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Chen R, Tang R, Ma X, Gershwin ME. Immunologic Responses and the Pathophysiology of Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Clin Liver Dis 2022; 26:583-611. [PMID: 36270718 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2022.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune liver disease with a female predisposition and selective destruction of intrahepatic small bile ducts leading to nonsuppurative destructive cholangitis. It is characterized by seropositivity of antimitochondrial antibodies or PBC-specific antinuclear antibodies, progressive cholestasis, and typical liver histologic manifestations. Destruction of the protective bicarbonate-rich umbrella is attributed to the decreased expression of membrane transporters in biliary epithelial cells (BECs), leading to the accumulation of hydrophobic bile acids and sensitizing BECs to apoptosis. A recent X-wide association study reveals a novel risk locus on the X chromosome, which reiterates the importance of Treg cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiling Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruqi Tang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiong Ma
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, China.
| | - M Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology-Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, 451 Health Sciences Drive, Suite 6510, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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Ceribelli A, De Santis M, Selmi C. Sex and autoimmune disease: Four mechanisms pointing at women. Mediterr J Rheumatol 2019; 30:162-166. [PMID: 32185359 PMCID: PMC7045856 DOI: 10.31138/mjr.30.3.162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The ultimate goal of modern medicine is a personalized approach being tailored on the single patient, ie, tailored, based on a finely tuned definition of the immunogenetics, epigenetics, microbiome, and biomarkers, to maximize results and minimize risks particularly of new targeted treatments. Among individual factors around which to tailor the patient management are sex and age, with gender-medicine finally becoming central to the research agenda. Of note, we are not convinced that a whole personalized medicine approach in its current form will necessarily include gender medicine and thus this should remain central to the research agenda. To tackle this crucial issue, however, we should first be able to answer a question of paramount importance, that is, why does autoimmunity affect women more than men? The growing number of experimental works in this area militate against an easy answer to this question, but we will herein briefly discuss four major candidates (sex hormones, sex chromosomes, environmental factors, and the microbiome) to which some unsuspected others may be ancillary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Ceribelli
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Maria De Santis
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Carlo Selmi
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy.,BIOMETRA Department, University of Milan, Italy
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3
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Tanaka A, Leung PSC, Gershwin ME. The Genetics and Epigenetics of Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Clin Liver Dis 2018; 22:443-455. [PMID: 30259846 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2018.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Both genetic background and environmental factors contribute to primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). Recent innovative technologies, such as genome-wide association studies, identified a remarkable number of susceptible nonhuman leukocyte antigen genes contributing to the development of PBC; however, they are primarily indicators of active immunologic responses commonly involved in autoimmune reactions. Thus, recent studies have focused on epigenetic mechanisms that would link genetic predisposition and environmental triggering factors. In PBC, methylation profiling and altered X chromosome architecture have been intensively explored in conjunction with a striking female predominance. Further, microRNAs have been found to be associated with the etiology of PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Tanaka
- Department of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, 2-11-1, Kaga, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-8605, Japan
| | - Patrick S C Leung
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, UC Davis School of Medicine, 451 Health Sciences Drive, Suite 6510, Davis 95616, CA
| | - Merrill Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, UC Davis School of Medicine, 451 Health Sciences Drive, Suite 6510, Davis 95616, CA.
