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Milewski K, Orzeł-Gajowik K, Zielińska M. Mitochondrial Changes in Rat Brain Endothelial Cells Associated with Hepatic Encephalopathy: Relation to the Blood-Brain Barrier Dysfunction. Neurochem Res 2024; 49:1489-1504. [PMID: 35917006 PMCID: PMC11106209 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03698-7] [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: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/06/2022]
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying cerebral vascular dysfunction and edema during hepatic encephalopathy (HE) are unclear. Blood-brain barrier (BBB) impairment, resulting from increased vascular permeability, has been reported in acute and chronic HE. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a well-documented result of HE mainly affecting astrocytes, but much less so in the BBB-forming endothelial cells. Here we review literature reports and own experimental data obtained in HE models emphasizing alterations in mitochondrial dynamics and function as a possible contributor to the status of brain endothelial cell mitochondria in HE. Own studies on the expression of the mitochondrial fusion-fission controlling genes rendered HE animal model-dependent effects: increase of mitochondrial fusion controlling genes opa1, mfn1 in cerebral vessels in ammonium acetate-induced hyperammonemia, but a decrease of the two former genes and increase of fis1 in vessels in thioacetamide-induced HE. In endothelial cell line (RBE4) after 24 h ammonia and/or TNFα treatment, conditions mimicking crucial aspects of HE in vivo, we observed altered expression of mitochondrial fission/fusion genes: a decrease of opa1, mfn1, and, increase of the fission related fis1 gene. The effect in vitro was paralleled by the generation of reactive oxygen species, decreased total antioxidant capacity, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, as well as increased permeability of RBE4 cell monolayer to fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran. Electron microscopy documented enlarged mitochondria in the brain endothelial cells of rats in both in vivo models. Collectively, the here observed alterations of cerebral endothelial mitochondria are indicative of their fission, and decreased potential of endothelial mitochondria are likely to contribute to BBB dysfunction in HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Milewski
- Department of Neurotoxicology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego St. 5, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Karolina Orzeł-Gajowik
- Department of Neurotoxicology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego St. 5, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Zielińska
- Department of Neurotoxicology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego St. 5, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland.
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Li D, Yu SF, Lin L, Guo JR, Huang SM, Wu XL, You HL, Cheng XJ, Zhang QY, Zeng YQ, Pan XD. Deficiency of leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 aggravates thioacetamide-induced acute liver failure and hepatic encephalopathy in mice. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:123. [PMID: 38725082 PMCID: PMC11084037 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03125-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is closely associated with inflammatory responses. However, as a crucial regulator of the immune and inflammatory responses, the role of leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) in the pathogenesis of HE remains unraveled. Herein, we investigated this issue in thioacetamide (TAA)-induced HE following acute liver failure (ALF). METHODS TAA-induced HE mouse models of LRRK2 wild type (WT), LRRK2 G2019S mutation (Lrrk2G2019S) and LRRK2 knockout (Lrrk2-/-) were established. A battery of neurobehavioral experiments was conducted. The biochemical indexes and pro-inflammatory cytokines were detected. The prefrontal cortex (PFC), striatum (STR), hippocampus (HIP), and liver were examined by pathology and electron microscopy. The changes of autophagy-lysosomal pathway and activity of critical Rab GTPases were analyzed. RESULTS The Lrrk2-/--HE model reported a significantly lower survival rate than the other two models (24% vs. 48%, respectively, p < 0.05), with no difference found between the WT-HE and Lrrk2G2019S-HE groups. Compared with the other groups, after the TAA injection, the Lrrk2-/- group displayed a significant increase in ammonium and pro-inflammatory cytokines, aggravated hepatic inflammation/necrosis, decreased autophagy, and abnormal phosphorylation of lysosomal Rab10. All three models reported microglial activation, neuronal loss, disordered vesicle transmission, and damaged myelin structure. The Lrrk2-/--HE mice presented no severer neuronal injury than the other genotypes. CONCLUSIONS LRRK2 deficiency may exacerbate TAA-induced ALF and HE in mice, in which inflammatory response is evident in the brain and aggravated in the liver. These novel findings indicate a need of sufficient clinical awareness of the adverse effects of LRRK2 inhibitors on the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29, Xinquan Road, Fujian, 350001, China.
- Fujian Clinical Research Center for Digestive System Tumors and Upper Gastrointestinal Diseases, Fujian, 350001, China.
| | - Shu-Fang Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29, Xinquan Road, Fujian, 350001, China
| | - Lin Lin
- Department of Neurology, Fujian Institute of Geriatrics, Center for Cognitive Neurology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou, 350001, China
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Fujian Medical University, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou, 350001, China
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China
| | - Jie-Ru Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29, Xinquan Road, Fujian, 350001, China
| | - Si-Mei Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29, Xinquan Road, Fujian, 350001, China
| | - Xi-Lin Wu
- Department of Neurology, Fujian Institute of Geriatrics, Center for Cognitive Neurology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou, 350001, China
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Fujian Medical University, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou, 350001, China
- Institute of Clinical Neurology, Fujian Medical University, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Han-Lin You
- Department of Neurology, Fujian Institute of Geriatrics, Center for Cognitive Neurology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou, 350001, China
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Fujian Medical University, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Xiao-Juan Cheng
- Department of Neurology, Fujian Institute of Geriatrics, Center for Cognitive Neurology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou, 350001, China
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Fujian Medical University, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Qiu-Yang Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Fujian Institute of Geriatrics, Center for Cognitive Neurology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Yu-Qi Zeng
- Department of Neurology, Fujian Institute of Geriatrics, Center for Cognitive Neurology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou, 350001, China
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Fujian Medical University, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Xiao-Dong Pan
- Department of Neurology, Fujian Institute of Geriatrics, Center for Cognitive Neurology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou, 350001, China.
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Fujian Medical University, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou, 350001, China.
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China.
- Institute of Clinical Neurology, Fujian Medical University, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou, 350001, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Neurological Diseases of Fujian Province, Fuzhou, 350001, China.
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Thanapirom K, Treeprasertsuk S, Choudhury A, Verma N, Dhiman RK, Al Mahtab M, Devarbhavi H, Shukla A, Hamid SS, Jafri W, Tan SS, Lee GH, Ghazinyan H, Sood A, Kim DJ, Eapen CE, Tao H, Yuemin N, Dokmeci AK, Sahu M, Arora A, Kumar A, Kumar R, Prasad VGM, Shresta A, Sollano J, Payawal DA, Lau G, Sarin SK. Ammonia is associated with liver-related complications and predicts mortality in acute-on-chronic liver failure patients. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5796. [PMID: 38461166 PMCID: PMC10924893 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56401-x] [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: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The relationship between ammonia and liver-related complications (LRCs) in acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) patients is not clearly established. This study aimed to evaluate the association between ammonia levels and LRCs in patients with ACLF. The study also evaluated the ability of ammonia in predicting mortality and progression of LRCs. The study prospectively recruited ACLF patients based on the APASL definition from the ACLF Research Consortium (AARC) from 2009 to 2019. LRCs were a composite endpoint of bacterial infection, overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE), and ascites. A total of 3871 cases were screened. Of these, 701 ACLF patients were enrolled. Patients with LRCs had significantly higher ammonia levels than those without. Ammonia was significantly higher in patients with overt HE and ascites, but not in those with bacterial infection. Multivariate analysis found that ammonia was associated with LRCs. Additionally, baseline arterial ammonia was an independent predictor of 30-day mortality, but it was not associated with the development of new LRCs within 30 days. In summary, baseline arterial ammonia levels are associated with 30-day mortality and LRCs, mainly overt HE and ascites in ACLF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kessarin Thanapirom
- Division of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand.
- Center of Excellence in Hepatic Fibrosis and Cirrhosis, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
| | - Sombat Treeprasertsuk
- Division of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ashok Choudhury
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Nipun Verma
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Radha Krishan Dhiman
- Department of Hepatology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mamun Al Mahtab
- Department of Hepatology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Akash Shukla
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lokmanya Tilak Municipal General Hospital, and Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College, Sion, Mumbai, India
| | - Saeed Sadiq Hamid
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Wasim Jafri
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Soek Siam Tan
- Department of Hepatology, Hospital Selayang, Bata Caves, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Guan H Lee
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hasmik Ghazinyan
- Department of Hepatology, Nork Clinical Hospital of Infectious Disease, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Ajit Sood
- Department of Gastroenterology, DMC, Ludhiana, India
| | - Dong Joon Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - C E Eapen
- Department of Hepatology, CMC, Vellore, India
| | - Han Tao
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, The Third Central Clinical College of Tianjin Medical University, No. 83, Jintang Road, Hedong District, Tianjin, 300170, China
| | - Nan Yuemin
- Department of Traditional and Western Medical Hepatology, Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - A Kadir Dokmeci
- Department of Medicine, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Manoj Sahu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Sciences, IMS and SUM Hospital, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Anil Arora
- Institute of Liver Gastroenterology and Pancreatico Biliary Sciences, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Ashish Kumar
- Institute of Liver Gastroenterology and Pancreatico Biliary Sciences, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Ramesh Kumar
- Department of Gastroenterology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, Bihar, India
| | | | - Ananta Shresta
- Department of Hepatology, Alka Hospital Pvt Ltd, Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, Nepal
| | - Jose Sollano
- Department of Medicine, Cardinal Santos Medical Center, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - George Lau
- Department of Medicine, Humanity, and Health Medical Group, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
- Senior Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Shiv Kumar Sarin
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Huang CH, Amodio P. Can rifaximin for hepatic encephalopathy be discontinued during broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment? World J Hepatol 2024; 16:115-119. [PMID: 38495281 PMCID: PMC10941747 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v16.i2.115] [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: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a formidable complication in patients with decompensated cirrhosis, often necessitating the administration of rifaximin (RFX) for effective management. RFX, is a gut-restricted, poorly-absorbable oral rifamycin derived antibiotic that can be used in addition to lactulose for the secondary prophylaxis of HE. It has shown notable reductions in infection, hospital readmission, duration of hospital stay, and mortality. However, limited data exist about the concurrent use of RFX with broad-spectrum antibiotics, because the patients are typically excluded from studies assessing RFX efficacy in HE. A pharmacist-driven quasi-experimental pilot study was done to address this gap. They argue against the necessity of RFX in HE during broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment, particularly in critically ill patients in intensive care unit (ICU). The potential for safe RFX discontinuation without adverse effects is clearly illuminated and valuable insight into the optimization of therapeutic strategies is offered. The findings also indicate that RFX discontinuation during broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy was not associated with higher rates of delirium or coma, and this result remained robust after adjustment in multivariate analysis. Furthermore, rates of other secondary clinical and safety outcomes, including ICU mortality and 48-hour changes in vasopressor requirements, were comparable. However, since the activity of RFX is mainly confined to the modulation of gut microbiota, its potential utility in patients undergoing extensive systemic antibiotic therapy is debatable, given the overlapping antibiotic activity. Further, this suggests that the action of RFX on HE is class-specific (related to its activity on gut microbiota), rather than drug-specific. A recent double-blind randomized controlled (ARiE) trial provided further evidence-based support for RFX withdrawal in critically ill cirrhotic ICU patients receiving broad-spectrum antibiotics. Both studies prompt further discussion about optimal therapeutic strategy for patients facing the dual challenge of HE and systemic infections. Despite these compelling results, both studies have limitations. A prospective, multi-center evaluation of a larger sample, with placebo control, and comprehensive neurologic evaluation of HE is warranted. It should include an exploration of longer-term outcome and the impact of this protocol in non-critically ill liver disease patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Hao Huang
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Piero Amodio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Padua, Padova 35122, Italy.
