1
|
Yang Y, Schnabl B. Gut Bacteria in Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease. Clin Liver Dis 2024; 28:663-679. [PMID: 39362714 PMCID: PMC11450261 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2024.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2024]
Abstract
Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) poses a significant global public health challenge, with high patient mortality rates and economic burden. The gut microbiome plays an important role in the onset and progression of alcohol-associated liver disease. Excessive alcohol consumption disrupts the intestinal barrier, facilitating the entry of harmful microbes and their products into the liver, exacerbating liver damage. Dysbiosis, marked by imbalance in gut bacteria, correlates with ALD severity. Promising microbiota-centered therapies include probiotics, phages, and fecal microbiota transplantation. Clinical trials demonstrate the potential of these interventions to improve liver function and patient outcomes, offering a new frontier in ALD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongqiang Yang
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Bernd Schnabl
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Department of Medicine, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kulkarni AV, Singal AK, Kamath PS. Research Priorities and Future Landscape of Clinical Trials in Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease. Clin Liver Dis 2024; 28:831-851. [PMID: 39362725 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2024.06.017] [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: 10/05/2024]
Abstract
Liver is the most common organ affected by alcohol misuse. The spectrum of alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) ranges from simple steatosis to cirrhosis and its complications. The unique clinical phenotype of alcohol-associated hepatitis has a risk for high short-term mortality. Several gaps exist with respect to epidemiology, noninvasive testing, prognostication, and treatment of ALD. Most studies focus on short-term survival as the ideal endpoint and ignore other aspects of alcohol-use disorder and ALD. In this review, the authors discuss the existing knowledge gaps, enumerate ongoing clinical trials, and highlight the research priorities and future landscape of clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ashwani K Singal
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Louisville, KY, USA; Department of Research, VA Medical Center, Sioux Falls, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD, USA; American Gastro Association Council (Liver Section); University of Louisville School of Medicine; Clinical Trials in Hepatology, UofL Clinical Trials Unit; University of Louisville Physics Group; University of Louisville Health and Jewish Hospital; Trager Transplant Center.
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Rangra S, Rana D, Prajapati A, Benival D, Dwivedi P, Mandoli A. Nutritional and microbiota-based therapeutic interventions for alcohol-associated liver disease: From pathogenesis to therapeutic insights. Life Sci 2024; 352:122852. [PMID: 38909682 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122852] [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: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) manifests as a consequence of prolonged and excessive alcohol consumption. This disease is closely associated with the interplay between gut health and liver function, which can lead to complex pathophysiological changes in the body. This review offers a comprehensive exploration of ALD's multifaceted nature, with a keen focus on its pathogenesis and the potential of nutritional and microbiota-based therapies. Insights derived from diverse case studies are utilized to shed light on how interventions can rebalance the gut microbiome and enhance liver function in ALD patients. Furthermore, the feasibility of liver transplantation and stem cell therapy as ultimate measures for ALD has been discussed, with acknowledgment of the inherent risks and challenges accompanying them. ALD's complexity underscores the necessity for a thorough understanding of its etiology and progression to devise effective treatments that mitigate its profound impact on an individual's health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shagun Rangra
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research- Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), 382355, India
| | - Dhwani Rana
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research- Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), 382355, India
| | - Arvee Prajapati
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research- Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), 382355, India
| | - Derajram Benival
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research- Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), 382355, India
| | - Pradeep Dwivedi
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) - Jodhpur, 342005, India
| | - Amit Mandoli
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research- Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), 382355, India.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Smith ML, Wade JB, Wolstenholme J, Bajaj JS. Gut microbiome-brain-cirrhosis axis. Hepatology 2024; 80:465-485. [PMID: 36866864 PMCID: PMC10480351 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
Cirrhosis is characterized by inflammation, degeneration, and fibrosis of liver tissue. Along with being the most common cause of liver failure and liver transplant, cirrhosis is a significant risk factor for several neuropsychiatric conditions. The most common of these is HE, which is characterized by cognitive and ataxic symptoms, resulting from the buildup of metabolic toxins with liver failure. However, cirrhosis patients also show a significantly increased risk for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer and Parkinson diseases, and for mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. In recent years, more attention has been played to communication between the ways the gut and liver communicate with each other and with the central nervous system, and the way these organs influence each other's function. This bidirectional communication has come to be known as the gut-liver-brain axis. The gut microbiome has emerged as a key mechanism affecting gut-liver, gut-brain, and brain-liver communication. Clinical studies and animal models have demonstrated the significant patterns of gut dysbiosis when cirrhosis is present, both with or without concomitant alcohol use disorder, and have provided compelling evidence that this dysbiosis also influences the cognitive and mood-related behaviors. In this review, we have summarized the pathophysiological and cognitive effects associated with cirrhosis, links to cirrhosis-associated disruption of the gut microbiome, and the current evidence from clinical and preclinical studies for the modulation of the gut microbiome as a treatment for cirrhosis and associated neuropsychiatric conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maren L Smith
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Alcohol Research Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - James B Wade
- Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Jennifer Wolstenholme
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Alcohol Research Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Jasmohan S Bajaj
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and Central Virginia Veterans Healthcare System, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Llorente C. Commentary on the gut microbiome in alcohol use disorder and alcohol-associated liver disease. ALCOHOL, CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 48:1466-1468. [PMID: 38825713 PMCID: PMC11305903 DOI: 10.1111/acer.15382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Llorente
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Leclercq S. Involvement of the gut microbiome-brain axis in alcohol use disorder. Alcohol Alcohol 2024; 59:agae050. [PMID: 39042929 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agae050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The human intestine is colonized by a variety of microorganisms that influence the immune system, the metabolic response, and the nervous system, with consequences for brain function and behavior. Unbalance in this microbial ecosystem has been shown to be associated with psychiatric disorders, and altered gut microbiome composition related to bacteria, viruses, and fungi has been well established in patients with alcohol use disorder. This review describes the gut microbiome-brain communication pathways, including the ones related to the vagus nerve, the inflammatory cytokines, and the gut-derived metabolites. Finally, the potential benefits of microbiota-based therapies for the management of alcohol use disorder, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Leclercq
