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Sohal A, Kowdley KV. Novel preclinical developments of the primary sclerosing cholangitis treatment landscape. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2024; 33:335-345. [PMID: 38480008 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2024.2330738] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease associated with inflammation, fibrosis, and destruction of intra- and extrahepatic bile ducts. Despite substantial recent advances in our understanding of PSC, the only proven treatment of PSC is liver transplantation. There is an urgent unmet need to find medical therapies for this disorder. AREAS COVERED Multiple drugs are currently under evaluation as therapeutic options for this disease. This article summarizes the literature on the various novel therapeutic options that have been investigated and are currently under development for the treatment of PSC. EXPERT OPINION In the next decade, more than one drug will likely be approved for the treatment of the disease, and we will be looking at combination therapies for the optimal management of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aalam Sohal
- Department of Hepatology, Liver Institute Northwest, Seattle, USA
| | - Kris V Kowdley
- Department of Hepatology, Liver Institute Northwest, Seattle, USA
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, USA
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2
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Huynh D, Rubtsov D, Khaing MM. Efficacy of Biologics in the Treatment of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis Associated With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cureus 2024; 16:e56182. [PMID: 38487649 PMCID: PMC10939508 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.56182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
This is the first systematic review and meta-analysis that aims to address the scarcity of research on the use of biological therapy in primary sclerosing cholangitis-inflammatory bowel disease (PSC-IBD) and the historical inadequacy of therapeutic options. Its purpose is to investigate this matter comprehensively and furnish guidance for clinical practice. Utilizing Embase, PubMed, Medline, and clinicaltrials.gov studies investigating the roles of biologics and antibiotics in PSC-IBD were identified. The systematic literature review encompassed articles published from inception through September 2023. Two independent reviewers assessed the articles, and methodological quality was gauged using Review Manager 5.4.2. Nine studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. However, only four met the criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis due to variability and availability of data; the remaining studies underwent descriptive analysis. Notably, infliximab, adalimumab, vedolizumab, and tofacitinib showed ineffectiveness in reducing cholestatic markers. This review underscores the limited impact of biological and small-molecule therapies on disease progression in PSC-IBD patients, signifying the need for further exploration and development of treatment modalities in this domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Huynh
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, AUS
| | - Denis Rubtsov
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, AUS
| | - Myat Myat Khaing
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, AUS
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Wheless WH, Russo MW. Treatment of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis Including Transplantation. Clin Liver Dis 2024; 28:171-182. [PMID: 37945158 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2023.07.008] [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] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a progressive cholestatic liver disease that causes stricturing of the intra and extrahepatic bile ducts that can lead to cirrhosis and end stage liver disease. Effective medical therapy has been elusive, but a course of ursodeoxycholic acid may be prescribed at doses of 17-23 mg/kg/day for up to a year to determine if a reduction in serum alkaline phosphatase is observed. A number of drugs are under investigation, including FXR agonists with choleretic and antimicrobial properties. Liver transplantation for PSC has one of the highest survival rates, but recurrent PSC is seen in up to 25% of recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H Wheless
- Division of Hepatology, Atrium Health Wake Forest, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Mark W Russo
- Division of Hepatology, Atrium Health Wake Forest, Charlotte, NC, USA.
