1
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Socha P, Shumbayawonda E, Roy A, Langford C, Aljabar P, Wozniak M, Chełstowska S, Jurkiewicz E, Banerjee R, Fleming K, Pronicki M, Janowski K, Grajkowska W. Quantitative digital pathology enables automated and quantitative assessment of inflammatory activity in patients with autoimmune hepatitis. J Pathol Inform 2024; 15:100372. [PMID: 38524918 PMCID: PMC10959696 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpi.2024.100372] [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: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic liver disease diagnoses depend on liver biopsy histopathological assessment. However, due to the limitations associated with biopsy, there is growing interest in the use of quantitative digital pathology to support pathologists. We evaluated the performance of computational algorithms in the assessment of hepatic inflammation in an autoimmune hepatitis in which inflammation is a major component. Methods Whole-slide digital image analysis was used to quantitatively characterize the area of tissue covered by inflammation [Inflammation Density (ID)] and number of inflammatory foci per unit area [Focal Density (FD)] on tissue obtained from 50 patients with autoimmune hepatitis undergoing routine liver biopsy. Correlations between digital pathology outputs and traditional categorical histology scores, biochemical, and imaging markers were assessed. The ability of ID and FD to stratify between low-moderate (both portal and lobular inflammation ≤1) and moderate-severe disease activity was estimated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Results ID and FD scores increased significantly and linearly with both portal and lobular inflammation grading. Both ID and FD correlated moderately-to-strongly and significantly with histology (portal and lobular inflammation; 0.36≤R≤0.69) and biochemical markers (ALT, AST, GGT, IgG, and gamma globulins; 0.43≤R≤0.57). ID (AUC: 0.85) and FD (AUC: 0.79) had good performance for stratifying between low-moderate and moderate-severe inflammation. Conclusion Quantitative assessment of liver biopsy using quantitative digital pathology metrics correlates well with traditional pathology scores and key biochemical markers. Whole-slide quantification of disease can support stratification and identification of patients with more advanced inflammatory disease activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Socha
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Nutritional Disorders and Pediatrics, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | | | | | | | - Malgorzata Wozniak
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Nutritional Disorders and Pediatrics, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Sylwia Chełstowska
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Elzbieta Jurkiewicz
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | | | - Maciej Pronicki
- Department of Pathology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kamil Janowski
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Nutritional Disorders and Pediatrics, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Wieslawa Grajkowska
- Department of Pathology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
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2
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Alrehaili BD. Unravelling the therapeutic landscape of bile acid-based therapies in gastrointestinal disorders. Saudi J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:283-293. [PMID: 38708898 DOI: 10.4103/sjg.sjg_53_24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Bile acids serve as endogenous ligands for nuclear and cell membrane receptors and play a crucial role in bile acid and lipid metabolism. These detergent-like compounds promote bile flow and aid in the absorption of dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins in the intestine. Synthesized in the liver as end products of cholesterol catabolism, bile acids exhibit a chemical structure comprising a nucleus and a side chain featuring a carboxyl group, with diverse steric arrangements and potential polar substituents. Critical interactions occur between bile acid species and various nuclear and cell membrane receptors, including the farnesoid X receptor and G-protein-coupled bile acid receptor 1. This research aimed to review the literature on bile acids and their roles in treating different diseases. Currently, numerous investigations are concentrating on specific bile acid species that target nuclear receptors in the gastrointestinal system, aiming to improve the treatment of conditions such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Given the global attention this topic has garnered from research groups, it is considered relatively new, thus anticipating some gaps or incomplete data. Bile acid species have a significant therapeutic promise, especially in their ability to activate or inhibit nuclear receptors, such as farnesoid X receptor. This research provides to offer essential information for scientists and medical practitioners interested in discovering new studies that underscore the importance of bile acids in ameliorating and impeding the progression of disorders. Furthermore, it opens avenues for previously overlooked bile acid-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bandar D Alrehaili
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Pharmacy College, Taibah University, Medina, Saudi Arabia
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3
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Sylvia D, Tomas K, Marian M, Martin J, Dagmar S, Peter J. The treatment of primary biliary cholangitis: from shadow to light. Therap Adv Gastroenterol 2024; 17:17562848241265782. [PMID: 39081664 PMCID: PMC11287753 DOI: 10.1177/17562848241265782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic autoimmune cholestatic disease characterized by the destruction of the small intrahepatic bile ducts, which can progress to liver cirrhosis. The gold standard in the treatment of PBC is ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), which is indicated in all patients with PBC because it improves not only biochemical parameters but also patients' survival. An important milestone in the identification of patients at risk is the assessment of biochemical response to UDCA. Patients who respond to treatment have a lower incidence of hepatic events and better prognosis than patients who do not. Several scoring systems can be used to assess the response and identify non-responders who will benefit from second-line treatment. Obeticholic acid (OCA) is currently the only approved second-line treatment for PBC, which is effective for non-responders to UDCA therapy or patients, who have not tolerated UDCA therapy. However, OCA is contraindicated in advanced liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Moreover, pruritus may be a limiting factor for the administration of OCA. Fibrates have shown promising data supporting their use in non-responders to UDCA because they improve the biochemical parameters and elastographic findings and have possible antipruritic effects. Therefore, the idea of a triple treatment seems interesting. Clinical research is focusing on several other groups of drugs: peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) δ- and α/δ agonists, non-steroidal farnesoid X receptor agonists, fibroblast growth factor 19 modulators, and inhibitors of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 1 and 4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drazilova Sylvia
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Louis Pasteur University Hospital, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Koky Tomas
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Louis Pasteur University Hospital, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Macej Marian
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Louis Pasteur University Hospital, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Janicko Martin
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Louis Pasteur University Hospital, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Simkova Dagmar
- Department of Hepatogastroenterology, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKEM), Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Jarcuska Peter
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Louis Pasteur University Hospital, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, Trieda SNP 1, Kosice 040 11, Slovakia
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4
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Ali FEM, Abdel-Reheim MA, Hassanein EHM, Abd El-Aziz MK, Althagafy HS, Badran KSA. Exploring the potential of drug repurposing for liver diseases: A comprehensive study. Life Sci 2024; 347:122642. [PMID: 38641047 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Drug repurposing involves the investigation of existing drugs for new indications. It offers a great opportunity to quickly identify a new drug candidate at a lower cost than novel discovery and development. Despite the importance and potential role of drug repurposing, there is no specific definition that healthcare providers and the World Health Organization credit. Unfortunately, many similar and interchangeable concepts are being used in the literature, making it difficult to collect and analyze uniform data on repurposed drugs. This research was conducted based on understanding general criteria for drug repurposing, concentrating on liver diseases. Many drugs have been investigated for their effect on liver diseases even though they were originally approved (or on their way to being approved) for other diseases. Some of the hypotheses for drug repurposing were first captured from the literature and then processed further to test the hypothesis. Recently, with the revolution in bioinformatics techniques, scientists have started to use drug libraries and computer systems that can analyze hundreds of drugs to give a short list of candidates to be analyzed pharmacologically. However, this study revealed that drug repurposing is a potential aid that may help deal with liver diseases. It provides available or under-investigated drugs that could help treat hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, Wilson disease, liver cancer, and fatty liver. However, many further studies are needed to ensure the efficacy of these drugs on a large scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fares E M Ali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut 71524, Egypt; Michael Sayegh, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aqaba University of Technology, Aqaba 77110, Jordan
| | - Mustafa Ahmed Abdel-Reheim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Shaqra University, Shaqra 11961, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef 62521, Egypt.
| | - Emad H M Hassanein
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut 71524, Egypt.
| | - Mostafa K Abd El-Aziz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut 71524, Egypt
| | - Hanan S Althagafy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid S A Badran
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut 71524, Egypt
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5
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van Hooff MC, Werner E, van der Meer AJ. Treatment in primary biliary cholangitis: Beyond ursodeoxycholic acid. Eur J Intern Med 2024; 124:14-21. [PMID: 38307734 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2024.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a rare cholestatic immune-mediated liver disease. The clinical course varies from mild to severe, with a substantial group of patients developing cirrhosis within a decade. These patients are at risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, decompensation and liver failure. First line Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) treatment improves the cholestatic surrogate markers, and was recently associated with a favorable survival free of liver transplantation, even in case of an incomplete biochemical response. However, despite adequate UDCA therapy, patients remain at risk of liver disease progression. Therefore, on-treatment multifactor-based risk stratification is necessary to identify patients in need of additional therapy. This requires a personalized approach; especially as recent studies suggest that complete biochemical normalization as most stringent response criterion might be preferred in selected patients to optimize their outcome. Today, stricter biochemical goals might actually be reachable with the addition of farnesoid X receptor or peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonists, or, in highly-selected cases, use of corticosteroids. Randomized controlled trials showed improvements in the key biochemical surrogate markers with the addition of these drugs, which have also been associated with improved clinical outcome. Considering this evolving PBC landscape, with more versatile treatment options and treatment goals, this review recapitulates the recent insight in UDCA therapy, the selection of patients with a residual risk of liver disease progression and the results of the currently available second line treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C van Hooff
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, NA building, Floor 6, Rotterdam 3015 GD, the Netherlands
| | - E Werner
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, NA building, Floor 6, Rotterdam 3015 GD, the Netherlands
| | - A J van der Meer
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, NA building, Floor 6, Rotterdam 3015 GD, the Netherlands.
