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Zhang M, Qin Z, Huang Y, Tian W, Li Y, Wang C, Zhao W, Dai Y, Shi X, Gershwin ME, Ma X, Wang M, Liu X, Chen W, Qiu F. Association of CCR6 functional polymorphisms with Primary Biliary Cholangitis. J Transl Autoimmun 2024; 8:100234. [PMID: 38405661 PMCID: PMC10891324 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtauto.2024.100234] [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] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The biliary epithelial cells release CC chemokine receptor 6 (CCR6) ligand 20 (CCL20), leading to recruitment of CCR6+ T cells and subsequent infiltration into the biliary epithelium in primary biliary cholangitis patients. Previous genome-wide multi-national meta-analysis, including our Han Chinese cohort, showed significant association of CCR6 and CCL20 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) with PBC. We report here that significantly associated SNPs, identified in the CCR6 locus based on our Han Chinese genome-wide association study, can be separated into "protective" and "risk" groups, but only "risk" SNPs were confirmed using a separate Han Chinese PBC cohort. Only weak association of CCL20 SNPs was observed in Han Chinese PBC cohorts. Fine-mapping and logistical analysis identified a previously defined functional variant that, leads to increased CCR6 expression, which contributed to increased genetic susceptibility to PBC in Han Chinese cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingming Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Diseases, School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210096, China
| | - Zhuye Qin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Southeast University Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210096, China
| | - Yexi Huang
- Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Diseases, School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210096, China
| | - Wenyan Tian
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215006, China
| | - You Li
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Affiliated Renji Hospital, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Chan Wang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225009, China
| | - Weifeng Zhao
- Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215006, China
| | - Yaping Dai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Fifth People's Hospital of Wuxi, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214000, China
| | - Xingjuan Shi
- Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Diseases, School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210096, China
| | - M. Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Xiong Ma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Affiliated Renji Hospital, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Meilin Wang
- Department of Genetic Toxicology, The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University School of Public Health, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Xiangdong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Diseases, School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210096, China
| | - Weichang Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215006, China
| | - Fang Qiu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210031, China
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2
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a female predominant chronic autoimmune disease of the intrahepatic bile ducts and with a long latent period. It is crucial to understand how genetics contribute to the disease. RECENT FINDINGS Geo-epidemiological studies in PBC have provided evidence of familial risk; case-control studies and genome wide association studies have identified various human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and non-HLA alleles that are associated with PBC. However, these alleles are non-PBC specific and most of the identified non-HLA loci were also found to be susceptible genes in other autoimmune diseases and different between study populations. SUMMARY Patients with PBC are often asymptomatic and often left undiagnosed. There are no known HLA and non-HLA alleles specific for PBC. Global effort and novel approaches such as epigenetics directed at identification of genetic risk factors will greatly facilitate accurate and timely diagnosis, which will improve prognosis and increase treatment options.
