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Sandgren JA, Tung ML, Berrebi KG, Saade DN, Bermick JR, Lee SS, Stanford AH. A Severe Reaction After Phototherapy in a Neonate With X-Linked Protoporphyria. Pediatrics 2024; 154:e2023064724. [PMID: 39054943 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2023-064724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Protoporphyria is a subtype of porphyria characterized primarily by painful phototoxic skin reactions after light exposure at specific wavelengths. Historically, phototherapy is not contraindicated in patients with protoporphyria since there have not been any reports of phototoxic reactions. However, patients with protoporphyria are advised to avoid direct sunlight. In this case report, we describe a neonate not known to have X-linked protoporphyria who received phototherapy for 1 to 2 hours. Within hours after initiation of phototherapy, this neonate developed a life-threatening reaction consisting of rash over the distribution of phototherapy, acute liver failure with coagulopathy, diffuse hypotonia with diaphragmatic failure, and subsequent acute respiratory failure that required mechanical ventilation. As in this case, patients with protoporphyria-related acute liver failure can have signs and symptoms similar to that of an acute hepatic porphyria attack. Neither neonatal reactions to phototherapy nor liver failure temporally associated with phototherapy have been reported in patients with X-linked protoporphyria. Early recognition of this entity is crucial in light of potential life-threatening complications. Therefore, providers must react quickly when neonates have abnormal reactions to phototherapy and consider protoporphyria in the differential diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kristen G Berrebi
- Department of Dermatology and Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
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2
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Poli A, Schmitt C, Puy H, Talbi N, Lefebvre T, Gouya L. Erythropoietic protoporphyrias: updates and advances. Trends Mol Med 2024:S1471-4914(24)00128-X. [PMID: 38890030 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2024.05.006] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Protoporphyrias are caused by pathogenic variants in genes encoding enzymes involved in heme biosynthesis. They induce the accumulation of a hydrophobic phototoxic compound, protoporphyrin (PPIX), in red blood cells (RBCs). PPIX is responsible for painful cutaneous photosensitivity, which severely impairs quality of life. Hepatic elimination of PPIX increases the risk of cholestatic liver disease, requiring lifelong monitoring. Treatment options are scarce and mainly limited to supportive care such as protection from visible light. Here, we review the pathophysiology of protoporphyrias, their diagnosis, and current recommendations for medical care. We discuss new therapeutic strategies, some of which are currently undergoing clinical trials and are likely to radically alter the severity of the disease in the years to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Poli
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1149, Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation, Paris, France; Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares Porphyries, Hôpital Louis Mourier, Colombes, France; Laboratory of excellence Gr-Ex, Paris, France.
| | - Caroline Schmitt
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1149, Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation, Paris, France; Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares Porphyries, Hôpital Louis Mourier, Colombes, France; Laboratory of excellence Gr-Ex, Paris, France
| | - Hervé Puy
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1149, Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation, Paris, France; Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares Porphyries, Hôpital Louis Mourier, Colombes, France; Laboratory of excellence Gr-Ex, Paris, France
| | - Neila Talbi
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1149, Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation, Paris, France
| | - Thibaud Lefebvre
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1149, Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation, Paris, France
| | - Laurent Gouya
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1149, Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation, Paris, France; Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares Porphyries, Hôpital Louis Mourier, Colombes, France; Laboratory of excellence Gr-Ex, Paris, France
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Lissing M, Wang B, Wahlin S. Liver transplantation and primary liver cancer in porphyria. Liver Int 2024. [PMID: 38456621 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15894] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
The porphyrias are a heterogeneous group of metabolic disorders that result from defects in heme synthesis. The metabolic defects are present in all cells, but symptoms are mainly cutaneous or related to neuropathy. The porphyrias are highly relevant to hepatologists since patients can present with symptoms and complications that require liver transplantation (LT), and some porphyrias are associated with a high risk for primary liver cancer (PLC). Among the cutaneous porphyrias, erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) can lead to cholestatic liver failure where LT cures the liver disease but not the porphyria. In acute porphyria (AP), neurotoxic porphyrin precursors are produced in the liver and LT is a curative treatment option in patients with recurrent severe neuropathic attacks. Patients with AP, mainly acute intermittent porphyria, have a significantly increased risk for PLC that warrants surveillance and adequate follow-up of high-risk groups. LT is well established in both EPP with liver failure and AP with recurrent attacks, but most transplant centres have little porphyria experience and cooperation between transplant hepatologists, and porphyria experts is important in the often-difficult decisions on timing and management of comorbid conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattias Lissing
- Hepatology Division, Department of Upper GI Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine, Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bruce Wang
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Staffan Wahlin
- Hepatology Division, Department of Upper GI Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine, Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Portich JP, Ribeiro AS, Rodrigues Taniguchi AN, Backes A, de Souza CFM, Kieling CO, Scherer FF, de Oliveira Poswar F, Leipnitz I, Doederlein Schwartz IV, Sekine L, Rigoni LDC, Marquardt da Silveira L, de Almeida Furlanetto M, Adami MR, Breunig RC, Guedes RR, do Amaral SN, Gonçalves Vieira SM, de Brum Soares T, Silva TO, da Rocha Silla LM, Astigarraga CC, Paz AA, Daudt LE. Consecutive Liver and Bone Marrow Transplantation for Erythropoietic Protoporphyria: Case Report and Literature Review. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2023; 45:416-422. [PMID: 37539993 DOI: 10.1097/mph.0000000000002738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is a rare inherited disease of heme biosynthesis resulting in the accumulation of protoporphyrin, characterized by liver failure in a minority of cases. Although liver transplant (LT) is the therapeutic strategy for advanced hepatic disease, it does not correct the primary defect, which leads to recurrence in liver graft. Thus, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is an approach for treating EPP. METHODS We aim to describe the first sequential LT and HSCT for EPP performed in Latin America, besides reviewing the present-day literature. RESULTS The patient, a 13-year-old female with a history of photosensitivity, presented with symptoms of cholestatic and hepatopulmonary syndrome and was diagnosed with EPP. Liver biopsy demonstrated cirrhosis. She was submitted to a successful LT and showed improvement of respiratory symptoms. However, she had disease recurrence on the liver graft. She underwent a myeloablative HSCT using a matched unrelated donor, conditioning with BuCy (busulfan and cyclophosphamide), and GvHD (graft vs. host disease) prophylaxis with ATG (thymoglobulin), tacrolimus and methotrexate. Neutrophil engraftment occurred on D+18. She has presented mixed chimerism, but normalization of PP levels, being 300 days after HSCT, in good state of health and normal liver function. CONCLUSIONS Consecutive LT and HSCT for EPP is a procedure that has been described in 10 cases in the literature and, even though these patients are a highly diversified population, studies have shown favorable results. This concept of treatment should be considered in patients with established liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Carlos Oscar Kieling
- Children Liver Transplantation Program
- Digestive Surgery Service, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre
| | | | | | - Ian Leipnitz
- Hemotherapy
- Digestive Surgery Service, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre
| | | | - Leo Sekine
- Post-Graduation Program in Child's Health, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Luciana Marquardt da Silveira
- Departments of Bone Marrow Transplantation
- Post-Graduation Program in Child's Health, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Marina Rossato Adami
- Children Liver Transplantation Program
- Digestive Surgery Service, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre
| | - Raquel Cristine Breunig
- Post-Graduation Program in Child's Health, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Renata Rostirola Guedes
- Children Liver Transplantation Program
- Digestive Surgery Service, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre
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Minder AE, Schneider-Yin X, Zulewski H, Minder CE, Minder EI. Afamelanotide Is Associated with Dose-Dependent Protective Effect from Liver Damage Related to Erythropoietic Protoporphyria. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13041066. [PMID: 37109595 PMCID: PMC10143433 DOI: 10.3390/life13041066] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In animal models, melanocyte-stimulating hormones (MSHs) protect the liver from various injuries. Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a metabolic disorder, leads to the accumulation of protoporphyrin (PPIX). In addition to the most prominent symptom of incapacitating phototoxic skin reactions, 20% of EPP patients exhibit disturbed liver functioning and 4% experience terminal liver failure caused by the hepatobiliary elimination of excess PPIX. Skin symptoms are mitigated through the application of the controlled-release implant afamelanotide, an α-MSH analog, every sixty days. Recently, we showed that liver function tests (LFTs) improved during afamelanotide treatment when compared to before treatment. The present study investigated whether this effect is dose-dependent, as the evidence of dose dependency would support a beneficial influence of afamelanotide. METHODS In this retrospective observational study, we included 2933 liver-function tests, 1186 PPIX concentrations and 1659 afamelanotide implant applications in 70 EPP patients. We investigated whether the number of days since the preceding afamelanotide dose or the number of doses during the preceding 365 days had an effect on LFTs and PPIX levels. In addition, we assessed the effect of global radiation. RESULTS Inter-patient differences exerted the most prominent effect on PPIX and LFTs. In addition, PPIX increased significantly with an increase in the number of days since the last afamelanotide implant (p < 0.0001). ALAT and bilirubin decreased significantly with an increasing number of afamelanotide doses in the preceding 365 days (p = 0.012, p = 0.0299, respectively). Global radiation only influenced PPIX (p = 0.0113). CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that afamelanotide ameliorates both PPIX concentrations and LFTs in EPP in a dose-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Elisabeth Minder
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology, Porphyria and Clinical Nutrition, Stadtspital Zürich, Triemli, 8063 Zurich, Switzerland
- Swiss Reference Centre for Porphyrias, Stadtspital Zürich, Triemli, 8063 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Xiaoye Schneider-Yin
