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McCoullough LC, Fareh M, Hu W, Sozzi V, Makhlouf C, Droungas Y, Lee CL, Takawy M, Fabb SA, Payne TJ, Pouton CW, Netter HJ, Lewin SR, Purcell DF, Holmes JA, Trapani JA, Littlejohn M, Revill PA. CRISPR-Cas13b-mediated suppression of hepatitis B virus replication and protein expression. J Hepatol 2024:S0168-8278(24)00360-X. [PMID: 38815932 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.05.025] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS New antiviral approaches are urgently required that target multiple aspects of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication cycle to improve rates of functional cure. HBV RNA represents a novel therapeutic target. Here, we programmed Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)-Cas13b endonuclease, to specifically target the HBV pregenomic RNA (pgRNA) and viral mRNAs in a novel approach to reduce HBV replication and protein expression. METHODS Cas13b CRISPR RNAs (crRNAs) were designed to target multiple regions of HBV pgRNA. Mammalian cells with replication competent wildtype HBV DNA of different genotypes, a HBV stable cell line, a HBV infection model and a hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-expressing stable cell line were transfected with PspCas13b-blue fluorescent protein (BFP) and crRNAs plasmids and the impact on HBV replication and protein expression was measured. WT HBV DNA, PspCas13b-BFP and crRNA plasmids were simultaneously hydrodynamically injected into mice, and sera HBsAg was measured. PspCas13b mRNA and crRNA were also delivered by lipid nanoparticles (LNP) in a HBsAg-expressing stable cell line and the impact on secreted HBsAg determined. RESULTS Our HBV targeting crRNAs strongly suppressed HBV replication and protein expression in mammalian cells by up to 96% (p<0.0001). HBV protein expression was also reduced in an HBV stable cell line and in the HBV infection model. CRISPR-Cas13b crRNAs reduced HBsAg expression by 50% (p<0.0001) in vivo. LNP-encapsulated PspCas13b mRNA reduced secreted HBsAg by 87% (p=0.0168) in a HBsAg-expressing stable cell line. CONCLUSIONS Together, these results show that CRISPR-Cas13b can be programmed to specifically target and degrade HBV RNAs to reduce HBV replication and protein expression, demonstrating its potential as a novel therapeutic option for chronic HBV infection. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS There is an urgent need for new treatments that target multiple aspects of the HBV replication cycle. Here, we present CRISPR-Cas13b as a novel strategy to target HBV replication and protein expression paving the way for its development as a potential new treatment option for patients living with chronic hepatitis B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura C McCoullough
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mohamed Fareh
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Wenxin Hu
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Vitina Sozzi
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christina Makhlouf
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Yianni Droungas
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chee Leng Lee
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mina Takawy
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stewart A Fabb
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Thomas J Payne
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Colin W Pouton
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hans J Netter
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sharon R Lewin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Hospital and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Damian Fj Purcell
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jacinta A Holmes
- Department of Gastroenterology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joe A Trapani
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Margaret Littlejohn
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter A Revill
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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Low Risk of Occult Hepatitis B Infection among Vietnamese Blood Donors. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11121524. [PMID: 36558858 PMCID: PMC9786887 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11121524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Occult hepatitis B infection (OBI) is characterized by the presence of low levels of hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA and undetectable HBsAg in the blood. The prevalence of OBI in blood donors in Asia ranges from 0.013% (China) to 10.9% (Laos), with no data available from Vietnam so far. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of OBI among Vietnamese blood donors. A total of 623 (114 women and 509 men) HBsAg-negative blood donors were screened for anti-HBc and anti-HBs by ELISA assays. In addition, DNA from sera was isolated and nested PCR was performed for the HBV surface gene (S); a fragment of the S gene was then sequenced in positive samples. The results revealed that 39% (n = 242) of blood donors were positive for anti-HBc, and 70% (n = 434) were positive for anti-HBs, with 36% (n = 223) being positive for both anti-HBc and anti-HBs. In addition, 3% of blood donors (n = 19) were positive for anti-HBc only, and 34% (n = 211) had only anti-HBs as serological marker. A total of 27% (n = 170) were seronegative for any marker. Two of the blood donors (0.3%) were OBI-positive and sequencing revealed that HBV sequences belonged to HBV genotype B, which is the predominant genotype in Vietnam.