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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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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: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [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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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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Epigenetics and Primary Biliary Cirrhosis: a Comprehensive Review and Implications for Autoimmunity. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2015; 50:390-403. [DOI: 10.1007/s12016-015-8502-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is an autoimmune liver disease of unknown etiology characterized by the presence of antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) in 90 - 95% of patients. AMA are directed against members of 2-oxo-acid dehydrogenase complex, including mainly the E2 subunit of pyruvate dehydrogenase, the E2 subunit of branched chain 2-oxo-acid dehydrogenase complex and the E2 subunit of the oxoglutarate dehydrogenase complex. Apart from AMA, PBC is characterized by the presence of PBC-specific antinuclear antibodies (ANA). The molecular targets of these PBC-specific ANA have been characterized as gp210, lamin B receptor, nucleoporin 62, sp100 and promyelocytic leukemia proteins. OBJECTIVE To discuss the molecular diagnostics of PBC in the context of AMA and PBC-specific ANA detection by the use of conventional and 'new' novel technologies. METHODS Critical analysis of all published data regarding PBC serology between 1985 and 2007 was performed in order to suggest a diagnostic algorithm for the serological diagnosis of PBC. RESULTS/CONCLUSIONS AMA are first detected by indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) on frozen sections of rat liver, kidney and stomach substrates. However, because IIF is time-consuming, labor-intensive and observer-dependent, molecular-based assays such as immunoblot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays have been developed with high sensitivity and specificity. Similarly, molecular-based assays have also been developed for the detection of PBC-specific ANA. The latter investigation seems to be of outmost importance because these autoantibodies can be used as a positive tool in the diagnosis of AMA-negative PBC while at the same time identifying a subgroup of PBC patients with more advanced disease. New test systems for the detection of PBC-specific antibodies based on the xMultiple Analyte Profiling Luminex methodology seems to be the future in molecular diagnostics of PBC as it was expected first to decrease the cost and second to speed up an accurate serological profile, although they may decrease further the proportion of AMA-negative PBC cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirini I Rigopoulou
- University of Thessaly, Department of Medicine, Academic Liver Unit and Research Lab of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Papakiriazi 22 Street, 41222 Larissa, Greece +30 2410 565251 ; +30 2410 565250 ;
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Bianchi I, Lleo A, Bernuzzi F, Caliari L, Smyk DS, Invernizzi P. The X-factor in primary biliary cirrhosis: monosomy X and xenobiotics. AUTOIMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS 2012; 3:127-32. [PMID: 26000136 PMCID: PMC4389075 DOI: 10.1007/s13317-012-0043-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2012] [Accepted: 10/24/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a chronic, cholestatic, autoimmune liver disease characterised by the destruction of small- and medium-sized bile ducts. The serological hallmark of PBC includes antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA). The disease has a striking female predominance, and primarily affects women of middle-age. First-degree relatives, and in particular female relatives, are known to have an increased risk of developing the disease. Several studies have attempted to explain the female predominance of PBC, and autoimmune diseases in general. Two components that are of interest in PBC include monosomy X and xenobiotics. Monosomy X has been noted to be prevalent in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of PBC patients. Xenobiotics, which are exogenous chemicals not normally found within the body, have been implicated in the modification of, and loss of, tolerance to AMA. Several cosmetics are known to contain these xenobiotics, which is of interest given the information provided in regards to known risk factors for PBC development. This review will focus on X monosomy and xenobiotics, which appear to constitute the X-factor of PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Bianchi
- Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Ana Lleo
- Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Francesca Bernuzzi
- Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Lisa Caliari
- Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Dan S. Smyk
- Institute of Liver Transplantation, Division of Transplantation Immunology and Mucosal Biology, King’s College London School of Medicine at King’s College Hospital, London, SE5 9RJ UK
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano (MI), Italy
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, Davis, USA
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Milkiewicz M, Caballería L, Smyk DS, Milkiewicz P. Predicting and preventing autoimmunity: the case of anti-mitochondrial antibodies. AUTOIMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS 2012; 3:105-12. [PMID: 26000133 PMCID: PMC4389078 DOI: 10.1007/s13317-012-0038-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2012] [Accepted: 10/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