- Laboratory of Nutritional Psychiatry, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Grodin EN, Burnette EM, Rodriguez C, Fulcher JA, Ray LA. The gut microbiome in alcohol use disorder and alcohol-associated liver disease: A systematic review of clinical studies. ALCOHOL, CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 48:1221-1242. [PMID: 38719790 DOI: 10.1111/acer.15338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Evidence suggests that a relationship exists between the gut microbiome and the pathogenesis of alcohol use disorder (AUD) and alcohol-associated liver disease (AALD). This systematic review identified studies that investigated the gut microbiome in individuals with an AUD or an AALD. A search was conducted on October 27, 2022, in PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases. Fifty studies satisfied eligibility criteria. Most studies found evidence for gut dysbiosis in individuals with AUD and AALD. Microbiome intervention studies have mostly been conducted in AALD patients; fecal microbial transplant interventions show the most promise. Because most studies were conducted cross-sectionally, the causal relationship between the gut microbiome and alcohol use is unknown. Furthermore, almost all studies have been conducted in predominantly male populations, leaving critical questions regarding sex differences and generalizability of the findings. The study summaries and recommendations provided in this review seek to identify areas for further research and to highlight potential gut microbial interventions for treating AUD and AALD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erica N Grodin
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Burnette
- Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Crystal Rodriguez
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jennifer A Fulcher
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Gefen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Lara A Ray
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Parthasarathy G, Malhi H, Bajaj JS. Therapeutic manipulation of the microbiome in liver disease. Hepatology 2024:01515467-990000000-00932. [PMID: 38922826 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000987] [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] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Myriad associations between the microbiome and various facets of liver physiology and pathology have been described in the literature. Building on descriptive and correlative sequencing studies, metagenomic studies are expanding our collective understanding of the functional and mechanistic role of the microbiome as mediators of the gut-liver axis. Based on these mechanisms, the functional activity of the microbiome represents an attractive, tractable, and precision medicine therapeutic target in several liver diseases. Indeed, several therapeutics have been used in liver disease even before their description as a microbiome-dependent approach. To bring successful microbiome-targeted and microbiome-inspired therapies to the clinic, a comprehensive appreciation of the different approaches to influence, collaborate with, or engineer the gut microbiome to coopt a disease-relevant function of interest in the right patient is key. Herein, we describe the various levels at which the microbiome can be targeted-from prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics, and antibiotics to microbiome reconstitution and precision microbiome engineering. Assimilating data from preclinical animal models, human studies as well as clinical trials, we describe the potential for and rationale behind studying such therapies across several liver diseases, including metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, alcohol-associated liver disease, cirrhosis, HE as well as liver cancer. Lastly, we discuss lessons learned from previous attempts at developing such therapies, the regulatory framework that needs to be navigated, and the challenges that remain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Harmeet Malhi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jasmohan S Bajaj
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and Central Virginia Veterans Healthcare System, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Yadegar A, Bar-Yoseph H, Monaghan TM, Pakpour S, Severino A, Kuijper EJ, Smits WK, Terveer EM, Neupane S, Nabavi-Rad A, Sadeghi J, Cammarota G, Ianiro G, Nap-Hill E, Leung D, Wong K, Kao D. Fecal microbiota transplantation: current challenges and future landscapes. Clin Microbiol Rev 2024; 37:e0006022. [PMID: 38717124 PMCID: PMC11325845 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00060-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYGiven the importance of gut microbial homeostasis in maintaining health, there has been considerable interest in developing innovative therapeutic strategies for restoring gut microbiota. One such approach, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), is the main "whole gut microbiome replacement" strategy and has been integrated into clinical practice guidelines for treating recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection (rCDI). Furthermore, the potential application of FMT in other indications such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), metabolic syndrome, and solid tumor malignancies is an area of intense interest and active research. However, the complex and variable nature of FMT makes it challenging to address its precise functionality and to assess clinical efficacy and safety in different disease contexts. In this review, we outline clinical applications, efficacy, durability, and safety of FMT and provide a comprehensive assessment of its procedural and administration aspects. The clinical applications of FMT in children and cancer immunotherapy are also described. We focus on data from human studies in IBD in contrast with rCDI to delineate the putative mechanisms of this treatment in IBD as a model, including colonization resistance and functional restoration through bacterial engraftment, modulating effects of virome/phageome, gut metabolome and host interactions, and immunoregulatory actions of FMT. Furthermore, we comprehensively review omics technologies, metagenomic approaches, and bioinformatics pipelines to characterize complex microbial communities and discuss their limitations. FMT regulatory challenges, ethical considerations, and pharmacomicrobiomics are also highlighted to shed light on future development of tailored microbiome-based therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abbas Yadegar
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Haggai Bar-Yoseph
- Department of Gastroenterology, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Tanya Marie Monaghan
- National Institute for Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Sepideh Pakpour
- School of Engineering, Faculty of Applied Sciences, UBC, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Andrea Severino
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, UOC CEMAD Centro Malattie dell'Apparato Digerente, Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, UOC Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Ed J Kuijper
- Center for Microbiota Analysis and Therapeutics (CMAT), Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Wiep Klaas Smits
- Center for Microbiota Analysis and Therapeutics (CMAT), Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth M Terveer
- Center for Microbiota Analysis and Therapeutics (CMAT), Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sukanya Neupane
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ali Nabavi-Rad
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Sadeghi
- School of Engineering, Faculty of Applied Sciences, UBC, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Giovanni Cammarota
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, UOC CEMAD Centro Malattie dell'Apparato Digerente, Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, UOC Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Ianiro
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, UOC CEMAD Centro Malattie dell'Apparato Digerente, Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, UOC Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Estello Nap-Hill
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, St Paul's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Dickson Leung
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Karen Wong
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Dina Kao
