Functional and Metabolic Imaging, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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Pierzchala K, Simicic D, Sienkiewicz A, Sessa D, Mitrea S, Braissant O, McLin VA, Gruetter R, Cudalbu C. Central nervous system and systemic oxidative stress interplay with inflammation in a bile duct ligation rat model of type C hepatic encephalopathy. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 178:295-307. [PMID: 34890769 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The role and coexistence of oxidative stress (OS) and inflammation in type C hepatic encephalopathy (C HE) is a subject of intense debate. Under normal conditions the physiological levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species are controlled by the counteracting antioxidant response to maintain redox homeostasis. Our previous in-vivo1H-MRS studies revealed the longitudinal impairment of the antioxidant system (ascorbate) in a bile-duct ligation (BDL) rat model of type C HE. Therefore, the aim of this work was to examine the course of central nervous system (CNS) OS and systemic OS, as well as to check for their co-existence with inflammation in the BDL rat model of type C HE. To this end, we implemented a multidisciplinary approach, including ex-vivo and in-vitro electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy (EPR) spin-trapping, which was combined with UV-Vis spectroscopy, and histological assessments. We hypothesized that OS and inflammation act synergistically in the pathophysiology of type C HE. Our findings point to an increased CNS- and systemic-OS and inflammation over the course of type C HE progression. In particular, an increase in the CNS OS was observed as early as 2-weeks post-BDL, while the systemic OS became significant at week 6 post-BDL. The CNS EPR measurements were further validated by a substantial accumulation of 8-Oxo-2'-deoxyguanosine (Oxo-8-dG), a marker of oxidative DNA/RNA modifications on immunohistochemistry (IHC). Using IHC, we also detected increased synthesis of antioxidants, glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX-1) and superoxide dismutases (i.e.Cu/ZnSOD (SOD1) and MnSOD (SOD2)), along with proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the brains of BDL rats. The presence of systemic inflammation was observed already at 2-weeks post-surgery. Thus, these results suggest that CNS OS is an early event in type C HE rat model, which seems to precede systemic OS. Finally, our results suggest that the increase in CNS OS is due to enhanced formation of intra- and extra-cellular ROS rather than due to reduced antioxidant capacity, and that OS in parallel with inflammation plays a significant role in type C HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Pierzchala
- Center for Biomedical Imaging, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland; Animal Imaging and Technology, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Laboratory of Functional and Metabolic Imaging, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - D Simicic
- Center for Biomedical Imaging, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland; Animal Imaging and Technology, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Laboratory of Functional and Metabolic Imaging, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - A Sienkiewicz
- Laboratory for Quantum Magnetism, Institute of Physics, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland; ADSresonances Sàrl, Préverenges, Switzerland
| | - D Sessa
- Swiss Pediatric Liver Center, Department of Pediatrics, Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals Geneva and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - S Mitrea
- Center for Biomedical Imaging, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland; Animal Imaging and Technology, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - O Braissant
- Service of Clinical Chemistry, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - V A McLin
- Swiss Pediatric Liver Center, Department of Pediatrics, Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals Geneva and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - R Gruetter
- Center for Biomedical Imaging, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland; Laboratory of Functional and Metabolic Imaging, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - C Cudalbu
- Center for Biomedical Imaging, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland; Animal Imaging and Technology, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Grüngreiff K, Gottstein T, Reinhold D, Blindauer CA. Albumin Substitution in Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis: Don't Forget Zinc. Nutrients 2021; 13:4011. [PMID: 34836265 PMCID: PMC8618355 DOI: 10.3390/nu13114011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Decompensated liver cirrhosis has a dismal prognosis, with patients surviving on average for 2-4 years after the first diagnosis of ascites. Albumin is an important tool in the therapy of cirrhotic ascites. By virtue of its oncotic properties, it reduces the risk of cardiovascular dysfunction after paracentesis. Treatment with albumin also counteracts the development of hepatorenal syndrome and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. More recently, the positive impact of long-term albumin supplementation in liver disease, based on its pleiotropic non-oncotic activities, has been recognized. These include transport of endo- and exogenous substances, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities, and stabilizing effects on the endothelium. Besides the growing recognition that effective albumin therapy requires adjustment of the plasma level to normal physiological values, the search for substances with adjuvant activities is becoming increasingly important. More than 75% of patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis do not only present with hypoalbuminemia but also with zinc deficiency. There is a close relationship between albumin and the essential trace element zinc. First and foremost, albumin is the main carrier of zinc in plasma, and is hence critical for systemic distribution of zinc. In this review, we discuss important functions of albumin in the context of metabolic, immunological, oxidative, transport, and distribution processes, alongside crucial functions and effects of zinc and their mutual dependencies. In particular, we focus on the major role of chronic inflammatory processes in pathogenesis and progression of liver cirrhosis and how albumin therapy and zinc supplementation may affect these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt Grüngreiff
- Clinic of Gastroenterology, City Hospital Magdeburg GmbH, 39130 Magdeburg, Germany;
| | - Thomas Gottstein
- Clinic of Gastroenterology, City Hospital Magdeburg GmbH, 39130 Magdeburg, Germany;
| | - Dirk Reinhold
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Otto-von-Guericke-University, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany;
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Altered motor cortical plasticity in patients with hepatic encephalopathy: A paired associative stimulation study. Clin Neurophysiol 2021; 132:2332-2341. [PMID: 34454259 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2021.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a potentially reversible brain dysfunction caused by liver failure. Altered synaptic plasticity is supposed to play a major role in the pathophysiology of HE. Here, we used paired associative stimulation with an inter-stimulus interval of 25 ms (PAS25), a transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) protocol, to test synaptic plasticity of the motor cortex in patients with manifest HE. METHODS 23 HE-patients and 23 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Motor evoked potential (MEP) amplitudes were assessed as measure for cortical excitability. Time courses of MEP amplitude changes after the PAS25 intervention were compared between both groups. RESULTS MEP-amplitudes increased after PAS25 in the control group, indicating PAS25-induced synaptic plasticity in healthy controls, as expected. In contrast, MEP-amplitudes within the HE group did not change and were lower than in the control group, indicating no induction of plasticity. CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed reduced synaptic plasticity of the primary motor cortex in HE. SIGNIFICANCE Reduced synaptic plasticity in HE provides a link between pathological changes on the molecular level and early clinical symptoms of the disease. This decrease may be caused by disturbances in the glutamatergic neurotransmission due to the known hyperammonemia in HE patients.