- Swiss Reference Centre for Porphyrias, Stadtspital Zürich, Triemli, 8063 Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Stadtspital Zürich, Triemli, 8063 Zurich, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, 8006 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Henryk Zulewski
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology, Porphyria and Clinical Nutrition, Stadtspital Zürich, Triemli, 8063 Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE), ETH, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, 4001 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christoph E Minder
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Elisabeth I Minder
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology, Porphyria and Clinical Nutrition, Stadtspital Zürich, Triemli, 8063 Zurich, Switzerland
- Swiss Reference Centre for Porphyrias, Stadtspital Zürich, Triemli, 8063 Zurich, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, 8006 Zurich, Switzerland
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Abstract
Porphyrias are disorders of the haem biosynthesis which are encountered infrequently and which often present themselves atypically as a combination of gastrointestinal, neurologic and/or dermatologic symptoms. Although they are primarily caused by enzyme defects, inheritance patterns are mostly not evident. Considering all of these characteristics, it is not surprising that there is a long delay between the onset of symptoms and the diagnosis of the disease, with as possible consequences impaired quality of life, irreversible neurologic damage and even death. This review aims to increase the clinical suspicion of the three most common porphyrias in adults: acute intermittent porphyria (AIP), porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) and protoporphyria. Their relevant pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis and treatment are discussed aiming at increasing the awareness of these diseases among physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Heymans
- Department of General Internal Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Obi CD, Bhuiyan T, Dailey HA, Medlock AE. Ferrochelatase: Mapping the Intersection of Iron and Porphyrin Metabolism in the Mitochondria. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:894591. [PMID: 35646904 PMCID: PMC9133952 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.894591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Porphyrin and iron are ubiquitous and essential for sustaining life in virtually all living organisms. Unlike iron, which exists in many forms, porphyrin macrocycles are mostly functional as metal complexes. The iron-containing porphyrin, heme, serves as a prosthetic group in a wide array of metabolic pathways; including respiratory cytochromes, hemoglobin, cytochrome P450s, catalases, and other hemoproteins. Despite playing crucial roles in many biological processes, heme, iron, and porphyrin intermediates are potentially cytotoxic. Thus, the intersection of porphyrin and iron metabolism at heme synthesis, and intracellular trafficking of heme and its porphyrin precursors are tightly regulated processes. In this review, we discuss recent advances in understanding the physiological dynamics of eukaryotic ferrochelatase, a mitochondrially localized metalloenzyme. Ferrochelatase catalyzes the terminal step of heme biosynthesis, the insertion of ferrous iron into protoporphyrin IX to produce heme. In most eukaryotes, except plants, ferrochelatase is localized to the mitochondrial matrix, where substrates are delivered and heme is synthesized for trafficking to multiple cellular locales. Herein, we delve into the structural and functional features of ferrochelatase, as well as its metabolic regulation in the mitochondria. We discuss the regulation of ferrochelatase via post-translational modifications, transportation of substrates and product across the mitochondrial membrane, protein-protein interactions, inhibition by small-molecule inhibitors, and ferrochelatase in protozoal parasites. Overall, this review presents insight on mitochondrial heme homeostasis from the perspective of ferrochelatase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chibuike David Obi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Tawhid Bhuiyan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Harry A. Dailey
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Amy E. Medlock
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
- Augusta University/University of Georgia Medical Partnership, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
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Kunz BC, Center SA, Randolph JF, Walker JD, Choi AE, Anderson KE. Congenital erythropoietic protoporphyria and protoporphyric hepatopathy in a dog. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2021; 257:1148-1156. [PMID: 33226294 DOI: 10.2460/javma.2020.257.11.1148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
CASE DESCRIPTION A 6-month-old sexually intact male Clumber Spaniel was evaluated because of small stature, recurrent dermatitis of the head, and progressive pigmentary hepatopathy. CLINICAL FINDINGS Clinicopathologic findings included nonanemic hypochromic microcytosis, hypocholesterolemia, persistently high serum liver enzyme activities, and anicteric hyperbilirubinemia. Histologic examination of liver biopsy specimens collected when the dog was 6 months and 2 years of age revealed expansion and bridging of portal tracts, occasional centrilobular parenchymal collapse, scattered lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates, and dark red to brown pigment within large aggregates of macrophages, engorged bile canaliculi, and hepatocytes. The pigment failed to stain for the presence of iron, copper, bile, and glycoprotein and, when examined with polarized microscopy, emitted a yellow to green birefringence with occasional Maltese cross configurations. Further analyses confirmed marked porphyrin accumulation in blood, urine, feces, and liver tissue; protoporphyrin accumulation in RBCs and liver tissue; and a signature porphyrin profile and fluorescence peak consistent with erythropoietic protoporphyria. Advanced protoporphyric hepatopathy was diagnosed. The chronic dermatopathy was presumed to reflect protoporphyric photosensitivity. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME Management was focused on avoiding conditions known to induce heme synthesis and catabolism, administrating ursodeoxycholic acid and antioxidants S-adenosylmethionine and vitamin E, and avoiding sunlight exposure. At follow-up at 4 years of age, the dog was stable without evidence of jaundice but with probable persistent erythropoietic protoporphyria-related solar dermatopathy. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Clinical and histologic features of congenital erythropoietic protoporphyria and resultant protoporphyric hepatopathy, the diagnosis, and the successful management of a dog with these conditions over 4 years were described. Veterinarians should consider porphyric syndromes when unusual pigmentary hepatopathies are encountered.
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Minder AE, Barman-Aksoezen J, Schmid M, Minder EI, Zulewski H, Minder CE, Schneider-Yin X. Beyond pigmentation: signs of liver protection during afamelanotide treatment in Swiss patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria, an observational study. THERAPEUTIC ADVANCES IN RARE DISEASE 2021; 2:26330040211065453. [PMID: 37181106 PMCID: PMC10032460 DOI: 10.1177/26330040211065453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is an ultra-rare inherited disorder with overproduction of protoporphyrin in maturating erythroblasts. This excess protoporphyrin leads to incapacitating phototoxic burns in sunlight exposed skin. Its biliary elimination causes cholestatic liver injury in 20% and terminal liver failure in 4% of EPP patients. Thereby, the risk of liver injury increases with increasing erythrocyte protoporphyrin concentrations. Afamelanotide, an α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) analog inducing skin pigmentation, was shown to improve sunlight tolerance in EPP. Beyond this well-known effect on pigmentation, the MSHs have liver-protective effects and improve survival of maturating erythroblasts, effects described in animal or in vitro models to date only. We investigated whether afamelanotide treatment in EPP has effects on erythropoiesis, protoporphyrin concentrations, and liver injury by analyzing retrospectively our long-term safety data. Methods From the 47 Swiss EPP-patients treated at our center since 2006, we included those 38 patients in the current analysis who received at least one afamelanotide dose between 2016 and 2018 and underwent regular laboratory testing before and during the treatment. We compared the means of pretreatment measurements with those during the treatment. Results Protoporphyrin concentrations dropped from 21.39 ± 11.12 (mean ± SD) before afamelanotide to 16.83 ± 8.24 µmol/L (p < .0001) during treatment. Aspartate aminotransferase decreased from 26.67 ± 13.16 to 22.9 ± 7.76 IU/L (p = .0146). For both entities, patients with higher values showed a more progressive decrease, indicating a risk reduction of EPP-related liver disease. The pre-existing hypochromia and broad mean red-cell distribution width were further augmented under afamelanotide. This was more likely due to an influence of afamelanotide on maturating erythroblasts than due to an exacerbated iron deficiency, as mean zinc-protoporphyrin decreased significantly and ferritin remained unchanged. No serious afamelanotide-related adverse events were observed for a total of 240 treatment years. Conclusion Our findings point to a protective effect of afamelanotide on erythroblast maturation and protoporphyrin-induced liver injury. Plain Language summary Afamelanotide, a skin tanning hormone, may protect patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria not only from skin burns, but also from liver injury associated with the disease. Patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), an inherited metabolic disease, suffer from light-induced skin burns and liver injury elicited by the accumulated light sensitizer protoporphyrin. The excess protoporphyrin is produced in red cell precursors in the bone marrow, and it is eliminated from the body via the liver and bile. A high protoporphyrin excretion burden damages the liver cells, the risk for this increases with higher protoporphyrin concentrations. About 20% of EPP patients show some sign of liver injury and 4% develop life-threatening liver dysfunction.Afamelanotide, closely related to natural α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH), induces skin tanning. This effect protects EPP patients from light-induced skin burns as shown in previous studies. We have treated Swiss EPP patients with afamelanotide since 2006, and we regularly perform safety tests of this treatment.Recent in vitro and animal studies demonstrated α-MSH effects other than skin tanning, including an improved synthesis of red blood cell precursors in the bone-marrow and protection of the liver from experimentally induced damage. Until now, it is unknown whether afamelanotide has similar effects in the human organism.To study this question, we analyzed retrospectively the safety laboratory data of 38 Swiss patients, who received at least one dose of afamelanotide from 2016 to 2019. We found that both, the average protoporphyrin concentrations and aspartate aminotransferase, a test for liver function, improved during afamelanotide treatment as compared to before.We concluded that afamelanotide applied to EPP patients to protect them from light-induced skin burns also may reduce their risk of liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Elisabeth Minder
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology,
Porphyria, Stadtspital Zürich, Birmensdorferstrasse 497, 8063 Zurich,
Switzerland
| | | | - Mathias Schmid
- Department of Hematology and Oncology,
Stadtspital Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Elisabeth I. Minder
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology,
Porphyria, Stadtspital Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Henryk Zulewski
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology,
Porphyria, Stadtspital Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christoph E. Minder
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine,