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3
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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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4
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Kanagaratham C, Chiwara V, Ho B, Moussette S, Youssef M, Venuto D, Jeannotte L, Bourque G, de Sanctis JB, Radzioch D, Naumova AK. Loss of the zona pellucida-binding protein 2 (Zpbp2) gene in mice impacts airway hypersensitivity and lung lipid metabolism in a sex-dependent fashion. Mamm Genome 2018. [PMID: 29536159 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-018-9743-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The human chromosomal region 17q12-q21 is one of the best replicated genome-wide association study loci for childhood asthma. The associated SNPs span a large genomic interval that includes several protein-coding genes. Here, we tested the hypothesis that the zona pellucida-binding protein 2 (ZPBP2) gene residing in this region contributes to asthma pathogenesis using a mouse model. We tested the lung phenotypes of knock-out (KO) mice that carry a deletion of the Zpbp2 gene. The deletion attenuated airway hypersensitivity (AHR) in female, but not male, mice in the absence of allergic sensitization. Analysis of the lipid profiles of their lungs showed that female, but not male, KO mice had significantly lower levels of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), very long-chain ceramides (VLCCs), and higher levels of long-chain ceramides compared to wild-type controls. Furthermore, in females, lung resistance following methacholine challenge correlated with lung S1P levels (Pearson correlation coefficient 0.57) suggesting a link between reduced AHR in KO females, Zpbp2 deletion, and S1P level regulation. In livers, spleens and blood plasma, however, VLCC, S1P, and sphingosine levels were reduced in both KO females and males. We also find that the Zpbp2 deletion was associated with gain of methylation in the adjacent DNA regions. Thus, we demonstrate that the mouse ortholog of ZPBP2 has a role in controlling AHR in female mice. Our data also suggest that Zpbp2 may act through regulation of ceramide metabolism. These findings highlight the importance of phospholipid metabolism for sexual dimorphism in AHR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Victoria Chiwara
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Bianca Ho
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Sanny Moussette
- The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Mina Youssef
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - David Venuto
- McGill University and Genome Quebec Innovation Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Lucie Jeannotte
- Département de Biologie moléculaire, Biochimie medicale & Pathologie, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.,Centre de recherche sur le cancer de l'Université Laval, CRCHU de Québec-Université Laval, L'Hôtel-Dieu de Québec, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Guillaume Bourque
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,McGill University and Genome Quebec Innovation Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Juan Bautista de Sanctis
- Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Sabana Grande, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Danuta Radzioch
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Division of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program (IDIGH), The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Anna K Naumova
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada. .,The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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5
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Abstract
There are possibly millions of mold species on earth. The vast majority of these mold spores live in harmony with humans, rarely causing disease. The rare species that does cause disease does so by triggering allergies or asthma, or may be involved in hypersensitivity diseases such as allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis or allergic fungal sinusitis. Other hypersensitivity diseases include those related to occupational or domiciliary exposures to certain mold species, as in the case of Pigeon Breeder's disease, Farmer's lung, or humidifier fever. The final proven category of fungal diseases is through infection, as in the case of onchomycosis or coccidiomycosis. These diseases can be treated using anti-fungal agents. Molds and fungi can also be particularly important in infections that occur in immunocompromised patients. Systemic candidiasis does not occur unless the individual is immunodeficient. Previous reports of "toxic mold syndrome" or "toxic black mold" have been shown to be no more than media hype and mass hysteria, partly stemming from the misinterpreted concept of the "sick building syndrome." There is no scientific evidence that exposure to visible black mold in apartments and buildings can lead to the vague and subjective symptoms of memory loss, inability to focus, fatigue, and headaches that were reported by people who erroneously believed that they were suffering from "mycotoxicosis." Similarly, a causal relationship between cases of infant pulmonary hemorrhage and exposure to "black mold" has never been proven. Finally, there is no evidence of a link between autoimmune disease and mold exposure.