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van Munster KN, Bergquist A, Ponsioen CY. Inflammatory bowel disease and primary sclerosing cholangitis: One disease or two? J Hepatol 2024; 80:155-168. [PMID: 37940453 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.09.031] [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: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) was declared one of the biggest unmet needs in hepatology during International Liver Congress 2016 in Berlin. Since then, not much has changed unfortunately, largely due to the still elusive pathophysiology of the disease. One of the most striking features of PSC is its association with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with the majority of patients with PSC being diagnosed with extensive colitis. This review describes the epidemiology of IBD in PSC, its specific phenotype, complications and potential pathophysiological mechanisms connecting the two diseases. Whether PSC is merely an extra-intestinal manifestation of IBD or if PSC and IBD are two distinct diseases that happen to share a common susceptibility that leads to a dual phenotype is debated. Implications for the management of the two diseases together are also discussed. Overall, this review summarises the available data in PSC-IBD and discusses whether PSC and IBD are one or two disease(s).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim N van Munster
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Annika Bergquist
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Division of Hepatology, Karolinska Institutet, Department of Upper GI Disease, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cyriel Y Ponsioen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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Shah A, Jones MP, Callaghan G, Fairlie T, Ma X, Culver EL, Stuart K, De Cruz P, O’Beirne J, Tabibian JH, Dignass A, Canbay A, Gores GJ, Holtmann GJ. Efficacy and safety of biologics in primary sclerosing cholangitis with inflammatory bowel disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0347. [PMID: 38206197 PMCID: PMC10786591 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000347] [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: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is an immune-mediated, chronic cholestatic liver disease. Currently, liver transplantation is the only established life-saving treatment. Several studies have evaluated the effect of different biologic therapies on PSC with inconclusive findings. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effects of biologics in PSC and associated inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). METHODS MEDLINE, Scopus, and Embase were searched up to July 31, 2023, for studies reporting the effects of biologics in patients with PSC-IBD. Effects of biologic therapy on alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, ulcerative colitis response score, and adverse events were calculated and expressed as standardized difference of means (SMD), proportions, and 95% CI using a random-effects model. RESULTS Six studies, including 411 PSC-IBD patients who received biologics, were included. Biologic treatment was associated with no change in alkaline phosphatase (SMD: 0.1, 95% CI: -0.07 -0.17, p=0.43), but a small and statistically significant increase in total bilirubin (SMD: 0.2, 95% CI: 0.05-0.35, p<0.01). 31.2% (95% CI: 23.8-39.7) of patients with IBD achieved endoscopic response, and there was a significant improvement in ulcerative colitis response score (SMD: -0.6,95% CI: -0.88 to 0.36, p<0.01). Furthermore, 17.6% (95% CI: 13.0-23.5) of patients experienced adverse events severe enough to discontinue therapy, and 29.9% (95% CI: 25.2-34.8) had a loss of response to biologics. CONCLUSIONS Treatment of patients with PSC-IBD with biologics (vedolizumab, infliximab, and adalimumab) was not associated with improvement of biochemical markers of cholestasis. Biologics are effective in treating the colitis associated with PSC. Vedolizumab was associated with worsening liver enzymes in contrast to other biologics, a finding that warrants further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Shah
- The University of Queensland, Faculty of Medicine, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital
- Translational Research Institute, Queensland, Australia
- AGIRA (Australian Gastrointestinal Research Alliance) and the NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Digestive Health
| | - Michael P. Jones
- AGIRA (Australian Gastrointestinal Research Alliance) and the NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Digestive Health
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gavin Callaghan
- The University of Queensland, Faculty of Medicine, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital
| | - Thomas Fairlie
- The University of Queensland, Faculty of Medicine, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital
- Translational Research Institute, Queensland, Australia
- AGIRA (Australian Gastrointestinal Research Alliance) and the NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Digestive Health
| | - Xiaomin Ma
- The University of Queensland, Faculty of Medicine, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital
| | - Emma L. Culver
- Translational Gastroenterology Unit, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Katherine Stuart
- The University of Queensland, Faculty of Medicine, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital
| | - Peter De Cruz
- Department of Gastroenterology, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - James O’Beirne
- University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
- Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - James H. Tabibian
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Axel Dignass
- Department of Medicine I, Agaplesion Markus Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Ali Canbay
- Department of Medicine, University Hospital of the Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Gregory J. Gores