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Schöler D, Schnabl B. The role of the microbiome in liver disease. Curr Opin Gastroenterol 2024; 40:134-142. [PMID: 38362864 PMCID: PMC10990783 DOI: 10.1097/mog.0000000000001013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The intestinal microbiome and the gut-liver axis play a major role in health and disease. The human gut harbors trillions of microbes and a disruption of the gut homeostasis can contribute to liver disease. In this review, the progress in the field within the last 3 years is summarized, focusing on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), autoimmune liver disease (AILD), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). RECENT FINDINGS Changes in the fecal virome and fungal mycobiome have been described in patients with various liver diseases. Several microbial derived metabolites including endogenous ethanol produced by bacteria, have been mechanistically linked to liver disease such as MASLD. Virulence factors encoded by gut bacteria contribute to ALD, AILD and HCC. Novel therapeutic approaches focused on the microbiome including phages, pre- and postbiotics have been successfully used in preclinical models. Fecal microbiota transplantation has been effective in attenuating liver disease. Probiotics are safe in patients with alcohol-associated hepatitis and improve liver disease and alcohol addiction. SUMMARY The gut-liver axis plays a key role in the pathophysiology of liver diseases. Understanding the microbiota in liver disease can help to develop precise microbiota centered therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Schöler
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego
| | - Bernd Schnabl
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego
- Department of Medicine, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Åberg F, Jiang ZG, Cortez-Pinto H, Männistö V. Alcohol-associated liver disease-Global epidemiology. Hepatology 2024:01515467-990000000-00852. [PMID: 38640041 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000899] [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] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), as highlighted in this narrative review, is a major public health concern, increasingly impacting global disease burden and premature mortality. In 2019, ALD accounted for the loss of 11 million life-years worldwide. The rising number of deaths and disability-adjusted life-years attributed to ALD, particularly pronounced in the United States, are alarming. Projections suggest that the economic impact of ALD, as seen in the United States, could potentially double by 2040. ALD is increasingly prevalent among younger adults (20-45 y) and has become the leading cause of liver transplantation in both United States and Europe. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the existing trend was further amplified as high-risk drinking patterns coincided with a rise in hospital admissions for alcohol-associated hepatitis and increased ALD-related mortality. The prevalence of ALD is estimated at 3.5% in the general population, 26.0% among hazardous drinkers, and 55.1% among those with alcohol use disorders. Alarmingly, 5-year mortality rates for patients with ALD exceed 50%, with even higher rates in more advanced disease stages. Methodological challenges, such as underreporting, diagnostic difficulties, and variability in registry data quality, complicate the accurate assessment of the impact of ALD. Additionally, the contribution of alcohol to the progression of other liver diseases is often under acknowledged in health care registries, leading to a significant underestimation of its broader implications for liver health. Addressing the growing ALD concern requires robust public health initiatives, heightened awareness, refined diagnostic techniques, and comprehensive epidemiological studies. These measures are vital to tackle the increasing prevalence of ALD and mitigate its extensive impact on individuals and health care systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fredrik Åberg
- Transplantation and Liver Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Z Gordon Jiang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Helena Cortez-Pinto
- Clínica Universitária de Gastrenterologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ville Männistö
- Department of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- Department of Medicine, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Lu H. Inflammatory liver diseases and susceptibility to sepsis. Clin Sci (Lond) 2024; 138:435-487. [PMID: 38571396 DOI: 10.1042/cs20230522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Patients with inflammatory liver diseases, particularly alcohol-associated liver disease and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), have higher incidence of infections and mortality rate due to sepsis. The current focus in the development of drugs for MAFLD is the resolution of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and prevention of progression to cirrhosis. In patients with cirrhosis or alcoholic hepatitis, sepsis is a major cause of death. As the metabolic center and a key immune tissue, liver is the guardian, modifier, and target of sepsis. Septic patients with liver dysfunction have the highest mortality rate compared with other organ dysfunctions. In addition to maintaining metabolic homeostasis, the liver produces and secretes hepatokines and acute phase proteins (APPs) essential in tissue protection, immunomodulation, and coagulation. Inflammatory liver diseases cause profound metabolic disorder and impairment of energy metabolism, liver regeneration, and production/secretion of APPs and hepatokines. Herein, the author reviews the roles of (1) disorders in the metabolism of glucose, fatty acids, ketone bodies, and amino acids as well as the clearance of ammonia and lactate in the pathogenesis of inflammatory liver diseases and sepsis; (2) cytokines/chemokines in inflammatory liver diseases and sepsis; (3) APPs and hepatokines in the protection against tissue injury and infections; and (4) major nuclear receptors/signaling pathways underlying the metabolic disorders and tissue injuries as well as the major drug targets for inflammatory liver diseases and sepsis. Approaches that focus on the liver dysfunction and regeneration will not only treat inflammatory liver diseases but also prevent the development of severe infections and sepsis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong Lu
- Department of Pharmacology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, U.S.A
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Hofford RS, Kiraly DD. Clinical and Preclinical Evidence for Gut Microbiome Mechanisms in Substance Use Disorders. Biol Psychiatry 2024; 95:329-338. [PMID: 37573004 PMCID: PMC10884738 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2023.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
Substance use disorders are a set of recalcitrant neuropsychiatric conditions that cause tremendous morbidity and mortality and are among the leading causes of loss of disability-adjusted life years worldwide. While each specific substance use disorder is driven by problematic use of a different substance, they all share a similar pattern of escalating and out-of-control substance use, continued use despite negative consequences, and a remitting/relapsing pattern over time. Despite significant advances in our understanding of the neurobiology of these conditions, current treatment options remain few and are ineffective for too many individuals. In recent years, there has been a rapidly growing body of literature demonstrating that the resident population of microbes in the gastrointestinal tract, collectively called the gut microbiome, plays an important role in modulating brain and behavior in preclinical and clinical studies of psychiatric disease. While these findings have not yet been translated into clinical practice, this remains an important and exciting avenue for translational research. In this review, we highlight the current state of microbiome-brain research within the substance use field with a focus on both clinical and preclinical studies. We also discuss potential neurobiological mechanisms underlying microbiome effects on models of substance use disorder and propose future directions to bring these findings from bench to bedside.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca S Hofford
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Drew D Kiraly
