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Carrera E, Alvarado J, Astudillo M, Pillajo G. Wilson's disease in two siblings from Ecuador: Two case reports. World J Clin Cases 2025; 13:99558. [DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v13.i3.99558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2024] [Revised: 10/09/2024] [Accepted: 10/29/2024] [Indexed: 11/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wilson's disease (WD) is a rare metabolic disorder of copper accumulation in organs such as liver, brain, and cornea. Diagnoses and treatments are challenging in settings, where advanced diagnostic tests are unavailable, copper chelating agents are frequently scarce, healthcare professionals lack disease awareness, and medical follow-ups are limited. Prompt diagnoses and treatments help prevent complications, improve patients’ quality of life, and ensure a normal life expectancy. The clinical presentations and outcomes of WD can vary within a single family.
CASE SUMMARY We present the cases of two siblings (19 and 27 years) from a consanguineous family in rural Ecuador, diagnosed as having WD during a family screening. The male patient, diagnosed at age 19 after his brother’s death from acute liver failure, presented with compensated cirrhosis, neurological symptoms, and bilateral Kayser-Fleischer rings. He developed progressive neurological deterioration during an irregular treatment with D-penicillamine due to medication shortages. His condition improved upon switching to trientine tetrahydrochloride, and his neurological symptoms improved over an 8-year period of follow-ups. The female patient, diagnosed at age 10, exhibited only biochemical alterations. Her treatment history was similar; however, she remained asymptomatic without disease progression over the same follow-up period. We discuss the potential influence of epigenetic mechanisms and modifier genes on the various phenotypes, emphasizing the need for research in these areas to optimize therapeutic strategies.
CONCLUSION Our patients’ medical histories show how early diagnosis and treatment can prevent disease progression; and, how suboptimal treatments impact disease outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Carrera
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hospital de Especialidades Eugenio Espejo, Quito 170136, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | - Jonathan Alvarado
- Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Catolica del Ecuador, Quito 170143, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | - Martina Astudillo
- Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Catolica del Ecuador, Quito 170143, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | - Galo Pillajo
- Department of Radiology, Hospital de Especialidades Eugenio Espejo, Quito 170136, Pichincha, Ecuador
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Martin ED, Berg T, Berenguer M, Burra P, Fondevila C, Heimbach JK, Pageaux GP, Sanchez-Fueyo A, Toso C. EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines on liver transplantation. J Hepatol 2024; 81:1040-1086. [PMID: 39487043 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.07.032] [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: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 11/04/2024]
Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) is an established life-saving procedure. The field of LT has changed in the past 10 years from several perspectives, with the expansion of indications, transplantation of patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure, evolution of transplant oncology, the use of donations after cardiac death, new surgical techniques, and prioritisation of recipients on the waiting list. In addition, the advent of organ perfusion machines, the recognition of new forms of rejection, and the attention paid to the transition from paediatric to adult patients, have all improved the management of LT recipients. The purpose of the EASL guidelines presented here is not to cover all aspects of LT but to focus on developments since the previous EASL guidelines published in 2016.
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Ferrarese A, Cazzagon N, Burra P. Liver transplantation for Wilson disease: Current knowledge and future perspectives. Liver Transpl 2024; 30:1289-1303. [PMID: 38899966 DOI: 10.1097/lvt.0000000000000422] [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: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Liver transplantation currently represents a therapeutic option for patients with Wilson disease presenting with end-stage liver disease or acute liver failure. Indeed, it has been associated with excellent postoperative survival curves in view of young age at transplant and absence of recurrence. Attention has shifted over the past decades to a wise expansion of indications for liver transplantation. Evidence has emerged supporting the transplantation of carefully selected patients with primarily neuropsychiatric symptoms and compensated cirrhosis. The rationale behind this approach is the potential for surgery to improve copper homeostasis and consequently ameliorate neuropsychiatric symptoms. However, several questions remain unanswered, such as how to establish thresholds for assessing pretransplant neuropsychiatric impairment, how to standardize preoperative neurological assessments, and how to define postoperative outcomes for patients meeting these specific criteria. Furthermore, a disease-specific approach will be proposed both for the liver transplant evaluation of candidates with Wilson disease and for patient care during the transplant waiting period, highlighting the peculiarities of this systemic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Ferrarese
- Multivisceral Transplant Unit, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Nora Cazzagon
- Gastroenterology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Patrizia Burra
- Multivisceral Transplant Unit, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
- Gastroenterology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