University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Schmidt PJ, Hollowell ML, Fitzgerald K, Butler JS, Fleming MD. Mild iron deficiency does not ameliorate the phenotype of a murine erythropoietic protoporphyria model. Am J Hematol 2020; 95:492-496. [PMID: 31990410 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.25743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 01/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Reduced ferrochelatase activity in erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) causes the accumulation of protoporphyrin IX (PPIX) leading to acute cutaneous photosensitivity and liver injury. Many EPP patients also have a mild hypochromic, microcytic anemia and iron deficiency. Iron deficiency can lead to decreased PPIX accumulation in another erythropoietic porphyria, congenital erythropoietic porphyria (CEP). Expression of the iron regulatory peptide hepcidin is negatively regulated by the serine protease TMPRSS6. Hepcidin induction by siRNA-mediated inhibition of TMPRSS6 expression reduces iron availability and induces iron deficiency. To interrogate the therapeutic potential of iron deficiency to modify EPP, we treated an ethylnitrosourea-induced mouse model of EPP, Fech m1Pas , with a GalNAc-conjugated Tmprss6 siRNA and PPIX levels, anemia and iron parameters were monitored. The GalNAc-RNAi therapeutic reduces Tmprss6 expression and induces mild iron deficiency in Fech m1Pas animals. However, decreases in erythrocyte PPIX levels and liver PPIX accumulation were not seen. These results indicate short-term induction of iron deficiency, at least in a murine model of EPP, does not lead to decreased PPIX production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J. Schmidt
- Department of PathologyBoston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School Boston Massachusetts
| | - Monica L. Hollowell
- Department of PathologyBoston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School Boston Massachusetts
| | | | | | - Mark D. Fleming
- Department of PathologyBoston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School Boston Massachusetts
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11
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Phillips JD. Heme biosynthesis and the porphyrias. Mol Genet Metab 2019; 128:164-177. [PMID: 31326287 PMCID: PMC7252266 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2019.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Porphyrias, is a general term for a group of metabolic diseases that are genetic in nature. In each specific porphyria the activity of specific enzymes in the heme biosynthetic pathway is defective and leads to accumulation of pathway intermediates. Phenotypically, each disease leads to either neurologic and/or photocutaneous symptoms based on the metabolic intermediate that accumulates. In each porphyria the distinct patterns of these substances in plasma, erythrocytes, urine and feces are the basis for diagnostically defining the metabolic defect underlying the clinical observations. Porphyrias may also be classified as either erythropoietic or hepatic, depending on the principal site of accumulation of pathway intermediates. The erythropoietic porphyrias are congenital erythropoietic porphyria (CEP), and erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). The acute hepatic porphyrias include ALA dehydratase deficiency porphyria, acute intermittent porphyria (AIP), hereditary coproporphyria (HCP) and variegate porphyria (VP). Porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) is the only porphyria that has both genetic and/or environmental factors that lead to reduced activity of uroporphyrinogen decarboxylase in the liver. Each of the 8 enzymes in the heme biosynthetic pathway have been associated with a specific porphyria (Table 1). Mutations affecting the erythroid form of ALA synthase (ALAS2) are most commonly associated with X-linked sideroblastic anemia, however, gain-of-function mutations of ALAS2 have also been associated with a variant form of EPP. This overview does not describe the full clinical spectrum of the porphyrias, but is meant to be an overview of the biochemical steps that are required to make heme in both erythroid and non-erythroid cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Phillips
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, United States of America.
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12
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Phillips J, Farrell C, Wang Y, Singal AK, Anderson K, Balwani M, Bissell M, Bonkovsky H, Seay T, Paw B, Desnick R, Bloomer J. Strong correlation of ferrochelatase enzymatic activity with Mitoferrin-1 mRNA in lymphoblasts of patients with protoporphyria. Mol Genet Metab 2019; 128:391-395. [PMID: 30391163 PMCID: PMC7328821 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2018.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Revised: 10/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Accumulation of protoporphyrin IX (PPIX) and Zn-PPIX, are the clinical hallmarks of protoporphyria. Phenotypic expression of protoporphyria is due to decreased activity of ferrochelatase (FECH) or to increased activity of aminolevulinic acid synthase (ALAS) in red blood cells. Other genetic defects have been shown to contribute to disease severity including loss of function mutations in the mitochondrial AAA-ATPase, CLPX and mutations in the Iron-responsive element binding protein 2 (IRP2), in mice. It is clear that multiple paths lead to a common phenotype of excess plasma PPIX that causes a phototoxic reaction on sun exposed areas. In this study we examined the association between mitochondrial iron acquisition and utilization with activity of FECH. Our data show that there is a metabolic link between the activity FECH and levels of MFRN1 mRNA. We examined the correlation between FECH activity and MFRN1 mRNA in cell lines established from patients with the classical protoporphyria, porphyria due to defects in ALAS2 mutations. Our data confirm MFRN1 message levels positively correlated with FECH enzymatic activity in all cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Phillips
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, United States.
| | - Collin Farrell
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Yongming Wang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Ashwani K Singal
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Karl Anderson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Manisha Balwani
- Department of Genetics, Icahn school of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Montgomery Bissell
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University of California in San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Herbert Bonkovsky
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Wake Forest University, United States
| | - Toni Seay
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Barry Paw
- Department of Medicine, Hematology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Robert Desnick
- Department of Genetics, Icahn school of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Joseph Bloomer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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13
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Ardalan ZS, Chandran S, Vasudevan A, Angus PW, Grigg A, He S, Macdonald GA, Strasser SI, Tate CJ, Kennedy GA, Testro AG, Gow PJ. Management of Patients With Erythropoietic Protoporphyria-Related Progressive Liver Disease. Liver Transpl 2019; 25:1620-1633. [PMID: 31469227 DOI: 10.1002/lt.25632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is an inherited metabolic disorder of heme synthesis resulting from overproduction of protoporphyrin IX (PPIX), which can lead to progressive liver disease characterized by recurrent EPP crises and end-stage liver disease. We used the Australian Transplant Registry to identify 5 patients referred for liver transplantation between 2008 and 2017. A total of 4 patients had EPP secondary to ferrochelatase deficiency, and 1 patient had X-linked EPP. No patient had follow-up with a specialist prior to the diagnosis of progressive liver disease. There were 3 patients who underwent orthotopic liver transplantation, whereas 2 died while on the transplant waiting list. Parenteral PPIX-lowering therapy was used in 4 patients and was effective in 3 patients, although 2 of these had rebound porphyria and worsening liver function following a decrease in the intensity of therapy. Early disease recurrence in the allograft following transplantation occurred in 2 patients requiring red cell exchange (RCE) to successfully attain and maintain low PPIX levels, but RCE was associated with hemosiderosis in 1 patient. Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (AlloSCT) was performed in 2 patients. One failed engraftment twice, whereas the second rejected the first graft but achieved full donor chimerism with a second graft and increased immunosuppression. In conclusion, our observations suggest that progressive liver disease needs parenteral PPIX-lowering treatment with the intensity adjusted to achieve a target Erc-PPIX level. Because EPP liver disease is universally recurrent, AlloSCT should be considered in all patients with adequate immunosuppression to facilitate engraftment. RCE appears to be effective for recurrent EPP liver disease but is associated with an increased risk of iron overload.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaid S Ardalan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Liver Transplant, Austin Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Gastroenterology, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sujievvan Chandran
- Department of Gastroenterology and Liver Transplant, Austin Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Abhinav Vasudevan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Peter W Angus
- Department of Gastroenterology and Liver Transplant, Austin Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.,Melbourne University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Andrew Grigg
- Department of Clinical Hematology, Austin Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Simon He
- Department of Clinical Hematology, Austin Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Graeme A Macdonald
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Simone I Strasser
- AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia.,University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Courtney J Tate
- Department of Cancer Care Services, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia.,University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Glen A Kennedy
- Department of Cancer Care Services, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia.,University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Adam G Testro
- Department of Gastroenterology and Liver Transplant, Austin Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Paul J Gow
- Department of Gastroenterology and Liver Transplant, Austin Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
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14
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Stölzel U, Doss MO, Schuppan D. Clinical Guide and Update on Porphyrias. Gastroenterology 2019; 157:365-381.e4. [PMID: 31085196 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2019.04.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Revised: 04/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Physicians should be aware of porphyrias, which could be responsible for unexplained gastrointestinal, neurologic, or skin disorders. Despite their relative rarity and complexity, most porphyrias can be easily defined and diagnosed. They are caused by well-characterized enzyme defects in the complex heme biosynthetic pathway and are divided into categories of acute vs non-acute or hepatic vs erythropoietic porphyrias. Acute hepatic porphyrias (acute intermittent porphyria, variegate porphyria, hereditary coproporphyria, and aminolevulinic acid dehydratase deficient porphyria) manifest in attacks and are characterized by overproduction of porphyrin precursors, producing often serious abdominal, psychiatric, neurologic, or cardiovascular symptoms. Patients with variegate porphyria and hereditary coproporphyria can present with skin photosensitivity. Diagnosis relies on measurement of increased urinary 5-aminolevulinic acid (in patients with aminolevulinic acid dehydratase deficient porphyria) or increased 5-aminolevulinic acid and porphobilinogen (in patients with other acute porphyrias). Management of attacks requires intensive care, strict avoidance of porphyrinogenic drugs and other precipitating factors, caloric support, and often heme therapy. The non-acute porphyrias are porphyria cutanea tarda, erythropoietic protoporphyria, X-linked protoporphyria, and the rare congenital erythropoietic porphyria. They lead to the accumulation of porphyrins that cause skin photosensitivity and occasionally severe liver damage. Secondary elevated urinary or blood porphyrins can occur in patients without porphyria, for example, in liver diseases, or iron deficiency. Increases in porphyrin precursors and porphyrins are also found in patients with lead intoxication. Patients with porphyria cutanea tarda benefit from iron depletion, hydroxychloroquine therapy, and, if applicable, elimination of the hepatitis C virus. An α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analogue can reduce sunlight sensitivity in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria or X-linked protoporphyria. Strategies to address dysregulated or dysfunctional steps within the heme biosynthetic pathway are in development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Stölzel