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6
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Ray JL, Kopec AK, Joshi N, Cline-Fedewa H, Lash LH, Williams KJ, Leung PS, Gershwin ME, Luyendyk JP. Trichloroethylene Exposure Reduces Liver Injury in a Mouse Model of Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Toxicol Sci 2018; 156:428-437. [PMID: 28115651 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfw264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a persistent environmental contaminant proposed to contribute to autoimmune disease. Experimental studies in lupus-prone MRL+/+ mice have suggested that TCE exposure can trigger autoimmune hepatitis. The vast majority of studies examining the connection between TCE and autoimmunity utilize this model, and the impact of TCE exposure in other established models of autoimmune liver disease is not known. We tested the hypothesis that TCE exposure exacerbates experimental hepatic autoimmunity in dominant negative transforming growth factor beta receptor type II (dnTGFBRII) mice, which develop serological and histological features resembling human primary biliary cholangitis. Female 8-week-old wild-type and dnTGFBRII mice were exposed to TCE (0.5 mg/ml) or vehicle (1% ethoxylated castor oil) in the drinking water for 12 or 22 weeks. Liver histopathology in 20- and 30-week-old wild-type mice was unremarkable irrespective of treatment. Mild portal inflammation was observed in vehicle-exposed 20-week-old dnTGFBRII mice and was not exacerbated by TCE exposure. Vehicle-exposed 30-week-old dnTGFBRII mice developed anti-mitochondrial antibodies, marked hepatic inflammation with necrosis, and hepatic accumulation of both B and T lymphocytes. To our surprise, TCE exposure dramatically reduced hepatic parenchymal inflammation and injury in 30-week-old dnTGFBRII mice, reflected by changes in hepatic proinflammatory gene expression, serum chemistry, and histopathology. Interestingly, TCE did not affect hepatic B cell accumulation or induction of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL10. These data indicate that TCE exposure reduces autoimmune liver injury in female dnTGFBRII mice and suggests that the precise effect of environmental chemicals in autoimmunity depends on the experimental model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Ray
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
| | - Anna K Kopec
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation.,Institute for Integrative Toxicology
| | - Nikita Joshi
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation.,Institute for Integrative Toxicology.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| | | | - Lawrence H Lash
- Department of Pharmacology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
| | | | - Patrick S Leung
- Department of Internal Medicine Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, California
| | - M Eric Gershwin
- Department of Internal Medicine Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, California
| | - James P Luyendyk
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation.,Institute for Integrative Toxicology.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
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7
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Bile acids and intestinal microbiota in autoimmune cholestatic liver diseases. Autoimmun Rev 2017; 16:885-896. [PMID: 28698093 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2017.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune cholestatic liver diseases, including primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), are manifested as an impairment of normal bile flow and excessive accumulation of potentially toxic bile acids. Endogenous bile acids are involved in the pathogenesis and progression of cholestasis. Consequently, chronic cholestasis affects the expression of bile acid transporters and nuclear receptors, and results in liver injury. Several lines of evidence suggest that intestinal microbiota plays an important role in the etiopathogenesis of cholestatic liver diseases by regulating metabolism and immune responses. However, progression of the disease may also affect the composition of gut microbiota, which in turn exacerbates the progression of cholestasis. In addition, the interaction between intestinal microbiota and bile acids is not unidirectional. Bile acids can shape the gut microbiota community, and in turn, intestinal microbes are able to alter bile acid pool. In general, gut microbiota actively communicates with bile acids, and together play an important role in the pathogenesis of PBC and PSC. Targeting the link between bile acids and intestinal microbiota offers exciting new perspectives for the treatment of those cholestatic liver diseases. This review highlights current understanding of the interactions between bile acids and intestinal microbiota and their roles in autoimmune cholestatic liver diseases. Further, we postulate a bile acids-intestinal microbiota-cholestasis triangle in the pathogenesis of autoimmune cholestatic liver diseases and potential therapeutic strategies by targeting this triangle.
