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Engelskircher SA, Chen PC, Strunz B, Oltmanns C, Ristic T, Owusu Sekyere S, Kraft ARM, Cornberg M, Wirth T, Heinrich B, Björkström NK, Wedemeyer H, Woller N. Impending HCC diagnosis in patients with cirrhosis after HCV cure features a natural killer cell signature. Hepatology 2024; 80:202-222. [PMID: 38381525 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000804] [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: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The risk of developing HCC in chronically infected patients with AQ2 HCV with liver cirrhosis is significantly elevated. This risk remains high even after a sustained virological response with direct-acting antivirals. To date, disease-associated signatures of NK cells indicating HCC development are unclear. APPROACH AND RESULTS This study investigated NK cell signatures and functions in 8 cohorts covering the time span of HCC development, diagnosis, and onset. In-depth analysis of NK cell profiles from patients with cirrhosis who developed HCC (HCV-HCC) after sustained virological response compared with those who remained tumor-free (HCV-noHCC) revealed increasingly dissimilar NK cell signatures over time. We identified expression patterns with persistently high frequencies of TIM-3 and CD38 on NK cells that were largely absent in healthy controls and were associated with a high probability of HCC development. Functional assays revealed that the NK cells had potent cytotoxic features. In contrast to HCV-HCC, the signature of HCV-noHCC converged with the signature found in healthy controls over time. Regarding tissue distribution, single-cell sequencing showed high frequencies of these cells in liver tissue and the invasive margin but markedly lower frequencies in tumors. CONCLUSIONS We show that HCV-related HCC development has profound effects on the imprint of NK cells. Persistent co-expression of TIM-3hi and CD38 + on NK cells is an early indicator for HCV-related HCC development. We propose that the profiling of NK cells may be a rapid and valuable tool to assess the risk of HCC development in a timely manner in patients with cirrhosis after HCV cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Anna Engelskircher
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Po-Chun Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- ZIB program, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg Str., Hannover, Germany
| | - Benedikt Strunz
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Center of Infectious Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carlos Oltmanns
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Tijana Ristic
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Solomon Owusu Sekyere
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Anke R M Kraft
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Markus Cornberg
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence RESIST, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg, Hannover, Germany
- Centre for Individualized Infection Medicine (CIIM), Hannover, Germany
| | - Thomas Wirth
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Bernd Heinrich
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Niklas K Björkström
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Center of Infectious Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence RESIST, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg, Hannover, Germany
| | - Norman Woller
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
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Ren M, Lu C, Zhou M, Jiang X, Li X, Liu N. The intersection of virus infection and liver disease: A comprehensive review of pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment. WIREs Mech Dis 2024; 16:e1640. [PMID: 38253964 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Liver disease represents a significant global burden, placing individuals at a heightened risk of developing cirrhosis and liver cancer. Viral infections act as a primary cause of liver diseases on a worldwide scale. Infections involving hepatitis viruses, notably hepatitis B, C, and E viruses, stand out as the most prevalent contributors to acute and chronic intrahepatic adverse outcome, although the hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be effectively cured with antiviral drugs, but no preventative vaccination developed. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and HCV can lead to both acute and chronic liver diseases, including liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which are principal causes of worldwide morbidity and mortality. Other viruses, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV), are capable of causing liver damage. Therefore, it is essential to recognize that virus infections and liver diseases are intricate and interconnected processes. A profound understanding of the underlying relationship between virus infections and liver diseases proves pivotal in the effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of these conditions. In this review, we delve into the mechanisms by which virus infections induce liver diseases, as well as explore the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of liver diseases. This article is categorized under: Infectious Diseases > Biomedical Engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Ren
- Clinical College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Applied Research of Liver and Kidney in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Chenxia Lu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Applied Research of Liver and Kidney in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Mingwei Zhou
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaobing Jiang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaodong Li
- Clinical College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Applied Research of Liver and Kidney in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Ningning Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Yu Z, Hu G, Wang J, Li Z. Association between hepatitis A seropositivity and bone mineral density in adolescents and adults: a cross-sectional study using NHANES data. SAO PAULO MED J 2024; 142:e2023266. [PMID: 38655984 PMCID: PMC11034701 DOI: 10.1590/1516-3180.2023.0266.r1.08022024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteoporosis, characterized by decreased bone density and increased fracture risk, imposes significant physical, psychosocial, and financial burdens. Early detection and prevention are crucial for managing osteoporosis and reducing the risk of fractures. OBJECTIVES To investigate the relationship between Hepatitis A seropositivity and bone mineral density (BMD) in adolescents and adults and to explore the potential link between Hepatitis A infection and osteoporosis risk. DESIGN AND SETTING This cross-sectional study used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2011 to 2018 to evaluate the association between hepatitis A seropositivity and BMD in 15,693 participants. METHODS Multivariable regression analysis was used to calculate the mean BMD and standard error for adolescents and adults, followed by an independent z-test to determine whether there was a significant difference between the seropositive and seronegative groups. RESULTS Hepatitis A seropositive adolescents and adults had lower BMD than their seronegative counterparts, with significant differences in lumber spine (mean difference = -0.03 g/cm2, P < 0.01 for both age groups) and pelvis BMDs (mean difference = -0.02 g/cm2, P < 0.01 for the adult age groups), after adjusting for various covariates. CONCLUSIONS This study confirmed that both adolescent and adult individuals seropositive for Hepatitis A antibodies had reduced BMD among both adolescents and adults, especially in the adult group. This finding suggests a possible link between Hepatitis A infection and risk of osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuowen Yu
- Doctoral student, Physician. Department of Orthopedics, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Gunchu Hu
- Doctoral student, Physician. Department of General Surgery, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiajie Wang
- Master’s student, Physician. Department of Orthopedics, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhihong Li
- PhD. Physician, Professor, Department of Orthopedics, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
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4
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Torigoe S, Lowman DW, Sugiki T, Williams DL, Yamasaki S. Self-recognition through Dectin-1 exacerbates liver inflammation. Genes Cells 2024; 29:316-327. [PMID: 38385597 PMCID: PMC11000461 DOI: 10.1111/gtc.13106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Dectin-1 is a well-characterized C-type lectin receptor involved in anti-fungal immunity through the recognition of polysaccharides; however, molecular mechanisms and outcomes initiated through self-recognition have not been fully understood. Here, we purified a water-soluble fraction from mouse liver that acts as a Dectin-1 agonist. To address the physiological relevance of this recognition, we utilized sterile liver inflammation models. The CCl4-induced hepatitis model showed that Dectin-1 deficiency led to reduced inflammation through decreased inflammatory cell infiltration and lower pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. Moreover, in a NASH model induced by streptozotocin and a high-fat diet, hepatic inflammation and fibrosis were ameliorated in Dectin-1-deficient mice. The Dectin-1 agonist activity was increased in the water-soluble fraction from NASH mice, suggesting a potential pathogenic cycle between Dectin-1 activation and hepatitis progression. In vivo administration of the fraction into mice induced hepatic inflammation. These results highlight a role of self-recognition through Dectin-1 that triggers hepatic innate immune responses and contributes to the exacerbation of inflammation in pathogenic settings. Thus, the blockade of this axis may provide a therapeutic option for liver inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shota Torigoe
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Mycobacteriology, Leprosy Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
- Management Department of Biosafety, Laboratory Animal and Pathogen Bank, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Douglas W. Lowman
- Department of Surgery, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Toshihiko Sugiki
- Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - David L. Williams
- Department of Surgery, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Sho Yamasaki
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Molecular Immunology, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Center for Infectious Disease Education and Research (CiDER), Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Division of Molecular Immunology, Medical Mycology Research Center, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Division of Molecular Design, Research Center for Systems Immunology, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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He J, Miao R, Chen Y, Wang H, Liu M. The dual role of regulatory T cells in hepatitis B virus infection and related hepatocellular carcinoma. Immunology 2024; 171:445-463. [PMID: 38093705 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major contributor to cancer-related deaths worldwide. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major etiologic factor leading to HCC. While there have been significant advancements in controlling HBV replication, achieving a complete cure for HBV-related HCC (HBV-HCC) remains an intricate challenge. HBV persistence is attributed to a myriad of mechanisms, encompassing both innate and adaptive immune responses. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are pivotal in upholding immune tolerance and modulating excessive immune activation. During HBV infection, Tregs mediate specific T cell suppression, thereby contributing to both persistent infection and the mitigation of liver inflammatory responses. Studies have demonstrated an augmented expression of circulating and intrahepatic Tregs in HBV-HCC, which correlates with impaired CD8+ T cell function. Consequently, Tregs play a dual role in the context of HBV infection and the progression of HBV-HCC. In this comprehensive review, we discuss pertinent studies concerning Tregs in HBV infection, HBV-related cirrhosis and HCC. Furthermore, we summarize Treg responses to antiviral therapy and provide Treg-targeted therapies specific to HBV and HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinan He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Rui Miao
- Guangzhou Women and Children Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yao Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Northeast Yunnan Regional Central Hospital, Zhaotong, Yunan, China
| | - Han Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Mei Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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Vasileiou S, Kuvalekar M, Velazquez Y, Watanabe A, Leen AM, Gilmore SA. Phenotypic and functional characterization of posoleucel, a multivirus-specific T cell therapy for the treatment and prevention of viral infections in immunocompromised patients. Cytotherapy 2024:S1465-3249(24)00100-2. [PMID: 38597860 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2024.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deficits in T cell immunity translate into increased risk of severe viral infection in recipients of solid organ and hematopoietic cell transplants. Thus, therapeutic strategies that employ the adoptive transfer of virus-specific T cells are being clinically investigated to treat and prevent viral diseases in these highly immunocompromised patients. Posoleucel is an off-the-shelf multivirus-specific T cell investigational product for the treatment and prevention of infections due to adenovirus, BK virus, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, human herpesvirus 6 or JC virus. METHODS Herein we perform extensive characterization of the phenotype and functional profile of posoleucel to illustrate the cellular properties that may contribute to its in vivo activity. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate that posoleucel is enriched for central and effector memory CD4+ and CD8+ T cells with specificity for posoleucel target viruses and expressing a broad repertoire of T cell receptors. Antigen-driven upregulation of cell-surface molecules and production of cytokine and effector molecules indicative of proliferation, co-stimulation, and cytolytic potential demonstrate the specificity of posoleucel and its potential to mount a broad, polyfunctional, and effective Th1-polarized antiviral response upon viral exposure. We also show the low risk for off-target and nonspecific effects as evidenced by the enrichment of posoleucel in memory T cells, low frequency of naive T cells, and lack of demonstrated alloreactivity in vitro. The efficacy of posoleucel is being explored in four placebo-controlled clinical trials in transplant recipients to treat and prevent viral infections (NCT05179057, NCT05305040, NCT04390113, NCT04605484).