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Nande A, Hill AL. The risk of drug resistance during long-acting antimicrobial therapy. Proc Biol Sci 2022; 289:20221444. [PMID: 36350211 PMCID: PMC9653236 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2022.1444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of drug resistance during antimicrobial therapy is a major global health problem, especially for chronic infections like human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B and C, and tuberculosis. Sub-optimal adherence to long-term treatment is an important contributor to resistance risk. New long-acting drugs are being developed for weekly, monthly or less frequent dosing to improve adherence, but may lead to long-term exposure to intermediate drug levels. In this study, we analyse the effect of dosing frequency on the risk of resistance evolving during time-varying drug levels. We find that long-acting therapies can increase, decrease or have little effect on resistance, depending on the source (pre-existing or de novo) and degree of resistance, and rates of drug absorption and clearance. Long-acting therapies with rapid drug absorption, slow clearance and strong wild-type inhibition tend to reduce resistance caused by partially resistant strains in the early stages of treatment even if they do not improve adherence. However, if subpopulations of microbes persist and can reactivate during sub-optimal treatment, longer-acting therapies may substantially increase the resistance risk. Our results show that drug kinetics affect selection for resistance in a complicated manner, and that pathogen-specific models are needed to evaluate the benefits of new long-acting therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjalika Nande
- Program for Evolutionary Dynamics, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
- Institute for Computational Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Alison L. Hill
- Program for Evolutionary Dynamics, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
- Institute for Computational Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
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Abstract
This article reviews the incidence of acute hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, its clinical course, strategies to prevent acute HBV infection in susceptible individuals, and the management of patients with acute HBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone E Dekker
- Department of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 Southwest Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Ellen W Green
- Department of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 Southwest Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Joseph Ahn
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 Southwest Sam Jackson Park Road, MNP 4112, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
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Bao CY, Hung HC, Chen YW, Fan CY, Huang CJ, Huang W. Requirement of cyclin-dependent kinase function for hepatitis B virus cccDNA synthesis as measured by digital PCR. Ann Hepatol 2021; 19:280-286. [PMID: 31964596 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2019.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES HBV covalently closed circular (ccc) DNA is the key player in viral persistence and an important predictive biomarker for hepatitis relapse. Precise quantification of intracellular cccDNA is challenging because cccDNA is present in very low levels in hepatocytes, where it also co-exists with a large excess amount of relaxed circular (rc) DNA. We aimed to develop a highly sensitive cccDNA detection method for cccDNA quantification by digital PCR (dPCR). PATIENTS OR MATERIALS AND METHODS A standard plasmid containing the whole HBV genome in the closed circular conformation was employed to characterize the performance of dPCR. rcDNA in the growth medium of HBV-producing HepAD38 cells was used as a matrix for cccDNA detection. Intrahepatic cccDNA measurement by dPCR and qPCR was performed to determine the correlation of the analysis results for the two methods. RESULTS The limit of detection (LOD) of the cccDNA dPCR was 1.05copy/μl, and the linear range of detection was 1.02×104copies/μl, achieving a dynamic detection range of 104-fold. cccDNA measurement using excess rcDNA as the matrix did not reveal false-positive detection, indicating that dPCR was highly specific. In the HepAD38 cells, the cccDNA levels measured by dPCR were highly correlated with those measured by qPCR but had a higher sensitivity. The CDK inhibitor AZD-5438 was found to block intracellular cccDNA synthesis. CONCLUSIONS Dpcr greatly improved the sensitivity and specificity of cccDNA detection. Host CDK activities are likely required for cccDNA synthesis. dPCR can potentially be applied for drug screening for effective cccDNA inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Yu Bao
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Hsu-Chin Hung
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Wen Chen
- Cold Spring Biotech Corp, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | | | - Chien-Jung Huang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wenya Huang
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan; Institute of Basic Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan; Department of Pathology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan.