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Cui L, Li S, Wang S, Wu X, Liu Y, Yu W, Wang Y, Tang Y, Xia M, Li B. Major depressive disorder: hypothesis, mechanism, prevention and treatment. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:30. [PMID: 38331979 PMCID: PMC10853571 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01738-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, the incidence of major depressive disorder (MDD) is increasing annually, resulting in greater economic and social burdens. Moreover, the pathological mechanisms of MDD and the mechanisms underlying the effects of pharmacological treatments for MDD are complex and unclear, and additional diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for MDD still are needed. The currently widely accepted theories of MDD pathogenesis include the neurotransmitter and receptor hypothesis, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis hypothesis, cytokine hypothesis, neuroplasticity hypothesis and systemic influence hypothesis, but these hypothesis cannot completely explain the pathological mechanism of MDD. Even it is still hard to adopt only one hypothesis to completely reveal the pathogenesis of MDD, thus in recent years, great progress has been made in elucidating the roles of multiple organ interactions in the pathogenesis MDD and identifying novel therapeutic approaches and multitarget modulatory strategies, further revealing the disease features of MDD. Furthermore, some newly discovered potential pharmacological targets and newly studied antidepressants have attracted widespread attention, some reagents have even been approved for clinical treatment and some novel therapeutic methods such as phototherapy and acupuncture have been discovered to have effective improvement for the depressive symptoms. In this work, we comprehensively summarize the latest research on the pathogenesis and diagnosis of MDD, preventive approaches and therapeutic medicines, as well as the related clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Cui
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, China
- China Medical University Centre of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, China
| | - Shu Li
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, China
- China Medical University Centre of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, China
| | - Siman Wang
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, China
- China Medical University Centre of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiafang Wu
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, China
- China Medical University Centre of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, China
| | - Yingyu Liu
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, China
- China Medical University Centre of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, China
| | - Weiyang Yu
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, China
- China Medical University Centre of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, China
| | - Yijun Wang
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, China
- China Medical University Centre of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, China
| | - Yong Tang
- International Joint Research Centre on Purinergic Signalling/Key Laboratory of Acupuncture for Senile Disease (Chengdu University of TCM), Ministry of Education/School of Health and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine/Acupuncture and Chronobiology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Maosheng Xia
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Baoman Li
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
- Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, China.
- China Medical University Centre of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, China.
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Bellafante D, Gioia S, Faccioli J, Riggio O, Ridola L, Nardelli S. The Management of Hepatic Encephalopathy from Ward to Domiciliary Care: Current Evidence and Gray Areas. J Clin Med 2023; 13:166. [PMID: 38202173 PMCID: PMC10780160 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13010166] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a common complication of advanced liver disease and acute liver failure. It is a condition that features several neuropsychiatric symptoms that affect mortality, morbidity and the quality of patients' and caregivers' lives. An HE diagnosis is generally an exclusion diagnosis. Once the patient is admitted to the hospital, clinical examination, blood tests and eventually neuroimaging should be performed with the aim of ruling out other causes of acute brain dysfunction. Moreover, HE is recognized using various precipitants that can potentially promote its onset, alone or in combination, and must be identified. Once the diagnostic process is complete, a correct treatment should be started. The anti-HE treatment is based on a combination of the correction of precipitants; non-absorbable antibiotics, such as rifaximin; and non-absorbable disaccharides. Once the patient is discharged from the hospital, specific anti-HE therapy should be maintained in order to prevent other HE episodes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Silvia Nardelli
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.B.)
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Orzeł-Gajowik K, Milewski K, Zielińska M. miRNA-ome plasma analysis unveils changes in blood-brain barrier integrity associated with acute liver failure in rats. Fluids Barriers CNS 2023; 20:92. [PMID: 38066639 PMCID: PMC10709860 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-023-00484-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) symptoms associated with liver insufficiency are linked to the neurotoxic effects of ammonia and other toxic metabolites reaching the brain via the blood-brain barrier (BBB), further aggravated by the inflammatory response. Cumulative evidence documents that the non-coding single-stranded RNAs, micro RNAs (miRs) control the BBB functioning. However, miRs' involvement in BBB breakdown in HE is still underexplored. Here, we hypothesized that in rats with acute liver failure (ALF) or rats subjected to hyperammonemia, altered circulating miRs affect BBB composing proteins. METHODS Transmission electron microscopy was employed to delineate structural alterations of the BBB in rats with ALF (thioacetamide (TAA) intraperitoneal (ip.) administration) or hyperammonemia (ammonium acetate (OA) ip. administration). The BBB permeability was determined with Evans blue dye and sodium fluorescein assay. Plasma MiRs were profiled by Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), followed by in silico analysis. Selected miRs, verified by qRT-PCR, were examined in cultured rat brain endothelial cells. Targeted protein alterations were elucidated with immunofluorescence, western blotting, and, after selected miR mimics transfection, through an in vitro resistance measurement. RESULTS Changes in BBB structure and increased permeability were observed in the prefrontal cortex of TAA rats but not in the brains of OA rats. The NGS results revealed divergently changed miRNA-ome in the plasma of both rat models. The in silico analysis led to the selection of miR-122-5p and miR-183-5p with their target genes occludin and integrin β1, respectively, as potential contributors to BBB alterations. Both proteins were reduced in isolated brain vessels and cortical homogenates in TAA rats. We documented in cultured primary brain endothelial cells that ammonia alone and, in combination with TNFα increases the relative expression of NGS-selected miRs with a less pronounced effect of TNFα when added alone. The in vitro study also confirmed miR-122-5p-dependent decrease in occludin and miR-183-5p-related reduction in integrin β1 expression. CONCLUSION This work identified, to our knowledge for the first time, potential functional links between alterations in miRs residing in brain endothelium and BBB dysfunction in ALF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Orzeł-Gajowik
- Department of Neurotoxicology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego St. 5, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Milewski
- Department of Neurotoxicology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego St. 5, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pasteura St. 3, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Zielińska
- Department of Neurotoxicology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego St. 5, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland.
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8
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Sharma BC, Maharshi S, Sachdeva S, Mahajan B, Sharma A, Bara S, Srivastava S, Kumar A, Dalal A, Sonika U. Nutritional therapy for persistent cognitive impairment after resolution of overt hepatic encephalopathy in patients with cirrhosis: A double-blind randomized controlled trial. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 38:1917-1925. [PMID: 37354045 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16266] [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: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) reflects cognitive impairment in patients with liver cirrhosis and is associated with poor prognosis. We assessed the effects of nutritional therapy on cognitive functions, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), anthropometry, endotoxins, and inflammatory markers in cirrhotic patients with MHE. METHODS In a double-blind randomized controlled trial, cirrhotic patients with MHE were randomized to nutritional therapy (group I: 30-35 kcal/kg/day and 1.0-1.5 g of protein/kg/day) and no nutritional therapy (group II: diet as patients were taking before) for 6 months. MHE was diagnosed based on psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score (PHES). Anthropometry, ammonia, endotoxins, inflammatory markers, myostatin, and HRQOL were assessed at baseline and after 6 months. Primary endpoints were improvement or worsening in MHE and HRQOL. RESULTS A total of 150 patients were randomized to group I (n = 75, age 46.3 ± 12.5 years, 58 men) and group II (n = 75, age 45.2 ± 9.3 years, 56 men). Baseline PHES (-8.16 ± 1.42 vs -8.24 ± 1.43; P = 0.54) was comparable in both groups. Reversal of MHE was higher in group I (73.2% vs 21.4%; P = 0.001) than group II. Improvement in PHES (Δ PHES 4.0 ± 0.60 vs -4.18 ± 0.40; P = 0.001), HRQOL (Δ Sickness Impact Profile 3.24 ± 3.63 vs 0.54 ± 3.58; P = 0.001), anthropometry, ammonia, endotoxins, cytokines, and myostatin levels was also significantly higher in group I than group II. Overt hepatic encephalopathy developed in 6 patients in group I and 13 in group II (P = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS Nutritional therapy is effective in treatment of MHE and associated with improvement in nutritional status, HRQOL, ammonia, endotoxins, inflammatory markers, and myostatin levels.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sanjeev Sachdeva
- Department of Gastroenterology, G.B. Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Bhawna Mahajan
- Department of Biochemistry, G.B. Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Ashok Sharma
- Department of Radiology, G.B. Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Sushma Bara
- Department of Gastroenterology, G.B. Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Ajay Kumar
- Department of Gastroenterology, G.B. Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Ashok Dalal
- Department of Gastroenterology, G.B. Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Ujjwal Sonika
- Department of Gastroenterology, G.B. Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
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Mehtani R, Premkumar M, Garg S, Kajal K, Kulkarni AV, Duseja AK, Dhiman RK, De A, Verma N, Taneja S, Rathi S, Singh V, Chakma J, Soni SL, Kakkar A, Kapila AT, Ahuja CK, Divyaveer S, Praharaj D. Intravenous BCAA Infusion Does Not Lead to a Sustained Recovery From Overt HE in ACLF - An Open Label Randomized Clinical Trial. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2023; 13:977-988. [PMID: 37975059 PMCID: PMC10643498 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2023.05.015] [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: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) in acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. We conducted a prospective, randomized controlled clinical trial to study the efficacy of intravenous branched chain amino acids (IV-BCAA) with lactulose versus lactulose alone for improvement in HE at 24 h, day 3, and day 7. The primary outcome was an improvement in encephalopathy by ≥ 1 grade at 72 h. Patients and methods European association for study of liver (EASL) defined ACLF patients with overt HE were assessed and randomized into the experimental arm (IV-BCAA - 500 mL/day for 3 days + Lactulose; n = 39) and the comparator arm (Lactulose alone; n = 37). Six patients developed COVID-19 after randomization and were excluded (4-experimental arm and 2-comparator arm). Results Of 222 screened patients, 70 (35 in each arm) were included in the analysis. Baseline characteristics, including HE grade (2.9 ± 0.7 vs 2.8 ± 0.7; P = 0.86) and (chronic liver failure) CLIF-C ACLF score (54.2 ± 5.6 vs 54.8 ± 5.7; P = 0.65), were similar. Overall survival was 40% at 28 days (48.5% vs 31.4%; P = 0.14). Improvement in hepatic encephalopathy scoring algorithm (HESA) by ≥ 1 grade at 24 h occurred in 14 patients (40%) in the BCAA arm and 6 patients (17.1%) in the control group (P = 0.03) which translated to a shorter intensive care unit (ICU) stay. The median change in HESA at 24 h was greater in the BCAA arm than the control arm (P = 0.006), which was not sustained at days 3 or 7. Ammonia levels did not correlate with the grade of HE (Spearman's correlation coefficient (ρ) = - 0.0843; P = 0.29). Conclusion Intravenous BCAA does not lead to a sustained improvement in HE grade in ACLF. Trial registration no NCT04238416 (clinicaltrials.gov).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Mehtani
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Madhumita Premkumar
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Shankey Garg
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Kamal Kajal
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Anand V. Kulkarni
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Ajay K. Duseja
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Radha K. Dhiman
- Department of Hepatology, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Arka De
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Nipun Verma
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sunil Taneja
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sahaj Rathi
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Virendra Singh
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Joy Chakma
- Scientist ‘E', Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, India
| | - Shiv L. Soni
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ashish Kakkar
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Aastha T. Kapila
- Department of Neurology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Chirag K. Ahuja
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Smita Divyaveer
- Department of Nephrology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Dibyalochan Praharaj
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
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Velarde-Ruiz Velasco JA, Aldana-Ledesma JM, Higuera-de-la-Tijera F. Response to Phinder-Puente ME et al., regarding "Current vision on diagnosis and comprehensive care in hepatic encephalopathy". REVISTA DE GASTROENTEROLOGIA DE MEXICO (ENGLISH) 2023; 88:457-459. [PMID: 38102014 DOI: 10.1016/j.rgmxen.2023.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- J A Velarde-Ruiz Velasco
- Departamento de Gastroenterología, Hospital Civil de Guadalajara «Fray Antonio Alcalde», Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - J M Aldana-Ledesma
- Departamento de Gastroenterología, Hospital Civil de Guadalajara «Fray Antonio Alcalde», Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - F Higuera-de-la-Tijera
- Servicio de Gastroenterología y Hepatología, Hospital General de México «Dr. Eduardo Liceaga», Mexico City, Mexico.