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Affiliation(s)
- Spyridoula Vasileiou
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital and Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX; AlloVir, Inc., Waltham, MA
| | - Manik Kuvalekar
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital and Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX; AlloVir, Inc., Waltham, MA
| | - Yovana Velazquez
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital and Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX; AlloVir, Inc., Waltham, MA
| | - Ayumi Watanabe
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital and Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX
| | - Ann M Leen
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital and Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX; AlloVir, Inc., Waltham, MA
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Perera DJ, Koger-Pease C, Paulini K, Daoudi M, Ndao M. Beyond schistosomiasis: unraveling co-infections and altered immunity. Clin Microbiol Rev 2024; 37:e0009823. [PMID: 38319102 PMCID: PMC10938899 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00098-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by the helminth Schistosoma spp. and has the second highest global impact of all parasites. Schistosoma are transmitted through contact with contaminated fresh water predominantly in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and South America. Due to the widespread prevalence of Schistosoma, co-infection with other infectious agents is common but often poorly described. Herein, we review recent literature describing the impact of Schistosoma co-infection between species and Schistosoma co-infection with blood-borne protozoa, soil-transmitted helminths, various intestinal protozoa, Mycobacterium, Salmonella, various urinary tract infection-causing agents, and viral pathogens. In each case, disease severity and, of particular interest, the immune landscape, are altered as a consequence of co-infection. Understanding the impact of schistosomiasis co-infections will be important when considering treatment strategies and vaccine development moving forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilhan J. Perera
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Cal Koger-Pease
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Kayla Paulini
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Mohamed Daoudi
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Momar Ndao
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
- National Reference Centre for Parasitology, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
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8
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Hearps AC, Vootukuru N, Ebrahimnezhaddarzi S, Harney BL, Boo I, Nguyen L, Pavlyshyn D, Dietze PM, Drummer HE, Thompson AJ, Jaworowski A, Hellard ME, Sacks-Davis R, Doyle JS. Injecting drug use and hepatitis C virus infection independently increase biomarkers of inflammatory disease risk which are incompletely restored by curative direct-acting antiviral therapy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1352440. [PMID: 38420130 PMCID: PMC10899672 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1352440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections are more prevalent in people who inject drugs (PWID) who often experience additional health risks. HCV induces inflammation and immune alterations that contribute to hepatic and non-hepatic morbidities. It remains unclear whether curative direct acting antiviral (DAA) therapy completely reverses immune alterations in PWID. Methods Plasma biomarkers of immune activation associated with chronic disease risk were measured in HCV-seronegative (n=24) and HCV RNA+ (n=32) PWID at baseline and longitudinally after DAA therapy. Adjusted generalised estimating equations were used to assess longitudinal changes in biomarker levels. Comparisons between community controls (n=29) and HCV-seronegative PWID were made using adjusted multiple regression modelling. Results HCV-seronegative PWID exhibited significantly increased levels of inflammatory biomarkers including soluble (s) TNF-RII, IL-6, sCD14 and sCD163 and the diabetes index HbA1c as compared to community controls. CXCL10, sTNF-RII, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 and lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP) were additionally elevated in PWID with viremic HCV infection as compared to HCV- PWID. Whilst curative DAA therapy reversed some biomarkers, others including LBP and sTNF-RII remained elevated 48 weeks after HCV cure. Conclusion Elevated levels of inflammatory and chronic disease biomarkers in PWID suggest an increased risk of chronic morbidities such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. HCV infection in PWID poses an additional disease burden, amplified by the incomplete reversal of immune dysfunction following DAA therapy. These findings highlight the need for heightened clinical surveillance of PWID for chronic inflammatory diseases, particularly those with a history of HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna C. Hearps
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nikil Vootukuru
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Eastern Health and Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Brendan L. Harney
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Irene Boo
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Long Nguyen
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Damian Pavlyshyn
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul M. Dietze
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Heidi E. Drummer
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Alexander J. Thompson
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent’s Hospital and the University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Anthony Jaworowski
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Margaret E. Hellard
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rachel Sacks-Davis
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Joseph S. Doyle
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Kumar SRP, Biswas M, Cao D, Arisa S, Muñoz-Melero M, Lam AK, Piñeros AR, Kapur R, Kaisho T, Kaufman RJ, Xiao W, Shayakhmetov DM, Terhorst C, de Jong YP, Herzog RW. TLR9-independent CD8 + T cell responses in hepatic AAV gene transfer through IL-1R1-MyD88 signaling. Mol Ther 2024; 32:325-339. [PMID: 38053332 PMCID: PMC10861967 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.11.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Upon viral infection of the liver, CD8+ T cell responses may be triggered despite the immune suppressive properties that manifest in this organ. We sought to identify pathways that activate responses to a neoantigen expressed in hepatocytes, using adeno-associated viral (AAV) gene transfer. It was previously established that cooperation between plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs), which sense AAV genomes by Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9), and conventional DCs promotes cross-priming of capsid-specific CD8+ T cells. Surprisingly, we find local initiation of a CD8+ T cell response against antigen expressed in ∼20% of murine hepatocytes, independent of TLR9 or type I interferons and instead relying on IL-1 receptor 1-MyD88 signaling. Both IL-1α and IL-1β contribute to this response, which can be blunted by IL-1 blockade. Upon AAV administration, IL-1-producing pDCs infiltrate the liver and co-cluster with XCR1+ DCs, CD8+ T cells, and Kupffer cells. Analogous events were observed following coagulation factor VIII gene transfer in hemophilia A mice. Therefore, pDCs have alternative means of promoting anti-viral T cell responses and participate in intrahepatic immune cell networks similar to those that form in lymphoid organs. Combined TLR9 and IL-1 blockade may broadly prevent CD8+ T responses against AAV capsid and transgene product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep R P Kumar
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Moanaro Biswas
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Di Cao
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Sreevani Arisa
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Maite Muñoz-Melero
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Anh K Lam
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Annie R Piñeros
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Reuben Kapur
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Tsuneyasu Kaisho
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Advanced Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Randal J Kaufman
- Center for Genetic Disorders and Aging Research, Samford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Weidong Xiao
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Dmitry M Shayakhmetov
- Lowance Center for Human Immunology, Emory Vaccine Center, Departments of Pediatrics and Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Cox Terhorst
- Division of Immunology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ype P de Jong
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Roland W Herzog
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
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10
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Kesse S, Xu Y, Shi S, Jin S, Ullah S, Dai Y, He M, Zheng A, Xu F, Du Z, Alolga RN, Peng J. MDSC-targeted liposomal all-trans retinoic acid suppresses mMdscs and improves immunotherapy in HBV infection. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2024; 21:347-363. [PMID: 38406829 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2024.2317936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are evolving as a prominent determinant in cancer occurrence and development and are functionally found to suppress T cells in cancer. Not much research is done regarding its involvement in viral infections. This research was designed to investigate the role of MDSCs in hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and how targeting these cells with our novel all-trans retinoic acid encapsulated liposomal formulation could improve immunotherapy in C57BL/6 mice. METHODS Ten micrograms (10 μg) of plasmid adeno-associated virus (pAAV/HBV 1.2, genotype A) was injected hydrodynamically via the tail vein of C57BL/6 mice. An all-trans retinoic acid encapsulated liposomal formulation (L-ATRA) with sustained release properties was used in combination with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), a nucleotide analog reverse transcriptase inhibitor (nRTI) to treat the HBV infection. The L-ATRA formulation was given at a dose of 5 mg/kg intravenously (IV) twice a week. The TDF was given orally at 30 mg/kg daily. RESULTS Our results revealed that L-ATRA suppresses MDSCs in HBV infected mice and enhanced T-cell proliferation in vitro. In vivo studies showed higher and improved immunotherapeutic effect in mice that received L-ATRA and TDF concurrently in comparison with the groups that received monotherapy. Lower HBV DNA copies, lower concentrations of HBsAg and HBeAg, lower levels of ALT and AST and less liver damage were seen in the mice that received the combination therapy of L-ATRA + TDF. CONCLUSIONS In effect, targeting MDSCs with the combination of L-ATRA and TDF effectively reduced mMDSC and improved immunotherapy in the HBV infected mice. Targeting MDSCs could provide a breakthrough in the fight against hepatitis B virus infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Kesse
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuhong Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Screening and Research on Anti-pathogen Plant Resources in Western Yunnan, Dali University, Dali, China
- HighField Biopharmaceuticals Inc, Hangzhou, China
| | - Sanyuan Shi
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shanshan Jin
- HighField Biopharmaceuticals Inc, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shafi Ullah
- Shanghai Institute of Digestive Diseases, Renji Hospital affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongchao Dai
- HighField Biopharmaceuticals Inc, Hangzhou, China
| | - Miao He
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Screening and Research on Anti-pathogen Plant Resources in Western Yunnan, Dali University, Dali, China
| | - Anjie Zheng
- HighField Biopharmaceuticals Inc, Hangzhou, China
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fengwei Xu
- HighField Biopharmaceuticals Inc, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zixiu Du
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Raphael N Alolga
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jinliang Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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11
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Lee H, Park SH, Shin EC. IL-15 in T-Cell Responses and Immunopathogenesis. Immune Netw 2024; 24:e11. [PMID: 38455459 PMCID: PMC10917573 DOI: 10.4110/in.2024.24.e11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
IL-15 belongs to the common gamma chain cytokine family and has pleiotropic immunological functions. IL-15 is a homeostatic cytokine essential for the development and maintenance of NK cells and memory CD8+ T cells. In addition, IL-15 plays a critical role in the activation, effector functions, tissue residency, and senescence of CD8+ T cells. IL-15 also activates virtual memory T cells, mucosal-associated invariant T cells and γδ T cells. Recently, IL-15 has been highlighted as a major trigger of TCR-independent activation of T cells. This mechanism is involved in T cell-mediated immunopathogenesis in diverse diseases, including viral infections and chronic inflammatory diseases. Deeper understanding of IL-15-mediated T-cell responses and their underlying mechanisms could optimize therapeutic strategies to ameliorate host injury by T cell-mediated immunopathogenesis. This review highlights recent advancements in comprehending the role of IL-15 in relation to T cell responses and immunopathogenesis under various host conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoyoung Lee
- The Center for Viral Immunology, Korea Virus Research Institute, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon 34126, Korea
| | - Su-Hyung Park
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Eui-Cheol Shin
- The Center for Viral Immunology, Korea Virus Research Institute, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon 34126, Korea
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Korea
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12
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Hu JL, Huang AL. Classifying hepatitis B therapies with insights from covalently closed circular DNA dynamics. Virol Sin 2024; 39:9-23. [PMID: 38110037 PMCID: PMC10877440 DOI: 10.1016/j.virs.2023.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The achievement of a functional cure for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) remains limited to a minority of patients treated with currently approved drugs. The primary objective in developing new anti-HBV drugs is to enhance the functional cure rates for CHB. A critical prerequisite for the functional cure of CHB is a substantial reduction, or even eradication of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA). Within this context, the changes in cccDNA levels during treatment become as a pivotal concern. We have previously analyzed the factors influencing cccDNA dynamics and introduced a preliminary classification of hepatitis B treatment strategies based on these dynamics. In this review, we employ a systems thinking perspective to elucidate the fundamental aspects of the HBV replication cycle and to rationalize the classification of treatment strategies according to their impact on the dynamic equilibrium of cccDNA. Building upon this foundation, we categorize current anti-HBV strategies into two distinct groups and advocate for their combined use to significantly reduce cccDNA levels within a well-defined timeframe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie-Li Hu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology on Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| | - Ai-Long Huang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology on Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
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13
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Jin Y, He Y, Liu B, Zhang X, Song C, Wu Y, Hu W, Yan Y, Chen N, Ding Y, Ou Y, Wu Y, Zhang M, Xing S. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals the dynamics and heterogeneity of lymph node immune cells during acute and chronic viral infections. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1341985. [PMID: 38352870 PMCID: PMC10863051 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1341985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The host immune response determines the differential outcome of acute or chronic viral infections. The comprehensive comparison of lymphoid tissue immune cells at the single-cell level between acute and chronic viral infections is largely insufficient. Methods To explore the landscape of immune responses to acute and chronic viral infections, single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq), scTCR-seq and scBCR-seq were utilized to evaluate the longitudinal dynamics and heterogeneity of lymph node CD45+ immune cells in mouse models of acute (LCMV Armstrong) and chronic (LCMV clone 13) viral infections. Results In contrast with acute viral infection, chronic viral infection distinctly induced more robust NK cells and plasma cells at the early stage (Day 4 post-infection) and acute stage (Day 8 post-infection), respectively. Moreover, chronic viral infection exerted decreased but aberrantly activated plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) at the acute phase. Simultaneously, there were significantly increased IgA+ plasma cells (MALT B cells) but differential usage of B-cell receptors in chronic infection. In terms of T-cell responses, Gzma-high effector-like CD8+ T cells were significantly induced at the early stage in chronic infection, which showed temporally reversed gene expression throughout viral infection and the differential usage of the most dominant TCR clonotype. Chronic infection also induced more robust CD4+ T cell responses, including follicular helper T cells (Tfh) and regulatory T cells (Treg). In addition, chronic infection compromised the TCR diversity in both CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. Discussion In conclusion, gene expression and TCR/BCR immune repertoire profiling at the single-cell level in this study provide new insights into the dynamic and differential immune responses to acute and chronic viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yubei Jin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yudan He
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Bing Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaohui Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Caimei Song
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yunchen Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wenjing Hu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yiwen Yan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Nuo Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yingying Ding
- Department of Life Sciences, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Yuanyuan Ou
- Department of Life Sciences, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Yixiu Wu
- Department of Life Sciences, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Mingxia Zhang
- Institute for Hepatology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, The Third People’s Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Shaojun Xing
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
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Xu L, Xu Y, Zhang F, Xu P, Wang L. Immunological pathways in viral hepatitis-induced hepato-cellular carcinoma. Zhejiang Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban 2024; 53:64-72. [PMID: 38426692 PMCID: PMC10945487 DOI: 10.3724/zdxbyxb-2023-0481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a serious neoplastic disease with increasing incidence and mortality, accounting for 90% of all liver cancers. Hepatitis viruses are the major causative agents in the development of HCC. Hepatitis A virus (HAV) primarily causes acute infections, which is associated with HCC to a certain extent, as shown by clinicopathological studies. Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections lead to persistent liver inflammation and cirrhosis, disrupt multiple pathways associated with cellular apoptosis and proliferation, and are the most common viral precursors of HCC. Mutations in the HBV X protein (HBx) gene are closely associated with the incidence of HCC, while the expression of HCV core proteins contributes to hepatocellular lipid accumulation, thereby promoting tumorigenesis. In the clinical setting, hepatitis D virus (HDV) frequently co-infects with HBV, increasing the risk of chronic hepatitis. Hepatitis E virus (HEV) usually causes acute infections. However, chronic infections of HEV have been increasing recently, particularly in immuno-compromised patients and organ transplant recipients, which may increase the risk of progression to cirrhosis and the occurrence of HCC. Early detection, effective intervention and vaccination against these viruses may significantly reduce the incidence of liver cancer, while mechanistic insights into the interplay between hepatitis viruses and HCC may facilitate the development of more effective intervention strategies. This article provides a comprehensive overview of hepatitis viruses and reviews recent advances in research on aberrant hepatic immune responses and the pathogenesis of HCC due to viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingdong Xu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Yifan Xu
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Fei Zhang
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Institute of Intelligent Medicine, Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311200, China
| | - Pinglong Xu
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
- Institute of Intelligent Medicine, Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311200, China.
- Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Lie Wang
- Laboratory Animal Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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15
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Li Y, Liu W, Chen J, Chen Y, Guo J, Pang H, Zhang W, An C, Li C. Efficiency and safety of hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) combined with anti-PD1 therapy versus HAIC monotherapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: A multicenter propensity score matching analysis. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e6836. [PMID: 38196277 PMCID: PMC10807563 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6836] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of combination therapy of hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) and anti-programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) therapy in the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS In this retrospective clinical research, from March 2018 to December 2019, 1158 HCC patients categorized as BCLC stage C were reviewed for eligibility. We utilized propensity score matching (PSM) to mitigate initial disparities between the groups. The evaluation of the best tumor response was conducted in accordance with mRECIST 1.1 criteria. The difference in survival outcomes including overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and objective response rate (ORR) between groups were compared. RESULTS Following the eligibility review, 453 patients underwent a combined treatment of HAIC with PD1 inhibitors (HAIC-PD1 group), while 221 patients received HAIC monotherapy (HAIC group) met the inclusion criteria and were finally enrolled in this study. In the entire cohort, the HAIC-PD1 group exhibited significantly prolonged overall survival (median overall survival: 40.4 months vs. 9.7 months, p < 0.001) and progression-free survival (median progression-free survival: 22.1 months vs. 5.8 months, p < 0.001). By propensity score, patients were matched according to baseline differences, resulting in all 442 patients in group HAIC-PD1 (n = 221) and group HAIC (n = 221). After PSM adjustment, as well, the survival of the HAIC-PD1 group was still distinctly longer than the HAIC group (median overall survival time, 40.4 months vs 9.7 months, p < 0.001; median progression-free survival, 22.1 months vs 5.7 months, p < 0.001). Univariate and multivariable analysis demonstrated that AFP level, metastasis, and therapeutic schedule were independent predictive factors for overall survival. CONCLUSION The combination therapy of HAIC and PD1 inhibitors successfully extended OS to advanced HCC patients and could be a better choice than HAIC monotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Li
- Department of Interventional Radiology and Vascular SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP. R. China
| | - Wendao Liu
- Department of Interventional TherapyGuangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine and Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical SciencesGuangzhouGuangdongP. R. China
| | - Junwei Chen
- Department of Interventional RadiologyThe Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP. R. China
| | - Yongxin Chen
- Department of Interventional Radiology and Vascular SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP. R. China
| | - Jiandong Guo
- Department of Interventional Radiology and Vascular SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP. R. China
| | - Huajin Pang
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of General SurgeryNanfang Hospital, Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP. R. China
| | - Wentao Zhang
- Department of RadiologyThe First Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiP. R. China
| | - Chao An
- Department of Minimal Invasive InterventionSun Yat‐sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineGuangzhouP.R. China
| | - Chengzhi Li
- Department of Interventional Radiology and Vascular SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP. R. China
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16
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Liao F, Xie J, Du R, Gao W, Lan L, Wang M, Rong X, Fu Y, Wang H. Replication and Expression of the Consensus Genome of Hepatitis B Virus Genotype C from the Chinese Population. Viruses 2023; 15:2302. [PMID: 38140543 PMCID: PMC10747539 DOI: 10.3390/v15122302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype C is a prevalent HBV genotype in the Chinese population. Although genotype C shows higher sequence heterogeneity and more severe liver disease than other genotypes, its pathogenesis and immunological traits are not yet fully elucidated. In this study, we first established and chemically synthesized the consensus sequence based on representative 138 full-length HBV genotype C genomes from the Chinese population. The pHBV1.3C plasmid system, containing a 1.3-fold full-length HBV genotype C consensus sequence, was constructed for subsequent validation. Next, we performed functional assays to investigate the replicative competence of pHBV1.3C in vitro through the transient transfection of HepG2 and Huh7 cells and validated the in vivo function via a hydrodynamic injection to BALB/c recipient mice. The in vitro investigation revealed that the extracellular HBV DNA and intracellular replicative intermediate (i.e., pregenomic RNA, pgRNA) were apparently measurable at 48 h, and the HBsAg and HBcAg were still positive in hepatoma cells at 96 h. We also found that HBsAg and HBeAg accumulated at the extracellular and intracellular levels in a time-dependent manner. The in vivo validation demonstrated that pHBV1.3C plasmids induced HBV viremia, triggered morphological changes and HBsAg- or HBcAg- positivity of hepatocytes, and ultimately caused inflammatory infiltration and focal or piecemeal necrosis in the livers of the murine recipients. HBV protein (HBsAg) colocalized with CD8+ T cells or CD4+ T cells in the liver. F4/80+ Kupffer cells were abundantly recruited around the altered murine hepatocytes. Taken together, our results indicate that the synthetic consensus sequence of HBV genotype C is replication-competent in vitro and in vivo. This genotype C consensus genome supports the full HBV life cycle, which is conducive to studying its pathogenesis and immune response, screening novel antiviral agents, and further optimizing testing and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenfang Liao
- Guangzhou Blood Center, Guangzhou 510091, China
- The Key Medical Laboratory of Guangzhou, Guangzhou 510091, China
| | - Junmou Xie
- Guangzhou Blood Center, Guangzhou 510091, China
- The Key Medical Laboratory of Guangzhou, Guangzhou 510091, China
| | - Rongsong Du
- Guangzhou Blood Center, Guangzhou 510091, China
- The Key Medical Laboratory of Guangzhou, Guangzhou 510091, China
| | - Wenbo Gao
- Guangzhou Blood Center, Guangzhou 510091, China
- The Key Medical Laboratory of Guangzhou, Guangzhou 510091, China
| | - Lanyin Lan
- Guangzhou Blood Center, Guangzhou 510091, China
- The Key Medical Laboratory of Guangzhou, Guangzhou 510091, China
| | - Min Wang
- Guangzhou Blood Center, Guangzhou 510091, China
- The Key Medical Laboratory of Guangzhou, Guangzhou 510091, China
| | - Xia Rong
- Guangzhou Blood Center, Guangzhou 510091, China
- The Key Medical Laboratory of Guangzhou, Guangzhou 510091, China
| | - Yongshui Fu
- Guangzhou Blood Center, Guangzhou 510091, China
- The Key Medical Laboratory of Guangzhou, Guangzhou 510091, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Guangzhou Blood Center, Guangzhou 510091, China
- The Key Medical Laboratory of Guangzhou, Guangzhou 510091, China
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17
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Milosevic I, Todorovic N, Filipovic A, Simic J, Markovic M, Stevanovic O, Malinic J, Katanic N, Mitrovic N, Nikolic N. HCV and HCC Tango-Deciphering the Intricate Dance of Disease: A Review Article. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16048. [PMID: 38003240 PMCID: PMC10671156 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounting for around one-third of all HCC cases. Prolonged inflammation in chronic hepatitis C (CHC), maintained through a variety of pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators, is one of the aspects of carcinogenesis, followed by mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. Immune response dysfunction including the innate and adaptive immunity also plays a role in the development, as well as in the recurrence of HCC after treatment. Some of the tumor suppressor genes inhibited by the HCV proteins are p53, p73, and retinoblastoma 1. Mutations in the telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter and the oncogene catenin beta 1 are two more important carcinogenic signaling pathways in HCC associated with HCV. Furthermore, in HCV-related HCC, numerous tumor suppressor and seven oncogenic genes are dysregulated by epigenetic changes. Epigenetic regulation of gene expression is considered as a lasting "epigenetic memory", suggesting that HCV-induced changes persist and are associated with liver carcinogenesis even after cure. Epigenetic changes and immune response dysfunction are recognized targets for potential therapy of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Milosevic
- Faculty of Medicine, Department for Infectious Diseases, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.M.); (M.M.); (O.S.); (J.M.); (N.M.)
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Nevena Todorovic
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Ana Filipovic
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Jelena Simic
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Marko Markovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Department for Infectious Diseases, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.M.); (M.M.); (O.S.); (J.M.); (N.M.)
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Olja Stevanovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Department for Infectious Diseases, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.M.); (M.M.); (O.S.); (J.M.); (N.M.)
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Jovan Malinic
- Faculty of Medicine, Department for Infectious Diseases, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.M.); (M.M.); (O.S.); (J.M.); (N.M.)
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Natasa Katanic
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Pristina Situated in Kosovska Mitrovica, 28000 Kosovska Mitrovica, Serbia
| | - Nikola Mitrovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Department for Infectious Diseases, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.M.); (M.M.); (O.S.); (J.M.); (N.M.)
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Natasa Nikolic
- Faculty of Medicine, Department for Infectious Diseases, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.M.); (M.M.); (O.S.); (J.M.); (N.M.)