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Hefter H, Kruschel TS, Novak M, Rosenthal D, Luedde T, Meuth SG, Albrecht P, Hartmann CJ, Samadzadeh S. Differences in the Time Course of Recovery from Brain and Liver Dysfunction in Conventional Long-Term Treatment of Wilson Disease. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4861. [PMID: 37510976 PMCID: PMC10381896 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12144861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to demonstrate that both neurological and hepatic symptoms respond to copper chelation therapy in Wilson disease (WD). However, the time course of their recovery is different. METHODS Eighteen patients with neurological WD from a single specialized center who had been listed for liver transplantation during the last ten years and two newly diagnosed homozygous twins were recruited for this retrospective study. The mean duration of conventional treatment was 7.3 years (range: 0.25 to 36.2 years). A custom Wilson disease score with seven motor items, three non-motor items, and 33 biochemical parameters of the blood and urine, as well as the MELD score, was determined at various checkup visits during treatment. These data were extracted from the charts of the patients. RESULTS Treatment was initiated with severity-dependent doses (≥900 mg) of D-penicillamine (DPA) or triethylene-tetramin-dihydrochloride (TRIEN). The motor score improved in 10 and remained constant in 8 patients. Worsening of neurological symptoms was observed only in two patients who developed comorbidities (myasthenia gravis or hemispheric stroke). The neurological symptoms continuously improved over the years until the majority of patients became only mildly affected. In contrast to this slow recovery of the neurological symptoms, the MELD score and liver enzymes had already started to improve after 1 month and rapidly improved over the next 6 months in 19 patients. The cholinesterase levels continued to increase significantly (p < 0.0074) even further. One patient whose MELD score indicated further progression of liver disease received an orthotopic liver transplantation 3 months after the diagnosis of WD and the onset of DPA treatment. CONCLUSIONS Neurological and hepatic symptoms both respond to copper chelation therapy. For patients with acute liver failure, the first 4 months are critical. This is the time span in which patients have to wait either for a donor organ or until significant improvement has occurred under conventional therapy. For patients with severe neurological symptoms, it is important that they are treated with fairly high doses over several years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harald Hefter
- Departments of Neurology, University of Düsseldorf, Moorenstrasse 5, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Theodor S Kruschel
- Departments of Neurology, University of Düsseldorf, Moorenstrasse 5, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Max Novak
- Departments of Neurology, University of Düsseldorf, Moorenstrasse 5, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Dietmar Rosenthal
- Departments of Neurology, University of Düsseldorf, Moorenstrasse 5, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Tom Luedde
- Departments of Gastroenterology, University of Düsseldorf, Moorenstrasse 5, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sven G Meuth
- Departments of Neurology, University of Düsseldorf, Moorenstrasse 5, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Philipp Albrecht
- Departments of Neurology, University of Düsseldorf, Moorenstrasse 5, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Kliniken Maria Hilf GmbH Mönchengladbach, 41063 Mönchengladbach, Germany
| | - Christian J Hartmann
- Departments of Neurology, University of Düsseldorf, Moorenstrasse 5, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sara Samadzadeh
- Departments of Neurology, University of Düsseldorf, Moorenstrasse 5, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Unverstät zu Berlin, Experimental and Clinical Research Center, 13125 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Regional Health Research and Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark
- Department of Neurology, Slagelse Hospital, 4200 Slagelse, Denmark
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Schilsky ML, Roberts EA, Bronstein JM, Dhawan A, Hamilton JP, Rivard AM, Washington MK, Weiss KH, Zimbrean PC. A multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis and management of Wilson disease: 2022 Practice Guidance on Wilson disease from the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases. Hepatology 2022:01515467-990000000-00207. [PMID: 36151586 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Schilsky
- Medicine and Surgery , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , Connecticut , USA
| | - Eve A Roberts
- Paediatrics, Medicine, Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Toronto , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
| | - Jeff M Bronstein
- Neurology , University of California Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California , USA
| | - Anil Dhawan
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition Centre and MowatLabs , King's College Hospital , London , UK
| | - James P Hamilton
- Medicine , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , Maryland , USA
| | - Anne Marie Rivard
- Food and Nutrition Services , Yale New Haven Hospital , New Haven , Connecticut , USA
| | - Mary Kay Washington
- Pathology, Immunology and Microbiology , Vanderbilt University Medical Center , Nashville , Tennessee , USA
| | | | - Paula C Zimbrean
- Psychiatry , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , Connecticut , USA
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Ruiz-Lopez M, Moreno Estébanez A, Tijero B, Fernandez T, Rebollo-Perez A, Gabilondo I, Lopez-Osle N, Ceberio-Hualde L, Zarranz JJ, Gomez-Esteban JC. Pearls & Oy-sters: Challenges and Controversies in Wilson Disease. Neurology 2022; 99:251-255. [PMID: 35940888 PMCID: PMC9442620 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000200836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Wilson disease (WD) is a genetic disorder of copper metabolism caused by variants in the ATP7B gene, which are inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. Despite all the advances made on pathogenesis, cellular biology, and genetics, to date, WD remains a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. With this series of cases, we aim to illustrate the main challenges that clinicians may encounter when dealing with patients with WD: the difficulties with clinical diagnosis, the therapeutic management of WD and the indication for advanced therapies, management during pregnancy, and genotype-phenotype correlations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Ruiz-Lopez
- From the Neurology Department (M.R.-L., A.M.E., B.T., T.F., A.R.-P., I.G., J.J.Z., J.C.G.-E.), and Internal Medicine Department (N.L.-O., L.C.-H.), Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain.