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6
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Zhou X, Sun H, Ren J, Yan G, Yang L, Zhang H, Lu H, Li X, Makino T, Yin F, Li J, Wang X. Mineral crude drug mirabilite (Mangxiao) inhibits the occurrence of colorectal cancer by regulating the Lactobacillus-bile acid-intestinal farnesoid X receptor axis based on multiomics integration analysis. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e556. [PMID: 38665997 PMCID: PMC11043829 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Mineral crude drug has revolutionized the treatment landscape in precision oncology niche that leads to the improvement in therapeutic efficiency on various tumor subtypes. Mangxiao (MX), a mineral crude drug in traditional Chinese medicine, has been used for treating gastrointestinal diseases for thousands of years. However, the action mechanisms are still ambiguous. Here, we attempt to explore inhibitory roles and associated pharmacological mechanisms of MX upon colorectal cancer (CRC) in APCMin/+ male mice by integrating metabolomics, 16S rDNA sequencing analyses, and metagenomic-based microbiota analysis. We found that MX can significantly inhibit the occurrence of CRC through the regulation of the dysregulated gut microbe metabolism. Furthermore, the correlation analysis of metabolomes and 16S rDNA revealed that MX could restore the disorders of gut microbes by specifically enriching the abundance of Lactobacilli to improve bile acid metabolism, which further activated the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) in CRC mice, then the improvement of gut dysbiosis could inhibit the development of CRC. Collectively, our effort confirmed MX has the capacity to intervene the development of CRC and further discovered that it targets Lactobacillus-bile acid-intestinal FXR axis, which can be regarded as a candidate medicine for future drug discovery and development against CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Integration and Innovation of Classical Formula and Modern Chinese MedicineNational Chinmedomics Research CenterNational TCM Key Laboratory of Serum PharmacochemistryMetabolomics LaboratoryDepartment of Pharmaceutical AnalysisHeilongjiang University of Chinese MedicineHarbinChina
| | - Hui Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Integration and Innovation of Classical Formula and Modern Chinese MedicineNational Chinmedomics Research CenterNational TCM Key Laboratory of Serum PharmacochemistryMetabolomics LaboratoryDepartment of Pharmaceutical AnalysisHeilongjiang University of Chinese MedicineHarbinChina
| | - Junling Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Integration and Innovation of Classical Formula and Modern Chinese MedicineNational Chinmedomics Research CenterNational TCM Key Laboratory of Serum PharmacochemistryMetabolomics LaboratoryDepartment of Pharmaceutical AnalysisHeilongjiang University of Chinese MedicineHarbinChina
| | - Guangli Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Integration and Innovation of Classical Formula and Modern Chinese MedicineNational Chinmedomics Research CenterNational TCM Key Laboratory of Serum PharmacochemistryMetabolomics LaboratoryDepartment of Pharmaceutical AnalysisHeilongjiang University of Chinese MedicineHarbinChina
| | - Le Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness SyndromeThe Second Affiliated Hospital Guangzhou University of Chinese MedicineGuangzhouChina
| | - Honglian Zhang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Pharmacy CollegeQiqihar Medical UniversityQiqiharChina
| | - Haitao Lu
- Hong Kong Traditional Chinese Medicine Phenome Research Centre, School of Chinese MedicineHong Kong Baptist UniversityHong KongChina
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological AnalysisHong Kong Baptist UniversityHong KongChina
| | - Xinghua Li
- State Key Laboratory of Integration and Innovation of Classical Formula and Modern Chinese MedicineNational Chinmedomics Research CenterNational TCM Key Laboratory of Serum PharmacochemistryMetabolomics LaboratoryDepartment of Pharmaceutical AnalysisHeilongjiang University of Chinese MedicineHarbinChina
| | - Toshiaki Makino
- Department of PharmacognosyGraduate School of Pharmaceutical SciencesNagoya City UniversityNagoyaJapan
| | - Fengting Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Integration and Innovation of Classical Formula and Modern Chinese MedicineNational Chinmedomics Research CenterNational TCM Key Laboratory of Serum PharmacochemistryMetabolomics LaboratoryDepartment of Pharmaceutical AnalysisHeilongjiang University of Chinese MedicineHarbinChina
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Integration and Innovation of Classical Formula and Modern Chinese MedicineNational Chinmedomics Research CenterNational TCM Key Laboratory of Serum PharmacochemistryMetabolomics LaboratoryDepartment of Pharmaceutical AnalysisHeilongjiang University of Chinese MedicineHarbinChina
| | - Xijun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integration and Innovation of Classical Formula and Modern Chinese MedicineNational Chinmedomics Research CenterNational TCM Key Laboratory of Serum PharmacochemistryMetabolomics LaboratoryDepartment of Pharmaceutical AnalysisHeilongjiang University of Chinese MedicineHarbinChina
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness SyndromeThe Second Affiliated Hospital Guangzhou University of Chinese MedicineGuangzhouChina
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7
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Narayanan AK, Surendran S, Balakrishnan D, Gopalakrishnan U, Malick S, Valsan A, Philips CA, Watson CJE. A Short Review on Obeticholic Acid: An Effective Modulator of Farnesoid X Receptor. Curr Rev Clin Exp Pharmacol 2024; 19:225-233. [PMID: 38708917 DOI: 10.2174/0127724328239536230919070001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) was identified as an orphan nuclear receptor resembling the steroid receptor in the late '90s. Activation of FXR is a crucial step in many physiological functions of the liver. A vital role of FXR is impacting the amount of bile acids in the hepatocytes, which it performs by reducing bile acid synthesis, stimulating the bile salt export pump, and inhibiting its enterohepatic circulation, thus protecting the hepatocytes against the toxic accumulation of bile acids. Furthermore, FXR mediates bile acid biotransformation in the intestine, liver regeneration, glucose hemostasis, and lipid metabolism. In this review, we first discuss the mechanisms of the disparate pleiotropic actions of FXR agonists. We then delve into the pharmacokinetics of Obeticholic acid (OCA), the first-in-class selective, potent FXR agonist. We additionally discuss the clinical journey of OCA in humans, its current evidence in various human diseases, and its plausible roles in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anila Kutty Narayanan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery & Solid Organ Transplant, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Amrita University, Kochi 682041, Kerala, India
| | - Sudhindran Surendran
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery & Solid Organ Transplant, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Amrita University, Kochi 682041, Kerala, India
| | - Dinesh Balakrishnan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery & Solid Organ Transplant, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Amrita University, Kochi 682041, Kerala, India
| | - Unnikrishnan Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery & Solid Organ Transplant, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Amrita University, Kochi 682041, Kerala, India
| | - Shweta Malick
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery & Solid Organ Transplant, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Amrita University, Kochi 682041, Kerala, India
| | - Arun Valsan
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Amrita University, Kochi 682041, Kerala, India
| | - Cyriac Abby Philips
- Department of Clinical and Translational Hepatology, The Liver Institute, Rajagiri Hospital, Aluva, Kerala, India
| | - Christopher John Edward Watson
- University of Cambridge and Honorary Consultant Surgeon, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 OQQ, UK
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8
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Almeqdadi M, Gordon FD. Farnesoid X Receptor Agonists: A Promising Therapeutic Strategy for Gastrointestinal Diseases. GASTRO HEP ADVANCES 2023; 3:344-352. [PMID: 39131134 PMCID: PMC11308038 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastha.2023.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonists have emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for the management of various gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, including primary biliary cholangitis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, alcohol-related liver disease, and primary sclerosing cholangitis. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of action of FXR agonists, including their metabolic and immunomodulatory effects, and provide an overview of the clinical evidence supporting their use in the treatment of GI diseases. We also highlight the safety, adverse effects, and potential drug interactions associated with FXR agonists. While these agents have demonstrated efficacy in improving liver function, reducing hepatic steatosis, and improving histological endpoints in primary biliary cholangitis and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, further research is needed to determine their long-term safety and effectiveness in other GI diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease, alcohol-related liver disease, and primary sclerosing cholangitis. Additionally, the development of next-generation FXR agonists with improved potency and reduced side effects could further enhance their therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Almeqdadi
- Division of Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Diseases, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, Burlington, Massachusetts
| | - Fredric D. Gordon
- Abdominal Transplant Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
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9
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Matsukuma K, Yeh MM. Practical Guide, Challenges, and Pitfalls in Liver Fibrosis Staging. Surg Pathol Clin 2023; 16:457-472. [PMID: 37536882 DOI: 10.1016/j.path.2023.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis staging has many challenges, including the large number of proposed staging systems, the heterogeneity of the histopathologic changes of many primary liver diseases, and the potential for slight differences in histologic interpretation to significantly affect clinical management. This review focuses first on fibrosis regression. Following this, each of the major categories of liver disease is discussed in regard to (1) appropriate fibrosis staging systems, (2) emerging concepts, (3) current clinical indications for liver biopsy, (4) clinical decisions determined by fibrosis stage, and (5) histologic challenges and pitfalls related to staging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Matsukuma
- University of California Davis, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, 4400 V Street, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
| | - Matthew M Yeh
- University of Washington Medical Center - Montlake, Box 356100, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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10
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You H, Duan W, Li S, Lv T, Chen S, Lu L, Ma X, Han Y, Nan Y, Xu X, Duan Z, Wei L, Jia J, Zhuang H. Guidelines on the Diagnosis and Management of Primary Biliary Cholangitis (2021). J Clin Transl Hepatol 2023; 11:736-746. [PMID: 36969891 PMCID: PMC10037524 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2022.00347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In 2015, the Chinese Society of Hepatology and the Chinese Society of Gastroenterology published a consensus on primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). In the past years, numerous clinical studies have been published in the field of PBC. To guide the clinical diagnosis and management of PBC patients, the Chinese Society of Hepatology invited a panel of experts to assess the new clinical evidence and formulate the current guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong You
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University & National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Weijia Duan
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University & National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Shuxiang Li
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University & National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Tingting Lv
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University & National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Sha Chen
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University & National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Lungen Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology, First People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiong Ma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Han
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuemin Nan
- Department of Traditional and Western Medical Hepatology, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Xu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Center for Liver Diseases, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Correspondence to: Jidong Jia, Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, 95 Yong-an Road, Beijing 100050, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4673-8890. Tel: +86-10-63139816, Fax: +86-10-63139246, E-mail: ; Xiaoyuan Xu, Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1759-4330. Tel/Fax: +86-10-83575787, E-mail:
| | - Zhongping Duan
- Artificial Liver Center, Beijing You-An Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lai Wei
- Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Center, Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jidong Jia
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University & National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Beijing, China
- Correspondence to: Jidong Jia, Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, 95 Yong-an Road, Beijing 100050, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4673-8890. Tel: +86-10-63139816, Fax: +86-10-63139246, E-mail: ; Xiaoyuan Xu, Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1759-4330. Tel/Fax: +86-10-83575787, E-mail:
| | - Hui Zhuang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
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11