- Saxony Porphyria Center, Department of Internal Medicine II, Klinikum Chemnitz, Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Manfred O Doss
- German Competence Center for Porphyria Diagnosis and Consultation, Marburg, Germany; Institute of Translational Immunology and Research Center for Immune Therapy, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Detlef Schuppan
- Institute of Translational Immunology and Research Center for Immune Therapy, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany; Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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15
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A Novel FECH Mutation Causes Erythropoietic Protoporphyria with Severe Liver Dysfunction. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2018. [DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon.80767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
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16
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Coffey A, Leung DH, Quintanilla NM. Erythropoietic Protoporphyria: Initial Diagnosis With Cholestatic Liver Disease. Pediatrics 2018; 141:S445-S450. [PMID: 29610169 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2016-1625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The porphyrias are a group of rare metabolic disorders that result from defects in heme biosynthesis. Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is the most common inherited porphyria in children and is diagnosed in most individuals after the onset of cutaneous manifestations. Hepatobiliary disease affects the minority of individuals with EPP and usually manifests in patients with an established diagnosis of EPP. We report on a classic but rare case of EPP that masqueraded as cholestasis. An 8-year-old boy was referred to the Hepatology Clinic after an abrupt onset of jaundice with a longstanding history of dermatitis. The diagnosis of EPP was established with liver biopsy, which revealed dense, dark-brown pigment in hepatocytes and Kupffer cells that, on polarization, displayed bright-red birefringence and centrally located Maltese crosses. Plasma total porphyrins and erythrocyte protoporphyrin were elevated and confirmed a diagnosis of EPP. We hope to raise awareness of this diagnosis among pediatricians, hepatologists, and pathologists and increase the consideration of EPP in patients with cholestatic liver disease and chronic dermatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Coffey
- Departments of Pathology and Immunology and.,Department of Pathology, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Daniel H Leung
- Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas; and.,Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition and
| | - Norma M Quintanilla
- Departments of Pathology and Immunology and .,Department of Pathology, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas
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17
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Yoshida A, Hagiwara S, Watanabe T, Nishida N, Ida H, Sakurai T, Komeda Y, Yamao K, Takenaka M, Enoki E, Kimura M, Miyake M, Kawada A, Kudo M. Erythropoietic Protoporphyria-related Hepatopathy Successfully Treated with Phlebotomy. Intern Med 2018; 57:2505-2509. [PMID: 30175727 PMCID: PMC6172546 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.0673-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
A 27-year-old man bearing an erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP)-associated ferrochelatase (FECH) mutation was admitted to our hospital for general malaise and marked elevation of the serum levels of hepatobiliary enzymes and bilirubin. Initial treatment with plasma exchange did not reduce the blood protoporphyrin or serum liver enzyme levels, so phlebotomy was started. Surprisingly, weekly phlebotomy normalized the serum levels of liver enzymes, accompanied by a marked reduction in the blood protoporphyrin levels. The clinical course of this case strongly suggests that phlebotomy may be a suitable treatment option for EPP-related hepatopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiro Yoshida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
| | - Satoru Hagiwara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Watanabe
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
| | - Naoshi Nishida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
| | - Toshiharu Sakurai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
| | - Yoriaki Komeda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
| | - Kentaro Yamao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
| | - Mamoru Takenaka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
| | - Eisuke Enoki
- Department of Pathology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
| | - Masatomo Kimura
- Department of Pathology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
| | - Masako Miyake
- Department of Dermatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
| | - Akira Kawada
- Department of Dermatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Kudo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
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18
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Barman-Aksözen J, C Wiek P, Bansode VB, Koentgen F, Trüb J, Pelczar P, Cinelli P, Schneider-Yin X, Schümperli D, Minder EI. Modeling the ferrochelatase c.315-48C modifier mutation for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) in mice. Dis Model Mech 2017; 10:225-233. [PMID: 28093505 PMCID: PMC5374324 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.027755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Accepted: 12/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is caused by deficiency of ferrochelatase (FECH), which incorporates iron into protoporphyrin IX (PPIX) to form heme. Excitation of accumulated PPIX by light generates oxygen radicals that evoke excessive pain and, after longer light exposure, cause ulcerations in exposed skin areas of individuals with EPP. Moreover, ∼5% of the patients develop a liver dysfunction as a result of PPIX accumulation. Most patients (∼97%) have a severe FECH mutation (Mut) in trans to an intronic polymorphism (c.315-48C), which reduces ferrochelatase synthesis by stimulating the use of an aberrant 3′ splice site 63 nt upstream of the normal site for exon 4. In contrast, with the predominant c.315-48T allele, the correct splice site is mostly used, and individuals with a T/Mut genotype do not develop EPP symptoms. Thus, the C allele is a potential target for therapeutic approaches that modify this splicing decision. To provide a model for pre-clinical studies of such approaches, we engineered a mouse containing a partly humanized Fech gene with the c.315-48C polymorphism. F1 hybrids obtained by crossing these mice with another inbred line carrying a severe Fech mutation (named m1Pas) show a very strong EPP phenotype that includes elevated PPIX in the blood, enlargement of liver and spleen, anemia, as well as strong pain reactions and skin lesions after a short period of light exposure. In addition to the expected use of the aberrant splice site, the mice also show a strong skipping of the partly humanized exon 3. This will limit the use of this model for certain applications and illustrates that engineering of a hybrid gene may have unforeseeable consequences on its splicing. Summary: A new mouse model reproduces the predominant genetic disposition of patients affected by erythropoietic protoporphyria, a rare disease associated with extreme pain after light exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Barman-Aksözen
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Municipal Hospital Triemli, Zürich 8063, Switzerland
| | - Paulina C Wiek
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Bern 3012, Switzerland
| | - Vijay B Bansode
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Bern 3012, Switzerland
| | | | - Judith Trüb
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Bern 3012, Switzerland
| | - Pawel Pelczar
- Center for Transgenic Models, University of Basel, Basel 4002, Switzerland
| | - Paolo Cinelli
- Division of Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Zürich, Zürich 8091, Switzerland
| | - Xiaoye Schneider-Yin
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Municipal Hospital Triemli, Zürich 8063, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Schümperli
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Bern 3012, Switzerland
| | - Elisabeth I Minder
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Municipal Hospital Triemli, Zürich 8063, Switzerland .,Porphyria Outpatient Clinics, Municipal Hospital Triemli, Zürich 8063, Switzerland
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19
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Minder EI, Barman-Aksoezen J, Nydegger M, Schneider-Yin X. Existing therapies and therapeutic targets for erythropoietic protoporphyria. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2016. [DOI: 10.1517/21678707.2016.1171137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth I. Minder
- Porphyria Outpatient Clinics, Stadtspital Triemli, Zürich, Switzerland
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Stadtspital Triemli, Zürich, Switzerland
- Institute of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Stadtspital Triemli, Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | - Michèle Nydegger
- Porphyria Outpatient Clinics, Stadtspital Triemli, Zürich, Switzerland
- Institute of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Stadtspital Triemli, Zürich, Switzerland
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20
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Sachar M, Anderson KE, Ma X. Protoporphyrin IX: the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2015; 356:267-75. [PMID: 26588930 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.115.228130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Protoporphyrin IX (PPIX) is ubiquitously present in all living cells in small amounts as a precursor of heme. PPIX has some biologic functions of its own, and PPIX-based strategies have been used for cancer diagnosis and treatment (the good). PPIX serves as the substrate for ferrochelatase, the final enzyme in heme biosynthesis, and its homeostasis is tightly regulated during heme synthesis. Accumulation of PPIX in human porphyrias can cause skin photosensitivity, biliary stones, hepatobiliary damage, and even liver failure (the bad and the ugly). In this work, we review the mechanisms that are associated with the broad aspects of PPIX. Because PPIX is a hydrophobic molecule, its disposition is by hepatic rather than renal excretion. Large amounts of PPIX are toxic to the liver and can cause cholestatic liver injury. Application of PPIX in cancer diagnosis and treatment is based on its photodynamic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhav Sachar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Pharmacogenetics, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (M.S., X.M.); and Department of Preventive Medicine and Community Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas (K.E.A.)