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Garcia-Garcia S, Cortese MF, Rodríguez-Algarra F, Tabernero D, Rando-Segura A, Quer J, Buti M, Rodríguez-Frías F. Next-generation sequencing for the diagnosis of hepatitis B: current status and future prospects. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2021; 21:381-396. [PMID: 33880971 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2021.1913055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis B virus (HBV) causes a complex and persistent infection with a major impact on patients health. Viral-genome sequencing can provide valuable information for characterizing virus genotype, infection dynamics and drug and vaccine resistance. AREAS COVERED This article reviews the current literature to describe the next-generation sequencing progress that facilitated a more comprehensive study of HBV quasispecies in diagnosis and clinical monitoring. EXPERT OPINION HBV variability plays a key role in liver disease progression and treatment efficacy. Second-generation sequencing improved the sensitivity for detecting and quantifying mutations, mixed genotypes and viral recombination. Third-generation sequencing enables the analysis of the entire HBV genome, although the high error rate limits its use in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selene Garcia-Garcia
- Liver Pathology Unit, Departments of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma De Barcelona, Barcelona Spain
- Clinical Biochemistry Research Group, Vall d'Hebron Institut Recerca (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Francesca Cortese
- Liver Pathology Unit, Departments of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma De Barcelona, Barcelona Spain
- Clinical Biochemistry Research Group, Vall d'Hebron Institut Recerca (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francisco Rodríguez-Algarra
- Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - David Tabernero
- Centro De Investigación Biomédica En Red De Enfermedades Hepáticas Y Digestivas, Instituto De Salud Carlos III, Madrid Spain
| | - Ariadna Rando-Segura
- Liver Pathology Unit, Departments of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma De Barcelona, Barcelona Spain
| | - Josep Quer
- Centro De Investigación Biomédica En Red De Enfermedades Hepáticas Y Digestivas, Instituto De Salud Carlos III, Madrid Spain
- Liver Unit, Liver Disease Laboratory-Viral Hepatitis, Vall d'Hebron Institut Recerca-Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma De Barcelona, Barcelona Spain
| | - Maria Buti
- Centro De Investigación Biomédica En Red De Enfermedades Hepáticas Y Digestivas, Instituto De Salud Carlos III, Madrid Spain
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma De Barcelona, Barcelona Spain
| | - Francisco Rodríguez-Frías
- Liver Pathology Unit, Departments of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma De Barcelona, Barcelona Spain
- Clinical Biochemistry Research Group, Vall d'Hebron Institut Recerca (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro De Investigación Biomédica En Red De Enfermedades Hepáticas Y Digestivas, Instituto De Salud Carlos III, Madrid Spain
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Studies on the Efficacy, Potential Cardiotoxicity and Monkey Pharmacokinetics of GLP-26 as a Potent Hepatitis B Virus Capsid Assembly Modulator. Viruses 2021; 13:v13010114. [PMID: 33467678 PMCID: PMC7830897 DOI: 10.3390/v13010114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
While treatment options are available for hepatitis B virus (HBV), there is currently no cure. Anti-HBV nucleoside analogs and interferon-alpha 2b rarely clear HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), requiring lifelong treatment. Recently, we identified GLP-26, a glyoxamide derivative which modulates HBV capsid assembly. The impact of GLP-26 on viral replication and integrated DNA was assessed in an HBV nude mouse model bearing HBV transfected AD38 xenografts. At day 45 post-infection, GLP-26 reduced HBV titers by 2.3–3 log10 versus infected placebo-treated mice. Combination therapy with GLP-26 and entecavir reduced HBV log10 titers by 4.6-fold versus placebo. Next, we examined the pharmacokinetics (PK) in cynomolgus monkeys administered GLP-26 via IV (1 mg/kg) or PO (5 mg/kg). GLP-26 was found to have 34% oral bioavailability, with a mean input time of 3.17 h. The oral dose produced a mean peak plasma concentration of 380.7 ng/mL, observed 0.67 h after administration (~30-fold > in vitro EC90 corrected for protein binding), with a mean terminal elimination half-life of 2.4 h and a mean area under the plasma concentration versus time curve of 1660 ng·hr/mL. GLP-26 was 86.7% bound in monkey plasma. Lastly, GLP-26 demonstrated a favorable toxicity profile confirmed in primary human cardiomyocytes. Thus, GLP-26 warrants further preclinical development as an add on to treatment for HBV infection.