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Department of Psychiatry, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Wolstenholme JT, Duong NK, Brocato ER, Bajaj JS. Gut-Liver-Brain Axis and Alcohol Use Disorder: Treatment Potential of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation. Alcohol Res 2024; 44:01. [PMID: 38322428 PMCID: PMC10843328 DOI: 10.35946/arcr.v44.1.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Chronic alcohol use is a major cause of liver damage and death. In the United States, multiple factors have led to low utilization of pharmacotherapy for alcohol use disorder (AUD), including lack of provider knowledge and comfort in prescribing medications for AUD. Alcohol consumption has direct effects on the gut microbiota, altering the diversity of bacteria and leading to bacterial overgrowth. Growing evidence suggests that alcohol's effects on the gut microbiome may contribute to increased alcohol consumption and progression of alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD). This article reviews human and preclinical studies investigating the role of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) in ameliorating alcohol-associated alterations to the liver, gut, and brain resulting in altered behavior; it also discusses the therapeutic potential of FMT. SEARCH METHODS For this narrative review, a literature search was conducted in September 2022 of PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, and Google Scholar to identify studies published between January 2012 and September 2022. Search terms used included "fecal microbiota transplantation" and "alcohol." SEARCH RESULTS Most results of the literature search were review articles or articles on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease; these were excluded. Of the remaining empirical manuscripts, very few described clinical or preclinical studies that were directly investigating the effects of FMT on alcohol drinking or related behaviors. Ultimately, 16 studies were included in the review. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS The literature search identified only a few studies that were directly investigating the effect of FMT on ALD or alcohol drinking and related behaviors. Largely proof-of-concept studies, these findings demonstrate that alcohol can alter the gut microbiome and that the microbiome can be transferred between humans and rodents to alter affective behaviors frequently associated with increased alcohol use. Other studies have shown promise of FMT or other probiotic supplementation in alleviating some of the symptoms associated with ALD and drinking. These results show that the implementation of FMT as a therapeutic approach is still in the investigatory stages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer T. Wolstenholme
- Alcohol Research Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Nikki K. Duong
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
- Central Virginia Veterans Healthcare System, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Emily R. Brocato
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Jasmohan S. Bajaj
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
- Central Virginia Veterans Healthcare System, Richmond, Virginia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Rodrigues SG, van der Merwe S, Krag A, Wiest R. Gut-liver axis: Pathophysiological concepts and medical perspective in chronic liver diseases. Semin Immunol 2024; 71:101859. [PMID: 38219459 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2023.101859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Susana G Rodrigues
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Schalk van der Merwe
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University hospital Gasthuisberg, University of Leuven, Belgium
| | - Aleksander Krag
- Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Centre for Liver Research, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Reiner Wiest
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Shah YR, Ali H, Tiwari A, Guevara-Lazo D, Nombera-Aznaran N, Pinnam BSM, Gangwani MK, Gopakumar H, Sohail AH, Kanumilli S, Calderon-Martinez E, Krishnamoorthy G, Thakral N, Dahiya DS. Role of fecal microbiota transplant in management of hepatic encephalopathy: Current trends and future directions. World J Hepatol 2024; 16:17-32. [PMID: 38313244 PMCID: PMC10835490 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v16.i1.17] [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: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) offers a potential treatment avenue for hepatic encephalopathy (HE) by leveraging beneficial bacterial displacement to restore a balanced gut microbiome. The prevalence of HE varies with liver disease severity and comorbidities. HE pathogenesis involves ammonia toxicity, gut-brain communication disruption, and inflammation. FMT aims to restore gut microbiota balance, addressing these factors. FMT's efficacy has been explored in various conditions, including HE. Studies suggest that FMT can modulate gut microbiota, reduce ammonia levels, and alleviate inflammation. FMT has shown promise in alcohol-associated, hepatitis B and C-associated, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Benefits include improved liver function, cognitive function, and the slowing of disease progression. However, larger, controlled studies are needed to validate its effectiveness in these contexts. Studies have shown cognitive improvements through FMT, with potential benefits in cirrhotic patients. Notably, trials have demonstrated reduced serious adverse events and cognitive enhancements in FMT arms compared to the standard of care. Although evidence is promising, challenges remain: Limited patient numbers, varied dosages, administration routes, and donor profiles. Further large-scale, controlled trials are essential to establish standardized guidelines and ensure FMT's clinical applications and efficacy. While FMT holds potential for HE management, ongoing research is needed to address these challenges, optimize protocols, and expand its availability as a therapeutic option for diverse hepatic conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yash R Shah
- Department of Internal Medicine, Trinity Health Oakland/Wayne State University, Pontiac, MI 48341, United States
| | - Hassam Ali
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, East Carolina University/Brody School of Medicine, Greenville, NC 27858, United States
| | - Angad Tiwari
- Department of Internal Medicine, Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College, Jhansi 284001, India
| | - David Guevara-Lazo
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima 15102, Peru
| | | | - Bhanu Siva Mohan Pinnam
- Department of Internal Medicine, John H. Stroger Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Manesh Kumar Gangwani
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43606, United States
| | - Harishankar Gopakumar
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, United States
| | - Amir H Sohail
- Department of Surgery, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87106, United States
| | | | - Ernesto Calderon-Martinez
- Department of Internal Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Ciudad De Mexico 04510, Mexico
| | - Geetha Krishnamoorthy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Trinity Health Oakland/Wayne State University, Pontiac, MI 48341, United States
| | - Nimish Thakral
- Department of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, United States
| | - Dushyant Singh Dahiya
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Motility, The University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Shearer J, Johnson A, Masson S. Improving survival in alcohol-related hepatitis: what's new? Frontline Gastroenterol 2024; 15:42-49. [PMID: 38487555 PMCID: PMC10935532 DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2022-102362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Alcohol-related hepatitis (AH) is the most florid presentation of alcohol-related liver disease and carries a high short-term and long-term mortality rate. Specific treatment options remain inadequate. The current management approach for AH focuses on early identification, careful screening and treatment of infection, as well as identification of those patients who may benefit from corticosteroid therapy based on validated prognostic scoring systems. In recent years, there has been growing interest in exploring novel therapies for AH, which may offer alternative treatment options beyond the traditional approaches. Additionally, early liver transplantation (LT) has emerged as a promising option in selected cases with growing evidence supporting its role. In this review, we will discuss the current evidence base for the assessment and treatment of AH, and how these advances are shaping practice to improve outcomes in the UK.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Shearer
- Liver Unit, Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Amy Johnson
- Liver Unit, Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Steven Masson
- Liver Unit, Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Hsu CL, Schnabl B. The gut-liver axis and gut microbiota in health and liver disease. Nat Rev Microbiol 2023; 21:719-733. [PMID: 37316582 PMCID: PMC10794111 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-023-00904-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 89.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The trillions of microorganisms in the human intestine are important regulators of health, and disruptions in the gut microbial communities can cause disease. The gut, liver and immune system have a symbiotic relationship with these microorganisms. Environmental factors, such as high-fat diets and alcohol consumption, can disrupt and alter microbial communities. This dysbiosis can lead to dysfunction of the intestinal barrier, translocation of microbial components to the liver and development or progression of liver disease. Changes in metabolites produced by gut microorganisms can also contribute to liver disease. In this Review, we discuss the importance of the gut microbiota in maintenance of health and the alterations in microbial mediators that contribute to liver disease. We present strategies for modulation of the intestinal microbiota and/or their metabolites as potential treatments for liver disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia L Hsu