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
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18
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Bela-Ong DB, Thompson KD, Kim HJ, Park SB, Jung TS. CD4 + T lymphocyte responses to viruses and virus-relevant stimuli in teleost fish. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 142:109007. [PMID: 37625734 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2023.109007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Fish diseases caused by viruses are a major threat to aquaculture. Development of disease protection strategies for sustainable fish aquaculture requires a better understanding of the immune mechanisms involved in antiviral defence. The innate and adaptive arms of the vertebrate immune system collaborate to mount an effective defence against viral pathogens. The T lymphocyte components of the adaptive immune system, comprising two major classes (helper T, Th or CD4+ and cytotoxic T lymphocytes, CTLs or CD8+ T cells), are responsible for cell-mediated immune responses. In particular, CD4+ T cells and their different subsets orchestrate the actions of various other immune cells during immune responses, making CD4+ T cells central drivers of responses to pathogens and vaccines. CD4+ T cells are also present in teleost fish. Here we review the literature that reported the use of antibodies against CD4 in a few teleost fish species and transcription profiling of Th cell-relevant genes in the context of viral infections and virus-relevant immunomodulation. Studies reveal massive CD4+ T cell proliferation and expression of key cytokines, transcription factors, and effector molecules that evoke mammalian Th cell responses. We also discuss gaps in the current understanding and evaluation of teleost CD4+ T cell responses and how development and application of novel tools and approaches to interrogate such responses could bridge these gaps. A greater understanding of fish Th cell responses will further illuminate the evolution of vertebrate adaptive immunity, inform strategies to address viral infections in aquaculture, and could further foster fish as model organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Berbulla Bela-Ong
- Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Diseases, Research Institute of Natural Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, 501-201, 501 Jinju-daero, Jinju-si, Gyeongsangnam-do, 52828, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kim D Thompson
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Hyoung Jun Kim
- WOAH Reference Laboratory for VHS, National Institute of Fisheries Science, Busan, 46083, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Bin Park
- Coastal Research and Extension Center, Mississippi State University, Pascagula, MS, 39567, USA
| | - Tae Sung Jung
- Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Diseases, Research Institute of Natural Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, 501-201, 501 Jinju-daero, Jinju-si, Gyeongsangnam-do, 52828, Republic of Korea.
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19
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Cai Y, Ji H, Zhou X, Zhao K, Zhang X, Pan L, Shi R. Interleukin-21 modulates balance between regulatory T cells and T-helper 17 cells in chronic hepatitis B virus infection. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:719. [PMID: 37875903 PMCID: PMC10594809 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08723-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic HBV infection is always accompanied by differences in the balance between regulatory T cells (Tregs) and T-helper 17 (Th17) cells in infection phases. IL-21 plays an important role in the progression of chronic HBV infection. Thus, the aim of our study was to investigate the role of the regulatory function of IL-21 in maintaining the balance between Tregs and Th17 cells in chronic HBV infection. METHODS Twenty-five chronic HBV-infected patients in the immune-tolerant (IT) phase and 23 chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients were recruited in this study. Cytokines production was measured by ELISA. The mRNA expression levels were determined by qPCR. CD4+T cells were stimulated with or without IL-21. Tregs and Th17 cells were measured by flow cytometry. pSTAT3 and STAT3 expression was assessed by Western blotting. RESULTS The concentration of IL-21 in the serum of CHB were significantly higher than that in the serum from IT patients, and IL-21 and IL-21R levels in the PBMCs from CHB were higher than those from IT patients. IL-21 promoted Th17 cells differentiation and function but inhibited Treg cells differentiation and function by activating STAT3 signaling pathways, upregulating RORγt expression, downregulating Foxp3 expression, by increasing IL-17and IL-22 secretion, and decreasing TGF-β secretion in chronic HBV infection. The proportion of Tregs and TGF-β concentrations in CHB was significantly lower than that in IT patients. Furthermore, the percentage of Th17 cells and the IL-17 concentration in CHB was markedly higher than that in IT patients, causing a reduction in the Tregs/Th17 ratio in CHB patients. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that IL-21 may contribute to inflammation in chronic HBV infection by modulating the balance between Treg and Th17 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Cai
- Medical School, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao Road, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Department of Gastroenterology Disease, The First People's Hospital of Jintan District, Changzhou, 213200, China
| | - Hailei Ji
- Department of Infections Disease, The Third People's Hospital of Zhenjiang, Zhenjiang, 212000, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology Disease, The First People's Hospital of Jintan District, Changzhou, 213200, China
| | - Kai Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology Disease, The First People's Hospital of Jintan District, Changzhou, 213200, China
| | - Xiaoping Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology Disease, The First People's Hospital of Jintan District, Changzhou, 213200, China
| | - Liang Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology Disease, The First People's Hospital of Jintan District, Changzhou, 213200, China
| | - Ruihua Shi
- Medical School, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao Road, Nanjing, 210009, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology Disease, The Affiliated Zhongda Hospital of Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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20
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Medina C, García AH, Crespo FI, Toro FI, Mayora SJ, De Sanctis JB. A Synopsis of Hepatitis C Virus Treatments and Future Perspectives. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:8255-8276. [PMID: 37886964 PMCID: PMC10605161 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45100521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a worldwide public health problem. Chronic infection with HCV can lead to liver cirrhosis or cancer. Although some immune-competent individuals can clear the virus, others develop chronic HCV disease due to viral mutations or an impaired immune response. IFNs type I and III and the signal transduction induced by them are essential for a proper antiviral effect. Research on the viral cycle and immune escape mechanisms has formed the basis of therapeutic strategies to achieve a sustained virological response (SVR). The first therapies were based on IFNα; then, IFNα plus ribavirin (IFN-RBV); and then, pegylated-IFNα-RBV (PEGIFNα-RIV) to improve cytokine pharmacokinetics. However, the maximum SVR was 60%, and several significant side effects were observed, decreasing patients' treatment adherence. The development of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) significantly enhanced the SVR (>90%), and the compounds were able to inhibit HCV replication without significant side effects, even in paediatric populations. The management of coinfected HBV-HCV and HCV-HIV patients has also improved based on DAA and PEG-IFNα-RBV (HBV-HCV). CD4 cells are crucial for an effective antiviral response. The IFNλ3, IL28B, TNF-α, IL-10, TLR-3, and TLR-9 gene polymorphisms are involved in viral clearance, therapeutic responses, and hepatic pathologies. Future research should focus on searching for strategies to circumvent resistance-associated substitution (RAS) to DAAs, develop new therapeutic schemes for different medical conditions, including organ transplant, and develop vaccines for long-lasting cellular and humoral responses with cross-protection against different HCV genotypes. The goal is to minimise the probability of HCV infection, HCV chronicity and hepatic carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Medina
- Institute of Immunology Dr. Nicolás E. Bianco C., Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas 1040, Venezuela; (C.M.); (F.I.C.); (F.I.T.); (S.J.M.)
| | - Alexis Hipólito García
- Institute of Immunology Dr. Nicolás E. Bianco C., Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas 1040, Venezuela; (C.M.); (F.I.C.); (F.I.T.); (S.J.M.)
| | - Francis Isamarg Crespo
- Institute of Immunology Dr. Nicolás E. Bianco C., Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas 1040, Venezuela; (C.M.); (F.I.C.); (F.I.T.); (S.J.M.)
| | - Félix Isidro Toro
- Institute of Immunology Dr. Nicolás E. Bianco C., Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas 1040, Venezuela; (C.M.); (F.I.C.); (F.I.T.); (S.J.M.)
| | - Soriuska José Mayora
- Institute of Immunology Dr. Nicolás E. Bianco C., Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas 1040, Venezuela; (C.M.); (F.I.C.); (F.I.T.); (S.J.M.)
| | - Juan Bautista De Sanctis
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
- The Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute (Catrin), Palacky University, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
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21
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Shin H, Lee HS, Noh JY, Koh JY, Kim SY, Park J, Chung SW, Hur MH, Park MK, Lee YB, Kim YJ, Yoon JH, Ko JH, Peck KR, Song JY, Shin EC, Lee JH. COVID-19 Vaccination Alters NK Cell Dynamics and Transiently Reduces HBsAg Titers Among Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B. Immune Netw 2023; 23:e39. [PMID: 37970236 PMCID: PMC10643334 DOI: 10.4110/in.2023.23.e39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination may non-specifically alter the host immune system. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of COVID-19 vaccination on hepatitis B surface Ag (HBsAg) titer and host immunity in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. Consecutive 2,797 CHB patients who had serial HBsAg measurements during antiviral treatment were included in this study. Changes in the HBsAg levels after COVID-19 vaccination were analyzed. The dynamics of NK cells following COVID-19 vaccination were also examined using serial blood samples collected prospectively from 25 healthy volunteers. Vaccinated CHB patients (n=2,329) had significantly lower HBsAg levels 1-30 days post-vaccination compared to baseline (median, -21.4 IU/ml from baseline), but the levels reverted to baseline by 91-180 days (median, -3.8 IU/ml). The velocity of the HBsAg decline was transiently accelerated within 30 days after vaccination (median velocity: -0.06, -0.39, and -0.04 log10 IU/ml/year in pre-vaccination period, days 1-30, and days 31-90, respectively). In contrast, unvaccinated patients (n=468) had no change in HBsAg levels. Flow cytometric analysis showed that the frequency of NK cells expressing NKG2A, an NK inhibitory receptor, significantly decreased within 7 days after the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine (median, -13.1% from baseline; p<0.001). The decrease in the frequency of NKG2A+ NK cells was observed in the CD56dimCD16+ NK cell population regardless of type of COVID-19 vaccine. COVID-19 vaccination leads to a rapid, transient decline in HBsAg titer and a decrease in the frequency of NKG2A+ NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunjae Shin
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Ha Seok Lee
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Ji Yun Noh
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 08308, Korea
| | - June-Young Koh
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - So-Young Kim
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Jeayeon Park
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Sung Won Chung
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Moon Haeng Hur
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Min Kyung Park
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Yun Bin Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Yoon Jun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Jung-Hwan Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Jae-Hoon Ko
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 16419, Korea
| | - Kyong Ran Peck
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 16419, Korea
| | - Joon Young Song
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 08308, Korea
| | - Eui-Cheol Shin
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Korea
- The Center for Viral Immunology, Korea Virus Research Institute, Institute for Basic Science, Daejeon 34126, Korea
| | - Jeong-Hoon Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
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22
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Chen L, Zhang N, Huang Y, Zhang Q, Fang Y, Fu J, Yuan Y, Chen L, Chen X, Xu Z, Li Y, Izawa H, Xiang C. Multiple Dimensions of using Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Treating Liver Diseases: From Bench to Beside. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:2192-2224. [PMID: 37498509 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10583-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Liver diseases impose a huge burden worldwide. Although hepatocyte transplantation has long been considered as a potential strategy for treating liver diseases, its clinical implementation has created some obvious limitations. As an alternative strategy, cell therapy, particularly mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation, is widely used in treating different liver diseases, including acute liver disease, acute-on-chronic liver failure, hepatitis B/C virus, autoimmune hepatitis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, liver fibrosis, liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Here, we summarize the status of MSC transplantation in treating liver diseases, focusing on the therapeutic mechanisms, including differentiation into hepatocyte-like cells, immunomodulating function with a variety of immune cells, paracrine effects via the secretion of various cytokines and extracellular vesicles, and facilitation of homing and engraftment. Some improved perspectives and current challenges are also addressed. In summary, MSCs have great potential in the treatment of liver diseases based on their multi-faceted characteristics, and more accurate mechanisms and novel therapeutic strategies stemming from MSCs will facilitate clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
- Research Units of Infectious Disease and Microecology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
| | - Ning Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
- Research Units of Infectious Disease and Microecology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqi Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
- Research Units of Infectious Disease and Microecology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
- Research Units of Infectious Disease and Microecology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
| | - Yangxin Fang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
- Research Units of Infectious Disease and Microecology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiamin Fu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
- Research Units of Infectious Disease and Microecology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
| | - Yin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
- Research Units of Infectious Disease and Microecology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Chen
- Innovative Precision Medicine (IPM) Group, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311215, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310027, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenyu Xu
- Innovative Precision Medicine (IPM) Group, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311215, People's Republic of China
| | - Yifei Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
- Research Units of Infectious Disease and Microecology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
| | - Hiromi Izawa
- Jingugaien Woman Life Clinic, Jingu-Gaien 3-39-5 2F, Shibuya-Ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Charlie Xiang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China.