To be able to predict who will develop autoimmune disease would allow for early treatment which may dramatically alter the course of the disease. In some cases, it may also lead to prevention of the disease development. The prediction of disease development is based on the analysis of risk factors which have been associated with the disease in question. These factors include genetic susceptibility, as well as immunological and environmental factors. One autoimmune disease that may serve as a model for disease prediction is primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), an autoimmune liver disease affecting the small- and medium-sized bile ducts. PBC could be an ideal model due to recent advances in elucidating its genetic associations. As well, a variety of immunological and environmental risk factors have been well established. Indeed, the presence of PBC-specific antimitochondrial antibodies and/or antinuclear antibodies has been shown to be predictor of disease development and possibly prognosis. This review will examine the current evidence which suggests that we may potentially be able to predict the development of PBC in some individuals. These concepts may also be applied to autoimmune diseases in general.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Daniel S Smyk
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College London School of Medicine, London, UK
| | - Piotr Milkiewicz
- Liver Unit, Pomeranian Medical University, Al. Powstancow Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
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Folci M, Meda F, Gershwin ME, Selmi C. Cutting-edge issues in primary biliary cirrhosis. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2012; 42:342-54. [PMID: 21243445 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-011-8253-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Several crucial issues remain open in our understanding of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), an autoimmune liver disease targeting the small- and medium-sized intrahepatic bile ducts. These issues include the high tissue specificity of the autoimmune injury despite the nontraditional autoantigens found in all mitochondria recognized by PBC-associated autoantibodies, the causes of the commonly observed pruritus, and the disease etiology per se. In all these fields, there has been recent interest secondary to the use of large-scale efforts (such as genome-wide association studies) that were previously considered poorly feasible in a rare disease such as PBC as well as other intuitions. Accordingly, there are now fascinating theories to explain the onset and severity of pruritus due to elevated autotaxin levels, the peculiar apoptotic features of bile duct cells to explain the tissue specificity, and genomic and epigenetic associations contributing to disease susceptibility. We have arbitrarily chosen these four aspects as the most promising in the PBC recent literature and will provide herein a discussion of the recent data and their potential implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Folci
- Division of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Istituto Clinico Humanitas, via A. Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089, Milan, Italy
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12
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Invernizzi P, Alessio MG, Smyk DS, Lleo A, Sonzogni A, Fabris L, Candusso M, Bogdanos DP, Iorio R, Torre G. Autoimmune hepatitis type 2 associated with an unexpected and transient presence of primary biliary cirrhosis-specific antimitochondrial antibodies: a case study and review of the literature. BMC Gastroenterol 2012; 12:92. [PMID: 22816667 PMCID: PMC3464927 DOI: 10.1186/1471-230x-12-92] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2012] [Accepted: 07/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Unlike other autoimmune liver diseases, primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) has never been reported in early childhood, while type 2 autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is eminently a paediatric disease. Case presentation We describe a case of type 2 AIH with serological positivity for PBC-specific anti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMA) in a 3-year old girl. We found this observation intriguing as AMA and indeed an overlap with PBC are virtually absent in Type 2 AIH, a pediatric form of AIH which is distinct precisely because it is characterized by pathognomonic anti-liver kidney microsomal type 1 (LKM-1) showing a remarkable antigen-specificity directed against cytochrome P4502D6. We also review the literature in relation to AMA positivity in paediatric age and adolescence. In our case, the presence of AIH-2-specific anti-LKM-1 and PBC-specific AMA was confirmed by indirect immunofluorescence (IIF), and immunoblotting and ELISA based on recombinant mitochondrial antigens. The clinical, laboratory and histological features of the child are given in detail. Interestingly the mother was AMA positive without other features of PBC. The child was successfully treated with immunosuppression and five years after the original diagnosis is on a low dose of prednisolone and azathioprine, with no signs of relapse. Anti-LKM-1 antibodies are still present in low titres. AMA were detectable for the first 4 years after the diagnosis and disappeared later. Conclusion This is the first case report in the literature of AIH type 2 with an unexpected PBC-specific AMA positivity in a young child. Response to immunosuppressive treatment was satisfactory and similar to that described in AIH. A review of published reports on AMA positivity in paediatric age shows that the antibody may arise in the context of immunodeficiency and is variably associated with liver damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Invernizzi
- Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Via Manzoni 56, 20089, Rozzano(MI), Italy.