| | - Ana Moreno Estébanez
- From the Neurology Department (M.R.-L., A.M.E., B.T., T.F., A.R.-P., I.G., J.J.Z., J.C.G.-E.), and Internal Medicine Department (N.L.-O., L.C.-H.), Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Beatriz Tijero
- From the Neurology Department (M.R.-L., A.M.E., B.T., T.F., A.R.-P., I.G., J.J.Z., J.C.G.-E.), and Internal Medicine Department (N.L.-O., L.C.-H.), Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Tamara Fernandez
- From the Neurology Department (M.R.-L., A.M.E., B.T., T.F., A.R.-P., I.G., J.J.Z., J.C.G.-E.), and Internal Medicine Department (N.L.-O., L.C.-H.), Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Alba Rebollo-Perez
- From the Neurology Department (M.R.-L., A.M.E., B.T., T.F., A.R.-P., I.G., J.J.Z., J.C.G.-E.), and Internal Medicine Department (N.L.-O., L.C.-H.), Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Iñigo Gabilondo
- From the Neurology Department (M.R.-L., A.M.E., B.T., T.F., A.R.-P., I.G., J.J.Z., J.C.G.-E.), and Internal Medicine Department (N.L.-O., L.C.-H.), Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Nuria Lopez-Osle
- From the Neurology Department (M.R.-L., A.M.E., B.T., T.F., A.R.-P., I.G., J.J.Z., J.C.G.-E.), and Internal Medicine Department (N.L.-O., L.C.-H.), Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Leticia Ceberio-Hualde
- From the Neurology Department (M.R.-L., A.M.E., B.T., T.F., A.R.-P., I.G., J.J.Z., J.C.G.-E.), and Internal Medicine Department (N.L.-O., L.C.-H.), Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Juan Jose Zarranz
- From the Neurology Department (M.R.-L., A.M.E., B.T., T.F., A.R.-P., I.G., J.J.Z., J.C.G.-E.), and Internal Medicine Department (N.L.-O., L.C.-H.), Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos Gomez-Esteban
- From the Neurology Department (M.R.-L., A.M.E., B.T., T.F., A.R.-P., I.G., J.J.Z., J.C.G.-E.), and Internal Medicine Department (N.L.-O., L.C.-H.), Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
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Different Response Behavior to Therapeutic Approaches in Homozygotic Wilson's Disease Twins with Clinical Phenotypic Variability: Case Report and Literature Review. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13071217. [PMID: 35885998 PMCID: PMC9318625 DOI: 10.3390/genes13071217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Wilson’s disease (WD) is an autosomal-recessive disorder of copper deposition caused by pathogenic variants in the copper-transporting ATP7B gene. There is not a clear correlation between genotype and phenotype in WD regarding symptom manifestations. This is supported by the presentation of genetically identical WD twins with phenotypic discordance and different response behavior to WD-specific therapy. Case Presentation: One of the female homozygous twins (age: 26 yrs) developed writing, speaking, swallowing and walking deficits which led to in-patient examination without conclusive results but recommended genetic testing. Both sisters were tested and were heterozygous for the C.2304dupC;p(Met769Hisf*26) and the C.3207C>A;p(His1069Gln) mutation. Self-medication of the affected sibling with 450 mg D-penicillamine (DPA) did not prevent further deterioration. She developed a juvenile parkinsonian syndrome and became wheelchair-bound and anarthric. A percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy was applied. Her asymptomatic sister helped her with her daily life. Despite the immediate increase of the DPA dose (up to 1800 mg within 3 weeks) in the severely affected patient and the initiation of DPA therapy (up to 600 mg within 2 weeks) in the asymptomatic patient after the first visit in our institution, liver function tests further deteriorated in both patients. After 2 months, the parkinsonian patient started to improve and walk again, but experienced several falls, broke her right shoulder and underwent two necessary surgical interventions. With further consequent copper elimination therapy, liver dysfunction improved in both patients, without need for orthotopic liver transplantation (LTX) in the severely affected patient. Her excellent recovery of liver and brain dysfunction was only transiently interrupted by the development of a nephrotic syndrome which disappeared after switching to Cuprior®. Unfortunately, she died from fulminant pneumonia. Conclusion: Despite identical genetic disposition, WD symptom presentations may develop differently in monozygotic twins, and they may need to be placed on a very different therapeutical regimen. The underlying gene-environment interaction is unclear so far.
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Litwin T, Bembenek J, Antos A, Przybyłkowski A, Skowrońska M, Kurkowska-Jastrzębska I, Członkowska A. Liver transplantation as a treatment for Wilson's disease with neurological presentation: a systematic literature review. Acta Neurol Belg 2022; 122:505-518. [PMID: 35080708 PMCID: PMC8986686 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-022-01872-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Wilson’s disease (WD) is a potentially treatable, genetic disorder of copper metabolism, with survival similar to healthy populations if controlled. However, in almost 50% of WD patients, neurological symptoms persist despite treatment, and in up to 10% of patients, neurological deterioration is irreversible. International guidelines on WD treatment do not recommend liver transplantation (LT) as a treatment for neurological symptoms in WD. However, such treatment has been assessed in retrospective analyses, case and series reports. We aimed to systematically assess all available evidence on the effectiveness and safety of LT in WD patients with neurological presentation. Methods This systematic literature review was performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies were identified by searching the PubMed database (up to 6 April 2021) and by screening reference lists. Results Based on the systematic literature review, 48 articles were identified, showing outcomes of LT in 302 WD patients with neurological symptoms. Of these patients, major improvement was found in 215 cases (71.2%), with no difference in neurological status before and after LT in 21 cases (6.9%). There were 29 deaths (9.6%), neurological worsening in 24 cases (7.9%), and 13 cases (4.3%) were lost to follow-up. Conclusions The results suggest that LT is a promising method of WD management in patients with severe, neurological symptoms, particularly if the patient has not responded to pharmacological de-coppering treatment. Further studies of LT in these patients are warranted. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13760-022-01872-w.