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Diglio DC, Fernandes SA, Stein J, Azeredo-da-Silva A, de Mattos AA, Tovo CV. Role of zinc supplementation in the management of chronic liver diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Hepatol 2021; 19:190-196. [PMID: 31611064 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2019.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Zinc deficiency has been associated with poor prognosis in chronic liver disease. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the role of zinc supplementation in the management of chronic liver diseases. MATERIALS AND METHODS We searched MEDLINE, LILACS, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases from inception to August 2018. We included randomized controlled trials evaluating adult patients with chronic liver disease of any etiology receiving zinc supplementation. Studies with other designs or evaluating chronic conditions other than liver disease were excluded. Two reviewers independently screened and extracted data from eligible studies. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias in randomized studies. RESULTS Of 1315 studies screened, 13 were included. Six assessed chronic hepatitis C treatment, with a relative risk of 0.83 indicating no protective effect of zinc supplementation on the improvement of sustained virological response. Three evaluated response to hepatic encephalopathy treatment, with a relative risk of 0.66 indicating a favorable effect of zinc supplementation on clinical improvement of this condition. Of four studies evaluating the management of cirrhosis, two analyzed the effect of zinc supplementation on serum albumin levels, with no statistical difference between zinc and placebo groups. CONCLUSIONS Clinical trials assessing zinc supplementation in liver diseases do not show benefits in terms of clinical improvement or disease halting. There are possible benefits of zinc supplementation on hepatic encephalopathy, however, this is based on limited evidence. This research question is still open for evaluation in larger, well-designed, clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela C Diglio
- Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Jessica Stein
- Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - André Azeredo-da-Silva
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Angelo A de Mattos
- Department of Internal Medicine: Gastroenterology and Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, UFCSPA, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Cristiane V Tovo
- Department of Internal Medicine: Gastroenterology and Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, UFCSPA, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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Reinert JP, Burnham K. Non-Lactulose Medication Therapies for the Management of Hepatic Encephalopathy: A Literature Review. J Pharm Pract 2020; 34:922-933. [PMID: 32878558 DOI: 10.1177/0897190020953024] [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: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The most appropriate medication regimen to mitigate the consequences hepatic encephalopathy remains inconclusive. This review seeks to serve as a reference for clinicians to help guide therapy decisions with regard to hepatic encephalopathy. METHODS A comprehensive literature review between August 2018 and April 2019 was accomplished with the assistance of a medical librarian. Sources of literature review include PubMed, MEDLINE, SCOPUS, ProQuest Central, CINAHL, and ProQuest Dissertations. The authors selected randomized clinical and double-blind cross-over trials evaluating probiotics, zinc, polyethylene glycol, rifaximin, and flumazenil. Sixteen clinical trials are discussed in this review. Pertinent safety, efficacy, and statistical and clinical outcomes are summarized by the authors. CONCLUSIONS The most appropriate regimen to mitigate the consequences of hepatic encephalopathy remains elusive; however, the agents discussed within this review offer alternative options for patients unresponsive to or intolerant of traditional lactulose therapy. This review seeks to serve as a repository for relevant clinical trials, and as a reference for clinicians to help guide therapy decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin P Reinert
- Ben and Maytee Fisch College of Pharmacy, 12347The University of Texas at Tyler, TX, USA
| | - Kevin Burnham
- Ben and Maytee Fisch College of Pharmacy, 12347The University of Texas at Tyler, TX, USA
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11
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Effects of foetal and breastfeeding exposure to methylmercury (MeHg) and retinol palmitate (Vitamin A) in rats: Redox parameters and susceptibility to DNA damage in liver. Mutat Res 2020; 858-860:503239. [PMID: 33198929 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2020.503239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2020] [Revised: 08/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is known to be a chemical that poses a risk to public health. Exposure to MeHg and vitamin A (VitA) occurs through the ingestion of fish, present in the diet of most pregnant women. The absorption of these elements generates oxidative stress and can generate adaptations for future stressful events. Here, we assessed how exposure to VitA and/or MeHg during the fetal and breastfeeding period modulates the toxicity of MeHg reexposure in adulthood. We focus on redox systems and repairing DNA damage. Male rats (n = 50), were divided into 5 groups. Control received mineral oil; The VitA group received VitA during pregnancy, during breastfeeding and was exposed to MeHg in adulthood; VitA + MeHg received VitA and MeHg during pregnancy and breastfeeding and was exposed to MeHg in adulthood. The single exposure group (SE) was exposed to MeHg only in adulthood; and the MeHg group was pre-exposed to MeHg during pregnancy and breastfeeding and re-exposed to MeHg in adulthood. After treating the animals, we evaluated the redox status and the level of DNA damage in all rats. The results revealed that MeHg significantly decreased the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and sulfhydryl levels and increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione transferase, glutathione and carbonyl in all exposed groups. These results suggest that the second exposure to MeHg directly altered the effects of oxidation and that there were no specific effects associated with exposure during the fetal and breastfeeding periods. In addition, our findings indicate that MDA levels increased in MeHg and SE levels and no differences in MDA levels were observed between the VitA and MeHg + VitA groups. We also observed that animals pretreated exclusively with VitA showed residual damage similar to the control's DNA, while the other groups showed statistically higher levels of damage. In conclusion, low doses of MeHg and VitA during fetal and breastfeeding periods were unable to condition an adaptive response to subsequent exposure to MeHg in adulthood in relation to the observed levels of oxidative damage assessed after exposure.