- Research Units of Infectious Disease and Microecology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China.
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23
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Ning H, Li K, Peng Z, Jin H, Zhao H, Shang J. The efficacy and safety of pegylated interferon α-2b-based immunotherapy for inactive hepatitis B surface antigen carriers. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 35:1216-1223. [PMID: 37577817 PMCID: PMC10756704 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000002627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Pegylated interferon α-2b (PegIFNα-2b) therapy can help inactive hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carriers (IHCs) achieve clinical cure. To explore and compare the efficacy, safety, and relevant influential factors of PegIFNα-2b monotherapy and PegIFNα-2b-based immunotherapy for IHCs. METHODS This exploratory, prospective, single-center, randomized controlled trial enrolled 40 IHCs who were randomized into group A (PegIFNα-2b treatment for 68 weeks) and group B (two cycles of PegIFNα-2b treatment with a lead-in period of GM-CSF and vaccine treatment before each cycle). The primary endpoint was 68-week HBsAg loss rate. RESULTS At week 68, the HBsAg loss rates were 45.45% [full analysis set (FAS)] and 46.67% [per-protocol set (PPS)]. There was no statistically significant difference in HBsAg loss rate between groups A and B ( P > 0.05). Univariate analysis revealed that age ≤40 years old, baseline HBsAg <200 IU/ml, and 24-week HBsAg decline ≥2 log 10 IU/ml were significantly associated with HBsAg loss in FAS population ( P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that only 24-week HBsAg decline ≥2 log 10 IU/ml was the independent influencing factor in both FAS and PPS populations ( P < 0.05). The adverse events were common and mild, and the therapies were well-tolerated. CONCLUSION Treatment of IHCs with PegIFNα-2b-based therapy could result in a high HBsAg loss rate. The HBsAg loss rate of combined immunotherapy was similar to that of PegIFNα-2b monotherapy, and the safety was good. CLINICALTRIALSGOV ID NCT05451420.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huibin Ning
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou
| | - Kuan Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou
| | - Zhen Peng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou
| | - Huiming Jin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou
| | - Hong Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Shang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou
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24
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Martinello M, Solomon SS, Terrault NA, Dore GJ. Hepatitis C. Lancet 2023; 402:1085-1096. [PMID: 37741678 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)01320-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a hepatotropic RNA virus that can cause acute and chronic hepatitis, with progressive liver damage resulting in cirrhosis, decompensated liver disease, and hepatocellular carcinoma. In 2016, WHO called for the elimination of HCV infection as a public health threat by 2030. Despite some progress, an estimated 57 million people were living with HCV infection in 2020, and 300 000 HCV-related deaths occur per year. The development of direct-acting antiviral therapy has revolutionised clinical care and generated impetus for elimination, but simplified and broadened HCV screening, enhanced linkage to care, and higher coverage of treatment and primary prevention strategies are urgently required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Martinello
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Sunil S Solomon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Norah A Terrault
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gregory J Dore
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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25
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Duchemin NJ, Loonawat R, Yeakle K, Rosenkranz A, Bouchard MJ. Hypoxia-inducible factor affects hepatitis B virus transcripts and genome levels as well as the expression and subcellular location of the hepatitis B virus core protein. Virology 2023; 586:76-90. [PMID: 37490813 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2023.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Globally, a chronic-hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the leading cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF1) is often elevated in HCC, including HBV-associated HCC. Previous studies have suggested that the expression of the HIF1 subunit, HIF1α, is elevated in HBV-infected hepatocytes; however, whether HIF1 activity affects the HBV lifecycle has not been fully explored. We used a liver-derived cell line and ex vivo cultured primary hepatocytes as models to determine how HIF1 affects the HBV lifecycle. We observed that HIF1 elevates HBV RNA transcript levels, core protein levels, core protein localization to the cytoplasm, and HBV genome replication. Attenuating the transcription activity of HIF1 blocked HIF1-mediated effects on the HBV lifecycle. Our studies show that HIF1 regulates various stages of the HBV lifecycle in hepatocytes and could be a therapeutic target for blocking HBV replication and the development of HBV-associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Duchemin
- Molecular and Cellular Biology and Genetic Graduate Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Professional Studies, Drexel University College of Medicine, USA
| | - Ronak Loonawat
- Microbiology and Immunology Graduate Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Professional Studies, Drexel University College of Medicine, USA
| | - Kyle Yeakle
- Molecular and Cellular Biology and Genetic Graduate Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Professional Studies, Drexel University College of Medicine, USA
| | - Andrea Rosenkranz
- Molecular and Cellular Biology and Genetic Graduate Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Professional Studies, Drexel University College of Medicine, USA
| | - Michael J Bouchard
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19102, USA.
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26
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Shoukry NH, Cox AL, Walker CM. Immunological Monitoring in Hepatitis C Virus Controlled Human Infection Model. Clin Infect Dis 2023; 77:S270-S275. [PMID: 37579206 PMCID: PMC10425133 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciad359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Controlled human infection model trials for hepatitis C virus represent an important opportunity to identify correlates of protective immunity against a well-characterized inoculum of hepatitis C virus and how such responses are modified by vaccination. In this article, we discuss the approach to immunological monitoring during such trials, including a set of recommendations for optimal sampling schedule and preferred immunological assays to examine the different arms of the immune response. We recommend that this approach be adapted to different trial designs. Finally, we discuss how these studies can provide surrogate predictors of the success of candidate vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naglaa H Shoukry
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Département de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Andrea L Cox
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Christopher M Walker
- Center for Vaccines and Immunity, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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27
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Martinello M, Naggie S, Rockstroh JK, Matthews GV. Direct-Acting Antiviral Therapy for Treatment of Acute and Recent Hepatitis C Virus Infection: A Narrative Review. Clin Infect Dis 2023; 77:S238-S244. [PMID: 37579203 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciad344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Following the discovery of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in 1989, 3 decades of basic, translational, and clinical research culminated in the development of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy-curative oral treatment for HCV infection. The availability of DAA therapy revolutionized HCV clinical management, including acute (duration of infection <6 mo) and recent (duration of infection <12 mo) infection. Several DAA regimens, including the contemporary pan-genotypic combinations of sofosbuvir-velpatasvir and glecaprevir-pibrentasvir, have been shown to be safe and effective among people with acute and recent HCV infection, highlighting their potential in an HCV controlled human infection model. This article describes the natural history and management of acute and recent HCV infection in the era of DAA therapy and outlines a strategy for use of DAA therapies in the setting of an HCV controlled human infection model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Martinello
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney), Sydney, Australia
- Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Susanna Naggie
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Gail V Matthews
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney), Sydney, Australia
- St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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Bybee G, Moeun Y, Wang W, Kharbanda KK, Poluektova LY, Kidambi S, Osna NA, Ganesan M. Increased liver stiffness promotes hepatitis B progression by impairing innate immunity in CCl4-induced fibrotic HBV + transgenic mice. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1166171. [PMID: 37600826 PMCID: PMC10435739 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1166171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection develops as an acute or chronic liver disease, which progresses from steatosis, hepatitis, and fibrosis to end-stage liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). An increased stromal stiffness accompanies fibrosis in chronic liver diseases and is considered a strong predictor for disease progression. The goal of this study was to establish the mechanisms by which enhanced liver stiffness regulates HBV infectivity in the fibrotic liver tissue. Methods For in vitro studies, HBV-transfected HepG2.2.15 cells were cultured on polydimethylsiloxane gels coated by polyelectrolyte multilayer films of 2 kPa (soft) or 24 kPa (stiff) rigidity mimicking the stiffness of the healthy or fibrotic liver. For in vivo studies, hepatic fibrosis was induced in C57Bl/6 parental and HBV+ transgenic (HBVTg) mice by injecting CCl4 twice a week for 6 weeks. Results We found higher levels of HBV markers in stiff gel-attached hepatocytes accompanied by up-regulated OPN content in cell supernatants as well as suppression of anti-viral interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). This indicates that pre-requisite "fibrotic" stiffness increases osteopontin (OPN) content and releases and suppresses anti-viral innate immunity, causing a subsequent rise in HBV markers expression in hepatocytes. In vitro results were corroborated by data from HBVTg mice administered CCl4 (HBVTg CCl4). These mice showed higher HBV RNA, DNA, HBV core antigen (HBcAg), and HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) levels after liver fibrosis induction as judged by a rise in Col1a1, SMA, MMPs, and TIMPs mRNAs and by increased liver stiffness. Importantly, CCl4-induced the pro-fibrotic activation of liver cells, and liver stiffness was higher in HBVTg mice compared with control mice. Elevation of HBV markers and OPN levels corresponded to decreased ISG activation in HBVTg CCl4 mice vs HBVTg control mice. Conclusion Based on our data, we conclude that liver stiffness enhances OPN levels to limit anti-viral ISG activation in hepatocytes and promote an increase in HBV infectivity, thereby contributing to end-stage liver disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Bybee
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Youra Moeun
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Nebraska at Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
| | - Weimin Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Kusum K. Kharbanda
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Larisa Y. Poluektova
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Srivatsan Kidambi
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Nebraska at Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
| | - Natalia A. Osna
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Murali Ganesan
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
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Green MS, Schwartz N, Peer V. Sex differences in hepatitis A incidence rates-a multi-year pooled-analysis based on national data from nine high-income countries. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287008. [PMID: 37310964 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Possible sex differences in hepatitis A virus (HAV) incidence rates in different age groups are not well documented. We aimed to obtain stable pooled estimates of such differences based on data from a number of high-income countries. METHODS We obtained data on incident cases of HAV by sex and age group over a period of 6-25 years from nine countries: Australia, Canada, Czech Republic, Finland, Germany, Israel, Netherland, New Zealand and Spain. Male to female incidence rate ratios (IRR) were computed for each year, by country and age group. For each age group, we used meta-analytic methods to combine the IRRs. Meta-regression was conducted to estimate the effects of age, country, and time period on the IRR. RESULTS A male excess in incidence rates was consistently observed in all age groups, although in the youngest and oldest age groups, where the numbers tended to be lower, the lower bounds of the 95% confidence intervals for the IRRs were less than one. In the age groups <1, 1-4, 5-9, 10-14, 15-44, 45-64 and 65+, the pooled IRRs (with 95% CI) over countries and time periods were 1.18 (0.94,1.48), 1.22 (1.16,1.29), 1.07 (1.03,1.11), 1.09 (1.04,1.14), 1.46 (1.30,1.64), 1.32 (1.15,1.51) and 1.10 (0.99,1.23) respectively. CONCLUSIONS The excess HAV incidence rates in young males, pooled over a number of countries, suggest that the sex differences are likely to be due at least in part to physiological and biological differences and not just behavioral factors. At older ages, differential exposure plays an important role. These findings, seen in the context of the excess incidence rates in young males for many other infectious diseases, can provide further keys to the mechanisms of the infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Naama Schwartz
- School of Public Health, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Victoria Peer
- School of Public Health, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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Osmani Z, Boonstra A. Recent Insights into the Role of B Cells in Chronic Hepatitis B and C Infections. Pathogens 2023; 12:815. [PMID: 37375505 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12060815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic viral hepatitis infections, caused by the hepatitis B or C virus, are a major global health problem causing an estimated one million deaths each year. Immunological studies have classically focused on T cells, while B cells have largely been neglected. Emerging evidence, however, highlights a role for B cells in the immunopathogenesis of chronic hepatitis B and C infections. B cell responses appear to be altered across different clinical phases of chronic HBV infection and across stages of disease in chronic HCV infection. These B cell responses show signs of a more activated state with a simultaneous enrichment of phenotypically exhausted atypical memory B cells. Despite the fact that studies show an activating B cell signature in chronic viral hepatitis infection, antibody responses to HBsAg remain impaired in chronic HBV infection, and glycoprotein E2-specific neutralizing antibody responses remain delayed in the acute phase of HCV infection. At the same time, studies have reported that a subset of HBV- and HCV-specific B cells exhibit an exhausted phenotype. This may, at least in part, explain why antibody responses in chronic HBV and HCV patients are suboptimal. Here, we summarize recent findings and discuss upcoming research questions while looking forward to how new single-cell technologies could provide novel insights into the role of B cells in chronic viral hepatitis infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zgjim Osmani
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andre Boonstra
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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31
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Sharma S, Rawal P, Kaur S, Puria R. Liver organoids as a primary human model to study HBV-mediated Hepatocellular carcinoma. A review. Exp Cell Res 2023; 428:113618. [PMID: 37142202 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2023.113618] [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: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is the prevailing cause of chronic liver disease, which progresses to Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in 75% of cases. It represents a serious health concern being the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Treatments available to date fail to provide a complete cure with high chances of recurrence and related side effects. The lack of reliable, reproducible, and scalable in vitro modeling systems that could recapitulate the viral life cycle and represent virus-host interactions has hindered the development of effective treatments so far. The present review provides insights into the current in-vivo and in-vitro models used for studying HBV and their major limitations. We highlight the use of three-dimensional liver organoids as a novel and suitable platform for modeling HBV infection and HBV-mediated HCC. HBV organoids can be expanded, genetically altered, patient-derived, tested for drug discovery, and biobanked. This review also provides the general guidelines for culturing HBV organoids and highlights their several prospects for HBV drug discovery and screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simran Sharma
- School of Biotechnology, Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Preety Rawal
- School of Biotechnology, Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Savneet Kaur
- Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, Delhi, India.