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Gerald J. Holtmann
- The University of Queensland, Faculty of Medicine, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital
- Translational Research Institute, Queensland, Australia
- AGIRA (Australian Gastrointestinal Research Alliance) and the NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Digestive Health
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Tilg H, Adolph TE, Tacke F. Therapeutic modulation of the liver immune microenvironment. Hepatology 2023; 78:1581-1601. [PMID: 37057876 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation is a hallmark of progressive liver diseases such as chronic viral or immune-mediated hepatitis, alcohol-associated liver disease, and NAFLD. Preclinical and clinical studies have provided robust evidence that cytokines and related cellular stress sensors in innate and adaptive immunity orchestrate hepatic disease processes. Unresolved inflammation and liver injury result in hepatic scarring, fibrosis, and cirrhosis, which may culminate in HCC. Liver diseases are accompanied by gut dysbiosis and a bloom of pathobionts, fueling hepatic inflammation. Anti-inflammatory strategies are extensively used to treat human immune-mediated conditions beyond the liver, while evidence for immunomodulatory therapies and cell therapy-based strategies in liver diseases is only emerging. The development and establishment of novel immunomodulatory therapies for chronic liver diseases has been dampened by several clinical challenges, such as invasive monitoring of therapeutic efficacy with liver biopsy in clinical trials and risk of DILI in several studies. Such aspects prevented advancements of novel medical therapies for chronic inflammatory liver diseases. New concepts modulating the liver immune environment are studied and eagerly awaited to improve the management of chronic liver diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herbert Tilg
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, & Metabolism, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Timon E Adolph
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, & Metabolism, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany
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Tan N, Lubel J, Kemp W, Roberts S, Majeed A. Current Therapeutics in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2023; 11:1267-1281. [PMID: 37577219 PMCID: PMC10412694 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2022.00068s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is an orphan, cholestatic liver disease that is characterized by inflammatory biliary strictures with variable progression to end-stage liver disease. Its pathophysiology is poorly understood. Chronic biliary inflammation is likely driven by immune dysregulation, gut dysbiosis, and environmental exposures resulting in gut-liver crosstalk and bile acid metabolism disturbances. There is no proven medical therapy that alters disease progression in PSC, with the commonly prescribed ursodeoxycholic acid being shown to improve liver biochemistry at low-moderate doses (15-23 mg/kg/day) but not alter transplant-free survival or liver-related outcomes. Liver transplantation is the only option for patients who develop end-stage liver disease or refractory complications of PSC. Immunosuppressive and antifibrotic agents have not proven to be effective, but there is promise for manipulation of the gut microbiome with fecal microbiota transplantation and antibiotics. Bile acid manipulation via alternate synthetic bile acids such as norursodeoxycholic acid, or interaction at a transcriptional level via nuclear receptor agonists and fibrates have shown potential in phase II trials in PSC with several leading to larger phase III trials. In view of the enhanced malignancy risk, statins, and aspirin show potential for reducing the risk of colorectal cancer and cholangiocarcinoma in PSC patients. For patients who develop clinically relevant strictures with cholestatic symptoms and worsening liver function, balloon dilatation is safer compared with biliary stent insertion with equivalent clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natassia Tan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Alfred Health; Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - John Lubel
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Alfred Health; Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - William Kemp
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Alfred Health; Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Stuart Roberts
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Alfred Health; Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ammar Majeed
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Alfred Health; Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Kim YS, Hurley EH, Park Y, Ko S. Treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis combined with inflammatory bowel disease. Intest Res 2023; 21:420-432. [PMID: 37519211 PMCID: PMC10626010 DOI: 10.5217/ir.2023.00039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a progressive cholestatic, inflammatory, and fibrotic disease that is strongly associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). PSC-IBD represents a unique disease entity and patients with this disease have an increased risk of malignancy development, such as colorectal cancer and cholangiocarcinoma. The pathogenesis of PSC-IBD involves genetic and environmental factors such as gut dysbiosis and bile acids alteration. However, despite the advancement of disease characteristics, no effective medical therapy has proven to have a significant impact on the prognosis of PSC. The treatment options for patients with PSC-IBD do not differ from those for patients with PSC alone. Potential candidate drugs have been developed based on the pathogenesis of PSC-IBD, such as those that target modulation of bile acids, inflammation, fibrosis, and gut dysbiosis. In this review, we summarize the current medical treatments for PSC-IBD and the status of new emerging therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- You Sun Kim