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8
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Floreani A, Tanaka A, Bowlus C, Gershwin ME. Geoepidemiology and changing mortality in primary biliary cholangitis. J Gastroenterol 2017; 52:655-662. [PMID: 28365879 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-017-1333-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), formerly called primary biliary cirrhosis, is a chronic cholestatic disease characterized by an autoimmune-mediated destruction of small and medium-sized intrahepatic bile ducts. Originally PBC was considered to be rare and almost invariably fatal, mainly because the diagnosis was made in patients presenting with advanced symptomatic disease (jaundice and decompensated cirrhosis). However, the development of a reproducible indirect immunofluorescence assay for antimitochondrial antibody made it possible to diagnose the disease at an earlier stage, and introduction of ursodeoxycholic acid therapy as the first-line therapy for PBC drastically changed PBC-related mortality. At present, patients with an early histological stage have survival rates similar to those of an age- and sex-matched control population. Although 30% of patients treated with ursodeoxycholic acid may exhibit incomplete responses, obeticholic acid and drugs currently in development are expected to be effective for these patients and improve outcomes. Meanwhile, more etiology and immunopathology studies using new technologies and novel animal models are needed to dissect variances of clinical course, treatment response, and outcome in each patient with PBC. Precision medicine that is individualized for each patient on the basis of the cause identified is eagerly awaited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annarosa Floreani
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, via Giustiniani, 2, Padova, Italy
| | - Atsushi Tanaka
- Department of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Christopher Bowlus
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Merrill Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
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9
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Tanakaa A, Leung PS, Young HA, Gershwin ME. Toward solving the etiological mystery of primary biliary cholangitis. Hepatol Commun 2017; 1:275-287. [PMID: 29057387 PMCID: PMC5646686 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is considered a model autoimmune disease due to its signature anti‐mitochondrial antibody (AMA) autoantibody, female predominance, and relatively specific portal infiltration and cholestasis. The identification and cloning of the major mitochondrial autoantigens recognized by AMA have served as an immunologic platform to identify the earliest events involved in loss of tolerance. Despite the relatively high concordance rate in identical twins, genome‐wide association studies have not proven clinically useful and have led to suggestions of epigenetic events. To understand the natural history and etiology of PBC, several murine models have been developed, including spontaneous models, models induced by chemical xenobiotic immunization, and by “designer” mice with altered interferon metabolism. Herein, we describe five such models, including 1) NOD.c3c4 mice, 2) dominant negative form of transforming growth factor receptor type II mice, 3) interleukin‐2R α−/− mice, 4) adenylate‐uridylate‐rich element Del−/− mice, and 5) 2‐octynoic acid‐conjugated bovine serum albumin immunized mice. Individually there is no perfect murine model, but collectively the models point to loss of tolerance to PDC‐E2, the major mitochondrial autoantigen, as the earliest event that occurs before clinical disease is manifest. Although there is no direct association of AMA titer and PBC disease progression, it is noteworthy that the triad of PBC monocytes, biliary apotopes, and AMA leads to an intense proinflammatory cytokine burst. Further, the recurrence of PBC after liver transplantation indicates that, due to major histocompatibility complex restriction, disease activity must include not only adaptive immunity but also innate immune mechanisms. We postulate that successful treatment of PBC may require a personalized approach with therapies designed for different stages of disease. (Hepatology Communications 2017;1:275–287)
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Tanakaa
- Department of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Patrick Sc Leung
- Division of Rheumatology Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California School of Medicine, 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, University of California School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
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10
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Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli B, Guillod C, Marsteller I, Blum R, Mazzucchelli L, Mondino C, Invernizzi P, Gershwin ME, Mainetti C. Primary Biliary Cholangitis Associated with Skin Disorders: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2017; 65:299-309. [DOI: 10.1007/s00005-016-0448-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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11
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Floreani A, Sun Y, Zou ZS, Li B, Cazzagon N, Bowlus CL, Gershwin ME. Proposed therapies in primary biliary cholangitis. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 10:371-382. [PMID: 26577047 PMCID: PMC4935759 DOI: 10.1586/17474124.2016.1121810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), previously known as primary biliary cirrhosis, is a model autoimmune disease with chronic cholestasis characterized by the hallmark of anti-mitochondrial antibodies and treated with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). However, approximately 20-40% of patients incompletely respond to UDCA and have an increased risk of disease progression. Although there have been significant advances in the immunobiology of PBC, these have yet to be translated into newer therapeutic modalities. Current approaches to controlling the immune response include broad immunosuppression with corticosteroids as well as targeted therapies directed against T and B cells. In contrast, ameliorating cholestasis is the focus of other therapies in development, including obeticholic acid. In this article the authors will discuss ongoing clinical trials and, in particular, the rationale for choosing agents that may effectively target the aberrant immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annarosa Floreani