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Invernizzi P, Carbone M, Jones D, Levy C, Little N, Wiesel P, Nevens F. Setanaxib, a first-in-class selective NADPH oxidase 1/4 inhibitor for primary biliary cholangitis: A randomized, placebo-controlled, phase 2 trial. Liver Int 2023. [PMID: 37183520 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a rare liver disease with significant unmet need for second-line/add-on treatments. Setanaxib, a NOX1/4 inhibitor, has shown anti-fibrotic effects in in vitro and animal studies. This phase 2, randomized, multicentre study investigated the efficacy and safety of setanaxib in patients with PBC. METHODS Patients with ≥6 months of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) treatment were randomized 1:1:1 to oral setanaxib 400 mg once daily (OD), twice daily (BID), or placebo, in addition to UDCA for 24 weeks. Other inclusion criteria included alkaline phosphatase (ALP) ≥1.5 × ULN and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) ≥1.5 × ULN. The primary endpoint was percentage change from baseline in GGT at Week 24; secondary endpoints included change from baseline in ALP, liver stiffness (LS; via transient elastography), fatigue at Week 24, and safety outcomes. p values compare setanaxib 400 mg BID and placebo groups. RESULTS Of patients randomized (setanaxib 400 mg OD and BID: 38, and 36; placebo: 37), 104/111 completed Week 24. Mean (standard deviation [SD]) change in GGT to Week 24 was -4.9% (59.6%) for setanaxib 400 mg OD, -19.0% (28.9%) for setanaxib 400 mg BID, and -8.4% (21.5%) for placebo; p = .31. Patients treated with setanaxib 400 mg OD and BID showed decreased serum ALP levels from baseline to Week 24 (p = .002: setanaxib BID versus placebo). Patients treated with setanaxib 400 mg OD and BID showed mean (SD) percentage increases in LS to Week 24 of 3.3% (35.0%) and 7.9% (43.7%), versus 10.1% (33.1%) for placebo (p = .65). Changes in mean (SD) PBC-40 fatigue domain scores to Week 24 were +0.3% (24.9%) for setanaxib 400 mg OD, -9.9% (19.8%) for setanaxib 400 mg BID and +2.4% (23.1%) for placebo, p = .027. Two patients (one placebo, one setanaxib 400 mg BID) experienced serious treatment-emergent adverse events, deemed unrelated to study drug. CONCLUSIONS The primary endpoint was not met. However, the secondary endpoints provide preliminary evidence for potential anti-cholestatic and anti-fibrotic effects in PBC, supporting the further evaluation of setanaxib in a future phase 2b/3 trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Centre for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), IRCCS Fondazione San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Marco Carbone
- Division of Gastroenterology, Centre for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), IRCCS Fondazione San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - David Jones
- Newcastle University Medical School, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Cynthia Levy
- Schiff Center for Liver Diseases, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | | | | | - Frederik Nevens
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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12
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Aseem SO, Hylemon PB, Zhou H. Bile Acids and Biliary Fibrosis. Cells 2023; 12:cells12050792. [PMID: 36899928 PMCID: PMC10001305 DOI: 10.3390/cells12050792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Biliary fibrosis is the driving pathological process in cholangiopathies such as primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Cholangiopathies are also associated with cholestasis, which is the retention of biliary components, including bile acids, in the liver and blood. Cholestasis may worsen with biliary fibrosis. Furthermore, bile acid levels, composition and homeostasis are dysregulated in PBC and PSC. In fact, mounting data from animal models and human cholangiopathies suggest that bile acids play a crucial role in the pathogenesis and progression of biliary fibrosis. The identification of bile acid receptors has advanced our understanding of various signaling pathways involved in regulating cholangiocyte functions and the potential impact on biliary fibrosis. We will also briefly review recent findings linking these receptors with epigenetic regulatory mechanisms. Further detailed understanding of bile acid signaling in the pathogenesis of biliary fibrosis will uncover additional therapeutic avenues for cholangiopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayed Obaidullah Aseem
- Stravitz-Sanyal Institute for Liver Disease & Metabolic Health, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Phillip B. Hylemon
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
- Central Virginia Veterans Healthcare System, Richmond, VA 23249, USA
| | - Huiping Zhou
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
- Central Virginia Veterans Healthcare System, Richmond, VA 23249, USA
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13
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Nevens F, Trauner M, Manns MP. Primary biliary cholangitis as a roadmap for the development of novel treatments for cholestatic liver diseases †. J Hepatol 2023; 78:430-441. [PMID: 36272496 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of nuclear receptors and transporters has contributed to the development of new drugs for the treatment of cholestatic liver diseases. Particular progress has been made in the development of second-line therapies for PBC. These new drugs can be separated into compounds primarily targeting cholestasis, molecules targeting fibrogenesis and molecules with immune-mediated action. Finally, drugs aimed at symptom relief (pruritus and fatigue) are also under investigation. Obeticholic acid is currently the only approved second-line therapy for PBC. Drugs in the late phase of clinical development include peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonists, norursodeoxycholic acid and NADPH oxidase 1/4 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederik Nevens
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital KU Leuven, Belgium; Centre of ERN RARE-LIVER.
| | - Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Austria; Centre of ERN RARE-LIVER
| | - Michael P Manns
- Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Centre of ERN RARE-LIVER
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14
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Pan B, Liu W, Ou YJ, Zhang YQ, Jiang D, Li YC, Chen ZY, Zhang LD, Zhang CC. Gastroduodenal artery disconnection during liver transplantation decreases non-anastomotic stricture incidence. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2023; 22:28-33. [PMID: 36210313 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2022.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The hepatic artery is the only blood source nourishing the biliary duct and associated with biliary complication after liver transplantation (LT). Gastroduodenal artery (GDA) disconnection increased proper hepatic artery flow. Whether this procedure attenuates biliary non-anastomotic stricture (NAS) is not clear. METHODS A total of 241 patients with LT were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into the GDA disconnection (GDA-) and GDA preservation (GDA+) groups. Propensity score matching (PSM) was administrated to reduce bias. Logistic regression was conducted to analyze risk factors for biliary NAS before and after PSM. Postoperative complications were compared. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and log-rank tests were performed to compare overall survival. RESULTS In all, 99 patients (41.1%) underwent GDA disconnection, and 49 (20.3%) developed NAS. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that GDA preservation (OR = 2.24, 95% CI: 1.11-4.53; P = 0.025) and model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score > 15 (OR = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.12-4.11; P = 0.022) were risk factors for biliary NAS. PSM provided 66 pairs using 1:2 matching method, including 66 GDA disconnection and 99 GDA preservation patients. Multivariate logistic regression after PSM also showed that GDA preservation (OR = 3.15, 95% CI: 1.26-7.89; P = 0.014) and MELD score > 15 (OR = 2.41, 95% CI: 1.08-5.36; P = 0.031) were risk factors for NAS. When comparing complications between the two groups, GDA preservation was associated with a higher incidence of biliary NAS before and after PSM (P = 0.031 and 0.017, respectively). In contrast, other complications including early allograft dysfunction (P = 0.620), small-for-size graft syndrome (P = 0.441), abdominal hemorrhage (P = 1.000), major complications (Clavien-Dindo grade ≥ 3, P = 0.318), and overall survival (P = 0.088) were not significantly different between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS GDA disconnection during LT ameliorates biliary NAS incidence and may be recommended for application in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bi Pan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yan-Jiao Ou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yan-Qi Zhang
- Department of Health Statistics, College of Military Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Di Jiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yuan-Cheng Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Zhi-Yu Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Lei-Da Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Cheng-Cheng Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China.
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15
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Bittermann T. The Potential Synergy of Using Interventional and Observational Data to Study Clinically Meaningful, Long-term Outcomes in Rare Liver and Luminal Diseases. Gastroenterology 2022; 163:1491-1492. [PMID: 36181834 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2022.09.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Therese Bittermann
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology and, Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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16
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Di Ciaula A, Bonfrate L, Baj J, Khalil M, Garruti G, Stellaard F, Wang HH, Wang DQH, Portincasa P. Recent Advances in the Digestive, Metabolic and Therapeutic Effects of Farnesoid X Receptor and Fibroblast Growth Factor 19: From Cholesterol to Bile Acid Signaling. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14234950. [PMID: 36500979 PMCID: PMC9738051 DOI: 10.3390/nu14234950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Bile acids (BA) are amphiphilic molecules synthesized in the liver (primary BA) starting from cholesterol. In the small intestine, BA act as strong detergents for emulsification, solubilization and absorption of dietary fat, cholesterol, and lipid-soluble vitamins. Primary BA escaping the active ileal re-absorption undergo the microbiota-dependent biotransformation to secondary BA in the colon, and passive diffusion into the portal vein towards the liver. BA also act as signaling molecules able to play a systemic role in a variety of metabolic functions, mainly through the activation of nuclear and membrane-associated receptors in the intestine, gallbladder, and liver. BA homeostasis is tightly controlled by a complex interplay with the nuclear receptor farnesoid X receptor (FXR), the enterokine hormone fibroblast growth factor 15 (FGF15) or the human ortholog FGF19 (FGF19). Circulating FGF19 to the FGFR4/β-Klotho receptor causes smooth muscle relaxation and refilling of the gallbladder. In the liver the binding activates the FXR-small heterodimer partner (SHP) pathway. This step suppresses the unnecessary BA synthesis and promotes the continuous enterohepatic circulation of BAs. Besides BA homeostasis, the BA-FXR-FGF19 axis governs several metabolic processes, hepatic protein, and glycogen synthesis, without inducing lipogenesis. These pathways can be disrupted in cholestasis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Thus, targeting FXR activity can represent a novel therapeutic approach for the prevention and the treatment of liver and metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agostino Di Ciaula
- Clinica Medica “A. Murri”, Department of Biomedical Sciences & Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro” Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Leonilde Bonfrate
- Clinica Medica “A. Murri”, Department of Biomedical Sciences & Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro” Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Jacek Baj
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Mohamad Khalil
- Clinica Medica “A. Murri”, Department of Biomedical Sciences & Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro” Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Gabriella Garruti
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantations, University of Bari “Aldo Moro” Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Frans Stellaard
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, Venusberg-Campus 1, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Helen H. Wang
- Department of Medicine and Genetics, Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Marion Bessin Liver Research Center, Einstein-Mount Sinai Diabetes Research Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - David Q.-H. Wang
- Department of Medicine and Genetics, Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Marion Bessin Liver Research Center, Einstein-Mount Sinai Diabetes Research Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Piero Portincasa
- Clinica Medica “A. Murri”, Department of Biomedical Sciences & Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro” Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-328-4687215
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17
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Liu CH, Bowlus CL. Treatment of Primary Biliary Cholangitis: First-Line and Second-Line Therapies. Clin Liver Dis 2022; 26:705-726. [PMID: 36270725 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2022.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune disease of the interlobular bile ducts leading to secondary damage of hepatocytes and may progress to cirrhosis and liver failure. The first-line treatment is ursodeoxycholic acid; up to 40% of patients do not have an adequate response and remain at risk of disease progression. Obeticholic acid has been conditionally approved for the treatment of PBC as add-on therapy and bezafibrate has shown similar efficacy in this group of patients. Several new therapies are in development and may further add to the treatment options available to patients with PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung-Heng Liu
- Drexel University College of Medicine, 2900 W Queen Ln, Philadelphia, PA 19129 USA
| | - Christopher L Bowlus
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, 4150 V Street, PSSB 3500, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
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18
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Obeticholic Acid for Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102464. [PMID: 36289726 PMCID: PMC9599277 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a rare autoimmune cholestatic liver disease that may progress to fibrosis and/or cirrhosis. Treatment options are currently limited. The first-line therapy for this disease is the drug ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), which has been proven to normalize serum markers of liver dysfunction, halt histologic disease progression, and lead to a prolongation of transplant-free survival. However, 30–40% of patients unfortunately do not respond to this first-line therapy. Obeticholic acid (OCA) is the only registered agent for second-line treatment in UDCA-non responders. In this review, we focus on the pharmacological features of OCA, describing its mechanism of action of and its tolerability and efficacy in PBC patients. We also highlight current perspectives on future therapies for this condition.