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Bernd Schnabl
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Department of Medicine, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Boicean A, Birlutiu V, Ichim C, Brusnic O, Onișor DM. Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Liver Cirrhosis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2930. [PMID: 38001930 PMCID: PMC10668969 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11112930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The human gastrointestinal tract houses a diverse array of probiotic and pathogenic bacteria and any alterations in this microbial composition can exert a significant influence on an individual's well-being. It is well-established that imbalances in the gut microbiota play a pivotal role in the development of liver diseases. In light of this, a new adjuvant therapy for liver diseases could be regulating the intestinal microbiota. Through fecal microbiota transplantation, patients whose microbiomes are compromised are treated with stool from healthy donors in an attempt to restore a normal microbiome and alleviate their symptoms. A review of cross-sectional studies and case reports suggests that fecal microbiota transplants may offer effective treatment for chronic liver diseases. Adding to the potential of this emerging therapy, recent research has indicated that fecal microbiota transplantation holds promise as a therapeutic approach specifically for liver cirrhosis. By introducing a diverse range of beneficial microorganisms into the gut, this innovative treatment aims to address the microbial imbalances often observed in cirrhotic patients. While further validation is still required, these preliminary findings highlight the potential impact of fecal microbiota transplantation as a novel and targeted method for managing liver cirrhosis. We aimed to summarize the current state of understanding regarding this procedure, as a new therapeutic method for liver cirrhosis, as well as to explain its clinical application and future potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Boicean
- County Clinical Emergency Hospital of Sibiu, 550245 Sibiu, Romania; (A.B.); (V.B.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, 550169 Sibiu, Romania
| | - Victoria Birlutiu
- County Clinical Emergency Hospital of Sibiu, 550245 Sibiu, Romania; (A.B.); (V.B.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, 550169 Sibiu, Romania
| | - Cristian Ichim
- County Clinical Emergency Hospital of Sibiu, 550245 Sibiu, Romania; (A.B.); (V.B.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, 550169 Sibiu, Romania
| | - Olga Brusnic
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Targu Mures, 540142 Târgu Mures, Romania
| | - Danusia Maria Onișor
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Targu Mures, 540142 Târgu Mures, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Diaz LA, Winder GS, Leggio L, Bajaj JS, Bataller R, Arab JP. New insights into the molecular basis of alcohol abstinence and relapse in alcohol-associated liver disease. Hepatology 2023:01515467-990000000-00605. [PMID: 37862466 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000645] [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] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder remains a significant public health concern, affecting around 5% of adults worldwide. Novel pathways of damage have been described during the last years, providing insight into the mechanism of injury due to alcohol misuse beyond the direct effect of ethanol byproducts on the liver parenchyma and neurobehavioral mechanisms. Thus, the gut-liver-brain axis and immune system involvement could be therapeutic targets for alcohol use disorder. In particular, changes in gut microbiota composition and function, and bile acid homeostasis, have been shown with alcohol consumption and cessation. Alcohol can also directly disrupt intestinal and blood-brain barriers. Activation of the immune system can be triggered by intestinal barrier dysfunction and translocation of bacteria, pathogen-associated molecular patterns (such as lipopolysaccharide), cytokines, and damage-associated molecular patterns. These factors, in turn, promote liver and brain inflammation and the progression of liver fibrosis. Other involved mechanisms include oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and the release of extracellular vesicles and miRNA from hepatocytes. Potential therapeutic targets include gut microbiota (probiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation), neuroinflammatory pathways, as well as neuroendocrine pathways, for example, the ghrelin system (ghrelin receptor blockade), incretin mimetics (glucagon-like peptide-1 analogs), and the mineralocorticoid receptor system (spironolactone). In addition, support with psychological and behavioral treatments is essential to address the multiple dimensions of alcohol use disorder. In the future, a personalized approach considering these novel targets can contribute to significantly decreasing the alcohol-associated burden of disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luis Antonio Diaz
- Departamento de Gastroenterología, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Lorenzo Leggio
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institutes of Health, NIDA and NIAAA, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jasmohan S Bajaj
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and Central Virginia Veterans Health Care System, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Ramon Bataller
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, Institut d'Investigacions August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Pablo Arab
- Departamento de Gastroenterología, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Schulich School of Medicine, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Philips CA, Ahamed R, Abduljaleel JK, Rajesh S, Tharakan A, Augustine P. Significant gut microbiota related to patterns of drinking and alcohol relapse in patients with alcoholic hepatitis undergoing stool transplant or corticosteroid therapy. Indian J Gastroenterol 2023; 42:724-730. [PMID: 37548864 DOI: 10.1007/s12664-023-01401-4] [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: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol-induced gut microbiota (GM) alterations are linked to alcohol use disorder (AUD) pathogenesis. Healthy donor stool transplant (fecal microbiota transplant [FMT]) reduced alcohol desire and improved clinical outcomes in small animal and human studies. Baseline and post-therapy-related GM changes in a real-world cohort with severe alcohol-related liver disease and AUD, patterns of drinking, and relapse have not been studied. We prospectively analyzed retrospective clinical data and stored samples to examine GM alterations in a cohort of severe alcohol-associated hepatitis (SAH) patients who underwent FMT or corticosteroid treatment followed for at least 12 months. The GM changes at baseline in the context of a pattern of drinking (binge vs. every day) and baseline and post-treatment alcohol relapse status (relapser vs. non-relapser). We identified 28 patients on FMT and 25 on corticosteroids who survived 1 year post-treatment. After necessary exclusions, the final cohort for various grouped GM analysis included 16 patients in the FMT arm and 14 on corticosteroids. Pedobacter and Streptophyta species at the commencement of treatment predicted alcohol relapse in steroid-ineligible patients receiving FMT and steroid-treated patients, respectively. At 6-12 months post-FMT, non-relapsers had elevated short-chain fatty acid-producing bacterial taxa linked with lower alcohol cravings. Alcohol relapse was significantly more in those on steroid therapy and was associated with the upregulation of the nucleotide metabolism pathway related to ethanol metabolism. We demonstrate pertinent baseline and post-treatment intestinal bacterial alterations that impact patterns of AUD patterns and relapse in SAH patients in the context of the therapy offered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cyriac Abby Philips
- Department of Clinical and Translational Hepatology and Monarch Liver Laboratory Center for Excellence in Gastrointestinal Sciences, Ground Floor, The Liver Institute, Rajagiri Hospital, Phase II, Tower -3, Aluva, 683 112, India.