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Ferrarese A, Morelli MC, Carrai P, Milana M, Angelico M, Perricone G, Belli LS, Marrone G, Grieco A, Martini S, Manini MA, Fagiuoli S, Toniutto P, Galeota Lanza A, Bhoori S, Petta S, Giannini EG, Burra P. Outcomes of Liver Transplant for Adults With Wilson's Disease. Liver Transpl 2020; 26:507-516. [PMID: 31901209 DOI: 10.1002/lt.25714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Wilson's disease (WD) is a rare genetic disorder with protean manifestations. Even if liver transplantation (LT) could represent an effective therapeutic option for patients with end-stage liver disease, it has remained controversial in the presence of neuropsychiatric involvement. This study aimed to examine the frequency of adult LT for WD in Italy, focusing on the disease phenotype at the time of LT. A retrospective, observational, multicenter study was conducted across Italy exploring the frequency and characteristics of adults transplanted for WD between 2006 and 2016. A total of 29 adult WD patients underwent LT during the study period at 11 Italian LT centers (accounting for 0.4% of all LTs performed), and 27 of them were considered in this analysis (male/female, n = 9/18; age at LT, 29 years [19-60 years]; median Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score at LT, 27 [6-49]). Isolated hepatic phenotype was the indication for LT in 17 (63%) patients, whereas 2 (7%) patients underwent LT for neurological impairment on compensated liver disease. Overall 1- and 5-year patient survival was excellent (88% and 83%, respectively). Neuropsychiatric symptoms early after LT completely recovered in only a few patients. In conclusion, WD remains an uncommon, unusual indication for LT in Italy, displaying good post-LT graft and patient survival. Because isolated neuropsychiatric involvement represents a rare indication to LT, more data are needed to properly assess the value of LT for WD in this subset of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Ferrarese
- Multivisceral Transplant Unit, Department of Surgery, Oncology, and Gastroenterology, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Morelli
- Department for Care of Organ Failures and Transplants, Internal Medicine for the Treatment of Severe Organ Failures, University Hospital - Policlinico Sant'Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paola Carrai
- Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation Unit, University of Pisa Medical School and Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Martina Milana
- Liver and Transplant Unit, Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Angelico
- Liver and Transplant Unit, Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Perricone
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Liver Unit, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Saverio Belli
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Liver Unit, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Marrone
- Liver Transplant Medicine Unit, Gastroenterological Area, Department of Gastroenterological, Endocrine and Metabolic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Gemelli, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Grieco
- Liver Transplant Medicine Unit, Gastroenterological Area, Department of Gastroenterological, Endocrine and Metabolic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Gemelli, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Martini
- Gastrohepatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Matteo Angelo Manini
- Gastroenterology and Transplant Hepatology Department, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Stefano Fagiuoli
- Gastroenterology and Transplant Hepatology Department, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Toniutto
- Hepatology and Liver Transplant Unit, Department of Medical Area, Udine University Hospital, Udine, Italy
| | | | - Sherrie Bhoori
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori Instituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Milan, Italy
| | - Salvatore Petta
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dipartimento Biomedico di Medicina Interna e Specialistica, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Edoardo G Giannini
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Instituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico per l'Oncologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Patrizia Burra
- Multivisceral Transplant Unit, Department of Surgery, Oncology, and Gastroenterology, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
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Medici V, LaSalle JM. Genetics and epigenetic factors of Wilson disease. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2019; 7:S58. [PMID: 31179295 PMCID: PMC6531661 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2019.01.67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Wilson disease (WD) is a complex condition due to copper accumulation mainly in the liver and brain. The genetic base of WD is represented by pathogenic mutations of the copper-transporting gene ATP7B with consequent lack of copper excretion through the biliary tract. ATP7B is the only gene so far identified and known to be responsible for the development of the disease. Our understanding of the disease has been evolving as functional studies have associated specific disease-causing mutations with specific copper-transporter impairments. The most frequent variant in patients of European descent is the H1069Q missense mutation and it has been associated with protein misfolding, aberrant phosphorylation of the P-domain, and altered ATP binding orientation and affinity. Conversely, there is much less understanding of the relation between the genotype and the clinical manifestations of WD. WD is characterized by a highly varied and unpredictable presentation with different combined hepatic, neurological, and psychiatric symptoms. Several studies have attempted to correlate genotype and phenotype but the most recent evidences on larger populations failed to identify a relation between genotype and clinical presentations. Given that so far also modifier genes have not shown convincing association with WD, there is growing interest to identify epigenetic mechanisms of gene expression regulation as underlying the onset and progression of WD phenotype. Evidence from animal models indicated changes in methionine metabolism regulation with possible effects on DNA methylation. Mouse models of WD have indicated transcript level changes of genes related to DNA methylation in fetal and adult livers. And finally, evidence is accumulating regarding DNA methylation changes in patients with WD. It is unexplored how ATP7B genetic mutations combine with epigenetic changes to affect the phenotype. In conclusion, WD is a genetic disease with a complex regulation of its phenotype that includes molecular genetics and epigenetic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Medici
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Janine M. LaSalle
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
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11
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Członkowska A, Litwin T, Dusek P, Ferenci P, Lutsenko S, Medici V, Rybakowski JK, Weiss KH, Schilsky ML. Wilson disease. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2018; 4:21. [PMID: 30190489 PMCID: PMC6416051 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-018-0018-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 463] [Impact Index Per Article: 77.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Wilson disease (WD) is a potentially treatable, inherited disorder of copper metabolism that is characterized by the pathological accumulation of copper. WD is caused by mutations in ATP7B, which encodes a transmembrane copper-transporting ATPase, leading to impaired copper homeostasis and copper overload in the liver, brain and other organs. The clinical course of WD can vary in the type and severity of symptoms, but progressive liver disease is a common feature. Patients can also present with neurological disorders and psychiatric symptoms. WD is diagnosed using diagnostic algorithms that incorporate clinical symptoms and signs, measures of copper metabolism and DNA analysis of ATP7B. Available treatments include chelation therapy and zinc salts, which reverse copper overload by different mechanisms. Additionally, liver transplantation is indicated in selected cases. New agents, such as tetrathiomolybdate salts, are currently being investigated in clinical trials, and genetic therapies are being tested in animal models. With early diagnosis and treatment, the prognosis is good; however, an important issue is diagnosing patients before the onset of serious symptoms. Advances in screening for WD may therefore bring earlier diagnosis and improvements for patients with WD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Członkowska
- 2nd Department of Neurology, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland.