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Italy
| | - Ying Sun
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA.,Diagnostic and Treatment Center for Non-Infectious Liver Diseases, 302 Military Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zheng Sheng Zou
- Diagnostic and Treatment Center for Non-Infectious Liver Diseases, 302 Military Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Baosen Li
- Diagnostic and Treatment Center for Non-Infectious Liver Diseases, 302 Military Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Nora Cazzagon
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Italy
| | - Christopher L Bowlus
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - M Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
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12
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Marzorati S, Lleo A, Carbone M, Gershwin ME, Invernizzi P. The epigenetics of PBC: The link between genetic susceptibility and environment. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2016; 40:650-659. [PMID: 27341761 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2016.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2016] [Revised: 04/30/2016] [Accepted: 05/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) previously known as primary biliary cirrhosis is an autoimmune disease-associated with progressive cholestasis, the presence of autoreactive T cell and characteristic serological autoantibodies. Genetic and genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have recently shed light on the genetic background of PBC. Besides that some causal nucleotide changes and mechanisms remain largely unknown as suggested for example, by the observation that monozygotic twins have an identical DNA sequence even if presents some phenotypic differences that may be consequences of different exposures to environmental stressors. For this reason, it is believed that epigenetic mechanisms may be involved in PBC pathogenesis, as already demonstrated in many autoimmune diseases and can eventually provide an understanding that has been missed from genetics alone. This review will focus on the most commonly studied epigenetic modifications already demonstrated in PBC; special attention will be paid also to other epigenetic mechanisms so far not demonstrated in PBC patients, but that could increase our understanding in PBC pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Marzorati
- Liver Unit and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Ana Lleo
- Liver Unit and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Carbone
- Liver Unit and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Merrill Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Program for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Section of Digestive Diseases, International Center for Digestive Health, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, Monza (MB), Italy.
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13
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Yang F, Wang Q, Wang Z, Miao Q, Xiao X, Tang R, Chen X, Bian Z, Zhang H, Yang Y, Sheng L, Fang J, Qiu D, Krawitt EL, Gershwin ME, Ma X. The Natural History and Prognosis of Primary Biliary Cirrhosis with Clinical Features of Autoimmune Hepatitis. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2016; 50:114-23. [PMID: 26411425 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-015-8516-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Although a variant of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) characterized by features of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) has been recognized for many years, few studies with ample numbers of patients have focused on its natural history. This study aimed to clarify the natural history, prognosis, and response to therapy in a cohort of patients with PBC with AIH features. We retrospectively analyzed 277 PBC patients without AIH features and 46 PBC patients with AIH features seen between September 2004 and April 2014. The 5-year adverse outcome-free survival of PBC patients with AIH features was 58% compared to 81% in PBC patients without AIH features. Multivariate analysis in the patients with AIH features indicated that total bilirubin ≥ 2.70× the upper limit of normal predicted a poor prognosis (p = 0.008, relative risk 8.39, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.73, 40.73). Combination therapy with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and immunosuppression provided better short-term responses in PBC patients with AIH features, defined by multiple criteria. Higher aspartate aminotransferase (AST) level at accession suggested better prognosis for PBC patients with AIH features while worse prognosis for PBC patients without AIH features. PBC patients with AIH features differ from those without AIH features in terms of natural history, prognostic indicators, and response to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Qixia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Zhaoyue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Qi Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Xiao Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Ruqi Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Xiaoyu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Zhaolian Bian
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Haiyan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Yue Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Li Sheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Jingyuan Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Dekai Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Edward L Krawitt
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA.,Department of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - M Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis School of Medicine, Genome and Biomedical Sciences Facility, 451 Health Sciences Drive, Suite 6510, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
| | - Xiong Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China.