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11
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Dantas Machado AC, Ramos SF, Gauglitz JM, Fassler AM, Petras D, Aksenov AA, Kim UB, Lazarowicz M, Barnard Giustini A, Aryafar H, Vodkin I, Warren C, Dorrestein PC, Zarrinpar A, Zarrinpar A. Portosystemic shunt placement reveals blood signatures for the development of hepatic encephalopathy through mass spectrometry. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5303. [PMID: 37652904 PMCID: PMC10471626 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40741-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Elective transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement can worsen cognitive dysfunction in hepatic encephalopathy (HE) patients due to toxins, including possible microbial metabolites, entering the systemic circulation. We conducted untargeted metabolomics on a prospective cohort of 22 patients with cirrhosis undergoing elective TIPS placement and followed them up to one year post TIPS for HE development. Here we suggest that pre-existing intrahepatic shunting predicts HE severity post-TIPS. Bile acid levels decrease in the peripheral vein post-TIPS, and the abundances of three specific conjugated di- and tri-hydroxylated bile acids are inversely correlated with HE grade. Bilirubins and glycerophosphocholines undergo chemical modifications pre- to post-TIPS and based on HE grade. Our results suggest that TIPS-induced metabolome changes can impact HE development, and that pre-existing intrahepatic shunting could be used to predict HE severity post-TIPS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stephany Flores Ramos
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Julia M Gauglitz
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Anne-Marie Fassler
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Daniel Petras
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- CMFI Cluster of Excellence, Interfaculty Institute of Microbiology and Infection Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Alexander A Aksenov
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Un Bi Kim
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Michael Lazarowicz
- Department of Radiology, Division of Interventional Radiology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Abbey Barnard Giustini
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Puget Sounds Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Hamed Aryafar
- San Diego Imaging, San Diego, CA, USA
- Departments of Radiology, University of California San Diego Medical Center, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Irine Vodkin
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Curtis Warren
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Pieter C Dorrestein
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Center for Microbiome Innovation, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Center for Computational Mass Spectrometry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Ali Zarrinpar
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Amir Zarrinpar
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Center for Microbiome Innovation, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Jennifer Moreno Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Institute of Diabetes and Metabolic Health, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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12
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Badal BD, Bajaj JS. Hepatic Encephalopathy in Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure. Clin Liver Dis 2023; 27:691-702. [PMID: 37380292 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2023.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is characterized by the presence of chronic liver disease and extrahepatic organ failure and is associated with a high rate of short-term mortality. International societies have sought to define the criteria for ACLF and differ on definitions. Encephalopathy is an important organ failure in ACLF cases and is included as a marker of ACLF across society definitions. Both brain failure and ACLF commonly occur in the presence of a triggering event and in the setting of the large amount of inflammation that ensues. The presence of encephalopathy as a part of ACLF not only increases the chances of mortality but also provides unique challenges in that the patient will be limited in conversations around major decisions such as need for advanced level of care, liver transplant, or even end-of-life decisions. Many decisions need to be made quickly and occur in parallel in the care of patients with encephalopathy and ACLF and include stabilizing the patient, identifying precipitants or alternative diagnoses, and medical management. Infections has emerged as a major trigger for both ACLF and encephalopathy, and special attention should be given to identifying and treating infections as they occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan D Badal
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and Central Virginia Veterans Healthcare System, 1201 Broad Rock Boulevard, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Jasmohan S Bajaj
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and Central Virginia Veterans Healthcare System, 1201 Broad Rock Boulevard, Richmond, VA, USA.
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13
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Amer K, Flikshteyn B, Lingiah V, Tafesh Z, Pyrsopoulos NT. Mechanisms of Disease and Multisystemic Involvement. Clin Liver Dis 2023; 27:563-579. [PMID: 37380283 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2023.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kamal Amer
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Rutgers University, 185 South Orange Avenue, MSB H Room - 538, Newark, NJ 07101-1709, USA
| | - Ben Flikshteyn
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Rutgers University, 185 South Orange Avenue, MSB H Room - 538, Newark, NJ 07101-1709, USA
| | - Vivek Lingiah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Rutgers University, 185 South Orange Avenue, MSB H Room - 538, Newark, NJ 07101-1709, USA
| | - Zaid Tafesh
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Rutgers University, 185 South Orange Avenue, MSB H Room - 53, Newark, NJ 07101-1709, USA
| | - Nikolaos T Pyrsopoulos
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Rutgers University, 185 South Orange Avenue, MSB H Room - 536, Newark, NJ 07101-1709, USA.
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14
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Ripoll C, Greinert R, Reuken P, Reichert MC, Weber SN, Hupfer Y, Staltner R, Meier Clinien M, Lammert F, Bruns T, Zipprich A. Influence of NOD2 risk variants on hepatic encephalopathy and association with inflammation, bacterial translocation and immune activation. Liver Int 2023; 43:1793-1802. [PMID: 37249050 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain containing 2 (NOD2) risk variants lead to impaired mucosal barrier function, increased bacterial translocation (BT), and systemic inflammation. AIM To evaluate the association between the presence of NOD2 risk variants, BT, inflammation, and hepatic encephalopathy (HE). PATIENTS AND METHODS This prospective multicenter study included patients with cirrhosis and testing for NOD2 risk variants (p.R702W, p.G908R, c.3020insC, N289S, and c.-958T>C). Patients were evaluated for covert (C) and overt (O) HE. Markers of systemic inflammation (leukocytes, CRP, IL-6, LBP) and immune activation (soluble CD14) as well as bacterial endotoxin (hTRL4 activation) were determined in serum. RESULTS Overall, 172 patients (70% men; median age 60 [IQR 54-66] years; MELD 12 [IQR 9-16]; 72% ascites) were included, of whom 53 (31%) carried a NOD2 risk variant. In this cohort, 11% presented with OHE and 27% and CHE. Presence and severity of HE and surrogates of inflammation, BT, and immune activation did not differ between patients with and without a NOD2 risk variant, also not after adjustment for MELD. HE was associated with increased ammonia and systemic inflammation, as indicated by elevated CRP (w/o HE: 7.2 [2.7-16.7]; with HE 12.6 [4.5-29.7] mg/dL; p < 0.001) and elevated soluble CD14 (w/o HE 2592 [2275-3033]; with HE 2755 [2410-3456] ng/mL; p = 0.025). CONCLUSIONS The presence of NOD2 risk variants in patients with cirrhosis is not associated with HE and has no marked impact on inflammation, BT, or immune activation. In contrast, the presence of HE was linked to ammonia, the acute phase response, and myeloid cell activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Ripoll
- Internal Medicine IV, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Robin Greinert
- Internal Medicine I, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Philipp Reuken
- Internal Medicine IV, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | | | - Susanne N Weber
- Department of Medicine II, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Germany
| | - Yvonne Hupfer
- Internal Medicine IV, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Raphaela Staltner
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Molecular Nutritional Science, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Magdalena Meier Clinien
- Internal Medicine IV, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | | | - Tony Bruns
- Internal Medicine IV, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
- Internal Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Alexander Zipprich
- Internal Medicine IV, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
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15
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Santos RPC, Toscano ECDB, Rachid MA. Anti-inflammatory strategies for hepatic encephalopathy: preclinical studies. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2023. [PMID: 37487550 PMCID: PMC10371400 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1767819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a potentially reversible neuropsychiatric syndrome. Often, HE causes cognitive and motor dysfunctions due to an acute or chronic insufficiency of the liver or a shunting between the hepatic portal vein and systemic vasculature. Liver damage induces peripheral changes, such as in the metabolism and peripheral inflammatory responses that trigger exacerbated neuroinflammation. In experimental models, anti-inflammatory strategies have demonstrated neuroprotective effects, leading to a reduction in HE-related cognitive and motor impairments. In this scenario, a growing body of evidence has shown that peripheral and central nervous system inflammation are promising preclinical targets. In this review, we performed an overview of FDA-approved drugs and natural compounds which are used in the treatment of other neurological and nonneurological diseases that have played a neuroprotective role in experimental HE, at least in part, through anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Despite the exciting results from animal models, the available data should be critically interpreted, highlighting the importance of translating the findings for clinical essays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaela Pinto Coelho Santos
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Patologia Geral, Laboratório de Patologia Celular e Molecular, Belo Horizonte MG, Brazil
| | - Eliana Cristina de Brito Toscano
- Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Patologia, Laboratório Integrado de Pesquisa em Patologia, Juiz de Fora MG, Brazil
- Universidade Federal de Juiz e Fora, Faculdade de Medicina, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde, Juiz de Fora MG, Brazil
| | - Milene Alvarenga Rachid
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Patologia Geral, Laboratório de Patologia Celular e Molecular, Belo Horizonte MG, Brazil
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16
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Giuli L, Maestri M, Santopaolo F, Pompili M, Ponziani FR. Gut Microbiota and Neuroinflammation in Acute Liver Failure and Chronic Liver Disease. Metabolites 2023; 13:772. [PMID: 37367929 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13060772] [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: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute liver failure and chronic liver disease are associated with a wide spectrum of neurological changes, of which the best known is hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Historically, hyperammonemia, causing astrocyte swelling and cerebral oedema, was considered the main etiological factor in the pathogenesis of cerebral dysfunction in patients with acute and/or chronic liver disease. However, recent studies demonstrated a key role of neuroinflammation in the development of neurological complications in this setting. Neuroinflammation is characterized by activation of microglial cells and brain secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6, which alter neurotransmission, leading to cognitive and motor dysfunction. Changes in the gut microbiota resulting from liver disease play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of neuroinflammation. Dysbiosis and altered intestinal permeability, resulting in bacterial translocation and endotoxemia, are responsible for systemic inflammation, which can spread to brain tissue and trigger neuroinflammation. In addition, metabolites derived from the gut microbiota can act on the central nervous system and facilitate the development of neurological complications, exacerbating clinical manifestations. Thus, strategies aimed at modulating the gut microbiota may be effective therapeutic weapons. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the role of the gut-liver-brain axis in the pathogenesis of neurological dysfunction associated with liver disease, with a particular focus on neuroinflammation. In addition, we highlight emerging therapeutic approaches targeting the gut microbiota and inflammation in this clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Giuli
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology-Hepatology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Maestri
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology-Hepatology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Santopaolo
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology-Hepatology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Pompili
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology-Hepatology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Romana Ponziani
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology-Hepatology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
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17
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Wang Q, Chen C, Zuo S, Cao K, Li H. Integrative analysis of the gut microbiota and faecal and serum short-chain fatty acids and tryptophan metabolites in patients with cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy. J Transl Med 2023; 21:395. [PMID: 37330571 PMCID: PMC10276405 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04262-9] [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: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to describe the changes in the gut microbiome of patients with cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy (HE), as well as quantify the variations in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) and tryptophan metabolite levels in serum and faeces. METHODS Fresh faeces and serum were collected from 20 healthy volunteers (NC group), 30 cirrhosis patients (Cir group), and 30 HE patients (HE group). Then, 16S rRNA sequencing and metabolite measurements were performed using the faeces. Gas chromatography‒mass spectrometry and ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry were used to measure SCFA and tryptophan levels, respectively. The results were analysed by SIMCA16.0.2 software. Differences in species were identified using MetaStat and t tests. The correlations among the levels of gut microbes and metabolites and clinical parameters were determined using Spearman correlation analysis. RESULTS Patients with cirrhosis and HE had lower microbial species richness and diversity in faeces than healthy volunteers; these patients also had altered β-diversity. Serum valeric acid levels were significantly higher in the HE group than in the Cir group. Serum SCFA levels did not differ between the Cir and NC groups. Serum melatonin and 5-HTOL levels were significantly higher in the HE group than in the Cir group. The Cir and NC groups had significant differences in the levels of eight serum tryptophan metabolites. Furthermore, the levels of faecal SCFAs did not differ between the HE and Cir groups. Faecal IAA-Ala levels were significantly lower in the HE group than in the Cir group. There were significant differences in the levels of 6 faecal SCFAs and 7 faecal tryptophan metabolites between the Cir and NC groups. Certain gut microbes were associated with serum and faecal metabolites, and some metabolites were associated with certain clinical parameters. CONCLUSION Reduced microbial species richness and diversity were observed in patients with HE and cirrhosis. In both serum and faeces, the levels of different SCFAs and tryptophan metabolites showed varying patterns of change. In HE patients, the levels of some serum tryptophan metabolites, and not SCFAs, were correlated with liver function and systemic inflammation. Systemic inflammation in patients with cirrhosis was correlated with faecal acetic acid levels. In summary, this study identified metabolites important for HE and cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengxin Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Shi Zuo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Kun Cao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China.