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Lim HK, Jeffrey GP, Ramm GA, Soekmadji C. Pathogenesis of Viral Hepatitis-Induced Chronic Liver Disease: Role of Extracellular Vesicles. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:587628. [PMID: 33240824 PMCID: PMC7683521 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.587628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles are encapsulated lipid nanoparticles secreted by a variety of cell types in living organisms. They are known to carry proteins, metabolites, nucleic acids, and lipids as their cargoes and are important mediators of intercellular communication. The role of extracellular vesicles in chronic liver disease has been reported. Chronic liver disease such as viral hepatitis accounts for a significant mortality and morbidity burden worldwide. Hepatic fibrosis has been commonly associated with the chronic form of viral hepatitis, which results in end-stage liver disease, including cirrhosis, liver failure, and carcinoma in some patients. In this review, we discuss the potential role of extracellular vesicles in mediating communication between infectious agents (hepatitis B and C viruses) and host cells, and how these complex cell-cell interactions may facilitate the development of chronic liver disease. We will further discuss how understanding their biological mechanism of action might be beneficial for developing therapeutic strategies to treat chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Kiat Lim
- Hepatic Fibrosis Group, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Gary P Jeffrey
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.,Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Hepatology Department and Liver Transplant Service, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Grant A Ramm
- Hepatic Fibrosis Group, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Carolina Soekmadji
- Hepatic Fibrosis Group, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Prevalence and Knowledge of Hepatitis B Virus Infection among Pregnant Women in the Ningo-Prampram District, Ghana. Int J Hepatol 2020; 2020:7965146. [PMID: 32411482 PMCID: PMC7204257 DOI: 10.1155/2020/7965146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection has been suggested to play a role in various adverse birth outcomes. The study determined the prevalence as well as knowledge of hepatitis B virus infection among pregnant women in the Ningo-Prampram District of the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cross-sectional study using simple random sampling technique was used to recruit 213 pregnant women receiving antenatal care in three different health facilities (Prampram Polyclinic (PPC), Dangme Community Hospital (DCH), and Old Ningo Health Center (ONHC)) in the Ningo-Prampram District of Ghana from November 2018 to January 2019. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data which included participants' HBsAg test results, sociodemographic and gynaecological characteristics, and their level of knowledge on HBV infection. Knowledge of the participants on HBV infection was classified as either excellent, good, or poor based on their cumulative percentage scores from the questionnaire according to Al Rubaish system of classification. RESULTS Overall low-intermediate prevalence of HBV infection was 3.3%; however, PPC recorded the highest prevalence of 4.0% while DCH and ONHC recorded 2.82% and 2.50%, respectively. Statistically significant association was observed between HBV infection and the health facility. Majority (77.40%) of the study participants had poor knowledge on HBV infection while only 14 (6.57%) had excellent knowledge on HBV. Regarding excellent knowledge, 8 (11.0%) among the participants were demonstrated by the majority of those who received antenatal care from DCH. Generally, knowledge on HBV and the infection was poor among the study participants. Knowledge on HBV infection was found to be associated with residential status (p = 0.006), educational level (p < 0.001), occupation (p < 0.001), and gestational period (p < 0.001). Participant's knowledge was also significantly associated with the health facility (p = 0.027). CONCLUSION HBV infection among pregnant women is prevalent in the Ningo-Prampram District even though the prevalence is not very high. The majority of pregnant women in the Ningo-Prampram District inadequate knowledge on HBV infection and it mode of transmission. Intensive public health education on the HBV infection is required in the district to help prevent and manage future transmissions as well as inform the population about the negative side effects of the virus and the need to prevent it by way of vaccination.
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Mu T, Zhao X, Zhu Y, Fan H, Tang H. The E3 Ubiquitin Ligase TRIM21 Promotes HBV DNA Polymerase Degradation. Viruses 2020; 12:v12030346. [PMID: 32245233 PMCID: PMC7150939 DOI: 10.3390/v12030346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The tripartite motif (TRIM) protein family is an E3 ubiquitin ligase family. Recent reports have indicated that some TRIM proteins have antiviral functions, especially against retroviruses. However, most studies mainly focus on the relationship between TRIM21 and interferon or other antiviral effectors. The effect of TRIM21 on virus-encoded proteins remains unclear. In this study, we screened candidate interacting proteins of HBV DNA polymerase (Pol) by FLAG affinity purification and mass spectrometry assay and identified TRIM21 as its regulator. We used a coimmunoprecipitation (co-IP) assay to demonstrate that TRIM21 interacted with the TP domain of HBV DNA Pol. In addition, TRIM21 promoted the ubiquitination and degradation of HBV DNA Pol using its RING domain, which has E3 ubiquitin ligase activity. Lys260 and Lys283 of HBV DNA Pol were identified as targets for ubiquitination mediated by TRIM21. Finally, we uncovered that TRIM21 degrades HBV DNA Pol to restrict HBV DNA replication, and its SPRY domain is critical for this activity. Taken together, our results indicate that TRIM21 suppresses HBV DNA replication mainly by promoting the ubiquitination of HBV DNA Pol, which may provide a new potential target for the treatment of HBV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Hua Tang
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +86-22-2354-2503
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11
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Masand VH, El-Sayed NNE, Rastija V, Rathore MM, Karnaš M. Identification of prodigious and under-privileged structural features for RG7834 analogs as Hepatitis B virus expression inhibitor. Med Chem Res 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s00044-019-02455-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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12