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14
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Leung PSC, Choi J, Yang G, Woo E, Kenny TP, Gershwin ME. A contemporary perspective on the molecular characteristics of mitochondrial autoantigens and diagnosis in primary biliary cholangitis. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2016; 16:697-705. [PMID: 26953925 DOI: 10.1586/14737159.2016.1164038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune hepatobiliary disease characterized by immune mediated destruction of the intrahepatic small bile ducts and the presence of antimitochondrial antibodies (AMAs). The mitochondrial autoantigens have been identified as the E2 subunits of the 2-oxo-acid dehydrogenase complex, including the E2 subunits of pyruvate dehydrogenase, branched-chain 2-oxo acid dehydrogenase complex, oxoglutarate dehydrogenase complex, E3 binding protein and PDC E1 alpha subunit. The AMA epitope is mapped within the E2 lipoic acid binding domain, which is particularly important for oxidative phosphorylation. In addition, lipoic acid, which serves as a swinging arm to capture electrons, is particularly susceptible to an electrophilic attack and may provide clues to the etiology of PBC. This review emphasizes the molecular characteristics of AMAs, including detection, immunochemistry and the putative role in disease. These data have significance not only specifically for PBC, but generically for autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick S C Leung
- a Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology , University of California at Davis School of Medicine , Davis , CA , USA
| | - Jinjung Choi
- a Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology , University of California at Davis School of Medicine , Davis , CA , USA
| | - Guoxiang Yang
- a Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology , University of California at Davis School of Medicine , Davis , CA , USA
| | - Elena Woo
- a Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology , University of California at Davis School of Medicine , Davis , CA , USA
| | - Thomas P Kenny
- a Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology , University of California at Davis School of Medicine , Davis , CA , USA
| | - M Eric Gershwin
- a Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology , University of California at Davis School of Medicine , Davis , CA , USA
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15
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Deletion of Galectin-3 Enhances Xenobiotic Induced Murine Primary Biliary Cholangitis by Facilitating Apoptosis of BECs and Release of Autoantigens. Sci Rep 2016; 6:23348. [PMID: 26996208 PMCID: PMC4800400 DOI: 10.1038/srep23348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a carbohydrate binding lectin, with multiple roles in inflammatory diseases and autoimmunity including its antiapoptotic effect on epithelial cells. In particular, increased expression of Gal-3 in epithelial cells is protective from apoptosis. Based on the thesis that apoptosis of biliary epithelial cells (BECs) is critical to the pathogenesis of Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC), we have analyzed the role of Gal-3 in the murine model of autoimmune cholangitis. We took advantage of Gal-3 knockout mice and immunized them with a mimotope of the major mitochondrial autoantigen of PBC, 2-octynoic acid (2-OA) coupled to BSA (2OA-BSA) and evaluated the natural history of subsequent disease, compared to control wild-type mice, by measuring levels of antibodies to PDC-E2, immunohistology of liver, and expression of Gal-3. We report herein that deletion of Gal-3 significantly exacerbates autoimmune cholangitis in these mice. This is manifested by increased periportal infiltrations, bile duct damage, granulomas and fibrosis. Interestingly, the BECs of Gal-3 knockout mice had a higher response to apoptotic stimuli and there were more pro-inflammatory lymphocytes and dendritic cells (DCs) in the livers of Gal-3 knockout mice. In conclusion, Gal-3 plays a protective role in the pathways that lead to the inflammatory destruction of biliary epithelial cells.