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Edward H. Hurley
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yoojeong Park
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sungjin Ko
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Massironi S, Pirola L, Mulinacci G, Ciaccio A, Viganò C, Palermo A, Zilli A, Invernizzi P, Danese S. Use of IBD Drugs in Patients With Hepatobiliary Comorbidities: Tips and Tricks. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2023; 29:1477-1487. [PMID: 36040402 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izac189] [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: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Advanced therapies (biologic agents and small molecules) for inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) have radically changed the management of these diseases during the last decade. Data about these drugs in patients with hepatic disorders derive mainly from real-life studies, as these conditions often represent an exclusion criterion from pivotal drug developmental trials. However, IBD patients sometimes have concomitant liver diseases. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is the most prevalent hepatic comorbidity, whereas viral hepatitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, primary biliary cholangitis, autoimmune hepatitis, and hepatic vascular disorders are less frequent. This review aimed at describing the real-life data about the use of advanced therapies for IBD in patients with concomitant hepatobiliary disorders. Hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus infections do not represent an absolute contraindication for novel IBD therapeutic agents. Data from the literature suggest a safe hepatobiliary profile of biologic agents and small molecules in the case of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, autoimmune hepatitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, primary biliary cholangitis, and portal vein thrombosis. Consequently, although the liver disease does not affect a different therapeutic approach in patients with concomitant IBD and liver disease, a close risk/benefit analysis for each drug should be performed in these patients, especially in cirrhotic patients and in the postliver transplant setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Massironi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Lorena Pirola
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Giacomo Mulinacci
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Antonio Ciaccio
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Chiara Viganò
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Andrea Palermo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Alessandra Zilli
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Silvio Danese
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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Lundberg Båve A, Olén O, Söderling J, Ludvigsson JF, Bergquist A, Nordenvall C. Colectomy in patients with ulcerative colitis is not associated to future diagnosis of primary sclerosing cholangitis. United European Gastroenterol J 2023; 11:471-481. [PMID: 37169725 PMCID: PMC10256996 DOI: 10.1002/ueg2.12388] [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: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) is a hepatobiliary disease closely related to ulcerative colitis (UC). In PSC patients, colectomy has been linked to improved prognosis, especially following liver transplantation. This suggests an involvement of the gut-liver axis in PSC etiology. OBJECTIVE We aimed to investigate the association between colectomy and the risk of future PSC in an epidemiological setting. METHOD Through nationwide registers, we identified all adults diagnosed with UC in Sweden 1990-2018 and retrieved information on PSC diagnosis and colectomy. Within the UC cohort (n = 61,993 patients), we matched 5577 patients with colectomy to 15,078 without colectomy. Matching criteria were sex, age at UC onset (±5 years), year of UC onset (±3 years), and proctitis at the time of colectomy. Incidence rates of PSC per 1000-person year were calculated, and the Cox proportional hazard regression model estimated hazard ratios (HRs) for PSC until 31 December 2019. RESULTS During the follow-up, 190 (3.4%) colectomized UC patients and 450 (3.0%) UC comparators developed PSC, yielding incidence rates of 2.6 and 2.4 per 1000 person-years (HR 1.07 [95% CI 0.90-1.28]). The cumulative incidence of colectomy decreased remarkably over calendar periods, but the cumulative incidence of PSC remained unchanged. The risk of developing PSC in colectomized versus comparators changed over time (HR 0.68 [95% CI; 0.48-0.96] in 1990-97 and HR 2.10 [95% CI; 1.37-3.24] in 2011-18). CONCLUSIONS In UC patients, colectomy was not associated with a decreased risk of subsequent PSC. The observed differences in the risk of PSC development over calendar periods are likely due to changes in PSC-diagnosis and UC-treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiva Lundberg Båve
- Department of Medicine HuddingeKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
- Department of Upper GI DiseaseDivision of HepatologyKarolinska University HospitalStockholmSweden
| | - Ola Olén
- Department of Medicine SolnaClinical Epidemiology DivisionKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
- Department of Clinical Science and Education SödersjukhusetKarolinska InstitutetSachs' Children and Youth HospitalStockholmSweden
| | - Jonas Söderling
- Department of Medicine SolnaClinical Epidemiology DivisionKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
| | - Jonas F. Ludvigsson
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and BiostatisticsKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
- Department of PediatricsÖrebro University HospitalStockholmSweden
| | - Annika Bergquist
- Department of Medicine HuddingeKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
- Department of Upper GI DiseaseDivision of HepatologyKarolinska University HospitalStockholmSweden
| | - Caroline Nordenvall