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Tomasz Litwin
- 2nd Department of Neurology, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Petr Dusek
- Department of Neurology and Centre of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Peter Ferenci
- Internal Medicine 3, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Svetlana Lutsenko
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Valentina Medici
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Janusz K Rybakowski
- Department of Adult Psychiatry, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Karl Heinz Weiss
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael L Schilsky
- Section of Digestive Diseases and Transplantation and Immunology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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12
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Kelly C, Pericleous M. Wilson disease: more than meets the eye. Postgrad Med J 2018; 94:335-347. [PMID: 29449431 DOI: 10.1136/postgradmedj-2017-135381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Revised: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 01/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Wilson disease is a rare but important disorder of copper metabolism, with a failure to excrete copper appropriately into bile. It is a multisystem condition with presentations across all branches of medicine. Diagnosis can be difficult and requires a high index of suspicion. It should be considered in unexplained liver disease particularly where neuropsychiatric features are also present. Treatments are available for all stages of disease. A particularly important presentation not to overlook is acute liver failure which carries a high mortality risk and may require urgent liver transplantation. Here, we provide an overview of this complex condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Kelly
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, UK.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Marinos Pericleous
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, UK.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
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13
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Kieffer DA, Medici V. Wilson disease: At the crossroads between genetics and epigenetics-A review of the evidence. LIVER RESEARCH 2017; 1:121-130. [PMID: 29270329 PMCID: PMC5734098 DOI: 10.1016/j.livres.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Environmental factors, including diet, exercise, stress, and toxins, profoundly impact disease phenotypes. This review examines how Wilson disease (WD), an autosomal recessive genetic disorder, is influenced by genetic and environmental inputs. WD is caused by mutations in the copper-transporter gene ATP7B, leading to the accumulation of copper in the liver and brain, resulting in hepatic, neurological, and psychiatric symptoms. These symptoms range in severity and can first appear anytime between early childhood and old age. Over 300 disease-causing mutations in ATP7B have been identified, but attempts to link genotype to the phenotypic presentation have yielded little insight, prompting investigators to identify alternative mechanisms, such as epigenetics, to explain the highly varied clinical presentation. Further, WD is accompanied by structural and functional abnormalities in mitochondria, potentially altering the production of metabolites that are required for epigenetic regulation of gene expression. Notably, environmental exposure affects the regulation of gene expression and mitochondrial function. We present the "multi-hit" hypothesis of WD progression, which posits that the initial hit is an environmental factor that affects fetal gene expression and epigenetic mechanisms and subsequent "hits" are environmental exposures that occur in the offspring after birth. These environmental hits and subsequent changes in epigenetic regulation may impact copper accumulation and ultimately WD phenotype. Lifestyle changes, including diet, increased physical activity, stress reduction, and toxin avoidance, might influence the presentation and course of WD, and therefore may serve as potential adjunctive or replacement therapies.
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Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) is a life-saving and curative treatment for Wilson disease (WD), providing restoration of function of the liver and mitigation of portal hypertension. Indications for LT in patients with WD include acute liver failure or end-stage liver disease not treatable by medical therapy. LT is also used to treat hepatocellular carcinoma when it develops in patients with WD when tumor resection is not feasible. LT solely for neurologic or psychiatric WD remains controversial. Living liver donation as well as cadaveric orthotopic and auxiliary LT are options for transplantation for WD. Outcomes for LT for WD are excellent, and supportive measures while awaiting transplantation help bridge the patient to a more successful outcome. Future hepatocyte or stem cell transplantation may augment or supplant current LT for WD.
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15
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Squitti R, Siotto M, Arciello M, Rossi L. Non-ceruloplasmin bound copper and ATP7B gene variants in Alzheimer's disease. Metallomics 2016; 8:863-73. [DOI: 10.1039/c6mt00101g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
ATP7B, a protein mainly expressed in the hepatocytes, is a copper chaperone that loads the metal into the serum copper–protein ceruloplasmin during its synthesis and also escorts superfluous copper into the bile, by a sophisticated trafficking mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Squitti
- Molecular Markers Laboratory
- IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio-Fatebenefratelli
- 25125 Brescia, Italy
| | - M. Siotto
- Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS Foundation
- Milan, Italy
| | - M. Arciello
- Department of Biology
- University of Rome Tor Vergata
- Rome, Italy
| | - L. Rossi
- Department of Biology
- University of Rome Tor Vergata
- Rome, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario “Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture e Biosistemi” (I.N.B.B.)