| | - Haiyang Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China.
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18
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Claeys W, Van Hoecke L, Lernout H, De Nolf C, Van Imschoot G, Van Wonterghem E, Verhaege D, Castelein J, Geerts A, Van Steenkiste C, Vandenbroucke RE. Experimental hepatic encephalopathy causes early but sustained glial transcriptional changes. J Neuroinflammation 2023; 20:130. [PMID: 37248507 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-023-02814-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a common complication of liver cirrhosis, associated with high morbidity and mortality, for which no brain-targeted therapies exist at present. The interplay between hyperammonemia and inflammation is thought to drive HE development. As such, astrocytes, the most important ammonia-metabolizing cells in the brain, and microglia, the main immunomodulatory cells in the brain, have been heavily implicated in HE development. As insight into cellular perturbations driving brain pathology remains largely elusive, we aimed to investigate cell-type specific transcriptomic changes in the HE brain. In the recently established mouse bile duct ligation (BDL) model of HE, we performed RNA-Seq of sorted astrocytes and microglia at 14 and 28 days after induction. This revealed a marked transcriptional response in both cell types which was most pronounced in microglia. In both cell types, pathways related to inflammation and hypoxia, mechanisms commonly implicated in HE, were enriched. Additionally, astrocytes exhibited increased corticoid receptor and oxidative stress signaling, whereas microglial transcriptome changes were linked to immune cell attraction. Accordingly, both monocytes and neutrophils accumulated in the BDL mouse brain. Time-dependent changes were limited in both cell types, suggesting early establishment of a pathological phenotype. While HE is often considered a unique form of encephalopathy, astrocytic and microglial transcriptomes showed significant overlap with previously established gene expression signatures in other neuroinflammatory diseases like septic encephalopathy and stroke, suggesting common pathophysiological mechanisms. Our dataset identifies key molecular mechanisms involved in preclinical HE and provides a valuable resource for development of novel glial-directed therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wouter Claeys
- Hepatology Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Liver Research Center Ghent, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Barriers in Inflammation, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, VIB, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 71, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lien Van Hoecke
- Barriers in Inflammation, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, VIB, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 71, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hannah Lernout
- Barriers in Inflammation, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, VIB, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 71, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- IBD Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Clint De Nolf
- Barriers in Inflammation, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, VIB, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 71, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Griet Van Imschoot
- Barriers in Inflammation, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, VIB, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 71, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Elien Van Wonterghem
- Barriers in Inflammation, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, VIB, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 71, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Daan Verhaege
- Barriers in Inflammation, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, VIB, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 71, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jonas Castelein
- Barriers in Inflammation, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, VIB, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 71, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Anja Geerts
- Hepatology Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Liver Research Center Ghent, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christophe Van Steenkiste
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Maria Middelares Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Roosmarijn E Vandenbroucke
- Barriers in Inflammation, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, VIB, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 71, 9052, Ghent, Belgium.
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
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Gairing SJ, Schleicher EM, Galle PR, Labenz C. Prediction and prevention of the first episode of overt hepatic encephalopathy in patients with cirrhosis. Hepatol Commun 2023; 7:02009842-202304010-00007. [PMID: 36930868 PMCID: PMC10027066 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is one of the most important complications of patients with liver cirrhosis. In addition, HE is associated with a dismal prognosis and has detrimental effects on patients' quality of life. Thus, it is of pivotal importance to identify patients at high risk for overt HE (OHE) in whom primary prophylaxis may be justified. In this narrative review, we aim to provide insight into predictors and prediction tools for a first-time episode of OHE and to scrutinize the current level of evidence of primary prophylaxis. In recent decades, several cognitive tests, composite scores, and blood-based biomarkers have been demonstrated to be predictive of a first-time episode of OHE. Among the best validated are the established tests for minimal HE, such as the Psychometric Hepatic Encephalopathy Score, determination of the critical flicker frequency, Stroop EncephalApp, or the Animal Naming Test. Individualized risk stratification using blood-based biomarkers and cross-sectional imaging (sarcopenia and spontaneous portosystemic shunts) is coming to the fore, but validation in larger multicenter cohorts is often lacking. On the basis of current evidence, a recommendation for primary prophylaxis of a first episode of OHE cannot be made in general. Only 2 studies have investigated the prevention of a first-time OHE episode as the primary endpoint. In this narrative review, we provide a concise overview of the current evidence levels on prediction tools and pharmacological prevention of a first episode of OHE. In addition, we give an outlook on future research targets to improve knowledge on this important topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon J Gairing
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
- Cirrhosis Center Mainz (CCM), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Eva M Schleicher
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
- Cirrhosis Center Mainz (CCM), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Peter R Galle
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
- Cirrhosis Center Mainz (CCM), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Christian Labenz
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
- Cirrhosis Center Mainz (CCM), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
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20
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Bajaj JS, Tandon P, O'Leary JG, Reddy KR, Garcia-Tsao G, Thuluvath P, Lai JC, Subramanian RM, Vargas HE, Wong F, Fagan A, McGeorge S, Thacker LR, Kamath PS. Admission Serum Metabolites and Thyroxine Predict Advanced Hepatic Encephalopathy in a Multicenter Inpatient Cirrhosis Cohort. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 21:1031-1040.e3. [PMID: 35436625 PMCID: PMC11000256 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2022.03.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Grades 3 to 4 hepatic encephalopathy (advanced HE), also termed brain failure, is an organ failure that defines acute-on-chronic liver failure. It is associated with poor outcomes in cirrhosis but cannot be predicted accurately. We aimed to determine the admission metabolomic biomarkers able to predict the development of advanced HE with subsequent validation. METHODS Prospective inpatient cirrhosis cohorts (multicenter and 2-center validation) without brain failure underwent admission serum collection and inpatient follow-up evaluation. Serum metabolomics were analyzed to predict brain failure on random forest analysis and logistic regression. A separate validation cohort also was recruited. RESULTS The multicenter cohort included 602 patients, of whom 144 developed brain failure (105 only brain failure) 3 days after admission. Unadjusted random forest analysis showed that higher admission microbially derived metabolites and lower isoleucine, thyroxine, and lysophospholipids were associated with brain failure development (area under the curve, 0.87 all; 0.90 brain failure only). Logistic regression area under the curve with only clinical variables significantly improved with metabolites (95% CI 0.65-0.75; P = .005). Four metabolites that significantly added to brain failure prediction were low thyroxine and maltose and high methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate sulfate and 3-4 dihydroxy butyrate. Thyroxine alone also significantly added to the model (P = .05). The validation cohort including 81 prospectively enrolled patients, of whom 11 developed brain failure. Admission hospital laboratory thyroxine levels predicted brain failure development despite controlling for clinical variables with high specificity. CONCLUSIONS In a multicenter inpatient cohort, admission serum metabolites, including thyroxine, predicted advanced HE development independent of clinical factors. Admission low local laboratory thyroxine levels were validated as a predictor of advanced HE development in a separate cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmohan S Bajaj
- Department of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia.