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19
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Floreani A, Gabbia D, De Martin S. Update on the Pharmacological Treatment of Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10082033. [PMID: 36009580 PMCID: PMC9405864 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10082033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is the first-line therapy used for the treatment of PBC. In recent years, new pharmacological agents have been proposed for PBC therapy to cure UDCA-non-responders. Obeticholic acid (OCA) is registered in many countries for PBC, and fibrates also seem to be effective in ameliorating biochemistry alteration and symptoms typical of PBC. Moreover, a variety of new agents, acting with different mechanisms of action, are under clinical evaluation for PBC treatment, including PPAR agonists, anti-NOX agents, immunomodulators, and mesenchymal stem cell transplantation. Since an insufficient amount of data is currently available about the effect of these novel approaches on robust clinical endpoints, such as transplant-free survival, their clinical approval needs to be supported by the consistent improvement of these parameters. The intensive research in this field will hopefully lead to a novel treatment landscape for PBC in the near future, with innovative therapies based on the combination of multiple agents acting on different pathogenetic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annarosa Floreani
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
- IRCCS Negrar, 37024 Verona, Italy
| | - Daniela Gabbia
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Sara De Martin
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
- Correspondence:
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20
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Shahini E, Pasculli G, Mastropietro A, Stolfi P, Tieri P, Vergni D, Cozzolongo R, Pesce F, Giannelli G. Network Proximity-Based Drug Repurposing Strategy for Early and Late Stages of Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Biomedicines 2022; 10:1694. [PMID: 35884999 PMCID: PMC9312896 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10071694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic, cholestatic, immune-mediated, and progressive liver disorder. Treatment to preventing the disease from advancing into later and irreversible stages is still an unmet clinical need. Accordingly, we set up a drug repurposing framework to find potential therapeutic agents targeting relevant pathways derived from an expanded pool of genes involved in different stages of PBC. Starting with updated human protein-protein interaction data and genes specifically involved in the early and late stages of PBC, a network medicine approach was used to provide a PBC "proximity" or "involvement" gene ranking using network diffusion algorithms and machine learning models. The top genes in the proximity ranking, when combined with the original PBC-related genes, resulted in a final dataset of the genes most involved in PBC disease. Finally, a drug repurposing strategy was implemented by mining and utilizing dedicated drug-gene interaction and druggable genome information knowledge bases (e.g., the DrugBank repository). We identified several potential drug candidates interacting with PBC pathways after performing an over-representation analysis on our initial 1121-seed gene list and the resulting disease-associated (algorithm-obtained) genes. The mechanism and potential therapeutic applications of such drugs were then thoroughly discussed, with a particular emphasis on different stages of PBC disease. We found that interleukin/EGFR/TNF-alpha inhibitors, branched-chain amino acids, geldanamycin, tauroursodeoxycholic acid, genistein, antioestrogens, curcumin, antineovascularisation agents, enzyme/protease inhibitors, and antirheumatic agents are promising drugs targeting distinct stages of PBC. We developed robust and transparent selection mechanisms for prioritizing already approved medicinal products or investigational products for repurposing based on recognized unmet medical needs in PBC, as well as solid preliminary data to achieve this goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Endrit Shahini
- National Institute of Research IRCCS “Saverio De Bellis”, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (R.C.); (G.G.)
| | - Giuseppe Pasculli
- Department of Computer, Control and Management Engineering Antonio Ruberti (DIAG), Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (A.M.)
| | - Andrea Mastropietro
- Department of Computer, Control and Management Engineering Antonio Ruberti (DIAG), Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (A.M.)
| | - Paola Stolfi
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute for Applied Computing (IAC), 00185 Rome, Italy; (P.S.); (P.T.); (D.V.)
| | - Paolo Tieri
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute for Applied Computing (IAC), 00185 Rome, Italy; (P.S.); (P.T.); (D.V.)
| | - Davide Vergni
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute for Applied Computing (IAC), 00185 Rome, Italy; (P.S.); (P.T.); (D.V.)
| | - Raffaele Cozzolongo
- National Institute of Research IRCCS “Saverio De Bellis”, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (R.C.); (G.G.)
| | - Francesco Pesce
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, University of Bari “A. Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Gianluigi Giannelli
- National Institute of Research IRCCS “Saverio De Bellis”, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (R.C.); (G.G.)
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21
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Bertolini A, Fiorotto R, Strazzabosco M. Bile acids and their receptors: modulators and therapeutic targets in liver inflammation. Semin Immunopathol 2022; 44:547-564. [PMID: 35415765 PMCID: PMC9256560 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-022-00935-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Bile acids participate in the intestinal emulsion, digestion, and absorption of lipids and fat-soluble vitamins. When present in high concentrations, as in cholestatic liver diseases, bile acids can damage cells and cause inflammation. After the discovery of bile acids receptors about two decades ago, bile acids are considered signaling molecules. Besides regulating bile acid, xenobiotic, and nutrient metabolism, bile acids and their receptors have shown immunomodulatory properties and have been proposed as therapeutic targets for inflammatory diseases of the liver. This review focuses on bile acid-related signaling pathways that affect inflammation in the liver and provides an overview of the preclinical and clinical applications of modulators of these pathways for the treatment of cholestatic and autoimmune liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bertolini
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale Liver Center, Yale School of Medicine, PO Box 208019, New Haven, CT, 06520-8019, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Molecular Metabolism and Nutrition, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Romina Fiorotto
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale Liver Center, Yale School of Medicine, PO Box 208019, New Haven, CT, 06520-8019, USA
| | - Mario Strazzabosco
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale Liver Center, Yale School of Medicine, PO Box 208019, New Haven, CT, 06520-8019, USA.
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22
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Li H. Intercellular crosstalk of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells in liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Dig Liver Dis 2022; 54:598-613. [PMID: 34344577 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2021.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Intercellular crosstalk among various liver cells plays an important role in liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Capillarization of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) precedes fibrosis and accumulating evidence suggests that the crosstalk between LSECs and other liver cells is critical in the development and progression of liver fibrosis. LSECs dysfunction, a key event in the progression from fibrosis to cirrhosis, and subsequently obstruction of hepatic sinuses and increased intrahepatic vascular resistance (IHVR) contribute to development of portal hypertension (PHT) and cirrhosis. More importantly, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), which is closely related to the crosstalk between LSECs and immune liver cells like CD8+ T cells, promotes advances tumorigenesis, especially HCC. However, the connections within the crosstalk between LSECs and other liver cells during the progression from liver fibrosis to cirrhosis to HCC have yet to be discussed. In this review, we first summarize the current knowledge of how different crosstalk between LSECs and other liver cells, including hepatocytes, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), macrophoges, immune cells in liver and extra cellular matrix (ECM) contribute to the physiological function and the progrssion from liver fibrosis to cirrhosis, or even to HCC. Then we examine current treatment strategies for LSECs crosstalk in liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- Central Laboratory, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO. 39 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, PR China.
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23
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Simplified 6-month prediction scores for primary biliary cholangitis patients treated with ursodeoxycholic acid. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 34:411-416. [PMID: 34074987 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000002216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To develop a prognostic score evaluating treatment response at 6 months after ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) initiation in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) patients. METHODS Adult PBC patients who were newly prescribed UDCA at our institution (n = 292) were included. Significant determinants of liver-related adverse events in the multivariable Cox model were used for score development, weighted by β-coefficients. Discrimination ability was assessed using Harrell's C-statistic. The performance of our model was compared to the previous models. RESULTS Our model included the following variables evaluated at 6 months: (1) alkaline phosphatase decline of less than 50% from baseline and >upper limit normal (ULN) (2 points); (2) bilirubin >ULN (2 points); (3) albumin <lower limit normal (1 point). The score ranged from 0 to 5 points. C-statistic estimates were 0.87 (overall cohort), 0.87 (no cirrhosis) and 0.77 (cirrhosis), indicating good discrimination of treatment response. Patients with scores ≥3 points had significant shorter transplant-free survival (TFS) than scores <3 points (P < 0.001). The TFS rates for patients with score ≥3 points at 5, 10 and 15 years were 52, 26 and 7%, and for patients with scores <3 points were 96, 92 and 82%, respectively. There was no significant difference between the performance of our 6-month model and the previous models (Paris I, Paris II, Barcelona, Rotterdam and GLOBE scores evaluated at 12 months) in predicting liver-related outcomes (all P = NS). CONCLUSION This novel 6-month prognostic model showed good prognostic performance. Utilization of this score would identify patients with suboptimal responses to UDCA earlier.