- Department of Molecular Medicine and SurgeryKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
- Department of Pelvic CancerKarolinska University HospitalStockholmSweden
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11
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Outcomes of immunomodulator and advanced therapies for primary sclerosing cholangitis-associated inflammatory bowel disease. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 35:270-274. [PMID: 36708297 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000002510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) coexists in up to 80% of patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). The aim of this study is to investigate the outcomes of immunomodulator (IMM)/advanced therapies for the treatment of PSC-IBD. METHODS This was a single-center, retrospective study of patients with PSC from 1 January 2012 to 1 April 2021. Adult patients (age ≥ 18 years) with PSC-IBD were included. Primary outcomes were rates and predictors of IMM/advanced therapies to treat PSC-IBD. Secondary outcomes included rates of cholangitis, PSC-IBD clinical remission, and endoscopic healing. RESULTS A total of 106 patients with PSC were reviewed and 72 (68%) with confirmed PSC-IBD were included in the study. The median age was 48 years (IQR, 33-59.5) and 69.4% were male. Overall, 28 patients (38.9%) required IMM/advanced therapies to treat PSC-IBD (22 biologic/small molecule therapy and six thiopurine monotherapy). Patients in the IMM/advanced therapies group were more likely to have small bowel involvement (32.1% vs. 4.6%; P = 0.002). In the IMM/advanced therapies group, clinical remission was achieved in 78.6% but endoscopic healing in only 50%. The rate of acute ascending cholangitis was 42.9% in the IMM/advanced therapies group compared with 31.8% in the non-IMM/advanced therapies group (P = 0.34). CONCLUSION In our cohort, up to a third of patients with PSC-IBD required IMM/advanced therapies with only 50% of these patients achieving endoscopic healing. The use of IMM/advanced therapies was not associated with a higher risk of cholangitis, but larger studies are needed to investigate the risk with different classes of advanced therapies.
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12
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Hov JR, Karlsen TH. The microbiota and the gut-liver axis in primary sclerosing cholangitis. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 20:135-154. [PMID: 36352157 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-022-00690-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) offers unique opportunities to explore the gut-liver axis owing to the close association between liver disease and colonic inflammation. It is well established that the gut microbiota in people with PSC differs from that of healthy individuals, but details of the microbial factors that demarcate PSC from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) without PSC are poorly understood. In this Review, we aim to provide an overview of the latest literature on the gut microbiome in PSC and PSC with IBD, critically examining hypotheses on how microorganisms could contribute to the pathogenesis of PSC. A particular emphasis will be put on pathogenic features of the gut microbiota that might explain the occurrence of bile duct inflammation and liver disease in the context of IBD, and we postulate the potential existence of a specific yet unknown factor related to the gut-liver axis as causative in PSC. Available data are scrutinized in the perspective of therapeutic approaches related to the gut-liver axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes R Hov
- Norwegian PSC Research Center and Section of gastroenterology and Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tom H Karlsen
- Norwegian PSC Research Center and Section of gastroenterology and Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway. .,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
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Bowlus CL, Arrivé L, Bergquist A, Deneau M, Forman L, Ilyas SI, Lunsford KE, Martinez M, Sapisochin G, Shroff R, Tabibian JH, Assis DN. AASLD practice guidance on primary sclerosing cholangitis and cholangiocarcinoma. Hepatology 2023; 77:659-702. [PMID: 36083140 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 72.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L Bowlus
- Division of Gastroenterology , University of California Davis Health , Sacramento , California , USA
| | | | - Annika Bergquist
- Karolinska Institutet , Karolinska University Hospital , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Mark Deneau
- University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Lisa Forman
- University of Colorado , Aurora , Colorado , USA
| | - Sumera I Ilyas
- Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science , Rochester , Minnesota , USA
| | - Keri E Lunsford
- Rutgers University-New Jersey Medical School , Newark , New Jersey , USA
| | - Mercedes Martinez
- Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons , Columbia University , New York , New York , USA
| | | | | | - James H Tabibian
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA , Los Angeles , California , USA
| | - David N Assis
- Yale School of Medicine , New Haven , Connecticut , USA
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14
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Chazouilleres O, Beuers U, Bergquist A, Karlsen TH, Levy C, Samyn M, Schramm C, Trauner M. EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines on sclerosing cholangitis. J Hepatol 2022; 77:761-806. [PMID: 35738507 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Management of primary or secondary sclerosing cholangitis is challenging. These Clinical Practice Guidelines have been developed to provide practical guidance on debated topics including diagnostic methods, prognostic assessment, early detection of complications, optimal care pathways and therapeutic (pharmacological, endoscopic or surgical) options both in adults and children.