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16
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Beuers U, Gershwin ME. Unmet challenges in immune-mediated hepatobiliary diseases. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2016; 48:127-31. [PMID: 25820618 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-015-8484-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
It is ironic that the liver, which serves a critical function in immune tolerance, itself becomes the victim of an autoimmune attack. Indeed, liver autoimmunity and the autoimmune diseases associated with both innate and adaptive responses to hepatocytes and/or cholangiocytes are models of human autoimmunity. For example, in primary biliary cirrhosis, there exists a well-defined and characteristic autoantibody and considerable homogeneity between patients. In autoimmune hepatitis, there are clinical characteristics that allow a rigorous subset definition and well-defined inflammatory infiltrates. In both cases, there are defects in a variety of immune pathways and including regulatory cells. In primary sclerosing cholangitis, with its characteristic overlap with inflammatory bowel disease, there are unique defects in innate immunity and particular important contribution of lymphoid homing to disease pathogenesis. In these diseases, as with other human autoimmune processes, there is the critical understanding that pathogenesis requires a genetic background, but is determined by environmental features, and indeed the concordance of these diseases in identical twins highlights the stochastic nature of immunopathology. Unfortunately, despite major advances in basic immunology and in immunopathology in these diseases, there remains a major void in therapy. The newer biologics that are so widely used in rheumatology, neurology, and gastroenterology have not yet seen success in autoimmune liver disease. Future efforts will depend on more rigorous molecular biology and systems analysis in order for successful application to be made to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Beuers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 22600, 1100 DD, Amsterdam, The Netherlands,
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17
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Wang Q, Yang F, Miao Q, Krawitt EL, Gershwin ME, Ma X. The clinical phenotypes of autoimmune hepatitis: A comprehensive review. J Autoimmun 2015; 66:98-107. [PMID: 26614611 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2015.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Revised: 10/28/2015] [Accepted: 10/29/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) fulfills the generally accepted contemporary criteria of an autoimmune liver disease: the presence of autoantibodies and autoreactive T cells, a female gender bias, association with other autoimmune diseases, response to immunosuppressive therapy and strong associations with the major histocompatibility complex HLA loci. It occurs worldwide in both children and adults and is marked by both etiopathogenic and clinical heterogeneity, differing from the other putative autoimmune liver diseases, primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), albeit occasionally presenting with overlapping features of PBC or PSC. Although diagnostic criteria have been established and validated, there are still major issues to be clarified due to its variability, such as autoantibody-negative AIH, drug-induced AIH, AIH sharing features with PBC or PSC, and post-transplant de novo AIH. In view of the diverse presentations and courses, including classical chronic onset, acute and acute severe onset, cirrhosis and decompensated cirrhosis, individualized management of patients is indicated. Each patient should receive a personalized analysis of the benefits and side effect risks of drugs. Herein we describe a comprehensive review of the clinical phenotypes of AIH underscoring its clinical heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qixia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai 200001, China
| | - Fan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai 200001, China
| | - Qi Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai 200001, China
| | | | - M Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Xiong Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Shandong Road, Shanghai 200001, China.
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18
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Trivedi PJ, Hirschfield GM, Gershwin ME. Obeticholic acid for the treatment of primary biliary cirrhosis. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2015; 9:13-26. [PMID: 26549695 DOI: 10.1586/17512433.2015.1092381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is characterized by progressive nonsuppurative destruction of small bile ducts, resulting in intrahepatic cholestasis, fibrosis and ultimately end-stage liver disease. Timely intervention with ursodeoxycholic acid is associated with excellent survival, although approximately one-third of all patients fail to achieve biochemical response, signifying a critical need for additional therapeutic strategies. Obeticholic acid (OCA) is a potent ligand of the nuclear hormone receptor farnesoid X receptor (FXR). Activation of FXR inhibits bile acid synthesis and protects against toxic accumulation in models of cholestasis and facilitates hepatic regeneration in preclinical studies. Data from recent Phase II and III controlled trials suggest a therapeutic impact of OCA in PBC biochemical nonresponders, as evidenced by change in proven laboratory surrogates of long-term outcome. Dose-dependent pruritus is a common adverse effect, but may be overcome through dose-titration. Longer term studies are needed with focus on safety and long-term clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Palak J Trivedi
- a National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Liver Biomedical Research Unit (BRU), Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, 5th Floor IBR Building , Wolfson Drive, University of Birmingham , UK
| | - Gideon M Hirschfield
- a National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Liver Biomedical Research Unit (BRU), Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, 5th Floor IBR Building , Wolfson Drive, University of Birmingham , UK
| | - M Eric Gershwin
- b Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis , California , Birmingham , USA
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