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Rosa-Silva HTD, Panzenhagen AC, Schmidtt V, Alves Teixeira A, Espitia-Pérez P, de Oliveira Franco Á, Mingori M, Torres-Ávila JF, Schnorr CE, Hermann PRS, Moraes DP, Almeida RF, Moreira JCF. Hepatic and neurobiological effects of foetal and breastfeeding and adulthood exposure to methylmercury in Wistar rats. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 244:125400. [PMID: 31809933 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.125400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 10/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is an organic bioaccumulated mercury derivative that strongly affects the environment and represents a public health problem primarily to riparian communities in South America. Our objective was to investigate the hepatic and neurological effects of MeHg exposure during the phases foetal and breast-feeding and adult in Wistar rats. Wistar rats (n = 10) were divided into 3 groups. Control group received mineral oil; The simple exposure (SE) group was exposed only in adulthood (0.5 mg/kg/day); and double exposure (DE) was pre-exposed to MeHg 0.5 mg/kg/day during pregnancy and breastfeeding (±40 days) and re-exposed to MeHg for 45 days from day 100. After, we evaluated possible abnormalities. Behavioral and biochemical parameters in liver and occipital cortex (CO), markers of liver injury, redox and AKT/GSK3β/mTOR signaling pathway. Our results showed that both groups treated with MeHg presented significant alterations, such as decreased locomotion and exploration and impaired visuospatial perception. The rats exposed to MeHg showed severe liver damage and increased hepatic glycogen concentration. The MeHg groups showed significant impairment in redox balance and oxidative damage to liver macromolecules and CO. MeHg upregulated the AKT/GSK3β/mTOR pathway and the phosphorylated form of the Tau protein. In addition, we found a reduction in NeuN and GFAP immunocontent. These results represent the first approach to the hepatotoxic and neural effects of foetal and adult MeHg exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Tais da Rosa-Silva
- Centro de Estudos em Estresse Oxidativo, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Alana Castro Panzenhagen
- Centro de Estudos em Estresse Oxidativo, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Victória Schmidtt
- Centro de Estudos em Estresse Oxidativo, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Alexsander Alves Teixeira
- Centro de Estudos em Estresse Oxidativo, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Pedro Espitia-Pérez
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Laboratorio de Investigación Biomédica y Biología Molecular, Universidad del Sinú, Córdoba, Colombia
| | - Álvaro de Oliveira Franco
- Centro de Estudos em Estresse Oxidativo, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Moara Mingori
- Centro de Estudos em Estresse Oxidativo, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - José F Torres-Ávila
- Unit for Development and Innovation in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - Carlos Eduardo Schnorr
- Departamento de Civil y Ambiental, Programa de Ingeniería Ambiental, Universidad de la Costa, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - Paolla Rissi Silva Hermann
- Instituto de Química, Sala 103, Campus do Vale, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Diogo Pompéu Moraes
- Instituto de Química, Sala 103, Campus do Vale, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Roberto Farina Almeida
- Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Instituto de Ciências Exatas e Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - José Cláudio Fonseca Moreira
- Centro de Estudos em Estresse Oxidativo, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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Nishikawa H, Enomoto H, Yoh K, Iwata Y, Sakai Y, Kishino K, Ikeda N, Takashima T, Aizawa N, Takata R, Hasegawa K, Ishii N, Yuri Y, Nishimura T, Iijima H, Nishiguchi S. Serum zinc concentration and quality of life in chronic liver diseases. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e18632. [PMID: 31895823 PMCID: PMC6946533 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000018632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Health related quality of life (HRQOL) in chronic liver disease (CLD) patients has been attracting much attention these days because it is closely associated with clinical outcomes in CLD patients. HRQOL has become established as an important concept and target for research and practice in the fields of medicine. A critique of HRQOL research is the lack of conceptual clarity and a common definition of HRQOL. Using a clear definition of HRQOL may increase the conceptual understanding. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the association between serum zinc (Zn) level and HRQOL as assessed by the Beck Depression Inventory-2nd edition (BDI-II), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index Japanese version (PSQI-J) and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) in CLD patients (n = 322, median age = 65 years, 121 liver cirrhosis (LC) patients (37.6%)). The median serum Zn level for all cases was 73.2 μg/dl. The median BDI-II score and PSQI-J score were 6 and 5, respectively. Patients with higher BDI-II score tended to have lower serum Zn level compared with those with lower BDI-II score. Similar tendencies were observed in patients with higher PSQI-J score. In the SF-36, physical functioning, role physical and physical component summary score significantly correlated with serum Zn level regardless of age, liver disease etiology and the LC status. While mental health and mental component summary score did not significantly correlate with serum Zn level regardless of age, liver disease etiology and the LC status. In conclusion, serum Zn level can be a useful marker for decreased HRQOL in patients with CLDs, especially for physical components.