- Rome, Italy
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16
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Gromadzka G, Kruszyńska M, Wierzbicka D, Litwin T, Dzieżyc K, Wierzchowska-Ciok A, Chabik G, Członkowska A. Gene variants encoding proteins involved in antioxidant defense system and the clinical expression of Wilson disease. Liver Int 2015; 35:215-22. [PMID: 24517502 DOI: 10.1111/liv.12493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Wilson disease (WD) is an autosomal recessive disorder of copper metabolism resulting from pathogenic mutations of the ATP7B gene. The basis of phenotypic variability of the disease is not understood. The main mechanism of copper toxicity is probably related to generation of intracellular oxidative stress. To evaluate whether interindividual variability within genes encoding proteins involved in antioxidant defense system may modulate phenotypic expressions of WD. METHODS Variability within genes encoding the cytosolic enzymes: glutathione peroxidase (GPX1 rs1050450) and manganese superoxide dismutase (SOD2 rs4880), and peroxisomal enzyme: catalase (CAT rs1001179) were analysed in 435 patients. Individual genotypes were tested for their relationship with phenotypic features of WD. RESULTS GPX1 genotypes were not related to phenotypic manifestations of WD. Among males homozygocity for the SOD2 rs4880 T allele was related to earlier onset of WD. Patients homozygous for the CAT rs1001179 T allele characterized with later onset of WD [median (interquartile range) age: 29.0 (14.0) years vs. 22.0 (12.0) years, respectively, P < 0.004], later manifestation of hepatic symptoms [34.5 (14.0) years vs. 22.0 (12.0) years, P < 0.0009], and later presentation of neurological symptoms [37.0 (16.0) years vs. 28.0 (13.0) years, P < 0.03] than those having one or two C alleles. CONCLUSION Variability within the CAT gene may be an important modifier of the clinical course of WD. SOD2 genotype may influence WD phenotype among males. These observations indirectly confirm a role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of WD, as well as indirectly suggest that peroxisomes impairment may be involved in WD pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grażyna Gromadzka
- Second Department of Neurology, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland
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17
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Medici V, Shibata NM, Kharbanda KK, Islam MS, Keen CL, Kim K, Tillman B, French SW, Halsted CH, LaSalle JM. Maternal choline modifies fetal liver copper, gene expression, DNA methylation, and neonatal growth in the tx-j mouse model of Wilson disease. Epigenetics 2013; 9:286-96. [PMID: 24220304 DOI: 10.4161/epi.27110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal diet can affect fetal gene expression through epigenetic mechanisms. Wilson disease (WD), which is caused by autosomal recessive mutations in ATP7B encoding a biliary copper transporter, is characterized by excessive hepatic copper accumulation, but variability in disease severity. We tested the hypothesis that gestational supply of dietary methyl groups modifies fetal DNA methylation and expression of genes involved in methionine and lipid metabolism that are impaired prior to hepatic steatosis in the toxic milk (tx-j) mouse model of WD. Female C3H control and tx-j mice were fed control (choline 8 mmol/Kg of diet) or choline-supplemented (choline 36 mmol/Kg of diet) diets for 2 weeks throughout mating and pregnancy to gestation day 17. A second group of C3H females, half of which were used to cross foster tx-j pups, received the same diet treatments that extended during lactation to 21 d postpartum. Compared with C3H, fetal tx-j livers had significantly lower copper concentrations and significantly lower transcript levels of Cyclin D1 and genes related to methionine and lipid metabolism. Maternal choline supplementation prevented the transcriptional deficits in fetal tx-j liver for multiple genes related to cell growth and metabolism. Global DNA methylation was increased by 17% in tx-j fetal livers after maternal choline treatment (P<0.05). Maternal dietary choline rescued the lower body weight of 21 d tx-j mice. Our results suggest that WD pathogenesis is modified by maternal in utero factors, including dietary choline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Medici
- Department of Internal Medicine; Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology; University of California Davis; Davis, CA USA
| | - Noreene M Shibata
- Department of Internal Medicine; Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology; University of California Davis; Davis, CA USA
| | - Kusum K Kharbanda
- Research Service; Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System; Omaha, NE USA
| | - Mohammad S Islam
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology; Genome Center; MIND Institute; University of California Davis; Davis, CA USA
| | - Carl L Keen
- Department of Nutrition; University of California Davis; Davis, CA USA
| | - Kyoungmi Kim
- Department of Public Health Sciences; Division of Biostatistics; University of California Davis; Davis, CA USA
| | - Brittany Tillman
- Department of Pathology; UCLA/Harbor Medical Center; Torrance, CA USA
| | - Samuel W French
- Department of Pathology; UCLA/Harbor Medical Center; Torrance, CA USA
| | - Charles H Halsted
- Department of Internal Medicine; Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology; University of California Davis; Davis, CA USA
| | - Janine M LaSalle
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology; Genome Center; MIND Institute; University of California Davis; Davis, CA USA
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18
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Siaj R, Sauer V, Stöppeler S, Spiegel HU, Köhler G, Zibert A, Schmidt HHJ. Dietary copper triggers onset of fulminant hepatitis in the Long-Evans cinnamon rat model. World J Gastroenterol 2012; 18:5542-50. [PMID: 23112546 PMCID: PMC3482640 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v18.i39.5542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2011] [Revised: 03/02/2012] [Accepted: 03/19/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To investigate the impact of dietary copper given at different time points on the onset of fulminant hepatitis.
METHODS: The Long-Evans cinnamon (LEC) rat model of Wilson’s disease (WD) was used to study the impact of high dietary copper (hCu) on the induction of fulminant hepatitis at early or late time points of life. High Cu diet was started in rat pups or in adults (month 5) for three months. Animals that received reduced dietary copper (rCu) throughout their lifetime served as a control. Hepatitis-associated serum markers (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, bilirubin) were analyzed in animal groups receiving hCu or rCu. Liver copper content and liver histology were revealed at sacrifice. A set of 5 marker genes previously found to be affected in injured liver and which are related to angiogenesis (Vegfa), fat metabolism (Srebf1), extracellular matrix (Timp1), oxidative stress (Hmox1), and the cell cycle (Cdkn1a) were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction.