| | - Rekha Puria
- School of Biotechnology, Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida, India.
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Lim YS, Kim WR, Dieterich D, Kao JH, Flaherty JF, Yee LJ, Roberts LR, Razavi H, Kennedy PTF. Evidence for Benefits of Early Treatment Initiation for Chronic Hepatitis B. Viruses 2023; 15:v15040997. [PMID: 37112976 PMCID: PMC10142077 DOI: 10.3390/v15040997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is the most common cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. Antiviral treatment reduces the risk of HCC and mortality; nonetheless, globally in 2019, only 2.2% of CHB patients received treatment. Current international CHB guidelines recommend antiviral treatment only in subsets of patients with clear evidence of liver damage. This contrasts with hepatitis C or HIV where early treatment is recommended in all infected patients, regardless of end-organ damage. This narrative review aims to provide an overview of data on the early initiation of antiviral treatment and its related potential economic impact. Literature searches were performed using PubMed and abstracts from international liver congresses (2019-2021). Data on risk of disease progression and HCC and the impact of antiviral treatment in currently ineligible patients were summarized. Cost-effectiveness data on early antiviral treatment initiation were also collated. Accumulating molecular, clinical, and economic data suggest that early initiation of antiviral treatment could save many lives through HCC prevention in a highly cost-effective manner. In light of these data, we consider several alternative expanded treatment strategies that might further a simplified 'treatment as prevention' approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Suk Lim
- Department of Gastroenterology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - W Ray Kim
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA 94063, USA
| | - Douglas Dieterich
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Jia-Horng Kao
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Department of Medical Research, Hepatitis Research Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | | | | | - Lewis R Roberts
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Homie Razavi
- Center for Disease Analysis Foundation, Lafayette, CO 80026, USA
| | - Patrick T F Kennedy
- Barts Liver Centre, Immunobiology, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK
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Lara-Aguilar V, Valle-Millares D, Crespo-Bermejo C, Grande-García S, Llamas-Adán M, Cortijo-Alfonso ME, Martín-Carbonero L, Domínguez L, Ryan P, de Los Santos I, Bartolomé-Sánchez S, Vidal-Alcántara EJ, Jiménez-Sousa MA, Fernández-Rodríguez A, Briz V. Dynamics of cellular senescence markers after HCV elimination spontaneously or by DAAs in people living with HIV. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 162:114664. [PMID: 37031491 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114664] [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: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We identified that acute or chronic Hepatitis C (HCV) infection in people living with HIV (PLWHIV) results in different senescence profiles. However, variations in these profiles after HCV elimination, spontaneously or with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), remain unclear. METHODS Longitudinal observational study (48 weeks) in 70 PLWHIV: 23 PLWHIV with active HCV-chronic infection (CHC) before and after HCV eradication with DAAs, 12 PLWHIV who spontaneously clarify the HCV (SC), and 35 controls (HIV). Oxidative stress was quantified at DNA, lipid, protein, and nitrate levels, as well as the antioxidant capacity and glutathione enzyme. The replicative senescence was evaluated by relative telomere length measurement by PCR and twenty-six factors related to Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype (SASP) were characterized by Luminex. Differences in senescence markers was evaluated by generalized linear models. RESULTS During follow-up, the SC group achieved a significant improvement in glutathione enzyme and lipid peroxidation. The secretion of SASP markers increased but was still lower than that of the HIV group. Overall, the CHC group reduced the levels of oxidative stress and SASP markers to levels like those of the HIV group. No significant differences in telomere shortening were observed between groups. CONCLUSIONS As the time since spontaneous resolution of HCV infection increased, patients had an improved senescence profile compared to the HIV group. Elimination of chronic HCV infection by DAAs led to a partial improvement of the senescent profile by restoring oxidative stress levels. However, although some SASP markers reached levels like those of the HIV group, others remained altered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Violeta Lara-Aguilar
- Viral Hepatitis Reference and Research Laboratory, National Center for Microbiology, Institute of Health Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel Valle-Millares
- Viral Hepatitis Reference and Research Laboratory, National Center for Microbiology, Institute of Health Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Celia Crespo-Bermejo
- Viral Hepatitis Reference and Research Laboratory, National Center for Microbiology, Institute of Health Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sergio Grande-García
- Viral Hepatitis Reference and Research Laboratory, National Center for Microbiology, Institute of Health Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Llamas-Adán
- Viral Hepatitis Reference and Research Laboratory, National Center for Microbiology, Institute of Health Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Engracia Cortijo-Alfonso
- Viral Hepatitis Reference and Research Laboratory, National Center for Microbiology, Institute of Health Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Lourdes Domínguez
- HIV Unit, Internal Medicine Service, Biomedical Research Institute of the Doce de Octubre Hospital (imas12), Madrid, Spain; King's College London University, UK
| | - Pablo Ryan
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Department of Infectious Diseases, HIV/Hepatitis Internal Medicine Service, Infanta Leonor University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ignacio de Los Santos
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Department of Internal Medicine-Infectious Diseases, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sofía Bartolomé-Sánchez
- Viral Hepatitis Reference and Research Laboratory, National Center for Microbiology, Institute of Health Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Erick Joan Vidal-Alcántara
- Pneumococcus Unit, Vaccine-Preventable Bacterial Infections, National Center for Microbiology, Institute of Health Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Angeles Jiménez-Sousa
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Viral Infection and Immunity Unit, National Center for Microbiology, Institute of Health Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Amanda Fernández-Rodríguez
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Viral Infection and Immunity Unit, National Center for Microbiology, Institute of Health Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Verónica Briz
- Viral Hepatitis Reference and Research Laboratory, National Center for Microbiology, Institute of Health Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
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Andersen MH. Novel immune modulatory vaccines targeting TGFβ. Cell Mol Immunol 2023; 20:551-553. [PMID: 36973484 PMCID: PMC10040921 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-023-01000-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mads Hald Andersen
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev, Herlev, Denmark.
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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35
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Lopez-Scarim J, Nambiar SM, Billerbeck E. Studying T Cell Responses to Hepatotropic Viruses in the Liver Microenvironment. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:681. [PMID: 36992265 PMCID: PMC10056334 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11030681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
T cells play an important role in the clearance of hepatotropic viruses but may also cause liver injury and contribute to disease progression in chronic hepatitis B and C virus infections which affect millions of people worldwide. The liver provides a unique microenvironment of immunological tolerance and hepatic immune regulation can modulate the functional properties of T cell subsets and influence the outcome of a virus infection. Extensive research over the last years has advanced our understanding of hepatic conventional CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and unconventional T cell subsets and their functions in the liver environment during acute and chronic viral infections. The recent development of new small animal models and technological advances should further increase our knowledge of hepatic immunological mechanisms. Here we provide an overview of the existing models to study hepatic T cells and review the current knowledge about the distinct roles of heterogeneous T cell populations during acute and chronic viral hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Eva Billerbeck
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
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36
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Yerra VG, Drosatos K. Specificity Proteins (SP) and Krüppel-like Factors (KLF) in Liver Physiology and Pathology. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:4682. [PMID: 36902112 PMCID: PMC10003758 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver acts as a central hub that controls several essential physiological processes ranging from metabolism to detoxification of xenobiotics. At the cellular level, these pleiotropic functions are facilitated through transcriptional regulation in hepatocytes. Defects in hepatocyte function and its transcriptional regulatory mechanisms have a detrimental influence on liver function leading to the development of hepatic diseases. In recent years, increased intake of alcohol and western diet also resulted in a significantly increasing number of people predisposed to the incidence of hepatic diseases. Liver diseases constitute one of the serious contributors to global deaths, constituting the cause of approximately two million deaths worldwide. Understanding hepatocyte transcriptional mechanisms and gene regulation is essential to delineate pathophysiology during disease progression. The current review summarizes the contribution of a family of zinc finger family transcription factors, named specificity protein (SP) and Krüppel-like factors (KLF), in physiological hepatocyte functions, as well as how they are involved in the onset and development of hepatic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Konstantinos Drosatos
- Metabolic Biology Laboratory, Cardiovascular Center, Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
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37
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Tumor resident, TRA anti-viral CDR3 chemical sequence motifs are associated with a better breast cancer outcome. Genes Immun 2023; 24:92-98. [PMID: 36805542 DOI: 10.1038/s41435-023-00201-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
While for certain cancers, such as cervical cancer, the link to viral infections is very strong and very clear, other cancers represent a history of links to viral infections that are either co-morbidities or drive the cancer in ways that are not yet fully understood, for example the "hit and run" possibility. To further understand the connection of viral infections and the progress of breast cancer, we identified the chemical features of known anti-viral, T-cell receptor alpha chain (TRA) complementarity determining region-3 (CDR3) amino acid sequences among the CDR3s of breast cancer patient TRA recombinations and assessed the association of those features with patient outcomes. The application of this novel paradigm indicated consistent associations of tumor-derived, anti-CMV CDR3 chemical sequence motifs with better breast cancer patient outcomes but did not indicate an opportunity to establish risk stratifications for other cancer types. Interestingly, breast cancer samples with no detectable TRA recombinations represented a better outcome than samples with the non-anti-CMV CDR3s, further adding to a rapidly developing series of results allowing a distinction between positive and possibly harmful cancer immune responses.