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Li R, Hovingh MV, Koehorst M, de Blaauw P, Verkade HJ, de Boer JF, Kuipers F. Short-term obeticholic acid treatment does not impact cholangiopathy in Cyp2c70-deficient mice with a human-like bile acid composition. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2022; 1867:159163. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2022.159163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Singh R, Zogg H, Ghoshal UC, Ro S. Current Treatment Options and Therapeutic Insights for Gastrointestinal Dysmotility and Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:808195. [PMID: 35145413 PMCID: PMC8822166 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.808195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) have been re-named as disorders of gut-brain interactions. These conditions are not only common in clinical practice, but also in the community. In reference to the Rome IV criteria, the most common FGIDs, include functional dyspepsia (FD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Additionally, there is substantial overlap of these disorders and other specific gastrointestinal motility disorders, such as gastroparesis. These disorders are heterogeneous and are intertwined with several proposed pathophysiological mechanisms, such as altered gut motility, intestinal barrier dysfunction, gut immune dysfunction, visceral hypersensitivity, altered GI secretion, presence and degree of bile acid malabsorption, microbial dysbiosis, and alterations to the gut-brain axis. The treatment options currently available include lifestyle modifications, dietary and gut microbiota manipulation interventions including fecal microbiota transplantation, prokinetics, antispasmodics, laxatives, and centrally and peripherally acting neuromodulators. However, treatment that targets the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the symptoms are scanty. Pharmacological agents that are developed based on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying pathologies of these disorders might provide the best avenue for future pharmaceutical development. The currently available therapies lack long-term effectiveness and safety for their use to treat motility disorders and FGIDs. Furthermore, the fundamental challenges in treating these disorders should be defined; for instance, 1. Cause and effect cannot be disentangled between symptoms and pathophysiological mechanisms due to current therapies that entail the off-label use of medications to treat symptoms. 2. Despite the knowledge that the microbiota in our gut plays an essential part in maintaining gut health, their exact functions in gut homeostasis are still unclear. What constitutes a healthy microbiome and further, the precise definition of gut microbial dysbiosis is lacking. More comprehensive, large-scale, and longitudinal studies utilizing multi-omics data are needed to dissect the exact contribution of gut microbial alterations in disease pathogenesis. Accordingly, we review the current treatment options, clinical insight on pathophysiology, therapeutic modalities, current challenges, and therapeutic clues for the clinical care and management of functional dyspepsia, gastroparesis, irritable bowel syndrome, functional constipation, and functional diarrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajan Singh
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Reno School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, United States
| | - Hannah Zogg
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Reno School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, United States
| | - Uday C Ghoshal
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
- *Correspondence: Uday C Ghoshal, ; Seungil Ro,
| | - Seungil Ro
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Reno School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, United States
- *Correspondence: Uday C Ghoshal, ; Seungil Ro,
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Sorda JA, González Ballerga E, Barreyro FJ, Daruich J. Editorial: bezafibrate in the treatment of patients with primary biliary cholangitis-are we there yet? Authors' reply. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2022; 55:249-250. [PMID: 34970761 DOI: 10.1111/apt.16726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Antonio Sorda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital "José de San Martín", Faculty of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Esteban González Ballerga
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital "José de San Martín", Faculty of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fernando Javier Barreyro
- Biotechnology Institute of Misiones (INBIOMIS), National University of Misiones, National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jorge Daruich
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital "José de San Martín", Faculty of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Farooqui N, Elhence A, Shalimar. A Current Understanding of Bile Acids in Chronic Liver Disease. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2022; 12:155-173. [PMID: 35068796 PMCID: PMC8766695 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2021.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver disease (CLD) is one of the leading causes of disability-adjusted life years in many countries. A recent understanding of nuclear bile acid receptor pathways has increased focus on the impact of crosstalk between the gut, bile acids, and liver on liver pathology. While conventionally used in cholestatic disorders and to dissolve gallstones, the discovery of bile acids' influence on the gut microbiome and human metabolism offers a unique potential for their utility in early and advanced liver diseases because of diverse etiologies. Based on these findings, preclinical studies using bile acid-based molecules have shown encouraging results at addressing liver inflammation and fibrosis. Emerging data also suggest that bile acid profiles change distinctively across various causes of liver disease. We summarize the current knowledge and evidence related to bile acids in health and disease and discuss culminated and ongoing therapeutic trials of bile acid derivatives in CLD. In the near future, further evidence in this area might help clinicians better detect and manage liver diseases.
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Key Words
- AD, Acute decompensation
- ALP, Alkaline phosphatase
- AMACR, α-methylacyl-CoA racemase (AMACR)
- ASBT, Apical sodium dependent bile salt transporter
- BA, Bile acid
- BSEP, Bile salt export pump
- BSH, Bile salt hydrolase
- CA, Cholic acid
- CDCA, Chenodeoxycholic acid
- CLD
- CLD, Chronic Liver Disease
- CTP, Child-Turcotte-Pugh
- CYP7A1, Cholesterol 7 α hydroxylase
- DCA, Deoxycholic acid
- DR5, Death receptor 5
- ELF, Enhanced Liver Fibrosis
- FGF-19, Fibroblast growth factor-19
- FGFR4, FGF receptor 4
- FXR, Farnesoid X receptor
- GCA, Glycocholic acid
- GDCA, Glycodeoxycholic acid
- GLP-1, Glucagon-like peptide1
- HBV, Hepatitis B virus
- HCV, Hepatitis C virus
- HVPG, Hepatic Venous Pressure Gradient
- LCA, Lithocholic acid
- LPS, Lipopolysaccharide
- MELD, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD)
- MRI-PDFF, Magnetic resonance imaging derived proton density fat fraction
- NAFLD
- NAFLD, Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- NAS, NAFLD activity score
- NASH, Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
- NTCP, Sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide
- OCA, Obeticholic acid
- OST, Organic solute transporter
- PBC, Primary biliary cirrhosis
- PFIC, Progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis
- PSC, Primary sclerosing cholangitis
- PXR, Pregnane X receptor
- SHP, Small heterodimer partner
- TBA, Total bile acids
- TGR5, Takeda G-protein coupled receptor 5
- TRAIL, TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand
- UDCA, Ursodeoxycholic acid
- UPLC-MS, Ultra-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry
- VDR, Vitamin D receptor
- bile acids
- cirrhosis
- microbiome
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Affiliation(s)
- Naba Farooqui
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Anshuman Elhence
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Shalimar
- Department of Gastroenterology and Human Nutrition, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Abstract
Cholestatic and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) share several key pathophysiological mechanisms which can be targeted by novel therapeutic concepts that are currently developed for both areas. Nuclear receptors (NRs) are ligand-activated transcriptional regulators of key metabolic processes including hepatic lipid and glucose metabolism, energy expenditure and bile acid (BA) homoeostasis, as well as inflammation, fibrosis and cellular proliferation. Dysregulation of these processes contributes to the pathogenesis and progression of cholestatic as well as fatty liver disease, placing NRs at the forefront of novel therapeutic approaches. This includes BA and fatty acid activated NRs such as farnesoid-X receptor (FXR) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, respectively, for which high affinity therapeutic ligands targeting specific or multiple isoforms have been developed. Moreover, novel liver-specific ligands for thyroid hormone receptor beta 1 complete the spectrum of currently available NR-targeted drugs. Apart from FXR ligands, BA signalling can be targeted by mimetics of FXR-activated fibroblast growth factor 19, modulation of their enterohepatic circulation through uptake inhibitors in hepatocytes and enterocytes, as well as novel BA derivatives undergoing cholehepatic shunting (instead of enterohepatic circulation). Other therapeutic approaches more directly target inflammation and/or fibrosis as critical events of disease progression. Combination strategies synergistically targeting metabolic disturbances, inflammation and fibrosis may be ultimately necessary for successful treatment of these complex and multifactorial disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Claudia Daniela Fuchs
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Neurosteroid Activation of GABA-A Receptors: A Potential Treatment Target for Symptoms in Primary Biliary Cholangitis? Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 2022:3618090. [PMID: 36523650 PMCID: PMC9747297 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3618090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims A third of patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) experience poorly understood cognitive symptoms, with a significant impact on quality of life (QOL), and no effective medical treatment. Allopregnanolone, a neurosteroid, is a positive allosteric modulator of gamma-aminobutyricacid-A (GABA-A) receptors, associated with disordered mood, cognition, and memory. This study explored associations between allopregnanolone and a disease-specific QOL scoring system (PBC-40) in PBC patients. Method Serum allopregnanolone levels were measured in 120 phenotyped PBC patients and 40 age and gender-matched healthy controls. PBC subjects completed the PBC-40 at recruitment. Serum allopregnanolone levels were compared across PBC-40 domains for those with none/mild symptoms versus severe symptoms. Results There were no overall differences in allopregnanolone levels between healthy controls (median = 0.03 ng/ml (IQR = 0.025)) and PBC patients (0.031 (0.42), p = 0.42). Within the PBC cohort, higher allopregnanolone levels were observed in younger patients (r (120) = -0.53, p < 0.001) but not healthy controls (r (39) = -0.21, p = 0.21). Allopregnanolone levels were elevated in the PBC-40 domains, cognition (u = 1034, p = 0.02), emotional (u = 1374, p = 0.004), and itch (u = 795, p = 0.03). Severe cognitive symptoms associated with a younger age: severe (50 (12)) vs. none (60 (13); u = 423 p = 0.001). Conclusion Elevated serum allopregnanolone is associated with severe cognitive, emotional, and itch symptoms in PBC, in keeping with its known action on GABA-A receptors. Existing novel compounds targeting allopregnanolone could offer new therapies in severely symptomatic PBC, satisfying a significant unmet need.
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Marti-Aguado D, Fernández-Patón M, Alfaro-Cervello C, Mestre-Alagarda C, Bauza M, Gallen-Peris A, Merino V, Benlloch S, Pérez-Rojas J, Ferrández A, Puglia V, Gimeno-Torres M, Aguilera V, Monton C, Escudero-García D, Alberich-Bayarri Á, Serra MA, Marti-Bonmati L. Digital Pathology Enables Automated and Quantitative Assessment of Inflammatory Activity in Patients with Chronic Liver Disease. Biomolecules 2021; 11:1808. [PMID: 34944452 PMCID: PMC8699191 DOI: 10.3390/biom11121808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional histological evaluation for grading liver disease severity is based on subjective and semi-quantitative scores. We examined the relationship between digital pathology analysis and corresponding scoring systems for the assessment of hepatic necroinflammatory activity. A prospective, multicenter study including 156 patients with chronic liver disease (74% nonalcoholic fatty liver disease-NAFLD, 26% chronic hepatitis-CH etiologies) was performed. Inflammation was graded according to the Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) Clinical Research Network system and METAVIR score. Whole-slide digital image analysis based on quantitative (I-score: inflammation ratio) and morphometric (C-score: proportionate area of staining intensities clusters) measurements were independently performed. Our data show that I-scores and C-scores increase with inflammation grades (p < 0.001). High correlation was seen for CH (ρ = 0.85-0.88), but only moderate for NAFLD (ρ = 0.5-0.53). I-score (p = 0.008) and C-score (p = 0.002) were higher for CH than NAFLD. Our MATLAB algorithm performed better than QuPath software for the diagnosis of low-moderate inflammation (p < 0.05). C-score AUC for classifying NASH was 0.75 (95%CI, 0.65-0.84) and for moderate/severe CH was 0.99 (95%CI, 0.97-1.00). Digital pathology measurements increased with fibrosis stages (p < 0.001). In conclusion, quantitative and morphometric metrics of inflammatory burden obtained by digital pathology correlate well with pathologists' scores, showing a higher accuracy for the evaluation of CH than NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Marti-Aguado
- Digestive Disease Department, Clinic University Hospital, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (V.M.); (C.M.); (D.E.-G.)
- Biomedical Imaging Research Group (GIBI230), La Fe Health Research Institute, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.F.-P.); (Á.A.-B.); (L.M.-B.)
| | - Matías Fernández-Patón
- Biomedical Imaging Research Group (GIBI230), La Fe Health Research Institute, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.F.-P.); (Á.A.-B.); (L.M.-B.)
| | - Clara Alfaro-Cervello
- Pathology Department, Clinic University Hospital, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (C.A.-C.); (C.M.-A.); (A.F.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Claudia Mestre-Alagarda
- Pathology Department, Clinic University Hospital, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (C.A.-C.); (C.M.-A.); (A.F.)
| | - Mónica Bauza
- Pathology Department, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.B.); (J.P.-R.)
| | - Ana Gallen-Peris
- Digestive Disease Department, Hospital Arnau de Vilanova, 46015 Valencia, Spain; (A.G.-P.); (S.B.)
| | - Víctor Merino
- Digestive Disease Department, Clinic University Hospital, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (V.M.); (C.M.); (D.E.-G.)
| | - Salvador Benlloch
- Digestive Disease Department, Hospital Arnau de Vilanova, 46015 Valencia, Spain; (A.G.-P.); (S.B.)