RESULTS: Regardless of the time point when hCu was started, LEC rats (35/36) developed fulminant hepatitis and died. Animals receiving rCu (36/36) remained healthy, did not develop hepatitis, and survived long term without symptoms of overt disease, although liver copper accumulated in adult animals (477 ± 75 μg/g). With regard to start of hCu, onset of fulminant hepatitis was significantly (P < 0.001) earlier in adults (35 ± 9 d) that showed pre-accumulation of liver copper as compared to the pup group (77 ± 15 d). Hepatitis-associated serum markers, liver copper and liver histology, as well as gene expression, were affected in LEC rats receiving hCu. However, except for early and rapid onset of hepatitis, biochemical and molecular markers were similar at the early and late time points of disease.
CONCLUSION: Rapid onset of fulminant hepatitis in asymptomatic LEC rats with elevated liver copper suggests that there is a critical threshold of liver copper which is important to trigger the course of WD.
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Fieten H, Leegwater PAJ, Watson AL, Rothuizen J. Canine models of copper toxicosis for understanding mammalian copper metabolism. Mamm Genome 2012; 23:62-75. [PMID: 22147205 PMCID: PMC3275736 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-011-9378-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2011] [Accepted: 11/11/2011] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Hereditary forms of copper toxicosis exist in man and dogs. In man, Wilson's disease is the best studied disorder of copper overload, resulting from mutations in the gene coding for the copper transporter ATP7B. Forms of copper toxicosis for which no causal gene is known yet are recognized as well, often in young children. Although advances have been made in unraveling the genetic background of disorders of copper metabolism in man, many questions regarding disease mechanisms and copper homeostasis remain unanswered. Genetic studies in the Bedlington terrier, a dog breed affected with copper toxicosis, identified COMMD1, a gene that was previously unknown to be involved in copper metabolism. Besides the Bedlington terrier, a number of other dog breeds suffer from hereditary copper toxicosis and show similar phenotypes to humans with copper storage disorders. Unlike the heterogeneity of most human populations, the genetic structure within a purebred dog population is homogeneous, which is advantageous for unraveling the molecular genetics of complex diseases. This article reviews the work that has been done on the Bedlington terrier, summarizes what was learned from studies into COMMD1 function, describes hereditary copper toxicosis phenotypes in other dog breeds, and discusses the opportunities for genome-wide association studies on copper toxicosis in the dog to contribute to the understanding of mammalian copper metabolism and copper metabolism disorders in man.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hille Fieten
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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20
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Manifestations and evolution of Wilson disease in pediatric patients carrying ATP7B mutation L708P. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2012; 54:48-54. [PMID: 21832955 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0b013e318230130c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to characterize a group of 11 pediatric patients, ages 3 to 13 years, affected by Wilson disease (WD) in the island of Gran Canaria, Spain. PATIENTS AND METHODS Genetic, biochemical, and pathological features, together with their response to treatment and clinical evolution, have been analyzed for this group of patients. RESULTS Genetically, the group was rather homogeneous, with an extremely high prevalence of the L708P mutation (4 homozygotes and 5 heterozygotes). Despite being initially screened because of asymptomatic hypertransaminemia, all of the patients presented with some degree of liver damage that was never accompanied by any neurological manifestation. Hepatic damage was most severe in a compound heterozygote with a novel mutation, G1266W, affecting a motif in the ATP7B polypeptide that is greatly conserved in similar proteins among metazoans. Ceruloplasmin and copper serum levels, together with the determination of hepatic copper content, were found to be of great diagnostic value, whereas urine copper measurements were found to be much less conclusive. All of the patients responded well to treatment with D-penicillamine with no documented adverse reactions. CONCLUSIONS The patients in Gran Canaria constitute, overall, one of the largest groups of patients with WD with a high incidence of a single mutation, allowing us to define the early clinical symptoms and the evolution of the disease in patients carrying the ATP7B L708P mutant allele, and the study of WD in a genetically homogeneous background.