| | - Rizwan Ahamed
- Gastroenterology and Advanced GI Endoscopy, Center of Excellence in GI Sciences, Rajagiri Hospital, Chunangamvely, Aluva, 683 112, India
| | - Jinsha K Abduljaleel
- Gastroenterology and Advanced GI Endoscopy, Center of Excellence in GI Sciences, Rajagiri Hospital, Chunangamvely, Aluva, 683 112, India
| | - Sasidharan Rajesh
- Interventional Hepatobiliary Radiology, Center of Excellence in GI Sciences, The Liver Institute, Rajagiri Hospital, Chunangamvely, Aluva, 683 112, India
| | - Ajit Tharakan
- Gastroenterology and Advanced GI Endoscopy, Center of Excellence in GI Sciences, Rajagiri Hospital, Chunangamvely, Aluva, 683 112, India
| | - Philip Augustine
- Gastroenterology and Advanced GI Endoscopy, Center of Excellence in GI Sciences, Rajagiri Hospital, Chunangamvely, Aluva, 683 112, India
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Oldroyd C, Greenham O, Martin G, Allison M, Notley C. Systematic review: Interventions for alcohol use disorder in patients with cirrhosis or alcohol-associated hepatitis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2023; 58:763-773. [PMID: 37602505 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol use is the most important factor in determining the prognosis of patients with alcohol-related cirrhosis and alcohol-associated hepatitis. AIM To conduct a systematic review of interventions for alcohol use disorder specific to patients with cirrhosis or alcohol-associated hepatitis. METHODS We searched five databases between inception and November 2022. The primary outcomes were abstinence, hepatic decompensation and mortality. We included randomised and non-randomised studies. Risk of bias was assessed using validated tools. Where possible, meta-analysis was performed. RESULTS Twenty-three studies met the inclusion criteria including six randomised trials and 17 non-randomised studies of interventions. These included 104,298 patients with a mean/median age range from 44 to 65, of whom 75% were male. Interventions included psychological therapy, pharmacological therapies, specialist clinics, patient education and low alcohol drinks. Baclofen was the only intervention to demonstrate a statistically significant impact on the primary outcomes in a randomised trial (abstinence OR: 6.3, 95% CI: 2.4-16.1). Three non-randomised studies reported reductions in episodes of hepatic decompensation that were significant in multivariate models. This was in response to psychological therapy, use of any pharmacotherapy, and use of any treatment. A meta-analysis of non-randomised studies that examined the impact of psychological therapies revealed statistically non-significant improvements in abstinence (4 studies, OR: 1.87, 95% CI: 0.38-9.23) and mortality (4 studies, OR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.12-1.77). CONCLUSIONS Baclofen is the only intervention with randomised trial evidence for significant benefit in patients with cirrhosis. Non-randomised studies also point to non-pharmaceutical interventions possibly improving clinical outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Oldroyd
- Cambridge NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, UK
- Cambridge Liver Unit, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Olivia Greenham
- Cambridge Liver Unit, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Graham Martin
- The Healthcare Improvement Studies Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Michael Allison
- Cambridge NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, UK
- Cambridge Liver Unit, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Caitlin Notley
- Addiction Research Group, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Kasper P, Lang S, Steffen HM, Demir M. Management of alcoholic hepatitis: A clinical perspective. Liver Int 2023; 43:2078-2095. [PMID: 37605624 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol-associated liver disease is the primary cause of liver-related mortality worldwide and one of the most common indications for liver transplantation. Alcoholic hepatitis represents the most acute and severe manifestation of alcohol-associated liver disease and is characterized by a rapid onset of jaundice with progressive inflammatory liver injury, worsening of portal hypertension, and an increased risk for multiorgan failure in patients with excessive alcohol consumption. Severe alcoholic hepatitis is associated with a poor prognosis and high short-term mortality. During the COVID-19 pandemic, rates of alcohol-associated hepatitis have increased significantly, underscoring that it is a serious and growing health problem. However, adequate management of alcohol-associated hepatitis and its complications in everyday clinical practice remains a major challenge. Currently, pharmacotherapy is limited to corticosteroids, although these have only a moderate effect on reducing short-term mortality. In recent years, translational studies deciphering key mechanisms of disease development and progression have led to important advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis of alcoholic hepatitis. Emerging pathophysiology-based therapeutic approaches include anti-inflammatory agents, modifications of the gut-liver axis and intestinal dysbiosis, epigenetic modulation, antioxidants, and drugs targeting liver regeneration. Concurrently, evidence is increasing that early liver transplantation is a safe treatment option with important survival benefits in selected patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis not responding to medical treatment. This narrative review describes current pathophysiology and management concepts of alcoholic hepatitis, provides an update on emerging treatment options, and focuses on the need for holistic and patient-centred treatment approaches to improve prognosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Kasper
- Clinic for Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Sonja Lang
- Clinic for Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Hans-Michael Steffen
- Clinic for Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Münevver Demir
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum (CVK) and Campus Charité Mitte (CCM), Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ranjbarian T, Schnabl B. Gut Microbiome-Centered Therapies for Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease. Semin Liver Dis 2023; 43:311-322. [PMID: 37527781 DOI: 10.1055/a-2145-7331] [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] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Globally, liver disease caused by alcohol is becoming more prevalent each year. Misuse of alcohol causes a spectrum of liver diseases, such as liver steatosis, steatohepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The cornerstone of treatment is abstinence from alcohol. In spite of this, available treatment for alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) shows limited effectiveness currently. There are numerous ways in which alcohol disrupts the gut-liver axis, including dysbiosis of the gut microbiome, disruption of mucus and epithelial cell barriers, impaired production of antimicrobial molecules, and dysfunction of the immune system, causing translocation of viable microbes and microbial products to the liver and systemic circulation. Microbial exposure results in not only inflammation and progression of liver disease but also infections in late-stage ALD. This led scientists to focus their therapeutic strategies and targets for ALD on the gut microbiome. Throughout this review, we address the role of gut microbiome-centered therapeutic approaches for ALD focusing predominantly on randomized controlled trials. We will summarize the latest clinical trials using probiotics, antibiotics, and fecal microbial transplants in modulating the gut-liver axis and for improvement of ALD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tannaz Ranjbarian
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Bernd Schnabl
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
- Department of Medicine, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Jew MH, Hsu CL. Alcohol, the gut microbiome, and liver disease. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 38:1205-1210. [PMID: 37096652 PMCID: PMC11272486 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
The microorganisms inhabiting our gastrointestinal tract are critical for human health. Chronic heavy alcohol use can modulate the composition and function of the gut microbiota, thereby exacerbating end-organ damage via the gut-brain axis and the gut-liver axis. In this review, we summarize the bacterial, fungal, and viral gut microbial compositional changes associated with alcohol use and alcohol-associated liver disease and discuss the mechanisms of action by which gut dysbiosis reinforces alcohol use behavior and liver inflammation and injury. We also highlight important pre-clinical and clinical trials that target gut microbial-specific mechanisms for the treatment of alcohol use disorder and alcohol-associated liver disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael H Jew