| | - Karl E Anderson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Pharmacogenetics, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (M.S., X.M.); and Department of Preventive Medicine and Community Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas (K.E.A.)
| | - Xiaochao Ma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Pharmacogenetics, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (M.S., X.M.); and Department of Preventive Medicine and Community Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas (K.E.A.)
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21
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Barman-Aksözen J, Minder EI, Schubiger C, Biolcati G, Schneider-Yin X. In ferrochelatase-deficient protoporphyria patients, ALAS2 expression is enhanced and erythrocytic protoporphyrin concentration correlates with iron availability. Blood Cells Mol Dis 2015; 54:71-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2014.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2014] [Accepted: 07/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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22
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Singal AK, Parker C, Bowden C, Thapar M, Liu L, McGuire BM. Liver transplantation in the management of porphyria. Hepatology 2014; 60:1082-9. [PMID: 24700519 PMCID: PMC4498564 DOI: 10.1002/hep.27086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2013] [Accepted: 02/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Porphyrias are a group of eight metabolic disorders, each resulting from a mutation that affects an enzyme of the heme biosynthetic pathway. Porphyrias are classified as hepatic or erythropoietic, depending upon the site where the gene defect is predominantly expressed. Clinical phenotypes are classified as follows: (1) acute porphyrias with neurovisceral symptoms: acute intermittent porphyria; delta amino-levulinic acid hydratase deficiency porphyria; hereditary coproporphyria; and variegate porphyria and (2) cutaneous porphyrias with skin blistering and photosensitivity: porphyria cutanea tarda; congenital erythropoietic porphyria; hepatoerythropoietic porphyria and both erythropoietic protoporphyrias: autosomal dominant and X-linked. Liver transplantation (LT) may be needed for recurrent and/or life-threatening acute attack in acute intermittent porphyria or acute liver failure or end-stage chronic liver disease in erythropoietic protoporphyria. LT in acute intermittent porphyria is curative. Erythropoietic protoporphyria patients needing LT should be considered for bone marrow transplantation to achieve cure. CONCLUSION This article provides an overview of porphyria with diagnostic approaches and management strategies for specific porphyrias and recommendations for LT with indications, pretransplant evaluation, and posttransplant management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwani K. Singal
- the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Alabama (UAB), Birmingham, AL
| | - Charles Parker
- Division of Hematology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | | | - Manish Thapar
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Lawrence Liu
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Brendan M. McGuire
- the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Alabama (UAB), Birmingham, AL
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23
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Colombo F, Rossetti M, Méndez M, Martínez J, Enríquez de Salamanca R, del C. Batlle A, Parera V. Functional associations of genetic variants involved in the clinical manifestation of erythropoietic protoporphyria in the Argentinean population. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2012; 27:754-62. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-3083.2012.04566.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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24
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Wahlin S, Stal P, Adam R, Karam V, Porte R, Seehofer D, Gunson BK, Hillingsø J, Klempnauer JL, Schmidt J, Alexander G, O'Grady J, Clavien PA, Salizzoni M, Paul A, Rolles K, Ericzon BG, Harper P. Liver transplantation for erythropoietic protoporphyria in Europe. Liver Transpl 2011; 17:1021-6. [PMID: 21604355 DOI: 10.1002/lt.22341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Liver transplantation is an established lifesaving treatment for patients with severe protoporphyric liver disease, but disease recurrence in the graft occurs for the majority of recipients. Severe burn injuries may occur when protective light filters are not used with surgical luminaires. Motor neuropathy with an unclear pathogenesis is a frequent complication. We retrospectively studied 35 transplants performed for protoporphyric liver disease in 31 European patients between 1983 and 2008. Most of the patients were male (61.3%), and the mean age at the time of primary transplantation was 39 years (range = 9-60 years). The overall patient survival rates were 77% at 1 year and 66% at 5 and 10 years. The overall rate of disease recurrence in the graft was 69%. Forty-three percent of the patients experienced recurrence within a year, but this was often a transient finding that was associated with other graft complications. Phototoxic injuries due to surgical luminaires were seen in 25.0% of the patients who were not protected by filters, but these injuries were not seen in the 9 patients who were protected by filters. Significant motor neuropathies requiring prolonged ventilation complicated the postoperative course for 5 of the 31 patients (16.1%). Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation was performed for 3 patients to prevent graft loss due to disease recurrence. Prognostic markers are needed to identify patients prone to severe protoporphyric liver disease so that curative stem cell transplantation can be offered to select patients instead of liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Staffan Wahlin
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
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25
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Abnormal mitoferrin-1 expression in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria. Exp Hematol 2011; 39:784-94. [PMID: 21627978 DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2011.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2011] [Revised: 04/08/2011] [Accepted: 04/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Most patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria have deficient ferrochelatase (FECH) activity due to changes in FECH DNA. We evaluated seven patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria phenotype in whom abnormalities of FECH DNA were not found by conventional analysis. The major focus was mitoferrin-1 (MFRN1), the mitochondrial transporter of Fe used for heme formation by FECH and for 2Fe2S cluster synthesis, which is critical to FECH activity/stability. MATERIALS AND METHODS Four patients had a deletion in ALAS2 that causes enzyme gain-of-function, resulting in increased formation of protoporphyrin; one had a heterozygous major deletion in FECH DNA. All had an abnormal transcript of MFRN1 in messenger RNA extracted from blood leukocytes and/or liver tissue. The abnormal transcript contained an insert of intron 2 that had a stop codon. The consequences of abnormal MFRN1 expression were examined using zebrafish and yeast MFRN-deficient strains and cultured lymphoblasts from the patients. RESULTS Abnormal human MFRN1 complementary DNA showed loss-of-function in zebrafish and yeast mutants, whereas normal human MFRN1 complementary DNA rescued both. Using cultured lymphoblasts, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction showed increased formation of abnormal transcript that was accompanied by decreased formation of normal transcript and reduced FECH activity in patients compared to normal lines. A positive correlation coefficient (0.75) was found between FECH activity and normal MFRN1 messenger RNA in lymphoblasts. However, no obvious cause for increased formation of abnormal transcript was identified in MFRN1 exons and splice junctions. CONCLUSIONS Abnormal MFRN1 expression can contribute to erythropoietic protoporphyria phenotype in some patients, probably by causing a reduction in FECH activity.