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Koop AH, Mousa OY, Pham LE, Corral-Hurtado JE, Pungpapong S, Keaveny AP. An Argument for Vitamin D, A, and Zinc Monitoring in Cirrhosis. Ann Hepatol 2018; 17:920-932. [PMID: 30600288 DOI: 10.5604/01.3001.0012.7192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Malnutrition is prevalent in cirrhosis. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies, including vitamin D, vitamin A, and zinc, are common and have been shown to correlate with survival. Our aim was to review the mechanisms of vitamin D, vitamin A, and zinc deficiencies in cirrhosis and the clinical assessment of affected patients, their outcomes based on the current literature, and management. This is a narrative review including the relevant literature for cirrhosis and vitamin D, vitamin A, and zinc deficiencies. Vitamin D deficiency has important effects in cirrhosis, regardless of the cause of chronic liver disease.These effects include associations with fibrosis and outcomes such as infections, hepatocellular carcinoma, and mortality. Vitamin A deficiency is associated with liver disease progression to cirrhosis and clinical decompensation, including occurrence of ascites or hepatic encephalopathy. Zinc deficiency can lead to hepatic encephalopathy and impaired immune function. Such deficiencies correlate with patient survival and disease severity. Caution should be applied when replacing vitamin D, vitamin A, and zinc to avoid toxicity. Identification and appropriate treatment of vitamin and mineral deficiencies in cirrhosis may reduce specific nutritional and cirrhosis-related adverse events. Routine monitoring of vitamin A, vitamin D and zinc levels in cirrhosis should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andree H Koop
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Omar Y Mousa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Ly Elaine Pham
- Department of Internal Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | | | - Surakit Pungpapong
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Andrew P Keaveny
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
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Giménez-Garzó C, Urios A, Agustí A, Mangas-Losada A, García-García R, Escudero-García D, Kosenko E, Ordoño JF, Tosca J, Giner-Durán R, Serra MA, Felipo V, Montoliu C. Cirrhotic patients with minimal hepatic encephalopathy have increased capacity to eliminate superoxide and peroxynitrite in lymphocytes, associated with cognitive impairment. Free Radic Res 2017; 52:118-133. [PMID: 29262736 DOI: 10.1080/10715762.2017.1420183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Patients with minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) show increased oxidative stress in blood. We aimed to assess whether MHE patients show alterations in different types of blood cells in (a) basal reactive oxygen and nitrogen species levels; (b) capacity to metabolise these species. To assess the mechanisms involved in the altered capacity to metabolise these species we also analysed: (c) peroxynitrite formation and d) peroxynitrite reaction with biological molecules. Levels of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species were measured by flow cytometry in blood cell populations from cirrhotic patients with and without MHE and controls, under basal conditions and after adding generators of superoxide (plumbagin) or nitric oxide (NOR-1) to assess the capacity to eliminate them. Under basal conditions, MHE patients show reduced superoxide and peroxynitrite levels and increased nitric oxide (NO) and nitrotyrosine levels. In patients without MHE plumbagin strongly increases cellular superoxide, moderately peroxynitrite and reduces NO levels. In MHE patients, plumbagin increases slightly superoxide and strongly peroxynitrite levels and affects slightly NO levels. NOR-1 increases NO levels much less in patients with than without MHE. These data show that the mechanisms and the capacity to eliminate cellular superoxide, NO and peroxynitrite are enhanced in MHE patients. Superoxide elimination is enhanced through reaction with NO to form peroxynitrite which, in turn, is eliminated by enhanced reaction with biological molecules, which could contribute to cognitive impairment in MHE. The data show that basal free radical levels do not reflect the oxidative stress status in MHE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Giménez-Garzó
- a Laboratory of Neurobiology , Centro Investigación Príncipe Felipe de Valencia , Valencia , Spain
| | - Amparo Urios
- a Laboratory of Neurobiology , Centro Investigación Príncipe Felipe de Valencia , Valencia , Spain.,b Fundación Investigación Hospital Clínico de Valencia, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-INCLIVA , Valencia , Spain
| | - Ana Agustí
- b Fundación Investigación Hospital Clínico de Valencia, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-INCLIVA , Valencia , Spain
| | - Alba Mangas-Losada
- b Fundación Investigación Hospital Clínico de Valencia, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-INCLIVA , Valencia , Spain
| | - Raquel García-García
- a Laboratory of Neurobiology , Centro Investigación Príncipe Felipe de Valencia , Valencia , Spain
| | - Desamparados Escudero-García
- c Unidad de Digestivo, Hospital Clínico de Valencia , Departamento de Medicina, Universidad de Valencia , Valencia , Spain
| | - Elena Kosenko
- d Laboratory of Modeling and Bioinformatics , Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences , Pushchino , Russia
| | - Juan Fermín Ordoño
- e Servicio Neurofisiología , Hospital Arnau de Vilanova , Valencia , Spain.,f Psychopatology and Neurophysiology Unit , Paterna Mental Health Center, CIBERSAM , Valencia , Spain
| | - Joan Tosca
- c Unidad de Digestivo, Hospital Clínico de Valencia , Departamento de Medicina, Universidad de Valencia , Valencia , Spain
| | | | - Miguel Angel Serra
- c Unidad de Digestivo, Hospital Clínico de Valencia , Departamento de Medicina, Universidad de Valencia , Valencia , Spain
| | - Vicente Felipo
- a Laboratory of Neurobiology , Centro Investigación Príncipe Felipe de Valencia , Valencia , Spain
| | - Carmina Montoliu
- b Fundación Investigación Hospital Clínico de Valencia, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-INCLIVA , Valencia , Spain.,h Departamento de Patología, Facultad de Medicina , Universidad de Valencia , Valencia , Spain