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Svyryd Y, Hernández-Molina G, Vargas F, Sánchez-Guerrero J, Segovia DA, Mutchinick OM. X chromosome monosomy in primary and overlapping autoimmune diseases. Autoimmun Rev 2012; 11:301-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2010.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2010] [Accepted: 03/09/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Perricone C, Perricone R. Conference Scene: Shining lights on the future of autoimmunity in Asia. Immunotherapy 2012; 4:263-7. [DOI: 10.2217/imt.12.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The Congress on Autoimmunity was held, as was the previous 4th Asian Congress on Autoimmunity meeting, in Suntec City, Singapore, on 17–19 November 2011. The congress saw the participation of prestigious experts within the fields of autoimmunity, immunology, rheumatology, cardiovascular diseases and diabetology, with the enlightening concepts discussed briefly summarized herein. The Honorary President of the congress, Yehuda Shoenfeld, together with the local and international organizing committees, successfully put together an attractive scientific program with topics including the most up-to-date achievements and discoveries in all aspects of autoimmunity. In the surrounding of a beautiful city, autoimmunity was untangled, and novel, brilliant ideas emerged that could help to solve this fascinating conundrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Perricone
- Reumatologia, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Specialità Mediche, Sapienza Università di Roma, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Perricone
- Rheumatology, Allergology & Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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16
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Selmi C, Maria Papini A, Pugliese P, Claudia Alcaro M, Gershwin ME. Environmental pathways to autoimmune diseases: the cases of primary biliary cirrhosis and multiple sclerosis. Arch Med Sci 2011; 7:368-80. [PMID: 22295019 PMCID: PMC3258751 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2011.23398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2011] [Revised: 05/15/2011] [Accepted: 05/19/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathways leading to autoimmunity remain enigmatic despite numerous lines of experimental inquiry and epidemiological evidence. The mechanisms leading to the initiation and perpetuation of specific diseases such as primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) or multiple sclerosis (MS) remain largely enigmatic, although it is established that a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental stimulation is required. The growing number of genome-wide association studies and the largely incomplete concordance for autoimmune diseases in monozygotic twins concur to support the role of the environment (including infectious agents and chemicals) in the breakdown of tolerance leading to autoimmunity through different mechanisms. In the present article we illustrate the current hypotheses related to an environmental impact on the onset of PBC and MS as two representative conditions investigated with complementary approaches. Indeed, while a role of post-translational antigen modifications has been proposed for MS, this field remain unexplored in PBC where, conversely, most evidence is gathered from geoepidemiology and experimental data on xenobiotics or infectious agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Selmi
- Department of Medicine and Autoimmunity and Metabolism Unit, IRCCS Istituto Clinico Humanitas, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
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Smyk D, Cholongitas E, Kriese S, Rigopoulou EI, Bogdanos DP. Primary biliary cirrhosis: family stories. Autoimmune Dis 2011; 2011:189585. [PMID: 21687641 PMCID: PMC3112499 DOI: 10.4061/2011/189585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2010] [Revised: 02/09/2011] [Accepted: 03/07/2011] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a chronic immune-mediated cholestatic liver disease of unknown aetiology which affects mostly women in middle age. Familial PBC is when PBC affects more than one member of the same family, and data suggest that first-degree relatives of PBC patients have an increased risk of developing the disease. Most often, these familial clusters involve mother-daughter pairs, which is consistent with the female preponderance of the disease. These clusters provide evidence towards a genetic basis underlying PBC. However, clusters of nonrelated individuals have also been reported, giving strength to an environmental component. Twin studies have demonstrated a high concordance for PBC in monozygotic twins and a low concordance among dizygotic twins. In conclusion, studies of PBC in families clearly demonstrate that genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors play a role in the development of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Smyk
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College London School of Medicine at King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill Campus, London SE5 9RS, UK
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Abstract
The etiology of autoimmune diseases remains largely unknown. Concordance rates in monozygotic twins are lower than 50% while genome-wide association studies propose numerous significant associations representing only a minority of patients. These lines of evidence strongly support other complementary mechanisms involved in the regulation of genes expression ultimately causing overt autoimmunity. Alterations in the post-translational modification of histones and DNA methylation are the two major epigenetic mechanisms that may potentially cause a breakdown of immune tolerance and the perpetuation of autoimmune diseases. In recent years, several studies both in clinical settings and experimental models proposed that the epigenome may hold the key to a better understanding of autoimmunity initiation and perpetuation. More specifically, data support the impact of epigenetic changes in systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune diseases, in some cases based on mechanistical observations. We herein discuss what we currently know and what we expect will come in the next future. Ultimately, epigenetic treatments already being used in oncology may soon prove beneficial also in autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Meda
- Department of Medicine and Hepatobiliary Immunopathology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Clinico Humanitas, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
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Selmi C. The X in sex: how autoimmune diseases revolve around sex chromosomes. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2009; 22:913-22. [PMID: 19028371 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2008.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Recent estimates suggest that autoimmune diseases cumulatively affect 5-10% of the general population worldwide. Although the etiology and pathogenesis remain poorly understood in most cases, similarities between diseases outnumber differences in the initiation and perpetuation of the autoimmune injury. One major example is the predominance of affected women, and perhaps its most intriguing putative mechanism is related to sex chromosomes, based on the recent observation that women with autoimmune diseases manifest a higher rate of circulating leukocytes with a single X chromosome. In a complementary fashion, there have been several reports on a role of X chromosome gene dosage through inactivation or duplication in autoimmunity. It is important not to overlook men with autoimmune diseases, who might manifest a more frequent loss of the Y chromosome in circulating leukocytes. Taken together, sex chromosome changes might constitute the common trait of autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Selmi
- Department of Internal Medicine, IRCCS-Istituto Clinico Humanitas, University of Milan, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.