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Dowman JK, Gunson BK, Mirza DF, Badminton MN, Newsome PN. UK experience of liver transplantation for erythropoietic protoporphyria. J Inherit Metab Dis 2011; 34:539-45. [PMID: 21301964 PMCID: PMC3101349 DOI: 10.1007/s10545-010-9272-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2010] [Revised: 12/02/2010] [Accepted: 12/23/2010] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is characterised by excess production of free protoporphyrin from the bone marrow, most commonly due to deficiency of the enzyme ferrochelatase. Excess protoporphyrin gives rise to the cutaneous photosensitivity characteristic of the disease, and in a minority of patients leads to end-stage liver disease necessitating liver transplantation (LT). There is limited information regarding the timing, impact and long-term outcome of LT in such patients, thus we aimed to identify the indications and outcomes of all transplants performed for EPP in the UK using data from the UK Transplant Registry. Between 1987 and 2009, five patients underwent LT for EPP liver disease. Median follow-up was 60 months, and there were two deaths at 44 and 95 months from causes unrelated to liver disease. The remaining recipients are alive at 22.4 years, 61 months and 55 months after transplant. A high rate of postoperative biliary stricturing requiring multiple biliary interventions was observed. Recurrent EPP-liver disease occurred in 4/5 (80%) of patients but graft failure has not been observed. Given the role of biliary obstruction in inducing EPP-mediated liver damage, we suggest that consideration should be given for construction of a Roux loop at the time of transplant. Thus we demonstrate that although EPP liver transplant recipients have a good long-term survival, comparable to patients undergoing LT for other indications, biliary complications and disease recurrence are almost universal, and bone marrow transplantation should be considered where possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna K. Dowman
- Centre for Liver Research, 5th floor, Institute of Biomedical Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- The Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TH UK
| | - Briget K. Gunson
- Centre for Liver Research, 5th floor, Institute of Biomedical Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- The Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TH UK
| | - Darius F. Mirza
- The Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TH UK
| | - Mike N. Badminton
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14 4XN UK
| | - Philip N. Newsome
- Centre for Liver Research, 5th floor, Institute of Biomedical Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- The Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TH UK
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Minder EI, Haldemann AR, Schneider-Yin X. Exacerbation of erythropoietic protoporphyria by hyperthyroidism. J Inherit Metab Dis 2010; 33 Suppl 3:S465-9. [PMID: 21069463 DOI: 10.1007/s10545-010-9234-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2010] [Revised: 10/06/2010] [Accepted: 10/14/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is a hereditary disorder caused by deficiency of ferrochelatase, the last enzyme in the heme biosynthetic pathway. The majority of EPP patients present with a clinical symptom of painful phototoxicity. Liver damage, the most serious complication of EPP, occurs in <5% of the patients. This report describes a case of an EPP patient who complained of worsening cutaneous symptoms, nervousness, and insomnia. Laboratory tests showed highly increased protoporphyrin concentration in erythrocytes and elevated serum transaminases that are indicative of EPP-related liver damage. The subsequent finding of decreased serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and increased free triiodothyronine (FT3) and free thyroxine (FT4) concentrations, as well antibodies against both thyroid peroxidase (TPO) and TSH receptors, led to the diagnosis of Graves' disease. The patient received 500 MBq of radioiodine (I(131)). Three months after the radioactive iodine therapy, the thyroid volume was reduced to 30% of pretherapeutic volume. Although the patient was slightly hypothyroidic, his liver enzymes returned to normal, his erythrocytic protoporphyrin concentration dropped fivefold, and his skin symptoms improved dramatically. The coexistence of Graves' disease and EPP is a statistically rare event as, besides our patient, there was one additional case reported in the literature. Although the exact mechanism whereby Graves' disease interacts with EPP is yet to be explored, we recommend testing thyroid function in EPP patients with liver complication to exclude hyperthyroidism as a potential cause.
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Minder EI, Schneider-Yin X, Minder CE. Patient-recorded outcome to assess therapeutic efficacy in protoporphyria-induced dermal phototoxicity: a proposal. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2010; 8:60. [PMID: 20565969 PMCID: PMC2905349 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7525-8-60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2009] [Accepted: 06/21/2010] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Protoporphyria (PP) resulting from two rare, inherited diseases of heme biosynthesis leads to dermal phototoxicity by accumulation of the heme precursor protoporphyrin IX. No standardized tools to quantify the degree of PP-related phototoxicity and its change by medical intervention have been published. Methods Results from a questionnaire completed by 17 affected individuals were used to determine the relative importance of two main components of PP-related phototoxicity, skin pain and sunlight exposure time, with respect to the effectiveness of any particular medical treatment. Results Inter-rater reliability was 0.71 (n = 490), repeated estimates by four identical individuals showed high reproducibility (Slope = 1, intercept = 0, n = 136, Passing-Bablock). Six different models were developed, three of them showed good correlation with effectiveness estimates. Data from an unpublished trial indicated that the model with highest potential of responsiveness was the so called "Exposure times [multiplied by] Freedom from Pain" (ETFP). The minimal clinically important difference (MID) was 15 (10.2-20.4) ETFP scores, representing 28% of the standard deviation of the clinical trial data and 2.9% of its total range. Conclusions Among the six models proposed to assess the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions in PP the ETFP model demonstrates the highest sensitivity using the existing data from a clinical trial of afamelanotide in PP. The results of this study have provided sufficient validation of the ETFP model that is likely to prove useful in future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth I Minder
- Stadtspital Triemli, Zentrallabor, Birmensdorferstrasse 497, CH-8063 Zürich, Switzerland.
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Abstract
Hereditary porphyrias are a group of eight metabolic disorders of the haem biosynthesis pathway that are characterised by acute neurovisceral symptoms, skin lesions, or both. Every porphyria is caused by abnormal function of a separate enzymatic step, resulting in a specific accumulation of haem precursors. Seven porphyrias are the result of a partial enzyme deficiency, and a gain of function mechanism has been characterised in a new porphyria. Acute porphyrias present with acute attacks, typically consisting of severe abdominal pain, nausea, constipation, confusion, and seizure, and can be life-threatening. Cutaneous porphyrias present with either acute painful photosensitivity or skin fragility and blisters. Rare recessive porphyrias usually manifest in early childhood with either severe cutaneous photosensitivity and chronic haemolysis or chronic neurological symptoms with or without photosensitivity. Porphyrias are still underdiagnosed, but when they are suspected, and dependent on clinical presentation, simple first-line tests can be used to establish the diagnosis in all symptomatic patients. Diagnosis is essential to enable specific treatments to be started as soon as possible. Screening of families to identify presymptomatic carriers is crucial to decrease risk of overt disease of acute porphyrias through counselling about avoidance of potential precipitants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hervé Puy
- Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Centre Français des Porphyries, Hôpital Louis Mourier, Colombes, France
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Shimazaki H, Arima Y, Nakano T, Murao M, Nitta Y, Harata M, Kawabe N, Hashimoto S, Nagano K, Ishikawa T, Okumura A, Hayashi K, Katano Y, Kuroda M, Yoshioka K. A case of erythropoietic protoporphyria with severe liver damage. KANZO 2010; 51:175-182. [DOI: 10.2957/kanzo.51.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
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Yoo DJ, Lee HC, Yu E, Jin YJ, Shim JH, Kim KM, Lim YS, Chung YH, Lee YS, Suh DJ. Cholestyramine resin for erythropoietic protoporphyria with severe hepatic disease: a case report. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF HEPATOLOGY 2010; 16:83-8. [DOI: 10.3350/kjhep.2010.16.1.83] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Jun Yoo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Han Chu Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eunsil Yu
- Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young-Joo Jin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ju-Hyun Shim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kang Mo Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young-Suk Lim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young-Hwa Chung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yung Sang Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong-Jin Suh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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S. Thunell, P. Harper, A. Brun. Porphyrins, porphyrin metabolism and porphyrias. IV. Pathophysiology of erythyropoietic protoporphyria - diagnosis, care and monitoring of the patient. Scandinavian Journal of Clinical and Laboratory Investigation 2009. [DOI: 10.1080/003655100448347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Paralytic ileus and liver failure--an unusual presentation of advanced erythropoietic protoporphyria. Dig Dis Sci 2009; 54:411-5. [PMID: 19009347 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-008-0610-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2006] [Accepted: 06/04/2007] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