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Yadav SK, Goel A, Saraswat VA, Thomas MA, Wang E, Marincola FM, Haris M, Gupta RK. Evaluation of cognitivity, proinflammatory cytokines, and brain magnetic resonance imaging in minimal hepatic encephalopathy induced by cirrhosis and extrahepatic portal vein obstruction. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 31:1986-1994. [PMID: 27119420 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.13427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) is the mildest form of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and is characterized by deficits in neurocognitive performance without any clinical symptoms of HE. In the current study, we aim to evaluate and compare the neurocognitive, biochemical, and brain magnetic resonance (MR) imaging changes between patients with cirrhotic MHE and extrahepatic portal vein obstruction (EHPVO) MHE. METHODS Thirty-three cirrhotic and 14 EHPVO patients were diagnosed with MHE and were included in the analysis along with 24 normal healthy volunteers. All subjects underwent MR imaging including diffusion tensor imaging and proton MR spectroscopy (1 H-MRS) followed by cognitive assessments, critical flicker frequency (CFF) measurements, quantification of blood ammonia, and serum proinflammatory cytokine levels. RESULTS We observed abnormal neurocognitive functions and CFF measurements in both cirrhotic MHE and EHPVO MHE patients as compared with controls. Significantly increased blood ammonia, serum proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α) level, mean diffusivity in multiple brain sites, 1 H-MRS derived glutamate/glutamine (Glx)/creatine (Cr), and significantly decreased 1 H-MRS derived myo-inositol/Cr were observed in both cirrhotic MHE and EHPVO MHE compared with those of controls. Choline/Cr level was significantly decreased in cirrhotic MHE as compared with controls and EHPVO MHE. CONCLUSIONS Cirrhotic MHE showed more severe changes on mean diffusivity in multiple brain sites and inflammation as compared with EHPVO MHE. This study confirms that there are significant difference in neurocognitive, biochemical, and MR profile between cirrhotic MHE and EHPVO MHE, which may help to understand the pathophysiologies of these two types of MHE and may contribute to improve their clinical managements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santosh K Yadav
- Research Branch, Sidra Medical and Research Center, Doha, Qatar
| | - Amit Goel
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Vivek A Saraswat
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Michael A Thomas
- Department of Radiological Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ena Wang
- Research Branch, Sidra Medical and Research Center, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Mohammad Haris
- Research Branch, Sidra Medical and Research Center, Doha, Qatar
| | - Rakesh K Gupta
- Department of Radiology, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
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17
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Abstract
Zinc is an essential trace element playing fundamental roles in cellular metabolism. It acts mostly by binding a wide range of proteins, thus affecting a broad spectrum of biological processes, which include cell division, growth and differentiation. Zinc is critical to a large number of structural proteins, enzymatic processes, and transcription factors. Zinc deficiency can result in a spectrum of clinical manifestations, such as poor of appetite, loss of body hair, altered taste and smell, testicular atrophy, cerebral and immune dysfunction, and diminished drug elimination capacity. These are common symptoms in patients with chronic liver diseases, especially liver cirrhosis. The liver is the main organ responsible for the zinc metabolism which can be affected by liver diseases. On the other hand, zinc deficiency may alter hepatocyte functions and also immune responses in inflammatory liver diseases. Liver cirrhosis represents the most advanced stage of chronic liver diseases and is the common outcome of chronic liver injury. It is associated with energy malnutrition, with numerous metabolic disorders, such as hypoalbuminemia, with imbalance between branched-chain amino acids and aromatic amino acids, and with reduced zinc serum concentrations. All these processes can influence the clinical outcome of patients, such ascites, hepatic encephalopathy and hepatocellular carcinoma. In the present review, we summarize the emerging evidence on the pitoval role of zinc in the pathogenesis of liver cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dirk Reinhold
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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18
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Marano M, Vespasiani Gentilucci U, Altamura C, Siotto M, Squitti R, Bucossi S, Quintiliani L, Migliore S, Greco F, Scarciolla L, Quattrocchi CC, Picardi A, Vernieri F. Altered metal metabolism in patients with HCV-related cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy. Metab Brain Dis 2015; 30:1445-52. [PMID: 26307419 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-015-9721-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2015] [Accepted: 08/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Dysfunctional metal homeostasis contributes to oxidative stress and neuronal damage. These have been implicated in hepatic encephalopathy pathogenesis. To investigate whether altered metal metabolism is associated with hepatic encephalopathy. Twenty-one controls and 34 HCV-cirrhotic patients (ENC/NEC patients according to presence/absence of previous overt episodes of hepatic encephalopathy) and a control group were studied. Serum iron, copper, ceruloplasmin, ceruloplasmin activity, transferrin, and ceruloplasmin/transferrin ratio were determined. Neuropsychological tests were performed by the repeatable battery of neuropsychological status. Magnetic resonance assessed basal ganglia volumes and metal deposition (pallidal index and T2*). Cirrhotic patients performed worse than controls at cognitive tests, especially ENC patients,. At biochemical analysis copper concentrations, ceruloplasmin activity and transferrin levels were lower in ENC than in NEC patients and controls (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). Ceruloplasmin/transferrin ratio was higher in ENC compared to NEC patients (p < 0.05), and controls (p < 0.01). By brain magnetic resonance, ENC patients showed reduced caudate and globus pallidus volumes compared to controls (p < 0.05), and ENC and NEC patients an increased pallidal index compared to controls (p < 0.01). In ENC patients, ceruloplasmin activity correlated with caudate volume and pallidal index (ρ = 0.773 and ρ = -0.683, p < 0.05). Altered metal metabolism likely contributes to cirrhotic hepatic encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Marano
- Neurology, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Via Alvaro del Portillo 200, 00128, Rome, Italy.