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Mathayan M, Jayaraman S, Kulanthaivel L, Suresh A. Inhibition studies of HBV DNA polymerase using seed extracts of Pongamia pinnata. Bioinformation 2019; 15:506-512. [PMID: 31485136 PMCID: PMC6704329 DOI: 10.6026/97320630015506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Several antiviral compounds for HBV have been identified from traditionally used medicinal plants. We have earlier described the immune modulation properties of P. pinnata, a traditionally used Indian medicinal plant. Therefore, it is of interest to explore the anti-Hepatitis B virus activity of P. pinnata extracts by in-vitro screening assays. This study clearly demonstrated that the 5mg/ml concentration of the aqueous extract significantly inhibited the virus binding. Further, the spectral study was carried out for finding active compounds. The active chalcone derivatives namely, glabaarachalcone, and isopongachromene were isolated from P. pinnata aqueous seed extracts by standard spectral procedures. Virtual screening data shows that glabaarachalcone, and isopongachromene bound with HBV DNA polymerase protein target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manikannan Mathayan
- Centre for Drug Discovery and Development, Col. Dr.Jeppiaar Research Park, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai
| | - Selvaraj Jayaraman
- Department of Biochemistry, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Chennai 77
| | | | - Arumugam Suresh
- Centre for Drug Discovery and Development, Col. Dr.Jeppiaar Research Park, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai
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Martin NK, Vickerman P, Khakoo S, Ghosh A, Ramsay M, Hickman M, Williams J, Miners A. Chronic hepatitis B virus case-finding in UK populations born abroad in intermediate or high endemicity countries: an economic evaluation. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e030183. [PMID: 31256040 PMCID: PMC6609059 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-030183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The majority (>90%) of new or undiagnosed cases of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in the UK are among individuals born in countries with intermediate or high prevalence levels (≥2%). We evaluate the cost-effectiveness of increased HBV case-finding among UK migrant populations, based on a one-time opt out case-finding approach in a primary care setting. DESIGN Cost-effectiveness evaluation. A decision model based on a Markov approach was built to assess the progression of HBV infection with and without treatment as a result of case-finding. The model parameters, including the cost and effects of case-finding and treatment, were estimated from the literature. All costs were expressed in 2017/2018 British Pounds (GBPs) and health outcomes as quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). INTERVENTION Hepatitis B virus case-finding among UK migrant populations born in countries with intermediate or high prevalence levels (≥2%) in a primary care setting compared with no intervention (background testing). RESULTS At a 2% hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) prevalence, the case-finding intervention led to a mean incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of £13 625 per QALY gained which was 87% and 98% likely of being cost-effective at willingness to pay (WTP) thresholds of £20 000 and £30 000 per additional QALY, respectively. Sensitivity analyses indicated that the intervention would remain cost-effective under a £20 000 WTP threshold as long as HBsAg prevalence among the migrant population is at least 1%. However, the results were sensitive to a number of parameters, especially the time horizon and probability of treatment uptake. CONCLUSIONS HBV case-finding using a one-time opt out approach in primary care settings is very likely to be cost-effective among UK migrant populations with HBsAg prevalence ≥1% if the WTP for an additional QALY is around £20 000.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha K Martin
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Salim Khakoo
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | | | - Mary Ramsay
- Immunisation, Public Health England, London, UK
- Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - M Hickman
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Jack Williams
- Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Alec Miners
- Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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14
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Huang SF, Chang IC, Hong CC, Yen TC, Chen CL, Wu CC, Tsai CC, Ho MC, Lee WC, Yu HC, Shen YY, Eng HL, Wang J, Tseng HH, Jeng YM, Yeh CT, Chen CL, Chen PJ, Liaw YF. Metabolic risk factors are associated with non-hepatitis B non-hepatitis C hepatocellular carcinoma in Taiwan, an endemic area of chronic hepatitis B. Hepatol Commun 2018; 2:747-759. [PMID: 29881825 PMCID: PMC5983169 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Revised: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic risk factors, such as obesity, fatty liver, high lipidemia, and diabetes mellitus are associated with increased risk for nonviral hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); however, few nonviral HCC studies have stratified patients according to underlying etiologies. From 2005 to 2011, 3,843 patients with HCC were recruited into the Taiwan Liver Cancer Network. Of these patients, 411 (10.69%) who were negative for hepatitis B virus (HBV), surface antigen, HBV DNA, and anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody were classified as non-HBV non-HCV (NBNC)-HCC. Detailed clinical analyses of these patients were compared with age- and sex-matched patients with HBV-HCC or HCV-HCC for the associated metabolic risk factors. For this comparison, 420 patients with HBV-HCC and 420 patients with HCV-HCC were selected from the 3,843 patients with HCC. Multivariate analyses showed fatty liver (by echography), high triglyceride levels (>160 mg/dL), and diabetes mellitus history to be significantly associated only with NBNC-HCC and not with the matched patients with HBV- or HCV-HCC. When the patients with HCC were further divided into four groups based on history of alcoholism and cirrhotic status, the group without alcoholism and without cirrhosis exhibited the strongest association with the metabolic risk factors. Based on trend analyses, patients with NBNC-HCC with or without alcoholism were significantly different from the matched patients with HBV- or HCV-HCC, except for patients with alcoholism and cirrhosis, in having more than two of the above three risk factors. Conclusion: Metabolic risk factors are significantly associated with nonviral HCC, especially for patients without alcoholism in Taiwan. Because the prevalence of viral HCC is decreasing due to the success of universal vaccination and antiviral therapy, strategies for cancer prevention, prediction, and surveillance for HCC will require modification. (Hepatology Communications 2018;2:747-759).