| | - Puneeta Tandon
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | | | - K Rajender Reddy
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Paul Thuluvath
- Department of Medicine, Mercy Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jennifer C Lai
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Ram M Subramanian
- Department of Medicine, Emory University Medical Center, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Hugo E Vargas
- Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Florence Wong
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Andrew Fagan
- Department of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Sara McGeorge
- Department of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Leroy R Thacker
- Department of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Patrick S Kamath
- Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Rochester, Minnesota
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21
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Chaganti J, Zeng G, Tun N, Lockart I, Abdelshaheed C, Cysique L, Montagnese S, Brew BJ, Danta M. Novel magnetic resonance KTRANS measurement of blood-brain barrier permeability correlated with covert HE. Hepatol Commun 2023; 7:02009842-202304010-00018. [PMID: 36972380 PMCID: PMC10043555 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Using dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) MR perfusion and MR spectroscopy this study aimed to characterize the blood-brain barrier permeability and metabolite changes in patients with cirrhosis and without covert HE. METHODS Covert HE was defined using psychometric HE score (PHES). The participants were stratified into 3 groups: cirrhosis with covert HE (CHE) (PHES<-4); cirrhosis without HE (NHE) (PHES≥-4); and healthy controls (HC). Dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI and MRS were performed to assess KTRANS, a metric derivative of blood-brain barrier disruption, and metabolite parameters. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS (v25). RESULTS A total of 40 participants (mean age 63 y; male 71%) were recruited as follows: CHE (n=17); NHE (n=13); and HC (n=10). The KTRANS measurement in the frontoparietal cortex demonstrated increased blood-brain barrier permeability, where KTRANS was 0.01±0.02 versus 0.005±0.005 versus 0.004±0.002 in CHE, NHE, and HC patients, respectively (p = 0.032 comparing all 3 groups). Relative to HC with a value of 0.28, the parietal glutamine/creatine (Gln/Cr) ratio was significantly higher in both CHE 1.12 mmoL (p < 0.001); and NHE 0.49 (p = 0.04). Lower PHES scores correlated with higher glutamine/Cr (Gln/Cr) (r=-0.6; p < 0.001) and lower myo-inositol/Cr (mI/Cr) (r=0.6; p < 0.001) and lower choline/Cr (Cho/Cr) (r=0.47; p = 0.004). CONCLUSION The dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI KTRANS measurement revealed increased blood-brain barrier permeability in the frontoparietal cortex. The MRS identified a specific metabolite signature with increased glutamine, reduced myo-inositol, and choline, which correlated with CHE in this region. The MRS changes were identifiable in the NHE cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joga Chaganti
- Department of Medical Imaging, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, St Vincent's Healthcare Campus, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Georgia Zeng
- School of Clinical Medicine, St Vincent's Healthcare Campus, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nway Tun
- School of Clinical Medicine, St Vincent's Healthcare Campus, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ian Lockart
- School of Clinical Medicine, St Vincent's Healthcare Campus, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Lucette Cysique
- Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Bruce J Brew
- School of Clinical Medicine, St Vincent's Healthcare Campus, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
- Departments of Neurology and Immunology, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- Peter Duncan Neurosciences Unit Applied Medical Research Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mark Danta
- School of Clinical Medicine, St Vincent's Healthcare Campus, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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Nardelli S, Gioia S, Faccioli J, Riggio O, Ridola L. Hepatic encephalopathy - recent advances in treatment and diagnosis. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 17:225-235. [PMID: 36843291 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2023.2183386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a peculiar kind of brain dysfunction typical of liver cirrhosis characterized by nonspecific neurological and psychiatric manifestations. HE ranges from minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) to the most severe form characterized by alteration of consciousness or coma (overt HE, OHE). Once the diagnosis of OHE is made, every effort to identify and correct the precipitating cause is essential for the resolution of symptoms. Clinical studies that assessed the prevalence and incidence of any type of HE (MHE and OHE) in patients affected by cirrhosis were included in this review. No language, publication date, or publication status restrictions were imposed. The studies were identified by searching electronic databases (PubMed and SCOPUS). AREAS COVERED The most widely empirical pharmacological approach consists of non-absorbable antibiotics (rifaximin) and non-absorbable disaccharides (lactulose, lactitol per os and per enemas). Other agents (including branched-chain amino acids, probiotics, other antibiotics, or intravenous L-ornithine L-aspartate) are available, but the evidence supporting their efficacy remains under debate. EXPERT OPINION Gray areas and future needs remain the therapeutic approach to MHE and issues in the design of therapeutic studies for HE which have been extensively discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Nardelli
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Gioia
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Jessica Faccioli
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Oliviero Riggio
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Ridola
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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23
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Lopes FF, Lamberty Faverzani J, Hammerschmidt T, Aguilar Delgado C, Ferreira de Oliveira J, Wajner M, Regla Vargas C. Evaluation of oxidative damage to biomolecules and inflammation in patients with urea cycle disorders. Arch Biochem Biophys 2023; 736:109526. [PMID: 36702451 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2023.109526] [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: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Urea cycle disorders (UCD) are inborn errors of metabolism that occur due to a loss of function in enzymes and transporters involved in the urea cycle, causing an intoxication by hyperammonemia and accumulation of metabolites. Patients can develop hepatic encephalopathy (HE), severe neurological and motor disabilities, and often death. The mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of UCD are many and complex, but there are strong indications that oxidative stress and inflammation are present, being responsible for at least part of the cellular damage that occurs in these diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate oxidative and nitrosative damage and inflammation in UCD, to better understand the pathophysiology mechanisms of these diseases. We evaluated the nitrite and nitrate content, thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), carbonyl protein content and a panel of cytokines in plasma sample of 14 patients. The UCD patients group consisted of individuals affected with ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency (n = 8), carbamoyl phosphate synthetase deficiency (n = 2), argininosuccinate synthetase deficiency (n = 2); arginase 1 deficiency (n = 1) and argininosuccinate lyase deficiency (n = 1). Patients mean age at diagnosis was 5.25 ± 9.86 years-old and mean concentrations were compared with healthy individuals of matched age and gender. We found a significant reduction in nitrogen reactive species in patients when compared to controls. TBARS was increased in patients, indicating lipid peroxidation. To evaluate protein oxidative damage in UCD, the carbonyl content was measured, and the results also demonstrated an increase in this biomarker. Finally, we found that UCD patients have enhanced concentrations of cytokines, with pro-inflammatory interleukins IL-6, IL-8, interferon-γ and TNF-α, and anti-inflammatory IL-10 being increased when compared to the control group. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that oxidative stress and inflammation occurs in UCD and probably contribute to the severe brain damage present in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franciele Fátima Lopes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, UFRGS, Brazil; Serviço de Genética Médica, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
| | - Jéssica Lamberty Faverzani
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, UFRGS, Brazil; Serviço de Genética Médica, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Tatiane Hammerschmidt
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, UFRGS, Brazil; Serviço de Genética Médica, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Camila Aguilar Delgado
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Serviço de Genética Médica, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Julia Ferreira de Oliveira
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, UFRGS, Brazil; Serviço de Genética Médica, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Moacir Wajner
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Serviço de Genética Médica, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Carmen Regla Vargas
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, UFRGS, Brazil; Serviço de Genética Médica, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
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24
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Ahuja H, Sharma BC, Sachdeva S, Mahajan B, Sharma A, Bara S, Srivastava S, Kumar A, Dalal A, Sonika U. A double blind randomized controlled trial to assess efficacy of nutritional therapy for prevention of recurrence of hepatic encephalopathy in patients with cirrhosis. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 38:433-440. [PMID: 36574769 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) has high risk of recurrence and is associated with poor survival. The role of nutrition therapy is well documented in cirrhosis, but its efficacy in preventing the recurrence of OHE has not been studied. METHODS In double blind RCT, we randomly assigned 150 patients with liver cirrhosis, with history of OHE in recent past to receive nutrition therapy (group I) or no nutrition therapy (group II) and followed up for 6 months. The primary efficacy end points were occurrence of breakthrough episodes and time to breakthrough episode of OHE. Secondary end points were OHE related hospitalizations and time to hospitalization involving OHE. Other parameters included anthropometry, changes in serum cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α), endotoxin and myostatin. RESULTS There was significant reduction in occurrence of breakthrough episodes of OHE in group I [10 vs 36, hazard ratio 0.20; P < 0.001], OHE-related hospitalization [8 vs 24, hazard ratio 0.27; P < 0.001)]. Times to breakthrough episode of OHE and OHE-related hospitalization were longer in group I. At the end of 6 months, inflammatory and anthropometry parameters showed significant improvement in group I compared with worsening of serum albumin, anthropometric parameters, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α in group II. At the end of 6 months, ascites (50 vs 66, P = 0.01), gastrointestinal bleed (2 vs 11, P = 0.007), and jaundice (16 vs 41, P < 0.001) were lower in group I. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with nutrition therapy prevented recurrence of OHE and decreased OHE-related hospitalizations as compared with no nutrition therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hardik Ahuja
- Department of Gastroenterology, GB Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Sanjeev Sachdeva
- Department of Gastroenterology, GB Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Bhawna Mahajan
- Department of Biochemistry, GB Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Ashok Sharma
- Department of Radiology, GB Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Sushma Bara
- Department of Gastroenterology, GB Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Ajay Kumar
- Department of Gastroenterology, GB Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Ashok Dalal
- Department of Gastroenterology, GB Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Ujjwal Sonika
- Department of Gastroenterology, GB Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
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25
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Old and New Precipitants in Hepatic Encephalopathy: A New Look at a Field in Continuous Evolution. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12031187. [PMID: 36769836 PMCID: PMC9917479 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12031187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a common complication in patients with advanced liver disease. It is a brain dysfunction characterized by neurological and psychiatric symptoms that significantly affects quality of life, morbidity and mortality of patients. HE has various precipitants that can potentially promote its onset, alone or in combination. Among the historically well-known precipitants, such as infections, gastrointestinal bleeding, dehydration, electrolyte disorders and constipation, recent studies have highlighted the role of malnutrition and portosystemic shunts as new precipitating factors of HE. The identification, management and correction of these factors are fundamental for effective HE treatment, in addition to pharmacological therapy with non-absorbable disaccharides and/or antibiotics.
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26
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Dantas Machado AC, Ramos SF, Gauglitz JM, Carpenter AM, Petras D, Aksenov AA, Kim UB, Lazarowicz M, Giustini AB, Aryafar H, Vodkin I, Warren C, Dorrestein PC, Zarrinpar A, Zarrinpar A. Pre- and Post-Portosystemic Shunt Placement Metabolomics Reveal Molecular Signatures for the Development of Hepatic Encephalopathy. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.01.02.22281374. [PMID: 36711444 PMCID: PMC9882439 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.02.22281374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a common complication of advanced liver disease causing brain dysfunction. This is likely due to the accumulation of unfiltered toxins within the bloodstream. A known risk factor for developing or worsening HE is the placement of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS), which connects the pre-hepatic and post-hepatic circulation allowing some blood to bypass the dysfunctional liver and decreases portal hypertension. To better understand the pathophysiology of post-TIPS HE, we conducted a multi-center prospective cohort study employing metabolomic analyses on hepatic vein and peripheral vein blood samples from participants with cirrhosis undergoing elective TIPS placement, measuring chemical modifications and changes in concentrations of metabolites resulting from TIPS placement. In doing so, we identified numerous alterations in metabolites, including bile acids, glycerophosphocholines, and bilirubins possibly implicated in the development and severity of HE.
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27
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Vidal-Cevallos P, Chávez-Tapia NC, Uribe M. Current approaches to hepatic encephalopathy. Ann Hepatol 2022; 27:100757. [PMID: 36115576 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2022.100757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a brain dysfunction caused by liver insufficiency and/or portosystemic shunts. Between 30%-40% of patients with cirrhosis will present overt HE during their lifetime. While the pathophysiology of HE is not entirely understood, three critical factors have been identified: hyperammonaemia, systemic inflammation and oxidative stress by glutaminase gene alterations. Minimal HE is defined by the presence of signs of cognitive abnormalities in a patient without asterixis or disorientation; it can only be diagnosed with neuropsychological or psychometric tests. The diagnosis of overt HE is based on clinical examination with clinical scales. Currently, only overt HE should be routinely treated. The aims of treatment in an acute episode should be to improve the mental status, identify and treat the precipitating factor, reduce duration and limit consequences. Treatment strategies are targeted at reducing ammonia production and/or increasing its elimination. Even though minimal HE has negative effects on the patient's quality of life and effects on prognosis, indications for treatment are still controversial. There are still many unanswered questions regarding the pathophysiology and management of HE. We should also endeavor to develop more accurate and objective diagnostic methods for overt HE that would permit early detection and help improve outcomes on quality of life and economic burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Vidal-Cevallos
- Obesity and Digestive Disease Unit, Medica Sur Clinic and Foundation, Puente de Piedra 150, col. Toriello Guerra, C.P. 14050, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Norberto C Chávez-Tapia
- Obesity and Digestive Disease Unit, Medica Sur Clinic and Foundation, Puente de Piedra 150, col. Toriello Guerra, C.P. 14050, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Misael Uribe
- Obesity and Digestive Disease Unit, Medica Sur Clinic and Foundation, Puente de Piedra 150, col. Toriello Guerra, C.P. 14050, Mexico City, Mexico.