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38
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Zhang Y, Han J, Zhang X, Li F, Guo Y, He J, Mao R, Zhu H, Yu J, Huang Y, Yang F, Zhang J. Lower frequency of MDSCs was significantly related to functional cure in CHB patients treated with peginterferon. Liver Int 2023; 43:329-339. [PMID: 36453086 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15489] [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: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and CD4+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) expand during chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and inhibit antiviral immunity. However, the relationship between antiviral effect and the frequencies of those immune suppressive cells after pegylated interferon α-2a (PegIFNα-2a) therapy is not clearly understood. This study aimed to investigate the contribution of monocytic MDSCs (mMDSCs) and CD4+ Tregs to functional cure (HBsAg seroclearance) after PegIFNα-2a therapy and evaluate the effect of PegIFNα-2a therapy on these cells. METHODS Flow cytometry analysis was performed along with longitudinal immune monitoring of 97 hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients receiving PegIFNα-2a weekly for 48 weeks. RESULTS The frequencies of mMDSCs and CD4+ Tregs increased in all HBV patients, and they were higher in the HBsAg persistence group than in the HBsAg seroclearance group. A significant decline in the frequency of mMDSCs was found in patients who realized functional cure after PegIFNα-2a treatment. In contrast, the frequency of CD4+ Tregs in both the HBsAg seroclearance and persistence groups significantly increased. Multivariate analyses indicated that the baseline serum HBsAg levels (p < .001) and mMDSCs frequency (p = .027) were independently associated with the HBsAg clearance, and the combined marker (HBsAg plus mMDSCs) displayed the highest specificity (93.1%) than any other markers in predicting HBsAg seroclearance. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that a poor response to PegIFNα-2a treatment in CHB patients may be related to the frequencies of immune suppressive cells, while the therapeutic targeting of these cells might be effective in boosting anti-HBV immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiajia Han
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueyun Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fahong Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yifei Guo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingjing He
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Richeng Mao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haoxiang Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuxian Huang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Feifei Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiming Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Institute of Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/MOH), Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Jing'An Branch of Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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39
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Hepatitis Virus and Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Recent Advances. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15020533. [PMID: 36672482 PMCID: PMC9856776 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15020533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a global health challenge, causing 600,000 deaths each year. Infectious factors, including hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis D virus (HDV), have long been considered the major risk factors for the development and progression of HCC. These pathogens induce hepatocyte transformation through a variety of mechanisms, including insertional mutations caused by viral gene integration, epigenetic changes, and the induction of long-term immune dysfunction. The discovery of these mechanisms, while advancing our understanding of the disease, also provides targets for new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. In addition, the discovery and research of chronic HEV infection over the past decade indicate that this common hepatitis virus also seems to have the potential to induce HCC. In this review, we provide an overview of recent studies on the link between hepatitis virus and HCC, as well as new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to HCC based on these findings. Finally, we also discuss the potential relationship between HEV and HCC. In conclusion, these associations will further optimize the diagnosis and treatment of infection-associated HCC and call for better management policies.
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40
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Casey JL, Dore GJ, Grebely J, Matthews GV, Cherepanov V, Martinello M, Marks P, Janssen HLA, Hansen BE, Kaul R, MacParland SA, Gehring AJ, Feld JJ. Hepatitis C virus-specific immune responses following direct-acting antivirals administered during recent hepatitis C virus infection. J Viral Hepat 2023; 30:64-72. [PMID: 36302162 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Individuals who spontaneously clear hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection have demonstrated evidence of partial protective immunity, whereas treatment-induced clearance provides little or no protection against reinfection. We aimed to investigate whether treatment of acute HCV infection with direct-acting antivirals (DAA) prevents establishment of, or reverses, T-cell exhaustion, leading to a virus-specific T-cell immune profile more similar to that seen in spontaneous clearance. The magnitude and breadth of HCV-specific T-cell responses before and after DAA or interferon-based therapy in acute or chronic HCV were compared to those of participants with spontaneous clearance of infection, using Enzyme-linked Immunospot (ELISPOT). PBMCs were available for 55 patients comprising 4 groups: spontaneous clearance (n = 17), acute interferon (n = 14), acute DAA (n = 13) and chronic DAA (n = 11). After controlling for sex, the magnitude of post-treatment HCV-specific responses after acute DAA treatment was greater than after chronic DAA or acute IFN treatment and similar to those found in spontaneous clearers. However, spontaneous clearers responded to more HCV peptide pools indicating greater breadth of response. In conclusion, early treatment with DAAs may prevent or reverse some degree of immune exhaustion and result in stronger HCV-specific responses post-treatment. However, individuals with spontaneous clearance had broader HCV-specific responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia L Casey
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gail V Matthews
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Vera Cherepanov
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Philippa Marks
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Harry L A Janssen
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bettina E Hansen
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rupert Kaul
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sonya A MacParland
- Departments of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adam J Gehring
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jordan J Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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41
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Ren M, Zhang J, Dai S, Wang C, Chen Z, Zhang S, Xu J, Qin X, Liu F. CX3CR1 deficiency exacerbates immune-mediated hepatitis by increasing NF-κB-mediated cytokine production in macrophage and T cell. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2023; 248:117-129. [PMID: 36426712 PMCID: PMC10041049 DOI: 10.1177/15353702221128573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune-mediated hepatitis is marked by liver inflammation characterized by immune cell infiltration, chemokine/cytokine production, and hepatocyte injury. C-X3C motif receptor 1 (CX3CR1), as the receptor of chemokine C-X3C motif ligand 1 (CX3CL1)/fractalkine, is mainly expressed on immune cells including monocytes and T cells. Previous studies have shown that CX3CR1 protects against liver fibrosis, but the exact role of CX3CL1/CX3CR1 in acute immune-mediated hepatitis remains unknown. Here, we investigate the role of the CX3CL1/CX3CR1 axis in immune-mediated hepatitis using concanavalin A (ConA)-induced liver injury model in CX3CR1-deficient (Cx3cr1-/-) mice. We observed that Cx3cr1-/- mice had severe liver injury and increased pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α], interferon-gamma [IFN-γ], interleukin-1 beta [IL-1β], and IL-6) in serum and liver compared to wild-type (Cx3cr1+/+) mice after ConA injection. The deficiency of CX3CR1 did not affect ConA-induced immune cell infiltration in liver but led to elevated production of TNF-α in macrophages as well as IFN-γ in T cells after ConA treatment. On the contrary, exogenous CX3CL1 attenuated ConA-induced cytokine production in wild type, but not CX3CR1-deficient macrophages and T cells. Furthermore, in vitro results showed that CX3CR1 deficiency promoted the pro-inflammatory cytokine expression by increasing the phosphorylation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) p65 (p-NF-κB p65). Finally, pre-treatment of p-NF-κB p65 inhibitor, resveratrol, attenuated ConA-induced liver injury and inflammatory responses, especially in Cx3cr1-/- mice. In conclusion, our data show that the deficiency of CX3CR1 promotes pro-inflammatory cytokine production in macrophages and T cells by enhancing the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65, which exacerbates liver injury in ConA-induced hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Ren
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Jinyan Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Shen Dai
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenxiao Wang
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Zheng Chen
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Siqi Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Junming Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuebin Qin
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Fengming Liu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, People's Republic of China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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42
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Andersen MH. Immune modulatory vaccines: time to move into infectious diseases. THE LANCET. MICROBE 2023; 4:e4-e5. [PMID: 36309018 DOI: 10.1016/s2666-5247(22)00300-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mads Hald Andersen
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev, Herlev DK-2730, Denmark; Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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43
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Lu X, Song B, Weng W, Su B, Wu H, Cheung AKL, Zhang T, Gao Y. Characteristics of CD8 + Stem Cell-Like Memory T Cell Subset in Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection. Viral Immunol 2023; 36:25-32. [PMID: 36346310 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2022.0079] [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] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The dysfunction of memory CD8+ T cell cannot be reverted by successful clearance of hepatitis C virus (HCV) after direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) therapy, increasing the risk of reinfection with HCV. Stem cell-like memory T cells (Tscm) with superior properties of long-lasting, self-renewing, and multipotency contribute to the maintenance of immune function. We investigated the impact of HCV infection on CD8+ Tscm, and their possible role in disease progression, by using DAA-naive HCV-infected and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/HCV-coinfected cohorts. The distribution of memory CD8+ T cell subsets and the level of T cell immune activation were determined by flow cytometry. Associations between CD8+ Tscm and other memory T cell subsets, HCV viral load, as well as the level of T cell immune activation were analyzed. We observed that the proportion of CD8+ Tscm increased in both HCV and HIV/HCV individuals. The proportion of CD8+ Tscm had positive and negative correlation with CD8+ Tcm (central memory T cells) and CD8+ Tem (effector memory T cell), respectively, representing the contribution of CD8+ Tscm in T cell homeostasis. In addition, higher frequency of CD8+ Tscm indicated lower HCV viral load and less T cell immune activation in HCV infection, which suggested that CD8+ Tscm is likely associated with effective control of HCV replication for protective immunity. Considering the characteristics of Tscm, our current findings provide implications for Tscm-based vaccine design and immunotherapy development to achieve HCV elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofan Lu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for HIV/AIDS Research, Sino-French Joint Laboratory for Research on Humoral Immune Response to HIV Infection, Clinical and Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Bingbing Song
- Department of Dermatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Dermatology, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenjia Weng
- Department of Dermatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Su
- Beijing Key Laboratory for HIV/AIDS Research, Sino-French Joint Laboratory for Research on Humoral Immune Response to HIV Infection, Clinical and Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for HIV/AIDS Research, Sino-French Joint Laboratory for Research on Humoral Immune Response to HIV Infection, Clinical and Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Allen Ka Loon Cheung
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tong Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for HIV/AIDS Research, Sino-French Joint Laboratory for Research on Humoral Immune Response to HIV Infection, Clinical and Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanqing Gao
- Department of Dermatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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44
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Faenko AP, Filippova AA, Golosova SA, Glazov YN, Ivanova IV, Klyueva EA, Kasatkin MA. The introduction of Laboratory testing for anti-HBcore in blood donors. RUSSIAN JOURNAL OF HEMATOLOGY AND TRANSFUSIOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.35754/0234-5730-2022-67-4-525-534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Introduction. The introduction of screening testing for antibodies to the hepatitis B virus nuclear antigen (anti-HBcore) is designed to prevent the procurement of donated blood from individuals with the latent (occult) form of viral hepatitis B, in which surface HBsAg is not identified.Aim – to evaluate the frequency of anti-HBcore markers’ occurrence in donors under the current regulatory and legal framework.Materials and methods. This retrospective observational study was conducted with a follow-up period of one year among blood donors of the Blood Center (BC) of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency. The screening study for anti-HBcore in blood donors and its components was selective in accordance with the requirements of Appendix № 4 of Order № 1166n of October 28, 2020 of the Ministry of Health of Russia.Results. During the study period, the BC was visited by 17,180 donors who donated blood and its components 35,840 times. There were 181 anti-HBcore tests (0.5 % of all blood samples) in 178 unique donors of blood and blood components (1.03 % of all donors). There were 14 positive, 2 questionable and 166 negative results on anti-HBcore tests. The probability of finding a positive result depending on the conditions was 9 % (7.3–14.7 %). There were no statistically significant differences in the detection of anti-HBcore in primary versus regular donors (OR = 2.539; 95% CI: 0.7321–8; p = 0.13), as well as for male donors compared with female donors (OR = 2.448; 95% CI: 0.7141–11.11; p = 0.17). 86.7 % of donors with a positive test for anti-HBcore previously had no signs of viral hepatitis B disease, the presence of questionable HBsAg was not detected, i. e. these cases may be associated with an occult form. Donors who did not previously have questionable results for various bloodborne infections during their donor career had a slightly higher probability of detecting a positive anti-HBcore test compared to donors who previously had these questionable results (OR = 1.24; 95% CI”: 0.42–3.69; p = 0.69). During the period of the donor career, 233 donations of blood and its components were made by donors with a positive result for anti-HBcore, 468 units of donor components were received, of which 365 units were given to medical institutions.Conclusion. The probability of obtaining a positive test for anti-HBcore in the current regulatory environment is random and does not depend on the results of other infectious markers testing. It is recommended to perform anti-HBcore testing with each donation of blood and blood components.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. P. Faenko
- Blood Center of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency
| | | | | | - Ya. N. Glazov
- Blood Center of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency
| | - I. V. Ivanova
- Blood Center of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency
| | - E. A. Klyueva
- Blood Center of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency
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45
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Many Ways to Communicate-Crosstalk between the HBV-Infected Cell and Its Environment. Pathogens 2022; 12:pathogens12010029. [PMID: 36678377 PMCID: PMC9866324 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12010029] [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: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) affects an estimated 257 million people worldwide and can lead to liver diseases such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. Viral replication is generally considered not to be cytopathic, and although some HBV proteins may have direct carcinogenic effects, the majority of HBV infection-related disease is related to chronic inflammation resulting from disrupted antiviral responses and aberrant innate immune reactions. Like all cells, healthy and HBV-infected cells communicate with each other, as well as with other cell types, such as innate and adaptive immune cells. They do so by both interacting directly and by secreting factors into their environment. Such factors may be small molecules, such as metabolites, single viral proteins or host proteins, but can also be more complex, such as virions, protein complexes, and extracellular vesicles. The latter are small, membrane-enclosed vesicles that are exchanged between cells, and have recently gained a lot of attention for their potential to mediate complex communication and their potential for therapeutic repurposing. Here, we review how HBV infection affects the communication between HBV-infected cells and cells in their environment. We discuss the impact of these interactions on viral persistence in chronic infection, as well as their relation to HBV infection-related pathology.