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiu-Feng Huang
- Institute of Molecular and Genomic Medicine National Health Research Institutes Miaoli Taiwan.,Department of Anatomic Pathology, Linko Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Chang-Gung University Taoyuan Taiwan.,Department of Anatomical Pathology Chung-Shan Medical University Hospital Taichung Taiwan
| | - Il-Chi Chang
- Institute of Molecular and Genomic Medicine National Health Research Institutes Miaoli Taiwan.,Liver Research Unit, Linko Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Chang-Gung University Taoyuan Taiwan
| | - Chih-Chen Hong
- Institute of Molecular and Genomic Medicine National Health Research Institutes Miaoli Taiwan.,Liver Research Unit, Linko Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Chang-Gung University Taoyuan Taiwan
| | - Tseng-Chang Yen
- Department of Applied Mathematics and Institute of Statistics National Chung-Hsing University TaiChung Taiwan
| | - Chao-Long Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Chang-Gung University Kaohsiung Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Chung Wu
- Department of General Surgery Taichung Veteran General Hospital Taichung Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Chung Tsai
- Department of General Surgery Kaohsiung Veteran General Hospital Kaohsiung Taiwan
| | - Ming-Chih Ho
- Department of General Surgery National Taiwan University Hospital Taipei Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chen Lee
- Department of General Surgery, Linko Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Chang-Gung University Taoyuan Taiwan
| | - Hsien-Chung Yu
- Department of Hepatogastroenterology Kaohsiung Veteran General Hospital Kaohsiung Taiwan
| | - Ying-Ying Shen
- Core Pathology Laboratory National Health Research Institutes Miaoli Taiwan
| | - Hock-Liew Eng
- Department of Pathology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Chang-Gung University Kaohsiung Taiwan
| | - John Wang
- Department of Pathology Taichung Veteran General Hospital Taichung Taiwan
| | - Hui-Hwa Tseng
- Department of Pathology Kaohsiung Veteran General Hospital Kaohsiung Taiwan
| | - Yung-Ming Jeng
- Department of Pathology National Taiwan University Hospital Taipei Taiwan
| | - Chau-Ting Yeh
- Liver Research Unit, Linko Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Chang-Gung University Taoyuan Taiwan
| | - Chi-Ling Chen
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine National Taiwan University College of Medicine Taipei Taiwan
| | - Pei-Jer Chen
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine National Taiwan University College of Medicine Taipei Taiwan
| | - Yun-Fan Liaw
- Liver Research Unit, Linko Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Chang-Gung University Taoyuan Taiwan
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15
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Singh US, Mulamoottil VA, Chu CK. 2′-Fluoro-6′-methylene carbocyclic adenosine and its phosphoramidate prodrug: A novel anti-HBV agent, active against drug-resistant HBV mutants. Med Res Rev 2018; 38:977-1002. [DOI: 10.1002/med.21490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Revised: 01/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Uma S. Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences; University of Georgia; Athens GA USA
| | | | - Chung K. Chu
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences; University of Georgia; Athens GA USA
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16
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Neagu IA, Olejarz J, Freeman M, Rosenbloom DI, Nowak MA, Hill AL. Life cycle synchronization is a viral drug resistance mechanism. PLoS Comput Biol 2018; 14:e1005947. [PMID: 29447150 PMCID: PMC5813899 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1005947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Viral infections are one of the major causes of death worldwide, with HIV infection alone resulting in over 1.2 million casualties per year. Antiviral drugs are now being administered for a variety of viral infections, including HIV, hepatitis B and C, and influenza. These therapies target a specific phase of the virus's life cycle, yet their ultimate success depends on a variety of factors, such as adherence to a prescribed regimen and the emergence of viral drug resistance. The epidemiology and evolution of drug resistance have been extensively characterized, and it is generally assumed that drug resistance arises from mutations that alter the virus's susceptibility to the direct action of the drug. In this paper, we consider the possibility that a virus population can evolve towards synchronizing its life cycle with the pattern of drug therapy. The periodicity of the drug treatment could then allow for a virus strain whose life cycle length is a multiple of the dosing interval to replicate only when the concentration of the drug is lowest. This process, referred to as "drug tolerance by synchronization", could allow the virus population to maximize its overall fitness without having to alter drug binding or complete its life cycle in the drug's presence. We use mathematical models and stochastic simulations to show that life cycle synchronization can indeed be a mechanism of viral drug tolerance. We show that this effect is more likely to occur when the variability in both viral life cycle and drug dose timing are low. More generally, we find that in the presence of periodic drug levels, time-averaged calculations of viral fitness do not accurately predict drug levels needed to eradicate infection, even if there is no synchronization. We derive an analytical expression for viral fitness that is sufficient to explain the drug-pattern-dependent survival of strains with any life cycle length. We discuss the implications of these findings for clinically relevant antiviral strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iulia A. Neagu