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28
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Shafey GM, Rashed ER, Zaki HF, Attia AS, El-Ghazaly MA. Molecular mechanisms involved in the effects of morin in experimental hepatic encephalopathy. Biofactors 2022; 48:1166-1178. [PMID: 35332953 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1838] [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: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the possible usefulness of morin flavonoid in comparison to silymarin as a hepatic/neuronal-supportive agent with similar effects and higher bioavailability in a rat model of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Morin effects on rat liver and brain were evaluated post-induction of HE by thioacetamide (TAA; 200 mg/kg/day for 3 successive days). Then, the serum activities of aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) together with ammonia concentration were estimated to assess the liver function. Also, the degree of brain effects was evaluated via the assessment of brain contents of reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin (IL-1β) together with glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity. In addition, the apoptotic and inflammatory changes in brain and liver tissues were also assessed via immunohistochemical examination. Our findings revealed a promising effect of morin against HE complications; as it corrected the liver functions, attenuated the brain/liver tissue injuries, and reduced the apoptotic and inflammatory insults of HE on both organs. These effects are comparable to those of silymarin. Morin could be introduced as a promising hepato- and neuro-therapeutic adjuvant in HE-associated neuronal complications especially in cases like silymarin intolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghada M Shafey
- Drug Radiation Research Department, National Centre for Radiation Research and Technology, Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Engy R Rashed
- Drug Radiation Research Department, National Centre for Radiation Research and Technology, Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hala F Zaki
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amina S Attia
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mona A El-Ghazaly
- Drug Radiation Research Department, National Centre for Radiation Research and Technology, Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
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Mehtani R, Garg S, Kajal K, Soni SL, Premkumar M. Neurological monitoring and sedation protocols in the Liver Intensive Care Unit. Metab Brain Dis 2022; 37:1291-1307. [PMID: 35460476 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-022-00986-7] [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: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Patients with liver disease often have alteration of neurological status which requires admission to an intensive care unit. Patients with acute liver failure (ALF), acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) and rarely cirrhosis are at risk of cerebral edema. These patients require prompt assessment of neurological status including assessment of intra-cranial pressure (ICP) and monitoring metabolic parameters like arterial/venous ammonia levels, serum creatinine and serum electrolytes so that timely specific therapy for raised ICP can be instituted to prevent permanent neurological dysfunction. The overall aims of neuromonitoring and sedation protocols in a liver intensive care unit are to identify the level of multifactorial metabolic encephalopathy, individualize sedation and analgesia requirements for patients on mechanical ventilation, institute specific therapy to correct the neurological insult in ALF and ACLF, provide clear physiological data for guided therapy of drugs like muscle relaxants, antiepileptics, and cerebral edema reducing agents, and assist with overall prognostication. In this review article we will outline the clinical scenarios related to liver disease requiring intensive care and neuromonitoring, current techniques of neurological assessment, sedation protocols and point of care tests which enable the treating physician and intensivist guide therapy for raised ICP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Mehtani
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Shankey Garg
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Kamal Kajal
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Shiv Lal Soni
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Madhumita Premkumar
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India.
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Yang B, Sun T, Chen Y, Xiang H, Xiong J, Bao S. The Role of Gut Microbiota in Mice With Bile Duct Ligation-Evoked Cholestatic Liver Disease-Related Cognitive Dysfunction. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:909461. [PMID: 35620109 PMCID: PMC9127770 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.909461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE) is complex and multifactorial. The development of metagenomics sequencing technology led to show the significant role of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of cognitive dysfunction, which paved the way for further research in this field. However, it is unknown whether gut microbiota plays a role in bile duct ligation (BDL)-evoked cholestatic liver disease-related cognitive dysfunction. The aim of this investigation is to assess BDL mice induced cognitive dysfunction and meanwhile to delineate the alteration of gut microbiota in cognitive dysfunction mice, which may underline the role of gut microbiota in BDL mice induced cognitive dysfunction. Our study was carried out in male C57BL/6 J mice with bile duct ligation. The liver functions were assessed via different biochemical markers [alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin (TBIL), and total bile acid (TBA)] and a histopathological examination of the liver tissue. We used the novel object recognition test (NORT) to assess cognitive dysfunction. And BDL mice were divided into BDL with cognitive dysfunction (BDL-CD) or BDL without cognitive dysfunction (BDL-NCD groups) by the result of hierarchical cluster analysis of NORT. Then, 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing was used to compare the gut bacterial composition between BDL-CD and BDL-NCD groups. According to our results, we concluded that bile duct ligation can significantly change the gut microbiota composition, and Bacteroides fragilis, Bacteroides ovatus V975, and Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron play a vital role in BDL-evoked cholestatic liver disease-related cognitive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bowen Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Tianning Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yingle Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Quanzhou Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Hongbing Xiang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jun Xiong
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shiting Bao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
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31
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García-Martínez R, Diaz-Ruiz R, Poncela M. Management of Hepatic Encephalopathy Associated with Advanced Liver Disease. Clin Drug Investig 2022; 42:5-13. [PMID: 35536537 PMCID: PMC9205788 DOI: 10.1007/s40261-022-01146-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a very prevalent condition in patients with advanced liver disease and has a high recurrence rate. The pathophysiology has a multifactorial origin where hyperammonaemia and inflammation become particularly relevant. There are no HE-specific diagnostic tests, and diagnosis is usually made by taking into account the presence of suggestive and compatible clinical symptoms, the existence of a predisposing liver condition and ruling out other causes with similar clinical manifestations. Once the diagnosis of HE is established, it is essential to carry out an adequate classification based on the underlying liver disease, the intensity of clinical manifestations, the temporal course of the disease and the presence or absence of precipitating factors. Treatment should be aimed at decreasing the duration, intensity and consequences of episodes, preventing recurrence and limiting the impact of the disease in patients and their relatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita García-Martínez
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gregorio Marañon University General Hospital, 28007, Madrid, Spain. .,School of Medicine, Complutense University Madrid, Madrid, Spain. .,Online Center for Biomedical Research of Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain. .,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Calle del Doctor Esquerdo, 46, 28007, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Raquel Diaz-Ruiz
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Gregorio Marañon University General Hospital, 28007, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Poncela
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Gregorio Marañon University General Hospital, 28007, Madrid, Spain
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Jain A, Sharma BC, Mahajan B, Srivastava S, Kumar A, Sachdeva S, Sonika U, Dalal A. L-ornithine L-aspartate in acute treatment of severe hepatic encephalopathy: A double-blind randomized controlled trial. Hepatology 2022; 75:1194-1203. [PMID: 34822189 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Data on the use of intravenous L-ornithine L-aspartate (LOLA) in the treatment of overt HE (OHE) is limited. We evaluated the role of intravenous LOLA in patients of cirrhosis with OHE grade III-IV. APPROACH AND RESULTS In a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial, 140 patients were randomized to a combination of LOLA, lactulose, and rifaximin (n = 70) or placebo, lactulose, and rifaximin (n = 70). LOLA was given as continuous intravenous infusion at a dose of 30 g over 24 h for 5 days. Ammonia levels, TNF-α, ILs, and endotoxins were measured on days 0 and 5. The primary outcome was the improvement in the grade of HE at day 5. Higher rates of improvement in grade of HE (92.5% vs. 66%, p < 0.001), lower time to recovery (2.70 ± 0.46 vs. 3.00 ± 0.87 days, p = 0.03), and lower 28-day mortality (16.4% vs. 41.8%, p = 0.001) were seen in the LOLA group as compared with placebo. Levels of inflammatory markers were reduced in both groups. Significantly higher reductions in levels of blood ammonia, IL-6, and TNF-α were seen in the LOLA group. CONCLUSIONS Combination of LOLA with lactulose and rifaximin was more effective than only lactulose and rifaximin in improving grades of HE, recovery time from encephalopathy, with lower 28-day mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpan Jain
- Department of GastroenterologyGB Pant HospitalNew DelhiIndia
| | | | - Bhawna Mahajan
- Department of BiochemistryGB Pant HospitalNew DelhiIndia
| | | | - Ajay Kumar
- Department of GastroenterologyGB Pant HospitalNew DelhiIndia
| | | | - Ujjwal Sonika
- Department of GastroenterologyGB Pant HospitalNew DelhiIndia
| | - Ashok Dalal
- Department of GastroenterologyGB Pant HospitalNew DelhiIndia
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Tranah TH, Shawcross DL. The rise and fall and rise again of ammonia as a therapeutic target in HE. Hepatology 2022; 75:1078-1080. [PMID: 34995377 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas H Tranah
- Institute of Liver StudiesKing's College Hospital NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Department of Inflammation BiologySchool of Immunology and Microbial SciencesFaculty of Life Sciences and MedicineKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Debbie L Shawcross
- Institute of Liver StudiesKing's College Hospital NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Department of Inflammation BiologySchool of Immunology and Microbial SciencesFaculty of Life Sciences and MedicineKing's College LondonLondonUK
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Kroupina K, Bémeur C, Rose CF. Amino acids, ammonia, and hepatic encephalopathy. Anal Biochem 2022; 649:114696. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2022.114696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Serum Ammonia in Cirrhosis: Clinical Impact of Hyperammonemia, Utility of Testing, and National Testing Trends. Clin Ther 2022; 44:e45-e57. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2022.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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36
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Polyethylene Glycol Versus Lactulose for Hepatic Encephalopathy: Do We Have a Clear Winner? J Clin Gastroenterol 2022; 56:192. [PMID: 35104256 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0000000000001654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
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Passi NN, McPhail MJW. The patient with cirrhosis in the intensive care unit and the management of acute-on-chronic liver failure. J Intensive Care Soc 2022; 23:78-86. [PMID: 37593538 PMCID: PMC10427846 DOI: 10.1177/1751143720978849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a clinical syndrome characterised by acute hepatic decompensation, multi-organ failure and high mortality, in patients with cirrhosis. Organ dysfunction in ACLF is often reversible and when necessary these patients should be considered appropriate candidates for admission to an intensive care unit (ICU). The yearly increase in numbers of patients with ACLF admitted to ICU has been matched with an improvement in survival. ACLF has only been recently defined. In the absence of evidence-based guidelines we outline a systems-based approach to care which encompasses accepted ICU practice and evidence from trials in this cohort. We advocate for timely referral to specialist liver centres and consider the complexities of proceeding with liver transplantation. Equally, in a proportion of patients who continue to deteriorate, appropriate ceilings of care should be established. Future clinical trials may change treatment paradigms but care of patients with ACLF is undoubtedly becoming an integral part of an intensivist's practice. We hope that this review is a welcome starting point when managing this complex clinical syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha N Passi
- Institute of Liver Studies, Kings College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Mark JW McPhail
- Institute of Liver Studies, Kings College Hospital, London, UK
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38
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Combined PEG3350 Plus Lactulose Results in Early Resolution of Hepatic Encephalopathy and Improved 28-Day Survival in Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure. J Clin Gastroenterol 2022; 56:e11-e19. [PMID: 33060437 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0000000000001450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is associated with high short-term mortality in those with hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Polyethylene glycol (PEG) 3350 electrolyte solution can ensure rapid gut catharsis, which may resolve HE more effectively than lactulose. In this open-label-randomized trial, we compared PEG+lactulose versus lactulose alone in ACLF with HE grade ≥2 for efficacy and outcome. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients were randomized to receive PEG (2 L q12 h) followed by lactulose (30 mL q8 h) or standard medical treatment [SMT, lactulose (titrated 30 mL q8 h)]. Endpoints were HE grade improvement at 24 hours, 48 hours, and 7 days using hepatic encephalopathy scoring algorithm (HESA), ammonia reduction, HE resolution, and survival benefit. RESULTS Of 60 patients, 29 were randomized to PEG+lactulose arm and 31 to SMT. In the PEG arm, early reduction in HESA score was noted in more persons [18 (62.1%) vs. 10 (32.2%); P=0.021] with a shorter median time to HE resolution [4.5 (3 to 9) d vs. 9 (8 to 11) d; P=0.023]. On multivariate analysis, age [hazard ratio (HR),1.06 (1.00 to 1.13); P=0.03], HESA score [HR, 6.01 (1.27 to 28.5); P=0.024], and model for end-stage liver disease [HR, 1.26 (1.01 to 1.53); P=0.022] were predictors of mortality at 28 days. Ammonia level or reduction did not correlate with HE grades. Adverse events included excessive diarrhea (20.6% vs. 9.6%) in the PEG and SMT arms, albeit without dyselectrolytemia or worsened renal function. In the PEG versus SMT arm, survival at 28 days were 93.1% versus 67.7% (P=0.010) and at 90 days was 68.9% versus 48.3% (P=0.940), respectively, with fewer persons relapsing with HE in the PEG arm. CONCLUSIONS PEG resulted in early and sustained HE resolution with improved short-term survival making, it a suitable and safe drug in patients with acute HE in ACLF.