| | - Umberto Vespasiani Gentilucci
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Via Alvaro del Portillo 200, 00128, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Altamura
- Neurology, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Via Alvaro del Portillo 200, 00128, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Rosanna Squitti
- Fatebenefratelli Foundation, AFaR Division, Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Isola Tiberina, Rome, Italy
- Laboratorio di Neurodegenerazione, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Bucossi
- Laboratorio di Neurodegenerazione, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy
| | - Livia Quintiliani
- Clinical psychology, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Via Alvaro del Portillo 200, 00128, Rome, Italy
| | - Simone Migliore
- Clinical psychology, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Via Alvaro del Portillo 200, 00128, Rome, Italy
| | - Federico Greco
- Radiology, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Via Alvaro del Portillo 200, 00128, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Scarciolla
- Radiology, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Via Alvaro del Portillo 200, 00128, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Cosimo Quattrocchi
- Radiology, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Via Alvaro del Portillo 200, 00128, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Picardi
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Via Alvaro del Portillo 200, 00128, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Vernieri
- Neurology, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Via Alvaro del Portillo 200, 00128, Rome, Italy
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Chavez-Tapia NC, Cesar-Arce A, Barrientos-Gutiérrez T, Villegas-López FA, Méndez-Sanchez N, Uribe M. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the use of oral zinc in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy. Nutr J 2013; 12:74. [PMID: 23742732 PMCID: PMC3689058 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2891-12-74] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2012] [Accepted: 06/04/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and aim Because low serum zinc levels precipitate hepatic encephalopathy, zinc supplementation is considered a potential therapeutic option. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of oral zinc supplementation in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy. Methods For this systematic review and meta-analysis, data sources included electronic databases (CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE) and manual searching. Randomized clinical trials of adult patients diagnosed with liver cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy were included. The types of interventions considered were any oral zinc supplementation versus no intervention, placebo, or other interventions for the management of hepatic encephalopathy. The data were analyzed by calculating the RR for each trial and expressing the uncertainty as 95% CI. Continuous data were analyzed by calculating the standard mean differences (SMD) between groups within each trial and their 95% CI. Statistical heterogeneity was defined as a P-value > 0.10 (χ2) or I2 > 25%. Results Four trials with a total of 233 patients were included. Oral zinc supplementation was associated with a significant improvement in performance on the number connection test (SMD –0.62; 95% CI –1.12 to –0.11) reported in three trials (n = 189), but not with encephalopathy recurrence reduction (RR 0.64; 95% CI 0.26 to 1.59) reported in two trials (n = 169). Other clinically significant outcomes (mortality, liver related morbidity, quality of life) were not reported. Conclusion Oral zinc supplementation improved performance on the number connection test, but no evidence about other clinical or biochemical outcomes was available.
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Wen S, Schroeter A, Klöcker N. Synaptic plasticity in hepatic encephalopathy - a molecular perspective. Arch Biochem Biophys 2013; 536:183-8. [PMID: 23624147 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2013.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2013] [Revised: 04/13/2013] [Accepted: 04/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE)(1) is a common neuropsychiatric complication of both acute and chronic liver disease. Clinical symptoms may include motor disturbances and cognitive dysfunction. Available animal models of HE mimic the deficits in cognitive performance including the impaired ability to learn and memorize information. This review explores the question how HE might affect cognitive functions at molecular levels. Both acute and chronic models of HE constrain the plasticity of glutamatergic neurotransmission. Thus, long-lasting activity-dependent changes in synaptic efficiency, known as long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD) are significantly impeded. We discuss molecules and signal transduction pathways of LTP and LTD that are targeted by experimental HE, with a focus on ionotropic glutamate receptors of the AMPA-subtype. Finally, a novel strategy of functional proteomic analysis is presented, which, if applied differentially, may provide molecular insight into disease-related dysfunction of membrane protein complexes, i.e. disturbed ionotropic glutamate receptor signaling in HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuping Wen
- Institute of Neural and Sensory Physiology, Medical Faculty, University of Düsseldorf D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
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21
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Hong TK, Tripathy N, Son HJ, Ha KT, Jeong HS, Hahn YB. A comprehensive in vitro and in vivo study of ZnO nanoparticles toxicity. J Mater Chem B 2013; 1:2985-2992. [DOI: 10.1039/c3tb20251h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Torigoe M, Maeshima K, Takeshita Y. Congenital intrahepatic portosystemic venous shunt presenting with paraparesis as the initial symptom. Intern Med 2013; 52:2439-42. [PMID: 24190148 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.52.0881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
An 85-year-old woman was hospitalized with rapidly progressive paraparesis without altered consciousness, although she was not definitively diagnosed. She developed acute drowsiness and disorientation several days later. An intrahepatic portosystemic venous shunt (IPSVS) was observed on enhanced computed tomography, and hyperammonemia suggested leakage of neurotoxins from the shunt as the etiology of the patient's symptoms. Her neurological symptoms and hyperammonemia improved following transcatheter shunt embolization. We diagnosed her with hepatic myelopathy, which is a rare complication of liver cirrhosis and portosystemic venous shunts. Hepatic myelopathy resulting from a congenital IPSVS has not been previously reported. A diagnosis of hepatic myelopathy should be ruled out in diagnostically difficult cases of paraparesis.