- CIBERehd, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Judith Pérez-Rojas
- Pathology Department, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.B.); (J.P.-R.)
| | - Antonio Ferrández
- Pathology Department, Clinic University Hospital, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (C.A.-C.); (C.M.-A.); (A.F.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Víctor Puglia
- Pathology Department, Hospital Arnau de Vilanova, 46015 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Marta Gimeno-Torres
- Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Unit, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, 46026 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Victoria Aguilera
- CIBERehd, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain;
- Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Unit, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, 46026 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Cristina Monton
- Digestive Disease Department, Clinic University Hospital, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (V.M.); (C.M.); (D.E.-G.)
| | - Desamparados Escudero-García
- Digestive Disease Department, Clinic University Hospital, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (V.M.); (C.M.); (D.E.-G.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Ángel Alberich-Bayarri
- Biomedical Imaging Research Group (GIBI230), La Fe Health Research Institute, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.F.-P.); (Á.A.-B.); (L.M.-B.)
- Quantitative Imaging Biomarkers in Medicine, QUIBIM SL, 46021 Valencia, Spain
| | - Miguel A. Serra
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Luis Marti-Bonmati
- Biomedical Imaging Research Group (GIBI230), La Fe Health Research Institute, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.F.-P.); (Á.A.-B.); (L.M.-B.)
- Radiology Department, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, 46026 Valencia, Spain
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Warnes TW, Roberts SA, Smith A, Cope VM, Vales P, Haboubi NY, McMahon RF. Portal hypertension in primary biliary cholangitis: prevalence, natural history and histological correlates. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 33:1595-1602. [PMID: 33323761 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000002033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The histopathological mechanisms underlying portal hypertension in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) are poorly understood, as is its natural history. We have therefore determined the prevalence, severity and progression of portal hypertension in PBC and investigated whether its presence is related to specific histological lesions. METHODS Hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) was measured in 86 patients, with 186 assessments over up to 7 years of follow-up and the results correlated with a semiquantitative grading of 8 histological features and nodular regenerative hyperplasia (NRH). RESULTS Portal hypertension (HVPG >5 mmHg) was present in 88% of all assessments (86% at baseline), and in 45% of patients at baseline was >12 mmHg (high-risk portal hypertension). The rise in portal pressure occurs early in the disease, since 45% of patients with normal serum bilirubin had a raised HVPG, as did 72% of patients with early (Ludwig stages 1 and 2) disease. After baseline, there was a small increase in HVPG over the next 5 years in most patients. In patients with precirrhotic PBC, 82% had portal hypertension and in 34% this was >12 mmHg. Portal pressure correlated significantly with a semiquantitative grading of cholestasis, interface hepatitis and portal tract and sinusoidal fibrosis. NRH was present in only 20% of wedge biopsies. CONCLUSIONS Portal hypertension commences in the early stages of PBC, long preceding both rises in serum bilirubin and the development of cirrhosis. Around 34% of precirrhotic PBC patients have 'high-risk' portal hypertension, which is associated with lesions in the portal tracts and sinusoids rather than with NRH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W Warnes
- Liver Unit, Department of Gastroenterology, Manchester Royal Infirmary
| | - Stephen A Roberts
- Centre of Biostatistics, School of Health Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester
| | - Alexander Smith
- Liver Unit, Department of Gastroenterology, Manchester Royal Infirmary
| | | | - Patricia Vales
- Department of Medical Physics, Manchester Royal Infirmary
| | | | - Raymond F McMahon
- Department of Histopathology, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
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Obeticholic Acid and Fibrates in Primary Biliary Cholangitis: Comparative Effects in a Multicentric Observational Study. Am J Gastroenterol 2021; 116:2250-2257. [PMID: 34158466 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000001343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Obeticholic acid (OCA) and fibrates therapy results in biochemical improvement in placebo-controlled trials in patients with primary biliary cholangitis and insufficient response to ursodeoxycholic acid. There is scarce information outside of clinical trials. Therefore, we have assessed the effectiveness and adverse events of these treatments. METHODS Data from patients included in the ColHai registry treated with OCA, fibrates, or both were recorded during a year, as well as adverse events and treatment discontinuation. RESULTS Eighty-six patients were treated with OCA, 250 with fibrates (81% bezafibrate; 19% fenofibrate), and 15 with OCA plus fibrates. OCA group had baseline significantly higher alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (P = 0.01) and lower platelets (P = 0.03) than fibrates. Both treatments significantly decreased ALP, gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and transaminases and improved Globe score. Albumin and immunoglobulin type M improved in the fibrates group. ALP decrease was higher under fibrates, whereas alanine aminotransferase decline was higher under OCA. Although baseline transaminases and GGT were higher in patients with OCA plus fibrates, significant ALP, GGT, alanine aminotransferase, and Globe score improvement were observed during triple therapy. Adverse events were reported in 14.7% of patients (21.3% OCA; 17.6% fenofibrate; 10.7% bezafibrate), mainly pruritus (10.1% with OCA). Discontinuation was more frequent in fenofibrate treatment mainly because of intolerance or adverse events. DISCUSSION Second-line therapy with OCA or fibrates improves hepatic biochemistry and the GLOBE score in primary biliary cholangitis patients with suboptimal response to ursodeoxycholic acid. Simultaneous treatment with OCA and fibrates improved ALP as well.
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Montano-Loza AJ, Corpechot C. Definition and Management of Patients With Primary Biliary Cholangitis and an Incomplete Response to Therapy. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 19:2241-2251.e1. [PMID: 32629125 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2020.06.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an immune-mediated chronic liver disease characterized by biliary epithelial injury, cholestasis, and progressive fibrosis that can lead to cirrhosis and requirement for liver transplantation. All patients with PBC should receive initial treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), and odds for response are based on characteristics at baseline. It is important to have clear definitions of patients at risk for a poor response to therapy, of biochemical markers of an incomplete response, and standardized management. Patients typically are assessed after 12 months of treatment with UDCA for biochemical markers of response. However, evaluation at 6 months has been proposed for patients with more severe disease or symptoms (such as pruritus or fatigue). Markers of response to therapy include reduced serum levels of alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin (Paris-2, Toronto, GLOBE, and so forth); patients with high levels of total and conjugated bilirubin or levels of alkaline phosphatase more than 1.5-fold the upper limit of normal should be considered for second-line therapy. Patients with adequate biochemical responses can continue UDCA monotherapy. Incomplete responders should be considered for second-line therapies with obeticholic acid (licensed) or fibrates (unlicensed) in addition to continued treatment with UDCA. Patients with PBC should be followed up for life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo J Montano-Loza
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Unit, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Christophe Corpechot
- Reference Center for Inflammatory Biliary Diseases and Autoimmune Hepatitis, Saint-Antoine Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, European Reference Network Rare-Liver, Saint-Antoine Research Center, Sorbonne University, Paris, France.
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Simbrunner B, Trauner M, Reiberger T. Review article: therapeutic aspects of bile acid signalling in the gut-liver axis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2021; 54:1243-1262. [PMID: 34555862 PMCID: PMC9290708 DOI: 10.1111/apt.16602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bile acids are important endocrine modulators of intestinal and hepatic signalling cascades orchestrating critical pathophysiological processes in various liver diseases. Increasing knowledge on bile acid signalling has stimulated the development of synthetic ligands of nuclear bile acid receptors and other bile acid analogues. AIM This review summarises important aspects of bile acid-mediated crosstalk between the gut and the liver ("gut-liver axis") as well as recent findings from experimental and clinical studies. METHODS We performed a literature review on bile acid signalling, and therapeutic applications in chronic liver disease. RESULTS Intestinal and hepatic bile acid signalling pathways maintain bile acid homeostasis. Perturbations of bile acid-mediated gut-liver crosstalk dysregulate transcriptional networks involved in inflammation, fibrosis and endothelial dysfunction. Bile acids induce enterohepatic feedback signalling by the release of intestinal hormones, and regulate enterohepatic circulation. Importantly, bile acid signalling plays a central role in maintaining intestinal barrier integrity and antibacterial defense, which is particularly relevant in cirrhosis, where bacterial translocation has a profound impact on disease progression. The nuclear bile acid farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is a central intersection in bile acid signalling and has emerged as a relevant therapeutic target. CONCLUSIONS Experimental evidence suggests that bile acid signalling improves the intestinal barrier and protects against bacterial translocation in cirrhosis. FXR agonists have displayed efficacy for the treatment of cholestatic and metabolic liver disease in randomised controlled clinical trials. However, similar effects remain to be shown in advanced liver disease, particularly in patients with decompensated cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Simbrunner
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic LabMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Christian‐Doppler Laboratory for Portal Hypertension and Liver FibrosisMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Thomas Reiberger
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic LabMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Christian‐Doppler Laboratory for Portal Hypertension and Liver FibrosisMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
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Meadows V, Kennedy L, Ekser B, Kyritsi K, Kundu D, Zhou T, Chen L, Pham L, Wu N, Demieville J, Hargrove L, Glaser S, Alpini G, Francis H. Mast Cells Regulate Ductular Reaction and Intestinal Inflammation in Cholestasis Through Farnesoid X Receptor Signaling. Hepatology 2021; 74:2684-2698. [PMID: 34164827 PMCID: PMC9337218 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Cholestasis is characterized by increased total bile acid (TBA) levels, which are regulated by farnesoid X receptor (FXR)/FGF15. Patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) typically present with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Mast cells (MCs) (i) express FXR and (ii) infiltrate the liver during cholestasis promoting liver fibrosis. In bile-duct-ligated (BDL) MC-deficient mice (B6.Cg-KitW-sh /HNihrJaeBsmJ [KitW-sh ]), ductular reaction (DR) and liver fibrosis decrease compared with BDL wild type, and MC injection exacerbates liver damage in normal mice. APPROACH AND RESULTS In this study, we demonstrated that MC-FXR regulates biliary FXR/FGF15, DR, and hepatic fibrosis and alters intestinal FXR/FGF15. We found increased MC number and biliary FXR expression in patients with liver injury compared with control. Histamine and FGF19 serum levels and small heterodimer partner expression increase in patients PSC and PSC-IBD compared with healthy controls. MC injection increased liver damage, DR, inflammation, biliary senescence/senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), fibrosis, and histamine in KitW-sh mice. Inhibition of MC-FXR before injection reduced these parameters. BDL and KitW-sh mice injected with MCs displayed increased TBA content, biliary FXR/FGF15, and intestinal inflammation, which decreased in BDL KitW-sh and KitW-sh mice injected with MC-FXR. MCs increased ileal FXR/FGF15 expression in KitW-sh mice that was reduced following FXR inhibition. BDL and multidrug resistance 2/ATP-binding cassette family 2 member 4 knockout (Mdr2-/- ) mice, models of PSC, displayed increased intestinal MC infiltration and FXR/FGF15 expression. These were reduced following MC stabilization with cromolyn sodium in Mdr2-/- mice. In vitro, MC-FXR inhibition decreased biliary proliferation/SASP/FGF and hepatic stellate cell activation. CONCLUSIONS Our studies demonstrate that MC-FXR plays a key role in liver damage and DR, including TBA regulation through alteration of intestinal and biliary FXR/FGF15 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vik Meadows
- Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Lindsey Kennedy
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Burcin Ekser
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Konstantina Kyritsi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Debjyoti Kundu
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Tianhao Zhou
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Lixian Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Linh Pham
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Nan Wu
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Jennifer Demieville
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University College of Medicine, Bryan, TX
| | - Laura Hargrove
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University College of Medicine, Bryan, TX
| | - Shannon Glaser
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University College of Medicine, Bryan, TX
| | - Gianfranco Alpini
- Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Heather Francis
- Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
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Olveira-Martín A, Yebra-Carmona J, Amaral-González C, Tejedor M, Eirás P, Hernández-Pérez M, Suárez-Cabredo C, Spigarelli-de Rábago I, Suárez-Ferrer C, Morales-Arráez D, Chico I, Díaz-Flores F, Rodríguez R, Llorente S, Molina-Pérez E, Hernández-Guerra de Aguilar MN. Retrieval and treatment of patients with primary biliary cholangitis who are lost in the health system. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE ENFERMEDADES DIGESTIVAS 2021; 113:776-779. [PMID: 34470449 DOI: 10.17235/reed.2021.8174/2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION hepatitis C patients loss to follow-up in the health care system has been shown to have negative consequences. This study aimed to investigate this issue as regards primary biliary cholangitis. METHODS the databases (immunology, biochemistry, clinical reports, drug dispensation, appointments) of 4 reference hospitals in Spain (serving a population of 1,450,000 inhabitants) were analyzed. The diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis was based on an antimitochondrial antibody titer ≥ 1:80, chronically elevated alkaline phosphatase, and the absence of other liver disease. Patients were classified as lost in the absence of reports indicating a diagnosis, specific medical follow-up, and/or treatment with bile salts. RESULTS a total of 1372 patients with antimitochondrial antibody titers ≥ 1:80 were included between January 2010 and June 2019. A total of 697 (50.8 %) were classified as having primary biliary cholangitis, and 100 patients (14.3 %; 95 % CI: 11.8-17.2) were identified as lost. Of these, 30 were contacted and retrieved. The median age was 70 years, 93 % were female, median alkaline phosphatase was 185 IU/L, 10 % had pruritus, and 27 % had a transient elastography value > 9.5 kPa. The disease was confirmed and ursodeoxycholic acid was started in all 30 patients. Death was liver-related in 6 of the 100 patients classified as lost. CONCLUSION up to 14.3 % of patients (1 out of 7) with a definitive diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis remain undiagnosed, thus preventing monitoring and treatment. More than a quarter are at risk of advanced liver disease and its complications. Patients lost in the system must be identified and retrieved, and searching hospital databases is a suitable approach to meet this goal.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Marta Tejedor
- Gastroenterology, Hospital Unuiversitario Infanta Elena, España
| | - Pablo Eirás
- Gastroenterology, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Silvia Llorente
- Unidad de Investigación (UCICEC), Hospital Universitario La Paz, España
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Ratziu V. Obeticholic Acid for the Treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2021; 17:398-400. [PMID: 34386202 PMCID: PMC8340357 DOI: 10.1002/cld.1076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Vlad Ratziu
- Sorbonne Université, Hospital Pitié SalpêtrièreParisFrance
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38
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Waitlist Mortality and Posttransplant Outcomes in African Americans with Autoimmune Liver Diseases. J Transplant 2021; 2021:6692049. [PMID: 34394979 PMCID: PMC8357471 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6692049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Liver transplantation is indicated in end-stage liver disease due to autoimmune diseases. The liver allocation system can be affected by disparities such as decreased liver transplant referrals for racial minorities, especially African Americans that negatively impact the pre- and posttransplant outcomes. Aim To determine differences in waitlist survival and posttransplant graft survival rates between African American and Caucasian patients with autoimmune liver diseases. Study. The United Network for Organ Sharing database was used to identify all patients with autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis who underwent liver transplant from 1988 to 2019. We compared waitlist survival and posttransplant graft survival between Caucasians and African Americans using Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox regression models. We also evaluated the cumulative incidence of death or delisting for deterioration and posttransplant incidence of death and retransplantation using competing risk analysis. Results African Americans were more likely to be removed from the waitlist for death or clinical deterioration (subdistribution hazard ratio (SHR) 1.26, 95% CI 1–1.58, P=0.046) using competing risk analysis. On multivariate Cox regression analysis, there was no difference in posttransplant graft survival among the two groups (hazard ratio (HR) 1.10, 95% CI 0.98–1.23, P=0.081). Conclusions Despite the current efforts to reduce racial disparities, we found that African Americans are more likely to die on the waitlist for liver transplant and are less likely to be transplanted, with no differences in graft survival rates. The persistence of healthcare disparities continues to negatively impact African Americans.
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39
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Wetten A, Jones DEJ, Dyson JK. Specific considerations for the management of primary biliary cholangitis: are the drug treatment options good enough? Expert Opin Pharmacother 2021; 22:1949-1953. [PMID: 34121570 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2021.1940135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Wetten
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK.,Liver unit, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - David Emrys Jeffreys Jones
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK.,Liver unit, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Jessica Katharine Dyson
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK.,Liver unit, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
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40
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Mandorfer M, Simbrunner B. Prevention of First Decompensation in Advanced Chronic Liver Disease. Clin Liver Dis 2021; 25:291-310. [PMID: 33838851 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2021.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The first occurrence of decompensation constitutes a watershed moment in the natural history of chronic liver disease; it denotes a point of no return in a relevant proportion of patients. Preventive strategies may profoundly decrease cirrhosis-related morbidity and mortality. Removing the primary etiologic factor and cofactors, is key; however, a considerable proportion of patients require additional etiology-independent treatment strategies that target important pathomechanisms promoting decompensation (ie, portal hypertension and systemic inflammation). This article explains the importance of preventing first decompensation and summarizes the evidence for etiologic and etiology-independent (most important, nonselective beta-blockers and statins) therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattias Mandorfer
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, Vienna 1090, Austria; Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Benedikt Simbrunner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, Vienna 1090, Austria; Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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41
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Kulkarni AV, Tevethia HV, Arab JP, Candia R, Premkumar M, Kumar P, Sharma M, Reddy DN, Padaki NR. Efficacy and safety of obeticholic acid in liver disease-A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2021; 45:101675. [PMID: 33722778 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2021.101675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Currently, there is no pharmacotherapy for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a common liver disorder. In contrast, primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease for which ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is the drug of choice. However, 50% of PBC patients may not respond to UDCA. Obeticholic acid (OCA) is emerging as a vital pharmacotherapy for these chronic disorders. We aimed to analyse the safety and efficacy of OCA. METHODS We performed an extensive search of electronic databases from 01/01/2000 to 31/03/2020. We included randomized controlled trials of OCA in patients with NASH, PBC, and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). We assessed the histological improvement in NASH, reduction in alkaline phosphatase (≤1.67 ULN) in PBC, and the adverse effects of OCA. RESULTS Seven RCTs (n = 2834) were included. Of the total RCTs, there were three on both NASH and PBC and one on PSC. OCA improved NASH fibrosis [OR: 1.95 (1.47-2.59; p < 0.001)]. With the 10 mg OCA dose, the odds of improvement was 1.61 (1.03-2.51; p = 0.03), while with the 25 mg dose, it was 2.23 (1.55-3.18; p < 0.001). However, 25 mg OCA led to significant adverse events and discontinuation of the drug [2.8 (1.42-3.02); p < 0.001)] compared with 10 mg OCA [0.95 (0.6-1.5); p = 0.84] in NASH patients. In PBC patients, the response to 5 mg OCA was better than with the higher doses [5 mg: 7.66 (3.12-18.81; p < 0.001), 10 mg: 5.18 (2-13.41; p = 0.001), 25 mg: 2.36 (0.94-5.93; p = 0.06), 50 mg: 4.08 (1.05-15.78; p = 0.04)]. The risk of pruritus was lowest with 5 mg OCA. CONCLUSIONS Lower doses of OCA are effective and safe in NASH and cholestatic liver disease. While 10 mg OCA is effective for NASH fibrosis regression, only 5 mg OCA is required for PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anand V Kulkarni
- Department of Hepatology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, India.
| | | | - Juan Pablo Arab
- Departamento de Gastroenterologia, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Roberto Candia
- Departamento de Gastroenterologia, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Pramod Kumar
- Department of Hepatology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Mithun Sharma
- Department of Hepatology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, India
| | - D Nageshwar Reddy
- Department of Hepatology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Nagaraja Rao Padaki
- Department of Hepatology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, India
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The Management of Cholestatic Liver Diseases: Current Therapies and Emerging New Possibilities. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10081763. [PMID: 33919600 PMCID: PMC8073106 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10081763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) are two chronic cholestatic liver diseases affecting bile ducts that may progress to biliary cirrhosis. In the past few years, the increasing knowledge in the pathogenesis of both diseases led to a growing number of clinical trials and possible new targets for therapy. In this review, we provide an update on the treatments in clinical use and summarize the new drugs in trials for PBC and PSC patients. Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR) agonists and Pan-Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPAR) agonists are the most promising agents and have shown promising results in both PBC and PSC. Fibroblast Growth Factor 19 (FGF19) analogues also showed good results, especially in PBC, while, although PBC and PSC are autoimmune diseases, immunosuppressive drugs had disappointing effects. Since the gut microbiome could have a potential role in the pathogenesis of PSC, recent research focused on molecules that could change the microbiome, with good results. The near future of the medical management of these diseases may include new treatments or a combination of multiple drugs targeting different signaling pathways at different stages of the diseases.