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Zhang H, Oyelade T, Moore KP, Montagnese S, Mani AR. Prognosis and Survival Modelling in Cirrhosis Using Parenclitic Networks. FRONTIERS IN NETWORK PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 2:833119. [PMID: 36926100 PMCID: PMC10013061 DOI: 10.3389/fnetp.2022.833119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: Liver cirrhosis involves multiple organ systems and has a high mortality. A network approach to complex diseases often reveals the collective system behaviours and intrinsic interactions between organ systems. However, mapping the functional connectivity for each individual patient has been challenging due to the lack of suitable analytical methods for assessment of physiological networks. In the present study we applied a parenclitic approach to assess the physiological network of each individual patient from routine clinical/laboratory data available. We aimed to assess the value of the parenclitic networks to predict survival in patients with cirrhosis. Methods: Parenclitic approach creates a network from the perspective of an individual subject in a population. In this study such an approach was used to measure the deviation of each individual patient from the existing network of physiological interactions in a reference population of patients with cirrhosis. 106 patients with cirrhosis were retrospectively enrolled and followed up for 12 months. Network construction and analysis were performed using data from seven clinical/laboratory variables (serum albumin, bilirubin, creatinine, ammonia, sodium, prothrombin time and hepatic encephalopathy) for calculation of parenclitic deviations. Cox regression was used for survival analysis. Result: Initial network analysis indicated that correlation between five clinical/laboratory variables can distinguish between survivors and non-survivors in this cohort. Parenclitic deviations along albumin-bilirubin (Hazard ratio = 1.063, p < 0.05) and albumin-prothrombin time (Hazard ratio = 1.138, p < 0.05) predicted 12-month survival independent of model for end-stage liver disease (MELD). Combination of MELD with the parenclitic measures could predict survival better than MELD alone. Conclusion: The parenclitic network approach can predict survival of patients with cirrhosis and provides pathophysiologic insight on network disruption in chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Zhang
- Network Physiology Laboratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tope Oyelade
- Network Physiology Laboratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin P Moore
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ali R Mani
- Network Physiology Laboratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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40
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Méndez-Guerrero O, Calle-Rodas DA, Cervantes-Alvarez E, Alatorre-Arenas E, Pérez-Escobar J, Navarro-Alvarez N, Torre A. Renal and brain failure predict mortality of patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure admitted to the intensive care unit. Ann Hepatol 2021; 22:100270. [PMID: 33091594 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2020.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Acute on Chronic Liver Failure (ACLF) is characterized by organ failure and high 28-day mortality. Identifying clinical predictors associated with early mortality could have implications for the treatment of patients with ACLF. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients diagnosed with chronic liver failure that developed ACLF based on the EASL-CLIF Consortium definition admitted to the Intensive care unit of a tertiary hospital between 2012-2018 were included. Bivariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with mortality. RESULTS 148 patients (55% female) were diagnosed with ACLF of which 55% (n = 82) had ACLF grade 3, 28% (n = 41) grade 2 and 17% (n = 25) grade 1. The median age was 54 years (41-63). Hepatitis C virus (HCV) was the most frequent etiology in 29.8% (n = 44) of the patients with bacterial infection being the most predominant precipitant factor in 58.1% (n = 86). Ninety-day global cumulative survival was only 18%. When divided by grade, mortality reached to 10% in ACLF 3. Moreover, in the multivariate Cox regression analysis, renal failure (HR 3.26, 95% CI (2.13-4.99), brain failure (HR 1.37, 95% CI 1.09-2.04) and male sex (HR 1.62, 95% CI 1.10-2.40) were independent predictors of 28- and 90-day mortality. CONCLUSIONS ACLF is a frequent syndrome among chronic liver disease patients. Brain and renal failure are significantly associated with higher mortality and are independent predictors of 28 and 90-day mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osvely Méndez-Guerrero
- Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Department of Gastroenterology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Daniel A Calle-Rodas
- Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Department of Gastroenterology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Eduardo Cervantes-Alvarez
- Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Department of Gastroenterology, Mexico City, Mexico; PECEM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Elisa Alatorre-Arenas
- Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Department of Gastroenterology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Juanita Pérez-Escobar
- Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Department of Gastroenterology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Nalu Navarro-Alvarez
- Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Department of Gastroenterology, Mexico City, Mexico; Universidad Panamericana School of Medicine, Campus México, Mexico City, Mexico; Department of Surgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Denver, CO, United States.
| | - Aldo Torre
- Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Department of Gastroenterology, Mexico City, Mexico.
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Rocco A, Sgamato C, Compare D, Coccoli P, Nardone OM, Nardone G. Gut Microbes and Hepatic Encephalopathy: From the Old Concepts to New Perspectives. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:748253. [PMID: 34900994 PMCID: PMC8662376 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.748253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a severe complication of advanced liver disease and acute liver failure. The clinical spectrum ranges from minor cognitive dysfunctions to lethargy, depressed consciousness, and coma and significantly impact the quality of life, morbidity, and mortality of the patients. It is commonly accepted that the gut milieu is essential for the development of HE; however, despite intensive research efforts, the pathogenesis of HE is still not fully elucidated. As our knowledge of gut microbiota moves from the pioneering era of culture-dependent studies, the connection between microbes, inflammation, and metabolic pathways in the pathogenesis of HE is becoming increasingly clear, providing exciting therapeutic perspectives. This review will critically examine the latest research findings on the role of gut microbes in the pathophysiological pathways underlying HE. Moreover, currently available therapeutic options and novel treatment strategies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba Rocco
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Costantino Sgamato
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Debora Compare
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Pietro Coccoli
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Olga Maria Nardone
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Gerardo Nardone
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Bloom PP, Tapper EB, Young VB, Lok AS. Microbiome therapeutics for hepatic encephalopathy. J Hepatol 2021; 75:1452-1464. [PMID: 34453966 PMCID: PMC10471317 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a complication of cirrhosis characterised by neuropsychiatric and motor dysfunction. Microbiota-host interactions play an important role in HE pathogenesis. Therapies targeting microbial community composition and function have been explored for the treatment of HE. Prebiotics, probiotics and faecal microbiota transplant (FMT) have been used with the aim of increasing the abundance of potentially beneficial taxa, while antibiotics have been used to decrease the abundance of potentially harmful taxa. Other microbiome therapeutics, including postbiotics and absorbents, have been used to target microbial products. Microbiome-targeted therapies for HE have had some success, notably lactulose and rifaximin, with probiotics and FMT also showing promise. However, there remain several challenges to the effective application of microbiome therapeutics in HE, including the resilience of the microbiome to sustainable change and unpredictable clinical outcomes from microbiota alterations. Future work in this space should focus on rigorous trial design, microbiome therapy selection, and a personalised approach to HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia P Bloom
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, USA.
| | - Elliot B Tapper
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, USA
| | - Vincent B Young
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, University of Michigan, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, USA
| | - Anna S Lok
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, USA
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A Trial of Ornithine Phenylacetate and the Arc of Ammonia's History in the Management of Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 19:2493-2495. [PMID: 33157316 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2020.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Chandna S, Zarate ER, Gallegos-Orozco JF. Management of Decompensated Cirrhosis and Associated Syndromes. Surg Clin North Am 2021; 102:117-137. [PMID: 34800381 DOI: 10.1016/j.suc.2021.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Patients with cirrhosis account for 3% of intensive care unit admissions with hospital mortality exceeding 50%; however, improvements in survival among patients with acutely decompensated cirrhosis and organ failure have been described when treated in specialized liver transplant centers. Acute-on-chronic liver failure is a distinct clinical syndrome characterized by decompensated cirrhosis associated with one or more organ failures resulting in a significantly higher short-term mortality. In this review, we will discuss the management of common life-threatening complications in the patient with cirrhosis that require intensive care management including neurologic, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, pulmonary, and renal complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaun Chandna
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 N 1900 E, SOM-4R118, Salt Lake City, UT 84106, USA
| | - Eduardo Rodríguez Zarate
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 N 1900 E, SOM-4R118, Salt Lake City, UT 84106, USA
| | - Juan F Gallegos-Orozco
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 N 1900 E, SOM-4R118, Salt Lake City, UT 84106, USA.
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Kim SE, Park JW, Kim HS, Jang MK, Suk KT, Kim DJ. The Role of Gut Dysbiosis in Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111680. [PMID: 34769109 PMCID: PMC8584227 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is an important syndrome of liver failure that has a high risk of short-term mortality in patients with chronic liver disease. The development of ACLF is associated with proinflammatory precipitating events, such as infection, alcoholic hepatitis, and intense systemic inflammation. Recently, the role of the gut microbiome has increasingly emerged in human health and disease. Additionally, the gut microbiome might have a major role in the development of liver disease. In this review, we examine evidence to support the role of gut dysbiosis in cirrhosis and ACLF. Additionally, we explore the mechanism by which the gut microbiome contributes to the development of ACLF, with a focus on alcohol-induced liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Eun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon 24252, Korea; (S.-E.K.); (J.W.P.); (H.S.K.); (M.-K.J.); (K.T.S.)
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Diseases, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
| | - Ji Won Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon 24252, Korea; (S.-E.K.); (J.W.P.); (H.S.K.); (M.-K.J.); (K.T.S.)
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Diseases, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
| | - Hyung Su Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon 24252, Korea; (S.-E.K.); (J.W.P.); (H.S.K.); (M.-K.J.); (K.T.S.)
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Diseases, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
| | - Myoung-Kuk Jang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon 24252, Korea; (S.-E.K.); (J.W.P.); (H.S.K.); (M.-K.J.); (K.T.S.)
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Diseases, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
| | - Ki Tae Suk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon 24252, Korea; (S.-E.K.); (J.W.P.); (H.S.K.); (M.-K.J.); (K.T.S.)
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Diseases, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
| | - Dong Joon Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon 24252, Korea; (S.-E.K.); (J.W.P.); (H.S.K.); (M.-K.J.); (K.T.S.)