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Materia S, Cater MA, Klomp LWJ, Mercer JFB, La Fontaine S. Clusterin and COMMD1 independently regulate degradation of the mammalian copper ATPases ATP7A and ATP7B. J Biol Chem 2011; 287:2485-99. [PMID: 22130675 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.302216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
ATP7A and ATP7B are copper-transporting P(1B)-type ATPases (Cu-ATPases) that are critical for regulating intracellular copper homeostasis. Mutations in the genes encoding ATP7A and ATP7B lead to copper deficiency and copper toxicity disorders, Menkes and Wilson diseases, respectively. Clusterin and COMMD1 were previously identified as interacting partners of these Cu-ATPases. In this study, we confirmed that clusterin and COMMD1 interact to down-regulate both ATP7A and ATP7B. Overexpression and knockdown of clusterin/COMMD1 decreased and increased, respectively, endogenous levels of ATP7A and ATP7B, consistent with a role in facilitating Cu-ATPase degradation. We demonstrate that whereas the clusterin/ATP7B interaction was enhanced by oxidative stress or mutation of ATP7B, the COMMD1/ATP7B interaction did not change under oxidative stress conditions, and only increased with ATP7B mutations that led to its misfolding. Clusterin and COMMD1 facilitated the degradation of ATP7B containing the same Wilson disease-causing C-terminal mutations via different degradation pathways, clusterin via the lysosomal pathway and COMMD1 via the proteasomal pathway. Furthermore, endogenous ATP7B existed in a complex with clusterin and COMMD1, but these interactions were neither competitive nor cooperative and occurred independently of each other. Together these data indicate that clusterin and COMMD1 represent alternative and independent systems regulating Cu-ATPase quality control, and consequently contributing to the maintenance of copper homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Materia
- Strategic Research Centre for Molecular and Medical Research, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria 3125, Australia
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22
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Gromadzka G, Rudnicka M, Chabik G, Przybyłkowski A, Członkowska A. Genetic variability in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene (MTHFR) affects clinical expression of Wilson's disease. J Hepatol 2011; 55:913-9. [PMID: 21334398 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2011.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2010] [Revised: 12/21/2010] [Accepted: 01/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Wilson's disease (WND) is an autosomal recessive disorder of copper (Cu) transport, resulting from pathogenic mutations in the ATP7B gene. The reason for the high variability in phenotypic expressions of WND is unknown. Hepatotoxic and neurotoxic effects of homocysteine (Hcy), as well as interrelationships between Hcy and Cu toxicity, were documented. METHODS We genotyped the two 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (one of the key folate/Hcy pathway enzymes) gene (MTHFR) polymorphisms: C677T and A1298C in 245 WND patients. Next, we tested the modulation of WND phenotypes by genotypes of MTHFR. RESULTS MTHFR C677T genotype distribution deviated from that expected from a population in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (C677T, χ(2) = 12.14, p = 0.0005). Patients with the MTHFR 1298C allele were younger at symptoms' onset than those without this allele (median (IQR) age, 24.9 (14.0) years vs. 28.5 (12.0) years, p = 0.006). Carriers of MTHFR "high activity" diplotype (double wild-type homozygotes 677CC/1298AA) manifested WND at older age, than non-carriers (median (IQR) age, 33.5 (9.0) years vs. 25.0 (13.0) years, p = 0.0009). Patients with the MTHFR 677T allele less frequently exhibited the neurological WND phenotype (31 (29.5%) vs. 36 (48.0%)), and more frequently presented with hepatic WND (44 (41.9%) vs. 22 (29.3%)), compared with subjects MTHFR 677T(-). CONCLUSIONS We postulate that MTHFR polymorphism contributes to the phenotypic variability of WND.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grażyna Gromadzka
- Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Second Department of Neurology, Warsaw, Poland.
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23
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Kegley KM, Sellers MA, Ferber MJ, Johnson MW, Joelson DW, Shrestha R. Fulminant Wilson's disease requiring liver transplantation in one monozygotic twin despite identical genetic mutation. Am J Transplant 2010; 10:1325-9. [PMID: 20346064 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-6143.2010.03071.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Acute decompensated Wilson's disease (WD) that presents as fulminant hepatic failure carries significant mortality without hepatic replacement. The abnormal gene implicated in WD, ATP7B, has been mapped to chromosome 13, and leads to decreased passage of copper from hepatocytes to bile. Excess copper accumulation exceeds hepatocyte storage capacity resulting in intracellular necrosis, apoptosis and cell death in various organs of the body. The hepatic injury induced by the abnormal accumulation of copper in WD has variable presentation such as acute hepatitis, rapid hepatic deterioration resembling fulminant hepatic failure, or as progressive chronic liver disease in the form of chronic active hepatitis or cirrhosis. There are reports in the literature describing monozygotic (identical) twins with similar hepatic progression requiring liver transplantation, however, with different neurological outcome after transplant. We report a case of one monozygotic twin presenting with acute liver failure requiring emergent liver transplantation while the other twin presented with mild liver disease, when both shared an identical genetic mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M Kegley
- Department of Transplantation, Piedmont Hospital, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Affiliation(s)
- Eve A Roberts
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, The Hospital for Sick Children, and Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Elucidation of metabolic pathways for copper and iron improved our understanding of Wilson disease and genetic hemochromatosis. Some inherited liver diseases are now characterized by protein-folding mutations, including Gaucher disease, cystic fibrosis and ZZ alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency. Studies now focus on associations between glycogen storage disease, hepatic adenoma formation and transformation to hepatocellular carcinoma. Continued progress in the study of the diagnosis, natural history and treatment of inherited liver diseases is the subject of this review. RECENT FINDINGS Further understanding of metabolic pathways for iron and copper have led to a search for factors that modify phenotypic expression of Wilson disease and genetic hemochromatosis. Hepcidin plays a key role in modulating iron uptake in iron-overload disorders and new studies elucidate hepcidin regulation. For glycogen storage diseases, studies on the natural history and hepatocellular transformation necessitate tumor surveillance and possible early transplantation. A better understanding of genetic and nongenetic modifiers in ZZ alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency and other disorders of protein misfolding will improve our ability to manage these patients. SUMMARY Recent discoveries in iron, copper and glycogen metabolism advance our ability to diagnose and treat inherited metabolic diseases of the liver. Some of these important findings are detailed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamar Taddei
- Department of Medicine, Division of Digestive Diseases, USA
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Litwin T, Gromadzka G, Członkowska A. Neurological presentation of Wilson's disease in a patient after liver transplantation. Mov Disord 2008; 23:743-6. [DOI: 10.1002/mds.21913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Litwin
- 2nd Department of Neurology, Institute Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Grazyna Gromadzka
- 2nd Department of Neurology, Institute Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical Academy, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Członkowska
- 2nd Department of Neurology, Institute Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical Academy, Warsaw, Poland
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