- Program for Evolutionary Dynamics, Department of Mathematics and Department of Organismic & Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Physics, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Jason Olejarz
- Program for Evolutionary Dynamics, Department of Mathematics and Department of Organismic & Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Mark Freeman
- Program for Evolutionary Dynamics, Department of Mathematics and Department of Organismic & Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Daniel I.S. Rosenbloom
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Martin A. Nowak
- Program for Evolutionary Dynamics, Department of Mathematics and Department of Organismic & Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Alison L. Hill
- Program for Evolutionary Dynamics, Department of Mathematics and Department of Organismic & Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
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17
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Setten RL, Lightfoot HL, Habib NA, Rossi JJ. Development of MTL-CEBPA: Small Activating RNA Drug for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2018; 19:611-621. [PMID: 29886828 PMCID: PMC6204661 DOI: 10.2174/1389201019666180611093428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oligonucleotide drug development has revolutionised the drug discovery field. Within this field, 'small' or 'short' activating RNAs (saRNA) are a more recently discovered category of short double-stranded RNA with clinical potential. saRNAs promote transcription from target loci, a phenomenon widely observed in mammals known as RNA activation (RNAa). OBJECTIVE The ability to target a particular gene is dependent on the sequence of the saRNA. Hence, the potential clinical application of saRNAs is to increase target gene expression in a sequence-specific manner. saRNA-based therapeutics present opportunities for expanding the "druggable genome" with particular areas of interest including transcription factor activation and cases of haploinsufficiency. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION In this mini-review, we describe the pre-clinical development of the first saRNA drug to enter the clinic. This saRNA, referred to as MTL-CEBPA, induces increased expression of the transcription factor CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (CEBPα), a tumour suppressor and critical regulator of hepatocyte function. MTL-CEBPA is presently in Phase I clinical trials for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The clinical development of MTL-CEBPA will demonstrate "proof of concept" that saRNAs can provide the basis for drugs which enhance target gene expression and consequently improve treatment outcome in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - John J. Rossi
- Address correspondence to this author at the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA; Tel: 626-218-7390; Fax: 626-301-8371; E-mail:
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18
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Ghoma Linguissi LS, Nkenfou CN. Epidemiology of viral hepatitis in the Republic of Congo: review. BMC Res Notes 2017; 10:665. [PMID: 29197421 PMCID: PMC5712139 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-017-2951-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Considered an endemic zone, Republic of Congo has a high seroprevalence rate of hepatitis B and C virus. To know the extent of hepatitis infection as a public health problem, we reviewed published literature and other sources for reports of these viral infections in the country. Results High seroprevalence of HBV and HCV carriage in blood donors were observed in studies confirming Congo’s place in the hyperendemic area of HBV and HCV infection. These prevalence were compared by Chi square test. We compared the prevalence of three studies conducted in 1996, 2015 and 2016. The statistical results were very significant. HBV genotype E was most prevalent. Very few studies were done on pregnant women. Difficulties in the care and management of patients were also noted because of the high cost of often unavailable treatments. Difficulties arise, however, when an attempt was made to implement the National Hepatitis Control Program. Despite studies conducted on hepatitis prevalence, health interventions are still needed to care and manage these patients and the need to implement the national hepatitis control is more pressing in the Congo.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Celine Nguefeu Nkenfou
- Chantal Biya International Reference Centre for Research on Prevention and Management on HIV and AIDS, Yaounde, Cameroon.,Higher Teachers Training College, University of Yaounde I, Yaounde, Cameroon
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19