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23
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Bobermin LD, Quincozes-Santos A, Guerra MC, Leite MC, Souza DO, Gonçalves CA, Gottfried C. Resveratrol prevents ammonia toxicity in astroglial cells. PLoS One 2012; 7:e52164. [PMID: 23284918 PMCID: PMC3528750 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0052164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2012] [Accepted: 11/15/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ammonia is implicated as a neurotoxin in brain metabolic disorders associated with hyperammonemia. Acute ammonia toxicity can be mediated by an excitotoxic mechanism, oxidative stress and nitric oxide (NO) production. Astrocytes interact with neurons, providing metabolic support and protecting against oxidative stress and excitotoxicity. Astrocytes also convert excess ammonia and glutamate into glutamine via glutamine synthetase (GS). Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in grapes and red wines, exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and modulates glial functions, such as glutamate metabolism. We investigated the effect of resveratrol on the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), GS activity, S100B secretion, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 levels in astroglial cells exposed to ammonia. Ammonia induced oxidative stress, decreased GS activity and increased cytokines release, probably by a mechanism dependent on protein kinase A (PKA) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathways. Resveratrol prevented ammonia toxicity by modulating oxidative stress, glial and inflammatory responses. The ERK and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) are involved in the protective effect of resveratrol on cytokines proinflammatory release. In contrast, other antioxidants (e.g., ascorbic acid and trolox) were not effective against hyperammonemia. Thus, resveratrol could be used to protect against ammonia-induced neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Daniele Bobermin
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - André Quincozes-Santos
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- * E-mail:
| | - Maria Cristina Guerra
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Marina Concli Leite
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Diogo Onofre Souza
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Carlos-Alberto Gonçalves
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Carmem Gottfried
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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Kruczek C, Görg B, Keitel V, Bidmon HJ, Schliess F, Häussinger D. Ammonia increases nitric oxide, free Zn(2+), and metallothionein mRNA expression in cultured rat astrocytes. Biol Chem 2012; 392:1155-65. [PMID: 22050230 DOI: 10.1515/bc.2011.199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Ammonia is a major player in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and affects astrocyte function by triggering a self-amplifying cycle between osmotic and oxidative stress. We recently demonstrated that hypoosmotic astrocyte swelling rapidly stimulates nitric oxide (NO) production and increases intracellular free Zn(2+) concentration ([Zn(2+)](i)). Here we report effects of ammonia on [Zn(2+)](i) homeostasis and NO synthesis. In cultured rat astrocytes, NH(4)Cl (5 mm) increased within 6 h both cytosolic and mitochondrial [Zn(2+)]. The [Zn(2+)](i) increase was transient and was mimicked by the nonmetabolizable CH(3)NH(3)Cl, and it was dependent on NO formation, as evidenced by the sensitivity toward the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor N(G)-monomethyl-l-arginine. The NH(4)Cl-induced NO formation was sensitive to the Ca(2+) chelator 1,2-bis(o-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid tetra(acetoxymethyl) ester and increases in both NO and [Zn(2+)](i) were blocked by the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonist MK-801. The NH(4)Cl-triggered increase in [Zn(2+)](i) was followed by a Zn(2+)-dependent nuclear appearance of the metal response element-binding transcription factor and metallothionein messenger RNA (mRNA) induction. Metallothionein mRNA was also increased in vivo in rat cerebral cortex 6 h after an NH(4)Ac challenge. NH(4)Cl increased peripheral-type benzodiazepine receptor (PBR) protein expression, whereas PBR mRNA levels were decreased in a Zn(2+)-independent manner. The Zn(2+)-dependent upregulation of metallothionein following ammonia intoxication may reflect a cytoprotective response, whereas the increase in PBR expression may augment HE development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin Kruczek
- University Clinic of Düsseldorf, Clinic for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectiology, Moorenstrasse 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
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Kruczek C, Görg B, Keitel V, Bidmon HJ, Schliess F, Häussinger D. Ammonia increases nitric oxide, free Zn(2+), and metallothionein mRNA expression in cultured rat astrocytes. Biol Chem 2011. [PMID: 22050230 DOI: 10.1515/bc-2011-199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Ammonia is a major player in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and affects astrocyte function by triggering a self-amplifying cycle between osmotic and oxidative stress. We recently demonstrated that hypoosmotic astrocyte swelling rapidly stimulates nitric oxide (NO) production and increases intracellular free Zn(2+) concentration ([Zn(2+)](i)). Here we report effects of ammonia on [Zn(2+)](i) homeostasis and NO synthesis. In cultured rat astrocytes, NH(4)Cl (5 mm) increased within 6 h both cytosolic and mitochondrial [Zn(2+)]. The [Zn(2+)](i) increase was transient and was mimicked by the nonmetabolizable CH(3)NH(3)Cl, and it was dependent on NO formation, as evidenced by the sensitivity toward the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor N(G)-monomethyl-l-arginine. The NH(4)Cl-induced NO formation was sensitive to the Ca(2+) chelator 1,2-bis(o-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid tetra(acetoxymethyl) ester and increases in both NO and [Zn(2+)](i) were blocked by the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonist MK-801. The NH(4)Cl-triggered increase in [Zn(2+)](i) was followed by a Zn(2+)-dependent nuclear appearance of the metal response element-binding transcription factor and metallothionein messenger RNA (mRNA) induction. Metallothionein mRNA was also increased in vivo in rat cerebral cortex 6 h after an NH(4)Ac challenge. NH(4)Cl increased peripheral-type benzodiazepine receptor (PBR) protein expression, whereas PBR mRNA levels were decreased in a Zn(2+)-independent manner. The Zn(2+)-dependent upregulation of metallothionein following ammonia intoxication may reflect a cytoprotective response, whereas the increase in PBR expression may augment HE development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin Kruczek
- University Clinic of Düsseldorf, Clinic for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectiology, Moorenstrasse 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
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Keitel V, Görg B, Bidmon HJ, Zemtsova I, Spomer L, Zilles K, Häussinger D. The bile acid receptor TGR5 (Gpbar-1) acts as a neurosteroid receptor in brain. Glia 2011; 58:1794-805. [PMID: 20665558 DOI: 10.1002/glia.21049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 178] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