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Diseases, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82–33–240–5646
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Kronsten VT, Shawcross DL. Hepatic encephalopathy and depression in chronic liver disease: is the common link systemic inflammation? Anal Biochem 2021; 636:114437. [PMID: 34715068 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2021.114437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy and depression share a number of clinical features, such as cognitive impairment and psychomotor retardation, and are highly prevalent in patients with chronic liver disease. Both conditions signify a poor prognosis, carry an increased mortality and are major determinants of reduced health related quality of life. The pathophysiology of hepatic encephalopathy is complex. Whilst cerebral accumulation of ammonia is well-recognised as being central to the development of hepatic encephalopathy, systemic inflammation, which acts in synergy with hyperammonaemia, is emerging as a key driver in its development. The pro-inflammatory state is also widely documented in depression, and peripheral to brain communication occurs resulting in central inflammation, behavioural changes and depressive symptoms. Gut dysbiosis, with a similar reduction in beneficial bacteria, increase in pathogens and decreased bacterial diversity, has been observed in both hepatic encephalopathy and depression, and it may be that the resultant increased bacterial translocation causes their shared inflammatory pathophysiology. Whilst the literature on a positive association between hepatic encephalopathy and depression in cirrhosis remains to be substantiated, there is evolving evidence that treatment with psychobiotics may be of dual benefit, improving cognition and mood in cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Tatiana Kronsten
- Institute of Liver Studies, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, UK.
| | - Debbie Lindsay Shawcross
- Institute of Liver Studies, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, UK
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Claeys W, Van Hoecke L, Lefere S, Geerts A, Verhelst X, Van Vlierberghe H, Degroote H, Devisscher L, Vandenbroucke RE, Van Steenkiste C. The neurogliovascular unit in hepatic encephalopathy. JHEP Rep 2021; 3:100352. [PMID: 34611619 PMCID: PMC8476774 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a neurological complication of hepatic dysfunction and portosystemic shunting. It is highly prevalent in patients with cirrhosis and is associated with poor outcomes. New insights into the role of peripheral origins in HE have led to the development of innovative treatment strategies like faecal microbiota transplantation. However, this broadening of view has not been applied fully to perturbations in the central nervous system. The old paradigm that HE is the clinical manifestation of ammonia-induced astrocyte dysfunction and its secondary neuronal consequences requires updating. In this review, we will use the holistic concept of the neurogliovascular unit to describe central nervous system disturbances in HE, an approach that has proven instrumental in other neurological disorders. We will describe HE as a global dysfunction of the neurogliovascular unit, where blood flow and nutrient supply to the brain, as well as the function of the blood-brain barrier, are impaired. This leads to an accumulation of neurotoxic substances, chief among them ammonia and inflammatory mediators, causing dysfunction of astrocytes and microglia. Finally, glymphatic dysfunction impairs the clearance of these neurotoxins, further aggravating their effect on the brain. Taking a broader view of central nervous system alterations in liver disease could serve as the basis for further research into the specific brain pathophysiology of HE, as well as the development of therapeutic strategies specifically aimed at counteracting the often irreversible central nervous system damage seen in these patients.
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Key Words
- ABC, ATP-binding cassette
- ACLF, acute-on-chronic liver failure
- AD, acute decompensation
- ALF, acute liver failure
- AOM, azoxymethane
- AQP4, aquaporin 4
- Acute Liver Failure
- Ammonia
- BBB, blood-brain barrier
- BCRP, breast cancer resistance protein
- BDL, bile duct ligation
- Blood-brain barrier
- Brain edema
- CCL, chemokine ligand
- CCR, C-C chemokine receptor
- CE, cerebral oedema
- CLD, chronic liver disease
- CLDN, claudin
- CNS, central nervous system
- CSF, cerebrospinal fluid
- Cirrhosis
- Energy metabolism
- GS, glutamine synthetase
- Glymphatic system
- HE, hepatic encephalopathy
- HO-1, heme oxygenase 1
- IL-, interleukin
- MMP-9, matrix metalloproteinase 9
- MRP, multidrug resistance associated protein
- NGVU
- NGVU, neurogliovascular unit
- NKCC1, Na-K-2Cl cotransporter 1
- Neuroinflammation
- OCLN, occludin
- ONS, oxidative and nitrosative stress
- Oxidative stress
- P-gp, P-glycoprotein
- PCA, portacaval anastomosis
- PSS, portosystemic shunt
- S1PR2, sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 2
- SUR1, sulfonylurea receptor 1
- Systemic inflammation
- TAA, thioacetamide
- TGFβ, transforming growth factor beta
- TJ, tight junction
- TNF, tumour necrosis factor
- TNFR1, tumour necrosis factor receptor 1
- ZO, zonula occludens
- mPT, mitochondrial pore transition
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Affiliation(s)
- Wouter Claeys
- Hepatology Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Liver Research Center Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Barriers in Inflammation, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lien Van Hoecke
- Barriers in Inflammation, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sander Lefere
- Hepatology Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Liver Research Center Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Gut-Liver Immunopharmacology Unit, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences; Liver Research Center Ghent; Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Anja Geerts
- Hepatology Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Liver Research Center Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Xavier Verhelst
- Hepatology Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Liver Research Center Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hans Van Vlierberghe
- Hepatology Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Liver Research Center Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Helena Degroote
- Hepatology Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Liver Research Center Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lindsey Devisscher
- Gut-Liver Immunopharmacology Unit, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences; Liver Research Center Ghent; Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Roosmarijn E. Vandenbroucke
- Barriers in Inflammation, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christophe Van Steenkiste
- Antwerp University, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Maria Middelares Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Vipani A, Lindenmeyer CC, Sundaram V. Treatment of Severe Acute on Chronic Liver Failure: Management of Organ Failures, Investigational Therapeutics, and the Role of Liver Transplantation. J Clin Gastroenterol 2021; 55:667-676. [PMID: 34028394 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0000000000001568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a unique syndrome that afflicts patients with chronic liver disease and results in high short-term mortality, in the setting of organ system failures. Given this prognosis, there is an urgent need to understand risk factors for this condition, for appropriate medical management of organ failures, and for selection criteria for patients who may benefit from liver transplantation (LT). Although several definitions exist to identify ACLF, all of them are designed to identify patients with uniquely high mortality. Currently, management of severe ACLF relies on best supportive care for specific organ failures. Thromboelastography should guide the evaluation of coagulation pathways and hyperfibrinolysis in ACLF; prophylactic blood product transfusions and thrombopoetin agonists are not recommended. Combination therapy with terlipressin and albumin has been shown to be efficacious in the management of the hepatorenal syndrome but should be administered with caution in patients with ACLF-3. Recent data have characterized the role of beta-blockers and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt placement in the management of ACLF. Investigational therapies such as extracorporeal liver support and hepatocyte stem cell therapies have shown promise; larger scale studies may better define the subpopulations of patients with ACLF mostly likely to benefit from these evolving therapeutics. Regarding LT in ACLF, data suggest that even patients with 3 or more organ system failures may have a 1-year survival >80%. However, further efforts are needed to understand the predictors of post-LT survival to facilitate LT criteria for this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vinay Sundaram
- Division of Gastroenterology and Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
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Zhang Y, Kang JD, Zhao D, Ghosh SS, Wang Y, Tai Y, Gonzalez-Maeso J, Sikaroodi M, Gillevet PM, Lippman HR, Hylemon PB, Zhou H, Bajaj JS. Hepatic Branch Vagotomy Modulates the Gut-Liver-Brain Axis in Murine Cirrhosis. Front Physiol 2021; 12:702646. [PMID: 34248683 PMCID: PMC8268007 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.702646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy (HE) are linked with an altered gut-liver-brain axis, however, the relative contribution of hepatic vagal innervation is unclear. We aimed to determine the impact of hepatic vagotomy on the gut microbiome, brain, and liver in murine cirrhosis. METHODS 10-15-week-old male C57BL/6 mice with and without hepatic vagotomy underwent carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) gavage for 8 weeks. Frontal cortex [inflammation, glial/microglial activation, BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor)], liver [histology including inflammation and steatosis, fatty acid synthesis (sterol-responsive binding protein-1) SREBP-1, insulin-induced gene-2 (Insig2) and BDNF], and colonic mucosal microbiota (16srRNA microbial sequencing) were evaluated on sacrifice. Conventional mice with and without cirrhosis were compared to vagotomized counterparts. RESULTS Conventional control vs. cirrhosis: Cirrhosis resulted in dysbiosis, hepatic/neuro-inflammation with glial/microglial activation, and low brain BDNF vs. controls. Conventional control vs. vagotomy controls: Vagotomized control mice had a lower colonic dysbiosis than conventional mice but the rest of the hepatic/brain parameters were similar. Conventional cirrhosis vs. vagotomized cirrhosis: After vagotomy + cirrhosis, we found lower dysbiosis but continuing neuroinflammation in the absence of glial/microglial activation vs. conventional cirrhosis. Vagotomy + Cirrhosis groups showed higher hepatic steatosis due to higher SREBP1 and low Insig2 protein and altered activation of key genes involved in hepatic lipid metabolism and inflammation. BDNF levels in the brain were higher but low in the liver in vagotomy + cirrhosis, likely a protective mechanism. CONCLUSIONS Hepatic vagal innervation affects the gut microbial composition, hepatic inflammation and steatosis, and cortical inflammation and BDNF expression and could be a critical modulator of the gut-liver-brain axis with consequences for HE development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Zhang
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Central Virginia Veterans Health Care System, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Jason D. Kang
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Central Virginia Veterans Health Care System, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Derrick Zhao
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Central Virginia Veterans Health Care System, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Siddartha S. Ghosh
- Division of Nephrology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Yanyan Wang
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Central Virginia Veterans Health Care System, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Yunling Tai
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Central Virginia Veterans Health Care System, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Javier Gonzalez-Maeso
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Masoumeh Sikaroodi
- Microbiome Analysis Center, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, United States
| | - Patrick M. Gillevet
- Microbiome Analysis Center, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, United States
| | - H. Robert Lippman
- Department of Pathology, Central Virginia Veterans Health Care System, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Phillip B. Hylemon
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Central Virginia Veterans Health Care System, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Huiping Zhou
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Central Virginia Veterans Health Care System, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Jasmohan S. Bajaj
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Central Virginia Veterans Health Care System, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
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50
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Milewski K, Czarnecka AM, Albrecht J, Zielińska M. Decreased Expression and Uncoupling of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase in the Cerebral Cortex of Rats with Thioacetamide-Induced Acute Liver Failure. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6662. [PMID: 34206365 PMCID: PMC8268495 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute liver failure (ALF) is associated with deregulated nitric oxide (NO) signaling in the brain, which is one of the key molecular abnormalities leading to the neuropsychiatric disorder called hepatic encephalopathy (HE). This study focuses on the effect of ALF on the relatively unexplored endothelial NOS isoform (eNOS). The cerebral prefrontal cortices of rats with thioacetamide (TAA)-induced ALF showed decreased eNOS expression, which resulted in an overall reduction of NOS activity. ALF also decreased the content of the NOS cofactor, tetrahydro-L-biopterin (BH4), and evoked eNOS uncoupling (reduction of the eNOS dimer/monomer ratio). The addition of the NO precursor L-arginine in the absence of BH4 potentiated ROS accumulation, whereas nonspecific NOS inhibitor L-NAME or EDTA attenuated ROS increase. The ALF-induced decrease of eNOS content and its uncoupling concurred with, and was likely causally related to, both increased brain content of reactive oxidative species (ROS) and decreased cerebral cortical blood flow (CBF) in the same model.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Magdalena Zielińska
- Department of Neurotoxicology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 5 Pawińskiego Str, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland; (K.M.); (A.M.C.); (J.A.)
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