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Sivakumar M, Gandhi A, Shakweh E, Li YM, Safinia N, Smith BC, Marshall A, Turner L, Mukhopadhya A, Haboubi HN, Vincent R, Tan HK, Alrubaiy L, Jones DEJ. Widespread gaps in the quality of care for primary biliary cholangitis in UK. Frontline Gastroenterol 2021; 13:32-38. [PMID: 34966531 PMCID: PMC8666861 DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2020-101713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a progressive, autoimmune, cholestatic liver disease affecting approximately 15 000 individuals in the UK. Updated guidelines for the management of PBC were published by The European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) in 2017. We report on the first national, pilot audit that assesses the quality of care and adherence to guidelines. DESIGN Data were collected from 11 National Health Service hospitals in England, Wales and Scotland between 2017 and 2020. Data on patient demographics, ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) dosing and key guideline recommendations were captured from medical records. Results from each hospital were evaluated for target achievement and underwent χ2 analysis for variation in performance between trusts. RESULTS 790 patients' medical records were reviewed. The data demonstrated that the majority of hospitals did not meet all of the recommended EASL standards. Standards with the lowest likelihood of being met were identified as optimal UDCA dosing, assessment of bone density and assessment of clinical symptoms (pruritus and fatigue). Significant variations in meeting these three standards were observed across UK, in addition to assessment of biochemical response to UDCA (all p<0.0001) and assessment of transplant eligibility in high-risk patients (p=0.0297). CONCLUSION Our findings identify a broad-based deficiency in 'real-world' PBC care, suggesting the need for an intervention to improve guideline adherence, ultimately improving patient outcomes. We developed the PBC Review tool and recommend its incorporation into clinical practice. As the first audit of its kind, it will be used to inform a future wide-scale reaudit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathuri Sivakumar
- Medicine, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK,Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Akash Gandhi
- Gastroenterology, St Mark's Hospital and Academic Institute, Harrow, London, UK
| | - Eathar Shakweh
- Gastroenterology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Yu Meng Li
- Gastroenterology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Niloufar Safinia
- Gastroenterology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Belinda Claire Smith
- Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Aileen Marshall
- Hepatology, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Lucy Turner
- Gastroenterology, York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, York, North Yorkshire, UK
| | - Ashis Mukhopadhya
- Gastroenterology, Grampian University Hospitals NHS Trust, Aberdeen, UK
| | | | - Rebecca Vincent
- Gastroenterology, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, Cardiff, UK
| | - Huey Kuan Tan
- Gastroenterology, University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust, Derby, UK
| | - Laith Alrubaiy
- Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK,Gastroenterology, St Mark's Hospital and Academic Institute, Harrow, London, UK
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Marti-Aguado D, Rodríguez-Ortega A, Mestre-Alagarda C, Bauza M, Valero-Pérez E, Alfaro-Cervello C, Benlloch S, Pérez-Rojas J, Ferrández A, Alemany-Monraval P, Escudero-García D, Monton C, Aguilera V, Alberich-Bayarri Á, Serra MÁ, Marti-Bonmati L. Digital pathology: accurate technique for quantitative assessment of histological features in metabolic-associated fatty liver disease. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2021; 53:160-171. [PMID: 32981113 DOI: 10.1111/apt.16100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Histological evaluation of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) biopsies is subjective, descriptive and with interobserver variability. AIMS To examine the relationship between different histological features (fibrosis, steatosis, inflammation and iron) measured with automated whole-slide quantitative digital pathology and corresponding semiquantitative scoring systems, and the distribution of digital pathology measurements across Fatty Liver Inhibition of Progression (FLIP) algorithm and Steatosis, Activity and Fibrosis (SAF) scoring system METHODS: We prospectively included 136 consecutive patients who underwent liver biopsy for MAFLD at three Spanish centres (January 2017-January 2020). Biopsies were scored by two blinded pathologists according to the Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) Clinical Research Network system for fibrosis staging, the FLIP/SAF classification for steatosis and inflammation grading and Deugnier score for iron grading. Proportionate areas of collagen, fat, inflammatory cells and iron deposits were measured with computer-assisted digital image analysis. A test-retest experiment was performed for precision repeatability evaluation. RESULTS Digital pathology showed strong correlation with fibrosis (r = 0.79; P < 0.001), steatosis (r = 0.85; P < 0.001) and iron (r = 0.70; P < 0.001). Performance was lower when assessing the degree of inflammation (r = 0.35; P < 0.001). NASH cases had a higher proportion of collagen and fat compared to non-NASH cases (P < 0.005), whereas inflammation and iron quantification did not show significant differences between categories. Repeatability evaluation showed that all the coefficients of variation were ≤1.1% and all intraclass correlation coefficient values were ≥0.99, except those of collagen. CONCLUSION Digital pathology allows an automated, precise, objective and quantitative assessment of MAFLD histological features. Digital analysis measurements show good concordance with pathologists´ scores.
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Floreani A. Experimental Pharmacological Agents for the Treatment of Primary Biliary Cholangitis. J Exp Pharmacol 2020; 12:643-652. [PMID: 33364858 PMCID: PMC7751712 DOI: 10.2147/jep.s267375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The standard therapy for primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) which has shown to improve hepatic biochemistry, delay histological progression and improve transplant-free survival. Approximately 30-40% of patients do not respond or are intolerant to UDCA. Obeticholic acid, a farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonist is the only agent approved by the Food and Drug Administration for patients who do not respond to UDCA. Recently, combination therapy with UDCA and bezafibrate has been shown to improve biochemistry and both GLOBE and UK-PBC score in patients with an inadequate response to UDCA. More recently, new pharmacological agents have been included in Phase 2 and Phase 3 trials: PPAR agonists, non-bile acid FXR agonists, anti-NOX agents, immunomodulators and mesenchymal stem cells transplantation. This review gives an overview on the current experimental pharmacological agents employed in the treatment of PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annarosa Floreani
- University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare, Negrar, Verona, Italy
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46
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Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) causes chronic and persistent cholestasis in the liver, eventually resulting in cirrhosis and hepatic failure without appropriate treatment. PBC mainly develops in middle-aged women, but it is also common in young women and men. PBC is considered a model of autoimmune disease because of the presence of disease-specific autoantibodies, that is, antimitochondrial antibodies (AMAs), intense infiltration of mononuclear cells into the bile ducts, and a high prevalence of autoimmune diseases such as comorbidities. Histologically, PBC is characterized by degeneration and necrosis of intrahepatic biliary epithelial cells surrounded by a dense infiltration of mononuclear cells, coined as chronic non-suppurative destructive cholangitis, which leads to destructive changes and the disappearance of small- or medium-sized bile ducts. Since 1990, early diagnosis with the detection of AMAs and introduction of ursodeoxycholic acid as first-line treatment has greatly altered the clinical course of PBC, and liver transplantation-free survival of patients with PBC is now comparable to that of the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Tanaka
- Department of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Damiris K, Tafesh ZH, Pyrsopoulos N. Efficacy and safety of anti-hepatic fibrosis drugs. World J Gastroenterol 2020; 26:6304-6321. [PMID: 33244194 PMCID: PMC7656211 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v26.i41.6304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent progress in our understanding of the pathways linked to progression from hepatic insult to cirrhosis has led to numerous novel therapies being investigated as potential cures and inhibitors of hepatic fibrogenesis. Liver cirrhosis is the final result of prolonged fibrosis, which is an intimate balance between fibrogenesis and fibrinolysis. A number of these complex mechanisms are shared across the various etiologies of liver disease. Thankfully, investigation has yielded some promising results in regard to reversal of fibrosis, particularly the indirect benefits associated with antiviral therapy for the treatment of hepatitis B and C and the farnesoid receptor agonist for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis and metabolic associated fatty liver disease. A majority of current clinical research is focused on targeting metabolic associated fatty liver disease and its progression to metabolic steatohepatitis and ultimately cirrhosis, with some hope of potential standardized therapeutics in the near future. With our ever-evolving understanding of the underlying pathophysiology, these therapeutics focus on either controlling the primary disease (the initial trigger of fibrogenesis), interrupting receptor ligand interactions and other intracellular communications, inhibiting fibrogenesis, or even promoting resolution of fibrosis. It is imperative to thoroughly test these potential therapies with the rigorous standards of clinical therapeutic trials in order to ensure the highest standards of patient safety. In this article we will briefly review the key pathophysiological pathways that lead to liver fibrosis and present current clinical and experimental evidence that has shown reversibility of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, while commenting on therapeutic safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Damiris
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, United States
| | - Zaid H Tafesh
- Medicine-Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, United States
| | - Nikolaos Pyrsopoulos
- Medicine-Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, United States
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Perino A, Demagny H, Velazquez-Villegas L, Schoonjans K. Molecular Physiology of Bile Acid Signaling in Health, Disease, and Aging. Physiol Rev 2020; 101:683-731. [PMID: 32790577 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00049.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, bile acids (BAs) have become established as important signaling molecules that enable fine-tuned inter-tissue communication from the liver, their site of production, over the intestine, where they are modified by the gut microbiota, to virtually any organ, where they exert their pleiotropic physiological effects. The chemical variety of BAs, to a large extent determined by the gut microbiome, also allows for a complex fine-tuning of adaptive responses in our body. This review provides an overview of the mechanisms by which BA receptors coordinate several aspects of physiology and highlights new therapeutic strategies for diseases underlying pathological BA signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Perino
- Institute of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland
| | - Hadrien Demagny
- Institute of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland
| | - Laura Velazquez-Villegas
- Institute of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland
| | - Kristina Schoonjans
- Institute of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland
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49
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Wei S, Ma X, Zhao Y. Mechanism of Hydrophobic Bile Acid-Induced Hepatocyte Injury and Drug Discovery. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:1084. [PMID: 32765278 PMCID: PMC7378542 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.01084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholestatic liver disease is caused by the obstruction of bile synthesis, transport, and excretion in or outside the liver by a variety of reasons. Long-term persistent cholestasis in the liver can trigger inflammation, necrosis, or apoptosis of hepatocytes. Bile acid nuclear receptors have received the most attention for the treatment of cholestasis, while the drug development for bile acid nuclear receptors has made considerable progress. However, the targets regulated by bile acid receptor drugs are limited. Thus, as anticipated, intervention in the expression of bile acid nuclear receptors alone will not yield satisfactory clinical results. Therefore, this review comprehensively summarized the literature related to cholestasis, analyzed the molecular mechanism that bile acid damages cells, and status of drug development. It is hoped that this review will provide some reference for the research and development of drugs for cholestasis treatment in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shizhang Wei
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China.,Department of Pharmacy, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Ma
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanling Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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Beyond Biochemical Responses, Use of Histologic Staging to Predict Outcomes of Patients With Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 18:1033-1035. [PMID: 31843594 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2019.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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