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Daud M, Rana MA, Husnain T, Ijaz B. Modulation of Wnt signaling pathway by hepatitis B virus. Arch Virol 2017; 162:2937-2947. [PMID: 28685286 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-017-3462-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) has a global distribution and is one of the leading causes of hepatocellular carcinoma. The precise mechanism of pathogenicity of HBV-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is not yet fully understood. Viral-related proteins are known to take control of several cellular pathways like Wnt/β-catenin, TGF-β, Raf/MAPK and ROS for the virus's own replication. This affects cellular persistence, multiplication, migration, alteration and genomic instability. The Wnt/FZD/β-catenin signaling pathway plays a significant role in the pathology and physiology of the liver and has been identified as a main factor in HCC development. The role of β-catenin is linked mainly to the canonical pathway of the signaling system. Progression of liver diseases is known to be accompanied by disturbances in β-catenin expression (mainly overexpression), with its cytoplasmic or nuclear translocation. In recent years, studies have documented that the HBV X protein and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) can act as pathogenic factors that are involved in the modulation and induction of canonical Wnt signaling pathway. In the present review we explore the interaction of HBV genome products with components of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway that results in the enhancement of the pathway and leads to hepatocarcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Daud
- Applied and Functional Genomics Lab, Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, 87-West Canal Road, Thokar Niaz Baig, Lahore, 53700, Pakistan
| | | | - Tayyab Husnain
- Applied and Functional Genomics Lab, Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, 87-West Canal Road, Thokar Niaz Baig, Lahore, 53700, Pakistan
| | - Bushra Ijaz
- Applied and Functional Genomics Lab, Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, 87-West Canal Road, Thokar Niaz Baig, Lahore, 53700, Pakistan.
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20
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Li Y, Liu Z, Hui L, Liu X, Feng A, Wang W, Zhang L, Li N, Zhou G, Wang Q, Han Q, Lv Y, Wang Q, Yang G, Wang Y. Transbody against virus core protein potently inhibits hepadnavirus replication in vivo: evidence from a duck model of hepatitis B virus. Br J Pharmacol 2017; 174:2261-2272. [PMID: 28383135 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2016] [Revised: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The therapeutic management of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections remains challenging, and novel antiviral strategies are urgently required. The HBV transbody, a monoclonal antibody (MAb) against human HBcAg coupled with the trans-activator of transcription protein transduction domain (TAT PTD), was previously shown to possess cell-penetrating ability and potent antiviral activity in vitro. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the antiviral activity of the HBcMAb-TAT PTD conjugate in vivo in a duck model of HBV. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Female Peking ducks were injected i.p. with 0.03-0.3 mg·kg-1 ·day-1 of the DHBV transbody (DHBcMAb-TAT PTD conjugate) for 30 days. Serum DHBV DNA levels and liver DHBV DNA and covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) loads were determined at scheduled time points. Immunohistological examination of DHBcAg in the duck liver was also performed. KEY RESULTS The DHBV transbody significantly reduced the serum and liver DHBV DNA levels at doses of 0.1 and 0.3 mg·kg-1 ·day-1 and liver cccDNA levels at a dose of 0.3 mg·kg-1 ·day-1 after 30 days of treatment. The suppressive effects of the DHBV transbody at 0.3 mg·kg-1 ·day-1 on the serum and liver DHBV DNA and liver cccDNA levels remained significant, even at 15 days after treatment cessation. Similarly, immunohistochemistry of liver sections revealed decreased DHBcAg levels within hepatocytes 15 days after treatment termination. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The DHBV transbody inhibits DHBV replication and possesses potent anti-DHBV activities in vivo. The cell-permeable antibody against the virus core antigen may be developed as a novel treatment for patients with hepadnavirus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiping Li
- School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhengwen Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Institute of Advanced Surgical Technology and Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lingyun Hui
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, School of medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xi Liu
- Department of Pathology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ai Feng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, School of medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, School of medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, School of medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Na Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Guoqing Zhou
- School of Computer Science and Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Quanli Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Qunying Han
- Department of Infectious Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yi Lv
- Institute of Advanced Surgical Technology and Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Quanying Wang
- Xi'an Hua Guang Biological Engineering Company, Xi'an, China
| | - Guangxiao Yang
- Xi'an Hua Guang Biological Engineering Company, Xi'an, China
| | - Yawen Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, School of medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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