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46
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Multifaceted Defects in Monocytes in Different Phases of Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection: Lack of Restoration after Antiviral Therapy. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0193922. [PMID: 36445121 PMCID: PMC9769680 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01939-22] [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] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Monocytes play an important role in the control of microbial infection, but monocyte biology during chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection (CHI) remains inadequately studied. We investigated the frequency, phenotype, and functions of monocyte subsets in different phases of CHI, namely, immune tolerance (IT), hepatitis B early antigen (HBeAg)-positive/HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B (EP-/EN-CHB, respectively), and inactive carrier (IC), identified factors responsible for their functional alterations, and determined the impact of antiviral therapy on these cells. Flow cytometric analysis indicated that HLA-DR+ CD14++ CD16- classical monocytes were significantly reduced while HLA-DR+ CD14++ CD16+ intermediate and HLA-DR+ CD14+ CD16++ nonclassical monocytes were expanded in IT and EP-/EN-CHB compared with those in IC and healthy controls (HC). In comparison to IC/HC, monocytes in IT and CHB exhibited diminished expression of Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR-2)/TLR-4/TLR-9 and cytokines interleukin-12 (IL-12)/tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)/IL-6 but produced higher levels of IL-10/transforming growth factor β (TGF-β). Further, monocytes in CHB/IT showed impaired phagocytosis and oxidative response relative to those in IC/HC. In vitro assays indicated that high titers of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) present in IT/CHB and of IL-4 in CHB triggered the functional defects in monocytes via induction of β-catenin. Additionally, monocyte-derived M1 macrophages of CHB/IT produced fewer proinflammatory and more anti-inflammatory cytokines than those of IC/HC, while in CHB/IT, the monocytes skewed the differentiation of CD4+ T cells more toward regulatory T cells and a Th2 phenotype. Moreover, monocytes in CHB and IT overexpressed chemokine receptor CCR2, which coincided with increased intrahepatic accumulation of β-catenin+ CD14+ cells. One year of tenofovir therapy failed to normalize monocyte functions or reduce serum HBsAg/IL-4 levels. Taken together, monocytes are functionally perturbed mostly in IT and EP-/EN-CHB phases. Targeting intramonocytic β-catenin or reducing HBsAg/IL-4 levels might restore monocyte function and facilitate viral clearance. IMPORTANCE Chronic HBV infection (CHI) is a major cause of end-stage liver disease for which pharmacological treatments currently available are inadequate. Chronically HBV-infected patients fail to mount an efficient immune response to the virus, impeding viral clearance and recovery from hepatitis. Monocytes represent a central part of innate immunity, but a comprehensive understanding on monocyte involvement in CHI is still lacking. We here report a multitude of defects in monocytes in chronically HBV-infected patients that include alteration in subset distribution, Toll-like receptor expression, cytokine production, phagocytic activity, oxidative response, migratory ability, polarization of monocyte-derived macrophages, and monocyte-T-cell interaction. We demonstrated that high levels of hepatitis B virus surface antigen and IL-4 potentiate these defects in monocytes via β-catenin induction while therapy with the nucleotide analog tenofovir fails to restore monocyte function. Our findings add to the continuing effort to devise new immunotherapeutic strategies that could reverse the immune defects in CHI.
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Teame G, Gebreyesus A, Tsegay E, Gebretsadik M, Adane K. Hepatitis B and C viral coinfections and their association with HIV viral load suppression among HIV-1 infected patients on ART at Mekelle hospital, northern Ethiopia. AIDS Res Ther 2022; 19:57. [PMID: 36457041 PMCID: PMC9714192 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-022-00479-8] [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: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although Ethiopia is endemic to viral hepatitis and HIV, data that could guide population-specific interventions are limited. In this study, we determined the seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) and assessed their associations with HIV-1 viral load suppression among HIV-1 infected patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) at Mekelle hospital in northern Ethiopia. METHODS Between February and April 2020, blood samples were collected from 439 participants. Samples were screened for HBsAg and anti-HCV on the immunochromatographic test and confirmed using the Enzyme-Linked Immuno-sorbent assay (Beijing Wantai Co. China). HIV-1 viral load was quantified using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) on the Abbott platform. Binary and multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify potential predictors. RESULTS Overall, 10% (44/439) and 3.6% (16/439) of the participants were coinfected with HBV and HCV, respectively. In a multivariate analysis, being illiterate (AOR = 6.57; 95% CI 1.04-41.6), and having a history of sexually transmitted infections (AOR = 4.44; 95% CI 1.31-15.0) and multiple sexual partners (AOR = 29.9; 95% CI 7.82-114.8) were associated with HBV infection. On the other hand, participants with a history of chronic non-communicable diseases (AOR = 10.6, 95% CI 1.61-70.1), and those reporting a history of sexually transmitted infections (AOR = 5.21, 95% CI 1.39-19.5) were more likely to be infected with HCV. In further analysis, HCV infection status was significantly associated with decreased viral load suppression rate (AOR = 7.14; 95% CI 2.18-23.3) whereas no significant association was observed with the HBV infection. CONCLUSIONS The HBV coinfection rate in our study is high and, as per WHO's standard, corresponds to a hyperendemic level. The HCV coinfection rate is also substantially high and urges attention given its influence on the viral load suppression of HIV patients on ART at our study site. Our findings suggest the need to adopt universal screening and vaccination of people with HIV against HBV and screening for HCV at our study site and in Ethiopia at large, which contributes to Ethiopia's progress towards the 2030 global target of reducing the HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Araya Gebreyesus
- grid.30820.390000 0001 1539 8988Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Division for Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Science, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | - Ephrem Tsegay
- grid.30820.390000 0001 1539 8988Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Division for Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Science, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | - Mulu Gebretsadik
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | - Kelemework Adane
- grid.7123.70000 0001 1250 5688Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Han HT, Jin WL, Li X. Mesenchymal stem cells-based therapy in liver diseases. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2022; 3:23. [PMID: 35895169 PMCID: PMC9326420 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-022-00088-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple immune cells and their products in the liver together form a complex and unique immune microenvironment, and preclinical models have demonstrated the importance of imbalances in the hepatic immune microenvironment in liver inflammatory diseases and immunocompromised liver diseases. Various immunotherapies have been attempted to modulate the hepatic immune microenvironment for the purpose of treating liver diseases. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have a comprehensive and plastic immunomodulatory capacity. On the one hand, they have been tried for the treatment of inflammatory liver diseases because of their excellent immunosuppressive capacity; On the other hand, MSCs have immune-enhancing properties in immunocompromised settings and can be modified into cellular carriers for targeted transport of immune enhancers by genetic modification, physical and chemical loading, and thus they are also used in the treatment of immunocompromised liver diseases such as chronic viral infections and hepatocellular carcinoma. In this review, we discuss the immunological basis and recent strategies of MSCs for the treatment of the aforementioned liver diseases. Specifically, we update the immune microenvironment of the liver and summarize the distinct mechanisms of immune microenvironment imbalance in inflammatory diseases and immunocompromised liver diseases, and how MSCs can fully exploit their immunotherapeutic role in liver diseases with both immune imbalance patterns.
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49
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Asghari A, Jafari F, Jameshorani M, Chiti H, Naseri M, Ghafourirankouhi A, Kooshkaki O, Abdshah A, Parsamanesh N. Vitamin D role in hepatitis B: focus on immune system and genetics mechanism. Heliyon 2022; 8:e11569. [DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e11569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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50
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Koh JY, Rha MS, Choi SJ, Lee HS, Han JW, Nam H, Kim DU, Lee JG, Kim MS, Park JY, Park SH, Joo DJ, Shin EC. Identification of a distinct NK-like hepatic T-cell population activated by NKG2C in a TCR-independent manner. J Hepatol 2022; 77:1059-1070. [PMID: 35644434 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The liver provides a unique niche of lymphocytes enriched with a large proportion of innate-like T cells. However, the heterogeneity and functional characteristics of the hepatic T-cell population remain to be fully elucidated. METHODS We obtained liver sinusoidal mononuclear cells from the liver perfusate of healthy donors and recipients with HBV-associated chronic liver disease (CLD) during liver transplantation. We performed a CITE-seq analysis of liver sinusoidal CD45+ cells in combination with T cell receptor (TCR)-seq and flow cytometry to examine the phenotypes and functions of liver sinusoidal CD8+ T cells. RESULTS We identified a distinct CD56hiCD161-CD8+ T-cell population characterized by natural killer (NK)-related gene expression and a uniquely restricted TCR repertoire. The frequency of these cells among the liver sinusoidal CD8+ T-cell population was significantly increased in patients with HBV-associated CLD. Although CD56hiCD161-CD8+ T cells exhibit weak responsiveness to TCR stimulation, CD56hiCD161-CD8+ T cells highly expressed various NK receptors, including CD94, killer immunoglobulin-like receptors, and NKG2C, and exerted NKG2C-mediated NK-like effector functions even in the absence of TCR stimulation. In addition, CD56hiCD161-CD8+ T cells highly respond to innate cytokines, such as IL-12/18 and IL-15, in the absence of TCR stimulation. We validated the results from liver sinusoidal CD8+ T cells using intrahepatic CD8+ T cells obtained from liver tissues. CONCLUSIONS In summary, the current study found a distinct CD56hiCD161-CD8+ T-cell population characterized by NK-like activation via TCR-independent NKG2C ligation. Further studies are required to elucidate the roles of liver sinusoidal CD56hiCD161-CD8+ T cells in immune responses to microbial pathogens or liver immunopathology. LAY SUMMARY The role of different immune cell populations in the liver is becoming an area of increasing interest. Herein, we identified a distinct T-cell population that had features similar to those of natural killer (NK) cells - a type of innate immune cell. This distinct population was expanded in the livers of patients with chronic liver disease and could thus have pathogenic relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- June-Young Koh
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Seok Rha
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea; Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Jin Choi
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea; Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Ha Seok Lee
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Won Han
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea; Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Heejin Nam
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Uk Kim
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Geun Lee
- Department of Surgery, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Myoung Soo Kim
- Department of Surgery, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Yong Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea.
| | - Su-Hyung Park
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea.
| | - Dong Jin Joo
- Department of Surgery, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea.
| | - Eui-Cheol Shin
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea; The Center for Viral Immunology, Korea Virus Research Institute, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon 34126, Republic of Korea.
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