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Vogeser M, Müller W, Stauch T. Inter-laboratory survey of erythrocyte free protoporphyrin quantification - announcement of a pilot study. Clin Chem Lab Med 2008; 46:1340-1. [PMID: 18785875 DOI: 10.1515/cclm.2008.268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Bloomer J, Wang Y, Chen D. Level of Expression of the Nonmutant FerrochelataseAllele is a Determinant of Biochemical Phenotype in a Mouse Model of Erythropoietic Protoporphyria. GENE REGULATION AND SYSTEMS BIOLOGY 2008; 2:233-41. [PMID: 19787086 PMCID: PMC2733089 DOI: 10.4137/grsb.s636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Ferrochelatase (FECH) activity is decreased in erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), causing increased production and excretion of protoporphyrin. This study examined whether the level of expression of the nonmutant FECH allele is a determinant of phenotype in a mouse model of EPP that carries a heterozygous deletion of exon 10 in FECH. Two mice strains that had a two-fold difference in FECH mRNA levels in bone marrow and liver (low expressing C3H/HeJ and high expressing CBA/J) were used to establish congenic strains containing the mutation. Erythrocyte protoporphyrin levels in C3H/HeJ heterozygous mice were significantly higher than in their wildtype littermates, whereas levels in CBA/J heterozygous mice did not differ significantly from their wildtype littermates. Biliary excretion of protoporphyrin was also significantly higher in C3H/HeJ heterozygous mice. The levels of normal FECH mRNA in bone marrow measured by real time PCR were 138 +/− 30 copies per ug total RNA in C3H/HeJ +/− mice, 320 +/− 59 in C3H/HeJ +/+ mice and 634 +/− 38 in CBA/J +/+ mice. Levels in liver tissue of the mice differed significantly in the same pattern. Thus, the level of expression of the nonmutant FECH allele is a determinant of phenotype in a mouse model of EPP as has been demonstrated in human EPP.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dongquan Chen
- Division of Hematology/Oncology Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
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Seth AK, Badminton MN, Mirza D, Russell S, Elias E. Liver transplantation for porphyria: who, when, and how? Liver Transpl 2007; 13:1219-27. [PMID: 17763398 DOI: 10.1002/lt.21261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Porphyrias are a heterogenous group of diseases that may result in disabling or life threatening neurovisceral symptoms and/or cutaneous photosensitivity. In acute intermittent porphyria, the clinical features, particularly neurological symptoms, may be life-threatening and disabling. Conventional treatment with human hemin, though effective in reducing symptoms, does not reverse neuropathy when structural nerve damage has occurred and may cause intense phlebitis. Liver transplantation (LT) may be considered as treatment for those with repeated life-threatening acute attacks resulting in poor quality of life, requirement of ventilatory support, and progressive loss of venous access due to hemin infusion. Patients with variegate porphyria (VP) present after puberty with neurovisceral symptoms and skin manifestations. LT resolved VP in the 1 patient reported in the literature. Aminolaevulinic acid dehydratase deficient porphyria is a rare autosomal recessive disorder and a child who presented with failure to thrive and required transfusions and parenteral nutrition did not improve with LT. In erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), there is excessive production of protoporphyrin in the bone marrow. Protoporphyrin is hepatotoxic and pigment loading of hepatocytes and bile canalicular sludging may result in progressive cholestasis and cirrhosis. LT is beneficial for such patients with end-stage liver disease. Perioperative management includes use of filters on operative lights to prevent skin burns and intestinal perforation. Other concerns include development of neuropathy, biliary complications, and recurrent liver disease. This review addresses the rationale, patient selection, evaluation, management issues, and technique of performing LT in various types of porphyria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avnish Kumar Seth
- Liver and Hepatobiliary Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Liver transplantation has become an accepted treatment for several metabolic liver diseases. With advances in organ transplantation and immunosuppressive strategies, survival rates following liver transplantation are generally excellent. When the primary metabolic defect is hepatic in origin, liver transplantation not only replaces the dysfunctional organ but also cures the underlying metabolic defect. For conditions in which the primary metabolic defect is extrahepatic, liver transplantation is usually performed for hepatic complications, although disease recurrence may occur. This article reviews common metabolic liver diseases treated with liver transplantation in the adult population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristine Y Zhang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Box 356424, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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Wahlin S, Aschan J, Björnstedt M, Broomé U, Harper P. Curative bone marrow transplantation in erythropoietic protoporphyria after reversal of severe cholestasis. J Hepatol 2007; 46:174-9. [PMID: 17112627 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2006.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2006] [Revised: 10/05/2006] [Accepted: 10/10/2006] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
We report the case of a middle-age patient presenting with severe progressive protoporphyric cholestasis. To halt further progression of liver disease, medical treatment was given aimed at different mechanisms possibly causing cholestasis in erythropoietic protoporphyria. Within eighty days, liver biochemistry completely normalized and liver histology markedly improved. Bone marrow transplantation was performed to prevent relapse of cholestatic liver disease by correcting the main site of protoporphyrin overproduction. Thirty-three months after cholestatic presentation and ten months after bone marrow transplantation, liver and porphyrin biochemistry remains normal. The patient is in excellent condition and photosensitivity is absent. The theoretical role of each treatment used to successfully reverse cholestasis and the role of bone marrow transplantation in erythropoietic protoporphyria are discussed. Medical treatment can resolve hepatic abnormalities in protoporphyric cholestasis. Bone marrow transplantation achieves phenotypic reversal and may offer protection from future protoporphyric liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Staffan Wahlin
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Holme SA, Anstey AV, Finlay AY, Elder GH, Badminton MN. Erythropoietic protoporphyria in the U.K.: clinical features and effect on quality of life. Br J Dermatol 2006; 155:574-81. [PMID: 16911284 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2006.07472.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is a rare inherited photodermatosis that causes lifelong painful photosensitivity. Neither its full clinical spectrum nor its impact on quality of life (QoL) has been investigated in a large cohort of patients. OBJECTIVES To document the clinical features of EPP and its impact on QoL in a high proportion of all patients with EPP resident in the U.K. METHODS Patients with EPP were identified from U.K. clinical databases and assessed by the same clinical investigator over a 7-month period using a standardized proforma and validated adult (Dermatology Life Quality Index, DLQI) and children's (Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index, CDLQI) QoL questionnaires. RESULTS Three hundred and eighty-nine living patients with EPP were identified, of whom 223 [114 females, 109 males; median age 34 years (range: 5-87), from 193 families] were investigated. Total erythrocyte porphyrin (TEP) was higher in males (median: 25.3 micromol L1) than females (median: 19.3 micromol L1). The median ages at onset and diagnosis were 1 and 12 years, respectively. Median times for onset of symptoms after sun exposure, onset of signs (oedema, erythema) and resolution of symptoms were 20 min, 6 h and 3 days, respectively. Most patients reported absence of protection by glass (92%), priming (85%), exacerbation by wind (68%), no family history of photosensitivity (56%), no symptoms during winter (56%) and had chronic skin lesions (79%). Symptoms changed little with age but improved during pregnancy in 47% of gravid women. Most patients used protective clothing and a sunscreen; 28% were taking beta-carotene and a further 56% had taken it; 29% were not under regular medical care. Two patients (1%) had liver failure and 8% reported gallstone disease. QoL was markedly impaired, with scores similar to those in severe dermatological disease (mean DLQI score 14.0, n = 176; mean CDLQI score 12.8, n = 44), indicating a large effect on patients' lives. DLQI scores correlated weakly with TEP (rs = 0.228; P = 0.002) and time to onset of symptoms (rs = -0.233; P = 0.002) but not with age at onset. CONCLUSIONS EPP is a persistent, severely painful, socially disabling disease with a marked impact on QoL. Its diagnosis is often overlooked. None of TEP, age at onset nor time to onset of symptoms is a useful predictor of impaired QoL in individual patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Holme
- Department of Dermatology, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK.
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Bloomer JR, Wang Y, Singhal A, Risheg H. Biochemical abnormality in erythropoietic protoporphyria: cause and consequences. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2006; 43 Suppl 1:S36-40. [PMID: 16819399 DOI: 10.1097/01.mpg.0000226388.56612.fa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is a genetic disorder in which deficient ferrochelatase (FECH) activity causes the excessive production and excretion of protoporphyrin. This in turn causes the major clinical manifestation of EPP, photosensitivity and, in some patients, hepatobiliary disease that may be severe. The objective of this study was to define genotypic determinants of phenotype in EPP. METHODS FECH activity was measured in 30 tissue samples from 26 patients with symptomatic EPP to determine the degree of deficient activity. FECH DNA analysis was also done in 26 families with EPP to identify mutations and examine for the presence of a polymorphism (IVS3-48c) that causes low gene expression. RESULTS The level of residual FECH activity that was measured in tissue samples of patients with symptomatic EPP was <or=30% of the mean normal level in all patients except one. Lowest levels (4-20% normal) were in patients with advanced EPP liver disease. Heterozygous FECH mutations were found in 45 individuals from 26 families with EPP. In 94% of the 32 symptomatic individuals, 15 of whom had liver disease, the polymorphism was present in the nonmutant allele. In 13 asymptomatic patients, the polymorphism was absent. CONCLUSIONS Patients with symptomatic EPP (photosensitivity with/without hepatobiliary disease) usually have a mutation in 1 FECH allele that alters enzyme structure/function, together with a polymorphism in the nonmutant allele that causes low gene expression. This leads to a significant reduction in FECH activity that causes symptomatic disease to develop because of the excess protoporphyrin produced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph R Bloomer
- Department of Medicine, Liver Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 35294-0005, USA.
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Bruguera M, Herrero C. [Liver disease in erythropoietic protoporphyria]. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2006; 28:632-6. [PMID: 16373015 DOI: 10.1016/s0210-5705(05)71529-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M Bruguera
- Servicio de Hepatología, Institut Clínic de Malalties Digestives, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Departamento de Medicina, Universidad de Barcelona, Spain.