TGR5 (Gpbar-1) is a membrane-bound bile acid receptor in the gastrointestinal tract and immune cells with pleiotropic actions. As shown in the present study, TGR5 is also expressed in astrocytes and neurons. Here, TGR5 may act as a neurosteroid receptor, which is activated by nanomolar concentrations of 5β-pregnan-3α-ol-20-one and micromolar concentrations of 5β-pregnan-3α-17α-21-triol-20-one and 5α-pregnan-3α-ol-20-one (allopregnanolone). TGR5 stimulation in astrocytes and neurons is coupled to adenylate cyclase activation, elevation of intracellular Ca(2+) and the generation of reactive oxygen species. In cultured rat astrocytes, TGR5 mRNA is downregulated in the presence of neurosteroids and ammonia already at concentrations of 0.5 mmol L(-1). Furthermore, TGR5 protein levels are significantly reduced in isolated rat astrocytes after incubation with ammonia. A marked downregulation of TGR5 mRNA is also found in cerebral cortex from cirrhotic patients dying with hepatic encephalopathy (HE) when compared with brains from noncirrhotic control subjects. It is concluded that TGR5 is a novel neurosteroid receptor in brain with implications for the pathogenesis of HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Keitel
- Clinic for Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Infectiology, Heinrich-Heine-University, Moorenstrasse 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
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Nagaoka MR, Le Sueur-Maluf L, Aguiar O, Castro GM, Spadari-Bratfisch RC, Ribeiro DA. Differential response related to genotoxicity in multiple organs of cirrhotic rats. Hepatol Int 2011; 5:740-6. [PMID: 21484143 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-010-9239-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2009] [Accepted: 12/16/2010] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to use the single cell gel (comet) assay to investigate whether blood, liver, heart, kidney, and brain are particularly sensitive organs for DNA damage in cirrhotic rats to predict genetic instability induced by cirrhosis. METHODS A total of 16 male Wistar rats (negative control, n = 8; experimental, n = 8) were submitted to bile duct ligation during 28 days. RESULTS Cirrhosis was able to induce genetic damage in liver and brain cells, as depicted by the mean tail moment. No genetic damage was induced in blood, heart, or kidney cells (i.e., no significant statistically differences were noticed when compared with negative control). CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, our results suggest that cirrhosis could contribute to DNA damage in liver and brain cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcia R Nagaoka
- Departamento de Biociências, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, UNIFESP, Santos, SP, Brazil
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Riggio O, Ridola L, Pasquale C. Hepatic encephalopathy therapy: An overview. World J Gastrointest Pharmacol Ther 2010; 1:54-63. [PMID: 21577297 PMCID: PMC3091148 DOI: 10.4292/wjgpt.v1.i2.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2009] [Revised: 01/24/2010] [Accepted: 01/31/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Type-C hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a severe complication of cirrhosis, which seriously affects quality of life and is strongly related to patient survival. Treatment based on a classical pharmacological approach that is aimed at reducing the production of gut-derived toxins, such as ammonia, is still under debate. Currently, results obtained from clinical trials do not support any specific treatment for HE and our competence in testing old and new treatment modalities by randomized controlled trials with appropriate clinically relevant end-points urgently needs to be improved. On the other hand, patients who are at risk for HE are now identifiable, based on studies on the natural history of the disease. Today, very few studies that are specifically aimed at establishing whether HE may be prevented are available or in progress. Recent studies have looked at non absorbable disaccharides or antibiotics and other treatment modalities, such as the modulation of intestinal flora. In the treatment of severe stage HE, artificial liver supports have been tested with initial positive results but more studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliviero Riggio
- Oliviero Riggio, Lorenzo Ridola, Chiara Pasquale, Department of Clinical Medicine, Centre for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Portal Hypertension, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy
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Häussinger D, Görg B. Interaction of oxidative stress, astrocyte swelling and cerebral ammonia toxicity. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care 2010; 13:87-92. [PMID: 19904201 DOI: 10.1097/mco.0b013e328333b829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Description of the role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of cerebral ammonia toxicity and hepatic encephalopathy. RECENT FINDINGS Ammonia plays a key role in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy, which manifests as a neuropsychiatric syndrome accompanying acute and chronic liver failure. One consequence of ammonia action on the brain is astrocyte swelling, which triggers the generation of oxidative/nitrosative stress at the level of NADPH oxidase, nitric oxide synthases and the mitochondria. A self-amplifying signaling loop between oxidative stress and astrocyte swelling has been proposed. Consequences of the ammonia-induced oxidative/nitrosative stress response are protein modifications through nitration of tyrosine residues and oxidation of astrocytic and neuronal RNA. Nitrosative stress also mobilizes zinc from intracellular stores with impact on gene expression. These alterations may at least in part mediate cerebral ammonia toxicity through disturbances of intracellular and intercellular signaling and of synaptic plasticity. SUMMARY Oxidative/nitrosative stress and a low-grade cerebral edema as key events in the pathogenesis of ammonia toxicity and hepatic encephalopathy may offer potential new strategies for treatment. Ammonia-induced oxidation of RNA and proteins may impair postsynaptic protein synthesis, which is critically involved in learning and memory consolidation. RNA oxidation offers a novel explanation for multiple disturbances of neurotransmitter systems and gene expression and the cognitive deficits observed in hepatic encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dieter Häussinger
- Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Clinic for Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Infectiology, Düsseldorf, Germany.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a severe complication of cirrhosis, seriously affecting the patients' quality of life. The classical approach aimed at reducing the production of gut-derived toxins, such as ammonia, is under debate as, at the moment, the information obtained from the clinical trials does not support any specific treatment for HE. OBJECTIVES i) To discuss present therapeutic strategies and possible future developments; ii) to identify areas of medical needs and iii) to suggest the ideal design and methodology for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in HE. METHODS Current approaches were obtained from already available RCTs or from experimental animal studies. Those approaches developed from studies on HE pathophysiology were considered as working hypotheses for future therapies. RESULTS/CONCLUSION Our competence in testing old and new treatment modalities by RCTs with appropriate clinically relevant end points should urgently be improved. The patients at risk of HE are identifiable, and studies specifically aimed at establishing whether HE may be prevented or not are needed. As far as new treatment modalities are concerned, RCTs on the modulators of the intestinal bacterial flora and on the molecular adsorbent recirculating system are already available, but further studies are needed to confirm these promising approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliviero Riggio
- Sapienza Università di Roma, Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica, II Gastroenterologia, Viale dell' Università 37, 00185 Roma, Italy.
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Görg B, Morwinsky A, Keitel V, Qvartskhava N, Schrör K, Häussinger D. Ammonia triggers exocytotic release of L-glutamate from cultured rat astrocytes. Glia 2009; 58:691-705. [DOI: 10.1002/glia.20955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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