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Cynthia L Hsu
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Kaufmann B, Seyfried N, Hartmann D, Hartmann P. Probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and alcohol-associated liver disease. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2023; 325:G42-G61. [PMID: 37129252 PMCID: PMC10312326 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00017.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The use of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics has become an important therapy in numerous gastrointestinal diseases in recent years. Modifying the gut microbiota, this therapeutic approach helps to restore a healthy microbiome. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and alcohol-associated liver disease are among the leading causes of chronic liver disease worldwide. A disrupted intestinal barrier, microbial translocation, and an altered gut microbiome metabolism, or metabolome, are crucial in the pathogenesis of these chronic liver diseases. As pro-, pre-, and synbiotics modulate these targets, they were identified as possible new treatment options for liver disease. In this review, we highlight the current findings on clinical and mechanistic effects of this therapeutic approach in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and alcohol-associated liver disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Kaufmann
- Department of Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Nick Seyfried
- Department of Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Daniel Hartmann
- Department of Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Phillipp Hartmann
- Department of Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Yamazaki T, Schnabl B. Acute alcohol-associated hepatitis: Latest findings in non-invasive biomarkers and treatment. Liver Int 2023:10.1111/liv.15608. [PMID: 37183549 PMCID: PMC10646153 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Acute alcohol-associated hepatitis (AH) is a syndrome that occurs in heavy and long-term drinkers and results in severe jaundice and liver failure. The mortality rate in severe cases is 20%-50% at 28 days, and in cases that do not improve despite appropriately timed corticosteroid therapy, the mortality rate reaches 70% at 6 months. The only curative treatment is early liver transplantation, but less than 2% of patients with severe AH are eligible. In order to improve the prognosis, diagnostic tools are needed to detect appropriate cases at risk of severe conditions, and new therapies need to be developed that can replace corticosteroids. Recent research has revealed that the pathogenesis of AH involves a complex of factors, including changes in the gut microbiota, inflammatory and cytokine signalling, oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, and abnormalities in the hepatic regenerative capacity. Non-invasive diagnostic tools focusing on these specific pathologies have been reported in recent years. In addition, several novel agents targeting specific pathways are currently being developed and tested in clinical trials. This review will provide an overview of alcohol-associated hepatitis and focus on the latest diagnostic tools, particularly non-invasive biomarkers, and novel therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoo Yamazaki
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Nagano, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Bernd Schnabl
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Medicine, VA San Diego Healthcare System, California, San Diego, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Pabst O, Hornef MW, Schaap FG, Cerovic V, Clavel T, Bruns T. Gut-liver axis: barriers and functional circuits. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023:10.1038/s41575-023-00771-6. [PMID: 37085614 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-023-00771-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 61.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
The gut and the liver are characterized by mutual interactions between both organs, the microbiome, diet and other environmental factors. The sum of these interactions is conceptualized as the gut-liver axis. In this Review we discuss the gut-liver axis, concentrating on the barriers formed by the enterohepatic tissues to restrict gut-derived microorganisms, microbial stimuli and dietary constituents. In addition, we discuss the establishment of barriers in the gut and liver during development and their cooperative function in the adult host. We detail the interplay between microbial and dietary metabolites, the intestinal epithelium, vascular endothelium, the immune system and the various host soluble factors, and how this interplay establishes a homeostatic balance in the healthy gut and liver. Finally, we highlight how this balance is disrupted in diseases of the gut and liver, outline the existing therapeutics and describe the cutting-edge discoveries that could lead to the development of novel treatment approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Pabst
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Mathias W Hornef
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Frank G Schaap
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- Department of Surgery, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Vuk Cerovic
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Thomas Clavel
- Functional Microbiome Research Group, Institute of Medical Microbiology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Tony Bruns
- Department of Internal Medicine III, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Thakral N, Deutsch-Link S, Singal AK. Therapeutic Pipeline in Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease. Semin Liver Dis 2023; 43:60-76. [PMID: 36572032 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1759614] [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] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol-associated liver disease is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Patients with alcohol-associated liver disease are often diagnosed at advanced stage and disease spectrum including alcoholic hepatitis, a severe manifestation with a high short-term mortality. Corticosteroid, recommended first-line treatment for patients with alcoholic hepatitis, is a very suboptimal treatment. Although the use of early liver transplantation has increased with consistent benefit in select patients with alcoholic hepatitis, its use remains heterogeneous worldwide due to lack of uniform selection criteria. Over the last decade, several therapeutic targets have evolved of promise with ongoing clinical trials in patients with cirrhosis and alcoholic hepatitis. Even with availability of effective medical therapies for alcohol-associated liver disease, long-term outcome depends on abstinence from alcohol use in any spectrum of alcohol-associated liver disease. However, alcohol use disorder treatment remains underutilized due to several barriers even in patients with advanced disease. There is an urgent unmet need to implement and promote integrated multidisciplinary care model with hepatologists and addiction experts to provide comprehensive management for these patients. In this review, we will discuss newer therapies targeting liver disease and therapies targeting alcohol use disorder in patients with alcohol-associated liver disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nimish Thakral
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Sasha Deutsch-Link
- Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Ashwani K Singal
- Department of Medicine, University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Division of Transplant Hepatology, Avera Transplant Institute, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Alcoholic Hepatitis. Med Clin North Am 2023; 107:533-554. [PMID: 37001952 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcna.2022.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
Alcoholic hepatitis (AH) is a unique clinical syndrome on the spectrum of alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD). It constitutes a rising epidemic with increasing incidence and major public health implications. In severe AH, 30-day mortality approaches 30%, yet therapeutic options remain limited. Survival benefit from corticosteroids, the mainstay of medical treatment, is short-lived. Among corticosteroid nonresponders, the use of early liver transplantation is heterogeneous across centers and remains limited by significant barriers. Long-term prognosis is largely dictated by abstinence; however, comorbid alcohol use disorder remains undertreated. Efforts to address these challenges are required to curb the AH epidemic.