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Abstract
In nearly every multifactorial human disease, there are three periods that characterize our understanding and definition. First, there is a period in which there is rapid accumulation of descriptive data. Second, there is a longer and slower period as information is obtained that redefines and expands basic and clinical knowledge that lacks the final and important area of understanding aetiology and therapeutic intervention. Third, which is much less common for most diseases, is the vigorous definition of pathobiology and treatment. These phases are well illustrated by our current understanding of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). The term PBC was first used nearly 60 years ago and for the first 40 or so years, the primary research efforts were directed at clinical definitions and pathology. Subsequently, with the advent of molecular biology, there began a rigorous dissection of the immune response and, in particular, a better understanding of anti-mitochondrial antibodies. These efforts have greatly helped in our understanding of not only the effector mechanisms of disease, but also the uniqueness of the primary target tissue, biliary epithelium. However, this research has still not led to successful translation for specific therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Selmi
- Division of Internal Medicine and Liver Unit, San Paolo Hospital School of Medicine, University of Milan, Italy
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Massimo Zuin
- Division of Internal Medicine and Liver Unit, San Paolo Hospital School of Medicine, University of Milan, Italy
| | - M. Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA 95616
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Recalcati S, Invernizzi P, Arosio P, Cairo G. New functions for an iron storage protein: the role of ferritin in immunity and autoimmunity. J Autoimmun 2008; 30:84-9. [PMID: 18191543 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2007.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Ferritin is a ubiquitous and specialised protein involved in the intracellular storage of iron; it is also present in serum and other biological fluids, although its secretion processes are still unclear. We here review evidence supporting the hypothesis that macrophages play a role in the production and secretion of extracellular ferritin, as well as evidence supporting a novel function as a signalling molecule and immune regulator. In particular, H-ferritin, which inhibits the proliferation of lymphoid and myeloid cells, may be regarded as a negative regulator of human and murine hematopoiesis. The idea that it also acts as a signalling protein has been supported by the cloning and characterisation of the specific H-ferritin receptor TIM-2, a member of the TIM gene family. A number of studies of the mouse TIM gene family indicate that this protein plays an important role in immune-mediated diseases. This last finding, together with the fact that ferritin acts as an immuno-suppressor, has allowed us to formulate hypotheses regarding the possible role of alterations of H-ferritin/TIM-2 binding/signalling in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Recalcati
- Institute of General Pathology, University of Milan, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milan, Italy.
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Selmi C, Gershwin ME, Lindor KD, Worman HJ, Gold EB, Watnik M, Utts J, Invernizzi P, Kaplan MM, Vierling JM, Bowlus CL, Silveira MG, Bossi I. Quality of life and everyday activities in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis. Hepatology 2007; 46:1836-43. [PMID: 18027862 PMCID: PMC3148769 DOI: 10.1002/hep.21953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is generally a slowly progressive disease that may lead to cirrhosis and liver failure. However, patients with PBC often suffer from a variety of symptoms long before the development of cirrhosis that include issues of daily living that have an impact on their work environment and their individual quality of life. We therefore examined multiple parameters by taking advantage of the database of our cohort of 1032 patients with PBC and 1041 matched controls. The data were obtained from patients from 23 tertiary referral centers throughout the United States and from rigorously matched controls by age, sex, ethnicity, and random-digit dialing. The data showed that patients with PBC were more likely than controls to have significant articular symptoms, a reduced ability to perform household chores, and the need for help with routine activities. Patients with PBC rated their overall activity similar or superior to that of controls; however, more of them reported limitations in their ability to carry out activities at work or at home and difficulties in everyday activities. PBC cases also more frequently reported limitations in participating in certain sports or exercises and pursuing various hobbies; however, they did not report significant limitations in social activities. In a multivariable analysis, household income, a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus, limitations in work activities, a reduction in work secondary to disability, and church attendance were independently increased in PBC cases with respect to controls. CONCLUSION Our data indicate that the quality of life of patients with PBC in the United States is generally well preserved. Nevertheless, patients with PBC suffer significantly more than controls from a variety of symptoms that are beyond the immediate impact of liver failure and affect their lifestyle, personal relationships, and work activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Selmi