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Gouya L, Martin-Schmitt C, Robreau AM, Austerlitz F, Da Silva V, Brun P, Simonin S, Lyoumi S, Grandchamp B, Beaumont C, Puy H, Deybach JC. Contribution of a common single-nucleotide polymorphism to the genetic predisposition for erythropoietic protoporphyria. Am J Hum Genet 2006; 78:2-14. [PMID: 16385445 PMCID: PMC1380220 DOI: 10.1086/498620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2005] [Accepted: 10/03/2005] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is an inherited disorder of heme biosynthesis that results from a partial deficiency of ferrochelatase (FECH). Recently, we have shown that the inheritance of the common hypomorphic IVS3-48C allele trans to a deleterious mutation reduces FECH activity to below a critical threshold and accounts for the photosensitivity seen in patients. Rare cases of autosomal recessive inheritance have been reported. We studied a cohort of 173 white French EPP families and a group of 360 unrelated healthy subjects from four ethnic groups. The prevalences of the recessive and dominant autosomal forms of EPP are 4% (95% confidence interval 1-8) and 95% (95% confidence interval 91-99), respectively. In 97.9% of dominant cases, an IVS3-48C allele is co-inherited with the deleterious mutation. The frequency of the IVS3-48C allele differs widely in the Japanese (43%), southeast Asian (31%), white French (11%), North African (2.7%), and black West African (<1%) populations. These differences can be related to the prevalence of EPP in these populations and could account for the absence of EPP in black subjects. The phylogenic origin of the IVS3-48C haplotypes strongly suggests that the IVS3-48C allele arose from a single recent mutational event. Estimation of the age of the IVS3-48C allele from haplotype data in white and Asian populations yields an estimated age three to four times younger in the Japanese than in the white population, and this difference may be attributable either to differing demographic histories or to positive selection for the IVS3-48C allele in the Asian population. Finally, by calculating the KA/KS ratio in humans and chimpanzees, we show that the FECH protein sequence is subject to strong negative pressure. Overall, EPP looks like a Mendelian disorder, in which the prevalence of overt disease depends mainly on the frequency of a single common single-nucleotide polymorphism resulting from a unique mutational event that occurred 60,000 years ago.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Gouya
- INSERM Unite 656, Faculte de Medecine Xavier Bichat, Universite Paris VII, Paris, France
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McGuire BM, Bonkovsky HL, Carithers RL, Chung RT, Goldstein LI, Lake JR, Lok AS, Potter CJ, Rand E, Voigt MD, Davis PR, Bloomer JR. Liver transplantation for erythropoietic protoporphyria liver disease. Liver Transpl 2005; 11:1590-6. [PMID: 16315313 DOI: 10.1002/lt.20620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), there is excessive production of protoporphyrin, primarily in the bone marrow, resulting in increased biliary excretion of this heme precursor. Some patients will develop progressive liver disease that may ultimately require liver transplantation. However, excessive production of protoporphyrin by the bone marrow continues after transplantation, which may cause recurrent disease in the allograft. This study was performed to define post-transplant survival, the risk of recurrent disease, and specific management issues in patients transplanted for EPP liver disease. The patients studied consisted of twelve males and eight females, with an average age of 31 (range, 13-56) years at the time of transplantation. The estimated maximum MELD score prior to transplant was 21 (range, 15-29). Unique complications in the perioperative period were light induced tissue damage in four patients and neuropathy in six, requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation in four. Patient and graft survival rates were 85% at 1 year, 69% at 5 years, and 47% at 10 years. Recurrent EPP liver disease occurred in 11 of 17 patients (65%) who survived more than 2 months. Three patients were retransplanted at 1.8, 12.6, and 14.5 years after the initial transplant for recurrent EPP liver disease. In conclusion, the 5-year patient survival rate in patients transplanted for EPP liver disease is good, but the recurrence of EPP liver disease appears to diminish long term graft and patient survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan M McGuire
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1530 Third Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35294-0005, USA.
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Abstract
GOALS The goal of this study was to define molecular determinants of liver disease in erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). BACKGROUND EPP is a genetic disorder in which deficient ferrochelatase activity causes excessive production of protoporphyrin, which is excreted in bile. Some patients develop liver disease that necessitates transplantation. STUDY Ferrochelatase gene analysis was done in 25 families with EPP to identify mutations and a polymorphism (IVS3-48c) that causes low gene expression. Expression of multiple hepatic genes was also examined by DNA microarray analysis in patients who had liver transplantation to identify genes with altered regulation. RESULTS Heterozygous ferrochelatase mutations were found in 43 individuals. In 94% of 31 symptomatic patients, 15 of whom had liver disease, the polymorphism was also present in the nonmutant allele. Explanted liver of patients who had transplantation showed significant change in expression of several genes involved in wound healing, organic anion transport, and oxidative stress. CONCLUSIONS Patients with EPP who develop liver disease usually have a mutation in one ferrochelatase allele that alters enzyme function, together with a polymorphism in the nonmutant allele that causes low gene expression. This results in significant increase in the hepatobiliary excretion of protoporphyrin, which can damage the liver through both cholestatic injury and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Bloomer
- Liver Center, Departments of Medicine and Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294-0005, USA.
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Eichbaum QG, Dzik WH, Chung RT, Szczepiorkowski ZM. Red blood cell exchange transfusion in two patients with advanced erythropoietic protoporphyria. Transfusion 2005; 45:208-13. [PMID: 15660829 DOI: 10.1111/j.1537-2995.2004.04190.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is a rare, autosomal dominant genetic disorder caused by the decreased or absent activity of ferrochelatase, the final enzyme in the heme biosynthetic pathway. This enzyme defect in peripheral blood progenitor cells leads to the accumulation of protoporphyrin deposits in multiple tissues. Plasmapheresis has been previously reported as an adjunctive therapy for patients with advanced hepatic EPP. Because the concentration of protoporphyrins is severalfold higher inside the red blood cell (RBC) compared to plasma, it was hypothesized that RBC exchange therapy might absorb excess protoporphyrins from the plasma and serve as an effective therapy to reduce protoporphyrin load in patients with advanced hepatic EPP. The effectiveness of RBC exchange plus hematin versus plasmapheresis plus hematin in two patients with advanced hepatic EPP is reported. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS Two patients with advanced hepatic EPP were treated with RBC exchange and plasmapheresis in the setting of recurrent disease in the graft (Patient 1) or preparation for liver transplantation (Patient 2). In vitro studies were performed to test transport of protoporphyrins from patients' plasma to normal RBCs. RESULTS Compared with plasmapheresis, RBC exchange was more effective, for the duration of the therapy, in reducing blood levels of protoporphyrins. Liver function tests, however, showed only a modest improvement during therapy. In vitro extracellular protoporphyrin were rapidly adsorbed into normal RBCs. CONCLUSION Neither RBC exchange nor plasmapheresis prevented progressive hepatic deterioration in advanced hepatic EPP despite a significant decrease in protoporphyrin levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quentin G Eichbaum
- Department of Pathology, Division of Laboratoty Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA.
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Eguino Gorrochategui P, Varas Mundaca C, Trébol Urra I, Navajas Pinedo B, Gardeazabal García J, Díaz-Pérez JL. Protoporfiria eritropoyética: Estudio de cuatro casos y revisión de la literatura. ACTAS DERMO-SIFILIOGRAFICAS 2003. [DOI: 10.1016/s0001-7310(03)79232-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Risheg H, Chen FP, Bloomer JR. Genotypic determinants of phenotype in North American patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria. Mol Genet Metab 2003; 80:196-206. [PMID: 14567969 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2003.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is characterized by excess accumulation of protoporphyrin, which is due to deficient activity of the enzyme ferrochelatase (FECH). This results in photosensitivity and in some patients liver disease which may necessitate liver transplantation. The aim of this study was to delineate the abnormalities in the FECH gene which cause phenotypic expression in EPP. We identified 43 individuals from 25 North American families with EPP who were heterozygous for various FECH mutations, but the mutations did not adequately explain the variable phenotype. We also examined the presence of an intron polymorphism (IVS3-48c) in the FECH gene which was shown to cause the formation of aberrantly spliced FECH mRNA. FECH DNA analysis demonstrated that 94% of 31 symptomatic individuals with FECH mutations were heterozygous for IVS3-48c, whereas 12 asymptomatic individuals with FECH mutations were homozygous for IVS3-48t. Haplotype analysis in four families showed that symptomatic members had the IVS3-48c polymorphism in the non-mutant FECH allele. Sequencing of the proximal FECH gene promoter showed no additional changes which might affect gene expression. The levels of normal FECH mRNA, measured by relative quantitative RT-PCR, and FECH enzyme activity were correspondingly lower in the cultured lymphoblasts of family members with the IVS3-48c polymorphism. These results indicate that symptomatic disease in most North American patients with EPP is explained by the inheritance of a mutation in one FECH allele which causes a structural alteration in the protein, together with a low expressing non-mutant FECH allele which is caused by the IVS3-48c polymorphism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiba Risheg
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Dellon ES, Szczepiorkowski ZM, Dzik WH, Graeme-Cook F, Ades A, Bloomer JR, Cosimi AB, Chung RT. Treatment of recurrent allograft dysfunction with intravenous hematin after liver transplantation for erythropoietic protoporphyria. Transplantation 2002; 73:911-5. [PMID: 11923691 DOI: 10.1097/00007890-200203270-00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is a rare inherited disorder of the heme biosynthetic pathway in which toxic levels of protoporphyrins often precipitate in the liver, leading to cirrhosis, liver failure, and the need for liver transplantation (OLT). Because the underlying enzyme defect in EPP is bone marrow derived, the risk for recurrent EPP allograft dysfunction is high. Although plasmapheresis may ameliorate acute allograft disease, strategies to maintain disease remission are needed. A 59-year-old man who underwent OLT for hepatic EPP experienced increased bilirubin and aminotransferases on postoperative day 700. Allograft biopsy demonstrated recurrent EPP. He was managed initially with plasmapheresis, hypertransfusion, and infusions of i.v. hematin. After normalization of liver tests, the hematin infusions have been given intermittently, are well tolerated, and associated with normal allograft function for nearly 2 years. This is the first case of the use of hematin given post-OLT to help achieve and maintain remission of allograft EPP disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan S Dellon
- Medical Service (Gastrointestinal Unit), Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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