Collapse
|
31
|
Adekunle AD, Adejumo A, Singal AK. Therapeutic targets in alcohol-associated liver disease: progress and challenges. Therap Adv Gastroenterol 2023; 16:17562848231170946. [PMID: 37187673 PMCID: PMC10176580 DOI: 10.1177/17562848231170946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is a complex disease with rapidly increasing prevalence. Although there are promising therapeutic targets on the horizon, none of the newer targets is currently close to an Food and Drug Administration approval. Strategies are needed to overcome challenges in study designs and conducting clinical trials and provide impetus to the field of drug development in the landscape of ALD and alcoholic hepatitis. Management of ALD is complex and should include therapies to achieve and maintain alcohol abstinence, preferably delivered by a multidisciplinary team. Although associated with clear mortality benefit in select patients, the use of early liver transplantation still requires refinement to create uniformity in selection protocols across transplant centers. There is also a need for reliable noninvasive biomarkers for prognostication. Last but not the least, strategies are urgently needed to implement integrated multidisciplinary care models for treating the dual pathology of alcohol use disorder and of liver disease for improving the long-term outcomes of patients with ALD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayooluwatomiwa Deborah Adekunle
- Department of Internal Medicine, St. Luke’s
Hospital, Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
- Division of Hepatology, University of
Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Division of Transplant Hepatology, University
of South Dakota Sanford Medical School, Sioux Falls, SD
| | - Adeyinka Adejumo
- Department of Internal Medicine, St. Luke’s
Hospital, Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
- Division of Hepatology, University of
Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Division of Transplant Hepatology, University
of South Dakota Sanford Medical School, Sioux Falls, SD
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Philips CA, Ahamed R, Rajesh S, Singh S, Tharakan A, Abduljaleel JK, Augustine P. Clinical outcomes and gut microbiota analysis of severe alcohol-associated hepatitis patients undergoing healthy donor fecal transplant or pentoxifylline therapy: single-center experience from Kerala. Gastroenterol Rep (Oxf) 2022; 10:goac074. [PMID: 36479155 PMCID: PMC9722224 DOI: 10.1093/gastro/goac074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe alcohol-associated hepatitis (SAH) patients with infections have a high short-term mortality rate. Gut microbiota dysbiosis plays an important role in the pathogenesis of SAH. Preliminary studies have demonstrated long-term benefits with healthy donor fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). Data on FMT compared with pentoxifylline for SAH and relevant gut microbial changes are lacking in literature. METHODS From January 2019 to February 2021, retrospective analysis of a single hospital's records revealed 47 SAH patients undergoing FMT (100 mL/day via nasoduodenal tube for 7 days) and 25 matched patients receiving pentoxifylline (400 mg/8 h for 28 days). The primary end point was a 6-month survival rate. Secondary end points included incidence of ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, infections, acute kidney injury, and gut microbiota changes between post-therapy groups. Biomarker discovery and network analysis were also performed to identify significant taxa of gut microbiota in post-treatment groups in retrospectively stored stool samples. RESULTS All were males. The 6-month survival rate was higher in the patients undergoing FMT than in patients receiving pentoxifylline (83.0% vs 56.0%, P = 0.012). At the end of 6-month follow-up, the incidences of clinically significant ascites (56.0% vs 25.5%, P = 0.011), hepatic encephalopathy (40.0% vs 10.6%, P = 0.003), and critical infections (52.0% vs 14.9%, P < 0.001) in patients administered pentoxifylline were significantly higher than those in patients treated with FMT. At 3 months, biomarker analysis revealed a significant abundance of Bifidobacterium and Eggerthella in the FMT group and the pentoxifylline group, respectively. At 6 months, Bifidobacterium in the FMT group and pathogenic Aerococcaceae in the pentoxifylline group were notable. Network analysis showed beneficial taxa (Bifidobacterium) as a central influencer in those undergoing FMT at 6 months. CONCLUSIONS Healthy donor FMT improved survival rate and reduced liver-related complications compared with pentoxifylline. These clinical benefits were associated with favorable modulation of intestinal bacterial communities. Difficult-to-treat SAH patients may be safely bridged to transplantation using FMT. Controlled trials evaluating long-term outcomes are an unmet need.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cyriac Abby Philips
- Corresponding author. The Liver Institute, Center of Excellence in GI Sciences, Ground Floor, Phase II, Rajagiri Hospital, Chunangamvely, Aluva 683 112, Ernakulam, Kerala, India. Tel: +91-484-2905000; Fax: +91-484-7184000;
| | - Rizwan Ahamed
- Department of Gastroenterology and Advanced GI Endoscopy, Center of Excellence in GI Sciences, Rajagiri Hospital, Chunangamvely, Aluva, Ernakulam, Kerala, India
| | - Sasidharan Rajesh
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Center of Excellence in GI Sciences, Rajagiri Hospital, Chunangamvely, Aluva, Ernakulam, Kerala, India
| | - Shobhit Singh
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Center of Excellence in GI Sciences, Rajagiri Hospital, Chunangamvely, Aluva, Ernakulam, Kerala, India
| | - Ajit Tharakan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Advanced GI Endoscopy, Center of Excellence in GI Sciences, Rajagiri Hospital, Chunangamvely, Aluva, Ernakulam, Kerala, India
| | - Jinsha K Abduljaleel
- Department of Gastroenterology and Advanced GI Endoscopy, Center of Excellence in GI Sciences, Rajagiri Hospital, Chunangamvely, Aluva, Ernakulam, Kerala, India
| | - Philip Augustine
- Monarch Liver Laboratory, The Liver Institute, Center of Excellence in GI Sciences, Rajagiri Hospital, Chunangamvely, Aluva, Ernakulam, Kerala, India,Department of Gastroenterology and Advanced GI Endoscopy, Center of Excellence in GI Sciences, Rajagiri Hospital, Chunangamvely, Aluva, Ernakulam, Kerala, India
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Garbuzenko DV. Pathophysiological Prerequisites and Therapeutic Potential of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Severe Alcoholic Hepatitis. THE RUSSIAN ARCHIVES OF INTERNAL MEDICINE 2022; 12:352-362. [DOI: 10.20514/2226-6704-2022-12-5-352-362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/26/2024]
|
34
|
Hasa E, Hartmann P, Schnabl B. Liver cirrhosis and immune dysfunction. Int Immunol 2022; 34:455-466. [PMID: 35792761 PMCID: PMC9447994 DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxac030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cirrhosis is end-stage liver disease resulting from various etiologies and is a common cause of death worldwide. The progression from compensated to decompensated cirrhosis to acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is due to multiple factors, including continuation of alcohol use or continued exposure to other toxins, an imbalance of the gut microbiota (dysbiosis), increased gut permeability and a disrupted immune response. This disrupted immune response is also named cirrhosis-associated immune dysfunction, which is characterized by worsening systemic inflammation with concomitant immune paralysis, as liver disease deteriorates. This review highlights central immunologic events during the exacerbation of cirrhosis and characterizes the different immune cell populations involved therein.
Collapse
|