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA,Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences ‘Luigi Sacco’, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - M. Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA
| | | | - Howard J. Worman
- Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Ellen B. Gold
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA
| | - Mitchell Watnik
- Department of Statistics, California State University, East Bay, Hayward, CA
| | - Jessica Utts
- Statistical Laboratory, University of California, Davis, CA
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA,Division of Internal Medicine and Liver Unit, San Paolo Hospital School of Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Marshall M. Kaplan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tufts University New England Medical Center, Boston, MA
| | | | - Christopher L. Bowlus
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California at Davis, Sacramento, CA
| | | | - Ilaria Bossi
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences ‘Luigi Sacco’, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Miozzo M, Selmi C, Gentilin B, Grati FR, Sirchia S, Oertelt S, Zuin M, Gershwin ME, Podda M, Invernizzi P. Preferential X chromosome loss but random inactivation characterize primary biliary cirrhosis. Hepatology 2007; 46:456-62. [PMID: 17659578 DOI: 10.1002/hep.21696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Recent work has demonstrated enhanced X monosomy in women with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) as well as two other female-predominant autoimmune diseases, systemic sclerosis and autoimmune thyroid disease. To further our understanding of these events, we have investigated the mechanisms of X chromosome loss and X chromosome inactivation (XCI) in 166 women with PBC and 226 rigorously age-matched healthy and liver disease controls. X chromosome analysis and determination of loss pattern was performed by quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction (QF-PCR) with 4 X-linked short tandem repeats. Further definition of the XCI was based on analysis of methylation-sensitive restriction sites. Importantly, in PBC the X chromosome loss occurs not only more frequently but also in a preferential fashion. This observation supports our thesis that the enhanced X monosomy involves only one parentally derived chromosome and is not secondary to a constitutive non random pattern of XCI. In fact, in the presence of monosomy, the lost X chromosome is necessarily the inactive homologue. CONCLUSION The finding that the X chromosome loss is preferential suggests the critical involvement of X chromosome gene products in the female predisposition to PBC and also emphasizes the need to determine the parental origin of the maintained chromosome to investigate the role of imprinting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Miozzo
- Medical Genetics Unit, San Paolo Hospital School of Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Oo YH, Neuberger J. HLA and outcome in living donor liver transplantation in primary biliary cirrhosis: a new piece in the jigsaw? Liver Transpl 2007; 13:8-13. [PMID: 17192903 DOI: 10.1002/lt.20890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Hernández-Molina G, Svyryd Y, Sánchez-Guerrero J, Mutchinick OM. The role of the X chromosome in immunity and autoimmunity. Autoimmun Rev 2006; 6:218-22. [PMID: 17317611 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2006.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Primary immunodeficiencies as well as autoimmune diseases have been associated to X chromosome abnormalities. Furthermore, the functional biology of the X chromosome is unique because genes located in this chromosome can undergo inactivation, and subsequently transcriptional silencing. Non-random X chromosome inactivation has been hypothesized to be involved in the development of autoimmunity. Recently X chromosome monosomy has also been proposed as a common etiologic mechanism for some autoimmune diseases. Herein, we review some of these findings above mentioned.
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Selmi C, Ichiki Y, Invernizzi P, Podda M, Gershwin ME. The enigma of primary biliary cirrhosis. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2006; 28:73-81. [PMID: 15879614 DOI: 10.1385/criai:28:2:073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a chronic cholestatic disease characterized by a striking predominance in female patients (with most cases diagnosed between ages 40 and 60 yr) as well as serum auto-antibodies to mitochondrial antigens, elevated serum immunoglobulin M,progressive destruction of intrahepatic bile ducts, and, ultimately, liver cirrhosis and failure(1). The precise mechanisms leading to selective destruction of biliary epithelial cells lining intrahepatic bile ducts are still unknown, although numerous immunomediated pathways have been proposed. Genetic background appears to be important in determining susceptibility to the disease (2), but no clear association with alleles in the major histocompatibility complex has been identified. Molecular mimicry either by infections (3) or xenobiotics (4) has been proposed to be capable of breaking tolerance in genetically predisposed individuals, thus leading to onset of PBC. This article describes and discusses the available data regarding the immunomediated pathogenesis of PBC (with particular attention to auto-antibodies and autoreactive T-cells) and presents the recent evidence indicating a role for either xenobiotic chemicals or novel infectious agents in the induction of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Selmi
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA, USA
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