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15
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Tiegs G, Horst AK. TNF in the liver: targeting a central player in inflammation. Semin Immunopathol 2022; 44:445-459. [PMID: 35122118 PMCID: PMC9256556 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-022-00910-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF) is a multifunctional cytokine. First recognized as an endogenous soluble factor that induces necrosis of solid tumours, TNF became increasingly important as pro-inflammatory cytokine being involved in the immunopathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases. In the liver, TNF induces numerous biological responses such as hepatocyte apoptosis and necroptosis, liver inflammation and regeneration, and autoimmunity, but also progression to hepatocellular carcinoma. Considering these multiple functions of TNF in the liver, we propose anti-TNF therapies that specifically target TNF signalling at the level of its specific receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisa Tiegs
- Institute of Experimental Immunology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany. .,Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Andrea K Horst
- Institute of Experimental Immunology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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16
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Björnsson ES, Kalaitzakis E. Recent advances in the treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 15:413-425. [PMID: 33283566 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2021.1860751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: PSC is a rare liver disease that leads frequently to cirrhosis and need for liver transplantation. No medical treatment is of proven value. Liver transplantation is the only curative therapy available. There is a big medical need to find medical therapy that can alter the natural history of the disease.Areas covered: The authors highlight advances in PSC, based on recent literature retrieved from PubMed until September 2020 regarding both medical and endoscopic biliary therapy.Future possibilities for treatment of PSC are discussed.Expert opinion: Biliary endoscopy is the cornerstone in the treatment of dominant strictures. Single-user peroral cholangioscopy is an emerging modality. Balloon dilatation therapy is the treatment of choice of dominant strictures. The most promising medical therapies showing efficacy in phase II trials are nor-Ursodeoxycholic acid, obethicolic acid, the non-steroidal FXR agonist Cilofexor and Aldafermin, a synthetic analogue of FGF-19. Antibiotics, particularly vancomycin have shown potential benefits, particularly in children but phase III studies are lacking. In observational studies of effects of biological therapy in patients with IBD/PSC adalimumab was associated with reduction in ALP. Results of liver transplantation are favorable but recurrence can be of clinical relevance particularly in patients transplanted before the age of 40.
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Affiliation(s)
- Einar S Björnsson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Landspitali University Hospital of Iceland
| | - Evangelos Kalaitzakis
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Heraklion, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Rethymno, Greece
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17
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Hanzel J, Ma C, Casteele NV, Khanna R, Jairath V, Feagan BG. Vedolizumab and Extraintestinal Manifestations in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Drugs 2021; 81:333-347. [PMID: 33400241 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-020-01460-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
In Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, inflammation is not limited to the digestive tract. Extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs), which affect up to 50% of patients, can substantially impair quality of life. EIMs may parallel luminal disease activity or have an independent course. They most commonly involve the musculoskeletal system (e.g., peripheral or axial arthritis) and skin (e.g., erythema nodosum and pyoderma gangrenosum). Less commonly, the hepatobiliary tract (e.g., primary sclerosing cholangitis [PSC]) and the eye (e.g., episcleritis, scleritis, and uveitis) are involved. Although the pathophysiology of EIMs is poorly understood, they are likely either manifestations of a primary systemic immune disease with variable expression amongst organs, or secondary phenomena to bowel inflammation. Additional pathophysiologic mechanisms may include aberrant lymphocyte homing mediated by ectopic expression of gut-specific chemokines and adhesion molecules, cross-reactivity between microbial and self-antigens, autoantibodies against epitopes shared by the intestine and extraintestinal tissues, elevated serum concentrations of cytokines, and alterations in innate immunity. Many EIMs independent of intestinal disease activity can be successfully treated with tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antagonists. The efficacy of vedolizumab-a monoclonal antibody targeting the α4β7 integrin-for the treatment of EIMs is uncertain, but data are emerging from post hoc analyses of randomized controlled trials, prospective and retrospective cohort studies, and case series. Vedolizumab may be effective in treating EIMs related to luminal disease activity (e.g., type 1 peripheral arthritis and erythema nodosum) but has not shown biochemical improvement in PSC. Its postulated role in the development of de novo EIMs is heavily confounded by the high proportion of patients previously exposed to TNF antagonists; new EIMs could result from TNF antagonist treatment cessation rather than being caused by vedolizumab. A common limitation of clinical studies is the lack of multidisciplinary involvement in the diagnosis and monitoring of EIMs, which may lead to misdiagnosis and overreporting. Future studies should rigorously measure EIMs in parallel with objective measures of luminal disease activity to provide more robust data on the relative efficacy of new drugs, especially as increasing numbers of gut-selective compounds enter clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jurij Hanzel
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Alimentiv, #200, 100 Dundas Street, London, N6A 5B6, ON, Canada.,, Hullenbergweg 278-308, 1101 BV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Christopher Ma
- Alimentiv, #200, 100 Dundas Street, London, N6A 5B6, ON, Canada.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 6D61 Teaching Research Wellness Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4Z6, Canada
| | - Niels Vande Casteele
- Alimentiv, #200, 100 Dundas Street, London, N6A 5B6, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive #0956, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Reena Khanna
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond Street, London, N6A 2K7, ON, Canada
| | - Vipul Jairath
- Alimentiv, #200, 100 Dundas Street, London, N6A 5B6, ON, Canada.,Division of Gastroenterology, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond Street, London, N6A 2K7, ON, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Brian G Feagan
- Alimentiv, #200, 100 Dundas Street, London, N6A 5B6, ON, Canada. .,Division of Gastroenterology, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond Street, London, N6A 2K7, ON, Canada. .,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada. .,Department of Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.
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18
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Emerging therapies in primary sclerosing cholangitis: pathophysiological basis and clinical opportunities. J Gastroenterol 2020; 55:588-614. [PMID: 32222826 PMCID: PMC7242240 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-020-01681-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a progressive liver disease, histologically characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of the bile ducts, and clinically leading to multi-focal biliary strictures and with time cirrhosis and liver failure. Patients bear a significant risk of cholangiocarcinoma and colorectal cancer, and frequently have concomitant inflammatory bowel disease and autoimmune disease manifestations. To date, no medical therapy has proven significant impact on clinical outcomes and most patients ultimately need liver transplantation. Several treatment strategies have failed in the past and whilst prescription of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) prevails, controversy regarding benefits remains. Lack of statistical power, slow and variable disease progression, lack of surrogate biomarkers for disease severity and other challenges in trial design serve as critical obstacles in the development of effective therapy. Advances in our understanding of PSC pathogenesis and biliary physiology over recent years has however led to a surge of clinical trials targeting various mechanistic compartments and currently raising hopes for imminent changes in patient management. Here, in light of pathophysiology, we outline and critically evaluate emerging treatment strategies in PSC, as tested in recent or ongoing phase II and III trials, stratified per a triad of targets of nuclear and membrane receptors regulating bile acid metabolism, immune modulators, and effects on the gut microbiome. Furthermore, we revisit the UDCA trials of the past and critically discuss relevant aspects of clinical trial design, including how the choice of endpoints, alkaline phosphatase in particular, may affect the future path to novel, effective PSC therapeutics.
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